Inspiring People
“We rise by lifting others — sometimes, that includes those who’ve lifted us through their words, wisdom, and example.”
On this page, I’ve listed some of the individuals who have helped shape my thinking, my healing, and my journey through trauma, recovery, and personal growth. Their words, stories, and approaches have had a direct impact on the work I now do through Get Back Up CIC.
Each one has inspired me in different ways — from building confidence and emotional resilience to learning discipline and purpose. Below, you’ll find the voices that helped me get back up — and might just help you do the same.
Julien Blanc
Confidence Coach, Speaker
Why they inspire me:
Julien’s TikToks are direct, powerful, and speak to the core of self-confidence. His content reminds me to take ownership of my life, stop pretending, and be present. He’s helped me reflect on how I show up in the world — both for myself and for others.
Favourite messages:
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Everything is feedback.
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Your past doesn’t define you — your relationship with your past does.
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Confidence is not something you do — it’s who you stop pretending to be.
Connect & Explore:
https://www.instagram.com/julienhimself
https://www.youtube.com/c/JulienHimself
https://www.tiktok.com/@julienhimself
Featured Video:
https://www.tiktok.com/@julienhimself/video/7514035926289435934?lang=en
Dr. Gabor Maté
Physician, Author, Trauma Specialist
Why they inspire me:
Gabor Maté has completely reshaped how I understand trauma and addiction. His work helped me realise that so many struggles people face — including my own — often trace back to deep emotional wounds and unmet needs from childhood. He explains it all with compassion and clarity. Since learning more about abuse and trauma, his words have guided how I help others.
Favourite messages:
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The question is not why the addiction, but why the pain.
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Trauma is not what happens to you, it’s what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you.
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You can’t punish pain out of people.
Connect & Explore:
https://www.youtube.com/@DrGaborMate
Featured Video:
Jordan Peterson
Psychologist, Author, Speaker
Why they inspire me:
Jordan Peterson speaks with strength and structure. He’s unapologetic in his call for people to take responsibility and face their lives head-on. His stance against parts of modern culture impresses me because he doesn’t back down — he speaks with integrity and purpose.
Favourite messages:
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Tell the truth — or, at least, don’t lie.
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You’re going to pay a price for every bloody thing you do and everything you don’t do.
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Set your house in perfect order before you criticise the world.
Connect & Explore:
https://www.jordanbpeterson.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@JordanBPeterson
Featured Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSbsQpxFfDA&ab_channel=JordanBPeterson
Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee)
Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author
Why they inspire me:
Gary Vee’s passion, honesty, and hustle are contagious. He cuts through excuses and reminds me that it’s not about perfection — it’s about consistency and kindness. His mindset on patience and work ethic has helped keep me focused on building something meaningful.
Favourite messages:
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You didn’t grow up soft — you grew up with adversity. That’s your strength.
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Kindness is cool.
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Legacy is greater than currency.
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Stop whining. Start doing.
Connect & Explore:
https://www.garyvaynerchuk.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@garyvee
Featured Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIJdb-EiNzY&ab_channel=GaryVee