Dr. Akins
About Me
Dr. Benjamin S. Akins is not simply a speaker you introduce—he is a standard you encounter.
Professionally, Dr. Akins stands at the intersection of leadership, psychology, and theology with a level of integration that is both rare and intentional. He is the CEO of Better U Institute (BUI), where he has built a transformative framework centered on whole-person development—addressing the economic, emotional, physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of life. His work is not theory-heavy and application-light; it is principle-based and execution-driven. As a Maxwell Leadership Certified Coach, Speaker, and Trainer, he leverages proven leadership principles while translating them into his own distinct voice through what he calls BUI MAX—where culture, character, and competence converge.
Academically, Dr. Akins is deeply credentialed, holding advanced degrees in psychology, theology, and biblical studies, culminating in a Doctor of Theology. His intellectual foundation allows him to move seamlessly between disciplines—yet what distinguishes him is not just what he knows, but how he applies it. He does not merely teach information; he trains transformation.
Beyond the classroom and coaching environment, Dr. Akins brings the discipline and resilience of a United States Marine Corps veteran and two-time combat veteran. That experience is not worn as a badge for recognition, but as a foundation for perspective—shaping how he understands pressure, leadership, responsibility, and the cost of commitment.
Personally, what you encounter in Dr. Akins is consistency. He lives what he teaches. His philosophy is rooted in the belief that success is predictable when aligned with sound principles, and that personal development is not optional—it is a responsibility. His voice challenges without condemning, corrects without compromising dignity, and calls individuals higher without losing sight of where they currently stand.
He is also the author of Thinking Outside the Box, but Living Inside the Lines! (Second Edition), a work that reflects his ability to take complex truths and present them with clarity, depth, and practical application. His daily “Quote of the Day” has become more than content—it is a disciplined investment into the mindset of those committed to growth.
If you spend any amount of time around Dr. Akins’ work, one thing becomes clear: he does not aim to impress you—he aims to equip you. His focus is not on temporary inspiration, but on sustainable transformation. He challenges you to think critically, act intentionally, and live purposefully.
In a world that often prioritizes appearance over substance, Dr. Akins represents something different—a leader committed to building people from the inside out, with integrity as the foundation and purpose as the destination.
Credentials & Professional Distinctions
CEO of Better U Institute
Maxwell Leadership Certified Team
Coach, Speaker, & Trainer
Inner Mastery Strategist
Life Purpose Institute Alumnus
Doctor of Theology
Master of Arts in Theology
Master of Arts in Biblical Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Theology
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Neuro Change Master Practitioner
Neuro Change Institute Alumnus
Certified Neuroscience Coach
Certified Positive Psychology Coach
Neuro Linguistic Practitioner
Peterson Academy (Student)
Ordained Elder | Minister
Board Certified Community Chaplain
Director & Dean of Instruction at A.I.D.E.
Director of Youth Life Skills B.D.B.S.
Franklin Covey Leadership Journeyman
National Society of Collegiate Scholars
Program Success Magazine | Jul-Dec 2020
Wrens High School Grad, Wrens, GA
Published Author (Dorrance Publishing)
NH-03 DAF, FM Branch Chief
Certified Level-II Acquisition Professional
Business Owner | Entrepreneur
Fmr. D-III Women's NCAA Basketball HC
2015 Great South Athletic Conf. Champions
Fmr. JUCO Women's Basketball AC
National Montford Point Marine Assoc.
Fmr. Active-Duty Marine | GySgt/E-7
Fmr. USMC Drill Instructor | PISC
Fmr. Depot Level Inspector, USMC
Fmr. Regimental Equal Opportunity Rep.
Fmr. Director of Corporals Course
Fmr. Mentor in Violence Prevention Trainer
2-Time Combat Veteran
Fmr. Inspector-Instructor Staff, Ft. Devens, MA
Fmr. Detachment Honor Guard, Ft. Devens, MA
Fmr. MA Army National Guard
Personal Awards & Medals Include
Navy/MC Achievement Medal (5th Award)
Navy Unit Commendation Medal (2nd Award)
Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation Medal
Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (5th Award)
National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award)
Global War on Terrorism Medal
Sea Service Deployment (2nd Award)
Overseas Service (3rd Award)
Some Cool Facts (in Years)
Numbers Speak For Themselves
Coaching Experience
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Military Service
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Civil Service
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