Local man’s feats earn spot in record book

By Cathy Spaulding
Phoenix Staff Writer

A Muskogee man has blown his way into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Brian Jackson, a motivational speaker known as the I Believe Guy, confirmed that he is listed in the “Odd Talent” part of the Human Achievements chapter. The Guinness Book of World Records lists records set in the natural world and human world.

“I bought the book yesterday and found it,” he said.

He said the book documented an attempt he made in Italy earlier this year to blow three hot water bottles until they explode. He said he did it in one minute and eight seconds. He said the Guinness listing has two pictures.

“This caps off many years of long dreams,” he said. “I remember looking at the book when I was young, Jackson said.

Jackson, 45, said he had previously set a world record by blowing up one hot water bottle in 51 seconds, but the feat did not make the publication.

At a Muskogee High School gathering in November 2008, Jackson attempted to blow into a weather balloon until it reached the record height of eight feet within 42 minutes. He came up short.

He said he attempts such feats to inspire people not to give up.

“I try to show them it’s not how big or small they are or the color of their skin,” he said.

Jackson said his next feat is to blow out the most number of candles in one breath. He said he believes the record might be 148.