Johnny Quinn

Johnny Quinn

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3rd person in history to play pro football and compete in the Winter Olympics

Johnny Quinn is a dynamic keynote speaker, U.S. Olympian, and former pro football player who helps organizations Push What’s Possible by turning great teams into unstoppable ultra performers who stay ready for what’s next.

As the third person in history to play pro football and compete in the Winter Olympics, Johnny brings a rare perspective on what it takes to perform under pressure. His journey from the gridiron to the Olympic track gives him a unique perspective on what it takes to turn setbacks into comebacks and challenges into the best opportunities you never saw coming.

His P.U.S.H. framework has equipped thousands at organizations like Toyota, Southwest Airlines, and Verizon to collaborate more effectively, stay agile during disruption, and build momentum—no matter the season. By helping audiences push past what’s holding them back, he helps them discover untapped potential they didn’t know they had.

Recognized by major media outlets including ESPN, CNN, USA Today, and The Wall Street Journal, and the author of PUSH: Breaking Through Barriers, Johnny delivers proven strategies teams can implement the very next day. He lives in Texas with his wife, Amanda, and two small children.

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Speaking topics

PUSH WHAT’S POSSIBLE: The Olympic Formula for Breakthrough Performance in Any Season

Every high-achieving team faces unexpected moments that test everything they’ve got—their discipline, their focus, and their self-belief. When the stakes are high and the outcome uncertain, how do you not just survive the season, but stay ready for what’s next?

From NFL locker rooms to the Olympic starting line, Johnny Quinn learned that readiness isn’t luck. It’s built through the right mindset and daily disciplines that prepare you for opportunity before it even arrives at your door.

In this relatable and instantly applicable talk, he reveals the P.U.S.H. framework that turns great teams into unstoppable ultra performers.

Audiences learn how to:

  • Collaborate under pressure by finding a way to get the job done with the people and resources available
  • Build the habits that keep them prepared for whatever comes their way
  • Turn “no” into “next” by choosing readiness over resistance

WHEN “NO” MEANS NEXT: The Olympic Mindset that Turns Setbacks into Comebacks

Getting cut three times from the NFL should have ended Johnny Quinn’s athletic dreams. Instead, it led him to the Olympics.

In this inspiring and practical keynote, Johnny reveals the mental framework that separates those who let rejection define them from those who use it as rocket fuel for what’s next.

Through his journey from NFL rejection to Olympic competition, Johnny shows how to develop the mindset that doesn’t just bounce back from setbacks—it uses them as stepping stones to breakthrough performance.

Audiences learn how to:

  • Develop the mindset that keeps them moving when others quit
  • Build the discipline that drives winning results
  • Master the fundamentals that keep you ready when your next opportunity arrives

WINNING LEADERSHIP: How to Build Unstoppable Teams that Outperform the Competition

Every great leader faces the same question: how do you build teams that rise to the occasion when everything’s on the line and things don’t always go to plan?

Through setbacks in professional football and breakthroughs at the Winter Olympics, Johnny Quinn discovered that readiness starts within. The difference isn’t just talent—it’s the mindset and daily disciplines that prepare both you and your team for whatever comes next.

In this inspiring and tactical keynote, Johnny reveals the leadership principles that turn pressure into performance and potential into consistent results.

Audiences learn how to:

  • Create cultures where people hold themselves accountable—even when no one’s watching
  • Lead through setbacks in ways that build momentum for what’s next
  • Build team momentum that turns challenges into competitive advantages

FUTURE-PROOF TEAMS: How to Build Agile Teams that Thrive When Everything’s Changing

At 26, Johnny Quinn’s NFL career came crashing to an end. Everything he’d worked on for years was gone. But instead of letting that setback define him, he stayed ready for what came next—and it led him to the Olympics.

In this practical and inspiring keynote, Johnny reveals how the same readiness principles that took him from getting cut three times in the NFL to competing on bobsled’s biggest stage can help your team turn unexpected changes into breakthrough opportunities.

When your industry shifts overnight, when new technology disrupts everything you know, when the rules of the game change completely—that’s when readiness matters most. Johnny shows how to build the kind of agile mindset that doesn’t just survive disruption, but uses it as a launchpad.

Audiences learn how to:

  • Master the “what’s next?” mindset that turns uncertainty into opportunity
  • Build agile teams that stay ready for opportunities others miss
  • Stay focused on what matters most when everything else is shifting

Video clips

Building Unstoppable Momentum – The way you start determines how far you go

The Expert Opinion – Breakthrough happens when you move forward anyway

3 Speaking Engagements, in 3 Cities, in 3 Days – The Real Journey of a Professional Speaker

Your Effort Matters – You will always live in what you build

Success Leaves Clues – The best leaders study what works

Speaker testimonials

Johnny Quinn recently spoke at our Senior Leadership Team Offsite. He closed Day One of our meeting with energy and passion that put the perfect cap on the day! Feedback from the team has been so positive and I would highly recommend Johnny to deliver inspiration in the moment and well beyond. With a meaningful message of never giving up even when faced with adversity, Johnny shared his touching story of a successful journey that took several turns…we each determine the direction we go in life based on decisions we make, even when life says it’s not so…a motivational message at a much-needed time! His messages were very simple and applicable as we execute initiatives–in the workplace or in our personal lives–at any level and at any scale.
Radial, Inc

Ilias Simpson, CEO & President - Radial, Inc

Mr. Quinn, thank you for coming to speak to me and my leadership team at Park House. Your presentation was interactive and well thought out. Our group thoroughly enjoyed hearing your story and the work session you held with us. I believe your message was impactful and that it will have a positive influence in how our leadership manages and inspires their teams. We will absolutely recommend you to others should the opportunity arise.

Richard Dix, Chairman & CEO - Winchester Carlisle Companies

I hired Johnny to speak at our most recent Annual Sales Conference. His preparation, energy, and attention to the overall goals of the presentation were spot on! Johnny is a true survivor and competitor and had a wonderful story of perseverance and passion. I would highly recommend hiring Johnny to help motivate and inspire your company staff, teams or departments.

Eric Beichler, Managing Principal - Mohn Partners, Inc

Johnny spoke to 320 retired and active teachers who are members of ASTEF. His message on adversity and triumph resonated so well with our members that I received nothing but positive comments throughout our 3-day conference. At an event with 300+ women, we needed a speaker who could deliver a message with passion and clarity. Johnny Quinn not only did that but also exceeded our expectations! We look forward to working with Johnny again in the future!

Rhonda Posey, President - Texas Educational Foundation

Thank you so much for inspiring all of us at the Government Contract Management Symposium in Bethesda, MD! As I listened to your talk, I walked away with a renewed sense of resilience. I learned that no matter how bad things may seem in the moment; the moment passes and there is something even better that we were meant to do! Living through the uneasiness of life, truly makes you stronger and more able to take whatever life sends your way. Our attendees loved your content and the opportunity to connect with you afterwards! Please include me as a reference in the future. I am delighted to tell the world how wonderful you are!

Michelle Currier - Chief Learning Officer National Contract Management Association | Bethesda, MD

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