Angela Gargano | Be the First: How to Take Bold, Intentional Steps Through Uncertainty and Redefine What’s Possible

Watch our cityCURRENT signature speaker series event featuring Angela Gargano, 6x American Ninja Warrior, 3x cover athlete, Miss Fitness America, entrepreneur, internationally recognized resilience expert, and powerhouse motivational speaker, as she shares the mindset shifts and practical strategies that help individuals and organizations embrace the Be the FIRST mentality–taking bold first steps that turn fear into fuel and possibility into action.

Angela’s story didn’t start in a gym—it started in a lab. She graduated magna cum laude with a degree in Biochemistry, working at Brown University and Genzyme, researching treatments for rare genetic diseases and cancer. She trained in secret, squeezing in workouts at midnight during her 12-hour overnight shifts. She entered a fitness competition on a whim. She won. She kept competing, eventually earning the title of Miss Fitness America 2016. That same year, she made the decision to leave her stable career in science, open her own gym, and dedicate her life to helping others discover their own strength.

After tearing her ACL live on national television, Angela rebuilt not just her body but her identity, proving that setbacks can become the launchpad for breakthrough leadership. She went on to found a six-figure coaching business and global movement that has helped thousands of women conquer their first pull-up—an achievement that has become a symbol of courage, resilience, and choosing to start. During her presentation, Angela will share the powerful lessons behind her FIRST Framework, a system designed to unlock what she calls the Hallway Keys: the practical tools and mindset shifts needed to move through uncertainty with strength and purpose.

Hosted by Smith+Nephew, this unforgettable morning featured a special guest from Samaritan’s Feet, continuing our meaningful cityCURRENT tradition that has impacted lives locally for more than 16 years. Dedicated to providing shoes, hope, and opportunity to children and families in need around the world, Samaritan’s Feet has long been a cause close to the hearts of our community.

In an incredibly generous gesture, Angela Gargano chose to donate a large portion of her honorarium to support the mission of Samaritan’s Feet, further amplifying the impact of this special event.

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