alison young "Blissful Hiker" Keynote Speaker from Minneapolis, MN

Alison Young – known as the "Blissful Hiker" – is a dynamic resilience speaker whose global hiking adventures serve as a backdrop for her inspiring storytelling. With over 12,000 miles traversed across six continents as a solo, middle-aged long-distance backpacker, Alison offers a unique perspective on embracing challenges and transforming adversity into growth. Her journey is not just about physical endurance; it reflects her remarkable resilience as a manager of a neurological movement disorder and a cancer survivor. With a titanium-enhanced spirit, she navigates both the trails and trials of life with grace and determination. Alison's powerful lessons on resilience resonate with organizations seeking to inspire their teams to embrace challenges and reinvent themselves. Her captivating insights empower audiences to harness their own strength and find beauty in the struggle, making her a sought-after speaker for those looking to cultivate a culture of resilience. Signature talks include: • Hike Your Own Hike, the fine art of reinvention • Quit with Grit, intentionally letting go as a key to success • At the Speed of Andante, capturing the creative muse "To listen to Alison Young talk, is to embark on a journey with a trusted friend." –Jon Limbacher, President, Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra Alison Young is an award-winning professional flutist and a syndicated host on American Public Media, renowned for her creative work on the Blissful Hiker Podcast™. This unique podcast weaves together found sound, flute music, and personal essays, offering listeners an immersive experience that has garnered over 100,000 downloads. Her dual expertise as a musician and storyteller resonates deeply with audiences. Alison earned her Master of Music, graduating summa cum laude from the Cleveland Institute of Music, and holds degrees from the University of Southern California. Her musical journey began at the Interlochen Arts Academy, where she honed her talents in an arts-intensive environment. With a distinguished 20-year career, Alison has served as Principal Flute with prestigious orchestras, including the Boston, Atlanta, and Houston Symphonies. Her remarkable accomplishments include two solo albums, a tour in Argentina, and teaching masterclasses in China, all reflecting her versatility and passion for music. Through her artistry and storytelling, Alison continues to inspire and connect with audiences around the world.