25. Jose Martinez - USA Adaptive Surf Team, U.S. Army Veteran, Survivor, Four Season Fighters

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A member of Team USA’s Adaptive Surf Team, Jose Martinez is a U.S. Army Veteran and motivational speaker. While serving in Afghanistan in 2012 Jose stepped on an I.E.D that resulted in the loss of three of Jose’s limbs and contributed to other significant medical complications. As part of a rehabilitation process that would take years, Jose was Introduced to Surfing as part of his recovery plan. Initially falling in love with the sport as a form of physical and mental recovery, Jose has since developed into a world class surfer and most recently took 3rd place at the Amp Surf ISA World Para Surfing Championships.

In today’s show Jose shares his love of Surfing and why there’s no need for an alarm. Recounts the roots and environment that forged his fighting spirit. Details the event of the attack that resulted in his injuries and how his brothers in arms provided hope in his darkest moment. Shares his experience with physical and mental recovery. We learn why it’s probably not recommended to tell Jose something is impossible. He shares his passion for self-improvement and spreading optimism. The need for empathy, not sympathy. His approach to overcoming adversity and why obstacles are really just a problem to be solved. An example of how sources of inspiration and positivity can come from the unlikeliest of places. Lastly, we hear about the great work he and his teammates at Four Seasons Fighters are doing to support military veterans and first responders who are suffering as a result of traumatic experiences during their service.

Follow Jose:

Website: https://www.fourseasonfighters.org/

Instagram: @1guru1

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Produced By: Justin Gunter, Ken Gunter