Chris Gardner

Christopher Paul Gardner, a distinguished entrepreneur and motivational speaker, has navigated a path marked by extraordinary resilience and determination. Born on February 9, 1954, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Gardner's early life was fraught with challenges such as poverty, domestic violence, and instability, experiences that would profoundly shape his life's mission. Despite these adversities, Gardner emerged with a steadfast resolve to redefine his future, a philosophy imbued in him by his mother, Bettye Jean Triplett, who instilled in him the belief that one's origins need not dictate one's destiny. This guiding principle propelled Gardner through his service in the Navy, his initial career in medical research, and eventually into the world of finance, where he overcame homelessness to become a successful stockbroker and ultimately the CEO of Gardner Rich LLC. Gardner's life story is encapsulated in his acclaimed autobiography, "The Pursuit of Happyness," published by Amistad/Harper Collins in 2006. The book not only climbed to the pinnacle of the New York Times and Washington Post bestseller lists but also resonated globally, being translated into fourteen languages. Its heartfelt narrative of perseverance and paternal devotion inspired the 2006 film of the same name, starring Will Smith, which garnered critical acclaim and several award nominations. Gardner's written works extend beyond his autobiography. His subsequent book, "Start Where You Are: Life Lessons in Getting From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be," published in 2009, further distills his life philosophy into actionable insights, encouraging readers to pursue their ambitions regardless of their starting point. In his literary and public endeavors, Gardner espouses themes of resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of determination. His writing style is characterized by a candid and motivational tone, enriched by personal anecdotes that underscore universal truths. Gardner's contributions extend beyond literature, as he actively champions causes related to homelessness and child welfare, reflecting his commitment to societal betterment. As a board member of the National Fatherhood Initiative and a recipient of their Father of the Year Award, Gardner continues to advocate for the integral role of positive paternal involvement. Through his work, both written and philanthropic, Gardner remains a leading voice in the discourse on overcoming adversity and achieving one's dreams.