Unleashing the Potential of the Human Spirit with David Shurna and Tom Lillig.
“What is in us is stronger than what gets in our way”, no one believes in this more than David Shurna and Tom Lillig, co-founders of No Barriers USA. In 2003 they partnered with Erik Weihenmayer, the first blind man to summit Mount Everest to launch an award-winning nonprofit, with the mission to help people reach their fullest potential, no matter the obstacles they face. In their new book What’s Within You: Your Roadmap to Living Life With No Barriers, they share the proven No Barriers framework to teach a step-by-step guide that helps us to break through our own challenges, reconnect with our purpose, and unleash the best in ourselves and others. Dr. Nathan Regier, your host, is delighted to be accompanied by Tom Lillig and David Shurna to today’s episode, to talk about their work with No Barriers USA and their new book. Key Takeaways: [3:23] What does the manifesto: “What is in us is stronger than what gets in our way” mean to David and Tom? [5:20] Nate talks about community and the power of the bond that results in authentic relationships. [5:40] Tom and David share the origin story of No Barriers. [7:55] Tom and David have a lifelong journey of being there for each other. [9:35] What are some of the activities and services of No Barriers? [12:15] Tom and David talk about the structure of the book and which audience is directed to. [17:22] The book starts from a place of wholeness and potential. [17:49] It is not enough to overcome a barrier. [18:01] How do David and Tom view humans? [19:38] We all have an indomitable human spirit within us even though we often forget it. [20:15] How do David and Tom define vision? [22:50] Tom and David share top tips for leaders. [26:45] Tom and David share two stories that have been personally impactful for them. [33:25] When a crisis hits our first impulse is to protect but there is immense power in sharing our struggles. [35:40] How to get this powerful message of sharing struggles with corporate leaders who often feel they have to always be there for others and cannot show vulnerability? [37:20] What are the qualities that make a team successful? [38:39] There are a lot of books about overcoming diversity, how is this one different? [41:59] Nate shares the top three takeaways from an amazing conversation with Tom and David. Mentioned in this episode: The Compassion Mindset Tweetables: “No Barriers USA focuses on living life purposefully and also struggling together.” #oncompassion “Every single human being is valuable, capable of greatness, and responsible to be involved in something bigger than themselves.” #oncompassion “There can be all sort of adversity but if we have a purpose then we have something to live for.” #oncompassion “We all have an indomitable human spirit within us even though we often forget it.” #oncompassion “Don’t confuse vision with a goal.” #oncompassion