GRIT, NO QUIT:
The 4 Keys to Unlocking Mental Toughness and the Endurance Mindset

Breakout Session
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DESCRIPTION:

GRIT, NO QUIT is a powerful keynote that explores the four key components of psychological hardiness—Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence—to help individuals persist and persevere in the face of adversity. In a world where financial stress, workplace challenges, and personal struggles impact overall well-being, resilience is not just about endurance but about strategic mindset shifts. Burnout is at an all-time high, affecting individuals across industries as they struggle to balance work, responsibilities, and personal well-being. The ability to sustain energy and motivation in the face of exhaustion is critical. This keynote provides actionable strategies to help individuals overcome burnout by shifting their mindset and applying the Four C’s of psychological hardiness to maintain motivation, focus, and well-being. Aaron speaks from experience. Having biked coast to coast across America, he has learned firsthand how to push through discomfort, manage mental fatigue, and stay committed to a goal despite obstacles. His journey is a testament to the power of grit, resilience, and mental toughness, and he brings these lessons into the room to empower others.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

  • Identify key signs of burnout and describe how mental resilience can support sustained performance under pressure.

  • Articulate their personal sources of purpose and how aligning with them can increase motivation and fulfillment at work.

  • Apply grit-based strategies to overcome obstacles, maintain focus, and navigate change with greater confidence.

PRESENTER: Kurt Wismer

Aaron Hunnel is an ultra-endurance athlete, author, and military veteran dedicated to helping people unlock their potential and achieve their goals. His coaching has empowered individuals of all fitness levels to build confidence, break barriers, and grow. After overcoming his own physical and mental struggles post-deployment, Aaron found purpose in endurance racing and coaching. He played a key role in developing national leadership and readiness programs across the Department of Defense, shaping high-performing teams. During the pandemic, he launched Ride 2 Stop Suicide, riding 3,000 miles in 22 days from California to Maryland to raise awareness for veteran mental health. Now retired from the military, he continues his work as a speaker, coach, and consultant, helping people and organizations thrive. Aaron is a certified level 2 Master Resilience Trainer, Certified Intrinsic Coach, WELCOA Top 25