These Incredible, Inspiring Women Motivate Me Daily

Women are tough. They can handle more pain than men — after all, they give birth to men. Without women, we’re nothing. And in honor of International Women’s Day next week, I want to share which women have inspired me throughout my life.  

1. My Wife

Through many adventures, including spontaneous moves across the country, my wife, Courtney, always remains happy and focused. No matter what’s thrown her way, she never loses sight of the important stuff, and that, to me, is what matters the most. 

2. Lisa Smith-Batchen

Lisa is an ultramarathon runner, Ironman competitor, and the first woman to win the Marathon des Sables, a six-day, 156-mile race held in the Sahara desert. Once, over dinner, I asked her about her racing career. She began to tell me a story of how her hand had gotten stuck under a rock during a race. As she was twirling her spaghettini, I noticed that one of her fingers was missing, What a badass. 

3. Professor Anita Racine

Professor Racine had a huge impact on my life at Cornell University; she’s the reason (along with my mother) that I got in. At the time, she was the head of the textile department at Cornell, and she knew that I applied four times and got rejected each time. Professor Racine told me they’re looking to get some males into the all-female department, and when she asked if I liked textiles, I said YES! 

She changed my life that day. 

4. All the Female Leaders at Spartan

I believe women are smarter and tougher than men. Their ability to multitask is fascinating and incredible. That said, all of the female leaders at Spartan are truly incredible. If you walk into our Boston HQ, you’ll see way more females than males. I believe if you want a job done right, you give it to a woman.

5. All the Female Racers at Spartan 

Let’s face it: Spartan men exist only because Spartan women give birth to them. Spartan wouldn’t be what it is without them. Women can handle more pain, and they’re more protective and helpful of others in need. So to all the women reading this, thank you. I know we can’t live without you.