About

That experience gave me a deep appreciation for how fragile and precious life truly is. Since then, I’ve been intentional about making the most of my days—and I now spend my time helping others do the same.

Before becoming a writer and speaker, I spent 25 years in Silicon Valley leading learning and development at companies like Microsoft, VMware, Samsung, and LinkedIn, where I served as Vice President of Learning & Development. Today, I share ideas and inspiration for a life less ordinary—through books, workshops, and talks that encourage people to live with perspective, purpose, and intention.

I live in San Jose, California, with my wife Vicky, our dog Walter, a dozen guitars, and a baby grand piano.

Hello and welcome!

I’m Kevin John Delaney—author of A Life Worth Living, Cracking the Career Code, and Words to Wonder: 100 Quotes with Reflections and Stories to Inspire the Life You’ve Imagined (coming October 2025). I’m also a speaker and former Learning & Development executive.

Over a decade ago, I came close to dying. I was in a coma, my body shutting down, and doctors gave me just 24 hours to live. Against the odds, a transplant saved my life.

Join me in the pursuit of an extraordinary life

In her poem The Summer Day, Mary Oliver asks: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Most of my writing is an attempt to explore—and help others explore—the best answers to that question.

My goal is to help people live remarkable lives—lives of purpose and meaning, free of regret. In short, a life less ordinary.

Here’s some of what I write about:

  • Designing and living a life you’re excited to wake up to

  • Finding contentment and joy even in life’s challenges

  • Adding more purpose and meaning to your days

  • Exploring self-improvement, faith, and significance

A well-lived life touches many areas: work, faith, finances, relationships, adventure. We’ll explore them all, because each shapes our ability to live fully.

I write a weekly newsletter with ideas and inspiration for a life less ordinary. And I invite you to explore my books, filled with inspiring stories, practical strategies, and clear steps to help you move from ideas to action.

I hope you’ll join me in this ongoing, intentional pursuit of an extraordinary life.