Dr. DeAnjelo Bradley named Black Impact Magazine's 2025 Man Of Impact

Dr. Deanjelo Bradley is a trailblazing leader, scholar, and mentor who has dedicated his life to service, innovation, and empowering others. A veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served as a firefighter in combat zones across Iraq, Afghanistan, and South America, Dr. Bradley has carried his commitment to excellence into every facet of his career. Today, he serves as the Assistant Director of Emergency Management at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, overseeing the Fire Safety program at the world’s busiest airport.

A highly accomplished academic, Dr. Bradley holds a Ph.D. in Occupational Health and Safety and is a published author in numerous peer-reviewed journals. His groundbreaking publications include Approaches to Eliminate Mental Health Stigma, Sexism, and Racism in the Workplace and The Future of Fire. His co-authored children’s book, The Adventures of Blaise and Smoke, written with his son, Blaise, demonstrates his commitment to family and fostering the next generation of thinkers.

Dr. Bradley is also the creator of two transformative theories: Continuous Therapeutic Management (CTM) and the Theory of Pain Absorption and Transfer. His Theory of Pain Absorption and Transfer has garnered attention for its innovative approach to understanding how individuals and systems absorb, reflect, and transfer pain, using parallels to thermodynamic principles. This revolutionary work has the potential to reshape how society approaches mental health, resilience, and pain management strategies.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Bradley is the CEO of a nonprofit youth mentoring organization, which supports young people in achieving their full potential. A former firefighter, combat veteran, author, and mentor, he is deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as inspiring positive change in communities worldwide.

Dr. Bradley’s resilience, dedication, and groundbreaking contributions make him a true visionary, whose work is shaping a brighter and more inclusive future.

Q&A with DeAnjelo.

Tell us why you made the choice to choose a greater and higher path for your life. If there was a specific moment, event, circumstance, or person that helped convince you, tell us about it.

I grew up with very little, and I knew I didn’t want that to define my future. Watching my older brother leave for the Navy in 1999 was pivotal. His discipline, resilience, and ambition inspired me to dream bigger. I realized I didn’t want my story to begin and end in Illinois. That moment pushed me to focus, put in the work, and commit to a higher calling in life.

What should someone do if they don’t have any good role models around them?

“I’d tell them to seek out communities and organizations that foster mentorship, like youth programs, community centers, or faith-based initiatives. And if they’re truly struggling to find someone, I’d say, reach out to me directly through my mentorship program at www.plannedpurposeprogram.com. Mentorship is vital, and I’m passionate about helping those who feel lost find their way.”