Leamington Body Builder Wins Second Place at Speaker Slam: North America’s Largest Inspirational Speaking Competition
Canadian National Bodybuilding Champion Richie Keirouz Wins Second Place at Speaker Slam’s Resilience Competition, Earning Spot in the Inspirational Speaking Finals
Speaker Slam, North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition, has announced Richie Keirouz as the second-place winner of its first competition of the 2025 season. Competing on the theme of “Resilience,” Richie delivered a deeply personal and transformative speech at Lula Lounge in Toronto on January 28, 2025, earning him a coveted spot at the Grand Slam – The Inspirational Speaking Finals.
Richie, a Canadian National Bodybuilding Champion, self-development coach, and motivational speaker, captivated the audience with his speech, “Rock Bottom to Limitless,” where he shared his powerful journey of overcoming adversity. His story took listeners through his fall from success, struggles with health and self-doubt, and his incredible comeback—proving that resilience is the key to transformation at any stage of life.
“Winning second place at Speaker Slam was an incredible experience. Stepping onto that stage was about more than just competing—it was about sharing my story in a way that could help others see their own strength. If there’s one thing I want people to take away, it’s that it’s never too late to rewrite your story and push for something greater,” – Richie Keirouz
At 47 years old, Richie defied the odds by reclaiming his health, discipline, and ambition—ultimately winning the Canadian National Bodybuilding Championships. But his story is about much more than fitness. Just a few years ago, he lost his business, his confidence, and his sense of purpose. He turned to unhealthy habits, until one moment changed everything.
“I sat in my car, gripping the steering wheel, wondering how I got here. My business was gone, my health was failing, and I didn’t recognize the man I had become. But rock bottom wasn’t the end—it was the beginning of a comeback,” Richie shared in his speech.
Through fitness, mindset, and unshakable resilience, Richie rebuilt his life—showing that when you’re in peak physical condition, you’re in peak mental condition. And when you’re in peak mental condition, you are limitless.
Adding to the excitement of the evening, Paralympic gold medalist and Windsor native Danielle Campo took the stage as the co-host of Speaker Slam’s Resilience competition. Danielle, who previously won the 2024 Grand Slam and the title of Inspirational Speaker of the Year, brought her signature passion and energy to the event, inspiring speakers and audience members alike.
“Having another local champion like Danielle Campo involved made this experience even more special,” said Richie. “She’s a true example of resilience, and to share the stage with her was an honor.”
Who Took Home the Top Spots?
1st Place – Regula Fischer (Zürich, Switzerland)
Transformation & Leadership Expert | Speech: “The Call That Changed My Life”
Regula delivered a humorous yet deeply insightful speech about self-awareness and overcoming the fear of judgment. Her message highlighted how resilience is built through stepping into discomfort and choosing growth over fear.
3rd Place – Lyne Frank (Grimsby, Ontario, Canada)
Educator & Wellness Expert | Speech: “Resilience Redefined”
Lyne shared a powerful story about overcoming personal loss and burnout. She redefined resilience as knowing when to pause, listen to oneself, and build a life that nurtures both success and well-being.
What’s Next for Richie Keirouz?
As the second-place winner, Richie advances to the Grand Slam – The Inspirational Speaking Finals on November 22, 2025, at the CBC Glenn Gould Studio in Toronto. There, he will compete against the year’s best speakers for the title of Inspirational Speaker of the Year and a prize package valued at up to $50,000, including $5,000 in cash.
Richie continues to inspire through coaching, motivational speaking, and social media, where he shares insights on resilience, discipline, and personal transformation.
Speaker Slam is a premier speaker development agency known for hosting North America’s largest inspirational speaking competition. It is renowned for its commitment to uncovering and nurturing speaking talents. Established in Toronto in 2016, the organization has become a pivotal platform for storytellers and change-makers from around the globe. Participants share life stories that inspire and motivate communities to take meaningful action. Speaker Slam’s events have been featured on prominent platforms like CityNews, CTV News, Breakfast Television, Global News, and OMNI News, showcasing its impact.