Steve Ford Speaker Biography
Actor & Son of President Gerald Ford
On August 9, 1974 Gerald R. Ford assumed the reins of the presidency following the resignation of Richard Nixon. Suddenly, Steve Ford was thrust into the role of “First Son”. Steve’s unique perspective on life as the President’s son encompasses a broad range of fascinating subjects: being 18 years old and having 10 Secret Service agents as constant companions, his father’s pardon of President Nixon to help put an end to the infamous Watergate affair, two assassination attempts on his father’s life and his mother’s bouts with alcoholism and breast cancer.
Keynote Speaker
During Steve’s non-political presentation, you will learn the tools of his success in and outside Washington, DC. With a focus on such issues as the value of a strong family unit, living life with values and character, setting and juggling priorities, and making the right choices in life, Steve’s presentation is entertaining, enlightening, insightful and inspirational.
Television
Steve is also an accomplished actor. For six years he starred as Detective Andy Richards on the Emmy Award-winning The Young and the Restless. Much to the delight of his fans, Steve has now returned to Y & R in that same role. His television appearances include Suddenly Susan, Dr. Quinn, J.A.G., 18 Wheels of Justice, Babylon 5-In the Beginning, Walker Texas Ranger, and The Sentinel. Steve also hosted the prime time NBC series Secret Service.
Film
He has appeared in more than 30 feature films. Most recently Steve appeared in the hit movie Black Hawk Down. Steve’s other credits include Contact with Jodie Foster, Heat with Robert DeNiro and Al Pacino, Armageddon with Bruce Willis, Starship Troopers, Eraser with Arnold Schwarzenegger and When Harry Met Sally as Meg Ryan’s boyfriend.
Rodeo
Before becoming an actor in 1979, Steve worked on the professional rodeo circuit as a team roper and still ropes today in his spare time. He owns a ranch in California. Steve was involved in the thoroughbred race horse industry for years during the 1980’s and 90’s as an owner, breeder, racing manager and race track executive. In 1994, Steve returned full time to his acting and speaking career.
Steve Ford Speaking Topics
Inside the White House & Hollywood: Getting to the Top with Character
During this presentation, speaker Steve Ford will share the tools that led his parents, former President Gerald Ford and Betty Ford, to success in the White House as well as his own success in Hollywood as an accomplished actor. He focuses on such issues as leadership, overcoming adversity, the value of a strong family unit, living with values and character, setting and juggling priorities, and making the right choices in life. His unique position as the President's son provides him a unique perspective in relating a broad range of experiences, such as being 18 years old and having ten Secret Service agents as constant companions, his father's leadership in taking over the reins of the presidency following the resignation of Richard Nixon, two assassination attempts on his father's life, and his mother's bouts with alcoholism and breast cancer.
Beyond the Limelight: Overcoming the Struggle
As a motivational speaker, Steve Ford has entertained and inspired audiences with anecdotes of how his famous family dealt with his mother’s battles with alcoholism and breast cancer and how he overcame his own struggles with the bottle. He talks about the high price he paid for bad choices involving drugs and alcohol, the early habits he formed that led to his addiction, and his road to recovery. He will share many historic and never-before-seen photos, slides, and videos.
Leadership with Character
What makes a great leader? History shows that those who have sought service over self interest in times of indecision, turmoil, and crisis are regarded as true leaders. On August 9, 1974, Vice President Gerald R. Ford became the 38th President of the United States when President Richard Nixon resigned his office in disgrace because of the Watergate scandal. Today, most historians and political observers agree that President Ford’s difficult and controversial decision to pardon Nixon was the right thing to do and was in the country’s best interest. By leading with character, he helped heal a nation and restored confidence in the office of the President of the United States. In this presentation, President Ford’s son, speaker Steve Ford, talks about what it takes to be a good leader and lead with character.
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Steve Ford Videos
Steve Ford Speaker Testimonials
“Your stories, humor and presentation were right on target in delivering the message about the importance of character in challenging and difficult times. Our conference attendees came away enthused and thoughtful and many said they ‘were so thankful to have a chance to hear your’. If anyone is considering you as a speaker for an event I can only say, they will be more than happy.”
- Scott C. Lowry | Northwest Public Power Association
“I am so glad I went with my instincts and did not pick someone from the insurance industry. This was a diverse group and I received great compliments from many in the audience. Steve, your touching and insightful presentation made me look like a genius for choosing you as our speaker.”
- Tom DeNoma | Associate Vice President, Nationwide Specialty Health
“Your luncheon keynote…was a huge hit with our members. The Leadership with Character breakout sessions you presented to both our members and our student group were excellent. The style and humor with which you delivered your message was perfect for both groups…”
- Kathy Zander | Executive Director, South Dakota Agri-Business
“Sharing your personal life stories, the challenges you faced, and the obstacles you had to overcome was both powerful and poignant….The evaluations of those in attendance were the highest rated of any speaker in recent history.”
- Cynthia D. Banks | President, Los Angeles County Management Council
