Dustin in the spotlight!
Magazine Articles
QSR Magazine Article (Click the image)
How a “Showtime Mindset” can make all the difference in your restaurant.
Television Interviews
ABC Action News Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend w/ host Allison Godlove
In his highly acclaimed book, “It’s Okay To Be An Idiot,” Dustin Portillo unveils the groundbreaking IDIOT roadmap, his revolutionary five core principles that fuel personal development, ignite innovation and empower individuals to create lasting changes. Through his featured keynote, “The Showtime Mindset,” Dustin helps organizations develop a Performance-Focused Mindset, leveraging the power of authenticity to drive sales, reduce turnover, and enhance customer satisfaction
Podcast Interviews
Prosper Brief Podcast w/ host Jeremiah Wynn
In this dynamic episode of The Prosper Brief, host Jeremiah Wynn sits down with three inspiring leaders—Dan Simons, co-founder of Farmers Restaurant Group; Ekundayo Platt, front-of-house manager at Farmers; and Dustin Portillo, a high-energy hospitality keynote speaker with a colorful past in the circus. Together, they unpack what it truly takes to ignite team engagement, build a culture of ownership, and foster excellence at every level of an organization.From daily gratitude rituals to empowering frontline workers with decision-making, this episode blends humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom. These leaders don’t just talk about culture—they live it. Whether you’re managing one location or leading a national brand, this episode will leave you rethinking how you inspire, listen, and lead.
Braving Business Podcast w/ hosts Tal Zlotnitsky & PJ Benoit
In this episode of Braving Business, we sit down with Dustin Portillo, who has turned laughter into a career—and a life lesson. Dustin fulfilled his childhood dream at just 19 years old when he became a professional clown with the Ringling Bros. Circus, performing in over 3,500 shows for more than 35 million people across North America.
After leaving the circus, Dustin’s comedic talent led him to become Ronald McDonald for McDonald’s, where he made appearances at major events like The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. But after his corporate position at Caspers Company was eliminated due to downsizing, Dustin faced a major crossroads: take the safe path or create his own.
He chose the latter. Now, Dustin is a full-time speaker and author of It’s Okay to Be an IDIOT, where he teaches audiences how to embrace authenticity, overcome setbacks, and find strength through humor and vulnerability. Dustin’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and, yes, a little bit of silliness.
QSR UNCUT w/ host Danny Klein
Dustin Portillo joins QSR editorial director Danny Klein to discuss a journey unlike any other we’ve had here on QSR Uncut. From becoming the third-youngest person in Ringling’s 147-year history to being promoted to “Boss Clown” to portraying Ronald McDonald at The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to leading community relations at one of the top McDonald’s franchises in America, Portillo has traveled one of the most unique roads in the industry. And he’s now sharing with the world why it’s more than OK to be an IDIOT (we’ll explain).
Shift or Get Off the Pot Podcast w/ host Kim Thompson
Dustin discusses the importance of determination and the law of attraction in achieving one’s goals. He shares his transition from performing over 500 shows annually with Ringling Brothers to becoming a motivational speaker focused on uplifting corporate cultures and developing a “Showtime Mindset.” We also take a peek at his book, “It’s Okay to be an Idiot,” where he shares his empowering philosophy on how embracing authenticity can lead to transformative growth.
Join us for an inspiring conversation on the power of self-belief, the impact of a supportive environment, and the joy of living authentically. Whether you’re chasing a long-held dream or seeking to implement a “Showtime mindset” in your daily life, this episode will surely resonate.
The Speaker Lab Podcast w/ host Grant Baldwin
This week, Dustin is here to share the lessons he learned from his wide-ranging career and give you some practical tips on things like mastering stage presence, keeping audiences engaged, and what it takes to leave a corporate job to become a full time speaker. We’ll spend time walking through his 5 important principles and why determining what’s important to you, really matters. Dustin also talks about some of the most scary moments you can have in the industry and how they can propel you to bigger & better things.
Rounding the Bases Podcast w/ host Joel Goldberg
Dustin Portillo is an exceptional talent who followed his dreams to astonishing heights as a performer, an executive, and as the face of an icon. Now, he brings the center ring to center stage, with unique experiences putting purpose in the spotlight. Using the power of performance, Dustin delivers a roadmap to success that does more than entertain. It turns the everyday into something spectacular, inspiring audiences to soar.
Speak With People Podcast w/ host Jason Raitz
Dustin shares his incredible experience in the entertainment and hospitality industry and shares his invaluable insights on unlocking the secrets to success through his unique framework: IMAGINE, DREAM, IGNITE, ORIGINALITY, and THANKS. These five elements form the cornerstone of his journey and are the keys to unleashing one’s full potential.
Uncomplicated Marketing w/ host Sacha Awwa
In this episode, we explore the fascinating journey of Dustin Portillo from his time with the Ringling Brothers circus to becoming Ronald McDonald and his current role as a speaker and author. Dustin emphasizes the power of visualization and manifestation in achieving his dreams and the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself in any role.
Connect with Dustin for unforgettable events filled with inspiration, humor, and transformation! Reach out to bring his unique energy and expertise to your audience.
