Meet Bryce Runge | Author of the hit book, Wake Up

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bryce Runge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bryce, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
As a Christian author and keynote speaker, I’m grateful to connect and contribute to the community and the world in several ways. Through my writings and motivational speeches, I inspire and motivate individuals, providing them with guidance and encouragement based on Christian principles. By sharing the crucibles I have experienced, I can positively impact people’s lives, fostering personal growth, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

My messages build a sense of community among my audience, bringing people together around shared values and beliefs. I can create a more harmonious and supportive community by promoting love, kindness, and compassion.

As a speaker, I am blessed with the opportunity to address larger audiences and influence positive change on a broader scale. My messages inspire individuals to engage in charitable activities, community service, or other forms of outreach, contributing to the betterment of society.

As a Christian author and keynote speaker, I can share uplifting messages that bring about positive change in individuals and communities, aligning with principles of faith and contributing to the world’s well-being.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an author, speaker, former Division-1 athlete, and mindset coach. My hit book “Wake Up, Wake Up, Wake Up” equips people with tools to enhance their thought-life, cultivate the courage to overcome obstacles, and discover the strength to advance toward greatness.

I’ve come to realize that as cliché as it may sound, life isn’t a destination but a journey. Along the way, we will collect countless memories, experiences and, face many obstacles. At some point, we will suffer heavy storms, sleepless nights, and crushing disappointments that bring us all to a place of sorrow. I have faced obstacles that left me hopeless and shipwrecked in a sea of regret. I’ve experienced pain and suffering because of careless choices. I’ve been haunted by the past, pierced with grief and bound by shackles of fear.

Although I have trudged through the valley of sorrow, I’ve learned to recognize and appreciate all of the good while on the journey. I have also realized that tears are only temporary and that the good heavily outweighs the bad. On this journey through life, there will be no way around the valley.

Looking back, I now know that in this sad, dark valley, the very things that brought me discomfort and sorrow were there to transform me; I just had to allow them to. It is in this dark place where we must choose to see the good, let ourselves grow, and trust that God would never bring us to this place if there weren’t a purpose.

Utilizing my unique background and experiences, I have been presenting virtually and in person, addressing key topics such as cultivating a growth mindset, understanding the consequences of holding on to the past, removing the mental health stigma, and shaping a legacy for churches, schools, sports teams, and various organizations, including Raising Canes, TripAdvisor, Cornerstone OnDemand, and many others.

My book and these events have received excellent feedback, and clients appreciate the critical information for optimizing their mindsets and overcoming adversity, as it is vital to living the life God created us to live.

Every day we have the choice between living in the past, lingering in the present, or creating a great future. Simply put, we cannot move into the future while gripping tight to our past. While in the valley, don’t lose hope, don’t give up, and don’t give in. Keep pursuing because purpose is on the other side of your pain.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The North Texas area is booming, and there is plenty of good food, phenomenal experiences, and places to visit. Since we have little ones, life seems to revolve around them, so we often see places like the North Texas Safari Park in Bonham, TX, or Sharkarosa Zoo in Pilot Point, TX.

From movies at the Cinemark, shopping at the Gates of Prosper in Prosper, TX, or catching a ballgame at Dr. Pepper Park in Frisco, TX., are a few spots we find ourselves.

The Star in Frisco is another fan favorite. There are numerous entertainment venues, shopping, and dining in the immediate vicinity, so you can see a little bit of it all while you’re there.

With so much going on in the area, remember to swing by Swig for a dirty soda, refreshing refreshers, and a reviving energy drink. And when your belly says, “It’s time to eat,” and you in the Prosper area, stop by Hibachi Masters, a delicious Japanese Hibachi grill that will have you walking away saying, “What a phenomenal meal.”

You should also stop by Salsa Tex-Mex for delicious Tex-Mex food and drinks. Salsa Tex-Mex always aims to bring you the incredible experiences you expect from an authentic Tex-Mex restaurant.

Start your day at First Watch for a fresh breakfast or brunch made-to-order—exceptional ingredients to produce an experience that feels good and tastes even better. Don’t forget to try the Million Dollar Bacon; you won’t regret it!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The list of people who showed up in my story is long. People showed up during some dark and desperate times. God used people who were close to me and, at times, even total strangers to encourage, inspire, and fuel me with a passion for continuing the fight.

God, thank you for loving me. Thank you for forgiving me and for your new portion of mercy and grace every day. I can’t wait to be wrapped in your arms when we meet in heaven; until then, I pray you will continue to use me for Your glory. Thank you!

My wife, Suzanne, undoubtedly my number one supporter, has encouraged, inspired, and been transparent and honest with me. She has been on a journey with me filled with ups and downs, and we continue strengthening one another. We have displayed great teamwork, empathy, and grace through complex and challenging times. Thank you for being the greatest Mama and wife. I SO love you!

My children, Braddox, Briar, and Bristol fuel me (and sometimes drain me) with a passion for being the best, and knowing that my legacy will impact their children’s children drives me to be the most present and intentional dad I can be.

Mr. Greg Wright, Principal at Prestonwood North, for seeing the best in me. Thank you for giving me a chance and revealing what excellent leadership looks like. Thank you for making me feel worthy and encouraging me in my walk with Jesus.

My dear friend, mentor, and business partner at Legacy Shapers (legacyshapers.com) is Brian Bilhartz. He has a heart and passion for people and is a leader I try to emulate often. Brian has been with me since high school and has always been there to support and encourage me. His work at Bilhartz Insurance Agency (bilhartzinsurance.com) taught me what it’s like to persevere, overcome challenges, and lead excellently.

Pastors Brad Wilkerson and Greg Jones at Rock Creek Church (rockcreektx.church) in Prosper, TX. Ever since stepping over the threshold at Rock Creek, their arms were WIDE open for our family. They have encouraged, supported, and helped me grow as a speaker and leader within our community. They are pastors who genuinely care, are authentic, and are on a mission to help people meet and follow Jesus.

My good friend and Podcast partner at Home Sweet Home (Home Sweet Home on Apple Podcasts) and founder of Eryks Place of Hope (eryksplaceofhope.com), Rod McCall, has taught me so much and has been a dear friend for a very long time. Rod has overcome tragedy and continues to share his story to make a positive change in our world. I am inspired and in awe of his passion and perseverance.

Website: https://brycerunge.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrycerunge/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebrycerunge/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thebrycerunge

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@brycerunge77

Other: https://legacyshapers.com/