Steve Ford

Biography

On August 9, 1974, Gerald R. Ford assumed the reins of the presidency following Richard Nixon’s resignation. Suddenly, Steve Ford was thrust into the role of “First Son.”

Steve’s unique perspective on life as the President’s son encompasses a broad range of fascinating subjects: being 18 years old and having 10 Secret Service agents as constant companions, his father’s pardon of President Nixon to help put an end to the infamous Watergate affair, two assassination attempts on his father’s life, and his mother’s bouts with alcoholism and breast cancer.

During Steve’s non-political presentation, you will learn the tools of his success in and outside Washington, DC. Focusing on issues such as the value of a strong family unit, living life with values and character, setting and juggling priorities, and making the right choices in life, Steve’s presentation is entertaining, enlightening, insightful, and inspirational.

Steve is also an accomplished actor. For six years he starred as Detective Andy Richards on the Emmy Award-winning “The Young and The Restless. Much to the delight of his fans, Steve has now returned to the show in that same role. His television appearances include “Suddenly Susan,” “Dr. Quinn,” “J.A.G.,” “18 Wheels of Justice,” Babylon 5 – In the Beginning,” “Walker Texas Ranger,” and “The Sentinel.” Steve also hosted the prime-time NBC series “Secret Service.”

He has appeared in more than 30 feature films. Most recently Steve appeared in the hit movie “Black Hawk Down.” Steve’s other credits include “Contact” with Jodie Foster, “Heat” with Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, “Armageddon” with Bruce Willis, “Starship Troopers,” “Eraser” with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and “When Harry Met Sally” as Meg Ryan’s boyfriend.

Before becoming an actor in 1979, Steve worked on the professional rodeo circuit as a team roper and still ropes today in his spare time. He owns a ranch in California. Steve was involved in the thoroughbred racehorse industry for years during the 1980s and 90s as an owner, breeder, racing manager, and race track executive. In 1994, Steve returned full-time to his acting and speaking career.

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Speech TopicsExpand each topic to learn more

Inside the White House and Hollywood: Getting to The Top with Character

On August 9, 1974, Gerald R. Ford assumed the presidency following Richard Nixon's resignation. Suddenly, Steve Ford was thrust into the role of "First Son."

Steve's unique perspective on life as the President's son encompasses a broad range of subjects: being 18 years old and having 10 Secret Service agents, his father's pardon of President Nixon, two assassination attempts on his father's life plus inspirational stories how the family dealt with their mother's bouts with alcoholism and also how Steve conquered his own alcoholism. Steve's focus is on such issues as character, integrity, overcoming adversity and leadership while helping the audience rethink their own role in those areas. He will give a behind-the-scenes view of the White House and the insider anecdotes.

Steve spent 25 years as an accomplished actor and appeared in over 25 major motion pictures such as the hit Transformers, Blackhawk Down, Contact, Armageddon and playing Meg Ryan's boyfriend in When Harry Met Sally. He has served as Chairman of the President Gerald R. Ford Foundation and currently serves as a trustee on that board.

Leadership

What makes a great leader?

History shows that those who have sought service over self-interest in times of indecision, turmoil, and crisis are considered true leaders.

On August 9, 1974, Vice President Gerald R. Ford became the 38th President of the United States when President Richard Nixon resigned his office in disgrace because of the Watergate scandal.

Today, most historians and political observers agree that President Ford's difficult (and, at the time controversial) decision to pardon Nixon was the right thing to do and was in the country's best interest. His leadership with character helped heal a nation and restored confidence in the office of the President of the United States.

President Ford's son, Steve, talks about what it takes to be a good leader and some of the traits of leadership.

Testimonials

Steve is the best there is! There is no way you can put a price on perfection but I can guarantee that you will receive a gift to be treasured and you will hear only great comments from each and every person that is fortunate enough to be in attendance…if you are planning an event and want it to be a success, you must use Steve Ford.

– Community Bankers Association of Alabama

It has been eight weeks since you were with us as the keynote speaker for our Annual Luncheon and Silent Auction, and still hardly a day passes that I don't get overwhelmingly positive feedback about your presentation at our event. You connected with everyone. Your stories of life's challenges and successes were both inspirational and entertaining.

– Event Planner, Community Bankers Association

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