What happens when life throws something at you that you didn’t see coming?

In this personal solo episode, Damon opens up about a life-altering diagnosis that challenged his vision—both physically and metaphorically.

Whether you're navigating personal challenges or professional setbacks, this episode offers a roadmap to move forward with resilience, community, and purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The surprising diagnosis that reshaped Damon’s outlook on leadership and life
• How to reject the victim mindset and replace it with gratitude
• The role of community and connection in overcoming struggle
• How constraints can actually sharpen your leadership and focus
• What it means to lead by example—especially when life gets hard

Timestamps

00:00 – Damon introduces a personal story about unexpected adversity

00:48 – Early signs something was off—on the tennis and basketball court

01:30 – A trip to the optometrist turns serious

01:55 – Diagnosis: PRPH2, a rare degenerative eye disease

02:35 – Processing the fear, uncertainty, and future ahead

03:00 – The 5-step playbook for facing adversity

03:20 – Step 1: Acceptance—“There is no cure, but I can move forward”

03:50 – Step 2: Refuse the victim mentality—"Why not me?"

04:40 – Step 3: Faith—in family, skills, and what you can control

05:10 – Step 4: Community—why you don’t have to go through it alone

05:55 – Foundation Fighting Blindness and the power of peer groups

06:30 – Step 5: Lead by example—turning constraints into strengths

07:05 – Lessons for his kids and why vulnerability builds strength

07:50 – The final takeaway: adversity is inevitable, but it doesn’t define you

08:10 – Connect with Damon to share or seek support

Resources Mentioned:

• Foundation Fighting Blindness

• Uplevel yourself and your team with our trainings: www.learnit.com
• Email us: [email protected]
• Follow Damon on LinkedIn