Will Gadd

Will Gadd is a world-renowned adventurer, athlete, and speaker recognized for his groundbreaking achievements in extreme environments. Best known as the first person to climb a frozen Niagara Falls, Will’s success was not just about physical ability but also about careful risk assessment, persistence, and securing the trust of key decision-makers—from the Governor of New York to state authorities. This historic ascent is just one milestone in a 30-year career that has taken him across the globe, from Africa’s peaks to Greenland’s glaciers. Through his experiences, Will has become an expert in resilience, risk management, and high-performance leadership, inspiring audiences with his insights on adventure, calculated risk-taking, and seizing opportunities.

As a sought-after speaker, Will delivers engaging, high-energy presentations tailored to the challenges and objectives of his audiences. His expertise spans excellence, managing uncertainty, and performing under pressure. Drawing from his diverse career as an elite athlete, entrepreneur, and author, he shares captivating stories that connect with executives, athletes, and everyday professionals alike. Will’s ability to translate adventure-driven lessons into practical takeaways has led him to speak at over 200 organizations worldwide, earning him a reputation as an entertaining, insightful, and impactful speaker.

Beyond speaking, Will’s professional experience extends into business and media. He has led large film crews into some of the most hazardous environments on earth, demonstrating his ability to balance creativity with safety and logistics. Additionally, he has owned and operated a qualitative market research company, applying his understanding of human behavior to both the corporate and extreme sports worlds. His adaptability and strategic mindset allow him to connect with a wide range of audiences, from senior executives at Fortune 500 companies to at-risk youth looking for guidance and motivation.

Will’s accomplishments extend beyond public speaking and expeditions. He is the recipient of numerous awards for his contributions to adventure sports, storytelling, and leadership. His influence reaches even further through his writing, as he continues to educate and inspire through articles, guides, and blogs on climbing, risk management, and climate change. Currently, he is developing a new television series that explores some of the most radical places on the planet, further solidifying his role as a thought leader in exploration and adventure.

When not scaling mountains or delivering keynotes, Will enjoys spending time with his family and sharing his passion for adventure with his daughters. He applies the same risk mitigation principles he teaches in his speeches to everyday life, making his lessons relatable and practical. Whether navigating a dangerous ice climb or teaching his children about hazard recognition, Will embodies the idea that calculated risks lead to the greatest rewards.

Will Gadd is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and delivers keynote presentations, workshops, fireside chats, moderated Q&A, and other presentation formats on a wide variety of topics. Each presentation he delivers is unique, customized and tailored for audiences, industries, conferences and event formats.

LET’S TALK: If you are a brand, agency or the media and want to work with Will please email mark@athletemedia.co.uk or call +44 7952 304340.