Carly Patterson

First American Woman to Win an Olympic Gold at a fully attended Olympic Games; Expert on Success, Challenges, Overcoming Adversity and Winning

ABOUT

VIDEOS

KEYNOTE

Carly Patterson captured the heart of the nation when she won the All-Around Gold Medal in Women’s Gymnastics at the 2004 Olympics. She was the first American woman to win the title in 20 years, also taking home silver medals for balance beam, and the Women’s team competition. She was also the first woman ever to win the All-Around Gold Medal in Women’s Gymnastics in a non-boycotted Olympics.

Shortly after her return to the USA, Carly discovered she had several bulging discs in her back and made the difficult decision to retire from the sport. In the years that followed, she pursued a career in music, went to college, and got married, all while grappling with the question: what do you do when your greatest accomplishment is behind you?

Her achievements as a gymnast and the opportunities she pursued after retiring have given Carly a unique perspective on embracing true success and find lasting fulfillment.

Career Highlights Include:
2004 Olympic Gold Medalist: All-Around
2004 Olympic Silver Medalist: Team
2004 Olympic Silver Medalist: Beam
2004 U.S. National Co-Champion
2004 Visa American Cup Champion
2003 World Championships: Gold Medal Team
2003 World Championships: Silver Medal All-Around
2003 Visa American Cup Champion
2002 U.S. Junior National Champion

From Best to Better
What does it take to reach the pinnacle of success? Then, what does it take to get better? Not only will you learn practical insights from Olympic Gold medal gymnast, Carly Patterson, you will be drawn into a story of resilience, winning in a competitive environment and enjoying the journey along the way. Carly went on to apply the same drive and determination that took her to the highest podium to becoming a recording artist, entrepreneur and mom. Her speech, From Best to Better is a moving experience of excellence, reinvention and finding peace through it all.

Redefining Success
In her keynote address, Carly shares how she redefined success through three principles she learned as a championship-level gymnast and in the years that followed. Carly’s authentic, humorous, and down-to-earth communication style is the perfect vehicle for a message that students, athletes, and professionals need to hear in order to embrace true success and find lasting fulfillment.