Ambassador Jeff Flake

Ambassador Jeff Flake is a former U.S. Senator, U.S. Congressman, and is fresh off an assignment as U.S. Ambassador to Turkey (2021–2024). As Ambassador, he was pivotal in securing Sweden’s accession to NATO. For his efforts in negotiations between the United States, Sweden, and Turkey, Flake was awarded Knighthood by the King of Sweden in 2025.

Speech topics include:

Leadership

1. Leading with Civility in an Age of Incivility

How to maintain principles without losing composure—and why respect is a strategic asset.

2. Principle-Centered Leadership: Doing the Right, Not the Easy Thing

From primary challenges to diplomatic stand-offs, real leadership often means swimming against the tide.

3. Courage Under Pressure: Leading Through Tumultuous Times

Lessons from the Senate floor and global diplomacy on how to lead when the stakes are highest.

4. The Art of Negotiation: What Politics Can Teach About Conflict and Compromise
A behind-the-scenes look at high-stakes negotiations—from Capitol Hill to Turkey—focused on practical lessons in influence and resolution.

5. The World Needs Leaders

What I learned about leadership by sinking my boat in a remote African river and marooning myself on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Politics & Public Service

6. The Value of Soft Power and Diplomacy

Lessons from the U.S. Senate and diplomatic service on how relationships, values, and engagement shape global influence more than military force alone.

7. Bridging the Divide: Can Bipartisanship Make a Comeback?

A frank look at polarization in Washington—and why forging consensus is still possible and essential.

8. Why I’m Optimistic About the Future of American Politics

Despite the noise, civic renewal can happen. Here’s what gives me hope—and how students and communities can lead the next chapter.

9. When Congress Steps Back: The Case for Reasserting Congressional Leadership

From authorizing military force to regulating trade, a call for restoring constitutional balance in American governance.

10. What Public Service has Taught Me—and Why It Still Matters

A personal reflection on two decades in office, and why public service remains a noble calling.