Explore Elli’s Speaking Topics
From the Olympic stage, to TEDx, to the boardroom, Elli shares takeaways learned from high performance environments that will change the way your audience thinks about achievement and performance.
Self-awareness, connection, and internal motivation aren’t soft skills—they are performance drivers.
Elli at TEDx Texas State University
On February 28, 2026, I gave a TEDx talk at Texas State University. In my talk, I invite us to rethink what it really means to succeed. Drawing from my experience competing at the highest level, I explore how the pressure to win shapes not just athletes, but all of us—from high achievers to parents raising the next generation. With authenticity, insight, and relatable storytelling, I challenge the idea that winning is everything and offer a more meaningful, sustainable way to define success, achievement, and failure in our own lives.
You went to the Olympics?!
Did you win a medal?
….. No …..
Imagine a Lifetime of Answering that question
I’ve thrown away more medals than most people win in a lifetime (my parents wanted their guest room back!), and I’ve won international medals at nearly every swim meet on the calendar (that’s what you see in that photo above). Yet the question I’m asked most often when people learn I went to the Olympics still has me answering, “No.”
That reality shaped my life and taught me what truly matters when competing and performing at the highest levels. My experience allows me to help others reach their own potential in healthy and joyful ways. I share stories of both my successes and failures—and the lessons they taught me—so my audiences internalize healthier mindsets, making them better equipped to support the people they’re trying to help reach their peak. Whether they’re leaders supporting employees, coaches supporting athletes, teachers supporting students, or parents helping their kids navigate today’s competitive environments, there is an inspiring message for everyone that creates change.
Testimonials
“Elli speaks from experience as a three time Olympian, life-long athlete, and mental health advocate! She talks about the competitive attitudes that we grow up with and challenges those old ideas with more useful and direct sensibility. Elli is an engaging and supportive professional.”
— Ramey G.“Elli was a guest speaker at our swim club and from the very beginning everybody was tuned in and engaged.
Elli’s speech was truly inspiring and sharing practical ideas made me think differently about confidence and self-awareness. I left feeling more motivated and clear-headed. Definitely recommend!
— Abigail S.“Because of Elli's talk I realized I too easily follow societal ideals of Best, Good and Revered. I need to work on balancing celebrating success and effort and also redefine success in my parenting..”
— Tammi S.