Motivate Yourself author Bob Prentiss, JD, MS, DTM, is an engaging writer and dynamic speaker, frequently sought after for his interactive presentations and innate ability to quickly connect with audiences of all sizes and compositions. His extensive experience in instructional design enables him to fully customize his presentations for groups and organizations for maximum results.

Currently, Bob is an assistant general counsel for the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, where he is in charge of rulemaking for the agency. In addition, he analyzes and drafts legislation and advises the regulators on matters involving licensure and regulatory actions against licensees. He also serves as an expert witness for the federal government in their criminal prosecutions of viatical fraud, a particularly heinous form of insurance fraud.

Bob received his Bachelor’s degree from U.C. Berkeley and his law degree from the University of San Francisco. He was a litigator in California before moving to Tallahassee in 1993. In Tallahassee, he accepted a position with the Department of Insurance and continued his education at Florida State University, where he received a Masters of Instructional Design degree.

During his time as a litigator, Bob had sharpened his skills in public speaking and he didn’t want to lose that "edge" when he moved. So, while working on his master’s degree, Bob got involved with the local Toastmasters club. It was his involvement with the club that eventually led him to realize he wanted to be a public speaker. He began to study public speaking and the rest is history!

Bob has achieved the designation of Distinguished Toastmaster, the highest designation awarded by Toastmasters International. A dedicated member of the organization who loves helping others grow, Bob stays active with his original Toastmasters Club, serving as mentor for new speakers in the club.

A self-described "lifelong learner," Bob is committed to ongoing professional and personal development. He maintains an active membership in another Toastmasters Club designed specifically for professional speakers. It keeps him on top of his game and enables him to continually improve his abilities as a speaker.

Bob is the proud father of two grown children, Jeremey and Beth. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Ability 1st, North Florida’s Center for Independent Living, and continues to be a very active member of Toastmasters.