Kevin “Bam” Smith is a nationally recognized poet, speaker, business coach, and serial entrepreneur from Chicago, Illinois.
His journey into the world of writing and performance poetry began at Western Illinois University, where he discovered his passion for spoken word and storytelling.
During his time at WIU, Kevin quickly established himself as a rising talent, participating in his first performance tour by sharing poetry in correctional facilities and competing in collegiate poetry competitions across the country. His dedication and skill earned him a regional ranking as high as fourth among Midwest poets, while helping his team achieve a top-eight national ranking.
Following graduation, Kevin embarked on his first professional poetry tour alongside one of his college mentors. He later signed with Wally World Entertainment, further expanding his reach and influence as a professional artist. Known for his vivid storytelling, captivating stage presence, and ability to connect deeply with audiences, Kevin has built a reputation for transforming personal experiences into powerful performances that inspire, educate, and entertain.
Beyond the stage, Kevin has facilitated workshops focused on helping students develop their writing, public speaking, and performance skills. Leveraging his gift for storytelling and communication, he has also been invited to speak at prestigious institutions such as UCLA and Case Western Reserve University, where he addressed topics surrounding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), educational equity, and the culture of public schools.
Today, Kevin continues to blend the art of storytelling with entrepreneurship, leadership development, and business coaching, using his voice and experiences to empower individuals, students, and organizations to reach their fullest potential.
