Inspirational Speakers and Heroic Survivors

Introduction:

Todd Blyleven and Chris Maliszewski are remarkable individuals who have overcome unimaginable challenges and emerged as beacons of hope and inspiration. Through their compelling stories and the Walking Tall Movement, they are igniting change, promoting resilience, and fostering a culture of empathy and support.

About Todd Blyleven:

Todd Blyleven is an extraordinary individual whose life has been marked by heroic actions and unwavering resilience. During the tragic Route 91 Country Music Harvest Festival shooting in Las Vegas, his selfless acts saved lives and earned him the title of a hero. In the face of unspeakable tragedy, Todd fearlessly carried the injured over his shoulder and provided aid to as many people as he possibly could. However, the traumatic events of that night left him grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a struggle he has bravely confronted. Alongside his remarkable journey, Todd's background in professional sports, including his own successful career and experience as a Major League Baseball Scout, adds a unique depth to his message. His gripping story of triumph over adversity, coupled with his invaluable insights from the world of sports, inspires audiences to find strength, overcome challenges, and walk tall in their own lives.

About Chris Maliszewski:

Chris Maliszewski is an extraordinary individual who exemplifies resilience and selflessness. As a survivor of the Highland Park Shooting, he demonstrated immense bravery and compassion by helping others during that tragic event. Despite grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Chris is learning to walk tall again through therapy, the support of his friends and family, and his unwavering determination. With his extensive experience as a Division I college baseball coach, he has left a lasting impact on aspiring athletes, highlighting his deep understanding of teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth. As a dedicated member of the Park District of Highland Park, Chris continues to make a positive impact on the community, fostering connections and promoting well-being. Combining his personal journey with his professional expertise, Chris delivers a powerful message of overcoming adversity, inspiring audiences to embrace resilience and walk tall in their own lives.

The Walking Tall Movement:

Todd and Chris have joined forces to create the Walking Tall Movement—a powerful initiative that aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote open conversations. Through their speaking engagements, workshops, and community outreach, they inspire individuals to embrace vulnerability, foster supportive environments, and prioritize mental well-being. The Walking Tall Movement encourages everyone to stand tall, face their struggles head-on, and support one another along the journey of resilience and recovery.

Speaking Topics:

• Triumph over Tragedy: Stories of Bravery and Heroism

• Embracing Resilience: Overcoming Adversity and Finding Hope

• Leadership with Empathy and Approachability: Creating Supportive and Transparent Environments

• Walking Tall: Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health

• Personal Growth and Transformation: Navigating Challenges with Strength and Courage

Media Coverage:

• Walking Tall Movement:

  • Walking Tall Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVfDdIYXYB99NsrR4aal4qyAUGApxFeDP 

  • ABCA Podcast (American Baseball Coaches Association): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPpg4hpBSEg 

• Todd Blyleven:

  • MLB.com- https://www.mlb.com/news/featured/todd-blyleven-s-life-changed-after-las-vegas-shooting

  • The Athletic- https://theathletic.com/330935/2018/04/26/the-end-of-normal-todd-blyleven-was-a-hero-during-the-las-vegas-mass-shooting-that-was-only-the-beginning/ 

  • News Press- https://www.news-press.com/story/news/2017/10/03/strip-shooting-las-vetodd-blyleven-son-hall-fame-pitcher-bert-ran-las-vegas-shooting-survivors-safet/726332001/ 

  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1FjWvnvchk  

  • CNN, Fox Sports, BBC, Fox News, Washington Post, OC Register, LA Times and many more featured articles on Todd Blyleven.

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• Chris Maliszewski:

  • Player FM: https://player.fm/series/walking-tall-podcast/e2-survivor-chris-maliszewskis-highland-park-shooting-story-of-helping-and-coping-with-adversity

  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9i4fXen4mc 

  • Podcasts: 

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Social Media Handles:

• Todd Blyleven:

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-blyleven/ 

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todd.blyleven 

  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todd.blyleven/ 

  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlylevenTodd 

• Chris Maliszewski:

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-maliszewski-cprp-20190061/ 

  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/WalkTallChris 

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