Rob started his career as a geography high-school teacher in England. But after his transformational expeditions, he is now a sought-after keynote speaker with two books and two National Geographic TV shows.

His first big expedition, Cycling Home From Siberia, was a three-year, 50,000 km bicycle ride from the far edge of Siberia to London, via Papua New Guinea, Tibet and Afghanistan. On the way, he camped at minus 40, hitch-hiked by boat from Hong Kong to Australia, and cycled over the Himalayas.

His second major expedition, Walking Home From Mongolia, was a six-month, 5,000 km walk from Mongolia to Hong Kong, through the heart of China. This included walking across the Gobi Desert in winter, along parts of the Great Wall, and down the banks of the frozen Yellow River.

His latest and hardest expedition was a 71-day, solo walk across the notorious Taklamakan Desert in Western China. This involved hauling a home-made cart laden with water for 1,000km, crossing giant dunes, and swimming swollen rivers.

Despite all the challenges he has been through, Rob has not turned into a super-tough guy. But he has learned the difference a good mindset can make. He has learned that our abilities are not fixed, and that we can grow in many ways, including to become more positive, courageous and resilient.

As a passionate believer in our ability to grow and adapt, Rob is continually looking to push outside his comfort zone, and grow through whatever new challenges come his way. This may be through his speaking, his writing, his charity work, or through his expeditions.

Topics covered include:

  • Thrive amid change & uncertainty
  • Embrace challenge
  • Collaborate better
  • Persevere under pressure & rise from setback
  • Achieve great goals
  • Harness fears & take the best risks
  • Improve self-care & wellness
  • Grow self-discipline

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WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Microsoft
Rob Lilwall's journey is amazing. His story is a great way for organizations to deliver a unique way of thinking, focusing on the growth mindset, the importance of clear goals, self-focus, reflection, perseverance, connections, risk-taking and problem solving.
– Microsoft
Deutsche Bank
His inspiring, humorous and highly engaging talk detailing his cycling journey home from Siberia resonated strongly with all of us. His ability to intertwine themes that are so important to thrive in the corporate world be they a growth mindset, perseverance, focus, partnership, balanced risk were very resonant. I would highly recommend Rob and would hope that we are able to work with him again in the future.
– Deutsche Bank