BADASSadors Explained
What exactly is a BADASSador? Glad you asked!
Meet some of the kindest, bravest, most awesome people on the planet
Sammie runs the distance to encourage mental wellness wherever she goes.
Brad loves kids and bikes and is dedicated to bringing these two passions together to transform young lives.
Brittany sets world skiing records — while making the world a healthier place.
Steven is a lobbyist who works relentlessly to help local businesses connect, grow and thrive.
As Dean of Culture, Ike builds relationships high school students to help them reach their full potential.
Whether on the beach, in the desert or on the slopes, Nick never misses a beat when someone is in need of a helping hand — or a smile.
When We Wave began, we wanted to encourage intentional connection and kindness. Soon, we realized there were a lot of like-minded folks who already embody the We Wave principles. So, of course, we wanted to acknowledge and celebrate them — and the We Wave BADASSador program was born. (Think: Bad Ass Ambassador.)
A “Bad Ass” is defined as someone who is cool, tough, or rebellious. To us, a Bad Ass is anyone who stands up for what they believe in, follows their passions, and demonstrates extraordinary kindness to others along the way. It’s a term of endearment and acknowledgement for people who show up with integrity and encourage others to be their authentic selves, too.
For example, endurance athlete, Sammie Bennett, embraced her authentic nature by stepping way outside her comfort zone and letting go of a lifestyle that wasn’t working for her anymore. “This led me to discover a new career path in the tech industry that I had never envisioned,” she writes. “Until I let go of my old objects, routines and habits, I wasn’t able to make room for new ones that led to change and growth.”
Remaining open to change is a common denominator of BADASSadors. That’s what inspired Wish for Wheels founder, Brad Appel, to help underserved kids while going through a difficult time in his life. “I was angry and depressed and cycling through the phases of grief,” he writes. “Focusing on helping others illuminated my darkness and showed me a path forward.”
Overcoming life’s challenges can definitely catapult you into BADASSador status. World champion water-skier, Brittany Greenwood, was humbled by back-to-back injuries during the height of her junior water skiing career. But with the help of her family and friends, she discovered a better sense of balance both on and off the water. Earlier this year she placed second at the Elite Masters with a jump of 160’ at 33 miles an hour.
Another common denominator that our BADASSadors’ share is the inherent ability to create community. As lobbyist for the Lansing, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Steven Japinga is a service-first guy who focuses on creating connection and growth for local Lansing businesses. He loves engaging with everyone — regardless of their political leanings —and makes all he meets feel seen and acknowledged.
Meanwhile in Denver, Dean of Culture at The Odyssey School, Ike Harvey, spends his days helping his students overcome their challenges by creating a deep sense of community while teaching problem-solving skills that they will carry with them throughout their lives.
So yes, We Wave BADASSadors are amazing human beings who’ve faced adversity and thrived — but what’s even more remarkable is their ability to perform everyday kindnesses wherever they go. Among their many talents is their ability to connect with others no matter where life takes them. And that’s no small feat. After all, initiating connection makes you vulnerable.
For ski instructor, Nick Tirino, taking the risk to acknowledge and honor those he meets during his cross-country treks has been well worth the intention and effort. “A simple gesture — a wave — accompanied with a smile, has brought so many amazing people into my life and led to endless adventures,” Nick says. “Get out there and wave! You never know who will wave back and what doors may open.”
