Dr. Steve Yacovelli

Dr. Steve Yacovelli, known professionally as The Gay Leadership Dude, is an author, keynote speaker, and organizational consultant specializing in leadership development, change management, and diversity and inclusion. With nearly three decades of experience, Yacovelli integrates academic research and practical strategies to support inclusive leadership and workplace culture. He holds a Bachelor of Science in public relations from Millersville University of Pennsylvania, a Master of Arts in educational policy and leadership development from The Ohio State University, and a Doctor of Education in instructional technology and distance education from Nova Southeastern University.

Before establishing his consulting firm, Yacovelli worked in leadership roles at organizations including The Walt Disney Company, IBM, Tupperware Brands, and several universities. He later founded TopDog Learning Group, an Orlando-based consulting firm with a global network of affiliates. The firm partners with Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations to provide workshops, keynote presentations, coaching, and custom learning solutions. Clients have included Bayer, Accenture, Charles Schwab, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, The American Library Association, and The Ohio State University.

Yacovelli is the author of "Pride Leadership: Strategies for the LGBTQ+ Leader to be the King or Queen of Their Jungle," which addresses leadership development for LGBTQ+ professionals and allies, focusing on core competencies such as authenticity, courage, empathy, communication, relationship-building, and cultural influence. He also wrote "Your Queer Career: Workplace Advice from The Gay Leadership Dude," a guide offering practical advice for LGBTQ+ professionals navigating workplace challenges.

As a keynote speaker, Yacovelli addresses topics including unconscious bias, inclusive leadership, and workplace diversity. His keynote, "Being a Consciously Inclusive Leader," explores strategies for fostering inclusion and addressing bias in professional environments. Yacovelli regularly presents at conferences such as Training Magazine events and has worked with organizations including the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce and Out & Equal Workplace Advocates. His approach combines research-based insights, storytelling, and actionable guidance to support inclusive leadership and workplace equity.