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, and in a yacht he designed and built himself—and overcoming racial prejudice during the Apartheid era in South Africa, poverty, and a childhood physical disability. While sharing his riveting life story and philosophy, Petersen's personal messages and unique delivery will encourage audiences to take adversity head on. He demonstrates that, with determination and hard work, you can achieve your goals.

An award-winning author, world-class single-handed professional racing yachtsman, global investor, and frequent guest lecturer at the College of Charleston's International Business School, Petersen shares real-life examples of how he overcame insurmountable barriers by always turning perceived disadvantages into advantages—and then into opportunities. In his captivating and empowering "No Barriers, Only Solutions" keynote, Neal demonstrates how success is realized—through innovation, balancing risk against return, and being flexible enough to adapt to constant shifting winds. Neal Petersen has challenged thousands to prevail against their own formidable barriers and setbacks and to turn them into treasures. He has "wowed" international audiences with his story and how he related it to their challenges, which usually ends with a standing ovation.

In these challenging times of uncertainly, fear and insecurity rise, and many feel like solo sailors, adrift, grasping for survival. Neal lays out the importance of a clearly communicated vision and direction, followed by detailed planning, preparation, passion, and execution using his personal story.