Kristopher Marks - Keynote Speaker & Presenter

Connection. Empowerment. Expertise.

Kristopher (Kris) Marks has shared his inspiring blend of professional expertise and lived experiences with audiences all over the world. As the founder of CEO of VĪV Mental Health, Kris has established himself as a prominent voice in the fields of mental health, workplace culture, leadership development, psychological safety, suicide awareness, and supporting youth. His innovative delivery, creative visuals, and a captivating presence highlights his authentic, connection-based approach to audience engagement and immersive skill-building.

Kris is a Certified Psychological Health & Safety Advisor (Canadian Mental Health Association), the host and producer of the VĪV Mental Health Podcast, a professional musician, stand-up comedian, Red Seal journeyman machinist, and a proud harm-reduction volunteer. He is co-founder and lead facilitator of the Instrumental Health Therapeutic Music Program and a proud dog dad to his rescue pup, Carson.

CLICK TO READ KRIS’ FULL BIO

“In my opinion, there is no greater privilege than the gift of someone’s time and presence. I use the word ‘privilege’ very intentionally, because the opportunity to truly connect with a another human being, or a thousand…to be offered a platform to teach others, to inspire them…it humbles me. What a gift. What a privilege.”

~ Kris Marks

SPEAKING HIGHLIGHTS

2022

Keynote Address | Bridge of Life Suicide Awareness Event (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address | Survivors of Suicide Loss Event (Stony Plain, AB)

Keynote Address | National Persons With Disability Day Celebration (Spruce Grove, AB)

Panelist | CMHA Rural Mental Health Animators Conference (Nisku, AB)

2023

Keynote Address | Elk Island Public School District (Sherwood Park, AB)

Keynote Address | World Suicide Prevention Day (Hinton, AB)

Keynote Address | Roots of Hope National Community of Practice (Stony Plain, AB)

Keynote Address | CPHR Executive Event (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address & Comedy Performer | Men’s Nights Community Event (Wetaskiwin, AB)

Keynote Address & Musical Performer | Music For Mental Health Fundraiser (Stettler, AB)

Presenter | DisruptHR 9.0 Conference (Edmonton, AB) WATCH THE VIDEO

Presenter | Men’s Mental Health Event (Stony Plain, AB)

Event Host & Organizer | Rural Seniors Wellness Initiative (Calmar, AB)

2024

Keynote Address | Unity Summit Conference (Hinton, AB)

Keynote Address | Untapped Potential Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address | Mental Health Summit Conference (Grande Prairie, AB)

Keynote Address | Men’s Mental Health Awareness & Solutions Forum (Slave Lake, AB)

Keynote Address | International Women’s Day – Sherritt International (Fort Saskatchewan, AB)

Presenter | Young Authors Conference (Sherwood Park, AB)

Presenter | DisruptHR 11.0 Conference (Edmonton, AB) WATCH THE VIDEO

Presenter | CMHA Working Stronger Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Event Host | Heavy Hockey Showdown Fundraiser (Edmonton, AB)

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Testimonials

“Kris and Rachelle facilitated two leadership workshops for our global workforce and they fulfilled all expectations! The presentations were highly engaging, fostering an environment where our staff felt comfortable sharing their insights and experiences. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we eagerly anticipate future sessions!”

Mary Oguntoyinbo

IntouchCX - Global EX Strategy

“The training was amazing – I’d like a full day next time! Kris was very responsive to the room and sparked some great conversations. As a mom and as well as a leader in my workplace I will definitely be implementing what I learned both at home and with my teams. Thank you for exploring these topics through so many different lenses.”

Leadership Training Participant

Mental Health Summit 2024

“Incredible. Kris was the perfect facilitator. The pace was great – and how he shared details about his personal journey throughout made me feel like I could share my thoughts more. There was so much to take away from this workshop, I’m so happy I took this.”

Workplace Training Participant

Explore Edmonton

“When you work with Kris and Rachelle you get realness. This consulting team is so thoughtful in their design, approach, and delivery with clients. Kris brings charisma, heart and I love the work they are both doing in the community. I would recommend them to any company for training and facilitation about mental health!”

Tara Langan

Career TLC

“I have had the pleasure of working with Kris and the VĪV team on a number of occasions – I highly recommend! Kris is genuine, authentic, and an excellent leader and collaborator. He brings so much value to every piece of work and creates strong, healthy environments to work in.”

Tiffany Connauton

Beyond Diversity Inc.

“Kris is compassionate, resourceful, and his sessions and conversations are always so thoughtful and relevant. His superpower seems to be that he can draw out the best in people, helping others feel comfortable with their own vulnerability and creating a safe space for folks to exist freely without judgement.”

Justin Lessard

Mental Health Therapist

“I’ve been listening to your podcast and I love it. It’s so good! Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. It makes it so much easier for people to open up and help remove the stigma behind mental health struggles. Thank you so much!”

Podcast Listener

“Kris is a true professional. From the start of his presentation to the end, he had the full attention of my students. A talented speaker with a wealth of knowledge on the subject. I highly recommend!”

Nick Foley

Professor, Loyalist College

“One of the best podcasts I’ve ever heard. Amazing job.”

J.J. Richard

Listener

“I just wanted to reach out and thank you for speaking to our class today, it really resonated with me. As someone who’s struggled with mental health for a long time, hearing you talk about you personal struggles felt so relatable and less lonely. I appreciate your candour.”

Mykayla

Graduate student

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