Keynote Speaker on
Bullying
Helping Audiences Rethink Bullying and Cruelty
Service Options for Event Organizers
- Live Performance TEDx (15-20 min.)
- Motivational Keynote Address (20-60 min.)
- Plenary or Breakout Session (30-180 min.)
- Full or Half-Day Intensive Workshops
Please contact us via the form below or by clicking here to go to the Contact page.
Creating Safer, More Compassionate Schools and Workplaces
Bullying isn’t just a childhood problem—it’s a lifelong issue that affects schools, workplaces, and entire communities. Whether it’s in the classroom, on social media, or in corporate boardrooms, bullying causes real harm and leads to increased anxiety, depression, and lost potential.
Dr. Kyler Shumway, a TEDx speaker, psychologist, and best-selling author, brings a unique perspective to the fight against bullying. As someone who was bullied as a child, Kyler knows firsthand how damaging it can be—and how compassion, leadership, and evidence-based strategies can make a difference.
In this powerful keynote, Kyler blends science, storytelling, and practical tools to help individuals, educators, and organizations take meaningful steps toward creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone.
Key Takeaways…
- The Psychology of Bullying – Why people bully, why targets struggle to speak up, and how to change the cycle.
- The Role of Leadership – How teachers, administrators, and workplace leaders can stop bullying before it starts.
- Bystander to Upstander – How we can all step in and be part of the solution instead of looking the other way.
- Building a Culture of Kindness – Practical, research-backed strategies to create an environment where bullying doesn’t thrive.
- Empowering the Next Generation – How to teach kids and young professionals resilience, self-advocacy, and empathy.
Who This Talk Is For:
🎤 Schools & Educators – Learn how to create a culture of kindness and stop bullying before it escalates.
🏢 Workplaces & Leadership Teams – Address toxic environments and create safer, more inclusive spaces for employees.
🎓 Parents & Community Leaders – Discover how to help young people navigate bullying and grow into confident, kind leaders.
Why Book Dr. Shumway?
✔ TEDx Speaker & Best-Selling Author – Featured on major platforms, delivering talks that inspire real change.
✔ A Personal & Professional Perspective – Both a bullying survivor and a psychologist who understands the science of bullying prevention.
✔ Actionable, Research-Backed Strategies – Not just theory—practical solutions you can apply immediately.
✔ Engaging, Story-Driven Approach – A speaker who connects with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
WHAT IT TAKES TO LOVE A BULLY | TEDxACU
FEATURED IN
Hidden
Credentials and Areas of Expertise
- Doctor of Clinical Psychology
- Licensed Psychologist in Texas and Oregon, Supervisor
- Pediatric Therapy and Assessment
- Autism, ADHD, and Other Neurodiversity
- Organizational Leadership and Clinical Quality Assurance
- Featured bullying and mental health expert in local and national news
Select Recent Events as Keynote and Plenary Speaker
- Activision Blizzard Disability Awareness Day
- Google’s National Diversity Awareness Event
- American Psychological Association (10x and counting featured events)
- University of Texas (3x return speaker by audience request)
- Savannah Autism Conference (4x return speaker by audience request)
- Belonging: Love & Autism Conference (3x return speaker by audience request)
- Southern Maine Autism Conference (2x return speaker by audience request)
- Provincial Association of Alberta, Canada
Speaking Services Menu
- Motivational Keynote Address (20-60 min.)
- Plenary or Breakout Session (30-180 min.)
- Live Performance TEDx (15 min.)
- Co-Led Keynote or Breakout with Dr. Daniel Wendler (per request)
- Full or Half-Day Intensive Workshops
Not sure? Contact us to discuss options.
We offer discounts to non-profit organizations and first-time event engagements.
Contact Form
Other Speaking Topics
About Bullying
Bullying is a harmful and persistent pattern of aggressive behavior aimed at belittling, intimidating, or demeaning others, often repeatedly and systematically. Its effects on those targeted are deeply damaging, extending far beyond the immediate encounters.
Victims of bullying can experience profound emotional and psychological trauma, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of worthlessness. The fear and stress induced by bullying can also affect physical health, leading to sleep disturbances and even long-term health issues. Beyond the individual, bullying can have a ripple effect, impacting families, communities, and even the wider society. It is a societal issue that demands our attention, empathy, and commitment to creating safe, inclusive environments where no one has to endure the devastating effects of bullying.
Bullying can take many forms, including physical, verbal, and emotional abuse, as well as exclusion and social isolation. It often occurs in schools, workplaces, online, and in other social settings. While anyone can be a victim of bullying, certain groups are more vulnerable, including those with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color. It’s important to recognize the signs of bullying and take action to intervene and provide support for those affected. This can include speaking out against bullying, advocating for policies and programs that address the issue, and providing resources for victims and their families.
By working together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.
What to Look For
Recognizing the signs that someone may be a victim of bullying is crucial for offering support and assistance. Here are five warning signs to look for:
- Emotional Distress: Victims of bullying often exhibit signs of emotional distress, such as increased anxiety, depression, mood swings, or sudden changes in behavior. They may become withdrawn, irritable, or display a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Physical Symptoms: Bullying can manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping. Victims may also experience a decline in their overall physical health due to the stress of the situation.
- Social Isolation: A sudden or prolonged withdrawal from social activities, friends, or family may indicate that someone is a victim of bullying. They might become more isolated or exhibit avoidance behaviors to escape their tormentors.
- Declining Academic or Work Performance: Victims of bullying may struggle to concentrate, leading to declining academic or work performance. Frequent absenteeism or a drop in grades or work quality can be a warning sign.
- Unexplained Possessions Damage or Loss: Bullying can extend to personal belongings. Frequent damage or loss of possessions without a clear explanation might indicate that someone is being targeted by bullies.
It’s essential to approach the individual with care and empathy when you observe these signs and encourage open communication. Let them know that you are there to support and help them navigate the situation. If you suspect someone is a victim of bullying, take their concerns seriously and encourage them to seek help from trusted adults or relevant authorities.
What to Look For
Recognizing the signs that someone may be a victim of bullying is crucial for offering support and assistance. Here are five warning signs to look for:
- Emotional Distress: Victims of bullying often exhibit signs of emotional distress, such as increased anxiety, depression, mood swings, or sudden changes in behavior. They may become withdrawn, irritable, or display a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Physical Symptoms: Bullying can manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping. Victims may also experience a decline in their overall physical health due to the stress of the situation.
- Social Isolation: A sudden or prolonged withdrawal from social activities, friends, or family may indicate that someone is a victim of bullying. They might become more isolated or exhibit avoidance behaviors to escape their tormentors.
- Declining Academic or Work Performance: Victims of bullying may struggle to concentrate, leading to declining academic or work performance. Frequent absenteeism or a drop in grades or work quality can be a warning sign.
- Unexplained Possessions Damage or Loss: Bullying can extend to personal belongings. Frequent damage or loss of possessions without a clear explanation might indicate that someone is being targeted by bullies.
It’s essential to approach the individual with care and empathy when you observe these signs and encourage open communication. Let them know that you are there to support and help them navigate the situation. If you suspect someone is a victim of bullying, take their concerns seriously and encourage them to seek help from trusted adults or relevant authorities.
Supporting Targets and Survivors of Bullying
Supporting victims of bullying is crucial in helping them heal and regain their confidence. Here is a list of actions individuals and communities can take to help victims of bullying:
- Establish Systems for Prevention and Healing: Schools and workplaces have the power to build programs that address bullying at the source by raising awareness, increasing emotional intelligence, and intervening in compassionate ways.
- Promote Inclusivity: Advocate for an inclusive and respectful environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
- Respond to Cruelty with Compassion: When we experience cruelty from others, whether through immense injustice or small moments of mistreatment, all of us have the chance to respond in ways that disrupt the cycle of suffering.