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A man dressed in a navy blue blazer, white shirt, and dark pants, sitting on a stool against a dark background. He has short dark hair and is smiling slightly. He is wearing brown loafers and a blue patterned pocket square.

Meet the Author

Tommy Short spent nearly two decades as a Division I men's college basketball official — working alongside legends like Coach K, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Steph Curry at USA Olympic Training Camps — making high-stakes calls in front of packed arenas while millions watched at home. He learned to stay centered under pressure before he ever set foot on a stage.

Tommy is a sought-after keynote speaker, workplace presence expert, and bestselling author of The Call I Almost Missed — the story of the 365 days he lived without a cell phone, and what he found on the other side.

He believes the greatest threat to leadership isn't burnout, disengagement, or distraction. It's that we've confused being busy with being present.

Tommy has spoken about reclaiming presence and performing under pressure at some of the most influential organizations in the world, like ADP, Kohl's, Stryker, and Workwear Outfitters.