About Nate
I’m Nate Burkhalter—an engineer-turned-athlete, adventurer, speaker, and man of faith who believes there are
no limits to what God can do through a surrendered life.
For ten years, I worked as a mechanical engineer, leading international energy projects for exxon mobil in places like Norway, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, and across the U.S., But purpose was calling me into something more.
After a life-altering burn injury in college ended my football dreams, I discovered a deeper faith and resilience that would shape everything that followed.
That journey led me into the world of unique athletics, where I competed as a 7-time American Ninja Warrior on NBC
(3-time National Finalist) and went on to win Exatlón USA on nBC's telemundo network
—Exatlon is the world’s most grueling athletic reality TV competition, which lasted 6 months - no cell phones, no tv, no air-condition. i lived in a shack with 30 other world famous pro athletes. It was survivor meets ANW meets big brother.
Along the way, I’ve traveled to 35+ countries across 5 continents for work, competition, and mission trips—serving in orphanages in Haiti and Uganda, building clean water systems in Nicaragua and Cuba, and serving schools and churches in the slums of Mumbai, India. These experiences lit a fire in me to use every platform I’m given to inspire people to live boldly, love deeply, and trust God fully.
I've overcome 6 season ending injuries, and learned to Persevere on my way to some great victories and championships!
Today, I live in Dallas, Texas, with my incredible wife Emily, and we’re expecting twins (boy/girl) in the summer of 2025. I spend my time speaking, coaching, writing, developing real estate, going on mission trips, and training for whatever challenge comes next!
Whether it’s on stage, on screen, or in the trenches, I live to
illumiNate the good news of Jesus to a world in need of hope
nate has spoken to tens of thousands from the stage, as a keynote speaker, host, coach, and entertainer, and has been viewed by tens of millions on tv.
Testimonials
Steven Lee
I heard Nate speak at a large business leadership conference, and his message lit a new fire in me to see my prior obstacles and adversity not as a reason to quit, but as an activation into something even greater!
Kim Wexler
Nate spoke to my junior high and high school students at a large assembly, and I've never seen them so engaged and interested in a speaker before! He was balance walking on the railings while speaking, and interacted with the students in a way they truly connected with!
James Cart
Nate's energy and passion drew us in, and the unique life experiences he's lived gave me a new perspective on how to GO ALL IN with what's before me right now, instead of always looking for the "next thing". He didn't relate through his achievements, but through the fear and failure we all have and experience. Thanks, Nate!
Message Nate's team