“Spider Jones is a symbol of hope and inspiration to our youth!
Here is an individual who has overcome a life of insurmountable odds.
His “stay in school” message is powerful and moving and has a
tremendous impact on kids.”
Cito Gaston, Former Toronto Blue Jays Manager
“Spider Jones possesses that rare gift which enables him to hold
young people’s attention like few speakers I’ve ever heard. His
fascinating message is an inspiration to anyone fortunate enough to
hear him. Thank you for bringing good things to so many lives!”
Jim Kelly, Former NFL Buffalo Bills Quarterback
Chairman of “Hunter’s Hope Foundation”
Spider Jones Biography
If ever a person understands the ruthless predator called low self-esteem and how it attacks and
destroys our youth, its Former Three Time Golden Glove Boxing Champion and CFRB Broadcaster/
Author Spider Jones.
Born into extreme poverty, racism and violence, Spider survived the treacherous streets of a vicious
world most of us only see on the six o’clock news to become one of the most charismatic speakers of
our time.
At age six his eighteen month old, brother, Denis, suddenly died of pneumonia. Spider was so
traumatized by this tragic event that he began to experience terrifying nightmares, which haunted him
into his late teens. Morbidly frightened of the dark he trembled through the night praying for the light of
dawn. It was during this period that he began to wet the bed. Sleep deprivation had an adverse affect
on his school work and after failing grade three twice, he was diagnosed with a learning disability and
transferred to a remedial class, where he struggled with low-esteem, as well as being a victim of
verbal and physical abuse.
By fifteen he had become so disillusioned with the education system that he dropped out of school.
Shortly after, Spider hooked up with a Detroit street gang called the Motor City Mobsters. Within six
violent years he had risen to the top, where he became the gang’s number one War Lord. His
larcenous ways eventually landed him in jail. However, there was a larger price to pay.
Those turbulent years cost Spider the devastating loss of two first cousins, both shot to death during
gang confrontations. Another very close relative was critically stabbed during a swarming and
hovered at death’s edge for weeks. A few years later, Spider’s younger brother was wounded by
police in an attempted bank robbery.
Determined to leave his tumultuous lifestyle behind, Spider left gang life and moved to Toronto. Over
the next decade he struggled through a variety of menial jobs included shinning shoes, bell hopping
and selling cars. He even worked as a sparring partner for Muhammad Ali and George Chuvalo.
However, none of these jobs gave him the gratification he so desperately sought.
At age 30 Spider decided to pursue his dream of becoming a broadcaster and thus returned to school.
Amazingly, four years later he graduated with honors in the Broadcast Journalism field and made the
Dean’s list. He was also honored with two literary scholarships and the Board of Governor’s Award.
In 2001 he became the recipient of the prestigious Premier’s Award honoring him for his countless
contributions in the field of youth motivation.
Spider Jones – Motivational Speaker
“Life hands you fate, Destiny is what you do with it.”
Upon graduating Spider began to pursue his dream of becoming a radio personality. A few years
later, he landed a gig hosting a syndicated TV series called “Famous Knockouts”. The show’s
enormous popularity led to radio shows on CHWO Oakville, the Fan 590 and Talk 640/MOJO before
switching to CFRB where he currently hosts the Spider’s Web.
Spider’s well documented battles and triumphs over bigotry, poverty and low self-esteem have won
him countless accolades including the Positive Impact Award, the 2001 B’NAI Brith Appreciation
Award, the Toronto Police Association Honorary Award and amazingly the Boxing Announcer of the
Year Award four times! (1995, 1996, 1998, and 2002) In 1996, he was inducted into the Canadian
Boxing Hall of Fame as Writer, TV Commentator and Ring Announcer.
In 2002 Spider was appointed the nation’s first ever Ambassador to the Skilled Trades Programs.
Spider’s latest endeavor is his biography. “Out of the Darkness” is heading into its third printing in less
than a year. Its overwhelming success has made him one of the hottest sought after motivational
speakers in North America. He has appeared on the Fox radio Network, TSN, CBC, CTV, Global TV,
Citytv, the Toronto Star, the National Post, the Toronto Sun and many other media outlets.
As both a speaker and author Spider speaks and writes with the kind of flair and unbridled passion
that provokes laughter, tears, compassion, but most of all, hope.
During his distinguished career Spider has interviewed such notables as Muhammad Ali, director Ron
Howard, Doug Gilmour, Tie Domi, Ringo Star, Smokey Robinson, Don King, Sugar Ray Leonard, Dan
Marino, Bishop Desmond TuTu, and countless others.
Presently Spider hosts ESPN/TSN boxing series called “Famous Fights”.
Spider is also a widely respected inspirational public speaker and brings his motto, “You Have to
Believe to Achieve,” to more than 100 schools each year.
Spider’s Web of Feedback …
“Spider has one of the most extraordinary and touching stories I’ve ever heard.” It is amazing to see
the impact he has on students. His lessons on dealing with peer-pressure, racial harmony, bullying
and low self-esteem are incredibly insightful. He makes you believe nothing is impossible. The
students were so receptive they actually mobbed him afterwards with tons of questions and requests
for autographs.”
Cathy Heaney
Teacher, R.A. Sennet Public School, Oshawa
“Spider’s presentation held us spell bound. He is by far the most inspiring speaker I’ve ever
witnessed.”
John Sheremeta, Ontario Kinsman Clubs
“It’s not where you come from but where you’re going that counts!” Spider Jones
For a powerful message of hope, inspiration and motivation call
647-722-4680
www.knowledgeworksglobal.com
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Spider Jones – Motivational Speaker
“Life hands you fate, Destiny is what you do with it.”
“Spider delivers a tremendous message of hope and inspiration. I highly recommend him to everyone
– especially students and young adults.”
Andrew Clarke
(former) Vice President, Metropolitan Toronto Police Association
“Spider Jones is one of the most dynamic speakers of our time. His message is filled with inspiration
and hope. He has an overwhelming presence and his life story is an inspiration for all ages.”
William Hunter
Chair and Faculty of Technology, Seneca College
“The reaction of the audience was astounding. Eight hundred students were totally in awe for the
entire 40 minutes he spoke. His presentation was so powerful and inspirational.”
Peggy O’Donoghue
Teacher, Mayfield Secondary School Brampton
“It’s utterly amazing to see how quickly Spider, can capture the attention of a young audience. His
presentation moves kids like nothing I’ve ever seen.”
George Chuvalo
Former Heavy Weight Champion of Canada
“Spider’s speech truly invigorated our students. He was the topic of conversation for weeks. He’s a
tremendous motivator, and a great role model.”
Paul Forbes
Athletic Director, St. Michael’s College
Call today to book Spider Jones for your school or event
Joanne Chrobot
KnowledgeWorks Global Inc
647-722-4680
“It’s not where you come from but where you’re going that counts!” Spider Jones
For a powerful message of hope, inspiration and motivation call
647-722-4680
www.knowledgeworksglobal.com
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