Leaderologist & Cognitive Behavior Scientist
Dr. David M Robertson, MSL, VL2
Underrated by design. Outcomes first. Recognition when it is earned.
I work with individuals and organizations in Wichita, Kansas, and beyond that value accuracy, discipline, and results. My background spans leadership science, cognitive behavior, strategic planning, organizational development, health science, education, entrepreneurship, and applied research. That range is not accidental. It reflects a career spent studying how people actually think, decide, and perform under real conditions, not ideal ones.
I hold undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in leadership, along with advanced education in health science and adult education. My work integrates research, behavioral mechanisms, and strategic reasoning into practical systems that produce measurable outcomes. I serve as a Cognitive Behavior Scientist and Leadership Strategist, and I created Reasoned Leadership, a scientifically structured framework that replaces style-based leadership thinking with precision and accountability.
Beyond direct client work, I teach, publish, serve on committees and small business boards, and co-host the Key Is In The Contrast podcast, where we examine leadership through a critical, evidence-driven lens. I am committed to contributing to my community and to advancing leadership as a discipline grounded in reality rather than rhetoric.
Outside of work, I value time outdoors, music, motorcycles, history, and health. Those interests keep me grounded and remind me that leadership is not an abstraction; it is lived.
If you or your organization are serious about progress and willing to engage in work that prioritizes outcomes over optics, we will likely work well together. I look forward to meeting you!
Why Leadership Studies?
Leaderology speaks to me because of its complexity and the opportunities it presents for personal and professional growth. Leadership is a multifaceted discipline encompassing leadership theories, practical applications, strategic forecasting and decision-making, organizational theory and development, performance improvement, team development, motivation and influence techniques, change models, negotiating, facilitation, bias evaluation and control, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, human mind heuristics, organizational structure, psychology, business, international business, and global trends. It is a discipline that requires continuous learning and growth, far beyond memorizing a few famous quotes. I am passionate about exploring the many aspects of leadership and helping others do the same.
Why Health Science?
I chose to study health science because I recognize its critical role in effective leadership. Physical and mental well-being deeply influences optimal cognitive function, decision-making, and resilience. Yet many individuals struggle with chronic health challenges that limit their capacity to lead, adapt, and perform at their best. My goal is to bridge this gap by equipping my students and clients with the knowledge and resources necessary to take control of their health and, in turn, enhance their leadership potential.
With an emphasis on cognitive health and behavior and specialized knowledge in physical activity epidemiology, exercise prescription, health and fitness psychology, alternative health solutions, applied nutrition, supplementation, and general sports medicine, I offer a comprehensive, science-driven approach to health optimization through OptiHealth Insights. Whether your goal is to enhance cognitive performance, prevent disease, or maximize physical fitness, I provide the tools and strategies to help you achieve lasting results.
Why Education?
I was drawn to education because I believe in the importance of sharing knowledge. I wanted to gain the skills and expertise to impart knowledge effectively, so I focused some of my studies on education strategy, hands-on teaching and decision-making, research methods, curriculum design, program planning and evaluation, education approaches and evaluations, and education procedures. Education is a powerful tool for creating positive change, and I am dedicated to using my knowledge and skills to assist others in their learning and growth journey.
Credentials
COLLEGE DEGREES
Doctorate, Leadership
— Health Science
— Education
Master of Science, Leadership
Bachelor of Science, Leadership
— Security Management
CERTIFICATES
Operational Leadership (Undergraduate)
Homeland Security (Undergraduate)
Active Shooter Workshop / Trainer, DHS
Agile Leadership (Continuing Ed)
Qualitative Research Methods (Continuing Ed)
ADDITIONAL COURSEWORK
Leadership, Business & Security: Leadership and Influence, Resilient Leadership, Business Strategy & Competitive Advantage, Entrepreneurship, Strategic Leadership in Healthcare, Organizational Culture and Change in Healthcare, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism
Health & Wellness: Lifestyle Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine Treatments of Chronic Disease, Disease Prevention and Management, Viruses & How to Beat Them, Human Microbiome, Autophagy
Cognitive Behavior Science: The Neuropsychology of Decision Making, The Psychology of Emotions, Learning and Memory in the Brain, Unconscious Bias, Psychological Influences on Decision-Making, Metacognitive Strategies, Behavioral Neuroscience
ACADEMIC AWARDS
Summa Cum Laude
Presidential Honors for GPA
Recent Media
- Episode 313: The Other Side Of Potential, Podcast by Dr. Sharon Spano. Listen here
- WIBA Startup PLUS Community Seminar. Event details
Let’s talk.
If you or your organization are ready to engage in work that prioritizes outcomes over optics, let’s talk.
