Austin Hatch

Austin Hatch inspires teams to overcome adversity with grit, purpose, and a mindset that turns setbacks into growth.

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19 Client reviews

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"This talk is 1st class!"

Dan Rivers

Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual in Louisvills

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Non-binding request for Austin Hatch

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+1 347 223 5128 +44 20 3744 5675

Why you should book Austin Hatch for your next event

Shares a real-life journey through two plane crashes and recovery, turning unimaginable adversity into practical lessons for growth and performance.
Equips teams with a proven framework for grit: growth mindset, resilience, integrity, and a team-first mentality that drives results.
Connects deeply with audiences through authentic storytelling that challenges perspectives and builds lasting mental strength.

Non-binding request for Austin Hatch

From tragedy to triumph – a powerful voice on grit, resilience, and purpose

Austin Hatch delivers a story that stays with you. After surviving two plane crashes, losing close family members, and fighting his way back from a coma, he went on to achieve his dream of playing basketball at the University of Michigan. His journey is a powerful reflection of what it takes to keep moving forward when everything feels lost. With honesty and clarity, Austin translates his experiences into practical strategies that help individuals and teams handle pressure, face setbacks, and grow stronger through adversity.

Austin Hatch – A Story of Unbreakable Grit

Austin Hatch’s life is a testament to resilience in its purest form. On Labor Day in 2003, Austin was involved in a devastating plane crash that took the lives of his mother, sister, and brother. His father saved his life, pulling him from the wreckage. Together, they faced the unimaginable loss and found a way to keep going, honoring their family by continuing to live with purpose.

Years later, Austin’s life began to take shape again. His father remarried, and they built a strong blended family. At the same time, Austin dedicated himself to basketball, chasing his dream of playing at the highest level. That dream became reality when he was offered a full scholarship to the University of Michigan.

Just nine days later, tragedy struck again.

Surviving the Impossible

In June 2011, Austin was involved in a second plane crash. This time, his father and stepmother lost their lives, and Austin suffered critical injuries. He spent over two months in a coma. When he woke up, he had to relearn how to walk, talk, and function in everyday life.

Through the support of medical professionals, family, and friends, Austin slowly rebuilt his life. Step by step, he worked his way back, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Against overwhelming odds, he fulfilled his commitment and made it to the University of Michigan basketball team.

His journey from a hospital bed to the court is more than inspiring, it’s a roadmap for overcoming adversity.

The Power of Purpose

At the core of Austin’s message is one defining idea: purpose drives everything. He believes that when people work for something greater than themselves, they unlock a level of persistence that cannot be shaken by setbacks.

Without a deeper purpose, challenges can feel overwhelming. With it, even the hardest moments become something to push through. Austin challenges individuals and teams to identify what they are truly working for, because that purpose fuels the grit needed to keep going.

The Four Components of Grit

Austin breaks down grit into four clear and actionable components that anyone can apply:

Growth Mindset – Every setback holds an opportunity. Growth comes from how we respond, not what happens to us.
Resilience & Massive Action – Progress requires action, especially when circumstances are difficult. Taking consistent, bold steps forward creates momentum.
Integrity – Following through on commitments, even when situations change, builds trust and results.
Team First Mentality – Every role matters. Strong teams are built on individuals who commit to giving their best for something bigger than themselves.

These principles are not abstract ideas, they are lived experiences that helped Austin rebuild his life and achieve his goals.

From Adversity to Opportunity

Austin’s message resonates across industries because adversity is universal. Whether in business, sports, or everyday life, challenges are inevitable. What defines success is the response.

He brings a clear perspective: adversity itself does not create growth, but the way we respond to it does. This shift in mindset allows individuals and organizations to turn obstacles into opportunities for development and stronger performance.

Book Austin Hatch for Your Event

Austin Hatch brings authenticity, depth, and real-world perspective to every stage. His story captures attention, but it’s his practical framework that creates lasting impact. Audiences leave with tools they can apply immediately, whether they are leaders, teams, or individuals striving to improve.

His goal is simple: to equip people with the mindset and strategies needed to grow through any obstacle. Through powerful storytelling and clear takeaways, Austin inspires action and challenges audiences to rise above their circumstances.

Austin Hatch doesn’t just talk about resilience, he lives it.

Customer Reviews

"This talk is 1st class!"

Dan Rivers Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual in Louisvills

"Loved your story on GRIT. Great passion and energy."

BJ Hellyer Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual in Minneapolis

“I had the privilege of Austin spending time with my entire agency and he absolutely delivered. His story is like nothing you will ever hear. More importantly, Austin’s message of what it means to have GRIT and the power of perspective is truly inspiring. Perhaps the best way to sum up his impact is from a direct comment from one of my top leaders. “I think we can all benefit from being just a little more like Austin Hatch.""

Aaron Miller Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual in Boston

"Your talk was wonderful! Your story and message were inspiring and the feedback I received from our group regarding your talk was unanimously positive. I encourage you to network among the many different NM firms for future speaking engagements as we have 78 total offices nationwide. Certainly always use my name as a reference!"

Tom Goris Managing Partner of Northwestern Mutual in Chicago

“In the space I serve, my goal is to assist clients and their families in preparing for what’s next. Absolutely no one could’ve prepared Austin Hatch for what was to come next in his life as a plane crash survivor as a young boy and again at 16-years-old that left him in critical condition. Austin has felt the pain of losing family members in an instant and the heavy grief that would be nearly impossible for anyone to overcome. Yet, overcome is exactly what Austin did. He battled back to recover from his physical injuries and drove himself hard to become a member of the University of Michigan Basketball Team. Austin taught those around him that a mindset like his cannot be held down. He channels this grit, focus and energy into helping others understand that life isn’t about what happens to you, it’s how you respond to adversity. Austin is a shining example that through the struggles and loss one might have, you are strong enough to overcome any challenge and help those around you to be better. It’s an honor to know Austin, see his exemplary character and I recommend him to the highest degree.”

Dominic Mirabella Managing Partner Northwestern Mutual in Troy, Michigan:

“We ultimately decided his belief system, overcoming the adversity in his life, his grit and his mindset, align with our organizational beliefs. We thought his presentation would be deeply impactful for our staff, especially with all that’s going on in the world today between COVID, stay at home, social unrest. We did a live WebEx event with our team with Austin’s presentation as well as Q & A portion at the end. It really left an indelible, long-lasting impact on a lot of our loan officers, our management team and our direct lending sales group. I couldn’t recommend Austin more, not just for some sort of team event or speaking engagement but really for the human being that he is. I look forward to building a friendship with Austin and look forward to meeting him in person at some point when he’s out in Southern California, hopefully we can get together. He’s a wise man and his perspective and all he’s gone through in life has really taught me a lot in a short period of time. Any organization would benefit from hearing a man like him. Deeply inspirational and a very principled person.”

Alex Madonna Executive Vice President of Sales Loan Depot

“Austin hosted a virtual session for Center of Marketing Excellence team members focused on Digital, Communications and Media. With the team dispersed across the country, sheltering in their homes and dealing with the adversity that has been brought on by the COVID pandemic, it was the perfect time for Austin’s message. Austin’s message around approaching adversity with GRIT reinforced the key focus areas that will ensure we don’t lose the successful momentum we had going into the pandemic. Having a growth mindset, being resilient and operating with integrity and as one team is what will keep our positive momentum going, and Austin did a great job of reinforcing the importance of all of these focus areas. He did a great job relating his life experiences to our industry and current business situation and we were fortunate to have him speak to the team.”

Stephen Kennedy Vice President of Marketing at Nestlé

"I have known Austin since he was at the University of Michigan. I knew him, knew his story, and knew about his outlook on life. So, I asked him to speak to my team about Grit. After an hour, I realized there was so much about his story and about he approaches his daily life that I did not know. His message of determination, positivity, and purpose resonated with each of us in attendance. Austin's speaking style is authentic, his message is incredibly unique, and his view of life is refreshing. Each time I hear Austin speak, I am left exhilarated, focused, and committed to making those around me better."

Matthew Walls former Senior Vice President of Franchise Development and Recruiting at Domino’s

“It was such a pleasure and privilege to have here to tell your story of GRIT. You nailed it and set the tone for the meeting.”

Tim Ash President and CEO of Ash Brokerage

“Austin Hatch blew us away with his powerful speech about his life experiences and his ability to persevere and overcome adversity. His message hit home with our coaches and student athletes. I recruited Austin in high school and his story of perseverance and determination is very inspiring. His outlook is motivating to many people and should be a defining message in how we should live our lives every day.”

Matt Painter Head Coach of Purdue Men’s Basketball

“Having heard and seen Austin’s story we were looking for a speaker that could come talk to our sales and support teams about overcoming adversity. After a tough year in 2019, we wanted them to have optimism that they could win and believe in themselves. Austin was the PERFECT speaker for our team. His message of GRIT and overcoming adversity was so personal and authentic that everyone believed that they too could overcome adversity. Who knew that it would set us up for dealing with the COVID-19 fallout in the marketplace. To this day, our teams reference Austin’s story and the GRIT behind it. Austin is such a passionate and motivating speaker. We were honored to have him come talk to us and help the Mspark team!”

Steve Mitzel CEO of Mspark

“Thanks so much for sharing your story and your message. You are the epitome of G.R.I.T. and many of our guests, and I, found you to be an inspiration. I will pass your contact information to my peers along with my very enthusiastic recommendation. Please let us know how we can be of service to you anytime. Thanks so much for your participation in our meeting. You were indeed the highlight of our gathering!”

Charles Reiling CEO of Coastal One Financial:

“THANK YOU….you message was extremely well received. The team was truly inspired by you. I hope we can work again together. You were truly awesome. Your attitude was incredible and really resonated with people. If I can ever do anything for you, please do not hesitate to ask. Thanks again Austin. You were awesome!!”

John Kennedy President of Lincoln Financial

“Earlier today over 100 of our firm's associates participated in our Quarterly Business Update. Several hours later, I am still pondering the profound message from our guest speaker Austin Hatch. If you are not familiar with Austin's story, I would suggest that you grab a box of tissues, go to YouTube and type in Austin's name to find the 16 minute clip that ESPN did on his life's story of overcoming significant personal tragedy. But, his story is not finished - his powerful message of G.R.I.T. and overcoming obstacles is extremely inspirational and made a huge impact in our firm today. Thank you Austin! I am

Jeffrey R. Martinath Managing Director at Prudential Chicago

For such a young man, Austin has experienced incredible challenges. His captivating humility and inspiring messages continue to resonate with our associates years after we met him.

Chuck Fallon Chairman and CEO of First Service Residential

Over the 20 year history of the DeVos Sport Business Management Graduate Program, we have had many amazing speakers address our students. Austin Hatch may have been the most inspirational speaker we have had by encouraging everybody to overcome life‘s obstacles and work toward a positive future not only for himself but for society.

Dr. Richard Lapchick Human Rights Activist, Pioneer for Racial Equality, Internationally Recognized Expect on Sports Issues, Scholar and Author.

If you look for a speaker to change the way people think about what a challenge really is and how to overcome it, Austin Hatch’s story is just that. Understanding what GRIT really is and how to implement it in your life may just be the most important thing you will ever do. Just incredible.

Joe Dilio CEO MassMutual New York State

Blessed to have Austin Hatch on the line with our team last night! As far as motivation goes there’s no one who has a testimony like his. His outlook on life & his message is extremely powerful for any individual, any team or any organization.

LaVall Jordan Head coach of Butler Men’s Basketball

Asking Austin to present to our clients and professional partners was a highlight of our 2020 marketing campaign. While his story is incredible, his mindset, and the way he views his life today was extraordinary and motivational. We should all adopt the GRIT mentality he shared.

Brian Haloossim Senior Managing Director, Bernstein Private Wealth Management

Keynotes

Keynote by Austin Hatch:

The Four Components of G.R.I.T

My message is about my journey from a coma, to a wheelchair to playing for Michigan. Yes a lot of things had to happen to overcome the adversity and achieve my goal, but more than anything, it took some Grit.

A lot of people have talked about Grit recently; it seems like a good trait for both people and for organizations to possess. It has been said that Grit is working hard for a long period of time. Grit is about consistency over the long term, not just intensity in the short term. That’s true, but I think Grit is defined more specifically. I believe the following definition of Grit applies to, not only overcoming adversity, but to accomplishing any goal.

There are four key components to Grit, but I believe Grit is driven by having a Greater Purpose. If we are working just for ourselves, it is very likely that we will eventually face some form of adversity that will cause us to give up because we don’t have a driving force for why we do what we do. If we are working for something bigger than ourselves, I believe we will always do what it takes to get the job done, no matter the task and no matter the circumstances. Our Purpose drives Grit.

Growth Mindset, the first component of Grit. The Growth Mindset believes every setback, every failure every adversity, is an opportunity. Adversity is opportunity in disguise. Even when we inevitably fall short of a goal, the Growth Mindset does not believe that is a permanent condition. We can use it as an opportunity to get better. Adversity does not define us. Adversity can refine us if we approach it with the Growth Mindset. The event will probably not be a source of growth, but I believe we can grow from how we choose to respond.

Resilience, the second component of Grit. If we make the decision to be Resilient, we take Massive Action in the face of adversity. It took Massive Action to go from a coma to playing for Michigan. I believe achieving our goals in the midst of challenges is the result of making the decision to be resilient, the result of taking Massive Action. We're not resilient if we overcome our challenges. I think overcoming our challenges is the result of being resilient. Overcoming challenges is the result of taking Massive Action.

Integrity, the third component of Grit. In the context of overcoming adversity, or working to achieve any goal, I believe Integrity is about following through on our commitments, especially when our circumstances change. Integrity is doing the common things in an uncommon way, consistently. The result of doing the common things in an uncommon way consistently is we’ll leave people and places better than we found them.

The Team First Mentality is the final component of Grit. I believe we should always think about our teammates first. We should train ourselves to think We before me. Every person on every team has a role and that role is very important. We owe it to the team to make the effort to become the best of which we’re capable. We may not be the best on the team, but we can always be our for the team.

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