Michael Kutcher – Motivational Speaker, Disability Advocate, and Champion of Resilience

From the moment of birth, Michael Kutcher has been overcoming adversity and redefining what’s possible. Born on February 7, 1978, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Michael entered the world as the unexpected twin of actor Ashton Kutcher. Weighing less than five pounds and struggling to breathe, he faced life-threatening complications from the start.

Thanks to exceptional medical care and an indomitable will to survive, Michael made it through—but not without lasting challenges. By age three, he was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, along with significant neurological and developmental delays.

Defying the Odds with Strength and Purpose

Michael’s early life was shaped by medical battles most never face—vision and speech impairments, delayed motor skills, and eventually, heart failure at the age of 13. Given only weeks to live, he received a life-saving heart transplant, which became a turning point in his journey. This experience gave him a profound perspective on the fragility of life, igniting a desire to help others and live with intention.

He graduated from Clear Creek Amana High School and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Finance from Mount Mercy University.

Advocate, Speaker, and Voice for Change

Today, Michael is a nationally recognized motivational speaker, disability rights advocate, and organ donation ambassador. He has worked closely with the Cerebral Palsy Foundation and Donate Life, speaking across the country to inspire audiences and champion inclusive causes.

His advocacy work has brought him to Capitol Hill, the Centers for Disease Control, and the National Institutes of Health, where he’s helped shape conversations around accessibility, health equity, and organ donor awareness.

Living Proof That Adversity Builds Strength

When he’s not traveling for speaking engagements, Michael resides in Denver, Colorado, where he’s built a successful career at Transamerica Retirement. In his free time, he enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Michael’s core message is one of hope, resilience, and empowerment. As a keynote speaker, he teaches audiences to reframe limitations as opportunities—championing the idea of "Diffabilities" instead of "disabilities."

Having overcome unimaginable odds, Michael Kutcher is living proof that courage, grit, and positivity can overcome any challenge.