About James
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Growing up in Lake City, South Carolina, James Epps Jr. is no stranger to adversity. Early in his life, he faced significant challenges, including sexual assault, suicidal ideations, academic struggles and poverty. These experiences fueled his resilience and determination to rise above his circumstances.
Through sheer grit and dedication, he joined the Marine Corps, where he would serve 22 years and retire as a Master Gunnery Sergeant—a rank achieved by less than one percent of Marines during their careers. His military career equipped him with invaluable leadership and personal development skills, which he now shares with audiences through dynamic talks.
Today, James is dedicated to inspiring students, staff, and non-profits to develop their own leadership potential and resilience. Known for the passion, energy, and humor he brings to his audiences, James is a impactful Motivational Speaker and Leadership Trainer who makes a transformative impact on schools and non-profit organizations. His presentations empower individuals to embrace their potential and stay focused on their goals.
If you’re looking to empower your students, staff, and transform your organization, James Epps Jr. is the expert to guide you on that journey.
Talk Topics
I encourage students to realize that, regardless of what others think or the challenges they face, they have the ability to achieve greatness. I do so by empowering students to seek validation from within, helping them unlock their true potential, embrace their authentic selves, and confidently pursue their dreams.
Greatness Does Not Need Approval: The Power of Students Having a Positive Mindset
This topic focuses on the transformative effect of a positive mindset in students' academic and personal lives. It explores how students who develop a mindset centered on growth, resilience, and optimism are better equipped to overcome challenges, embrace learning, and pursue success without needing external approval.
By fostering self-belief and a positive outlook, students can unlock their full potential and approach obstacles as opportunities for growth, ultimately achieving greatness on their own terms.
Greatness Does Not Need Approval: The Educator’s Influence and Impact on Students
This topic emphasizes the profound role educators play in shaping the future of their students, both academically and personally. It explores how educators, through their guidance, belief, and support, influence students' self-esteem, aspirations, and resilience. Educators don’t just teach curriculum; they shape the mindset, character, and future potential of their students.
The session highlights how an educator’s influence goes beyond the classroom, fostering greatness in students that doesn’t rely on external validation but comes from within. The impact of educators lasts a lifetime, molding the leaders, innovators, and thinkers of tomorrow.
Greatness Does Not Need Approval: Leadership that Inspires Change (Leadership Workshop)
This workshop empowers leaders and future leaders to embrace their authentic selves, understand those around them, lead with empathy, lead with confidence, and drive meaningful change. Embracing diversity as a strength, the workshop demonstrates how inclusive leadership fosters innovation, collaboration, and cultural transformation.
Participants will learn to lead through adversity, inspire others, and make a lasting impact on their organizations and communities.
James was absolutely amazing. He was engaging with a group of individuals who are sometimes hard to reach. He was professional, arrived early, and was happy to interact one on one with the crowd. We would love to have him back in the future.
Tiffany Bowser Director of Community Support Alleghany Highlands Community Services
Lets Connect
I help students recognize their unique strengths, embrace their potential, and make an impact by encouraging decisive action and teaching them that pursuing their goals doesn’t require validation from others.
757-268-2207