John’s life is proof of the power of the human spirit. As a nine-year-old boy, he was burned on 100% of his body and given less than one percent chance of surviving the first night. He endured months in the hospital, years in therapy, dozens of surgeries, and lost all of his fingers to amputation. Despite the odds, John overcame these challenges and enjoys wonderful success in life.

He is a college graduate, business owner, philanthropist, husband and father. His incredible compassion and genuine approach can be experienced from the platform, in group coaching sessions, his work as a chaplain at a children’s hospital, and as a Big Brothers, Big Sisters Ambassador. John is the 2007 recipient of the St. Louis University Distinguished Young Alumni Award and the 2006 Energizer “Keep Going” Hall of Fame inductee. He shares this award with baseball great, Cal Ripken, Jr.

John’s professional focus as an international speaker began with the writing, release and poignant response from his parents’ book, Overwhelming Odds. Because of this book, John felt compelled to embrace his past, rise above his fears and share his message with others. He began speaking in 2005 to a total of eight organizations.  In 2008, he partnered with over 140 different groups, in 30 different states, and  four countries.  The tremendous growth is the result of a commitment to truly partnering with clients in making their meetings, conferences and retreats a life-changing experience for their members.

He considers his greatest success to be his marriage to his wife, Beth, his time with their two little boys, and the relationships they enjoy with family and friends.

To schedule John to speak at your next conference or meeting, please contact us.

Please click here for a print friendly PDF version of John's Biography.