Jim Morris is no stranger to big dreams. Since he was five years old, he passionately yearned to play baseball in the major leagues. However, despite all his hard work and determination, a series of unfortunate events and injuries scuttled his career before he was twenty-five. Doctors told him he would never play again.
Then at age thirty-five—after a string of highly implausible events and at an age when most players are retiring—Morris found himself on the mound as a relief pitcher for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. His return to the game was so incredible that Disney made his story into a heartwarming film—The Rookie—with a stellar performance by Dennis Quaid. It was released to popular acclaim and was a huge box office success. It won the ESPY for Best Sports Movie in 2002 and the CAMIE award for Character and Morality in Entertainment.
Morris is the author of two books, with his most recent release entitled Dream Makers. It picks up where The Rookie left off. This compelling memoir explores the untapped territory of Morris’ life, including his contentious relationship with his father, his incessant and grueling struggle with pain and addiction, the mentorship with his wise and loving grandfather who kept him grounded, and the resolve and faith that drove him to overcome every tribulation. Dream Makers explores the transformative power of surrounding yourself with the best, most accomplished people possible—inspiring you to overcome life’s obstacles and achieve your dreams.
Morris is a seasoned motivational speaker, traveling the world since 2001. He has participated in such prestigious events as The Million Dollar Round Table, twice. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008, from the Bobby Bragan Youth Foundation. Morris also started a Foundation in his name helping children in underserved communities find hope and inspiration through participation in sports.
We all have dream makers and dream killers in our lives. Learn how to differentiate between the two and how to surround yourself with the best people possible to make you the best you can be! Jim takes you through his life story sharing how dream makers and dream killers shaped him into the man he is today. A popular presentation that will keep your audience captivated as they move from laughter to tears and back again. Inspiration and motivation at its best!
"Remember who you are" teaches audiences about the importance of integrity in all areas of life. Jim tells personal stories about keeping promises, walking the talk, and what you do when no one is watching you at all...makes you who you are. A powerful reminder Jim heard daily from his mentor and grandfather, "remember who you are," helped shape who Jim Morris is today.
In "finding a mentor and becoming a leader," Jim focuses on being the mentor for others that you would want for yourself. While being that dream maker for another and by surrounding yourself with the best people to bring out the best in you, you give yourself and others the best chance for success. Jim tells his own story of defeat while believing the wrong kind of people and shares about his successes while surrounded by key people who helped him believe in himself and pushed him to be the man he is today. Finding a Mentor and Becoming a Leader's speaking point, will bring your audience along for an entertaining ride of self-reflection and inspiration to be your best and help others along the way
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