Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France winner, cancer survivor, podcast host, endurance athlete, and managing partner at Next Ventures, has a notable history in endurance sports. He turned professional in triathlon at 15 and quickly became the Road Race World Champion.
As a cancer survivor, Lance founded Livestrong, raising $500 million to support over three million people. The sale of 80 million wristbands symbolised strength and solidarity, leaving a lasting impact. He also played a key role in establishing the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) through a $3 billion bond initiative and served on the President’s Cancer Panel for two terms. His contributions to cancer research, including a $50 million donation to the Dell Medical School at the University of Texas, have significantly advanced the fight against cancer.
Lance combined his talent for identifying promising founders with a passion for investing by founding Next Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on health, wellness, and Whole Person Health. Before this, he was an angel investor in companies like Uber, DocuSign, and Athletic Brewing. Through his media platform WEDU, Lance also hosts the podcasts "THEMOVE" and "The Forward", which have gained over 10 million impressions annually.
Reflecting on his past, Lance shares a story of resilience and hard-learned lessons. He speaks candidly about overcoming challenges and emphasises the importance of mental endurance. “I’ve landed on my feet,” he says. “I have five beautiful kids and I’ve been given another chance. I’m extremely grateful for that.”
In his insightful talk, Lance Armstrong explores the journey of overcoming significant setbacks. Known as the "comeback king," he triumphed over testicular cancer to win the Tour de France seven times. However, his most profound comeback followed the doping scandal that cost him his titles. Through personal accountability and resilience, he rebuilt his life with new podcasts and his organisation, WEDŪ. Attendees will learn the importance of honesty, vulnerability, and positivity in achieving a stronger comeback.
In a candid talk, Lance reflects on his journey as a leader, revealing how his win-at-all-costs mentality led to dishonesty that ultimately cost him his cycling titles and career. He emphasises that true leadership hinges on honesty, impacting not just the team but also fans and family. Attendees will learn the essential qualities of effective leadership and teamwork, including the importance of communication, persistence, and, above all, integrity.
In an open and candid fireside chat, Lance Armstrong will address any questions from the audience about his remarkable career. Attendees can delve into topics such as his battle with cancer, his professional cycling journey, his work with the Livestrong charity, and his subsequent ban from the sport. Lance will also discuss his current ventures, including his podcasts, "The Move" and "The Forward". Participants will gain insights into resilience, reinvention, and the complexities of his life.
