LOS ANGELES TO NEW YORK BAREFOOT
A NEW WORLD RECORD
"I am the change I want to see in the world—leading by example and proving that all it takes is determination and two bare feet to make a difference."
My mission is to raise awareness and funds for men’s mental health through extreme world record challenges. From becoming the first person to walk barefoot to Everest Base Camp, to trekking 5,104 km across the United States, I’ve shown what’s possible when you step far outside your comfort zone.
Along the way, I’ve spoken with thousands of people and reached millions more through media—spreading a message of resilience, hope, and the power of vulnerability. True strength isn’t silence. It’s sharing your story, walking the talk, and taking change one step at a time.
WHO IS ANTON?
I served ten years in the Dutch Army, including three missions to Afghanistan, and later worked five years in construction—both environments often seen as very “masculine.” Since 2021, I’ve dedicated myself fully to men’s mental health, speaking with thousands of men and sharing what I’ve learned through my own struggles.
I know what it’s like to battle with mental health myself. I’ve stood on the edge—literally and figuratively—and it was pulling myself back that sparked a deep passion to help others.
We still live with the outdated belief that showing emotions is weakness. The truth is the opposite: vulnerability is courage, and speaking up can save lives—your own and those around you.
In 2019, I began extreme barefoot walks, pushing my boundaries and using these challenges to raise awareness and funds for mental health causes. Along the way, I’ve gained practical tools to build resilience, which I now share with others.
My mission is to help reduce depression and suicide—and bring those numbers back to zero.
Will you join me on this mission?
ANTON NOOTENBOOM
HIS SECOND BOOK TO MOTIVATE AND INSPIRE
Brave Men Talk tells the story of Dutch veteran Anton Nootenboom, who walked barefoot from Los Angeles to New York—over 5,000 kilometres—to raise awareness for men’s mental health. Joined by his girlfriend Merel in a camper, he turned the journey into both a world record and the ultimate relationship test.
The book explores urgent questions: what does it mean to be a man today, and how does our struggle with that question contribute to rising mental health challenges worldwide? It’s an issue that affects not only men, but also the partners and families in their lives.
Along the way, Anton faced frozen toes in the Rocky Mountains and burning highways in Kansas, yet kept going with Merel’s support. The journey also added a fresh, female perspective to the conversation on men’s mental health.
In Brave Men Talk, Anton shares the adventures, challenges, and countless conversations of his ten-month barefoot trek. He reveals the pitfalls men must navigate—and how couples can stay connected even through the toughest journeys.
In the press
“Two barefoot world records to raise awareness for men’s mental health.” – de Volkskrant
“Afghanistan veteran finishes grueling barefoot trek across the U.S. in New York.” – Algemeen Dagblad
“Barefoot across Australia: this is how Anton fights depression.” – RTL Nieuws
BRAVE MEN TALK
VULNERABILITY AND RESILIENCE: AN INSPIRING LECTURE FOR SCHOOLS AND BUSINESSES
SPEAKING EVENTS
Through my extreme world records and ten years in the Dutch Armed Forces—including three missions to Afghanistan—I’ve learned powerful lessons in resilience, discipline, and vulnerability.
In my keynote, I take audiences behind the scenes of these challenges and difficult moments, showing not just the victories but also the struggles—and the tools they teach us. You’ll walk away with practical strategies for mental strength, connection, and lasting change.
I’ve spoken at leading companies, schools, and during a TEDx talk, always creating space for interaction and real conversation. This lecture is for any organization ready to invest in mental health and resilience.
Are you ready to make a real impact together?
A 3 month program to reignite your mental, physical, and emotional strength.
INNERFIRE
Inside every man is a fire—a drive and purpose often buried under stress, routine, and self-doubt. This program helps you break free from stagnation, reconnect with your strength, and build a future filled with focus, energy, and confidence.
Through proven methods, reflection, and practical tools, you’ll gain insight into your past, take charge of your present, and create a clear vision for your future. After 3 months, you’ll stand stronger, more confident, and equipped with a concrete plan for life.
Ready to take the first step?
Join the 3 month journey and become the strongest version of yourself.
THE ULTIMATE
1:1 MEN'S RETREAT
REDISCOVER YOUR STRENGTH AND PURPOSE
Rediscover your strength and purpose in a week-long retreat designed exclusively for you. Step away from the noise of daily life and immerse yourself in a transformative experience in a breathtaking location like Mexico—where every moment is dedicated to your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
This is more than a getaway. It’s a reset—an opportunity to break free from old patterns, reconnect with your inner strength, and return home with clarity and purpose.
What to Expect
Why Choose This Retreat?
Physical Empowerment
Daily workouts and movement sessions—strength training, yoga, or outdoor activities—tailored to your level.
Breathwork & Mindfulness
Techniques to manage stress, release blockages, and deepen self-connection.
Water Therapy
Cold exposure, floating, or hydrotherapy to reduce stress and restore balance.
Fully personalized 1:1 format—everything designed around your needs.
A safe, supportive space for real transformation.
Proven methods blending ancient wisdom and modern practices.
Optional guided mushroom journeys for those who choose them.
Is This For You?
This retreat is perfect if you:
Feel stuck and need a fresh perspective
Want to break free from limiting beliefs
Are ready to invest in your mental, physical, and emotional health
Crave a deep, immersive experience with real impact
Want personalized 1:1 coaching to build a clear vision for your future
Ready to Take the Leap?
This 1:1 retreat is your invitation to step into the strongest, most authentic version of yourself. Invest in your well-being and return home more alive, more focused, and fully in tune with your purpose.
From stress and burnout to resilience and sustainable performance
MENTAL WORKFORCE
Mental health is one of the biggest challenges in today’s workplace. In the Netherlands alone, nearly 1 in 5 cases of long-term sick leave are caused by psychological complaints—costing companies thousands per employee. Across Europe, the annual loss adds up to €136 billion.
Mental Workforce tackles the root causes, not just the symptoms. Our evidence-based program combines neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral change across six pillars: nutrition, recovery in nature, movement, sleep, breathing, and connection.
The result? Less stress, lower absenteeism, and teams with more energy, focus, and collaboration—helping your organization grow sustainably.
Discover how Mental Workforce can future-proof your organization.
@thebarefoot_dutchman