Learning from the Professor of Adversity University

It seems like forever ago Stephen Hopson and I started our friendship, but searching through my e-mail for his first note, I see now it was only June of 2007, with a nice note inviting me to join in his meme about sharing my secrets for dealing with adversity, now up at his new blog home as well. He said he identified with the boy in the power of positive thinking article, and hoped we could share stories. I've been learning from Stephen ever since.

So I thought if Stephen inspires me with his stories and ability to overcome life's obstacles, I knew everyone reading Make It Great! could learn something from Stephen too. I'll be posting half of our interview today, and the other half next Thursday. I hope you enjoy it.

Without further ado, Stephen Hopson, the Professor of Adversity University.

Phil: Tell me 3-5 sentences about Stephen Hopson I can't read in your bio.

Stephen: Two things: I love the smell of campfire smoke and cut grass. If I see someone mowing the lawn or burning something in their backyard, I’ll roll down the window of my car to take a good whiff of it.

My nickname in high school was “Hoppy Toad.”

You can read some more in 8 Random Facts about Stephen Hopson.

Phil: How did you come up with the name "Adversity University" for your blog?

Stephen: Well, I believe in giving credit where due.  The title of this blog came about as a result of brainstorming with Tony Brigmon, a speaker, from Texas.  He was introduced to me by my mentor Howard Putnam, former CEO of Southwest.  Tony had once worked for Southwest, hence the connection between the two of them.  One day Tony and I were brainstorming different names for my new blog in 2006 and it was him who suggested the play on words, saying that I could become "professor of Adversity University with a Ph.D in adversity."   Good idea!

Phil: What's the best advice you ever received, and what made it so good?

Stephen: Be authentic.  The likeability factor of authentic people shoots right through the roof because they are inclined to speak from the heart, not the ego.  As a professional speaker, I've learned that authenticity up on stage is what counts.  By being authentic, I'm in a position to make a HUGE difference in people's lives by not trying to be anyone else but "Stephen Hopson."  I have embraced my own style of speaking, mannerisms and thoughts, which allows me to relate with the audience on a personal and conversational level.   

Authentic people have no need to say "Hey, look at me, over here, over here!"  They simply walk into a room and know that their presence is enough to cause a stir.  In short, authencitiy paves the way to happiness, financial freedom, confidence and a great sense of contentment.  Priceless advice!

Phil: What do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

Stephen: Chucking aside a six-figure career on Wall Street in the late 1990's to pursue my dreams of becoming a motivational speaker, writer and eventually pilot (I wrote a story here about how this happened). 

Phil: What is 1 goal you will reach before the end of 2007?

Stephen: Atrracting the means to publish "THAT'S RIGHT, STEPHEN!"  and go a national book tour via an RV bus in 2008 and speak to teachers, reminding them they do make a difference.

Phil: Tell me a little about the book you're nearly finished with called That's Right Stephen. What's the premise, when will it be out, why did you write it?

Stephen: My goal is to have it published by February 1, 2008.  The title represents three words that forever changed my life as a young boy in fifth grade.  It was uttered by Mrs. Jordan, who was responding to a question she posed to the class, of which I responded to.  The result was an explosive and enthuasistic reply from the powerful teacher, giving me a boost of confidence that I sorely needed at the time.  The book is a series of short stories about things that have happened in my life since that day, with a life lesson at the end of each chapter.  The book ends with a story about the time I surprised her on a national talk show 30 years later to thank her for those three words.  You can see a YouTube video about this here.

So that's a little bit about the man behind Adversity University. Make sure to visit the university, and also check out his professional speaker website. I'll bring you the rest of the interview next week, same time, same station. Until then, make it a GREAT week!

Comments

[Stephen Hopson]

Phil:

Thanks so much for taking the time to interview me and introducing me to the rest of your audience. I really appreciate it.

By the time we reach the end of this month, I have a feeling your readers and I will be "old friends" because not only have you interviewed me but you've asked me to take a spot as one of your guest bloggers throughout the rest of the month. Wow! I am humbled and grateful for this wonderful interactive experience.

Thank you Phil.

[Phil Gerbyshak]

You're welcome Stephen. Glad to share such an inspiring soul a you with the folks here at Make It Great!