You have to be F A S T to catch up with Boomer Howard Stephen Berg. Yeah, the writer, speaker, product spokesperson and frequent talk show guest has a lot on his plate. But, that's not the only reason.
As the world's (that's not our opinion, he's actually recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records) fastest reader, Stephen can breeze by you before you even open your mouth. Or as they say in Texas...before you can say "fixin to" he's already done it!
We caught up with the speed reading (25,000 words a minute) Baby Boomer just as he was calling it a day. The interview? Well, it went fast...whatta ya expect from someone who also WRITES100 words a minute!
What are you doing these days?
As the world's fastest reader, I am revolutionizing how people learn and use information to succeed in their information-rich world. I've appeared on over 1,100 radio and television shows, and been featured in Men's Health, Redbook, Bottom Line, Selling, and in dozens of newspapers. Most recently, you may have seen me with Justin Timberlake and Peyton Manning as SONY's E-Reader spokesperson, or on Cavuto completing the 1,500 page Health Care Bill in 50 minutes and doing a complete analysis.
How do you know you are the world's fastest reader? Did you win a competition?
I was listed in the 1990 Guinness Book of World Records, and they never published another reading claim since mine was printed.
What's great about being the world's fastest reader?
You can learn any skill you choose so you can live a life without any limits. I honestly haven't found a down side to being able to learn and use the information you need faster and better.
Married? Children? Tell us about your family.
I am married to Vicki Berg and between us we have five children and five grandchildren.
So, you're a Texan. Why McKinney?
It is the second fastest growing city in the country, and borders on the fastest growing city of Frisco. It has a good infrastructure, and it's near DFW International - one of the country's largest airports.
Where is your favorite vacation?
Greece. I love to experience its rich history, and the scenic beauty of the country. I also enjoy the Greek Islands. Very restive, and the perfect place for releasing your inner muse. I know they're not doing so good right now. Maybe they need to read faster! If you've never been, go! It's beautiful! I really enjoy Delphi, and visiting the temple of the Greek oracle. I also enjoy the enormous olive grove in Delphi that stretches to the horizon.
Favorite TV show?
My favorite TV show is the Big Bang Theory. I'm amazed at how the writer's are able to make humor out of something as dry as physics. I also love the chemistry of the characters, and how skillfully they blend into an ensemble. Kind of the geek in me!
Gilligan's Island: Maryanne or Ginger?
Maryanne was always my favorite. She has a wholesome sincerity like Rachel on Friends. It is a radiant beauty rather than one dependent upon makeup and clothing.
Elvis or The Beatles?
The Beatles wrote their own music. They used chords and instruments and mixes that no one had ever thought of using before. Elvis was very talented, but didn't write his own music. They both will live on forever but there was something about The Beatles you can't quite put your finger on.
Peanut butter: Crunchy or smooth?
I prefer smooth peanut butter. Actually I don't have a choice. I have diverticulitis, which makes it impossible for me to eat crunchy peanut butter!
What's the one electronic gadget you could not live without?
My computer. I spend hours each day writing new programs, marketing and interacting with my friends using social media. Is there another?! Our lives revolve around that one gadget.
Celebrity you'd really like to meet.
Richard Branson. I'd love to learn more about his business strategies. I am impressed with his independent spirit, and trail blazing business skills. He takes risks. Most people don't try new things like that. He keeps trying and succeeding. Plus...he's just cool.
Who would play you in a movie about your life?
Obviously Brad Pitt. We look so much alike, and let's face it. Women find men who read fast very sexy. Don't they?
Here's what it's like interviewing the world's fastest reader...kidding...I'm kidding
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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