Enduring the Journey: Embracing Discomfort for Lasting Growth | Luis Velasquez

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This episode is brought to you by the Resilience Assessment and hosted by Brad Hook.

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The Guest:

Luis Velasquez is an executive coach, ultra-endurance athlete, and author of Ordinary Resilience. With a background that spans from molecular biology to leadership coaching, Luis uses his personal story of overcoming poverty, a brain tumor, and multiple life challenges to help others unlock resilience. He coaches influential leaders in Silicon Valley and teaches at Stanford University, encouraging individuals to find strength and purpose in adversity.

Connect with Luis:

• on LinkedIn
• visit his website
• Get ⁠Resilience Assessment⁠ for yourself or your team

In this episode, Luis shares his transformative journey and the key principles he uses to foster resilience and adaptability. He explores how resilience involves more than just endurance, instead focusing on finding fulfillment and recharging effectively. Through both his book and coaching work, Luis emphasizes the importance of adapting with a growth mindset and seeing setbacks as opportunities for strength.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience Means Thriving: True resilience goes beyond enduring; it’s about becoming stronger because of challenges.

• Fulfillment Fuels Resilience: Aligning actions with values supports resilience by providing purpose and energy.

• Recovery vs. Recharging: Recharging by doing fulfilling activities is essential to sustain energy, not just resting.

• Tools for Resilience: Pacing, persistence, and seeking feedback help leaders maintain resilience and grow.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Focusing on progress rather than flow creates momentum and builds resilience.

• Shift from Victim to Creator: Taking ownership over circumstances empowers growth and adaptability.




Luis closes with a reminder that everyone has what they need to pursue their boldest goals. Starting with commitment and a willingness to adapt, we can create our paths forward.