One way to add some excitement to an Olympics-themed event this summer is to hire medal winners as speakers. While athletes like Michael Phelps will be busy actually competing in London, former Olympians like Greg Louganis and Bruce Jenner are available to share their firsthand insight on the games with event guests.
The most decorated gymnast in U.S. history, Shannon Miller, is available to book as a motivational speaker.
Photo: Courtesy of shannonmillerlifestyle.com
Bart Connor & Nadia Comaneci
This gymnast power couple—they met at the 1976 American Cup—have earned multiple gold medals each and can speak as a team about their experiences competing in the Olympics, plus other motivational topics. Domestically, they charge $10,000 each, and international appearances range from $15,000 to $20,000. The duo is represented by Paul Ziert and Associates.
Photo: Shevaun Williams
Apolo Ohno
An eight-time Olympic medalist for short-track speed skating, Apolo Ohno talks to audiences about his journey from rambunctious teenager to focused champion. Ohno charges $50,000 per event and is represented by Greater Talent Network.
Photo: Scott Halleran/CAA
Mark Spitz
The champion swimmer, who was present at the games during the infamous Munich massacre, offers an interesting take on the Olympic experience. Spitz, who has 11 medals to his name, talks about his time in Munich during the 1972 Olympic games but can also touch on other more uplifting topics, like "What Makes a Champion." He speaks at 20 to 25 events a year, charging $20,000 to $30,000 per event, and is represented by PMG Sports.
Photo: Courtesy of Mark Spitz
Bruce Jenner
Before his foray in reality TV on Keeping Up With the Kardashians, Jenner was better known for taking home a gold medal in the 1976 Summer Olympics in the decathlon. Jenner speaks at 30 to 50 events a year on the topic of achieving success on and off the field. His fee is $25,000 to $50,000 per event; he is represented by PMG Sports.
Photo: Nick Saglimbeni
Greg Louganis
With four Olympic gold medals to his name, diver Greg Louganis speaks about issues like diversity, motivation, living with H.I.V., and the difficulties of coming out as a gay athlete. Represented by PMG Sports, he speaks at 20 to 25 events a year and charges $20,000 to $30,000 per event.
Photo: Bradford Rogne
Shannon Miller
The most decorated gymnast in U.S. history, Shannon Miller is available as as a motivational speaker, focusing on health and fitness topics. Miller not only talks about what it took to reach her career goals, but also about her battle with ovarian cancer in 2011. She charges $8,000 to $15,000 per event.
Photo: Courtesy of shannonmillerlifestyle.com
