Dr. Brandy Runyan is a nationally recognized thought leader in mental health, resilience, and performance, recently featured in Crackyl magazine for her powerful article highlighting the psychological parallels between professional athletes and first responders. With over 20 years of experience managing elite athletes and high-performing individuals, Brandy brings a unique perspective to mental wellness—one rooted in both science and lived experience. Dr. Runyan holds a PhD in Sport Leadership, is a university faculty member at East Texas A&M University, and specializes in sport leadership and mental resilience, teaching future leaders how to navigate pressure, trauma, and identity in high-stakes environments. She is the founder and CEO of Black Diamond Sport & Entertainment Group, a management firm known for its holistic approach to client success—on and off the field. Brandy’s work bridges the worlds of sport, service, and psychology. She has worked alongside professional athletes, first responders, and military veterans, developing mental health tools like the Iceberg Assessment to better understand hidden stressors and emotional regulation challenges. Her keynote addresses are known for their depth, authenticity, and call to action—leaving audiences not just inspired, but equipped. Whether speaking to professionals, departments, or student groups, Brandy’s message is clear: mental health is not a weakness—it’s the foundation of sustained performance, leadership, and life.