Eric Thomas, also known as ET, is an American motivational speaker, author, and minister. Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1970, he rose to prominence with his energetic and passionate speaking style, often targeting the youth, athletes, and entrepreneurs. He gained widespread recognition after his motivational speech "The Hip Hop Preacher" became a viral sensation on YouTube. Thomas is also known for his book "The Secret to Success," where he shares his personal journey from dropping out of high school to obtaining his PhD and becoming a renowned speaker. His life story of overcoming adversity and his message of determination and hard work resonate with diverse audiences around the world. Thomas continues to inspire through public speaking engagements, educational programs, and a popular podcast series.