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What does it take to turn pain into purpose?In this episode of Life in Transition, Art speaks with Wesley Hamilton, founder of “Disabled But Not Really.” Wesley's story is one of resilience and determination: a life-changing incident left him paralyzed, but his journey didn't end there. In the years since, he has redefined his life and identity, emerging stronger than ever before. Wesley discusses the transformative power of accepting limitations while refusing to let them define you.From dealing with the depression and isolation that came with his injury to becoming a devoted single father, Wesley's journey shows us the power of mindset and finding purpose. He speaks on the importance of seeing beyond the surface, both in how we view ourselves and how we view others. With candor and passion, Wesley shares how he shifted from feeling defeated to reclaiming his life, ultimately becoming an advocate for others with disabilities. This conversation offers listeners tools to focus on what they can control and build resilience even in the face of life's greatest challenges.You can watch more of Wesley's journey in this episode of Queer Eye on Netflix.In this episode, we'll talk about:Finding Purpose in Pain: Wesley describes how he turned his injury into a catalyst for personal growth and advocacy.Overcoming Societal Judgments: The importance of seeing people for who they truly are beyond physical limitations.Parenting as Motivation: How becoming a father fueled Wesley's resolve to overcome his challenges.Healing Through Health: How shifting to a healthier diet helped Wesley combat depression and reclaim his physical well-being.The Power of Words: Wesley's daughter called his wheelchair a "Superman chair," inspiring him to see his potential rather than his limitations.Living Beyond Labels: Redefining disability and choosing to live a life defined by purpose and resilience, not limitations.Connect with Wesley:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeLinkedInMentioned on the Show:https://disabledbutnotreally.org/ .Let's connect! Follow us on social media for a daily dose of inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.FacebookInstagramXLinkedInYouTubeExplore our website for more in-depth information, resources, and to download the 8-step guide to mastering mid-life transitions.My new book PURPOSEFUL LIVING is out now. Order it now: https://a.co/d/cJKOpo6The views and opinions expressed on the Life In Transition podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.
From a challenging beginning in Kansas City, Missouri, Wesley Hamilton has created an extraordinary life story of resilience and transformation. Following a traumatic incident at 24 that resulted in him being paralyzed below the waist, Wes channeled his adversity into a personal revolution, focusing on fitness and nutrition, and astonishingly losing 100 pounds despite his physical limitations. This journey of transformation inspired him to establish Disabled But Not Really (DBNR), a non profit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to claim their independence through different wellness models. An expert motivational speaker, Wes explores themes of adversity, disruption, inclusivity, and intersectionality, helping institutions forward their dialogue around DEI Beyond his recognition in the CrossFit community and feature on Netflix's "Queer Eye," Wes's outstanding contributions were acknowledged on a global stage when he was named a 2021 CNN Hero. The same year, he was recognized as a 2021 Craig H Neilson Foundation Visionary, an accolade that came with a $1 million award. Firmly believing in the power of inspiration, Wes sees his purpose as inspiring others, demonstrating that limitations can become opportunities for resilience and growth.
Wesley shares his personal journey of overcoming lifestyle changes and health struggles after his injury. He describes how these experiences helped him uncover his true passion and pave a path forward to a successful business. Wesley also discusses his work with major companies, promoting accountability for accessibility and inclusion efforts.Wesley Hamilton is the CEO of the Disabled But Not Really Foundation, an organization on a mission to help people living with disability build independence through health, fitness, and community. He is a global public speaker and social entrepreneur who champions disability and diversity rights.Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a non-profit consulting firm helping forward-thinking employers create world-class hiring and retention programs for people with disabilities.
Wesley at the young age of 24 was paralyzed after a shooting that drastically changed his life - leading him to start his non-for-profit Disabled But Not Really, where Wesley focuses on individuals with disabilities get into fitness and living a healthy lifestyle no matter their situation. Wesley does tons of public speaking to spread his story with the goal of changing the culture of the inner-city and make his community a safer place.
Podcast Episode 2 Show Notes: "Wesley Hamilton"Introduction: The last episode of the Just a Mom podcast captures the life story of Kansas City native Wesley Hamilton. The episode explores Wesley's mental struggles, including battles with depression, hopelessness, and suicidal thoughts amid a lack of mental health support. Wesley Hamilton's impactful foundation, "Disabled But Not Really," takes center stage in this episode. Founded to empower individuals with disabilities, the foundation prioritizes fitness, identity, and confidence-building. Offering a wellness center with specialized programs, Wesley ensures a space where physical disabilities don't limit self-perception and fitness goals. The foundation tackles the issue of inaccessible gyms by providing an inclusive environment with adaptive equipment and accessible facilities.Disabled But Not Really Foundation: Wesley founded the "Disabled But Not Really Foundation" to empower individuals with disabilities, focusing on fitness, identity, and building confidence. The foundation offers a wellness center with specialized programs to help individuals with physical disabilities improve their self-perception and fitness. Wesley's own experiences in inaccessible gyms and the lack of awareness in society influenced his approach to creating an inclusive space at his wellness center. The center is equipped with adaptive equipment, widened doors, and accessible facilities, striving to serve individuals with various challenges and disabilities. The foundation's programs not only focus on physical fitness but also on helping individuals with disabilities regain their sense of identity and confidence. Wesley's ultimate goal is to ensure that people of all abilities feel welcomed, empowered, and served by providing adaptive equipment and inclusive facilities. Wesley's Efforts for Accessibility: Wesley discusses the importance of creating accessible public spaces for individuals with disabilities. His foundation, Disabled But Not Really, aims to eliminate barriers in these spaces, allowing people to focus on their goals. Becoming a TV Star: Wesley talks about his unexpected experience of being featured on "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy." Emphasizes the authenticity of the show and his continued friendship and collaboration with the cast. Family Support: Wesley acknowledges the crucial role of his mother and daughter in his recovery and healing. Highlights the strength and support of his mother during his journey. Words of Advice: Wesley's advice to listeners revolves around self-awareness, encouraging them to know themselves. He emphasizes that self-awareness is key to shaping one's reality. Mental Health Advocacy: Wesley shares his growing awareness of mental health issues, especially within marginalized communities. Discusses the importance of addressing mental health and seeking help when needed. Self-Care: Wesley outlines his self-care routine, which includes affirmations, morning gratitude, exercise, a healthy diet, journaling, and having a venting person and a confidant.Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Services: Wesley highlights the lack of mental health services and awareness in marginalized communities. Advocates for a more holistic approach to healthcare. The Value of Life: Wesley talks about how confidence in oneself allows for a fulfilling life, regardless of physical condition. Emphasizes the importance of valuing life and maintaining a positive mindset. Acknowledgment of One's Past: Wesley appreciates the depth of the conversation and the significance of understanding one's past to appreciate personal growth.Gratitude and Inspiration: The episode concludes with mutual appreciation, with Susie commending Wesley for his inspirational journey and positive impact through his foundation and advocacy.
Introduction: In this episode of the Just a Mom podcast, host Susie welcomes Wesley Hamilton, a Kansas City native known for his personal struggles, foundation work, and TV stardom. Wesley reflects on his upbringing as a product of his challenging environment, growing up without his father, and battling low self-esteem and negative thinking. He shares how he once believed he wouldn't live past 21 due to societal expectations for young black men. Becoming a father marked a turning point, but an altercation led to a life-altering shooting incident, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. The episode explores Wesley's journey from hopelessness to resilience.Background and Upbringing Wesley describes his upbringing as a product of his environment. Grew up in a single-parent home without a father figure during crucial adolescent stages. Struggled with self-esteem, lacked positive role models, and felt the impact of the inner city environment. Admits to being influenced by older figures in the streets and developing a negative mindset. Believed he wouldn't live past 21 due to societal expectations for young black men. Highlights the challenges of growing up in an environment that limited his perspective. Living Recklessly and Seeking Change Discusses the allure of the streets, drug dealers, and the desire for a better life. Emphasizes the lack of positive influences and role models, leading to a misguided pursuit of success. Reflects on his disregard for education despite having potential and smart capabilities. Talks about dropping out of school, attempting to change his life through Job Corps, and facing challenges. Expresses the impact of poverty and the absence of exposure to life outside his community. Discusses the negative mindset, feeling trapped, and the influence of media representations. Becoming a Father and Pivotal Moment Becoming a father at 22 and gaining full custody of his daughter at 23. Highlights the unexpected shift in responsibility and the desire to be a better father. Recounts a verbal altercation at 24 that resulted in a life-changing event. Describes being shot twice, instantly paralyzed from the waist down. Shares the immediate realization of the severity of the situation and the surreal experience. Recalls the moments after being shot, the lack of hope, and the acceptance of impending death. Living with Depression and Hopelessness Reflects on the possibility of living a life in depression and hopelessness. Acknowledges the lack of hope and role models contributing to a sense of resignation. Mental Struggles Wesley reflects on his mental state before the shooting, feeling hopeless and battling low self-esteem, influenced by societal judgment and a lack of empowerment.Facing Reality Wesley discusses the early days of realizing he was paralyzed, the initial hope of a miraculous recovery, and the emotional toll of the uncertainty during the recovery process. Exploration of Wesley's loss of hope and faith after learning about the permanence of his condition, the absence of positive representations of people with disabilities in society, and his struggle with self-love and acceptance amid societal judgments. Suicidal Thoughts and Lack of Mental Health Support Wesley opens up about contemplating suicide, the struggle of feeling like a victim after surviving a violent incident, and the lack of mental health support for individuals with disabilities, particularly in the black community. Surprising revelation: Wesley did not receive counseling or therapy during his recovery. Discussion on the systemic issue of mental health support for black individuals with disabilities and the layers of challenges in addressing mental health in marginalized communities. Self-Healing Journey Wesley's self-healing journey the role of food in his mental recovery, overcoming depression through dietary changes, and the challenges faced during bed rest and their impact on mental health. The importance of protein and nutrition in Wesley's recovery, the lack of awareness about proper nutrition in marginalized communities, and Wesley's decision to pursue education in dietetics to transform his life. Wesley's eagerness to learn and change his perspective on life, the revelation of the value of food and its impact on well-being, and applying newfound knowledge to his diet and seeing positive results. Coming Up:In the next part of the series, we will explore Wesley's continued transformation, his advocacy work, and the valuable lessons he has learned from his remarkable journey.
Elle Russ chats with Wesley Hamilton. Wesley had a challenging beginning in Kansas City, Missouri, and then created an extraordinary life story of resilience and transformation. Following a traumatic incident at 24 that resulted in him being paralyzed below the waist, Wesley channeled his adversity into a personal revolution, focusing on fitness and nutrition, and astonishingly losing 100 pounds despite his physical limitations. This journey of transformation inspired him to establish Disabled But Not Really (DBNR), a nonprofit organization that empowers individuals with disabilities to claim their independence through different wellness models. An expert motivational speaker, Wes explores themes of adversity, disruption, inclusivity, and intersectionality, helping institutions forward their dialogue around DEI Beyond his recognition in the CrossFit community and feature on Netflix's "Queer Eye," Wes's outstanding contributions were acknowledged on a global stage when he was named a 2021 CNN Hero. The same year, he was recognized as a 2021 Craig H Neilson Foundation Visionary, an accolade that came with a $1 million award. Firmly believing in the power of inspiration, Wes sees his purpose as inspiring others, demonstrating that limitations can become opportunities for resilience and growth. Learn more at https://disabledbutnotreally.org/ SELECTED LINKS: https://www.elleruss.com/ https://disabledbutnotreally.org/
This week, Dr. Daniel Correa talks with Wesley Hamilton, disability activist and founder of Disabled But Not Really. Wesley shares his story of becoming paralyzed after a spinal cord injury and how he changed his perspective on life as a parent and for other people with disabilities. Next, Dr. Correa speaks with Dr. Barth Green, neurosurgeon and specialist in the surgical management of complex spine and spinal cord injuries and disorders at the University of Miami Health System, and co-founder of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. Dr. Green discusses the different types of spinal cord injuries, what happens to the muscles after injury, and the future of improving recovery and rehab for people with this condition. Additional Resources The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis Disabled But Not Really Brain & Life: A Spinal Cord Injury Survivor Opens an Affordable Rehab Center Learn more about spinal cord injury We want to hear from you! Have a question or want to hear a topic featured on the Brain & Life Podcast? Record a voicemail at 612-928-6206 Email us at BLpodcast@brainandlife.org Social Media: Guests: Wesley Hamilton @WesSpeaksLife (Twitter), @IAmWesHamilton (Instagram); University of Miami Health System @UMiamiHealth (Twitter) Host: Dr. Daniel Correa @neurodrcorrea
Wesley Hamilton, Motivational Speaker, Founder of Disabled But Not Really. After a life-changing incident left him paralyzed below the waist. He is revolutionizing how the gym & fitness industry is making more inclusive environments for athletes experiencing challenges, such as working out in a wheelchair. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Wesley Hamilton, Motivational Speaker, Founder of Disabled But Not Really. After a life-changing incident left him paralyzed below the waist. He is revolutionizing how the gym & fitness industry is making more inclusive environments for athletes experiencing challenges, such as working out in a wheelchair.
ICYMI: Later, with Mo'Kelly Presents – An in-depth conversation with "Queer Eye" Hero & Disabled Athlete, Wesley Hamilton…Best known for being the founder of his non-profit “Disabled But Not Really,” Wesley joins the program to share his inspiring life story as well as what's next in his mission to mission to forge diverse journeys of courage and confidence for people living with disability - on KFI AM 640 – Live everywhere on the iHeartRadio app
Wesley Hamilton is founder of the first 100 percent renewable energy powered data center from municipal solid waste. He has been transforming the crypto mining industry using his revolutionary technology to reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. He is passionate about using renewable energy for overall data center growth.Waste is such a huge problem for our earth! Biofuel Mining is using it to solve the problems of the GHG emissions of the Data Center industry. Wes is not far from completion of his Eastern Kentucky center that involves not only power generated from waste but a Tier3 uptime accredited Data Center.Wesley discusses what made him decide to be an entrepreneur and you can turn your passion into a profitable business.Support the showSubscribe to Side Hustle City and join our Community on Facebook
Welcome back to Rebuilding the Beast! Today we have Wesley Hamilton. You've potentially could've seen him on the hit Netflix show Queer Eye, or his feature in Men's Health, or have even seen one of the countless speeches he has done. But now, he's graced us with his presence on our show! Wesley grew up on the east side of Kansas City, where many young African Americans struggled to find opportunity outside of the streets. Back in 2012, 5 days after his 24th birthday, and just recently winning sole custody of his daughter, Wesley was shot multiple times, paralyzing him below the waist. And with the help of his daughter, Wesley found a new purpose for life. Throughout the episode we cover, · Life in Kansas City and what that meant for a young Black man. · Being in a toxic relationship and getting sole custody of his daughter. · The day he got shot and how he never met his shooter before then. · Life after getting shot and feeling like a burden. · How his daughter helped realize there is more to life, which jumpstarted his career into nutrition and fitness. · How without manifestation, he would not be where he is right now. · Being on Queer Eye and how the show brought face to face Wesley and the man who shot him. Wesley is a force and I feel honored to have been able to talk with him. Want to keep up with Wesley? Follow him on Instagram! Haven't seen Wesley's Queer Eye episode? Check out Season 4 episode 2 on Netflix Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people! Follow us on Instagram for daily inspirational stories!Or check out our YouTube & website! Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!
In this episode Wes Hamilton talks with Jade about how following trauma that changed the trajectory of his life he has been able to get to a point of self-love and endless possibilitiesHe reflects on how society perpetuates perceptions of disability and explains how people with disabilities are the ones with the true superpowers of awareness, accountability, empathy, acceptance, love and kindness, and how when you learn to love yourself you create confidence , determination and self-will that means you can become unstoppable KEY TAKEAWAYS I'm only disabled due to others perception of what disability is I was more defeated when I lived my life based on others perceptions When your life becomes imperfect you fall in love with the journey of knowing yourself When you overcome the image of how the world sees you and can look in the mirror and be ok with everything about yourself, that's where people find their joy, whatever the circumstance I can live in chaotic world as long as I'm ok with the reflection I see in the mirror everyday Most people who change the trajectory of their lives can do it because they know who they truly are Find a way to first love yourself completely and you will become unstoppable Finding self-love creates confidence, self-will, determination and the ability to go out and achieve your dreams Rewrite the story of your trauma experience so your pain is what strengthens you moving forward BEST MOMENTS ‘I was changing the paradigm of what people saw as disability'‘Me smiling, even in the darkest days is confirmation that I can keep going, stay determined and continue my will to be more'‘Let your love for yourself guide you in life' VALUABLE RESOURCES Disabled & Proud Podcast ABOUT THE HOST Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. Disabled & Proud does exactly what is says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without need to conform for society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CEO of Tilting the Lens Sinéad Burke, entrepreneur Wesley Hamilton and architect Jeffrey Mansfield join Washington Post Live for back-to-back conversations about how disability can spur ingenuity and adaptability, and drive innovation.
The top headlines from The Kansas City Star on Thursday, October 21st, 2021 including: Kansas City police paid out more than $9.5M in brutality, force claims since 2014; After vowing to fight racism in Park Hill schools, superintendent is stepping down; Wesley Hamilton gets $1 million for Disabled But Not Really; and sketch released in hunt for Midwest serial killer who terrorized I-70 30 years ago.
For Wesley Hamilton, a gunshot at age 24 forced him to outgrow the street life ‘code.' His ensuing paralysis cultivated an appetite for service and literary enlightenment, eclipsing the limitations of his powerless limbs. Wesley's new purpose is to raise the aspirations of disabled persons, and more so, that of black men forever burdened with undesirable labels. In this episode of #Paralysis2Purpose, Wesley details his remarkable weight loss and fitness journey, stepping into new frontiers such as wheelchair bodybuilding, CrossFit and modelling. His foundation “Disabled But Not Really” is a 2021 CNN Hero and strives to redefine the goals of disabled persons through active and healthy lifestyles. Of all his accomplishments, the real gem in Wesley's story is using his paralysis to teach strength and leadership to his doting daughter. Check out Wesley's websites: https://www.wesleyhamilton.life/ Follow Wesley on Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamweshamilton and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamweshamilton FOLLOW PARALYSIS TO PURPOSE Twitter: https://twitter.com/Paral2Purpose Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paralysis2purpose/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paralysis2purpose TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@paralysis2purpose Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/hzE5n9 FOLLOW OUR HOST, DAVID COOKS Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcespeaks Instagram: https://instagram.com/dcespeaks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dcespeaks/ Website: https://davidcooksspeaks.com/ Listen in for stories of growth, change, and discovery by both individuals and corporations on their journeys from Paralysis to Purpose. http://paralysis2purpose.com/
This week we have an interview with the one and only Wesley Hamilton! Wesley is a Motivational Speaker, Model, and Founder of the Nonprofit Organization; Disabled But Not Really. We spoke with Wesley about the gunshot wound that left him paralyzed, reshaping his life to help others, and the amazing work that he's doing with Disabled But Not Really. Wesley is doing some amazing things, connect with him and DBNR at the links below and please listen, like, share, rate, and review the podcast!! We're still trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Disabled But Not Really: https://disabledbutnotreally.org/ IG: @disabledbutnotreally FB: @disabledbutnotreally YouTube: @disabledbutnotreally Twitter: @DBNR_KC Wesley Hamilton: IG: @iamweshamilton FB: @iamweshamilton YouTube: @iamweshamilton Snap: @iamweshamilton TikTok: @iamweshamilton
This week we dive into Eleanor Roosevelt, an amazing First Lady and just an overall feisty and intelligent woman. There are also the inspirational stories of Sister Jean, the 101 year-old Basketball Nun and Wesley Hamilton, who is Disabled, But Not Really. These people are guaranteed to inspire you, or your money back.We would love to hear from you. Send us your comments or even your own inspirational stories at tangentialinspiration@gmail.com.Follow us on our social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tangentialinspiration/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Podcast/Tangential-Inspiration-110449931124565/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/TangentialInsp1
Most known from Netflix's Queer Eye, daytime TV, and his foundation Disabled, But Not Really -advocate, adaptive athlete (and model) Wesley Hamilton joins to talk about his journey from gunshot victim to philanthropist, his new gym/resource center for his community in Kansas City, and working with the Biden-Harris campaign as a sounding board for disability policy.
Today I talk with Wesley Hamilton. Wesley is best known for his Emmy Nominated episode of Queer Eye on Netflix. Wesley and I talk about his injury that caused him to become paralyzed from the waist down. His lifestyle and circumstances that led up to his injury and how he fought daily to overcome the mental battle of being paralyzed. We then jump into mindset and how his circumstances would not define the outcome of his life. We talk about his organization Disabled But Not Really and the positive work he is doing to help his community at large. Please enjoy this episode with Wesley HamiltonMy guest today was Wesley Hamilton, you can find him online at disabledbutnotreally.org and on instagram @iamweshamilton
Trace talks with the charismatic, million dollar smile delight! This outstanding human you may know from Netflix as a makeover guest on Queer Eye. Wesley’s story is a triumph over circumstances, was shot 3 times in the abdomen on the brink of death. The incident rendered him paralysed. 8 years later, has founded a non for profit called disabled but not really! He speaks all over the States on mindfulness, strength, positivity and living authentically.
Wesley Hamilton is a Professional Speaker, father, and athlete. @iamweshamilton
To we catch up with Wes and his journey through Basketball.
Join the BariGirls as we talk to Disabled But Not Really founder, Wesley Hamilton. Wes fought through a spinal cord injury, depression and a single father to become a motivational speaker that has inspired thousands to start living their best life regardless of their circumstances. He has appeared in Men’s Health magazine, CNN, Travel, Ebony, BBC Outlook, The Kansas City Star, and many more platforms.
We're very honored to have another "Queer Eye" hero enter the lounge! We speak with Wesley Hamilton about his experience on the show, his physical and emotional healing process, and his foundation Disabled But Not Really. Wesley's InstagramWesley's WebsiteDisabled But Not Really
In this episode, I sit down with Vilissa Thompson as we take a deep, deep dive into our race issues within the disability community. We look at race and anti-blackness in the disability community by exploring Season 4, Episode 4 of Queer Eye. We talk about Wesley Hamilton and his company, "Disabled, But Not Really" and the unspoken nuances of blackness and disability. We also talk about Vilissa being a social worker, a southern black femme and a whole lot more. Enjoy!You can follow Vilissa on Twitter @VilissaThompsonBe sure to support our sponsors:Get 15% off any purchase at Come As You Are Co-op Sex Shop, by using coupon code "afterdark".Buy a #DisabledPeopleAreHot tee shirt, and support the movement here https://store.podcastjukebox.org/collections/disabled-people-are-hotYou can get 50% off almost any item in store at www.adameve.com and 10 FREE GIFTS by using DARKPOD at check out!Also, support Disability After Dark by pledging to the patreon. www.patreon.com/disabilityafterdark
Jeff Bell, KCBS Radio afternoon anchor and founder of the Adversity 2 Advocacy Alliance spotlights Wesley Hamilton, founder of the nonprofit Disabled But Not Really (DBNR). Having difficulty adjusting to life in a wheelchair, Wesley was inspired to be a better person by his daughter Nevaeh. Today Wesley wants to bring positivity and hope to the disabled community and beyond.
Jeff Bell, KCBS Radio afternoon anchor and founder of the Adversity 2 Advocacy Alliance spotlights Wesley Hamilton, founder of the nonprofit Disabled But Not Really (DBNR). Having difficulty adjusting to life in a wheelchair, Wesley was inspired to be a better person by his daughter Nevaeh. Today, Wesley wants to bring positivity and hope to the disabled community and beyond.
Wesley Hamilton is the founder of a nonprofit organization named Disabled But Not Really Foundation. Also an adaptive athlete and motivational speaker and a full time single father. He was shot twice just after his 24th birthday, suffered spinal cord injury from gun shot wound to his abdomen, paralyzing him from the waist down for the rest of his life. Depression, six surgeries and bed rest due to being overweight followed. Motivation came from his young daughter not seeing his disability. She called his wheelchair his Superman chair. His doctor told him to change his diet, which forced him to study nutrition and he enrolled in junior college. Was size 44 jean, went from 270 pounds at his highest and dropped to 135. Then fell in love with fitness and began competing in wheelchair bodybuilding and adaptive CrossFit. Started nonprofit to create a physical, limitless mindset for those that are physically or mentally disabled. Become a community activist. Websites: www.iamwesleyhamilton.com www.disabledbutnotreally.org Twitter, IG, FB: iamweshamilton
INSTAGRAM - http://bit.ly/2EoiciB YOUTUBE - http://bit.ly/2rHb1KJ WEBSITE- http://bit.ly/2BpLrOX FACEBOOK - http://bit.ly/2EzgDiP Ones voice is never absorbed in precisely the same way by any two or more individuals who may have been exposed to it. Building upon this supernatural quality, Thrive Inc focuses on aggregating the most mind-blowing, all-inclusive, inspirational platform. Here, with a peer to peer boosting strategy, we aspire to spread positive messages in the form of short, inspirational videos.
“I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really, get busy living or get busy dying.” —Ellis “Red” Redding (Morgan Freeman) For Kansas City native Wesley Hamilton, the decision to no longer remain at the mercy of his disability came well after the shooting that left him paralyzed from the waste down, the near-death coma he later he recovered from and the prognosis that he would never regain the function of the lower half of his body. For this young man, living life on his terms began by the prophetic words of his then four-year old daughter, “My daddy is in his Superman chair.” Today, Ken sat down with this once self-admitted insecure and overweight kid from East Kansas City, rapped about how he became a rebound founder and philanthropist, an award-winning adaptive athlete and motivational speaker after, whose complete physical, emotional and spiritual transformation all but defy the laws of nature. Wesley opens up about the challenges he faced growing up without an accessible father or male role model at home, the choices that lead to his life- altering brush with death, struggles with his own body image and how trying to fit in eventually led him to become a product of his environment. Wesley and ken both get vulnerable the ways self-esteem issues black men bury in their childhood to avoid appearing soft, often resurface into our adult hood, the residual effects of unaddressed emotional emptiness turns into addiction, anger, violence or an unhealthy obsession with creating the appearance of being unbothered and how that ultimately pushes those we need most away. Wesley touches on how he reprogrammed his perspective, found joy in his road to a renewed purpose and how very small, yet intentional decisions formed the snowball that allowed him to lose an astonishing 100lbs. in a twelve-month time span, the nurse who encouraged him to begin his non-profit foundation, Disabled but Not Really, how he got into competitive body building well-after his accident and the deliberate investments in himself, his purpose and his daughter that have paid-off in unimaginable ways. I don't care who you are, this story is for you and you will be influenced to dig deep within yourself and become greater than your adversity after listening to this episode. Wesley story is one of survival, determination, discovery and abundance. The way Wesley repeatedly commits himself to excellence without fear and the desire to experience life on his own terms and ferociousness he attacks his dreams and vision with are at the core of what this podcast is all about, so download this episode. I'm sure it is one you will revisit. Main Topics: This week we discussed emotional development, overcoming personal challenges, discovering and operating in your purpose, overcoming your environment and other challenges blocking you from living your best life, addiction, anger, insecurity, the value in discovering yourself in isolation, the importance of positive self-affirmations and how extraordinary determination, commitment and daily steps forward can be the phone booth that stands between the Clark Kent you are, and the Superman you have the potential to become. Keep up with Wesley and I Online: Wesley Hamilton. * [Disabled But Not Really Foundation] (https://disabledbutnotreally.org/) * [Instagram] (https://www.instagram.com/disabledbutnotreally/) * [Facebook] (https://www.facebook.com/disabledbutnotreally/) * [Twitter](https://twitter.com/DBNR_KC) * [Youtube] (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCysmwTT1FYddDzX5d5qt1w g) Ken Cheadle * [My Website](https://www.kennethcheadle.com/podcast/) * [Instagram](https://twitter.com/kennethcheadle? lang=en) * [The Blog](https://www.kennethcheadle.com/articles/) * [Facebook] (https://www.facebook.com/KennethCheadleTheAdverseEffect /) GUESTS: Wesley Hamilton HOSTED BY: Kenneth Cheadle PRODUCED BY: Podcast Wagon
Wes was walking to his car to visit an old girlfriend one afternoon. He heard something behind him as he was approaching the vehicle and spun around to see a man he'd never seen before walking toward him. This stranger shot Wes in the abdomen multiple times. Several days later, Wes awoke to find out he'd likely never walk again. And he's grateful it happened to him. In his words: "becoming disabled saved my life." To be honest, I started this show as another "here's how to start an Adaptive Athlete program" show; just another litany of tactical bullet points from landing page to coaches' pay. Ten minutes into the show I knew we'd never get there. We'd never get there because the answer to "how do I ____?" is embedded in Wesley's story. How? How do you respond to adversity? Is difficulty an opportunity or an obstacle? Are you afraid to take massive action toward your goals for fear of failure? Sometimes we need a massive wake-up call. Sometimes tragedy is the only thing that gets us out of our own way. But, it doesn't have to be. We can choose to look at the world differently; to see a competitor moving in down the street as a chance to refine your product; that problem coach as a way to define and stick to your core values; another month in the red as a sign that things need to change. So, the answer to "how do I start an adaptive athlete program?" (or barbell club, or kids program, or corporate wellness, or whatever) should actually be: "How do I respond to the unknown? To failure? To an obstacle?" With a shift in mindset, you can start anything. Follow Wesley on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and YouTube: iamweshamilton Follow Disabled But Not Really on Instagram & Facebook: @disabledbutnotreally and Twitter @DBNR_KC Join the 321Go Hub to begin changing your business TODAY. Our new Accelerator Program for gym owners serious about execution. Sign up for the 2018 Gathering in Park City before it sells out.
"Laying on that ground, bleeding out. So many people around holding my chest. People I didn't know. I come from Kansas City so death is kind of hard out here, so I thought I was dying. I didn’t think of myself as surviving."One hundred and twenty-six. That’s the number of people killed in Kansas City in 2016. Four years earlier in 2012, that number wasn’t much different. There were one hundred and eight homicides. In the beginning of that year, Wesley Hamilton was in danger of becoming lost in that massive statistic after he was unexpectedly shot outside his former girlfriend's apartment.
In this episode, one can learn from Wes Hamilton how to reframe after trauma and build a beautiful, meaningful life. When Wes Hamilton was 24, he was shot multiple times by someone he never met and spent three weeks in the ICU. He woke up paralyzed from the waist down with a spinal cord injury. At the time he had a two-year-old daughter and now, a new life in a wheelchair. He weighed 230 pounds and suffered from lengthy depression and medical complications due to my weight. He found a way to adapt and in the first year, he lost 100 pounds and realized the importance of fitness, especially for those who have disabilities. Wes developed the non-profit, Disabled but Not Really, encouraging people with spinal cord injuries to get some sort of exercise. He competes in various adaptive sports and runs several inspirational sites and social media accounts. Find Wes Hamilton at www.iamwesleyhamilton.org Twitter https://twitter.com/iamweshamilton Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamweshamilton/ Non-profit site http://www.disabledbutnotreally.org/ This podcast is brought to you by Living Adaptive with Scott Davidson. Go to www.livingadaptive.com for further information. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/living_adaptive/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingadaptive/
Wesley Hamilton works harder than you do. Harder than I do. Harder than just about anyone you'll meet. Plus, he does it with an infectious smile and a world-beater attitude. Don't miss this one! Wesley on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamweshamilton/ Wesley's Foundation: http://www.disabledbutnotreally.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamweshamilton Crossfit Lee's Summit: http://www.crossfitls.com/
Five years ago, Wesley Hamilton, then 23, suffered a gunshot wound to the back and was paralyzed from the waist down. After lying in a bed for two years battling depression and physical ailments, training and exercise have brought a new life and happiness to his life. "I have never had muscles, so building muscles, eating right, made me feel better, made my mind clearer. It was an excellent feeling." Join Desiree and Kaelin to hear the rest of the story!