Jim Root: An Interview

Jim Root has a unique perspective combining real-world experience with cutting edge con-cepts to find success for business owners. As a lifelong entrepreneur, his strategies are tested and proven to get results.

In over 20 years as a marketing coach and business development expert, he has worked with clients in practically every industry, including manufacturing, retail, financial services, real estate, and direct sales.

His passion is to inspire, train, and assist businesses in their quest for success. He has discovered the key principles that can transform a business, and get it to the next level.

As Founder and President of “NX Step Academy”, a business training organization, he brings his action-oriented training programs to businesses who need direction and support. Jim is also the author of the upcoming book, “Million Dollar GPS – How to Navigate Difficult Decisions and Create an Action Plan for Success”.

I know you put in an incredible amount of time and effort on behalf of our local National Speakers Association chapter without any thought of winning an award. What did you think when you were announced the winner of the Judi Moreo Achievement Award?

I don’t think I have done very much, I have only tried to give support to the leadership and take some of the load from them. When my name was announced, I went through several emotional states in about 3 seconds – confused, surprised, humbled, then honored to have my efforts recognized. The feeling of community in this group makes me want to do more for the Chapter and everyone involved.

What is your area of expertise?

I am a business development specialist, I have developed several training programs for Entrepreneurs so they can build their businesses into something that gives them EVERYTHING they want.

Is that what you speak about?

Oftentimes I am asked to conduct training based on my programs, but mainly I speak about how to get moving and take the next step. I hope to give my audience the energy and confidence to ACT without Fear.

So far, what has been your favorite speaking engagement?

That is a hard question to answer – I volunteer to speak to young people through Junior Achievement and PAYBAC (Professionals and Youth Building a Commitment) and it is very rewarding, but I would have to say speaking at Chambers of Commerce have been my favorite – several people in the audience have reported back to me about the successes they achieved from my training, I LOVE hearing those stories.

When and how did you get into the speaking business?

I have been training and speaking as part of my other business ventures for many years, but I never considered making it my main business until I met Marvelless Mark Kamp at an event here in Vegas a couple years ago. He introduced me to the NSA chapter and I joined… now I am developing my speaking business to support my other activities.

What made you give that up and go into professional speaking?

I am still involved in entrepreneurial activities and working with individual coaching clients, but I love sharing my message and having an impact on a larger group of people.

What’s the best advice you have ever been given?

My father (Arthur) was an entrepreneur and he gave me lots of business advice but I am starting to see his advice also applies in life. My favorite “Arthur-ism” was “When you pick up a stick… you get BOTH ends”. It was years before I realized what he meant – Every action we take has consequences, and we should be aware of them before we act.

What inspires you?

Watching someone overcome adversity. Adversity is a VERY personal thing, and it can be a heavy load – no matter how small it may seem to others. When I see someone conquer the challenge facing them, it gives me the chills. The only thing better for me is when I get to be part of the experience WITH them.

Who inspires you?

The greatest inspiration I get comes from the hidden people – members of our society that are often overlooked. A child giving an unsolicited hug to another child in pain. A parent working 2 jobs to support the dreams of their child. A customer service rep showing patience and compassion with a difficult customer. An unselfish act from one stranger to another. These people are the TRUE inspiration for me and I want to live my life following their examples.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve ever faced? What allowed you to overcome it?

This is a hard question, but MY biggest challenge is a mental one. I get caught up in my own thoughts and it can cause me to get stuck which can lead to depression. To overcome it, I surround myself with people who keep me focused on moving forward. Although I STILL struggle with it.

Where do you see yourself over the next decade?

I take life 1 day at a time, so looking out 10 years is difficult… I hope to create a solid network of business owners with a desire to make positive change.

Have you written a book?

I am working on one now, I have finished the first draft and it should be completed by the end of 2019. The process has taken longer than I expected, but I am excited to be close to the finish. It is called “Million Dollar GPS – How to Create an Action Plan for Success”.

What else should people know about you?

As a workaholic, people might think I am always working – but I love to get out, connect with people, and enjoy life. If I get invited to anything, I will try my hardest to go.

This article originally appeared in the Summer 2019 issue of CHOICES Magazine