"Mark Hoog wrote several inspiring books that have been used in many schools around the globe..." "He is a kind and funny man who likes children."
"Mark Hoog's book, The Dream Machine was meant to teach us the lesson that the only one who can get you your dream is you. To accomplish that you must start immediately and plant it now so it can become the ear of corn that is smothered in butter and dipped in gravy. That is what The Dream Field was to teach us about life and guide us in it to being the people we want to be in life.
He also told us that the older you are, the more people are going to tell you your dream is impossible to achieve, that people are going to try to stomp you out, but you can't let them. You still have to try on doing this."
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming and speaking to us. You were so motivational. It interested me so much on how you talked about dreams and goals and their differences. By big dream is to become a marine photographer. Your talk to us has made me aware that I need to make a deadline for when I start doing that and making it happen. Thanks again.
Maeve
5th grade
Carbondale, Colorado
Dear Mr. Hoog
Thank you for speaking to us. I found it very motivating. I think it will really help make my dream and goal come true and happen. My dream is to climb and ski K2. I’ve
always wanted to do this and I’ve been working on making this happen for a long time. I do a lot of skiing and climbing so I can get better, but for some reason I never felt like it
would happen. After hearing you talk though I really felt like it would happen.
Sincerely,
Nick
5th grade
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for speaking to my school. I enjoyed
every minute of it! You are definitely the best motivational
speaker I’ve ever heard. I can tell that you inspired many
of my peers to be passionate about their dreams and goals.
You surely inspired me to work harder to make it to the
Olympics for Nordic skiing. I really enjoyed the story about
the football and Under Armor guy. It made me think about
how determined I am to achieve my goal! All in all, having
you speak to my school was a wonderful experience.
Sincerely,
Hailey
6th grade
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming to our school. It was
nice of you to give us an amazing speech. I have had a
dream since I was little that I am going to travel the
world. My mind is set to it and nothing will stop me.
Thanks to you I am going to start as soon as I can.
Your speech was awesome and you really inspired me
to work hard to accomplish my goal. If it was not for
your knowledge I would have lost my dram by high
school. Thank you so much for helping me dream.
Now I have made my dream my goal so I will get it done.
Your friend,
Camden Brendlinger
6th grade student
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming to our school. It is
very exciting when we have an inspirational person
like you come. You really get our minds thinking
not only for the future, but for now. My dream is to
be a veterinarian, author, and make it to the world
barrel racing championships. I have been working
towards all that. Thanks again.
Yours truly,
Sierra Caldwell
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming to our school and motivating all of us to stick to our dreams and to set goals. My dream is to be a professional pianist. Now I am starting to use the piano more often and learning new songs. You really inspired me!
Sincerely,
Melisa
5th grade
Dear Mark Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming tour school. I really
hope you and I can meet again. Since you are an airline
pilot maybe you can help me become one too! That
would be great, anything is possible. The person who
wanted to be a football player and made under armor
really inspired me. I can’t wait to see you again because
my two friends and I want to fly. In advance, thanks so much!
James
5th grade
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming and talking to us about dreams. It really inspired me to follow mine. I also learned to not let people tell me what I can and can’t do, if you work at it and try your hardest you can do anything you put your mind to. My dream is to be a famous singer.
Sincerely,
Ruby
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming to our school. It was very inspiring. Since I heard you talk at my school I have been working to become stronger so that I can someday train at the Shoulin Temple.
Sincerely,
Caleb
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming to our school to speak.
You were very motivational. I liked hearing your
stories about your friends. You inspired me to never
give up. My big dream is to travel the United States
with my horse and go to different rodeos and goat tie
events. My other dream is to go to the winter Olympics
for ski racing like Lindsey Vonn. I can’t wait for your
new books to come out.
Sincerely,
Hannah
5th grade
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming to our school to speak. You were
a great motivational speaker. My dream is to go to the
Olympics in gymnastics. I would do anything to make it
and you motivated me even more to want that dream.
Also you said to make our dream have a deadline, because
if it doesn’t we will never have a time we want to reach it by.
You were very good and I really hope you come back and
speak with us again!
Thanks Again,
Brooke
5th grade
Dear staff,
After experiencing Mark Hoog’s motivational presentation, my class came back and reflected on the life changing experience, our personal goals, and dreams as well. We wanted to take it a step further and we thought of making a class dream. Many ideas were expressed and we have already accomplished two of our goals but we still have another that we want to make happen next week. They are on fire! My class was really inspired to raise money to donate to a charity after hearing of Hoog’s experience with the people from Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. They wanted to do something local such as the Humane Society or some even wanted to expand our own schools recycling center to things other than just paper. Our class shared our dream with the other third grade classes so now here is our plan! We are going to hold a third grade bake sale during the lunch hour on April 29 and 30. We will be located right by the doors leading to the north playground. We will split the proceeds between our improved recycling center and the Humane Society. We will make posters to hang up around the school to promote this event but if you could as well, that would be fantastic!!
Thanks for your support!
Marina
Dear Mr. Hoog,
On February 19th, you visited Lakeview Elementary School in Gillette, Wyoming. I was lucky enough to be ending my long term sub position that day. By lucky I mean that I was lucky to have met an author that has written three amazing children's books-books that will inspire a generation that needs all the help it can get.
Take care and thank you again for all you do to inspire and challenge students of all ages to succeed!
Sincerely,
Heather Hood
Dear Mark,
How can I ever express my gratitude and appreciation for having spoken your
amazing story with the students of Mater Dei? You not only inspired and lifted
Michael's spirits, hopes and dreams, but you truly touched many other boys
(and a few teachers as well!).
I am still hearing and receiving many appreciative comments from kids and
parents alike. You not only have a gift, but you are a living example of what
the right attitude and having your heart in the right place can do.
I wish you all the good luck and success in your "dreams."
Sincerely,
Holly
USA - Wednesday, August 06, 2008 at 12:00:37 (EDT)
Thank you for coming to my school and talking with us. I love your books. I've read them so many times. I have been dreaming but since I read your book I have been doing.
Joshua
3rd grade/ Nolanville, Texas
Joshua
Nolanville, TX USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:59:13 (EDT)
Dear Mr. Hoog,Thank you for sharing so much with us. My favorite part was when you talked about piloting your own life.
Michelle Robbins
3rd grade
Michelle Robbins
Nolanville, TX USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:58:58 (EDT)
You really helped me believe in my dreams and to keep striving to achieve them. Please come back soon.
Your Friend Ricky
3rd grade/ Nolanville, Texas
Ricky
Nolanville, TX USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:58:22 (EDT)
Thank you Mr. Hoog.
You taught me to go for my dreams and work for it instead of waiting for it to just happen.
From Your friend Taylor.
3rd grade/ Nolanville, Texas
Taylor
Nolanville, TX USA - Monday, June 23, 2008 at 10:57:31 (EDT)
Mark-
All I can say is WOW! Your message was incredible and inspiring. My only wish is that all of our students and parents had attended to hear your message. I look forward to us working together again in the future. Thanks Mark.
Diane C
Fossil Ridge High School
Mark-
You were AMAZING- Thank you so much for sharing your story with the Eyestone Community. You Rock!
Lisa Rossi
Vice Principal Eyestone Elementary
Mark-
I just wanted to thank you for coming and speaking to my Entrepreneurship class. Your presentation was extremely inspirational and moving. As I left the room I found myself questioning and holding myself accountable for what I was going to do and how I could contribute. With so many goals along the way I want to be able to say I did it for more than myself. Your stories really moved me- as if I was supposed to hear you speak so that I would start working towards personal goals. I am passionate about a few things but have put off many ideas because they seem unrealistic or unattainable. So thank you again, I believe your words have made a difference in my life.
Genna
Colorado State University business student
Dear Mark,
I just wanted to thank you for such an amazing presentation at CSU on Friday. You are such an inspiration, and your message is so powerful! I was putting my dream on the back burner, planning on getting an office job after graduation (May 12th, Yikes!) but after listening to you I am again questioning whether or not that is the right choice for myself.
Sara B.
Colorado State University student
Mark,
I was walking down the street with my nearly six-year old daughter and she asked to hold my hand while she balanced on a railroad tie. I urged her to do it without holding my hand and she said, "In Your Song, it says if you think you can do something, you can."
She let go...and she did! Thank you Mark.
David S.
Dear Mark,
The morning after reading 'Your Song," Olivia, my 4 and a half year old daughter, stopped me in the kitchen just before her school bus arrived. She said, "Mommy, I need to talk to you. What is your song?" I was, as you can imagine, a bit surprised because she had not mentioned the book at all the entire morning. I said, "Well, I think my song is being a good mommy." She paused, thought for a minute and said, "Don't you think that should be my song someday too?" Composing myself, I said, "Yes. I think that is a wonderful idea." It sure made quite an impression on her....and all of us! Best of luck and thanks.
Marla V.
Mr. Hoog
You spoke to my class tonight, the 4th, and I would just like to thank you for speaking to our class. Your speech was very inspirational. It gave me much to think about, not only on finding a job, but living my life as well. Thank you again.
Joshua
Colorado State University student
Dear Mark Hoog-
I just wanted to thank you for speaking with our class today. Your engagement with the class and your inspirational speech has jump started by own inner evaluation. I have had the same passions and desires for a long time, but you have shown me that I need to step back and decide if they are still my passions or if they have merely drifted into my routine.
The story about your personal relationship with Jason Dahl was very moving; thank you for sharing something so close to your heart. I am also motivated by your commitment and selflessness to help children excel. Again, thank you so much for sharing your inspirational attitude with us. Thank you.
Katie
Colorado State University student
Mark Hoog projects such a sense of charisma and power that he captivates an audience in the first few minutes of the presentation. Hoog's story tugs at your heartstrings while making you think about how to move forward in life with purpose and determination through conscious leadership. Hoog soon will be a name that everyone across the country will recognize.
James M. Rath
Marketing and Events Director
Northern Colorado Business Report
By engaging and interacting with his listeners, Mark Hoog profoundly delivers a self-actualizing and energetic experience, leaving you with valuable and lasting lessons of conscious leadership and personal accountability. Combined with moving stories, you are guaranteed to have an enhanced attitude that will not be soon forgotten. Thank you for your inspiration!
The Brothers of the Mu Rho Chapter of Delta Sigma Pi
Please pass on my praise to Mr. Hoog. I attended the Skyline High School Basketball Spaghetti Dinner and was extremely impressed with Mr. Hoog's remarks. My daughter is a sophomore at Skyline and is determined to single handedly change Skyline's reputation within the community. While this is a lofty goal, she was quite inspired with what Mr. Hoog had to say and believes she can and will make a difference. Good for her, and good for you, Mr. Hoog--you have found a way to leave your mark! God Bless!
Jean Jimenez
A grateful mom.
I attended a conference that featured Mark Hoog's talk on Conscious Leadership. I'm not sure I've ever heard a more pertinent message than the one he delivered. He took everything I believe in my core and articulated it in such a way that helped me understand my purpose as a leader with more clarity than ever before. I think it's rare to find people who are passionate about life! It was fantastic to meet someone that believes he can make a difference (and in fact is on this earth to do so!) I purchased his books for my three children - from age 3-18! They are all in different places in their lives, but the message is perfect for each of them. And it's perfect for me too - it's amazing that his message transcends all ages and boundaries. He is a very humble man and spoke straight from his heart (he didn't even use notes!) His message is etched into my heart and I will reflect daily on what I have done to make a difference for all those around me.
I am so inspired and encouraged by his message and his books and will be forever grateful for having had the opportunity to cross paths with this remarkable man.
Best Wishes,
Nancy Haboush
President/ Mister Neats
Mr. Hoog has been truly blessed with the gift of writing. He has the ability to share a message of strength, perseverance, and hope to children through the writings of his books.
Jennifer Gabbard
Reading Coach, Glendale Elementary
Vero Beach, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
I liked both of your books because they inspired me to reach for my dreams.
Taijwa
4th grader
Vero Beach, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
After hearing your talk I felt like any of my dreams can come true.
Laura
5th grader
Glendale Elementary
Vero Beach, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for coming in to talk to us. I now know that I don't need anything to help me accomplish my goals or dreams but me. I will do my best to reach my goals.
Sincerely,
Victoria de Laney
5th grader
Naples, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming out on a sunny hot day to talk to us about what our goal is and that we should start preparing for our future goals. All of the students really enjoyed you reading the Dream Machine to us.
Today you helped me think of what I want to do for my future goal and I am going to stay healthy so I can become a professional horse back rider.
Thank you again for sharing with us an awesome book and also reminding us to get ready for our future goals and dreams.
Sincerely,
Alexa Cambria
Shadow Lawn Elementary, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you so much for reading that wonderful book to us.
Today you asked us what our dreams and goals are. My dream would be being a teacher. I know that in the future my dreams and goals will come true if I start believing now.
I appreciated you coming to my school to share your wonderful book. Thank you for asking me what I'd want to be, I never really thought what my dream and goal would be until you asked me.
Sincerely,
Jenny Trang
4th grade
Golden Terrace Elementary
Naples, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming to show all the classes your awesome book. I thought that when you dropped water on everyone that it was so funny. Also, thank you for reading your book to all the kids. In addition, I have many goals in life but my dream is to be a pro soccer player. Dream Machine is such a good story and it gave me such an influence. Keep writing story books and movies for all the kids that read your books.
Thank you.
Grant Cooper
Laurel Oak Elementary
Dear Mr. Hoog,
Thank you for coming to my classroom today.
My dreams are to become a professional gymnast. You helped me realize that I could accomplish my dreams if I set goals for my self to help me. Thank you again for coming and reading to Laurel Oak Elementary. I am sure everyone enjoyed you reading to us today. It really helped us think about our dreams and goals. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Cayla Buford
Shadow Lawn Elementary, Florida
Dear Mr. Hoog
Thank you for coming to our school to share with us your great book. I'm sure everybody loved it.
My dream is to become a fashion designer and you have inspired me to start now. I love designing clothes in my free time because I can do anything I wasn't with my designs. I now know anybody can achieve their dreams if they start now and work hard at it. If you reached your dreams I bet I can reach mine.
Thank you again and I hope you come back. Your books are great!!!
Sincerely,
Melissa Merkley
Naples, Florida
Dear Mark,
I go to North Bay Elem. I was very sad after Katrina. You are the best cheering up person. I am 8 years old. I am a girl. I am in the third grade. I am in Mrs. Ferguson's room. I will always have you in my heart.
Love,
Tarah
P.S. I have the book "Letters From Katrina. I love it.
This picture was submitted by "Johnnie"- a spectacular 6th grader in Colorado.
