Motivational Speakers

John Wodele (pronounced "Woodley") has developed a series of informative and entertaining presentations that can be adapted to almost any educational, training or meeting venue.

Wodele is a passionate communicator who takes his audiences on a compelling and entertaining adventure. His life experiences will convince you that truth, loyalty and focus can be the difference in an organization's success or individual's career and personal fulfillment. Focusing on a problem and sorting out what's right and wrong is not spin - it's your truth - and the courage to tell it can make all the difference.

Once subject to an investigative media story himself, Wodele has advised individuals and elected officials in trouble with the law, under investigation by the media, and at risk for untimely and/or offensive public comments.

Wodele will captivate your audience with his passionate belief that honesty and loyal dedication are the principle foundation upon which any successful organization or individual must build.



John Wodele's Biography

Born and raised in Wabasha, Minnesota, John Wodele (Pronounced "Woodley") served three terms as the historic river town's mayor during the 1970's.

Mr. Wodele has thirteen years experience in the private sector as part owner and President of Wabasha Transfer, Inc. In 1984, he joined the Ramsey County Attorney's Office as Manager of Criminal Justice Policy, Media and Legislative Relations, and later served as Chief of Staff.

In 1992, Mr. Wodele coordinated the successful Minnesota primary and general election campaign of Bill Clinton and later was appointed by President Clinton to the Federal Home Loan Bank Board of Directors, on which he served for six years.

While living in Minneapolis, Mr. Wodele served eight years as a Minneapolis Planning Commissioner and ran unsuccessfully for mayor of Minneapolis in 1993.

Most recently, he is best known for his role as the key advisor and spokesperson for former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura. Currently, Mr. Wodele is a writer and public relations consultant, and is working on a book detailing his crisis media management experiences as Ventura's Director of Communications.

A graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Mass Communication, Mr. Wodele has three adult children, who all live and work in Minneapolis. He lives in the Twin City suburb of White Bear Lake with his wife, Ramsey County Attorney Susan Gaertner."