About Shawn Harper
Shawn Harper’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith and determination. From his days as an NFL offensive lineman with the Rams and Colts to his leadership in NFL Europe, Shawn’s story is anchored in his unwavering Christian faith. A junior college Hall of Famer at NIACC and a proud graduate of Indiana University, Bloomington, where he earned a degree in criminal justice and sociology, Shawn’s achievements on the field are matched only by his commitment to serving others. Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Shawn has dedicated nearly two decades to directing a security business, all while spreading the message of hope and resilience.
His impact extends far beyond the gridiron, as he has shared his inspiring journey with corporate audiences at Dow, Sonic, JP Morgan Chase, Star Financial, FedEx, Proctor & Gamble, and many others. Through his motivational speaking engagements and two powerful books, “The Winning Edge – 8 Principles That Will Bring Out the Winner in You” and “The Winologist,” Shawn embodies the Christian values of perseverance, faith, and overcoming adversity. Despite facing significant challenges, including five documented learning disabilities and a debilitating stutter, Shawn refused to be defined by his circumstances. Instead, he embraced a winner’s mindset rooted in his belief in God’s plan for his life. Shawn’s journey from being labeled “Most likely to fail” in his graduating class to becoming a beacon of hope is a testament to the transformative power of Christ’s love.
Speaking Topics
Specialized Topics
Topic: 2 Corinthians 5:17 – Identity in Christ In this message, Shawn shares how God reshaped his identity. Not through success or public opinion, but through surrender and struggle. Through his testimony, men and women discover how suffering becomes the very place where God forms a new identity in Christ. Shawn reveals how embracing what God says about you changes every battle you face.
Outcomes:
– How faith in Christ gives you a new identity, not defined by your past
– Building determination based on who God says you are, not on circumstance
– How to walk in the Spirit and reject false identities from the world or the enemy
STRENGTH THROUGH ADVERSITY
Topic: Overcoming adversity through spiritual identity and the Holy Spirit Shawn unpacks the hidden gift within hardship: God uses fire to form those He calls. Through real-life stories from his NFL career and personal struggles, Shawn shows how adversity can strengthen spiritual identity, deepen reliance on God, and unlock the destiny God designed for you.
Outcomes:
– Understanding adversity as divine preparation
– The role of the Holy Spirit in strengthening your inner identity
– How spiritual resilience and perseverance grow through trials
TRUSTING GOD’S PLAN
Topic: Trusting God’s purpose In this talk, Shawn shares how letting go of personal plans and embracing God’s direction changed the trajectory of his life. Attendees learn why surrender is not weakness—it is spiritual strength. Shawn reveals how God’s will unfolds in suffering, setbacks, and unexpected detours, ultimately revealing His goodness.
Outcomes:
– How to trust God when His plan looks different than your expectations
– How walking in the Spirit leads to clarity, identity, and purpose
– Daily practices to stay surrendered and faith-filled in challenging times