In this episode of the 1 Mile 1 Veteran podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Lonnie Bedwell, a former Navy Petty Officer Submariner turned extreme sports athlete. Lonnie shares his remarkable story of resilience and determination, from his military background to the life-changing hunting accident that left him blind. Discover how Lonnie’s experiences on a submarine and as a single dad to three daughters shaped his outlook on life and led him to achieve incredible feats, including being the first blind person to kayak the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and the first blind veteran to summit Mount Everest. Listen as Lonnie reflects on the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned along the way, inspiring us all to embrace our unique gifts and never give up.
Visit Lonnie’s website to follow his expeditions.
Key Takeaways
- Believe in yourself and your abilities, focusing on your value and worth.
- Embrace the unique gifts and strengths you possess, rather than comparing yourself to others.
- Recognize the importance of community and supporting each other in achieving goals.
- Find inspiration in the sacrifices and dedication of those around you, drawing strength from their commitment.
- Stay resilient in the face of challenges, taking one step at a time towards your objectives.
- Remember the power of teamwork and collaboration in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
Listen live on Wreaths Across America Radio!
Guest
Lonnie Bedwell
Navy Veteran | Extreme Adventure Athlete | SpeakerLonnie is a former Navy Petty Officer Submariner turned extreme sports athlete and after leaving the military, Lonnie was shot during a hunting trip that caused him to become blind. But that's not stopped him from choosing to live life fully while also being a single dad to three daughters. In 2015, Lonnie became a National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, and his achievements include the first blind descent of the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon and the first blind veteran to summit Mount Everest.