The Man Who Inspired Ted Lasso Is Coming to UNLEASHED 2025

Published On: July 14, 20252.5 min read499 wordsCategories: SpeakersTags:

This year at UNLEASHED 2025, we’re kicking off with a keynote you won’t want to miss. Donnie Campbell, known by many as the real-life Ted Lasso, is bringing his trademark energy, heart, and motivation to the main stage, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome him.

Meet Donnie Campbell: The Real-Life Ted Lasso Inspiring a Generation

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you might already know Donnie Campbell as a the real life “Ted Lasso” but others know him as Kansas high school math teacher and basketball coach legend. Campbell was thrusted into the spotlight when actor Jason Sudeikis revealed on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert that Donnie helped inspire the character of Ted Lasso, Sudeikis’ Emmy-winning role known for his unwavering kindness and leadership.

Back in the late ’90s, Jason Sudeikis played basketball at Shawnee Mission West in south Kansas City, where Donnie Campbell was his basketball coach. Little did Donnie know that the life lessons, pep talks, and core values he passed on to his players would one day be echoed by a beloved TV character and resonate with millions across the globe.

What You’ll Learn from Donnie Campbell at UNLEASHED 2025

At a time when embracing authenticity is more important than ever, Donnie shows us how to lead with purpose by aligning with our values and defining a personal mission. In his keynote session, Donnie will share his journey and walk us through timeless lessons that still apply in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world.

Here are just a few key takeaways:

  • Know how to establish your own MVP. When you have a mission, values and a plan, you can be clear on your purpose, focus and make better decisions. This will help you succeed both personally and professionally.
  • Leadership comes in all forms. When you realize what each person brings to the team, you can find ways to motivate each of them individually, while also having them realize the importance of working together to reach their goals.
  • Developing people first through building character and trust will result in long-term success beyond short-term wins.
  • Having a sense of inner humility can positively affect how you lead. It’s not found in big words, but rather it is found in character, how you look at life and how you treat others.

Where is he now?

Today, Donnie Campbell continues to teach, while also appearing on national programs like Good Morning America and The Today Show. He travels across the country speaking to organizations and businesses about leadership, values, and the power of a positive mindset.

Campbell credits his approach to leadership to the lessons he learned from his own mentors and to his unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. A graduate of Lyons High School (Class of ’80), Donnie went on to play football and basketball at Kansas State University. Over the past 36 years, he has shaped not only athletes and students, but future leaders, with a focus on building character and confidence.

Everything you need to know about VINCUE UNLEASHED 2025

VINCUE: UNLEASHED returns to Kansas City on November 10-12, 2025

VINCUE: UNLEASHED is the premier annual gathering where automotive trailblazers, industry leaders, and VINCUE dealers unite to tackle big challenges, celebrate victories, and ignite fresh ideas. Walk away inspired, equipped, and ready to revolutionize the way you drive success.

 

When, Where, and What to Expect

Monday, November 10 – Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Back at the Loews Hotel, Kansas City, Missouri

Dealer Registration Starting at $399

Professional Development, Exclusive Training, Peer Networking

Here’s what you’ll gain at VINCUE: UNLEASHED 

VINCUE: UNLEASHED is designed to empower your team, refine your processes, and leverage the latest technology for measurable results.

  • Exclusive Training & Insights: Deepen your knowledge of the VINCUE platform with hands-on guidance and performance strategies.

  • Networking & Collaboration: Connect with forward-thinking dealers, exchange ideas, and uncover new opportunities through peer-to-peer discussions.

  • Industry Expertise & Future Trends: Stay ahead of the curve with expert analysis, visionary insights, and actionable strategies for the road ahead.

Learn from these Industry Trailblazers

Don’t miss this year’s top experts in automotive innovation, technology, leadership, and strategy.

  • 2025 SPEAKER
    The Man Who Inspired Ted Lasso Is Coming to UNLEASHED 2025

What Dealers are Saying

Hear from dealers who’ve experienced the impact of VINCUE: UNLEASHED firsthand. From unlocking new strategies to forging powerful connections, here’s how past attendees are driving their success:

Hear what real VINCUE dealers thought about their experience at VINCUE: UNLEASHED.

“Thank you!! The organization of the events was top-notch. The lineup of speakers was thoughtfully curated. It was a pleasure to gain valuable perspective and witness the advancements that VINCUE has to offer. I’m particularly excited about how these innovations can contribute to making our daily operations more efficient.”

Brandon Hanson
General Manager, Manchester Mazda

“What a class act the VINCUE UNLEASHED conference was. From the venue, to the speakers to the vendors, all are in first class pioneering the industry on our most critical time. A must have partner for success in 2024!!”

Rudy Padilla
Used Car Sales Director, Toyota of Berkeley

“The VINCUE unleashed user conference blew away any expectations that I had for the event. You could tell it was thoughtfully planned and carefully executed to provide a first-class experience. I left with a better understanding of the platform, new connections with other users and partners, and some personal development.”

Nick Staropoli
Used Car Manager, Freeman Motor Co.