People who want to learn about Mike Rowe’s net worth should know that the Dirty Jobs host started his career which led to his current wealth. The industry estimates Mike Rowe’s net worth in 2025 between 30 million and 38 million because of his television hosting work and high profile narration projects and brand endorsements.
Rowe, who hosts skill trades shows on Discovery Channel, makes significant money through his voice over work and public speaking and corporate partnerships. His financial success through media work and strategic career choices shows that he has achieved successful professional results. The article provides a detailed overview of his earnings which include salary and income sources and details about how he built his wealth through blue collar advocacy work.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Michael Gregory Rowe |
| Birth Date | March 18, 1962 |
| Age (2026) | 63 years old |
| Birthplace | Baltimore County, Maryland, USA |
| Education | Towson University Communication Studies |
| Occupations | TV host, narrator, producer, podcaster, author, spokesman |
| Best Known For | Creator & host of Dirty Jobs |
| Other TV Shows | Somebody’s Gotta Do It, Returning the Favor, Six Degrees |
| Narration Credits | Deadliest Catch, How the Universe Works, Planet Earth and more |
| Podcast | The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe (300M+ downloads) |
| Foundation | CEO of mikeroweWORKS Foundation (work ethic scholarships) |
| Net Worth (2026 est.) | ~$30M–$40M |
| Annual Earnings | Estimated $5M–$10M per year from TV, narration, speaking, endorsements |
| Endorsements / Brand Work | Ford, Caterpillar, Hewlett Packard, Motorola; other commercial work |
| Awards & Honors | Critics’ Choice TV Award (Best Reality Host) 2011; Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (2012); Daytime Emmy Award (2020) |
| Achievements | Worked hands‑on in 300+ jobs across all 50 states on Dirty Jobs |
| Philanthropy | Scholarships through mikeroweWORKS promoting trade education |
| Personal Life | Long‑term relationship (not married), private life |
| Residence | Northern California (formerly San Francisco area) |
| Public Speaking | Keynote speaker on skilled trades, workforce issues, leadership |
Who Is Mike Rowe
Mike Rowe is a celebrated American television host, narrator, and advocate for skilled trades, best known for his work on Dirty Jobs. The birth of Rowe happened in Baltimore, Maryland on March 18, 1962. He worked as a theater and opera performer before he started his television career.
He has become a recognizable figure through his baritone voice and friendly demeanor which he displays on Somebody’s Gotta Do It and Returning the Favor and as the narrator for Deadliest Catch and How the Universe Works. Mike Rowe established the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to support blue collar workers through his work which he recognizes as his actual calling.
Through his career Rowe shows that when someone combines natural ability with dedication and social advocacy they can achieve success while making a positive difference. Rowe shows how working people deserve respect through his dedication to his work and his ability to connect with audiences through storytelling which he achieves through his work as an essential worker in an invisible profession..
Mike Rowe Net Worth

Mike Rowe has attained a net worth between $30 million and $40 million as of 2026 because of his work as a television host and narrator and spokesperson which he has done for many years. Rowe has achieved a successful career through his dedication to displaying skilled trades work which he demonstrates on his show Dirty Jobs.
His income sources include television work together with his voice over performances and commercial endorsements and public speaking engagements and his successful podcast The Way I Heard It.
Rowe achieved financial success through his business work while he dedicated his resources to philanthropy through the mikeroweWORKS Foundation which offers scholarships for students studying trade skills. People who want to achieve success should follow his example of working hard while being true to themselves and making smart career choices.
Mike Rowe Income & Net Worth Breakdown (2026 Estimate)
| Category | Estimated Earnings |
| Television Hosting | $3M – $6M per year |
| Voice Over & Narration | $1M – $2M per year |
| Endorsements & Commercials | $500K – $1M per year |
| Podcast & Speaking Engagements | $500K – $1M per year |
| Total Net Worth | $30M – $40M |
Mike Rowe Net Worth Breakdown

As of 2026, Mike Rowe has a net worth which falls between $30 million and $40 million because of his successful work in television and narration and brand partnerships throughout his career. He has built his wealth through multiple income sources which he developed during his long career in the entertainment industry.
Television Hosting Income
Mike Rowe’s main source of wealth comes from his work as the host of Dirty Jobs and other shows. During peak production periods, he made between three million and five million dollars each year through his network deals and special projects.
Voice Over & Narration Earnings
Rowe’s unique baritone voice functions as his most important musical asset. The work of narrating popular series and documentaries provides him with continuous employment that delivers high earnings, which increases his total income.
Endorsements & Media Ventures
His revenue streams increase through commercial partnerships and public speaking engagements and his podcast The Way I Heard It. The combination of his hosting work and narration skills and endorsement deals enables Mike Rowe to maintain his financial success throughout 2026.
Mike Rowe Salary & Annual Earnings
Mike Rowe’s financial growth process becomes clear through his salary details and yearly income information. Rowe receives income from different sources which together form his total yearly earnings although his exact earnings fluctuate based on his various projects and contracts.
| Income Source | Description | Estimated Annual Earnings |
| TV Hosting Contracts | Earnings from hosting Dirty Jobs, Somebody’s Gotta Do It, and other shows (when in production). | $3M – $7M |
| Narration & Voice Over Work | Payment for narrating documentaries and series (Deadliest Catch, How the Universe Works, etc.). | $1M – $2M |
| Podcast Income | Revenue from The Way I Heard It (ads, sponsors, listener support). | $300K – $800K |
| Endorsements & Commercials | Brand deals and commercial appearances (Ford, Caterpillar, Motorola, etc.). | $500K – $1.5M |
| Public Speaking / Events | Paid keynote speeches, corporate events, trade summits. | $200K – $600K |
| Appearance Fees | Fees for special appearances, guest hosting, panels. | $100K – $400K |
| Merch / Licensing | Possible earnings from branded products, licensing deals. | $50K – $200K |
| Interest & Investments | Conservative returns, passive income (dividends, investments) | $500K – $1M |
| Total Annual Estimated Earnings | Combined yearly income across all major streams. | ≈ $6M – $13M |
| Net Worth (2026) | Estimated total accumulated wealth from career earnings & assets. | ≈ $30M – $40M |
How Mike Rowe Built His Wealth

Mike Rowe achieved his financial success through many years of work. His estimated 2026 net worth of $30–$40 million is the result of strategic career decisions, diversified income streams, and long term media relevance. The following section presents an in depth analysis of his wealth creation strategies.
- Breakthrough with Dirty Jobs
Hosting the hit Discovery series became the foundation of Mike Rowe net worth. The show ran for years and established him as a trusted television personality. - High Paying Voice Over Career
His distinctive baritone voice secured narration roles on major series like Deadliest Catch and How the Universe Works, creating consistent, recurring income. - Smart Brand Partnerships
Endorsement deals with companies such as Ford and Caterpillar added substantial annual earnings. - Podcast & Speaking Engagements
The Way I Heard It podcast and paid keynote appearances further diversified his revenue. - Long Term Relevance & Personal Branding
By staying authentic and advocating for skilled trades, Rowe maintained credibility helping sustain income and grow his wealth steadily over time.
Investments
Mike Rowe’s net worth in 2026 stands between 30 million and 40 million because he earns active income and manages his finances through strict financial discipline and invests in multiple asset domains.
His public philosophy about wealth building indicates that Rowe follows a practical and conservative method despite keeping his actual investment portfolio details private.
- Market & Dividend Investments
With multi million dollar annual earnings over decades, Rowe likely maintains a diversified portfolio of stocks, index funds, and dividend producing assets. Even a modest 4% annual return on $30M+ could generate over $1 million in passive income. - Intellectual Property & Media Rights
Ongoing royalties from shows like Dirty Jobs, narration contracts, and podcast distribution rights act as long term financial assets. - Brand Equity & Licensing
His personal brand carries commercial value, supporting endorsement renewals and licensing opportunities. - Philanthropic Strategy
Through the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, he strategically aligns financial success with social impact, reinforcing credibility and long term influence.
Overall, Rowe’s investment strategy appears rooted in stability, diversification, and sustainable wealth preservation rather than high risk speculation.
Mike Rowe Age
Many fans who try to find Mike Rowe age information for their search discover that the long-time Dirty Jobs host died on March 18, 1962. The current age of Mike Rowe stands at 64 years which will change when 2026 arrives. Although he has reached his mid-60s, he continues to work in television and podcasting and voice over work and public speaking which shows that his age does not impact his career progress.
Rowe began his three decade long career at QVC during the late 1980s and gained national recognition through his work on Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs. He possesses experience and maturity which enable him to establish an authoritative yet approachable on screen character.
Mike Rowe’s age provides information about how he stayed in show business for many years while creating his multi million dollar success. His ongoing work ethic and energy display that success depends on constant dedication rather than age based limitations.
Mike Rowe Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance

Fans often wonder about Mike Rowe’s height, weight, and overall physical appearance, especially given his active on screen presence performing physically demanding jobs on Dirty Jobs.
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) |
| Weight | 180–185 pounds (82–84 kg) |
| Build | Fit, athletic, suited for physically demanding work |
| Hair | Brown, often kept short or slightly tousled |
| Facial Hair | Frequently sports a well groomed beard |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Clothing Style | Casual workwear during filming; boots, gloves, rugged attire |
| Distinctive Features | Rugged, approachable look with expressive facial features; signature baritone voice |
| Overall Appearance | Healthy, active, hands-on persona reflecting durability and relatability |
Early Life and Education
The playwright and U.S. Army veteran Mike Rowe entered the world on March 18, 1962, in Baltimore, Maryland, as the firstborn child to two teachers. His parents instilled a strong work ethic and the value of education, which provided the basis for his upcoming achievements.
From his early childhood, Rowe developed an intense interest in performing arts, which he demonstrated through his success in drama and singing during his time at Overlea High School, where he graduated in 1980. After completing his secondary education, Rowe enrolled at Essex Community College, where he studied English, communications, and music until he transferred to Towson University; there, he obtained a degree in communication studies.
His early experiences, which included theater and choir and opera performances, helped him acquire the confidence and poise and storytelling abilities that later became the hallmark of his television work. The study of Mike Rowe’s early life together with his educational background shows how both his family background and his formal education created the magnetic and dedicated character that people appreciate today.
Family and Relationship Status
He has maintained his family life and relationship details as secret information while dedicating public attention to his professional work and charitable activities and his television appearances.
He was born in 1962 in Baltimore Maryland as the firstborn son of three children from an educator family which created his humble character and dedication to work. John and Peggy Rowe who are his parents taught him to value hard work and education and responsibility which became the guiding principles of his life.
Rowe has become a public figure who keeps his dating history and marriage details private because he prefers to concentrate on his professional duties and his advocacy work. He shows his dedication to family values through his mentorship activities which he conducts through his mikeroweWORKS Foundation that helps young people who want to study in trade schools.
Mike Rowe shows how to achieve professional success through his public work by creating boundaries around his life which helps him protect his essential family and community values. His method shows that actual connections and positive effects extend beyond public recognition because his work demonstrates genuine character.
Mike Rowe Apprenticeship Program
He uses his work with the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to promote skilled trades through his apprenticeship programs which he developed. The program provides training for young people in essential industrial skills which include plumbing and electrical work and welding and manufacturing through its training program.
The foundation’s Work Ethic Scholarships together with its apprenticeship programs offer financial assistance to students who want to learn through actual work experience which helps them develop essential skills without needing to take on student loans. Rowe demonstrates through his work that people can achieve financial success from trade jobs while finding job satisfaction, which he uses to disprove common beliefs about educational pathways leading to achievement. The apprenticeship program that Mike Rowe established provides vocational training while it connects students who want to learn with employers who need skilled workers.
The program establishes sustainable career opportunities for blue collar workers which he has supported throughout his career while creating a positive impact on both the workforce and the economy.
Mike Rowe Apprenticeship Program & Scholarships (2026)

| Program / Scholarship | Description | Eligibility | Benefits | Funding / Award |
| Work Ethic Scholarship | Annual scholarships for students pursuing vocational training in skilled trades. | High school graduates, trade school students, or adults entering trades. | Financial support for tuition, books, and training; mentorship opportunities. | $1,000 – $5,000 per recipient |
| Apprenticeship Placement Program | Connects students with companies offering hands-on apprenticeships in trades. | Students enrolled in trade schools or vocational programs. | Paid apprenticeship positions, real world training, and industry experience. | Varies by employer; typically paid positions |
| S.W.E.A.T. Pledge Program | Encourages personal responsibility, work ethic, and skill development before applying for scholarships. | Anyone applying for mikeroweWORKS programs. | Builds discipline and work ethic; enhances scholarship and apprenticeship eligibility. | N/A (programmatic requirement) |
| Employer Partnership Program | Collaboration with companies to create apprenticeship slots for students. | Trade school students and young professionals entering the workforce. | Direct employment opportunities, skill development, and career mentorship. | Paid positions; company specific benefits |
| Industry Awareness Initiatives | Workshops, seminars, and outreach to highlight trade careers. | High school and college students interested in trades. | Education about career options, networking with professionals, and guidance on apprenticeship programs. | Free participation; scholarships may follow |
Mike Rowe Angel Studios

He has collaborated with Angel Studios which is a media company that produces content for faith and family audiences who value positive content. Angel Studios does not belong to Rowe but his participation functions as a business alliance which supports his genuine approach to human storytelling.
Mike Rowe has used his relationship with the company to support their projects by doing promotional work and storytelling segments and voicing projects which Angel Studios has distributed. The project demonstrates that Mike Rowe has built his net worth through television presentation work and various media activities which include podcasting and narration and branded storytelling.
Angel Studios has achieved rapid growth through its utilization of crowd funded projects and audience driven initiatives which make the platform suitable for Rowe who shows actual people doing actual work through their relatable stories. Rowe uses Alien Studios to expand his media presence while the studio maintains his status as a reliable media personality.
Mike Rowe Media Collaborations Timeline (2026)
| Year / Period | Media / Studio | Project / Role | Notes / Highlights |
| 1988 – 1991 | QVC | Host | Early career; developed live presentation and sales skills; graveyard shift experience. |
| 1995 – 2000 | WJZ-TV / Your New Home | Host | 15 year stint hosting real estate show; gained national recognition. |
| 2001 – 2005 | History Channel | The Most | Hosting series exploring unusual historical facts; expanded TV experience. |
| 2003 – 2012 | Discovery Channel | Dirty Jobs | Breakthrough show; major contributor to Mike Rowe net worth; hands on participation in skilled trades. |
| 2012 | Discovery Channel | How Booze Built America | Hosted documentary series; diversified TV presence. |
| 2014 – 2018 | CNN / TBN | Somebody’s Gotta Do It | TV adaptation of his San Diego segment; further cemented reputation. |
| 2017 – Present | Facebook Watch | Returning the Favor | Highlighting unsung heroes; engaging digital media presence. |
| 2018 – Present | Podcast Platforms | The Way I Heard It | Storytelling podcast; revenue through ads, sponsors, and growing audience. |
| 2020 – Present | Angel Studios | Narration / Collaboration | Participates in family and faith oriented media projects; strengthens brand credibility and media diversification. |
| 2021 – Present | Corporate & Brand Partnerships | Ford, Caterpillar, Motorola, Novartis | Endorsements and voice over campaigns; consistent revenue stream. |
The timeline demonstrates Mike Rowe’s development across various media platforms through his career, which includes television shows, digital videos, podcasts, endorsement deals, and partnerships with Angel Studios, which helped him build his brand and increase his net worth in 2026.
Mike Rowe Book Recommendations

Mike Rowe works as a well known television host and narrator who enjoys reading books and telling stories about authors whose work reflects his dedication to hard work and his desire for knowledge and self improvement. Rowe has published his own book yet he recommends important books which match his beliefs about life and work and human purpose.
Recommended Books by Mike Rowe
| Title | Author | Why It’s Recommended |
| Profoundly Disconnected: A True Confession from Mike Rowe | Mike Rowe | Rowe’s own memoir style book that challenges common misconceptions about education, success, and work ethic. |
| So Good They Can’t Ignore You | Cal Newport | Emphasizes building rare and valuable skills a principle Rowe frequently advocates. |
| Outliers: The Story of Success | Malcolm Gladwell | Explores how hard work and opportunity shape success, mirroring Rowe’s belief in grit over glamour. |
| The Boys in the Boat | Daniel James Brown | A true story of perseverance, teamwork, and resilience themes Rowe often highlights. |
| Shop Class as Soulcraft | Matthew B. Crawford | An exploration of hands‑on work’s value, philosophically aligned with Rowe’s mission. |
Mike Rowe recommends books that teach practical skills and promote continuous education and challenge conventional definitions of achievement. The books provide valuable insights which reflect Rowe’s practical perspective for readers who plan to pursue a trade or switch careers or develop themselves personally.
Mike Rowe Dirty Jobs Episodes
Mike Rowe’s Dirty Jobs is a landmark television series that aired on the Discovery Channel, showcasing the grit, skill, and perseverance of blue collar workers across America. As of 2026, the show remains iconic, with episodes that continue to inspire audiences worldwide.
Overview of Dirty Jobs Episodes
- Original Run: 2003 – 2012 (Discovery Channel)
- Total Seasons: 8
- Total Episodes: 169 (including specials)
- Revival Seasons: Recent special episodes and revivals have aired post 2020, bringing back fan favorites and new, challenging jobs.
Popular & Memorable Episodes
Sewer Inspector : Mike explores the underground sewer systems, highlighting the risks and importance of sanitation work.
Snake Wrangler : Involves catching water snakes and managing wildlife hazards.
Vomit Island Heron Banding : Handling wildlife and extreme mess while counting newly hatched herons.
Shark Suit Tester : Testing shark suits and protective gear in hazardous conditions.
Horse Insemination & Baby Chick Sexing : Showcasing unusual farm tasks requiring skill and precision.
Dirty Jobs Episodes Overview (2003–2023)
| Season | Years Aired | Number of Episodes | Notable Jobs Featured |
| Pilots | 2003 | 3 | Bat Cave Scavenger, Worm Dung Farmer, Roadkill Cleaner |
| Season 1 | 2005 | 6 | Chinatown Garbage Collector, Sewer Inspector, Pig Farmer |
| Season 2 | 2005–2007 | 45 | Dirtiest Tools, Super Dirty, Golf Ball Diver |
| Season 3 | 2007–08 | 34 | Vomit Island Workers, Alligator Egg Collector, Reef Ball Maker |
| Season 4 | 2008 | 21 | Big Animal Vet, Steel Mill Worker, Ostrich Farmer |
| Season 5 | 2009–10 | 22 | Dung Beetle Researcher & more varied dirty work |
| Season 6 | 2010–11 | 23 | Industrial & construction roles, Sewer Cleanup |
| Season 7 | 2011–12 | 11 | Return visits & new dirty tasks |
| Season 8 | 2012 | 4 | Down Under specials revisiting jobs & stories |
| Season 9 | 2020–22 | 6 | Rodbuster / Galvanizer, Water Tower Cleaner |
| Season 10 | 2022–23 | 8 | Pool Fixer, Caviar Harvester, Manhole Rehab |
Impact of Episodes
Each episode emphasizes the dignity of hard work, often highlighting industries overlooked by mainstream media. Rowe’s immersive participation, humor, and respect for workers made the series educational, entertaining, and a cultural touchstone for promoting skilled trades.
Mike Rowe Foundation

The Mike Rowe Foundation, which has the official title of MikeRoweWORKS Foundation, operates as a nonprofit organization which TV host Mike Rowe established in 2008 to combat negative views about skilled labor while creating pathways for vocational careers.
The foundation’s mission exists to bridge the increasing skills gap in the United States by fostering vocational education programs and establishing work ethic standards and creating employment opportunities which do not require a four year college education.
The foundation operates its primary program through the Work Ethic Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to dedicated students who pursue skilled trades training programs.
To qualify for the program recipients must choose from certified educational courses and they need to complete application procedures which include signing the S.W.E.A.T. (“Skills & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo”) Pledge.
The foundation has provided educational funding to thousands of students throughout the United States while funding millions of dollars in scholarships to students who wish to become tradespeople.
The Mike Rowe Foundation uses scholarships as a means to transform public perceptions about work while demonstrating how vital in demand positions actually contribute to society through their advocacy efforts and public speaking engagements and their industry sponsorship partnerships.
Mike Rowe Foundation (mikeroweWORKS) : Key Programs & Impact (2026)
| Program / Initiative | Description | Eligibility | Impact / Benefits |
| Work Ethic Scholarship | Annual scholarships for students pursuing vocational training in skilled trades. | High school graduates, trade school students, or adults entering skilled trades. | $1,000 – $5,000 per recipient; helps cover tuition, books, and training expenses. |
| Apprenticeship Placement Program | Connects students with companies offering hands on apprenticeships. | Students enrolled in trade schools or vocational programs. | Paid apprenticeship positions, real world training, and industry mentorship. |
| S.W.E.A.T. Pledge Program | Promotes personal responsibility, work ethic, and skill development before applying for scholarships. | Anyone applying for foundation programs. | Builds discipline and enhances eligibility for scholarships and apprenticeships. |
| Employer Partnership Program | Collaborates with companies to create apprenticeship slots for students. | Trade school students and young professionals entering the workforce. | Direct employment opportunities, skill development, and mentorship. |
| Industry Awareness Initiatives | Workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to highlight trade careers. | High school and college students interested in skilled trades. | Educates about career options, connects students with professionals, and increases trade school enrollment. |
The foundation has supported thousands of students nationwide and awarded millions of dollars in scholarships since its inception. The organization maintains its current operations through its ongoing efforts to demonstrate the worth of skilled professions while helping students find employment opportunities that match employer demand.
Mike Rowe Current Projects (2026)

As of 2026, Mike Rowe remains actively involved in multiple creative and advocacy‑driven projects that extend far beyond his original Dirty Jobs fame, reinforcing both his brand and continuing contribution to media, education, and public discourse.
Television & Media
- Ongoing TV Appearances: Although Dirty Jobs has concluded ongoing seasons, Rowe still makes guest appearances on specials, documentaries, and trade‑focused programs.
- Narration Work: He continues to lend his distinctive voice to series and documentaries across various platforms, maintaining a steady role in high profile projects.
Podcasting
- The Way I Heard It: Mike Rowe’s storytelling podcast remains a major pillar of his current work, reaching millions of listeners with short, compelling stories about history, people, and unexpected facts.
Public Speaking & Advocacy
- Keynote Engagements: Rowe regularly speaks at conferences, industry events, and trade summits advocating for skilled labor, workforce development, and practical education paths.
Collaborations & Brand Partnerships
- Commercial Work: Continued endorsements and collaborations with brands that align with his values and audience.
MikeroweWORKS Foundation
- Scholarships & Programs: The foundation continues its mission to support apprenticeships, work ethic scholarships, and vocational awareness initiatives nationwide.
In 2026, Mike Rowe was making his presence known in many ways by producing stories, voicing for causes, and wielding media power at the grass root level.
FAQs
Did Mike Rowe ever get married?
No, Mike Rowe has never married and is known for keeping his personal life private.
How much does Mike Rowe make annually?
Mike Rowe earns an estimated $5–10 million per year from TV shows, narration, and brand partnerships.
What state does Mike Rowe live in?
He currently resides in California, enjoying a view of San Francisco’s Treasure Island and Alcatraz.
Is Mike Rowe a millionaire?
Yes, Mike Rowe is a multimillionaire with a net worth of around $38 million in 2026.
What is Mike Rowe’s foundation?
The mikeroweWORKS Foundation provides scholarships and apprenticeships to support skilled trades and hands on careers.
How do you qualify for a Mike Rowe scholarship?
Applicants must be pursuing vocational or trade training and complete the S.W.E.A.T. pledge demonstrating work ethic.
How do I contact the Mike Rowe Foundation?
You can reach them via email or the contact form on the mikeroweWORKS official website for inquiries or donations.
What is the rating of the mikeroweWORKS charity?
The foundation is highly trusted, rated 4.9/5 for transparency and impact, supporting thousands of students nationwide.
Conclusion
Mike Rowe’s financial success shows his dedication to his work and his ability to perform multiple tasks and his commitment to recognizing skilled workers. Rowe has used his enthusiasm for his work through his role as host of Dirty Jobs and his creation of the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to create positive change which has reached millions of people.
His income and various work endeavors together with his support for vocational education demonstrate how genuine determination leads to success in different areas. Mike Rowe’s net worth demonstrates his professional journey which combines determination and innovation and dedication to his work, which inspires readers to recognize the value of industriousness while they follow their personal dreams.