Conor Cunneen – Humor, Heart, and the Gift of GAB

Conor Cunneen’s life story reads like a one-man comedy, philosophy, and business masterclass rolled into a rich Irish brogue. Born in the small whiskey-drenched town of Midleton, County Cork, Conor grew up with three brothers, one sister, and a mischievous streak that once got him chased around the local distillery by security guards. His father, the town doctor, patched up workers and scolded mischievous sons, while young Conor dreamed not of medicine or marketing—but of becoming a goalkeeper for Manchester United.

That dream didn’t quite materialize. But another dream—of making people laugh while helping them live and lead better—was quietly brewing.

From Irish Whiskey to American Wisdom

After earning a commerce degree from University College Cork (without taking a single marketing class), Conor found himself in the beer and spirits industry, not by design but by financial necessity. A friend mentioned Murphy’s Irish Stout was hiring brand managers. Conor, clueless but curious, asked, “What’s a brand manager?” A few interviews and a higher paycheck later, he was sold.

That decision launched him into a successful career in marketing, eventually working with major global brands like Heineken and Unilever. It also launched him on an unexpected international journey—first to the UK, then to the United States.

He arrived in Chicago just in time for the worst snowstorm since 1967. His belongings were stuck in transit. His wine exploded in the cold, ruining half his clothes. And his teenage daughter was dropped into a U.S. high school mid-semester.

But Conor’s Irish humor and resilience wouldn’t be snowed in.

When the Corporate Curtain Closes

As VP of Marketing for Unilever’s food service division, Conor found success—but not necessarily fulfillment. After a culture clash and mutual parting of ways, he started consulting. One speech at a conference turned into two, then ten. Soon, he was fielding invitations not just to advise—but to inspire.

And with that, “The Irishman Speaks” was born.

Today, Conor Cunneen is a motivational keynote speaker, humorist, and cancer survivor who helps organizations boost performance and morale with laughter, storytelling, and something he calls “The Gift of GAB.”

The Gift of GAB: Goals, Attitude, Behavior

Conor’s signature keynote unpacks the deceptively simple GAB framework:

• Goals – He challenges audiences to ask: “What do I want to be famous for?” Not in a Kardashian sense, but in how you want to be remembered by colleagues, clients, and your community.

• Attitude – Because when work gets tough, attitude becomes your edge. Conor weaves in stories, jokes, and lessons to remind people that optimism isn't delusion—it's strategy.

• Behavior – He introduces the CHAPS micro-goals:

  • Compliment someone daily

  • Hear the words “thank you”

  • A, P, and S are customized based on audience needs, but the point is the same: Small, intentional actions create big cultural shifts.

The framework is accessible, actionable, and—most importantly—memorable. Because Conor doesn’t just want to make you laugh. He wants to help you lead.

Two Cancers and Countless Punchlines

Behind the jokes is a man who’s walked through real fire. Conor has survived both thyroid and prostate cancer. But rather than wear that pain as a badge of trauma, he uses it as a bridge to empathy—especially in his talks for healthcare audiences and cancer survivors.

As he says with a grin: “I had a thyroidectomy and a prostatectomy. Not much left of me now. But I still have my Irish accent.”

Conor’s cancer journey didn’t slow him down. It sharpened his purpose—to bring hope, humor, and human connection to those who need it most.

Key Takeaways from Conor Cunneen’s Story

1. Adversity is a setup for reinvention – Getting laid off or getting sick doesn't have to end your story. It might just start a better chapter.

2. Humor is a leadership tool – A laugh can disarm tension, build trust, and boost morale faster than any PowerPoint.

3. Purpose is found in asking the right questions – What do you want to be known for? Start there.

4. Little actions make big impacts – One compliment. One thank-you. One smile. They ripple outward.

5. Don’t wait for permission to live well – Whether it’s starting a business, delivering a keynote, or just pouring the perfect pint of Guinness—do it with joy.

Today, Conor speaks across industries—from healthcare to manufacturing to education—using humor to spark transformation. His mission? Improve people, performance, and productivity… with a smile.

To bring Conor to your next event or explore his talks, visit IrishmanSpeaks.com or find him on YouTube at Irishman Speaks.