Motivational speaker Johnnie Williams will give a talk about his life experiences at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at Hendricks Hall on the University of Central Missouri campus. His speaking series is titled “Beyond the Barrel: A Story of Redemption.”

As a child, Johnnie played football in Kansas City. He entered college as a star football player, experiencing what it was like to be celebrated and idolized as a promising athlete. A severe injury ended his football career, and he turned to alcohol and drugs. His actions would result in 19 years in prison. His message encompasses messages of life’s challenges, addictions, mistakes, forgiveness, self-worth, hope and redemption.

The event is sponsored by the UCM CTL’s Speaker Series & the department of criminal justice.