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Chris Chappell
Professional Audiobook / VO narrator, producer. Public speaker. Passionate about helping others tell their story.
Professional Background
Chris Chappell is a multifaceted professional whose career spans over two decades as an artist, entrepreneur, and voiceover talent. With more than 30 audiobooks and a rich portfolio of commercial voice-over work, Chris has established himself as a leading voice in the audiobook industry. His unique talent not only speaks to his artistry but also to his commitment to fostering positive energy through motivational speaking, focusing on leadership, resilience, and an invigorating never-give-up attitude. Chris has shared the stage with numerous revered speakers since his notable appearance at TED '06, empowering audiences with his heartfelt dialogues that inspire action and promote personal growth.
Over the years, Chris has also built a robust background in business development, marketing, and multimedia initiatives for various organizations, amplifying his reach and influence across diverse sectors. His extensive experience includes a significant 18-year tenure as Senior Vice-President at prominent financial services firms, including Smith Barney, Solomon Brothers, and Citigroup. Chris's core competencies lie in portfolio development, recruitment, training, and international management, empowering teams to perform at their highest levels within investment banking and Private Wealth Management.
In addition to his voiceover and corporate expertise, Chris is an ardent advocate for individuals with disabilities, particularly those living with quadriplegia. He has dedicated a significant part of his life advocating for disability rights and accessibility, thereby impacting countless lives and communities. As an author, he not only narrates stories but also creates narratives that challenge societal norms and encourage inclusivity through legislative efforts like the Colorado legislative bill HB11-1208, which he developed and authored.
Education and Achievements
Chris's educational journey laid a solid foundation for his impressive career. He pursued a BS in Business Management with a keen focus on Marketing and Organizational Behavior at Rider University, where he proudly maintained a commendable GPA of 3.5. His educational credentials are further enriched by a series of professional studies in Finance, Financial Management Services, and various securities licenses through respected institutions such as NASD, NYSE, and FINRA. Additionally, Chris’s life experiences resonate with his unique PhD in resilience and perseverance, aptly summed up as ‘Poor, Hungry, Driven, Life: 55’ which he earned through the invaluable teachings of life’s challenges.
Chris’s diverse skill set and passionate pursuits have not gone unnoticed, earning him several prestigious accolades throughout his career. Notably, he was honored to be an Olympic Torchbearer, symbolizing his enduring spirit and commitment to excellence. His keynote speaking engagements have graced myriad platforms, including his notable role as a U.S. Presidential candidate keynote speaker. His recognition further extends to winning two Colorado Healthcare Communicators Gold Leaf Awards, and a gold award from Web Health International for VoiceOver contributions. Not to mention, his membership in the distinguished Smith Barney Century Club and receipt of the Dun & Bradstreet Presidential Citation stand as testaments to his professional excellence and influential stature within the industry.
Achievements
Chris's career is marked by an exceptional blend of accomplishments that not only highlight his professional prowess but also showcase his unwavering resolve to make a difference in the lives of those around him. He is notably recognized as one of the foremost figures in both the voiceover and business sectors. With over 28 published audiobooks to his credit on the pristine ACX platform, Chris's voice resonates across genres, bringing literature to life for numerous listeners nationwide.
His transition from a successful corporate career into voiceover artistry and public speaking reflects a transformative journey, one peppered with commitments to advocacy and personal development. As a disability advocate, Chris leverages his platform to amplify the voices of those who face challenges similar to his own, firmly believing that life is a school of hard knocks where navigation is contingent upon one’s attitude.
Chris's engaging and dynamic speaking style captivates audiences while instilling optimism and a proactive mindset. His motto, 'Onward & Upward...No Excuses!', embodies the essence of his life’s work—pushing boundaries, overcoming obstacles, and encouraging a shared vision for a brighter future.
In addition to his rich professional pursuits, Chris also revels in the joy and camaraderie of personal interests, notably his love for MINI Coopers, characterizing his belief that life should be embraced with fun and a positive approach.
In summary, Chris Chappell embodies resilience, artistry, and commitment to change, continually inspiring individuals across various fields. His multifaceted career—from being a voiceover talent to a seasoned executive and a vehement disability advocate—highlights his diverse skills and unwavering determination to leave a lasting impact in the world. Chris is not just a voice—he is a beacon of positivity and inspiration who continues to pave the way for future generations to follow their dreams, regardless of the hurdles they face.
