Kotaro Umeda is a globally accomplished professional athlete, five-time published author, and award-winning motivational speaker. A National Alliance on Mental Illness Hall of Fame inductee and first-generation Japanese immigrant, he made history as the first Asian athlete to represent Joinville Esporte Clube in Brazil, competing professionally across Brazil, Portugal, the United States, and Hong Kong. He helps individuals and organizations anchor their identity to something that outlasts their career — so when the title disappears, they already know who they are.

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Drawing from nearly a decade of experience across sport, leadership, and mental resilience work, Kotaro has spoken to corporate organizations, schools, universities, nonprofits, and faith-based communities on topics including identity, self-leadership, discipline, resilience, and sustainable performance. His five books — available in English, Japanese, and Portuguese — extend that work beyond the stage. Known for his calm presence and honest storytelling, his talks move beyond motivation, equipping audiences with tools they can apply immediately.