Building Unity Through Fitness: Wes Piatt's Journey
Episode Overview
Unity Games aim to unite rather than compete. Wes Piatt's journey from trauma to fitness success. Importance of supporting LGBTQIA community and veterans. Mental and physical health as key themes. Inclusive events foster community and mutual support.
What drives me is showing people what they’re capable of.
In this episode of the Real Joy Recovery Podcast, Michele Waterman sits down with Wes Piatt, owner of Coast Range CrossFit in Gilroy, California. Wes is a seasoned CrossFit athlete with a compelling backstory that includes military service and overcoming personal trauma. His journey into CrossFit began with a frustrating yet transformative workout experience, and he's been hooked ever since.
Wes shares his motivation for creating the Unity Games, an inclusive event designed to bring together CrossFit enthusiasts to support the LGBTQIA community and veterans. He emphasizes that the Unity Games aren't just about competition; they're about unity and understanding. Participants engage in various fitness challenges, but the real goal is to foster a sense of community and mutual support.
The conversation touches on Wes's difficult upbringing, including his mother's struggles with mental health and addiction, and how these experiences shaped his approach to life and fitness. Michele and Wes also discuss the importance of mental and physical health, and how events like the Unity Games can serve as a catalyst for positive change. Michele brings her own experiences into the mix, sharing how she participated in the Unity Games despite not being in peak physical condition.
Her story underscores the episode's central theme: that everyone has the potential to achieve great things, regardless of their starting point. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in fitness, mental health, and community building. Wes's story is both inspiring and relatable, making it clear that with determination and support, we can all overcome our past and build a better future.
Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that highlights the power of unity and the importance of supporting one another. Tune in to hear how you can be part of this transformative experience.