Diana Nyad: Inspirational Speaker
Endurance athlete and inspirational keynote speaker Diana Nyad empowers audiences with powerful lessons on resilience, grit, and the relentless pursuit of seemingly impossible goals.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- First person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage
- Completed a 110.86-mile swim over 52 hours, 54 minutes, 18 seconds at age 64
- Celebrated sports journalist for NPR, The New York Times, and more
- Bestselling memoirist, author of Find a Way
- Formats: Inspirational keynote speaker
- Audiences: Organizations, leaders, educators, athletes, and audiences seeking powerful inspiration rooted in resilience, goal-setting, and human potential
- Outcomes:
- A renewed belief in personal resilience and the power of unrelenting perseverance.
- Clear insights on overcoming setbacks and pursuing bold, long-term goals.
- Inspiration to face adversity with strength, purpose, and a “never ever give up” mindset.
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- **Fee range: On Request
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
What Swimming 110 Miles in Shark-Infested Waters Taught Me About Teamwork
At the age of 64, Diana Nyad emerged onto the sands of Key West after swimming from Cuba to Florida in an epic feat of both endurance and human will.
From the dedicated crew who navigated the waters to the expert nutritionists who fueled her body to the motivational coaches who kept her spirits high, Diana credits her success to the unwavering synergy of her team.
In this conversation, Diana shares powerful examples of teamwork from her years-long pursuit of this goal while also discussing how to assemble a high-performance team and how to face challenges with a resilient mindset.
Never, Ever Give Up
At age 60, having not swum a stroke in decades, Hall of Fame swimmer Diana Nyad began planning for her white whale of distance swims: the 110-mile ocean crossing between Cuba and Florida.
She’d tried it once, in her 20s, and severe jellyfish attacks had defeated her then. With a new commitment to her vision, she attempted it again and accomplished this incredible feat 30 years after she failed to complete it before.
In this moving conversation, Diana shows us that it is never too late to chase our dreams and shares the key steps we all need to take in order to accomplish our goals, no matter how big.
Talent Short Bio
Diana Nyad is a world-renowned endurance swimmer, journalist, and storyteller whose historic feats have inspired millions. Best known for becoming the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage, Diana completed the 110.86-mile journey in 52 hours, 54 minutes, and 18 seconds at the age of 64, fulfilling a dream she had chased for 35 years. Her iconic words “Never ever give up” captured global attention and cemented her as a symbol of unwavering determination and the extraordinary potential of the human spirit.
Her passion for swimming began in childhood and blossomed into a stellar early career, including national championship titles and recognition as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes. Restless for greater challenges, she transitioned to the world of open water swimming in her early twenties, embracing one of the most physically and mentally demanding disciplines in sport. Her pursuit of distance swimming became a lifelong quest defined by perseverance, courage, and a willingness to push beyond perceived limits.
Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Diana is an acclaimed sports journalist with decades of work featured on National Public Radio, The New York Times, and other major outlets.
Read Full Bio
Diana Nyad, a name synonymous with unyielding determination and indomitable spirit, is a true embodiment of the human potential to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Her remarkable journey to become the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage is a testament to her unshakable resolve, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to pushing the boundaries of what the human body can achieve.
Diana Nyad’s early life was marked by a passion for swimming. At the age of 10, she began competitive swimming and quickly distinguished herself as a talented and driven athlete. Her love for the water was nurtured by her parents, who saw her potential and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. Nyad’s early experiences in the pool laid the foundation for her future accomplishments as a long-distance swimmer.
In her teenage years, Nyad’s talent continued to shine, and she competed at the national level in the United States. She became the national champion in the 200-meter backstroke, and her achievements in the pool were indicative of her extraordinary endurance and love for the water. However, as Nyad approached adulthood, she began to feel a desire to explore more than just the confines of a swimming pool. This restlessness led her to embark on a new adventure that would eventually become her life’s defining journey.
Diana Nyad’s ambitious dreams extended beyond the confines of competitive swimming. In her early 20s, she decided to explore long-distance open water swimming, a grueling and demanding discipline that required an entirely different set of skills and mindset. Her transition from the controlled environment of a pool to the unpredictable and often perilous waters of the open sea marked a pivotal moment in her life.
25 million people worldwide rooted for Diana Nyad as she reached the Florida shore, at long last achieving her 35-year-old quest of becoming the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida.
Speaking the words “Never Ever Give Up” to the wildly cheering crowd on a Key West beach on September 2, 2013, Diana demonstrated to the world the power of the human spirit.
Diana’s amazing record: 110.86 miles in 52 hours, 54 minutes, 18 seconds.
A prominent sports journalist, filing over thirty years for National Public Radio, The New York Times, and others, Diana has earned her place as one of our compelling storytellers. Her memoir, Find a Way, has earned worldwide praise. Her groundbreaking OpEd piece on her childhood sexual abuse for The New York Times drew a passionate response from around the world.
Also a uniquely entertaining and inspiring public speaker, Diana Nyad has now fulfilled another lifelong dream, bringing her performance of her play “The Swimmer” to the storied off-Broadway Minetta Lane Theater. The show played to sold-out crowds in September 2019.
Diana’s best friend and Cuba Swim expedition leader Bonnie Stoll have further collaborated with their nationwide walking initiative EverWalk, sparking America to become a nation of walkers.
And EverWalk in turn has recently launched yet another initiative, Oceans Commit, hosting walks along our shorelines, asking individuals and businesses to reduce single-use plastic.
Diana Nyad has been inducted into the International Women’s Sports Hall of Fame, the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, among other Halls of Fame, and awards of distinction.
President Obama invited Diana to congratulate her in the Oval Office and then asked her to accompany him on his peace visit to Havana in 2014.
Oprah Winfrey chose Diana’s interview for her SuperSoul Sunday broadcast to be the first to extend to two hours.
View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter
Videos
Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry
No reviews available for this post.
Talent FAQ's
Do speakers charge a flat fee or by the hour?
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.
What is the typical duration of a keynote speech and what is included?
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.
Does the scale of the event and audience size affect a speaker’s fee?
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 and other costs
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.
Deposits and securing a booking
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.
Additional tips and takeaways
- Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
- There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
- Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
- When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
- Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
- Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.
Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!
You may be interested in...
- (27)
- (2)
Jen Buck is renowned for her dynamic presentations and profound impact. With a career spanning over two decades, she has earned accolades as an award-winning Keynote Speaker and distinguished author, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. Having delivered over 10,000 programs, Jen has touched the lives of more than a million individuals, inspiring and […]
- Travels from: Phoenix, AZ
- Leadership Speakers
- (39)
- (5)
Peter Diamandis stands at the forefront of innovation, a visionary entrepreneur and thought leader dedicated to unlocking the potential of exponential technologies. Named by Fortune as one of the “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders,” Diamandis is renowned for his groundbreaking work in incentivizing innovation through the XPRIZE Foundation and for his role in shaping the future […]
- Travels from: Santa Monica, CA
- Leadership Speakers
- (9)
- (1)
Simon T. Bailey is a globally recognized speaker, author, and expert on personal and organizational brilliance. With over two decades of experience, Simon has inspired millions through his dynamic presentations, coaching, and best-selling books. He is a catalyst for positive change, guiding individuals and organizations to discover their inner brilliance and achieve extraordinary success. Simon’s […]
- Travels from: Orlando, FL
- Leadership Speakers
- (15)
DJ ShanLynn is a versatile and dynamic Los Angeles-based DJ, VJ, composer, producer, dancer, and choreographer whose talent and creativity have captivated audiences far and wide. Originally hailing from Austin, Texas, ShanLynn brings a unique and eclectic style to every performance, blending her diverse artistic background with her deep love of music. As a mobile […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Mobile DJ
- (94)
At 19, after experiencing flu-like symptoms, Amy Purdy was rushed to the hospital in a state of septic shock. En route, she experienced respiratory and multiple organ failure, which caused her to lose circulation to her extremities. When she entered into the hospital she was given less than a 2% chance of survival, put on […]
- Travels from: Denver, CO
- Inspirational Speakers
- (75)
Kondo Simfukwe, an acclaimed event emcee renowned for his dynamic presence, charismatic stage persona, and unparalleled ability to elevate any occasion. For over 12 years, Kondo has had the honor of standing on many stages to facilitate the relationship between the stars and the audience. Armed with cross-cultural experiences, a curiosity about people, an adaptability […]
- Travels from: Winona Lake, IN
- Event Emcee
- (22)
DJ Melione is a trailblazing Asian-American hip-hop artist whose talent, passion, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made her a standout figure in the music scene. Hailing from Southern California, DJ Melione is not only a captivating performer but also a gifted songwriter who crafts her own music, ensuring her work resonates with authenticity and […]
- Travels from: Costa Mesa, CA
- Mobile DJ
- (18)
Aqualillies is the world’s most glamorous water entertainment company, reinventing the classic art form for the new millennium. Diving off the pages of Vogue, Marie Claire and The New York Times, Aqualillies has become synonymous with beauty, sophistication, luxury, and style. In front of the camera or at live events for clients such as the […]
- Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
- Water Performers
Disclaimer
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
Fee Range Information
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
