About Michael Philpott

Executive Speaker Coach | Storytelling Expert | Founder, Smart & Wise

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About Michael Philpott

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Today, I coach CEOs, thought leaders, and high-performing teams across New Zealand and the world.

I’m hired by founders raising capital, keynote speakers chasing impact, and executives refining their leadership voice.

I’ve helped bestselling authors go viral, trained world champion athletes to inspire from the stage, and guided global organisations to cut through complexity and communicate with confidence. I’m the go-to coach for TEDx speakers, investment pitch winners, and leaders who want to own the room.

Close-up portrait of speaker coach Michael Philpott smiling warmly with his tattooed hands clasped together, wearing glasses and a navy shirt.

But it wasn't always like this...

At age five, I was placed in a state-run orphanage in New Zealand. I experienced what no child should: neglect, trauma, and silence. I left school at 14, certain I was broken. For years, I carried anger, shame, and fear into every space I entered. I struggled to learn. I struggled to connect. And I struggled to believe I had a voice worth hearing.

Everything changed when I discovered adult learning and personal development. I became obsessed with understanding human behaviour, communication, and performance. I retrained myself from the inside out—and I’ve spent the last 25+ years helping others do the same.

My philosophy

Identity is not fixed. Potential is not predetermined.

When we integrate our story, structure, and skill—everything changes.

I coach from the inside out. Not just what to say, but how to show up.
Not just what you want to achieve, but who you need to become to deliver it.

I believe:

  • The stories we tell ourselves define our destiny.
  • We must integrate the forgotten parts of ourselves to become whole.
  • Speaking is a leadership tool—and a mirror.
  • Confidence isn’t found. It’s trained.
Michael Philpott looking off into the distance while leaning against a blue Royal Enfield motorcycle, wearing a leather jacket and jeans.

What I Do Now

As co-founder of Smart & Wise, I deliver executive speaker coaching, investment pitch training, high-stakes keynote development, and story-rich communication programs.

My coaching helps:

  • Founders raise millions
  • Professionals land promotions
  • Leaders inspire teams
  • Speakers change lives

I focus on five pillars:
Confidence, Clarity, Congruence, Charisma, and Conviction.

My frameworks draw on:

  • Brain-based learning (Dr Rich Allen)
  • NLP & performance psychology (Dr Richard Bolstad)
  • Charismatic Leadership Tactics (Harvard / University of Lausanne)
  • And 25+ years in high-performance adult facilitation
Michael Philpott presenting to a seated audience during a corporate training workshop, with a pattern projected on the screen behind him.

Results that speak

Some of the people I’ve coached include:

  • Lilia Tarawa, bestselling author – Over 12.5 million views on TEDx
  • Jordan Watson (How to Dad) – From YouTube icon to compelling keynote
  • William Trubridge, world champion freediver – TEDx speech that inspired depth
  • Emily Blythe, 2023 Innovator of the Year – Winner of "Best Pitch" at Ice Angels

I’ve coached real estate agents to sell $1M+ properties from 5-minute talks, and guided introverted PhDs to win over hostile boards. From TEDx to pitch fests, AGMs to global summits—I bring the same mindset to every stage: clarity, congruence, connection.
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I’m also the former Professor of Practice in Communication at the University of Canterbury, where I helped shape the next generation of executive communicators.

A collage of four different speakers presenting on stage, showcasing diverse clients coached by Michael Philpott.

I’ve served as:

  • TEDx Speaker Coach & Selection Committee (2016–2019)
  • Investment Pitch Coach for NZTE, Callaghan Innovation, Hillfarrance, WNT Ventures
  • Guest coach for aerospace, energy, cleantech, fintech, health, and SaaS founders

I also co-sponsor events and donate services to causes I care about, including:
UN Women Aotearoa NZ, TEDxChristchurch, Aerospace NZ, Canterbury Tech Summit, and more.

Michael Philpott wearing a TEDx Christchurch t-shirt and lanyard, smiling while networking with attendees at a conference.

When I’m Not Working...

I live for adventure and balance. I’m a former outdoor guide turned scuba diver and motorcycle enthusiast. I believe the outdoors teaches us what PowerPoint never will: presence, resilience, and calm.

I’m in business with my wife and co-founder Astella, and we work with intention, laughter, and high standards.

Full Circle

"For a long time, I thought my past disqualified me. Now I know it’s what qualifies me."

I’ve turned pain into purpose, silence into service, and fear into fuel. And I help others do the same.

If you’re ready to unlock your voice, share your message, and lead with clarity and conviction—I’d love to help.

Let’s begin.

Studio portrait of Michael Philpott and his partner Astella embracing and smiling, with Michael wearing a floral shirt and blazer.

For leaders who are serious about speaking

Become a larger-than-life leader and win the hearts, minds, and wallets of any audience on any stage.

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