Arizona native Misty Hyman is an Olympic gold medalist and former world record-holder as well as the Swim Coach at Mistyfly LLC and The Sanctuary Resort and an Inspirational Speaker. Misty, who won gold in the 2000 Olympics, now uses her Olympic story to inspire and positively impact others. Learn more about Misty Hyman…
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
First job: Intern at The Buccaneer Resort in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. I worked in every department, learning the hospitality business and management skills.
Favorite AZ restaurant: The Mission in Old Town, because I love the history of the building, the ambience, the cuisine, the margaritas, and the guacamole!
Person who has impacted your life the most: Besides my wonderful parents who gave me the love, resources, and support to follow my dreams and so much more, my swim coach Bob Gillett impacted my life the most. He taught me about goal setting, hard work, and always changing to get better. He was an innovator and a pioneer in the sport of swimming and life.
Your biggest accomplishment in your eyes: Learning and perfecting my ability to share my Olympic story in a way that inspires and positively impacts others.
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: The biggest obstacle I have overcome was bulimia. It was something that had a very negative effect on my life for a very long time. I doubted for a while if I would ever be able to manage it. It took a lot of inner work and surrender to overcome, but it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I learned so much in the process that helps me in everything I do.
Someone who inspires you: Allysa Seely is a gold medalist in paralympic triathlon. She is also a swim coaching client and a dear friend. I have never met anyone who could overcome the adversity that she has faced and continues to face in her life. Yet she never lets her disability or disease define her.
Favorite quote: “Happiness is not a goal, it’s a by-product of a life well lived.” Eleanor Roosevelt
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: You have to learn by doing! It’s all about the experience and putting yourself in a position to learn from the best in your field.
What makes someone fabulous: Being their best self!
Congratulations, Misty. You are one awesome lady. Congratulations, also on the birth of baby. Enjoy every minute.