Allan Kehler | Mental Health Advocate

Mental Health advocate


Creating a safe space where people
can be seen, heard, and supported™.

See Allan’s TEDx Talk

As seen in

When it comes to mental health,
silence is not the answer.

When it comes to mental health,
silence is not the answer.

I know first-hand what it feels like to have lost my voice, and I also know what it feels like to have found it.

I have dedicated my time and energy to strengthen the conversation around mental health so that others don’t have to suffer in silence the same way as I did.

I have learned that vulnerability equals strength. The more we share, put our walls down, and get real, the more we connect with others and most importantly ourselves.

Together, let’s create a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment that proactively addresses issues of mental wellness.

If you are looking to create a culture of care in your workplace, community, or school, I would love to hear from you.

Learn More About Allan

Mental Health: Finding Your Voice

Allan Kehler is one of Canada’s most sought-after speakers when it comes to the topic of mental health. His captivating storytelling and practical approach touches on many critical topics today – including mental health, psychological safety, suicide, substance use, resilience, and wellness.

Watch this video and learn how one man can change someone’s entire life in just 10 minutes!

Watch Video

Book Allan so you can…

Redefine MENtal health

In an effort to avoid being perceived as weak or vulnerable, men have a tendency to bury their emotions deep within. Drawing from his personal experiences, Allan redefines what it means to be ‘a man’, and proves that vulnerability equals strength.

Empower people to reach out for help in times of need

Fear, stigma, and judgement are all factors that can keep us silent. Allan motivates individuals to speak out in times of need and reminds us that voicing our challenges has the power to set us free while giving others the permission to do the same.

Establish a deeper connection with self and others

In this fast-paced world we often underestimate the importance of having a relationship with ourselves and the people around us. Allan intentionally creates a safe space where people slow down, take the time to self-reflect, connect to themselves, and then to others.

Tap into the power of listening

Many individuals find it awkward to approach someone in distress, so they often choose to do nothing about it. Allan offers a simplified approach that highlights the importance of being there for others through the act of listening.

Create a culture of care

When team members are honest and upfront about what they’re going through, they create an environment where others feel safe to share, too. Allan reinforces the importance of feeling accepted and valued to strengthen the workplace culture.

Speaking

Allan Kehler is a mental health advocate with over a decade of experience as a professional speaker and wellness coach. He has persevered through the lifelong effects of mental illness, addiction, trauma, and suicide. His commitment and understanding to the lifelong process of recovery enables him to inspire and equip audiences with invaluable tools.

See Allan’s Speaking Topics

Podcasts

The relationship between men and mental health has often been referred to as a silent crisis. Based on Allan Kehler’s bestselling book MENtal Health: It’s Time to Talk, this podcast showcases men who have persevered through their own mental health challenges. These men put a voice to issues including masculinity, mental illness, addiction, sexual abuse, suicide, and ultimately wellness.

Listen to Allan’s Podcasts

Books

Allan Kehler is the best-selling author of four books that cover topics including mental health, substance use, resilience, and stress management. These books complement his presentations by serving as valuable resources for strengthening workplace wellness or personal development. Several of his books are also used in college curricula.

Check Out Allan’s Books

Rave Reviews

“Allan Kehler is an inspiration to us all. His honest, heartfelt, emotional and inspirational delivery should be heard by all. I feel lucky to have been able to be part of the 700+ attendees taking part. I laughed and I cried and felt so much better for it. Allan certainly puts everything into perspective.”
- Stephen McRory, Associate Director Funding & Liquidity Management, Scotiabank, Ireland
“Allan captivated nearly 1,000 of our employees and yet again his passion, energy, and personal story left all of us motivated to create spaces for conversations about mental health. Whether you are able to see him live and in person, or virtual, Allan brings it each time. Truly one of the best when it comes to authentic talks on mental health!”
- Jeremy Ring, Senior Manager, Employee Experience, Nutrien
"Allan captivated our employees at BC Hydro with his powerful, authentic, and thought-provoking message. Several employees shared that they had just attended the best one-hour session on mental health in their life. Every person should be required to learn from Allan. So, if you get a chance to bring him into your organization or conference, do it before someone else does!"
- Jeff Enns, Area Manager, Bridge/Coastal, BC Hydro
"Allan candidly and courageously shared his journey and struggles, while enabling us to reflect on mental health in our lives. His messages were salient and provoked meaningful conversations aimed at helping reduce stigma and recognizing the need to do more to support people with mental disorders. What’s more – people understood they were not alone in grappling with the issues, whether personal or in their professional lives. It was both inspirational and educational."
- Philip Mondor, President and CEO, Tourism HR Canada
“As a conference designer for close to 30 years, Allan is among the most memorable because his talks have an impact. He exhibits qualities that make for a great experience: He speaks from the heart, he is a great storyteller, and he has an important message that everyone should hear. In short, Allan cares and it shows.”
- John Brewer, Executive Program Developer, The Conference Board of Canada
“If you are looking for a speaker with integrity, emotional intelligence and someone who connects with your audience, Allan is your guy! He comes across to his audience with such genuine heartfelt sharing that it draws a person to be an active listener. If you are a supervisor, front line worker, parent or friend, there is a takeaway message. There are times for laughter, emotional self-reflection, and above all, hope for improvement as a team or as an individual.”
- Sandra Cripps, Chief Executive Officer, SASWH
"Allan has presented many times in our school division, and I feel empowered and enlightened every time I hear him speak. He delivers his message from the heart, and with energy and wit. He will make you laugh. He will make you cry. Best of all, he will make you think about how to live and be better. Allan has made a deep impact and connection with us, and we consider him one of our good friends."
- Terry Jordens, Superintendent of Student Services & Assessment, Holy Family RCSSD #140
“Allan brings a powerful message of hope, empathy, and inspiration for teachers faced with the challenge and uncertainty about how to approach and assist students. Allan speaks with emotion, commitment, experience, and without reservation. It is his mission and hope that teachers discover ways to use his personal experience to ensure that no student feels the need to hide in silence.”
- Walley Porter, Past President, North Central Teachers’ Convention Association
“Allan is an energetic, captivating and dynamic speaker. He shares his stories in a way that tugs at the heartstrings while motivating you to make positive change. Every individual at Canada’s Safest Employer gala was hanging on to his every word. Allan truly has a wonderful gift.”
- Amanda Silliker, Editor Canadian Occupational Safety, Thomson Reuters
“Allan’s superior knowledge and compassionate nature makes him a valuable addition to any educational component. Allan has delivered numerous keynotes at our regional conferences, and his breakout workshops are always standing room only! Allan’s ability to read an audience is exemplary, and his evaluations are always excellent. I would highly recommend Allan as a speaker!”
- Sandi Buscarini, Program Lead, Events Programming & Delivery, WSPS
“To say Allan is a gifted virtual speaker is an understatement. We held onto every word and he transcended everything we could have asked for. If there's one thing you can do to positively impact mental health in your workplace it's to book Allan for your next event.”
- Samantha Limming, Events coordinator, Atomic Cartoon
“Our community experienced several traumatic events which created an atmosphere of uncertainty and worry. Allan provided more than just words of wisdom, but also practical advice to parents. Allan’s presentation allowed our students and parents to open the doors of communication and gain the strength to deal with the topics many of us try to avoid.”
- Terry Leibel, Principal, Wynyard Composite High School, Wynyard, SK
“Allan was an exceptional keynote speaker – he was both motivational and inspirational. He offered a balance of technical information, personal experience and interaction with the audience. I highly recommend Allan for any group wishing to explore themes of mental health and wellness.”
- Rick Hoffman, Executive Vice-President & Chief Financial Officer, Farm Credit Canada
“Allan spoke to our team and the impact cannot be overstated. Allan’s life experience and powerful presentation gave our people new insights and understanding into what “Mental Healthiness” looks like. Allan is truly a World Class speaker, and when he speaks, people listen. There are a handful of speakers everyone should hear. Allan is one of them!”
- Charlie Smith, CEO, Combine World

Some of Allan's Clients

If you’re ready to transform your relationships and community, let’s talk.

Book a 30-minute discovery call to get started.

Contact Allan

“Until you are willing to work through your darkness,
you can never truly stand in the light.”

– Allan Kehler