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Dave Sanderson

Miracle on the Hudson Survivor, Last Passenger off the plane. Inc.com’s Top 100 Leadership Speakers Helped raise $14.8M for the American Red Cross

ABOUT

On January 15, 2009, Dave Sanderson’s life changed dramatically when he became the last passenger to exit US Airways Flight 1549 after its emergency landing on the Hudson River—an event known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Demonstrating selfless leadership, Dave risked his own safety to assist fellow passengers, an experience that ignited his mission to inspire others to harness their defining moments.

Transitioning from a successful career in sales and security, including a decade with Tony Robbins’ organization, Dave has become a globally recognized motivational speaker and author. His works, including Moments Matter, From Turmoil to Triumph, and The Limitless Life, offer practical strategies for turning adversity into opportunity.

Named one of Inc.com’s Top 100 Leadership Speakers, Dave has delivered over 100 presentations annually, sharing insights on resilience, leadership, and personal growth. His commitment to service is evident in his efforts that have raised over $14.8 million for the American Red Cross.

Dave believes that everyone has a “personal flight plan”—a unique path shaped by their experiences and choices. Through his speaking engagements, workshops, and mentorship programs, he empowers individuals and organizations to navigate uncertainty and achieve their fullest potential.

VIDEOS

PRAISE

Dave, our bankers were talking about you, our opening keynote, right through the end of the conference. Your story was so personal to all of us, and your lessons hammered it home on why your experience can be transforming for all. Thank you!
CLARE CUSACKPresident & CEO, New York Bankers Association
“Briefly wanted to reach out and say thank you to Pablos for a tremendous Masterclass yesterday, it was fantastic welcoming him. It was a great Masterclass and have received tons of positive feedback, so I very much hope we can get to do it again in the future.”
– F. LinderbergPresidents Summit
Dave’s message really landed with our team — especially the idea that jolts don’t define us, but how we think, lead, and show up does. His framework around getting clear, getting free, and getting going aligned perfectly with our 90‑Day Action Plans, helping us focus on clarity, courage, and taking the next best step. If you’re a leader looking to elevate your organization’s mindset and momentum, bringing Dave in is a powerful catalyst. His message is practical, energizing, and immediately actionable.
ALEX NELSONFinancial Advisor, Edward Jones 2026 Sales Kick Off Meeting
From beginning to end, Dave was outstanding! His dedication to making a positive impact was clear in every aspect of his presentation. In an industry as challenging as ours, he provided valuable insights that left our members inspired and equipped with actionable takeaways to move forward.
Vice President of Member Services & Education, Virginia Health Care Association

BIO

Dave Sanderson was the last passenger off US Airways Flight 1549, the Miracle on the Hudson. He survived, then he made a decision: he wouldn’t let that moment be the end of the story.

With 38 years as a top sales producer and decades of experience leading under pressure, Dave founded Resilience Partners Group to help leaders and teams navigate crisis, uncertainty, and high-stakes change—without waiting for permission, perfect clarity, or a title. His work equips people to stay calm, make high-velocity decisions, and take the next best step even when the full path isn’t visible.

Dave has delivered keynotes for Fortune 500 organizations, coached executives, and helped raise $14.8 million for the American Red Cross. Named one of Inc.com’s Top 100 Leadership Speakers, he is known for blending unforgettable storytelling with practical, immediately applicable tools.

Dave’s message is simple: You don’t need a title to lead. You need clarity, courage, and conviction.

He lives in Charlotte with his family—and speaks today with one goal: to help others lead when it matters most.

BOOK

MOMENTS MATTER

How One Defining Moment Can Create a Lifetime of Purpose
 
Moment’s Matter details Dave Sanderson’s close encounter with death and how one defining moment can create a lifetime of purpose. The book was published on the 7-year anniversary of the Miracle on the Hudson, when a bird strike hit US Airways Flight 1549, and there was no choice for the crew but to ditch and land the plane into the Hudson River.
 
Dave was the last passenger off the flight that fateful date. He took personal responsibility, risking his own life in frigid water to help fellow passengers off the plane safely. Despite the hazards to himself, Sanderson thought only of helping others and emerged from the wreckage with a mission; to encourage others to do the right thing.