TAP Spotlight with Cornell Thomas

A big part of our dream for TAP comes from a desire to encourage, inspire, and celebrate people and organizations who are tapping into their potential. That’s why we created the TAP Spotlight—a regular feature that shines a light on individuals or companies using their gifts, talents, and experiences to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Cornell, the spotlight’s on you!

Like most people, I spent a long period of my life drifting. I wasn’t lost—I just didn’t know where I was supposed to be going.

At sixteen, I picked up a basketball for the first time and set my sights on becoming a professional player. The only problem? I had zero experience and, frankly, I wasn’t any good. Still, I had a dream, and more importantly, I had a purpose: to make it big so my mom would never have to work another day in her life.

I was practically born into adversity. When I was just four years old, my father, Bobby Thomas, passed away from cancer. My mom became the sole breadwinner, raising five kids on her own. Watching her hold it all together—calm in the chaos—gave me the mindset I carry today. Her quiet strength became my foundation.

That mindset helped me bounce back after a career-ending injury—just a week before I was supposed to play professionally. Instead of giving up, I pivoted to coaching. But something inside me said, "You’re not done yet." That’s what happens when you start tapping into your potential. You begin to realize that the only limits that exist are the ones you’ve accepted as truth.

My speaking journey started in the margins—literally. I wrote quotes, then blogs, and eventually books. I didn’t take a course or a class. I just had faith, purpose, and the drive to figure it out.

Growing up, we couldn’t afford to travel. Now, when I find myself keynoting on stages around the world, I always pause to appreciate how far I’ve come. I’m grateful for the sun and the rain—it all led me here.

I’ll never forget the moment I sat with Shannon in Times Square when she first told me about TAP. The fire in her eyes and the conviction in her voice were all I needed. I said, "I’m in," right there on the spot. TAP isn’t about ego or empty promises—it’s about helping people truly reach their potential. That kind of mission? That’s rare. And that’s why it matters.

About the Author

Cornell Thomas is a global speaker, TEDx presenter, social entrepreneur, professional speaking coach, and 5X author. He’s the creator of the app Wake Up World and founder of the Positivity Summit—a global gathering built on connection through story. He’s hosted television shows, led leadership training around the world, and continues to uplift through purpose-driven action. But of all the hats he wears, his favorites are husband and father.