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It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.

Hi there, and welcome! I’m Jake Olson—a motivational speaker, author, entrepreneur, and proud husband and dad living in Jacksonville, Florida, with my amazing wife, Audrey, and our little guy, Rowan.

At 12 years old, I lost my sight to retinoblastoma, a rare form of eye cancer. While this brought immense challenges, my faith and love for football guided me through. In high school, I became a long snapper and eventually walked onto the USC Trojan football team, making history as the first completely blind Division I player. My time at USC was unforgettable, from earning Pac-12 Special Teams Player of the Week to co-founding Engage, a talent booking platform that’s changing the game.

These days, I’m running Engage as its President, hitting the golf course (fair warning, I’m the best completely blind golfer in the world!), and supporting causes close to my heart, like retinoblastoma research and vision loss advocacy. Oh, and did I mention 2024 was a whirlwind? I moved to Florida, married Audrey, and became a dad all within a few months!

I’m so glad you’re here—take a look around and get to know me better. Let’s connect and inspire each other!

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More About Me

Speaking

Speaking

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Golf

Golf

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Football

Football

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Books

Books

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Philanthropy

Philanthropy

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I knew my story could impact others

Growing up with the challenges of battling cancer and losing my sight at age 12, it would have been easy to feel bitter or discouraged. But instead, I’ve been blessed with a testimony and a “Fight On” spirit, grounded in my faith. I’ve experienced the depth of God’s love in ways that defy description, witnessed miracles that have reinforced the power of faith, and learned the transformative impact of sharing my story to help others face their own battles with strength and hope.

It all started with my first speech at a Wells Fargo board meeting when I was just 12 years old. Since then, I’ve shared my journey with thousands, speaking to Fortune 500 companies, churches, schools, and charities across the country. My story has reached millions through features on ESPN and countless other news outlets, even earning an Emmy. Along the way, I’ve authored books to share my mindset, started my own foundation, and committed myself to spreading the good news of Jesus. Through all of this, I’ve come to believe that setbacks are only as permanent as we make them—and with faith, perseverance, and a positive outlook, we can turn challenges into remarkable opportunities.

Follow What I’m Up To

jakeolson61

jakeolson61

Jake Olson Follow

Jake Olson @jakeolson61 ·

If you’re not up to watch this Cubs Dodgers game, that’s your problem! Go Cubs Go! ⚾️❤️

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Jake Olson @jakeolson61 ·

Anyone know of or have two tickets from today’s Players Championship that can’t go tomorrow morning?

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Retweet on Twitter Jake Olson Retweeted

Shane Pruitt @shane_pruitt78 ·

World-“Love is love.”
Bible-“God is love.”

World-“Live your truth.”
Bible-“Jesus is Truth.”

...World-“You are enough.”
Bible-“God is enough.”

World-“It’s your life. Do what you want.”
Bible-“Jesus is life. Do what He says.”

World-“Believe in yourself.”
Bible-“Believe in God.”

Reply on Twitter 1900683441932562572 Retweet on Twitter 1900683441932562572 128 Like on Twitter 1900683441932562572 561

Why I Write

When I was 8 years old, I wrote my very first book. At the time, I felt God was calling me to help the other kids I saw in the hospital, to give them hope and encouragement as they faced their treatments. It was just a little flip book, but God used it in ways I never could have imagined, reaching places and lives far beyond anything I dreamed of.

Then, at 14, I was given the chance to co-author my first published book. This time, I shared my journey of losing my sight and how that didn’t stop me from holding onto faith, dreaming big, and pursuing my goals. Now, I’m working on my third book—a full-circle story about my football career and the incredible journey that led me to play at USC.

Looking back, I can see that God has placed writing on my heart. It’s not something I’d call my natural talent, but that just makes it even more of a testament to His power and grace. He continues to use me to share my story and the lessons He’s taught me, so I can help others face their challenges and see what’s possible through faith and perseverance.

more about my books

Get Involved

Adversity has taught me the power of empathy—the kind that drives action. To me, overcoming challenges only matters if it leads to lifting others up. That’s why I’m passionate about philanthropy, especially supporting individuals who are going blind. Whether it’s funding cancer research, helping families through their journey, or connecting people with life-changing resources, my mission is to ensure they can live the lives they aspire to. Faith, compassion, and action transform lives, join me in my commitment to be apart of that transformation.

More About Philanthropies I Support

Let's Connect

Interested in booking me for a speech? Want to do an interview to talk about life, faith, my latest football takes—or to hear my finest dad jokes? How about a round of golf where I promise not to gloat too much when I beat you! Whatever brings you here, I’d love the opportunity to connect!

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Contact Me

Simply fill out the form below and share a bit about what you’re looking for in the message box. I’ll do my best to follow up within 48 hours. For more customizable experiences, feel free to visit my Engage profile as well.