Zac Binford-Wiggins has forged a unique and remarkable path characterized by his devotion to family, sports, philanthropy, and personal growth. Born in Los Angeles, CA, and raised in Austin, Texas, Zac’s journey reflects his commitment to pursuing his passion and life journey, both on and off the field. Through optimism, hard work, and dedication, he thrives in environments that challenge him to grow while contributing meaningfully to the success of others.
Zac’s early years in Austin were marked by academic rigor and athletic success, particularly in football. At Westlake High School, he played a key role in the team’s stellar performance in Texas’ competitive 6A Division. His senior year at Sabino High School in Tucson, Arizona, saw him lead his team to an Arizona State Championship in 2023-2024, earning a place on Southern Arizona’s 1st Team All-Star roster. These formative experiences taught Zac the values of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership—qualities he applies in every facet of life.
Zac has recently enrolled at the University of Texas at San Antonio and plans to study business. He is excited to be starting this next step of his journey while meeting new friends and getting involved with activities on campus. In addition to his academic endeavors and passion for football, Zac channels his adventurous spirit into hobbies such as boating, snowboarding, dirt bike racing, swimming, and strength training.
Zac’s professional journey highlights his strong work ethic and leadership skills. In the summer of 2024, he worked as a licensed Boat Captain for BigTex Boat Rentals in Austin, Texas. His role involved operating and managing boat excursions on Lake Austin and Lake Travis, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of passengers. His responsibilities required extensive training, including safety certifications and a boating license, which he completed with distinction.
Previously, Zac trained as a lifeguard with the City of Austin Aquatics, earning certifications in StarGuard lifeguarding, Basic First Aid, Bloodborne Pathogens, and Basic Life Support. These experiences underscore his commitment to safety and responsibility, both on and off the water.
Zac’s dedication to helping others is evident in his extensive volunteer work. In 2024, he collaborated with Habitat for Humanity in Tucson, building homes for families in need. He also contributed to BICAS, repairing and distributing bicycles, and IAMYOU 360, organizing donations for underserved communities.
His community involvement extends to the Oro Valley Aquatic Center, where he supported state swim meets, and the Central Austin Youth League, where he revitalized baseball fields and managed concessions. Additionally, Zac completed FEMA’s Teen Community Response Team training, preparing him to assist during emergencies.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
I like to get up early, listen to music to relax, make my bed like Admiral McCraven said to do, and then plan my activities for the day.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I like to draw and visualize my goals and aspirations. I enjoy being creative and exploring ideas through visual graphics.
What’s one trend that excites you?
I like fashion and following certain designers like Tom Ford. I like the feel of nice clothes and those that are aesthetically pleasing to look at.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I love my dogs and enjoy taking care of them and making sure they get enough exercise every day. By taking care of them, it helps me take care of myself.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to listen more to those people I care about and those who care about me.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you.
I am very sympathetic to homeless people who live on the street. I often provide them with a little money or food to help out when I see them. A lot of people wish they didn’t live on the streets but I understand that they don’t have homes and have nowhere to go and often have to beg for food or money.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Helping others when they are in need.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
I like to listen to music to help me relax and rejuvenate.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
I always try and focus on my long-term goal when it seems impossible. I try and block out the noise of others who may try and distract or discourage me.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
I wish I had studied harder in high school. I didn’t realize the importance of it at the time and I’m sorry now that I didn’t apply myself more. At the time I was more interested in hanging out with friends and blowing off school. As a result of this, I’m determined now to apply myself and stay focused on my studies even when I don’t really want to. I’ve realized the importance of staying focused and determined when in the short run it is sometimes very hard.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
I would like to help make flying cars.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
The most important software I use is my calendar so I don’t forget things, both big and small.
What is the best $100 you recently spent?
I bought my mom a blanket for a Christmas gift with our dog Honey Bee on it. It made her so happy, and I really enjoyed seeing how happy it made her.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast from which you’ve received much value?
My favorite book is March The Trilogy by John Lewis. This book taught me at a very young age to fight for something I believe in, always have hope, and never be violent for any reason.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I really enjoyed “Pursuit of Happiness” with Will Smith. The movie really resonated with me about not giving up in dire circumstances and taking care of those you love is one of the most rewarding things in life.
Key learnings:
- Reflection is a key part of learning from the past and assessing how things can be done differently going forward.
- Setting goals and determining how to reach them is very important to leading a productive and inspired life.
- Helping those in need or in crisis is very important to create a better world we live in. We are all connected. Believing in yourself, helping others, and staying positive makes this possibility of a better world a reality. As John Lewis said. “It you’re not hopeful and optimistic, then you just give up. You have to take that long hard look and just believe that if you’re consistent you will succeed.”