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Resilience speaker & crisis expert

Austin Hatch

Transform team resilience and crisis management with Austin Hatch, resilience keynote speaker. Austin equips organizations facing significant change with his G.R.I.T. framework, teaching actionable strategies for overcoming adversity. Featured across national media and honored by the University of Michigan for his extraordinary comeback story.

Trusted by Northwestern Mutual, Coastal One Financial, New York Life, Prudential Financial, Lincoln Financial

Austin Hatch, Speaker | 2x Crash Survivor, Ex-College Athlete
Austin Hatch

Austin Hatch

Detroit, United States

Typical fee range

$26k–50k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Detroit, United States

Starting from

$26k–50k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Austin Hatch's biography

At a glance

  • Survived two plane crashes and overcame severe injuries
  • Former University of Michigan basketball player
  • Motivational speaker with a focus on overcoming adversity
Austin Hatch is a resilience speaker who survived two plane crashes that killed members of his family and left him in a coma fighting for his life. After the second crash in 2011, he relearned how to walk and talk, then fulfilled his commitment to play basketball for the University of Michigan under Coach John Beilein. His story has been featured across national media, and he now works with organizations facing significant change and adversity. Austin helps teams develop what he calls G.R.I.T., a framework built on four components: Growth Mindset, Resilience through massive action, Integrity in keeping commitments, and Team First Mentality. His approach connects personal adversity to workplace challenges, showing how the principles that helped him recover from catastrophic injury apply directly to business obstacles. He focuses on practical strategies rather than abstract motivation, drawing from his experience of setting and achieving goals when circumstances seemed impossible. Audiences learn how to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth, take decisive action when facing uncertainty, and maintain commitments even when conditions change. Austin provides specific methods for building individual resilience while strengthening team cohesion, particularly valuable during organizational transitions or market disruptions. His presentations equip people with tools to move forward productively rather than becoming paralyzed by difficulty. Austin brings a tested framework for turning obstacles into fuel for achievement, delivered by someone who lived it.

Austin's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

The G.R.I.T. Framework
In his signature talk, Austin Hatch explores how individuals and organizations can overcome adversity using the G.R.I.T. framework. He emphasizes that grit—passion and perseverance for long-term goals—is essential for success. Drawing on insights from experts like Angela Duckworth, Austin presents actionable steps to cultivate a growth mindset, harness inner drive, and foster resilience. Attendees will learn to appreciate teamwork, support others, and positively influence their environment, equipping them to face challenges effectively in any setting.

Why we recommend booking Austin

Austin's incredible journey of resilience and determination in the face of unimaginable adversity will inspire your people to overcome their own challenges. His powerful message on the importance of grit, growth mindset, and teamwork offers actionable insights for achieving success against all odds. Booking Austin as a speaker will not only motivate your group but also equip them with the tools to thrive in difficult situations.

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Trusted by Northwestern Mutual, Coastal One Financial, New York Life, Prudential Financial, Lincoln Financial

Testimonials

Thanks again Austin. You were awesome!

John Kennedy

President, Lincoln Financial

Austin's message of what it means to have GRIT and the power of perspective is truly inspiring.

Aaron Miller

Managing Partner, Northwestern Mutual

His powerful message of G.R.I.T. and overcoming obstacles is extremely inspirational.

Jeffrey R. Martinath

Managing Director, Prudential Financial

frequently asked questions

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To get the sharpest shortlist, share your event date, audience, format, key objectives, and budget. A rough idea is enough to start. The more context PepTalk has, the more precisely the team can match a speaker to your brief. Send it via getapeptalk.com.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

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Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

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You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.