Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Inky Johnson

Former University of Tennessee Football Star, Inspirational Speaker, Advocate for Resilience & Overcoming Adversity

Inky Johnson Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Former University of Tennessee Football Star, Inspirational Speaker, Advocate for Resilience & Overcoming Adversity

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Inky Johnson
Speaking Fee:
$30,000 to $50,000

Travels From:
ATL - Atlanta, GA

Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black

Secondary Topic Category:
Inspiration / Motivation / Overcoming Obstacles

 

Inky Johnson Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Inky Johnson is a former University of Tennessee defensive back who refused to allow misfortune on the football field to stop him from pursuing a life of purpose. In 2006, a seemingly normal college football game changed everything when a routine tackle turned into a career-ending injury, and his perspective of “normal” changed. Now, normal is a paralyzed right arm. Inky shares his dramatic story of overcoming hardship and a life-threatening injury. His motivational words inspire others to embrace adversity, face their own daily challenges, and live life with a greater purpose.

Inky Johnson was on the fast track to NFL glory when fate threw a curveball his way. In 2006, a routine tackle during a game turned into a career-ending injury that left his right arm paralyzed. You'd think that would be the end of the road, right? Not for Inky. This guy took the lemons life handed him and made lemonade so strong it could power a jet.Inky’s story isn't just about a guy who played football and then didn’t. It's about bouncing back when life tackles you hard. He didn’t let his injury bench him. Instead, he found a new game plan—motivational speaking. His talks are packed with powerful anecdotes, life lessons, and a good dose of humor. He knows how to light up a room with his energy and leave everyone fired up to tackle their own challenges.Living in Atlanta with his wife, Allison, and their two kids, Inky is a hands-on dad and a mentor to young athletes. He’s the kind of guy who, despite his own battles, spends his time lifting others up. His community work, especially with underprivileged youth, shows that his heart is as big as his smile.And he’s got brains to match that heart. With a Master's in Sports Psychology, Inky’s talks go beyond the usual pep talk. He dives deep, using his own story to help others find their inner strength. His podcast "Serendipity with Inky Johnson" and his foundation are just more ways he keeps the inspiration flowing. Inky’s journey from the football field to the stage is proof that with the right mindset, you can turn any setback into a comeback​.
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