Inky Johnson – Motivational Speaker :: millennialentrepreneurs.com

What is exemplary or unique about these young entrepreneurs? Inky Johnson was a top-30 projected NFL Draft prospect when he was injured while making a tackle. Hours later he would discover that his right arm and hand would be paralyzed forever. Inky’s ability to relate with and motivate athletes, businesspeople, and all others who hear his motivational speeches via in person or his podcast make him both exemplary and unique.
What drives them? “Unfortunately, on September 9th, 2006, he sustained a life threatening, career ending injury that paralyzed his right arm and hand. From that day to present day Inky has had a burning desire to use his situation and experiences to add value to people’s lives.” This is written on Inky Johnson’s website. Clearly, the ability to use his situation to motivate and benefit others is what drives him.
What makes their idea or business model interesting? Inky Johnson’s business model is interesting for a few reasons. According to his website, “Inky’s gift of being an effective communicator has allowed him to crossover into different industries. He is a leader called upon by leaders. A partial list of his clients includes Chick-fil-A, Dell Technologies, Aflac Insurance, Cooks Pest Control, State Farm, Coca Cola, Bank of America, The University of Alabama, The University of Texas, New York Knicks, New England Patriots, Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves.” His ability to use his athletic experience – specifically his injury – to relate to not only athletic teams, but also businesses and corporations is interesting. He has turned a traumatic life experience into a business for himself, as he is a highly coveted public speaker.
What entrepreneurial traits do they demonstrate? Inky Johnson graduated from the University of Tennessee with a master’s degree in Sports Psychology. He wasn’t necessarily “qualified” to enter public speaking. Yet, with his avid ability to adapt and learn from every circumstance, he has shown tremendous entrepreneurial skills.
How are they innovating? Inky Johnson innovated by evolving the world of public speaking. Although not everyone will have the chance of experiencing a physical injury on the football field, everyone will encounter adversity. “The one thing we all have in common is that we will encounter adversity, but we have to decide how we respond to it.” He took one event and has monopolized an entire niche of an industry.
How do they specifically inspire you and help you in your own thinking about entrepreneurship and innovation? He inspires me by showing me that any idea can be turned into a business. If you are passionate about something and can use it to impact people, the sky is the limit.
What principles have you learned? Through Inky Johnson, I have learned that lessons can be learned from every single circumstance. Entrepreneurs who understand this will be able to constantly be thinking of ideas and generating thoughts that could lead to a business idea.

Inky Johnson – Motivational Speaker

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