Success Stories
Real Impact. Lasting Change. Stories of Resilience and Inspiration.
Audiences call Eric’s keynotes honest, relatable, and deeply impactful, leaving a lasting impression through his storytelling and ability to inspire action—read their firsthand experiences.
“Eric Hipple was very human, he was honest, forthright, and very personal. He shared his human faults and his sadness and joy. Eric made you feel like he was your friend, and not a paid speaker. He was inviting and welcoming, and the audience felt compassion from him and for him as he used humor to make you truly think about yourself.”
Karen S. Leinaar, CAA | Executive Director | Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA)
"Eric Hipple's story is one that is unfortunately too common. Hipple shoes true courage in sharing his story and shows the way to break the stigma of mental illness."
"Eric did amazing. He was able to connect with our audience and make the information digestible and understandable. He did great at engaging the room and bringing the mood back up when we got on a more serious topic. People at FCA said this was one of the best presentations they had ever seen, and it was so useful as many of them have dealt with or are dealing with this issue in their lives."
"Eric shared his story with participants of our inaugural adult grief retreat weekend and he more than exceeded our high expectations. He was approachable, personable, candid and inspiring. What a perfect fit he was for our needs."
Lisa Bartoszek | Lory's Place | St. Joesph, Michigan
"Overall fantastic presentation and very well delivered. One take-away (of many) was the idea that mental health is a continuum, it is not one or the other, and that through understanding, education, and the practice of "mental fitness" this illness, like any other, can be mitigated if not cured. "
"Eric was very engaging and was able to discuss difficult topics in a way that was well-received from the audience. His knowledge, expertise, and real-life experience made this a very informative and enjoyable presentation! "
Sarah Guadalupe | Oakland University | Rochester, Michigan
"Today was awesome! Thanks for sharing your story with us! I know it had a profound impact on our students and staff. You have been through so much in your life, yet you show hope. Many of our kids in Belding have been through a great deal of trauma and for them to hear your story, I know it gives them hope! Thanks again! "
Brent R. Noskey, Superintendent, Belding Area Schools
"Great job on the presentations I have heard nothing but good responses! "
Officer C. Parks | Brighton City Police Department
“I wanted to thank you again for your continued support and involvement in the Meijer State Games of Michigan, and this year bringing in Eric Hipple! He was wonderful and a perfect addition to the night. His message really hit home with all athletes and parents present. He is great and I am glad he’s part of the BCBS family!"
Julie Shields| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Event Manager
"I attended a charity event in 2002 where Eric Hipple shared his struggles, his tragedy, and his incredible journey to recovery. I was struck by how brave he was to share the story of losing his fifteen-year-old son to suicide and how he felt as a father. His vulnerability and courage in sharing his story stuck with me for many years. But I had no idea at the time how much it would mean to me later in my life.
Then in 2014, I lost my 17-year-old son to suicide one afternoon in May. I was beyond devastated and went through several weeks in shock. My son had been doing well by every measure: socially, academically, and athletically. He had a good group of friends at school, had just been inducted into the NHS, and set his own personal record in the 500M swim. We had just been on vacation together to the Grand Canyon two weeks before and there were no signs of what was wrong.
I wondered how I would ever go on with my life as a husband and father. But I remembered Eric’s speech. How he had found a way to go on with his life and even speak publicly about his experience. I remembered how he talked about thinking his son “was just going through a phase” and then his son was suddenly gone forever, lost to suicide.
To learn more I purchased his book: “Real Men Do Cry: A Quarterback's Inspiring Story of Tackling Depression and Surviving Suicide Loss”. While we had strong support from many friends and family, including a small stack of books from well-meaning people on grief, faith, life after loss and more, I did not feel a connection to any of the authors. Then I read Eric’s book in a single day not stopping once. I immediately connected to a man I had never met and only heard speak once through his honesty and vulnerability. He wrote from deep personal loss and the courage and introspection he used to overcome his challenges. And he offered practical easy-to-apply lessons I used to help my journey and move forward. I was inspired and continue to be inspired by Eric, his journey, his honesty, and his triumphs."
Chris Harrison – Survivor of family member lost to suicide
Ready to Inspire Your Audience?
Eric’s keynotes offer more than inspiration—they deliver real, actionable change. Whether you’re looking to build resilience in your team or raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, Eric’s expertise will leave a lasting impact.