Jim Kelly, NFL legend & cancer survivor, shares hard-won lessons on overcoming adversity and building a winning mindset.
5.00 of 5
Top rated!5 of 5
He came with his true self, and it showed through, he had the entire room laughing out loud and crying together.
Ben Jones Vice President,
Government Relations, The US Oncology Network
A Hall of Fame quarterback and four-time AFC champion, Jim Kelly is a true symbol of resilience. From overcoming career-threatening injuries to surviving cancer four times, his journey proves that faith, family, and perseverance fuel success. His powerful keynote inspires organizations to lead with toughness, unity, and purpose.
Keynote speaker Jim Kelly has lived it firsthand. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, four-time AFC Champion, and one of the toughest quarterbacks in NFL history, Jim’s leadership extended far beyond the field. As a cancer survivor and a father who endured the heartbreaking loss of his son to a rare disease, he knows what it means to fight through life’s greatest hardships.
Through his keynote, Jim shares powerful lessons on leadership, teamwork, courage, and resilience—values that define champions in both sports and business. His story teaches organizations how to embrace challenges, strengthen unity, and turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. With an authentic, engaging, and motivational approach, Jim inspires teams to push past limits, lead with purpose, and make a lasting impact.
Book Jim Kelly for your event and bring the mindset of a true champion to your organization.
Jim covers the topics:
5 of 5
He came with his true self, and it showed through, he had the entire room laughing out loud and crying together.
Ben Jones Vice President, Government Relations, The US Oncology Network
5 of 5
I just wanted to say thank you and tell you that the feedback from your appearance was exceptional. In the 5 years we have had the conference by far you were ranked as the best speaker the conference has had! Thank You for touching so many people.
John A. Gaetano, CHFM, CHC Assistant Vice President Facilities Management Cayuga Medical Center
5 of 5
Jim did an amazing job, and many have said that he is the best we have had in the 16-year history of speakers. We so appreciate all that he did to lift the spirits of our patients and families on the inpatient unit and the inspiration he provided to everyone who attended the event.
Caleb Hegna, Director of Development Iowa Methodist & Methodist West
5 of 5
Jim did an AMAZING job!!! It was absolutely perfect. He made a big impact on a lot of leaders who will definitely be better difference makers after hearing him!!
Beth Hollis-Kaiser West Herr Automotive Group
5 of 5
You can do no better than Jim Kelly. I am so grateful to have worked with this outstanding man… I simply cannot say enough about the whole experience
Ann Marie Surovy, Public Relations & Development Coordinator LifePath, Inc.
5 of 5
Your lecture last night was not only interesting, but inspirational! It had a great message behind it, especially for children and young adults. The audience was thrilled they had the opportunity to hear you speak and had a lot of positive things to say after the event. I think one audience member hit it on the nose by saying, ‘Jim Kelly was a great football player, but a better human being.
Theodore Ryan, Programming Director Brockport Student Government
5 of 5
I have had incredible, positive feedback from our attendees. Men and women moved to tears, who are so grateful to have had the opportunity to meet Jim and hear his story. From myself and the FAHP team, we are so appreciative to you for sharing the gift of inspirational servant leaders.
Audrey Brown. President and CEO Florida Association of Health Plans
Keynote Speaker Jim Kelly is more than a Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback—he is a true testament to resilience, leadership, and perseverance. A four-time AFC Champion, Jim led the Buffalo Bills to an unprecedented four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, proving his ability to thrive under pressure. His success on the field was built on toughness, teamwork, and an unshakable mindset—qualities that translate directly into business, leadership, and personal development.
Beyond football, Jim’s life has been marked by incredible challenges, including the loss of his son to a rare disease and his own battle with cancer—four times. Each time, he has demonstrated the power of faith, family, and determination in overcoming adversity. His journey is not just about sports; it’s about how leaders and teams can rise above obstacles, embrace challenges, and build a culture of perseverance and success.
Organizations seeking an impactful and motivating keynote should book Jim Kelly for your event. His story resonates with corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and teams striving to develop resilience, unity, and a winning mindset. Jim’s keynote is a powerful experience that provides practical strategies for overcoming setbacks, adapting to change, and leading with strength. His dynamic presence and heartfelt message leave a lasting impression on audiences, making him the perfect speaker for organizations looking to inspire and empower their teams.
Book Jim Kelly for your event today and bring the mindset of a champion to your organization.
Watch Jim Kelly in action
