Loving Goliath with Ben Smith

Ben was adopted in Seattle and raised by white parents in a tough neighbourhood in East Vancouver. He experienced relentless violence, bullying, and racial discrimination. As a way to overcome fear and self-loathing, Ben became a competitive boxer, wrestler, and bodybuilder. These positive outlets allowed Ben to channel his hurt, anger, and frustration, eventually owning a gym, helping others as a successful personal trainer and mentoring youth as a community care worker.

Ben’s many years working as a nightclub bouncer gave him unique insight into the universal quest for self-acceptance, love, and happiness. Now he works to help men move past their own pain.

Willow is passionate about helping men to overcome their own trauma and pain after seeing the effects of both on her dad growing up. Roller derby team captain and president of the board, she takes her experience on the track and the motto ‘I’ve got your back’ into every interaction The Goliath Foundation deals with men and male-identifying individuals in situations like the ones she saw growing up. Working through past pain and trauma, depression, anxiety and ADHD, she walks alongside listeners in the journey of healing.

Her perspective is that of someone in every man’s life who wants him to be happy, healthy and whole.