Brendan McDonough Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Brendan McDonough's life is a testament to resilience, redemption, and the power of community. Born and raised in Prescott, Arizona, he faced a turbulent youth marked by substance abuse and legal troubles. The birth of his daughter in 2011 became a pivotal moment, motivating him to turn his life around. Determined to build a better future, McDonough joined the Granite Mountain Hotshots, an elite wildland firefighting crew. Under the mentorship of Superintendent Eric Marsh, he transformed into a dedicated and skilled firefighter, earning the nickname "Donut" from his team. Tragedy struck on June 30, 2013, when the Yarnell Hill Fire rapidly intensified, trapping the crew. McDonough, serving as the lookout, was the sole survivor as all 19 of his fellow firefighters perished. This devastating loss marked the greatest loss of firefighter lives in the U.S. since 9/11. In the aftermath, McDonough grappled with profound grief, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite these challenges, he found solace and strength in his faith, family, and the memory of his fallen brothers. Determined to honor their legacy, McDonough became an advocate for mental health and addiction recovery, particularly for first responders and veterans. He co-founded Holdfast Recovery, a faith-based rehabilitation center in Prescott, Arizona, dedicated to helping individuals overcome trauma and substance abuse. Through his work, he provides a safe space for healing and personal growth, embodying the values of brotherhood and service that defined his time with the Hotshots. In addition to his advocacy, McDonough shares his story through speaking engagements, inspiring audiences with his journey of overcoming adversity. He has been featured in various media outlets and was portrayed by actor Miles Teller in the 2017 film Only the Brave, which dramatizes the events of the Yarnell Hill Fire. Through his public appearances and outreach, McDonough continues to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by first responders and the importance of community support. Today, McDonough resides in Prescott with his daughters and fiancée. He remains committed to his mission of helping others find healing and purpose, ensuring that the sacrifices of his brothers are never forgotten. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the transformative impact of compassion and community.