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Against the Odds

Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans 12 Episodes Aug 7, 2026

Against the Odds is a biographical interview show from the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans that explores the life stories of its Members. Each episode profiles remarkable individuals who overcame significant hardship and went on to achieve extraordinary success. The series highlights the perseverance, character and resilience behind those journeys. It is framed around the enduring promise and power of the American Dream.

Episodes

Against the Odds - Jon Pritchett, Co-Founder, President and CEO Nextran Truck Centers Aug 7, 2026 922 Jon Pritchett’s life is defined by three simple values: integrity, hard work and a commitment to excellence. Through humble beginnings and personal and professional sacrifices, he has redefined what it means to be a true leader.

Against the Odds - Adrienne Arsht, Executive Vice Chair Atlantic Council Aug 7, 2026 963 Adrienne Arsht grew up with a strong belief in the power of resilience and hard work. Through community connection and a commitment to helping others, she has emerged as a role model for generations to come.

Against the Odds - William Mills, President and Owner MPW Enterprises, L.L.C. Aug 7, 2026 1317 As one of nine children growing up in southern Louisiana, William Mills faced financial hardship, academic struggles and personal loss. Through perseverance, faith and an unwavering drive to find his purpose, he built a successful career and philanthropic legacy to be proud of.

Against the Odds - Thomas Baltimore, Chairman and CEO Park Hotels & Resorts Aug 7, 2026 1703 Thomas Baltimore remains steadily grounded in his philosophy of “three P’s” – prayer, preparation and perseverance. He has excelled against the odds and today creates opportunities for deserving young people to access life-changing educational opportunities.

Against the Odds - William Berry, Former CEO Continental Resources, Inc. Aug 7, 2026 1862 William Berry’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance. Throughout his life, he faced challenges that might have stopped others in their tracks. Instead, he leaned into education and reframed his adversity as opportunity.

Against the Odds - Lee Greenwood, American Musician, Singer, Songwriter Aug 7, 2026 1719 A deep and unwavering love of country has defined Lee Greenwood’s life. His journey through hardship has shaped a lasting legacy through music, patriotism and an unwavering pursuit of the American Dream.

Against the Odds - Fernando De Leon, Founder and CEO Leon Capital Group Aug 7, 2026 1826 Fernando De Leon was granted a rare opportunity: the “golden ticket” to pursue education in the United States. The journey was anything but easy, but against the odds, Mr. De Leon discovered the success that awaited him beyond the border.

Against the Odds - Victor Winkler, President and CEO Metro Metals Northwest, Inc Aug 6, 2026 869 Raised by Holocaust survivors, Victor Winkler understood perseverance on a deep level. After taking over his family’s struggling scrap metal business, he transformed it into a thriving enterprise and now champions younger generations as they seek to overcome adversity.

Against the Odds - Tony DiBenedetto, Founder and Chair Think Big for Kids Aug 6, 2026 827 Forced to become completely self-sufficient at a young age, Tony DiBenedetto believes deeply in the transformative power of education and how mentors can set students on a path towards a brighter future.

Against the Odds - Howard Dvorkin, Founder and Chairman Debt.com Aug 6, 2026 1759 After losing his father at a young age, Howard Dvorkin committed himself to his studies and fostered his entrepreneurial spirit, founding a company that helps people regain control of their lives.

Against the Odds Christopher "Topher" Merrill, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO Harrison Street Aug 6, 2026 915 With a willingness to take risks and a resilient spirit when things didn’t always go his way, Christopher Merrill has built a business with global reach and now focuses on creating opportunities for others through mentorship and education.

Against the Odds - Ken Kendrick, Managing General Partner Arizona Diamondbacks Jul 27, 2026 831 Ken Kendrick’s journey from small-town beginnings to software entrepreneur and Major League Baseball team owner highlights the important role of risk-taking in success and in building a legacy you’re proud of.

Against the Odds

Episodes

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