FAQ
Booking Questions
We have a limited budget, how can we bring Kantis to our event?
There are many creative funding options for those who have a limited budget. Jason Marshall, Booking agent, will be honored and happy to work out all the details with you. In the meantime, here are few funding sources:
1. Share Kantis with another school in your area on the same day. Kantis fee is cut nearly in HALF for your school if you share Kantis with another school. Kantis can speak at your school in the morning, a neighboring school in the afternoon and then catch a flight home. This way, Kantis speaks to more students, you save money… it's a win for all schools involved. You can easily promote to other schools and decision makers…just forward them a link to www.KantisSimmons.com and share your plan.
2. Check with your school administration for funding from the Associated Student Body fund. For teacher in-service programs, ask about Staff Development -- Title VI funding.
3. If you have a budget for educational supplies, simply buy 250 copies of my academic success book, and I will speak at your event for free.
4. Contact your school's PTSA/PTO/PTA. Share your plans with them. They are more likely to contribute funds if your plan is well thought out.
5. Create a win-win situation. Contact several of your larger local businesses, especially those related to services for teens and their families. Ask for the owner, CEO or Community Services Department. If they are willing to help sponsor the speaker, you can exchange the favor by announcing their support to your students and parents.
What kind of travel expenses are we talking about?
Kantis requires the basics: round-trip airfare from Atlanta, Georgia, ground transportation, and hotel. If an inclusive price is better for you, please contact us or give Jason Marshall a call at 1-800-799-1460 and he can make it work.
Personal Questions
How did you get started speaking?
I got started speaking when I was a little boy in the living room of my parent’s home. I would entertain the family and friends with motivational and comedic messages. About what, I can’t remember; but they said it was good. Throughout my life, I have always taken advantage of speaking opportunities in school, athletics, marching band, and in church. In 1994, I was honored to go on a national tour to speak to students in 14 different inner cities. From this experience, I realized impacting people’s lives was a passion of mine and speaking was the perfect outlet. Throughout the rest of my college and graduate school career, I spoke at college conferences, scientific conferences, and church events. I'm so blessed now. If there's mic and an audience willing to listen, Kantis Simmons loves to speak.
What drives your passion and keeps you going?
People. I love to see people succeed in life and enjoy doing what they were created to do. It’s encouraging to see people rise above their past issues or challenges and play their ‘A’ Game. The movie "Seabiscuit" even gets me going.
What type of events do you normally speak for?
I speak at a range of different events: community events, High School (Assemblies, Success Day, Motivation Day, Seminars), Colleges (new student orientations, leadership conferences, Success Seminars, welcome Week) churches, and professional conferences. Any place where a speaker is needed, I'm available.
Are all your stories in your talk true?
Yes. My life was funny and still is today. I get inspired by my life for new stories everyday. I need to put them in a book. It would be a best-seller, for sure.
What books have inspired you?
The Bible and the dictionary. I believe all other books come from these two. I also read a large variety of books and articles. In particular, I love Self-Help books. Back in the day I hated to read ... but look at me now, whoa mama!
What do you do for fun?
Hang out with family, friends, watch ESPN & HGTV, bowl, and skydiving. I love home décor, cars, and shopping for new gadgets. I also build blogs and websites ... it's like a rush.
What are your favorite movies?
Whichever ones I'm feeling at the moment. I love comedies and movies that make you think. "Seabiscuit" makes m cry (Did I say that above?).
Who has inspired you? Or inspires you?
Honestly, you! Well, more specifically family and friends: Chane, my parents, my siblings, Dr. Creflo Dollar, Don Roberts, Canton Jones, Jonathan Sprinkles, Josh Shipp, Keith Harrell, and Sean K.
How did you overcome insecurities of having only 7.25 fingers?
I realized that I was going to have to make use of all that I had. I don't let 7.25 fingers be a crutch or an excuse for defeat in my life. My parents always encouraged and kept me busy. They demonstrated that I can succeed in anything with 7.25 fingers. Now people refer to me as the "The coolest dude with 7.25 Fingers."
What is your favorite food?
Chane's Chilli, Chicken and Corn Bread. Lillie’s Lemonade and Chicken Fried Rice from Benihana’s. Seafood is always on time. I don't do scrambled eggs or macaroni and cheese. Sorry, I will hurt your feelings if it ends up on my plate.
