meet brett
From Failure to First in the World
Meet Brett:
Award-Winning Teacher | World Champion | Author | Speaker
Brett Bernard’s journey from struggling student to award-winning educator offers a unique perspective on overcoming challenges in the classroom. As a child in the 1980s, Brett faced significant hurdles with learning disabilities, ADHD, and social challenges. In a time when resources and diagnoses for students like him were scarce, Brett understands firsthand the frustration, isolation, and lack of support that many students still face today.
What turned his story around? Unicycling. Through the seemingly simple act of learning to ride a unicycle, Brett unknowingly discovered the power of persistence, resilience, and what is now a core principle of his approach—the concept of transfer. He learned to apply the skills and strategies he developed while mastering the unicycle in other areas of life, including academics. This shift in mindset allowed him to not only overcome his own learning challenges but also become a more effective student and, later, a teacher.
After 28 years in the classroom, Brett stepped away from teaching to reach a broader audience with the message he had been sharing with students and educators for years. Today, he is a sought-after speaker for professional development sessions, parent groups, church assemblies, and school communities. In his presentations, Brett teaches THREE practical strategies that empower educators to help all students, particularly those who struggle, to achieve success and realize their full potential.
These strategies are not just theoretical—they come from Brett’s own experience and years of research on turning the “impossible” into the possible. Through real-world examples and actionable insights, Brett shows teachers how to create environments where every student can thrive—no matter the obstacles they face. His mission is simple: to help educators understand that, with the right tools, mindset, and strategies, they can make a lasting impact on their students’ lives and help them achieve their dreams.
From a challenging youth and going from FAILURE to FIRST in the World, Brett Bernard’s story is empowering, and his message gives practical strategies for all.
Throughout his education, Brett conquered ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and self-doubt. Add the words bullied, teased, and succumbing to peer pressure and you have leaped into the world of too many kids today.
Luckily, Bernard found one thing that saved him. A unicycle. He found something that many think is IMPOSSIBLE and made it POSSIBLE. Having this unique talent gave him confidence and the mindset that anything is possible. His life completely changed. Socially, Emotionally, and Intellectually.
Brett Bernard became a teacher to help youth that were in the same shoes he was in. He prided himself on finding the special talents of all, building a positive classroom where all believed in themselves and one another, set goals, and focused on every single detail. He told his students that real motivation comes from within. From wanting more. From learning from failure. From knowing YOU are the BOMB!
With over 25 years as an educator, coach, mentor, and speaker, Brett Bernard knows how to help ALL achieve with his dynamic, entertaining, empowering, and relevant keynote speeches.
Bernard’s speech is results-driven and interactive. Your audience will be on their feet one minute, yet minutes later, they will be in their seats captivated by his personal stories, tricks on his unicycle, real world examples, and practical strategies.
As the captain of the USA Unicycle team, 4-time National Champion, and World Champion of Unicycling, Brett Bernard motivates his audience to dream big dreams, never give up, and ultimately, MAKE THE IMPOSSIBLE; POSSIBLE and Reach Their Dreams!
Inquiring About a Keynote Speaker?
I’m excited to connect with you! My passion lies in motivating educators and providing practical strategies to help everyone reach their full potential. Please fill out this form to share your goals for your school or district. I look forward to our discussion and will reach out within 24 hours to schedule your Strategic Planning Call.
Inquiring About a School Assembly or Church Event?
You’re in the right place! With 25 years of experience as a teacher and coach, I thrive on inspiring kids to dream big. My unicycling, juggling, magic tricks, and captivating stories are guaranteed to engage students of all ages. Let’s discuss how we can empower your students to cultivate grit, belief, and focus on the details that lead to success.
Inquiring About Both?
Perfect! This is a fantastic opportunity to align staff and students, fostering a common language and vision. I look forward to discussing your goals and tailoring our approach to maximize impact.
Looking forward to making a difference together!