Hey Glen, I just want to let you know that what you are doing is awesome, you came to my school back when i was in year 8 to speak to us and i never forgot what you told us. It's not until my sister recently told me about a session you did at her school that i looked you up and found you on this (Facebook).
i have never given up on my dream even though it feels like another dream away and that people roll their eyes when they hear about it. What you say makes me keep going so that i can't quit on myself.
I just want you to know that not just myself but my mates still remember the speech you gave to us back in year 8 which was back in 2002. Thanks so much for doing what you are doing!

Student who experienced Oxygen Factory in 2002, 2010

I just wanted to write to you and let you know how much your motivational talk changed my life and healed me 5 years ago now.

At the time I was in a place where I could not see light at the end of the tunnel, but at the same time couldn't help looking back on the Glen Gerreyn seminar. You taught me essential skills on how to survive situations where you almost feel like you don't know your place in the world. I had lost my sense of belonging however I stayed strong. I was truly inspired by your own personal story. I wasn't going to let depression ruin my life. I am now 20 years old and work for an events management company...I never made it to University, but I still consider myself a happy individual doing what I'm doing! Working hard! Thank-you for your encouraging talk Glen.

Ex student, Mercy Catholic College, 2010 

Hi Glen!
 
I saw you in the newspaper! Congratulations! It was a fantastic read.
I'm not sure if you remember, but you visited Baulkham Hills High a couple of years ago and I was truly inspired by you.
I now have a dream that I believe in. I believe in myself and I think I owe that to you. Thank you So much.  You're doing a wonderful job. Keep going!

Ex student Baulkham Hills High School, 2010

Glen's personal approach made it very easy to connect with him. Daniel

His use of stories helped us to grasp the messages and relate to what he was presenting. Ellen

Glen actually motivated me to want study and get stuff done. Luke

He was able to break down his message into simple and clear steps that made our goals sound achievable. Katarina

Glen's sharing of his own story made us realise that our own issues at school were manageable. Natalie

Students of Trinity Catholic College, Auburn, 2010

What you are doing is brilliant. i hope you never stop what you do and i wish that all those who attend your seminars find hope. Thank you for trying to make this distorted world a better place.

Student, Arden Anglican School, 2010

Hey Glen, I hope all is well.

it came to a stage where I was giving up, giving up on everything. I was even trying to find the quickest way on leaving this world. After trying to battle depression for almost 3 years now, something has triggered my thoughts and I'm starting to get back on track. I started watching all your videos on Youtube and reading your books over & over again, each time recieving a new lesson and understanding about it. It was like I was addicted to them. I just wanted to say thank you for changing the way I see things, let alone my WHOLE life. I'm really grateful and through your inspiration I've come to my senses and I'm trying to publish my very own poem book that I've kept over the years.
Thanks again & I guess there's nothing I can repay you with. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Student, 2010

Hi Glen, I was so excited to hear you talk at my school. I've always received something new from each talk you give, but never before have I been so motivated and excited to actually get home and start my homework like I was today (4/5/10). I think that today was the most worthwhile money my school has ever spent. We've had renovations done in classrooms, had outside areas rebuilt, we've had the bathrooms re-done, along with the canteen, we've bought new computers for the computer rooms, but none of them have been as helpful and worthwhile as your talk.

Unfortunately, I had to a leave a few minutes early to go to my P's test, so I missed the last few minutes of your talk, however, even  your words helped me get through my Ps test. I was in such a motivated mood that I was convinced I'd pass my test. Of course I had those few thoughts of doubt, not wanting to get myself too excited in case I didn't pass, but I had your voice in my head the entire time saying 'I  will be magnificent!' I tried to focus on this (along with my driving) and tried to overcome my butterflies. When I got back to the RTA after my test, I felt slightly disheartened as I thought I'd made a bad decision when driving and began to think there was a possibility I would have failed. While waiting with my mum for the verdict I just kept saying to myself 'when you fail, pick yourself up and try again'. Now, I know this isn't really where you intended on us using that term, but it kept me in an optimistic frame of mind, no matter wheat the outcome. After a few minutes I was finally called to the counter and told I had passed my test and only made a few mistakes. I got 98/102! I was beyond excited and I really need to thank you for keeping me in that calm and motivated head space for my test.

After I passed I was so excited to finally get home and start putting your words of encouragement for studying and homework into action. I've cleaned off my desk so that I have an appropriate space to work at- but I'm yet to finish cleaning my room. I've written a nice big '85.00' on my whiteboard above my desk along with a couple of lists. 'By Sunday Night I Will Have:' and I have written everything I want completed and done for school next week. I also have 'By Sunday the  23/5 I Will Have:' and again, everything I want completed by that date is written underneath. I have a spot of anything (assessments, personal goals etc.) written under another heading 'Particular  Dates:'. Underneath my ATAR goal I've written what I wish my class rank to be after the Trial HSC for each subject. When I bought this whiteboard I wrote at the top of it 'Somehow everything's gonna fall right into place'. These are lyrics from one of my favourite songs by one of my favourite bands Paramore. The song is called Hallelujah, and  every time I read these lyrics I think to myself 'no matter what, everything will be okay. It may not seem like it now, and it may seem like a tough journey ahead, but it's already planned out for me and everything will fall right into place.  I was so excited to put all this up on my whiteboard and start organizing everything a whole lot better.

The amazing thing is that all of this just came from your talk about studying, I haven't even mentioned what I got out of the first session about purpose and dreams. I've always had a dream to be a recording and touring musician. I sing and would love to one day be in a band. I won't go into details (as I don't want to make this email too much longer than it already is but after what you said about purpose and gifts and dreams, I've realised that this is what I will do one day. Your words of encouragement and motivation have really pushed me to chase after this goal. I've been chasing after it since I can remember, but not I've got motivation pushing it and courage in the driver's seat. I'll let you know how all that goes when I've finished with this little thing called the HSC. Thank you so much for coming to our school, and I hope the future year 12s of my school get the chance to hear you speak and to be as highly motivated as I was.

Student, The Forest High School, 2010

Hey Glen, you recently visited my high school to give a seminar called 'Day of Hope'. Your speeches, stories, advice and overall passion for helping youth really gave me a wake up call. I know I have the potential to achieve better, yet I have been delaying it for the past six months. Your seminar reopened my eyes to the future that I could hold, and to push myself a bit further. Thankyou for your valuable insight and passion for youth.

Student, Holy Cross College, Nov 2009

Dear Jane, You spoke to me after doing your Smile (Overcoming Depression) seminar yesterday. I walked home completely crying, so scared of what my mum would think. But I did what you said and I just told her, and asked her for help. It was so weird, so so weird. And it was hard and I almost had an asthma attack from my crying (haha). She was a little dumbstruck and didn't know what she could do. She asked if I wanted to talk to someone and I told her I did. So we looked up local counselling services on the net and I've made an appointment with one this week. They said they will see how I go and then see if medication is needed. I know how hard the next few months will be, and the truth is it all has to get worse before it gets better. But I know if you never came to my school that I wouldn't have done this, ever. Thank you so so so so so so much! I hope my recovery is short and I hope happiness is soon going to be a regular feeling.

Year 10 Student, Cherrybrook Technology High School NSW, Nov 2009

Glen, you are truly amazing! You must get this a lot but i'd like to tell/remind you anywho! Thank you for taking your time to come out and speak to us at Mitchell Youth Leadership Forum this year! You were truly amazing and inspiring, i've taken in a great deal from what you said! ( I wrote so much during your speedy talk ). Thank you for a new frame of mind and i'm hoping that you are able to come out to my own school to speak next year and enalighten some people there! * If you're going to fail, might aswell fail big! * *If you don't use it, you lose it*
Many thanks!

Student, Mitchell Youth Leadership Forum, Oct 2009

i would like to thank you Glen for coming to my school and speaking to my year group. You have inspired me to see my dream in more depth. Now I have written all my goals in a spare book that I keep on my desk for now. My friends loved the presentation and our teachers thought it was a blast and hoped you would come back next year or sooner to talk to the other years in my school. 

Yr 10 Student, Glenwood High School NSW, Sept 2009

 
Hello, you came to my school today and you have deeply motivated me to follow my dream (that i knew wasn't going to go away) of becoming a successful actor...I now  know that i have one life and i will use it to follow my number one dream...because that's my purpose. if you could do so much with what you started off with, then i can do so much with so much i already have, I'm taking lessons regularly and workshops. Point blank you have motivated me to really follow my purpose and truly.

I tried explaining how motivational you were to my friends but i just couldn't. i said to them, i know it sounds like your usual motivational speaker but hes not IT WAS SOOOOO DIFFERENT it changed me!

 Yr 10 Student, Arthur Phillip High School NSW, Sept 2009

Hi Glen. You presented your Day of Hope seminar at my school a few weeks ago and I would really like to thank you. Senior years of high school have placed tremendous pressure on me to know exactly what I want to do when I leave school. I went to a talented athletes program a few years ago for basketball and was asked to write down my dreams. My page was empty. When you asked everyone in my year to think of a dream we had, I couldn’t remove the image of the blank page from my mind. At the end of the seminar I looked back over the notes I wrote whilst listening to you speak. I had written a single word in the centre of the page and must have drawn over the letters a dozen times. Inspire. I cant believe I had written the word so many times without recognising what it was. My dream. I want to thank you so much for impacting my life in such a positive way and helping me to discover my purpose in life. Not only did your words of motivation impact me but also your actions. I have discovered my dream,  to motivate and inspire others with my passion for life, just as you did for me.

Student, Mount St Benedict College NSW, August 2009

Thank you so much for your seminar today, it was so inspiring and really changed my perception on what I thought ws reality. As soon as I got home a started to write my first arcticle about 'purpose and self worth', which I emailed to all of the local newspapers and magazines in my area.
The business I wish to run  will hopefully become something similar to what you do,and if i can impact just one person, the way you impacted me from this business then it will be a sucess, you really changed everything. Thankyou.

Student, Central Coast Adventist School, June 2009 

You would get hundreds of e-mails like mine. But I have a dream as a white Australian I feel guilty about aboriginal poverty and the lack of education. I’ve always wanted to be an artist. But now something has started to come to me as more important.  I want to help some of the kids and there families that do not get that much access to an education. I want to help out some of the drug and alcohol abuse children and give them some hope. I know I’m going to have to deal with violence, drug addicts, and abusive parents in the worse case scenarios. And if I can do this and help the employment level as well as keep up with art that would make me the happiest person alive.

Student, Oxford Falls Grammar School, June 2009

I am 17 and I am in an amazingly lucky situation that thousands of kids dream of...Quite sometime ago I was at a seminar of yours at Pennant Hills High School and you changed my life. You were the thing that pretty much turned my life on to the track that i am on now. You gave me self belief and self confidence to not only chase my dream but partially live it out.

I was forced into a seminar, one which i thought i would be sleeping through, which in fact was one that changed my life. Through out the seminar you had me thinking about my dreams and my goals and what i could achieve if I put myself to the test and go for it. Well I walked away from that seminar eager to learn eager to compete eager to succeed and through out the next week I heard of a trial for an elite representative football team trial and I asked my dad if i could try out. From that point onwards I have only gotten better up until the point where I am now. I currently live in Barcelona, Spain playing for the so called 3rd youth club of Barcelona following behind fc Barcelona and R.C.D Espanyol. I live by myself in a residence built for international players. I am striving to gain that Spanish flair in my game which will help me full fill my goal as a professional footballer and playing for my country.

Thank you so much. You have been a massive part of my life even though you were only in it for less then a day!!!!!!

Ex-Student Pennant Hills High School, April 2009

I found your story so interesting, there wasn't one bit where i wasn't interested or didn't want to know more.  I learnt alot about self discipline, self motiviation and independance. That there is no reason you can't do something unless you tell yourself you can't. You showed me that anything is possible just as long as you believe in yourself and you're willing to pay the price. I really will cherish the talk and i really look forward to the next one this year.
 
i learnt something very important at your talk, that your never too young, to make a difference. it sounds kind of silly, but then dreams are never too dreamy, but i've always had an ambition to earn and raise enough money to build a boarding schools in Africa. This would provide kids and or parents with education, nutritional food and drink, shelter and clothing.

So thanks again for your talk, you've made a difference.

Student, Masada College NSW, February 2009 

Hi Glen, Your seminar was great by the way. I have to tell you, when we were told you were coming everyone cheered for you! (including myself) Anyway, as soon as I came home I did as you suggested (with the study folders), I also copied out the study timetable from the booklet we got, onto the computer and personalised it! I hope you come to see us in 2010 as Year 12 students to motivate us once more! Thanx a bunch!

Student, Rosebank College NSW, February 2009

 
 
Hi Glen! I really would like to complement your speech, your approach towards life and your attitude towards hope...Thank you very much.
 

Student, Macarthur Girls High School NSW, February 2009

You gave your Day Of Hope seminar to our year and I loved every minute of it. I thought that what you were saying meant more to me than some others because I left the school at the end of the year. I applied for Crows Nest Tafe in Certificate 3 for Children's Services and a couple of weeks ago I received a letter from the Tafe saying that I got in. I start on the 9th of February and I am going to put everything I have in the course as I really want to succeed. After the Certificate 3, I will go onto the Diploma where I learn how to manage a childcare centre.
When you were asking us to right down our dreams in 3 ways, my first was to get into Tafe which i did and succeed in both courses. My second was to one day own my own child care. My third which was supposed to be 'out of reach' was to have my childcare centres worldwide! I think I'm well on my way with all of that and your seminar only helped!
 

Yr 10 Student, Davidson High School NSW, January 2009

I'm sure you get this all the time but you really have a gift for what you do. You have a way of capturing everyone in the room and keeping them interested for the duration of your presentation. I was completely taken by what you said. You had my undivided attention for every second, which coming from a girl with a maximum attention span for five minutes, is really saying something. The intergration of your own personal experience, with that of other people who have achieved phenomenal things, was really mind blowing. The amount of research and work you put into the seminar was truly evident. I want to thank you for coming to Monte and plead with you to never give up what you do!

Quiet frankly if one man could change the world- I have no doubt that it would be you!

Year 11 Student Monte St Angelo, December 2008

Glen came to my school last year and I didn't have an idol until then! Recently I took an opportunity to play rugby union. Being a league player I had no idea what to do but I took the risk. Eight games later I found myself playing for the NSW CHS team. Just last month I recieved a letter from the Wallabies to attend a training day in Sydney! I wanted to thank Glen for his talk. He made a difference!

Student , September 2008

Thank you so much for an amazing session that you had with us today at HVGS.The moment i came home, i plastered a huge sign on my wall with my proposed UAI. The goals i wrote now have become so much easier to look at, onve i put them in perspective with everything else. I can't express the joy i feel when i see people like you doing what you do. You give kids around Australia the strength to go on, but its not giving strength, its allowing them to realise the potential that they have within themselves.

Again, a huge thank you for today, i know that EVERYONE enjoyed the day and we were all mind-boggled and buzzing about it until i came home to find people still buzzing about it on the internet.

You are awesome. Two thumbs up. If i had three thumbs, i would have all of them up!

Year 12 Student Hunter Valley Grammar School, August 2008

I'm writing to tell you that a few weeks ago we had a Maths test. I have never been good at Maths, i think the best mark i have achieved was 77 percent. Well today i recieved my test back and i topped the class with 97 percent. I was so excited that i literally screamed (not for long though). This experience has pushed me to go further, work harder in Maths, and when it comes to my school certificate this year i hope to get the same mark. When i told my mum i was going to get that same mark for the rest of my tests she told me to aim for something more realistic. I told her that it was realistic and that i could do it. Even if i dont get it, i will try again until i do!

Year 10 Student Wagga Wagga Christian College, August 2008

Thank you for coming to my school! You were an inspiration and a great talker and I think you got everyone in the room thinking about what they want to do.

Student April 2008

Last Monday 7 April, Year 12 was visited by motivational speaker, Glen Gerreyn for a 'Day of Hope'. Among recounts of his personal experiences, which provided a realistic dimension to the day, Glen managed to combine storytelling, humour and charisma to form inspiration, dealing with not only goals relevant to the coming months, but also in the longer term. This day provided us students with an opportunity to state, examine and reassess goals that we may have previously thought out of reach, owing to Glen's mantra of it being better to aim for the stars and hit a tree, than to aim for a tree and hit a rock. All of us that attended are surely motivated and inspired by his talks, and are now empowered to 'follow our yellow brick road'. Many thanks to Glen and the Oxygen Factory.

Year 12 Student St Paul's High School Boorugal, April 2008

I attended the Day of Hope seminar when you came to speak for Central Coast Adventist School. The Day of Hope speech you presented me with was an awesome concept. 'You have the potential, but lack the confidence. Heighten the potential'. This way of thinking has changed my way of thinking not only within my school goals, but my spiritual relational and personal goals also. It has pushed me to try harder than I think I can. Your motivational speeches have given me more purpose and attitude to face the rest of my life. I have been challenged to challenge my limitations, because there 'is' more to me than what meets the eye. My self confidence and belief in myself has changed dramatically. I am so thankful for your talks. They also continue to effect my personal life. Thank you so very much for coming to our school and I hope I can see you again some time.

Year 12 Student who experienced Day of Hope in Year 11 Central Coast Adventist School, April 2008

I would like to say thank you. I attended your talk on the 1st April. It was really motivating to hear you talk about what you have gone through to be where you are today. I myself have not yet found the path I want to go down, but in the day you spent with us you showed me that I can do anything I want and all I need is a dream. THANKS SO MUCH.

Year 11 Student Newcastle High School, April 2008

Hey Glen, You came to my school last year. You may remember me as the girl with crutches in the front row, who came crying to you after! Haha! I broke my knee at the martial arts career, when I held World Titles in two continents and was going for my third in the December that just passed in the Phillipines. Well, you told me to not lose faith, and to not give up even though my dreams of competing in the 2008 Olympics were shattered. Now I am actively back in training and teaching also, I am applying for a sports scholarship at Sydney University and when I am completely recovered I will begin my training for the 2012 Olympics. Thanks for helping me and restoring my faith in myself.

Year 12 Student Mount St Benedict's College, March 2008

Hi Glen, I just wanted to say thank you so much for coming to my school the other day. I really liked what you did. I found what you told me so motivational and inspirational. I don't want to give up anymore. I really feel like I can do anything that I want to now. I just want to say thank you so much.

Year 11 Student Loreto College Kirribilli, March 2008

Thank you sooooo much Glen. You have changed my life. I followed my dream and ran at state level for little athletics in my under 13 girls 3km run at Homebush even though I hurt my ankle on the third lap. I remembered what you had said about always trying. I kept on running and finished the race but I didn't feel bad because I tried my hardest and there is always next year. I wanted to mainly say thank you because you turn people's lives around and Australia is so lucky to have people like you.

Student St Philomena's Moree, March 2008

Jane, today you came to my school and did a seminar about depression and how to prevent and deal with it. I really enjoyed the talk and unlike most motivational things the school organises that say the same thing, today i learnt heaps and you presented to us things I don't usually consider.

I also wanted to thank you for asking me to come out the front and share with all girls in my grade one of my core feeling statements. I have a confidence issue but after today I really look up to you because you have such great confidence. Asking me to do that gave me a boost. It was like I was taking a step forward to become as confident as you. Thank you for sharing the stories of troubles you had. I think that it's amazing you can tell a group of young girls you hardly know, things that you did, for their benefit. I have really benefited.

Student Cherrybrook Technology High School, 2007

To the Oxygen Factory. And the Oxygen Factory you are! For the past three years, ever since you visited my little college you have been my source of fuel, inspiration, my OXYGEN!

You have taught me, showed me, that hardship is not a disadvantage rather a catalyst for revolution! My revolution! The hardship in my life has not pulled me down, it's raised me up! Overcoming my adversities, the rush of power and strength I get just thinking about how far I've come, makes me feel like doing cartwheels across the room! No matter how difficult things get in my life I've always got a hold of it, because it's up to me! Because I have the power and I can make anything and everything, I put my mind to, happen!

Earth is suddenly a place I want to be no matter how dark it looks to others! The fire in my heart sheds light so far and wide that there is no darkness in my life!

Now that I've conquered my world, and everything in it, I hope to make an imprint in others lives, empower them, as you have me!I'm currently studying psychology at uni and hope to go on and become a life coach and motivational speaker! Thank you for setting this little dwindling candle alight! This big fireball's signing out!

MN Ex-Student Nagle College Girls Blacktown NSW

...sending you the email you wanted about my progress since I saw you at Holy Cross in 2006.
Before you came to my school I was aiming to race V8 Supercars which seemed to be the easy task (however now I look at it and it’s still a very difficult task as there is not much support), but when you told us to aim high it totally changed my perception of my life and what I should be doing with it; to live on purpose. After that I was totally focused on getting support to get to Formula 1 which at the time I didn't know is like finding funding to go to mars! However only a month after I was approached by two very wealthy business men who wanted to support me to get to Formula 1, and it almost felt like I knew it would happen and fully expected it to happen. It was only about 3 weeks later that I realised that no one has ever got this level of support at this stage in their career, and it’s at the stage I was at that most people fall off anyway from a lack of funding as it costs around $140,000 per year. They now pay for EVERYTHING! This is something that just doesn't happen in Motorsport.This year I have applied what you have said to my racing. It has been very helpful and I think it has shown through in my results. My level of learning was faster than anyone had ever seen in formula ford (the class I raced this year and next) however I seemed to have stopped accelerating in my learning in the middle of the year. I went back to the booklet you gave me when you came to my school and after that, I went out and won the most competitive race of the year, setting the fastest lap. The next meeting I qualified pole by a massive 6 tenths, which is unheard of in formula ford and then won the first race by the main straight, which is also seemingly impossible to do. The main thing I had changed is to believe it possible to go that fast and be that much faster than the rest of the field. I think that's one of the main reasons why these classes are so competitive; because no one believes they can be a lot faster than there opposition.
I finished 4th in the N.S.W state championship with more bad luck through it than you could ever imagine, such as suspension collapsing, getting driven, engine failures, flat tyres and the list goes on. I also finished 2nd in the Victorian State Championship with a little bit less bad luck, but still more than average. Those moments were the most challenging as nothing came easy at all. I was still able to get the rookie of the year title in both championships which was one of my goals I set out to achieve at the start of the year.Next year I am aiming to win the Australian Formula Ford Championship which is one of the most competitive championships in the world, and I’ll be planning to do it as a rookie which is a great disadvantage.I think it’s safe to say that none of this would have happened without your advice and I'm happy to say that after a few seminars like yours from other people none of them even come close to yours. I've recommended you to my sponsors if they ever need a seminar as one of them is in Human Resources.

Thanks again for your help, like I said before, none of this would have happened without you. I'm racing at 8 rounds of the V8 Supercar series as a support class next year which also gets TV coverage, so if you have stickers that I can put on my car I would be proud to promote Oxygen Factory.Regards,
K. L
Formula Ford #8 for STS Turbo and linkme.com.au

Year 12 student, Holy Cross College, Ryde 2007

You spoke at my school in November and I was so motivated by what you said. I have made so many positive changes in my life. I have placed my goals on my pin board and I am slowly working towards completing them.

I hope every single person all over the world is able to hear what you have to say, it has changed my life for the best!
Thank you.

Student, December 2006

You spoke at my school at the start of the year. Your motivation has helped me achieve something I never thought I would...I was expected by myself, parents and teachers to only get a UAI of 80 ....well guess what? The motivation you gave me helped to prove them wrong. I got a UAI of 93 woohoo!!!!....thanks glen your advice was a real help this year. Thanks mate.

Student, St Francis de Sales Regional College Leeton, May 2006

Year 11 Student Ravenswood, Gordon NSW, 2005

I just wanted to write to thank you for the awesome talk you gave all of us Stella girls last Friday! I was really encouraged and it helped me to really work out what I want to do with my life! I loved all the quotes and have taken on board a lot of the advice you gave us! I am now striving to reach higher goals for myself than I had ever imagined! Your story has given me so much hope for the future. Thank you so much for sharing it with my year group! I think what you do is amazing and if you are able to reach others the way you have reached me (which I’ sure you do daily) then your work and what God has chosen to use you to do is awesome!

Year 12 Student Stella Maris College, Manly, 2005

Every week I get your uplifting words and challenges. I was totally inspired when Glen gave our motivational speeches back at the start of the year but, I'm afraid to say that about 2 weeks after the speech the inspiration wore off and the only reminder I had left of the motivational speech was the booklet that kept moving from place to place as I cleaned my room every week and the weekly emails which I would read but never actually soak in what was on the page.

Then, just 2 weeks ago one of my close mates started feeling really down about themselves and felt the need to be reminding themselves how hopeless they were and how depressed they had to be. I know this may seem to you just like every other teenager but being a close friend it really got to me and that I couldn't help him.

One evening I was sitting here and I realized that I had one email in my email inbox. I just expected it to be another advertisement that makes its way into my inbox every week. But it wasn't, it was my "boost" update. I opened it up and read it over. Straight away I knew what I had to do. I opened up my msn chat window and gave him the advice that I thought he needed.

It may not have changed his life or even the person that he is straight away, but it definitely changed something small. And, all the small things lead up to something big. I didn't think much of it after I gave him the advice, obviously I noticed a change but I never expected it to be about nothing close to the words I gave him. Only a couple of days ago he came on msn and said to me "btw (by the way) I never got to thank you for the advice and cheering me up those couple of weeks ago...it really helped me through all of this, you're a wonderful person."

It got me thinking, everything we do, even if it's small to us, really does have an impact, a bigger impact then we think it does on others. And it also made me realize that we really can be something wonderful if we believe and are passionate about doing something.

Student, Emzalla88 on the email

I heard you speak earlier this year at an Abbotsleigh camp and I feel it is important to tell you how much what you had said that day has made a difference in my life. As silly as it sounds, my perception of my life has been completely changed. I never realised how much I take for granted, and how much potential we all have. Lately we have been choosing subjects for year 11 and thinking back to what I had heard at camp really helped and comforted me. It relaxes me knowing that I have potential in life to succeed in what I want to do, and that is an amazing feeling that I had never really felt before. I’m now not scared at all about my future, but in fact I cant wait! I’m not worried or concerned over things that haven't even happened - which is a first. You probably get many emails like this every day, and for good reason, but I wanted to personally express my thanks for what you and the Oxygen Factory has done in changing how I live my life. Thankyou.

Year 10 Student 2005, Abbotsleigh, Wahroonga

I am a year 10 student at Arthur Phillip High School. You came to our school on Tuesday 28th June, 2005. You talked to us about "Day of Hope". I really want to say that you were truly inspiring and that you made me believe that it is possible for me to follow my dream no matter what happens to me. I was moved by you and Wilma Rudolph's life stories because it showed determination and belief. Once I got home, I told my family about who you were, about how you made that youth centre starting with just $2 in your pocket. They were glad to hear about you. You seemed to have a very positive attitude towards your goal and you achieved it. I'm glad that you talked to us because I have already told quite a few people about your life story because it is very inspiring. Thank you very much because I'm sure you helped a lot of us in Year 10 at Arthur Phillip High School and also everyone else that you have inspired. Keep up
the good work! Thank you also for the email! I was really excited about receiving emails from you
guys! You inspired my friends and I to follow our dreams.

Year 10 Student 2005, Arthur Phillip High School, Parramatta

I just want to thank the Oxygen Factory for coming out to our school. After the session I felt liberated and enthusiastic about my studies and keen to do well. It was truly a worthwhile experience.

Year 12 Student, All Saints Grammar School Belmore, 2005

You might remember doing a talk for Cheltenham Girls High School at Stanwell Tops about three weeks ago and I just wanted to let you know that I and many others have become one of those hundreds of people who email you each week and tell you how your talks have "CHANGED OUR LIVES"!!

Thank you for your motivational talk and goal setting ideas - I have a lot of quotes stuck around my room! :) Also, I have chosen to email you today because today, a team of six (with five of them being year 11's who attended your talk at Stanwell Tops) from our school, participated in the GBAS Badminton Schools' Carnival Competition (an annual competition for Sydney schools). When we entered last year, we came 2nd as we lost to the defending champions. However, this year (today), we were able to come 1st place!! We had to play a total of 20 games all together but although it was hard work physically, we were determined not to give up psychologically.

My friend and I also practised the technique of 'visualisation' before the competition. And during the competition, we used the word 'focus' and used positive thinking. Thus, we were able to develop a good success matrix and convinced each other, through positive encouragement that we were capable of doing it. So on behalf of our team of six, I’d like to thank you for all the great advice!!! And you have indeed "CHANGED OUR LIVES"! Thank you once again. I hope all your other talks will continue to inspire people and to allow them to push themselves beyond what they think are their 'limits'.

Year 11 Student, Cheltenham Girls High School, Cheltenham, 2005

I just want to say thank you so much for your presentation at PCCS last week. you really inspired me to achieve want I now know I can. Until now I thought that I would never be good enough to achieve anything or make a difference because until I moved to PCCS I was bullied badly at my two other schools and I don’t know why. But because of it I believed that I was nothing but now I know I am worth more because God made me for a reason and I have an amazing destiny. Thank you for showing that to me. You truly are an inspiration to me. You have changed the lives of thousands of children and millions to come. I hope that one day I can do the same.

Year 12 Student, Penrith Christian Community School, Orchard Hills, 2005

I go to Cheltenham Girls High School. You spoke at our camp about a week ago!! I just wanted to say congratulations on everything you have achieved and the people that have you as a mentor should be forever grateful because just from hearing you, you sound like a fantastic person!! You really did touch all of our hearts and I hope you continue to do so. Thank you so much for your talk. It meant a lot!

Year 11 Student, Cheltenham Girls High School, Cheltenham, 2005

Recently you visited my school (Penrith Christian Community School a.k.a PCCS) I just wanted to write to you and let you know that your workshop was just fantastic. Your ability to capture our attention and really bluntly express the importance of purpose and self- motivation was excellent. Your talked really made me question where my priorities lie. You truly have touched my heart and inspired me.

Year 12 Student, Penrith Christian Community School, Orchard Hills, 2005

In a single two hour seminar you changed my perception (or Paradigm as I learnt) on life. I walked into the seminar believing my life had no purpose as I was convinced my dreams were unachievable and unrealistic. Your inspiring words educated me and I now realise my dreams are achievable and my life is becoming more meaningful. Also, the words you spoke about lifting the lid on your limitations to face your fears and achieve something, the same afternoon after your seminar, I did just that. I faced my fear of heights to successfully achieve a full circuit of a high ropes course. I lifted my lid and expanded my limitations. To have reached one person is an achievement, to reach a room full (as I saw) is a miracle, and for that you are an angel. Thank you.

Year 11 Student, Cheltenham Girls High School, Cheltenham, 2005

Glen, you have just inspired me SO deeply, that my entire outlook on LIFE has changed. I had once thought that my life and the career I had to do to occupy it were just meaningless drivel, but your eye-opening encouragement and sheer enthusiasm towards life have made me SERIOUSLY reconsider my previous career choices and goals. I thank you, and the Lord a vast deal, that you came to our school today and enlightened our yrs 11-12, as it has now enabled us all to take a good look at our goals and life aims. I'm sure my little friends would be most inclined to agree with my point o view. So once more, thanks again, from Penrith Christian Community School. You're a top Bloke! =)

Year 12 Student, Penrith Christian Community School, Orchard Hills, 2005

I've just turned 16 and I’m in year 11 at Monte. I just wanted to say thankyou! I love to sing, so much its almost in-comprehendible - it's my dream. But for some reason ( I don't even know why) it wasn't making me happy like it used to. Anyway, I was listening to Jewel one night when I was doing my homework, and I wasn't really listening.. but then suddenly my mind just switched off completely from my work and all I heard was her lyrics ' I have this theory that if we're told were bad then that’s the only idea we'll ever have, but maybe if we're surrounded in beauty, then someday we'll become what we see.’ Then what you said about paradigms and how they can restrict us - it all just came back to me, and I couldn't stop thinking that the only reason I was unhappy was me - I wasn't loving myself enough (stupid as it sounds) and I was letting myself go further. I had made my own paradigms. It was kind of like this little emotional revelation or something, and it gave me a fresh, newfound sense of purpose and direction and motivation, so I just wanted to say a massive thankyou to you because, although it took me a while longer to actually realize and apply what you said, I think it really has changed my life. A million thank you's.

Year 11 Student, Monte Sant Angelo Mercy College, North Sydney, 2005

I go to Kincoppal - Rose Bay, I’m in Year 10, and went to your "Day Of Hope" today. I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed it and how much it has made me look at what's going on with my life. It has opened my eyes to so much around me, and your inspirational story really made me think about everything you said. I just wanted to say Thank-You for making such a difference in my day and probably my life.

Year 10 Student, Kincoppal Rose Bay, 2005

You came to my school Loreto Kirribilli this past Thursday and I would just like to thank you so much for everything you said and did. I have been up and down a lot over the past years. Your speech was inspiring and motivating for all who came, however it touched me especially. My dream is to be an actress and after listening to you on Thursday I am determined to use all the opportunities I am lucky to have and try to achieve my goal. Everyone who attended on Thursday really enjoyed and took something away from your presentation and I thought you deserved to know how much it touched and affected me. Thank you once again and I can’t wait until we have our next session with you.

Year 10 Student, Loreto College, Kirribilli, 2005

I wanted to say thanks again for what you said during our camp. It was just what I needed, at a time when I was getting overwhelmed by the stress of assessments and becoming unmotivated and indifferent. You really helped me to regain confidence in myself and my dreams. I felt great when you got us to write down and stretch our dreams. I think you're doing a great job, and you should continue to talk to as many young people as possible!

Year 12 Student, Abbotsleigh, Wahroonga, 2005

Exactly one week ago you came and did a camp with our Year 12. I didn’t come up to you and thank you, but thank you so much. Something inside me just changed. Now I’m aiming so much higher than I was before, because I know I actually can do it. Before I was putting myself down, and letting people put my dreams down. Now, I feel so much more confident within myself. Another thing that was getting me down was an ex boyfriend of mine who lives overseas, and I really missed him, except now I have realized that there is so much more to life than all that kind of stuff and I really appreciate my friends a lot more. Thank you so much for Karaoke, I am such a drama queen and I think I danced ridiculously in front of your camera one too many times. Thanks for everything, I am a changed and better person!

Year 12 Student, Abbotsleigh, Wahroonga, 2005

I would just like to say thanks for the emails because they are really good and they give me a real energy boost, about things that are going on in life and around the world and that it is possible to achieve your dreams and goals.

Year 12 Student, Marist Sisters College, Woolwich, 2005

I go to Reddam House. Glen came to our Year 12 camp and I really enjoyed your talk and found it extremely motivating. Ever since then I have been receiving the Oxygen newsletters. Thank you very much for your fantastic motivational talk, it was greatly appreciated.

Year 12 Student, Reddam House, North Bondi, 2005

I’m from Abbotsleigh. You came to our camp and I found your talk to be the best 5 hour seminar I’ve ever been to. Most seminars I loose concentration after about 10 mins, but yours I didn’t loose concentration once. The talk I found was extremely motivational and I believe it has changed my life already. I just wanted to let you no that you are an inspiration and well done!

Year 10 Student, Abbotsleigh Wahroonga, 2005

I think that if you can impact my life so dramatically, my goodness, what can you do for everyone else!? I’ve never really cared about life and school and marks. I guess I’m what you would call a floater, no goals or anything because I figured that if I had none then I would never be disappointed with myself or life. Ges was I wrong. When I was told we were having a motivation day I seriously considered not coming because I love to help people but not to help myself. Since the day Glen came and spoke to us I have picked my self up and started to have aims in my life. I just wanted you all to know at the Oxygen Factory that you have taught me how to life again and I wanted to thank you all.

Year 12 Student, Mercy Catholic College, Chatswood, 2005

Just a thank you email for the seminar you gave today at Mercy College. I admired Glens energy, motivation and enthusiasm and - just wanted to let you know that last year Glen dared us to skip whenever we were mad. I did this after a very aggravating argument with one of my brothers, and I have never laughed at myself so much in my life. It mad me smile and my "bad mood" was gone almost instantly and I still do it. The positive ways of thinking you shared with us are so effective and can change anything. All one needs to do is smile and things start to look better. So thank you for your encouragement and wonderful advice. It is something I wont forget. I would love to come work for such an organization so I can motivate others the way I have been motivated. Thank you again.

Year 12 Student, Mercy Catholic College, Chatswood, 2005

THANKYOU SO MUCH OF OUR RAVENSWOOD CAMP! It helped me so much! Everyone at school is still buzzing at how fantastic you guys made the camp. THANKS AGAIN I really appreciated it.

Year 11 Student 2005, Ravenswood, Gordon, 2005

I am currently a year 11 student at Santa Sabina College in Strathfield. Today we had a study skill day which was performed by your organization, Oxygen Factory. I was blown away with the knowledge and education that I learnt today, and wanted to personally congratulate you on the great job and services that you provided.

Year 11 Student, Santa Sabina College, Strathfield, 2005

I just wanted to thank you for teaching me how to believe in myself and to set goals. The afternoon after your seminar I put your theory's straight to work. After school I went to a softball match. In the bus on the way there I said to my team-mates "if you believe you can do it, you will achieve it, just keep your mind on your goal". When I said that I wasn't actually listening to what I was saying until afterward when I thought to myself... "that guy really hit me with that concept". Well I hope you are happy to know that our 'usual average' team not only won the game but we won by 19 points!!! Then again, after the game, I went straight to a dance lesson. We were taught the moves and then the music was put on. Just before we were about to start I closed my eyes, I thought to myself "I can do anything I set my mind to, I am GREAT" I pictured myself doing the moves with style, not forgetting one step. I opened my eyes and straight away, I was dancing with my head up high, each movement had power, I felt as if I was the best dancer in the world. I USED YOUR TECHNIQUES, AND THEY WORKED!!! Thank you again for a great day. You helped me so much! Before each task that I find difficult, or I believe I did not do previously with my full potential, I will just look inside and find it. I now know.... Each day I am going to be MAGNIFICENT.

Year 10 Student, Masada College, St Ives, 2005

My school just recently had Glen in to talk to my grade about motivation and I felt I needed to write an e-mail to express the impact it had on my life. I have had a sporting dream for the last 4 years, and although I felt it was always what I wanted, my situation constantly felt hopeless after constant demoralizing losses at competitions. I related directly to Glen's speech because he detailed the problem I was having and taught me the way to change my situation and begin my new path to my dream. I now feel more motivated and highly capable of achieving my dream, and since the speech have already had an improvement in my physical and mental approach to my sport. Thank you the advice oxygen factory has given me, I hope that many more people my age can have the same internal change that I have had.

Student - Hills Grammar School

I am a student from Monte. I have already thanked you Glen for the sessions, but I wanted to express my thanks once more. You see I want you both to remember me. Because when I am Australia's greatest actor, I want you to understand that you both were the reason for me finding my destiny in life and therefore the reason for my success. Glen I honestly believe that you suffered that illness because you as a person were able to not only create a dream and achieve it but help others in realizing their dreams and passionately impact my life and also many others so dramatically, that the sky is now the limit for success. I now am the person I have always wanted to be, and you both have made me realize that I do have the courage to be me.
I honestly can not thank you enough.

Year 11 Student, Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College, North Sydney

Glen, Thank you so much for the seminar you held for us! I really have never been so inspired in my life. And while I was at the camp I really could feel myself change. I also had 2 of the best nights of my life with the karaoke and 80's roller disco! I became a more confident and positive person. What you have told us has stuck in my head and I know it won't be going anywhere. Every time I think of something negative it automatically changes into a thought, then something positive. I can tell my life will be changed from now on, and I thank you SO SO much!

Year 11 Student, Monte Sant' Angelo Mercy College, North Sydney

I know you said you get a lot of emails all saying pretty much the same thing but I wanted to thank you for the seminar you held today at Kincoppal. Some of the things you said today really touched me and I can't tell you how thankful I am that you shared your stories with us. Your strategies really do help and on my way home after your seminar I've become aware of my negative self-talk and am trying to block it out and act more positively.
That's only two hours and I already feel like I need to change. All three sessions were great, especially the third session - It's a great way to end the day also. I got a little emotional in the paradigm part but I feel better letting it all out. The quotes you shared with us throughout the day were so inspirational. So thank you again for speaking to us today.

Student - Kincoppal Rose Bay

I just want to say that you have really inspired me to have a dream and to really stick with it. You taught me to just not give up, but to look beyond what I see. Thank you lots and lots. I am just stunned with what you have taught me.

Student - Canterbury Girls High School

I just want to thank Glen for what he did for me at my school a few weeks ago. One of the members in our year group died the weekend after Glen attended our school but because of his talk and the tools he gave me I was able to work through the bad time but still not loose sight of what I wanted. I feel that it is now my duty not only for myself but for everyone else around me to become what I have the potential to be, everyday I read over what you showed us and I have the motivation to do things. I'm in the gym three days a week, I'm doing more school work than ever, things finally seem to be falling into place.

Year 11 Student - Chevalier College, Bowral

I was at the session you held today at Masada College and just wanted to say that it was absolutely fantastic! We all walked in there thinking we were going to have to listen to another boring speaker drag on and on… but we were wrong. I just thought that you should know thatwe all left with something that we were not expecting . I think you started a lot of us on our personal road and I just thought I’d say thank you! Just to give you a bit more feedback- your session was talked about the whole day amongst the whole year. Thank you so much for doing what you do and encouraging so many of us to go out there and achieve our dreams!

Year 11 Student - Masada College

You came to talk at our school the other day about 'living on purpose' and it really had impacted me. It got me thinking about what’s happening to me. Me and my friends came up to you after your speech and said it was the best kind of 'motivational' talk we've ever had. Thank you so much for coming and talking, it has changed my whole perspective on life.

Year 9 Student - Northern Beaches Christian College

I just wanted to send you out a huge thank you for coming to my school, and opening my eyes to what i couldn’t see before. Your presentation was nothing like i expected - it was fun and interesting. Our grade never listens to guest speakers - ever! but I looked around while you were talking, and I’ve never seen our grade so quiet for two hours. We were all engrossed in your story and message that you shared with us. Itwas amazing - we were walking out and people were crying, people were laughing. It was like this huge weight had been taken off our shoulders, and we could really start to enjoy what we had. Today I heard my mate yelling "if you tell a generation they came from nothing......they'll start to believe and act like it". It was as if the phrase was tattooed on his forehead - and then everyone else started saying it too. It had an awesome effect on us, and you are the one to thank for it.

We are organizing an annual year 11 charity Fashion Show, and it has opened our eyes to how important it really is in the grand scheme of things. It just made me think about what is really important at the moment. Sure the fashion show is the climax of our year 11 careers, but i now realize that it isn’t the be-all and end-all of our young lives. So thank you once again, for making us see that we aren’t what we could be, and should be - and the only way to go, is forward, towards success. You are inspirational and a fantastic speaker.

Year 11 Student - Masada College

Today we had a man visit my school and give an amazing presentation on Motivational Training. This man was so powerful, engaging, interesting and inspiring, I really wish i could personally tell him what a fantastic job he did and what an inspiration he was to me. Hopefully this message will get to this man because I feel he really deserves recognition for his fabulous work. His seminar today has already began to make an impact on my life. I’m in the position at the moment deciding what direction I want to take in my life and having this inspiring 2 hour session today has began leading me in the right direction. Even on the bus home today I started imaging where I could be in 10 years time, what importance my life has. Basically I was totally blown away with the great achievements that this man has gained in life at such a young age. I was interested to see the battles he has gone through and his passion for athletics. I have been running for 10 years now and know the great thrill you get when you win. Or the excitement and joy you feel when you finally beat the one person you never thought you could. With this winning spirit in me I hope I can achieve what I strive for in life.

Year 11 Student - Brigidine College St Ives

I'm sending this to show my thanks and appreciation for your great motivational seminars. After attending your seminar in Year 9, 2002, I came away thinking of all the opportunities that life has to offer and to make something every day of my life. This was all well and good as an intention, but as the days passed my mind was flooded with many other thoughts and it all seemed too hard. When I heard of your seminar again in 2003 I was really looking forward to it.

As I expected, your seminar on motivation and goal setting was really inspiring and made think again. After previously trying to set goals and motivate myself I had the intention of making something of my life. Your seminar made me stop and think and view my life differently. Because of your great motivation and inspiration, i wrote my mission statement and a set of goals. After doing this I constantly pushed myself to achieve those goals and to live by my mission statement.

After setting 5 goals I have achieved 3 which I attempted and am looking good to achieve the others. I thank you for all you work with your motivational seminars, and wish you well with everything that you do. You are an inspiration and a life changer. thank you.

Year 10 Student - Waverley College

A few weeks ago you came to our school for the motivational training lesson. The things that you spoke about have stuck in my head and have been inspiring me ever since.

Year 10 Student - Loreto Kirribilli

What you said has impacted my life immensly. My dream has always been to one day play Rugby League for a first grade side. One of the myths you brought up in your speech was "I have no time to complete my dream". This is true for me. I get up at 6:10 every morning to go to school so I can make the train. I study hard all day at school then get home at 4:30 and have to get into my homework. By the time that is done it is 7:00 and it is dark. I have no time! Can you please help me find a way to find time to chase my dream. It is the dream I have had since I can remember. Some people may mock me but with your help I will do it.

Year 9 Student - Waverley College

I just wanted to write and say thank you SO much for your efforts on the talk! It was amazing! When I heard we had a "motivational talker" I had to admit I groaned and thought “great, here comes some old man with glasses telling us how important school and studying is” and boy, were my expectations wrong! You presented a relevant topic to our age group in a most entertaining way! I know as a teenager many of us are "too cool" at times, but you managed to keep us not only interested but made us leave motivated... amazing stuff!

Thanks to your talk, I know that I can achieve my dream myself, I don’t need to rely on anybody’s help or words, its all within me to achieve it and when I can, I’ll happily send all those who put me down a ticket to my first ballet!

Year 11 Student - St Vincents College

Throughout all of these experiences that I have had the pleasure to witness, your amazing motivating insights towards life, you have amazed me! Your look upon life is absolutely inspirational. When you spoke about you past and terrible days you had experienced through being sick, and then starting X-treme with $2, you made me realise that my problems in life are nothing to what other people go through. That problems and life-issues can be overcome through the right steps.

You're insight through life cannot be put into words. If i had known that there were people like you whilst I was going through the worst parts of my past, i don't think it would have been so bad. You're passion for life and connection to young people throughout Australia is AMAZING! When you asked my grade to put down a dream then make that dream bigger and bigger; mine was to help the young people of the world and realise that there is more to life than to curl up in a corner and wish it all away. That dream still remains in my mind, and with your group session I realised it could be possible.

Year 12 Student - Brigidine College

Thank you for coming to speak to us at our retreat...it really cleared up a lot of issues that were stressing me out previously and I was so relieved to be able to forget about them and just be myself! It also made me realise how stupid some of my thoughts and actions had been so thank you for clearing the clouds!

I’d also like to thank you from the bottom of my heart as the day after I returned from retreat, my sister was having a lot of self-esteem issues and she was very down on herself and very upset. My family all sat down and had a talk. What helped most was what you had taught us at the retreat and previously in your other seminars. I was able to tell her to think about all the positive things in her life and to not let the negative thoughts take over. This has really helped my family as well, as it has put less pressure on my parents to deal with my sister's outbursts since she is quite happy now and is more willing to open up to people. I really believe it was the lessons that you taught us that provided me with the words to tell my sister how important she is and that she really matters. There are really not enough words to describe my gratitude and appreciation. Please continue working with the Tara students because I can see now that it really does help and make a huge difference...I can't wait for you to come and speak to my sister's year!

Year 11 Student – Tara Anglican School for Girls

I just wanted to say that it genuinely helped me, because much like yourself, I was diagnosed with an incurable
condition and before this, much like you again, I was an athlete, I played netball for Sydney, and netball was my life. Despite all things that have been hard now I am so thankful for absolutely everything I have. My one dream in life is to be somebody, and I want to do that through netball, and I’m telling you now I will do it, even though I have absolutely everything against me. Most of us, came out of your talk yesterday full of adrenaline, because you made us believe that we can actually do it, it doesn’t just happen in the movies. For me it confirmed that I was on the right track, and I do have the right attitude.

Year 11 Student – Meriden College

You might not remember me but you came to our school for seminars and just want to thank you so much because you've changed my life dramatically!!! You’re my hero now!!
Today i was blown away with your talk with us. I am sure that you get 100's of emails every day with people my age saying how good it was, however it really was awesome. I would like to thank you again for taking us. I have learnt many valuable lessons, and was inspired immensely.
I have told my parents and teachers how brilliant you were (and are).

Year 10 Student – Masada College

Can I say how amazing and life changing you seminar was to all of us at Masada College. I know that you must get emails like this all the time, just remember how special and true each one is. I could spend 3 hours complementing you on the seminar.

Year 10 Student – Masada College

Dear Glen,

I am writing this because you saved my life. You made me realise that I'm not alone and that I have so much to live up too. I have potential and aspirations that I can reach.
As I write this I think : "I am pretty, I am smart, I am loved".
You taught me that life is worth living and I am so very very thankful for that. The doctors say that I no longer have depression. But I owe it ALL to you.
I am now writing a book to show young adults that it is ok and that there are people out there who can help and that it's not the end. You literally saved me.
Thank you Glenn. You saved my life.

Student, Daramalan College ACT, 2010

Hi Glen. I just wanted to thank you for one of the articles on your blog about worry. Your take on the topic has put a bit of light into something which has been stressing me out to a critical level. I hope that it helps me get through it so i can continue my life and achieve my goals. P.S. Thank you for sending me the first email. It couldn't of come at a better time.

Student, October 2009

Hi today I sat on of Glens sessions and I was highly inspired. That afternoon I went down to the local restruant and asked for work experience and they happly said 'yes'. I just want to thank Glen for helping me find courage and hope for the best. 

Student, June 2009

Glen, you came and visited my school last year for a seminar. I remember the day before thinking "This is probably going to be another one of those bludges, where you pretend to act interested to get a day off school". Thing was, you not only got us all involved but you inspired me and many friends. After I sat through your seminar I raced home and jumped on the computer and did some research. I then triumphantly walked out of my bedroom, down stairs and into the loungeroom where my mother was watching television.
"Mum," I said "I would like to spend 10 months in Spain." I honestly don't think I've ever seen a more surprised look on anyones face.
I then spent hours describing all you had told us, and by the end of it my mother had a look of respect on her face.
Long story short I am now in Spain, spending time with a completely new family and trying to fit in within the community. I try my hardest to put all your actions to work, and I brought along not only the workbook you gave us on the day, but your book you gave to me.
I would just like to thank you for all you have given me, and the gift you have passed on through Oxygen Factory. 

Student , June 2009

Hi Glen, just emailing you to thank you again on coming in and making me realise how bad i want my dream to one day play professional rugby to come true. Just thought i should let you know that my older brother shares the same dream as i do and from me telling him about your talk made him realise how bad he wants it also. This has made him come to a decesion on  that he will hopefully be leaving Australia shortly to persue a rugby career in Europe. Thank you so much again.

Hi Glen,
 
I was asked to thank you on behalf of Clayfield College for your seminar. It wasn't until that day I realised how much strain and stress I was putting on myself about my life after high school. I'm a control nut and hated the fact I did not know where I was going once I graduated.
University was on the cards but nothing was certain, until your seminar kicked me back into reality. I have two older brothers, one who's a floater and has driven my parents crazy; I want to make a difference and I want to change MY world. I just didn't know how.
I almost lost my mother in a 4WD accident two years ago and it has taken me this long to realise I've been playing it safe. It's time to take action, pick a course, do what I love, change MY world.
I've decided to chase my dream of property development (it was either that of a global singing career :)! )  And hey you never know, I may still win Australian Idol.
 
Thank you for your words, your story, your inspiration. Sorry I had to be the one girl to cry on you!

 
Student, Clayfield College, Brisbane, 2010

Dear Glen,

Thank you so much for the book, it couldn’t have come at such a better time. Year 12 was by far the hardest year of my life, but the positive attitude your book ‘Get your hopes up’, helped me to get through the toughest of times. After being appointed college captain in late 2008 I could not have been happier, and as planned, 2009 got off to a great start. However, early in the year I injured myself at school sports training. For months of physiotherapy and trips to the surgeon it was decided that i required spinal surgery and would never be able to run or play sport again. My grades had already fallen due to absenteeism, and would continue to do so while i was away for surgery; and they did. Each day i could feel my dreams of studying medicine slipping away and i was feeling lower than ever.

After surgery, and a number of complications that came with it, I remained at home for weeks, barely able to walk. When returning to school, only for 2 days a week, i was bombarded with assessment and requirements as captain. The workload just created more stress, and having to travel for 4 hours a day to go to school didn’t help either. On top of all of this, I had only been back to school full time for 2 weeks after having operation, when I began suffering a number of fainting episodes. I was at breaking point, crying almost every night; an emotional wreck. It was around this time that my sister, Lauren, emailed you with regards to my condition.

Thank you so much for the copy of your book. I was close to giving up on my schoolwork and rehab, but knowing that it is possible to turn everything around helped me out. Get Your Hopes Up allowed me to learn from my experience and apply this knowledge and experience to the rest of my year. I was happy that i wasn’t in a wheelchair, and for once appreciated my health. It also helped me to appreciate my network of support; my family and friends. Although i will not achieve the grades to get into medicine, i have not given up hope. Next year i will be moving to the Gold Coast and studying Physiotherapy at Griffith University. This will allow me to help others, both with m condition as well as in worse circumstances. From my experiences and my final year of schooling i was also accepted into Honours college which is a prestigious opportunity that allows for traveling and wider learning during a chosen course at university. So i guess after reading your book i am able to recognise my injury to some degree as a blessing in disguise. Get Your Hopes up has taught me to believe in myself, and never give up on my dream and purpose, have faith and make the most of every opportunity.

Student, Brisbane, 2009

Hey Glen, You wouldn't remember me but you came and spoke at my school earlier this year. During that time I felt like my life had no direction and that I wasn't going forward or backwards just stuck in the one place. I do horse riding professionally and because the long hours school took up I couldn't achieve what I wanted, the step I needed to take was to become home schooled. It seemed like an easy enough decision but home schooling is still not accepted as being normal especially among kids my age. I knew that if i was home schooled people would have a few things to say behind my back, your talk at my school really helped me find that inner strength to throw all of that to the wind and take up home schooling. I have to say thank you because with all my extra time I am now able to move forward and train more. Just got back from state championships!!! And I may be selected in the 2010 Queensland Young Rider squads :) As well as these achievements I have also found who my real friends are, the ones who have stuck by me even though we don't go to the same school. I just had to email to say thank you and I wish you all the best.
 
Student 2009

Glen, I honestly cant thank you enough for what you have made me see and believe. You spoke to my school and completelly changed my life from then on. I never used to believe that my life was worth anything, or that I was good enough to do anything but ever since you spoke to me and my school I completelly changed my mind. My biggest goal is to get a UAI above 95 at school and be a dentist, you asked me that too at the seminar, but I never believed that I could actually do it before you. Thanks to you now I believe in myself and my dreams and I believe that my life is worth fighting for and that my goals are worth achieving. I hope that everyone in the world is able to hear you speak at least once in their lives because I'm sure the world would be the way you want it to be...less suicidal =]. Thank you so much glen.

Student, Oct 2009

Hearing you speak today at our yr 12 camp was just amazing! It has made me able to see a new perspective in my life and I came out of the seminar feeling a little more confident than I was when I came in. My central problem right now is having no self-esteem because of my past marks and comments I have got from people around me about them. But now, I think I can have a better state of mind and concentrate on my future not the past!!!!
Thank you!

Yr 12 Student 2009

Dear Oxygen Factory, In 2008 Glen brought his 'Day of Hope' program to our school in Toowoomba; St Ursula's College, and filled our heads with dreams and possibilities. I dreamt of starting a cause/campaign for teenagers around the world to make a difference, and from Glen's talk, i took the courage and started my campaign. As i am only in grade 12 this year, my next dream is to start speaking in schools about my campaign Free2B (www.myspace.com/free2b_you) and although i don't know how i will make this dream come true; I just wanted to say thank you for allowing me to dream. I am forever grateful for changing my life!!

Student, St Ursula's Collge Toowoomba QLD, June 2009

Dear Glen, I'd like to thank you once again for inspiring my friend and i to persist with our band. THANK YOU! I will keep you posted on our progress, but as of yet, there is none. We've little money but big dreams, and with the coaching you gave us on Friday, we will put all we've got into it and one day reach our goals and live our dreams. Thank you.

Student, May 2009

Hi there. Glen spoke at my school  this year and he really inspired me to strive towards my dream of playing soccer in the USA. That dream is almost here as I have been accepted into a program where they will try and get me a scholarship to a college by promoting my talents. 

Student, Calvary Christian College, Feb 2009

You came to my school earlier this year and the stuff you said was just amazing. I was recently reading the booklet you handed to us at retreat and it reminded me of the goals I need to set. I am about to set my goals but I remember you saying that its better to set your goals in the sky and hit a tree, then aiming for a tree and hitting a rock (so I'm taking that into consideration!). I have recently changed my tennis club so i can reach my full potential. Since hearing you I have been doing some of my best work at school. When I lost faith, I open your book and read it. The next step for me is to turn my life of failure and wreckage into a life of faith, hope and positivity. Sorry it has taken me so long to write but being 15 and ready to change the world, it has taken me a lot of thinking. I'm sure that with the knowledge you taught me i will do it one step at a time. I will do something.

Year 10 Student Mercy College Mackay, October 2008

 
Today you came to my school and did seminar which really meant a lot to me. And also you came to my school previous to that and spoke to all the leaders of the school and reaching your goal.  Well you talked about taking one step towards your dream.  I have taken that step after many months of work.  I have finally found a company that will take me on board as an apprentice carpenter for a 4 year course including tafe. Thanks for your motivation with your speeches. Thanks for your seminar today.

Student Southport State High School, August 2008 

Glen presented "Men Of Honour" to our school. Everyone thought Glen was great. He talked to us on our level and usually when adults talk to us about stuff like that they talk down to us. He gave us a lot to think about. I wish my dad could talk to me about stuff like that. You made so much sense.

Student Southport State High School, August 2008

I will never forget the day you came and opened my eyes and made me the person i am today. I still have the "Day Of Hope" workbook and look at it all the time. I remember when you told us to write down a dream. I am a dancer and have always wanted to make it big but lacked confidence to succeed. That same year i auditioned for Brent Street and i got in. I am currently studying Year 11 and will continue into Year 12. I have already done a music video clip called "The Only One" by Bertie Blackman which is played everywhere on Video Hits and Mtv. I dance with the Tap Dogs and they have personally told me that i am one of the best female tappers they have ever seen. My dream that i wrote in a little book of hopes has now become a true reality and will continue to. I would have never been able to achieve this if it wasn't for you and i'm so grateful. I treat this little book of hopes like my bible, it is something that i know i can look at when im ever in doubt or having a bad day.

Former Student Mercy College QLD, May 2008

Ok, so I just got home after an absolutely brilliant seminar and decided I should email you straight away simply because so many things you said today just hit home. I won't go on about how educating, excellent and empowering your seminar was but to be honest it was so much more than that, I'm sure you already know that. It's not very often in life you come across people such as yourself and I am looking forward to being an active addition to your inbox! Oh and you should probably know that I'm not really a huge sook, but yes I cried, twice! But thinking about it now, I know this is just one of those topics that I'm pretty emotional about. Mostly because I am afraid of going wrong, not choosing the right path but after your talk today, I know that failure is just a part of my journey, whether I like it or not. Thanks so much for this 'paradigm shift'!

Year 12 Student Forest Lake State High School QLD, April 2008

I just had to say thank you. You came to Forest Lake State High School about 2 weeks ago and I'm not sure if you remember but I said to you I wanted to be Prime Minister, and you told me that's great and to email my local member, and as soon as I got home I jumped on the net and emailed them, and for 2 weeks I got no reply and to be honest with you I didn't think they were going to reply, until today. I opened up my inbox and I couldn't believe it, my local senators secretary emailed me asking to arrange a meeting with him. I couldn't believe it, and it was all because one person believed in me, you! Thank you Glen. None of this would have happened if it wasn't for you! You are an inspiration to the world! Thank you.

Year 12 Student Forest Lake State High School QLD, April 2008

I'd like to say thank you! Today was such an experience that I will never forget. I had always thought about what certain people had said about me but now I realise today is a new day and I now know that I can do all I want and be all I want to be. If you are in Brisbane again I would love to catch up and let you know how it is going.

Year 12 Student Forest Lake State High School QLD, April 2008

I'd just like to say thank you for everything you said, it really opened my eyes and made me realise I need to stop saying the words, 'I can't'. I really enjoyed the Reality Check session. It really opened my eyes wider than what they have previously been. The Oxygen Factory helped me come to a life revolution. Everything you said to me made sense and I will use the techniques you gave me to the fullest extent.

Year 12 Student Forest Lake State High School QLD, April 2008

I just wanted to say that you really reached me. Lately I have been having second thoughts about pursuing my dream to be a famous Radio Host like my hero Hamish Blake because I've been told the industry is too small and there are too many other people with the same dream or it is just too hard. I'm really glad I got to hear you speak today, because you've reaffirmed my ambition to reach my goal of becoming a household name!When I have my own breakfast show on B105 or Nova 106.9 I'm inviting you on to talk to listeners about how you saved me from giving up and the awesome work you do with your program. Thank you so much for this gift, I won't forget it. However, you did make one mistake!... You should have gotten my autograph. It'll be worth lots of money some day!

Hope to see you again soon!

Year 12 Student Forest Lake State High School QLD, April 2008

Dear Glen,
Thank you for attending our school, it was awesome. I really liked what you said about reaching your dreams. It was a great day. Keep the dream!

Student Toowoomba Grammar School NSW, March 2008

Hey, I just wanted to thank-you so much for coming to my school I can say it was defiantly beneficial doing the boys session then having just us girls in the theatre where we could express ourselves without being embarrassed or shy. I must admit our group of girls has started a book that we filled with as many goals each that one of us keeps, we constantly remind ourselves of these goals and yes they are from all the sections of life you talk about. We all walked out of the room skipping with joy and feeling like we could do what ever we wanted as long as we put our minds to it. Its also safe to say that yeah we all have times when we feel like we cant do something and loose hope but I haven't had one of those moments since you came and talked to us last month! We all really love the quotes too and I saw one girl has a list of the inside her locker which is a great way before each class to remind ourselves to just keep going!

Thank-you so much and I hope you come back again when we are in years 11 and 12 so we can keep motivated throughout the rest of our schooling years!!

The year 10 girls from All Saints Anglican School, Gold Coast!

Student - All Saint Anglican School, Gold Coast QLD, March 2006

I just wanted to say thanks heaps for all the great advice you gave to us! I’ve been operating by a theory that you taught us "If at first you don’t succeed, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and try again!" Wow that’s one of the best things I’ve ever been taught. People have said it to me before but I never really took notice of it but now I have realized how powerful it is.

Year 11 Student Shalom Catholic College, Bundaberg QLD, 2005

I’m from Mercy College! You came to the Ocean International Thursday and Friday of this week to do your best to inspire us year 10 students... and let me tell you what.... I really think u did! After just the 2 days with you everyone couldn’t stop talking about you. I would just like to say THANK you so much. You really did inspire me. You were great. I hope you come back to Mercy. I know everyone would love that. Tell your wife she has to be the luckiest women on earth to have someone so inspirational husband. THANK YOU\

Year 10 Student Mercy College Mackay, 2005

Glen... I don’t know how to explain what you did for me and ALL the other students of Mercy College! You were great. We all did enjoy you greatly for being there!!! I think its so great what you are doing for kids our age, and from reading some of the emails from other students from different schools, it shows that what your saying does really get through to people. I would just like to say thank you.

Year 10 Student Mercy College Mackay, 2005

I am a grade 11 student from Shalom College, Bundaberg. I just really want to say thanks you for coming and giving us the "Day of Hope" talk. It was awesome. It was only about two years ago that I gave up on my dream that I had since I was little. I have now decided that I am going to go after my dream. Thanks heaps for coming. I got a lot out of it.

Year 11 Student Shalom Catholic College, Bundaberg QLD, 2005

I just wanted to say thanks for your talk today. I always find it so motivational listening to you speak. I always feel so good about myself once you finish, and feel that I can do anything.. no matter how impossible it seems. I came home this afternoon and told Mum all about what you had to say and she was really impressed. She thought it was well worth going to and she even said she would have liked to be there. Thanks so much Glen. You are a true inspiration to everyone. Thank you again.

Year 10 Student Shalom Catholic College, Bundaberg QLD, 2005

I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciate having you talk to our grade today. It really made a lot of us think. My whole group was discussing your seminar for hours after it. We really do appreciate everything you said. Thank you so much for your time. You were so inspiring. You have motivated me, and inspired to me to be better. I’m not very smart when it comes to school, but everything you said made me think. And I appreciate it a lot. Thank you so much for everything.

Year 11 Student 2005, Townsville Grammar School, Townsville QLD

Firstly, thank you for a great talk. You taught us a strategy which I use nearly every day. It was the one where we say to ourselves each morning, "I will be magnificent". I actually used that strategy at the gym after the first day. I want to tell you about a PB that I achieved in discus. I was at the Winter Championships for athletics and I was doing discus. I remembered the strategy you taught us and I used it. I threw a PB of 23.78m and got a silver medal. Thank you SO much for everything.

Year 10 Student 2005, Mercy College, Mackay QLD

Thank you so much for coming to All Saints Anglican School a few weeks ago. You told us that we had to set a target for ourselves, I thought I could not do that as I was scared of trying things and failing at them. But after I heard you, I tried to go surfing and it was totally successful!!! How excellent was that!! I could not believe that I could stand on the surf board for a while!! Also I set a target which was I had to join in the football club at school and became a goalkeeper. Although it was extremely hard but finally I succeeded!!! The feeling of success is amazing!!! Thank you very much for suggesting to me that we had to set a target to ourselves and to 'Keep Hope Alive'. Thank you so much again.

Year 10 Student 2005, All Saints Anglican School, Merrimac QLD

YOU ROCK! You really inspired me to persevere more towards my goals and you have given me more confidence. I believe in myself more.Thanks for your inspiration, because now I want to help people to realise their own dreams, just like you opened my eyes to all the possibilities that I never allowed myself to think possible.

Year 9 Student - Moreton Bay College

I'm a year 11 student at St Columban's college. I just wanted to say thank you for your very inspirational session with us today! I am so grateful that you came and spoke to our group today! It was so helpful! Since last year I have been going down a dead-end road and I thought I was stuck for a while until today! Last year one of my friends was diagnosed with cancer for the 2nd time and I lost a friend to suicide and I wasn't coping! This year I started to get things back together, but I got to a certain point where I didn't know to where else I could go because I thought I could get by with my friends and family's belief in me, but I never thought you needed to believe in yourself to feel good, as stupid as it sounds!

I thought I wanted to do law, and I knew everything about the courses like how to get in and everything. But I have been thinking for the last few months that I wouldn't be happy doing it and it was only for money! And today you helped me find out what I wanted to do, and like you said, its something I have a strong passion for, and I believe in it with all my heart! I'm on the internet now looking up various sites about human rights! I basically want to do what Nelson Mandela did. I want there to be more equality in the world! I'm slowly trying!

Thank you so much Mr Gerreyn, you are such an inspiration! And I'm hoping to be able to attend one of the upcoming camps! Thank you for all your time and sharing your story and helping all the people you have helped. Congratulations on making it so far and with only enough money to buy a coffee! Congratulations!
Thank you so much for everything!

Year 11 Student - St Columban's college

A week ago you came to my school and I just want to thank you. You have motivated me to carry out my dreams even though they might seem a bit silly. Glen what you are doing is a great thing and I wouldn't miss out on your next one. Thank you again and not just from me but also from many of my friends.

I was at your talk today and I was really inspired by the things you said. I found it much more informing than...well...pretty much all of the speakers that come to our school. I understood exactly what you were talking about, because I have come across most of the things you were talking about in the fight to get my dream happening. I really loved the whole day; I thought the way you presented was absolutely brilliant and you really engaged everyone in the grade...and believe me, that is incredibly hard to do with our grade.

Year 11 Student - St Columban's College QLD

I just want to thank you again for the awesome seminar you did at our school. I wasn't the only one who really really enjoyed it. It's great to get the motivation and inspiration which you gave us. YOUR'E ALWAYS WELCOME BACK TO OUR SCHOOL.

Year 10 Student - Mercy College, Mackay, QLD

I was one of the students you came to talk to at Mercy College. With some of the sheets that we had to fill in, especially the one about ourselves, it made me realize how life is not as bad as I thought and that there are some really great people I look up to, and there are so many great things I would love to do. Lately, my social life has been very low, and when I come home to my family, my family life is low also. I gave up for a while and thought that I was too dumb to do anything and that I may as well drop out of school at the end of this year, (Year 10) as I'm not good at school. With the help from you, you showed me that you should always try to achieve your goals and if you try hard enough, you'll get there. I have decided now that I will stay in school and try my hardest with tutoring for the subjects I struggle with. I want to go to University and be an English teacher and a Social worker. I want to be able to help people like you helped me. Thank you Glen!

Year 10 Student - Mercy College, Mackay, QLD

Thank you for the awesome motivational presentation you gave at my school today. I wanted to specifically say that until today I had never given any in depth consideration towards the inspirational goals in which I 'can' achieve with ambition, and also the achievable dreams and possible ideas awaiting us, able to be implemented.

Although I'm sure you receive literally hundreds of similar emails to my own, I was hoping you would be able to read this one in-particular and realize the extensive gratitude and appreciation made not only by myself, but also my fellow classmates.

So thanks again Glen, I feel as though you are an important idol in my life, which I look up to and admire through your determination and non-stop motivational attitude towards life.

Year 11 Student - Ipswich Girls Grammar

Thank you so much for everything you did. I haven't lived a very happy life. I have never really had any self confidence, but, I have learnt from your talk that people should follow there dreams and that is exactly what I am going to do no matter what happens in my life. You are an inspiration to all the girls in grade 11 from Ipswich Girls’ Grammar and I thank you from the bottom of my heart, for you will never know how big of an impact your seminar had on us all.

Year 11 Student - Ipswich Girls Grammar

Your speech inspired me SO much. I didn't know what to expect of it when I heard we were going to speak...but as soon as you started, I suddenly listened...and loved it! It taught me so much - and from now on, I'm using the things I learnt as my life ethics, like "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything".

I know this sounds self centered and shallow, but your experience, with the disease, kind of reminded me of my own problem and how sometimes you have to replant your goals. I know my situation was nothing compared to yours.....but I just wanted to say thank you as it helped me improve my situation.

From now on I'm going to listen to my spirit and I'm going to take the risk that I may get it, rather than the assumption that I won't. I'm going to be active and make things happen, rather than passive which I have always been and wait for them to happen... Thank you again.

Year 11 Student - Sandgate High School

Before you came and did that GREAT presentation, I was seriously thinking about moving schools and moving out of home, I was always fighting with mum and dad, doing really bad at school and weren’t happy with my friends. I thought I had it really really bad!! Glen after you spoke you fully woke me up and made me realise that I really did have it really good!!! And thanks to you now I’m staying this whole year at my school and after that I'm going to a hairdressing college I got in to (finally I get to live my dream). I realized I have the best, most loving friends I could ask for in the world, I have two caring loving parents I get along WITH GREAT NOW and I’m staying at home and well the school work… its getting there. So I would just like to say thanks very much, I could never repay you back for this. Thanks again.

Year 10 Student - St Columban's College

Although your seminar was only today I really thought I should just email you and let you know again how much I truly enjoyed your inspirational day today. Every session really reached me, especially the part about you not having bad days, ad how our language shapes our lives. Those two topics alone have challenged me already and I hope and intend to see a big turn around in just day to day life because of these things.

I am certain that everyone there today has been changed whether it be slightly of dramatically. You really reached everyone and have a gift of just being so down to earth and on teenagers levels. You are seriously an inspiration and have changed my life my way of thinking and my dreams for the future. Thanks again, you have no idea how much I have taken in and how dramatically I have been impacted.

Year 11 Student - Brigidine College Brisbane

I wanted to thank you for your motivational speech as I feel like my world has turned up side down in a good way! I realize there is so much more in life than what's right in front of me and that I have so much more to achieve! I am also into athletics so right from the beginning you had my attention! I have states athletics this Thursday and Friday for the 200m and 400m! This afternoon when I came home from the seminar I had athletics training and I was running much better because I felt very positive and confident! Now I'm looking forward to my races instead of stressing like I normally would! When I came home from athletics I went and put my favorite CD on and danced around the room going crazy until I felt that wasn't enough and I started dancing in the kitchen around my mum who probably wonders what happened to me today! Anyway I would like to thank you again for making me realize the potential I have, so I can make something of my life! Now I won't stop achieving until I stop breathing!

Year 11 Student - Brigidine College Brisbane

I just wanted to say that I thought the day was totally awesome!!! It was definitely a worthwhile experience. You'll probably be glad to hear that it has been beneficial already - this afternoon at cricket when I was bowling I remembered some stuff you said and felt really confident... usually I find myself getting frustrated but today I bowled really well today! We ended up winning by 7 runs!

Year 11 Student - Brigidine College Brisbane

Thank you for your help. I had cross-country today and was like really nervous all day. I even had a dream about it last night. But I thought back to what you said about imagining the whole process and so I did. My friends and i even did the whole power move and the "I am the Greatest!" thing before our race started. That really helps boost your confidence! I came 5th in the race, out of yr 11. I did what you taught mean and aimed really high. Even though I didn’t reach my goal which was extremely high, but I am really happy because as you said "It's better to aim for the stars and hit a tree than aim for a tree and hit the rocks."

Year 10 Student - St Columban’s College

I just wanted to say thank you so much!! I always have trouble getting motivated but when I walked out of that Chapel I was on the biggest high and I felt so good about myself. It’s amazing that you had such a power over all of us and I know for a fact that everyone got something out of your talk. I admire you so much, you seem so happy about everything and I know we all have bad days but it seems that you would just handle them so much better than the rest of us! I just wanted to say that you are so amazing and you should be so proud of the effect you have on people, even just the aura you had when I walked into that room was so positive and encouraging. I wish I could have that same energy and positivity towards life as you do. Please keep doing what you do, there are so many young people that need your help. I can’t express how good your session was. I could have listened to you all day.

Year 12 Student - Brigidine College

I just wanted to say thank you so very much, for your inspirational speech. It did just that... inspired me. It changed the way I see things, and it made me feel so much more confident, within myself. I am also writing to tell you that one of my passions is writing poetry. I also love music. So I have always wanted to write a song. So I tried just that. And guess what? I DID IT! I wrote a song! I was so pleased with it, I told my friend about it. The most ironic thing happened though... the same night, without us even talking to each other, she had written a song on guitar... and she said to me, "Hey, show me those lyrics, I wonder if they fit with my music?". After about 5 minutes, she said to me, "These lyrics fit so perfectly!" and we had a song! I was so unbelievably stoked! She came over the next day, and she played the guitar to it, and we both sung. It felt so good to hear a song, that I wrote the words to, while my friend had written the music! So I just want to say thank you for inspiring me to write a song, and I will continue to write lyrics and poetry and one day, maybe I will be a famous songwriter, who writes songs for bands near and far.

Year 10 Student - Ipswich Girls' Grammar School QLD

Dear Glen, You came to my school a year ago and really inspired me. I remember you telling us the phrase "I think I can, I think I can, I know I can." or it was something like that. So that was the attitude I had whenever I went into a test, especially maths which im not to good at. I always chanted that saying in my head whenever i got stuck in the test...iIdidn't get anything lower then 95% for my maths tests last year, i also got an academic award. So thank you Glen, for helping me achieve something which seemed pretty impossible.

 Student, Aitkin College, March 2009

Hey glen, just wanted to say awesome seminar today!!!! So great and motivating!! Great job!! We all loved it and have taken something so powerful away from it.

Student, March 2009

Hello Glen, You did a seminar with our school today and it really turned me around. Thankyou Glen. My parents split when I was 12 and my father supports me more then anyone. He always has believed in me. He suggested to me to listen to Billy Joel's song  'We Didn't Start The Fire'. At the start of your presentation you talked about the generational trends. Billy Joel's song tells us that even though there was/is lots of things going on in the world we don't have to follow that trend of the past generations.
Thank you again.

Student, Alphington Grammar School VIC, February 2009

Glen came to Caroline Springs College in September and it is a day i will never forget. He spoke of inspiration, passion and life purpose. All of which hit a lot closer to home then i first intended as i walked into our schools auditorium that day. I never realised how one person could motivate me to challenge myself the way Glen did. I have always feared failure. Failing to not complete something i had always hoped for, so i always lowered the bar to make my dreams more accessible, yet, less than what i am capable of. After listening to Glen's presentation, my bar has been raised to new heights. No longer will i settle for what is easiest, what is acceptable to those around me, what is not expected. I will always challenge myself and WHEN i succeed it will be Glen i will look for to say 'Thank You', for what he said today has changed my life forever.

Year 12 Student Caroline Springs College, September 2008

The best part of the work experience week for me was when the guest speaker Glen Gerreyn spoke to us. Never before have I met such an amazing person, so full of ideas, so intelligent, so inspirational. To come from being so sick, not only health wise but also sick of life and who he had become to then get up and say, 'I'm not going to be nothing, I am going to do something with my life' and actually do everything you can to accomplish a goal so big, I just found that so amazing. Just listening to his words made me want to stand up and just change my life. During his talk I took a second to look around the room and see every single person in the room staring in amazement at Glen. For my year level who are notorious for being off task and immature to be in silence and amazement is a miracle in itself. He was so passionate and so successful, it has now motivated me to not waste my life and make the most of every opportunity and to never hold back from a dream.

Year 11 Student Cabra Dominican College VIC, April 2008

Dear Glen,

...at the beginning of 2006 you came to my school, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar as part of our prefect training. Of all the people in my life who have tried to inspire me to great things such as my parents, brothers, friends, teachers, motivational speakers you have without a doubt been the most successful. Your workshop that day was one of the most amazing days in my short 18 years. I remember you said to us that, ‘even if we only remember one story, one quote after today our lives will change forever.’ I even remember the analogy you used to illustrate this was a jet flying from Melbourne to LA and if the pilot were to change course by one degree, their destination would change by hundreds of miles. I wrote everything I could down that day and tried to cement every story into my memory. At the beginning of Year 12 it was my aim to get an enter score in the 90s preferably around 95 which is the requirement to get into my dream course, Commerce at Melbourne University. Before your workshop I was very doubtful. As soon as I got home after listening to you speak I printed off the number 97 in size 72 font and stuck it on my whiteboard and above the door in my room. I chose 97 just incase my course enter went up and because this score seemed almost impossible at the time. I wanted to prove myself wrong. Another goal of Year 12 was, as a house captain, to win the House Cup.

Throughout the year there were many, many times when I doubted myself, like when my English marks weren’t that great or when another house took out both house swimming and athletics (the biggest house events of the year), yielding the most points. At this stage not only did I think it was impossible to win the cup as no house has ever lost after winning both swimming and athletics, I was beginning to aim for a lower enter. I didn’t think I could ever do it. Thankfully your weekly newsletters kept me focused.

12 months on I can tell you that I got an enter score of 97.35, I have just finished the first week of Commerce at Melbourne University and my house won the House Cup. There are so many other things I achieved last year that I never thought possible, among them were winning the Australian School Sports Snowboard Championship and together with my year level raising $25, 000 in the annual Year 12 Charity Concert to build a school in Bangladesh, smashing the record by $7000. Thanks to you, nothing is impossible in my mind anymore. My next major goal is to graduate somewhere near the top of my class and eventually own a multi-million dollar company. When I do, I will be sure to donate money to the Oxygen Factory because if you can change the mind sets of many more kids like me then the work will be a much better place.

Thank you for everything, you have truly made a huge difference in my life. Keep up the incredible work.

Yours sincerely,
F. B …future multi-millionaire.

Year 12 student Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar, Ivanhoe VIC, 2006

Dear Glen,

Very early last year you gave a talk to a group of girls at my school (Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Melbourne) who were to be the prefect committee of 2006. At the time, I must admit I was extremely skeptical, having heard numerous 'motivational speakers' who had left me feeling energised for, at the most, one day after their talk. After you left, I felt that same energy that I usually did but this time it felt a little stronger. At the end of that week the feeling remained and I decided to try to overlook my previous skepticism and began to institute some of your suggestions.
I remembered you telling us a story about a rather obnoxious sounding young man who had put his dream ENTER score as his number plate. But that in forcing himself to see this everyday had enabled himself to believe that it was possible. Following this, I made two signs with my dream ENTER which would allow me to study full-fee Arts/Law at maybe the 4th or 3rd best University in Melbourne. I stuck one inside my desk cupboard, and the other on my bedside table where only I could see it. Sometimes, I did feel that I was setting unrealistic goals for myself, but having it there quite often also prompted me to get out of bed and revise, rather than have ten more minutes sleep. My mum told me later that one day whilst making my bed she had seen the sign and started crying, worried about the unrealistic goals I had set.Whenever my motivation lagged, your emails generally acted to give me a boost. When I could feel the stress of the year getting to me, I remembered your suggestion to picture myself 'on the other side' (of VCE, that is), with the marks that I wanted. In this way, I made it through exams with only a few teary nights, and knowing that I had given myself the best chance I could by reducing stress.When I got my marks in mid-December last year, I screamed and immediately began to cry. They were, to sound terribly clichéd, so far above anything I could ever have expected from myself that I made my mum call VTAC three times before I believed that she hadn't misheard or that there had been a technical error. My school performed exceedingly well last year, with 9 girls out of 120 over the 99.0 threshold. But of my year level, I got the second highest mark, as well as a perfect score in English. I apologise if this sounds arrogant, but I had promised myself that if your tactics worked, I would send you a letter thanking you. This, rather long-winded spiel is supposed to be that letter.At my school I've always been seen as a fairly good student - one that works hard and generally gets good marks, but not one of those girls that wins awards at our final night. My family and teachers genuinely expected me to get an ENTER of somewhere around the 93 mark. I'm not giving full credit to your strategies because I did put a lot of work into last year but I do know that they did have a very positive impact on my studying methods and mentality and that they certainly motivated me for much longer than a day!In the end I got into my first preference course. Furthermore, in late November I also received an offer of a partial scholarship to go to study in China for a year in 2007, which, despite early apprehension about whether I could cope, I accepted, remembering your advice to break down those mental limits that we set for ourselves.I'm not sure how many letters of this sort you receive and I've never really written one before either, but I wanted to keep my promise and genuinely thank-you for your stories and strategies.
I hope that all goes well for you in 2007.

Sincerely,
K. M

Year 12 Student 2006, Ivanhoe Girls’ Grammar, Ivanhoe VIC

A few months ago I had the privilege of attending one of your great workshops. I left the session with great hope and wanting to change the path I was on. This path was one of self doubt and anger, but after listening to you I felt I had the mental strength to change. I am also a bit of a dreamer, I dream of a better life than the one I am currently in. As you said I want to surround myself with good mentors and big thinkers so I am glad I have met you.

Year 9 Student 2005, St Kevin’s College, Toorak VIC

Year 9 Student 2005, Aitken College, Greenvale VIC

I just wanted to thank you for the things you taught me that day, because you really did make an impact in my life and make me think about things which I was too scared to think about before. Your talk gave me confidence to believe in myself. I have the confidence that the power is in ME!

Year 11 Student 2005, Sacre Coeur Glen Iris VIC

Year 10 Student Trinity College Blakeview SA April 2008

Firstly I would like to thank you so much for coming to our school and speaking with us. Your passion was so inspiring. It really caused an epiphany amongst the Year 11s.

Year 11 Student Loreto College Marryatville SA 2005

You helped me and the other students believe in ourselves more, to do our best in everything we do, not always listening to people on what they say about you. I would also like to thank you for making me know I can do anything if I put my mind to it. Thanks for your speech which motivated me to try new things. Your talks will help people very much now or in the future. I believe you are giving people more hope and opportunity and you are a great role model for us students. I believe all the students enjoyed your talk because after you left they kept on talking about you. Hope you can come back to our school again and good luck in the future.

Year 10 Student Trinity College Blakeview SA

Everyone should see this session. I never would have believed I could achieve my dreams but now I see that there is no limit to my potential. You showed me that to picture an unachievable dream isn’t dangerous. I have realised that in order to succeed in life, I have to believe.

Glen, this was such an amazing presentation. It will change a generation of teenagers. You make people believe in themselves so that they can achieve amazing things. You showed me the importance of studying hard this year so that my results will open doors and create new opportunities.

Year 12 Student St Mary's Anglican Girls' School, 2009

Hi Glen, Yesterday you started, or I should say, you re-flamed my dream and desires. i hope and pray that you will continue inspire this generation. Wow is all i can say, I had a dream but now i have a vision. Thank you.

Student 2009

I understood everything. This made more sense to me then anything else I’ve been told before. You have made me understand that I have the ability to control my own life, mood and direction. I will improve my attitude for the future.

Year 12 student St Mary's Anglican Girl's School WA, 2008

This is the first time I have heard anyone tackle the questions you did.You helped me to specify what my dream is.  Now I’m thinking about what I want in life. Today has opened up so many possibilities that I never looked at before.

Year 12 student St Mary's Anglican Girl's School WA, 2008

I came into the seminar like a leaf blowing in the wind, with an unclear future. I leave feeling like an engine, tuned and ready to hit the road.

Year 12 student St Mary's Anglican Girl's School WA, 2008

Year 12 Student Presbyterian Ladies College, 2007

Year 12 Student St Mary's Anglican Girls' School, 2007

I thought this was one of the most enthusiastic speeches I’ve ever heard.

The seminar made me think about my life and where I’m going. Glen made me realise that I am actually worth something and that I can make an impact. I need to work out my talents and find out how I can use them to do something positive.

Student of Swan Christian College, 2006

He was one of the best speakers I have heard, he just got to the point. It makes me want to get up and do something different. By the end I had a new look on things. It has helped lift my spirit. I found it very inspirational and interesting, giving me motivation I never had before.

Year 10 Student, Alfriston College, 2005

Thank you for your presentation to our students. All those present – staff and students – were overwhelmingly positive about the impact you made on them. Your presence and personal story were quite remarkable, and your message was clear, strong, simple and to the point. Above all your passion and optimism in young people shone through. It was a delight to watch you encourage children of varying ability and confidence to try their best. Our only regret was that we didn’t have the opportunity for you to spend longer with us – perhaps next time!

Teacher, Alfriston College, 2005