John Register, CSP™, CPAE, PLY

What is your “Speaker Superpower”?
My speaker superpower is “transformational storytelling with a purpose.” I have an innate ability to connect deeply with audiences by sharing my personal journey in a way that feels authentic and relatable. By blending vulnerability with a structured framework—like my “3R Model” or “Amputate to Elevate” methodology—I provide audiences with actionable steps to overcome challenges and elevate their lives. What sets me apart is the ability to turn my lived experiences into universal lessons. My stories don’t just inspire—they equip people with a proven guide for growth, leadership, and resilience. Whether I’m speaking about adapting to change, seizing opportunities, or reengaging teams, my goal is always the same: to empower people to act and transform their lives. That’s my superpower—helping others see their potential and giving them the tools to make it a reality.
How does your message empower others?
My message empowers others because it goes beyond sharing an inspirational story—I offer a framework that guides people to shift their mindset and take action. I don’t believe in simply “overcoming adversity.” As an amputee, I know that if I had overcome the amputation of my left leg, I’d have my leg back. Instead, I teach audiences how to adapt, transform, and move forward. Empowerment begins with “inspiration.” The word “inspiration” comes from the Latin inspiro, meaning “to breathe into.” Because my Creator breathed life into me, I see it as my responsibility to breathe life into others. Inspiration becomes the spark for motivation, which drives action. Action creates transformation, and that transformation re-inspires others. This cycle is the heart of empowerment. Here’s how my message creates lasting impact: 1. Creating Connection: I show audiences, through my own journey, that setbacks are not the end—they’re opportunities to pivot. By sharing vulnerably and authentically, I make it clear that growth is possible for anyone, no matter their circumstances. 2. Providing Tools for Action: I equip people with practical models, like my “3R Framework” or “Amputate to Elevate” methodology, to recognize opportunities in adversity, reframe their vision, and renew their commitment to success. 3. Building Confidence: I guide people to discover their inner strength by teaching them how to amputate the things that hold them back and amplify the tools, skills, or mindsets that propel them forward. 4. Encouraging Leadership: My message inspires leaders—especially those navigating high-stakes transitions—to lead courageously, embrace adaptability, and drive innovation. Ultimately, I empower audiences to see themselves as capable agents of change, equipped to transform their lives and inspire those around them. That’s the ripple effect I aim to create every time I step on stage.
What inspired you to start speaking or coaching?
The inspiration for my speaking career came unexpectedly while emceeing a high school program in Houma, Louisiana, for the United States Army Accessions Command. I was introducing a group of world-class athletes from the Army’s World Class Athlete Program—a program I had once been a part of until a tragic accident led to the amputation of my left leg. Between speakers, I’d throw in a few funny quips to keep the audience engaged. Sometimes, I’d recite a poem or drop an amputee joke, like, “I know what you’re all thinking… and yes, my favorite restaurant is IHOP.” The students loved it. Soon after, the school principals began calling the recruiters who had brought me to the event. They were asking if I could put together a 35-minute presentation for their kids because the students were still talking about me. Of course, I said, “Certainly.” Then they asked the magic question: “How much would you charge?” Wait a second—you can get paid to talk? That was news to me. I told them I’d get back to them, and then I dove into research. Not long after, I gave my first paid presentation, and I’ve been speaking professionally ever since. What started as a chance to share a few laughs and stories became a career where I get to inspire, empower, and connect with audiences all over the world.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received in your career as a speaker?
The best advice I ever received as a speaker was simple but powerful: “Tell your own stories, not someone else’s.” Our personal stories carry a unique DNA, and because they’re ours, we naturally share them with more authenticity—almost as if we were sitting around the dinner table. I’ll never forget the time I missed the mark on this. I tried to be a customer service speaker, bending my message on mindset and overcoming adversity to fit a customer service theme. Big mistake. I had 60 minutes, and I knew I was bombing just five minutes in. It was brutal. That experience taught me two things. First, widen your network. I started connecting with great customer service speakers so I could refer them instead of trying to deliver something outside my wheelhouse. Second, stay in your lane. This year, I spoke at another customer service event. This time, the topic was mindset and navigating shifting markets—exactly my specialty. It went great because I stuck to my core message. The takeaway? Stick with your story, and make sure it aligns with the audience in front of you. That advice has guided me since, and I’m not straying from it.
What are some of your most memorable moments or achievements in this field?
My most memorable moments was sharing the stage with the G.O.A.T. Les Brown. It was wonderful to see him work. I learned so much in that hour. And, then I had a chance to sit with him backstage for an hour. Another moment was being honored by my peers in the National Speakers Association, the official association for the professional speaker, with the CPAE, or Hall of Fame Award. Wow, this is an honor because it comes from peers. And, it is for work that is currently being done. It is not a past experience like many of my other accolades. For example, I won the Paralympic Silver Medal in 2000. That is a past award experience. The CPAE is for work that is now, and that is in the future. I was also awarded this year a Top 50 Recognition as a Global Leadership Speaker by Real-Leaders Magazine. Being mentioned in the same magazine as Tony Robbins, Mel Robbins, Simon Sinek, Les Brown, Brene’ Brown and other well-known influencers. But the greatest moments are when I spend time with my wife Alice on one of her trips. She is a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines. I get to be the Non-Revenue Flyer Hubby. It is great to watch her work.
How do you stay motivated and inspired to continually grow your influence?
To continually grow my influence and stay motivated, I prioritize staying connected with the National Speakers Association (NSA). NSA is the premier organization for professional speakers, offering everything you need to elevate a speaking business. I make it a point to attend their major events, including the summer conference, Influence, and the winter conference, Thrive. I also participate in the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) Summit and the Council of Peers Award for Excellence (CPAE) Conference, where I stay up to date on the latest industry trends. Beyond conferences, I host a podcast, Amputate to Elevate Success, where I interview industry leaders across the event supply chain. These conversations not only broaden my perspective but also keep me ahead of trends and connected to cutting-edge insights. I’m also deeply involved in mastermind groups, which are a cornerstone of my growth. One group includes three women who hold each other accountable for weekly tasks and progress in business. Another mastermind emerged from a strategic session earlier this year; it focuses on visioning, resources, and collaborative projects. Twice a year, I engage with the Black National Speakers Association, a virtual NSA chapter, where we work through Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich. This group meets weekly for accountability, ensuring we’re applying the book’s principles to our businesses. Additionally, I interview executives for my “Elevate Life Video ThinkLetter” (available at [https://johnregister.beehiiv.com]. These conversations focus on building executive momentum during high-stakes transitions and keep me—and my audience—at the forefront of business trends. All of these activities help me deliver greater value to my clients. They sharpen my understanding of industry shifts and ensure I remain equipped to guide others toward success. Staying connected, learning from the best, and sharing those insights with my community are what fuel my growth and influence.
How does your brand reflect your core values?
My brand is a direct reflection of my core values. At its heart, it’s about breathing life into people who resist change, struggle with inflexibility, or feel uncertain about their future. Resistance to change often leads to missed opportunities, loss of market relevance, disengaged employees, and even declining revenue. I aim to shift that perspective by showing people they always have a choice and that there’s a clear path forward. Through my “3R Model for a Resilient Life,” I help audiences recognize, reframe, and renew their approach to life and leadership. This message resonates deeply because it not only provides them with actionable steps to move forward but also empowers them to teach these principles to others. This ripple effect is what elevates my brand—it’s not just about inspiring individuals but equipping them to elevate their teams, communities, and organizations. At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to help others win—and win the right way. Seeing that transformation in action is what drives me and reflects the essence of what my brand stands for.
What do you want audiences to remember after experiencing your presentation or session?
I want my audience to walk away knowing they have options—life is rarely about binary choices. They can choose to face the hurdles in their lives head-on and not let the naysayers or critics dictate their path. More importantly, I want them to feel empowered to breathe life into others, just as I do during my sessions. I want them to understand that they have the ability to amputate their limitations and elevate their expectations at the speed of thought. Ultimately, I want every person in the room to leave inspired, knowing they have the power to impact their world in ways they may not have thought possible. It’s about creating a ripple effect of resilience, empowerment, and transformation. That’s what I hope sticks with them long after the session ends.
What has been your biggest learning experience as a speaker or consultant?
My biggest learning experience has been recognizing that I’m a conduit for helping people become the best version of themselves. I’ve come to understand that I’m not the “main event” at my clients’ gatherings—I’m part of a larger supply chain working together to ensure their audience has an exceptional experience. This perspective hit home for me while listening to a panel of speaker bureau agents share their worst nightmares. Many of their frustrations revolved around speakers making unreasonable demands or being difficult to work with. It was humbling to realize that some of my colleagues were creating friction for event professionals. It prompted me to take a hard look at where I might unintentionally be making things harder for my clients or their teams. I took inspiration from Crystal Washington, a fellow CSP and CPAE, who shared her simple yet effective approach: calling the client before boarding her flight, after landing, and upon arriving at the hotel. She shows up early for sound checks, comes prepared, and makes herself available to support the event team. I’ve also adopted other small yet impactful practices. For example, I bring thank-you notes or small gifts for the AV and production teams, recognizing their critical role in making events successful. Drawing on my days as an event planner, I make an effort to arrive early, mingle with attendees, and ask the event planner if there’s anything I can do to make their job easier. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference. I once picked up a coffee cup left on a stairwell at an event. While it seemed minor, preventing 1,000 attendees from seeing that mess elevated the experience for everyone. This mindset shift has taught me that serving the client with humility, attentiveness, and collaboration doesn’t just enhance their event—it builds trust and strengthens relationships, ensuring I’m always seen as a valued partner, not just a speaker.
What advice would you give to aspiring speakers, coaches, or consultants who want to make an impact?
My advice starts with clarity: understand what you’re trying to accomplish. What are you offering? Too often, I hear aspiring speakers say they want to share their personal experiences, hoping their audience will have the same revelation they did. While your epiphany was meaningful to you, it doesn’t automatically translate to others unless you connect it to their needs. Here’s a framework to guide you: 1. Identify the story tied to your epiphany. What moment in your life reflects the insight you’re trying to share? 2. Have a clear purpose for telling that story. Why does it matter to your audience? 3. Present your story in a marketplace.* What problem are you solving with your story? I learned this the hard way. I once shared a general message about resilience, thinking it would inspire anyone. Then, I had a conversation with Phil M. Jones, CSP and CPAE, that changed my approach. He challenged me to define not just what I was speaking about, but what problem I was solving for my client. Turns out, my clients needed stability in uncertain markets. But Phil pushed further: “What are they losing because of that instability?” I realized my clients were missing opportunities, losing market relevance, and dealing with disengaged employees. Then came the deeper question: “What is that costing them per year, month, or week?” When I reframed my message, I could say, “If my story on resilience and methodology could increase opportunities, regain market relevance, and reengage employees, what would that be worth to you?” Suddenly, my story became not just inspirational but impactful—and marketable. So, here’s my advice: – Get granular. What pain point are you addressing? Who needs your message the most? – Test the market. If the market isn’t paying you, it’s likely because your story isn’t aligned with their needs or you haven’t leveraged it effectively to address their challenges. Your story is powerful when it’s connected to solving real-world problems. Focus on creating value for your audience, and the impact—and opportunities—will follow.
Finally, how can people get in touch with you?
The best way for people to get a hold of me is at https://johnregister.beehiiv.com or shoot me an email to [email protected]