Josh Perry dropped out of high school at age 17 to pursue a dream:

To become a pro BMX athlete.

Fast forward a few years and Josh…

• Competed at the X-Games
• Won a Harley Davidson in a best trick contest 
• Performed at NFL and NBA halftime shows
• Is being mentored by people whose characters he used to play in video games

… you get the idea.

But then in March 2010, Josh attempted a complex trick which involved a backflip, a 180-degree spin, and kicking the back end of his bike around…. When he over rotated and knocked himself out.

After getting an MRI, the scan revealed that he had a brain tumor, and that he might die.

Not only did Josh have that brain tumor successfully removed…

… but he’s also had FOUR other brain tumors that he’s had to battle.

Josh has an INCREDIBLE story with a word-class mindset that helps him perform at the highest levels and overcome death defying obstacles.

There’s SO much in here, and I can’t wait for you to listen.

Introduction to Beyond Curious and today's guest, Josh Perry

In this episode of Beyond Curious, host Brandon Fong introduces former professional BMX rider Josh Perry, a man whose life story is as extraordinary as it is inspiring. Josh has not only achieved incredible feats in the BMX world but has also survived multiple brain tumor diagnoses, transforming these experiences into powerful lessons in mindset, resilience, and personal growth. Brandon and Josh dive deep into the mental frameworks that allowed Josh to thrive under extreme pressure, both on the bike and in life. Whether you're interested in peak performance, overcoming adversity, or the power of mindset, this episode offers profound insights that are sure to resonate.

Show Notes & Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to Beyond Curious and today's guest, Josh Perry

Brandon Fong introduces the episode and today's guest, former pro BMX rider Josh Perry, highlighting the incredible journey of overcoming adversity that Josh will share.

04:23 - Josh Reflects on His BMX Victory and Mindset

Josh recalls winning his first pro BMX contest in 2009 with a trick he invented, despite a last-minute entry. He discusses the importance of preparation and the mental strategies he uses to perform under pressure.

10:07 - The Power of Mindset and Preparation

Josh delves into his mental preparation, emphasizing the importance of focus and visualization in both BMX and life. He shares his philosophy of “fear is a thought, and thoughts can be changed,” explaining how this mindset has helped him navigate high-pressure situations.

16:22 - Josh's Early Life and the Escape BMX Provided

Josh talks about his challenging childhood, including an abusive stepfather, and how BMX became an escape and a form of self-expression. He reflects on the double-edged sword of seeking validation through a judged sport.

27:50 - The Decision to Pursue BMX Professionally

Josh discusses his decision to drop out of high school at 17 to pursue BMX full-time. He shares how his parents supported his decision and the value of surrounding oneself with people who are better and more experienced.

38:33 - The First Brain Tumor Diagnosis

Josh recounts the moment he was diagnosed with a brain tumor after a year and a half of severe headaches and migraines. He describes the roller coaster of emotions that followed and how he focused on his recovery as a journey back to BMX.

46:23 - Living with Multiple Brain Tumors

Josh explains how he has managed recurring brain tumors over the years through surgeries and a focus on metabolic health. He also shares the mental and emotional challenges of living with four brain tumors.

55:14 - The Awake Brain Surgery Experience

In one of the most intense parts of the episode, Josh describes undergoing an awake brain surgery in 2021. He explains the procedure, the surreal experience of being conscious during the operation, and how he mentally prepared for it.

1:01:55 - The Decision to Retire from BMX and Embrace a New Purpose

Josh talks about his decision to retire from professional BMX riding and focus on sharing his story and helping others through coaching and speaking. He discusses the evolution of his “why” and his passion for helping people overcome their own challenges.

Links & Resources

• Josh Perry's Website
• Josh Perry’s Linkedin Profile
• Josh Perry - 3rd Final UCI BMX Freestyle Park World Cup - FISE World Croatia 2016
• Josh Perry - I performed for the NFL in 2020 before COVID19 PANDEMIC