Hi, I’m Dana
A 3x Olympian who travels the globe teaching businesses how to achieve success in a way that’s long-lasting, sustainable, and rewarding.
The Road to Success Is Full of Potholes
Burnout. Perfectionism. Losing your focus. There are so many things that can sideline an otherwise promising career.
For me, it was all of the above.
During my 19 years as a swimmer, I overcame more setbacks, injuries, and distractions than I can count. I also juggled a career and a family at the same time. Along the way, I learned a lot about the nature of success—insights that I still use daily. Now I share what I’ve learned with companies across the globe through my keynotes and workshops.
This is my story.
Awards, Medals & World Records Broken
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3 Olympic Appearances
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6 World Records
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7 Olympic Medals:
5 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze -
32 International Medals
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My Career
Over my 19-year career as an elite swimmer, I competed in 3 Olympics, won 32 international medals, and broke 6 world records—despite many setbacks and hurdles along the way.
2004: In my first Olympics, I won a gold medal and broke a world record
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In 2008, I was heading down the path to burnout and missed making the Olympic team. Something had to change. I reevaluated my outlook and evolved my approach to life. It was hard, but in the process I learned how to perform at an elite level without sacrificing life’s other joys.
2012: I became the first woman to ever break 56 seconds in the 100m butterfly
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Now, I draw from my experiences to inspire others.
I teach the secrets that helped me become the fourth most gold-medaled athlete in US history while balancing a loving family and a rewarding career. My goal is to empower others to take control of their journey and live more fulfilling lives.
2016: I became the first USA swimmer to ever win a gold medal as a mother
My Family
No matter how focused I got on my swimming career, I never wanted to miss the opportunity to raise a loving family…which is why I was so elated when I gave birth to my first son, Arlen, in 2015.
Two years later, our family grew when I had my second son, Ryker.
My husband Andy and I always strive to put our children first and make sure to teach them the importance of understanding themselves and finding joy in the everyday moments of their lives.
Some of My Little-Known Interests
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Music
I played piano when I was young, and as a college graduation present to myself I bought an acoustic guitar. I’m slowly learning so that one day, I can sing my favorite songs with my kids.
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Crafting
Woodworking, fabric, clay—no matter the medium, I love working on handmade projects. I built my son’s school desk and a window breakfast bar. Next up is a kitchen table and my husband’s office setup.
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Minimalism
Life feels so hectic these days that I want my home to be a calm, healing space. Knowing what we own—and appreciating what we have—helps keep my family focused on what really matters.
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Gardening
I’m a newbie but fascinated with growing food. We have tomatoes, cucumbers, raspberries, brussel sprouts, and even lemon, fig, & clementine trees in our back yard!
