James Bertrand is a man who has spent his entire life defying the odds. Born a twin with a survival rate of just 10%, James beat a one-in-two-million chance simply to be here. His early years were defined by resilience; he underwent 33 operations and spent over five years in surgical recovery. Despite these immense physical challenges, his greatest test came when he became a double amputee. Faced with the reality of a surgery completed by only around 500 people worldwide, James chose to confront the unknown head-on, proving that even when life does not go to plan, growth remains possible.
James is a living example of the power of reframing perspective. After being told what he would not be able to do, he made it his mission to redefine his limits. He made history as the first double amputee to complete the Red Bull 400, widely known as the world’s steepest and toughest 400m race. His achievements form the foundation of his business, Anything Made Possible (AMP), through which he empowers others to step outside their comfort zones and realise their potential.
Now booked as a speaker, James predominantly works with men in high-pressure, male-dominated industries. He believes that vulnerability is a superpower rather than a weakness. By speaking openly about the mental and emotional toll of his journey, he challenges stereotypes around male strength and creates an environment where others feel able to speak up. His talks move beyond corporate clichés or quick performance wins; they focus on helping individuals rebuild self-belief and take ownership of their progress.
When you hire James for your conference or event, he delivers:
- A New Definition of Strength: James leads with vulnerability to show that openness drives connection and resilience in the workplace.
- The Incremental Success Loop: a practical framework for breaking down intimidating goals into clear, manageable actions.
- Navigating Change and Discomfort: insights into staying grounded and taking ownership when faced with unchosen change or the unknown.
- Goal Setting and Self-Belief: tools to help employees move on from the past, identify avoided goals, and build a limitless mindset.
James does not simply tell his story; he helps his audience reframe their own. He is a strong choice for organisations looking to build genuine connection, mental resilience, and a culture where anything feels possible.
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James Bertrand's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Overcoming Challenges & Building Resilience
- Self-Belief & Confidence for Success
- Embracing Change & Thriving in Uncertainty
Official Feedback from In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback from In-Person Events:
“Your talk extremely inspiring. I especially enjoyed how you were able to bring in humour, and talk through your relationship with your family which was just so wonderful. I felt like the individuals who were in the room benefited immensely from your talk, and we all were able to connect your experiences to our own personal & work lives.” - JustEat
“It was fantastic to have James speak at one of our conferences. As one of our patients, it was amazing for him to share his story with us. James shared his journey of his life as a double amputee and how great life can be if you have the right mindset and resilience with also a dash of humour. I can confidently say that he inspired everyone in the room.” - Dorset Orthopaedic, Ottobock Care
“James’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a former student and the first to deliver the valedictorian speech in our university’s 170-year history, he embodies resilience, determination, and excellence. His talk was both powerful and deeply personal, leaving our students motivated to push beyond their limits. James continues to be a role model for our community, proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible.” - St Mary’s University, Twickenham London
“Having James return to speak at our school was an unforgettable experience. His story of resilience, perseverance, and triumph over adversity left a lasting impact on our students. As a former student, James is a true inspiration, showing that challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and determination. His journey proves that anything is possible, and we are incredibly proud of all he has achieved.” - The Chalfonts Community College
- 2025 - Spoke at a men's mental health talk for 245 Hammersmith Road
- 2023 - First double amputee to complete the Red Bull 400 (World’s Toughest 400m Race)
- 2018 - Donated £5,300 to Great Ormond Street Hospital
- 2018 Raised £53,000 in one year to fund life-changing Osseointegration surgery
- 2017-2023 - Partnered with major brands including Just Eat UK & Ottobock UK
- 2000s-2010s - 30+ surgeries including double amputation by age 20
How to hire James Bertrand
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring James Bertrand for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do NOT accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.