Beginning his career in the corporate sector, Anthony Sparks soon realized his passion lay in service to others. Not quite knowing where he’d go or what he’d do, opportunity came knocking as he was privileged to become the Executive Director of the Birmingham YMCA’s Youth Development Center. As the youngest director in the Birmingham Association, Anthony and his team created programs, partnerships, and initiatives that helped more than 7,000 youth and their families over a span of six years. Desiring to take his penchant for positively impacting others to another level, Anthony did what could only be considered a “leap of faith” and decided to go into full-time entrepreneurship.

Establishing Anthony D. Sparks LLC in 2015, Anthony quickly carved out his niche as a speaker, content creator, and development coach.

As a speaker, Anthony has been privileged to speak to audiences around the globe at more than 300 virtual & in-person events; as a content creator, Anthony has authored and ghostwritten a total of 12 books, while also creating & hosting the “Crock-Po(d) Conversations” podcast that has amassed over 32,000 downloads, has listeners in 40 countries, & holds a 5-star rating on Apple podcasts; and as a development coach, Anthony has coached executives, clergy, educators, entrepreneurs, law enforcement personnel, counselors, healthcare professionals, attorneys, and many more.

In 2021, Anthony took yet another “leap” in his journey and was afforded the opportunity to “marry” the best of both worlds (entrepreneurship & traditional work), as he accepted the role of Training & Organizational Development Advisor for the Jefferson County Commission—which is the largest municipality in the state of Alabama, comprised of 29 departments serving more than 675,000 citizens. In this role, Anthony spearheads training and development initiatives for various county departments, and also serves as Chair for the Jefferson County Human Resources “Culture Champs”, which is a team dedicated to establishing and maintaining a healthy, enjoyable, & balanced culture for the department and its employees.

Anthony is a proud member of “The A-Team” with his wife Ashley, and sons Aidan & Ashton. He’s a man of faith, family, and fun, who believes that his purpose is to help others live a life OF purpose, ON purpose!