Testimonials
"On behalf of the Association of New York State Youth Bureaus we’d like to sincerely
thank Coach Jim Johnson for his very touching keynote address at our 38th Annual Conference. Coach Johnson’s awe inspiring story and message tied perfectly to our Conference theme of Youth Development. His message was humorous, motivational and inspirational. In addition to being the keynote speaker, Coach Johnson followed up with a poignant and educational workshop on leadership and “Making Your Dreams Come True.” It was an honor to have Coach Johnson as a speaker and we would highly recommend him for other events that aim to inspire both young people and youth workers alike."
Sincerely,
Beth Roberts & Manny Lann
Association of New York State Youth Bureaus 2008 Conference Co-Chairs
www.anysyb.net
Back in September we were honored to have Coach Jim Johnson give a key
note speech at our yearly convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. Coach
Johnson was nothing but pleasant from the time that we picked him up at
the airport to the time that we dropped him off. On top of being an all
around great guy, Coach Johnson inspired and motivated people to believe
in themselves and have the courage to not give up on their dreams. From
the first sentence to his closing remarks Coach Johnson had the audience
in a trance. It really was amazing to see someone capture an audience of
4,000 and have them transitioning from crying to laughter in an instant.
We were very pleased with his performance and how he handled himself on
and off the stage. In our eyes Coach Johnsons speech added a missing link
that we feel reached out to people in a way that we were unable to. In
closing, we in no way regret having Coach Jim Johnson speak at our event
and would recommend him to anyone that is looking to motivate and inspire
their group.
Jeff Higginson
Senior VP of the Americas
Thank you so much for sharing your story and the story of “J-Mac” with the student athletes here at Freeport High School. Your presentation was inspiring and the “6 Keys to Making Your Dreams Come True” were powerful motivational tools that every student, coach, and family can utilize in their every day lives.
I have received several compliments from students and parents alike, in regard to your presentation and the meaningful message that seemed to “hit home” with so many.
I have spoken with Marty Ryan, Director of Athletics at Kennebunk High School and the Executive Director of the Maine Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. He was intrigued to hear about your presentation and message. It would be great to have you attend our spring MIAAA conference as the keynote speaker. I hope it works out!
Craig Sickels
Athletic Administrator
Freeport High School
Freeport, Maine
Every month, TheLadders.com holds a company-wide meeting known as Monthly Talk Forum. We gather not only to share our success stories, but to inspire continued progress as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our customers. Coach Johnson brought his personal experiences to our company on April 17, 2008 and shared his profound message with our team.
Coach Jim Johnson took his passion and enthusiasm for helping others off the basketball court and into our office. His “Six Essential Keys for Making Your Dreams Come True” captivated us all. As Jim finished his speech, the buzz of excitement and pure motivation to succeed filled the room. Every member of our team walked out ready to attack their challenges head on and overcome any obstacle they faced to reach their goals.
I recommend Coach Johnson with unbridled enthusiasm to speak at any organization or group where the leadership is looking to bring its people to a higher plane of thinking and motivation.
David F. Carvajal
Vice President, People
The Ladders.com
"One of the most difficult tasks for a presenter is to keep the audience's attention - especially right after lunch, which is the most difficult presentation time slot. The video grabbed the participants' interest immediately and you were able to keep their attention as you told the stories about the aftermath of the ball games, media interview and the visit with the President. Taking the message home to team work was truly relevant for our board members.
After seeing your presentation, I would highly recommend you to all educators, teachers, administration, board members, and for students as well. Your drive, energy and passion for success is truly an inspiration.
Your willingness to give yoru time and knowledge to advance the educational excellence in the state of Minnesota was truly appreciated by all of our school board members and the many superintendents who attended."
Jan Rhode, Director
Board Development
Minnesota School Boards Association
"Thank you for speaking at our “Calhoun County Schools Institute” on August 6. This is one of the most inspirational and entertaining stories that I have had the opportunity to hear. Your story left the ones in attendance with a new perspective on teaching and fulfilling their own dreams. In our school system, everyone in attendance plays a part in making our students’ dreams come true. I think it encouraged our employees to set goals, be a team member, accept challenges, and have faith in students.
I would highly recommend Jim as a keynote speaker. His presentation was very inspirational. I look forward to the 2008-09 school year because I too want to be a part of someone’s dream. "
Bobby J. Burns
Deputy Superintendent
Calhoun County Board of Education
P.O. Box 2084
Anniston, AL 36202
bburns@calhoun.k12.al.us
Simply, Coach Johnson’s talk was riveting. Bar none, I can say that he gave the most inspiring speech that I have heard in my 30 year educational career. His message was centered on the astounding J-Mac story, but was far more than reliving that heart warming story. His message is one that you will want your school or organization to hear. Coach Johnson’s speech is worthy of any athletic banquet, but should also be strongly considered for other school assemblies as well as business functions and charitable events.
If you are looking for an inspiring, hopeful speaker that encourages high student effort through goal setting, Jim Johnson will not disappoint. His talk is one of high energy, enthusiasm and elevation.
RICHARD P. AMUNDSON
Superintendent of Schools, Lyons, New York
(315) 946-2200 ext. 2014
ramundson@lyonscsd.org
"On behalf of LCS, thank you for taking the time to tell your story. I have received many positive comments from parents and students who attended the banquet. As fellow Section V members, many had heard the story before but had not been as affected as they were Friday night. Your talk relates one exceptional experience into six key factors that everyone can use to make their own dreams come true. It is truly an inspirational story. I encourage you to continue to speak to young men and women at every available opportunity. You have not only allowed for J-Mac’s dream to come true, you are continuously touching the hearts of others who are inspired by your words."
Steve Veeder
Assistant Principal 7-12, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics
Lyons Central School
"We really enjoyed your talk at the 2008 Keshequa Sports Banquet. I received all positive comments, such as: “the best speaker we ever had”, “that was really good”, “great Banquet”, “I really enjoyed J Mac’s Coach”, “I almost cried then I laughed”, and “the talk really touched me”.
You did a nice job shortening your talk to fit our Banquet time slot. I enjoyed your 6 Essential Keys. You really helped to make our Banquet a huge success!"
PETE PIRAINO-Athletic Director
Keshequa Central Schools
13 Mill Street
Nunda, NY 14517-0517
Phone (585)-468-2541 Ext. 1197
E-Mail ppiraino@keshequa.org
"Thank you so much for coming down and visiting us. I had so many people stopping me in the hallways to rave about your performance – I’ll forward you one e-mail that captured the team’s sentiments best.
“Coach Johnson came and shared his inspirational story with our whole team of 225 employees and moved us to tears. Anybody who has seen the video of the game can’t help but be inspired by it. But what we found even more engaging about Coach Johnson’s presentation was “the story behind the story.” And in many ways, while his message is profound and powerful, it is even more so for a leadership team – his message about enabling others to reach their dreams rings so true and is so needed that I can recommend him to any group as a speaker."
Thanks again, Coach, for reminding us of why we are all here!
Regards,
Marc Cenedella
CEO & Founder
TheLadders.com”
"When you introduced him to speak for an hour, I must admit I had no idea what he possibly could speak about for that long.
Not only was I impressed, but I was inspired.
He had a lot of Dick Vitale in him!
Kudos for the selection, and please let him know this person was moved by his presentation.
Adam Miller
Sr. Account Executive
TheLadders.com
137 Varick Street, 8th Floor NY, NY 10013
646.453.1861 l adam@theladders.com
www.theladders.com
Thank you for recent keynote address at our 9th annual Accessibility Summit in Vienna, Va. As you know the Summit is the premiere faith based disability conference in the nation. This was our most successful year and large part of that was due to your incredible opening speech on how dreams really do come true.
Your message inspired and motivated our attendees. You gave practical ways to achieve one’s dreams. Your stories on and off the court captivated the audience. Your evaluations came back with excellent ratings across the board. It is my hope that we can again work together in the future.
Wishing you the very best,
Jackie Mills-Fernald
Access Director
McLean Bible Church
703-770-2942
The National Conference on Student Leadership was so pleased that Coach Jim Johnson could join us on very short notice as a keynote speaker after an emergency cancellation by another speaker. Our audience was very familiar with the J-Mac story and was excited to hear Jim’s message. His presentation on leadership inspired and energized our audience.
Kate Poppe
Student Leadership Program Manager
National Conference on Student Leadership
Magna Publications
2718 Dryden Drive • Madison WI 53704
608.227.8103
www.magnapubs.com
www.ncslcollege.com
"Coach Johnson, I want thank you for taking time to speak with our
organization. You had our attendee's mesmerized in your presentation on
leadership and the art of winning. Your presentation is the hand in the glove
for those who have read Michael Collins; "Good to Great". I've had so many
notes and telephone calls from those that attended the meeting that also
echoed the sentiments of a professionally and well prepared presentation.
There were many of those in attendance that walked away with a new
perspective on the art of winning regardless of your profession, or lot in
life. Personally, this was my second time listening to your presentation and
I learned something new that I didn't take awe at the first meeting. Your
stage presence is awesome! Again, thank you for sharing and I feel I have
found another friend. God bless you Coach on many more successful seasons of
life!"
Larry Myers
Executive Officer
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Kansas City District
"Jim is clearly one of the most inspirational and entertaining speakers I have had the opportunity see. He is a great story teller and keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. I already knew the story of “J-Mac,” his three-point shots, and the amazing community where this inspirational event took place. Despite this, I once again found myself with tears in my eyes as I listened to Jim tell the story and share his message. His message is motivating and moving. More importantly, it is grounded in an actual set of events, which makes it believable and encourages those who hear it to act, not just think.
Without reservation, I would highly recommend Jim Johnson for any speaking engagement. Countless people stopped me during the conference and since that time to share how much they enjoyed his address. Jim is an exceptional speaker and you will not be disappointed! "
Britton L. Schnurr, PsyD, NCSP
Nationally Certified School Psychologist
2007 NYASP Conference Chair
"I want to express my thanks to you for being a port of ouit 8th annual benefit dinner in the Anniston/Oxford, Alabama area last week. Your story and message was received well by all in attendance and I have heard nothing but good comments on the overall night's events. Seeing brief highlight video on TV does not come close to the real story of J-Mac and how things worked out for him to have his big chance. Thanks for breaking into your teaching role at Greece Athena to be part of our program."
Gerry Blackwood: Development Director
Rainbow Omega Inc.
PO BOX 740
Eastaboga, AL 36260-0740
"Thank you so much for speaking at the Greece Chamber's Networking Luncheon on October 18, 2007. It was very inspiring to hear your story first hand! You have a great gift for storytelling and you gave our luncheon attendees some great "food for thought". I had many members approach me after the meeting to tell me that they really enjoyed listening to you account of the "J-Mac" story and your 6 points on achieving your dreams."
Jodie Perry
President
Greece Chamber of Commerce
Greece, NY 14626
Thank you for speaking at the 2007 Central Financial Manager’s Association Support Staff Conference on October 17, 2007.
As usual your presentation was inspiring and spoke to our hearts. It is very rewarding to hear your story, especially when the participants are all presently working for Rehab agencies throughout Central and Western New York.
In reading over the speaker evaluations I would like to share some comments with you:
“ This was phenomenal and deserves a higher rank then the max of 5”
“ The film was great”
“Fantastic!”
“Great Story, What a Kid!”
“Jim had a very emotional, entertaining, and informative presentation. He is a great motivational speaker. His J-Mac story was inspirational.”
“Terrific!! Nice end to the day”
“Inspirational/will pass on to children – would love to have him speak in our school. Can’t wait for books”
“Very Inspirational”
In listing what was enjoyed the most, your presentation and name came up on many of the overall conference evaluations!
We certainly look forward to having you at a future conference. Thank you for what you do and please continue the good work.
Sincerely,
Suzette Smith
Secretary, Central FMA
Finance Manager-The Resource Center
"Your Opening Day presentation provided a spark, which we hope will lead to a mission-focused year. As educational professionals, we all play a part in making students’ dreams come true.
Your passionate presentation forces attendees to think big. Your stories are unbeatable. On behalf of the Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES, thanks for joining us!"
Dr. Michael O’Laughlin
District Superintendent
Monroe 2–Orleans BOCES
“Jim Johnson, a man who had the incredible opportunity to be a part of something greater than himself, captures the spirit of his experience and is able to translate that into a meaningful message for anyone. He is able to convey the spirit of teamwork, challenges, group dynamics, acceptance, dreams, and the willingness to “give it a shot”.
Jim Johnson’s presentation is both thoughtful and encouraging. His talk is valuable for all ages and crowds. The group to whom he is speaking is left with a sense of amazement, desire, and energy to be a part of a forward moving team with the potential for greatness.”
Kelly A. McKay
Relationship Director
Rochester Rotary Charitable Trusts
Rochester Rotary Sunshine Campus
100 Meridian Center Suite 304
Rochester, NY 14618
kmckay@rochesterrotary.org
Overall feedback about the meeting was very positive, and your presentation was obviously very well received. We appreciate your taking your time to share your knowledge and insight with our members. Without your help we would not have been able to offer this educational opportunity to our membership.
That was our best attended annual meeting dinners, and I had several requests for additional invitations to your presentation.
Christine Cannaday, MPA
Executive Director
Virginia Society of Ophthalmology
http://www.vaeyemd.org
It is indeed an honor and privilege for me to provide this Letter of Recommendation for Coach Jim Johnson and his presentation, “Dreams Really Do Come True”. We had the fortunate opportunity to contract with Mr. Johnson to speak at our Federal Executive Board 2007 Executive Forum held in Branson, MO in August of 2007. Mr. Johnson was our closing speaker and truly “made” our conference for us.
Our Executive Forum is comprised of federal agency heads and their senior management from both the Kansas City and St. Louis areas. It is an annual conference and we have been fortunate to secure outstanding speakers. However, Mr. Johnson got the most favorable reception I have witnessed, including many tears and a standing ovation!
Cindy Hillman
Executive Director
The Greater Kansas City FEDERAL EXECUTIVE BOARD
1500 E. Bannister Road, Ste. 1176
Kansas City, MO 64131-3009
I have had many members of the Virginia Society of Ophthalmology contact me about how much they enjoyed your speech. The consensus among the Ophthalmologists is that you gave the best speech that we ever had at the VSO. Obviously the "JMAC Story" is great, but it was the perspective, humility, and good humor that you added which made the experience to memorable and entertaining.
Frank Cotter, M.D.
Glaucoma Consultant
Cataract & Lens Implant Surgery
Virginia Society of Ophthalmology
http://www.vaeyemd.org
"I learned more about being a leader in a 45-minute presentation by Coach Jim Johnson than I have working as a training coordinator for over 25 years in the beef business. Jim takes his experiences and leadership abilities as a coach and teaches your team how to obtain their dreams and goals. I have never experienced a more powerful presentation regarding teamwork, faith, belief and overcoming challenges. This speaker is a must if you are looking to motivate your business team.
Kelly L. Johnson
Field Training Coordinator
JBS, Swift and Company
"Our employees were also extremely appreciative that you stayed after the meeting to spend time with them and talk further about your accomplishments on and off the court. In fact, two weeks after the meeting, we're still talking about how to incorporate your thoughtful speech more into our daily lives."
Michael Hurley
VP for Marketing and Sales
Fibertech Networks
"Jim's presentation if not merely about Jason McElwain. It is about human nature and human potential. Jim conveys important lessons on these subjects in an extremely compelling and entertaining way. I earnestly recommend that you seize the opportunity to hear Coach Johnson."
Charle B. Stockdale
Fibertech Networks
Pittsford, New York
"Everyone I talked to after the program agreed that your presentation was emotionally inspiring. While explaining your miraculous experiences with J-Mac, you emphasized to the audience the importance of setting goals as a student, parent, athlete, leader and person in general. In addition, you also provided us withi helpful tips to achieve our goals and succeed.
Thank you for arriving early to the campus so that we could discuss the specific outline of the program, and test the technology. Your assistance made the event run so much smoother."
Daniel DeHollander
SUNY Geneseo Resident Assistant
Vice President of the National Residence Hall Honorary
"The lasting image of the day for me was the scene at the end of the assembly when students would not leave the gym to go home. They wanted to get the presenter's autographs and shake Jason's hand. Many students took off their shoes so that they could sign them. I would highly recommend this program to any school that would consider it.
Carl Christensen
Principal
Victor Junior High School, Victor, New York
"The presentation was a great mix of emotional variability, humor, and serious examination of the challenges the young man not only faced, but overcame in a manner that almost defied belief, except that the presentation included selected video clips supporting the account. If left the audience, which included parents of children with autism, educators, and community leaders with a sense of excitement and hope, in addition to the strong emotion associated with recognizing the great accomplishment of the young man.
As a result we are inviting Coach Johnson for a second speaking engagement in support of our organizations, and would recommend him without hesitation as an accomplished speaker."
Kris O. Battaglini, Ed.D, NCSP
Retired Program Director, Sussex Consortium
Charter Member, Lower Delaware Autism Foundation Board of Directors
"Coach Jim Johnson was at the top of our list of desired speakers, and we were thrilled when he agreed to be part of our panel.
Coach Johnson was willing to modify his usual speech to meet our request. His talk was moving and entertaining. He had guests smiling, chuckling, cheering, and feeling the emotions of the events he related, even as they had tears in their eyes.
Coach Johnson's speech proved to be the perfect ending for our panel presentation that evening"
Sue Tharrett
UNYFEAT, Inc.
The purpose of this correspondence is to extent my full support for Jim Johnson and his "Dreams Really Do Come True" presentation.
Coach Johnson captivated attendees with his account of what transpired after making the decision to play the Athena High varsity manager, an autistic youth by the name of Jason McElwain.
It is my honor to work with Coach Johnson and highly recommend him for discussions and presentations on leadership, teamwork, and character."
Conor Cusack, M.P.A.
Assets Coordinator
Greece (NY) Central School District
"Jim Johnson is a prolific speaker with a message that is sure to hit home with any group, of all ages and backgrounds. His presentation will make your skin tingle with emotion, your eyes well up with tears of joy, and your mind take you back to an experience in your life where you could not believe the magic that was happening right in front of your eyes.
His speaking style is comfortable and interactive. He will captivate and audience in 15 minutes and could hold them for an hour. He can provide true inspiration to a crowd simply through the sharing of his incredible journey. His presentation comes with my highest endorsement and I encourage you to let yourself experience the emotion and celebration of potential in his message.?
Tracey Dreisbach
Executive Director
Rochester (NY) Rotary Club
I had the opportunity to hear Jim Johnson speak at the CoachVille Annual Conference. WOW! He was impressive! Jim is engaging, funny, and very inspiring. His story truly touched me, and I wanted to hear more and know more about his life. I highly recommend Jim as a keynote speaker for any audience who is looking for a great and long-lasting dose of inspiration and passion."
Bea Fields
President
Five Star Leader Coaching and Training
"I am writing to you today to commend Jim Johnson for the excellent motivational speech that he gave. Jim has a very conversational delivery that keeps an audience's attention. His motivational message was clear, and many in attendance will benefit from his presentation. Jim does an excellent job of highlighting his speech with personal stories, some involving Jason McElwain and some that do not. Jim's quick wit and sense of humor was very apparent and entertaining for everyone in attendance.
I truly believe that Jim Johnson has a unique perspective on a very unique situation. His story is uplifting and I would highly recommend his has a speaker for any organization looking to motivate and inspire their audiences."
Ronald Klonowski
Executive Director
The Arc of Stark County (OH), Inc.
"Sign*A*Rama has been in business for 20 years, and had a convention each of the last 18 years, and this was by far our best. I have to tell you that your keynote speech was the main reason. In the past we have had motivational speakers, but none of them had your story. None of them could relate with our group like you did. You did exactly what we needed you to do. You pumped them up to take life to the next level, and for that we are forever grateful."
Ray Titus: President
Sign*A*Rama
"Just a quick word to say, "WOW"! I never thought a basketball coach could have such an impact on a business crowd. I personally witnessed men and women crying, and the same folks were later laughing. When it's all said and done, I have to say you not only motivated, you energized our whole company.
I never thought about the positive impact you would have on our employees. Thanks for that as well?"
Mike Brugger: Vice President
EmbroidMe
"What a Story! I can't wait for the Movie to come out. I have personally seen Zig Ziglar, Brian Tracey, Don Hudson, Steven Covey, and Jack Welch, just to name a few, and none of them compared to you. Our owners are motivated and excited to take on their next challenge. We have owners that are telling us they sold more because of you. That's what it's all about. We made an investment in you and we are getting an early return.
Hal Sklar: Vice President
BillboardConnection
"I have known Jim Johnson since his birth, as his Uncle Leo was my college roomate and his Dad, Gene Johnson was a colleague of mine during our tenure with the Section V governing body. Gene served as Section V Basketball Chairman during my term as President.
Watching him over the years, I have seen him display many leadership qualities. he has great self-discipline, displays a positive spirit, and possesses a high level of integrity. His manner draws people by his service to others and constantly works to achieve some good for mankind. He is a man of honor and a person of expertise as well."
James DeBell
Adjunct Professor
SUNY College at Brockport
Brockport, NY 14420
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