May 11, 2025
Nobody has shaped who I am more than my mom.
She’s the definition of resilient.
Even while battling a rare form of Parkinson’s, she shows up with strength, optimism, and a powerful “I’ve got this” attitude.
When people ask where I get my relentless drive, my persistence, or my mindset…
That’s where it started.
She’s been my model of courage since day one.
Then there’s Amber (my wife).
The heartbeat of our family.
The mother of our five kids.
The one who somehow makes Half-Ironman races look like fun family events.
She’s constantly inspiring everyone by crushing 70.3 miles gracefully and taking on new challenges all the time… with a new PR at every race.
She did it last year, this year perhaps the FULL Ironman and I’m 100% sure she’ll keep impressing us next year too.
Why does she do it?
It’s not for the medals.
She does it because she wants to.
Amber shows me and our kids what it looks like to:
- Train hard and stay disciplined
- Stay committed (even when it’s inconvenient)
- Push through and finish what you started
Our kids and I scream her name at every checkpoint and viewing area, and especially at the finish lines.
Besides being a committed athlete, she’s also an amazing mother.
Our kids are truly fortunate to have her.
Mothers deserve a lot of credit for the important role they play in the world!
They’re not always celebrated in headlines…
But they shape the future by how they lead their homes, their business careers, their communities, and especially their children.
Side note: my mom LOVES flowers and gets a fresh bouquet delivered every week from her favorite (only) son! 😉
I see it in my home. I see it in the women who work in my different businesses.
(Shoutout to the dozen moms who are foundational to the success of Pacific Capital and ELEVATED!)
I see it in the lives of the people we serve every day.
So here’s to the women who don’t quit.
Who love hard, lead boldly, and leave legacies we’ll never forget.
Happy Mother’s Day.
With gratitude,
Chad
P.S. Take a moment today to celebrate the women who’ve shaped, and continue to shape, your life. Buy the flowers. Write them a thoughtful message. Get together for dinner. Give them a hug. Tell them what they mean to you. And do it constantly. Don’t wait for Mother’s Day to show your appreciation 🙂
