IRONMAN – Self Reform and Personal Growth
The greatest part of my job is speaking to groups, sharing my story, and helping others realize their potential.
At some point, all of us develop an idea of who or what we would like to become. We’ve had a concept of what we want from life. However, at points along the way we can lose sight of those ideals. Sometimes we allow things to distract or derail us. Over time those wants and dreams can fade, if we allow them to.
I know what life can be like without meaning or commitment. At points, all of us get stuck and lose our way. Some more than others. As human beings we are capable of extraordinary things. I would like to come talk to you about the scope and depth of the human potential.
I integrate current and relevant research from the fields of genetics, neuroscience, quantum physics, and behavioral sciences as they relate to the human experience and actualizing our innate potential.
I speak in all types of settings, tailoring each presentation to reach your audience (whether high school students or senior level executives). We all share a common experience as humans, and we all have the same needs and wants. The aim with any engagement is the same; to promote personal growth, health and well being.
The Ironman triathlon—a grueling 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile marathon—plays a very special role in my life. When I decided I wanted to quit drugs and live again in that cold, lonely prison cell more than 10 years ago, I was desperate for something to work towards—a goal or an objective that would give me a sense of purpose where I had none. I knew that in order to change, I needed discipline and dedication to an ideal.
I had never really swam, run or ridden a bike at the time. I hadn’t done any exercise in many years and was horribly overweight, not to mention plagued with the health effects of substance abuse. To say that completing a triathlon, let alone an Ironman, let alone qualifying for the World Championships, was a stretch goal would be an understatement. But I somehow sensed that in chasing this seemingly unrealistic dream, I could change myself from the inside out.
I was right.
The hundreds, and then thousands of miles I swam, biked and ran over the course of the next several years represented a long march towards self-reform and personal growth, both physically and mentally. Though I’m a very different individual today, I still race Ironman and 70.3 events for the same reasons that I raced almost 10 years ago: I want to evolve. Change often results from discomfort and extending our physical and mental boundaries. After so many years of racing and even as a professional coach, Ironman continues to change, educate, improve, and humble me.
“I can honestly say that listening to Shane speak is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity. It is difficult to convey how profoundly Shane touches each individual in the audience. His harrowing story of the years he was addicted to drugs and alcohol to his rise as an elite level triathlete is riveting and awe-inspiring; however, Shane’s true impact as a motivational speaker is his ability to penetrate the hearts of his audience. His uncanny gift for cultivating intimacy, even in large venues, allows Shane to break down barriers as he develops trust almost instantaneously during his presentations. Shane is exceedingly well informed about a wide range of psychological concepts and his acumen for conveying these concepts to a layperson is remarkable. Most poignantly, he provokes us to make a positive impact on the world around us. From seemingly insignificant moments to pivotal inflection points in our lives to, Shane inspires us how to reach our fullest potential.” Rena Kirkland, Ph.D., Psychological Sciences Instructor, University of Northern Colorado
“While we were studying the uses and abuses of illicit drugs in my CU anthropology class, Shane Niemeyer spoke with us about his personal odyssey of drug addiction, criminal conduct, doing time, and personal redemption. His candor was an inspiration to us all — for him to openly share some of his most agonizing and terrifying moments was an act of bravery we will not forget. My students were riveted by his testimony, and humbled by his perseverance. Shane’s story is one of agony and struggle, but it is also about awakening, and, ultimately, love.” Caroline S. Conzelman, Ph.D., Associate Director and Faculty in Residence, Global Studies Academic Program, Program Director, Bolivia Global Seminar and Global Inquiry Bolivia, Instructor, Anthropology
“When Shane Niemeyer came to our class and told his story I was awe inspired. I left the room with a new perspective on drugs and how they can take over someone’s life. He was an amazing speaker and very engaging.” Adi Stilger, University of Wisconsin
To invite Shane to share his important message of overcoming with your audience, please click for More info on Shane, (303) 478-6652 or email DSB Events & Talent
