Iron Hope

Lessons Learned from Conquering the Impossible

By: James Lawrence

Narrated by: James Lawrence

This program is read by the author, who is one of the most dynamic, inspiring, larger-than-life keynote speakers in the world, having shared his astonishing story in 50 different countries across the globe reaching millions of people

The ultimate guide to mental toughness by James “Iron Cowboy” Lawrence—the greatest endurance athlete in human history.

Lawrence’s accomplishments are nearly impossible to comprehend. After breaking two Guinness World Records, he shattered possibilities in 2015 by completing 50 full-distance triathlons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days. Yes, THE IRONMAN®, “the single most difficult day in sports”—a 2.4-mile swim, 112 miles on a bike, then a 26.2-mile run, all completed in under 17 hours. It is a race so intense that less than .01% of the population have completed one.

Afterward, Lawrence subjected his body to exhaustive physical testing, to every genetic test known to science. The stunning discovery is that physically, James Lawrence is unspecial in every way. The secret to his bulletproof body is his bulletproof mentality.

Even those accomplishments weren’t enough for James. In 2021, he set out on another endurance endeavor, this one so difficult he wondered if he would even live. He set out to complete a staggering 100 full-distance triathlons in 100 consecutive days. By persevering, he wanted to inspire people to do the same for whatever difficulties they are going through.

How does a person develop the mental fortitude necessary to overcome incredible exhaustion, immeasurable suffering, and unfathomable pain in order to achieve impossible goals? With Iron Hope, that’s exactly what James “Iron Cowboy” Lawrence shows listeners how to do. Lawrence explains how listeners can forge an iron will by making and keeping small promises to themselves again and again, amassing experience and building momentum until giving up becomes impossible. Combine a big dream with small improvements repeated with great consistency and make your goals and dreams a reality.

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press.

©2025 James Lawrence (P)2025 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

"[A] gritty compendium of insights into perseverance and willpower gleaned from completing 100 Ironmans in 100 consecutive days...those seeking a road map for tackling their next major challenge will find this worth a look\" —Publishers Weekly

“James Lawrence should be considered one of the greatest endurance athletes of all time. Iron Hope proves that with a little direction, we can all develop the mental toughness to accomplish anything we set our mind to. This is essential reading for anybody with goals—not just athletes.”—Cameron Hanes, New York Times bestselling author of Endure

“James Lawrence’s feats of voluntary endurance just might be the greatest in human history. Less appreciated is his incredible ability to galvanize community, empowering countless people across the world to glean inspiration from his Iron Cowboy alter ego and reach higher. Laden with incredible stories told with candor and vulnerability, Iron Hope, reveals all, including the mindset required to achieve the impossible with takeaways certain to improve the lives of all who brave the pages of this remarkable book.”—Rich Roll, author of Finding Ultra and host of The Rich Roll Podcast

Incredible story

Wasn’t the biggest fan at first of the interludes for the Iron Hope messages, got over it and really loved the messages each one brought. James, his team, and his family have such an incredible journey through their lives. Hope others take the time to listen, watch, and become the best version of themselves possible!

Wow

This book, and Iron Cowboy, has inspired me beyond what I can say. I'll be 60 years old in October, I'm not a runner, but I've signed up to do a half marathon with my daughter 2 days after I turn 60, and doing it as a fundraiser for one of our mission partners at our church. I'm excited!!!!!

Positive and Almost Unbelievable

The Iron Cowboy is ultimately a really, humble guy who loves his family and never gives up. This book is a great one to run to or workout with. Inspiring and full of faith.

Resilience

Loved it all! It’s a powerful testament and somehow would have liked it to be even longer - so many questions popped into my mind

INSPIRING!

This man has inspired so many. I remember watching him battle through the 50 on his first attempt and I thought he lives in my state there is no way I'm turning down an attempt to run with him when he comes to Utah. When I heard he was doing the 100. The same feeling came over me. He is doing 100 I have to attempt my first marathon distance with him. I did and now number 83 sticks with me. This book gives so much hope, love, encouragement, and joy. You can do hard things! Here we go! Thanks James!