Ever wondered how someone can rise from serving tables to leading a global health company? The remarkable journey of Kat Cole is a testament to the power of action, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of leadership, proving that confidence is not a prerequisite for success, but a byproduct of it.

Kat Cole's career trajectory is nothing short of inspirational. From her early days as a waitress at Hooters, where she began working at the age of 16 to support her divorced mother, to her current role as the CEO of AG1, a global health company focused on foundational nutrition, Cole has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to lead, innovate, and drive growth. Her keynote address at Workhuman left attendees in awe, with many HR and business leaders describing her authenticity and leadership insights as truly revelatory. Cole's impact extends beyond AG1; she is widely recognized for her transformative work at Cinnabon, where she successfully expanded the brand's reach into grocery stores and fast-food chains like Taco Bell. Her two decades of experience scaling iconic brands and businesses have solidified her reputation as a seasoned operator and growth leader.

Full Name	Kat Cole
Current Role	CEO, AG1 (Athletic Greens)
Previous Roles	President and COO, Focus Brands (overseeing nine businesses including Cinnabon, Carvel, Moe's Southwest Grill, Auntie Anne's, Schlotzsky's, McAlister's Deli)
Key Achievements	Led global expansion and innovation at AG1. Transformed Cinnabon into a multi-channel brand, extending its presence into grocery stores and fast-food chains. Oversaw nine businesses at Focus Brands, generating billions in sales.
Leadership Style	Authentic, decisive, and focused on empowering others to take action.
"Hot Shot Rule"	A leadership practice that encourages individuals to step into a leadership mindset, overcome inertia, and take decisive action when it matters most.
Early Career	Started as a waitress at Hooters at the age of 16, worked her way up to Vice President over 15 years.
Recognition	Featured on CBS's "Undercover Boss". Named one of Fortune's "40 Under 40".
Speaking Engagements	Keynote speaker known for engaging audiences with her leadership lessons and personal anecdotes.
Agent/Booking	For booking inquiries, contact a speakers bureau such as PDA Speakers Bureau or Anthem Talent Agency.
Website	Kat Cole Official Website

Cole's influence extends far beyond the boardroom. She is a sought-after keynote speaker, captivating audiences with her articulate and energetic delivery. Her message, which resonates across generations and genders, emphasizes the importance of taking action to build confidence and drive impact. Attendees at her speaking engagements consistently praise her ability to connect with every segment of the audience, noting her friendly demeanor and willingness to share her time and insights. Her presentation of the "Hot Shot Rule" provides a practical framework for individuals to embrace a leadership mindset, overcome inertia, and make critical decisions with conviction.

Before ascending to the CEO role at AG1, formerly known as Athletic Greens, Cole served as the company's COO and President for three years. During this time, she was instrumental in shaping the company's strategic direction and driving significant growth. Her appointment as CEO signals AG1's commitment to continued expansion, innovation, and the exploration of new channels. Cole's leadership is characterized by her ability to tap into influence to drive impact, a skill she honed during her tenure at Focus Brands, where she oversaw nine businesses that generated billions in sales. She emphasizes the power of a simple phrase, "I need your help," in fostering collaboration and driving collective action.

Cole's journey from waitress to CEO is a compelling narrative of perseverance and strategic vision. Her experience at Hooters, where she spent 15 years and rose through the ranks to become Vice President, provided her with invaluable insights into the complexities of business operations and the importance of customer service. It was during this time that she learned the art of managing people, building relationships, and adapting to changing circumstances. These skills proved to be essential as she transitioned to roles with increasing responsibility and complexity.

At Focus Brands, Cole demonstrated her ability to manage a diverse portfolio of businesses, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities. She successfully navigated the complexities of franchising, brand management, and product development, consistently delivering strong financial results. Her leadership style is characterized by a focus on empowerment, collaboration, and a commitment to creating a culture of innovation. She believes in fostering an environment where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to take risks.

Cole's success is not solely attributable to her business acumen; it is also a reflection of her personal qualities. She is known for her authenticity, her passion for her work, and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world. She serves as a role model for aspiring leaders, particularly women, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve extraordinary success through hard work, determination, and a genuine desire to help others. Her story is a powerful reminder that background is not a barrier to achievement and that anyone can rise to the top with the right mindset and a willingness to take action.

The "Hot Shot Rule," a concept she frequently shares in her speaking engagements, is a practical tool for overcoming procrastination and taking decisive action. It encourages individuals to identify the most important tasks, prioritize them, and commit to taking immediate action, even if it's just a small step. By breaking down large goals into smaller, more manageable steps, individuals can overcome feelings of overwhelm and build momentum toward achieving their objectives. The "Hot Shot Rule" is a testament to Cole's belief in the power of action and her commitment to empowering others to achieve their full potential.

Cole's impact has been recognized through numerous accolades, including being featured on CBS's "Undercover Boss" and being named one of Fortune's "40 Under 40." These recognitions are a testament to her exceptional leadership skills, her business acumen, and her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. She is a sought-after advisor and mentor, sharing her insights and experiences with aspiring leaders across various industries. Her willingness to give back and her commitment to developing the next generation of leaders are a testament to her character and her dedication to creating a better future.

Kat Cole's story is a powerful reminder that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a commitment to taking action. Her journey from waitress to CEO is an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that confidence is not a prerequisite for success, but a byproduct of it. Her leadership lessons, her practical tools, and her unwavering commitment to empowering others make her a true visionary and a role model for aspiring leaders around the world. Whether she's addressing a large audience at a keynote event or working with her team at AG1, Kat Cole consistently demonstrates the power of action and the importance of leading with authenticity and purpose.

For those seeking to engage Kat Cole as a speaker, several speakers bureaus, including PDA Speakers Bureau and WSB Exclusive Speakers, can assist with booking arrangements. Anthem Talent Agency also has a successful track record of securing celebrity talent like Kat Cole for clients worldwide. These agencies can provide information on her speaking fees, appearance costs, and endorsement opportunities. Booking Kat Cole for an event promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience, leaving attendees with actionable insights and a renewed sense of purpose.

Acuity, for instance, recently invited Kat Cole to present at their headquarters as part of their strategic planning process, recognizing her as a visionary leader. Her presentation on January 22nd at 10 a.m. was met with great enthusiasm from their independent agents. This exemplifies the high demand for Kat Cole's expertise and her ability to connect with audiences on a meaningful level. Her message transcends industries and resonates with anyone seeking to improve their leadership skills and drive positive change.

Kat Cole's influence also extends to various events and conferences. She was featured as a speaker at TEDNext 2024, where she shared her insights on leadership and innovation. Her participation in such high-profile events underscores her status as a thought leader and her ability to contribute to important conversations shaping the future of business and society. Those interested in attending future TED conferences can find more information and photos from the event online.

Ultimately, Kat Cole's story is one of empowerment and possibility. She embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of human potential. Her journey is a testament to the fact that anyone can achieve extraordinary success with the right mindset, the right tools, and a willingness to take action. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations of leaders to come, and her impact on the world will continue to be felt for many years to come.

Kat Cole's career serves as a living example of how to translate ambition into tangible results, and how to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business with integrity and vision. Her emphasis on foundational nutrition through her work at AG1 highlights her commitment to holistic well-being, while her leadership principles offer a roadmap for anyone striving to make a difference in their field. Her story is not just about personal success; it's about empowering others to find their own path to leadership and impact.

In her role at AG1, Kat Cole is spearheading the company's next phase of growth, focusing on global expansion, innovation, and exploring new avenues to reach consumers. Her experience in scaling iconic brands makes her uniquely positioned to lead AG1 into the future, building upon its already strong foundation. Her strategic vision, combined with her operational expertise, ensures that AG1 will continue to be a leader in the global health and wellness market.

Furthermore, Kat Cole's insights on corporate culture and talent development are highly sought after. Organizations seeking to cultivate a thriving and innovative workplace culture often look to her for guidance. Her emphasis on empowering employees, fostering collaboration, and encouraging risk-taking aligns with best practices in human resources and organizational development. Her ability to translate these principles into practical strategies makes her a valuable asset to any company looking to enhance its culture and improve employee engagement.

Kat Cole's journey is a powerful narrative of transformation and possibility. She is a true embodiment of the American dream, proving that with hard work, dedication, and a strategic mindset, anything is achievable. Her story is a testament to the power of action, the importance of leadership, and the unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. Her legacy will continue to inspire and empower generations to come, leaving an indelible mark on the world of business and beyond.

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Kat Cole On Courage and The Coalition of The Willing Washington Speakers Bureau on Vimeo

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Kat Cole Speaking Engagements, Schedule, & Fee WSB

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