Eric D. Thomas (born September 3, 1970) is an American **motivational speaker**, **author**, **educator**, **consultant**, and **minister**, who inspires millions through his powerful, high-energy messaging.
Born in Chicago but raised in Detroit by a teenage single mother, Eric endured a difficult childhood. After dropping out of high school, he lived homeless on the streets of Detroit for two years, sleeping in abandoned buildings and cars. His life took a turn when a pastor introduced him to a supportive faith community—this sparked his journey toward transformation.
Eric earned his GED and then embarked on an extraordinary academic journey. He spent 12 years earning his bachelor’s degree from Oakwood University (2001), then went on to receive a Master’s in K-12 administration (2005) and, later, a *Ph.D. in Education Administration* from Michigan State University (2015).
While at Michigan State, Thomas served as an academic advisor to disadvantaged students and co-created *The Advantage Program**, designed to improve retention for high-risk Black and Latino undergraduates. He also became a senior pastor at **A Place of Change Ministries* in Lansing, Michigan.
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Rise to Fame: Motivation Meets Momentum
Eric's breakout moment came in 2008 when he delivered a charged speech at MSU that urged students to “want success as badly as you want to breathe.” The video went viral on YouTube, propelling him into the motivational spotlight. Since then, his *Secrets to Success* messages and other speeches have been streamed millions of times, and he regularly shares inspiration via **YouTube**, **Instagram**, and **podcasts**, cultivating a massive audience.
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Books, Brands & Global Influence
Eric Thomas is the author of multiple impactful books in the *motivation**, **self-improvement**, and **success* genres including:
*The Secret to Success* (autobiography)
*Greatness Is Upon You*
*Average Skill, Phenomenal Will*
*You Ain’t The Boss Of Me*
Thomas is also an *Audie Awards Finalist* for his audiobook performances.
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Trusted Coach to Athletes & Executives
Eric has become a go-to *performance coach* for elite athletes—particularly in the NFL and NBA. He’s delivered motivational talks to teams like the Clippers, Bucks, Cavaliers, and many more. Notably, NBA stars like LeBron James, Isaiah Thomas, and Miles Bridges credit his messages for fueling their focus and drive. The NBA has even invited him to speak at their **Rookie Transition Program**, where he helps new players build mental resilience and purpose.
Through his consulting firm ETA LLC, Eric Thomas has worked with *Fortune 500 brands* including Nike, General Electric, AT\&T, Under Armour, and more—bringing motivational leadership programming to businesses across the globe.
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Why Eric Thomas Inspires
Eric’s journey—from homelessness and academic struggle to earning a Ph.D.—creates an authentic *backstory of resilience**, **hard work**, and **self-belief**. His energetic delivery, personal vulnerability, and message of **grit**, **perseverance**, **success**, and **self-empowerment* resonate deeply with students, professionals, athletes, and anyone hungry for transformation.
He reminds people: “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you’ll be successful.” His content fuels *motivation**, builds **confidence**, and sparks **action**—and that’s why he’s a legend in the **self-growth* and **motivation niche**.
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