Not Your Average Dan Podcast

Back by popular demand, Daf and Sohaila are back on the Podcast to update us on how their business, brand and goals are progressing including a new announcement about the future of their coaching and training business. We also discuss and update everyone on mutual goals, my weight loss and new found passion for Calisthenics training and go into great discussion on the recent UFC 261, MMA and Boxing and whats next for us all.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

During Lockdown 3.0 I have made leaps and bounds in my progress and development in every avenue from my Physical Fitness to my Positive state of mind and it is all about what many successful people refer to as 'MAKING THE DECISION', the decision to NOT feel sorry for yourself, NOT to procrastinate but to achieve while the cards are stacked. How did I improve my fitness so much? How did I learn and develop new skills? Listen and Learn......Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

How does a simple expression 'DISCIPLINE EQUALS FREEDOM' change someone's whole outlook on life?! I have adopted Jocko Willink's philosophy and I can 100% testify to it's power and effectiveness. Today, I read some passages from the book Jocko refers to as the 'Field Manual' and how a simple term can be life changing.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Good day everyone! Back with an update today, what have I been up to? How come I am banging on about Rings, Bodyweight and WOD's and not the usual Gym stuff? Lockdown 3.00 has been kind to me, it has allowed me to LEARN new skills in the form of Calisthenics and Bodyweight Training. The importance of getting STRONG with your own body never appealed to me until now...... Little update on what I have been reading, who I have been following and all about the 22 Smokin' AceS I keep mentioning.  Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Those who follow me know I love BULLETPROOF LONDON, not only it's very unique and custom designs but the ethos and mantra's that are behind it. Joe has had a very tough 10 years building it to what is now. Joe discusses his severe health issues that almost killed him which gave him motivation to start BULLETPROOF all those years ago. He speaks his mind on what inspires his designs, the importance of being a trendsetter and gives crucial tips to anyone wanting to start their own brand. We also touch on the Gym, Mental Health, the importance of being self motivated and how to be Mentally Bulletproof.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

I have known and followed multiple time UK Bodybuilding Champion for a while, he has extensive knowledge in high level Bodybuilding. Dean shares his shocking childhood that helped to mould his teenage and adult life. How he got into Martial Arts, Weight Training and eventually stepped away from competition due to the ever talked about Politics of Bodybuilding. Dean has stepped on stage alongside the likes of Flex Lewis and has legends such as Lee Priest in his circle of friends. Dean has a very positive outlook on life after such a turbulent upbringing and we get to hear first hand how he handles life and its challenges. You can check Dean out on Instagram @deantheprotein and his subscription based coaching and information service at www.joinourlegion.com Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

To complete his trilogy of self-help books, ex-SBS operator Ant Middleton has concluded his series of books with a bang with his new Zero Negativity that focusses on how a positive mindset has helped him deal with and overcome pretty much everything in his life from losing his Dad as a boy to leaving the Para's for the Marines to nearly dying while attempting to summitting Everest to how he lives his life as a husband and father. This book should be an asset on every book shelf as Ant divulges techniques, thought processes and methods on how to confront any negative situation with a positive mindset and have it work in your favour!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

What a great honour to talk with Tom Morgan, fellow 22 Smokin' Aces T1LT Athlete. Tom is serving as a Firefighter. He has done MMA, Muay Thai, Bodybuilding, Crossfit and has found his sweet spot for training at 40 years of age. Tom goes into great detail about his background dealing with Mental Health and how Fitness keeps him on the straight and narrow. He is an ANIMAL in the gym (check his Instagram @morgan_t1lt) He combines Olympic Lifts, Calisthenics, Bodyweight, Cardio, Mobility and some Bodybuilding and he gives CRUCIAL tips on how to find your way and structure your life with Exercise bring the glue that keeps it all together. Thanks Tom, I got a lot out of speaking to you. Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Lockdown 3.0 is upon us! Gyms, Leisure Facilities, MMA, BJJ, Gymnastics among thousands of other outlets are forced to close. What does that mean for us? We lose our coping mechanisms as well as our support networks to help us release negativity, frustration and shoulders to lean on. During the first Lockdown in the Spring I was able to proper and come out it a better version of me. How did I do it? Listen and you can too implement certain tips and techniques to get your life and mindset prepared.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

I had the pleasure of asking Kyle Williams' about his very detailed process of dealing with Anxiety and other Mental Health. Kyle is very open about his darker days and what he does day to day from keeping a journal, checking in with himself, being humbled in MMA and Jiu Jitsu, Support Networks and his love/hate relationship with Cold Water.This was truly one of the most eye opening and informational interviews I have done. Enjoy!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

I have always read that the elite of the elite get 'comfortable with being uncomfortable' and never really dived into this statement and understood it's relevance to me, you and every breathing human. Deep inside our innate brain lies a protective rationale that DOES NOT want you to get stronger, DOES NOT want you to get lean and shredded. Neither does it want you to go out in the cold and get in shape. But, if you can defeat this excuse-making, lying-to-you conscience you can achieve things you never thought you ever could. Doing something that SUCKS every single day and achieving it bolsters your mindset and builds resilience. This episode we dive into how I have adopted this philosophy into my life and it has changed my perception on everything!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

I had the pleasure of learning about Daf and Sohaila's programme which is based around Strength and Suppleness. They both bring very unique skills to their clients and can help anyone from athletes to individuals with injuries. They have launched their own digital platform offering classes on Stretching and Mobility, Strength and Fitness. They have a wholistic approach to their philosophies  and try and help people from their fitness goals to their mindset. We had a detailed conversation about all of the above topics as well as our love from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

This weekend we have Khabib Nurmagomedov taking on Justin Gaethje for the undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship on Fight Island in Abu Dhabi. I for one have been super excited since they made this fight, from both a casual fight fan to an enthusiast like me this one really will be so unpredictable. Will Khabib take Justin down and 'maul' him? Or will Gaethje's iron will and insane power put an end to The Eagle's dominant run? Tune and and find out.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Great chatting with Tom Bale who is the right hand man of Jiu Jitsu Black Belt Rob Taylor my instructor. Tom has a story to tell that entails being a former Tattooist making a solid income until tragedy hit and he was taken to hospital to be told he had an eye condition that would inevitably cause him to go blind. Tom started Jiu Jitsu and has worked his way up the ranks to recently earn his Purple Belt, we talk about Tom coaching kids as well as his passion for Jiu Jitsu and what the future goals are for Tom. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

I had the great privilege of speaking with a man dubbed 'The Oracle' that is is Dino Tassigiannis. Dino has become a pillar of the Sports Nutrition industry with his deep passion for formulating Supplements using his very extensive knowledge. I was keen to hear Dino's story of his challenges he overcame contracting Meningitis at age 9 in addition to paralysis as well as other physical ailments. Dino talks of his passion for Martial Arts that helped him overcome his wheelchair bound condition and his entry into Bodybuilding and Fitness and the Fitness Industry.  Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

There are so many ways to train, Arnold-style, Dorian-style, Ronnie-style. But what works best and what allows you to make sustainable progress throughout your time in the gym?I go into great detail on how to pick the best style of training. We look at Full Body Splits, Upper/Lower Split and the infamous Push/Pull/Legs. What exercises should you pick? Why it is important to track progress, be consistent and what is the definition of complete muscular failure. Today, we answer all of these questions.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Getting as much as you possibly can out of everything is a skill that needs to be honed. Successful people are somehow able to achieve copious amounts of work in less time than anyone else. It's all to do with making SUSTAINABLE PROGRESS. Specifically with our fitness goals, it is imperative to not become stagnant and being a busy fool can be a cocoon of negativity. There are endless ways to attain steady but consistent progress and today we look at them in great detail! Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Self Investment is a CRITICAL part of achieving Mental Wealth. There are many facets to Self Investment from the Mind, Body, Spirit, Skills, Relationships among others, today we break down the link between these and how they all play a part on your journey. Books, Podcasts, Individuals, Information all can offer you education on building the various aspects of Self Investment.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Sounding off a bit today, recently someone anonymously told me that this Podcasting hitting nearly 1000 downloads is down to 'luck'. Normally I steer clear of negativity of this nature but I have strong beliefs against the concept of 'luck'. It is commonly stated by successful individuals that work ethic combined with consistency will always perform better than talent alone. I echo this and want to put my point of view across. This episode was unscripted and I had no notes like usual, just me getting passionate! Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

In July, so much happened! UFC Fight Island, Lock down eases, gyms reopen, I contemplate buying a Caravan and we cover Guest Interviews with Aaron Corria and Jermaine Harris as well as the hot topic of Pre Workout Supplements and the effectiveness of Ollie Ollerton's Battle Ready Book. I also summarise my 14kg weight loss and how my focus on home workouts has switched.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Me and Jermaine go way back to our mid-late teens with similar circles of friends. Jermaine spent years investing into the Forex and Stock Markets with success. Along the way I witnessed Jermaine progress to a professional award-winning Life Coach and has a very unique ability of changing lives! He proclaims to ask questions and unlock peoples' potential through various techniques he has acquired through years of self discovery. What I loved about this interview was not only his beaming smile and positive outlook but his very real and straight to the point personality to have life changing breakthroughs with his clients. I would suggest making notes on this episode as both Jermaine and myself give plenty of books, references and quotes that will add to your toolkit on your road to Mental Wealth :)Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

On today's episode I go into great detail into the world of Pre Workout Supplements. What's in them, where did they start, what do they do and how to go about finding the right product for you. I go back to the 'golden era' of Pre Workout's and explain products like Ultimate Orange, Jack3d and the infamous DMAA (1,3 Dimethylamylamine) and how stimulants have a controversial impression on society. We also discuss the different types of Pre Workout Supplements; Energy, Focus, Stimulants, Hydration, Performance, Sports and more. Grab your Coffee and pen and paper!!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Were back with another Book Review and Breakdown and this time it is my number 1 go to guide and that is Battle Ready by Ex-SBS and Directing Staff on TV Show SAS: Who Dares Wins. Ollie went through some very harsh and tough experiences from his life changing encounter with a Chimpanzee at age 10 to his battle with alcohol to serving in the British Special Forces. Ollie has put all of his tips, techniques and ideas into this book and they genuinely work! A huge thanks to Ollie for being one of my main sources of inspiration.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

On this episode, myself and Aaron discuss his inspiring and shocking story. Aaron has gone from the depths of self-loathing and suicidal to how a chain of events and conversations sparked his motivation to change his thinking and his life. Aaron has worked with a life coach and holds workshops for anyone suffering. He started his own platform 'Brotectors' which offers a relatable outlet for anyone who needs to talk. This really was an eye opening chat and I for one took a lot from it.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

We've hit the 1st Month Birthday of the Not Your Average Dan Podcast and I am blown away by the support shown so far, it has surpassed any expectations I had when I sat down to plan it. On today's Episode we recap the first month's content from the Guests I have had on, the topics discussed, what feedback I have had and what is planned for July! Thanks to each and every listener and supporter of the Podcast, were only getting started!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Throughout my adult life I have always been fascinated with products and supplements that can make your mind go from average to superhuman! I have extensive knowledge in things that can not only make you more productive, give you laser focus and help your memory but also regenerate damaged neurons in the brain and protect your brain for long term mind-health. I give a beginners introduction into what I know works and what you can implement into your daily routine whether your a trademan, business owner or a factory worker. It does not matter! For any tips, questions or advice please let me know. Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

MIke Gelsei is today's special guest on the Podcast. Mike and his wife Leica have been involved in Bodybuilding all over the world and have run successful Gym's in South Wales. Their experience in Bodybuilding and Fitness has allowed them to build a solid reputation within the industry. Mike was a champion Bodybuilder and has dozens of great stories from his past. Relevant to the Podcast, Mike talks in abundance about defying the odds and offers some crucial tips to anyone looking to take the sport seriously as there are pitfalls many fall into with Mental Health. Mike also discusses an event that happened in 2019 that changed their lives forever and how he and his family demonstrated RESILIENCE. Another top notch Podcast that I enjoyed and took a lot from.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

On today's episode of the Podcast I have the honour and privilege of interviewing my Jiu Jitsu Instructor Rob Taylor who owns and runs RTJJ in Cardiff, South Wales. Rob has trained BJJ for 15 years and got his Black Belt from Braulio Estima who's lineage comes from Carlos Gracie Jr, son of Carlos Gracie the co-founder of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.We find out why Rob started Jiu Jitsu, how life and the mat has many parallels and his interaction with 1000's of students who use his teaching and academy to overcome or deal with their own demons and mental health.  Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

How has Lockdown affected you? Have you let it bring you down and affect your state of mind? Or have you worked on your passion or side hustle? How has your exercise been affected? Have you gained a lot of weight? Today, we discuss how your perception of being stuck indoors can have a life changing impact on how you react to it. We discuss Mental Health, Exercises, Nutrition, Supplements, Immunity, Cleanliness and Techniques in how to get out of the 'rut'.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

The Fear Bubble is for me a LIFE CHANGING book as it focuses on Ant's proven methods to harness Fear and overcome it to achieve self fulfilment. It also documents his climb to the Summit of Everest where he both nearly went blind and almost died. He proved his strategies' effectiveness on the mountain and how it can help you on your journey.I talk about my experiences with these techniques and reading passages from the book. I loved recording this Podcast!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

For my first guest interview I go in depth with Ben Morgan. Ben is someone I have known for 5 years through our business relationship and he is a successful Business Owner, Bodybuilding, Online Coach and Personal Trainer. We discuss Ben's background and the struggles he faced as a youngster and how he turned it around into being a success at the young age of 28. I really enjoyed talking with Ben, you will take a lot from this episode.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Rich Piana changed the Fitness and Social Media Industries forever with his very open discussions on taboo topics including PED's and Anabolic Substances. His 300lbs Mass Monster Physique, Tattoo's, Charisma gained him world wide notoriety and 3 years after his passing his company 5% Nutrition is still keeping his legacy alive. As an employee and heavily involved with Rich and his company I go into detail on him, his beginnings in the industry and my experiences and interactions with him. I also set the record straight on a few things. This one is a MUST LISTEN!!Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

Today, we go in depth about my foundation and introduction into Weight Training at a young age. We introduce the fundamentals of growing muscle along with techniques and tips I have picked up over the years. Whether your new to it or a veteran I GUARANTEE there will be something in this Podcast you will fine useful. There are also some recommendations on great people to look at for sources of information along with my favourite Bodybuilders. Finally how does being in The Gym affect Mental Health? We discuss the Pro's and Con's.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

In episode 3 I openly discuss my background, how I was brought up and what lessons I learned and valued the most that carry me through adult life. Who were my role models and why? I also bring up and talk about topics which have never been spoken about in my life with anyone. My struggles and how I dealt with and continue with deal with. I also mention techniques and tips in how to deal with certain challenging situations.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

On episode 2 we delve into the huge importance of sources of Inspiration and Role Models. Inspirations can get you out of a rut, assist you towards your goal and be the voice of reason. Today, Dan breaks down the key characteristics of an Inspiration as well as who inspires him and why. Are you struggling with your state of mind? Contact CALM - https://www.thecalmzone.net/Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)

An introduction into the idea and concept of 'Not Your Average Dan' Podcast. In the pilot episode Dan discusses the reasons for the Podcast, an introduction into 'Mental Wealth' as well as what the topics of discussion will be in future episodes.Mental Health, Mindset, Positive Mindset, Fitness, Bodybuilding and General Discussion make up the primary topics on the show.Support the show (https://www.thecalmzone.net/about-calm/what-is-calm/)