Today we’d like to introduce you to Steve Hanson

Hi Steve, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

As a child, I went through a series of bullying events that lasted about a year. Those events had a direct effect on my confidence, and impacted my self-esteem, well into adulthood. As a result, my marriage, friendships, and even my career would all eventually suffer. After getting an opportunity to act as an emcee for a a July 4th celebration, I realized that I had the ability to connect with an audience. But it wasn’t until a friend of mine, who happened to be a behavioral psychologist, told me that if I ever got the chance to speak for people who would not, or could not, speak for themselves, I’d hit it out of the park. And so, while the emcee experience was the catalyst, the advice of a knowledgeable friend became the driving force that allowed me to step forward and take a risk.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

The road has most definitely not been smooth. There are always ups and downs, and hurdles to overcome. One thing I’ve learned is the importance of knowing yourself. You need to know who you are, and what you do well. In the beginning, I would take almost any opportunity that came along, even if it wasn’t a good fit. I wanted the work, so I would convince myself that I was the right person for the job. Unfortunately, that mindset is not always conducive to a successful event, or experience; not for me, and not for the audience. Sometimes you need to know when to say no. Today, I am much more comfortable in my own skin. I know exactly who I am, and what I bring to the table. I choose authenticity, and I am not afraid to say no to things for which I may not be the best fit. Also, I accept that each day brings new challenges, and I look forward to facing them all.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I am a Speaker, and I am the founder of the Student Success Initiative. Whether I’m working with students or professionals, the goal is always to give people the tools that will help them succeed. I am available for keynote presentations, as well as workshops that discuss topics such as EMPOWERMENT, LEADERSHIP, COMMUNICATION, PURPOSE, BOUNDARIES, LETTING GO, SELF-TALK, and ADVERSITY.
My proudest moments are not those things that happen on the stage or in the classroom, but in the conversations that take place afterwards. When someone trusts me enough to pursue a deeper conversation, or expresses the vulnerability to ask difficult questions, That makes me proud. It makes me think that perhaps I’m truly making a difference.

What matters most to you? Why?

What matters most to me is that I give people not just inspiration or motivation, but real world skills or knowledge that they can take with them, when the event is over. Each of us holds the key to our own happiness, and I’m doing what I can to help people unlock the door. I’m passionate about assisting others because I know what it’s like to struggle with issues of self-esteem. I know how it feels to lack the courage to put yourself out there, because you believe that you’re not worthy of success. I have a lot of experience with things like anxiety, depression, even some self-harm. Now happily on the other side of those things, I am determined to help others be their very best.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.stevehansonspeaks.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevehansonspeaks/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.hanson.90813
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@stevehansonmotivationalspe4878