Johnny Quinn is a dynamic keynote speaker, U.S. Olympian, and former NFL 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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“STAY READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT – 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 for since he was 18 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.
“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 a 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
“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.”
Ilias Simpson, CEO & President, Radial
“Johnny, thank you again for being the keynote speaker at our National Sales Meeting in Atlanta. You were a true hit! You were referenced multiple times on the main stage by presenters throughout the remainder of the event, and many folks I talked to shared how impactful your presentation and lessons were to them. Awesome to hear! I sincerely appreciate how you took the time to carefully weave in several of my key messages throughout your presentation. It really helped reinforce the points I was landing throughout the week.”
Derek Miller, Chief Sales Officer, Serta Simmons Bedding
“I had over 30 speakers reach out to me but had already decided after I spoke with Johnny Quinn that I did not need to look any further. Johnny’s story was compelling, and his sincerity, charm, and most of all, his enthusiasm won us over. Johnny’s positive energy immediately resonated with my leaders and our CEO even ordered 100 autographed copies of Johnny’s book on the webinar, that’s how well Johnny connected with our team! We plan on bringing Johnny back for an in-person event soon.”
Jeanne Mulkeen, Chief Human Resources Officer, Cornerstone Health Services, 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
“Our organization was faced with yet another annual conference via virtual platforms. By this time, I don’t know anyone excited or attentive after an hour of a four-day conference staring at your screen. However, as a testament to Johnny’s infectious energy, we not only kept our audience engaged but energetic for the duration of our conference. Johnny is a light beaming from the darkness, beckoning all who are near to seek him out. I cannot speak highly enough of Johnny and how much we enjoyed his keynote. We will be working together again.”
Jeff Kaus, Executive Director, Wyoming Primary Care Association
“Johnny Quinn’s keynote set the tone of the virtual meeting for the entire day. I never experienced a speaker before who as so inspiring and related so well to the audience especially delivering it on Zoom. We had over 30 questions from the audience in the Team’s chat box. There were about 50 Partner attendees from across the U.S. and Canada. We received quite a few attendee requests to have him return to a live conference in Austin in November. We can’t wait to bring Johnny back to speak in-person!”
Joe Tarasco, CEO, Accountants Advisory Group, LL
Dallas, TX
