Today we’d like to introduce you to Craig Cooper.
Hi Craig, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Craig Cooper, and I am from Landover, MD. I am the founder of Uplift Kings, the “Walking Purpose” podcast, a mixed martial artist, a former Tachi CO instructor, a motivational speaker, a best-selling author of the anthology “When His Soul Cries,” and a youth development specialist at Wheaton High School. My life story began 15 years ago after I defeated depression and suicidal ideations. I have always wanted to come back and share my story and testimony. I have been able to do so through a few interviews, an amazing anthology, and public speaking events. This is why I walk in purpose.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I faced some struggles like depression and self-hatred as a youth and young adult. I was unable to see my life as meaningful because I was trapped in my own personal fight with self-hate. This affected how I viewed myself, my confidence in my future and my goals, and my approach to relationships. Waking up every day feeling lost, this is the reason why today I fight so hard as a youth development specialist and motivational speaker. I’ve always wanted to pass on that knowledge to someone else. Perhaps the pain in my past can be the driving force to help someone else in the future.
As you know, we’re big fans of Uplift Kings. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
Uplift Kings is an organization that provides mental health strategies and motivation to men of all ages and races. Let’s break the stigma.
Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
When it comes to collaborating and working with others, I believe in surrounding myself with individuals who can inspire me and help me reach new levels of greatness. Recently, I created a men’s group called United Kings Community Circle with a big collaboration of a few of my friends. The main purpose behind this group was to create a space where I could learn and grow from the experiences and perspectives of other men. Equally important, I wanted to provide a platform for other men to gain inspiration from one another and myself. Since its inception on September 7, we have delved into various topics such as authenticity, value-based decision-making, men’s health, depression, suicide, and self-love.
If anyone is interested in collaborating or working with me, I encourage them to reach out via email at craigcooper84@gmail.com. I’m open to connecting with like-minded individuals who share a passion for personal growth and mutual support.
United King Circle special thanks to
Isaiah Rucker
Herbie Mack
Craig Daigle
Leon Horton Jr.
CJ Lyles
Neal C Smith IV
Jack Jewell
Patrick Alonso
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamcraigkingcooper/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craig.k.cooper.3?mibextid=LQQJ4d
