A heartfelt promise made during one of life’s most emotional moments became the foundation of a lifelong mission centered on accountability, personal empowerment, and helping people reach their peak potential. What began as a deeply personal commitment eventually evolved into a transformative philosophy behind Matthew Cossolotto’s mission to help leaders and aspiring leaders around the world reach their peak potential, on and off the podium.
With a career spanning Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, NATO headquarters in Brussels, the Chancellor’s Office at UCLA, executive coaching, and thought leadership, Matthew Cossolotto — Author/Guest Speaker, Speech Coach, Speechwriter at The Empowerment Pro has consistently championed the belief that “Success is an Inside Job.” It comes from within, from between the ears. His journey reflects a rare evolution from structured, logic-driven communication toward a more balanced “Whole Brain” approach that combines intellect with empathy, authenticity, and human connection.
Through his work as an author, speaker, and coach, Matthew continues to redefine leadership communication by encouraging individuals to move beyond overly scripted presentations and embrace authentic, purpose-driven and heart-centered influence rooted in integrity, self-awareness, and action.
Not Just a Voice, But a Vision
Cossolotto’s journey as the founder of The Empowerment Pro is rooted in a career that blends public service, global exposure, and a deepening focus on personal empowerment in three overlapping realms: Habits, Speaking, and Promises. He began as an aide to Congressman Leon Panetta after studying political science at the University of California, Berkeley, with additional academic experience at the University of Lund (Sweden) shaping his global outlook.
His early years on Capitol Hill, including serving as a speechwriter for Speaker Jim Wright, established his foundation in leadership communication. This expertise later extended to the international stage at NATO headquarters in Brussels, where he worked with senior leadership in high-stakes environments.
Over time, his work expanded across corporate and academic institutions, coaching senior executives and refining his approach to authentic communication. These experiences led him to a broader realization that success is an inside job, that communication is shaped as much by what happens internally as by the words people choose to speak.
This insight shaped the creation of The Empowerment Pro and his Triad Empowerment System, centered on habits, speaking, and promises. Today, as an author, speaker, and coach, Cossolotto’s work reflects a clear belief that success begins with our habitual thoughts, guiding his mission to help individuals to reach their peak potential and make a positive difference in the world.
Whole Brain Approach to Leadership & Communication
Before stepping into entrepreneurship, Matthew admits that his approach was deeply rooted in logic, structure, and intellect, which was and is the dominant approach. Over time, it evolved into a more balanced perspective blending analytical thinking with empathy, authenticity, and human connection. This shift transformed not just communication but impact.
Life Before Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Strong focus on “Left Brain” attributes such as logic, facts, and structured thinking
- Communication driven by information and data, not connection
- Highly programmed and controlled delivery style
- Emphasis on intellect over emotion
- One-way communication style
- Result: Presentations feel rigid, predictable, less engaging, less memorable, and, at times, even a bit boring
Life After Entrepreneurial Leadership
- A balance, value-added, “Whole Brain” approach (Left and Right Brain working in tandem)
- Emphasis on authenticity, empathy, and connection
- Helping others make the shift from state fright to stage delight
- Playing the inner game to win.
- Introducing the Gentle Art of Mental Joyjitsu
- Encouraging spontaneity and storytelling
- Two-way engagement with audiences
- More expressive, human, and relatable communication style
- Presentations become more engaging, memorable, and impactful
- Purpose-driven journey guided by HabitForce and sometimes inspired by a personal promise
- Focus on empowering others to make a positive difference
- Continuous growth mindset with the goal of reaching one’s peak potential, on and off the podium.
An Unfinished Idea That Sparked a Search for Inner Clarity and Purpose
A defining challenge in Cossolotto’s professional journey flowed from an idea he initiated but failed to implement. Early in his career, he envisioned creating a cable television channel called “Comedy TV,” a concept he developed years before comedy-focused cable channels became mainstream. Although he recognized the incredible opportunity, he later realized that he talked himself out of pursuing the idea. Instead of seeing possibilities, he saw only obstacles. As he puts it today, he simply dropped the ball despite feeling the idea was full of potential.
What made the experience significant was not the missed opportunity itself, but the reason behind it. Doubt had prevailed over determination. When Comedy Central was later launched, Cossolotto found himself reflecting on a deeper question that went beyond his personal disappointment. He wanted to know Why some people succeed while others fail?
His search for answers led him into the fields of personal development and human potential. Influenced by a variety of authors and speakers – including Tony Robbins, Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, Jack Canfield, Napoleon Hill, Earl Nightingale, and John Assaraf – Cossolotto was especially intrigued by Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. He found the use of the number seven particularly appealing. Then came an unexpected epiphany. Cossolotto wondered if there might be seven habits that hold people back, and it hit him that the word “failure” has seven letters. Even more astounding, the word “success” also has seven letters.
The coincidence sparked an idea: what if these two powerful words in our language and culture could be used to represent equal-but-opposite habits and mindsets? That insight eventually evolved into a framework built around the habits of FAILURE and SUCCESS, with each letter standing for either a negative FAILURE trap or an empowering SUCCESS habit. Use of these acronyms as convenient mnemonic devices would help people remember the empowering habits of SUCCESS and the disempowering habits of FAILURE.
Exploring these ideas reinforced a belief that continues to guide Cossolotto’s work today: opportunities alone are not enough. Your thoughts ultimately determine whether you take the required actions. When push comes to shove, thoughts and mindset determine whether you succeed or fall short.
The Heartfelt Promise That Defined Purpose and Spurred Action
For several years, Cossolotto discussed his ideas around the seven habits of SUCCESS and FAILURE with a small circle of friends and associates, including his mother. She became one of the strongest advocates for turning the ideas into a book, repeatedly encouraging her son to write it. But there was a snag: although he had authored books on European politics, at that time he did not see himself as a self-help author and viewed the project as outside his comfort zone.
Everything changed when his mother was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer.
Sitting beside her in her final days, Cossolotto made a spontaneous decision. Holding her hand, he said, “Mom, you remember that book about failure and success habits? The book you’ve been encouraging me to write?”
When she nodded, he continued, “I want to make you a promise, Mom. I promise to finish writing the book and dedicate it to your memory.”
With tears in her eyes and shaking her finger at him for emphasis, she replied, “You do that, Matthew. You do that. This makes me very happy.”
In that moment, the words “I promise” carried a profound weight. What had once been an interesting idea became a commitment that demanded action and helped him find his voice and purpose. Cossolotto later came to realize that his mother must have known something about his purpose in life long before he grasped it himself. His promise to her put him on his current path as a personal empowerment author, speaker, and coach – a path his mother seemed to know would be his destiny.
He fulfilled that promise by publishing HabitForce!, dedicating it to his mother’s memory, and referencing “the power of making a promise” in the dedication. Little did he know at the time that “the power of making a promise” would become a vital feature of his pioneering Triad Empowerment System: Speaking, Habits, Promises.
Today, Cossolotto says that tapping into what he calls his “PromisePower” continues to shape his work. With The Joy of Public Speaking and Harness Your PromisePower already published, and Harness Your HabitForce expected in the coming months, Cossolotto views PromisePower as “the New Frontier in personal change and achievement.”
Accountability Begins on the Inside
| “Leaders know that honesty and integrity are the foundations of leadership. Leaders keep their promises.” – Brian Tracy |
For Matthew, accountability in leadership is inseparable from integrity. Drawing inspiration from leadership expert Brian Tracy, he emphasizes that effective leaders keep their promises consistently.
This belief is central to his work. Through initiatives such as “Make a Promise Day” (on May 4th), he extends the concept of accountability beyond corporate frameworks into personal empowerment. His perspective reframes accountability not as an external obligation but as an internal discipline rooted in self-respect and reliability.
In his view, personal change and achievement are shaped not only by outcomes but also by the consistency with which people keep their promises and follow through on their commitments.
For Cossolotto, however, accountability does not end with keeping promises. Throughout his career, he has observed that even highly accomplished professionals sometimes struggle to communicate their ideas in ways that inspire action and connection. A promise may define a person’s commitment, but communication determines how that commitment influences others. This realization led him to focus on a challenge he encountered repeatedly, from Capitol Hill and NATO to executive coaching engagements: the gap between delivering information and creating a genuine human connection.
The Missing Link in Leadership Communications
Cossolotto has consistently observed a common challenge among senior executives: an overreliance on a Left Brain approach to communication, focused on logic, structure, data, and rehearsal. While these elements are essential – they truly are necessary but insufficient – they often result in presentations that lack engagement and emotional punch. They can also be rather boring and largely forgettable.
In contrast, the most effective leaders balance preparation with presence. They approach communication as a real-time relationship with their audience, where connection is as important as content. Cossolotto likes to say: “Don’t be conTENT with CONtent, playing on those two heteronyms to make the point that speakers should go beyond the Left Brain information, data, and facts of their presentation. Audiences are using their Whole Brains, and most people enjoy having the Right Brain stimulated – in the form of stories, emotional appeal, and connection. In addition, being well-prepared, yet not overly scripted, allows for a more authentic and effective interaction.
To close the gap between factual content and emotional connection, Cossolotto developed his innovative Whole Brain Speaking approach. This framework integrates both left-brain and right-brain attributes. While the Left Brain provides necessary structure, logic and data points, the Right Brain brings authenticity, storytelling, emotion, and imagination into the communication process.
Cossolotto often points to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech as a powerful example. Its lasting impact lies not in data or logic, but in its ability to inspire through vision and emotional resonance. A “dream” doesn’t fit onto a spreadsheet. By adopting this balanced, “Whole Brain” approach, leaders move beyond information delivery to create communication that is engaging, memorable, and motivational on a deeper level.
The Thought-to-Destiny Framework
Cossolotto believes there is great wisdom in this ancient Chinese proverb:
Sow a thought, reap an action;
Sow an action, reap a habit;
Sow a habit, reap a character;
Sow a character, reap a destiny
Cossolotto says you can streamline the steps and end up with: Sow a thought, reap a destiny. This progression lies at the heart of his thinking, anchored in the defining tenet already mentioned: Success is an inside job. He emphasizes that internal processes, particularly habitual patterns of thought, determine whether or not people reach their peak potential.
He links this directly to the gap between intention and achievement. In his view, repeated patterns of thinking shape decisions, behaviors, and ultimately outcomes. His methodology prompts a critical question: what is truly driving performance? Rather than focusing solely on external factors, he encourages individuals to examine the thought patterns that may be limiting their level of performance.
This introduces another gap Cossolotto has noticed – the gap between actual performance and true potential. When he asks audience members to raise their hands if they feel they are falling short of their potential, nearly every hand goes up. Why is that, Cossolotto has wondered for years. Why do so many people feel they are falling short of their potential?
The starting point, he notes, is awareness, shifting from autopilot to intentional action. Central to this approach is his concept of HabitForce, described as a metaphoric “personal operating system” that governs behavior through deeply ingrained, often subconscious thought patterns. By understanding how this habitual software gets programmed, individuals can better align their thoughts and mindsets with their goals.
“It truly is tragic,” Cossolotto observes, “that many people sense they are capable of much more but too often fall short of their potential. My mission is to help as many people as possible to take the steps needed to reach their peak potential.”
One issue, he suggests, is not capability but having a clear sense of purpose. His framework ultimately positions leadership and performance as outcomes of disciplined thinking, where lasting change begins internally and translates into purposeful action, which can be triggered by turning important goals into heartfelt promises.
A Day in Matthew Cossolotto’s Life
Every day is shaped by small, consistent habits. Matthew’s mornings begin with intention and movement, while the day unfolds through focused work, mindful pauses, and thoughtful reflection.
- 6:00 AM
- Wake up early
- 6:30 AM – 7:30
- Meditation & gratitude reflection
- Writing/Journaling & Setting daily priorities
- 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Exercise (often tennis/pickleball, also pushups, crunches, bicycling)
- 11:00 – 2:00
- Writing/Work/Interviews/Calls/Emails/News
- Afternoon
- Meditation, reading, writing, goal setting, appointments (and work outside in the garden).
- 7:00 PM
- Break for dinner, relaxing
- 8:00 PM
- Reading/movie/documentary
- 10:00 PM
- Wind down with reading & meditation
From Talk and Delay to Decisive Action
In one of Cossolotto’s HabitForce workshops, a participant arrived with a long-standing personal responsibility. He had inherited a collection of his late father’s artwork, yet despite recognizing its importance, he had not taken any meaningful steps to preserve or showcase it. The task had been repeatedly postponed, shaped by a cycle of excuses and inaction.
During the session, Matthew introduced key concepts related to personal accountability, including the tendency toward Finger-Pointing and Idle Talk without execution. (Cossolotto had experienced some Idle Talk during his Comedy TV fiasco.) These insights prompted a direct and immediate realization for the participant. He suddenly recognized his own patterns of thought and the need to make changes and take ownership.
This shift in awareness translated quickly into action. The participant proceeded to organize and curate his father’s artwork and successfully arranged a public exhibition. What had remained unaddressed for many years was resolved through this two-part process: 1) become aware of the FAILURE habit that’s holding you back; 2) Change that mindset and take decisive action.
This instance underscores the tangible, practical results of Cossolotto’s approach. By bringing limiting habits of thought and behavior into conscious awareness, people are better equipped to act with clarity and purpose. Such transformations, while personal in nature, often extend beyond the individual, contributing to broader progress of teams and organizations through purposeful action and fulfilled commitments.
Honors That Shaped Matthew Cossolotto’s Journey
A reflection of defining milestones and meaningful recognitions that stand above all else—each representing purpose, impact, and personal significance.
- Public Service Excellence
- Worked alongside former Congressman Leon Panetta, one of the most respected and effective public servants.
- Capitol Hill Leadership
- Served in the Office of the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives—the pinnacle of a Capitol Hill career.
- Global Impact at NATO
- Contributed as a speechwriter for the Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General of NATO, advancing peace, democratic values, and prosperity across nations.
- Supported Public Higher Education
- As a speechwriter for the Chancellor of UCLA (and as a student at UC Berkeley), Cossolotto has been a lifelong supporter of public higher education.
- Recognition from a Global Thought Leader
- Received a powerful foreword for his new book – Harness Your PromisePower – from Jack Canfield, co-creator of the mega-bestselling Chicken Soup for the Soul series.
- A Quote That Matters Most
- “When Matthew first told me about the heartfelt promise he made to his mother… I was hooked… There truly is something special about a promise… Contributing the foreword to this book and being associated with Matthew’s inspiring “Make a Promise” project are totally aligned with my life’s purpose.” — Jack Canfield
The Evolving Language of Authenticity and Connection
Matthew Cossolotto observes a notable shift in leadership communication, where authenticity and genuine connection are gaining long-overdue importance. Across audiences, employees, and stakeholders, there is a growing expectation that leaders communicate with authenticity. Communication is no longer perceived as effective solely based on facts, logic or structure; it must also be heart-centered and grounded in authenticity.
He notes that this shift requires leaders to move beyond conventional communication styles and embrace a more authentic and human approach. While not all leaders are naturally comfortable expressing authenticity and even vulnerability, doing so significantly enhances credibility and trust. When communication reflects honesty and a willingness to share personal perspectives, it creates a stronger and more lasting connection.
Cossolotto also highlights the increasing role of storytelling in leadership communication. Personal stories, particularly those that reveal meaningful or unexpected insights, tend to resonate more deeply than purely informational content. Stories make communication more relatable and memorable, enabling leaders to engage their audiences in a more personal and effective way.
In his view, this shift toward authenticity, storytelling, and human connection creates new opportunities for people to find their voice and make a positive difference. As leadership continues to be closely tied to communication, the ability to speak with clarity, sincerity, and personal conviction will define how effectively leaders influence and inspire.
An Open Letter to Aspiring Leaders
Why should you improve your public speaking skills? There are three important reasons.
- Advance Your Career. Speaking effectiveness is closely tied to career growth. A confident and joyful presence can help you move forward in almost any profession.
- Enhance Your Leadership Skills. Leaders speak and followers listen. Effective speaking is a leadership imperative. Leaders communicate ideas, inspire people, solve problems, and guide others. If you aspire to lead, sharpening your speaking skills is essential.
- Personal Empowerment. This benefit is often overlooked, yet it matters deeply. I’ve always been inspired by President Kennedy’s reference to the Greek definition of happiness: “The full use of your powers along lines of excellence.”
Speaking with confidence, authenticity, and joy helps us reach “the full use of our powers.” The power of speech, after all, is one of our most important human faculties. When we remain silent, when we fail to find our voice or share our stories, we limit our personal power. We relinquish our role as leaders and sharply restrict our personal expression and growth.
The joy of public speaking is ultimately one of the keys to experiencing the happiness of reaching your peak potential and becoming the best version of yourself.
Always speak with joy!
Matthew Cossolotto
“The Empowerment Pro”
Author & Guest Speaker, Speech Coach, Speechwriter
Empowering leaders and aspiring leaders through the joy of public speaking, the transformative power of promises, and the seven habits of SUCCESS.
- Success – and Leadership – Is an Inside Job.
- Communication Becomes Supercharged When the Left Brain and the Right Brain Join Forces
- A Promise is Like a Goal on Steroids
- Replace Idle Talk with Promise-Driven Action
- Joyful Authenticity Is the Future of Leadership Communication
| Quick Takes | |
| One tool or app | The Immaculate Connection – an empowering exercise in my workshops. |
| One quote | “Success is an inside job!” |
| One piece of advice | Wear a rubber band on your wrist as a daily reminder of a promise or goal and use it to “snap out of it” whenever you’re feeling down or caught in negative thinking. |
| One movie or book | Book/Movie: A Christmas Carol (Because of what I call “The Ebenezer Effect” which I write about in Harness Your HabitForce.) |
