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Erik Weihenmayer

Success Without Seeing: Climbed Everest and Kayaked the Grand Canyon Blind

He's the only man to ever climb Mt. Everest . . . blind.

But that’s not Erik Weihenmayer‘s most amazing achievement.

By a long shot.

Not only has Erik been completely blind since he was 14 years old, he’s climbed countless mountains, kayaked the Grand Canyon, adopted a son from Nepal, taught school, and started an extraordinary movement to empower disabled athletes to push past their barriers.

I was introduced to Erik through our mutual friend Kyle Maynard (who you remember if you went to Summit of Greatness 2016 or listened to Episode 18).

I knew he’d have extraordinary perspective on life, challenges, and mindset. But I didn’t know just how powerful our conversation would be.

"There is a way forwards, even if it's backwards."  

You see, not only has Erik used his loss of physical vision to expand his mind’s vision and potential, he’s taken a stand for everyone to do the same.

No matter if he’s climbing one of the tallest mountains in the world (yes, he’s climbed the Seven Summits), or if he’s having a conversation with someone like me, Erik shares his heart and mind so freely, you can’t help but be inspired.

I was so touched by Erik’s powerful vision of what is possible when we put our fears aside and go for our dreams anyway.

I can’t wait for you to experience the same as you listen to Episode 487.

"I didn't want to go on the fast track. I think you don't learn much from squeaking by."  

Some Questions I Ask:

  • What do you look for when you meet someone through your senses? (2:18)
  • How did you deal with the loss of your eyesight at age 14? (5:08)
  • How do you prepare mentally for any major obstacle you’re about to take on? (18:45)
  • Do you feel you have an advantage because you can’t see how far you have to go? (22:30)
  • Why do so many people give up on living their full potential? (27:32)
  • What is the biggest lesson you learned about yourself since going blind? (32:20)

In this episode, you will learn:

  • What inspired Erik to finally commit to kayaking the Grand Canyon (12:10)
  • How to break through the barriers that are keeping you from your greatness (28:55)
  • Plus much more…

Connect with
Erik Weihenmayer

Transcript of this Episode

Music Credits:

Music Credit: Adventures by A Himitsu

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