Description

by Coach Kevin Kearns – 

A Guide to Finding Your Way in Life and Conquering the Bullies Along the Way

What started out as typical “boys will be boys” teasing and horseplay turned into a living nightmare for Kevin Kearns who learned that his once safe neighborhood turned into a war zone of bullies. Small for his age, and not physically adept at playing sports, Kevin was soon the kid who was always picked last for games.

After losing his father at an early age, Kevin felt adrift and alone… a perfect target for intensified bullying. His mother felt helpless. His teachers felt sorry for him. His uncle decided that he needed to learn to defend himself and enrolled Kevin in martial arts. The training taught him what it meant to be successful at something. It developed his self-esteem and helped him to overcome the environment of bullying at school and at home.

More than a memoir, Always Picked Last contains thoughtful, and at times philosophical, reflections on bullying, childhood, parenting, growth, and personal improvement. Coach Kearns has a strong sense of self-awareness, but also recognizes the universality of his experience, so he uses his story as a conduit for inspiration and the self-improvement of others.

The message of Always Picked Last is powerful and the narrative is engaging and relatable. Kevin Kearns does an excellent job of bridging the gap between personal reflection and accessible wisdom, making this a worthwhile read in every way.

Note From Coach Kearns

Thank you for checking out this book. It means that you are either being bullied yourself, or you know someone who is being bullied. The one thing I really hope you walk away with after reading is it’s not you, it’s them. Life can be a challenge and sometimes it’s harder than at other times. You may never be totally prepared for some of life’s toughest challenges however, you will be ready enough and you will certainly survive as I did.

About The Author

Kevin is founder and CEO of Burn with Kearns, where he is responsible for the worldwide development and implementation of personal training continuing education courses and group fitness licensing programs. For over 25 years, Kevin Kearns has been professionally involved in the fitness industry. In 2013, he was named an All Star Conference Presenter for IDEA, the world largest association for fitness and wellness professionals. Based on his extensive martial arts and fitness backgrounds, Kevin has served as the strength and conditioning coach for professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighters including Alberto Crane, Kenny Florian, Marcus Davis, and Din Thomas. He also was the strength and conditioning coach for WEC fighter Alex Karalexis and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and MMA fighter Daniel Gracie. Kevin works closely with famed Muay Thai/MMA coach Mark DellaGrotte out of Sityodtong. Athletes from several professional teams work with Kevin during the on and off seasons. Kevin is certified by the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association), is a Functional Movement Screen (FMS) Certified Specialist, a FreeMotion Master Trainer. He has written over 100 articles and has been published and been a regular columnist for Ultimate Mma, Fighters Only, Train Hard Fight Easy, and Fitness Trainer magazine.

REVIEWS

“Always Picked Last” is a must read for parents and kids alike. Kevin’s unfailing positivity is contagious, and his anti-bullying strategies that lead to feelings of self-worth are something everyone should know. An empowering read that re-defines the meaning of turning something negative into something positive” —Hayley Gripp (Actress, Celebrity Chef and Anti-Bullying Activist)

“I loved the story presented in this book.  It was masterly told and in a way that made you feel sorry for the young protagonist, and glad when he makes the right decisions to better his life.”  —Jaredd Wilson, Martial Thoughts

“After reading Always Picked Last I was eager to let people know about the book and Kevin’s work. Parents, teachers, coaches: get this book and share it with your kids. I train anti-bullying and know the subject well. Nobody does it better than Kevin… nobody!” —Ken Baum, Author and trainer to the world’s best athletes

“Most people are afraid to be who they are, to be open and transparent for fear of ridicule. Not Kevin. He’s not afraid to put himself out there, whether in his training or sharing his story of having been bullied. I really respect that about him. He is where he is today because who he used to be drove him to this point.” —Marcus Davis, UFC Veteran

“The message of Always Picked Last is powerful and the narrative is engaging and relatable. Kevin Kearns does an excellent job of bridging the gap between personal reflection and accessible wisdom, making this a worthwhile read in every way.”  —Kwill Books