Why You Should Book an Olympian as Your Next Motivational Speaker
The 2024 Olympic Summer Games have come to a close, but we know the perfect way to keep the Olympic spirit going. Hosting a former Olympian as a motivational speaker can be a game-changer for your organization or event. These extraordinary athletes bring a unique blend of talent, perseverance, and inspiration that can ignite your audience and drive them to achieve greatness. Let’s explore the many benefits of booking an Olympian for your next event.
Unparalleled Inspiration
Overcoming Adversity: Olympians have faced and conquered immense challenges, offering powerful stories of resilience and determination.
An Olympian who has overcome adversity is Dan Jansen. Dan is an American former long track speed skater and four-time Olympian, who won a historic gold medal in the 1,000-meter at his fourth and final Olympic Games. Dan had to practice perseverance after several setbacks at his first three Games, especially the Olympic Winter Games in Calgary in 1988. His race took place shortly after his sister passed away of leukemia, and he fell. Dan continued competing and training, ultimately reaching his goal. He speaks to audiences about growth and never giving up.
Achieving the Impossible: These athletes’ journeys to the podium showcase the power of setting ambitious goals and working tirelessly to achieve them.
A great example of an Olympian who has seemingly achieved the impossible is Melissa Stockwell. In 2004, one month after being deployed to Iraq, Melissa became the first female American soldier in history to lose a limb in active combat after her vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. Four years later, she became the first Iraq War veteran to qualify for the Paralympic Games, competing in swimming at the Beijing 2008 Paralympics.
Former Olympians also exhibit serious passion and drive. Olympians embody a level of passion and drive that is contagious, inspiring your audience to pursue their own dreams with fervor.
Former world champion and Olympic medalist Scott Hamilton’s skating has inspired and motivated many athletes and individuals to be their best and achieve their dreams. After competing, Scott continued to share his love and enthusiasm for the sport as an analyst, commentator, producer, and best-selling author. Following his diagnosis with cancer, Hamilton became an inspiration in other ways, by battling back from his illness and defeating the odds.
Building a High-Performance Culture
Teamwork and Collaboration: Many Olympic sports require exceptional teamwork, providing valuable insights into building a cohesive and successful team.
One former Olympian who speaks eloquently about the importance of teamwork is the soccer legend, Mia Hamm. Mia knows the value of teamwork and how crucial it is to success on and off the field. In her motivating presentations, she provides strategies and tips for maximizing your team’s value and getting the best out of each player every day.
Mental Toughness: Olympians possess extraordinary mental fortitude, offering strategies for overcoming obstacles and maintaining focus.
One former Olympian who had to practice mental toughness from a very young age is Amanda Beard, who won one gold medal and two silver medals at the 1996 Summer Olympic Games while still a student at Irvine High School. At only 14 years old, Amanda had to quickly adapt to life in the spotlight. She wrote about it in her New York Times best-selling book, In the Water They Can’t See You Cry. Amanda addresses the challenges she faced at her motivational speaking engagements.
Goal Setting and Achievement: Their experiences in setting and achieving lofty goals can help your audience develop a winning mindset. Olympians know there is strength in discipline, but also in pivoting.
One great example is Earvin “Magic” Johnson, who won a gold medal during the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona with the “Dream Team”. Magic is now Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Magic Johnson Enterprises, an investment conglomerate that provides high-quality products and services that focus primarily on ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities. Having left the basketball court for the boardroom, Johnson parlayed the skills and tenacity he acquired on the court into a winning formula for his successful business ventures.
Enhancing Your Brand
Elevating Your Image: Associating your brand with Olympic excellence can enhance your reputation for quality, success, and innovation.
Attracting Top Talent: An Olympian as a keynote speaker can help you attract and retain top talent by demonstrating your commitment to excellence. Many of these speakers also directly address business matters.
Johnny Quinn’s speech topic, Think Like an Olympian, is a great example. This talk draws on the lessons of Olympic athletes to inspire and guide business professionals in their own pursuits of excellence. Johnny competed in bobsledding at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
Building Stronger Relationships: Sharing an inspiring experience with your audience can foster stronger connections and loyalty.
Creating a Memorable Event
Unforgettable Keynote: An Olympian’s captivating stories and dynamic personality will create a lasting impression on your attendees.
A motivational speaker who gives a truly unforgettable speech is Dan Cnossen, a seven-time Paralympic Medalist and former U.S. Navy SEAL Lt. Commander. Dan’s personal journey from the battlefields of Afghanistan to the podium at the Paralympic Games is sure to inspire your audience to confront any challenge head-on. Dan says listening to his story is “like listening to a Tom Clancy novel come to life… but it is not fiction.” It’s intense, inspiring and unforgettable. Dan also draws upon his military experience to discuss goal setting, mental toughness, and leadership at his speaking engagements.
Increased Engagement: Their high-energy presentations will keep your audience engaged and motivated throughout the event.
Social Media Buzz: An Olympian’s appearance can generate significant buzz and social media engagement, extending the impact of your event.
Booking a former Olympian as a motivational speaker is an investment in the success of your event. Their unique experiences, inspiring stories, and proven track record of achievement can help you achieve your goals and create a lasting impact on your audience.
Contact Worldwide Speakers Group for specific recommendations about which former Olympian would be a great fit for your event!