Minda Dentler: Motivational Speaker
First female wheelchair athlete to finish the Ironman World Championship, Minda Dentler inspires audiences to overcome adversity with grit and grace.
Quick Facts:
- Highlights:
- As the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship after being paralyzed from the hips down by polio, she has overcome the impossible.
- Through her presentation, Minda shares her incredible story which impacts and inspires audiences around the world.
- Minda leads audiences to realize their potential by facing their fears, setting goals, planning, thinking positively and remaining determined despite setbacks.
- Formats: Keynote, Virtual Presentation, Fireside Chat, Panel Participation, Moderated Q&A
- Audiences: From intimate executive sessions (50–100) to large-scale conferences (up to 10,000+)
- Outcomes:
- Increased motivation and resilience in the face of adversity
- Shift in mindset around disability and perceived limitations
- Empowerment to set bold goals and take consistent action
- Reinforcement of perseverance, purpose, and leadership
- Travels from: Scottsdale, AZ
- **Fee range: $10,000 - $15,000
Talent Services
Keynote Topics:
Minda speaks about:
- Overcoming adversity
- Self-belief: believe it, see it, positivity
- Persistence: never give up
- Planning for success
- Facing fear and failure
- Finding the why
Talent Short Bio
Minda Dentler is a history-making athlete, author, and global speaker who inspires audiences to turn adversity into achievement. Paralyzed from the hips down due to polio and left in an Indian orphanage as a baby, she was adopted by an American family and raised in Spokane, Washington. After enduring years of surgeries, she gained mobility with leg braces and crutchesbut her real journey began when she discovered handcycling and triathlons.
In 2013, Minda became the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, using only her arms. That achievement, following a failed first attempt, earned her an ESPY nomination and global recognition. She’s now a sought-after keynote speaker whose story of perseverance, resilience, and inclusion inspires corporations, nonprofits, and schools worldwide.
Minda is also the author of The Girl Who Figured It Out, an uplifting children’s book based on her life. She blends her personal story with actionable takeaways, helping audiences redefine their limits and find strength in setbacks.
Read Full Bio
Minda Dentler is the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship
Minda’s life is one of inspiration, courage, and determination; she will have you on your feet ready to face your personal Ironman and set even higher goals. As an infant in India, Minda Dentler contracted polio, resulting in the paralysis of her legs, and was left in the care of an orphanage. Adopted by an American family, she moved to Spokane, Washington and underwent a series of surgeries on her hips, legs and back, which enabled her to walk with leg braces and crutches.
Undeterred by her disability, she became an independent, educated woman with an intention and drive to face and overcome the many obstacles she has encountered throughout her life.
Minda’s athletic journey began as a young adult when she discovered the sport of handcycling. Soon after, she threw herself into the sport of triathlon. In 2013, Minda became the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. This accomplishment led to her nomination for an ESPN ESPY Award.
This athletic feat was not easy. As a wheelchair triathlete, Minda Dentler completes all three disciplines of a triathlon using only her arms. Her first attempt was a failure. Her second attempt was a success, thanks to her perseverance, determination, and unique personal philosophy, which enabled her to see beyond setbacks and disability.
Minda now inspires people around the world to push past their fears, set goals, and conquer their personal Ironman. Every goal, whether athletic or personal requires hard work and training. Let her share her story with you.
Minda Dentler is an athlete, speaker, polio survivor and advocate, author of The Girl Who Figured It Out, a mom, and a force to be reckoned with.
After spending 20 years in New York City, Minda is now based in Scottsdale, Arizona with her husband and daughter.
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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
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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.
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