[EP9] Do Givers Finish First Or Last? | Michael Graham

In this episode I’m joined by Michael Graham. Michael has been a friend of mine for 10 years now and is someone that has a massive heart and is truly a “giver”. If you’ve ever read the book “Give & Take” by Adam Grant, you’ll know what I mean by this. 🙂

Michael and I had a great conversation about his childhood where he was adopted at the age of 2 and how that has impacted his life, family and relationships over the last 50 years. We also spoke about the idea of “selfishness” and whether or not it is the most “selfless” thing we can do to be the greatest versions of ourselves and be of service to others.

Episode Topics

(Click Links Below To Watch In Video)

6:29 | Michael’s journey from being adopted at the age of 2 to finding his birth parents
10:00 | How he landed in the hospitality industry and made Whistler his home
11:42 | How his childhood experiences impacted his future relationships and what he’s learned
25:40 | Why being “selfish” can be the most “selfless” thing you can do to be of serve to others
34:36 | Who is the ONE person/mentor that has been most influential in your life (all time)
35:54 | Who is the ONE person/mentor that is the most influential in your life (right now)
36:38 | What is the ONE philanthropic cause that means the most to you and why?
39:06 | What is the ONE thing you are most grateful for in your life right now?
41:11 | What is the ONE thing that you are most curious about right now and wanting to explore deeper?
42:23 | What is the ONE thing that scares you right now that you know you must meet with bravery?
45:02 | Where can people find out more about you and connect with you online?

Episode Quotes

“Going from one relationship to another only delays the inevitable. Until you can take the time and look at yourself, you will continue to repeat the negative patterns” – Michael Graham

“Vulnerability can be your greatest strength if you allow it to be” – Trevor Turnbull

“When you are selfish about your commitment to being the greatest version of yourself, that’s the most selfless thing you can do to be of serve to others” – Trevor Turnbull

“I realized that trying to impose my journey on my partner(s) was selfish on my part. It’s their journey and they need to experience it on their own terms and timeline” – Michael Graham

“In raising our kids, I can tell them what to do, but if they see me being the example it is going to land 10x more for them” – Trevor Turnbull

“Someone asked me the other day – “what’s your dream job” – I have 2. I want to do a TEDtalk to bring awareness to these topics we are discussing and I want to be a photographer for National Geographic. Both of those things will enable me to fulfill my passions – travel, people and serving” – Michael Graham