Sonny Melendrez

Sonny Melendrez is a TEDx motivational keynote speaker, Hall of Fame broadcaster, and bestselling author whose career spans radio, television, voice acting, and public speaking. Melendrez draws on his experience as a Disney Channel television host, character voice artist, and nationally syndicated radio personality to engage audiences worldwide.

Twice named Billboard Magazine's "National Radio Personality of the Year," Melendrez has been inducted into the Texas Radio Hall of Fame and the San Antonio Radio Hall of Fame, and is included in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the Top 100 Radio Personalities of All-Time. He has worked at major radio stations in Los Angeles and San Antonio, and his radio program and podcast, "The Sonny Melendrez Show," delivers inspiration and entertainment to a global audience.

In television and voice acting, Melendrez hosted the children's series "You and Me, Kid" on Disney Channel. He provided voices for several characters in Hanna-Barbera's "Jetsons" cartoon series, contributed sound effects for the movie "Gremlins," voiced Bob Cratchit in the animated TV special "The Stingiest Man in Town," and was the voice of Fred the Cockatoo in the NBC TV series Baretta. His versatility across media has enabled him to connect with diverse audiences.

Melendrez's motivational speaking presentation, "The Power of Intentional Enthusiasm," is based on his TEDx talk and has been presented to associations, companies, and non-profits. He has served as master of ceremonies at numerous events, including the White House Hispanic Heritage Awards, the American Public Transportation Association Conference, the HR Southwest Conference, and the USO 50th Anniversary Gala in Paris.

In his book, "The Art of Living with Enthusiasm!", Melendrez shares insights on positive living through personal stories. His impact extends beyond the stage and studio, with more than 1,400 motivational presentations encouraging youth to stay in school, avoid drugs, and pursue excellence. He has received recognition from four presidents and awards such as the U.S. Department of Justice Modern Hero Award, Inc. Magazine's Socially Responsible Entrepreneur of the Year, and the Ford Foundation Hispanic Heritage Award. His efforts have also been recognized by organizations including the American Diabetes Association, March of Dimes, Alzheimer's Association, and National Cancer Society.

Melendrez created the children's version of "We Are the World" in Los Angeles, involving more than 1,500 children in the recording and video, with proceeds benefiting USA for Africa. This project earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Children's Recording.

The City of San Antonio named the Sonny Melendrez Community Center in his honor, recognizing his community involvement and motivational school presentations. Melendrez has contributed to social causes, leading initiatives such as the Children of the World Project and supporting numerous charities, raising more than $100 million for non-profits. His work in motivational speaking, broadcasting, and community service continues to influence audiences in education, entertainment, and philanthropy.