J.R. Martinez Speaker Biography
Actor, Veteran, Winner of Dancing With the Stars, and Bestselling Author
J.R. Martinez is a top veteran overcoming adversity speaker whose remarkable life journey has moved audiences around the world. From a small Georgia town to national television stages, his story is rooted in resilience, hope, and transformation. Born to a single El Salvadoran immigrant mother, he went from high school football player to U.S. Army soldier, actor, bestselling author, and motivational force. While his path was shaped by unimaginable challenges, it’s his response to those trials that defines his legacy. J.R. connects deeply with audiences because his message is authentic—drawn from lived experience and emotional truth. He doesn’t just speak about resilience; he embodies it. Through humor, vulnerability, and insight, he inspires people from all walks of life to reframe setbacks as stepping stones. His journey offers a powerful message: adversity is not the end—it’s the beginning of something far greater.
Iraq
In March 2003, J.R. Martinez deployed to Iraq as a U.S. Army infantryman. Just weeks later, his Humvee hit a roadside bomb in Karbala. Trapped inside the burning vehicle while his fellow soldiers were ejected, J.R. sustained burns to more than one-third of his body. Recovery was long and grueling—34 surgeries over several years, each one reshaping not just his skin but his spirit. During his hospitalization, however, something unexpected happened. Fellow patients were drawn to him—not just for his courage, but for his empathy and humor. As he shared his story, he discovered his ability to uplift others. Therefore, what began as pain transformed into purpose. He became a voice of healing inside hospital walls and, eventually, far beyond them. His journey from soldier to speaker was forged in fire, literally and figuratively—solidifying his role as a top veteran overcoming adversity speaker whose influence continues to grow.
Top Motivational Speaker
After his recovery, J.R. launched a speaking career that has taken him across the globe. From military bases to major corporations, he inspires audiences to embrace resilience, purpose, and adaptability. He has addressed the Clinton Global Initiative, the Red Cross, and hundreds of Fortune 500 companies. His story is deeply personal, yet the message is universal: we all face adversity, but how we respond defines who we become. Importantly, J.R. never offers cliché solutions. Instead, he provides real tools for mental grit and perspective shifts. He blends storytelling with actionable insights, leaving audiences energized and empowered. In addition to live events, he delivers engaging virtual programs, making his message accessible even in remote settings. Bilingual in English and Spanish, J.R. customizes each presentation to fit the audience’s cultural and emotional context. Ultimately, he’s not just a motivational speaker—he’s a mentor in moments of crisis, a catalyst for hope.
All My Children
J.R.’s acting career began unexpectedly when a friend encouraged him to audition for a veteran’s role on All My Children. Initially cast for a three-month arc, he quickly won over producers and fans alike. His character, Brot Monroe, was a wounded Iraq veteran—a role that mirrored his real-life experience. As the storyline evolved, J.R. remained with the show for three impactful years. His portrayal brought authenticity and emotional complexity to daytime television, giving visibility to the struggles veterans face while reintegrating into civilian life. Moreover, it showcased his ability to connect not just on stage, but through a screen. For J.R., acting wasn’t just a job—it was another avenue to change perceptions and spark conversations. The experience further cemented his public identity as a resilient, multidimensional figure. Even off the set, he used his platform to continue his mission as a top veteran overcoming adversity speaker.
Dancing With the Stars
J.R. Martinez became a national sensation in 2011 when he appeared on Season 13 of Dancing with the Stars. Paired with professional dancer Karina Smirnoff, he captivated audiences with every performance. Against all odds—and despite never dancing professionally—he won the competition. Yet, his victory was about more than choreography. It was a public celebration of perseverance, optimism, and grit. Each week, he shared his personal journey with millions of viewers, reminding them that resilience is both visible and contagious. This high-profile win expanded his reach, attracting global media attention and invitations to prestigious events. Even so, J.R. remained grounded, using the spotlight not for fame but to elevate his message. His presence on the show proved that joy and transformation are possible—even after trauma. It also reinforced his growing reputation as a public figure who leads with integrity, humor, and heart.
Media and Podcast
Over the years, J.R. has appeared on Oprah, 60 Minutes, Good Morning America, The View, and The Tonight Show, among many others. He’s been profiled in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and People Magazine, which named him one of 2011’s “Most Intriguing People.” He also narrated CNN’s In America: Vets Wanted? and hosted his own radio program on KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles. In his podcast, Rebirth with J.R. Martinez, he interviews guests about life after disruption. These conversations offer a raw, uplifting look at what it means to rebuild after life changes. Through multiple platforms, he expands his reach far beyond keynote stages. His media presence consistently amplifies his influence as a top veteran overcoming adversity speaker, making his story accessible to countless people seeking courage in their own challenges.
Book, Nonprofit Work, and Life Today
J.R.’s New York Times bestselling memoir, Full of Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength, and Spirit, chronicles his journey from tragedy to triumph. The book offers intimate insight into his recovery, resilience, and desire to uplift others. Outside of writing and speaking, J.R. works closely with nonprofit organizations including Operation Finally Home, the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. Whether he’s helping build homes for veterans or mentoring burn survivors, his commitment is personal and profound. Today, he continues to inspire through live keynotes, virtual events, podcasts, and advocacy. Offstage, he enjoys family time and the companionship of his black lab, Romeo. With every platform he touches, J.R. Martinez exemplifies the spirit of perseverance. His story—and his voice—resonates as a powerful force in the lives of many. He remains a top veteran overcoming adversity speaker whose message is as timely as it is timeless.
J.R. Martinez Speaking Topics
Facing Adversity with Optimism and Resilience
None of us knows what we're capable of until we're faced with a tough or unexpected challenge. Often this means having to adjust your dream or vision and sometimes event to create an entirely new goal. It can also mean getting through a tough time a week, day, hour or even minute at a time. By focusing on shorter term goals and keeping optimism (and even humor) at the forefront, your entire outlook and perspective can be transformed. We are all stronger and more resilient than we think. In facing challenges and recovering from setbacks, we have new opportunities to develop the unique gifts that have been given to us. It's about being able to become more what you can envision at the moment.
Plugging into Your Potential
True potential can only be realized by believing, trusting and not quitting. JR explores the power of goal setting, staying motivated, and developing the perseverance that will get you to your destination. Each fork in the road is a chance to make a decision that will take you either closer or further from your goal. If you choose correctly, there are endless possibilities. And, while keeping focused on your goal is a good thing, you shouldn't do it to the point of 'getting stuck.' JR shows the importance of being open minded to new opportunities and fluid enough to respond to circumstances that, while unexpected, take you further than you ever thought possible.
Paying it Forward: The Return is Priceless
All of us have the power to make an impact on a life, either positively or negatively. Our words, our actions are powerful. How we treat others not only affects them, it shapes us. And, frankly, why should we do something for someone else? The payoff is bigger than you can imagine. When you use the unique power and gifts you have inside to help others, not only do you benefit, but the person you help can teach you things about yourself in a positive light.
Respecting Yourself and Others
The best things come when we respect ourselves, and others. While we tend to see ourselves as "normal" we should see others as normal in their own way. In their own skin. Be proud of who you are, and recognize that every single person has worth. Every person has something they bring to the table. JR has spent countless hours listening to people through the stories they tell. People can teach you so much if you just listen-accept them for who they are, flaws and all…and that begins with respecting.
For Faith Based Groups
J.R. can tailor a talk specifically for faith based groups. His faith helped him through his ordeal and recovery, and he truly believes that God was in his corner. As J.R. says, "God doesn't always put you in it, but having solid faith pulls you through it."
The American Dream Personified
As a Latino-American, J.R.’s story goes beyond his time in the U.S. Army. He is the proud son of a single mother from El Salvador, who came to this country out of desperation and to give her child a future. She soon grew to love this country as much as any citizen. She worked hard, gained her American citizenship, and in doing so, she instilled in J.R. the notion of service: service to family, service to community, and service to country. J.R. truly relates to the millions of first generation Latino-Americans who were born with that inherent drive to serve, and to make their world a better place for the next generation. As a proud American citizen and an example of the American dream, J.R. celebrates what is possible in this great country of ours with hard work and a dream. As a proud American citizen and an example of the American dream, J.R. celebrates what is possible in this great country of ours with hard work and a dream.
J.R. Martinez Books
Full of Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength, and Spirit
Purchase BookJ.R. Martinez Videos
J.R. Martinez Articles
J.R. Martinez Speaker Testimonials
What can I say but your presentation was amazing. This was the first keynote session where we had a standing ovation from the audience. We want to extend our sincerest thanks to you for your hard work and dedication to your session yesterday at the NRC Picker Patient-Centered Care Symposium at The Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. This was a true patient story.
- The Governance Institute | Cynthia Ballow CPA, Vice President Operations
Personal stories are powerful teaching tools. Learning how to overcome obstacles and challenges are especially useful for entrepreneurs as they work to grow successful businesses from the ground up. J.R. Martinez's message to our 2011 National Conference attendees provided insightful, emotionally charged wisdom and lessons learned from his life experience. His message resonated with hope and the power of a positive attitude. Regardless of what circumstances or setbacks interfere with our life plans, J.R.'s encouragement inspired our attendees to not give up on their dreams.
- Keynote Participant | JAFRA USA
I have known J.R. Martinez since 2007, and I have to say that I have met very few people who have not only recovered but have become hugely inspirational. The truth is J.R. should not have survived, but because of this miracle he is on a mission. Now he is driving down that road with amazing speed.
- Bob Woodruff | Journalist, ABC
The effect you had on the audience was tremendous! It was the dose of reality they needed to put their work, lives and even their family in the right perspective. You vastly exceeded all of our expectations.
- | United States Air Force
