ASBA-ASA 65th Annual Conference

Dr. Adolph “Doc” Brown III

Author, Humorist, Psychologist, Master Educator, and Unifier

Dr. Adolph Brown, III, is a servant-leader at heart. He also is an author, humorist, unifier, “attitude expert,” clinical psychologist, life-long social justice advocate, and urban and rural school educator. Admired around the world for his simple and direct “Real Talk,” and powerful, universal and timeless teachings, he credits Head Start and public education for making him who he is today.  For over 30 years, Dr. Brown has researched, field-tested, and implemented a set of concrete strategies used to support and enhance schools and businesses around the world.  After considerable corporate and entrepreneurial success, Dr. Brown followed his own dream of being "Good Medicine" for the world by sharing good science, good practice, and good news and is recognized as one of the top 10 most influential thought leaders in America. Although he does not consider himself a motivational speaker, he was selected as one of the top motivational and inspirational speakers in America as well. Dr. Brown remains humble and grateful for his journey. He is most proud to be the husband of Marla and father of eight uniquely beautiful human beings, including a special needs daughter, and a grandson.

J.J. Soria

Actor, Speaker and Entrepreneur

J.J. Soria is an actor, speaker, entrepreneur. Recognizable from his most recent starring role as Erik Morales in the Netflix Original, “Gentefied,” and other award-winning productions such as “Fast & Furious,” “The Shield” and “CSI Miami,” Soria has played many roles. His most significant has been both hero and antagonist in his own life. Born in the tough streets of Boyle Heights, near the heart of East LA, his personal story is filled with extreme highs and lows which, labeled him as “at-risk.” At the age of 7, Soria suffered a severe head injury that affected his memory and ability to learn. He used his trauma of abuse and setback to grow stronger. As he got older, he looked inward to find the strength to overcome all of life's challenges. In real life, Soria also leads with his heart. Before acting, he worked for the Los Angeles Unified School District, serving kids with special needs, a population that is still very dear to him. He eventually found himself at the footsteps of College of the Canyons, where he discovered his love for acting and decided this is what he was going to do. Passionate about helping others, Soria has decided to use his powerful platform to inspire. Speaking to audiences worldwide, sharing his message of being grateful, a "no limits" mindset, and his own “J-Walk Theory,” a brand he developed to help young people understanding their value and the importance of creating their own path. As a keynote speaker, Soria's unique outlook on life, humor, and Hollywood experience inspire and empower his audiences to action in their own lives and careers.