Mike Schlappi

Mike Schlappi is a four-time Paralympic medalist in wheelchair basketball, bestselling author, and motivational speaker whose remarkable journey from a paralyzing gunshot wound to Olympic glory has inspired audiences around the world. His message that attitude is not a mood but a position we take regardless of circumstances has transformed how organizations think about resilience, change, and personal accountability.

From a Bullet Wound to Olympic Gold

As a teenager, Schlappi was accidentally shot and paralyzed, lying on a bed with a bullet hole in his chest. He made a promise that if he survived, he would share his story with the world and help as many people as he could. He not only survived but went on to earn multiple college degrees, build successful businesses, raise five children, and compete in four Paralympic Games, winning gold medals in wheelchair basketball for Team USA.

Creating Change Instead of Just Accepting It

Schlappi’s philosophy is straightforward: when we resist change we fail, when we accept change we survive, and when we create change we succeed. Whether speaking to global financial corporations or community organizations, he has seen results change when the beliefs of people change. His keynotes combine inspiring stories, humor, and his Olympic medals to deliver a powerful message about personal accountability, resilience, the power of attitude, and what it truly means to stand out in work and life.

If You Can’t Stand Up, Stand Out

When keynote speaker Mike Schlappi takes the floor, a dazzling smile greets you. Then, you notice the wheelchair. If ever a man was defined by what he can do, instead of what he cannot do, it is Mike. His award winning Keynote Presentation speaks to just about everyone.  Using entertaining and inspiring stories and real life photos, along with his Olympic Medals, Mike brings you along on his journey of success.  You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll be inspired to be a “Stand Out”.

#1 With A Bullet

Mike’s entertaining and inspiring story motivates people to become better. Better spouses, better employees, better friends, better parents – you get the picture.   His theory is: When we resist change we fail. When we accept change, we survive. When we create change, we succeed.   Mike’s keynote; “#1 With a Bullet” offers vision to what we can become.

A Bullet Proof Mindset is No Accident

Mike Schlappi’s story is a moving and powerful example of the importance of safety.  At the age of 15 Mike was shot in the chest, by a friend, at point blank range; paralyzing 2/3 of his body.  Mike faces challenges daily because of the split second decision that was made in regards to safety or the lack of.  His compelling, motivating and inspiring message changes the way people think about carelessness and the magnitude of their decisions.

Attitude Therapy: Rx for the Healthcare Industry

Mike’s personal experiences with nurses, doctors and therapists not only saved his life, but also pointed him to a career in healthcare.  He served as the Director of Rehabilitation for Intermountain Healthcare in Salt Lake City for 10 years, giving him credibility with audiences in the healthcare arena.

Your people are your greatest asset: invest in them.

Mike knows that the most important part of any meeting or organization is the people.  Whether speaking to a global financial corporation or a local credit union, he has seen their results change when the beliefs of their people change.  He inspires real people, with real problems, to respond differently; teaching that attitude is not a mood, but a position we take regardless of circumstances.  That is his specialty!