EXPERT ON:
◉Faith in Action
◉Inspirational Life Story
◉Overcoming Adversity
◉Leadership Development
◉Legacy & Calling
EXPERIENCE:
◉ From underdog to overcomer: Raised in a loving but deeply dysfunctional home, Justin was shaped by the influence of teachers, coaches, and mentors—becoming a first-generation college graduate, earning two master’s degrees, and rising as an award-winning educator.
◉ Called back to the classroom: After stepping away from education to explore other careers, Justin realized no role carries the same generational ripple effect as teaching—and returned with renewed purpose.
◉ Inspiring educators to change lives: Drawing on 15 years in education and his own student journey, Justin delivers professional development through storytelling, humor, and heart, reminding educators they are breaking cycles and building futures every day.
Justin Pickens helps educators reconnect to purpose, lead with intention, and stay in the work that matters most.
Justin grew up in a loving but deeply dysfunctional home. His parents cared deeply for him, but they struggled, and for many years, he viewed himself as an underdog. It was teachers, coaches, and other caring adults who helped him see that he could be an overcomer instead. Because of their influence, he graduated from high school, became a first-generation college graduate, earned two master’s degrees, and went on to become an award-winning educator who truly loved teaching.
At one point, Justin lost his way and stepped away from education to explore other career paths. It didn’t take long to realize that no role could create the same generational ripple effect as the classroom.
Today, Justin uses his experiences as both a former student and a 15-year educator to create professional development that is memorable and meaningful.
Through storytelling, humor, and heart, he reminds teachers and staff that they are breaking cycles and building futures every day.
