What do you do when life throws you the kind of challenge you didn’t choose—and can’t change? In this profound and uplifting episode, Kate sits down with Robert Paylor, a motivational speaker and former collegiate rugby player whose life changed in an instant when he suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the neck down. But instead of being defined by tragedy, Robert chose a different path—one of purpose, forgiveness, and radical resilience.

Together, they dive into the emotional, mental, and spiritual journey of learning to move forward when everything feels out of your control. Robert shares candidly about the fear, grief, and trauma he faced, and the daily decision to focus on what he can control: his mindset, his attitude, and his commitment to keep progressing—one inch at a time.

They also explore the nuanced and often difficult process of forgiveness, not just of others but of self. Robert brings powerful insight into how comparison, when reframed, can offer perspective instead of pain. It’s a humbling reminder that even in the midst of struggle, gratitude and strength can coexist, and that perspective can be one of our greatest sources of resilience.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating adversity, seeking purpose through pain, or simply needing a reminder that healing doesn’t mean going back—it means moving forward with grace and grit.

If this episode speaks to you, please share with a friend, leave a comment, and drop a review—I’d love to hear your biggest takeaway!

MORE ABOUT THIS EPISODE:

(00:00:00 ) The Day Everything Changed

(00:14:04 ) The Power of Perspective

(00:33:21 ) Walking Again: The Long Road to Recovery

(00:46:22 ) From Daily Challenges to Powerful Purpose

(00:58:13 ) True Success, Daily Joy & Living with Purpose

Resources:

• Paralyzed To Powerful: Lessons from a Quadriplegic’s Journey by Robert Paylor

• Website: robertpaylor.com

• Instagram: instagram.com/rob.paylor

• X: x.com/RobertPaylor5

• TikTok: tiktok.com/@rob.paylor

• Facebook: facebook.com/robertpaylor5

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-paylor

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