163: The Adversity Playbook: 5 Moves That Actually Work | Damon Lembi

Release Date: 

May 7, 2025

Release Date: May 7

What happens when life throws something at you that you didn’t see coming?

In this personal solo episode, Damon opens up about a life-altering diagnosis that challenged his vision—both physically and metaphorically.

Whether you're navigating personal challenges or professional setbacks, this episode offers a roadmap to move forward with resilience, community, and purpose.

What You’ll Learn:

  • The surprising diagnosis that reshaped Damon’s outlook on leadership and life
  • How to reject the victim mindset and replace it with gratitude
  • The role of community and connection in overcoming struggle
  • How constraints can actually sharpen your leadership and focus
  • What it means to lead by example—especially when life gets hard

In This Episode:

  • 00:00 – Damon introduces a personal story about unexpected adversity
  • 00:48 – Early signs something was off—on the tennis and basketball court
  • 01:30 – A trip to the optometrist turns serious
  • 01:55 – Diagnosis: PRPH2, a rare degenerative eye disease
  • 02:35 – Processing the fear, uncertainty, and future ahead
  • 03:00 – The 5-step playbook for facing adversity
  • 03:20 – Step 1: Acceptance—“There is no cure, but I can move forward”
  • 03:50 – Step 2: Refuse the victim mentality—"Why not me?"
  • 04:40 – Step 3: Faith—in family, skills, and what you can control
  • 05:10 – Step 4: Community—why you don’t have to go through it alone
  • 05:55 – Foundation Fighting Blindness and the power of peer groups
  • 06:30 – Step 5: Lead by example—turning constraints into strengths
  • 07:05 – Lessons for his kids and why vulnerability builds strength
  • 07:50 – The final takeaway: adversity is inevitable, but it doesn’t define you
  • 08:10 – Connect with Damon to share or seek support

Resources Referenced:

Want to Learn More?:  

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