What does it take to survive the unimaginable—twice—and still choose to live with purpose, faith, and optimism? In this deeply moving episode, Kate is joined by Austin Hatch, a motivational speaker and former Division I basketball player whose life has been shaped by two tragic plane crashes. The first claimed the lives of his mother, sister, and brother. The second, just nine days after he committed to the University of Michigan basketball program, took both his father and second mother and left Austin in a coma with a traumatic brain injury.

Austin shares the remarkable story of how he rebuilt his life—learning to walk, talk, eat, and live again—and how he eventually fulfilled his dream of playing for Michigan. But this conversation goes far beyond survival. Austin talks about his decision to view adversity not as a roadblock, but as a defining part of his mission to inspire others. He explains the G.R.I.T. Framework he developed—Grounded in faith, Resilient through adversity, Intentional with growth, and Tenacious in effort—and how it helps teams and individuals thrive in the face of setbacks.

Together, Kate and Austin explore the power of mindset, why playing the long game matters, and how purpose can transform even the darkest moments. Austin’s life defies logic, and invites you to believe in the impossible again.

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 ) Tragedy, Resilience, and the Will to Go Big

(00:21:17 ) Turning Tragedy Into Purpose

(00:29:53 ) The Love Story That Changed Everything

(00:43:27 ) Creating Your Own Luck: Purpose, Positioning & Probability

(00:51:48 ) A Legacy of Love, Faith & Finding a Way

Resources:

• Website: https://austin-hatch.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austin.j.hatch/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-hatch-530727a6/

• X: https://x.com/AustinHatch30?s=20

• Hear Austin on other Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/search/austin%20hatch/episodes

Connect with Kate:

• Watch the episode on YouTube

• Instagram

• Website

• Book