The Story:

For as long as 14-year-old Evan Ducker can remember, he was different. He was born with a birthmark on his cheek. It’s known as a port-wine stain, similar to the one former Soviet Union leader Mikhail Gorbachev had on the crown of his head.

His mother at first was ashamed to take him outside, but as he grew older she decided that the mark wasn’t something to be embarassed about, instead it was what made him special. Evan and his mom went to the library to read up on birthmarks, and they were shocked to find there was very little written. They decided to write one themselves.

The children’s book, called “Buddy Bobby’s Birthmark,” was an instant hit and has earned him interviews on CNN, CBS, and USA Today. Evan says his dream is to raise $100,000 for the Vascular Birthmarks Foundation, and he’s well on his way with speaking engagements that take him all over the country.

The Secret:

It’s not about how many times you get knocked down, it’s about how many times you get back up. Too many kids use setbacks and difficult circumstances as an excuse not to try. Not Evan. Instead of playing the blame game he got busy and did something about it.

Now It’s Your Turn:

What excuses have you been using? Born into the wrong family? Too young? Not attractive enough? I don’t want to hear it.

Evan should be inspiration to us all. When it comes to overcoming obstacles, he literally wrote the book.

The Story:

His mom always knew he was gifted. After all, how many 7-year-old boys are learning Greek and reading at a 12th grade level?

While other boys his age were playing Nintendo, John Paul Pigeon was reading the Wall Street Journal and breaking into the latest business book.

By the age of 10, he had taken the stage, and was speaking to crowds of hundreds on the importance of financial literacy.

John Paul, now 14-years-old, travels all over the country not only teaching finances but also building his bank account along the way.

The Secret:

John Paul dared to be different. It would’ve been very easy to do the same things his friends did, but instead he decided to continue fueling his passion for profits.

Speaking in front of a crowd can be a terrifying experience if you allow it to be one. John Paul Pigeon faced his fears and found himself coming alive on stage, captivating his crowds.

Now It’s Your Turn:

What’s stopping you from taking flight? Many teens I know seem to be just passing time until they turn 18. Your future can begin today. And like this tiny Tony Robbins, you may discover that there’s a financial freedom of speech that can only be found if you get yourself out there.

Ever since he was old enough to hold a crayon, Jordan Culpepper was an artist. After winning art contests in elementary school, he decided to start designing buttons for his family and friends.

Pretty soon, everyone wanted one. He realized that there was money to be made. He remembers borrowing $500 from his parents to start his bedroom business called Buttons by Jordan.

When the media heard about his story, it caused a button bonanza. He even sold 5,000 buttons to nationally syndicated radio host Tavis Smiley.

He’s already saved $7,000 towards college, and every one of his customers is a walking billboard for his business.

The Secret:

Jordan recognized an opportunity when it hit him on the chest. It would have been easy for him to be safe and keep it as a hobby, and borrowing $500 from his folks surely pinned him down. However, he knew he was investing in himself, and his business would live or die based on his own ability to button-up new business.

Now It’s Your Turn:

When was the last time that someone complimented you on a talent? Do you play an instrument? Maybe you should make some money tutoring other kids. Are you good at video games? I bet someone would hire you to teach them your secrets. Who knows, like Jordan, you may discover that starting your business is as simple as pressing the Easy Button.