Keynote speaker, fireside chat guest, and moderated Q&A participant.
Business leaders, performance-driven teams, educators, youth organizations, healthcare and wellness groups, nonprofits, and global events seeking world-class inspiration.
Michael Phelps is widely recognized as the greatest swimmer—and one of the greatest athletes—of all time. Over an extraordinary career, he earned 28 Olympic medals, including an unprecedented 23 golds, and set 39 world records. His dominance in the sport redefined what is possible in human performance, making him a global icon of discipline, focus, and relentless improvement.
Following his historic eight-gold-medal run in 2008, Michael used his performance bonus to launch the Michael Phelps Foundation, dedicated to promoting water safety, healthy living, and goal-setting for youth and families worldwide. The Foundation’s signature IM program—rooted in the same principles and training philosophies that guided his own career—is offered through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Special Olympics International, helping young people build confidence, well-being, and essential life skills.
Beyond athletics, Michael has become one of the world’s leading advocates for mental health. His openness about his own struggles has shifted global conversations, earning recognition from major organizations including SAMHSA, the Ruderman Family Foundation, PR Week, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and the American Image Awards.
Michael Phelps is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. He captured 28 medals, including a record-setting 23 gold medals, and set 39 world records over the course of his career.
Phelps utilized his performance bonus for winning eight gold medals in 2008 to establish the Michael Phelps Foundation, which promotes water safety, healthy living, and the pursuit of dreams.
The Foundation’s signature program – IM – is a learn to swim, healthy living and goal-setting curriculum based on the principles and tools Phelps utilized in his swimming career, which is available through the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Special Olympics International.
His advocacy for water safety and mental health have earned the recognition of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America (Champion of Youth), American Image Awards (Humanitarian Award), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (Special Recognition Award), The Ruderman Family Foundation (Morton E. Ruderman Award in Inclusion) and PR Week (Health Influencer 50) among others.
Michael Phelps has published two autobiographies – No Limits: The Will to Succeed and Beneath the Surface – that were New York Times and USA Today bestsellers, as well as published one children’s book – How to Train with a T-Rex and Win Eight Gold Medals.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter
A candid 5 minute and 38 second interview where Michael Phelps discusses depression, vulnerability, and why sharing his story helps others seek support.
Michael Phelps speaks openly about his long-standing battle with depression and the moments in his career when he felt overwhelmed, isolated, and unsure how to cope. He explains that while the world saw an unbeatable champion, he carried emotional weight that often went unnoticed. Michael details the breaking point that pushed him to seek help and the transformative impact therapy, honesty, and support had on his life.
He stresses that mental health struggles don’t discriminate—even the most accomplished people face internal challenges—and he hopes that being vulnerable publicly will encourage others to speak up rather than suffer in silence. Michael also reflects on how becoming a father reshaped his perspective and deepened his commitment to mental health advocacy. The clip reinforces his mission: normalize these conversations, reduce stigma, and remind people that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
00:42 Describing the emotional low point that led him to seek help
01:50 How therapy and vulnerability changed his outlook
03:05 Why speaking publicly about mental health matters
04:20 The impact of fatherhood and renewed purpose
A 5 minute and 58 second keynote where Michael Phelps shares his personal journey with mental health, resilience, and why open conversations save lives.
In this 5:58 keynote from WISH 2018, Michael Phelps delivers a direct, personal message about the realities of depression and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. He begins by explaining that despite his historic success in the pool, he spent years hiding emotional struggles that intensified after each Olympic cycle. He describes how reaching a breaking point finally pushed him to seek treatment—an experience that not only saved his life but reshaped his mission long after retiring from competition.
Michael reflects on how vulnerability transformed his understanding of strength. He emphasizes that mental health challenges affect people in every industry, at every age, and at every level of achievement. By sharing his story publicly, he hopes to normalize honest conversations and encourage people to ask for help before they hit crisis moments. He also underscores the importance of community, support systems, and practical resources for those dealing with anxiety, depression, or overwhelming pressure.
He closes by urging leaders, parents, and institutions to create environments where people feel seen, heard, and able to speak openly. His message is simple but powerful: talking about mental health saves lives, and nobody should fight their battles alone.
00:38 How post-Olympic lows led to severe depression
01:52 The turning point that pushed him to seek help
03:10 Why vulnerability redefined his understanding of strength
04:22 The importance of open dialogue and supportive communities
Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.
Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.
The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.
Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.
Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Sir Brian May, CBE, PhD, FRAS, stands as a towering figure in both the realms of music and science. As a founding member of the legendary rock band Queen, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry as a virtuoso guitarist, songwriter, producer, and performer. Beyond his musical achievements, Sir Brian May holds […]
DJ BLAZE is one of the hottest DJs in Las Vegas!! A musician from birth, a remixer, and a respected industry leader, he can truly do it all. Blaze performs on the Las Vegas strip at the top casinos and pool parties, and travels the country to DJ at the hottest nightclubs and events. He […]
Amy Jo Martin is not just a speaker; she’s a force of nature in the digital world. With her contagious energy and insightful perspective, she’s redefining how businesses engage with their audience in the digital age. As the founder and CEO of Digital Royalty, a sought-after keynote speaker, and bestselling author, Amy Jo is at […]
Bonnie Bernstein is recognized by the American Sportscasters Association as one of the most accomplished female journalists in her field. After spending 17 years covering some of the nations’ most prestigious sports events on-air for ESPN and CBS, she is now helping build a network both in front of and behind the camera. Bernstein is […]
Author and international keynote speaker David Dye gives leaders the roadmap they need to transform results. David Dye works with leaders around the world who want to achieve breakthrough results without losing their soul (or mind) in the process. He gets it because he’s been there: a former executive and elected official, David Dye has over two […]
Bubble Sphere is great for a space that has a pool or body of water that is not being utilized at your event. The performer will amaze the audience with contortion, light shows, and costumes this act can also be used on the ground for a snow globe-like effect. Step into a world of enchantment […]
Brad Sugars is a dynamic and influential speaker known for his powerful stage presence and ability to inspire and unify audiences. As a successful entrepreneur, business coach, and author, Brad has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations achieve their highest potential. His engaging presentations, filled with actionable insights and motivational anecdotes, resonate deeply […]
Alex Smith was a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback who saved his most inspirational act for last. After a devastating leg injury that required 17 surgeries, Smith found a way back to the field with the Washington Football Team in 2020. He helped them win the NFC East Division title and was named NFL Comeback Player of […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
