Robert Jackson lives by the motto, "For every problem, there is a solution." With 28 years of experience in education, he began his career in Indianapolis Public Schools after being cut from the NFL's Minnesota Vikings. Embracing a "No More Excuses" teaching approach, he refused to let his students feel sorry for themselves or let their circumstances define their futures. Setting high expectations, he challenged students to excel, and as a coach, he applied the same principles. The result? Those same students and athletes have gone on to become successful pastors, lawyers, school administrators, teachers, pharmaceutical sales reps, business owners, pro athletes, entertainers, and more.

Today, Robert is one of the most sought-after speakers in the country, delivering keynote addresses and workshops to educators, administrators, parents, students, corporate leaders, and churches. He has presented hundreds of times on topics such as cultural and trauma-informed practices, restorative justice, socio-emotional learning, motivating staff, self-care for educators, and leadership development for aspiring leaders and administrators. A passionate advocate for the success of Black and Latino male students, his goal is to teach educators and administrators how to use their influence to Educate, Activate, and Motivate all students to achieve success.

As an accomplished author, Robert has published seven books and contributed to ASCD EL Leadership Magazine. His book Becoming the Educator They Need: Strategies, Mindsets, and Beliefs for Supporting Black and Latino Male Students won the Gold Excel Award for Technical Writing. His No More Excuses curriculum, featured in national publications, is used in K-12 schools, colleges, and universities across the U.S. and Canada. Other books include Black Men Stand Up, A Boy’s Guide to Manhood, A Young Woman’s Guide to Womanhood, Put a Stop to Bullying, Solutions to Educating Black and Latino Males, and his latest work, For Mothers Raising Sons.

Robert earned his BS in Industrial Technology from Western Kentucky University, where he also lettered in both football and track. After his NFL dreams were cut short, Robert experienced personal setbacks that shaped his understanding of the importance of trauma-sensitive education. He teaches solutions while remaining deeply committed to serving his community as a speaker, mentor, and leader.

A life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and the NFL Players Association, Robert has received numerous awards, including the 2024 Legacy Award for his contributions to education and community service, the Key to the City of Miami, and the National Motivational Educator of the Year Award. His speeches continue to transform the lives of thousands of youth and adults across the nation.

Robert is married to Essence Best-Selling Author Tajuana “TJ” Butler-Jackson, and together they have three children and two grandchildren.