Having humble beginnings as a young man born and raised in Dallas, Arlington resident, Chris Howell overcame the hardship of raising children as a teenager to have a successful career in news media and film. He's now the President and CEO of the media & communications firm Chris Howell Communications, LLC, whose purpose is to help individuals tell their stories in a way they may not otherwise be able to.

At the age of 14, Howell met the love of his life and future wife. Two years later, he and his wife became parents and needed to build a home for their growing family. Faced with the difficulty of deciding how to best provide for his family, Howell left school to raise his children.

Knowing his path would be a difficult one, Howell continued to pursue his dreams of becoming an accomplished professional while providing for his family. He then completed his GED and entered into the professional field of his dreams: journalism.

Prior to joining the NBC 5-TV community affairs programming team, Howell began his career as a news reporter and interviewer at Arlington-based news radio station KCBI 90.9 FM. He attributes his ability to connect with compelling stories and people he interviews during his time as a media and broadcast crew member at his church, The Potter's House.

"To truly attain the dream, you have to do everything you can to enhance your gifts," Howell explains. "Embrace volunteer opportunities, always move forward and never give up."

An award-winning reporter, best-selling author, business owner and growing entrepreneur Chris Howell continues to live out his American Dream in hopes of inspiring others. Howell believes his mission is to help people achieve their very own dreams.

"My purpose is to make sure I utilize the gift God has given me to impact others and to inspire them to tap into their own gift."