Chris Gardner

Chris Gardner Speaker Biography

Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Bestselling Author of and Inspiration for the Movie “The Pursuit of Happyness”

Chris Gardner is globally known as the inspirational Pursuit of Happyness speaker, a title earned through hardship, perseverance, and triumph. As an entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, and devoted single father, he has become a symbol of tenacity and purpose. Gardner’s rise from homelessness to Wall Street success is one of the most celebrated modern-day stories of personal reinvention. In every keynote, he distills lessons learned through decades of challenge, from battling poverty to navigating high finance. While his story resonates across industries, it holds special power in corporate, academic, and community spaces where resilience is essential. Chris Gardner offers more than motivation; he provides a blueprint for transformation. His impact has made him a highly sought-after voice at conferences, leadership retreats, and institutions worldwide. Ultimately, Gardner exemplifies how unwavering vision and inner strength can turn even the harshest adversity into enduring success.

The Pursuit of Happyness

Chris Gardner’s memoir, The Pursuit of Happyness, published in 2006, became an instant literary and cultural sensation. It reached #1 on both The New York Times and The Washington Post bestseller lists and remained on the Times list for over twenty weeks. Translated into more than forty languages, the book has inspired global audiences with its raw honesty and life-affirming message. Soon after, Columbia Pictures released the film adaptation starring Will Smith, who earned Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for his portrayal of Gardner. Importantly, Chris Gardner served as an associate producer, ensuring the film remained true to his life’s emotional and psychological arc. This story of a father’s unwavering love and personal grit elevated Gardner’s platform, making him widely known as the inspirational Pursuit of Happyness speaker. Today, he continues to share that story with organizations seeking resilience, empathy, and authentic leadership.

Other Books

Following the success of The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris Gardner authored two additional books that further established him as a thought leader. His second bestseller, Start Where You Are: Life Lessons in Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, outlines his philosophies on building a meaningful life from any starting point. It offers tangible strategies rooted in courage, discipline, and common sense. Later, he published Permission to Dream, a powerful call to action for young people to define success on their own terms. Selected as Wall Street Journal’s Book of the Month, it continues to inspire the next generation of leaders. Through each publication, Gardner reinforces the same principles he speaks about on stage—resilience, vision, and the power of intention. Whether in print or in person, his work remains grounded in service to others.

Troubled Childhood

Chris Gardner was born on February 9, 1954, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, into a world of instability and adversity. His childhood was marred by poverty, abuse, alcoholism, and periods in foster care. Despite never knowing his father, Gardner found strength in his mother, Bettye Jean Triplett. She gave him what he calls “spiritual genetics,” instilling the belief that his future was his to shape. Her voice echoed the message that his past would not define him. Gardner’s autobiography sheds light on these early traumas not as obstacles, but as catalysts for change. As he tells audiences today, he made a promise early in life—his children would never wonder if their father was present. This commitment shaped every decision he made, especially during his most challenging years. These deeply personal beginnings fuel his message as the inspirational Pursuit of Happyness speaker, reminding others that where you start doesn’t determine where you finish.

Early Career and Homelessness

After high school, Chris Gardner enlisted in the Navy and later moved to San Francisco, working in medical research and supply. Yet he longed for a more fulfilling career. In 1981, as a new father with no college degree, financial resources, or industry contacts, Gardner sought a place in the world of finance. Against all odds, he landed a spot in Dean Witter Reynolds’ training program. However, while pursuing his dream, he and his young son became homeless. They slept in subways, church shelters, and even public restrooms. Despite the hardship, Gardner refused to give up custody or surrender his ambitions. He would later describe this period not with bitterness, but as proof that vision, commitment, and love can overcome the impossible. This chapter of his life underscores why he is known as the inspirational Pursuit of Happyness speaker.

Wall Street Success and Entrepreneurship

From 1983 to 1987, Chris Gardner worked at Bear Stearns, eventually becoming one of its top earners. In 1987, with just $10,000 and a phone, he launched Gardner Rich from his small Chicago apartment. The firm specialized in public pension funds and expanded to global markets. Gardner’s commitment to integrity, service, and long-term thinking set his business apart in a competitive industry. Beyond finance, he became an early advocate for fintech innovation and financial literacy. After retiring from a 37-year financial career, he pivoted again—this time as a board member for companies including VerifyMe and The Change Company. In speeches, Gardner often emphasizes how adaptability and values-based decision-making were more crucial to his success than technical skills alone. His entrepreneurial journey provides a living example of the principles he champions on stage.

Philanthropy and Foundation Work

Chris Gardner’s personal mission extends beyond business success. Through The Christopher P. Gardner Foundation, he supports educational and mentorship initiatives across the U.S. His goal: shift the trajectory of underserved youth by investing in human capital. Gardner has pledged to speak at 1,000 public schools nationwide, sharing his experience and empowering students to dream boldly. Moreover, he supports causes related to homelessness, domestic violence prevention, and financial education. His work with Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco remains close to his heart—it was once his lifeline. These commitments reflect Gardner’s belief that wealth means little unless it lifts others.

Awards and Speaking Career

Chris Gardner has been honored by the NAACP, The Glaucoma Foundation, and The Continental Africa Chamber of Commerce, among others. His awards recognize not just survival, but service and advocacy. As a keynote speaker, he has appeared on CNN, Oprah, 20/20, and The CBS Evening News. He’s been featured in USA Today, People, The New York Times, and Fortune. Whether addressing CEOs, students, or service members, Gardner’s core message never changes: you are more powerful than your circumstances. Known as the inspirational Pursuit of Happyness speaker, Chris Gardner transforms lives—not just through words, but through action.