Expertise. Connection. Empowerment.

Kristopher (Kris) Marks has shared his inspiring blend of professional expertise and lived experiences with audiences all over the world. As founder of CEO of VĪV Mental Health, Kristopher has established himself as a prominent voice in the fields of mental health, workplace and generational cultures, leadership development, psychological safety, suicide awareness, and supporting youth. His innovative delivery, creative visuals, and captivating stage presence highlights his authentic, connection-based approach to audience engagement and immersive skill-building.

Kris is a Certified Psychological Health & Safety Advisor (Canadian Mental Health Association), Red Seal journeyman machinist, professional musician, stand-up comedian, and host/producer of The VĪV Mental Health Podcast. He is also the founder of the InstruMental Health Therapeutic Music Program, a passionate community volunteer, and is the proud human to his rescue dog, Carson.

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READ KRISTOPHER’S FULL BIO

“When we are granted someone’s time and presence…we are given a gift. It is rare and beautiful to be offered the opportunity to truly connect with another human being; to be unabashedly authentic with someone, to explore and find meaning together, to build trust, to feel safe, and to be vulnerable. It is a privilege, and deserves to be treated as such, as few things are as inspiring as those moments where both teaching and learning occur simultaneously.”

~ Kristopher Marks

SPEAKING HIGHLIGHTS

2025

Keynote Address | ASPIRE Conference – Alberta Hotel & Lodging Association (Calgary, AB)

Keynote Address | University of Alberta Safety Summit 2025 (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address | Men’s Mental Health Forum – St. Mary’s Regional Irrigation District (Taber, AB)

Keynote Address | Cultivating Authentic Leadership Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Presenter | Sensory Source Summit (Edmonton, AB)

Presenter | DisruptHR 13.0 (Edmonton, AB)

Presenter | Enactus Student Leaders Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Event Host | Heavy Hockey Showdown Fundraiser (Edmonton, AB)

2024

Keynote Address | Unity Summit Conference (Hinton, AB)

Keynote Address | Untapped Potential Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address | Mental Health Summit Conference (Grande Prairie, AB)

Keynote Address | Men’s Mental Health Awareness & Solutions Forum (Slave Lake, AB)

Keynote Address | International Women’s Day – Sherritt International (Fort Saskatchewan, AB)

Presenter | Young Authors Conference (Sherwood Park, AB)

Presenter | DisruptHR 11.0 Conference (Edmonton, AB) WATCH THE VIDEO

Presenter | CMHA Working Stronger Conference (Edmonton, AB)

Event Host | Heavy Hockey Showdown Fundraiser (Edmonton, AB)

2023

Keynote Address | Elk Island Public School District (Sherwood Park, AB)

Keynote Address | World Suicide Prevention Day (Hinton, AB)

Keynote Address | Roots of Hope National Community of Practice (Stony Plain, AB)

Keynote Address | CPHR Executive Event (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address & Comedy Performer | Men’s Nights Community Event (Wetaskiwin, AB)

Keynote Address & Musical Performer | Music For Mental Health Fundraiser (Stettler, AB)

Presenter | DisruptHR 9.0 Conference (Edmonton, AB) WATCH THE VIDEO

Presenter | Men’s Mental Health Event (Stony Plain, AB)

Event Host & Organizer | Rural Seniors Wellness Initiative (Calmar, AB)

2022

Keynote Address | Bridge of Life Suicide Awareness Event (Edmonton, AB)

Keynote Address | Survivors of Suicide Loss Event (Stony Plain, AB)

Keynote Address | National Persons With Disability Day Celebration (Spruce Grove, AB)

Panelist | CMHA Rural Mental Health Animators Conference (Nisku, AB)

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Testimonials

I love to see a presenter that so obviously walks the talk. Seeing someone model vulnerability AS they’re teaching a class about it is admirable.

Audience Member

Keynote Presentation (University of Alberta - 2025)

As a longtime client of VIV Mental Health, I am pleased to offer my wholehearted endorsement of their services. From our monthly safety meetings, annual audits, and employee/leadership training to their ongoing role as our mental health and psychological safety touch point, Kris and his team have gone above and beyond in delivering support for our team in every way we could have hoped.

Hy-Lok Distribution Inc.

Throughout his engagement with Explore Edmonton, Kris demonstrated a high level of professionalism, expertise, and dedication. He possesses excellent communication skills, which were evident in his ability to engage participants from diverse backgrounds and levels within the organization. I have no hesitation in recommending VIV Mental Health for any facilitation or workshop-related role!

Explore Edmonton

“Kris and Rachelle facilitated two leadership workshops for our global workforce and they fulfilled all expectations! The presentations were highly engaging, fostering an environment where our staff felt comfortable sharing their insights and experiences. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and we eagerly anticipate future sessions!”

Mary Oguntoyinbo

IntouchCX - Global EX Strategy

“The training was amazing – I’d like a full day next time! Kris was very responsive to the room and sparked some great conversations. As a mom and as well as a leader in my workplace I will definitely be implementing what I learned both at home and with my teams. Thank you for exploring these topics through so many different lenses.”

Leadership Training Participant

Mental Health Summit 2024

“Incredible session. Kris was the perfect facilitator. The pace was great – and how he shared details about his personal journey throughout made me feel like I could share my thoughts more. There was so much to take away from this workshop – I’m so happy I took this!”

Workplace Training Participant

Explore Edmonton

“This consulting team is so thoughtful (and thorough!) in their design, approach, and delivery of services. Kris brings charisma, SO much heart, and clearly loves and values his work. I love what Kris and Rachelle are doing in the community as well. Without a doubt, I would recommend them to any company looking for training and facilitation!”

Tara Langan

Career TLC

“I have had the pleasure of working with Kris and the VĪV team on a number of occasions – I highly recommend! Kris is genuine, authentic, and an excellent leader and collaborator. He brings so much value to every piece of work and creates strong, healthy environments to work in.”

Tiffany Connauton

Beyond Diversity Inc.

“Kris is compassionate, resourceful, and his sessions and conversations are always so thoughtful and relevant. His superpower seems to be that he can draw out the best in people, helping others feel comfortable with their own vulnerability and creating a safe space for folks to exist freely without judgement.”

Justin Lessard

Mental Health Therapist

“I’ve been listening to your podcast and I love it. It’s so good! Thank you so much for being so vulnerable and sharing your story. It makes it so much easier for people to open up and help remove the stigma behind mental health struggles. Thank you so much!”

Podcast Listener

“Kris is a true professional. From the start of his presentation to the end, he had the full attention of my students. A talented speaker with a wealth of knowledge on the subject. I highly recommend!”

Nick Foley

Professor, Loyalist College

“One of the best podcasts I’ve ever heard. Amazing job.”

J.J. Richard

Listener

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