Meet Tim Gray | Public speaker & Talent Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tim Gray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tim, how do you define success?
That’s a great question. My definition of success has evolved throughout my life. I grew up with the illusion that success is an accumulation of money, fame, and everything that is glamorized in society. I remember being a kid watching all my childhood idols on TV who were wealthy, famous, and everything that came with it. It wasn’t until the death of the great Kobe Bryant, I realized that there was something greater than all the things mentioned above, and that was the impact and legacy he left. Today I define success as the impact and legacy you leave on those you encounter. One of the models I live by is “Leave people in a better place than when you found them.” It does not matter how high I go, if I don’t have an impact or help those around me nothing else matters. I am very thankful for all of the mentors and successful men/women who have impacted me on my journey in life and I want to do the same for others. This has become the motivation that pushes me to continue to impact and help those around me reach their full purpose and destiny in life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a public speaker, I speak at conferences, churches, schools, events etc. to empower and motivate a diverse audience range to find their purpose and destiny in life. My focus is on youth development and the empowerment of youth. This is done through mentorship, facilitating courses, reading with students, hosting community events, volunteering etc. Through events and organizations, I have been able to work with a number of leaders to bring together the city of Grand Rapids including Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, the chief of police, city manager, pastors, CEO’s etc.

As a talent Development consultant at AEBetancourt, I help people all around the country find opportunities that advance their careers. I work with businesses all across the country in multiple industries to help them find top talent that propels and takes their company to the next level.

What sets me apart from others is my dedication to my calling and purpose in life. Also, my will to never give up and never run from any challenge or obstacle that may be standing in my way. I believe winning is a choice and loosing is not an option. I believe my dedication to my goals and aspirations has been a big part of my success. I’m proud of where I’ve gotten and I’m excited for our future!

I got my start in the speaking world as a little boy growing up in my local church in Muskegon,MI. I”ve always been a drummer and rims were my first love, but when Easter and Christmas came around, my focus turned to speeches. Eventually, people began to recognize the gift that was placed in me, even before I did. I then began to transition from speeches to messages and speaking engagements. Doors began to open, and connections began to be made. I got here by doing the work and staying consistent to myself! No short cuts, no instant gratification, no luck, or handouts. I also believe I am where I am because of favor. When favor is over your life nothing or no one can get in the way of what God has for you. As I mentioned earlier, winning in life is ultimately a choice, so every day I choose to win weather that be going to the gym, reading a book to learn and gain knowledge, working on my craft, attending a conference, everything I do is intentional to make sure I am reaching the goals I have set before me in life. When you make the choice to invest in yourself everything else follows.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Grand Rapids is a great city, Ha Ha. Upon arrival we are definitely going to make a trip about 35 minutes out to Lee’s Chicken and Mr. Scrib’s Pizza. After that we will come back and check out a show or event at the Van Andel Arena.

Sunday morning I’d take them to the best church in the city of Grand Rapids, none other than the Renaissance COGIC. Than we’d grab a meal from Southern Smoke.

Depending on the time of year we would go downtown to ArtPrize, which is the world’s largest art competition. We could walk the city and see over 2,000 pieces of art all around the downtown Grand Rapids area.

Lastly, I’d take them to check out the Frederik Meijer Garden & Sculpture Park. After we would go grab some dinner at one twenty-three tavern. To end the night, we would go check out a movie at Studio Park.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to start by thanking God. I know it’s a cliche, but without God I am nothing. A special thanks to my mother Latonia. She has been there since the beginning of this journey. She’s seen it all and stood with me through it all. I’m thankful for her support along with the rest of my family. I want to give a special shoutout to two men who believed in me and opened up doors for me and that is the late Bishop Nathaniel Wells jr. and Nathaniel Wells III. A host of mentors/brothers who continue to stand in my corner. Lastly, I would like to give a shoutout to every single person who has ever seen me live, and/or allowed me into your life to be a positive influence and to help you achieve the success you’re after. Also, to those who pray, cover, and support me even if I don’t realize it.

Thank you to all of you!

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