Hugh Simpson, aka M.R. Valentine, has spent decades teaching situational awareness, preparedness, and survival worldwide. Previously, he was an investigative reporter covering civil rights in the late 60s, as well as that era's drug scene and consumerism. After leaving news, he returned to Florida State University to finish a degree in sociology and then went on to get a masters degree in advertising and public relations at the University of Illinois. He opened a PR consulting firm, with his first client being the original Marlboro Man. Later clients included several Guinness record holders, an award-winning kitchen designer, a Nobel Prize-nominated author, and an ultra-marathon runner.
He also became a International Sports Science Association-certified personal fitness trainer at 50, and hosted an award-winning TV show on holistic health and fitness for three years. His first book "A Family Survival Manual for Y2K & Beyond" led to him being featured on CNN, Fox News, and other networks. He has tested products for numerous preparedness and survival companies, including Lodge, CleanWaste, Moeller Technology, Zaps Gear, Smith Products, Sawyer, and Survivor Industries. His latest venture is consulting, designing, and creating his XP Eco Domes.