Availability dot

Available to book

Mountaineer & leadership speaker

Adrian Ballinger

Transform teams into peak performers with Adrian Ballinger, speaker and world-class mountaineer. Adrian works with organizations to develop leadership resilience and strategic goal achievement, delivering insights from summiting multiple 8,000-meter peaks including Everest six times.

Trusted by Alpenglow Expeditions

Adrian Ballinger, Speaker | Mountaineer, Leader & Team Motivator
Adrian Ballinger

Adrian Ballinger

Los Angeles, United States

Typical fee range

Contact PepTalk for fees

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

Get Adrian's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Adrian

Los Angeles, United States

Starting from

Contact PepTalk for fees

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Adrian Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Adrian Ballinger's biography

At a glance

  • Founder and head guide of Alpenglow Expeditions
  • First to ski Manaslu and skied two 8,000-meter peaks
  • Summited three 8,000-meter peaks in three weeks
Adrian Ballinger is a world-class mountaineer, business leader, and professional speaker. As founder and head guide of the internationally acclaimed Alpenglow Expeditions, Adrian envisioned a more holistic climbing experience for his clients than the status quo. Focusing on small groups and client education, this vision continues to change how big mountains are climbed. What started in 2004 with three trips on one continent with one lead guide has grown into a thriving company. How was Alpenglow able to expand to 10 times its size in 10 years, all while setting new industry standards and expectations? Adrian believes running a business is like climbing a mountain and attributes his extensive mountaineering experiences to his company's success. As a professional athlete, first and foremost, Adrian is the only American who has skied two 8,000-meter peaks, was the first person to ski Manaslu, the 8th tallest mountain in the world, and, in 2011, became the first person to summit three 8,000-meter peaks in only three weeks (Everest twice and Lhotse once). He is the only American guide with AMGA and IFMGA guide certifications and has achieved more than ten summits of 8,000-meter peaks (including six summits of Mt. Everest). If you want to inspire your rope team to work together to achieve their goals or find the path to making your business a success, then it's time to start your ascent to the top with Adrian.

Adrian's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Adrian

Adrian's unparalleled achievements in mountaineering and his transformative leadership in growing Alpenglow Expeditions exemplify his mastery of teamwork, resilience, and strategic planning. By booking him as a speaker, your team or business will gain invaluable insights from his unique blend of high-altitude adventures and business acumen, inspiring you to conquer your own Everest. Let Adrian guide you through the principles of success that transcend mountains and boardrooms alike, empowering your group to reach new heights together.

Check Adrian's availability

Trusted by Alpenglow Expeditions

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Adrian Ballinger for my next event?
Email adrian.ballinger@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Adrian's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Adrian Ballinger's speaking style like?
Adrian Ballinger uses a business-as-mountaineering framework, drawing direct parallels between his expeditions and the growth of Alpenglow Expeditions to illustrate leadership and team performance principles.
What topics does Adrian Ballinger specialise in?
Adrian Ballinger speaks on high-altitude mountaineering, business growth, and team leadership. He is the founder of Alpenglow Expeditions, the only American to have skied two 8,000-metre peaks, and holds both AMGA and IFMGA guide certifications alongside six summits of Everest.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.