David Woods Bartley: The Lived Experience Amplifier 

David Woods Bartley is a globally recognized thought leader whose work is defined by his commitment to translating lived experience into powerful advocacy. His expertise in resilience, trauma, and mental wellness advocacy is a cornerstone of the Foundation for Life's Lived-Experience Mandate and strategic mission.

​David's perspective is uniquely informed by both professional success—including directing a nationally recognized nonprofit—and the profound challenge of surviving a life-threatening battle with clinical depression and a subsequent suicide attempt, rooted in the long-term effects of childhood sexual trauma. Having successfully navigated the essential journey from the isolation of mental "hellness" to the inclusive space of mental wellness, he is dedicated to illuminating this path for others. 

​He is committed to moving the conversation about suicide, male sexual trauma, and mental illness from the shadows to the forefront of public concern, opening doors to the possibility of mental health for everyone, everywhere. 

Expertise and Reach
  • Global Authority: David has presented over 800 times across the United States, Canada, Central America, Europe, and Asia, addressing audiences on subjects including resilience, suicide prevention, mental health, organizational culture, and servant leadership.
  • Key Recognition: He is a three-time TEDx speaker and was named a 2021 Mental Health Champion by the prestigious Steinberg Institute.
  • Diverse Clientele: His presentations have been commissioned by a vast range of organizations, including tens of thousands of service members of the Army, Coast Guard, Airforce, and Marine Corps; federal agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration, NASA, and the Veterans Administration; major healthcare systems like Sutter Health; and numerous universities including Boston College and the University of Connecticut.

Credentials and Affiliations
David is certified in critical intervention techniques, including Mental Health First Aid for Adults and Youth, SafeTALK (Suicide Awareness for Everyone), and the suicide prevention technique known as QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer). He is also a member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the International Association for Youth Mental Health, and the National Storytelling Network’s Healing Story Alliance.

How Connection Saved My Life