Michael Brandwein

Michael Brandwein is an expert in youth development, education, recreation, and leadership. Brandwein has presented on six continents and in all 50 states, focusing on working with young people and the adults who serve them. He previously served as a trial lawyer and partner in a Chicago law firm before transitioning to a full-time career in teaching and speaking, concentrating on youth education and professional development.

Brandwein wrote and presented three Emmy Award-winning television programs on developing children, broadcast on PBS stations throughout the United States. He also wrote and performed for two years on a weekly, Emmy Award-winning educational TV show for CBS-TV in Chicago. Additionally, Brandwein wrote and hosted a live production for HBO with the Muppets, in cooperation with the American Library Association, to encourage reading among young people. These television projects demonstrate his expertise in youth communication and his ability to translate developmental concepts into accessible content for broad audiences.

Brandwein is a best-selling author in camp training and leadership. His book titles include "The Intentional Camp: Putting More Muscle in the Mission of Character & Youth Development," "Training Terrific Staff" (Volumes 1 and 2), "Super Staff SuperVision," "Learning Leadership (CIT/LIT)," "Skill of the Day," and "Growing Great Qualities in Kids: The L.A.S.E.R.B.E.A.M. Technique for Bringing Out the Best in Young People." These books are widely used by camps and youth organizations. Brandwein is a frequent keynote and professional development speaker for youth organizations, schools, early childhood and recreation programs, and out-of-school groups.

Successful Meetings magazine selected Brandwein as one of two speakers nationwide who provide entertainment value with practical messages, while Corporate Meetings & Incentives magazine identified him as one of 15 "sure-thing speakers." He has provided training for organizations and businesses including Hewlett-Packard, Nordstrom, Mercedes-Benz, Gillette, and Motorola. Brandwein has also served on the faculty of the management training academy at NASA and has worked with the JFK School for Special Operations and Warfare.

Brandwein's approach to speaking is informed by his training at Second City Improv Theater School in Chicago and his experience as a professional magician. He served on the American Camp Association's national board of directors and has received two national awards for his work training leadership and staff of programs worldwide. Brandwein received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Illinois Department of Communication. He holds a B.A. in Communication from the University of Illinois, graduating summa cum laude as a Bronze Table Scholar, the university's highest academic distinction. Brandwein's credentials and experience have established him as a trusted voice in youth development, leadership training, and education.