Ed Hearn AN INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPION ... STILL SWINGING FOR LIFE'S FENCES!

Request Talent/ Media

Fee: $2,500 - $10,000 /exp

Kansas Based

Ed Hearn
AN INSPIRATIONAL CHAMPION ... STILL SWINGING FOR LIFE'S FENCES!

HOT OFF THE PRESS!!! - A MOVIE IN THE MAKING

Recently, two Hollywood/Burbank Independent Film Companies have commissioned screenplays on Ed's story and as producers secure funding, a big screen production could be forthcoming to a theatre near you!

THE MAN

     In 1986, Ed Hearn fulfilled his childhood dream as a member of the World Champion New York Mets. The following year with the Kansas City Royals, he was set to make those big "million dollar bank deposits" today's professional athletes are accustomed to, when suddenly, a serious shoulder injury brought a premature end to a very promising and brilliant career.

     Less than six months after his baseball career ended, he was diagnosed with three potentially life-threatening health conditions. Once a strong, vibrant professional athlete, he was reduced to a man who could barely care for himself.

     Today, after 3 life-saving kidney transplants, dialysis, several bouts with cancer, radiation treatments, the aid of a breathing machine each night, a costly IV treatment once a month, and up to 40 pills per day, this 56-year-old former Major Leaguer has come back with a far greater purpose in life than just that of being a professional athlete.

     As the author of a book titled, Conquering Life's Curves – Baseball, Battles & Beyond, Ed has appeared on numerous national television programs including The Oprah Winfrey Show, The 700 Club and MSNBC. Recently, a Hollywood movie production company acquired the movie rights to Ed's story and a screen play has been scripted.

     As the founder of The Bottom of the 9th (a KS 501c3 nonprofit corp.-1998), Ed continues to quietly impact untold number of lives. He challenges both individuals and organizations to embrace the bold challenge of rebuilding the spirit and character of our nation.

     In 2001, Ed was the first current or former professional athletes from our country's major league sports to be awarded the prestigious Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation from the National Speakers Association.

     Ed resides in Shawnee, KS with his wife, Trish, and their son, Cody. As if the Hearn's haven't faced enough of life's curves, in November of 2011, during Cody's junior year of high school, he was diagnosed with Stage 3 Burkitt's Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Like his dad, he battled hard and today is in full remission.

     Ed is very active in various community activities, his church and spends countless hours of his time with the youth of Kansas City. In his spare time, Ed enjoys hunting, fishing, and golf.

"The real test of a man is not when he plays the role he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him." Vaclav Havel

A Personal Note... from the desk of Ed Hearn

     Thank you for taking a brief moment to consider the possibility of allowing me to utilize the "gifts" I have been given to positively impact the lives of your group.

     In working with countless meeting coordinators over the past twenty-three years, I have long since come to realize that planning a group meeting is no small task. You have the unenviable job of pleasing not only your boss, but the hundreds or even thousands of different personalities that make up your group. I feel it is my job to make you look like a hero in everyone's eyes.

     As professional speakers, we are privileged to positively impact the lives of our fellow man. Many people cannot fathom the passion I have for the work I now do away from the ball park. The truth is, I look forward to speaking to a group of people more than I used to look forward to playing in a major league baseball game.

     Furthermore, because of my transcendent and open-hearted speaking style, I have found many audience members typically enjoy the opportunity to socialize and even spend personal one-on-one moments together after my programs. Therefore, I would like you to understand my personal philosophy is that of being more than just a speaker to the groups who book me.

     Whenever possible, I like to make myself readily available to share these special "up-close" moments. Whether it's taking photos with my new friends and the World Series trophy, personally autographing my book or even joining in on a round of golf with the group, I consider these to be all part of my job in helping to make your event one they will remember for a long time to come.

     I look forward to the possibility of working with you in the near future! Not only would we have a good time, but more importantly, I know we can have a positive impact on the lives on those in your group.

Ed Hearn

PROGRAMS:

CONQUERING LIFE'S CURVES
From the Penthouse to the Outhouse and BACK

Today, we live in a culture that is besieged by constant change. As individuals, companies, and as a country, we face curves that can quickly knock us out of the game of life. In times like these, is your "team" steeled for the challenge or hiding out in the break room? Who are they focused on? Champions don't think about their own batting average... they don't think about the fans hollering and screaming in the stands...they think about the prize...the team goal of winning the World Series.

To Ed Hearn, Conquering Life's Curves is more than just the title of a speech. As a professional athlete, he achieved a level of success that most can only dream about. He put in years of blood, sweat and tears to make that a reality. But, shortly thereafter, life changed. Ed has taken some of the worst knockdown pitches life has to offer, and he has not only survived, he has thrived.

It is paramount that we have a strong game plan in place that gives us the best chance to turn these curves into homeruns of success and significance. Ed Hearn has been there, done that. Who better than to "coach" your team? Which of the topics below would enhance the productivity and synergy of those in your organization?

     • We must stop stopping.
     • We are not defined by our past, we are prepared by it.
     • How to develop a panoramic perspective.
     • How to think outside the __________ (no, not "the box!").
     • How success is different from significance and why it matters...
     • How and why significances breeds success.
     • How the things I do today could affect someone's forever.
     • How significance will make a difference in their personal and      professional lives.

**"Topics and Take-a-ways" from this sample program and all Ed Hearn's programs are developed to enhance the goals and objectives of each meeting planner and group leadership.**

"...when I returned to my office that afternoon I had already received more than ten phone calls or messages letting me know how much our folks appreciated your speech. People were still talking about it when we met the following meeting. I must agree with our membership when I say you have been the most dynamic motivational speaker we have ever been privileged to listen ."   - Program Coordinator

"Ed spoke at a time when people felt 'beat up' and needed a change in direction. Ed's topic, Reaching for the Future was one that kept us on the edge of our chairs and gave our community the hope that we will survive, that there is no mountain too high to climb or sea too wide to swim. Ed made us realize that we needed to believe in ourselves, reach for our goals and commit to solve the problems at hand." - President

THINKING OUTSIDE THE... SELF
The Key that Opens ALL "Boxes"

In baseball, the bottom of the ninth inning never takes place unless the game is tied or the good guys (the home team) are behind. Today, amidst a culture of constant change, the foundation of our great country is being shaken to its core by greed and self-centeredness. Enticed by the allure of "achievement" and self-gratification, we can easily lose sight of our highest calling - being SIGNIFICANT.

The clock of time is winding down...now is the time for all Americans to step up to the plate, focus on "the team" and "Think Outside...the SELF."

Your audience will be called to action by:

The treasure island of giving.
We are either givers or takers.
Being more than you feel.
The view from the stands or the dugout won't do it.
You can't gain the perspective needed to start hitting homeruns unless you're in the batter's box.
Tapping the Power of Choice - recognizing and positively reacting to deception.
The compounding strength of synergy.
Our dreams for tomorrow require our preparation today.
The things we do today will affect someone's forever.

**The above program descriptions is merely an example. The "Topics, Titles and Take-a-Ways" for ALL Ed Hearn's programs are developed based on the goals and objectives of each meeting planner and group leadership.**

"You made me look brilliant in Hawaii! You have an arsenal of messages and personal stories that would be wonderful for any group, regardless of make-up."- President, Burger King SW Franchisee Assoc.

"Thank you for the super job you did. You gave us so much more than a presentation. It was part entertainment, part enlightenment and totally engrossing." - Community Bankers Assoc., Administrative Director

"BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!"

Ready for a real pro to speak at your next medical conference? Ed Hearn is exciting and fun, yet deeply touching and inspiring. He has "walked in the shoes" of those facing some of life's nasties curveballs - health challenges.

Less than six months after his baseball career ended, Ed Hearn was diagnosed with three potentially life threatening health conditions. Once a strong, vibrant professional athlete, he was reduced to a man who could barely care for himself.

Today, after 3 life-saving kidney transplants, dialysis, several bouts with cancer, radiation treatments, the aid of a breathing machine each night, a costly IV treatment once a month, and up to 40 pills per day, this 57- year-old former major leaguer has come back with a far greater purpose in life than just that of being a professional athlete.

CME Programs    Health Care Employee Appreciation Events      Association meetings       Pharmaceutical Company PR      Health Care Adovocate              Education seminars
Public Awareness Campaigns     Patient Reunion Programs         Cause Related Marketing           Hospital Fundraisers

"Your unforgettable message touched many in the audience and encouraged them in their daily lives. It is individuals like you that help the Health Foundation reach out to our donors and meet our goals to enhance and improve the health and quality of life in our community. I have also received numerous positive compliments from patients who viewed your presentation on our closed circuit program."         Director

"ONE DAY AT A TIME" FOR PATIENTS & FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Anyone who has never been a patient or a caregiver battling serious chronic or acute health issues cannot possibly comprehend the hardships associated with these roles. Ed Hearn has had the unfortunate but unique opportunity to experience both first hand.

A former major league ball player first sidelined by injuries, he was then immediately struck down by kidney failure and multiple chronic health conditions that often left him too weak to care for himself. And just when he thought he had earned his professional status as a patient, his 17-year-old son, Cody was diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer.

During his son's treatment, Ed assumed a new role of caregiver, which he admits was harder than being a patient. Emotions of uncertainty, helplessness, hopelessness and fear dominate health issues often hijacking life as we know it.

Ed has not only survived the curve balls life has thrown his way but flourished as a result. Both patients and caregivers will immediately identify with his personal journey and be able to relate with a man who has truly walked in their shoes.

With compassion and empathy Ed takes great joy in bringing hope, encouragement and perspective to patients and those caregivers who step up to the plate for their loved ones during these challenging time. As he shares his insights, listeners will be empowered with his arsenal of coping strategies and will inspired to emulate his remarkable perseverance and resurgence in this game called life.

Your audience will learn:

How to turn life's curves into homeruns
How humor opens the heart to healing.
How to tap the power of Perspective
How to move from compassion to empathy
How pain and suffering can be the stepping stones to the top.

"Your presentation was inspiring, hopeful and evocative. It certainly touched the hearts and minds of everyone in the audience and helped quench the hunger so many have to find ways of coping and just plain living through difficult times.

You, unlike many other speakers, opened yourself up to all that surrounded you throughout the conference. You are just so real and genuine. I can't tell you what a powerful impact that makes with everyone." - MD Anderson Medical Center, Director

"JUST 3 LITTLE WORDS" FOR THE PROFESSIONALS
It Doesn't Take That Much

From the front-liners such as the doctors, nurses, and transplant coordinators to those unsung heroes behind the scenes, like the drug reps, human resource staffers, or insurance administrators, Ed has seen and experienced the good, the bad and the ugly in our health care profession. He is compassionate and extremely thankful for the numerous professionals that have been involved with his care the since 1992. He understands the many complexities and challenges they face in this ever-changing world of modern medicine. Who better to inspire, encourage and rejuvenate this often overworked and under-appreciated group of individuals and organizations?

How the things we do today could affect someone's forever.
How important empathy is to those to those of us that hospital gown.
How teamwork breeds accountability, camaraderie, encouragement and support.
How communication and teamwork with patients is a necessity for the genuine inclusion of the patient on the team.

"GET 'R DONE" FOR INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY

"I do not hold any animosity toward my former advisors, but I have learned the hard way, a very valuable lesson about the service I provide my clients. I never want to have to write this same kind of letter to any of my friends or to those whom I come in contact with along life's path. In the same token, I hope my story, and the lessons I have learned from it can be used to encourage, inspire and motivate many others in our industry."~ EH

     When Ed Hearn's career as a major league catcher ended prematurely he started his second career with the New York Life. Unfortunately, by the time he was learning the value of the very product he would spend selling his clients over the next ten years, he was diagnosed with three life threatening health issues that made him uninsurable.

     In addition to motivating financial professionals with the "tools of the trade- catcher's style." Theses "tools of the trade" are the absolute essential ingridents" for the climb to the TOP as a professional athlete or the fincial professional.

     Yes other speakers in this industry know, understand and preach these tools at your meetings, but Ed has "The Hammer" to drives home - the perspective of a man who had multiple financial advisors throughout his playing days without EVER being introduced to the most basic need in a financial plan - life insurance.

     Sales managers salivate as Hearn reads to his audiences a very heartfelt letter of apology from a childhood friend who was one of those advisors. Don't miss the opportunity motivate and inspire your team with a real pro who knows the game from his ten years in the business.

(Photo and autograph session with Ed and his World Series championship may be available at your event.)

"I have been to, over the last 55 years, a countless number of seminars, professional association conferences, and local, state, and national company sales meetings. At these meetings, I have been privileged to hear some of the greatest motivational and technical speakers of our time, yet never have I heard a more powerful presentation than I did from you last Friday at our Association of Life Underwriters meeting. It was absolutely the most wonderful presentation I have ever heard." - John Hancock, Agency Account Executive

"You are the ultimate 'CLEANUP HITTER' for any insurance/ financial services meeting such as ours! Beyond being such a great person; beyond your gifts and talents as a speaker, beyond your mind-boggling real life experiences from being a former world champion professional athlete to the depths of having faced major CHANGE and CHALLENGES in your personal life...you also 'walked in the shoes' of our people as a financial services professional for ten years! Like I told you after our conference, 'Nobody does it better.' You are THE complete package." - Agent, 25+ yrs., State Farm Insurance SW Missouri

S.O.S.

At times, it may seem hard to see, but deep down in the heart of every child is the desire to be somebody, to do something great. Yet we may face no bigger challenge today than that of steering our children through a maze of modern day temptations. As parents, we are frustrated by how often our children ignore our guidance, yet seem to be so influenced by today's "role models" - the athletes, musicians, and entertainers.

Ed realizes this and uses the platform he has been given as a professional athlete to share the messages all parents wish their children would listen and respond to. Don't miss this opportunity to expose your young people to one of life's true champions and the challenges he will leave them with:

     • Choosing the right teammates...If you want to soar like an eagle
        you can't perch with pigeons, hoot with owls or hang out with
        turkeys.
     • The road to success is dotted with many tempting parking places.
     • Don't cheat "the man in the glass."
     • It's your choice...the pain of discipline or the pain of regret?
     • Winners look toward the future - losers live in the past.

(Autograph and Photo session with Mr Hearn's World Series Championship ring available when applicable.)

**Topics and take-a-ways from this program and all Ed Hearn's programs are established according to the goals and objectives of the meeting planner and group leadership.

"Your outstanding presentation challenged our youth to elevate beyond even their own expectations. The feedback has been tremendous and the youth are still talking about their opportunity to meet you, try on your World Series ring and have their picture taken with your trophy! You are an exemplary role model with a great heart who is truly making a difference."   - U. of Missouri KC, Program Chair

"Each time that I engage a speaker I have never heard, I enter into that particular presentation with great trepidation. There is no more unforgiving, or captivated, group than 389 middle and upper school students. However, two months later our students are still talking about your presentation. They remember not only what you had to say but also the personable and approachable manner in which you presented. You have a wonderful ability to mix entertainment, insight and inspiration in your very personal, but universally applicable, message. Your presentation cut right to the core of the many temptations facing students today. I also appreciate the time that you spent after your presentation in talking to our students, well as autographing baseballs, cards and other miscellany." - Wichita Collegiate School, Councilor, Program Chair

TOUCHING ALL THE BASES

Utilizing the four bases of a baseball diamond as an outline, Ed stresses four basic principles that our young people must understand in order for them to TOUCH ALL THE BASES.

Rounding 1st Base: Baseball players must learn to listen to their first base coach. In life, our first base coach is our parents. Having a positive relationship with our parents is a fundamental step in the development into mature, productive adults.

Rounding 2nd Base: In baseball, second base is considered scoring position. From here, the ultimate goal of success (scoring a run) is within reach. But base-runners cannot get picked off base. As youngsters, drugs and alcohol will quickly get our youth "picked off" from fulfilling their full potential.

Rounding 3rd Base: Nothing can be more beneficial to a base runner trying to score a run than a third base coach who gives the right signs to advance. Likewise, our children cannot afford to miss one of the greatest opportunities available to them today - an education provided to them by their teachers that will be the basis of their earning potential for the rest of their lives.

Crossing Home Plate: Once a player has rounded third base there is no one left for him to rely on. As the legs may grow weary & heavy, he must persevere with a desire to win that comes from deep down in his heart and soul. Similarly, our youth must understand that their ultimate success in life will come as a result of their own individual desire, perseverance and will to succeed. No one can do it for them. From here, it's up to them.

**Topics and take-a-ways from this program and all Ed Hearn's programs are established according to the goals and objectives of the meeting planner and group leadership.

Your presntation was excellent. It is a message that young people everywhere should hear. More than anything else from a person like you, people of all ages will learn never to give up, to be confident, to enjoy every day, and to have a caring attitude." - President, Kansas State University

"Each time that I engage a speaker I have never heard, I enter into that particular presentation with great trepidation. There is no more unforgiving, or captivated, group than 389 middle and upper school students. However, two months later our students are still talking about your presentation. They remember not only what you had to say but also the personable and approachable manner in which you presented. You have a wonderful ability to mix entertainment, insight and inspiration in your very personal, but universally applicable, message. Your presentation cut right to the core of the many temptations facing students today. I also appreciate the time that you spent after your presentation in talking to our students, well as autographing baseballs, cards and other miscellany." - Councilor, Program Chair

ON GOD'S SQUAD

Ed Hearn had a dream - to be a professional athlete - an NFL quarterback or a Major League catcher. But it was more than just a dream, it was his goal and he pursued it with great zeal.

In the beginning the journey towards God was paved by the faithfulness of our parents.

As a youngster, Ed's parents cleverly shared their faith through the vehicle of Ed's passion - sports and those who played the game at the highest level. He would even get to hear several athletes share their personal testimony of faith. With great admiration and a burning desire he would often pray that God would make him worthy of this kind of platform, both on and off the field.

Sometimes you have to be careful what you ask God for!

Yes, those prayers were answered. In 1986, Ed did get to be a Major League baseball player. He even played for a World Series championship team in his rookie year (NY Mets 1986). In that same year, he met a beautiful nurse and they would become teammates for life. The following season, he earned his first starting position when he was traded to the Kansas City Royals who hoped that he would be the final piece of the puzzle that would return them to the World Series.

Sometimes His plans are far different from ours.

Suddenly, after finding the woman he loves and embarking on what should be the most successful period in his life, the fairy tale came crashing down. His perfect world was shattered by a serious career-ending shoulder injury. Sidelined from the game he so dearly loved, his faith was put to the test.

Less than six months after Ed's baseball career ended, he was diagnosed with three potentially life threatening health conditions. Once a strong, vibrant professional athlete, he was reduced to a man who could barely care for himself. He clung to his loving wife (a nurse), at times, even doubting his own survival; on at least one occasion even questioning his desire stay in the game.

Sometimes we just want to quit.

At times, Ed grappled with his Savior. Late one night, in a desperate attempt to comprehend the path he was being led down, he barreled through a backdoor of his church and cried out to his Creator. That night God led him to Corinthians 12:7-10:

"...so I was given a thorn in the flesh and three times I begged God to make me well again. Each time He said, `No, but I am with you; that is all you need. My strength shows up best in weak people.' Now I am glad to boast about how weak I am. I am glad to be a living demonstration of Christ's power, instead of showing off my own abilities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. The less I have the more I depend on Him."

From that night on, he who once seemed blind now began to see. Through a series of events, Ed slowly began to see how God had been preparing him for something far greater than just that of being a former Major League player.

Sometimes it takes a lot of innings before we really understand the score, but on His team, we know the game is already won.

God blessed Ed and fulfilled his youthful prayer of one day playing on the fields of his childhood heroes. But it wasn't long before He allowed many "thorns in the flesh" to attach Ed's body and thus initiating a much grander plan for his life. Today, because of his "weakness", Ed has had the opportunity to share his journey of faith and hope to an ever-increasingly confused world.

View

Promotional Info

Promotional.pdf

Topics:
Motivation, Inspirational,
Change, Financial Services,
Teamwork/Teambuilding,
Sports/Athletics