Into the Story: True Stories, Better Communication #80 | Define Your Values (with Ken Larson)
Jan 13, 2026
Ken Larson, a performance coach and former Canadian national basketball player, shares a pivotal moment in his life when sudden vision loss during a workout led to hospitalization. Struggling with identity after job loss, he journals in the hospital and discovers the importance of defining his core values: health, connection, excellence, contribution, and freedom. This epiphany guides him in rebuilding his career, ultimately leading to a thriving coaching business that aligns with his new identity.
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Sudden Job Loss Shattered Identity
- Ken describes being walked out of his job as athletic director and sitting in his car in shock for about an hour.
- The sudden loss shattered his ego and identity, forcing him to ask, "Who am I?"
Crisis After Forcing A Career Fit
- Ken recounts taking a corporate job, becoming wired on caffeine, and neglecting family and health.
- He hired a trainer, then experienced a gym collapse episode that led to emergency care.
Gym Collapse Triggered Hospital Stay
- During a heavy leg-press set Ken's eyes crossed and he became dizzy, then was taken by EMS to the hospital.
- Tests later showed his brain was "pristine," but the event forced deep reflection.