I encourage my audiences to find like-minded individuals to formulate a network similar to what my two friends and I did when we made our pact [to become doctors]. I want to help audiences prevent naysayers from entering their space. Turn them away. Let the haters hate while you believe in you and your mission. And once you have achieved your goal, never forget to give back. One of the greatest joys in life is paying it forward. It is a simple action that enriches your world beyond measures.

I had one parent approach me during a talk and told me her 8-year-old son reminded her every day that I would be appearing at a venue on a certain date. He went as far as to hang a picture of my two friends and me on his bedroom wall. A grandmother once told me that right next to the Bible on her nightstand was a copy of my book, The Pact. Students have emphatically and convincingly told me they hate to read but they finished one of my books – reading it cover to cover.

And then there is the excitement after a talk with individuals rushing the stage for individual or group photos. Some ask me to sign their books, scraps of paper, notebooks, book bags, sweaters, jackets, t-shirts, and even body parts (an arm being the obvious choice). Young people have changed lyrics in songs and replaced them with my name or “Brick City,” or The Pact or three doctors, demonstrating their talent in incorporating a positive message with a rhythmic tune.

Educators have expressed appreciation to me for writing a book that students are excited to read. Some teachers have even made displays of my 3 D’s in their school hallways and carved out life size cardboard images of me in my white lab coat and stethoscope.

These are a few reflections that I carry with me and they continue to energize me during my travels. It is a joy and an honor to experience the excitement from audiences and each moment is permanently filed in my memory.

I have served as keynote for The Boys and Girls Club, Costco, Prudential, Booz Allen Hamilton, Thrivent Financial, hundreds of colleges, universities and high schools delivering themed speeches, commencement talks, first year experiences and community-wide readings. I have also taken part in countless annual gala experiences. Each audience is different and I focus on what is important to the listeners, whether it is a college student or business professional. Everyone needs inspiration and motivation and I take great pride in delivering that type of message.

I use stats and case studies to drive home a point; whether it is a high school drop out rate of 1.2 million students a year or a medical statistic, these numbers are important. And yes, a bit of humor goes a long way in making a speech memorable. Who doesn’t like to laugh? If I’m successful, even in the smallest way possible in reaching and connecting with a group, I feel like I am living out my purpose, my passion in life.

I’ve helped countless medical students with preparation for medical board exams as well as discovering their specialty. Through conversation, I’ve been able to help many find their calling, their passion.

Many people are looking to manage their personal health better. I’ve been able to help serve as a catalyst to those looking to take charge of their health in understanding, managing and finding the right team of doctors.

And last, across the board, I’ve been able to spark audiences of all ages and backgrounds to be the best they can be. Some people that have attended my speeches have gone back to school, applied for a job promotion, changed their career path and/or decided to lend support to another. Ultimately whatever the trepidation was prior, I’ve been able to encourage the person to move forward, erase fear and start pursing the life they want right now. It is a great blessing and honor to be a part of a person’s manifestation.