THE THREE SIDES OF SWEENEY

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

JOHN SWEENEY has been changing human behavior within the biggest businesses in the world over 25+ years, delivering keynotes and workshops to more than 130 of the Fortune 500. He has shared the stage with Deepak Chopra, Betty White, Steve Ballmer, Mark Zuckerberg, and George H.W. Bush. A quote from his book appeared on millions of Starbucks cups. And his alter-ego “Jiggly Boy” has become a worldwide phenomenon.

In addition to owning the longest-running comedy theater in the U.S. for 25 years, his background includes dairy farming, commercial real estate sales, serial entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and more than 30 years of professional comedy.  John is truly unique in his ability to inspire and activate audiences, and consistently earns standing ovations and 10/10 survey results.

“I am a huge fan of John Sweeney. He was a keynote speaker at our annual all-company event discussing innovation. He was fantastic.”
- CEO of SPS Commerce

THEATRE & SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR

The Brave New Workshop Comedy Theatre is the longest-running theater of its kind. Dudley Riggs, who started the theatre in 1958, was heralded as one of the originators of the art of improvisational comedy. John Sweeney and his wife Jenni purchased the institution in 1997 and ran it for 25 years. Throughout his tenure as owner and steward, John Sweeney and his team put all the principles of the ToDo program to work.

What ToDo looks like in the world of Theatre:

  • Achieved 12x revenue growth and grew from 4 to 100+ employees

  • Became Disney Cruise Lines’ first-ever outside entertainment partner

  • Launched Keynote Speaking and Training Company

  • Grew School of Improvisation to over 1500 students per year

  • Renovated the historic Palace Theatre in Saint Paul to produce a second show

  • Purchased an historic theatre in the heart of Minneapolis for the company

  • Hosted, pro bono, more than 250 community and nonprofit organizations

  • Made and donated 325,000 sandwiches to people experiencing homelessness

  • Entertained one million guests, sparking laughter AND thought-provoking discussion

  • Transferred brand and venue to Hennepin Theatre Trust to steward the next 60+ years of satire!

VIRAL VIDEO SENSATION

It all started as a customized “bit” for our client, the Minnesota Timberwolves. Enter Jiggly Boy … as John Sweeney was dubbed by press pundits after he pulled off a joyous, shirtless dance at a game. A few years later, Jiggly Boy was asked back to celebrate NBA MVP Kevin Garnett’s. homecoming. Garnett, and fans across the league, were delighted. The video now has over one billion views worldwide so far, and counting. The best part? Jiggly Boy fans and viewers have raised over half a million dollars for Smile Network International.