Justin Pickens
- From Underdog to Overcomer: Justin’s personal journey shows how caring educators can change the trajectory of a student’s life.
- 15 Years of Educational Experience: A former award-winning educator and first-generation college graduate, Justin brings authentic insight from both sides of the classroom.
- Professional Development With Heart: Through storytelling, humor, and real-world experience, Justin inspires educators to recognize the lasting impact they have on students and communities.
Justin Pickens Speaker Biography
Justin Pickens 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.
Book this SpeakerFeatured Videos
Speech Topics
Signature Keynote for Educators-
Breaking Cycles. Building Futures.
A keynote experience in which Justin shares his journey from ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) to impact in the classroom and his detour from education that gave him perspective on the difference between career and calling, and the powerful ripple effect that educators hold.
Workshop (60-90 minutes)
The Intentional Educator: Staying in the Game
Being an “extra-intentional” educator is impossible if you’re running on empty. Justin helps teachers find peace in two key areas: Life inside the building (culture, conflict, and pre-deciding). Life outside the building (finances, fitness, and family).
Signature Keynote for Students-
Breaking Cycles. Building Futures.
Justin grew up as the “poor kid” with a hard home life. He spent years feeling like an underdog until he realized that the only way out was to lead himself first. He shares how intentionality, goals, and serving others became the tools he used to break the cycle.
Students leave realizing their story isn’t over. They’ll walk away ready to stop making excuses and start taking ownership of their own future.
Workshop (60-90 minutes)
Breaking Cycles: The Leadership Lab
An interactive session designed to transform students into leaders. Justin takes the core ideas from his keynote to shows students how to be intentional with their choices, set purposeful goals, & start building a legacy they’ll be proud of.
