RECENT-TESTIMONIAL:
“After having had the pleasure of attending one of his motivational conferences, I must say, I am a happier man. All too often we loose sight of what really matters in our professional careers. Is it money, a day off, benefits? NO, it’s knowing that we have gone out and done our best, that we really put out the effort to be the best, and to do our best. When we really try, and get our eye on the target, that’s when we really perform, that’s what keeps the race horses running. That’s why I’m happier, he got my eye back on the target, and gave me the inspiration to be the best, and when I’m in that frame of mind, my life is great. Thank you Clay for the “gift” – Ted Sales Manager – Valspar – World Leader In Paint & Coatings

My name is Cody Alrich and I am the agent for SBA Entrepreneur of the Year, Success Coach and Motivational Author Clay Clark. After reading over your request summary, I really do believe that Clay is the perfect speaker for your event! He has conducted numerous technology related workshops, but his main gift is combining “entertainment and education” into one fast-paced and high energy event. I would love to connect with you in more detail about your event (918) 851-6920.

An award-winning entrepreneur who had to overcome poverty in route to achieving tremendous business success, Clay Clark is an engaging-entertainer and a nationally recognized educator. Having entertained and educated for industry leaders throughout the country including Farmers Insurance, the United States Government Accountability Office, 1st Option Online Mortgage, Valspar Paint, QuikTrip, UPS and many more…his journey to success started in his college dorm room at age of 18. By age 20 he had received national attention when he received the Metro Chamber of Commerce “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” for his “innovative best practice” customer service practices in his numerous businesses ventures. By age 27 he was able to add the United States Small Business Administration “Entrepreneur of the Year” and the U.S. Chamber “National Blue Ribbon Quality Award” to his resume.

With his witty, humorous and relevant delivery style, Clay has a unique ability to connect with today’s business professionals in a memorable and impacting way. He has entertained, educated & inspired nearly 1,500 audiences both large and small. You can reach Clay &  the Make Your Life Epic Institute today by calling 918-851-6920 or by e-mailing at djclayvis@djconnectiontulsa.com or by visiting our website at www.makeyourlifeepic.com

RESUME & AWARDS:
 United States Small Business Administration Entrepreneur of the Year
 U.S. Chamber Blue Ribbon National Quality Award Winner
 Metro Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year
 Featured In the New York Times
 Featured In A Washington Post Editorial By Jeff Jarvis
 Award-Winning MC / Host of 1,500 + Events For Companies Including (Bama Companies, QuikTrip, American Airlines, countless High Schools, Colleges etc…)
 Founder of DJ Connection
 Founder of Thompson Photography
 Founder of Cherished Traditions Videography
 Founder of the Tulsa Bridal Association

CONTACT INFO:
You can reach Clay &  the Make Your Life Epic Institute today by calling 918-851-6920 or by e-mailing at djclayvis@djconnectiontulsa.com or by visiting our website at www.makeyourlifeepic.com

VIDEO FOOTAGE:
Here is a link to workshop he recently conducted last week in Ft. Worth. I think this video does a good job of showcasing his optimistic, humorous and motivational approach to business and life.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBAuM0h1oPk&feature=channel_page

RECENT TESTIMONIALS:
“Great flexibility substituting for another speaker. Good job. The “winning @ work” got highest marks from 44 of 56 survey respondents.”
John E. Trubey
Senior Analyst U.S. Government Accountability Office
Dallas, Texas

“Inspiring, funny & brilliant! Clay, thank you so much for the brilliant presentations you made to our students in the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University. You motivated, entertained and educated us! We truly appreciate your time and hope to see you again in the near future.”
Professor Jeretta Nord:
Oklahoma State University: Spears Business School:
405-744-5064

“We are so happy engaged Clay Clark’s services for the recent Builder’s Convention I recently organized.  His ability to meld his presentation in with the specifics of our builder’s needs was most impressive.  His goal of having each person in that room walk away with one or two items they could implement to help grow their businesses was fully achieved.  I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for an inspiring, motivating speaker to address their group.  In fact, we hope to further utilize his additional services addressing specific needs (such as learning to design your website so that it becomes #1 in Google Searches) in the near future.  Thank-you so much for a wonderful, exciting presentation that brought solid ideas and useful techniques to our group.

Gail M. Stojak
IAUF Executive Asst.
UBuildIt – Orland Park
gstojak@iauf.net

Clay was recently featured on Newson6 (click above to view the exclusive extended interview)

Brief Biography of Clay Clark’s “Forest Gump-Esc” Career:
He is truly a “Self Help Guru.” An award-winning entrepreneur who had to overcome poverty in route to achieving tremendous business success, Clay Clark is an engaging-entertainer and a nationally recognized educator. With national accounts including Farmers Insurance, the United States Government Accountability Office, 1st Option Online Mortage, Valspar Paint, QuikTrip, UPS and many more…his journey to success started in his college dorm room at age of 18. By age 20 he had received national attention when he received the Metro Chamber of Commerce “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” for his “innovative best practice” customer service practices in his numerous businesses ventures. By age 27 he was able to add the United States Small Business Administration “Entrepreneur of the Year” and the U.S. Chamber “National Blue Ribbon Quality Award” to his resume.

“Hey Clay, Hope the business is going great and the family’s well. Just wanted to say thanks for teaching me some of the secrets of succeeding at jobs and going beyond what is just required. I took a lot of the things you told me to heart and have tried to put them to use in even the normal jobs I’ve worked. I think it’s thanks to those teachings that I’m now the second board operator in a decade that’s had a chance to move up to on-air staff at Stillwater Radio. I’m at a disadvantage since the bossman really wants to hire a female to fill the spot, but I’ve been doing what I thought you would do and staying an hour late after each shift to practice commercials, importing exporting and everything that I’ve talked the other full-timers into teaching me since starting there. Before I heard your success tips I probably would have just accepted it as fate and quit, but seeing what a guy just two years older than me has done in such a short amount of time has made me realize that I have to be aggressive if I want to move forward. So thanks for the business lessons and wish me luck.”

- Sincerely
Case Capehart
Seminar Attendee

Motivational Speaking Connection
For more information on how to schedule SBA Entrepreneur of the Year Clay Clark to speak to your organization or group call or . You can also visit us online at http://www.makeyourlifeepic.com “Inspiring, funny & brilliant! Clay, thank you so much for the brilliant presentations you made to our students in the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University. You motivated, entertained and educated us! We truly appreciate your time and hope to see you again in the near future.” - Professor Jeretta Nord: Oklahoma State University: Spears Business School: Clay Clark is the President of the Make Your Life Institute, an organization dedicated to EMPOWERING people to achieve profound success and life-balance. During Clay’s business career he has received numerous awards for his pragmatic results driven approach to business including the: United States Small Business Administration Entrepreneur of the Year, the Metro Chamber of Commerce Young Entrepreneur of the Year, the United States Chamber of Commerce National Blue Ribbon Quality Award, the 40 under 40 Award, etc… Clay Clark has entertained and educated for our 1,500 events during his career for such companies as QuikTrip, BamaPie, Broken Arrow High School, the United States Government Accountability Office, the National Honor Society Awards Banquet, numerous business colleges, IBM and many more. As a keynote speaker and entertainer Clay interacts with and inspires over 30,000 people per year. THE MISSION: Clay is one of the few motivational speakers out there who trains in a pragmatic and practical way. His goal for each and every event for which he is hired is to motivate and inspire your crowd before leaving them with a laundry list of PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS that each and every member of your audience can begin doing immediately (if not sooner). Clay strives to improve the lives, the businesses and the communities he speaks to by delivering his passionate speeches, workshops and talks on many topics including the following: *website optimization *workflow & duplicatable system creation *sales training *employee management *entrepreneurship 101 (including his journey from the “Dorm Room” to the “Board Room”) Clay has been the entertainer of choice for Bama Companies, Quik Trip, Fedex and UPS…Clay Clark. Clay Clark will bring a much-needed hopeful message that emphasizes the “epicness and profoundness” of each individual in your crowd. Clay brings a dynamic, humorous, motivating, entertaining and enlightening delivery to his uplifting messages. With his quick-wit, and vast knowledge from years spent “leaning how not to do it” Clark will leave your audience feeling wired and inspired. His book “From the Dorm Room To The Board Room: How To Build A Successful Small Business (With A Relatively Small Brain),” has been praised by college students, young entrepreneurs and business people throughout the country. - Professor Jeretta Nord: Oklahoma State University: Spears Business School: 405-744-5064 THE MISSION: Clay is one of the few motivational speakers out there who trains in a pragmatic and practical way. His goal for each and every event for which he is hired is to motivate and inspire your crowd before leaving them with a laundry list of PRACTICAL ACTION STEPS that each and every member of your audience can begin doing immediately (if not sooner). Clay strives to improve the lives, the businesses and the communities he speaks to by delivering his passionate speeches, workshops and talks on many topics including the following: *website optimization *workflow & duplicatable system creation *sales training *employee management *entrepreneurship 101 (including his journey from the “Dorm Room” to the “Board Room”) Clay has been the entertainer of choice for Bama Companies, Quik Trip, Fedex and UPS…Clay Clark and his “From the Dorm Room To The Board Room: How To Build A Successful Small Business (With A Relatively Small Brain).” Clay Clark will bring a much-needed hopeful message that emphasizes the “epicness and profoundness” of each individual in your crowd. Clay brings a dynamic, humorous, motivating, entertaining and enlightening delivery to his uplifting messages. With his quick-wit, and vast knowledge from years spent “leaning how not to do it” Clark will leave your audience feeling wired and inspired One parent shared with me this morning that her child was shooting baskets late last night until her parents finally said it was time to come inside. The NW Tech morning students appreciated your sharing with them your successes and noting that there are sometimes failures.” Patti L. Wilber, Ph.D. Economic Development Northwestern Oklahoma State University 580-327-1700 www.nwosu.edu “Thank you so much for the outstanding workshop you did on SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION (SEO). Several of our clients said it was the beest workshop we have offered so far (we have been doing these for 5 years!). I gave the attendees surveys to fill out and all except for one said they were very satisfied. The one person who was dissatisfied said the workshop simply wasn’t long enough. Some of the remarks from the attendees were: - “The overall presentation was great!” - “The workshop was very informative and the speaker was really good.” - “Right to the point.” - “Very fast-paced and informative will good follow-up contacts. - “The speaker had a great sense of humor and was very easy to follow.” Both from an attendee and a meeting planner’s prospective it had been very enjoyable working with Clay and his staff. By the way, we are very interested in having him back soon to expand on this topic a little more for the people who attended. Thanks again for doing such a great job, you made me look good!” Lynn Wilson Roger State University Innovation Center Services Coordinator 918-343-7533 2008 “I am a Vocational Business Educator at Sequoyah High School in Claremore, OK.  We have have worked with Clay Clark for several years.  He has spoken to our Business Professionals of America Organization several times.  The students are so impressed with his knowledge of business and his motivation for success!  He is inspiring to young students…When in need of a dynamic motivational speaker you should consider Clay Clark!” your choice. April Blackwell: Sequoyah High School in Claremore, OK 2009 – DJ Connection received the annual U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Small Business Award sponsored by Sam’s Club! 2009 – DJ Connection received the annual U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Small Business Award sponsored by Sam’s Club! 2009 - Clay was featured on Newson6 to discuss the current state of the economy. 2009 – “Wedding Wire 2009 Bride’s Choice” Winner 2008 – “Best of the Best Wedding Award” Winner – www.weddingmba.com Host of the 9th Annual Tulsa Apartment Association “Zenith Awards In October of 2007 DJ Connection became a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business for our team’s continued excellence in customer service. In June of 2007 DJ Connection was featured in the Tulsa World Business Section for our recent awards and for our owner’s upcoming book “Turn Your Passion Into Profits” Clayton Clark owner of DJ Connection Tulsa Inc. was named the 2007 State of Oklahoma Young Entrepreneur of the Year. During the early summer of 2007 DJ Connection was featured in Oklahoma Magazine’s feature entitled “40 under 40″ which was an article describing Oklahoma’s top 40 entrepreneurs under the age of 40. During the calendar year of 2006 DJ Connection donated $10,000 + of service to local Oklahoma charities including March of Dimes and Relay for Life. DJ Connection received recognition from the “American Wedding Association” as Tulsa’s Best Wedding Vendor in 2006. DJ Connection was named “The number-one DJs in the Tulsa area…They are great party executors” by Modern Bride Magazine in their December/January 2005 edition DJ Connection is a proud member of Tulsa Bridal Association DJ Connection, DJ Clay and the rest of the DJ Connection staff volunteered over 100 hours of work with local (Tulsa) in school peer and mentor groups. DJ Connection Tulsa Inc. is an ecstatic member of the American Wedding Association DJ Connection Tulsa Inc. received the 2002 Tulsa Metro Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneur of the Year Award. DJ Connection Tulsa Inc.  is an ecstatic member of the Tulsa Metro, Bixby & Broken Arrow Chambers of Commerce. DJ Connection Tulsa is a proud member of the Better Business Bureau “Excellence In Customer Service Honor Roll.” Clay Clark co-owner of DJ Connection was featured in September of 2003 on “Oklahoma’s News Channel 8’s Good Morning Oklahoma” with Lori Montag of Montag Photography for their role as President and Vice President of the Tulsa Bridal Association respectively. “The average human head weighs 8.1 lbs!” Clay was recently featured on Newson6 (click above to view the exclusive extended interview) (SBA Entrepreneur of the Year Clay Clark is pictured above) Call 918-481-2010 for more information availability and booking.

Links To Recent Videos Featuring Clay In Action:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RT-3qiDH1us&feature=channel_page – This presentation was given in Dallas, TX to a group of IRS agents / government auditors (the fun people).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YP9O1FTfXVw&feature=channel_page – This presentation was given in Dallas, TX to a group of IRS agents / government auditors (the fun people).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfdsMaYcO7Y&feature=channel_page – This presentation was given on a college campus in workshop / lecture format for college students.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37IAi0uxMS0&feature=channel_page – This presentation was given for High School / Middle School students as part of a city-wide “Entrepreneur Day.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW8Rul2S5tk&feature=channel – This presentation was given at a professional “Chamber of Commerce” sponsored “Web-Optimization” Workshop

Additional Testimonials From Some of Clay Clark’s speaking events:

“I highly recommend Mr. Clay Clark for his speaking and entertainment services.  Clay was the guest speaker at our Student Council District Convention in April, 2009 and he was very professional and captivating to the audience.  We had 700+ Middle & High school students and 72 teachers in attendance at our convention and Mr. Clark kept these kids and adults entertained the entire time.  He not only gave a wonderful speech but he also announced our Talent Show at our convention. We had 13 schools participating in the talent show and Clay did an awesome job in announcing the acts and getting the audience involved in the show.  Clay has a wonderful sense of humor and kept the kids laughing and made our convention a true success.  After the convention, I had so many teachers come up to me and say how much they enjoyed the speech and what a wonderful job Clay did in keeping the kids on track and focused during the course of the day with his quick wit and sense of humor. Clay came a little early and stayed a little afterwards and was able to visit and connect with the kids and other teachers on a personal basis to get a feel for his audience.  Thanks again for making our convention the success that it was!

-Rebecca White: Sponsor of Student Council, LaGrange High School
337-477-4571 (School phone) email address rebecca.white@cpsb.org

“Thanks for the inspiration and the hope that you’ve instilled into me. You and Marquess both have shown me that all it takes is hardwork, will and confidence in yourself to acheive your greatest dreams.”
- Billy Kinsey
Seminar Attendee

“Clay & Cody, thanks so much for your help! We’re already working on putting the (optimization and efficiency) action steps in place and hopefully I can let you know how it is working out before I leave again. You guys are the best! Thanks again! “

- Shannon Farmer: South African Outreach Initiative

“Clay’s training has made a HUGE IMPACT on my sales team. From cold calling, to closing the deal now. His workshop DELIVERS.”

- John Toole: Farmers Insurance Regional Office
918-392-4000
www.farmersinsurance.com

“No one has ever been so free with information and suggestions as you were…Most folks, like I probably would be, would save that for the paying customers. You gave more good information then I might have ever recieved (from reading other books and attending numerous other seminars).”

Chad Hackmann, Owner/Operator

UBuildIt-Bethesda

“Inspiring, funny & brilliant! Clay, thank you so much for the brilliant presentations you made to our students in the Spears School of Business at Oklahoma State University. You motivated, entertained and educated us! We truly appreciate your time and hope to see you again in the near future.”

- Professor Jeretta Nord: Oklahoma State University: Spears Business School:
- 405-744-5064

“Clay, I can’t thank you enough for your time yesterday. Dave and I both said that we felt like we had gone to school after meeting with you (we learned alot). I can confidently say that I have never met a better salesperson than you – you have an unreal ability to articulate yourself, and to teach others. I really can’t thank you enough. I also realized when we left that I didn’t even pay for your lunch – I owe you that and much more.”

- Joseph O.
Commercial Real Estate Consultant

“I own Facchianos Bridal and Formal attire and have had to pay thousands of dollars in the past to have websites that were sub par and not what I needed for my business until Clay taught me how to do it myself. Now my company website comes up on the search engines in the first three searches.
It has changed my business overnight on how many times our phone rings. It can change the life of your business to be in control of your website.”

Jennifer Thompson
Owner/Bridal Stylist
Facchianos Bridal and Formal Attire

“The overall feedback was excellent. The students all rated the event very highly, and some asked to have you back again. Some of the things that stuck with students the most were: working with a sense of urgency, accepting failure, reaching for goals, and working to learn. I thought that the event went really well. I think from our standpoint it would have been better to plan it on a Friday so that more students could attend. The students who participated (I think) benefited from it. You were funny, and very engaging for the students…Overall, I was very happy with the presentation, and I’m glad we had the opportunity to work together.”

James Jesse
Coordinator of Special Projects at Tarrant County College
Tarrant County Community College College
817-515-4264

“It is indeed a privilege to recommend Clay Clark to you.  Having been in the classroom for over 22 years, I have had the opportunity to observe a variety speakers and others working with my students. None have had the charisma or the ability to capture an audience and engage them as Clay has done. I never miss a chance to have him in my classroom.

He inspires students to be entrepreneurs and challenges them in several areas and to think about their futures.  My students always look forward to Clay’s visits.

It is difficult to find words to properly describe Clay.  He is unique individual.  He is inspiring and entertaining.  He is a giver.  It has been my experience, once you meet him, you feel like he is your friend.  He has qualities that are rarely seen.

Even though Clay’s accomplishments speak for themselves, I can honestly say—he is amazing, I have watched him work with some of my most ‘challenging’ students that were otherwise non functioning in the classroom and motivate them.  He can also relate to the more intelligent as well.  Perhaps it is because he is very well read and resourceful that gives him the ability to read his audiences and relate to them.  He has experienced success but has also experienced struggles to success—which seems to aid his ability to identify with and engage any audience.

Because of his business experience, insight and ability to work with young people, we have asked Clay to be part of our Advisory Committee for our Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America youth organization at school.  Even though he has an extremely full schedule, he has graciously served on this committee for approximately the last 4 years.

Clay’s initiative and level of commitment sets him apart from others.  He gives more than 100% to whatever he does.  I recommend Clay to you with absolute confidence that you will not be disappointed.  Feel free to contact me if I can be of assistance.”

Sincerely,

Kathy Farquhar, Instructor
Adult & Family Living
FCCLA Advisor
Broken Arrow Senior High School

“10! 10! 10! Clay’s presentations were very professional and, yet, humorous.
Clay held everyone’s attention during both sessions he gave.
The time for his sessions seemed to fly by! The information was new and informative to me. I liked the tips Clay pointed out for recognizing opportunities for advancement.”

Stacie T. Last
Advanced Audit Techniques Specialist
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

“It was definitely great to have Clay come in and share his failures and successes with the group.

I wish they would have given him a little more time, but what I heard was great, the fact that he did not try to hide the importance of family life to make things work in the material realm was a breath of fresh air ( I applaud him).

I have regained a new prospective on sales and basic approach to life!

Peter Teixeira
Territory Manager
Valspar Paint – House of Color
West Orange, New Jersey
862-216-7528
pteixeira@valspar.com

“We had a lot of compliments about you. In fact one very sweet high school girl sent a thank-you note about you, that when I get a copy of it I will forward it to you. Hope you know that I appreciate you helping me out this year, and I feel you made a great impact. Thanks a million, Clay!!!”
Deb Ward
RCIDA  Project Coordinator
918-343-8959
deb.ward@cox.net

“Clay, we have been hearing rave reviews from our guests about you! Thank you for working with us. Everyone loved you.”
Rhonda Anderson
Personal Assistant To The President
ABC Table Top Advertising
(800) 825-4222

“Great flexibility substituting for another speaker. Good job. The “winning @ work” got highest marks from 44 of 56 survey respondents.”

John E. Trubey
Senior Analyst
U.S. Government Accountability Office
1999 Bryan Street
Suite 2200
Dallas, Texas 75201
(214) 777-5733

“It was a pleasure meeting you as well. I really appreciate all the information you provided and I really enjoyed your workshop, I got a lot of great notes and very helpful advice…your seminare really empowerd me! Thank you so much for all the helpful information you have provided! Hope you have a great Thanksgiving Holiday and stay blessed!”

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Tirado

“I am a Vocational Business Educator at Sequoyah High School in Claremore, OK.
We have have worked with Clay Clark for several years.  He has spoken to our Business
Professionals of America Organization several times.  The students are so impressed
with his knowledge of business and his motivation for success!  He is inspiring
to young students…When in need of a dynamic motivational speaker you
should consider Clay Clark!” your choice.”

- April Blackwell: Sequoyah High School

“DJ Clay (DJ CONNECTION) is by far the best entertainer we have ever used for “Project Graduation.” He keeps it PG rated & is very up to date with today’s young people. He is awesome!”

-Vickie (Coppell, TX HS Project Graduation Committee)

“Jennifer and I wanted to take a moment to personally thank you for providing such a tremendous service at our wedding. I don’t believe we would have known which way to turn if your weren’t there always leading us in the right direction. You certainly kept the event on track, as we were told, provided stellar entertainment for all of our guests. I hear there is an unofficial “bragging rights” competition amongst the employees of DJ Connection…Thanks again for the exceptional service.”

- Lee W. Watkins III
Marketing Director of Enrollment Services of America

“I wanted to tell you that you did an awesome job yesterday.  I love seeing people hang around after events, such as your workshop, discussing what was just learned and of the ideas they have. I know you have made a difference to those of us that were able to attend (especially for Krista).  I hope you will continue your relationship with our SIFE team for years to come.  We will be sending you a copy of what we were able to video tape and a copy of the photos taken throughout the workshop and the luncheon.  I look forward to conversing with you in the future.  Feel free to pass on any ideas you may have for us or for me personally at any time.  I would love to keep you as a mentor, as you know we could all use one. Thank You!”

Terri Dubay
Rogers State University SIFE “Entrepreneurship Day” Organizer
sdterridubay@student.rsu.edu
gotyajanssen@hotmail.com
918-851-1830

Remember your passion.
“We choose to forget who we are,
and then we forget we’ve forgotten.”
– Gunther Bernard
There is a horrible disease in the world today. It attacks people of all ages. I have coined it, “Passion Alzheimer’s.”
It’s a condition where people can no longer remember their passions or their dreams. They can no longer recall their
desires or their purpose. The fantastic news is that this ailment is curable!
Do you remember your dreams? Can you recall your passion? If you need a refresher course, read the book Discover Your
Passion by Gail Cassidy. And scan over again some of the tips in this book. There’s a
lot of passion glowing on these pages. Find the spark that will rekindle your speaking passion. Rejuvenate
yourself and your passion to become a motivational speaker.
In one of his last interviews, the truly motivational speaker Christopher Reeve talked about the frustration he felt when
he saw an able-bodied person who was paralyzed in other ways. He said that he wanted to tell that person to just get up and go for it! What a great spirit. We are all paralyzed in some aspect but in becoming a motivational speaker

there is no room for a lack of passion.
Remember your passion. Watch the video from Phil Town on be an investor-professional motivational Speaker.

With the dismal job reports and the decline in our economy many U.S. employees are looking at alternatives. Some are considering a speaking career in the motivational speaking industry. Some have attended keynote speeches and thought to themselves “if that motivational speaker

can have a speaking career…then I can do that too”. Well don’t underestimate the time and energy it takes to prepare a keynote speech. Learn from Winston Churchill. One day, while Prime Minister Churchill was splashing in his bathtub, his valet
overheard him loudly talking. Believing he needed assistance, the valet entered and
inquired, “Did you call, Sir?” “No,” Churchill replied. “I was just giving a speech to The House of Commons.”
At the small risk of leaving myself open to a charge of splitting hairs rather than implanting new growths, I’ve decided to separate practice out from underneath the umbrella of preparation. Practicing, or rehearsing, stands alone in effectively extinguishing fear. That said, let’s explore the value of vigorous rehearsal. You’d never have caught Sir Winston standing before Parliament and winging it. In fact, according to James vanFleet, in his book, Hidden Power, Churchill never made a speech of major importance without first rehearsing it in front of a mirror. Imagine the man voted the greatest speaker of the twentieth century, standing up there after the Battle of Britain, holding a page of hastily written notes in his hand, totally unrehearsed, coming up with: Never, in the course of human suffering, have so many owed so
much to so few. Wouldn’t have happened. Maybe instead… Well done, lads. We all owe you a bloody lot, we do. Would you want some of the other professionals you deal with to wing it? Would
you want your surgeon telling you, “You know, I’ve never done one of these before, but
there has to be a first; so I’m excited about opening you up, and we’ll just take it from here. We can share this experience together.” How about the contractor building your
house or the person piloting the next plane you’re scheduled to fly? You wouldn’t want
them winging it. So, why would the expectations be any different for those condidering a RULE #1 investing career?

Are you ready to get motivated?  “For what?”, you ask.  I don’t know, but it seems that this seminar being held in Fort Worth is just what we all need to obtain an incredibly generalized level of success.  And judging from this photo from their site and the amount of dazzling light radiating from the stage, I imagine that God himself will be a guest speaker…

The City of Blinding Light

Actually, as it turns out, the special guest speaker isn’t God at all, but is instead former President George W. Bush.  And now for the low low price of just $19 – yes, that’s just $19- you can take your entire office to see The Decider himself, NFL great Terry Bradshaw, Rudy “the Chia” Giuliani, and more!  And as the website advertises, “All speakers live and in person – in one day!”  It’s like a gang bang of motivational speaking. What more could you possibly want?

Attend this seminar and receive a free collector's plate and a set of dish towels!*

But seriously, even as a puppy I understand that at some point all politicians go on the lecture circuit to pick up some extra dough.  But was there really no better gig for Mr. President Bush than one seminar that seems to promise a parade of tenacious clones?

Motivational speaker and zombie impersonator, Peter Lowe

Is this really what it has come down to?

Motivational speaker, Ian Thomas has signed up with Business Generator, Jacques de Villiers to help him with his marketing.

Check out Callie Roos. He is a motivational speaker, team building and leadership training expert. He is one of South Africa’s best kept secrets. You won’t go wrong by hiring him for your conference.

There are plenty of tips on this topic on the internet. However, I’m actually a real motivational speaker who derives his income from speaking to corporate america. The steps of motivational speaker excellence is no easy task. My first year was exceptional but it took lots of planning to launch an investing career. I always advise everyone to not quit their day job until they have a full understanding of what are the entry level tools required for a speaking career. The speaking business, in many ways, parallels the entertainment business. When the hit show American Idol rolls into your city for auditions reports of 4000 plus will wait for days to audition. Only a small handful will be selected from each city. The speaking business is a great career but the first tool you need to start working on is finding your message and writing a book about it. If you do not have a book you can still get speaking jobs. Having a speaking career is different than getting some speaking jobs. There are several ways to get your book finished. In fact, you may be a great speaker but not very good a writing. Ghost writers can take your hand written notes or even audio CD’s of your ideas and turn it into a work that you’d be proud to publish. One of the biggest key’s to starting a career is about crafting a great keynote speech. With a great keynote speech, training and coaching on you can earn a 6 to 7 figure income per year. Of course learning to market your business is whole different course module. But if you don’t get the book and keynote finished – polished the marketing will only go so far. In our Presentation Fire – Motivational Speaker Training School we’ve observed that most of the developing speakers have good material but lack the ability to engage with their audience. Not knowing the timing of a story or the use of humor is a professional skill that needs coaching, refining and much rehearsal. In our workshop we also have noticed the tendency to procrastinate doing the hard stuff like working on your book and the content of the keynote. For example, each attendee receives a workshop description and two reminder e-mails about preparing for a brief presentation which will be filmed by a videographer on the opening day. And yet, when I stand before them and say, “Now, of course, you all have your presentations this afternoon,” I’m met with a room full of confused “it’s-the-first-time-I’ve ever-heard-about-it” expressions. “What?” I add. “You didn’t know?” Then I hear a few, “I sure don’t remember anything about a presentation.” Occasionally, I will get the honest one who admits, “I just put it off. Sorry.” It never fails to amaze me that up and coming professionals, will come to a presentation skills workshop without a presentation! Moreover, these presentations are being video-taped and conducted in front of their peers Still, remarkably, many do not prepare. Often, I’ll try to break the “avoidance-syndrome” tension by reading those e-mails aloud, evoking some embarrassed chuckling and confessions of “Oh yeah, you’re right.” (I sincerely believe that if I didn’t read these “Exhibit A Evidences” to them, there would still be a few who would stubbornly hold to the claim that they’d never heard about the speaking requirement.) At this point, the room energy is comprised of a dangerous combination of embarrassment and guilt. So I use humor to make the bitter truth more palatable. I offer the following explanation: You probably did peruse the course description and signed up for the training course with every intention of doing a good job on your presentation for yourselves, your peers, and your supervisors. You knew that it was important and would be beneficial to your careers, but you still had some time. Procrastination in preparing to speak is toxic potion for one who wants to become a motivational speaker.You can’t wing it you have to take the prep time that is necessary for every presentation. I’ve heard people describe their talents as not needing preparation that they think better on their feet. You are deceived. It takes:

* …reading
* …note-taking
* …outlining
* …writing
* …editing
* …memorizing
* …developing supplementary materials
* …finding appropriate props

…and as many essential etceteras as you can shake a stick at! Don’t make the mistake of so many who start in this industry and then bomb when they have to stand and deliver. It takes preparation…lots of preparation to become a motivational speaker. Start now in outlining the chapters of your book and your motivational speech because to become a motivational speaker the hardest part is always…just starting.

In my motivational speaker training school we’ve a lot of speakers.  We’ve been able to help a top CEO become a speaker . This CEO was speaking to his top executives about budget problems and depleted resources. He’d hung a piñata in the middle of the room and he started out whacking that piñata blindfolded, and hit it until it finally burst open. “You know,” he began, “I want to start this meeting by telling you that this is exactly how I’ve felt for the past few months. Just like this piñata. I feel like I’ve been battered. People keep asking me for more and more, but the resources are depleted.” As he picked up the scattered candy and began passing it out to the group, he said, “Today, let’s discuss some alternative ways to meet your needs.” All of these examples capture critical attention immediately. Notice that how the speaker was able to employ humor. You’ve heard the old maxim, “always open with a joke.” I would suggest, whenever possible, to use humor because there’s nothing like laughter to loosen up people. Moreover, all three of these examples demonstrate a keen awareness of the audience. They are direct and purposeful, funny and engaging.
In short, they showcase the art of the speaking business.Today’s audiences expect much more than did crowds in the past. They are ready and willing channel surfers. So we had better ignite a hot fire, and ignite it quickly. Think of some creative attention-grabbers for your audience, and customize
them (through research, interviews, etc.). I’ve seen quite a few stunning creative openings, ones that allowed audiences to dispose of the remotes and pick up the buttered popcorn. A friend of mine once had a public speaking opportunity to speak to a group of 250
professionals who were in an adversarial relationship with her company. In her opening, rather than not mentioning this conflict, she instead chose to go before them wearing a bulletproof vest. She told the group that her name was Jane, and then she gave the
name of her company. She continued, “ I understand that there’s a lot of hard feelings in
this room towards my department. For that reason, I’ve worn a bullet-proof vest today.”
Everyone started laughing and clapping, so she took off the vest and said,
“Good. I see that I won’t be needing this today. Thank you so much.”
Excellent introduction. Very creative, and it broke the ice. I saw another person in the speaker business get up in front of a group of salespeople and begin speaking in a foreign language (I think it was French). He went on for a couple of minutes until he saw everyone looking around in puzzlement. Then he paused and said, “Oh, I’m sorry. I was speaking the wrong language there for a moment…One of the reasons that we’re not gaining market share is we’re speaking the wrong language to our customers. Today we’ll learn how to speak the right language.” To become a motivational speaker or an bestselling investing author means not only learning the right skills but also delivering them in way that captivates and touches the heart.

Sahar Hashemi, the co-founder of Coffee Republic, is delighted that Coffee Republic, which had gone into administration,  has found a new investor. 

Arab Investments, a private property company best known for plans to build a London skyscraper, has completed the acquisition of Coffee Republic, the coffee shop chain.   The company, which is planning to build one of the tallest buildings in London at the Pinnacle in the City of London, will today confirm the acquisition for an undisclosed amount. Administrator KPMG has been in talks to sell the business to Arab Investments for two weeks.

Arab Investments said that it would commit “substantial capital” into developing the Coffee Republic brand, and will embark on further expansion of the branch network. Coffee Republic operates 80 outlets, of which 20 are outside the UK, including Bulgaria and Saudi Arabia. Khalid Affara, who runs Arab Investments in the UK, said: “We intend to start growing the business with immediate effect. “Coffee Republic has a strong brand name and we are bringing additional investment into the company to expand the number of retail outlets in the UK and elsewhere.” Richard Hill, joint administrator and KPMG partner, said that a substantial part of the business had been rescued, protecting 62 jobs. He said: “While coffee shops face tough competition on the high street in these challenging economic times, the amount of interest we received in Coffee Republic is testament to the strength of the brand.”

An old, old story? Forbidden eros once again translates into thanatos (death)? According to the AP, stabbed to death motivational speaker, Jeff Locker, may have been deceiving his wife about his own, er, motivations for being out so late:

[Locker] told his wife that two people helped him with the flat on his midsize station wagon and that he was going to drop them off before returning home, possibly from New Jersey, police said. But it didn’t appear the car, a 2007 Dodge Magnum, had a flat tire when it was discovered in East Harlem near the Wagner Houses, a 22-building complex with about 5,000 residents. Investigators also were looking to talk to witnesses who told reporters that they saw Locker at a nearby deli buying condoms and bottled water around 3 a.m. Thursday and that they had seen the car there before. Locker, 52, was found with his hands bound behind his back with an electrical cord.

I couldn’t help but think of Euripides’s play, the Bakkhai, in which the Apollonian King, Pentheus, is seduced away from the safety of his palace, and to his doom, by the wild temptresses of Dionysus. Always lurking just behind these types of news stories, it would seem, is a morality play, a cultural lesson in sexual regulation—and the dangers of not controlling yourself. It is an ironic twist, for a motivational speaker, that his own death would be written by a reporter in such a way that it functions as an implied object lesson in how not to arrange your life and direct your motivations.

Neil Armstrong motivational speaker

 July 16th is the 40th anniversary of the lift-off of Apollo 11,  the first manned space mission to land on the Moon. It was the fifth human spaceflight of Project Apollo and the third human voyage to the Moon.

It carried Mission Commander Neil Armstrong, Command Module Pilot Michael Collins and Lunar Module Pilot Buzz Aldrin. On 20 July, Armstrong and Aldrin became the first humans to walk on the Moon, while Collins orbited above.

The mission fulfilled President John F Kennedy’s goal of reaching the moon by the end of the 1960s, which he expressed during an inspirational speech given before a joint session of Congress on 25 May 1961:

Gerry’s Big Decision is the title of a new TV series on Channel Four, in which business speaker Sir Gerry Robinson decides if he can help two ailing businesses.

Across Britain, the economic crisis is causing businesses to go bust. In this new series, Sir Gerry Robinson, one of the UK’s most respected entrepreneurs, is prepared to risk millions of pounds of his own money to rescue those that he believes deserve another chance. Each week, two British businesses whose futures hang in the balance must persuade Gerry Robinson that they’re potentially profitable, before he makes his big decision: which, if any, of the businesses to invest in. In the first episode Gerry’s quest takes him into the lives of two couples who have built award-winning breweries.

Avinash Gulrajani – international trainer, Varsha P Gulrajani – children’s coach, Preetham Gulrajani – management consultant, Manju Gulrajani – financial officer, come together as a family of Gulrajani in the Global Academy of Meta Mind Management to help executives, students, children, teachers, and individuals, learn life skills and deliver Meta Mind Management Excellence, to live with success and happiness.