Les Brown

Les Brown was born in 1945 in Miami, Florida, into a life marked by significant adversity. Growing up in poverty, he faced numerous hardships, including being labeled 'educably mentally retarded' in school and experiencing deep feelings of rejection from society and circumstances. These early challenges shaped his worldview, but Brown refused to accept the limitations imposed upon him, setting the foundation for his transformative journey. A turning point came when a teacher recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue it, helping Brown realize that his circumstances did not dictate his destiny. This moment sparked a profound shift, igniting his passion for self-improvement, motivation, and personal development. From there, Brown began to cultivate a mindset focused on possibilities over limitations, optimism, and consistent action toward goals—core principles he later popularized. Brown rose to prominence as a renowned motivational speaker, author, and radio host, delivering speeches and teachings that have inspired millions globally. His signature phrase 'You Gotta Be Hungry,' which gained traction through his 1990s speeches and recordings, became a rallying cry for perseverance, ambition, and drive in the face of obstacles. This philosophy emphasizes intensifying one's inner hunger to fuel determination, embracing failure as part of growth, and taking deliberate steps toward dreams. His story exemplifies resilience, transforming early struggles into a platform for empowering others in business, peak performance, and personal strategy.