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Keynote Topics
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.
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Minda delivers inspirational keynotes focused on resilience, overcoming adversity, disability inclusion, women in sports, and goal-setting. Her story encourages audiences to break through personal and professional barriers.
Yes! Minda offers both in-person and virtual sessions, and she has experience speaking globally to audiences in corporate, nonprofit, and educational settings.
Minda doesn’t just speak about resilience—she lives it. As a polio survivor, adaptive athlete, and mother, her story embodies authenticity and actionable inspiration. She connects deeply with diverse audiences because she’s overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
Rebecca Lobo is a basketball legend who transformed her passion for the game into an influential career as a motivational keynote speaker and sports analyst. A former WNBA All-Star and NCAA Champion, Rebecca’s experiences both on and off the court have made her a prominent voice in women’s sports. Her in-depth knowledge of basketball, combined […]
Amy Van Dyken-Rouen’s journey from Olympic glory to overcoming personal adversity stands as a testament to resilience and determination. As a six-time Olympic gold medalist, she made history at the 1996 Atlanta Games by becoming the first American woman to secure four gold medals in a single Olympiad. Beyond her athletic achievements, Amy’s life took […]
Emily Jaenson is a trailblazer in sports leadership and a nationally recognized expert on confidence building and authentic leadership. As the first female General Manager of a Triple-A Minor League Baseball team in nearly 20 years, Emily shattered long-standing industry barriers and became a voice for change in the world of sports and business. With […]
Jann Mardenborough’s journey is one of the most inspiring real-life transformations in modern motorsport—a bold leap from virtual racing to real-world podiums. Catapulted into fame through his extraordinary rise from gaming enthusiast to professional racing driver, Jann’s story resonates deeply with fans and audiences worldwide. His unique blend of resilience, innovation, and passion serves as […]
Dr. Scott Parazynski is a highly decorated physician, astronaut, best-selling author (“The Sky Below”) and tech CEO. He is a widely sought after keynote speaker on innovation, risk management, mentorship and leadership under extreme adversity. Scott has lived and traveled all over the world, spending many of his grade school years in places such as […]
Lili Gil Valletta is a distinguished authority in cultural intelligence and business transformation. As the co-founder and CEO of CIEN+, she has pioneered innovative strategies that help organizations harness the power of cultural diversity to drive growth and innovation. Her expertise and influence extend across various industries, making her a sought-after speaker for events focused […]
Jeff Civillico stands out as a unique blend of entertainer and inspirational speaker. His presentations are not just informative; they are interactive, engaging, and downright fun! With a background deeply rooted in entertainment, Jeff seamlessly incorporates humor and captivating routines from his acclaimed Las Vegas show, “Comedy in Action,” into his speeches. This fusion of […]
W Kamau Bell is a sociopolitical comedian who is the host and executive producer of the Emmy Award winning CNN docu-series United Shades of America with W. Kamau Bell. On June 26th he makes his Netflix debut with a new stand-up comedy special, Private School Negro. Kamau has a book with the easy-to-remember title The Awkward […]
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