Neal Petersen

Neal Petersen has completed two amazing journeys in his life: a single-handed yacht race around the world, 27,000 miles, 9 months at sea, alone, in the smallest - least-funded yacht he designed and built himself. And an even more arduous trip of overcoming racial prejudice during the Apartheid era in South Africa, poverty, and a childhood physical disability, just to make it to the start line! While sharing his history-making riveting life story – life lessons and philosophy, Petersen's personal messages transform attitudes to look at set-backs and barriers in a different way. He expands the mind, with new hope and determination to break down any barrier, real or perceived, and to be better prepared to navigate and tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

Award-winning author of Journey of a Hope Merchant his autobiography Petersen shares real life examples of how he overcame insurmountable barriers by always turning set-backs and disadvantages into advantages—then into opportunities. Petersen demonstrates how success is realized—through innovation, balancing risk against return and being flexible enough to adapt to constant shifting winds.

As a world we are facing our "Cape Horn". More than any other time in history, people must be focused, have a solid strategy, create a dependable team, respect the competition and get to the finish line in the most efficient method. In this process, there will be headwinds of resistance, stormy seas of change, or just the immense challenges of having daunting objectives on a limited budget. This is a story of hope, resilience and accomplishment; it’s truly inspiring and reflects a powerful message that "In life there are no barriers ~ only solutions!"

Petersen’s keynote is a great kick-off; it’s interactive, humorous, motivational, customized to fit a theme and relevant. Using real life examples between the uncertainty of the sea and the challenges that people deal with every day, personally and professionally are riveting. Carrying a treasure chest on stage, Petersen shows how he turned disadvantages into advantages.. Images also bring his story to life and enhance the experience. For larger audiences lightning, thunder and fog are part of the experience.

Petersen can deliver keynotes, full or ½ day leadership programs and team-building option following the keynote. He can also facilitate, leadership workshops and breakout sessions and he will be engaged in conversations with attendees until he leaves for the airport. Petersen is affordable and easy to work with.