We recently connected with Tim Gray and have shared our conversation below.

Tim, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

One of the most impactful lessons I learned from a previous role is that the journey to success always begins with small steps and often, those steps start with simply taking a chance. Whether it’s in business, working out, or life in general, progress is almost always rooted in that first move grounded in a desire to grow, to be better, and to do better.

For me, that lesson wasn’t just theoretical it was deeply personal. I had to learn that waiting for the “perfect” conditions or complete certainty can keep you stuck. Some of the most meaningful opportunities in my life and career came from moments where I stepped out without having all the answers, but with a clear intention and a willingness to learn.

This mindset helped me reframe my struggles and setbacks as part of the process not signs of failure, but signals that I was stretching beyond my comfort zone. It made me more patient with my growth, more reflective in my journey, and more confident in my purpose.

That understanding shaped how I view wins too. I don’t just measure success by outcomes anymore I measure it by the courage it took to begin, the persistence to keep going, and the wisdom gained along the way.

Ultimately, that lesson reminded me that purpose isn’t something you stumble into it’s something you build, one intentional step at a time.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m Tim Gray, a Talent Development Consultant at AEBetancourt, a public speaker, and a passionate advocate for personal and professional growth based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. My work centers around helping organizations nationally unlock their full potential—whether that’s through developing stronger leadership capabilities, talent strategy, fostering a culture of learning and engagement, or supporting youth and community development initiatives.

My path into this field wasn’t linear, but it was intentional. From an early age, I found myself drawn to mentorship and service. I’ve always been fascinated by what drives people, how teams work best together, and how purpose and performance intersect. That curiosity naturally led me to a career in talent development—where I could help people become more confident, capable, and connected in their careers.

At AEBetancourt, I work with organizations to identify talent gaps, build leadership pipelines, and create customized development programs that align with their strategic goals. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions—every organization is unique, and the approach to growing their people should reflect that.

Beyond corporate development, I serve the community of Grand Rapids as a public speaker and community leader. I’ve spoken on stages across the region on topics like emotional intelligence, equity and inclusion, youth leadership, and professional growth. I believe in meeting people where they are, and that change happens through relationships, stories, and shared experiences.

I am also the visionary behind the “Be Generation Conference” which is a conference that empowers youth and young adults to thrive holistically—equipping them with the truth, tools, and community to grow in finances, health, and faith. We inspire a generation to boldly pursue wholeness, purpose, and the calling God has placed on their lives. This conference is for young adults ages 18-30 and will feature community leaders and professionals who all share a common goal to continue to inspire and equip generations to come. The conference will be taking place Saturday, October 11th at Renaissance Church- 1001 33rd St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508.

I’m incredibly proud of the collaborations I’ve had with local leaders, especially initiatives that focus on youth empowerment. Being able to connect young people with resources, mentorship, and real opportunities is one of the most fulfilling parts of my work. I’ve also had the honor of being part of conversations and coalitions that are shaping the future of talent development in our region.

If there’s one thing I want readers to take away, it’s this: I care deeply about helping people grow—whether that’s in their career, their confidence, or their community. My brand isn’t just about services or speaking engagements—it’s about creating transformational experiences that leave people feeling seen, supported, and capable of more than they thought possible to achieve their purpose in life.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the most important lessons I had to unlearn was the idea that I had to have all the answers in order to lead and consult effectively.

Earlier in my career, I felt a lot of pressure, internal and external to be the “go-to” expert in every room. I thought leadership meant having the solutions, making the calls, and being the one with the vision all the time. But what I learned through both experience and some humbling moments is that real leadership is less about having all the answers and more about asking the right questions.

The shift started when I was consulting a client in an industry, I had no knowledge about and noticed how much more powerful it was when I created space for others to contribute their insights. I realized that some of the best ideas didn’t come from the front of the room, they came from the people living the work every day. I had to unlearn the belief that authority equaled certainty, and embrace a more collaborative, coaching-oriented mindset.

Now, I lean into curiosity. I listen more than I speak. I see my role not as someone who directs all the moves, but as someone who builds confidence, sharpens clarity, and empowers people to discover the answers for themselves.

Unlearning that belief didn’t make me less of a leader it made me a better trusted one.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think what’s helped me build my reputation in this space is a combination of consistency, authenticity, and genuinely caring about people. In fact, in complete transparency, I don’t think about building a “brand” rather I focus on building authentic relationships.

From day one, I’ve focused on showing up fully whether I’m leading a workshop, speaking on stage, consulting with a client, or having a one-on-one conversation. I don’t believe in surface-level work or quick fixes. I’m committed to creating real impact, and I think that commitment has resonated with people over time.

Another key piece, as I mentioned has been building strong relationships. I’ve always believed that trust is earned, not assumed. I take time to listen, to understand the unique needs of each client or community partner, and to follow through on what I say I’ll do. Over time, that consistency builds credibility and people start to see that you’re not just here for a transaction, you’re here for transformation.

Also, I’ve never tried to be someone I’m not. I lead with my values, and I’m not afraid to talk about the lessons, the challenges, or the moments I’ve had to grow. That transparency has helped me connect with others on a deeper level, because they know I’ve walked the road too.

Lastly, I show up. Not just for the big events or high-profile opportunities, but for the behind-the-scenes work that builds community and drives change. Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or simply supporting and being present in the Grand Rapids community, I believe your reputation is shaped most by how you show up when no one’s watching.