John O’Leary welcomes world champion wrestler Ben Kjar, subject of the award-winning documentary Standout, to the Live Inspired Podcast to share how he turned adversity into purpose.
Ben Kjar was born with Crouzon syndrome, a rare craniofacial condition, and has endured painful surgeries, relentless bullying and the weight of being underestimated. And yet Ben refused to let others define what was possible for his life. He became Utah Valley University’s first NCAA Division I Wrestling All-American, a world champion wrestler and an international motivational speaker whose extraordinary journey is featured in the award-winning documentary STANDOUT: The Ben Kjar Story.
Today, Ben shares how his mother’s reminder that he was “born different to make a difference” changed the course of his life, how wrestling helped him turn pain into purpose, and why the challenges we face can become our greatest source of strength. He also reminds us that we may not control what happens to us, but we can always choose whether we live as victims or victors.
My friends, if you have ever felt different, underestimated or discouraged by the obstacles in front of you, this conversation is for you. You’ll leave inspired to embrace what makes you unique, meet adversity with courage and recognize that the very thing you once wished you could change may be what allows you to make your greatest difference.
Subscribe & listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio or listen here:
Or click here to watch the full conversation on YouTube!
- Ben’s parents cuddled him but never coddled him. Their message: “You’re born different to make a difference. You’re not born to fit in. You’re born to stand out.”
- The Twix Moment: Ben calls the public ridicule he endured while buying a Twix one of the worst yet “sweetest” moments of his life because it led him to see his difference as a gift.
- “What if the scars in our life are meant to be shown to others?” Ben found that sharing what he once hid could create connection, empathy and hope.
- Ben chose wrestling because it gave him something Crouzon syndrome could not: control. His success came through attitude, effort and a willingness to “disobey average.”
- Before high school, Ben put “3XSC,” meaning three-time state champion, on his letterman jacket. He called his shot, did the work and became his school’s first to achieve it.
- “The shot that you haven’t called is not just holding you back. It’s holding back generations of people that need you to break their belief barrier.”
- After four IVF cycles, two miscarriages and two failed adoptions, Ben and his wife LaCole kept choosing “new beginnings, not dead ends.” They adopted three children in 13 months.
- The documentary Standout features Colton Fielding, a young actor with Crouzon syndrome, portraying Ben as a child.
- Watch Ben Kjar’s award-winning documentary Standout here.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Lizzie Velasquez. Born with an extremely rare medical condition, Lizzie endured ridicule because of her appearance. Today, she’s embraced what makes her different and inspires others to define themselves by their courage, character and kindness. Listen to Lizzie Velasquez on ep. 71.
***
About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
BEN KJAR'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. Outside of scripture, Good to Great by Jim Collins. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. I think it’s the ability to not care so much about what other people think. Kids forgive easily, love quickly and are willing to just go out and send it, whether it’s a front flip, a backflip or any opportunity. They’re full of life, not knowing the consequences ahead. And sometimes, that’s the best thing. Live a little bit ignorantly about what the consequence will be with the best of intentions. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. Photo album or something that means a lot to me and my wife. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. Jesus. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. I am my best investment. I will get the biggest and greatest return on investment when I go in all-in on me. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. Love more, worry less. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. With no chance at an ordinary life, he chose to live an extraordinary one.
