I Live In A Van Down by The River!!

Why motivational speakers "SUCK"!

Sometimes the hardest thing I have to do is explain what I do. I get interesting responses like, "Oh. You're like Tony Robbins or something". Well, sort of, but for, "like", young people.

Raise your hand if you have ever sat through a motivational speakers spiel - "A lengthy or extravagant speech or argument usually intended to persuade"? Now keep your hand raised if during that spiel you wanted to end your life because it was AWFUL!

If you're like me, my arms are flailing.

Motivational speakers are usually predictable and cheesy. They say they want you to change your life, BUT their own life is often in shambles! Or maybe they have nine steps, 12 steps, 43 steps... to a successful life. Even worse, they might have a book, a life changing journey through a painfully obvious solution. Everybody's got a book now! Seriously.


So after all this, why do I consider myself a motivational speaker? And if this were true, why do we need motivational speakers?

Here's my thought process. First, I'm stepping in to redefine "motivational speaker". Call it arrogance or pride, but this industry needs people who hold themselves accountable, stay relevant, and live out their words of encouragement. Second, we all need regular doses of motivation.

It’s like eating... just because you ate breakfast, doesn't mean your hunger is satisfied FOREVER! You regularly nourish your body. We can’t run on full steam ALL the time; so it’s never going to hurt to have the right person come in and help fuel your fire.

Let me help you identify a "good" motivational speaker.

1) Find somebody who you know “gets” your group. The initial connection between speaker and audience is crucial, so make sure your speaker knows who they’re talking to from the very start.

2) Make sure the program is customized to your needs and that the speaker has a hook that can draw people in.

3) I prefer funny, or at least engaging. Sometimes speakers have a heavy message, but it's all about the delivery.

4) Results! Can you measure the impact? Does the message come with a movement? Something your group can use to effectively increase the results you are looking for? What results are you looking for? What are you expectations for the speakers impact on your group? Make sure they can deliver.

5) And, most importantly, make sure your speaker is a real person, someone who practices what they preach.

To escape the "Matt Foley" stigma, let me give you some hope. There are motivational speakers out there doing it right. In the realm of youth, there are only a handful of professionals I've found who are KEEPIN IT REAL.

Here are some trusted speakers I personally endorse and keep up with:

Josh Shipp (the leader)

Dennis Gable (the healer)

Bianca Juarez (the believer)


“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing - that's why we recommend it daily.” - Zig Ziglar

Keep It Real.

Murph