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Meet the Millionaires

Find out more about the Millionaires! Why did they get involved in the show? What did they hope to learn? How did they think it would change their lives?

4/13
Photo
6/13

Jeff Usner

How did you become a Millionaire?
I became a millionaire by creating websites on the internet which help people find whatever it is they are looking for. After some time, many friends asked how I did what I did so I decided to start teaching others how to make money on the internet just like I did. This is now a primary focus and passion of mine – to help others, who are in need or down and out like I was – to start and create a business online to help in their financial needs.

Is there anything that would surprise viewers to learn about you?
Only a few years ago, I was at the greatest point of despair in my life. I lost a son at birth, I had a stroke and almost died and I had over $285,000 in debt with no income coming in. I was terrified and stressed out about how I would survive and put food on the table for my family. I then learned and applied a few simple strategies to start making money on the internet. My initial goal was $100 a day – I thought this would put food on the table and pay the bills. Within just a short time the $100 a day turned into millions of dollars we have made online.

Why did you want to be a part of the show?
When I was first asked to be part of the show, I was very hesitant about it because I am very private about how successful I have become and I really wasn't feeling good about my entire family being exposed on national TV. After much prayer and counseling, I decided to move forward with the show. I believe there is a huge need in our country for more people to step out of the comfort zones & get past their excuses and start to make a difference one person at a time – so that was my focus for the entire week I was volunteering – and that's the reason I became part of the show.

Was there anything you were hoping to learn about yourself?
I love to put myself into situations out of my normal 'comfort zone'. I've found in those times is when I learn the most about myself. So I was excited to see what the week would hold. I learned I needed to get past my own excuses of why I 'can't' volunteer more. I told myself I was just too busy – but the reality was I met some individuals who were in much worse situations than I was and they put their excuses behind and made a difference.

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We also talked to Jeff about his experience after filming the show:

What surprised you most about your experience as a "Secret Millionaire"?
I was surprised about how much I connected with each of the organizations. I never thought just a few days could change my life the way they did. I found out when you give of your time and get your own hands 'dirty' (literally for me with all the work I did!) – when you do this, you meet the most incredible people who inspired me more than I can put into words. People who are the real heroes in our country – making a difference and just taking action.

How did you feel about the experience living "undercover"?
I live my 'undercover'. Most of my friends and family will be shocked when they see the episode because we live simple lives & don't show our wealth. I give 'undercover' in most cases where people don't know the money is coming from us – and I have never done what I did on the show where I gave face to face. The reason is my giving is not about me – it's about the people getting their needs met by someone much greater than me.



How did you feel living on such a limited amount of money for a week?
Living on a limited amount of money took me back to just a few years ago when I would watch every dime being spent. We did everything we could to make our money last. We cut our cable, we cut most of our cell phone use, we cut out our food budget to necessities, and cut many other little expenses we had day to day – that were a waste. Most of us spend so much money on 'junk' we don't need – if we just look at where our money goes we would be shocked. I'd recommend everyone does this – and cut money out wherever you can – and put it to a better use like giving into an organization in your backyard making a difference.

Has your life changed since this experience? In what ways?
Yes, yes and yes. I have a much deeper, burning passion, fire and desire in my belly to get out there and make more of a difference myself, and to help others get out of their current situations and make a difference for others. That's the key – helping others to do the same.

Do you have any suggestions or advice for someone who wants to become involved in helping their community?
Just get started. Make a decision and get out there & find an organization & get started. It's easy to do. You will make a huge impact on the first person you help. But, the other reward is – you will be changed and your focus in life will change when you are making a difference with something bigger than yourself. It's simply amazing. Get started.

Any other final comments you'd like to add?
I'd like to encourage anyone watching the show in saying – no matter what your current circumstances or situations, there is always hope. There is always something better ahead. Just make the decision to focus on the positive things around you and speak life over them and others. Life and death are in the power of your tongue so use your words wisely and speak life over all you do. I've been in a bad situation in my life and this advice is what carried me through to victory and it will do the same for you.

Take more time to smell the roses, be present with those you love, and allow your heart to be open always. Listen and trust.