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:
  1. Increased motivation and resilience in the face of adversity
  2. Shift in mindset around disability and perceived limitations
  3. Empowerment to set bold goals and take consistent action
  4. Reinforcement of perseverance, purpose, and leadership
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Scottsdale, AZ
  • **Fee range: $10,000 - $15,000

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

  • 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.

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.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

Talent FAQ's

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.

  • 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!

Talent Resources

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more
Was this profile helpful?

You may be interested in...

  • (108)
  • (2)
Scott Bloom

Scott Bloom is a renowned figure in the realm of business humor, celebrated for his exceptional ability to blend the dynamics of laughter with the intricacies of the corporate world. With a career spanning several years, Scott has become synonymous with the “Power of Laughter and the Language of Business™,” a trademark blend he has […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (73)
Kristen Ziman - Hollow Bunny Leadership Podcast

Kristen Ziman’s career in law enforcement began with the Aurora Police Department, where she rose through the ranks to become Chief of Police. In her tenure, she spearheaded numerous initiatives that enhanced public safety, strengthened community relations, and improved organizational efficiency. Under her leadership, Aurora’s policing strategies evolved to embrace modern, forward-thinking approaches, prioritizing collaboration, […]

  • Travels from: Naples, FL
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (22)
Julia Landauer

Julia Landauer is an accomplished NASCAR driver and a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of motorsports. With a passion for speed and competition, Julia’s journey began at a young age when she started go-kart racing at just 10 years old. She quickly rose through the ranks, securing numerous championships and solidifying her reputation as a […]

  • Travels from: Charlotte, NC
  • Racing Drivers
  • (50)
Jeff Krapf

Born in Northern California, Jeff Krapf is considered one of the most versatile television hosts in the business. With a proven background in hosting local and national TV shows or on a microphone hosting international Live events Jeff exudes energy, personality, charm and brings a sense quality and charisma that very few people can pull off. […]

  • Travels from: San Diego, CA
  • Event Emcee
  • (25)

As a Speaker, Susan Koziak delivers inspiring keynotes and seminars which combine principles of high performance and the importance of self-care for a holistic, balanced approach to business, energy, mindset, emotional and physical health. “Stress Less Expert” Susan Koziak offers easy anxiety and stress-relieving solutions to navigate work and life events with more ease and […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Workplace Wellness
  • (9)
Sheena Allen

Sheena Allen is a visionary leader and celebrated keynote speaker in the realm of digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. As the founder and CEO of CapWay, a neobank designed to address economic inequities and foster financial literacy, Sheena’s groundbreaking work has revolutionized how technology can empower underserved communities. Her journey from growing up in […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (46)
Margaret Brennan

Margaret Brennan has reported on politics, international affairs, and global markets for nearly two decades. Currently the moderator of CBS News’ Face the Nation and the network’s senior foreign affairs correspondent, she is one of the most visible faces in political news today and only the second-ever female host of the 63-year-old program. Brennan focuses […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Journalism Speakers
  • (16)
  • (3)
Wema Hoover

Wema Hoover is a trailblazer in the fields of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), organizational development, and authentic leadership. With a career spanning decades, she has become a trusted voice for driving meaningful transformation in corporate culture. Known for her ability to inspire leaders and teams alike, Wema’s thought-provoking insights and actionable strategies resonate on […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Diversity Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel

Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.