THE
“In order to go to the places you know you have been destined to go, you have to be willing to do what others will not do!”
UN
ERDOG
ERDYour comeback starts now.
Are you ready to RISE?
Are you ready to RISE?
STORY
As Featured In
For those who made me feel invisible.
For those who turned their backs on me when I was homeless.
For those who told me I wasn’t college material…
For those who told me I suffered from delusions of grandeur.
Watch Me RISE.
“I have such fond memories of our meeting in the White House and of course [Doug’s] terrific speech at the Northeastern Commencement Ceremony.
Bill Clinton
Former US President
I’m Dr. Doug Luffborough
Heart-Inspired Speaker, author of Watch Me RISE, leadership consultant, and personal growth life coach.
I’m here to meet you where you’re at and give you the tools you need to turn your trauma into triumph.
Whether I’m speaking to a packed stadium, coaching a burned-out executive, or working with an educator who feels alone in the system, my mission is the same:
To help people rewrite the narrative of their past and step boldly into the future they were always meant to lead.
After all we don’t RISE in spite of our story—
we RISE because of it.
What People Are Saying
"I have such fond memories of our meeting in the White House and, of course, [Doug’s] terrific speech at Northeastern University’s commencement."
"Douglas compares most favorably to the brightest students I have taught in the Masters program at Harvard. I have no doubt that he will be an asset to your program and to the field [of education]."
"I always love hearing about real "Possibility Thinkers," and [Doug] fits that description perfectly! I applaud [his] determination and perseverance! [Doug is] setting new standards for excellence and [he is] an inspiration to all of us!"
Dr. Luff’s keynote, drawing from his own experiences, strongly connected with our theme of 'Memorable Moments.' He shared how meaningful interactions can shape a person’s educational journey and future, inspiring us to recognize the significance of each moment. His message encouraged us to be intentional in creating 'memorable moments' that will leave a positive and lasting impact on our students. Thank you and see you soon.
Dr. Luff delivered a heartfelt keynote presentation for our school district that perfectly resonated with our theme, "Every Moment Matters." His remarkable life experiences, shaped by the small actions and meaningful moments from the educators in his life, beautifully showcased the power of these moments in fostering growth. Through his compelling storytelling, Dr. Luff connected deeply with our staff, reminding us of the significant impact we can have on our students' success. His journey inspired everyone to find ways to make each moment count for our students this year. Thank you, Dr. Luff!
"Dr. Luff welcomed our entire Bonsall Unified School District staff back to school this year with a moving keynote presentation about his incredible life experiences and how they were shaped by the educators in his life. Our theme this year is Belong, Believe, Achieve, and Dr. Luff's message beautifully embodies the interconnectedness among these three ideas. Through powerful storytelling filled with humor, wisdom, and passion, Dr. Luff inspired our community to consider how we can set our students up for success. His journey motivates all of us to recognize the importance of having that one special adult in your school life. Thank you, Dr. Luff!"
"Dr. Doug Luff's keynote at Feaster Charter School's opening day was truly inspirational! His masterful blend of captivating stories, genuine inspiration, and profound learning opportunities left our staff inspired and ready to start the school year. As we reflected on our "why," Dr. Luff's presentation not only reignited our passion for education but also provided practical strategies to enhance our teaching approaches. An unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on our school community."
"I heard Dr. Luff speak at a national educational conference in San Diego and thought he would be a great keynote speaker for our upcoming convocation and I was so right! We were truly blessed to have had the opportunity to have him share his story and motivate us for the new school year. He delivered something to our district that was so powerful. Dr. Luff was uplifting, funny, and encouraging and his storytelling and vulnerability have impacted our school district forever. He had us wanting more and we want to bring him back to our community to impact more lives!"
"I had the opportunity to listen to your keynote speech last Friday. I must admit it was one of the best keynote speeches I have ever heard. It really spoke to me about the impact of educators on children both positively and negatively. Especially as one of the only black educators at my site, I want to be the educator who makes a positive influence on all students that walk in and out of my classroom."
"From the moment Doug stepped onto the stage, it was evident that he captured the attention of our leaders. He caught the hearts of all. During his passionate and emotional speech, he shared his life’s journey filled with how he overcame challenges and leadership lessons rooted in resiliency, perseverance, and determination. Doug’s story is one to be shared with all and is a testimony to how we can learn to lead and accomplish our dreams, no matter the circumstances."
"I first met Doug Luffborough in 2007. He was a speaker at an afterschool professionals conference in Palm Springs. Being a young 20-something mid-level manager, my eyes were open and my entire outlook of leadership and management was turned upside down. Doug’s passion and conviction in teaching the importance of understanding your Leadership Compass and how you can use it to become a better manager, leader, and mentor to your employees gave me a new perspective on how I can positively impact the lives of my employees. Doug is an incredibly intelligent, thoughtful, and articulate speaker and teacher. Using his life experience and overcoming personal challenges, Doug is able to empathetically relate to many demographics of individuals and professions. His book, “Watch Me RISE” has been a motivating tool. I credit Doug with the type of leader I am today and my professional development throughout my career. Thirteen years later, Doug always has time to answer an email, question, or offer helpful advice. Doug is a man of integrity, outstanding character, and a person I am proud to look up to as a mentor."
"We were very excited to have Dr. Luff speak to our student body and help us set the tone for a positive and successful school year! He easily connected with the students with his enthusiasm, and drew them in with his inspirational and unique story. Dr. Luff was truly engaging, connected with the audience, and delivered a thoughtful and powerful message. We were greatly appreciative of Dr. Luff’s ability to inspire students to reach their greatest potential!"
"Doug 'Dr. Luff' Luffborough, III, speaks to the hearts of his audience. He is a gifted speaker with the power to transform his audience by opening their minds, invoking empathy, and establishing a deep understanding of the realities many of our students are challenged with including poverty, institutionalized racism, domestic abuse, and homelessness. Through the sharing of his amazing personal story, Dr. Luff inspires and lifts everyone in the audience so that they RISE to meet their purpose. If you need a heart-inspired speaker or educational consultant, Dr. Luff is the perfect choice!"
"For the past four years I have chosen to have Doug Luffborough as a presenter for our 9th grade retreat. Doug is a dynamic, multi-talented presenter who possesses the ability to connect with our students in a special way."
“We had Doug present at our “Administrative Kick off Day” at the beginning of the school year. Doug is an exceptional speaker and professional development trainer. Doug’s story and ability to connect with our administrative team kicked off our school year in the best way possible. We are very grateful for the God given talents that Doug possesses—it is a gift that has inspired our team to do our best.”
"Doug Luffborough was the keynote at MinnCAP’s Annual Training Conference in 2016. His story is one of struggle, heart-break, perseverance, and triumph. Doug captured the audience with his story as an inner-city youth struggling with poverty and homelessness, who made decisions to escape the chaos that surrounded him. Many attendees stated that Doug was the highlight of the conference. Doug is a survivor, and we are so happy he was able to be a big part of our conference this year. After reading his book, Watch Me RISE, I have a deep respect for the struggle that Doug and his family went through. He has a never give up attitude which carried him all the way to Harvard and beyond. I appreciate his passion as he continues to exceed the expectations of those naysayers who doubted him when he was younger. He is a testament to never giving up!"
“Mr. Luffborough is a dynamic speaker that illuminates the heart and mind, while opening the possibilities of the human potential. He provides the motivation and relevancy needed to move our children to the 21st Century rigors. His experiences as a School Board Member, CEO and Harvard Graduate provide a rich testimony that anything is possible.”
“When I was asked to be the Campaign Chair for the United Way of Dutchess County in 2009, our first plan of action was to identify a guest speaker who could motivate and galvanize our community at our campaign kick-off. Somebody who can genuinely speak about overcoming adversity and the benefits of the programs we fund and the community impact organizations like the United Way are trying to have. For me, there was only one person I could think of that represents true “triumph” and that one person is Doug Luffborough who helped us reach our goal of over $1.7M."
"Doug was tremendous! What a perfect person to have as a speaker for this event! His story of perseverance is incredible and his delivery was both entertaining and inspiring. That WILL be a tough one to top next year!"
"This was by far the most dynamic Senior Recognition Breakfast we’ve had in 17 years!! Everyone was thrilled – you connected so well with our students that they’re still talking about it (as is the staff!) Thanks so much for sharing your powerful story with them – the message that comes across is one that will stay with them forever."
“It has been wonderful working with Doug! He has the charisma and energy to work with any group. His enthusiasm and genuine positive attitude are evident in everything he does. He is sincere, versatile and works well beyond what is expected.”
“Doug Luffborough has provided his gifts and talents of making a difference in the lives of youths throughout the Antelope Valley for many years and has touched thousands with his motivation and spirit.”
"I would like to acknowledge [Doug’s] superb presentation. [His] comments were cogent and delivered in a very professional manner. I know of few people who could have done so well in such a highly charged setting. [He is] a credit to the College, and I consider ourselves fortunate to count [Doug] as one of our alumni."
"It is not every day that we hear of someone overcoming the obstacles brought on by poverty and homelessness. I cannot thank [Doug] enough for sharing [his] incredible story will all of us."
"[Doug’s] enthusiasm, determination, and heartfelt expression on [his] life views proved to be quite an inspiration for all of us who were in attendance."
“Doug is a man of humanity, humor, and hunger. He spoke to a gymnasium of 1,000 people in Carlsbad, CA, at the request of my daughter. He did not touch 1,000 hearts that day; he touched one heart 1,000 times. What a memory - what a speaker!"
"Doug, in my life I have three types of moments: moments of misery, moments of truth, and moments of magic. I want you to know you provided me with a moment of magic!"
"I will keep [Doug’s] speech here as part of my permanent files. It is an understatement to say again what a fine young man [he is]. It was an honor to have [Doug] at the Kennedy Library."
Using the Power of Story to Transform Lives
With decades of leadership experience and raw storytelling that captivates at every level, Dr. Luff delivers keynotes that inspire and ignite lasting change—in schools, boardrooms, and communities around the country.
Hi, I’m Dr. Luff, and I’m glad you're here.
If you’ve ever felt like your past was too heavy to outrun, you’re in the right place.
For years mine used to echo in every corner of my mind—until I rewired my brain to believe my greatest setbacks could become my greatest source of strength.
Now I want to help YOU redefine what’s possible so you can RISE into your greatest self.
As a nationally recognized speaker, coach, and entrepreneur, I bring lived experience, empathy, and practical tools to help you write your next chapter.
Ready to RISE?
How I Help
Others Rise
Speaker
Speaker
From national stages to intimate gatherings, I bring two decades of powerful storytelling to bring lasting impact centered on leadership, perseverance, and purpose.
Coach
Coach
As a certified Cognitive Behavioral Life Coach, I offer one-on-one and group coaching for high level professionals and leaders seeking personal and professional transformation.
Consultant
Consultant
With 25+ years in education, I partner with schools and EdTech teams to drive meaningful, inside-out change through my company, Higher Level Leadership.
Author
Author
Through my book Watch Me RISE, I bring inspiration and empowerment to help others lead with their story.
