Most people, when they think about it, would love to live their own lives on their own terms — not the life others expect of them.
Robert Kilsby helps people discover how to lead, adapt, and thrive — no matter the circumstances.

Robert Kilsby is an accomplished keynote speaker, author, and leadership mentor who knows exactly what it means to perform under extreme pressure.
A former Australian Special Operations soldier, Robert has served in some of the most demanding environments on earth — including active service in Vietnam. There, he mastered adaptability, resilience, and decisive leadership.
For over 25 years, Robert has taken those battle-tested principles and applied them to life beyond the battlefield. As a crisis and emergency specialist, corporate trainer, and leadership advisor, he’s helped thousands of professionals and teams regain control, clarity, and confidence in their work and life.
Today, Robert’s signature philosophy — “Be in Charge of Yourself” — empowers people to own their mindset, decisions, and results. He is also the author of Ultimate Freedom: The Five Fundamental Principles of Being in Charge of Yourself, a powerful guide to resilience and self-leadership.
Whether he’s speaking to executives, entrepreneurs, or students, Robert’s message remains the same: true leadership starts from within.


Most people drift through life under the weight of expectations. This keynote awakens individuals to take ownership of their path — through five actionable principles for mastering self-leadership.
Key takeaways:
· Live by design, not by default
· Build authentic self-respect and confidence
· Redefine leadership through clarity and control
Leadership is tested when the stakes are high. Drawing from decades in Special Operations and crisis management, Robert reveals how to lead with calm, confidence, and purpose even in chaos.
Key takeaways:
· Stay composed and decisive under pressure
· Cultivate accountability and ownership in teams
· Turn challenges into opportunities for growth
Resilience is not about avoiding hardship — it’s about mastering recovery. Robert explores the mindset shift that separates those who survive from those who thrive.
Key takeaways:
· Develop endurance through adversity
· Recognize the difference between pause and retreat
· Apply “ownership” to every challenge you face
Fear is universal — but it doesn’t have to be limiting. This session breaks down how to use fear as a compass, not a cage.
Key takeaways:
· Identify the real drivers behind fear
· Channel fear into clarity and courage
· Build a personal framework for mental resilience
Step into a life where you decide your direction, your mindset, your destiny.
Robert’s book "Ultimate Freedom — The Five Fundamental Principles to Being In Charge of Yourself" is now open for limited pre-sale orders


"It is my pleasure to recommend Robert Kilsby, who delivered the keynote address at
our Eve of Remembrance Dinner in Brisbane. The dinner brought together 18 guests
from across the Defence industry, including veterans and friends, to reflect on
leadership, service, and resilience on the eve of Remembrance Day.
Robert’s keynote was tailored specifically for the occasion and audience. It was well
researched, heartfelt, and genuine, filled with memorable anecdotes in the tradition
of Chris Voss, author of Never Split the Difference. His message on self-mastery and
resilience resonated deeply with the room, sparking thoughtful discussion well after
the formalities ended.
He was impeccably presented, and his tone, pace, and presence filled the space
with confidence and warmth. The imagery in his slide deck complemented his words
perfectly, reinforcing the emotion and clarity of his message.
Beyond his speaking role, Robert was an active partner in the development,
promotion and execution of the event. When the need arose, he was able to
recommend a great photographer at competitive rates. He arrived well prepared,
rehearsed, and engaged, making my job as organiser effortless. He actively
engaged with guests throughout the night which added to the occasion.
Robert combines intellectual rigour with genuine empathy — qualities that make him
both a compelling storyteller and a professional of the highest calibre. I would
recommend him without hesitation to any organisation seeking a speaker who can
motivate and inspire an audience to pursue self-mastery and resilience."
~ Darian Macey,
CEO DECNet Pty Ltd
Step into Ultimate Freedom and start leading your life with purpose and power.
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