Frank Patka

1. This year’s theme is “US Humans” What do you immediately think of when you ponder US Humans?
I prefer the hUmanS way of writing it. I think it tells the story better than “US Humans.” When I heard the theme hUmanS, I felt instantly honored to be able to be part of something focused on humanity and our being an “us,” together instead of separate.

2. Who has had the most significant influence on you in your adult life and why?
There are too many to put in one paragraph, however, my family has been a key component in the progress of my life. I am so lucky to have the friends and family in my life who have sacrificed for me to grow into the human I am today.

3. What is it about your work that keeps you going?
I want to build businesses and organizations where people can thrive and prosper through as well influence others in a positive way. My work allows me to help other business owner create prosperity for themselves and their business. One of the most fulfilling things is connecting people to other people to help create resourceful transactions.

4. What is your passion outside your idea worth spreading?
Building an empire from which I can take care of others. First my family, then close friends followed by community…and beyond.

5. Where’s the one place you’ve visited that you’ll never forget and why?
Mexico because even though I was a kid, I got to experience the feelings that come with significantly helping another (we built houses for families over Spring Break). This gave me an opportunity to experience and learn about a different culture.

6. Describe an unforgettable moment that shaped who you are
Competing in the 2007 US National Boxing Tournament. This has been the peak of my sports career. I saw what the results of dedication, hard work and perseverance can provide. I saw, first-hand, how the elite train and focus, and I recognized my ability to compete with them. This greatly boosted my confidence.

7. List three words that describe you.
Spontaneous, innovative, difficult

8. Are there any books that contributed to who you are? Is so, which one(s)?
All of them. Specifically, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, Be Obsessed or Be Average by Grant Cardone, The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy, The Intention Experiment by Lynne McTaggart, and many more.

9. For your talk content, what’s recommended reading?
Investment education material, Ponzi scheme’s, prison related material

10. Why do you want to speak at TEDxBend?
I would love an opportunity to share some of the understandings I have learned through rather controversial experiences.