Real Talk: Disability, Job Failure, and Finding Endurance with Kyle Coon

In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone talks with adventure athlete and Paralympian Kyle Coon. Kyle shares his journey from a confident college graduate struggling to find work—even landing a rejection from a grocery store—to transforming his life through endurance sports and embracing imperfection. His candid conversation highlights the challenges and unexpected turns that shape our personal growth.

About the Guest:

Kyle Coon is a two-time Paralympian, endurance athlete, keynote speaker, and Exactly What to Say Certified Guide. After losing his sight at the age of six, Kyle has dedicated his life to pushing limits—whether summiting Kilimanjaro as a teenager, competing on the world’s biggest athletic stages, or helping individuals and teams unlock their highest potential. A passionate advocate for high-performance living, he shares his journey of resilience, adaptability, and achievement through speaking engagements, coaching, and content creation. When he’s not training for his next challenge, Kyle is focused on fostering a community committed to excellence and living without limits.

Main Topics Covered:

• Kyle’s experience growing up blind and developing a strong support network
• The reality check and emotional impact of post-college job hunting setbacks
• How rejection led Kyle to rediscover physical fitness and ultimately pursue endurance sports
• The transformative role of mentorship and community in finding new paths
• A behind-the-scenes look at competing in triathlon as a blind athlete
• Reflections on overconfidence, growth, and advice for younger adults
• Kyle’s current projects and how technology enhances his life

Quote from the Episode:

"At the end of the day, there is no best. There's only better." — Kyle Coon

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction and Kyle’s definition of “home”
• 01:12 – Kyle’s non-work passion: Chess
• 04:18 – Facing setbacks after college and personal reflection
• 10:53 – Losing his vision as a child and its life impact
• 18:38 – From adventure sports to marathons and triathlons
• 23:50 – Finding a running mentor and learning about triathlon
• 29:22 – Progression from entry-level running to Ironman and Paralympics
• 34:47 – The mechanics of racing as a blind triathlete
• 37:10 – Would Kyle have chosen endurance sports if life went different?
• 38:48 – Advice to his younger self
• 40:25 – Kyle’s current pursuits and where to connect

Connect with Kyle Coon:

• Website: KyleCoon.com
• Instagram: @ironkyle

Also mentioned in the show United In Stride https://www.unitedinstride.com/

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