"Can't and won't are just words. Nobody can predict what you will be able to do tomorrow. You write your own story."

Fran Brown is not here to be your inspiration—she’s here to win. A Paralympic cyclist, physiotherapist, and former Para Climbing World Champ, Fran refuses to let anyone else define her journey. From a childhood spent scaling cliffs in Cornwall to an accident that reshaped her path, she’s written her own story on her own terms.

After a spinal cord injury changed her physical abilities, Fran didn’t just return to climbing—she dominated, becoming a Para Climbing World Champion. But that wasn’t enough. With an unrelenting drive, she transitioned to triathlon, then cycling, earning nine world titles and a Paralympic silver medal for Great Britain.

In this episode, Fran keeps it real about what it takes to compete at the highest level, the challenges of being an elite para athlete, and why she rejects “inspiration porn.” “I'm not here to inspire you. I'm here because I am a professional athlete.” Fran challenges how mainstream media covers para athletes: “Everyone is looking for a sob story. But being an athlete is hard work, and that’s what should be recognized.” She wants to see a shift, where Paralympians are seen for their talent, not just their personal struggles. She also breaks down the barriers to entry in para sports and how we can create more opportunities for future competitors.

Her take home advice? “Don't let what others think of you define who you are… You write your own story.”

Photo provided by Fran

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