Season 257 Episode 8850
S4 E16 - Evelyn Laporte - The Making Of An Entrepreneur DocuSeries
"From the Executive Producer, Che Brown, a Documentary Series that shares the journey of Entrepreneurs, Leaders, Experts, Professionals and ordinary people who achieved extraordinary results despite very challenging circumstances. This is a must-watch for those who want to learn the backstory, the failures, the lessons of individuals who have achieved tremendous success despite the ultimate setbacks, obstacles and barriers. Basically, this documentary teaches the fundamental principles of life and business success from individuals that have been there and done it. It is a Media Expertzy style documentary about everyday folks from inside the mind and hearts of the best, brightest and most brilliant thought leaders on the planet. This business documentary is for the Entrepreneurs who have a burning desire to be more, do more, have more and give more so they can influence and impact lives based on their gifts, talents and expertise. Be A Cast Member - click here: www.TheMakingOfAnEntrepreneur.com About the Cast, Evelyn Laporte From Limitation to Liberation: Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I was nineteen years old when as a young dreamer I came to New York City with aspirations of becoming a flight attendant. Spanish was the only language I knew. Unable to communicate in English during the interviews, I was rejected. Heartbroken, I enrolled in college to learn the language and pursue my dream. College became a battleground where I was confronted with many challenges. I had to juggle the demanding life of a full time student at night and a full time job by day. I also endured financial hardships. There were times I was unemployed, on public assistance and on food stamps to make ends meet. While determined to conquer the language my dream collided with the harsh reality of my language deficiency. Attending classes felt more like I was trying to resolve a puzzle with many of the pieces missing. I didn't understand the course's material, the textbooks, nor the professor's lectures. Often I was unable to complete my class assignments or the exams. I failed many of my courses again and again. I was frustrated, fearful and felt useless. I became isolated, withdrawn and depressed. Due to my poor academic performance I was almost kicked out of college and placed on academic probation for a semester. These events increased my fears of not being able to learn English and fulfilled my dream. I was embarrassed, I felt stupid and hopeless. Fear and doubts took over my life and became my best friends. A millionnegative ideas ran free through my mind. The thought of giving up became more and more apparent. But in all the chaos, I never found the courage to give up. I kept studying and practicing the language.I read newspapers, magazines, children's books, watched cartoons, Sesame Street and the Electric Company to add to my progress. Speaking English in public was another challenge. Growing up as a child I was very shy. Speaking another language I was barely familiar with made me even more shy. I didn't want to speak for fear that people would laugh at me or make fun of me. When I finally decided to start speaking in English I was soon embarrassed and humiliated by some family and friends. Doubts and fears became stronger. Ultimately I didn't believe in myself. I suffered from these emotions for many years. After seven years of ups and downs, I received a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Criminal Justice. That was a big reason for me to feel a little better about myself. While still struggling with the English language, I went to law school and became an attorney. I practice in Family Court, Landlord and Tenant Court and as an Assistant District Attorney I prosecuted cases of domestic abuse and sex crimes. Subsequently, I was elected a Civil Court Judge presiding over criminal misdemeanor cases. Later I was elected Justice to the New York State Supreme Court presiding over felony cases: Murder, Gang Assault, Assault, Robbery, Sex Crimes, and Drug Conspiracy cases to mention only a few. After eighteen years on the bench I recently retired. Today I am a Confidence Coach, a Public Speaker, and a Motivational Speaker dedicated to empower and inspire others to chase after their dreams relentlessly and overcome their own fears and doubts. No obstacle is high enough I cannot climb and no dream is big enough for me not to go after. Limitations are only in your mind."