#402: A Brain Tumor Took His Smile — But a Pocket Square Named Henry Gave Him His Life Back

What if the very thing you believe makes you broken… could actually become your superpower?

John Kippen’s story will challenge how you define beauty, strength, and identity. After a life-altering brain tumor left half his face paralyzed, John spent 12 years hiding—convinced the world would never look past his appearance. But a twist of fate (and a pocket square named Henry) led him back to his childhood love of magic… and his comeback began.

Today’s episode is part inspiration, part transformation—and proof that your greatest pain can become your greatest platform.

CONNECT WITH JOHN KIPPEN:

🌐 Website (Full Portfolio):

👉 johnkippen.com

See John's TED Talk, watch his documentary John’s Ultimate Illusion, and grab a copy of his book Playing the Hand You Were Dealt.

🧭 Coaching Website:

👉 kippen.coach

Explore John’s 1:1 Resilience & Empowerment Coaching, or book a complimentary discovery call.

🎥 Watch His TED Talk:

👉 TED Talk – John Kippen

Voted by Los Angeles Magazine as one of the most profound TED Talks of the century (over 1M views).

📽️ Watch the Documentary (feat. Jamie Lee Curtis):

👉 John’s Ultimate Illusion

📖 Get the Book – Playing the Hand You Are Dealt:

👉 Buy on Amazon

Final Thought:

Whether you’ve been hiding your scars—visible or invisible—this episode is your reminder: You are not less than. You are more than. And the world doesn’t need a perfect version of you—it needs the real one.

💡 If this story inspired you, share the episode with a friend who needs it.

📲 And don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss another story of Grit, Grace, & Inspiration.

Hey, it's Kevin!

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This podcast is designed specifically for those seeking healing from trauma, relief from anxiety, overcoming fear of the unknown, resolving isolation,...