Harley Clifford - From World Champ to Rad Dad

Dad Bodcast

Apr 4 2024 • 50 mins

Hey fellow dads and sports enthusiasts, Kyle Graham here—your chief navigator through the wild journey of fatherhood, with a side of high-flying sports action. Today's DadBodcast episode is one for the books as we sit down with the legendary wakeboarder Harley Clifford. Imagine having your life flipped upside down by the pitter-patter of little feet; that's exactly what happened to Harley as he shares his shift from wakeboarding fame to the adventures of daddy duty. Expect tales of Easter egg hunts with a twist and how his own childhood escapades in Medowie paved the way for a family steeped in the love of sports.

Get ready to ride the wave of emotions as we tackle the ups and downs of a champion's life. We cover Harley's breathtaking journey from clinching his first world title at the tender age of 14 to grappling with the physical and emotional tolls of injuries. Harley gets real about the pressures of international competition, the sweet taste of victory, and the behind-the-scenes effort it takes to maintain a top spot in the wakeboarding world. But it's not all smooth sailing; we also delve into how marriage and the arrival of his daughter Elodie amidst a global pandemic brought new challenges and profound changes to Harley's life trajectory.

As we wrap up the session, we get an honest look into the Clifford household's laughter-filled chaos. From the comedic trials of bedtime routines to the surprising contemplation of adding another munchkin to the mix, Harley's life is a lesson in adaptation and growth. He doesn't shy away from discussing the anxieties that come with hanging up the competitive wakeboard for a more grounded family life, and the steps he's taking to navigate the tides of change. So, buckle up and join us for this heart-to-heart that's as thrilling as it is relatable, because whether you're shredding waves or changing diapers, we're all in this ride together.