Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyrone Brunson.
Hi Tyrone, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m Tyrone Brunson and I was born and raised in Manning, South Carolina. I’m a dynamic speaker dedicated to inspiring middle and high school students to take control of their academic, social, and emotional growth. With an engaging presence, I challenge youth to practice self-awareness, build strong systems, and navigate life’s challenges with resilience. Through poetry, storytelling, and unconventional object lessons, I deliver messages that are both powerful and deeply relatable. Since 2023, I’ve served as the Operations & Finance Director for a youth-centered nonprofit, combining my leadership experience with a strong foundation in financial literacy—skills I’ve been building since graduating summa cum laude from SC State University.
My speaking journey began in childhood, but it was through poetry and public engagements that I refined my voice and transformed my passion for mentorship into a powerful tool for impact. Humbly, my story is one of resilience. I entered foster care at just three days old and was adopted at two by a loving mother who instilled in me the values of family, unity, and loyalty. I also survived a three-day coma from anaphylaxis just three years after overcoming cancer—a life-altering experience that solidified my commitment to taking control of my narrative and inspiring others to do the same. I’m on a mission to equip 1,000,000 students with tools for success by 2030. I deliver transformative experiences that resonate most with youth facing adversity, battling self-doubt, or striving to overcome setbacks. Empowering others to embrace their potential and write their own stories means a lot to me.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I entered foster care at 3 days old, and was officially adopted at 2 years old.
I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma at age 18, just 4 days after the completion of my first year of college in 2017. The experience led to depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, self-doubt, insecurity, resistance to forming new relationships, confusion about my purpose in life, turning away from God, and more.
I survived a 3-day coma due to anaphylactic shock from pistachios in 2020.
Nonetheless, I’m a victor and not a victim! God’s grace and mercy rests on me despite these trials!
As you know, we’re big fans of Tyrone Brunson Inspires, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
My website is coming soon at www.TyroneBrunson.org!
What sets me apart as a speaker is my consistent use of humor, my raw vulnerability, and my mature mindset for my age. I share stories that are transparent about mistakes, doubts, and shortcomings. People often tell me I have an “old soul,” and I think that comes from the wide range of life experiences I’ve had. I also incorporate unconventional object lessons—real-life artifacts from my journey, lyric breakdowns, on-stage demos, and more. I often weave poems, original songs, raps, and signature phrases like “Somebody tryna play me!” or my fake laugh into my engagements.
What benefits do you bring to schools and organizations?
I cater my presentations to visual and kinesthetic learners, creating interactive experiences that truly connect. My upbringing and lived experiences allow me to connect on a deeper level, and I encourage others to live by core values like respect, honor, forgiveness, discipline, humility, and perseverance. I inspire those who don’t have a polished resume to pursue their dreams anyway—and inspire others in the process.
Who am I?
I’ve always wanted to achieve both common and uncommon goals. There was a time when I felt stuck—frustrated about how to deal with challenges in my personal and professional life. After surviving both cancer and a coma, my outlook on life and my career path shifted drastically. I realized I had to pivot, take ownership, and use my story to empower others.
Today, I serve as the Operations & Finance Director of a youth nonprofit. Since moving to Asheville, NC in 2021, I’ve been deeply involved in my church, writing poetry, investing, and staying rooted in my purpose. My adoptive family, church family, biological relatives, and coworkers are the most meaningful people in my life.
In the future, I plan to speak internationally, create scholarship funds, establish youth mentorship programs, author books, produce skits and films, become a real estate mogul and musician, and rise as one of the top earners and thought leaders in the speaking industry.
What’s my “Why”?
I speak to inspire and push people toward their calling by sharing practical lessons from my life. I want to see people thrive—academically, emotionally, socially, and financially. I focus on middle and high school students because I see how much they’re struggling. I speak with full conviction that my perspective can shift their mindset and circumstances.
I get much of my drive from helping young people transform their lives and their families’ lives. I root for the underdog. And I believe deeply in giving thanks to those who show up for us along the way.
What’s my purpose?
I’m on a mission to support 1,000,000 middle and high school students in growing academically, socially, mentally, and emotionally—by practicing self-awareness and building organized lives. Through support from others and consistency, I will accomplish this by 2030.
What fuels my passion for speaking?
My passion for speaking to youth comes from years of mentoring and tutoring. At one point, I realized I was struggling to truly connect with the youth and families I served. I started accepting that maybe things wouldn’t get better—until some people I admired challenged me to lead more boldly. That challenge pushed me to share my story with young people and those who serve them. I know many students are facing complex challenges today. I speak with the goal of helping resolve those challenges. Honestly, my life has turned out better than I imagined, and that’s because so many people believed in me—even when I didn’t believe in myself.
Why do schools and organizations book me?
Schools and organizations book me because I inspire middle and high school students to practice self-awareness and create systems that help them thrive. My presentations are always practical, tailored, and organized. My humor, creativity, and upbringing make each experience more powerful and relatable. Book me now to make sure I’m available for your event!
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
– I see increased demand for speakers with unconventional approaches that land with the audience, make lasting impact, and foster both intrinsic motivation and self-awareness.
– As economic uncertainty persists, speakers who offer essential/staple services (business strategy, curriculums, etc) will fare well compared to other speakers whose products/services are more on the discretionary end.
– I see a refreshing desire for collaboration over competition among speakers in similar fields/with similar agendas.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @tyronebrunson1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14uBrc25AK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Next Level Speakers Academy
