Neal Petersen
Extreme Adventurer, Award-Winning Author, International Keynote Speaker
Biography
Neal Petersen raced solo around the world. He achieved this remarkable feat by participating in the 1998-1999 AroundAlone, which is a single-handed yacht race around the globe. Neal’s accomplishment was not only significant for its athletic and navigational challenges, but more remarkable he did it in a boat he designed and built himself in Mossel Bay, SA– the smallest and least-funded boat in the fleet. Neal’s No Barriers philosophy allowed him to compete in a sport traditionally known in South Africa as a white man’s sport and dominated by sailors from other nations. Facing extreme uncertainty, Neal Petersen makes a compelling case that the principles of the unforgiving sea apply to everyday success in business and in life. Neal takes audiences on a journey around the world and shows how determination coupled with imagination are the essentials to success. Neal uses stunning images, including lightning, thunder and fog (optional), to bring his story to life. His presentations are riveting and provide the direct correlation between determination, dedication and perseverance to achieve the impossible. Neal’s life story of turning every disadvantage into an advantage, balancing risk against reward, will educate, entertain and inspire your audience to reach not only for success – but more importantly, significance! Having delivered multiple keynotes globally for IBM (over a dozen), Intel (dozen) Microsoft, MasterCard, YPO, Mass Mutual, (32) Government Technology Summits, association and so many more, speaks volumes of Neal’s impact on global leaders and audiences. Neal uses his powerful story of overcoming insurmountable barriers to achieve his dream of racing SOLO around the world, 27,000 miles, 9 months at sea, around Cape Horn and its notorious storms. Not to prove others wrong, but to prove he was right to dream. There are No Barriers ~ Only Solutions!
Speech Topics
No Barriers, Only Solutions
Neal's life-story addresses adversity, diversity, leadership, team work, motivation, crisis, innovation, change and execution, and the courage to embrace fears. Take away values: • Neal carries a treasure chest on-stage and in it are examples of how he turned barriers into opportunities to achieve his dream and empowers others to turn their baggage into treasures. • Innovate - how to capitalize on ever changing winds storms by being prepared. • Change - adapt to wind shifts and stormy seas by knowing when to alter course. • Leverage economic challenges to your advantage - keep pumping, choose a winning course and navigate to your advantage. • Attitude adjustment - refresh your vision and sense of purpose. • Elements of success include passion, determination, perseverance and hard work. • With focus and planning, a dream can become a reality –anything is possible. • Life is about choice and with choice are consequences ~ choose your course wisely. • Make decisions not only for today – but for the next generation.
The Power of Positive Attitude & How It Affects Performance
Neal has always defined himself by what he can imagine – rather than how others would define him and how he sustained his dream in the face of numerous barriers is compelling.
The Importance of Realizing Goals
Overcoming fear and facing danger and the unknown has been central to how Neal approaches his goals and his life.
With Choice There Is Consequence
Neal’s impact transcends age, gender, and race to promote the creation of leaders, life-long learners, and individuals who are mindful of the consequences their choices will have on personal, familial, community, and generational levels. His keynote provides validity for direct correlations between perseverance, determination, motivation, and dedication to achieve any goal.
Change Is Constant: It’s How You Play the Cards
Audiences will understand that you have to address the possibility of failure if one wants to achieve great things. His message will connect with audience members’ experience facing challenges, sales quotas for instance, that may seem formidable at first – until imagination, innovation and passion are applied.
Videos
Books
Testimonials
"“Our biggest challenge at these events is to hold the audience in their seats as we typically lose somewhere around 40-50% of the crowd between speakers. This was the first time in the eight years I have been coordinating these sessions where the audience was spellbound from beginning to end and stayed in their seats for the entire presentation. Amazing!”"
"“Based on the numerous people who commented, “Wow – he was unbelievable!” and the long line that formed after your talk to purchase a copy of your book, your story obviously hit a chord with our insurance audience! There is no doubt that our participants left the event inspired and ready to “tackle the world” – which is exactly how we wanted them to depart. Secondly, your delivery is magnetic. You establish rapport with the audience instantly, as your energy “zaps” through the crowd.”"
"“Neal delivered an inspiring keynote address for our leadership team that touched everyone deeply. Neal is so genuine in the delivery and style of his message, but even more importantly is how personal and moving his story is to those that have the opportunity to hear it. Neal is a true leader and his life experiences are relevant for ANY leadership group.”"
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Neal Petersen's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Neal Petersen's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Neal Petersen for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Neal Petersen's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Neal Petersen through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Neal Petersen

Patrick Sweeney
•Wall Street Journal Best-Selling Author, Fear is Fuel.” • 4x Technology Entrepreneur • 3x World-Cup & Olympic-Level Athlete • World-Record Holder • Cancer Survivor • He teaches the the neuroscience of fear, courage, leadership and risk taking
Fee Range: $10,000–$25,000
Travels From: MA

Rocky Bleier
Legendary member of the four-time World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, Rocky Bleier is one of America's most courageous sportsmen. Crippled by enemy fire during the Vietnam conflict, he fought overwhelming odds and demonstrated the courage and determination to overcome his injuries, becoming one of the NFL's premier running backs. His remarkable story became the subject of the book, Fighting Back, which was recreated in the 1980 ABC-TV movie of the same name. In his presentations, he motivates audiences to keep on striving for greater accomplishments, employing a dynamic style with real-life stories and an appropriate injection of humor.
Fee Range: $7,000–$11,000
Travels From: PA

Magic Johnson
Earvin “Magic” Johnson is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Magic Johnson Enterprises, an investment conglomerate that provides high-quality products and services that focus primarily on ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities. Having left the basketball court for the boardroom, Johnson parlayed the skills and tenacity he acquired on the court into a winning formula for his successful business ventures. In his presentations, Magic Johnson inspires audiences with the story of his stunning ascent, his philosophy for success, and his vision for a bright and promising future.
Fee Range: $150,000–$300,000
Travels From: CA
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