Clive Branson is a former Royal Air Force and Ministry of Defence professional turned inspirational mental health and resilience speaker, whose story of survival, honesty and determination has moved audiences across the UK. Drawing on profound lived experience, he speaks with authenticity about vulnerability, mental health and the power of choosing to live fully, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. His talks encourage people to reconnect with themselves, others and a renewed sense of purpose.
Clive began his career serving in the Royal Air Force before moving into the Ministry of Defence, where he spent seventeen years working in industrial relations. Alongside this, he developed a deep interest in the human condition, communication and wellbeing. After leaving the MOD, he established his own health and safety consultancy, driven by a desire to help others thrive at work and in life. However, personal challenges soon reshaped his path.
In 2017, Clive’s father passed away following Parkinson’s disease and dementia, triggering intense grief and emotional strain. In 2018, Clive was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, followed shortly by Stage Two Prostate Cancer. Overwhelmed by anxiety and despair, he spent weeks in a psychiatric hospital after considering suicide. Further losses followed with the deaths of his father-in-law and mother. Through this period, Clive chose recovery, openness and meaning, transforming pain into purpose.
Today, Clive is a trusted mental health advocate and speaker, working with organisations including Red Bull Racing, Rolls-Royce, Gallagher, Adidas, Network Rail and Bupa. He also volunteers with HM Prison Service and appears regularly in the media, including BBC Radio Shropshire and podcasts such as 'Getting Back Up!'. With warmth, humour and honesty, Clive helps audiences surrender vulnerability, reduce stigma and take one step forward, reminding people that you get to live each and every day.
