It’s been said there’s a thin line between comedy and tragedy…well, Josh Shipp crosses that line with the speed and accuracy of a racecar driver in the Indy 500. His quickness and endurance is evident in his approach whether he is the host of a TV show, author of a book or renowned inspirational speaker. His intelligent nature coupled with comedic timing might lead some to believe he has lived a long life…he has indeed, but he just happens to be in his early twenties.

Abandoned, neglected, and abused as a child, Josh’s personal story of triumph over tragedy inspires youth to overcome life's struggles and live life to the fullest. Josh didn’t take the easy route, but instead chose a path of hard work and determination. Josh could have moved on and forgotten painful memories but he uses them to benefit others. “I’ve found that sometimes the very thing that has hurt you the most, is the very thing you can use to help others,” says Shipp. He attributes his personal growth to the encouragement of a great foster home, dynamic teachers, and school programs. He developed an unstoppable positive attitude and knows how to charge forward, no matter what!

It’s obvious that out of the choices of lead, follow or get out of the way, Josh chose to lead; and lead he does by strength, by character and by example. Josh is stepping up as a fresh voice of self-help for teens, and not as a PhD in a suit but as someone teens can relate to. After serving as State DECA President and on the School-to-Work student advisory committee, Josh decided to commit his life to helping others achieve their goals. His unprecedented wit has enabled him to achieve a professional speaking style that is animated and hilarious, challenging and thought provoking, and packed with hard-won wisdom.

“The way I approach speaking to teens is to first get them laughing to earn their trust,” says Josh. “Once I have it, it’s time to deliver the serious messages about life.”

Josh’s talent carries over into everything he does, including his forthcoming book “Don’t be Average.” Josh definitely connects, and his audiences are inspired to RETHINK and REACT, Josh has spoken to crowds as large as 27,000 and shared the stage with comedic giant Bill Cosby. He recently hosted a reality show called "Prom Date," and it appears that not only do audiences love him, but so does the camera.

In addition to his own book, Josh has coauthored three teen leadership books: “The Best of Success for Teens”, “The Making of an Unshakable Character”, and “Forty Voices.” He has also been the subject of countless articles, interviews and a subject for other authors.

Josh Shipp doesn’t live in the past but uses those experiences to guide others to a future of possibilities.  "I am who I am today because I chose to take advantage of opportunities given to me," says Josh. “If you don't identify who you are, others will.”