Heartland 2017 Announces Keynote Speaker

WATERLOO, Iowa (March 16, 2017)—Kevin Lacz, former U.S. Navy SEAL and author of the New York Times best-selling memoir, “The Last Punisher,” will be giving the keynote address at VGM’s Heartland Conference.  

Lacz’s presentation, “A Morning with Kevin Lacz: Risk vs Reward,” will take place at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, June 13, 2017. During his presentation, Lacz will share with conference attendees the importance of identifying, mitigating and overcoming risks by using his own journey from struggling student to decorated Navy SEAL as an example.

“Heartland Conference is all about creating impactful experiences that our members can utilize to improve their business,” said Sara Laures, VGM’s vice president of special projects and conference chairperson. “Kevin’s presentation is delivered with passion and, coupled with his wry humor, will inspire and motivate our attendees to overcome their fears and achieve at a high level.”

As a sniper and combat medic, Lacz was crucial to the success of Task Unit Bruiser, which emerged as one of the most highly decorated special operations units of the Iraq war. He received multiple awards during his service, including a Bronze Star with combat “V” (indicating acts of valor or meritorious services in combat) and the Navy and Marine Commendation Awards with combat “V.”

“Kevin’s story of failing undergrad to risking it all as a U.S. Navy SEAL and then coming full-circle by achieving a Master’s degree from Wake Forest University is a story that will leave a lasting impression on our members,” said Laures.

Before writing his best-selling memoir, Lacz served as SEAL technical advisor for Hollywood icon Clint Eastwood’s adaptation of “American Sniper,” the story of Chris Kyle. Lacz was an integral part of the Oscar-winning film by not only serving as advisor, but also playing himself in the film.

Today, Lacz is a certified physician assistant in Florida, where he co-owns Lifestyle and Performance Medicine—powered by Regenesis, a concierge-based, functional medicine practice. Lacz is also the spokesperson for his charity, Hunting for Healing, a Florida non-profit that takes serviced-disabled veterans and their spouses on hunting, fishing and other outdoor expeditions. 

Following the keynote address, Heartland attendees will have an opportunity to meet Lacz and to purchase his book during a book-signing event.

Visit vgmheartland.com for more information.