Les Brown

Les Brown is recognized as a leading motivational speaker, known for sharing his personal journey as the foundation of his message. As a child, Brown faced challenges in school, including being mislabeled as a slow learner due to his inattention to schoolwork and restless energy. Despite these obstacles, Brown advanced from a morning deejay to a broadcast manager, community activist, community leader, political commentator, and a three-term legislator in the Ohio House of Representatives. He also worked as a banquet and nightclub emcee before becoming a nationally sought-after keynote speaker.

After experiencing financial hardship and sleeping on the floor of his office, Brown began pursuing a career in motivational speaking. He became one of the highest paid speakers in the nation, delivering keynote addresses to audiences as large as 80,000. Brown is a resource for business professionals, including Fortune 500 CEOs, small business owners, and nonprofit and community leaders seeking to expand opportunities and drive achievement.

Brown has spoken in more than 80 countries, and his client list includes major companies and organizations. He has expanded his role from keynote speaker to master trainer, developing workshops focused on personal and professional development.

As an author, Brown has published several books, including "Live Your Dreams," "It's Not Over Until You Win," and "Up Thoughts for Down Times." His audio series, "Choosing Your Future," has achieved significant global impact. Brown reached a wider audience through motivational speeches recorded for Public Broadcasting Service TV and as the former host of "The Les Brown Show," a nationally syndicated daily television talk show focused on solutions. He has been featured on "The Oprah Winfrey Show," "Larry King Live," and "The Today Show."

Brown received the National Speakers Association's Council of Peers Award of Excellence, becoming the first African American to receive this honor. He also received the National Speakers Association's Golden Gavel Award for achievement and leadership in communication, and Toastmasters International named him one of the Top Five Outstanding Speakers. Brown has been inducted into the National Speakers Association Hall of Fame. His career is marked by authenticity, resilience, and a commitment to human potential, establishing him as a prominent voice in motivational speaking, leadership, and personal development.