“We need more people like Chris in the world.”
JANE GOODALL, PHD, DBE
Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace
Chris Bashinelli
Chris Bashinelli – National Geographic Explorer & global keynote speaker – empowers organizations to cultivate trust, empathy, and authentic leadership through the Power Of Human Connection.
“Bash”, as he is affectionately known, has lived this message in 40+ countries, with Mongolian nomads to Japanese Sumo wrestlers, and even on stage at the United Nations alongside leaders like Stevie Wonder and Dr. Jane Goodall. Everywhere he goes, the lesson is clear: Human Connection is the foundation for authentic leadership and lasting success. Bash’s proven framework helps leaders and teams embrace authenticity and inspire others naturally — not through tactics or manipulation, but by embodying the highest ideals of the human experience.
What Makes Bash Unique?
- Human Connection as a Way of Life – Bash doesn’t just talk about connection; he’s lived it across the globe, proving that shared humanity is the foundation of thriving organizations.
- Authentic Leadership – Trust, empathy, and presence aren’t “soft skills” — they are leadership superpowers. Bash equips leaders to embody authenticity, building customer loyalty, employee engagement, and lasting performance.
- Inner Happiness Fuels Outer Success – Through mindfulness and resilience, Bash demonstrates how true leadership effectiveness begins with cultivating happiness from within, the only way to drive sustainable success.
Human Connection is the Foundation of Great Leadership
In today’s workplace, trust and empathy are no longer optional — they’re essential. Chris Bashinelli shows leaders and teams how to cultivate happiness from within, connect authentically, and create cultures where every voice is valued. His approach goes beyond short-term influence or transactional sales, to foster long-term inspiration and success.
Whether you’re in sales, AI, technology, healthcare, finance, or education, Bash’s message of trust, empathy, and authentic connection resonates across industries. With the rapid rise of AI, human connection is more valuable than ever. In a world of constant change his insights help organizations strengthen client relationships, inspire teams, and build cultures of resilience. By focusing on the universal drivers of human performance—purpose, happiness, and belonging—Chris equips leaders at every level to navigate disruption and thrive.
Bash specializes in highly customized events for top performers, high-energy opening keynotes for large audiences, and curated workshops for C-suite leaders. He employs experiential learning, bringing audiences on an adventure, rather than lecturing behind a podium. With unparalleled authenticity, humility, and a deep curiosity for the human experience, Bash creates a transformative connection with audiences — setting a new standard in the speaking world.
For a list of Keynotes visit the Keynotes Page
Speaking Reel
Featured Clients
Corporate
- BMW Group
- Lincoln Financial
- Wyndham Hotels
- Delta Airlines
- Deloitte
- Entrepreneur’s Organization- Philippines, Panama, Saudi Arabia
Organization
- TEDx
- Boy Scouts of America
- United Nations- Bali, Austria, Azerbaijan & NYC
- The Jane Goodall Institute
- Key Club International
Association
- Alaska Travel Association
- Global Business Travel Association
- Nashville Apartment Association
- Leading Real Estate Co’s
- Institute of Internal Auditors
- Connecticut Society of CPA’s
- American Student Dental Association
Education
- Columbia University
- New York University
- Texas A & M University
- University of North Carolina
- College of the North Atlantic- Qatar
Hosting Videos
After studying Anthropology in East Africa at 20 years old, Chris Bashinelli returned home to discover his father had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The death of Chris’s father inspired him to create Bridge the Gap, a television series featured on PBS and the National Geographic Channel, where he experiences life in someone else’s shoes. Through one of a kind stories of adventure and authentic moments of human connection, Chris truly bridges the gap between self and other, helping us recognize our shared humanity.
