As a child, Jeff Griffin dreamed of playing college football. However, a construction accident left him paralysed from the waist down. His life and dreams were shattered but not defeated. During those dark days, he had a decision to make: either stay down and quit or get back up and succeed. He chose the latter. 

As an ordinary man living life in a wheelchair, Jeff has accomplished some extraordinary things. He played in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Greece, and is a silver medalist for the USA men’s wheelchair basketball team. Jeff is a national champion who played for the Utah Wheelin’ Jazz and is a four-time All-Star MVP. He was the number one men’s wheelchair tennis player in Utah, won the St. George Marathon, has two Guinness Book of World Records, and is the author of the award-winning book I’Mpossible: Desire. Dream. Do. He believes everyone has the power and potential to accomplish the impossible if they take the proper steps.

During his 16-year career, Griffin’s teaching style, humour, and personality have made him one of the most liked and sought-after teachers. He earned his master’s degree in education and curriculum and created a worldwide peer-to-peer leadership program for Third-World countries recognised at the United Nations in New York City.  Griff considers publishing his book one of his greatest accomplishments since he got a D- in English and was told he would never be able to write a coherent sentence.

His mother named him Jeffrey, but his friends call him Griff. 

In this episode of the LIFT podcast, Richard talks to Griff about the question that changed his life, why some people fall and stay there while others rise and how we get past limitations in our mind or imposed on us by others.