Damon West

Damon is a college professor, nationally renowned keynote speaker, and bestselling author, co-writing "The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change" with Jon Gordon. His autobiography, "The Change Agent," details his transformation from a former college quarterback sentenced to life in prison to an inspirational figure, just three years after his release.

At 20, Damon was a Division 1 starting quarterback at the University of North Texas before a career-ending injury led him to hard drugs. He later worked in Congress, assisted a presidential campaign, and trained as a stockbroker at UBS, where he was introduced to methamphetamines. His addiction changed many lives and eventually led to his incarceration. Inside, a conversation with a fellow inmate sparked a profound transformation. He realized he could change his surroundings rather than let them change him.

Now living a life of recovery and service, Damon shares his uplifting "Be A Coffee Bean" message across the country at schools, corporations, sports teams, and more. His talks inspire countless individuals, from students to corporate teams. Damon's remarkable journey has been featured widely, and his continued work, including his latest book "The Coffee Bean for Kids," influences many to foster resilience and positive change.