With the Summer Olympics just around the corner, we are reminded of what these athletes represent on and off the podium. Their journeys from humble beginnings to global stages are rich with powerful lessons of overcoming adversity, mastering peak performance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Olympic athletes captivate audiences with their authentic stories of grit and glory, offering unique insights that inspire and motivate, making them ideal speakers to energize and elevate any corporate or motivational event.

Ruben Gonzalez, Luge

Ruben Gonzalez, took up the sport of Luge at the late age of 21 and against all odds, made his way to the Olympics four years later. Gonzalez is proof that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things if they live life with passion and have the courage to take the necessary steps, pushing beyond self-imposed limitations. In his bestselling book and engaging keynotes, Gonzalez shares how each of us can tap into excellence while navigating challenges, embracing change, and cultivating a champion's mindset. With riveting stories from his Olympic journey and business success, Gonzalez equips attendees with practical tools to overcome setbacks, think creatively, and act boldly.

Connor Fields, BMX Biking

Connor Fields made history in 2016 as the first American to win an Olympic BMX gold. He is a three-time Olympian and two-time World Champion. Following this historic win, Field’s Olympic career was marked by both triumph and extreme adversity. At the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, he endured one of the worst crashes in Summer Olympic history, resulting in a long and painful road to recovery. Through his signature keynotes, Fields shares his inspiring story of resilience and recovery, leaving audiences with practical strategies for overcoming setbacks, building mental toughness, and maintaining peak performance.

Gabby Douglas, Gymnastics

Gabby Douglas, a trailblazer in gymnastics, captivates audiences with her journey from a young gymnast to two-time Olympic Gold Medalist. As the first African-American woman to win the All-Around Individual Champion title, Douglas's story is one of perseverance and triumph. Her bestselling book and keynotes explore the mindset of a champion, emphasizing the importance of dedication and hard work. Audiences are encouraged to pursue their goals with unwavering determination, learning valuable lessons in resilience and self-belief. 

Michael Phelps, Swim

Michael Phelps' journey, spanning five Olympic Games, 25 medals, and an unprecedented 21 gold medals, embodies the peak of athletic excellence, resilience, and determination. Through his bestselling book and keynote speaking we find Phelps's story goes beyond medals; it's about overcoming personal challenges. In his talks, he delves into cultivating a champion’s mindset, harnessing positive leadership and discipline, and maintaining peak performance under pressure. Audiences come away empowered with practical strategies to navigate their own challenges and pursue their goals with unwavering determination.

Kerri Walsh Jennings, Volleyball

Kerri Walsh Jennings is best known for her record-breaking 112 match win streak with partner Misty May-Treanor in which she revolutionized the sport of beach volleyball. Drawing on her extensive experience in competitive sports, five-time Olympic career, three gold medals, and busy personal life, her speeches explore how to sustain excellence over time, balancing the demands of sports, business, and family. Jennings’ also delves into topics such as "The Battle Within," where she shares the mental and physical strategies that drove her to Olympic greatness. Her talks are filled with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and motivational insights, inspiring audiences to overcome challenges and strive for their own version of success.

Katie Hoff, Swim

Katie Hoff's journey from local star to eight-time World Champion and two-time Olympian in swim is a testament to resilience and determination; but what sets her apart is her ability to translate her elite performance into tangible lessons for others. In her talks, Hoff shares her “5 Keys to Accomplishing the Extraordinary”, a formula that propelled her to break records and achieve her Olympic dreams. Audiences walk away not just motivated but armed with actionable standards to apply to their own goals, whether in sports, business, or personal growth. Hoff's candid storytelling—filled with humor, humility, and vulnerability—leaves a lasting impact, inspiring others to reach their highest potential.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Track and Field

Jackie Joyner-Kersee, dominated track and field for over a decade, winning six Olympic medals and earning her lasting recognition spanning four Olympic Games. Known as the "Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century" by Sports Illustrated for Women, Joyner-Kersee’s legacy extends beyond athletics. Joyner-Kersee’s dedication to philanthropy has been a significant part of her journey as she values empowering youth to work through life’s obstacles. Through her book and inspirational speeches, she shares her journey from challenging beginnings and battling asthma to winning on the Olympic field. Audiences leave inspired by her message of resilience, grace, and the power of giving back, armed with insights to apply to their own lives.

Mike Eruzione, Hockey

Mike Eruzione, known as the "Miracle on Ice," is most well-known for his historic winning goal against the Soviet Union that propelled the US team to an improbable gold medal, showcasing the power of teamwork and perseverance. Eruzione's unique ability to lead and inspire, as team captain on the ice and an Olympics and hockey sports commentator off the ice, sets him apart. His speeches resonate deeply with professional teams, emphasizing that commitment to your team in any endeavor makes you a winner. Audiences will be equipped with practical strategies to capitalize on the power of teamwork and seize opportunities to achieve their goals.

Amy Van Dyken, Swim

Amy Van Dyken, an Olympic champion swimmer, made history by becoming the first American female athlete to win four golds in a single game (she later went on to win two more). Despite battling childhood asthma that limited her lung capacity, Van Dyken's relentless determination propelled her to the top. After a severe ATV accident in 2014 left her paralyzed, her unwavering positivity and resilience continued to inspire. Her speeches delve into her journey, emphasizing perseverance, overcoming obstacles, and developing a "will to win." Audiences are empowered and equipped to tackle their own challenges with renewed vigor.

With the energy of the Summer Olympics in the air, now is the time to book an Olympian for your event. These athletes bring more than just their achievements; they embody resilience and dedication, motivating audiences to pursue their goals. Their presence adds prestige to events, leaving attendees energized, empowered, and ready to take on whatever lies ahead. Contact Executive Speakers Bureau today to book an Olympian.