Rob Jolles is a renowned professional speaker, trainer, and author whose career journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose. From starting as a top-performing life insurance agent to discovering his true calling as a corporate trainer and motivational speaker, Rob has dedicated over three decades to teaching others how to communicate, sell ethically, and make meaningful change. With seven books (five bestsellers) and over three million miles traveled globally, his story reflects a deep commitment to helping people find confidence and clarity — both in business and in life. His compassionate perspective on empowerment and service makes him a voice worth amplifying within the Humans of Fuzia community of changemakers.
Q: What inspired your journey into professional speaking and training?
I started out selling life, health, and disability insurance at just 21 years old with New York Life. I was good at it — even ranked 11th among 7,500 agents in my first year — but I felt something was missing. One day, by sheer accident, I ended up filling in for my training managers who were delayed, and I began teaching scripts to a room full of agents. The energy, the engagement — I felt something almost spiritual. I knew then that this was my calling. That one unplanned moment changed my path forever, leading me into corporate training and eventually into launching my own speaking and consulting business over 30 years ago.
Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
In corporate America, I was raised with a Marine’s mindset — to always fight for what you believe in. That attitude helped me in many ways, but it also made fitting into corporate structures difficult. I learned that not every battle needs to be fought head-on. I eventually realized I had an entrepreneurial spirit that didn’t fit neatly into corporate life. Leaving Xerox to start my own business was risky, but it gave me the freedom to create, teach, and train in my own authentic way.
Q: What has been your proudest professional milestone so far?
It was the moment my second book finally got accepted by Simon & Schuster. My first book had been an easy success — I followed every instruction in a “how to write a book” guide, sent out three proposals, and got two offers. The second one, however, took over two years to find a publisher. When Simon & Schuster said, “We can’t believe this hasn’t been published. We want it,” I walked out of that meeting, got in the elevator, and cried. It was a powerful reminder that persistence pays off.
Q: You’ve spoken passionately about women’s empowerment. What drives your advocacy in this area?
I grew up in a business world where women in leadership were rare, and I’ve watched that slowly but surely change. Beyond words, I’m involved in action — I work as a live auctioneer for a charity called EduGirls in India, which provides education, transportation, and safety for young girls. We’ve opened ten schools and raised over a million dollars so far. Seeing firsthand the challenges faced by women and girls in underprivileged settings has opened my eyes deeply. As a man, I recognize my privilege — and I believe it’s my duty to use it to help others gain equal footing.
Q: What message would you like to share with aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Bias exists — whether it’s gender, race, or age. I’ve faced ageism myself, so I understand how it feels. But my advice is this: not everyone has that bias. Don’t let bitterness or frustration define you. Instead, focus on being the best version of yourself. Work harder, stay authentic, and the victory will be that much sweeter. True strength is found in resilience, not resentment.
Q: How do you personally define success?
I have a sign on my desk that reads: “We weren’t put on this earth to make a living. We were put on this earth to make a difference.” That’s what guides me. Sure, we all have bills to pay — but what gives life meaning is the impact we make on others. Over the years, I’ve raised over $12 million for charities as an auctioneer, often giving my own fees back to the cause. My wife sometimes shakes her head at that — but to me, that’s what life is about: making a difference wherever and whenever we can.
“We weren’t put on this earth to make a living. We were put on this earth to make a difference.”
Connect with Rob Jolles:
Rob Jolles | LinkedIn
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