Michael Evans is an incredible example of what drive and determination can achieve. Growing up in Shirley, New York, with an abusive father, on that he describes as the monster he hunts down now in the form of sex offenders, traffickers and murderers, he was able to use his own grit and ambition to become a self-made millionaire. Despite his incredible success, Evans has never forgotten his humble beginnings and has devoted his life to helping those who are less fortunate, particularly women in need.
Evans has long had a passion for supporting women’s causes, having seen firsthand how abuse can adversely affect them. His experience of growing up in a single-parent home and having an abusive father has given him a unique understanding of the plight of women in need and he has dedicated himself to doing whatever he can to help. Through his philanthropic efforts, he has provided the successful rescues of women from trafficking, abuse and other egregious crimes, financial support, education, and other resources to help women and their children get back on their feet and live better lives.
Evans’ commitment to helping those in need is truly inspiring and serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. He is a shining example of what it means to use one’s success to make a positive difference in the world and to help those who need it most. We had the chance to speak with Michael about his unlikely entrepreneurship and philanthropy.
Michael, tell us what an entrepreneur is in your opinion:
Let’s not be fooled by the romanticized notion of the entrepreneur as a heroic figure. For every triumph, they must navigate treacherous waters of uncertainty, face the specter of failure, and endure the weight of responsibility. The path they tread is fraught with peril, and only the truly resilient can weather the storms of adversity that inevitably accompany their endeavors. An entrepreneur is an individual of a peculiar breed; a species driven by an insatiable appetite for risk and adventure, armed with a relentless pursuit of innovation and in most cases, profit. They are the daredevils of the business world, unafraid to challenge the status quo and disrupt established norms.
We can probably be described as audacious souls who possess a unique ability to identify opportunities where others see obstacles, to envision a future different from the present, and to muster the audacity and determination to bring that vision to life. We possess a keen intellect, a ceaseless curiosity, and an unwavering conviction in their own abilities. Although, I have seen this backfire when said conviction of ability isn’t in line with reality – at least by census.
I read in Forbes that you operate on the principles of empowering women. Can you explain that?
Empowering women in the workplace is not merely a matter of moral imperative but a strategic one. By embracing this ethos, we unlock the immense potential of women, foster a more innovative workforce, and create a brighter future for all. I owe a lot of my success to this principle.
It is crucial to recognize that women possess a vast reservoir of untapped talent, intelligence, and creativity. By providing them with equal opportunities and removing the barriers that hinder their progress, we enable the full utilization of their skills, thereby enriching the workforce with a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. It also has a ripple effect on society as a whole. When women are given the chance to advance in their careers, they become role models for future generations, inspiring young girls to aspire to greatness and break free from the chains of gender stereotypes. This creates a virtuous cycle of empowerment, where the achievements of one woman pave the way for the success of others, leading to a more equitable society
I noticed on your LinkedIn profile, that you don’t label yourself as a philanthropist, but in articles, interviewers place that label on you. Why don’t you call yourself a philanthropist?
While I have been featured for my giving, I believe the ethos of philanthropic giving is often misguided and driven by self-serving motivations. While the concept of using one’s resources to help others may seem noble, it can tend to perpetuate a system of authority over its recipients. This can undermine the agency and autonomy of the beneficiaries, as they become dependent on the whims and priorities of the philanthropist. At any given time, I may choose to help a woman escape a terrible situation. If I approach her as a “philanthropist” there’s an undertone of authority on my part. I prefer to assist, whether we are physically protecting her, or financially supporting her, as a friend – usually one they never meet. I recognize that some individuals genuinely aim to make a positive impact through philanthropy. I just don’t call myself one.
You have written books about how you transformed your life. In The Real Matrix, you talked about the law of attraction. How does it relate to business or success overall?
The law of attraction is simply a mindset, put quite simply, once you believe it, you’ll see it. The power of intention or the law of attraction, as it is often referred to, has gained popularity in certain circles, particularly within the realm of self-help and personal development. However, success in business and in life is a complex interplay of various factors, ranging from individual abilities and skills to external circumstances and societal structures. One’s mindset and positive thinking can certainly influence motivation and perseverance, but alone cannot guarantee success. It is important to recognize that the world operates on a multitude of variables, many of which are outside our control.
I’ve noticed that there are many unsuccessful people who practice the laws, meditate and pray for success to no avail. To attribute success solely to the power of intention or the law of attraction is to oversimplify the reality of human achievement. It disregards the role of hard work, strategic planning, adaptability, and external factors such as luck and opportunity. Many successful individuals have faced numerous setbacks and challenges along their journey, and their accomplishments cannot be reduced to mere positive thoughts or intentions. In other words, you have to do the work. I’ve been a CEO, a chairman and other executive titles in multinational companies and every morning of my life, I hit the gym, then work like its my first day on the job. So, I’d say discipline is the most important ethos of an entrepreneur.
I’ve seen your company [USPA Nationwide Security] on Crime Stories with Nancy Grace. Your company is called upon to talk about your work with human trafficking. If the parents of a teen girl were reading this interview, what can you tell them about trafficking?
It is a rather grim reality that human trafficking, a despicable crime that preys on the vulnerable, can occur even in the seemingly pleasant and affluent neighborhoods of the United States. No teenage girl, regardless of her surroundings, can consider herself completely safe from the clutches of this abhorrent trade. The insidious nature of human trafficking knows no bounds and can infiltrate even the most seemingly idyllic environments, leaving no one immune to its vile grasp. I talked about this in an Op-Ed in 2021 in the Palm Beach Post.
In this digital age, the internet has become a breeding ground for various forms of exploitation, including human trafficking. Therefore, it is imperative for young girls to be aware of potential dangers online and take necessary precautions to protect themselves. Firstly, they must exercise extreme caution when engaging with strangers online, as these predators often masquerade as harmless individuals with ulterior motives. One should never disclose personal information to anyone they have not physically interacted with and trust implicitly. It is vital for young girls to be discerning consumers of online content. They should critically evaluate the platforms they use, ensuring that they provide a safe and secure environment. Additionally, they should limit the amount of personal information they share publicly, as even innocuous details can be exploited by cunning individuals.
Education plays a crucial role in safeguarding against online threats. Young girls must be taught to recognize warning signs, such as manipulative behavior, coercive tactics, and requests for explicit or compromising material. Encouraging open communication with trusted adults, such as parents, teachers, or mentors, can provide an additional layer of protection and support.
Thank you, Michael. For more information about Michael Evans, visit his company, USPA Nationwide Security.
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