What can you achieve if you accept the possibility and even the probability of failure?

At 40 years old and a mom to two toddlers, Alyssa decided to find out. She immersed herself in the subculture of strongman, the most extreme end of the strength sports world, and trained to pull an 18-wheeler. Between lifting boulders, flipping monster truck tires, and hoisting kegs over her head, she met with elite athletes, coaches, scientists, researchers, and psychologists, and learned about the way pushing our limits shifts how we see ourselves in all aspects of our lives:

Inviting More Failure Into Your Life

We’re wired to avoid failure, worried that stumbling is an indication of our innate ability. But fear of failure can have real consequences. For some, it can lead to heightened anxiety and depression. How you respond to failure, however, is a good signifier of your level of resilience, which has been shown to have far-reaching implications, from perceptions and psychological responses to stress in a work environment to improved quality of life with aging. And how do you strengthen resilience? By embracing failure. Through her story of harnessing the pursuit of strength to turn a lifelong fear of failure into a consistent drive to chase it, Alyssa illustrates how each misstep pushes us a little closer to achieving our goals.

Taking Up Space

Women are often told to strive to be smaller. When Alyssa entered the world of competitive strength, she learned the power of taking up space. Accepting and embracing the idea that you don't have to constantly try to be smaller in your body translates to the amount of space you allow yourself to take up everywhere else in your life: at school, at home, at work.

FOR BOOKING INQUIRIES

For availability, to discuss speaking topics, and for fee information, please email: alyssaages@gmail.com

 

book alyssa to speak at your event

Alyssa is a journalist, author, strongwoman competitor, endurance athlete, and mom of two. She has also pulled an 18-wheeler with just her body and a rope and completed an Ironman triathlon.

Topics of Interest:

How to push your limits and learn what you’re capable of achieving

The rebellious act of taking up space

The life-changing power of embracing failure

 

“Alyssa Ages' riveting presentation, was a transformative experience that reshaped my understanding of strength in its most profound sense. Alyssa eloquently unveiled that strength transcends the mere physical; it's a harmonious blend of mental fortitude and resilience that supports us throughout the various stages of life—from the innocence of childhood through the challenges of our fertile years, and into the wisdom of our later years.

In a society where women are often encouraged to minimize their presence, Alyssa's message was a clarion call to reject these constraints. She inspired us with the powerful metaphor of the kitten and the lion, urging us not to underestimate our capacity for influence and presence. Her words were a reminder that taking up space is not just a right but a necessity for growth and impact.

Alyssa's ability to engage and captivate her audience was unparalleled. The depth of conversation that her presentation sparked was testament to the profound impact of her message. A week later, the discussions she ignited are still alive with energy and insight, underscoring the lasting impression she left on us all.

Her presentation was not just a talk; it was a journey—a journey that challenged us to view strength in a new light, to embrace our inherent power, and to live boldly and unapologetically. Alyssa Ages didn't just speak; she moved us, transforming how we see ourselves and our potential to thrive in every facet of life.”

 - Laura Brandao, Women with Vision