THE BOOK - JUSTIN PICKENS | MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER | INSPIRE EDUCATORS

A BOOK FOR EDUCATORS

The Lottery Ticket Teacher

Create life-changing impact through everyday intentionality

Every year, millions of kids walk into classrooms with no idea they’ve entered a lottery. They don’t get to pick their teacher — but that teacher shapes how they see themselves, their abilities, and their future.

Justin Pickens knows this from both sides. Raised in rural Missouri amid addiction, poverty, and violence at home, he was the kid who got lucky — teachers and coaches saw something in him before he could see it himself. Now, after sixteen years in the classroom, he’s written the book on what separates unforgettable educators from the rest: not more time, more talent, or more resources. Intentionality.

Practical, honest, and free of the “Pinterest teacher” pretense, it shows educators how to find joy in the work again and become the winning ticket for the students who need one most.

“When educators lead with intention, they don’t just change classrooms — they change family trees.”

Inspire educators. Impact students. Change lives.

“Students do not get to choose their teachers, but they all hope to win the lottery when they walk into a classroom that first day. In The Lottery Ticket Teacher, Justin Pickens reminds us that great teaching is not about luck—it is about intentionality. Your daily routines and small connections matter. This book is an excellent reminder of how to make sure every student in your room hits the jackpot."

“Justin Pickens is a statistical outlier! He shouldn’t have a book that you are reading, but he chose a different path… the one less traveled. It shows how one little intentional comment, like "the butterfly effect," can literally shape the future. If you don’t watch out, this book just might change your life."

“Justin Pickens writes like a coach who genuinely believes in you. The Lottery Ticket Teacher is the book that burned-out, overlooked, and under-appreciated educators have been waiting for because it doesn't ask for more of your time; it asks for more of your intention. When Justin recently spoke to our staff at Seneca High School, he inspired and empowered us through powerful stories of overcoming generational poverty and challenged us to become "extra mile educators" who refuse to let a student's circumstances define their future. His message was a timely reminder that the most impactful educators aren't always the loudest or most celebrated; they're the ones who intentionally show up, build relationships, and change lives one student at a time, a message that we live and breathe through The Seneca Way."

“Education today is drowning in initiatives, mandates, and endless demands, but Justin Pickens breaks through with a single, powerful idea: intentionality. The Lottery Ticket Teacher is candid, actionable, and refreshingly real. It will push you to stop simply surviving the school year and start leading with purpose, for the students in front of you, the colleagues beside you, and the person you want to become."

“At its core, education has always been about relationships, and Justin Pickens captures that truth beautifully in The Lottery Ticket Teacher. In a time when educators are stretched thin and overwhelmed by competing priorities, Justin brings us back to what matters most: showing up intentionally for kids and for one another. Filled with practical wisdom and meaningful stories, this book reminds us that the smallest moments of connection can become the greatest catalysts for change."

“As someone whose safe place growing up was school, I know firsthand the life-changing impact of intentional educators. The teachers who called me by name, spoke possibility into my future, and helped me see my worth changed the direction of my life. In The Lottery Ticket Teacher, Justin Pickens beautifully reminds us that the smallest intentional moments often become the biggest turning points for students. This book is both a challenge and an inspiration for every educator who wants to make a lasting difference."

“In a profession drowning in initiatives, data, and demands, Justin Pickens cuts through the noise with one powerful idea: intentionality. The Lottery Ticket Teacher is honest, practical, and deeply human. It will challenge you to stop going through the motions and start showing up, for your students, your colleagues, and yourself, with purpose."

“Every educator, leader, and person has someone who called them forward to do great things. Justin is that kind of person for his students, teachers, and leaders across the country. Reminding them of intention, purpose, and love, Justin's writing helps bring back the main thing: changing lives, breaking cycles, and building futures. If you love education, inspiring leadership, and shaping students for their success and their dreams, then you will want to read The Lottery Ticket Teacher."

“We hosted Justin Pickens at our Convocation in August, and his Keynote landed incredibly well with our staff!
10/10 – highly recommend!”

“It was both meaningful and timely.
Teachers need to hear what he has to say.”

“In thirty-plus years of being in education, I’ve heard a lot of back-to-school speeches, and Justin Pickens is one of the best.”

“We are truly blessed.
In 22 years, I’ve never been as inspired by a guest speaker at our school.”

“You must hire him to give a presentation to your staff!

Justin delivered the keynote with passion and insight. After teaching for over thirty years, he reminded me why I teach and how far my impact can reach. His breakout session also provided practical insight on mental and physical health and preparedness for the future.”

"I laughed and cried! Whew!
You share something that reaches everyone in the room!”

“Justin’s keynote was incredibly powerful.
Many said it was the best presentation they’d ever heard and left inspired to keep pursuing teaching. His message creates ripples that only God can measure.”

“Justin is the best speaker!
Thank you for being you and sharing your experiences. I love the tears and laughter along the way that help us strive to be the best for our students.”

“Justin came to speak to the students, but he made a powerful impact on the teachers as well.
His stories and life-giving words resonated with all of us.”

In all my years since 2018, I’ve never seen teachers moved like this.
Justin’s powerful story of overcoming hardship—made possible by a coach and teacher who never gave up on him—left the room in tears.

"BOOK HIM"

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