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“Dr. Mark is a highly sought-after speaker with more than 160 public speaking events under his belt. He leverages his experience as a surgeon in the world’s poorest countries, as a specialist in decision-making, and as a career coach in his talks.

“His talks combine the science of decision-making with personal stories. From being held up at gunpoint before I’d turned two to fleeing a civil war; from trying to quit medical school to working as a doctor in countries right at the end of their own civil wars; from introverted science nerd to three-time American Ninja Warrior competitor, he is dedicated to the idea that the only way out of our irascibly self-centered existence is to create a life that is in the service of others.”

Topics I cover:

  • How to find your why

  • Rediscovering purpose in your career

  • Navigating your quarter-life or midlife criss

  • Stories from the field: working as a surgeon on a hospital ship

Watch my 2024 TEDx talk, Putting Purpose over Path.

In this 17-minute TEDx talk, I cover what work looks like these days, the science behind our dissatisfaction, and the steps we can take to make career decisions in line with our purpose

What makes for a successful life? It’s not what we were taught. A commencement address to the Cistercian Preparatory School graduating class of 2019.

Creating a life of purpose, joy, and deep contentment, especially as we're coming out of a global pandemic, isn’t easy! This talk is all about navigating life with our own humanity at the center.

What is global surgery? What’s it like to work on Mercy Ships? I talk with Anne Buckland about hospital ships, surgery, and creating a life of purpose and meaning

Mark Shrime and Dana Perino on Fox News

More Americans left their jobs in 2021 than ever before. Now what? I talk with Dana Perino of Fox News about navigating the Great Resignation and the Great Rehire

What People Are Saying

“Mark gave a powerful address about how to approach life​, a trail he walked for a substantial number of years, making many mistakes along the way and not finding the fulfillment for which he so desperately searched. The gifted prof. then laid out a multi-step program for ​people to follow to discover a path that will lead to fulfillment and contentment”

— Bob H.

“Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge, time, and talent with us. I was very pleased to see over 100 team members representing all the regions of the world where we work – literally glued to the screen (someone actually said that) and listening with great interest.”

— Ruben A.

“Very interesting and thought-provoking! I could have listened to his stories all day.”

— Joyce P.

“Thank you so very much for your gift of presence as well as wisdom at this year’s Commencement. The feedback parents, students, and faculty regarding all of the speeches, and yours in particular, has simply been incredible”

— Paul M.

“I first want to compliment you on your vulnerability. I related to your story from many angles. A life lived in generosity and faith is exemplified in your work.”

— Sheila S.