Speaking, Media & Consulting

Richard Baum is available for keynote speaking, media commentary, policy forums, advisory discussions, and strategic consulting related to drug policy, addiction, public health, and justice system reform..

Speaking Engagements

Richard speaks regularly at national conferences, academic institutions, professional associations, and policy forums. His presentations draw on decades of federal leadership experience and firsthand engagement with communities, practitioners, and policymakers across the United States.

  • Keynote addresses

  • Conference plenary sessions

  • Panel discussions & policy dialogues

  • University lectures & seminars

  • Fireside conversations & moderated interviews

Media & Commentary

Richard provides expert commentary and analysis for journalists, editorial boards, and documentary producers on drug policy, fentanyl and overdose trends, addiction treatment systems, prevention and recovery policy, and federal–state coordination.

  • Former Acting Director, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy

  • Executive Director, President’s Opioid Commission (2017)

  • Frequent keynote speaker at major national drug policy conferences

  • Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy

Advisory & Consulting Engagements

Since retiring from federal service in 2025, Richard has focused on advisory work, writing, teaching, and strategic consulting. He works with private companies, nonprofit organizations, academic centers, and public agencies on strategy development, policy alignment, and organizational leadership related to drug policy, addiction, public health, prevention, and justice reform.

Areas where Richard is available to provide advisory or consulting support include:

  • Strategic advisory consulting for executive and senior leadership teams

  • Corporate and nonprofit board engagement and policy guidance

  • Program and initiative design, evaluation, and implementation support

  • Risk, governance, and public-impact analysis

  • Federal policy context, funding strategy, and stakeholder engagement

Richard is open to selective advisory and board engagement opportunities that align with his expertise and public-impact mission.