Rodney R. Payne has proven to be an excellent speaker, author, leadership coach and mentor. His work as Executive Director with the John Maxwell Team speak to his highly impressive qualifications.   Having had the privilege of personally being coached by Rodney, I can  respectfully recommend him. If you just want someone to pat you on the back and tell you, "Great Job!" then Rodney is probably not the coach for you. However, if you want someone to truly help you succeed, to develop your leadership skills, to hold you accountable and to impart wisdom to you, then Rodney R. Payne is just the man for the job. If you are ready to take your life to the next level with customized leadership plans and someone who will speak life over you, then I thoroughly recommend you work with Rodney R. Payne.   Deborah Love Bradshaw Author, Coach, TEDx Speaker

To Whom It May Concern: I am writing to provide a professional reference for Rodney R. Payne. In my experience as a professional actor, producer and speaker, I have had the pleasure of working with many of Television and Film industry's brightest, most outstanding minds. Rodney R. Payne ranks among the very best speakers I've ever encountered in my over two decades in this industry. His speeches, webinars and teaching on topics that are innovative as well as creative. I have been able to be more of an influence in my field by just adding aspects of my training and values I've learned from Rodney and I've been able to utilize them in aspects of my field and experiences, I obtained from him. Rodney is an electrifying public speaker that is going to teach you skills and a lesson while keeping it entertaining enough that captivates your attention. His passion for motivating others is infectious. In just half an hour, you will gain a fresh perspective on leadership that is transforming, creative and innovating. Rodney has a very deep professional expertise in many areas and it shows. He draws on his decades of experience to help reshape the process of innovation across all platforms in his teachings. He is well connected and is a trusted resource in leadership and development. It is my pleasure to give Rodney R. Payne my highest recommendation as a keynote speaker. He will deliver valuable information in an inspiring and entertaining manner with many take aways. Sincerely, Laz Alonso Actor / Producer

Speaker Rodney R. Payne provided the perfect balance of humor and inspiration at our Spring Bling Resource Fair. The audience really connected with him. It was clear that he had done his homework to send out a message of inspiration and aspiration for both our professional and personal lives.  Mr. Payne graciously stayed to sign books for everyone that bought his material; we were all very humbled by his down to earth demeanor.  We would love to have Mr. Payne back again, and I would highly recommend him for any corporate or personal event.  Mr. Payne has revamped the world of Inspiration and Motivational Speaking with his personal touch. Crystal Ifekoya WHOW Founder / Senior Event Planner

Rodney Payne is an authentic, compassionate, and motivating speaker. He displays the same energy and enthusiasm whether he is speaking to an audience of five or 500. His expansive knowledge and expertise across so many professional disciplines are impressive. Through Mr. Payne's courses and presentations, I am learning business strategies that help me navigate today's challenges while preparing for long-term success. There is a lot to learn, and know, but Mr. Payne has the unique ability to tie it all together in a systematic way that allows you to consistently build those skills that position you for success.  Mr. Payne is known for saying "Everybody needs a coach" and I am proud to call him mine. With his support, I am on a productive path to building a business that will allow me to pursue my passion while adding value to others.     NaRita G. Anderson, PhD Finance Department
 College of Business 


Rodney Payne is an incredible communicator, mentor, and leadership coach. As an individual who has been able to receive from him as a Pastor and as an executive coach, I can attest to his ability to go above and beyond for those he is engaging with. Rodney provides tangible concepts, principles and wisdom as well as being incredibly personable any time he is speaking. His ability to speak clearly and confidently exuberates his experience and expertise. I can truly say that Rodney is going to challenge you while also keeping a light hearted spirit. He is known for giving you all the keys to success and then pushing you to achieve just that. I am beyond lucky to have someone so talented in my corner. I highly recommend Rodney for any speaking engagements you need.

Mr. Payne was just what I needed to help change my life for the better. Mr. Payne showed early on after my free consultation of his services that he was confident in what he could do for me. The first appointment I was greeted with such professionalism, Knowledge and attainable tools, along with a methodology to get me started and take me to the next level. Mr. Payne is result driven and his commitment level is paramount. My coach takes his commitment to me  and others very serious." He loves to see you win" He is there for you. His Relentless goal to have excellence in his business approach helps builds your confidence. He activates the potential Winner inside of you. I am a business owner who opened my business in the middle of a pandemic; a year ago July 2020. I am Thriving. When others were closing their doors I have increased.