Meet Dana Eikenberg
Former athlete. Coach. Entrepreneur. Author.
Dana Eikenberg has spent her life building courage — first on the court, then through coaching, entrepreneurship, and now through storytelling.
From professional athletics to business ownership, Dana’s journey has always centered around one belief:
Real strength is built through heart, resilience, and authenticity.
As the creator of Hank the Brave, Dana brings those same values to children’s literature — blending emotional honesty, humor, and real-life inspiration to help children understand that bravery doesn’t always have to look big to matter.
Whether through books, school visits, or community events, Dana’s mission is simple:
To create stories that help kids feel safe, seen, and brave.
Beyond the Book
Before becoming an author, Dana competed as a high-level athlete, earned her master’s degree, and built her career around leadership, performance, and meaningful connections.
Her experiences in sports, coaching, and entrepreneurship taught her that courage often looks different from what people expect.
Sometimes it’s bold.
Sometimes it’s quiet.
Sometimes it begins in uncertainty.
That understanding shaped not only Dana’s life, but also the stories she now tells.
Inspired by real moments, real growth, and her beloved boxer Hank, Dana’s work reflects a belief that bravery is not about perfection…
It’s about showing up, trying again, and leading with love.
Why Hank?
Hank wasn’t just a pet. He became a mirror — a reminder that fear can show up quietly, in the smallest moments, and that love often makes bravery possible.
Through Hank the Brave, Dana hopes children and families discover that courage doesn’t require fearlessness…
Just support, heart, and one small step forward.
“Courage doesn’t always roar.
Sometimes it begins quietly.”
Let's Connect
Interested in:
School visits • Storytimes• Podcast interviews• Speaking Opportunities
401-480-5775