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.
Retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant Jason Redman stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His electrifying presentations on leadership, failure, redemption, and overcoming life’s ambushes captivate audiences worldwide. With a distinguished 21-year career in the Navy, Redman’s journey from youthful setbacks to battlefield heroism is an inspiring narrative of perseverance and triumph. […]
Egypt Sherrod is one of the most sought-after voices in real estate, blending deep industry expertise with an engaging and down-to-earth speaking style. Best known as the host of HGTV’s “Married to Real Estate” and “Property Virgins,” she is a dynamic and insightful speaker who educates and inspires audiences about wealth-building, real estate investing, and […]
Melissa Boggs is a dynamic business strategy speaker, leadership coach, and workplace culture innovator who inspires organizations to rethink the way they work, lead, and grow. With a career spanning two decades, Melissa has helped companies transform their strategies, foster thriving cultures, and achieve sustainable success in an ever-changing business landscape. As a former co-CEO […]
Stafford Masie talks around Digital Innovation and Disruption, and are applicable to any audience because technology is a transversal matter, irrespective of industry or theme. Stafford has been in the ICT industry for more than 25 years. His career foundations started in mid 90’s working for Telkom, Dimension Data and then Novell as a software engineer. […]
DJ Scotty B, a celebrated name in the entertainment industry, hails from the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida. With a career spanning over two decades, Scotty B has become synonymous with electrifying performances, seamless event management, and unforgettable musical experiences. His dynamic presence and unparalleled expertise have made him a sought-after figure for corporate events, […]
Abby Johnson has always been fiercely determined to help women in need. This drive led her to a career with Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest abortion provider. However, Abby’s journey took a dramatic turn when she witnessed the reality of abortion during an ultrasound-guided procedure, prompting her to flee the organization and become a vocal […]
DJ CHRIS CLOUSE is a man of many hats and a true musician at his core. From his early beginnings of being a competition fiddle player to now, he has crossed genres, written and recorded numerous albums, shared stages with the likes of Johnny Cash, The Flaming Lips, The Beach Boys, Gorgon City, Miike Snow, […]
There are few individuals who possess the captivating presence, eloquence, and global perspective of Ilia Calderón. Renowned for her remarkable career as a journalist and news anchor, Calderón seamlessly transitions her talents to the stage, commanding audiences with her poise, intelligence, and engaging demeanor. With a wealth of experience spanning various media platforms and an […]
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
