J.R. Martinez is a best-selling author, motivational speaker, advocate, wounded U.S. Army
veteran, and actor who has been featured on All My Children, Dancing with the Stars, SAF3,
and more.
While deployed to Iraq, J.R. hit a roadside bomb while driving and became trapped in his
burning vehicle. He suffered smoke inhalation, severe burns, and had to undergo 34 different
surgeries, including skin grafts and cosmetic surgery, in the years following his injury. During
his recovery, after a brief visit with another burn patient, J.R. realized that he’d made a positive
impact on this individual and decided to use his own experiences to help others. He continued
to visit patients every day, sharing his story and listening to theirs. He learned that inspiration is
often a two-way street.
A highly sought-after motivational speaker, Martinez travels the world spreading his message
of resilience and optimism. He has spoken to troops at various bases around the world, as well
as to groups such as the Clinton Global Initiative, the Red Cross, and dozens of universities,
non-profits, and Fortune 500 companies. His New York Times best-selling memoir, Full of
Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength and Spirit, details how he was able to take his personal
tragedy and turn it into an inspiration for others, a message he also brings to worldwide
organizations. In May 2020, he launched his podcast, REBIRTH with J.R. Martinez, an ode to
reinvention and the spirit of human resilience. In each episode, with his joyful effervescence,
quick wit, and curious nature, J.R. takes listeners on a journey through conversations that
explore what defines us, the moments that changed us forever, and the hope that propels us
forward.
J.R.’s story is unique, but his message is universal: your path in life is decided by your own
ability to adapt and overcome.