"Breathtakingly Brilliant”
A message of hope in Dear William translates unimaginable tragedy into an inspirational commitment to saving others.
The National Bestseller
Dear William
Called “breathtakingly brilliant” in tone by renowned memoirist Kiese Laymon, “powerful and revelatory” by NYT bestselling author Aimee Nezhukumatathil, and named a best book of the South in 2022, Magee’s Dear William memoir addresses addiction, recovery, love and loss, and the making and near-breaking of an American family like no book you’ve read. The book is in development as a major motion picture.
Speaking
"David was fantastic. Not a dry eye in the room. All feedback was totally positive. I would recommend him to anyone."
--Ann, conference leader, after David's keynote
David Magee is a bestselling author, podcast host, and nationally recognized speaker on student, family, and community well-being. He delivers deeply relatable and inspiring talks to audiences across college campuses, corporate events, parenting conferences, and writing workshops — helping people rediscover purpose, resilience, and lasting joy.
Known for his honesty, warmth, and depth, David engages audiences of all ages and backgrounds. His message resonates because it’s rooted in lived experience: his own family once shattered by addiction and mental health challenges — and ultimately rebuilt through vulnerability, faith, and love.
Since 2021, David has spoken to tens of thousands of students, parents, and educators nationwide, sharing stories that move audiences to action and drive change within families, schools, and communities.
On special occasions, David takes the stage with his entire family to share their remarkable journey of recovery — including experiences with addiction and eating disorders — offering audiences a rare, hopeful look at what healing together can truly mean.
Drawing on decades of leadership and storytelling experience — including his work as an author studying iconic brands such as Toyota, John Deere, and Ford — David brings both insight and inspiration to every event. His keynotes remind audiences that even in difficult times, transformation is possible, and that with honesty and purpose, healing can begin anywhere.
To discuss having David as your next speaker,
fill out this form or email info@daviddmagee.com.
His Dream—Now Our Dream
Can Be Realized
William Magee, a University of Mississippi honors college student and SEC track athlete who lost his life to a drug overdose one year after graduation, had hoped to one day be strong enough to help others. He is no longer with us, but his desire to help has been realized with the establishment of significant programs named in his honor.
With more than $3 million raised so far, and with the help of David Magee’s leadership, the William Magee Center for AOD and Wellness Education opened at the University of Mississippi in Fall 2019 to support students on campus. Next, the University, again with David’s involvement, created The William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing, advancing groundbreaking research that now reaches far beyond campus.
Building on that effort, David Magee and his wife Kent created
The Magee Foundation, which is working in Mississippi and across the country to advance opioid abatement and mental health healing. As CEO, David leads its work through storytelling and education to help students, families, and communities flourish.