From a one-minute submission video, to competing on one of the biggest competition series in the world, Cory Sims is proof that sometimes all it takes is betting on yourself.
As part of our Mystic Made spotlight series, we're celebrating contestants who turned a casting opportunity into a life-changing experience. For Cory, that journey began the same way it does for thousands of hopeful applicants every year, with a decision to hit submit.
"I decided to throw my name in the hat and submitted that one-minute video," Cory recalls. "A couple of hours later, I got an email congratulating me and telling me they wanted to move forward with next steps."
The moment was surreal.
"I couldn't believe it. I just got down on my knees and thanked the Lord. It was a dream come true."
That dream eventually became reality when Cory earned a spot on Beast Games Season 2, joining one of the most talked-about competitions in entertainment. Before stepping onto the set, he first had to make an impression during the casting process, and his advice for future applicants is refreshingly simple.
"Be as authentic as possible and make sure you have the right energy going in."
Rather than creating a polished highlight reel, Cory focused on showing Mystic exactly who he was. His submission featured different parts of his everyday life, from workouts at the gym to time spent at home, in his backyard, and with his dog.
"Show them who you are."
It's advice that aligns perfectly with what makes great reality television casting. The most memorable applicants aren't trying to fit a mold, they're giving casting an honest look at who they are and what makes them unique.
Throughout his journey, Cory says one thing that stood out was the support he received from Team Mystic.
"Hands down the best people," he says. "You were all so nice, cordial, and patient."
According to Cory, every interaction throughout the process was professional, responsive, and encouraging, helping make what could have been a stressful experience feel exciting from start to finish.
And once he arrived at Beast Games, the experience exceeded every expectation.
"It was one of the best experiences of my life. Every aspect of it was truly amazing."
While the scale of the competition was unforgettable, what left the biggest impression on Cory was the community he found along the way.
"The friendships that I made on the show are still going strong today and will go strong for the rest of my life."
For many contestants, getting cast is the finish line. For Cory, it was just the beginning. What started as a one-minute submission became a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, lifelong friendships, and memories he'll carry forever.
That's what Mystic Made is all about, real people taking a chance, sharing their story, and turning a simple submission into an extraordinary opportunity. Cory's journey is a reminder that you never know where one application can lead. The next success story could be yours.