A Life of Learning, Leadership, and Laughter
Author, professor, father, husband, coach, and reformed class clown, Stephen “Dr. Bird” Birchak, Ed.D., has dedicated over four decades to the fields of psychology and education. Despite his height of 4’8”, Dr. Bird has approached life with unwavering optimism and joy.
As a child, he was affectionately nicknamed “Birdie,” and his formative years were characterized by high energy and a penchant for humor and mischief, earning him the title of “class clown.” During that time, terms such as “attention deficit” and “distractible” were not yet in use to describe his energetic demeanor. Through perseverance and determination, he achieved academic success and channeled his energy into becoming an educator. "Birdie" evolved from being known as “Mr. Bird” and “Coach Bird” by his students, to ultimately becoming “Dr. Bird.”
Nationally Recognized Speaker and Author
Dr. Bird, a nationally recognized speaker, has shared his expertise with over a half-million professionals, administrators, educators, executives, and Fortune 500 companies across the nation. His optimistic and timely messages have been successfully integrated into their organizational cultures. Dr. Bird is also the author of several books on positive psychology, including The Jerk Whisperer, How to Build a Child’s Character—By Tapping into Your Own, and the bestseller It’s Not a Crisis, It’s an Inconvenience. In these works, he explores practical strategies for character development and positive psychology. Additionally, Dr. Bird has written a children's book based on his own life experiences titled The Bird and the Bear – First Day at Pine Forest School.
Expert in Positive Psychology and Human Relations
As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Professor, Dr. Bird’s philosophies are founded on the principles of civility, conscience, collaboration, de-escalation, and choice. His expertise in human relations is utilized by executives, corporate leaders, educators, and parents to build stronger relationships in workplaces, homes, and educational settings. Dr. Bird emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with human dignity and advocates for the promotion of kindness, compassion, and character in response to a world often dominated by negativity.
Academic Journey
Despite a rocky start in public schools (as a class clown and rambunctious student), Dr. Bird demonstrated exceptional success throughout his academic career in higher education. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Education from the University of Northern Colorado, a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling from Adams State University (Colorado), and a Doctorate in Counselor Education from the University of Northern Colorado, providing a solid foundation for his professional endeavors in education and counseling.
Teaching in Higher Education and Mental Health Counseling Experience
Dr. Bird began his professional career as a high school teacher and wrestling coach, subsequently advancing to roles in higher education. He served as an academic advisor and wrestling coach at Colorado University and held positions as a professor and wrestling coach at Colorado Northwestern Community College. Additionally, he contributed as both a professor and mental health counselor at the University of Northern Colorado. At the University of Maine, Machias, he held the position of Director of Counseling. Dr. Bird was a professor at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York for 26 years, he was department chair for 8 of those years. He was promoted from assistant to associate and then full professor. After four decades of teaching, he was awarded the distinguished title of Professor Emeritus.
Personal Life
Dr. Bird is a native of Denver Colorado. He has been married to Annie since 1981. He often states that she is a significant source of his inspiration and motivation. Annie frequently co-presents workshops to school districts with Dr. Bird. Her expertise lies in serving school districts on issues of resilience and trauma-informed education. Annie has taught Kindergarten through High School and eventually became Director of Special Education for an urban school district in New York. Together they raised two sons, Nicholas and Brandon. Dr. Bird and Annie currently reside in Wildwood, Florida, where they enjoy sports, music, and outdoor activities.
Accolades
Dr. Bird has been honored with numerous accolades for his achievements. He received the New York "Champion of Character Award" and was presented with the "Friend of Education Award" by the Principals and Administrators Association of New York for his contributions to schools. As a head wrestling coach at the collegiate level for a decade, he coached 15 All-Americans, and his teams consistently ranked in the top ten nationally. Dr. Bird was named NLCAA National Coach of the Year and his team attained the distinction of Academic National Team Champions for having the highest-grade point average in the nation.
Engaging and Memorable Presentations
Dr. Bird's high-energy presentations have a profound impact on audiences. Leveraging his extensive experience as a professor, author, coach, and reformed class clown, he delivers dynamic presentations that make lasting impressions. His enthusiasm and captivating style consistently receive top reviews and result in repeat bookings. Dr. Bird skillfully combines humor, research, practical advice, and personal anecdotes to address responses to stress and change. He provides valuable strategies for managing difficult individuals and situations, leaving audiences feeling uplifted and inspired. One of his books, titled “It’s Not a Crisis! It’s an Inconvenience!” encapsulates his approach and has gained popularity as a workplace motto across the country.
