In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Krista Ford, an inspiring figure in the world of sports and now an author. From facing homelessness to becoming a 14-time National Champion and 7-time World Champion in powerlifting, Krista has spent over 40 years breaking records and overcoming obstacles. She also made history as the first Black woman on the U.S. women’s bobsled team. Now, Krista is sharing her life’s journey in her debut memoir, Krista’s Promise, a self-help and spiritual guide released in October.
Before we begin, share your origin story with us.
“My story begins on August 30, 1966, when I was born and put up for adoption. Fast forward 57 years, and I’ve gone from being homeless to winning 14 National Championships and 7 World Championships in powerlifting, a sport I’ve been involved in for over four decades and still compete in today. I also became the first Black woman to join the U.S. women’s bobsled team, which was an incredible milestone in my athletic journey. My newest chapter is being a first-time author with my memoir, Krista’s Promise, a project that’s even garnering interest from film producers and documentary directors.”
How did you navigate the challenges of breaking gender and race barriers in the male-dominated sport of powerlifting?
“For me, powerlifting has been a welcoming community. In this sport, there’s a mutual respect across genders and races; we’re all there to lift each other up. But bobsledding was different. I experienced racism for the first time in my athletic career, which tested me spiritually and mentally more than physically. It was a period of deep self-reflection, prayer, and leaning on my faith to stay strong. Staying grounded in communication with myself, my friends, and God was key.”
Can you share three pieces of advice that guided you on your journey?
A. Be a drummer with your own beat: “This has been my life’s motto. I’ve always challenged myself to do things that others might not, like learning to work on my car. By watching and asking my mechanic questions, I learned basic car maintenance. It’s been empowering to know I can take care of these things myself.”
B. Believe 10% of what you hear and 90% of what you know: “Once, I was the victim of a con artist. Since then, I’ve held on tightly to this advice. Trusting my intuition and discernment has become central to how I navigate life.”
C. Always have people explain things as if you were two years old: “When I speak with people who use complex terminology, I’ll often ask them to break it down for me. It helps build mutual understanding and adds a bit of light-heartedness to serious conversations.”
How have you stayed resilient in the face of adversity?
“Resilience is keeping your eye on the prize, no matter what. One of the hardest times in my life was when I was homeless at just 18. I told myself this wasn’t my end; it was only my beginning. I made a promise to God that if I ever had my own apartment, I’d always keep a roof over my head. That experience taught me the power of faith and determination. I knew God would always be by my side.”
What inspired you to write your upcoming book, Krista’s Promise?
“For years, friends told me to write a book, but I never saw myself as a writer. Then, in 2019, a friend offered to help me tell my story. I’ve journaled my whole life, so sharing my story came naturally. My hope is that through faith-driven storytelling and examples of resilience, people will see they have purpose. Each of us has a path to fulfill, and Krista’s Promise is my way of showing how resilience can lead us there.”
If there’s one piece of advice you hope readers take from your journey, what would it be?
“Never, ever give up on yourself. Your thoughts have power. What you think about, you can bring about.”
How do you hope to inspire the next generation of athletes, especially women and people of color?
“I believe in teaching the values of discipline, truth, and resilience. When you think, act, and live like an athlete, you gain a mindset that equips you to face any challenge. My hope is that sharing my journey will open up conversations that help others anchor themselves in strength and purpose.”
How can our readers connect with you and pre-order Krista’s Promise?
“You can pre-order my memoir, Krista’s Promise, on my website, www.powerbykrista.com.”
Krista Ford’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and perseverance. Through her words and actions, she continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams, break barriers, and live courageously.
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