Thriving Beyond the Storm: Lessons in Perseverance and New Beginnings with Kijuan Amey

Today, on Notable Leaders’ Radio, I speak with Kijuan Amey, Chief Motivation Officer of Amey Motivation LLC. He highlights his extraordinary journey living his dream of working in the Air Force to an accident that changed him forever. He shares how redefining his life through resilience, faith, and the power of vulnerability, gave him what he needed to thrive again.   In today’s episode, we discuss: Reframe vulnerability as a source of strength. Embrace open self-expression and honesty about your struggles. This can foster healing, help you confront past pain, and empower both yourself and others. Acknowledge and address mental health openly. Recognize the reality of emotional struggles, such as depression after trauma. Seeking support and being transparent about difficulties can reduce stigma and provide relief. Remind yourself that setbacks do not define you. Internalize the mantra, “my situation does not define who I am.” Use this belief to separate your identity from your circumstances and maintain hope for your future. Appreciate the hidden lessons in adversity. Understand that challenges during childhood or unexpected setbacks build resilience and self-reliance. Apply this mindset to reframe today’s difficulties as opportunities for growth. RESOURCES: Guest Bio From serving in the US Air Force to becoming a CEO, mentor, and bestselling author, Kijuan's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Born and raised in Durham, NC, he's a true testament to the power of determination and perseverance.  - Serving 10 years in the Air Force, advancing to the rank of Staff Sergeant.  - Former Vice President for the Carolina regional group of the Blinded Veterans Association.  - Mentor and ambassador for the Air Force Wounded Warriors program.  - A talented drummer with 25+ years of experience.  -On-stage actor. - Author of the bestseller, "Don't Focus on Why Me."  In a life-altering moment on May 5th, 2017, he lost his eyesight in a motorcycle accident. But as Kijuan says, "I may have lost my sight, but I did not lose my vision."  Now, Kijuan is a motivating force, empowering others to overcome odds and achieve success. No matter the audience or location, he's ready for the task, from captivating crowds of 1,500 to one-on-one sessions, he is now the chief motivational officer of Amey Motivation LLC.   Website/Social Links: ♦      LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kijuan-amey-783889121?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app   ♦      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/kijuanamey?igsh=NmZtNHRqbW1meWNy&utm_source=qr   ♦      Facebook:     https://www.facebook.com/share/1Bq7zzDeV5/?mibextid=wwXIfr   Belinda’s Bio: Belinda Pruyne is a renowned Leadership Advisor, Executive Coach, Consultant, and Keynote Speaker recognized for her ability to transform executives, professionals, and small business owners into highly respected, influential leaders. As the Founder of BelindaPruyne.com, she partners with top-tier organizations, including IBM, Booz Allen Hamilton, BBDO, Hilton, Leidos, Yale School of Medicine, Landis, Discovery Channel, and the Portland Trail Blazers. Recently, she led the redesign of two global internal advertising agencies for Cella, a leader in creative staffing and consulting. She is also a founding C-suite and executive management coach for Chief, the fastest-growing executive women’s network. A thought leader in leadership development, Belinda is the creator and host of the Notable Leaders Radio podcast, where she has conducted 95+ interviews with top executives and business leaders, revealing the untold stories behind their success. Previously, as Executive Vice President, Global Director of Creative Management at Grey Advertising, she oversaw a global team of 500 professionals, gaining deep expertise in client services and executive leadership. With 25+ years of experience, Belinda is a trusted advisor to startups, turnarounds, acquisitions, and Fortune 500 companies, delivering strategic, high-impact solutions in today’s fast-evolving business landscape. Website: Belindapruyne.com Email Address: hello@belindapruyne.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belindapruyne  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NotableLeadersNetwork.BelindaPruyne/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/belindapruyne?lang=en  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belindapruyne/