Scott Muir. A Smile Saved My Life
Scott Muir is one of the most inspirational and positive people that I’ve been honored to meet. His story is both incredible and so so scary; and through it all he is one of the most upbeat, engaging, and happy people I’ve met. I got way more out of this interview than Scott has any idea. He thoroughly impacted me and I have very much taken his messages to heart.
Scott is a proud husband and parent, a passionate lifelong surfer, an Air Force Academy graduate and D1 soccer player, an Air Force veteran, pilot, is someone that likes to do hard things; and speaks in compelling and inspirational sound bites. He’s truly an embodiment of all the books and podcasts on high performers that I consume.
In September 2025, Scott completed a giant goal he had set for himself; paddling the 30 mile prone paddle fundraising event in honor of fallen lifeguard Ben Carlson; the Ben Did Go 10.0. And he crushed it.
Two weeks later Scott was surfing with a good friend in solid surf. Because of a split second choice and a smile, they made friends with two young guns out surfing the same spot.
That connection saved Scott’s life.
Scott tells the story of breaking his neck, being rescued and the recovery journey he is on. This interview is full of chicken skin moments, inspirational storytelling, and an incredible way to look at life. We should all strive to live like Scott.
Time: 0:56
A Smile Saved My Life
Time: 0:48
Judah
Time: 1:13
Enormity
Time: 0:50
Happiness
0:00 – Solo Paddle Adventure Success.
7:24 – The Thrill of Achievement
10:28 – Surfing Showdown: Close Call.
16:44 – Rescue Amid Treacherous Surf.
21:41 – Surviving and Embracing Life.
26:08 – Surrendering to Life’s Challenges.
31:23 – Keep Scotty Surfing Journey.
38:28 – Rare Asymmetric Spinal Injury Recovery.
45:00 – First Steps to Possibility.
50:12 – Positive Resilience Amid Challenges.
55:26 – Meaningful Flag on the Wall.
58:15 – Concentrated Community Love.
1:04:52 – Epic Surfing Adventure Recap.
1:08:09 – Solo Peace on the Ocean.
1:12:40 – Podcast Journey and Storytelling.
1:20:23 – Teaching Pilots: A Passion.
1:24:43 – Airplane Escape Challenges.
1:30:18 – Humbled and Honored Guest.