Tim Smith grew up in the inner city of Stockton, California, where life was anything but easy. From the moment he was born, he had to fight for survival. Doctors told his family he would likely never walk, but Tim defied the odds.

At home, things weren’t any easier. His father’s verbal abuse eventually turned physical, and Tim often had to take the pain in silence. Finally, his mom had enough courage to leave, taking Tim and his sister with her.

Even after escaping that environment, Tim struggled in school. Speech difficulties, trouble focusing, and low self-confidence made him feel like he’d never graduate. But he kept moving forward—one step at a time—and walked across the stage to receive his diploma.

Behind the scenes, though, Tim wrestled with insecurity, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. He dreamed of being “somebody” but often felt like the darkness was winning.

Fast forward to today—Tim has transformed his life. He’s lost over 120 pounds, found confidence in who he is, and now travels the country telling his story to students everywhere. Through healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation, even his dad—once his greatest source of pain—has become his hero.

Tim’s message is simple but life-changing: every name has a face, every face has a story, and every story matters. With his school assembly program “Let’s Talk,” Tim is honest, real, and transparent, helping students feel seen, heard, and understood while encouraging them to believe in their own worth and future.