The Power of Focus: My Journey to Schools across Iowa and Nebraska

My adventure into the world of extraordinary skills began as a child with a simple fascination for archery. The continuing improvement in my ability to hit the target more reliably over time led me to understand the growth mindset like few kids could.

This love of learning led me to the endlessly fascniating worlds of martial arts, BMX bikes, skateboarding, yoyos, juggling, magic, mentalism, and the peculiar and somewhat fascinating art of balancing things on my face. You have to see my live to understand that...

Each of these skills, as wildly different as they might seem, taught me something profound about the power of focus. It was through hours of practice, moments of triumph, and the inevitable failures that I realized: focus is not just a skill; it's a superpower.

Traveling through the heartland of America, from the bustling school yards of Iowa to the vibrant assemblies of Nebraska, I've shared this superpower with students, illustrating how focus can truly hone our abilities. But it's not just about learning to throw a perfect archery shot or mastering a BMX trick; it's about understanding how these moments of intense concentration can free our minds from the past and the future, allowing us to live fully in the present.

In my performances, I talk about "surfing on the edge of dopamine," a concept inspired by the book The Rise of Superman. It's this exhilarating feeling you get when you're so absorbed in practicing a skill that everything else fades away. You're not worried about what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow. You're right there, in the moment, riding a wave of focus and joy. This state is where depression and anxiety lose their grip, where your mind finds peace in the present.

Sharing these experiences across Iowa and Nebraska has been more than just a series of performances; it's been a mission to spread a message of resilience, determination, and mental well-being. I've seen firsthand how introducing students to the concept of focus can light up their eyes, spark their curiosity, and inspire them to chase their own amazing skills.

To the school principals, PTA members, and educators out there, I extend an invitation to bring this experience to your school. Let's show your students not just an amazing performance but a pathway to harnessing their focus. 

Whether it's overcoming a challenge in the classroom or mastering a new hobby, the power of focus can be their guide.

My journey across Iowa and Nebraska the last few weeks has been unforgettable, but it's just the beginning. I'm on a mission to share the power of focus with every student, in every school assembly across the Midwest and beyond. So, if you're looking for a unique, educational, and truly inspiring experience for your next school assembly, I'd love to be a part of it.