Author’s Bio: Martin Houston was born in Centre, AL to Henry Houston & Nellie (Henderson) Barnett. He was raised with a great work ethic and encouraged to pursue his dreams. He was influenced by his hardworking mother and a belief in Jesus Christ. These two factors along with his marriage to Cassandra Dobbins, proved to be the driving forces and his greatest source of encouragement. Football allowed Martin Houston to fulfill his childhood dream. Through the playing of football and a commit to his education, Martin earned a scholarship to the University of Alabama, which he attended from 1988-1992. During his time as a student-athlete, he received a B.S. Degree in Marketing, as well as was a big contributor on the 1989 SEC Championship and the starting Fullback on 1992 SEC Championship and the 1992 National Championship. He followed that up by signing a contract to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers. After a career ending knee injury, Martin returned to Tuscaloosa, AL to resume his role as a husband and father. Martin and Cassandra married during his redshirt-freshmen year at the University of Alabama. The two of them have seen many days of ups and downs and through it all they have remained faithful to each other and continued to grow and mature. Their union has produced 4 children (2-boys/2-girls) and 3 grandchildren (and growing). His wife and family have encouraged him to continue to thrive to leave a legacy of love that will propel (encourage) them to carry on the work God has started in him. Martin loved the game of football, loves his family dearly and lives as a man of faith. The Encouragement Factor: Give Me One More Inch is a work that represents an encourager of self and an empowerer of others. Today, Martin serves as the Chief Growth Officer for Alabama One Credit Union, the Lead Pastor of Harvest Church, the Host of The Martin Houston Show and the Lead Speaker for Martin Houston Speaks and M-Powerment Institute. Awards/Honors: Pinnacle Award Winner (Top Sales Support Leader)Member of Gateway II (High Potential Leader)Best of Best Insurance Agent – 4 Consecutive YearsAlabama 4A Player of the Year Sylvester Croom Christian Leader Academic All-SEC Selection Cherokee County Sports Hall of FameRead more about this authorRead less about this author