Hi, I’m Todd Kinney
I’m a speaker and author who helps people and teams get unstuck — and move forward with clarity, courage, and purpose.
trusted by many
About Me
From party life to sober living
I’m a keynote speaker, attorney, and author who lives in Omaha, NE with my wife, four kids and three wiener dogs. The dogs bark a lot. Outside of work, you’ll find me on the golf course, exploring new destinations, and passionately cheering (and occasionally crying) for my Iowa Hawkeyes.
Life hasn’t always been the way it is today. There was a time when I embraced the title of the “life-of-the-party” guy, reveling in the thrill of the moment and determined not to miss out on any of the fun. My life looked pretty good from the outside—good job, nice house and great family. And it was pretty good, to be honest.
But beneath the surface, I was grappling on almost a daily basis with my complicated relationship with alcohol. I loved to drink and loved to be social. And yet, too often, I drank more than I wanted to. I was the drunkest person in the room. I didn’t remember parts from the night before. I woke up feeling shame, regret and embarrassment from the night before. The inevitable “how could you let this happen again” interrogation would begin. It was a love-hate dynamic that felt impossible to solve.
For six years, I evaluated my relationship with alcohol, experimenting with every moderation hack in the book. I wanted so badly to just “drink like a normal person.” Some of the hacks worked, some didn’t, and even the ones that did were so much work. The tug-of-war grew tiresome.
By 2019, I was growing weary of the constant back-and-forth. The negotiations, the obsession, the torment, the shame, the regret – it was all too much. That fall, my wife whispered something in my ear that became the final push I needed. It marked the culmination of a series of moments, some small and some big, that led me to a pivotal decision: it was time to give up drinking.
Giving up alcohol was scary and overwhelming. Even though I knew it was the right decision, I also thought life without alcohol would be a little dull and boring, a bit like a prison sentence for not being able to “drink like a normal person.”
What I discovered, however, was that giving it up was the farthest thing from a prison sentence. On the other side of alcohol was a life of deeper connection, richer fulfillment and unending gratitude that I didn’t even know existed. I found a sense of clarity and peace that I had never felt before. I discovered a new and better way of living that so far outweighs what alcohol ever gave me, I wish I would have done it sooner.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Todd Kinney is an attorney, author, husband and father of four based in Omaha, Nebraska, known for his inspiring journey from a conflicted relationship with alcohol to embracing a sober lifestyle. He shares his story and insights to help others explore mindful, alcohol-free living.
What is “I Didn’t Believe It Either”?
“I Didn’t Believe It Either” is Todd’s memoir about his personal journey through six years of struggling with alcohol and ultimately choosing sobriety. It blends honesty, humor, and real reflections on life, family and growth.
Why did Todd decide to become sober?
Todd’s decision to quit drinking came after years of internal conflict and realizing that alcohol was hindering his well-being, parenting, and life clarity. His choice in 2019 marked a pivotal moment toward a healthier and more fulfilling way of living.
Todd celebrated four years of sobriety on October 20, 2023 — a testament to his dedication to personal growth and mindful living.
What topics does Todd write and speak about?
Todd focuses on topics such as sobriety, mindful living, family life without alcohol, personal transformation, and the unexpected benefits of giving up alcohol. His writing and public conversations aim to inspire reflection and positive change.
You can’t buy Todd’s book directly from this website. However, you can purchase it easily through Amazon using the provided purchase link.
Transformation
— One Voice at a Time
We don’t usually bring speakers back, but Todd was the exception
Susie Streelman
Founder Zeroproof Experiences
Compelling, candid storytelling that left a lasting impression on our audience.
Betsy Roesler
Project Director, Partners for Prevention Coalition of Richland County, Wisconsin
Todd elevates the vibe of every room he walks into by sharing himself unfiltered and real.
Heather Lowe
Founder, Ditched the Drink
Todd’s talk was one of the most memorable and meaningful programs we’ve hosted.
Abbey Moland
Partner, McGrath North Law Firm
Todd’s presentation brought an entirely new perspective to an old problem in both the legal and veteran communities. For leaders who want to address alcohol abuse in their profession, Todd’s presentation provides a judgment free, forward-looking narrative without rock bottom cliches.
– John Berry
Owner – Berry Law Firm
Todd’s story about stopping drinking was very impactful. It was about priorities, self-awareness, and focusing more on what truly matters in life. His honesty and humility as a speaker left a strong and lasting impression on everyone at the seminar.
– Marcia A. Washkuhn
Partner at Kutak Rock