Finding Your People: Justin Wiggs

Justin Wiggs

Shelby Farms Park

Justin Wiggs is the Site Manager for Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park at Shelby Farms, where he has worked for four years. He talked to us about finding fulfillment in your work and helping guests conquer their fears. 

Tell us about a time you were able to create a special experience for a guest. 

There have been so many! Some people that come here are a bit afraid of heights, and once they get up on the ropes course, they freeze up. There have been countless times where we've helped encourage them and coach them to take that first leap. I love seeing them after they finally go down the zipline for the first time, and they realize it's not so bad. From then on, they have a blast. It's so nice to see people having fun outside. We get to help people conquer their fears, and that makes this work special. 

What advice would you give to somebody who is new to your position or new to the hospitality industry? 

The best advice I could give is to look for what brings fulfillment to you in your role. For me, one of the most fulfilling things is helping people conquer their fears. That’s not something you see often in most jobs. Maybe you see it in a doctor’s office now and then. But we're out here doing it every weekend. 

Where do you recommend people visit while they’re in Memphis? 

I love to recommend places to eat in Memphis, and my favorite place has got to be One & Only BBQ. And for activities, I love to go fishing. Herb Parsons Lake is a great place for that. 

Thank you, Justin, for inspiring your guests to conquer their fears and do something new!