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Mental health speaker & endurance athlete

Ben Smith

Transform workplace resilience with Ben Smith, speaker on mental health and endurance. Ben works with organisations to overcome adversity and build inclusive cultures, delivering powerful insights from his record-breaking 401 marathons that raised £330,000 for anti-bullying charities.

Trusted by Boots, Sunbelt Rentals

Ben Smith, Speaker | Gay Endurance Athlete
Ben Smith

Ben Smith

Bristol, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

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

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Book Ben

Bristol, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Ben Smith's biography

At a glance

  • Completed 401 marathons in 401 days
  • Raised over £330,000 for anti-bullying charities
  • 2016 BBC Sports Personality Helen Rollason Award
Discover the extraordinary journey of Ben Smith, a story of resilience, transformation, and redefining what's possible. Ben’s life wasn’t always one of triumph. Struggling with bullying, mental health challenges, and hiding his sexuality, he faced despair that led to two suicide attempts. At 29, a mini-stroke forced him to confront his life head on. But instead of giving up, Ben chose to change everything, turning his pain into a mission that would inspire and uplift thousands. Ben didn’t just start running, he redefined what endurance means. In 2015, he embarked on The 401 Challenge: running 401 marathons in 401 days across the UK, covering over 10,000 miles and raising more than £330,000 for anti-bullying charities. The impact went beyond the miles. His story of courage touched the hearts of countless people, showing them how to push past their own limits and find strength in the struggle.

Ben's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

From Darkness to Endurance: My Journey of 401 Marathons
Ben Smith’s journey from struggling with identity and mental health to completing 401 marathons in 401 days is a testament to resilience and self-belief. Ben shares how he overcame personal battles, transforming his lowest moments into a record-breaking 10,000-mile challenge across the UK. Through candid insights, he reveals how vulnerability and stepping beyond comfort zones can unlock hidden potential. Audiences gain inspiration to reimagine their own limits and take bold strides forward.
Breaking Barriers: The Courage to Be Authentic
For Ben Smith, finding the courage to live authentically was a hard-fought, transformative journey. Drawing from his own struggles with hiding his identity, he explores how embracing his true self changed his life and inspired others. With honest reflections, Ben challenges audiences to consider where they might be holding back, encouraging them to break free from fear. This talk is ideal for fostering a culture of inclusion, empowering attendees to create safe, authentic spaces for all.
The Power of Choice: Redefining Possibility
Ben Smith believes that life-changing transformations start with a single decision. He shares how pivotal choices—like embarking on The 401 Challenge—redefined his life, inspiring thousands. Through his story, Ben shows how everyday decisions have the power to reshape what’s possible, encouraging individuals to take control of their paths. This talk emboldens audiences to recognise their potential, demonstrating how even small choices today can lead to extraordinary opportunities for tomorrow.
Unapologetically Me: Embracing Diversity & Inclusion
Ben Smith’s story offers a powerful perspective on the need for diversity and inclusion. Reflecting on his experiences as a gay man in a marginalising society, he highlights the importance of acceptance—both self-acceptance and acceptance of others. Through personal anecdotes, Ben underscores that true inclusion empowers individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, fostering trust and innovation. Attendees come away with a profound understanding of how embracing diversity strengthens teams and drives success.

Why we recommend booking Ben

Book Ben Smith to inspire your team with his remarkable journey of resilience and transformation. His engaging storytelling and raw honesty will empower your audience to embrace their true selves, overcome challenges, and unlock their potential. Experience a powerful message that motivates action and fosters a culture of courage and change.

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Trusted by Boots, Sunbelt Rentals

Testimonials

What a fantastic session. I knew what was coming but it still gave me the chills and most importantly hope.

Boots

You could hear a pin drop throughout the talk, students were actively listening and hooked on what was being said. There was no seat shuffling, quiet chatter or looking around the room as you sometimes get in talks. Ben was a very powerful speaker and he engaged the students throughout.

Poole Grammar School

Yesterday went down fantastically, thank you so much! Feedback on Ben included how down to earth, relatable and moving his story was. It's certainly sparked some food for thought across the wider business.

Sunbelt Rentals

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Ben Smith for my next event?
Email ben.smith@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Ben's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Ben Smith's speaking style like?
Ben Smith structures his talks around the chronological arc of The 401 Challenge, using his own lived experience — including mental health struggles, coming out, and a mini-stroke at 29 — as the narrative spine from which broader lessons about resilience, decision-making, and authenticity are drawn.
What topics does Ben Smith specialise in?
Ben Smith speaks on endurance and mental health resilience, authentic identity and LGBTQ+ inclusion, and the role of personal choice in transforming possibility. He completed 401 marathons in 401 days across the UK in 2015, raising over £330,000 for anti-bullying charities, and received the 2016 BBC Sports Personality Helen Rollason Award.
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.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

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.

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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.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.