John Powers

John R. Powers is the author of five books including The Junk Drawer, Corner Store, and Front Porch Blues (Loyola Press has republished his first three books). He is also the playwright and co-producer of the Broadway musical, Do Black Patent Leather Shoes Really Reflect Up?, which is presently playing in over a dozen cities.

John's business background includes raising 1.2 million dollars to produce his musical and coordinating the activities of over a hundred people among them actors, directors, musicians, lighting design and costume people. He also worked with marketing, sales, publicity professionals and over a dozen unions.

John Powers has an extensive communications background. He has hosted his own PBS special and has appeared on hundreds of radio and television shows including Oprah and Today. John has also received two Emmy awards for his work in television. He presents keynote addresses, seminars and often acts as a master-of-ceremonies for meetings.

John holds a PhD degree in communications from Northwestern University and was a professor of speech and performing arts at Northeastern Illinois University.

Recently, HCI (publishers of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series) published John's first non-fiction book, Odditude. This fall, John will be featured in the newest Chicken Soup for the Soul book, Chicken Soup for the Catholic Soul.

John's speaking appearances include groups like the Chicago Bulls, the Chicago Bears and business groups like the American Bar Association, AT&T, American Express, U.S. Post Office, United States Steel and various educational and community groups.

Program Titles:

Living at the Speed of Life: Passion For Who You Are and What You Do

How to Keep the Promises You Make To Yourself

Laughing All the Way to the Bank

Lions Walk Softly So They Can Listen (Creative Leadership Skills)

Learning Is For the Birds - The Ones That Want To Fly!