Renowned billionaire and philanthropist, John Paul DeJoria discusses the healing, world-changing power of focusing your dreams.

John Paul walks his talk. As the co-founder of John Paul Mitchell Systems and The Patron Spirits Company, his rags-to-riches biography exemplifies the American dream. His parents divorced by the time he was two, and at nine he began selling Christmas cards and newspapers with his older brother to support his family. When his single mother proved unable to support both children, they were sent to a foster home. John Paul spent much of his youth in a street gang in East Los Angeles, but changed when he was told that he would “never succeed at anything in life” by a math teacher in high school. He graduated and spent two years in the United States Navy, after which he floated through a series of jobs ranging from janitor to insurance salesman. John Paul was even homeless at one time. Even then, he didn’t give up, collecting bottles to stay afloat. Eventually, John Paul got his break—an entry-level marketing position with Time Magazine. The story goes on and ultimately John Paul would go on to become a very successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, government servant, and pillar of the business community.

Interviewed by Positively Positive contributor, Nina Boski, at the Dream Foundation “Celebration of Dreams” fundraiser honoring fashion icon Donna Karan at the Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara. CLICK HERE to see an interview from the same event with American Idol, Pia Toscano.

For more on the Dream Foundation visit their website HERE.