In 2001, at the age of 27, Chad Hymas’ life changed in an instant when a 2,000-pound bale of hay shattered his neck, leaving him a quadriplegic. But Chad’s dreams were not paralyzed that day—he became an example of what is possible. Chad is a best-selling author, motivational speaker, president of his own communications company, and recognized world-class wheelchair athlete; in 2003, Chad set a world record by wheeling his chair from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas (513 miles). He is also one of the youngest people ever to receive the Council of Peers Award for Excellence (CPAE) and to be inducted into the prestigious National Speaker Hall of Fame.
Chad’s speaking career in the areas of leadership, team building, customer service, and mastering change has brought him multiple honors. He served as president of the National Speakers Association Utah chapter and is a member of the elite Speakers Roundtable (one of twenty of the world’s top speakers). As a member of the National Speakers Association, Chad travels as many as 300,000 miles a year, captivating and entertaining audiences around the world. He has graced the stage of hundreds of professional and civic organizations, including Wells Fargo, Blue Cross Blue Shield, AT&T, Rainbird, IHC, American Express, Prudential Life, Vast FX, and Merrill Lynch. Chad inspires, motivates, and moves audiences, creating an experience that touches hearts for a lifetime. The Wall Street Journal deemed Chad as, “One of the top 10 most influential people in the world.”
Interviewed by our Different & Able President and Founder, Alexandra Nicklas, Chad talks about several topics including safety, perspective, faith, family, overcoming the unknown and how he transformed his mindset after his life altering accident. He also discusses the life lessons he learned from his father and how to become the best person you can possibly be. As Chad states, “This is a perfect time to build yourself. There is no greater time to start than when you feel like you have lost everything!”
Bio Provided by Meet Chad - Chad Hymas
