The CEO Who Understands the ADHD Brain

Most executive coaches have studied business; Robert Pal has lived it.

With over 25 years of experience as a founder and CEO of global brands, Robert understands the unique "pressure cooker" environment of executive leadership. He specifically serves entrepreneurs and business leaders—including members of YPO and EO—who are seeking to master the complexities of ADHD and executive functioning without sacrificing their vision

"The Insight You Need"

Robert has a unique gift in his ability to easily relate to people and create the type of environment of trust where true openness and learning occurs. He brings a sense of humor, a true sensitivity rooted in personal experience and a caring approach that make him a great coach.
— Sean Magennis, Past International Chairman YPO/EO 2003/2004

Business Pedigree & Global Leadership

Robert’s coaching is built on a foundation of real-world results, having founded and led Lapor Inc. and Illusions International to become market leaders.

  • Global Scale: Secured and managed major contracts with North American retail giants, including Dylex, CVS, Sears, Loblaws, Kroger, and Duane Reade.

  • Industry Recognition: Innovated the first complete fashion line developed in Asia for his sector, resulting in "Top Supplier Awards" for leadership and innovation.

  • EO International Leadership: Served as the Past President of the Toronto EO Chapter (growing membership from 25 to 100) and was appointed to the EO International Board for Strategic Planning.

  • Elite Education: A graduate of the Entrepreneurial Master's Program (EMP) at MIT's Sloan School of Management—selected as one of only 65 high-growth entrepreneurs from across North America for this prestigious program.

Thought Leadership

Robert is a recognized voice in the intersection of mindfulness and performance. His work provides a structured, evidence-based framework for personal and professional growth:

  • Published Author: Co-author of Mindful Intelligence: A Ten-Week Mindfulness Training Workbook

  • The Calm Inside the Storm:  The journey from Inner Critic to Self

    • Leadership.Creator of a unique developmental series featuring a parable about an entrepreneur named Noah, paired with a corresponding workbook based on his coaching practices.( To be published Fall 2026)

A Specialized Focus on YPO & EO Members

Robert’s coaching is designed for the specific challenges faced by high-achieving leaders who must balance visionary thinking with the executive function hurdles of ADHD. By identifying "blind spots" and managing attachment triggers, he helps leaders move from constant "firefighting" to high-performance flow.

Robert has a unique way of listening... He has walked the walk — as an entrepreneur... His supportive, nonjudgmental touch allows me to be more comfortable, creating a space for breakdowns leading to my breakthroughs.
— James F. Kenefick, Managing Partner, Working Excellence (Past Chair of YPO International Corporate Social Responsibility)Quote Source
 

Published Works & Media Features

Robert is a frequent contributor to the world’s leading ADHD publications and a featured guest on high-performance leadership platforms.

Strategic Leadership Media

  • Podcast: Leaders of TomorrowADHD in Executive Leadership: Turning Vulnerability into a Competitive Advantage. Robert discusses how top-tier entrepreneurs can leverage unique brain wiring to drive innovation while maintaining operational stability.

Articles & Features

  • ADDitude Magazine:

    • Featured Expert: [Link to Author Profile]

    • "A Deceptively Simple System for Getting More Done with ADHD" (2021)

    • "Using Strengths to Repair Self-Esteem After an ADHD Diagnosis" (2019)

  • Attention Magazine (CHADD):

    • "Three Successes a Day: Change Your Brain's Negativity Bias" (2015)

Credentials & Advanced Training

Neuroscience & Psychology

  • Solution-Focused Coaching: University of Toronto, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work

  • Interpersonal Neurobiology: Trained under Dr. Dan Siegel

  • Cognitive Therapy for Adults with ADHD: Trained under Dr. Mary Solanto

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS) & Self-Leadership: Internal Family Systems Institute

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Practical Solutions to Real-World Problems (Hincks Dellcrest Centre)

  • Hardwiring Happiness (Neuroplasticity): Trained under Dr. Rick Hanson

Mindfulness & Positive Psychology

  • Heart of Buddhist Meditation: Trained under Jack Kornfield, Ph.D. (Omega Institute)

  • Immersive Retreat: Trained with Eckhart Tolle (Omega Institute)

  • Positive Psychology Coaching: Positive Acorn

  • Character Strengths: VIA Institute on Character