Michael Maradeo

Connect What fuels your passion for health and fitness?

My whole life I was chasing from behind, trying to reach the top. That grind taught me how to push through setbacks and find a way forward no matter what stood in front of me. In 2023 I fell through a ceiling. On May 24, 2025, I lost my finger. I had to relearn my grip, rebuild myself, and prove that limits are negotiable. I didn’t let the injuries define me or slow the climb. I kept going. And I’m still climbing.

What’s your favorite way to train or stay fit?

A lot of things are challenging, but showing up isn’t one of them. I’m in the gym four to five days a week, using dumbbells, high intensity training, jump rope, and long walks. Before, it was all about lifting heavy. Now I’ve learned it’s bigger than that. It’s about keeping my body healthy, staying in shape, and proving to the world that anything is possible. With those injuries backing me against the wall, I kept going. I feel it every day, but I show up anyway, doing everything I can to stay

What would you do with $20,000?

I’d use it to knock out a few debts from college and put some aside as security, with the goal of proposing to my girlfriend when the time’s right. First thing is fixing my situation the right way and making sure I’m solid. I don’t want to rush anything. I want to be secure first. It’s not about spending it, it’s about setting the foundation so the next chapter is built on solid ground.