David Atkins, CVP

“One Decision Away” #NoExcuses — Break Through Fear and Adversity to Play a Bigger Game in Business and Life

Retired New York State Police Captain and million-dollar entrepreneur David Atkins has become a premier keynote speaker, energizing conferences and events across multiple industries. He dedicates his speaking career to empowering leaders, teams, and organizations to break through fear, overcome adversity, and eliminate excuses that prevent extraordinary achievement. As the visionary behind the “One Decision Away” philosophy, David weaves together his leadership mastery, entrepreneurial success, and resilience expertise into a practical, results-driven blueprint for personal and professional transformation.

David’s #1 bestselling book, The One Decision Away Philosophy, shows readers exactly how to overcome obstacles using simple strategies and powerful mindset shifts that deliver results in both career and personal life. His story proves these methods work—from launching his first business at age 12 to working his way through college as the first in his family to do so without help. This pattern of taking action and never settling for less became the blueprint for his achievements across every area of his career.

He served 22 years with NY State Police, rising to Captain commanding Westchester County (400,000+ calls annually). He led 100+ officers, earned Trooper of the Year (2003) and Investigator of the Year (2007), and served weeks at Ground Zero after 9/11.

He built a million-dollar Beachbody business, leading 1,400 people, and now speaks to audiences of up to 20,000+ at major venues like the NFL Super Dome. David is the author of  Bestselling books, The Leveled-Up Life and The One Decision Away Philosophy, distilling powerful lessons into actionable strategies for transformation. He hosts the Personal Perseverance Project Podcast, sharing real-world stories and practical tools for building resilience and leadership.

An ultramarathoner who has conquered the Black Canyon mountains and trained through harsh New York winters, David embodies the resilience he teaches. A husband and father of three daughters, his story demonstrates that success comes not from circumstances but from our decisions and actions.