How a Brain Tumor Changed Her Life and Inspired a Mission to Empower Millions Risa August’s Story
In this episode of the Difference Makers Podcast, host Dr. Jim Hoven interviews Risa August, an athlete and author who overcame a life-altering diagnosis of a pituitary brain tumor and acromegaly. Risa shares her seven-year journey of misdiagnosis, the struggles of being dismissed by doctors despite experiencing alarming symptoms, and how she ultimately took charge of her health. After finally receiving an MRI that revealed the tumor, she underwent surgery, radiation, and lifelong medical treatment. However, the real transformation came not just from surviving the illness but from redefining her purpose.
Post-diagnosis, Risa struggled with losing her old identity as a high-performing athlete, leading to a deep grieving process for her past self. But instead of surrendering to despair, she chose to embrace what she could do rather than what she couldn’t. This shift in mindset led her to train for a 1,800-mile bike ride from Canada to Mexico, a journey she completed despite ongoing medical challenges. Through this experience, she discovered the power of perseverance, community, and self-belief, which she now shares as a motivational speaker, author, and holistic coach.
Key Insights
- Trust Your Instincts in Healthcare – Risa was dismissed by doctors for seven years before finally demanding an MRI, which led to her diagnosis. Advocating for yourself is critical.
- Transformation Begins with Mindset – After surgery, she grieved her past athletic abilities but realized focusing on what she could do was the key to moving forward.
- The CAN Mindset – Risa created the mantra “Capable, Able, Now” to remind herself to focus on what she could do in the present moment rather than what she lost.
- Healing Requires Community – Though she initially resisted help, vlearned that letting people in was a crucial part of her healing journey.
- Pushing Beyond Limits – Despite medical complications, she trained and completed an 1,800-mile bike ride, proving that perseverance can redefine personal limitations.
- Giving Back Through Experience – Now a speaker, author, and holistic coach, she helps others navigate life’s unexpected challenges with resilience and purpose.
FAQ
1. What is Risa August’s story about?
Risa’s story is one of resilience, self-advocacy, and transformation. After suffering from undiagnosed medical issues for seven years, she discovered she had a brain tumor and acromegaly. Instead of letting this diagnosis define her, she used it as a catalyst for change, eventually completing a 1,800-mile bike ride and becoming an advocate for self-empowerment.
2. What is the CAN Mindset?
The CAN mindset stands for:
- Capable – Recognizing what you are still able to do.
- Able – Focusing on small, achievable steps toward progress.
- Now – Acting in the present, rather than dwelling on the past.
This approach helped Risa shift from self-pity to action, ultimately transforming her life.
3. How did Risa prepare for her cross-country bike ride?
She started small—first walking to her mailbox, then biking for five minutes indoors. Over months, she gradually built up to longer distances, eventually riding over 1,800 miles from Canada to Mexico. Her determination and step-by-step approach were key to achieving this goal.
4. What message does Risa want to share with others?
She encourages people to focus on what they can do rather than what they’ve lost. Her story proves that resilience, adaptability, and mindset shifts can lead to incredible achievements, even in the face of adversity.
5. How can I connect with Risa or learn more?
You can visit her website at risaaugust.com to learn more about her book The Road Unpaved, coaching, and speaking engagements.
