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Record-breaking climber & speaker

Dierdre Wolownick

Transform impossible goals into reality with Dierdre Wolownick, speaker and record-breaking climber. Dierdre works with organizations to foster resilience, overcome age barriers, and achieve extraordinary goals, delivering multilingual keynotes recognized through award-winning documentaries and global speaking engagements.

Trusted by Presentation Summit, Kinecta Credit Union

Dierdre Wolownick, Speaker | Climber, Author, Conductor
Dierdre Wolownick

Dierdre Wolownick

Las Vegas, United States

Typical fee range

$2k–5k

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

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Las Vegas, United States

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$2k–5k

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+44 203 835 2929

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Dierdre Wolownick's biography

At a glance

  • Oldest woman to climb Yosemite’s El Capitan
  • Author of Success in 7 Steps and The Sharp End of Life
  • Selected as a “Leading Woman to Watch in 2025” by Karen Sands
Dierdre Wolownick is a remarkable figure whose life story inspires audiences worldwide. As the mother of renowned solo climber Alex Honnold, Dierdre has carved out her unique path in climbing and beyond. She became the oldest woman to climb El Capitan in Yosemite, which required immense courage, stamina, and determination. Her 3,000-foot ascent is a testament to the truth that age is no barrier to achieving extraordinary goals. Beyond her climbing achievements, Dierdre is a professor, orchestra conductor, marathon runner, and author. Her fluency in English, Italian, French, and Spanish has enabled her to connect with diverse audiences across the globe. As a motivational speaker, she has delivered talks at numerous prestigious events, including keynote addresses at the Presentation Summit in San Diego and the Kinecta Credit Union Annual Conference. Her ability to engage audiences in multiple languages highlights her versatility and depth as a communicator. Dierdre's journey is not just about physical accomplishments but also about overcoming personal challenges and redefining what is possible at any stage of life. Her story has been captured in the documentary "Climbing Into Life," which has garnered 11 awards, including Best Feature Documentary. Additionally, she is featured in a Canadian documentary about senior rock climbers, further cementing her status as an inspiring figure in the climbing community. In her latest book, Success in 7 Steps, Dierdre reveals the proven method she used to achieve her many accomplishments, offering readers a simple-to-follow, step-by-step roadmap for turning their goals into reality. Dierdre’s multi-faceted career and her ability to inspire others through her experiences make her a captivating speaker. Her message resonates with anyone who has ever faced a daunting challenge or dreamed about a goal that seems impossible. She illustrates the courage, perseverance, and the right approach that make the impossible achievable. Using her unique perspective that encourages audiences to pursue their own dreams regardless of age or circumstance, Dierdre offers a simple method that will set them on the course toward their goal — the same one she used to become a record-holding rock climber, an orchestra founder and conductor, a publisher, a marathoner, and so many other achievements. With this method, you can make any dream an accomplishment.

Dierdre's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

The Secret Key To Success
The difference between success and failure may not be what you think. Money, fame or accolades have nothing to do with it. Successfully realising your professional or personal objectives is a simple matter if you base your approach on this simple definition and proceed accordingly. In this session, Dierdre Wolownick shares the secret key to success.
Everything Worthwhile Starts With A Dream
It's never too late to climb that mountain. In her 40s, Dierdre taught herself to swim. In her 50s, she took up running. Then, at 60, she became a rock climber — and not just any rock climber. At the age of 66, Dierdre made a record-breaking ascent up El Capitan, Yosemite National Park’s granite monolith that has some of the longest, most challenging rock climbing routes in the world. And she did it in style. The route she tackled then, Lurking Fear, typically takes four days to complete. Dierdre did it in one. Dierdre's inspiring story shows that human beings can do practically anything when we put our mind to it. Book in a session with Dierdre and be inspired today to make a better tomorrow.
How To Succeed: At Anything
Learn to break down that daydream in the back of your mind into easily-achievable ‘baby steps’ organised in a way that inevitably allows you to make it a reality with Dierdre Wolownick. Go ahead: dream big! Or Even have the audacity to go after multiple dreams — just as Dierdre has done.
How To Achieve Your Dream Goal At Any Age
Dierdre Wolownick discusses how the willingness to learn is foundational for employee morale, creative thinking, and collaboration. Her presentation, based on her book Success in 7 Steps, outlines a step-by-step method to achieve any goal, regardless of age. Attendees will learn to distinguish between dreams and goals, identify barriers to pursuing their dreams, and follow a structured sequence of steps toward success. This approach fosters a positive corporate culture and enhances overall productivity.

Why we recommend booking Dierdre

Join Dierdre Wolownick, the oldest woman to climb El Capitan, for transformative insights into overcoming challenges. As a linguist, professor, conductor, and motivational speaker, Dierdre provides expertise that empowers teams and businesses to achieve new heights.

Check Dierdre's availability

Trusted by Presentation Summit, Kinecta Credit Union

Featured Projects

Dierdre Wolownick - Success In 7 Steps book cover
Dierdre Wolownick - The Sharp End Of Life: A Mother's Story book cover
Dierdre Wolownick - Climbing Into Life book cover

frequently asked questions

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How do I book Dierdre Wolownick for my next event?
Email dierdre.wolownick@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 Dierdre'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.
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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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I need a last-minute speaker. Can PepTalk help?

Yes. PepTalk regularly handles last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, host, or comedian quickly, often within days. Availability narrows as the date nears, so get in touch as early as you can. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.

How much does it cost to book a speaker through PepTalk?

Speaker fees vary by profile, format, and location. In the UK and Europe, virtual keynotes typically start around GBP 2,000, with top in-person speakers reaching GBP 25,000+; in the US, fees run from about USD 5,000 to USD 100,000+. Share your budget at getapeptalk.com and we'll shortlist to fit.

Can I book a speaker who isn't listed on the PepTalk website?

Yes. If a speaker isn't listed, tell PepTalk their name and the team will approach them for you. The network extends well beyond the public roster, and PepTalk regularly books speakers who don't appear on the site. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with the name.

How quickly will I get a speaker shortlist?

You'll receive a hand-picked shortlist within 24 hours of sharing your brief. Each suggestion comes with profiles, fees, and PepTalk's recommendation on the strongest fit. If you need options sooner for an urgent event, say so and the team will move faster. Start at getapeptalk.com.

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

Most bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker and are set out clearly in the contract before you confirm, so there are no surprises. PepTalk's team supports you through any change. Contact hello@getapeptalk.com as soon as plans shift.

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.

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.

Can I book a speaker for a virtual or hybrid event?

Yes. Most PepTalk speakers deliver virtual and hybrid sessions with live Q&A, and virtual keynotes usually cost less than in-person because there is no travel. Tell us your platform and format and we'll match speakers experienced in online delivery. Start at getapeptalk.com.

How do I brief an insights speaker on my organisation's strategic context?

Share your organisation's top 3 strategic priorities, current challenges, and the audience's role in delivering them. A simple one-page brief works perfectly. PepTalk speakers use this context to tailor insights that feel genuinely relevant — making your event far more impactful.

Can event entertainers customise their act for my company or industry?

Yes! Most event entertainers are happy to tailor their act to your brand, industry, or theme. From weaving in company jokes to incorporating your branding into their performance, personalisation makes all the difference. PepTalk's entertainers specialise in bespoke experiences that feel made just for your audience.