Growing Field |Endorsements from Bill Clinton and Richard Riley

Corporate

“We had my staff meeting later this afternoon and we spent the first 20 minutes of the hour talking about your presentation. Honestly Mark, I can't think of a better presentation ever. Your content, humor, delivery, your emotion...every single person in the room was hanging on every word. I had to fight back tears. I can't remember ever listening to someone speak and wishing that I would have recorded it…I did today. You raise the bar for those around you and make me want to be a better person and leader. Thank you, Mark, for your example of leadership to others. Everyone in that room today is better for having listened to you speak. It's obvious that you are a person that is moved by a greater purpose. Thank you for giving back to others. ”

John Rainey
CFO/United Airlines

“Your message of Conscious Leadership made an incredible impact at the Hewlett-Packard customer event in New York. The entire ballroom-customers, HP executives, the press and analyst community- were all deeply moved and inspired by your message. You have generated such an exciting buzz at HP! We look forward to having you speak for Hewlett-Packard again in the very near future.”

Rich Raimondi
Vice President, Hewlett Packard

“Thank you for sharing your life-changing message of Conscious Leadership at the Weston Solutions Leadership Conference. Your message was meaningful, inspirational, and made a powerful impact on the entire leadership team. Thanks again.”

Patrick McCan
Chief Executive Officer, The Weston Company

“I am so inspired and encouraged by your message of “Conscious Leadership.” Not one day has gone by since your presentation that I haven’t thought about your from-the-heart message. Your words and ideas transcend all ages, all boundaries and is etched in my heart. After hearing Conscious Leadership I understand my purpose as a leader with more clarity than ever before. Thank you!”

Nancy Haboush
President/Mister Neat’s

“Mark Hoog projects such a sense of charisma and power that he captivates an audience in the first few minutes of the presentation. Hoog’s story tugs at your heartstrings while making you think about how to move forward in life with purpose and determination through conscious leadership. Hoog soon will be a name that everyone across the country will recognize.”

James M. Rath
Marketing and Events Director, Northern Colorado Business Report

“On behalf of the University of North Dakota and the Aerospace Alumni Advisory Board, I would like to thank you for your informative and inspirational discussion on leadership. Professors have a difficult job in motivating and educating the next generation of aerospace professionals, and I can say without a doubt that you motivated the professors try a little harder and push a little more. I heard from numerous faculty throughout our visit that your presentation was one of the highlights of the trip. I even heard some faculty discussing having you up to Grand Forks to convey your message to students and faculty on campus.

On a personal note, I have been through many leadership training courses in my 15 years in the airline industry and your discussion was the most real, touching, and effective that I have ever experienced.

Thank you for taking the time to share your message with us and challenging us to improve the world around us.”

Matt Kalouner
President, UND Aerospace Alumni Advisory Board

“Mark! You did exactly what I wanted for Sunday morning—you inspired and left our ladies on a "high"! Thank you so much! Hope you are given a big room in NYC for your workshop--I have a feeling it will be full!! ”

Judy Kearns
Chi State First Vice President, 2011-2013

“How can I put into words all the thoughts that are flying through my brain right now? You are such a good person. Thank you for the fantastic general session on Friday evening! You were incredible!!! But mostly- thank you so much for your great sense of humor and ability to make everyone you meet feel so special! You have a true gift.”

Susan Hutchens
Colorado Chapter International Reading Association, Conference Chair

“Mark captivated us at the Regional conference and inspired us to live our lives focused on the gifts of leadership and influence we have been given.”

Kathy Flynn
2008-2010 SW Regional Director

“Mark inspired our group to find their passion and made a signature that will last a lifetime!”

Fay Toyama
Hawaii DKG Chair

“Thank you, Mark, for a spectacular presentation that touched many hearts. Mark’s presentation touched hearts and minds…everyone should hear it! ”

Jean Davis
Arizona State DKG President

“Welcome an entertaining and inspirational message…Mark’s presentation is right for you.”

Vicki Davis
Texas State DKG President 2009-2011

“Thank you for leaving your “signature” on Shelby County School’s Leadership Teams. Your message on conscious leadership was very impactful for our teams. You inspired us to not only make a difference, but to be the difference in the lives of our students. Team members continue to talk about the impact your presentation has made on their professional lives, as well as their personal lives. We definitely look forward to having you again in the future.”

Dana Martin
Supervisor of School Improvement, Shelby County Schools

High School & College Students

“I just wanted to thank you for coming and speaking to my Entrepreneurship class. Your presentation was extremely inspirational and moving. As I left the room I found myself questioning and holding myself accountable for what I was going to do and how I could contribute. With so many goals along the way I want to be able to say I did it for more than myself. Your stories really moved me- as if I was supposed to hear you speak so that I would start working towards personal goals. I am passionate about a few things but have put off many ideas because they seem unrealistic or unattainable. So thank you again, your words have made a difference in my life.”

Genna
Colorado State University business student

“I just wanted to thank you for such an amazing presentation at CSU on Friday. You are such an inspiration, and your message is so powerful! I was putting my dream on the back burner, planning on getting an office job after graduation (May 12th, Yikes!) but after listening to you I am again questioning whether or not that is the right choice for myself.”

Sara B.
Colorado State University student

“You spoke to my class tonight, the 4th, and I would just like to thank you for speaking to our class. Your speech was very inspirational. It gave me much to think about, not only on finding a job, but living my life as well. Thank you again.”

Joshua
Colorado State University student

“I just wanted to thank you for speaking with our class today. Your engagement with the class and your inspirational speech has jump started by own inner evaluation. I have had the same passions and desires for a long time, but you have shown me that I need to step back and decide if they are still my passions or if they have merely drifted into my routine. The story about your personal relationship with Jason Dahl was very moving; thank you for sharing something so close to your heart. I am also motivated by your commitment and selflessness to help children excel. Again, thank you so much for sharing your inspirational attitude with us. Thank you.”

Katie
Colorado State University student

“By engaging and interacting with his listeners, Mark Hoog profoundly delivers a self-actualizing and energetic experience, leaving you with valuable and lasting lessons of conscious leadership and personal accountability. Combined with moving stories, you are guaranteed to have an enhanced attitude that will not be soon forgotten.”

The Brothers of the Mu Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Pi

“I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to present to our Business Capstone class on Tuesday. Your message was very well received and at a time when it was needed most. Over the break, I will be working on a list of my passions, and would like to share them with you at some point in the near future to see what your feedback is. Again, thank you for your insight and wisdom.”

Valerie B.
Colorado State University

“I just wanted to let you know how inspirational your book is. I’m 17 years old, I come from a good family of 5 kids in which I am the youngest. I have been involved in athletics year around since I was about 6 years old. I’m also highly active in Student Government and of course 4H. Despite being involve in all these things, with much support from my family and friends I still felt as if I wasn’t good enough. You see, I’ve played along-side 4x player of the year in softball, I’m second string in basketball, I’ve never won anything significant in track, I’ve always been vice president in student government under Student Governments State Vice President, and I’ve been involved in 4H for 8 years and have never won a belt buckle. It is safe to say that I am just mediocre at everything I do and not the best at anything I do. This truly hurt the way I perceived myself in the sense that I felt as if I would always be stuck in second place. While reading your book in my think tank I struggled not to break into tears, because for the first time in my life I realized I’m good for something I just haven’t found my song yet. Later that night I sat back in bed and evaluated myself on what my song could be. I realized that I like who I am and what I stand for, and the only time I seemed to have self confidence issues was when I was in competition. I realized that I may not have ever been given a grand title in athletics, STUGO, or 4H, but I always managed to be put in leadership positions, and establish great relationships along the way. I realized that whenever something went wrong with a teammate or close friend, the people who surrounded them always seemed to come to me to talk to that individual or to fix the predicament. I realized that my competitive abilities may not be the best, but I have worked through those to gain influence over others. I now know what my song is, my song is to serve others. Your book has inspired me, and if t can help me at age 17, I’m certain it can aid many others as well. I’m taking this and running. I promise you, you’ll hear about me. Thank you Mr. Hoog for helping me find myself. All I have to do now is pay it forward.”

Monika H.

High School Teachers

“All I can say is WOW! Your message was incredible and inspiring. My only wish is that all of our students and parents had attended to hear your message. I look forward to us working together again in the future. Thanks Mark.”

Diane C.
Fossil Ridge High School

“Man, what a great morning.  The teachers absolutely loved it and felt a connection with you.  You indeed left your signature on our community.”

Ryan West
Principal, Falcon Bluffs Middle School

“I just wanted to send a few words about Mark Hoog who was our keynote speaker last week for our post graduate planning night. He was truly amazing and I couldn’t have asked for a better person to speak at this event. His message was practically written for our students and parents and I still have people talking about it. Thank you so much.”

Diane C.
Fosile Ridge High School

Parents

“Thank you for a special evening and your truly inspiring message. I couldn’t believe how interested my third and fourth grade boys were with his message! In fact, when we went home we read Your Song and talked about what THEIR song was.  The last thing Isaac said before falling asleep was, ³Mom, remind me to tell Ms. Firth that my song is to “Never Give Up.” Thank you for helping my son bring the whole picture together and thank you for making a difference in the lives of my three sons.”

Janeen Wood

“I was walking down the street with my nearly six-year old daughter and she asked to hold my hand while she balanced on a railroad tie. I urged her to do it without holding my hand and she said, “In Your Song, it says if you think you can do something, you can.” She let go…and she did!”

David S.

“The morning after reading ‘Your Song,” Olivia, my 4 and a half year old daughter, stopped me in the kitchen just before her school bus arrived. She said, “Mommy, I need to talk to you. What is your song?” I was, as you can imagine, a bit surprised because she had not mentioned the book at all the entire morning. I said, “Well, I think my song is being a good mommy.” She paused, thought for a minute and said, “Don’t you think that should be my song someday too?” Composing myself, I said, “Yes. I think that is a wonderful idea.” It sure made quite an impression on her….and all of us! Best of luck and thanks.”

Marla V.

“Books are sort of a religion in our house, so we try to take our children to meet authors at book-signings or library events. However, there has been no match to their exuberance in coming home from your presentation at Sierra today. Words fail me, except for - thank you.”

Aerin Bender-Stone
Arvada, CO

“Please pass on my praise to Mr. Hoog.  I attended the Skyline High School Basketball Spaghetti Dinner and was extremely impressed with Mr. Hoog's remarks. My daughter is a sophomore at Skyline and is determined to single handedly change Skyline's reputation within the community.  While this is a lofty goal, she was quite inspired with what Mr. Hoog had to say and believes she can and will make a difference.  Good for her, and good for you, Mr. Hoog--you have found a way to leave your mark!  God Bless!”

Jean Jimenez
A grateful mom

Elementary Teachers

“You were AMAZING- Thank you so much for sharing your story with the Eyestone Community. You Rock!”

Lisa Rossi
Vice Principal Eyestone Elementary

“I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for a day I will never forget! I was moved, inspired and motivated to keep following my passion…to keep fighting to make all of your children’s elementary experience the best it can be! I saw transformation in children which is really nothing you can describe in words. I saw children that have never been told they have anything to give….blossom. Thank you for your incredible impact on the Paloma Elementary Community.”

Marki Cook
PTO President, Paloma Elementary

“Mr. Hoog has been truly blessed with the gift of writing. He has the ability to share a message of strength, perseverance, and hope to children through the writings of his books.”

Jennifer Gabbard
Reading Coach, Glendale Elementary

“Thank you so much for your generosity. The children of Paloma Elementary were truly blessed to be able to spend a day with you. The staff have not stopped talking about you touched lives of some children who have never been told they could do great things. We would love to have you back.”

Janice

“Your presentation not only inspires because of the way you have dedicated your talents to inspire children and youth or by how you overcame despair and adversity by listening! Your presentation also inspires because of the beautiful tribute it is to Captain Dahl and his legacy. It will be a pleasure to serve at the event in August. Thank you so much for the message. May you be richly blessed for “listening.””

Patti W.

“I wanted to thank you again for your work at our school yesterday. There’s been a lovely buzz all day. Students, staff, and families were impacted by your message of positive leadership.  Best wishes on the upcoming trips and the expansion of your work.”

Sharon Wright
Ann K Heiman Elementary Library

“A few years ago you came to Gillette, Wyoming to speak at Lakeview Elementary. I was ending my long term sub position that day. I got your books, you signed them and left without paying for them. I sent you a check a couple if months later-to which you called and thanked me.

Fast forward to today. I am also finished with a another long term position-and chose to read "Your Song" to our 2nd graders. I get to the end of the book and tears are streaming down my face. You see, my 17 year old daughter just enlisted in the National Guard. She did this very independently, and I am so proud of her. It dawned on me how my song has been to help her find hers and to help her believe in herself.

Thank you again for the amazing books, I continue to share them with classes all over our district. :)”

Mrs. Hood

“Thank you once again Mark for giving an inspiring talk to teachers about why we continue to do the job that we so love. Your personal story continues to touch and inspire me personally. May God continue to bless you and yours.”

Libby

“What if…Mark Hoog comes to DVE and motivates students to be the best they can be at whatever their passion is? (read the kid’s letters to you) What if…Mark Hoog touches people’s hearts and minds at the parent/student presentation causing adults to cry…and then they share that they wish that more parents had come? What if…Mark Hoog says he has a little gift for students…and then staff come to the library asking for a copy of their own if there are enough books (and there were!)..hearts full of desire to read stories of children? What if…even just one life was changed forever because of your visit at Douglass Valley Elementary? But I know that the number was greater… You are not about numbers Mark, you are about people living a transformed life and we thank you for your generous spirit towards DVE!”

Mary Ellen Schaud
Teacher Librarian

“Thank you, again, for all you have done for the staff and students at Appleton. I especially want to thank you for what you have meant to me personally. You helped me focus on why I do what I do. The book you sent couldn’t have been better. Thank you for thinking of me.”

Mark Schmalz/Principal

“I just wanted to write a quick note to say how grateful and appreciative we are for your recent visit and presentation to our students. The kids love, love, love the books and they are still talking about the things you shared with them. You are a true inspiration to all of us and your dedication to kids is amazing! Please know that we always welcome you to be a special guess in our school and we truly value what you have to share with our kids.”

Will Allen
Principal/Zach Elementary

“We can’t thank you enough. Our teachers were in awe of you…no one ever gets a standing ovation! I have a feeling you will be hearing from teachers in Blue Valley about coming back. Thank you.”

Mary Jane Weishar
Elementary Literacy and Assessment

“We would like to take this time to Thank you personally for such an incredible day at High Point Academy on April 15th. As a teacher here at High Point, I can honestly say that you transformed our school on April 15th. Our students have yet to stop talking about the day. They loved the presentations as well as the opportunities to eat lunch with you and have stories read to them. Our older students, (8th graders) were grateful that you were able to visit their classroom as well and speak to them about the Karina project and leadership qualities they had. They were very interested in your career as a pilot and ask all the time about the ability to s e what it is like to fly a plane. Our Cub Scouts and parents have not stopped talking about the evening event you had with us as well and their opportunity to help you. The Growing Field is truly an incredible series of books that have taught all of us here at High Point Academy to do better, never give up and foster our drams like we know we can. On behalf of the PTO and the school, Thank you for such an incredible day with us here at High Point Academy. Your inspiration is something that will stay with our entire community, students, parents, and teachers for a very long time. As the K-5 ELL teacher here at HP, I can’t begin to explain how grateful I am that you were able to do this for our community, and my students.”

Catherine Farrell
High Point Academy

“Today is teacher appreciation day. How appropriate that you are here. I just want to thank you so much for coming to our school and sharing your message; your passion. Each time I hear you speak I become so inspired to become a better teacher, parent and community member. I love your stories and find relevance in each one, but mostly feel the urge to challenge myself to become better, refine my passions, and get excited. But, I just want you to know what really resonates is the fact that as we grow older we become complacent, apathetic, and downright lazy. Why? Because we can? How privileged is this thought? Well, this is definitely going to change because I can! I ask myself- What if.....I taught with more passion and excitement? What if…my children looked forward to spending time with me? What if….I used my skills and passions to bring out the best in people? What if….and so on. I needed your message- selfish as it sounds, but now I can share it with so many others and it will be a great starting point for so many great conversations. Thank you!”

Nannete

“Mr. Hoog’s presentation set the stage for an amazing classroom discussion about setting goals and reaching your dreams. His energy, humor, and overall presentation style if very engaging and fun! My 4th grade students were so inspired by his message…and 2 weeks later, I still hear them talking about “what I will someday be…I am today becoming.” Thank you Mr. Hoog. Please come back and visit our school again.”

Jason Austin
Red Rocks Elementary

“Mark Hoog is a dynamic speaker with a powerful message for kids and teachers. His children’s books and personal story inspires all to achieve their dreams with hard work. Thank you Mark for making a difference for children and reminding teachers of why we do what we do every day!”

Annie Ahern
Red Rocks Elementary

“I’m not sure where to begin! Thank you so much for your time, energy, and dedication to spreading your message among so many. I love that you are sharing the message of true character with young children and empowering them to DREAM BIG! Your presentation (and books) weigh heavy on the students, our staff, and community. So many were touched and inspired by your words!”

Laura Kendall
Rooney Ranch Elementary

“Mark Hoog was so fun and engaging for my second graders. He made them laugh and encouraged great participating. Thank you for making the trip to Red Rocks!”

Rhonda Goostree
Second Grade teacher, Red Rocks Elementary

“Loved Mark Hoog!  He did an awesome job on inspiring me to go above and beyond for my students.”

Allison Nylen

“Mark Hoog was AMAZING!  It was a great way to kick off our meeting!”

Courtney Madison

“Our speaker was wonderful! I enjoyed his message to improve my professional and personal life! Thank You!”

Alaina Etress

“I loved listening to Mark Hoog!  Thank you for reminding me why we do what we do! ”

Hayden Jeffers

“I really enjoyed the speaker, Mark Hoog.  He was inspiring and really helped me to envision a legacy to leave behind one day.”

LaTash McMillan

“Mr Hoog’s presentation was absolutely wonderful.  It was very inspiring and strengthened my own practices as an instructional leader within my school, community, and most importantly, among my students.”

Alison Kessler

Elementary Students

“Thank you Mr. Hoog. You taught me to go for my dreams and work for it instead of waiting for it to just happen.”

Taylor
3rd grade/Nolanville, Texas

“You really helped me believe in my dreams and to keep striving to achieve them. Please come back soon.”

Ricky
3rd grade/Nolanville, Texas

“Thank you for sharing so much with us. My favorite part was when you talked about piloting your own life.”

Michelle Robbins
3rd grade

“Thank you for coming to my school and talking with us. I love your books. I’ve read them so many times. I have been dreaming but since I read your book I have been doing.”

Joshua
3rd grade/Nolanville, Texas

“After hearing your talk I felt like any of my dreams can come true.”

Laura
5th grader/Glendale Elementary

“You really helped me believe in my dreams and to keep striving to achieve them. Please come back soon.”

Ricky
3rd grade/Nolanville, Texas

“Thank you for sharing so much with us. My favorite part was when you talked about piloting your own life.”

Michelle Robbins
3rd grade

“I go to North Bay Elem. I was very sad after Katrina. You are the best cheering up person. I am 8 years old. I am a girl. I am in the third grade. I am in Mrs. Ferguson's room. I will always have you in my heart. ”

Tarah

“I liked both of your books because they inspired me to reach for my dreams.”

Taijwa
4th grade, Florida

“After hearing your talk I felt like any of my dreams can come true.”

Laura
5th grade/Glendale Elementary

“Thank you so much for coming in to talk to us. I now know that I don’t need anything to help me accomplish my goals or dreams but me. I will do my best to reach my goals.”

Victoria de Laney
5th grader, Florida

“Thank you for coming out on a sunny hot day to talk to us about what our goal is and that we should start preparing for our future goals. All of the students really enjoyed you reading the Dream Machine to us. Today you helped me think of what I want to do for my future goal and I am going to stay healthy so I can become a professional horse back rider. Thank you again for sharing with us an awesome book and also reminding us to get ready for our future goals and dreams. ”

Alexa Cambria
Shadow Lawn Elementary, Florida

“Thank you so much for reading that wonderful book to us. Today you asked us what our dreams and goals are. My dream would be being a teacher. I know that in the future my dreams and goals will come true if I start believing now. I appreciated you coming to my school to share your wonderful book. Thank you for asking me what I’d want to be, I never really thought what my dream and goal would be until you asked me.”

Jenny Trang
4th grade/Golden Terrace Elementary

“Thank you for coming to show all the classes your awesome book. I thought that when you dropped water on everyone that it was so funny. Also, thank you for reading your book to all the kids. In addition, I have many goals in life but my dream is to be a pro soccer player. Dream Machine is such a good story and it gave me such an influence. Keep writing story books and movies for all the kids that read your books.”

Grant Cooper
Laurel Oak Elementary

“Thank you for coming to my classroom today. My dreams are to become a professional gymnast. You helped me realize that I could accomplish my dreams if I set goals for my self to help me. Thank you again for coming and reading to Laurel Oak Elementary. I am sure everyone enjoyed you reading to us today. It really helped us think about our dreams and goals. Thank you.”

Cayla Buford
Shadow Lawn Elementary, Florida

“Thank you for coming to our school to share with us your great book. I’m sure everybody loved it. My dream is to become a fashion designer and you have inspired me to start now. I love designing clothes in my free time because I can do anything I wasn’t with my designs. I now know anybody can achieve their dreams if they start now and work hard at it. If you reached your dreams I bet I can reach mine. Thank you again and I hope you come back. Your books are great!!! ”

Melissa Merkley
Naples, Florida

“I have a bunch of goals, you helped me break the barrier between me and my goals.”

Leo Willmann

“I hope you visit other schools so they can experience the joy of your time will us.”

Stephanie W.

“When you were talking about how to reach your goals, I felt inspired. I felt like I could accomplish anything that I wanted to do in the future.”

Landon Holmquist

“When you talked at our school I read some of your books I’m sure you lit a spark in everyone’s mind that they could be whatever they wanted to be.”

Mckell

“You inspired me to pursue my dream and never give up. Having you at our school was a “once in a lifetime” experience.”

Samuel Feller

“Your speech was amazing and inspired me to go be a champion.”

Adam Benson

“You helped me open my eyes and see what I’m capable of.”

Emma

“Your words inspired me and gave me hope and put a new light in my eyes.”

Xandiva Welch

“After the assembly that day my friend and I decided to never stop dreaming.”

Jake Saunders

“I have always been waiting for one of my dreams. But when you came I realized I can’t wait for it to come to me. I am the only one that can do it and achieve my goals.”

Michael K

“Since your inspiring speech I’ve been dreaming big and working at my dream harder than ever before.”

Lola Cimperman

“I hope you inspire other children because the assembly was just the best.”

Alex Gomez

“Your books have helped me become better at being a leader in my school, community and in life.”

Julia A.

“Thanks for everything…..you inspired me to live my dream.”

Shyanne

“You are the person who taught me to follow my dreams.”

Dariana Montgomery

“You make me think twice about giving up. The way you told us made me believe in myself.”

Madison Ross