Today we’d like to introduce you to Kirt Davis.
It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
During my time in the United States Navy, I faced many difficulties, as so many service members still do. These difficulties unfortunately led me to attempt suicide 3 times. When I attempted to get help, I was given the cold shoulder and told to “suck it up.” The people, the leadership that assured me they would be there for me weren’t. All of the suicide prevention training meant nothing when I was in need of assistance. After seeking help outside of the confines of the military, I made it my life’s purpose to help others that were possibly considering suicide.
Working for the government in a prevention capacity, I see how the prevention efforts still fall short in a lot of ways. I have seen them bring speaker after speaker to instillations but, the speaker didn’t relate to a lot of the service members. Infact, a lot of the speakers were boring. I then decided to become a motivational speaker. I created The BETTERMENT EXPERIENCE and The SCREAM EXPERIENCE to not only tell my story, but to explain the importance of vulnerability which is something very tangible and doable by all.
The SCREAM EXPERIENCE became a huge success. Towards the end of the experience, I use SCREAM therapy so that everyone can experience vulnerability. It’s fun, and exciting.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Besides PTSD, depression, and anxiety, I have also had to deal with 6 heart attacks. Again, I know what so many go through on a daily basis. I know how hard it is to keep fighting. In my opinion, this knowledge is what makes me a better motivational speaker. The way that I connect with people. The way that I understand their struggles.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
My expertise is in prevention, but not conventional prevention. I like to call it “realistic prevention.” Having worked for multiple military branches in the prevention field, I have seen first hand how suicide prevention has become “robotic” in a sense. We have all been through the same kind of suicide prevention training, we have all heard the same types of speakers, yet suicides are still on the rise. Something has to change. I am that change.
A lot of people think that they need to hire a speaker that is a celebrity or a former athlete but, no one can relate to these people. We aren’t all millionaires. What I provide is something that people can relate to. A story they understand because the majority of them have been where I was and have felt what I felt.
The SCREAM EXPERIENCE is not just another boring hour of motivational speaking. There is no power point presentation full of statistics. It is interactive, full of passion, funny at times, and emotional. It is life changing.
Most importantly, it gives people a different perspective on suicide prevention. It makes it “real” for everyone in attendance and gives everyone something they can change for the better immediately.
While the SCREAM EXPERIENCE was designed for military members, their families, and veterans, it is not limited to them. Many have requested the experience. Organizations, companies, conferences, youth groups, women’s groups etc.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
Be appreciative of the success you already have. Also, do not measure your success based off of the success of others.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
For me, success means accomplishment. Instead of looking at success a one big destination, I like to appreciate the accomplishments big or small. Regardless, it’s progress.
What’s next for you?
I will continue on my journey to eliminate suicide as an option. I will continue to help those in need and continue to speak.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
You can contact me and book me via my website, BETTERMENTEXP.COM.
From my website, you can connect with me via Facebook and Instagram.