Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Mark Brown immigrated to the United States at 18 years old with only $40 in his pocket and a dream for a better life. Today he has become one of the most popular inspirational speakers in the world.

In 1995, Mark defeated more than 20,000 contestants from 14 countries to win the illustrious Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking. Since then, he has delivered more than 3500 presentations to more than 1.7 million people on 5 different continents.

As an expert in helping people overcome their fears to reach their maximum potential, Mark has been featured in the New York Times, Men’s Health, on CNN Headline News, and even had his own PBS Special, which was nominated for an Emmy Award.

He has shared his insights across a wide variety of industries to major corporations including Sprint, Sheraton, Principal Financial Group, Prudential, and Cathay Pacific Airways. Additionally, Mark has been a guest lecturer at premier academic institutions such as Penn State University, Xavier University, and the University of Florida.

He lives in Lizella, Georgia, with Andrea, his wife of more than 35 years. They are the parents of David, a 24-year-old singer/songwriter/actor/musician, Joel, a 32-year-old HR manager and filmmaker, and 35-year-old Andrene, an attorney.

Show Highlights

I really feel like my purpose is to serve other people. —Mark BrownWe don't like what we don't understand. It scares us. —Mark BrownWhen you live a life that serves others, what goes around comes around. —Mark BrownWhen you're between a rock and a hard place, that's not the time for your pride to take over. Being willing to accept help when you need it is not a weakness, it's a strength. —Mark BrownIf I stop learning, I stop living. —Mark BrownBe aware of what's going on around you. The broader your perspective is, the more you can help other people and know what's going on around you. —Mark BrownSometimes, when you're out of aces, maybe the particular lane you're in is shifting. —Mark BrownAsk yourself if you've sought mentors or someone who has been through this before to help you. —Mark Brown

Mark's closing thoughts: Our success comes from those who we lean on. Through difficult times, those who care about you will show up and shell out. It's important to seek wise counsel and take the advice of those who care, even if it's not necessarily the advice that you want to hear.

The Action Catalyst is a weekly podcast hosted by Dan Moore, President of Southwestern Advantage, the oldest direct-sales company in America, and Partner with Southwestern Consulting. With more than 45 years in sales leadership and marketing management, Dan has a wealth of knowledge to share on how to make better use of time to achieve life, sales, and other business goals. Each week, he interviews some of the nation’s top thought leaders and experts, sharing meaningful tips and advice. Subscribe on iTunes and please leave a rating and review!