Dean Barnes is the host of the My Hockey Hero podcast – a platform through which he highlights the importance of diversity, inclusion and representation in hockey and other sports. Best known for bringing to light inspiring stories of Black NHL players, Dean is often featured on media platforms such as Hamilton Spectator, Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, and several others. Now available to hire as a keynote speaker, Dean addresses subjects such as inspirational leadership, change, diversity, and inclusion.
Having begun collecting hockey cards when he was 7 years old, the fact that his collection of rookie cards for 100 Black and bi-racial players who have appeared in at least one NHL game was featured in the United by Hockey and the Black Hockey History mobile museum is incredible. Dean has also completed a PhD from the University of Toronto and has led a successful career in education. He has served as a Secondary School Principal as well as Superintendent of Education.
In 2024, Dean launched the My Hockey Hero podcast. The podcast has become a fan favourite platform for learning about hockey’s diverse heroes. It features players from all levels of the sport. Dean has also collaborated with the Canadian Hockey League for the 2024-25 for this podcast, with the aim of connecting with several sections of fans including young and multicultural audiences. Dean’s story and journey has been featured in Jim Lang’s “Everyday Hockey Heroes” in 2024.
As a keynote speaker, Dean shares valuable lessons on trusting relationships, diversity & inclusion, change & influence, and the power of representation in hockey. His experience as a black hockey historian enriches his keynote speeches, as Dean is able to delve into the importance of racial diversity in sports along with his personal journey. Dean Barnes is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers, most suitable for events related to diversity & inclusion & inspirational leadership. Hire Dean Barnes today!
Dean Barnes' official speaker topics are listed below:
Diversity and Inclusion, Trusting Relationships
Like in hockey, there may be unknown stories of individuals in any organization or workplaces. To build a relationship with someone, you must first begin to understand their identities. Knowing the stories of lesser known individuals in an organization can lead to greater inclusion and acceptance through a closer connection. Stories help us make sense of the diversity of our identities and they are at the foundation of our relationships. They help us see the many ways in which we are alike, and they help us celebrate and appreciate our differences. In this presentation, the audience will learn how to foster an environment that values different backgrounds and experiences and how to be an effective ally.
Inspirational Leadership, Change and Influence
This presentation explores various concepts and real-world examples, highlighting how leaders can drive successful change and influence others. Leading and initiating change requires dreaming and setting a vision to influence others. Dean’s journey of amplifying and elevating stories of current of close to 100 Black and biracial players who have appeared in at least one National Hockey League game is celebrated. The audience will learn how leaders motivate others and influence others to change perceptions. Organizations and leaders will understand the need to adapt to changing environments, expectations, and how to overcome resistance to change.
The Power of Representation in Hockey
Audiences will learn about Dean's personal background and career journey and the importance of Black History Month in celebrating achievements of past and present Black hockey players. There will be an opportunity to see the hockey card collection of 100 Black/biracial players which was displayed in the NHL Black Hockey History Museum across North American cities in 2022.
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
"We all enjoyed the presentation. Thanks for coming out and sharing your initiative. I have enjoyed your latest podcasts!! It is so great for the players to know they have left such a legacy for future athletes! Awesome job!" - Brock University
"Dean has been a longstanding advocate for marginalized students disproportionally impacted by negative experiences in schools, and brings a consistent, caring and critical eye to building opportunities for their success." - David, Associate Professor, University of Toronto
- 2024 – Current Host of the My Hockey Hero podcast
- 2024 – Invited to speak on CHCH Sportsline
- 2024 – His story was featured in “Everyday Hockey Heroes” by Jim Lang
- 2023 – My Hockey Hero Podcast featured by the National Hockey League United by Hockey Museum
- 2023 – His hockey card collection was displayed in the United by Hockey Museum
- 2021 – Hockey Card collection showcased by the National Hockey League across North America
How to hire Dean Barnes
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Dean Barnes for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do NOT accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
