
Public
Speaking
Equal parts educator, facilitator, and instigator, David Phillips helps leaders and teams see differently, rethink assumptions, and move forward with greater intention. His keynotes combine sharp insight, disarming honesty, and practical tools that spark meaningful conversations long after the event ends.
Before founding Faster Glass in 2010, David spent six years at Bank of America, working at the intersection of technology, innovation, and Human-Centered Design. Prior to that, he built his career across the U.S. Air Force, public education, and public accounting, worlds that don't usually talk to each other. It's an atypical path–and exactly what makes him effective at helping others connect dots.
Based in Charlotte, David also enjoys being a husband, father, musician, photographer, and mountain biker, even as he is often reminded of his amateur status in all five endeavors.
Popular Topics
David regularly delivers keynotes for conferences, leadership summits, and large gatherings seeking thoughtful, practical perspectives on change and innovation. These talks are proven favorites, refined across conferences and organizations.

Strategic Clarity
How to spot non-obvious risks and opportunities hiding in plain sight.

Unlearning & Rethinking
Why smart, experienced leaders hold on to what's holding them back–and how to break free.

Collaborating with Candor
Great teams don't avoid conflict. They get better at it.

Creativity Loves Constraints
Limitations aren't the enemy of innovation. They're the spark.

It's Not the Mice, It's the Maze
How organizational forces (structure, incentives, culture) influence behavior.

The Business Case for Inclusive Design
Why intentionally designing to and from the edges creates value for all.
Sample of Speaking Engagements

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Ideal Audiences
Senior leaders, people managers, and cross-functional teams navigating change, complexity, and growth

Format Options
Available as engaging keynotes, interactive breakouts, and facilitated workshops, tailored to your audience and context
Audience Feedback
“The speaker was really, really good! He said all the things that my team has been debating and worrying about. Our table had an incredible conversation. It was so good!”
- AvidXchange Tech Summit
“Very engaging! Storytelling was great and made the content real and relatable.”
- CPCC Keynote Presentation
“It was a great experience. One of the best seminars I’ve been to in my business career.”
- PDMA Conference Presentation