Jake Cohn

Jake Cohn is a professional freeskier and motivational speaker whose athletic career has developed alongside significant medical challenges. Cohn has managed serious asthma and COPD since infancy, experiencing extended hospital stays, frequent emergency room visits, and a near-fatal experience at birth that resulted in severely impaired lung function and required oxygen support throughout much of his childhood. Medical professionals predicted he would not lead a typical life, and Cohn’s path as a professional freeskier has indeed been unconventional.

Cohn began skiing at age two and eventually pursued freestyle skiing, competing internationally as part of the International Free Skiers Association. Freestyle skiing, which involves performing aerial maneuvers such as somersaults and twists, became his specialty. Despite operating with only 35 percent of his total lung function, Cohn achieved milestones that were considered unattainable for individuals with his condition. During his teen years, he was less proactive in managing his asthma, believing he would outgrow it. A severe asthma flare during recovery from a mild cold led to hospitalization and prompted a shift in his approach to health and personal goals.

In addition to his skiing career, Cohn has pursued entrepreneurship within the outdoor sports industry. He founded The Locals Sale, a community-driven gear marketplace later acquired by Out&Back Outdoor. He also co-founded SnowLocals, a travel agency specializing in Japanese ski adventures, and has developed expertise in Japan’s ski destinations, restaurants, and travel experiences. Cohn holds a degree in environmental sustainability from UBC and is involved with 1STEP, a charitable foundation that mobilizes winter sports communities to address climate change and promote sustainable winter sports practices.

Cohn’s story has reached audiences beyond the ski industry. His advertising campaign with National Jewish Health, focused on living with asthma, became the hospital’s most successful campaign, with the TV spot "Fighting for Breath — We Never Say Never" airing during Super Bowl 49 and Super Bowl 50, as well as on programs such as "American Idol," "Good Morning America," and "The Today Show." He has delivered a TEDx Talk titled "Think Beyond Your Labels," encouraging audiences to reconsider their perceived limitations. Cohn serves as a Clean Air Champion, collaborating with other athletes to promote air quality improvement and environmental health. Drawing on his experiences as a professional athlete and entrepreneur, Cohn connects personal responsibility to business success, offering insights relevant to the winter sports, health, and sustainability sectors.