A Special Forces Soldier and a CrossFit Gym Owner discuss combat, leadership, philosophy, health, fitness and more with top notch guests.
In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Dr. Barbara Thompson as they introduce an exciting new Counter Culture Solutions course: The Purpose Trek. Designed to challenge, inspire, and reconnect participants with their true purpose, this immersive experience takes individuals into the mountains, away from distractions, and into a journey of self-discovery.Joshua and Barb dive into the why behind the Purpose Trek—exploring the power of disconnecting from the noise, embracing adversity, and using the Hero's Journey framework to forge resilience and clarity. They break down what participants can expect, the thought process behind the course structure, and how it differs from traditional leadership or self-improvement programs.Beyond the course itself, the conversation explores the psychology of transformation, the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones, and why so many people feel stuck in today's world. Along the way, Joshua and Barb share personal insights, lessons learned, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from developing this unique experience.If you've been looking for a way to reset, find direction, or simply push yourself beyond the ordinary, this episode is for you. Don't miss it!Support the showThe Catalyst Collective Instagram Counter Culture Solutions InstagramCounter Culture Solutions WebsiteHero Games Charity InstagramHero Games Charity WebsiteSharp Top CrossFit InstagramSharp Top CrossFit WebsiteHosts:JD's InstagramJohnny's InstagramWillie's Instagram
In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans as they dive into an exciting end-of-year wrap-up discussion. Together, they reflect on some of the most memorable moments and milestones of 2024, while also sharing a glimpse of what's ahead.JD and Johnny kick things off with updates on Sharp Top CrossFit's impressive new building, set to open in spring 2025, and the community impact this expansion will bring. They then revisit the highlights of the 2024 Hero Games, honoring the legacy of SGT Robert Sanchez and celebrating camaraderie and resilience.The conversation takes a deeper turn as they discuss the formation of Counter Culture Solutions, its mission, and the journey so far in helping individuals build a culture of safety and preparedness. Finally, they tackle one of the year's quirkiest topics: mysterious drones over New Jersey. Are they aliens, hobbyists, or something else entirely?Whether you're here for inspiring reflections or curious insights, this episode offers a perfect mix of substance, storytelling, and a few laughs along the way. Don't miss it!Support the showThe Catalyst Collective Instagram Counter Culture Solutions InstagramCounter Culture Solutions WebsiteHero Games Charity InstagramHero Games Charity WebsiteSharp Top CrossFit InstagramSharp Top CrossFit WebsiteHosts:JD's InstagramJohnny's InstagramWillie's Instagram
In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel, founder and CEO of Counter Culture Solutions, and Barbara Thompson, Operational Psychologist at Counter Culture Solutions, as they dive into an engaging conversation about the upcoming Violent Encounter Survival Course. Taking place on January 18th, 2025, at SharpTop CrossFit in Bedford, VA, this course is designed to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate dangerous situations.In this episode, JD and Barb explore the purpose behind the course, the type of participants it's geared toward, and the core concepts it covers. From developing a resilient mindset and sharpening situational awareness to mastering boundary control, weapon employment, and everyday carry (EDC) strategies, they break down how the course blends instruction with practical exercises to create a transformative learning experience.Whether you're a seasoned professional or a concerned civilian, this episode will give you valuable insights into how the Violent Encounter Survival Course can prepare you for real-world threats. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from the experts and get inspired to take control of your personal safety.Support the showThe Catalyst Collective Instagram Counter Culture Solutions InstagramCounter Culture Solutions WebsiteHero Games Charity InstagramHero Games Charity WebsiteSharp Top CrossFit InstagramSharp Top CrossFit WebsiteHosts:JD's InstagramJohnny's InstagramWillie's Instagram
In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join 20-year Green Beret and Ranger JD as he breaks down the impact of Hurricane Helene on the Appalachian region. Drawing from personal experience, JD offers a unique perspective on how both civilians and government responded to the storm. We'll examine the challenges faced, the actions taken, and the critical lessons we can apply to better prepare for future disasters. Whether you're interested in disaster preparedness, leadership in crisis, or the real-world consequences of natural disasters, this episode delivers invaluable insights on resilience in the face of nature's fury. Support the showThe Catalyst Collective Instagram Counter Culture Solutions InstagramCounter Culture Solutions WebsiteHero Games Charity InstagramHero Games Charity WebsiteSharp Top CrossFit InstagramSharp Top CrossFit WebsiteHosts:JD's InstagramJohnny's InstagramWillie's Instagram
In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Mother and Brother, Wendy and Logan Holland. SGT Robert Sanchez was Killed in Action on 01 October, 2009 in Zharay District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.Support the Show.Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/JD's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdxhgc/Johnny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnty5/Willie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freewillie1776/HGC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
We've started something new, and we think you're gonna love it!Are you looking to become a more capable and confident person? Are you interested in learning skills from former Special Operators and successful entrepreneurs that may save your life or your career?Yah, we figured you would. That's why we started Counter Culture Solutions, our new training and mentoring company geared towards helping you become the best version of yourself.Enjoy.Support the Show.Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/JD's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdxhgc/Johnny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnty5/Willie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freewillie1776/HGC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Ever feel like it's hard to feel happy? We get it. While the pursuit of happiness is an inalienable right, happiness itself is not inherently available to everyone. Happiness is a spectrum and we all feel it differently.This impromptu conversation between JD, Willie, and third-time guest, Logan Lewis, dives deep into the pursuit of happiness while living with trauma. Like always, get ready to shift gears between laughter and serious dialogue.Enjoy.Support the Show.Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/JD's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdxhgc/Johnny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnty5/Willie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freewillie1776/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Questions from the PEOPLE!1. Depression and how I handled it.2. Our new LLC: Mountain/Youth Survival, Leadership and Culture Consulting, Purpose Finding Treks, and Violent Encounter Prevention and Survival.3. "What is something you want, but don't have?" 4. 2024 Hero GamesSupport the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/JD's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdxhgc/Johnny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnty5/Willie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freewillie1776/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is changing your perspective to find gratitude everywhere.Links to articles referenced during episode:1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301826526_Does_gratitude_writing_improve_the_mental_health_of_psychotherapy_clients_Evidence_from_a_randomized_controlled_trial2. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/#neuroscienceSupport the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is finding your purpose. Stop waiting for it to find you.Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is the duality of PEACE and WAR. Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is WIN or DIE. Burn the ships, and let 'er rip tater chip!Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is prioritizing SERVICE over MONEY. Money is NOT a core value.Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.This week's topic is being content with where you are, while staying hungry for improvement.Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
The boys are back in town! In this episode, all three HG Podcast hosts - JD, Johnny, and Willie - sit down with former Army Ranger and owner of OG Pumpkin, Angel Cortes, to discuss some hard hitting topics.We talk WAR STORIES, survivor's guilt, Angel's kidney donation, ketamine therapy, and leaving your mark on your community.Grab some tissues, crack a beer, and get ready to laugh your ass off. Angel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelgcortes175/OG Pumpkin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_og_pumpkin/OG Pumpkin Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-og-pumpkin-podcast/id1578571736OG Pumpkin Website: https://www.ogpumpkin.com/Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Wife, Niki Dahlke. SSG Jason Dahlke was Killed in Action during Objective Berlin on 29 August, 2009 in Paktika Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.Support the showHero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/
In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with return guest, Army Ranger, Logan Lewis. You may remember Logan from Episode 14 where we talked Ranger Regiment, Afghanistan, and the death of his Squad Leader SSG Kevin Pape. If you haven't listened, head there now!As for this one, we talk leadership; empathy, burnout, ego, good leaders and bad leaders.If you're looking for an in depth conversation about leadership philosophy, this one's for you.0:00 Introduction3:27 Good Leader Experience8:47 Ranger Regiment Leadership54:38 Logan's Leadership Philosophy1:13:27 Ego1:43:38 Burnout2:27:42 Bad Leaders2:39:02 How do we measure our expectations of our subordinates?3:03:15 ClosingSupport the show
In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with return guest, Zack Garner. You may remember Zack from Episode 11 where we heard his story of trauma and recovery.Life has it's ups and downs, and Zack is now enjoying a series of fortunate events. He's fresh off the 7x Project where he travelled across the world visiting 6 of 7 continents for a series of runs, swims, and sky dives collectively with the team involved. After that he joined Task Force Dagger for a MIA dive off the coast of Saipan, attempting to recover the remains of WWII Service Members.On top of the stories of adventure, this may be the funniest episode to date. The boys somehow get on the topic of changing the Virginia flag to include not one, but two respectable breasts. Yep.If you need a laugh, this one is for you!0:00-6:25 Introduction6:25-20:13 Last Podcast Opened Doors and Helped Me Heal20:13-32:55 How Do We Cope with Not Meeting Our Own Expectations?32:55-53:49 MEDEVAC Podcast, 7x Challenge53:49-1:08:45 MIA diving off the coast of Saipan1:08:45-1:19:39 Getting Through Failures1:19:39-1:32:00 Leaving Your Mark1:32:00-1:57:12 Imposter Syndrome1:57:12-2:01:35 2023 Hero Games2:01:35-2:06:08 Changing the Virginia Flag2:06:08 Closing Support the show
In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with Bad Ronald, the man who made the man behind Hero Games Charity. This is not your typical episode.If you're struggling to find your purpose, this episode is for you. Enjoy!0:00-6:52 Introduction6:52-28:05 Growing Up in the 60's-‘70s28:05-41:35 Doing Extra41:35-53:49 Nails in Tires53:49-1:08:45 Faith1:08:45-1:14:48 Getting Through Failures1:14:48-1:25:15 Snow Cones and Butt Whoopins'1:25:15-1:32:00 Girlfriends, Cops, and Grace1:32:00-1:43:47 Watching Your Son Go To War1:43:47- 2:05:14 Not Quitting/Selflessness2:05:14- 2:08:46 What Makes a Good Man?2:08:46-2:13:15 Confidence in Who You Are2:13:15-2:30:47 How to be Extraordinary without an Extraordinary Title2:30:47 Closing Support the show
In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with former 1/75 Ranger, Logan Lewis, to discuss life in the Ranger Regiment, the tragic death of his Squad Leader, SSG Kevin Pape, Ranger Indoc, and the mission of his organization, Black Flag Nation. Buckle up, suckaz!0:00-2:25 Introduction2:25-7:05 Baby Lou/Joining the Army7:05-45:09 Haters and Supporters45:09-1:10:26 Life in the 75th Ranger Regiment1:10:26-1:21:20 War Stories (Suicide Vest Man and Peek-a-Boo) 1:21:20-1:43:13 Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP) / Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP)1:43:13-2:03:07 Stories of Almost Quitting2:03:07-3:07:25 SSG Kevin Pape Killed In Action3:07:25-3:21:05 The Infamous Jolly Rancher Story 3:21:05-3:52:19 Black Flag Mission – Train for Tomorrow's War3:52:19 CloseoutSupport the show
In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with Kyle Crim, Business Developer at Strike Force Energy (SFE). Support the show
SGT Jonathan Kelly Lee Peney, a Combat Medic in 2nd Platoon, Delta Company, 1st Ranger Battalion, was Killed in Action (KIA) on June 1st, 2010 while coming to the aid of one of his wounded Rangers.We sit down with his mother, Sue Peney, and his mentor, SFC Todd Fingerlos, to talk about the man Jon was.This episode is full of emotion. From from the story of how Jon died, to the emotional roller coaster associated with being a Gold Star Family, we promise to make you cry.This episode is intended to honor Jon and his sacrifice, and we hope you enjoy!Support the show
Just a year ago Zack was blind, partially paralyzed, heavily medicated, and slowly dying. Today he sits down with JD to talk about his journey from the trenches to the mountain peaks.Zack is a former Green Beret and DoD Contractor, and is now the Vice President of Tactical Relief. Tactical Relief is a CBD company who is exploring non-pharmaceutical solutions to Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-Traumatic Stress, and Anxiety.Zack has experienced an enormous amount of adversity from being medically retired from the US Army due to epilepsy, to being hit by a car, recovering, and later nearly dying from Necrotizing Fasciitis.Support the show
In this episode, JD starts with a message regarding mental health and how Hero Games Charity is affecting it's supporters.Later, JD shares details regarding the upcoming Mountain Survival Challenge, including some secrets that can only be found in this episode. Those secrets will undoubtedly provide favor to competitors who listen.JD finishes the episode with future plans and the way ahead for Hero Games Charity.Support the show
You are not a victim of your circumstances unless you choose to be. Brett's story of childhood trauma is one for the horror films, but he didn't let it define him. After years of mental and physical abuse, Brett found who he was through hard work and determination. We hope that his story inspires you to be the best version of yourself.Support the show
Mike Reagan is a 25-year Special Forces Operator with a career full of outrageous stories. In this laughter-filled episode, we discuss his time in the 82nd Airborne Division, 2nd Infantry Division in Korea, 5th Special Forces Group (A), 10th Special Forces Group (A), USASOC, 7th Special Forces Group (A), USAJFKSWCS, National Assessment Group, Mobile Technology Repair Complex, and GoTenna. Support the show
In this episode, JD conducts a Q/A answering questions regarding the 2022 Hero Games fitness competition on July 16th, 2022, honoring SGT Jonathan K. Peney.Support the show
Jerry Besozzi joined the US Navy four days after graduating high school in 1951, knowing that he'd soon be engaged in the Korean War. During his three cruises to Korea, he chased enemy submarines and bombarded enemy positions while aboard the USS Perkins, a Gearing-Class Destroyer.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=78K8K6S7JU7WG)
JD sits down with former Asymmetric Warfare Group Operator, Mike K., to discuss the war scars that are unseen, and the stigma associated with seeking help with mental health while in the military.Support the show
We sit down with Edgar Sherman of Edgar Sherman Design to discuss his role in increasing the survivability and lethality of his primary end user, the American Special Operations Soldier.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=78K8K6S7JU7WG)
We sit down with former Afghan Interpreter, "Ali", to discuss the dire situation his family faces in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=78K8K6S7JU7WG)
The four founding members of Hero Games Charity, two of which are the owners of Sharp Top CrossFit in Bedford, VA, discuss "Who We Are". Support the show
We sit down with former Afghan Special Forces Soldier, "RPG", and discuss his recent escape from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?business=78K8K6S7JU7WG)
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