Frequently Asked Questions
How did you get into the drug business?
It was around Christmas in 1999 and my pregnant fiancee, step-daughter and I were being evicted. I thought that after my college graduation - one year earlier - that I would have hit the ground running, but I couldn't find a decent job because I had bad credit. Bad credit from unpaid hospital bills for a couple of trips to the emergency room to treat my asthma...including some overnight stays...with no insurance. Ultimately, I had nowhere else to go and sold my soul to the devil.
How did you get involved with the DEA?
I truly believe in the meaning of loyalty and because of that, I have always been a loyal friend. So when the DEA came sniffing around out of the blue long after I had quit 'the business', I was completely surprised by the death threats I received when I loyally informed my former friends. I had no choice at this point; I took the only path that I felt would protect my family.
Did you go to prison?
No, while I wasn't smart enough to stay out of trouble; I was a genius at staying out of prison. I spent 7 days in the Potter County, Texas jail waiting for someone to pay my $100,000 bail.
Were you convicted?
No, I received 6 years probation/deferred adjudication and a $2,000 fine. My case was dismissed 2 years later. Google, deferred adjudication, for a further explanation. I have never been convicted of a felony.
Did you use drugs?
Ironically, I was never a drug user. This was purely a business venture; a venture in stupidity, none-the-less. I tried/experimented with drugs a few times, but a combination of asthma and heart palpitations did not mix well with recreational drug use, THANK GOD! I enjoy the responsible consumption of Starbucks, Krispy Kreme & alcoholic beverages.
Have you had any more problems with good judgment?
We all make mistakes...and that is OK, but I have walked the straight and narrow since July 17th of 2000. I was scared straight!
Why don't you just get a normal job?
I think that everything happens for a reason...and I think that speaking & writing is my true calling. Truthfully, I would have once loved to have been a corporate shill and live a normal/boring life, but I wear the modern version of The Scarlet Letter. Despite the fact that I have never been convicted of a felony, a felony arrest coupled with bad credit is reason enough for pause for just about any normal job in our economy that performs a standard background check. Think teacher, accountant, government jobs, banker, lawyer, doctor, nurse, store manager, even an RV salesman...just to name a very few. I have embarrassingly been told, "NO", many many times. And that is how I found myself where I am today, thank God.
Are all your stories true?
Unfortunately, YES! To hear the complete story, which I promise will keep you on the edge of your seat, you will have to book me for your event.
How did you get into speaking?
Not too long ago I met Troy Evans (www.troyevans.com) who is also a speaker with a uniquely uplifting story and he has helped me tremendously with my speaking career. I would like to personally thank Troy Evans for showing me the ropes and helping me help others.
Why should I choose Chris Heifner as my professional speaker and trainer source?
You get a seasoned veteran with a unique story, fresh ideas, and customized material. And because I will make you look like a mastermind, a hero and a genius. That's my job!
Where do I begin?
Right here! Keep reading and call me anytime if you have questions and would like to speak with a real human being! (915) 861-9206.
We have a limited budget...how can we afford to bring you to our event?
I have many creative options for your situation and many organizations qualify for a discount. Contact us today so that I can work out the details with you. Here are a few ideas in the meantime. You can join with other schools or organizations to split the fee, or try booking me when I'm already in your area. In addition, many schools have covered the fee with grant money.
What kind of travel expenses are we talking about?
The basics: Roundtrip coach airfare from El Paso, Texas, ground transportation, airport parking, and hotel. If you prefer to do an inclusive price that can also be arranged. I do not bill for either meals or incidentals.
Will I be able to communicate directly with you prior to my event?
Of course you will. I will help you finalize the decision, sign the contract, and completed my pre-program questionnaire.
Can I get a copy of the pre-program questionnaire?
Here it is...(pre-program questionnaire)
I've never booked a speaker before. What if I don't know what kind of speaker I want?
This happens often and I do this all the time, just give me a call and be prepared to answer the following questions:
~ Date:
~ City, State Country:
~ Location: (hotel/training center/your facility or ours?)
~ What kind of meeting: (convention, symposium/trade show/annual event/party/banquet)
~ How many training slots will you want to fill? (HINT - often times the same speaker can deliver a keynote address and a seminar/workshop for your group. You will save money on travel and expenses.)
~ Number of people in the group/audience:
~ Demographics: (age/gender/career level/other)
~ The specific goals and objectives for the meeting: (be as specific as possible)
~ Budget for speaker, trainer, program and if it includes travel and expenses.
Does it cost more for a longer presentation?
Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't. You can often find fees broken out by the type of program: Keynote speech, seminar, workshop, and etc., plus for the length of program.
Once I choose you, what's next? How does the process work?
I send a contract, and my preprogram questionnaire. A deposit is normally made at the time of signing. Once I receive the contract and deposit from you, I follow up with:
1. An initial planning interview
2. Background development
3. Detailed development
Do I have to arrange travel for the speaker?
In virtually all cases I prefer to handle my own arrangements. I'll let you know and proceed with what's best for everybody.
Can presentations be audio or video taped?
In most cases it can be arranged for you if done in advance. Based on the desired use and outcome of the tape, sometimes there are copyrights, royalties, time limits and other issues that need to be discussed and agreed upon in writing.
Have more questions, CONTACT ME!
I would love to hear about them. How about sending them to me at chrisheifner@gmail.com. Call me or mail them, whatever is best for you.