The Highest Standard in Professional Expertise

Certified Professional Experts

The designation earned by Tracy, Brown, Fripp, Qubein, and 35 more. Not just a certificate. A transformation.

What Is CPE?

A Standard, Not a Course

Jim Cathcart created the Certified Professional Expert designation to recognize professionals who have achieved the highest level of expertise in their field. This is not a weekend seminar or an online certificate.

It is a rigorous personal mentorship with Jim, built on the same diagnostic framework he has used for over 50 years, the same framework that shaped the careers of some of the most recognized names in professional development, sales, and leadership.

The CPE designation says something specific: this person has been evaluated, mentored, and certified by the man who has spent 53 years defining what professional expertise means. That is not a small thing. For the 39 people who hold it, it has been a turning point.

“This is not about a certificate on your wall. It is about who you become in the process of earning it.”

Jim Cathcart
Jim Cathcart presenting the CPE certificate and medallion

Jim presenting CPE medallion to Kevin Davis, CPE.

Jim Cathcart surrounded by CPE holders wearing their medallions at the Summit dinner

CPE holders at the Summit dinner. The people in the room are the curriculum.

In Jim's Own Words

What It Means to Become a CPE

Jim explains what CPE means and who it is for: the designation, the process, and what it requires of the person who pursues it.

CPE Introduction, 3:36  |  Filmed April 2026

What It Takes

The Six Requirements

These are not checkboxes. They are the qualities that, together, define what a Professional Expert actually is.

01

Demonstrated Expertise

A proven, specific body of professional knowledge that has been tested and refined through real-world application over years, not months.

02

Published Body of Work

Books, courses, articles, or programs that have advanced the field. Evidence that the candidate has not only mastered their domain but contributed to it.

03

Speaking or Training Experience

A record of standing in front of professional audiences and delivering that expertise with clarity, credibility, and measurable impact.

04

Peer Recognition and Endorsements

Acknowledgment from fellow professionals, industry organizations, and the people who have been changed by the candidate's work.

05

Commitment to Ongoing Growth

A living, demonstrated dedication to growing the field and the next generation of practitioners, not resting on a credential but continuing to earn it.

06

Jim's Mentorship Program

Completion of a personal mentorship with Jim Cathcart. The final, defining step that distinguishes CPE from every other professional designation.

The Designation Holders

CPE Directory

39 professionals. One designation. Fifty years of proof.

Joe Willard
CPE #1

Joe Willard, CPE

Insurance Executive, Rancher, Investor & Mentor

Joe Willard is an insurance executive, rancher, investor, and mentor. He brings decades of experience across multiple industries and serves as a trusted advisor to professionals and business leaders.

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Nido Qubein
CPE #2

Nido Qubein, CPE

President, High Point University

Dr. Nido Qubein has been the President of High Point University since 2005, transforming it into one of the most innovative universities in America. He is a highly sought-after speaker on leadership, selling, and communication.

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Tony Alessandra
CPE #3

Tony Alessandra, CPE

Personality Assessment Expert, Keynote Speaker & Author

Dr. Tony Alessandra is one of the world's leading experts on personality assessment. He is a renowned keynote speaker and author, and the founder of Assessments24x7, helping individuals and organizations improve communication and collaboration.

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Patricia Fripp
CPE #4

Patricia Fripp, CPE

Hall of Fame Keynote Speaker & Executive Speech Coach

Patricia Fripp is a Hall of Fame keynote speaker and an exceptional executive speech coach. She helps leaders, sales teams, and professionals deliver powerful presentations that drive results.

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David Chu
CPE #5

David Chu, CPE

International Business & Branding Expert

Dr. David Chu is a distinguished figure in international business and branding based in Asia. He is the founder of World Masters Speakers Bureau in China and Taiwan, connecting global thought leaders with audiences across the Asia-Pacific region.

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Don Hutson
CPE #6

Don Hutson, CPE

Hall of Fame Speaker & Sales Strategist

Don Hutson is a celebrated sales strategist and motivational speaker. One of the founders of the National Speakers Association, he has spent decades helping professionals and organizations master the art and science of selling.

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Allan Pease
CPE #7

Allan Pease, CPE

Body Language Expert, Author & Motivational Speaker

Dr. Allan Pease is an Australian author and motivational speaker. Known worldwide as an expert on body language, he has authored numerous bestselling books on communication and human behavior.

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Ivan Misner
CPE #8

Ivan Misner, CPE

Founder & Chief Visionary Officer of BNI

Dr. Ivan Misner is the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI (Business Network International), the leading networking organization in the world. He is a New York Times bestselling author and is widely recognized as one of the foremost authorities on business networking.

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Christina Richter
CPE #9

Christina Richter, CPE

Global Authority in Leadership & Executive Communications

Christina Richter is a global authority in leadership and executive communications. She helps leaders and organizations communicate with impact and build high-performance teams.

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Brian Tracy
CPE #10

Brian Tracy, CPE

Motivational Speaker, Author & Business Strategist

Brian Tracy is a globally renowned motivational speaker, author, and business strategist. With over 80 books and thousands of presentations delivered worldwide, he is one of the most influential voices in personal and professional development.

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Les Brown
CPE #11

Les Brown, CPE

Motivational Speaker & Author

Les Brown is one of the world's most renowned motivational speakers. His powerful message of possibility and resilience has inspired millions around the globe to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.

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Dave Kauffman
CPE #12

Dave Kauffman, CPE

Business Coach, Speaker & Author

Dave Kauffman is a distinguished business coach, speaker, and author. He helps entrepreneurs and business leaders achieve breakthrough results through strategic thinking and proven methodologies.

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Erik Swanson
CPE #13

Erik Swanson, CPE

Keynote Speaker & Founder of Habitude Warrior

Erik Swanson, affectionately known as "Mr. Awesome," is a globally acclaimed keynote speaker and founder of the Habitude Warrior brand. He inspires audiences worldwide with his message of positive habits and personal excellence.

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Jim Cathcart Jr.
CPE #14

Jim Cathcart Jr., CPE

Hotel/Resort General Manager & Hospitality Executive

Jim Cathcart Jr. is a career hospitality executive with 26 years in Luxury Hospitality HR, and now serves as a Hotel/Resort General Manager. His expertise spans leadership, team development, and guest experience in world-class properties.

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M. Kevin Davis
CPE #15

M. Kevin Davis, CPE

Keynote Speaker, Leadership Coach

For over 30 years, M. Kevin Davis has inspired and equipped others to achieve their goals through speaking engagements, one-on-one leadership development, and servant leadership.

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Anthony M. Criniti IV
CPE #16

Anthony M. Criniti IV, CPE

Financial Scientist & Podcast Host ("Dr. Finance")

Dr. Anthony M. Criniti IV, known as "Dr. Finance," is a pioneering financial scientist and leading podcast host. He has dedicated his career to advancing financial literacy and the science of wealth building.

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Victor Antonio
CPE #17

Victor Antonio, CPE

Sales Trainer, Author & Keynote Speaker

Victor Antonio is a globally recognized sales trainer, author, and keynote speaker. With a background in engineering and corporate leadership, he brings a unique analytical approach to sales strategy and persuasion.

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Dennis Madden
CPE #18

Dennis Madden, CPE

Automotive Industry Expert & Novelist

Dennis Madden is a seasoned professional in the automotive industry, novelist, and author. He brings decades of real-world business experience combined with creative storytelling.

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Troy Hoffman
CPE #19

Troy Hoffman, CPE

Entrepreneur & Business Strategist

Troy Hoffman is a dynamic entrepreneur and business strategist. He helps organizations and professionals develop winning strategies for growth and market leadership.

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Michael Graham
CPE #20

Michael Graham, CPE

Mindset Expert & Performance Coach

Michael Graham is an accomplished mindset expert and performance coach. He works with high-achievers and organizations to unlock peak performance through mindset mastery.

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Michael D. Butler
CPE #21

Michael D. Butler, CPE

Publishing Industry Leader & Author

Michael D. Butler is a renowned figure in the publishing industry. He helps aspiring authors and thought leaders bring their books to market and build their personal brands.

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Todd Duncan
CPE #22

Todd Duncan, CPE

Best-Selling Author & Mortgage Industry Leader

Todd Duncan is a best-selling author and cofounder of MyFUEL.io. He is a leading voice in the mortgage industry, helping loan officers and financial professionals achieve extraordinary results.

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Brian Livingston
CPE #23

Brian Livingston, CPE

Founder of The Traffic Ticket Guru & Business Consultant

Brian Livingston is the founder of The Traffic Ticket Guru. A trainer and business consultant based in Canada, he has built a unique expertise in legal representation and entrepreneurship.

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Robin Creasman
CPE #24

Robin Creasman, CPE

Television Producer, Musician & Keynote Speaker

Robin Creasman is an award-winning television producer, musician, and keynote speaker. He trains other personalities to grow their businesses and expand their media presence.

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Ron Karr
CPE #25

Ron Karr, CPE

Sales & Leadership Expert

Ron Karr is a sales and leadership expert known for his Velocity Mindset framework. He helps leaders and sales professionals accelerate results by shifting their mindset from activity to impact.

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John Mitchell
CPE #26

John Mitchell, CPE

Personal Development Expert, Professor & Author

John Mitchell is a transformative figure in personal development. He is a University Professor and Author of The Missing Secret, helping people bridge the gap between knowing and doing.

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Beth Robins
CPE #27

Beth Robins, CPE

Health & Life Coach, Author of Carpe Diem

Beth Robins brings over four decades of experience in health and life coaching. She is the Author of Carpe Diem and helps people transform their health, mindset, and quality of life.

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Terry Paulson
CPE #28

Terry Paulson, CPE

PhD Psychologist, Novelist & Political Commentator

Dr. Terry Paulson is a PhD psychologist, novelist, political commentator, and faith leader. He brings a unique blend of psychological insight, storytelling, and practical wisdom to his audiences.

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Niki McCuistion
CPE #29

Niki McCuistion, CPE

Television Producer, Speaker & Leadership Expert

Niki McCuistion is a television producer, speaker, leadership expert, and journalist. She is known for her insightful interviews and commitment to advancing leadership and public discourse.

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Denis Waitley
CPE #30

Denis Waitley, CPE

Personal Development Legend & Author of The Psychology of Winning

Dr. Denis Waitley is one of the all-time greats in the field of personal development. Author of The Psychology of Winning and numerous other bestsellers, he has inspired millions with his timeless principles of human excellence.

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Rene Godefroy
CPE #31

Rene Godefroy, CPE

Thought Leader in Quantum Leadership & Achievement

Rene Godefroy is an inspiring thought leader in quantum leadership and achievement. From humble beginnings in Haiti, he has become a powerful voice for transformation and possibility.

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Dan Clark
CPE #32

Dan Clark, CPE

CSP, CPAE, Hall of Fame Professional Speaker

Dan Clark, CSP, CPAE is one of the most accomplished professional speakers in the world. A primary contributing author to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, he inspires audiences with stories of courage, leadership, and human potential.

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Brian Biro
CPE #33

Brian Biro, CPE

Championship Swimming Coach, Author & Professional Speaker

Brian Biro is a championship swimming coach, multi-book author, and leading professional speaker and counselor. He brings extraordinary energy and transformational insights to audiences worldwide.

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Danielle Ribeiro
CPE #34

Danielle Ribeiro, CPE

Mindset Mastery Expert & Certified Spiritual Life Coach

Danielle Ribeiro is a Mindset Mastery Expert and Certified Spiritual Life Coach. She helps individuals unlock their potential through mindset transformation and spiritual alignment.

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John Murphy
CPE #35

John Murphy, CPE

Author & Change Mastery Expert

John Murphy is the author of 20 books including The Miracle Minded Manager. He is a Change Mastery Expert who helps organizations and individuals navigate transformation with clarity and confidence.

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Chip Bell
CPE #36

Chip Bell, CPE

Customer Care Expert & Author

Dr. Chip Bell is one of the most popular and respected voices on Earth in the area of customer care. A bestselling author and sought-after keynote speaker, he helps organizations create magnetic service cultures.

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Ali Sweeney
CPE #37

Ali Sweeney, CPE

Clairvoyant Energy Healer & Meditation Guide

Ali Sweeney is a Clairvoyant Energy Healer and Meditation Guide with a degree in Engineering from Cornell and a Masters in Leadership from the University of Denver. She combines analytical rigor with spiritual practice.

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Poh Teck Lim
CPE #38

Poh Teck Lim, CPE

Professional Trainer, Speaker & Human Development Expert

Poh Teck Lim is Malaysian born and lives in Singapore. He has been a professional trainer, speaker, and human development expert for many years and is certified as a master trainer by numerous organizations.

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Jeff Rogers
CPE #39

Jeff Rogers, CPE

Innovation & Improvisation Expert

Jeff Rogers is an expert in Innovation and Improvisation. He recently won the National Speakers Association Storytelling Competition and has been certified by MIT and Harvard among others.

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CPE #40

Candidate selected

Finalizing process

The next Certified Professional Expert has been chosen and is completing the requirements. Announcement coming soon.

CPE #41?

Your name here?

The next Certified Professional Expert

The path is open to professionals who have earned the standard and are ready to meet it. Start the conversation.

Start a Conversation →
Skip the Line

Already an Established Expert

$1,000
$250Application
+
$750Certification

Certify direct.

No Mentorship required

For experts who have already built the body of work. If you qualify, the application and certification fees are all that stands between you and the designation.

Apply for CPE →

Legacy

Professionals who helped define the standard

Cavett Robert

Founder, National Speakers Association

Bill Brooks

Sales Trainer & Author

Somers White

Management Consultant & Speaker

Dottie Walters

Speaking Industry Pioneer & Author

Og Mandino

Author of The Greatest Salesman in the World

Charlie Jones

Author & Motivational Speaker

Zig Ziglar

Legendary Motivational Speaker & Author

Harvey Mackay

Best-Selling Author & Business Leader

Jim Rohn

America's Foremost Business Philosopher

Earl Nightingale

Pioneer of Personal Development

Napoleon Hill

Author of Think and Grow Rich

Norman Vincent Peale

Author of The Power of Positive Thinking

Roger Dawson

Negotiation Expert & Author

Naomi Rhode

Past President, National Speakers Association

Rosita Perez

Motivational Speaker & Author

Art Linkletter

Television Pioneer & Motivational Speaker

Alan Weiss

Million Dollar Consulting Author & Consultant

John Maxwell

Leadership Expert & Best-Selling Author

Bob Burg

Author of The Go-Giver & Sales Expert

Jeffrey Gitomer

Sales Expert & Best-Selling Author

Scott McKain

Distinction Expert & Hall of Fame Speaker

Randy Pennington

Leadership & Change Expert

Dave Yoho

Business Strategist & Hall of Fame Speaker

Bill Gove

First President, National Speakers Association

Gene Perret

Comedy Writer & Humor Expert

Tom Hopkins

Sales Trainer & Author, Legacy CPE Holder

Mark Victor Hansen

Co-Creator of Chicken Soup for the Soul, Legacy CPE Holder

Larry Winget

The Pitbull of Personal Development, Legacy CPE Holder

Mark Sanborn

Author of The Fred Factor, Legacy CPE Holder

Robert Schuller

Founder of Crystal Cathedral and Hour of Power

Larry Wilson

Founder of Wilson Learning

D. John Hammond

Motivator, event promoter

Robert Henry, EdD

Humorist, speaker, NSA leader

Ty Boyd

Speaker, broadcaster, mentor

Dr. Kenneth McFarland

Orator and educator

Jeanne Robertson

Humorist, Philanthropist

Global Reach

International CPE Holders

The CPE designation is not limited to North American platforms. Professionals across Asia and the Pacific have earned and carried the standard. Proof that what Jim built speaks a universal language.

Dr. David Chu, CPE

CPE #5

China & Taiwan

Dr. Allan Pease, CPE

CPE #7

Australia

Michael D. Butler, CPE

CPE #21

Thailand

Brian Livingston, CPE

CPE #23

Canada

Poh Teck Lim, CPE

CPE #38

Malaysia & Singapore

Jim Cathcart with two CPE recipients wearing their medallions

Jim with CPE recipients. The medallion marks a before and after.

The Certified Professional Expert medallion, close up
Jim Cathcart presenting the CPE to Nido Qubein

Jim presenting the CPE to Nido Qubein. The circle of recognition.

The Ceremony

The Medallion and What It Represents

When a Certified Professional Expert receives their medallion, it is not just sent in the mail. It is presented. In person. By Jim.

The ceremony is deliberate. Jim believes that a credential without a moment of recognition is not merely paper. The medallion and the presentation together say: this was earned, this is real, and the person handing it to you has staked his own name on your standard.

For many CPE holders, the presentation is the memory they carry longer than any speech they have ever given.

39
CPE Holders Worldwide
53
Years Defining the Standard
6
Continents Represented
1
Man Who Grants It

Nurture Your Nature.

Becoming a Certified Professional Expert Begins with a Conversation

Not every professional is ready for CPE. But if you have spent years building real expertise and you want it recognized by someone who has spent 53 years defining the standard, this is where that conversation starts.