Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk kid turned CEO/Founder of nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, a Best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. His message of pushing through adversity and defying the odds has transformed classrooms, school districts, and businesses across the nation.

Dr. Gaines has heartfelt enthusiasm for his audience and embraces crucial subject matters with a highly organic, kind-hearted approach fueled by positivity and the intrinsic desire to unite community. Dr. Gaines is celebrated for nurturing youth & professionals through his own trauma, life experience, and unique challenges that ultimately became the driving force behind his mission and genuine desire to elevate and motivate students, teachers, administrators, professionals, and communities. Dr. Gaines was named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential People of 2020” by YAHOO News 2020. Dr. Gaines’ ability to relate to his audiences and help them imagine greater possibilities makes him so unique.

Dr. Gaines earned his nickname “PUSH” because he believes in the power of perseverance and teaches others to “keep pushing” through life’s obstacles to become the best version of themselves.

He has devoted himself to the world community. He has proudly appeared as a guest speaker at universities, corporations, national conferences, nonprofit events, NBA skill camps, school assemblies, and youth camps nationwide. As a graduate of East Central University, where he was named Outstanding Student in Business and won a football championship as captain of the football team, he is the picture of success. With a Master’s degree in Business Leadership and a Doctorate in Business Administration, he demonstrates outstanding dedication and personal achievement.

His greatest joy is being a Husband to Emily and a father to Anorah & Benny.