

No Barriers
No Barriers USA
Hosted by Erik Weihenmayer (the first blind person to summit Mt. Everest; among many other perhaps more impressive achievements) our audience tunes into hear stories of perseverance along with the outcomes on the other side. Individuals who've defied the odds (defying the odds) or flipped the script of their lives are frequent guests. - Podcast producer contact: podcast@nobarriersusa.org
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 13, 2019 • 52min
A 29,000 Foot Platform of Hope: Meet Cancer Survivor and Adventurer, Sean Swarner
Shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday Sean Swarner came to Launchpad studios to meet with Jeff and Erik and speak about his journey beating the odds to become an incredible adventurer and inspiration to so many.
With only one functioning lung, a prognosis of fourteen days to live, and being in a medically-induced coma for a year, Sean Swarner is the first cancer survivor to stand on top of Mt. Everest. Sean has broken through defined human limitation in order to redefine the way the world views success. Diagnosed with two deadly, different, and unrelated forms of cancer, once age thirteen and again at age sixteen. Sean astounded the medical community when he survived both. He realized that after defeating cancer twice, no challenge would ever be too great, no peak too high. He has since topped the “7-Summits”and skied both the South and the North Poles. He continues to test his own endurance and inspire and motivate people around the world with his message of hope. He founded the non-profit organization, The CancerClimber Association, and is now an author, speaker, and most recently the feature of the documentary: True North.
The episode opens with Sean discussing his childhood. He talks about growing up in the Midwest with a rather typical upbringing, including engaging in sports like running cross country, soccer, and swimming. At age 13, a knee injury that led to complications the doctors ended up finding his first cancer-advanced stage IV Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He was given 3 months to live. His treatment began immediately and this overtook everything in his life.
“Our entire lives as a family was on hold.”
Coming to terms with his diagnosis was also a challenge. As his hair fell out and he gained weight from the treatments, Sean was suddenly thrust into living a life completely unlike his friends and peers. Constantly in the hospital he was alone and scared. But he had to take stock of his situation:
“I could either fight or die.”
At age 15, while in remission, a second cancer was discovered - totally unrelated to the first. This one was even more rare and the prognosis was a 6% chance of survival.
“The odds are winning the lottery four times in a row with the same numbers.”
At that point it would have been easy for Sean to lose hope but he attributes his fighting spirit and the fact that he survived to a number of factors, including:
“It was a combination of modern medicine, family support, prayer, and an inner will to not give up...to go one day at a time to make those days become a habit, instead of focusing on the negative.”
“I wasn’t focused on not dying, I was focused on living.”
This time around, according to his doctors, Sean had two weeks to live. Treatments included more chemo and a medically induced coma. But once he came out the other side he realized he had learned so much about himself and what drives him. Erik asks if he still feels fear or trauma based on his experiences and Sean responds that at least once a year when he goes in for a yearly check up he feels those sensations but realizes that worrying about it ultimately does not do any good. He makes the decision to think positively. For example, from his time as a cancer patient, Sean still uses the power of positive affirmations. Always believing today will be the best day ever for the mere fact that you are still alive.
After his teen years, and recovering from two cancers, Sean headed to college. He changed his course a few times which he discusses. Realizing he wanted to help others touched by cancer - to provide them hope, he decides to climb Mt. Everest. He knew that if someone who had overcome cancer reached the top of the highest peak in the world it would be a huge beacon of hope for so many people around the world who were struggling with their own illnesses.
So, with one functioning lung, Sean started training. He was living at sea level in Florida but despite his location and the doubts of almost everyone he knew, he poured his heart and soul into his effort. Nine months later he was at Everest basecamp, ready to make his way up the mountain.
Sean treated every step along the way as a new PR (Personal Record) and felt blessed with each passing day. Jeff and Erik discuss the various physical difficulties they personally encountered on Everest and how Sean had similar experiences, but his were only amplified by having just one lung.
Despite it all, Sean reached the summit on a beautiful day, surpassing everyone’s expectations.
Erik and Jeff want to know how Sean builds this positive mindset; how he was able to channel his focus. Sean discusses the significance of having folks who are struggling with cancer cheering him on from all around the world. Cancer patients can't just take a day off. For Sean, that was the ultimate push forward.
When Sean returned he was hoping his message would catch on in the media but he realized he had to do even more. He ended up doing the “Grand Slam” of adventures and then started visiting hospitals around the globe to meet patients with cancer. He formed relationships and kept in contact with so many folks to pass along his message of hope.
Jeff continues to probe into Sean’s psyche. How does he live the way he does? How doesn’t he let his circumstances get him down? Sean talks about making “micro-changes” in his life and also always having gratitude. After all, it was his conditions that led to the trajectory of his career and have enabled him to help so many others.
“So many people are fixated on what’s comfortable. Life begins outside your comfort zone but fear holds them back.”
Sean put together a program that includes micro-changes that was created for cancer patients but is applicable to anyone. The changes help you tap into what is your value system and to stay true to that vision. The link is at the bottom of this show description.
Sean now speaks to groups to spread his message of hope, has authored a book, is starring in a documentary, has created his 7 day (free!) program for cancer patients, and most importantly co-founded his non-profit: The Cancer Climber Association. Sean continues to advocate for others. Please check out his latest cause as part of The Cancer Climber Association in the links below.
Sean's documentary: True North
Help Sean raise funds for The Cancer Climber Association
Download Sean's 7 day guide to jumpstart your own journey.
Learn more about Sean and book him to speak here.
Find Sean on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn: @SeanSwarner

Feb 27, 2019 • 53min
Speaking with Climbing Legend, Craig DeMartino, on Gaining Perspective and Purpose
Jeff and Erik met up in Golden following Thanksgiving to hang out with Craig Demartino, a renowned rock climber who is also an amputee. They are missing their “fearless leader,” Dave Shurna.
Craig works with an organization called, Adaptive Adventures, that helps folks of all abilities get out and experience athletic endeavors. Craig works with helping people learn to or get back to rock climbing despite any challenges they are facing. Half the population he works with are Veterans (they are a vetted VA provider) and will come in a few times a week to the rock gym before they venture outside. He talks about the different adaptations and innovations they use to get anyone up the wall.
But before Craig worked with this group he was just a regular climber. Before 2001, he was focused mostly on what he wanted to do and where he wanted to be, along with his wife and two kids. They traveled and climbed as Craig worked as a photographer.
In 2002, Craig was climbing with a partner in Estes Park and has a life changing accident that resulted in the lower part of right leg being amputated, a fused spine, and an array of persistent nerve pain, along with PTS related to climbing again. But even despite this he looks back and think he was lucky considering how much worse it could have gone.
“I had so many things stacked in my favor when it happened.”
The first time Craig went back out climbing he was terrified. The experience had left him unsure and scared with all the fear flooding back when he was ready to rappel down. Unlike the movies - Craig wasn’t ready to rejoin the climbing world after confronting his fear one time. He was still a ball of nerves whenever he tried again for the next few years.
“I was scared on so many levels I can’t even tell you.”
Despite all the fear and uncertainty, Craig was determined to keep climbing. It had always been such a major part of his identity and couldn’t conceive trying any other sports or athletics. But suddenly, Craig’s right leg started to throb with pain. After repeated visits to the Doctor and to a neurosurgeon it was determined that he would need to have his leg amputated. On choosing to go forward with the amputation:
“It was the first thing in the whole accident storyline that I had power over...good or bad at least I’m making this decision.”
“You realize that the chapter is turning. I don’t know what it’s going to look like but at least I get to decide what that becomes.”
4 months after his surgery Craig got back out to climb. He felt more solid; less breakable. He connected with some great folks in the adaptive world, like climber and engineer, Hugh Herr, who helped him move on and figure out what his new life would look like.
“This isn’t the end of the world...I know this sounds really weird, but everything will be fine.”
Craig did the first amputee ascent in a day of El Capitan in Yosemite after meeting with other Veterans and climbers who were also disabled and was swayed to try climbing with them. He talks about how having these commonalities lend a special bond to the group. Finding that community was crucial to Craig’s journey from a solo climber to helping others like him.
“I was blown away by how inspiring they were and how they get after it.”
“We’ve all been through the machine as it were but I’ve come out the other side and am still here.”
Craig had a new role - to help others. He possessed a clarity he had never had prior to his accident. He admits he otherwise never would have followed this path. He would have continued living his life just as he was before - climbing and traveling with his family - with no higher purpose or meaning.
“It took that time to realize this is who I am supposed to be now. It lent clarity in my life I had never had before.”
“I wouldn’t trade any of it, the things I’ve gained from the accident I can’t even count ‘em. I get to give that to other people now, which is amazing.”
Finally, Craig discusses his film, Craig’s Reaction, playing on the film circuit now and available on iTunes and Amazon.
If folks are looking to climb with Craig or his organization visit Adaptive Adventures or find Craig on social media:
Instagram: @craigdem
Twitter: @demartinoclimb
Facebook: @Craig Demartino

Feb 13, 2019 • 41min
From Swiss Cheese to Whole: Finding Inner Light with Survivor and Artist, Angie Shireman.
Angie Shireman, a jewelry artisan, small business owner, certified yoga instructor, wife, mom, and artist, Angie seemingly has lived a carefree life. But, her smiling personality belies her real story. During this episode, our hosts have Angie recount these dark moments in her life and how she dug deep to find her way to the light and become the shiny person she is today.
Host, Erik Weihenmayer has a new film that is making the rounds on the film festival circuit: Weight of Water, about his pursuit of kayaking the Grand Canyon. The film was started in 2014 by director, Michael Brown, and now is winning awards left and right. At the time of this episode it had just taken home the Grand Prize at Banff Mountain Film Festival.
Dave points out that the movie highlights the internal struggles of those folks in Erik’s life and how we are all carrying some sort of mental or emotional burden at any given time. Angie has had her fair share of burdens.
She starts with an overview of her childhood, growing up in Buffalo, NY, as one of 5 children in an Irish Catholic family. Her mom raised Angie without her biological dad present and as a young child, Angie was very aware of his absence. As the years went on Angie’s mom dated other men and ultimately her home was unstable and lacking a feeling of safety.
Her rocky childhood and lack of familial support had Angie seeking a means to escape; whether in her mind by creating an alternate reality for herself or physically escaping and running away as a young teen.
After years of rebellion and denial of her feelings, Angie discusses how important it was to seek forgiveness for the people who had harmed her and to forgive herself.
“This is not going to be the thing that gets me down, I am not going to end my life this way...I would not have the depth of character or the ability to love so freely without these experiences.”
“In some strange way I knew I would always land on my feet. And to do that we all have to do these little forgiveness, every single day.”
From Angie’s experience climbing Kilimanjaro (Jeff was a guide on her expedition) and she used her time on the mountain to continue to rid herself of the burdens she carried. Beyond her childhood, Angie faced health barriers as an adult. She got a voluntary double mastectomy after finding a lump. Her decision was to take action and ensure if it was cancer, it wouldn’t spread. But, despite being at peace with her decision, Angie discusses how hard it was post surgery and the unexpected ways she felt.
“I felt invisible, like a fraud - like another thing you don’t know about me is this..”
Once again, Angie reverted to feeling like she was holding on to even more emotional burdens. And even then her struggles weren’t done. After some odd neurological symptoms popped up, Angie was diagnosed with a rare brain disorder that required not one, but two deep brain surgeries. Between the first and second surgeries Angie was in a dark place with fear and uncertainty creeping in.
“I think it was the fear of not having lived the life that I knew that I wanted. If I don’t wake up from this, what was my biggest accomplishment?”
To get past those feelings, Angie discusses how she recovered and overcame these feelings by discovering what she calls her “spirit.” Understanding that her physical self and the experiences that have happened to her are not what ultimately make her.
“It’s a thirst and a knowledge that I can do this. I can make it. Even if I slip or fall, my real life is in my ability to choose to try.”
She believes everyone has this capability but not everyone has learned to access it.
“You gotta lean into the parts that are scary and terrifying to truly see who you are.”
Now, Angie has recovered physically and devotes her time to her art and helping others. Using her art to channel her voice, Angie continues to face her demons and express herself.
No Barriers Website
Purchase Angie's beautiful jewelry
Follow Angie on social @msyogipants or @goodvibejewelry

Jan 30, 2019 • 46min
Seeking Truth & Meaning: Talking to the Director of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, Luis Benitez
Dave, Jeff and Erik welcomed Luis to the No Barriers Podcast studio and it felt initially like a trip down memory lane. Jeff and Erik have known Luis since they were all young mountain climbers in their late 20’s. They have made films, went on great expeditions and shared countless experiences. Since those days all three have been on different trajectories all while still maintaining a connection to the outdoors where it all started. When Luis is asked if he expected to have gone from climbing to being in the world of business and politics he is adamant he never saw this path for himself.
In 2001 the team that would eventually summit Everest together and make history as the team that included the first blind person, Erik Weihenmayer, to ever reach the top. They were brought together, along with our Technical producer and expedition photographer, Didrik Johnck, by their team leader, Pasquale (PV) Scaturro. Luis talks about how people viewed this decision to take a blind guy up Everest as a “career-killer.” They assumed he wouldn’t make it and he’d be known as the guide who was responsible for his death. We know how this turned out though.
“We weren’t just going to climb Everest, we were going to shatter that belief in what we could actually get done.”
When Luis was young he actually was not athletic and was in fact, quite sickly. With severe asthma and allergies he was confined to his house for most of his childhood and led a sedentary lifestyle. He lobbied his dad successfully to take him to Ecuador where he could acclimatize his lungs in the high altitude and help them heal - as he had read in an article about a successful mountaineer who had similar issues.
Luis recalls one of his first meetings with Erik before they climbed Everest on a local ice climbing day in Colorado where he overheard the film crew talking badly of Erik and his abilities and it just reminded him of being a young sickly kid who was also counted out.
“It was at that moment that I knew what we were about to do had very little to do with just climbing and a whole lot to do with breaking that perceived barrier of what you were capable of.”
After Everest was such a success Luis become high in demand. He remained committed to his goal of being a mountain guide and helping others reach their potential. He loved the concept of a Rope Team on a mountain. For him expeditions are not just resume builders.
“For me it wasn’t about returning to Everest or going on these big expeditions but helping other people understand what they were capable of.”
Our hosts reflect that wanting to guide and lead requires a special mentality and being of service. Luis ultimately translated his love of the climbing communities and his desire to recreate that special energy their Everest team had into becoming a professional guide.
When asked about his best moment in his guiding profession Luis surprises the hosts by saying it was their “failed” attempt at Ama Dablam when they were training for Mt. Everest. As a young, hard-charging team it was hard to let go of ego and make the tough decision to turn around when they realized that weather would make it impossible to summit. It’s moments like these that have informed Luis’ sense of right v. wrong on mountains and valuing real human lives over perceived triumphs.
“To make the decision to turn around because of objective hazard when we knew how that would translate and the hardship that would result….being a part of the process to pull the plug...with all that pressure and all that was on the line, to turn around - it didn’t matter, reputation doesn’t matter - I don’t work for you, I work for your family and will not make that phone call home.”
As for the low point in his career it was a defining moment in 2006 on Mount Cho Oyu that changed the course of his life. Luis witnessed what he describes as a crime against humanity and ultimately had to make a hard decision to be truthful and let the world know what he witnessed, even if it cost him his professional goals.
But, from a lost job and even lost friendships, Luis found a new path in the adversity. He is now the first State Director of the Outdoor Recreation Industry office for Colorado. His office is responsible for over 5,000 CO jobs and they work with other governors to not just act as “tree-hugging hippies,” but to bring awareness that this industry makes significant impact to the USA’s GDP and our economy. It seems like Luis has come full circle by doing work that matters and gives voice to the outdoor community.
“I wouldn’t be ready for this position if all of this hadn’t happened in my life.”
Each experience Luis has had has been a catalyst to a future experience that brings him closer to his mission. Turns out the Dalai Lama was right: ‘You don’t always choose your own path - the path chooses you.’

Jan 7, 2019 • 41min
A Servant Heart: A conversation with Maj. Diggs Brown
Erik and Jeff begin the session recapping a recent experience helping Nerissa Cannon, a young woman in a wheelchair, climb a Colorado 14er. The discussion revolves around the importance of teamwork which is fitting since our guest is Maj. "Diggs" Brown who, since he left the Army, has worked with teams of Veterans to help them heal.
Diggs has had seemingly many lives. He's a current film actor, served in the Army as an officer in the Special Forces, and even worked as a financial advisor - the position he had when 9/11 happened, which led to his decision to join the Army.
The conversation starts with Diggs describing how he found the organization No Barriers at age 56 after returning from Afghanistan with a TBI and other injuries, including PTS and joined the No Barriers Warriors to take on his first expedition with other Vets.
When he returned home he was lost and it was during his time with these other Vets, in training sessions and during talks around the campfire, that he found his purpose: to help other Veterans come home and live well. But it was a road of discovery on his part to come to this conclusion.
During his first No Barriers expedition his team reached the summit of Mt. Whitney in California the date was September 11th and they were carrying the same American Flag that had been with him at his office when 9/11 occurred. It was the first time he had felt truly connected to others in a long time.
“You make outstanding friendships, get new perspective on your life, and no matter how bad you think your situation is - it really isn’t. There’s nothing you can’t overcome.”
The group returns to discuss Diggs time in Afghanistan. In 2002, they were the second set of special forces to arrive and as a Green Beret his job was to be a “force multiplier,” with a mission to help train their military to fight their own wars.
The Chaplain on site came to Diggs to ask for help rebuilding a school that had been destroyed by the Taliban. So, on his only day off once a week he would go and help them run it, meaning he would teach 6 hours of English to the young boys (no girls) who would show up to school barefoot with no supplies.
“When looking at the accomplishments in my life, that is the big one”
When Diggs noticed a young Afghani girl, maybe 11 years old, who would stare in through the windows to listen he was determined to give her the same opportunity. After negotiating with the village elders who were adamantly against it he got his way and with his persistence they created possibly the first school to allow girls in.
Jeff shifted the conversation to inquire what led Diggs to pursue a military career and he responded with a tale of his dad taking him to see John Wayne in the movies as a young kid and how he was hooked. For Diggs, he was especially keen on being in special forces because it means working with and helping the indigenous people and being enmeshed in their culture.
“My vision of the world is that if we all just took a breath and took a moment to try and help other people, what a wonderful wonderful place it would be.”
Erik asks what Diggs means by a "moral injury” which Diggs describes enduring after his return. Diggs answers that war isn’t what it looks like in Hollywood - you don’t feel the pain that comes along with the suffering and death and in particular describes a traumatic experience he endured that he believes he will carry with him over.
Jeff asks how he relates to this new generation of Veterans?
Diggs dives into the expeditions he's taken with other Veterans and how when they share stories that's when connection happens. He always shares his own first and provides the space to others to open up.
“Everyone’s experience is different, but the, if you want to call it “the punchline,” is always the same. Either you move on past it or you don’t. Either you learn to live with it or you don’t.”
The discussion of PTS deepens and Diggs expands by explaining that emotional injuries or traumas don’t disappear forever - they come and go and we learn how to deal with them or we don't. The importance of a Rope Team is crucial for moments when trauma flares up and Diggs understands this from his time as a part of Special Forces.
Another crucial part of his Rope Team is his service dog. Diggs had him with him in LaunchPad studios and he was an adorable addition to our No Barriers Podcast crew. He received him as a part of the organization: Puppies Behind Bars (link below) where they train the dogs for 2 years and they come out highly qualified to assist in pretty much any imaginable situation.
As for what Diggs is currently up to he recently went back to school for a film degree and is now in to acting part time! Besides a stint on the hit show, Dallas, Diggs has most recently done various gigs including a commercial for Red Bull (link also below). The team wrapped up our convo with thanking Diggs for his "servant heart." He has taken difficult parts of his life and used them to bring light to others.
See Diggs here: Red Bull Commercial
Follow Diggs: MajorDiggsBrown.com
Learn more about No Barriers
Learn more about Puppies Behind Bars

Dec 17, 2018 • 58min
Combatting Apathy: A Recipe for Activism with Shannon Galpin
We recorded this episode shortly after Erik had just returned from New York City where he circumnavigated all of Manhattan in a kayak to promote the No Barriers Summit that took place in October 2018. He took interviews along the way as journalists and you can read more and see some photos here.
Erik, Dave, and Jeff dove in with Shannon asking about her and her daughter’s website and how they came up with the name: “endangered activists.”
Shannon shares her love of activism with her daughter and decided to encourage her passion for animals and so, they built a project around this passion.
“Perhaps activism is also an endangered species”
Most of the time, Shannon explains, people find activism overwhelming and, especially in this day and age with all that is going on, it can seem like too much work to be involved. And instead, people become apathetic. But Shannon’s goal is to get people (including her daughter) to blast through this apathy, find their passion, and start working towards a goal or project to bring about change.
When Shannon was college age - she had dreams of being a dancer or a sports therapist and then, at age 18, she had an incredibly traumatic life altering experience when she was raped and nearly killed. This event would shape her trajectory in ways she couldn't foresee at the time.
After living abroad for 10 years, getting married, having a baby, and returning to Colorado, Shannon receives horrible news. Her younger sister was raped while at college. She starts looking into how common this occurrence is and discovers that violence against women is extremely common on college campuses and, spurred by wanting to change this and other alarming gender violence stats, “almost overnight” she became an activist.
She chose to focus on Afghanistan after learning they have some of the worst records of gender violence and human rights violations.
“The activism has always been in me but I wasn’t putting it to use in the world.”
Her first step was learning and collecting data. She made contacts that helped her meet locals from all walks of life in the community - everyone from women in prison, folks in parliament, teachers, and other activists and heard their stories. She chose to travel without security in order to help break down those initial barriers to human connection. Over time she developed a network and decided her next step was to highlight what regular Afghans were doing and in particular, the youth, since they are the future.
Little by little, Shannon was developed her cause by taking on small projects, all of which involved storytelling and evolved into street-art in and sport activism in particular.
“No matter how different my projects have seemed it all comes back to the power of voice and the power of storytelling.”
“One of my better qualities is that I thrive in the deep-end ….I like the puzzle of figuring things out. The idea of becoming an activist was just another puzzle to tackle.”
As she spoke to more individuals and traveled the country she of course experienced dangerous or risky situations but overall she was blown away on the resilience and tenacity of the Afghans she met:
“Just as you’re exposed to the worst of humanity you simultaneously are experiencing the best of humanity.”
She started speaking to women in prisons who were often jailed for so called “morality crimes.” For example: being sexually assaulted or domestically beaten and she reflected upon her own experience and how despite the trauma she endured she was lucky that the USA doesn’t punish victims in the eyes of the law. The women were incredibly open and wanted to share their stories and she began to value the importance of bearing witness even more:
“We look upon “victims” as something less than, people that we have to help, nurture, and hold up and that is demeaning and patronizing. People who are victimized and have to struggle are typically the strongest people that I know, have the most resiliency, and the most capacity to change, if we give them the tools, allow them to own their own voice, their own story and allow them to share that.”
Erik is intrigued by Shannon’s quest to bring riding bikes to the women of Afghanistan and how she pursued this goal. As a mountain bike rider in Colorado, she was blown away that nobody seemed to be taking advantage of the beautiful terrain in Afghanistan and realized that despite other huge leaps forward in the workforce and other areas of society, it was still completely unheard of for women to ride bikes.
She decided to lead by example. She brought her bike overseas and just started riding, striking up conversations everywhere she went which would lead to dinners, and coffee and more conversation, and even other men and boys who would ride with her.
Five years later (after continuing to ride) she met the first generation of women who were riding bikes in Kabul as part of Afghan National Cycling Team. She met with their coach who, it turns out, was training both men and women. And now, despite the persistence of old stereotypes and physical harassment, young women in Afghanistan are taking a stand and riding bikes - changing their culture and making history on two wheels.
This road to activism is not always easy, or instantly rewarding, or lucrative and it takes constant work and grit to succeed. She suggests that for others who are on the sidelines that want to get involved and feel overwhelmed: just start. Pick a passion and see how you can make small changes, even if it’s just locally, to affect change:
“Each action seems insignificant on its own….but when you look back and realize all the people that are putting their drops of water in the bucket: that’s how we’re making change.”
As Shannon progressed in her pursuits in Afghanistan she slowly started to accept what a strong role her own sexual assault played in helping her find this line of work.
“The things that happen to us, that we see as the worst of the worst, are also the catalyst for change in us.”
Her other tips include ignoring other people’s doubts about your choices and your decisions, to stay true to your vision, and to surround yourself with people that know more than you. Start the process, get comfortable feeling vulnerable, and stay strong in your fight to make a difference and overcome apathy.
Visit Shannon's website: endangeredactivism.org
Learn more about her film, Afghan Cycles, now touring the film festival circuit.
Read her book, Mountain to Mountain, about her work in Afghanistan.

Dec 3, 2018 • 37min
Bringing No Barriers into Business: Meet SVP Steve Rae
After establishing Steve and Dave’s Chicago connection the hosts dive into why he’s been brought on as a guest - after Steve attended a No Barriers Corporate retreat he was able to recognize the core No Barriers elements that he could bring back to his own company to reinvigorate his teams.
Corporations face their own types of barriers but in more “invisible” ways. Steve talks about how employees are not willfully disengaged but they have perhaps lost their connection to the mission or are checked out:
“Something about their environment is disabling for them to give their best and have the fulfillment that comes from work.”
By providing the No Barriers elements to employees Steve feels can reinstall a sense of agency to their job life.
We dive into Steve’s background growing up overseas. His father’s job involved moving the family around quite a bit and exposed him to diverse experiences and cultures; igniting his sense of curiosity and passion for learning and adventure. He tries to carry that over into his style of leadership:
“The most innovative companies, they stimulate a sense of curiosity in their employees and encourage risk taking.”
Jeff asks how difficult it is to “turn the tide” for struggling companies? What causes the shift?
Steve explains that it has to come from leadership and their understanding of the importance of the culture of the company. He talks about the elements and how each of them contribute to the process of confronting these barriers and ultimately leading to positive change over time - it’s not as simple as hearing one speech and walking away ready to change everything.
“Culture trumps strategy.”
Steve’s thoughts on motivation stem from the importance of motivating employees behind a “Vision,” and rallying the troops to see the bigger picture as to why they are showing up for work. By providing leadership that’s respectful and with a focus on mission it enables employees to really engage and come to work ready to take risks and branch out.
“Empowering people to do their best and bringing them a vision they could really relate to and treating everyone with respect.”
Dave, Jeff, and Erik all ponder how No Barriers translates from the mountain experiences that corporate leaders attend or the speakers they hear and how they can bring those types of abstract concepts down to the everyday work environment. Steve muses on a few perspectives: one being that no matter what there are always about 10% of employees who will not engage regardless and to keep that in mind and it is largely about receptiveness. The second is that No Barriers has authenticity and folks like Erik who are living examples of what is possible and therefore this isn’t just about buzzwords and clever marketing but effective principles about:
“These principles that you’re teaching are proven effective ways of sort of rewiring human software to create a belief system of what is possible and arming them to achieve things they never thought were possible.”
And then, to actually experience these transformations in the field - like climbing up a daunting mountain - that experience “creates the permanency” and translates to the workplace.
The concepts of struggle and risk are discussed as positive vehicles for change for businesses and leaders. Steve talks about one of his first international sales jobs that was initially a source of struggle for him and ended up propelling him to success. Another problem he faced was having difficult employees but it drove him to learn how to be nimble, how to motivate others, and how to ultimately be a better leader.
A final discussion point is about “cutting the rope” and figuring out how to retain or not retain employees who are not helping the team. Steve speaks from a place of compassion and how he came to realize that letting go of employees who are not fulfilling their duties was actually an act of kindness to not only that individual to find a better job fit for themselves but it helped the rest of his team to perform better and not drag them down.
Our hosts wrap up some of their thoughts on Steve’s points about bringing change to struggling companies or leadership with values like authenticity, culture, and ownership.
Check out No Barriers website to learn more and participate in a No Barriers Corporate Leadership Program

Nov 19, 2018 • 41min
Entrepreneur and advocate Heidi McKenzie makes her mark with humor and a loud voice.
Jeff, Erik, and Dave speak with Heidi McKenzie who is speaking from her home state of Kentucky. After a car accident left her as a T4 paraplegic in a wheelchair when she was just 21 she not just survived but started a thriving career and has been an outspoken advocate for folks with disabilities.
Heidi talks about what it was like to now live day to day in a power chair and learn her “new normal.” One of the pursuits that helped her find her voice and passion was the founding of her adaptive clothing company, Alter Ur Ego. After she was crowned Ms. Kentucky and went on to Ms. Wheelchair America she networked with other girls in wheelchairs and when they talked about their various struggles one that kept coming up was the difficulty in finding cute but functional clothing! Heidi knew what she had to do.
Her line of clothes include items that fit well, are still easy to get on and off, and have unique aspects like pockets on the thighs and straps on the waistband that work specifically for women in wheelchairs. But equally important, Heidi’s clothes are still cute.
“I’m more of a diva than a fashionista...if you look good you feel good.”
She talks about how, post accident, instead of shrinking she almost became louder and amplified her voice. Now that she found a cause and a passion; for helping people being seen as they are, and not just viewed through the lens of their disability, she continues to be happy and grateful.
“It hasn’t always been easy but I love life and embrace everything that comes with it.”
Heidi’s line of clothing is her creative outlet but she also strives to be a living example to help broaden and educate others about the adaptive needs of people with disabilities. She never turns down a social invite or the chance to take part in a new sport. Heidi’s facebook page is covered with photos of her smiling at the beach, trying out dance classes, surfing, and travel.
“I am who I am, I can still have fun and try different things it’s all just in a different way.”
Creating Alter Ur ego was a crucial part of Heidi’s recovery but she also needed her support system of family and friends. Later in the podcast Heidi discusses being open to help not just from those close to her but from new communities, like the group of friends she made at the 2017 No Barriers Summit:
“They’re my forever friends.”
Before she got to the point of advocating on behalf of others, Heidi first had to find acceptance of her situation. She realized part of being in a power chair was being stared at and even avoided. As a natural social butterfly and wanting to break down social barriers Heidi has infused her clothing with humor. Here are two slogans on her T-shirts:
“I’m in it for the parking.” & “I literally can’t stand it.”
Being independent and having autonomy are huge for Heidi and others in wheelchairs. She now speaks to groups who legislate laws about the importance of including people who are disabled in decisions - such as including adaptive playground equipment or providing adequate parking.
By being part of Ms. Wheelchair America, her own barrier-breaking company, and her attitude in life, Heidi demonstrates the importance of representation and being a strong voice for her community.
Check out Heidi's company: Alter Ur Ego
Like Heidi's company on Facebook: Alter Ur Ego
Find stories like Heidi's on No Barriers website: No Barriers
More No Barriers Podcasts? Go here: No Barriers Podcast

Nov 5, 2018 • 40min
Innovation Born from Adversity: Tom Dixon talks about his No Barriers Story
Erik and Jeff speak with Tom Dixon, a young man from Philadelphia and the inventor of a brilliant mobile app called ME.mory. Like most app inventors Tom identified a need that wasn't being met and created software to address that need. His tragic accident and unique story behind his creation is what sparked our hosts interest and what makes Tom a true No Barriers Pioneer.
8 years ago, in what Tom refers to as his "old life," he was on track to being a psychiatrist for children when he was hit by a car while out for a run. When he awoke in the hospital he was made aware he had sustained a traumatic brain injury which caused him to have severe memory loss.
"I tell people it was a day I’ll never remember, and a date I’ll never forget.”
He kept a notepad by his hospital bed to remember details such as what he had eaten that day and names of people that visited him. Without these notes Tom would eat multiple meals and recalled very little of his interactions.
Tom discusses memory and how most people forget the "overwhelming majority of their lives," meaning the day to day tiny details that make up our everyday experiences. He notes:
"It’s really great that we can forget actually, it’s very efficient.”
When asked about the trials and the blessings that have resulted from his injury Tom mentions experiencing higher empathy for other people who have also had trauma. The flip side is convincing others of his capabilities and establishing independence all over again as a young adult.
“Other people will tell you about their own pain, their own struggling. ..You can relate to having fallen, having struggled…”
Tom touches on the difficulties of having what is called "an invisible disability" and some barriers that those with "visible" disabilities might not encounter like being questioned about using ADA resources and having others not immediately understand parts of your experience.
As for blessings, Tom mentions that his injury occurred during a time of tech innovation and the advances in our world of technology have helped him immensely to be independent and succeed.
“I had this injury at the right time, so to speak, because we carry computers around in our pockets in the form of a phone...There are so many workarounds now with modern technology.”
Based on his experiences, Tom created an app called ME.mory that lets him record a "digital memory." It's searchable and accessible. He adds in event details about his life, maybe even attaches an emotion to his experience to help jog his memory and document the occasion.
He talks about searching his app to remind himself about his first experience meeting our host, Erik, at a talk he gave in Philly and his thoughts on their interaction. Later, Tom recalls his time at the No Barriers Summit in Tahoe in 2017, which he attended as a Reach Award winner through Erik's Reach foundation.
When talking about the concept of living in the moment that folks often see in Tom's journey, he reflects:
“Who are we but our past moments? We like to think we are carefree at any given moment but we need a sense of direction, a sense of purpose.”
Tom's app, ME.mory, has applications to many other populations of people around the world; people who are experiencing memory loss as a result of injury or illness, and even, as he recently learned, to parents who like to use it as a tool to record memories of their kids.
Tom's app is helping others around the globe and is full of potential for uses we might not even foresee yet. He’s also finalizing his memoir titled "I'm Sorry... That's Awesome!" It covers his injury, recovery, and his journey in inventing ME.mory.
Check out the website for his app for any updates! (ME.mory is currently off the app store for updates):
ME.mory

Oct 22, 2018 • 40min
Driving the Bus in Business and in Life - Talking with CEO, George Heinrichs
George Heinrichs' resume is filled with awards and accomplishments for his aptitude for business as well as social justice. But George would not have gotten where he is today, the CEO of a major company, without facing barriers both professionally and in his personal life.
Our hosts, Jeff, Erik, and Dave, are familiar with George from his role as a Board Member of No Barriers. He helps to extrapolate the No Barriers message to the corporate world and how to use adversity to fuel success.
Before our podcast team had secured a studio space we holed up in a coworker's basement, huddled together around a small table in the corner to hear George tell us about his accomplishments in his typical humble demeanor.
He started by explaining his work at his current company, ANDE and its purpose with decoding DNA at such speed with little equipment needed. ANDE has power to be the ultimate public safety tool. It's used to improve the safety of our world; capturing terrorists, helping children out of child slavery, solving cold cases, and helping end the backlog of rape kits in the U.S.
Before ANDE, George was the CEO and founder at Intrado, an advanced 9-1-1 call services company. After 9/11 George became particularly aware that the infrastructure of 9-1-1 was not keeping up with demand.
But we wanted to know how George ended up in these public safety roles that changed the landscape of response times and rate of captures. So, George went back and told us about his time as a police officer. It was there he learned a lesson that would be the catalyst to founding Intrado and leading the way at ANDE:
“It was the criticality that people’s lives were on the line and if you did things right you could make a difference and those people would be alive...you wouldn't be the cause but you could be the fix."
Between the red tape, the technological barriers, the resources needed to make progress in his career we wanted to know how George tackles these obstacles:
"Showing up and putting your heart in things you can work through almost any problem”
On the importance of failure and refusing to let that define your business:
"Our company probably failed 3 or 4 times but we just weren’t smart enough to know it was time to quit....we'd stick it out, we'd find a way."
George speaks about the lessons of refusing to give up, and to keep everyone on a team accountable and constantly aware of the purpose behind their work. In the case of Intrado, people's lives were on the line with each 9-1-1 call that came through and his team was responsible for keeping their response system working at maximum performance at all times.
Having that purpose behind your work is something George explores further. He talks about his childhood and the impact of growing up in a traumatic environment where his mother was the victim of domestic violence at the hands of his father. His empathy with vulnerable folks who were victims of crimes became the driver in his life and his career.
“I am a believer you have to be doing something you believe in.”
George explains that his technology has the potential to drop the crime rate in the U.S. by 30-50% and how early intervention can help get us there.
He credits the success of his companies to everyone he works with - not just management or higher ups but every single member of a company. It's crucial that everyone on his Rope Team believing and sharing the same value set.
His biggest takeaway when everything seems to be against you:
“I figured out the most important part was dress up and show up.”
And whatever problems arise you have to keep trouble shooting and trying as many alternatives as you can (in true No Barriers fashion):
“Life’s lessons will be repeated until learned.”
George explains why No Barriers is so important for corporations and the business world in addition to the other populations it serves; youth, Veterans, those with physical barriers, and that's because these are universal tools that can be applied to the success in personal and business terms and in turn, that success can help bring good to the world.
Check out George's company at Ande.com
For more info on No Barriers peruse NoBarriersUSA.org