Non-binding request for Ian Bowen
Ian Bowen
Ian Bowen helps people reframe adversity, transform setbacks into comebacks, and unlock their potential through mindset and Positive Persistence.
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Why book Ian Bowen for your next event
- Ian delivers a deeply human story of resilience, showing how mindset and persistence can transform even life-altering adversity into forward momentum.
- Through his RINSE Methodology, Ian gives audiences a clear, practical framework they can apply immediately in both personal and professional life.
- His journey from paralysis to marathon runner inspires lasting belief, action, and a Watch Me Mindset that stays with audiences long after the event.
Non-binding request for Ian Bowen
Resilience, mindset, and the power to turn setbacks into comebacks
Ian Bowen is a keynote speaker who brings lived experience, practical tools, and contagious belief to the stage. After being diagnosed with a rare neurological disease that left him paralyzed from the chest down, Ian was told he would never run again. Instead of accepting that future, he chose to rebuild his life through mindset, discipline, and what he calls Positive Persistence. Today, Ian empowers individuals and organizations to reframe setbacks, strengthen resilience, and create a personal blueprint for meaningful, lasting change.
Ian Bowen – A Story of Resilience and Possibility
In 2009, Ian Bowen’s life changed in an instant. Diagnosed with neurosarcoidosis, a rare and aggressive disease, he underwent spinal cord surgery that resulted in paralysis from the chest down. At just 32 years old, Ian was facing a reality no one expects so early in life. He had two young children, a promising career, and suddenly a future defined by limitations doctors believed could never be reversed.
Ian was told he would never run again. For many, that sentence would have marked the end of a chapter. For Ian, it became the beginning of a different one.
Rather than surrendering to the diagnosis, Ian committed himself to a mindset built on determination, discipline, and relentless belief. His rehabilitation was physically and mentally exhausting. Simple actions like sitting up, standing, and taking a single step required enormous effort. Progress came slowly, but each small victory reinforced a powerful truth: persistence changes what feels impossible.
The Birth of Positive Persistence
Throughout his recovery, Ian began to recognize patterns in how he responded to challenge. He noticed that progress wasn’t driven by motivation alone, but by consistency, reframing, and expectation. These insights became the foundation of what he now calls Positive Persistence.
Positive Persistence is not about blind optimism. It is about choosing a productive mindset, especially when circumstances are difficult. It is the discipline of showing up, reframing setbacks, and staying committed when results are not immediate. Ian’s message resonates because it is grounded in experience, not theory.
As his physical strength returned, so did his sense of purpose. What began as a personal survival strategy evolved into a mission to help others navigate adversity with clarity and confidence.
The RINSE Methodology
From his journey, Ian developed the RINSE Methodology, a practical reframing system designed to help people move forward when life pushes back. RINSE stands for Remember, Imagine, Notice, Shift, and Expect.
This framework gives audiences a clear process for managing setbacks, breaking unhelpful thought patterns, and creating intentional momentum. Rather than focusing on what has been lost, RINSE helps individuals reconnect with purpose, visualize new outcomes, and shift expectations toward growth.
Ian uses real-life examples from his rehabilitation, family life, and athletic achievements to bring the methodology to life. Audiences leave with tools they can apply immediately, whether they are facing personal challenges, leadership pressure, or organizational change.
From Paralysis to Marathon Finisher
In 2022, Ian achieved something doctors once believed was impossible. He ran his first marathon. Not once, but twice. This achievement was not about proving others wrong. It was about honoring the mindset that carried him through years of uncertainty, pain, and rebuilding.
Running marathons became a symbol of what is possible when belief is paired with consistent action. It reinforced Ian’s core message: setbacks are not the end of the story. They are setups for a comeback.
His journey continues to inspire people across industries, reminding them that progress is rarely linear and that resilience is a skill that can be developed.
Book Ian Bowen for Your Event
When you book Ian Bowen for your event, you bring more than an inspirational story to the stage. You bring a speaker who connects deeply, communicates with authenticity, and equips audiences with practical tools for real change.
Ian speaks to leaders, teams, and individuals who are navigating pressure, uncertainty, or transition. His message is especially powerful for organizations seeking to build resilience, accountability, and a culture that embraces challenge rather than avoids it.
As the founder of Positive Persistence, Ian’s mission is clear: to help people overcome adversity, rise beyond their challenges, and realize their potential by developing a Watch Me Mindset.
Ian Bowen leaves audiences with belief, clarity, and a renewed sense of what is possible when persistence meets purpose.
Customer Reviews
5 of 5
Ian has a truly inspirational story. His gift is helping others believe in themselves and motivating others to become the best version of themselves. I use his tools every day to grow as an individual. His positivity is truly contagious as he will always be the most uplifting person in the room. I’m glad he shares his amazing gift!
Jackie Rogers
5 of 5
Ian is the man! This guy is so inspirational, has a heart of gold, and will inspire your audience. Highly recommend you book Ian to level up your crew! You will be happy you did!
Bryce HensonCEO Fitbody Bootcamp, Inc
5 of 5
You took the audience on a journey while giving them something to sink their teeth into with actionable steps and how they can be applied to any challenge they might face. It struck a chord that we will all encounter hardship at one time or another but the mindset surrounding it will dictate our approach to either sitting in the problem or finding a solution... and quitting never an option.
Ryan GoldsteinOwner
5 of 5
Ian’s story is truly inspiring. He taught us some real world tools we can use for ourselves and when coaching our clients/athletes. Ian has a presence, level of stoicism, and strength of a man that has been through hell and back. If you want an story of inspiration and perseverance, look no further.
James SwiftFitness Entrepreneur
5 of 5
I thought Ian did a great job of doing back to back presentations and modifying to reach both the middle school and high school students. Our students were engaged and both groups had questions for him after the presentations. He was very gracious and met with both groups during their lunch periods. I had the opportunity to check in on both lunch periods and found several students reaching out to him. I have even talked about his "Watch Me" mentality to my grandchildren. I think any group would be lucky if they chose Ian as their guest speaker. He has a great motivational message.
Sharon BrimberryPresident Sheridan Education Foundation, Inc
Rated 5.00/5 based on 5 customer reviews
Keynotes
Keynote by Ian Bowen:
WATCH ME MINDSET
Combining unwavering positivity and relentless determination to achieve the unthinkable.
What if you'd like to start and grow a venture that serves others, deliver a powerful talk or write a book, and finish a demanding personal project—without letting fear or doubt hold you back?
Surveys have shown that approximately 70% of people experience feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt, which prevent them from embracing their challenges and relentlessly pursuing their dreams. Those who struggle with self doubt are often unaware that they can cultivate their mindset to achieve the unthinkable. And that the power of belief, resilience, and unwavering persistence can transform challenges into triumphs. So what are the keys to overcoming our limiting beliefs?
As a paraplegic who defied the odds and became a marathon runner, Ian Bowen understands what it takes to achieve the unthinkable. But along our journey towards success we inevitably encounter setbacks that can affect our confidence and our “mindset.” Ian believes that mindset is everything, and by creating a Watch Me Mindset we can tap into our potential, crush limiting beliefs and rise above our challenges. In this impactful and engaging program, Ian shares how we can build resilience and self-confidence to conquer life’s challenges. Learn the three pillars of creating a “Watch Me Mindset” — Wash, R.I.N.S.E and Repeat — and how with the right mindset you can not just survive, but thrive against the odds and achieve the unthinkable.
Takeaways:
- How to identify negative thoughts and stop them before they turn into limiting belief.
- How to use the R.I.N.S.E method to overcome your challenges.
- How to adopt empowering language and mindset and replace powerless words to fuel action and confidence.
- The 3 pillars to creating a Watch Me Mindset, so that you become the driver of your outcomes, not a bystander to circumstance.
Keynote by Ian Bowen:
BELIEVE YOU'RE UNSTOPPABLE
How I Went from Paraplegic to Marathon Runner
Surveys have shown that approximately 70% of people experience feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt, which prevent them from embracing their challenges and relentlessly pursuing their dreams.
Those who struggle with self doubt are often unaware that they can cultivate their mindset to embrace the impossible. And that the power of belief, resilience, and unwavering persistence can transform challenges into triumphs
TAKEAWAYS
In this keynote, attendees will explore the concept of empowerment through belief, understanding the crucial importance of self-belief in achieving seemingly unreachable goals. They will learn how to develop resilience and persistence when faced with life's challenges, utilizing practical strategies applicable in both personal and professional contexts. Participants will discover effective methods for setting realistic goals and breaking them down into actionable steps, making the journey to success more manageable and motivating. Ultimately, they will leave the session with a renewed sense of motivation and the tools necessary to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.
OBJECTIVES
- Inspire attendees to adopt a mindset of positivity and persistence in the face of adversity.
- Provide practical strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving personal and professional goals.
- Encourage participants to share their own stories of resilience and motivate them to conquer their next challenge
OUTCOMES
Audience will leave with a renewed sense of purpose and motivation to confront their own challenges, equipped with actionable tools and techniques to enhance their resilience and goal-setting skills. By tapping into their potential for greatness, individuals will start to create the next best version of themselves.
Keynote by Ian Bowen:
THE POWER OF POSITIVE PERSISTENCE
UNLOCKING RESILIENCE IN LEADERSHIP
According to Gallup research 82% of companies have poor performing employees in management roles. This statistic highlights a major problem with identifying and selecting effective leaders within companies, which means a large majority of managers may lack the necessary skills to effectively lead teams.
Gallup estimates that the lack of leadership capability in the U.S. can cost corporations up to $550 billion annually.
This engaging talk will challenge leaders to embrace a mindset that fosters growth, adaptability, and perseverance, equipping them with the tools to navigate obstacles and inspire their teams. At the same time illustrating how resilience and unwavering determination can unlock potential and drive success.
TAKEAWAYS
Leaders will gain valuable insights into the concept of positive persistence and its potential to reshape their leadership approach during team or 1x1 mtgs. They will learn effective strategies for cultivating resilience both in themselves and within their teams, fostering an environment that encourages support and growth. Attendees will discover techniques for adapting to challenges and setbacks, transforming them into opportunities for development. Ultimately, they will leave with actionable methods to inspire and motivate their teams, creating a culture that embraces persistence and achievement
OBJECTIVES
- Inspire leaders to adopt a mindset of positive persistence in their leadership styles.
- Provide practical strategies for enhancing resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
- Empower participants to motivate and uplift their teams, fostering a supportive and productive work environment.
OUTCOMES
- Audience will develop a renewed commitment to resilience and persistence in their leadership practices.
- Participants will acquire practical tools and techniques for enhancing their leadership effectiveness.
- The event will create a collaborative atmosphere, encouraging attendees to share experiences and support each other in their leadership journeys.
Keynote by Ian Bowen:
LEAD AND TEACH WITH IMPACT
THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF POSITIVE PERSISTENCE
According to research from the Education Week Research Center, a national study of over 600 K-12 teachers found that nearly all (98%) teachers believe that integrating a growth mindset into classrooms will lead to improved student learning, indicating widespread support for growth mindset approaches among educators.
However, teachers all too often aren’t sure how to implement this. In this impactful presentation, Ian shares insights on how educators can instill a mindset of resilience and determination in their students, equipping them to face challenges head-on. By drawing on his personal journey and proven strategies, Ian empowers educators to foster an environment where students learn to embrace persistence as a key to their success. This keynote is designed to inspire teachers to teach mindset and effectively cultivate positive persistence in their students.
TAKEAWAYS
- Understanding Positive Persistence: Gain clarity on the concept of positive persistence and its significance in the educational context.
- Strategies for Instilling Persistence: Learn actionable methods to help students develop resilience and a growth mindset, fostering their ability to overcome obstacles.
- Creating a Supportive Environment: Discover how to build a classroom culture that encourages risk-taking, collaboration, and perseverance among students.
- Tools for Impactful Teaching: Leave with practical techniques to inspire and motivate students, helping them recognize the value of persistence in their learning journeys.
OBJECTIVES
- Inspire educators to embrace the principles of positive persistence in their teaching practices.
- Provide practical strategies for cultivating resilience in students, enabling them to thrive in challenging situations.
- Empower teachers to create a classroom environment that celebrates persistence and supports student growth.
OUTCOMES
- Attendees will acquire a renewed sense of purpose in their teaching, committed to instilling persistence in their students
- Participants will walk away with actionable tools and techniques that they can implement immediately in their classrooms.
Keynote by Ian Bowen:
TURNING SETBACKS INTO COMEBACKS
HARNESSING THE POWER OF POSITIVE PERSISTENCE
Join Ian Bowen, a motivational speaker and resilience expert, as he empowers graduating students to transform setbacks into comebacks through the power of positive persistence. In this inspiring presentation, Ian shares his personal journey of overcoming challenges and offers invaluable insights into how students can navigate the uncertainties of the future with confidence. Through engaging stories and practical strategies, Ian equips graduates with the tools they need to embrace resilience, adapt to change, and pursue their goals with unwavering determination. This keynote is designed to inspire students to view setbacks as stepping stones to success.
TAKEAWAYS
- Understanding Positive Persistence: Learn what positive persistence means and how it can be a game-changer in personal and professional pursuits.
- Tools for Resilience: Discover actionable strategies for building resilience, including mindset shifts and practical exercises to handle adversity.
- Adapting to Challenges: Gain insights into how to embrace change and turn obstacles into opportunities for growth and success.
- Actionable Steps for Success: Leave with a clear roadmap of steps to take in the face of setbacks, empowering students to stay focused on their goals and dreams.
OBJECTIVES
- Inspire graduates to harness the power of positive persistence as they transition to the next phase of their lives.
- Provide practical tools and strategies that students can apply to navigate challenges and setbacks effectively.
- Empower graduates to cultivate a resilient mindset that embraces growth and adaptability in an ever-changing world.
OUTCOMES
- Audience will walk away with a renewed sense of optimism and determination to tackle future challenges.
- Participants will acquire actionable tools and techniques to foster resilience and maintain focus on their goals.
- The event will create a supportive atmosphere where graduates can connect, share experiences, and motivate one another as they embark on their new journeys.
Ian Bowen Speaking Reel
Watch Ian Bowen in action!
