Mind Spark #19 - For Those Still Dreaming: Don't Stop
- Shujian Zhang
- Jul 29
- 3 min read
Today, I want to share a story that made me pause and reflect more deeply.
One of my former colleagues, Matt West, recently shared an exciting update on LinkedIn: he was invited to train at the Olympic & Paralympic Training Center.
I felt so happy for him. As I read through his post, I found myself drawn in, eager to learn what had led him to take this incredible journey.
It all began when Matt wrote a personal development plan during a “Leadership and Teams” course. That experience helped him explore his motivations on a deeper level, and he realized that his true passion lies at the intersection of food and fitness.
To know what matters in performance nutrition, he put his body and beliefs to the test, dedicating a year to rigorous physical training in preparation for the national bobsled combines. Out of over 250 applicants, he was selected to rookie camp in Lake Placid, NY.
His story becomes even more inspiring when you learn that just a few years ago, Matt underwent two heart surgeries to recover from atrial fibrillation. That kind of challenge would cause many to slow down, but not Matt.
I remember him once mentioning that he used to work as a tree trimmer. That job takes real courage. I wouldn't be the one climbing that high, even if the view is incredible. But it was during that time, up in the trees, that his curiosity about the natural world began to grow. It sparked an interest in plant science, which he pursued as an undergraduate.
That path eventually led him to Pebble Labs, where he worked on the same team as me, developing RNA-based biological solutions to protect food production and crop quality.
Later, Matt pursued a master’s degree in Agribusiness and Food Innovation Management, driven by his passion for bridging science, business, and real-world impact. This academic journey broadened his perspective and helped shape the next chapter of his career and his life.
At 32, he's in the best shape of his life, pursuing a dream fueled by performance, passion, purpose, and a commitment to continuous growth as a new athlete.
I have deep respect for athletes of all kinds. It’s not just their physical strength that impresses me, but also their mental toughness, the ability to stay calm under pressure, and their persistence in pursuing excellence. Their level of self-discipline is extraordinary. They must make split-second decisions and adapt in real-time during games. That takes not just skill, but real intelligence.
That’s why Matt’s journey resonates so deeply. He embodies those same traits, resilience, focus, and the courage to forge his path. As he put it:
"My path has always been, and will continue to be, unconventional, but I wouldn't have it any other way."
Matt's story reminded me, and maybe you, too:
We all carry dreams, maybe invisible and quiet, or even elusive to others.
Some may follow tradition, and others take an unconventional path.
So to anyone who is still on the road:
Keep listening. Keep walking. Don't stop.
We are not behind, we are becoming.
To Matt, thank you for showing us what grit and reflection can lead to. Keep pushing, keep learning. You're already inspiring others just by being you.
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