Speaking Engagements
Leading from the inside out
Eric Cooter brings decades of pastoral wisdom, leadership experience, and strategic clarity to churches, organizations, and teams navigating transformation.
• Episcopal Priest
• Canon to the Ordinary (retired)
• Rector of two parishes
• Military Chaplain — national HQ level
• Executive Coach & Consultant
• Professional Pilot and Aviation Educator
ABOUT ERIC
A soul-centered coach, consultant, and spiritual leader who brings a rare blend of wisdom, presence, and practical insight to individuals and organizations navigating transformation.
With a background in ministry, leadership development, and systems work, Eric blends spiritual insight with strategic clarity to guide transformation that is both sustainable and spirit-led. His work includes keynote speaking, one-on-one coaching, organizational consulting, and leadership retreat facilitation rooted in reflection, renewal, and actionable growth.
Eric has served in parochial ministry for twenty years — leading two parishes through periods of discernment and revitalization — and half his ministry in diocesan service, first as Canon for Ministry Development and ultimately as Canon to the Ordinary. He also served over a decade as a military chaplain, culminating at the national headquarters level.
Called upon for conflict intervention, congregational assessment, and resolution work, Eric helps communities navigate tension, restore trust, and move forward with greater clarity and compassion. His approach is marked by attentive listening, grounded presence, and an unwavering commitment to transformational growth — from the inside out.
WHAT ERIC SPEAKS ON
Core Speaking Topics
Faith & Leadership
Exploring the intersection of spiritual integrity and organizational influence. Eric draws on decades of pastoral and executive experience to illuminate how deep faith shapes — and sustains — effective, courageous leadership.
Resilience & Purpose
Seasons of change, grief, and uncertainty are doorways — not dead ends. Eric helps individuals and organizations rediscover purpose, build resilient practices, and lead through transition with clarity and renewed direction.
Organizational Health
Healthy institutions begin with honest self-assessment. Eric guides teams and communities through congregational and organizational assessment, conflict resolution, and the cultivation of cultures built on trust, clarity, and shared purpose.
Vocational Discernment
Particularly attuned to newly ordained clergy and newly appointed leaders, Eric offers grounded guidance for those navigating the complex terrain of vocational identity, role transition, and the inner life of leadership.
Spiritual Formation
Rooted in a pastoral heart and a strategic mind, Eric creates sacred space for deeper reflection — drawing on contemplative tradition to help leaders and communities reconnect to what matters most and lead from that center.
Change and Transformation
Whether guiding a congregation through revitalization or a business through strategic realignment, Eric brings systems thinking, spiritual wisdom, and practical tools for navigating change without losing soul.
HOW ERIC ENGAGES
Speaking Formats
🎤 Keynote Addresses
Inspiring, carefully crafted talks for conferences, annual gatherings, leadership summits, and special events — designed to open new thinking and catalyze purposeful action.
🌿 Retreats & Quiet Days
Facilitated retreat experiences for leadership teams, vestries, boards, and ministry groups — creating contemplative space for discernment, renewal, and strategic clarity.
📚 Workshops & Seminars
Hands-on sessions tailored to specific organizational needs — from conflict navigation and communication to leadership development and congregational health.
🎙️ Podcast & Media Interviews
Available for thoughtful conversations on faith, leadership, resilience, organizational culture, and the intersection of the spiritual and strategic life.
SEE & HEAR ERIC
Sermons, Talks & Interviews
SERMON / TEACHING
Guest on Recent Podcast
Sunday Sermon on Mission and The Church
Words from the Field
"Eric has a rare gift — he holds space with extraordinary care while challenging us to grow beyond what we thought possible. Our leadership team left the retreat changed.
— VESTRY WARDEN, EPISCOPAL PARISH
"His ability to weave strategic thinking with deep spiritual wisdom is unlike anything we'd experienced. Eric doesn't just speak — he transforms the room.
— NONPROFIT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
"Working with Eric during a difficult season of organizational challenges helped our diocese com back to our community back to its foundation. Calm, grounded, and profoundly effective.
— DIOCESAN LEADERSHIP TEAM MEMBER
LET'S CONNECT
Invite Eric to Speak
Whether you're planning a conference, retreat, workshop, or podcast conversation, Eric would love to explore how he can serve your community or organization. SEND A SPEAKING INQUIRY: ecooter@gmail.com
AVAILABLE FOR
Churches & Faith Communities
ALSO SERVES
Nonprofits & Businesses
FORMATS
In-person & Virtual
BASED IN
Available Nationwide