The Essential 11

Have you ever felt like no matter how hard you push, something invisible is holding you back from the life you know you're capable of living? Maybe it's fear of failure, maybe it's self-doubt, or maybe it's the weight of old wounds you've never healed. What if the real obstacle isn't outside of you—but inside?In this episode, we sit down with Dustin Fleming, a U.S. Army veteran, speaker, and transformation coach who has turned his own battles with trauma, adversity, and self-sabotage into a mission of helping others break free. Dustin's journey from combat to personal collapse—and ultimately to healing and leadership—is proof that your past does not define your future.With a unique blend of raw honesty, hard-won wisdom, and practical strategies, Dustin challenges us to confront the stories we tell ourselves, dismantle limiting beliefs, and build a mindset rooted in resilience and purpose. His passion is helping people realize that freedom begins when you stop running from your pain and start using it as fuel.If you've ever asked yourself “Why can't I get out of my own way?” or wondered what it really takes to rebuild from the ground up, this episode is for you.Quotes: "Your past doesn't dictate your future. We have a standard set in life that we can choose to make changes, and it's ending with me and my family tree." "Being able to fulfill a role that's like a servant leader, that's what fires me up about it." "If you find something that you love, you'll never work a day in your life." Key Takeaways:Face the Stories You Tell Yourself: Write down the negative beliefs or fears that play on repeat in your mind. Then ask, Is this story serving me, or is it keeping me stuck?Reframe Your Pain: Instead of asking “Why did this happen to me?” start asking “How can this experience fuel my growth?” Make a list of challenges you've overcome and the strengths they revealed.Create a Daily Reset Practice: Dustin emphasizes discipline and self-mastery. Start small—commit to one non-negotiable daily habit (journaling, prayer, exercise, or meditation) that grounds you and keeps you moving forward.Conclusion:Dustin Fleming's story reminds us that the battles we fight within ourselves can be just as fierce as any fought on the outside. But they don't have to define us. By facing our pain, rewriting the stories we tell ourselves, and choosing discipline over despair, we can create a life rooted in resilience and purpose.This conversation challenges us to pause and ask: Am I letting my past hold me hostage, or am I using it as fuel to become the person I was meant to be?The choice is always ours—and the time to choose is now.

What happens when you lose everything—your job, your money, your relationships—and the identity you thought defined you? How do you rebuild when rock bottom isn't just a phrase, but your daily reality?In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Taylor Cavanaugh, the only man to serve as both a U.S. Navy SEAL and a member of the French Foreign Legion—a rare path of resilience, grit, and transformation. But his story isn't just about military titles; it's about stripping away labels, confronting suicidal lows, and discovering that the foundation of a strong identity lies in something deceptively simple: daily habits, discipline, and alignment.Taylor shares his journey from homelessness and despair to finding clarity through stoic philosophy, discipline in the Legion, and personal growth rooted in deliberate action. Today, he coaches men to reclaim their power, rebuild their lives, and live with intentionality—proving that no man is ever truly out of the fight unless he chooses to quit.If you've ever felt stuck, lost, or overwhelmed by life's chaos, this episode will challenge you to ask: Who is your 10.0 self? And what habits are you stacking to become him?Quotes:"It's my daily habits that are the only thing that can make me confident about who I am, and that's where the change really happened." "When things start getting more complex and feeling out of control, I always look back and go, am I doing the just daily basic things correct? And almost always, the answer is no." "You allow people the full benefit of suffering if they need it, which is a powerful statement, but some people need it." Key Takeaways:Audit Your Daily Habits: Ask yourself, Do my daily actions align with the man I want to become? Write down your “10.0 self” and list the habits he lives by—then start practicing one of them today.Start With the Morning: Structure your wake-up routine to set the tone for the rest of the day. Wake up earlier, avoid looking at your phone, move your body, and take 15 minutes for reflection or visualization.Return to Factory Settings: When life feels chaotic, strip back to the basics—nutrition, movement, sleep, and discipline. Check if you're slipping on any of these before blaming outside circumstances.Conclusion:Taylor Cavanaugh's story is proof that even in the darkest seasons of life, transformation is possible when we commit to discipline, clarity, and deliberate action. Titles and circumstances may come and go, but true strength is built in the habits we practice daily and the identity we choose to embody.This episode challenges us to look inward, strip back the noise, and ask: Am I living in alignment with the man I aspire to be? The answer doesn't lie in waiting for the perfect moment—it's found in the small, intentional steps you take today.

Have you ever felt like you were doing all the “right things” in your business or career but still weren't seeing the growth, fulfillment, or balance you longed for? Do you sometimes wonder if success means sacrificing your health, relationships, or peace of mind? What if the problem isn't that you're not working hard enough—but that you're working out of alignment with your true purpose?In this episode, Taylor Quigg, knows that struggle all too well. After climbing the corporate ladder and checking all the boxes of conventional success, she realized something was missing: authentic alignment between her work, her values, and the life she wanted to live. That discovery fueled her mission to help others break free from the cycles of burnout, overachievement, and chasing external validation.Taylor is more than just a coach—she's a guide who blends personal experience, professional insight, and a deep passion for helping people live lives of clarity, confidence, and purpose. Through her work, she empowers others to stop outsourcing their worth, reconnect with what truly matters, and build businesses and lives that feel as good on the inside as they look on the outside.In this conversation, Taylor shares her own journey of transformation, the lessons she's learned about aligning ambition with authenticity, and practical strategies for anyone who feels stuck in the tension between success and fulfillment.Get ready for a powerful discussion that will challenge you to rethink what achievement really means—and inspire you to design a life and business that are truly your own.Quotes:“You can really do whatever you want to do, and you can change the course of your life with just a simple yes in one direction.”“We think we have to have, with social media, this huge following to have an influence. But you can have an influence in your community. You have an influence in your house.”“There's so much to learn just hanging out and doing life together. I guess I've taken more of an unschooling approach without even realizing it.”Takeaways:Reevaluate your approach to education and parenting: Are you allowing your children to pursue their interests and thrive outside of traditional academic expectations?Practice vulnerability and seek community: If you're facing a challenge, consider sharing your story to connect with others and reduce feelings of isolation.Teach and model empathy: Look for opportunities to help your children (or yourself) understand and support others, especially those facing visible or invisible challenges.Conclusion:In this episode, Taylor's story reminds us of the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the value of forging our own paths—whether in education, business, or personal growth. By embracing vulnerability, advocating for ourselves and others, and nurturing empathy in our families, we can create lives filled with purpose and connection. Taylor's journey is a testament to the fact that, no matter the challenges we face, we have the ability to adapt, inspire, and make a meaningful impact on those around us.

Are you tired of a healthcare system that only treats symptoms but leaves the deeper issues untouched? Have you ever left the doctor's office with a prescription in hand but no clear path to real, lasting health? What if the secret to well-being isn't found in another medication, but in the everyday choices you make and the knowledge you're given to advocate for yourself?In this episode, we welcome Dr. Dustin Portela—a Board-Certified Dermatologist and Surgeon with advanced training in Mohs surgery and a strong focus on skin cancer treatment and prevention. He has published in medical journals, lectured nationally, and is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Portela is passionate about serving underserved populations. He operates a 39-foot mobile dermatology clinic offering free skin cancer screenings and leverages his social media platforms, where he has built an audience of over 4 million, to educate people on how to make better decisions about their health.What makes Dr. Portela stand out isn't just his medical expertise—it's his mission to elevate well-being inside and out. He doesn't stop at treating the skin; he empowers patients and audiences worldwide to make informed, holistic decisions about their health. His journey from walking away from a conventional medical career to building a purpose-driven practice is proof of his conviction and passion.Quotes:"At the bottom of my funnel always is, I want to help you make better decisions for your health. I want you to be happier. I want your mental health to be better." - Dr. Dustin Portela"I just decided I'm going to do this someday. I want a mobile clinic and go out and just do some good, and I don't want to charge people for it." - Dr. Dustin Portela"It is important to entertain people, or they're not going to stick around for the message that you want to deliver." - Dr. Dustin PortelaActionable Takeaways:Evaluate your own healthcare journey: Ask yourself if you're truly advocating for your health and if you understand the long-term impact of your daily choices. Seek out practitioners who educate and empower you, not just treat symptoms.Simplify your skincare routine: Focus on basic, effective products (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen) and avoid being swayed by hype or fear-based marketing. Invest in what works for you, not what's most expensive.Consider how you can give back: Reflect on ways you can use your skills or resources to serve underserved communities, whether through volunteering, philanthropy, or supporting organizations making a difference.Conclusion:Dr. Dustin Portela's story is proof that medicine can be more than prescriptions and procedures—it can be purpose-driven, patient-centered, and deeply human. From building a thriving practice and pioneering a mobile clinic to educating millions online, he shows us what it looks like when expertise meets compassion and conviction. His mission to elevate well-being inside and out reminds us that true health begins not just with treatment, but with knowledge, empowerment, and daily choices.If you're ready to rethink healthcare and take ownership of your health journey, this episode is one you don't want to miss.

Is your “healthy” diet making you sick? If you're battling fatigue, brain fog, bloating, or stubborn weight despite eating “right,” the problem may not be what you eat—but how your body processes it.Our guest, Ali Miller, is an integrative functional medicine practitioner and registered dietitian who's helped thousands uncover the hidden links between food, inflammation, hormones, and mental health. Her food-as-medicine approach blends hard science with personalized strategies that work in the real world.In this episode, you'll learn:How “healthy” habits may be harming youThe role of blood sugar in energy, mood, and weightThe connection between stress, gut health, and inflammationIf you've been doing everything “right” but still feel wrong, Ali's insights will help you take back control of your health.Quotes:“Giving up snacking and being conscious of carbs and really looking to balance out those carbs from whole food selections, and then having a protein or a fat paired with them, is a game changer in the beginning, and you can do that at any age.”- Ali Miller“Freedom comes with discipline and responsibility, but once we're able to have confidence in what we're putting in our body, it becomes really easy.”- Ali Miller“We are emphasizing health as this meta skill for the entire family. And we know that physical health is the precursor to mental health in so many ways.” - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Healthy Isn't Always Healthy – Even nutrient-rich foods can trigger inflammation or imbalance if they don't work for your body.Blood Sugar Matters for More Than Weight – Fluctuations can impact mood, energy, mental clarity, and cravings.Gut Health is Central to Overall Health – A compromised gut can lead to systemic inflammation and hormonal imbalances.Stress Directly Affects the Body – Chronic stress can disrupt digestion, immunity, and blood sugar regulation.Food is Medicine – The right foods can heal and restore balance, while the wrong ones can silently undermine health.Personalization is Key – One-size-fits-all diets often fail; solutions must be tailored to each person's needsConclusion:Ali Miller's work proves that lasting health isn't about following the latest diet trend—it's about understanding your body's unique needs and using food as targeted medicine. By addressing blood sugar balance, gut health, and stress, you can eliminate hidden triggers, restore energy, and feel like yourself again.Your body is always giving you feedback. The question is—are you listening?

Are you investing with confidence… or just hoping for the best? Most investors ride the emotional ups and downs of the market—buying high, selling low, and stressing through every dip. What if you could invest without the guesswork, panic, or sleepless nights?Our guest, Chris Vermeulen, founder of The Technical Traders, is a globally recognized expert in market cycles, technical analysis, and risk management. With over 25 years of trading experience, he's helped thousands protect capital, grow wealth, and remove emotion from investing.Chris isn't just an analyst—he's built proven, step-by-step systems to navigate volatile markets with clarity and discipline. Whether you're building a retirement plan or trading actively, his insights will change the way you see the markets.You'll learn:The #1 mistake most investors make in volatile marketsHow to time market cycles for protection and growthChris's personal strategies for low-stress, high-confidence investingIf you've ever worried about losing money in the next crash—or missing out on the next big run—this episode is your blueprint for smarter investing.Quotes:"To be successful, you don't have to be smart at all. You just need to do something you're passionate about."- Chris Vermeulen"Psychology, emotions is the number one problem with investing and trading." Chris Vermeulen"Sometimes moving life forward, it's not about adding more engines. It's not about pushing harder. Sometimes it's taking a look at the anchors where we're overcomplicating things, yeah, and cutting those loose."- Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Emotion is the Investor's Enemy – Most market losses come from emotional decisions, not bad strategies.Cycles Drive Markets – Understanding market cycles helps you anticipate turning points instead of reacting to them.Risk Management is Non-Negotiable – Always define how much you're willing to lose before entering any trade.Technical Analysis Removes Guesswork – Use charts and patterns to guide decisions instead of news headlines.Cash is a Position – Sometimes the best move is to sit out and protect your capital.Small, Consistent Gains Compound – Avoid chasing big wins; focus on steady growth over time.Conclusion:Chris Vermeulen's approach proves that successful investing isn't about predicting the future—it's about preparing for it. By removing emotion, following proven systems, and understanding market cycles, you can protect your wealth, grow it steadily, and sleep soundly no matter what the headlines say.Whether you're saving for retirement or actively trading, the principles in this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to navigate any market. The choice is yours: keep reacting to the markets… or start mastering them.

What's really holding you back from the life you want?Is it a lack of talent… or a lack of belief? Are you waiting for permission to step into the version of yourself you know is possible—but haven't unleashed yet?Too many ambitious people get stuck watching others succeed, telling themselves they'll “get their shot” someday. But what if that day never comes—unless you create it?Our guest today, Dre Baldwin, knows exactly what that's like. Cut from his high school basketball team three years in a row and barely scoring two points per game the one year he played, Dre had every reason to quit. Instead, he turned rejection into fuel—eventually carving out a 9-year professional career overseas, building a massive online following before “influencer” was even a word, and becoming a leading voice on discipline, confidence, and mental toughness.Dre's not just another motivational speaker—he's a systems thinker who can break down winning mindsets and processes so clearly that anyone can apply them. Whether you're chasing athletic dreams, building a business, or just trying to level up your life, Dre's insights on mindset, self-permission, and creating opportunities will challenge your excuses and sharpen your game.Quotes:“My superpower was and is my ability to understand something and then be able to break it down and put it back together and articulate it to other people. It doesn't matter the subject.” - Dre Baldwin“The mind decides, the flesh obeys. Once you decide that something's going to happen, your body has no choice but to follow if you've actually decided.”  - Dre Baldwin“That belief they can see what nobody else sees, especially in themselves, is a separating factor from influential individuals who go on to create something.” - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Belief Before Evidence – Dre kept working on his game for four years without external proof of progress. You must believe in your own potential before the results show up.Self-Permission Changes Everything – Most people stay stuck because they conform to their current identity. Give yourself permission to operate as your “Super You,” and you'll unlock abilities you've always had.Create Your Own Opportunities – Dre went from no offers to a pro career by cold-calling 60 agents and sending game footage himself. Don't wait—initiate.Conclusion:Dre Baldwin's story proves that success isn't about waiting for the perfect break—it's about creating it, long before anyone else believes you're ready. From the blacktop courts of Philadelphia to nine years as a pro athlete, and now as a sought-after entrepreneur and mindset coach, Dre has shown that the right mix of belief, discipline, and systems can turn any ambition into reality.Whether you're chasing a championship, building a business, or reinventing your life, the principles in this conversation aren't just inspiring—they're actionable. Your “Super You” is already there, waiting. The only question is: will you give yourself permission to step into it?Resources & Links: FREE Book – The Third Day: http://ThirdDayBook.com (3- and 10-book gift options available) – Become an affiliate (40% commission) here. FREE Book – The Sales Discipline System: http://SalesDisciplineBook.com (Bulk options available) Work On Your Game University: http://www.WorkOnYourGameUniversity.comAbout Dre Baldwin:Dre Baldwin is CEO and Founder of Work On Your Game Inc. He has given 4 TEDx Talks, authored 41 books, and his content has been consumed over 103 million times. His daily Work On Your Game MasterClass has over 3,300 episodes and 7.6 million listeners. Dre enjoyed a 9-year professional basketball career, playing in 8 countries. His framework is the “roadmap in reverse” for professional High Performance, Consistency, and Results.Website: http://www.WorkOnYourGame.com Contact: Marielle@DreAllDay.comSocial Media:InstagramYouTubeFacebookLinkedInTikToX (Twitter)

What if the job you worked your whole life to get—the title, the income, the “security”—is the very thing stealing your purpose?In this powerful conversation, we unpack the hidden struggles of high-achieving professionals who feel trapped by success. Jamie Gruber, once a six-figure corporate executive, shares how reaching the top of the ladder led to an identity crisis, not celebration. If you've ever asked yourself, "Is this all there is?"—this episode is your wake-up call.Jamie didn't just walk away from a half-million-dollar salary—he gave up nearly $1M in unvested equity to chase alignment, not approval. From identity shifts and impossible goals to surrounding yourself with the right tribe, Jamie reveals how he reinvented his life through community, content creation, and courageous decisions.Quotes:“I spent money to enter the room to then go add value, so I literally pivoted over to let me just figure out how I can be of the most help to whomever I come in contact with.” - Jamie Gruber“Identity shifts first—results follow. Most people believe they'll become someone new after they achieve the goal, but real change happens when you claim the identity before the results show up” - Jamie Gruber“Action leads to outcomes you can't always predict—but your energy never lies. Trust it.” - Jamie GruberKey Takeaways:Identity First, Results SecondReal transformation begins when you step into the identity of who you want to become—before you see the results. Results lag behind identity shifts.Set Impossible Goals on Short TimelinesJamie followed a strategy he didn't even realize he was using at first: setting seemingly impossible goals with urgent timelines to create clarity and momentum.Environment is EverythingThe right community doesn't care who you've been—they hold you accountable to who you say you're becoming. That support made all the difference in Jamie's leap from corporate to creator.Conclusion:This episode is a call to stop living someone else's definition of success. Jamie Gruber's journey reminds us that the most powerful shifts begin internally—when we claim the identity of who we're meant to be. From there, it's about taking action, finding the right people, and trusting your energy to guide the way. Whether you're stuck in a high-paying job that no longer fits or standing on the edge of your next big leap, this conversation is proof: you don't need permission to rewrite your story.

Are modern men slowly losing their grip on what it means to truly lead?You're working hard. You're showing up. You're providing. But still—your marriage feels off. You're getting blindsided by disconnection, resentment, or even divorce. You're trying to be a good man, yet nothing seems to be enough. Why is it that despite doing “everything right,” so many men are silently failing in the one place that matters most—at home?In this powerful conversation, we dive deep with Quentin Hafner, therapist, author of Black Belt Husband, and coach to high-performing men. What makes Quentin different? He's not your typical therapist—he's a former corporate climber who hit rock bottom after a divorce, did the inner work, and made it his life's mission to help other men heal, lead, and thrive. And he's brutally honest about what's wrong with traditional therapy and how it can actually keep men stuck.Quotes:"My mission field is to really serve men in that capacity, help men heal so they can be highly effective in their families."- Quentin Hafner"There's a time to sit in that pain, not to wallow in it and be miserable, but to be self-reflective and contemplative. - Quentin Hafner"When you trust yourself, other people trust you more too." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Most “marriage problems” are personal problems in disguise.According to Quentin, couples often don't have relationship issues—they have individual wounds and unresolved trauma showing up in the marriage.70% of divorces are initiated by women.The most common reason? A deep emotional pain: “I didn't feel like I mattered.” Men often don't realize their wives are emotionally disconnecting until it's too late.Men underestimate the power of emotional safety.Many men believe being a good provider and father is enough. But their wives are craving emotional connection—not just physical security.Passivity is killing modern marriages.High-performing men often become passive or conflict-avoidant in their relationships, fearing they'll come off as controlling. Quentin calls this “fear-based passivity,” and it erodes trust and respect.Conclusion:This episode is a powerful wake-up call for any man who wants to lead—not just at work, but where it matters most: at home. Quentin Hafner doesn't sugarcoat the truth—he reveals how being a passive, well-intentioned husband can still lead to emotional disconnection and even divorce.But there's hope.Leadership in marriage isn't about being dominant or controlling—it's about creating emotional safety, setting the tone, and becoming the kind of man your wife and children naturally trust and follow. Quentin reminds us that real strength isn't found in aggression or avoidance—it's found in presence, purpose, and self-awareness.If you're ready to stop reacting and start leading—with clarity, confidence, and connection—this conversation is your blueprint.Because becoming a Black Belt Husband isn't about perfection. It's about transformation.And it starts with you.Call to Action:Ready to step into your role as a strong, emotionally safe, and purpose-driven leader in your home?

Have you ever wrapped your whole identity around a dream—only to have it snatched away just as you were about to reach the peak? Do you ever feel like you're too much… or not enough… or just out of place in a world that doesn't seem to get you?What if the very thing that knocked you down could be the catalyst for your next chapter?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Amanda Leve, a trailblazing professional fighter, Jiu Jitsu champion, and soon-to-be mom, who knows exactly what it means to rise, fall, and rise again—stronger. From being the only girl in an all-male gym to shocking the world by defeating a 265-pound opponent in one of Jiu Jitsu's biggest upsets, Amanda's story is a masterclass in grit, grace, and growth.But Amanda isn't just a fighter in the cage—she's a fighter for self-worth, identity, and emotional resilience. She shares how she overcame a life-changing medical diagnosis that forced her to step away from her MMA dream, and how she found purpose again by pouring her wisdom into the next generation.This isn't just about martial arts. It's about mat therapy, emotional intelligence, and what it means to be powerful and feminine in a world that often asks you to pick one.Are you ready to stop being bitter and start getting better?Then this conversation is for you.Quotes:"The time is going to pass whether you do it or you don't do it. It's always better to just show up, even on the days where you don't want to show up." - Amanda Leve"When one door closes, you just gotta keep opening up a new door. You can't just stop and stay in your wallows for too long." - Amanda Leve"Stay neutral to your wins and your losses. It just keeps you on a steady path of progression." - Amanda LeveActionable Takeaways:Consistency Matters: Commit to showing up, even if it's just one day a week in your chosen pursuit. Small, consistent efforts compound over time and prevent you from completely abandoning your goals.Develop Mental Neutrality: Practice staying emotionally balanced during wins and losses. Don't get too high or too low - maintain a steady mindset that allows you to learn and progress regardless of immediate outcomes.Embrace Your Multidimensional Self: Challenge societal expectations that you must be either "feminine" or "strong". You can be emotionally intelligent and physically powerful simultaneously. Don't let others define your potential or limit your identity.Conclusion:Amanda's story isn't just about fighting—it's about rising. No matter what life throws at you, you have the power to pivot, persevere, and pour your strength into others. Your setbacks don't define you. Your response does. Listen in—and walk away ready to fight for the life you were made for.

What if the very path your parents want for you — college, career, and a stable paycheck — is the one that leads you furthest from your purpose?Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions — school, job, family — while your dreams quietly fade into the background?In this episode, we dive deep with a man who's chosen a very different path.Meet Austin Chaney — a once-introverted, purple-skinny-jean-wearing creative who ditched the traditional route, dropped out of college with a 1.2 GPA, and bet on himself. Today, he's a videographer, entrepreneur, fighter, and full-time family man living life on purpose. He creates stunning content, works with major homesteading YouTubers like Justin Rhodes, and still finds time to train for MMA fights — all while raising a young family in rural North Carolina.Austin's journey is packed with hard decisions, doubts, and setbacks — but also clarity, identity, and purpose. He doesn't just talk about “following your dreams” — he's living it every day. From battling imposter syndrome to launching his own YouTube channel, Austin shares what it really takes to build a life of meaning — without giving up what matters most.This isn't just about videography, entrepreneurship, or even fighting — it's about crafting a life that feels authentic, intentional, and deeply fulfilling.Ask yourself:

Are you struggling to unlock your full potential? Do you feel stuck between mediocrity and excellence, wondering what separates those who succeed from those who give up?Stew Smith - a former Navy SEAL, fitness guru, and leadership mentor who has spent over 25 years transforming ordinary individuals into extraordinary performers. With a unique blend of military precision, fitness expertise, and psychological insight, Stew Smith has become the go-to coach for those seeking to push beyond their perceived limits.Having trained thousands of military, law enforcement, and aspiring special operators, Stew doesn't just teach fitness - he cultivates a "never quit" mindset that becomes a blueprint for success in any arena of life. From writing 13 books to developing over 40 specialized training programs, he has dedicated his career to helping individuals discover their inner strength and resilience.In this powerful conversation, Stew Smith reveals the psychological secrets of overcoming challenges, the critical importance of physical fitness in personal development, and how to transform setbacks into stepping stones toward your ultimate goals.Quotes: "Fitness is the catalyst to everything that is good. You will be a better person because you exercise, you will be smarter, you will be less stressed. You will be able to set goals for yourself, long term goals and learn how to do that, because nothing is immediate with fitness." - Stew Smith"I look at failure as if it's not a failure. In fact, I say get that word out of your vocabulary and call it a learning experience, because you're going to be smarter after this process." - Stew Smith"If we will be intentional of holding that bar high, holding that standard high for our young people, they will rise to meet that.” - Matt BeaudreauActionable Takeaways:The 30-Day Consistency Challenge   - Choose one physical fitness routine you've been avoiding   - Commit to doing it consistently for 30 days, no matter what   - Track your progress and reflect on how consistency changes your mindset and performance      Goal: Prove to yourself that the "best workout is the one you do consistently"Reframe Your Failure Mindset   - For the next 7 days, replace the word "failure" with "learning experience" in your internal dialogue   - After each setback or challenge, write down 3 specific things you learned   - Approach obstacles as experiments, not final verdicts on your capabilities Mental Bandwidth Audit   - List all your current projects, commitments, and side pursuits   - Evaluate which activities truly align with your core goals   - Eliminate or delegate 2-3 low-value activities that drain your mental energy   - Focus on creating congruence between your primary work and side pursuits   - Aim to optimize your mental bandwidth for maximum effectivenessThe Team Support Experiment   - In your next group activity or team project, shift focus from personal performance to team support   - Ask yourself: "How can I ensure my teammates are hydrated, fueled, and taking care of themselves?"   - Practice active listening and providing constructive support   - Observe how this mindset changes team dynamics and individual performanceConclusion: Stew Smith's journey reveals a powerful truth: extraordinary achievement comes from a relentless commitment to growth, resilience, and continuous improvement. Your potential isn't defined by your current abilities, but by your willingness to push beyond perceived limitations. The principles are universal - embrace challenges, reframe failures, stay consistent, and never quit.

What does it really take to stay disciplined when no one is watching? How do you keep going when motivation fades, your friends are out having fun, and no one's cheering from the sidelines? In a world where young people are bombarded with distractions and the pressure of perfection on social media, how do you build a mindset strong enough to thrive — not just survive?In this episode, let's dive deep into the heart of those questions, offering a raw and inspiring look into the life of a young woman who's not only navigating the demands of collegiate athletics but using them as a powerful training ground for leadership, self-respect, and purpose.Issy is a Division I cross country and track athlete at Nicholls State University in Louisiana. But she's not just a runner—she's a leader, a role model, and a force of positive energy. From competing at a high level to mentoring high school students through Young Life, Issy embodies the values of discipline, joy, and resilience. Her story is one of quiet grit, unexpected beginnings, and a refreshing commitment to finding the fun in hard things.Whether it's wearing her “lucky socks,” leading her team through rough summer runs, or singing Ariana Grande at the start line, Issy shows that being disciplined doesn't mean being miserable—it means choosing your priorities, day after day, with purpose and joy.Quotes:"Comparison is the thief of joy, because I truly believe that it is." - Issy Rivault"There's days that I wake up and the last thing I want to do right now is go run for an hour. But having people there in the same shoes as you, and them being like, 'okay, we got this today' - that makes all the difference." - Issy Rivault"Just knowing that there's other chances to be better. Maybe today wasn't my day, but there is a next time to do better and be a better version of myself." - Issy RivaultActionable Takeaways:Create a Consistency Ritual: Develop a morning routine that prepares you mentally and physically for your goals. This could include a specific breakfast, wake-up time, or pre-activity preparation that signals your brain it's time to perform.Practice the "Fun Injection" Technique: For any repetitive task or training regimen, intentionally introduce elements of novelty and enjoyment.Develop a "Next Opportunity" Mindset: After any setback or less-than-ideal performance, immediately reframe your thinking. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, ask yourself: "What can I learn from this? How can I improve for the next opportunity?"Conclusion:Issy's journey reminds us that discipline isn't about perfection — it's about consistency, mindset, and showing up even when it's hard. Through early mornings, solo summer runs, and choosing rest over reckless hustle, she's learned that true strength comes from building habits, leaning into community, and finding joy in the process.For young leaders everywhere, her story is a powerful reminder: your habits matter more than your hype, your mindset shapes your momentum, and the small, often unseen choices you make every day are what set you apart.So — what's one area in your life where you can start showing up with more intention today?

How old were you when you first learned about sex? Who taught you—your parents, or the internet? And now that you're the parent… do you have a plan? Or are you hoping the “right moment” will eventually come?In a world where the average age of exposure to pornography is eight years old, silence is no longer a safe option. Too many parents still believe they have more time, only to discover—painfully—they're already years behind.In this episode, we dive headfirst into one of the most avoided, most misunderstood, and most crucial responsibilities of modern parenthood: equipping your kids with the truth about sex before the world distorts it.Joining host Matt Beaudreau is Nick Liberto, a man on the frontlines of this battle for our children's innocence. Nick is the Executive Director of Proven Ministries, a national nonprofit helping individuals and families break free from sexual addiction. He's also the founder of TheSexTalk.com, a revolutionary curriculum designed to empower parents—not teachers, not YouTube, not Google—to become the trusted voice in their child's life.What makes Nick different? He's not just an expert—he's lived it. From his own story of sexual brokenness and redemption, to leading a ministry that's impacted hundreds of thousands, Nick combines unflinching honesty with deep empathy. He's uniquely qualified to speak into the discomfort, confusion, and paralysis most parents feel when it comes to “the talk.”Quotes:"You are the primary educator for your young people. Period. End of story. You always will be. You always have been. This is just part of that education." - Matt Beaudreau"We don't want anything to do with any of that, but what we want is a parent who has created a safe environment where, when this happens, your child knows that they can come and talk to you." - Nick Liberto"You are giving your kids a defense by having these conversations. You're not harming them. You're giving them defensive tools." - Nick LibertoKey Takeaways:Start having conversations about body parts, privacy, and modesty with your children as early as age 4–6. Use correct terminology like “penis” and “vagina” in a calm, matter-of-fact tone to normalize healthy discussion.Instead of one big “birds and bees” talk, create a rhythm of ongoing, age-appropriate conversations. Keep it low-pressure and relaxed—no lectures or panic—just consistent check-ins.Your kids will have questions. Make sure they come to you first. Build trust by being open, honest, and nonjudgmental—even when they ask uncomfortable things.Align on values and timing. Don't default to “Mom handles the girls” and “Dad handles the boys.” Both voices are important, regardless of gender.If you're unsure what to say or when, use tools like the 14-video curriculum from TheSexTalk.com. It's designed to equip parents with the knowledge and confidence to lead these conversations at home.Conclusion:You don't need to be a therapist, a pastor, or a “cool parent” to get this right—you just need to be present, proactive, and willing to have the uncomfortable conversations before the world does it for you.Nick Liberto reminds us that when parents step into their role as the primary educators of their children's values, especially around sex and identity, we don't just protect innocence—we build trust, confidence, and lifelong connection.This isn't about fear. It's about equipping the next generation with truth, clarity, and resilience—and that starts with you.Because if your child doesn't hear it from you, they will hear it from someone else. And they deserve better than that.Call to Action:Start equipping yourself today with The Sex Talk curriculum for parents—built by Nick and his team to guide you step-by-step through this essential parenting mission.

Are we crushing our boys with an outdated education system?Why do so many young men feel bored, disengaged, and misunderstood in school? What if the system isn't broken—but just not built for them in the first place?In this episode, we dive deep into a powerful and necessary conversation about the struggles boys face in modern education—and what one man is doing to change that. If you've ever felt like your son was being shaped to fit a mold that just doesn't work for him, this one's for you.Meet Ben Kuiken, a former traditional teacher who asked a simple, bold question: What if we stopped trying to fix boys, and instead fixed the system?From humble beginnings as a fifth-grade teacher to co-founding Anvil Academy, Ben has become a trailblazer in creating hands-on, purpose-driven education specifically designed for boys. With a deep belief in identity, risk, adventure, and real-world learning, Ben is on a mission to forge men—not just students.Quotes:"If a boy knows who they are, if they can answer why they matter, and they can say, here's the audience that I'm living for, this is who gets to write off on my report card - that prepares them for whatever season life throws their way." - Ben Kuiken"We're preparing these kids for a world that isn't even established yet. I don't need to prepare them for a system or something. I need to be able to prepare them for anything." - Ben Kuiken"I believe that I am an adopted son of the King of the universe, and that gives me all the value that I need - that I am unconditionally loved, that I am fully seen, all of my flaws internally and externally." - Ben KuikenKey Takeaways:Reimagine Education at Home: If you're a parent or educator, ask yourself: Is my child being shaped by a system that supports who they are—or suppresses it? Begin by creating space for hands-on learning, curiosity, and risk-taking in your home or classroom.Replace Digital Risk with Real-World Adventure: Boys naturally seek risk, challenge, and consequence. Channel that energy into real-life experiences—like sports, building projects, outdoor adventures, or creative challenges—that have tangible rewards and consequences.Challenge the “This Is How It's Always Been Done” Mentality: Whether in parenting, teaching, or leadership, ask: Is this method truly working—or just familiar? Be brave enough to try new approaches, even if it means pushback.Start Small, Start Now: Inspired to make a change? Don't wait for a perfect plan or a crowd of followers. Start with one student, one lesson, one moment of connection. Excellence at a small scale leads to meaningful impact.Conclusion:This conversation with Ben Kuiken reminds us that the future of young men isn't written by grades, test scores, or outdated systems—it's forged through identity, purpose, and real-world challenge.Whether you're a parent, educator, or mentor, the question now is: Are you helping the boys in your life become men—or just helping them behave?Ben's journey shows us what's possible when we stop trying to force boys to fit the mold—and instead, build a world that fits their God-given design. The path won't be easy. It's not meant to be. But it's worth it.So take the first step. Be curious. Be bold. And remember—great men aren't born. They're forged.

Are you frustrated with a world that rewards credentials over competence? Tired of watching brilliant young minds stuck in systems that stifle creativity, risk-taking, and real-world skills?Ask yourself:What if everything you've been taught about success, education, and impact is wrong?Why do some of the most innovative thinkers remain unrecognized by the very systems they aim to fix?And what happens when someone refuses to play by the rules — and builds their own?Meet Casey Putsch — race car driver, aerospace innovator, YouTuber, and the mastermind behind Genius Garage, a nonprofit reshaping how young people are mentored into greatness. He's not just a "jack of all trades" — he's a Renaissance man who dares to act when most are content to complain.Raised by Depression-era values and military discipline, Casey lives by action and authenticity. From building a Batmobile powered by a helicopter engine to crafting a full-scale, flight-capable pterosaur replica, Casey lives at the intersection of engineering, art, and leadership. But his real passion? Equipping the next generation to do more than just “get a job” — he teaches them to build a legacy.He's been in the trenches for over a decade — rejecting academic elitism, fighting back against systems rigged against bold thinkers, and creating opportunities where none existed. Casey is the voice for those who know they're capable of more — and need someone to show them what's possible.Whether you're a parent, educator, leader, or young builder of the future — this conversation will shake your assumptions and ignite your purpose.

What happens when doing the right thing costs you everything? Meet the man who chose integrity over compliance—and lived to teach others how to do the same.Stephen Davis is a battle-tested leader who's worn multiple hats:U.S. Army combat medic and Special Forces candidateDecorated fire battalion chief with 15+ years of serviceAuthor of Alone in the Fire, exposing government corruptionFounder of the Raising Alphas Project, mentoring next-gen leadersIn 2021, as an Orange County Fire Department battalion chief, Davis was ordered to punish firefighters resisting COVID mandates. When he discovered the disciplinary lists included exempt personnel—close friends and colleagues—he refused. The result? Termination. But his fight was just beginning.Quotes:"Your most passionate performers are your strongest leaders when they're not heard, when they're not listened to, when their voice isn't given any level of respect." - Stephen Davis"Isn't the downhill part the best part of the ride? Anytime you go on a roller coaster, isn't that the time we're all screaming with fun?" - Stephen Davis"What I can control is the family that I'm raising. What I can do my best to do is build these tribes." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Audit Your IntegrityAsk yourself: "Where have I compromised my values to avoid conflict or protect my position?"Action: Write down one principle you're unwilling to bend on—no matter the cost.Challenge Authority (Wisely)Lesson: Blind compliance enables corruption. Leaders question unjust orders.Action: The next time you're pressured to enforce something questionable, ask: "Is this lawful, ethical, and morally right?" If not, push back.Build Financial & Emotional ResilienceLesson: Davis survived losing his career because he had other skills and income streams.Action: Start a side hustle, learn a trade, or save 6 months' expenses. Freedom requires options.Conclusion:Stephen Davis' story isn't just about losing a job—it's about what happens when one person refuses to kneel. His stand cost him his career, but it revealed a timeless truth: real leadership isn't about authority—it's about moral defiance.Final Thought: The systems around us want compliance. They fear conviction. So ask yourself:What hill am I willing to die on?What legacy will my choices leave?If I don't stand now, when will I?Davis proved that one voice can ignite many. The question is—will yours be next?Subscribe for more unfiltered leadership insights. ChiefStephenDavis.com 

What if the very thing you're most passionate about is the one thing everyone tells you to walk away from?Have you ever felt the pressure to “have it all figured out” by 18—or even 28? Or questioned whether it's too late to chase that dream burning quietly inside you?In this episode, we dive deep into those very questions with recording artist and creative powerhouse Cassy London. From walking away from a traditional journalism path to pursuing music full-time without any family connections in the industry, Cassy's story is raw, real, and incredibly inspiring. She opens up about the lonely moments, the doubts, the pushback—and what it truly means to choose yourself, even when it's terrifying. With a voice that moves hearts and lyrics rooted in purpose, Cassy doesn't just create music—she creates movements. A fierce advocate for authenticity and artistic integrity, Cassy shares how her faith, her upbringing, and her inner compass helped her navigate rejection, rebranding, and the emotional rollercoaster of building a career in one of the toughest industries in the world.Whether you're 13 or 53, standing at the crossroads of comfort and calling—this conversation will challenge you, ground you, and remind you that growth is messy, but worth it.This one's not just for the aspiring musicians—it's for anyone ready to embrace the unknown with courage and confidence.Quotes:"Confidence truly comes from within. There's no item, there's no look, there's no anything tangible that can make you feel confident, it truly comes from within, and that takes hard work to create." - Cassy London"If you're not growing, what the heck are you doing? Growth should be celebrated." - Cassy London"Trust the process. Truly, truly trust the process and remember that no bad day, bad situation, it's temporary. Things will pass." - Cassy LondonKey Takeaways:Re-evaluate Your Current Path: Ask yourself: Is what I'm doing now aligned with who I truly am or what I genuinely love? Assignment: Journal for 10 minutes about what you would pursue if fear, judgment, or expectations weren't in the way.Audit Your Inner Circle: Cassy emphasized the power of having people around who truly know and support you. Assignment: List your top 5 closest relationships. Do they help you grow, challenge you lovingly, or hold you back?Take a Creative Risk This Week: Whether it's writing, posting something personal, or pursuing a passion project, take one bold action that stretches your creative comfort zone. Task: Share a small piece of your creative work with someone you trust or on social media, even if it scares you.Redefine Confidence as Inner Work, Not Outer Image: Remember, confidence isn't something you wear—it's something you build. Reflection Prompt: What's one area where you've been waiting to “look ready” before acting? How can you start anyway, from the inside out?Celebrate Your Growth and Give Yourself Permission to Evolve: Cassy's journey reminds us: you're allowed to outgrow your past identity. Assignment: Write down 3 ways you've changed over the past year—and give yourself credit for the transformation.Conclusion:Cassy London's story is a powerful reminder that the path to purpose isn't always clear—but it's always worth pursuing. Whether you're discovering who you are or rediscovering what you love, this episode encourages you to choose courage over comfort, authenticity over approval, and growth over fear.

What happens when a culture forgets its roots? Are we raising kids who understand sacrifice, freedom, and the values that built a nation? Or are we letting those truths slip away with every swipe and scroll?In this powerful and passionate episode, Jill Simonian, Director of Outreach for PragerU Kids, joins Matt Beaudreau to tackle some of the most urgent challenges in education, parenting, and American identity. With a background in broadcasting and a heart for kids, Jill brings a unique fire to her mission: reviving tradition, truth, and patriotism through family-centered education.Jill isn't just building content—she's building a movement. From launching an interactive Founders Museum at the White House to crafting the Independence Day Ceremony book that blends history with heartfelt ritual, she's redefining how families connect to America's legacy.But it's not just about the stars and stripes. Jill gets raw about raising teenagers in a hyper-digital world, shares her household's bold boundaries on tech, and unpacks why standards—like school uniforms and reading comprehension—aren't “old-fashioned,” they're essential.Quotes:"A nation without memory is a nation at risk. If we don't teach our children what was sacrificed, what the Declaration of Independence actually meant, then how are they going to know how important it is to preserve it and honor it?" - Jill Simonian"Time is our greatest resource. The United States flag is perhaps the most inclusive one in the world, because it represents every single ethnicity, every single heritage, every single sexual orientation." - Jill Simonian"If you stand for something, you're going to have somebody who opposes you." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Tradition matters: Learn how the Independence Day Ceremony revives patriotism in the home with a powerful blend of symbolism and storytelling.Why standards save kids: From uniforms to screen time, discover how enforcing structure builds confidence and self-respect.Reading is a battleground: Jill explains why literacy—not tablets—is the real tool for future success.Screens vs. sanity: Hear her strategy for slowly introducing tech to teens without losing connection—or your mind.Pushback and purpose: Find out how Jill handles criticism about being “non-inclusive” with grace, strength, and an unshakable belief in unifying principles.Conclusion:As we close this episode, one thing is clear: Jill Simonian isn't just teaching history—she's helping families reconnect with what matters. In a divided world, she reminds us that tradition, standards, and love for country still hold us together.Whether you're a parent, educator, or mentor, this is your reminder: you don't have to do everything—but you do have to do something. Even small traditions can leave a lasting legacy.Call to Action:Want to bring more meaning into your family's traditions?

What if everything you've worked for—your comfort, your stability, your certainty—was gone tomorrow?Would you be ready?Would your mindset be strong enough to adapt?Would you know how to rebuild… or would you break?In this powerful episode, we dive deep with Geoff Hopf—a former Marine, elite bodyguard, and bestselling author of The End series, a post-apocalyptic saga grounded in gritty realism. But Geoff isn't just a storyteller. He's lived through high-stakes missions, experienced loss, reinvented himself at 41, and built multiple companies by embracing failure, discipline, and compound effort.Geoff's passion for preparedness, personal growth, and leadership is contagious. He's not here to sell fear—he's here to ignite responsibility. Whether you're struggling to find your path, seeking mental toughness, or wondering how to thrive in a world changing faster than ever, Geoff offers hard-earned wisdom and actionable insight.Tune in as we explore:The principle of “compound labor” and how it transformed Geoff's lifeWhat happens when comfort kills characterHow to reframe failure into fuelWhy trades and mindset might save your future in an AI-dominated worldAnd how one quote—“Hard times create strong men…”—sparked a cultural firestormThis episode isn't just a conversation. It's a challenge.Are you becoming the strong man this world will soon demand?Quotes:"Comfort kills, and we only become stronger when we're challenged a little bit when it's put under adversity." - Geoff Hopf"Money is an energy that flows directly from providing value. If you provide value to people, then sales and success are downstream of that." - Geoff Hopf"If you're alive, you're going to struggle on something all the time. So let's not put struggling on a pedestal." - Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Apply the Principle of “Compound Labor” Choose one goal—fitness, writing, business—and commit to small, consistent daily action. Track your progress weekly to see how effort compounds over time.Reframe Failure as Tuition When something goes wrong, ask yourself: “What lesson did I just pay for?” Write it down, label it “investment,” and decide how you'll respond differently next time.Audit Your Emotional State During Challenges The next time you feel overwhelmed or angry, pause and ask: “Am I choosing this emotion, or is it choosing me?” Then choose calm, curiosity, or excitement as your new lens.Prepare for Disruption, Not Just Survival Whether it's AI, economic collapse, or personal crisis—get proactive. Pick one “pillar” to strengthen this week: physical fitness, a new skill, your mindset, or basic emergency preparedness (like storing food or learning self-reliance).Find a Mentor, Be a Mentor Geoff meets with an 87-year-old billionaire for life and business advice. Who are you learning from? And who could you be helping? Seek out both relationships this month.Conclusion:If there's one thing I hope you take away, it's this: you don't need to have it all figured out right now. You just need to be willing to show up every day, take small steps, and lean into the hard stuff—because that's where growth lives.Geoff reminded us that failure isn't the end; it's part of the process. And maybe the most important question we can ask ourselves isn't “What do I do next?” but “Am I having fun? Am I aligned? Am I building something that matters?”Whether you're 18 or 58, it's never too late to reinvent yourself, learn something new, or become the kind of person this world needs more of—strong, grounded, and awake.Thanks for listening. If this episode hit home for you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and keep showing up. We're all in this together.Until next time—stay sharp, stay humble, and stay ready.

What if telling the truth cost you your job, your reputation—or even your family's safety?In this episode, Matt Beaudreau sits down with Gareth Icke, musician, father, and outspoken voice in the fight for free speech and sovereignty.Gareth shares what it was like growing up in the shadow of public scrutiny, the cost of speaking out in today's climate, and why building parallel systems—schools, media, communities—is no longer just an option, but a necessity.They explore:• The rise of censorship and the illusion of free speech• Raising strong, free-thinking kids in a conformist culture• Why peaceful noncompliance is the most powerful resistance• How Gareth stays grounded in joy, creativity, and purposeIf you're tired of fear-based narratives and ready to build something better—this episode is for you.Quotes:"As long as what you do doesn't negatively impact anyone else, you should be free to live your life how you desire.” - Gareth Icke"Be the change you want to see in the world. Start with you. You make your family life better, other people around you lives better." - Gareth Icke"Our job, especially as fathers, is to do what we can to build, yes, build for society, so that we're not just complaining without a solution, but to build that ideal life for our home too." - Matt Beaudreau Key Takeaways:Question Your Defaults: Ask yourself, “What do I believe simply because I've heard it repeated?” Challenge one “everyone knows that” idea this week by researching its origin or alternative views.Protect What Matters Most: Set boundaries around your family's digital presence. Consider removing or limiting recent photos of your kids online—and ask yourself, “Who really needs to see this?”Practice Peaceful Noncompliance: Identify one area in your life where you're following rules that don't align with your values. Explore a respectful way to say “no” and reclaim your autonomy.Build What You Wish Existed: Instead of just criticizing broken systems (school, media, governance), brainstorm one tangible way you could contribute to a “parallel society”—even if it's as small as starting a book club or supporting a local homeschool co-op.Choose Integrity Over Approval: Reflect on where you're holding back out of fear of what others might think. What's one truth you need to speak—even if it's uncomfortable?Conclusion:In a world increasingly shaped by fear, conformity, and digital control, Gareth Icke reminds us that courage starts at home—and change begins with personal responsibility. Whether it's protecting our families, questioning the narratives we're fed, or simply choosing to live with integrity, each of us has a role to play in building something better.This episode isn't just a call to awareness—it's a call to action. Speak your truth. Protect your peace. And most importantly, be the example your kids—and the world—need right now.

Feeling stuck? Maybe you've been grinding but can't seem to break through. You want to lead, to build, to create value—but something's missing.Is it confidence? A clear path? A belief that you're even capable?Or maybe you're haunted by questions like: Why should anyone follow me?Am I really cut out for this? How do I lead when I feel like an imposter?Too many aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs feel trapped—either by a lack of direction or the weight of their own self-doubt. But what if the very thing you fear—struggle—is actually the key to building unstoppable self-esteem and long-term success?Meet Lee Benson—a man who went from being kicked out of his home in high school to selling one of his companies for nine figures. Lee didn't just build wealth—he built multi-generational value by embracing struggle, focusing on value creation, and turning pain into purpose.Lee's not your typical business guru.He's a rock musician, ultra-marathoner, CEO of eight companies, and the passionate mind behind Dinner Table, a movement to raise value-creating families and future leaders.In this episode, Lee shares:· Why most people misunderstand “imposter syndrome”· How emotional energy is the rarest and most powerful resource you have· The exact mindset that turns struggle into confidence—and confidence into legacy· Why you should stop waiting to feel ready—and start where you areThis episode is your wake-up call. If you're tired of spinning your wheels and ready to shift from fear to fulfillment, you need to hear this.Listen now—because leadership isn't something you're given. It's something you create.Quotes:• "All the opportunity in the world is in the struggle. The harder it gets, the better it is." - Lee Benson• "Everybody does what's in their best self-interest for either this life and or the next. We're either win-win, or we're win-lose." - Lee Benson• "The purpose of the human experience is to elevate human consciousness - simply said, figure stuff out." - Lee BensonKey Takeaways:· Reframe Struggle as a Tool: Start viewing struggle as the necessary path to building confidence and self-esteem. Ask yourself, “What capability is this challenge helping me develop?”· Adopt the Value Creation Lens: Before making your next move—whether in business, relationships, or personal growth—ask: “Am I truly creating value, or am I just staying busy?”· Audit Your Emotional Energy: Rate your emotional energy on a scale of 1–10 each day. Then identify what boosts it and what drains it. Begin designing your life around protecting and amplifying that energy.· Design a Personal Business Model: Whether you're employed or self-employed, write down how you create value, how you're rewarded for it, and how you can scale it. This turns abstract goals into actionable steps.· Test, Tweak, Repeat: Treat life and business decisions like experiments. Don't fear mistakes—instead, document your assumptions, test them quickly and cheaply, and use failures as feedback.Conclusion:This conversation with Lee Benson is a powerful reminder that you don't need permission to start—you just need the willingness to struggle, learn, and keep showing up. Success doesn't come from avoiding hard things—it comes from leaning into them with purpose. Whether you're a young man figuring out your path or a seasoned entrepreneur feeling stuck, this episode challenges you to rethink what's possible when you focus on creating real value—in your work, your relationships, and your life.

Are young people being sold an outdated dream?What if college isn't the golden ticket we were told it was?What happens when a young person knows they want more—but the traditional path feels like a detour, not a destination? If you've ever felt like you're too ambitious for college, this episode is for you.Today's guest is the brilliant and bold Jorja Leavitt, a serial entrepreneur whose journey epitomizes grit, creativity, and purpose-driven disruption. She's not just a founder; she's a problem-solver, a marketplace pioneer, and a reverse logistics trailblazer. After building a Facebook Marketplace-like app that attracted millions before Facebook shut them down, she didn't quit—she pivoted. That single move birthed a company that picked up and resold bulky items like mattresses and furniture, reshaping how we think about secondhand commerce.We talk entrepreneurship, failure, perseverance, and why embracing AI, not resisting it, is the secret sauce to thriving in today's world. Jorja's passion for helping ambitious young people find their lane outside the traditional system is infectious—and her story proves that the “safe” path isn't always the smart one.If you've ever asked yourself, “What if I could do something different?”—this is the episode that just might change your life.Quotes:• "If you're willing to be flexible enough and open minded enough and creative enough, there is a solution. It might not be the solution you want." - Jorja Leavitt• "The difference between someone that's successful and unsuccessful is they just don't give up. Don't give up. It's that grit factor." - Jorja Leavitt• "You are your best advocate. Go find the community that you want and like." - Jorja LeavittKey Takeaways:• Rethink the Default Path Ask yourself: Am I choosing college (or any path) because it's right—or just because it's expected? Take 10 minutes to journal what success looks like for you, not for others.• Use AI as Your Superpower, Not a Shortcut Explore how AI can enhance your work, not replace your effort. Pick one free AI tool (like ChatGPT, Notion AI, or Canva Magic Write) and use it to complete a small project this week—resume, portfolio, or even a side hustle plan.• Turn Failure into Feedback Think of one “failure” you've experienced. Break it down: What did it teach you? How can it guide your next move? Remember, as Jorja says: "It's not failure—it's just a problem you haven't solved yet."• Take a Micro-Risk Today Apply for something outside your comfort zone: a local internship, a virtual cohort (like Praxis), or pitch a freelance project. Action > perfection.• Audit Your Environment Are you surrounded by people who fuel your ambition or hold it back? Find (or build) one community—online or in person—that shares your drive. Join a local meetup, Discord, or mastermind focused on entrepreneurship or tech.Conclusion:Jorja Leavitt's journey reminds us that the path to success is rarely straight—and almost never traditional. From being shut down by Facebook to building something even greater, her story is a powerful lesson in resilience, creativity, and the courage to pivot.Whether you're questioning college, dreaming of entrepreneurship, or just trying to figure out what's next—know this: you don't have to follow the old map to reach a new destination.The tools are here. The support is out there. And the world needs more people willing to challenge the status quo and create their own lane.So ask yourself: What's one bold step you can take this week to move toward the life you actually want? Then go take it.This isn't just an episode—it's a call to action. And your next chapter starts now.

Is traditional education holding kids back from real growth? What if asking better questions — not giving better answers — is the key to raising tomorrow's leaders?In this episode, we sit down with Brittany Craveiro — a bold educator, mother, and mentor who's redefining learning through Socratic facilitation and purposeful leadership. As a roadschooling parent and Apogee Women affiliate, Brittany helps young women think deeply, lead confidently, and take ownership of their future.If you're ready to challenge the way we teach and inspire a generation to become, not just perform, this conversation is for you.Quotes:• "I love to refer to Socratic conversations as exercise for your brain, because the first time I had a Socratic conversation, it really was obvious to me that I was accessing different parts of my brain." - Brittany Craveiro• "It's been an experience, and it's been neat to live with less and to see how much we were attached to things. So that's been a really cleansing opportunity, for sure." - Brittany Craveiro• "I fell in love with Socratic facilitation because it allows me to exercise my brain." - Brittany CraveiroKey Takeaways:• Redefine Leadership in Your Home: Create space for your kids (or yourself) to think out loud without fear of being “wrong.” Start one dinner this week with a big question — no right answers allowed.• Reflect on the Question “Who Are You Becoming?” Use this as a journal prompt or conversation starter. Instead of focusing on goals or grades, shift attention to identity and intention.• Practice Socratic Listening: In your next conversation, don't just listen to respond — ask one follow-up question that challenges or deepens what the other person said. Exercise curiosity instead of control.• Build Your Rules of Engagement: Whether for your family, team, or classroom — define how you want to show up in conversations. (e.g., Eye contact, kindness, take a stand, ask clarifying questions.)• Create a Daily Discipline Challenge: Choose one small act of self-care — fitness, food, sleep, or gratitude — and commit to doing it every day for the next 7 days. Then reflect: how did that one choice shape who you became?Conclusion:In a world obsessed with quick answers and constant performance, Brittany Craveiro reminds us that the questions we ask — of ourselves and others — are what truly shape us. Whether you're a parent, mentor, educator, or simply someone striving to grow, this episode challenges you to lead with intention, think deeply, and care for the one thing you truly own — your mind, your body, and your character. You don't have to follow the script society handed you. You get to design the kind of leader — and the kind of human — you're becoming.So… who are you becoming today?

What happens when an “ordinary mom” gets pushed too far by fear, censorship, and the breakdown of civil discourse? Are you tired of being told to sit down, be quiet, and follow the narrative—even when your gut and your values say otherwise?In this powerful podcast episode, we sit with Adele Basarich, a fierce voice of conviction, resilience, and faith. A mother, former teacher, and health freedom advocate, Adele never set out to lead a movement—she just refused to stay silent. From navigating public backlash to pulling her kids from schools that didn't align with her values, she's shown what it looks like to stand firm with grace in a world full of noise.Adele speaks candidly about medical freedom, raising strong kids through real conversations, natural healing, and the power of questioning everything—even if it makes people uncomfortable. If you've ever felt like the world is upside down and wondered, What can I do about it?—this conversation is your answer.Quotes:"Education is empowerment, and so any way that I can educate them, I do it so that they know how to navigate the world around them, which is absolute madness." - Adele Basarich"My beliefs go with the Bible, and I'm like, trying to align with that, which never changes. And over here, culture is telling us to do all this crazy stuff, constantly changing." - Adele Basarich"We need to build capable young people that are able to adapt to whatever is going to need to be adapted to." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Question the narrative—boldly and respectfully. Don't silence your intuition for the sake of comfort. Ask yourself: Where am I staying silent just to avoid conflict—and is that costing me something important?Build emotional resilience at home. Engage your kids in meaningful conversations, especially when they ask “why.” It's not disrespect—it's curiosity. Task: This week, commit to explaining one rule or expectation to your child instead of defaulting to “because I said so.”Audit your health habits and environment. Adele's journey into detoxing and healing began with simple, persistent changes. Assignment: Start each morning for two days with 24 oz. of fresh celery juice to reset digestion and reduce brain fog.Stay rooted in your values, even when it's uncomfortable. Adele reminds us that grace and grit are not opposites. Ask: Where am I compromising what I believe in to please others?Use tech—but don't let it raise your kids. Be intentional with screen time and tech exposure. Task: Review your family's tech habits and set one boundary this week that prioritizes connection or creativity over consumption.Conclusion:This episode is a reminder that courage doesn't always look like a protest or a platform—sometimes, it looks like a mom refusing to stay silent, choosing to raise her kids with clarity, conviction, and truth. Adele Basarich shares a powerful message: you don't need permission to stand up for what you believe in. Whether it's in your home, your health, or your community, your voice matters.Take what resonated from this conversation and apply it—have the hard conversations, question the status quo, and stay grounded in your values. Because as Adele says, evil doesn't stop—so we can't either.

Are you addicted to insight but allergic to action? Still waiting for your life to change after the next podcast, book, or breakthrough?In this hard-hitting episode, we welcome Gary John Bishop—bestselling author and straight-talking personal development expert. With brutal honesty and deep wisdom, Gary breaks down why real transformation only happens through action, not feelings. He challenges us to stop betraying our own word, get complete with our past, and start living with integrity and purpose.If you're tired of playing small and ready to create a real shift, this one's for you. Are you ready to come back with a miracle?Quotes:• “Action is the source of all significant change in your life. That's where the rubber meets the road." - Gary John Bishop• "Integrity is simply the wholeness and completeness of the word. It's not do what I said like every time I'm perfect, it's treating what I said with honor." - Gary John Bishop• "Wisdom is locked in these aha moments, but there's so many people that convince themselves to keep those insights from turning into real change." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:· Stop chasing insights—take bold action. Real transformation isn't about feeling better; it's about doing something different. Ask yourself: What miracle action can I take this week that I normally wouldn't?· Honor your word to yourself. You may keep promises to others, but do you follow through on what you tell yourself? Start small: Pick one personal commitment today—and keep it no matter what.· Write your childhood story—and let it go. Sit down and write out your full childhood experience. Read it aloud repeatedly until it loses its emotional grip. Ask: What conclusions about myself am I still carrying from that time?· Redefine integrity. It's not just doing what you said; it's respecting your relationship to what you said. Begin noticing: When do I say things I don't truly intend to follow through on—and why?· Live from commitment, not comfort. Choose a goal or identity you're committed to (father, leader, creator), and let that commitment guide your actions—especially when it's hard.Conclusion:This episode was a punch in the gut—in the best way possible. Gary John Bishop doesn't sugarcoat anything, and that's exactly why it hits so hard. If you're someone who's been stuck in “self-help mode,” constantly learning but not really changing, this conversation is your invitation to finally do the work.Whether it's making peace with your past, keeping your word to yourself, or just taking one uncomfortable step forward—you've got something to act on now. No fluff, no hacks. Just real change, if you're willing to go get it.So ask yourself: what's your next move?

Are you tired of chasing solutions that never work? Feeling stuck—physically, emotionally, or spiritually—even though you're doing “everything right”? What if the real issue isn't you, but how we've been taught to approach healing and personal growth?In this episode, we're joined by the legendary Paul Chek—a world-renowned expert in corrective and high-performance exercise kinesiology, stress management, holistic wellness, and integrative lifestyle coaching. For over 40 years, Paul has helped thousands of clients, students, and elite athletes transform their lives by treating the body as an integrated system and uncovering the root causes of pain and dysfunction—where traditional methods often fail.Paul is the founder of the CHEK Institute, creator of Spirit Gym, and host of the Spirit Gym with Paul Chek podcast. He's authored numerous books, developed professional courses, and worked with everyone from world-class athletes to individuals facing chronic, “unsolvable” conditions.If you're ready to move beyond symptom management and discover what true healing really takes, this conversation is your next step.Quotes:• "If you love to sing, sing some truth. If you love to dance, dance some truth. If you love to paint, paint some truth. If you love to write, write some truth." - Paul Chek• "No man can understand Scripture until he's enlightened, and when he's enlightened, he does not need scripture." - Paul Chek• "A labor of love is sustainable. Anything else is just labor and it's not sustainable." - Paul ChekKey Takeaways:• Use Your Heart to Feel What You Know: Paul teaches that true wisdom doesn't come from logic alone. Practice checking in with your heart before making important decisions. Ask: Does this feel life-giving or life-draining?• Explore the Four Types of Clients (or Mindsets): Reflect on which category you might fall into—are you open and healing, stuck in ego, identified with your problem, or simply not ready to change? What needs to shift?• Challenge Rigid Ideologies—Lovingly: Paul explains that healing and growth often require moving beyond inherited beliefs. Choose one belief (religious, cultural, or personal) and ask: Is this helping me love more fully—or keeping me small?Conclusion:This conversation with Paul Chek is more than just a podcast episode—it's a wake-up call to reconnect with what truly matters. Paul reminds us that real healing, growth, and leadership don't come from following rigid systems, but from tuning into our own inner wisdom, asking better questions, and being courageous enough to live the answers.Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, seeking spiritual clarity, raising conscious children, or simply tired of conventional approaches that keep falling short—Paul offers a powerful alternative: a life rooted in truth, awareness, and self-responsibility.Special Offer for ListenersUnlock deeper healing and transformation with Paul Chek's Spirit Gym:

Why do we sabotage relationships that matter most? Why does success feel empty when our inner world is in chaos?This week on the podcast, we're joined by Dr. Nima Rahmany, a chiropractor turned trauma-informed coach who teaches people how to become “trigger-proof.” After a personal breakdown and painful divorce, Dr. Nima discovered the real healing work begins inside—and it changes everything.If you've ever felt stuck in old patterns, unsure why you overreact, or struggled to connect deeply with your kids, partner, or yourself… this conversation is for you. Tune in now and learn the ONE skill that will change how you lead, love, and live.Quotes:"Anything that I keep avoiding, I get to keep repeating." - Dr. Nima Rahmany"If a person does not make it their business to learn the skill of self-regulation, they're going to use reactive behavior to try to regulate." - Dr. Nima Rahmany"When you're aiming for something, even if it's not the finished product, the fact that you're aiming towards something, you are far ahead of others." - Dr. Nima RahmanyKey Takeaways:Start doing “Shadow Work” – Identify a recent moment when you were triggered. Ask yourself: “What am I making this mean about me?” Follow the thread back to a childhood belief (e.g., “I'm not enough”) and bring compassion to that younger version of you.Rewire your reactions by parenting your inner child – When you're emotionally reactive, it's often your 4-, 5-, or 6-year-old self responding. Pause. Breathe. Then ask, “What does this part of me need right now?” Practice self-soothing before responding.Reframe love as “making the effort to understand” – Whether with yourself or others, love isn't just about comfort—it's about understanding what's really going on underneath the surface.Break generational patterns – The best gift you can give your children isn't perfection—it's a parent who's doing the work. Ask yourself: “Am I treating myself the way I want my child to treat themselves?”Watch your default stress response – Do you fight, flee, freeze, or fawn when stressed? Identify your pattern and reflect: “Where did I learn this? Is it still serving me?”Conclusion:This episode with Dr. Nima Rahmany reminds us that true leadership and emotional strength don't come from suppressing our pain—they come from understanding it. The real work starts inside: learning to regulate ourselves, facing the younger parts of us we've locked away, and choosing to respond instead of react.Whether you're a parent, a partner, or simply someone trying to break cycles and live with more intention, the journey to becoming "trigger-proof" is one of the most powerful gifts you can give yourself—and those you love. As Dr. Nima said, “The greatest gift I can give my son is a father who loves himself.” That starts with you.Discover your attachment style and learn how it impacts your relationships, your leadership, and your ability to connect—with yourself and others. Dr. Nima created a free, eye-opening assessment to help you begin your healing journey.Take the quiz now: https://drnima.com/lp/attachment-style-assessment/

What if everything you were taught about health, science, and medicine was wrong?Dr. Andrew Kaufman—a former psychiatrist and medical researcher—walked away from a successful career to speak the truth about modern medicine, even when it cost him his income, reputation, and relationships. In this eye-opening conversation, he reveals the false foundations of the medical industry, the dangers of compliance, and how we can raise critical thinkers and future leaders in a world that rewards conformity.If you've ever felt like something doesn't add up—you're not alone. Dr. Kaufman explains why asking hard questions is the first step toward real freedom, health, and leadership.Quotes:"I'm primarily motivated by justice. It's one of the most important influences for my professional life." - Dr. Andrew Kaufman"Our destiny as humans on this planet is that we're all supposed to have abundance." - Dr. Andrew Kaufman"We're giving opportunities, or we're helping families home educate work, we're helping families raise their kids in a way that is exactly in line with what we're talking about here, to be able to think for yourself." - Matt Beaudreau Key Takeaways:· Audit Your Health Beliefs: Ask yourself, "What do I believe about health, medicine, and disease—and why?" Take time to research the origins of those beliefs. Start with one area (like germ theory or pharmaceutical use) and look for primary sources.· Start Learning Like an Autodidact: Choose one topic you've always been curious about and study it independently for 30 days. Use books, scientific papers, and interviews—not just search engines. Reflect: Can I teach this to someone else?· Reassess Your Children's Education: If you're a parent, evaluate whether your child's education supports critical thinking and self-learning. Consider incorporating the Trivium (Grammar, Logic, Rhetoric) into your homeschool or afterschool approach.· Clean Up One Area of Your Lifestyle: Pick one health domain—like food, water, air, or personal care—and take one action to remove toxins or processed chemicals. Example: swap conventional cleaning products for natural alternatives.· Join or Build a Parallel Community: Look for local groups, meetups, or online communities that share values of sovereignty, truth-seeking, and natural living. Don't isolate—build alliances that challenge mainstream narratives.Conclusion: Dr. Andrew Kaufman's journey reminds us that true leadership means standing for truth—even when it costs you everything. In a world filled with noise, compliance, and fear, he chose clarity, courage, and integrity. His message is a call to action: to question what we've been taught, to seek knowledge for ourselves, and to raise a new generation of thinkers who value truth over comfort.Whether you're a parent, a student, a professional, or simply someone who feels like the system isn't working—this conversation challenges you to dig deeper, live more consciously, and lead by example.Because freedom begins where blind obedience ends.

Tired of chasing money but never finding freedom? Sayam Ibrahim had it all on paper—a Wall Street job, a Georgetown degree—but walked away when success started costing him time with family.In this episode, Sayam shares how he rebuilt his life through real estate, turning one $45K flip into 1,400+ deals and a 600-door portfolio. He breaks down how he did it, why relationships matter more than spreadsheets, and how young people (yes, even teens) can start building wealth now.From immigrant roots to real estate mogul, Sayam's story is packed with lessons on grit, freedom, and doing business with heart. If you're stuck in the grind and want a better way—this is it.Quotes:"Real estate is all about solving people's problems. You solve their problems, they win, and you win.""Don't fall in love with a deal. Fall in love with the numbers.""If you're relying on a paycheck, your life is not that secure. If you're relying on someone else to give you a paycheck, your life's not secure."Key Takeaways:Money ≠ Freedom: Sayam left a six-figure job because he had no time to live.Start with what you have: His first deal came from borrowed money and a $45K fixer-upper.Mentorship matters: Learning from others saved him from costly mistakes.Lead with empathy: Ethical investing means helping tenants, not just chasing profit.Clear roles = smooth business: Working with family can work—if everyone stays in their lane.Freedom is the goal: Sayam now builds systems and invests in places he loves, so life and business align.Conclusion:Sayam Ibrahim's journey is a powerful reminder that success isn't just about income—it's about impact, freedom, and living life on your terms. Whether you're just starting out or looking to pivot, his story proves that with the right mindset and mentorship, you can build wealth without sacrificing what matters most.Real estate was Sayam's vehicle—but the real message? Own your time, lead with values, and never forget who you're doing it for.

What do you do when the life you built—the love, the plans, the future—gets ripped away without warning? When the person you were supposed to grow old with is taken, and you're left not only grieving but parenting through the pain? In this episode, Danny Lesslie opens up about walking through the darkest season of his life: losing his wife Raffe after a five-year battle with cancer. He doesn't hold back. Danny shares the raw truth about grief, fatherhood, and how the storm inside him became fuel for healing. If you've ever wrestled with loss, purpose, or the weight of simply showing up—this conversation will meet you right where you are.But Danny isn't here to tell a “poor me” story—he's here to serve. Named an Apogee honor man, Danny is a man of deep courage, faith, and conviction. He's turned pain into purpose, writing a book with God's presence through it all. What makes him uniquely powerful is his willingness to be seen—messy, broken, real—and still lead others forward. This isn't just a story of heartbreak. It's a story of hope, of what's possible when we choose to feel everything and use it to love deeper, lead better, and live fuller.Quotes:"All this that we're going to talk about today... I didn't come on here to give you a poor me thing. I came on here to serve you and speak light into this darkness." - Danny Lesslie"People are worth your effort. People are worth everything - your job, your trophies, your money, your house... all the things that we strive for are so hollow and they just go away." - Danny Lesslie"If you're not moving from purpose, you can't weather the storms that show up." - Danny LesslieTakeaways:Grief doesn't follow rules—so stop trying to manage it. Danny shows that healing begins not with control, but with surrender. Whether through writing, walking with a weighted vest, or just allowing himself to cry, he finds strength by facing the pain instead of avoiding it.Your pain can serve others—if you let it. Rather than hiding his story, Danny uses it to bring light into other people's darkness. His vulnerability becomes a gift, proving that being real is more powerful than being strong.Presence is everything. From being with his wife through her final days to parenting his kids alone, Danny reminds us that showing up—fully and honestly—is more impactful than having all the answers.Life will burn down—build anyway. Whether it's love, faith, or legacy, Danny challenges us to invest in what matters now, because everything we have is temporary. He turns loss into a call to live with fierce intention.Conclusion:This episode is a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable loss, we have a choice—to go numb, or to feel deeply and move forward with purpose. Danny Lesslie's story is not just about grief; it's about resilience, love, and living with intention. His honesty, strength, and unwavering commitment to honoring his wife's legacy show us what it truly means to lead from the heart. If you're walking through darkness, let this conversation be a light. And if you're not, let it be your wake-up call to love harder, show up fully, and stop wasting time on things that don't matter.

Are you stuck in the cycle of overeating, fad diets, and confusing nutrition advice? Why does losing fat feel harder than ever—even when you're trying to eat “healthy”? What if the secret to fixing your health wasn't another extreme diet, but something so simple it's almost laughable? Dr. Ted Naiman believes it is. A physician and author with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Naiman discovered that diet and exercise—not prescriptions—were the real keys to transforming his patients' health. His no-nonsense, data-backed approach strips away the noise and focuses on one clear concept: satiety per calorie.In this episode, Dr. Naiman explains why protein percentage and food volume are the hidden levers behind fat loss, and how our modern food environment hijacks our biology. He breaks down his “PE Diet” and shares how you can eat more, feel fuller, and lose fat—without overcomplicating it. Whether you're struggling with cravings, feeling stuck despite working out, or just want to cut through the BS, this conversation will challenge your assumptions and reset how you think about food—for good.Quotes:• "The whole system is designed to encourage you to eat enough to not die of starvation." - Dr. Ted Naiman • "Every human is wired to eat as many calories as they possibly can while expending as few calories as possible." - Dr. Ted Naiman • "Your ultimate purpose is to pass your genes forward—but you can't do that if you don't have enough energy to survive." - Dr. Ted Naiman Key Takeaways:• Protein is King for Satiety Humans (like all animals) are driven by a biological need to consume enough protein. If your food is low in protein, you'll unconsciously overeat to meet that need—often taking in excess calories in the process.• Satiety per Calorie Is the Missing Link Dr. Naiman introduces the idea that the most effective way to lose fat is to eat foods that provide high satiety (fullness) per calorie—typically those high in protein, fiber, and water, and low in refined fats and carbs.• The Real Fix Is Shockingly Basic Eat more protein, choose whole foods with volume and fiber, and move your body consistently. Simple doesn't mean easy—but it does mean doable and sustainable. Conclusion:Dr. Ted Naiman cuts through the clutter of modern health advice with one powerful message: fat loss and metabolic health aren't about extreme diets, fancy supplements, or micromanaging your hormones—they're about returning to simple, foundational principles your body already understands. By focusing on high-satiety, high-protein foods and rejecting the ultra-processed combinations that hijack hunger, you can take back control of your appetite, your energy, and your long-term health. His common-sense, science-backed approach proves that lasting transformation doesn't have to be complicated—it just has to be aligned with how your body is wired to thrive.

What happens when your dream doesn't come true overnight—and instead, it takes decades of sweat, sacrifice, and countless setbacks? Do you keep pushing when you're playing to empty rooms, living off couches, and watching peers give up one by one? In a world that glorifies instant success, Christian McAlhaney's story is a powerful reminder that real growth takes time. If you've ever felt the pull between chasing your passion and being responsible for your family, or questioned whether the grind is worth it, this episode will hit home. What if the secret to making it isn't talent—but staying in the game longer than anyone else?Christian is a guitarist for Anberlin, co-founder of Loose Talk, and a longtime member of Acceptance—three massively influential bands with loyal followings. But beyond the music, Christian is a grounded husband, father, and creative entrepreneur who's walked the long road with integrity and grit. He opens up about building a life in music before the internet, navigating fatherhood on tour, and the faith and values that anchor him through it all. Christian's passion for creating without compromise—and his deep commitment to being a good man first and foremost—make him uniquely equipped to guide any artist or leader wrestling with purpose, perseverance, and priorities.Quotes:• "It's about really honing that skill and learning the ropes of the business and growing and trying new things and failing, and pushing through adversity." - Christian McAlhaney• "In the beginning, it's a lot more failing than succeeding, but it's still seeing where you want to go and truly believing in yourself." - Christian McAlhaney• "We've always carried ourselves more about our actions than words anyway." - Christian McAlhaneyTakeaways:• Longevity beats hype. Christian's career proves that success isn't always about a viral moment—it's about showing up, staying committed, and evolving with intention over decades.• Family and passion can coexist—with boundaries. Touring life isn't easy with a family, but Christian and his wife make it work through clear communication, mutual respect, and realistic expectations.• Don't hand over your business blindly. Early in his career, Christian let others handle the business side. Now, he emphasizes the importance of artists being deeply involved in their own operations—from budgeting to marketing—to protect their vision and profits.• Faith doesn't need a label. Rather than boxing his music into a category, Christian lets his values speak through how he lives, treats people, and creates. His message: be a good human first, and let the rest follow naturally.Conclusion:Christian McAlhaney's journey is a testament to grit, growth, and grace. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a dedicated parent, or someone simply trying to stay true to your values while chasing a dream, his story reminds us that success isn't about shortcuts—it's about showing up with integrity, again and again. Through every season of life, Christian has chosen to lead with character, prioritize family, and keep creating on his own terms. This episode is a powerful encouragement to slow down, stay the course, and build a life that lasts.

What happens when a 24-year-old suddenly becomes the guardian of five siblings—while battling poverty, navigating systemic barriers, and confronting the complexities of the foster care system? Dr. Danisha Keating's journey is one of remarkable resilience and purpose. A former foster youth who stepped into a life-changing responsibility, she defied the odds by continuing her education, breaking cycles of trauma, and emerging as a powerful voice for healing and transformation.Now holding a PhD, Dr. Keating uses her lived experience to advocate for foster youth, struggling families, and anyone seeking to rise above their circumstances. From homelessness to higher education, she's turned her pain into purpose—empowering others through her books, speaking, and mentoring. Her story is more than survival; it's a roadmap to redemption, showing that with faith, support, and unwavering resolve, your past doesn't have to dictate your future.Quotes:• "Your story doesn't define who you are. It impacts you, but it doesn't have to be the thing that makes you stop moving forward." - Dr. Danisha Keating• "I wanted to be the foundation my siblings could stand on. My job is to go so far that my foundation for where my kids stand is at a higher level if they choose to go." - Dr. Danisha Keating• "The only thing I can teach my kid is to be a good human and to love Jesus. Everything else is secondary." - Dr. Danisha KeatingKey Takeaways:• Breaking generational cycles is possible through intentional healing and personal development• Small acts of kindness can significantly impact families facing hardship• Support systems are crucial for individuals navigating difficult life circumstancesConclusion:In a world that often defines us by our struggles, Dr. Danisha Keating is living proof that resilience and purpose can rise from even the most difficult beginnings. From foster care to becoming a guardian, scholar, and advocate, her journey shows that our past does not define our future.Dr. Keating's story is a beacon of hope—a reminder that healing is possible through community, faith, and determination. Her message challenges us to choose growth, compassion, and joy despite life's hardships, and to lead with empathy, not perfection. Her final word is powerful: You are not defined by what happened to you, but by how you choose to move forward.

Are you tired of feeling stuck, unmotivated, and disconnected from your potential? In a culture that undermines masculine identity, purpose, and sovereignty — how do young men reclaim their strength and step into real leadership? Meet Nicky Billou — the "Freedom Man." An entrepreneur, speaker, and champion of male empowerment, Nicky brings fire and clarity to a world in need of both. Born in Iran and raised by courageous Christian parents who fled tyranny, his life is a testament to resilience, freedom, and legacy. With deep experience in business, media, and mentorship, Nicky doesn't just talk success — he lives it. His approach is shaped by the powerful example of his father, a man who led with generosity, integrity, and bold conviction. If you're ready to rise above mediocrity and live with purpose, this episode is your wake-up call.Quotes:• "Your purpose isn't something out there outside of you that you go discover and go, 'Oh, that's my purpose.' Your purpose is something you choose from deep within." - Nicky Billou• "If you want to be the best man you can be, the man you've always wanted to be, you've got to discover your purpose." - Nicky Billou• "If you can align your identity with the things that need to be done as a man, as a young man, this is just who you are, and there is no room for compromise." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:• Freedom Is a Core Human Drive Nicky believes that every person—especially men—deeply craves freedom: the ability to chart their own course, speak truth, and live with purpose. His mission is to help others reclaim it.• Masculinity Must Be Modeled and ChallengedYoung men need masculine-only spaces, challenge, and accountability. Without those, they drift. Nicky emphasizes that growth comes through discomfort, purpose, and strong male mentorship.• Legacy Begins at HomeNicky's greatest influence was his father—a principled businessman who led with generosity, helped others selflessly, and taught that sales, business, and leadership are acts of love and service.Conclusion:In a time when truth is blurred, masculinity is questioned, and purpose feels out of reach for many young men, Nicky Billou offers a clear and empowering message: freedom, leadership, and success start with personal responsibility, strong values, and a commitment to becoming who you were meant to be. This episode is more than a conversation—it's a call to action for men to rise, lead with conviction, and live with intentionality in every area of life.

In a world where many doubt true transformation is possible, Ron Adkins' story proves otherwise in the most dramatic way. Once known as one of the most violent inmates in the prison system—serving nearly 600 years in sentences and spending 13 years in solitary confinement—Ron's life took a radical turn. Through a powerful spiritual awakening and a redefinition of his identity, he transformed from a feared gang member into a beacon of redemption and hope.This episode isn't just inspirational—it's a deep dive into the power of human potential. Ron shares how he broke free not just from physical restraints, but from the mental and emotional chains of his past. His story reveals the true nature of courage, the importance of identity in personal change, and how even the darkest chapters can become the foundation for a life of purpose and service.Key Quotes:• "Bravery is not being unafraid. It's doing it even though you're afraid, doing it while you're afraid." - Ron Adkins• "Everything God does is redemptive. He's the Redeemer." - Ron Adkins• "Writing is thinking. When you're writing, you're putting your thoughts down to paper, you're really digging down and really organizing your thoughts." - Ron Adkins• "It's continuously asking ourselves that as our knowledge grows."- Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:• Examine your personal identity - who are you telling yourself you are, and is that story limiting your potential?• Practice courage by doing things that scare you, understanding that bravery isn't the absence of fear, but action despite fear• Seek out mentors and spiritual guidance who can help you see your inherent value• Regularly reflect on your life story, looking for moments of divine intervention or unexpected grace• Start writing - use writing as a tool for thinking, processing, and understanding your personal journeyConclusion:Ron Adkins' story is living proof that transformation is always possible. Once facing 599 years in prison, he's now a voice of hope and redemption, showing that identity is a choice, not a life sentence. His journey reminds us that courage means acting despite fear, and that with faith, any path can be redirected. Ron's message isn't just about his past—it's a call to believe in your own power to change. Learn more at RadicalRestorationMinistries.com.

In this dynamic and insightful conversation, Matt Beaudreau sits down with Kaylor Betts, a transformative speaker and personal development expert who shares his profound journey from a victim mentality to becoming a responsible, purpose-driven leader. The episode delves deep into masculine leadership, personal growth, emotional resilience, and the critical importance of taking action over merely reflecting on life's challenges.Kaylor Betts is a no-BS life and business coach, truth-teller, and host of the top 1% podcast Awake & Winning. He's built a movement by challenging the status quo and helping people break free from the systems, beliefs, and habits that keep them stuck. Once trapped by illness, burnout, and financial struggle, Kaylor rebuilt his life from the ground up. Now, he's on a mission to help others reclaim their power, take radical responsibility, and create freedom in body, mind, and business. His journey is marked by a pivotal decision to stop playing the victim and start taking radical responsibility for his life. In this episode, listeners will be treated to Kaylor's unfiltered insights on overcoming obstacles, the importance of masculine leadership, and the transformative power of choosing action over complacency. Key Quotes:• "The purpose of life is to find your gift. The meaning of life is to give it away." - Kaylor Betts • "Life's way too important to take so seriously." - Kaylor Betts • "Just because your feelings are valid, it doesn't mean they should dictate your behavior." - Kaylor Betts • "Eventually, what you have to understand is when you put the quote, unquote, mask on for so long... at some point you come to realize it's no longer a mask." - Matt Beaudreau Key Takeaways:• Men heal through action, not just reflection• Embrace imperfection and prioritize speed over perfection• Develop resilience by facing fears and taking responsibility• Authenticity is about consciously choosing who you want to be• Masculine leadership involves providing safety, protection, and directionConclusion:Kaylor Betts wraps up the episode with a powerful message about personal responsibility and societal transformation. He emphasizes the critical need for men to break free from mediocrity, take ownership of their lives, and make a meaningful impact. The conversation concludes with a call to action: share inspiring content, support each other's growth, and commit to continuous personal development. Kaylor's core message resonates: heal your own wounds and help others do the same. Matt Beaudreau and Kaylor celebrate the courage it takes to be vulnerable, learn, and evolve. Their discussion serves as a roadmap for men seeking authentic leadership, personal growth, and purpose. Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekaylorbetts/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thekaylorbetts The LIFE AW-cademy: https://theawlife.com/ The BIZ AW-cademy: https://theawbiz.com/ The POD-cademy: https://awakeandwinning.lpages.co/yourwinningpodcast/ Website: https://www.awakeandwinning.com Apple Podcasts: The Awake & Winning Podcast on Apple Podcasts Spotify: The Awake & Winning Podcast | Podcast on Spotify

Are you struggling to find purpose after life's most devastating challenges? What if losing everything could be the catalyst for your greatest transformation? In a world that often breaks us, how do we not just survive, but emerge stronger, more resilient, and more authentically ourselves?Meet Daryl Calfee - a remarkable storyteller, artist, and resilience architect who has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful narrative of hope, growth, and reinvention. From a farm in West Virginia to becoming a creative professional and now a home developer, Daryl embodies the art of turning life's most challenging moments into opportunities for profound personal evolution.Quotes:"When you wake up, you were the only one that was concerned about your happiness." - Daryl Calfee"If you're curious, you'll find that your empathy grows. You'll find that your connection grows." - Daryl Calfee"The hardest time to do the right thing is when everything in the world is telling you not to." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:Embrace Your Unique Interests: Even if your passion seems unconventional, lean into what makes you different - it might become your greatest strength.Practice Radical Gratitude: Transform challenges by focusing on what you're thankful for, not what you've lost.Give Yourself Permission to Evolve: You are not defined by your past or current circumstances. Allow yourself to become the next version of yourself.Build Resilience Through Curiosity: Approach life's challenges with an open, curious mindset that seeks to understand and grow.Conclusion:In the face of life's most devastating challenges, Daryl Calfee demonstrates that our greatest strength lies not in avoiding pain, but in our capacity to transform it into a powerful narrative of hope, resilience, and personal reinvention. His journey reveals that every setback is an opportunity to redesign ourselves, to lean into our unique passions, and to emerge not just surviving, but authentically thriving. Through storytelling, art, and unwavering gratitude, Daryl shows us that the most profound leadership begins with the courage to embrace our own vulnerability and continuously evolve.

Are you tired of feeling stuck, afraid to take risks, or letting fear hold you back from your true potential? What if you could transform your failures into stepping stones of success? In a world where social media masks reality and young women struggle with confidence, how do you find the courage to be authentically you?Meet Cary Williams - a powerhouse entrepreneur, Olympic-level boxing coach, and founder of Tussle Gear, who has rebuilt her life multiple times and turned challenges into opportunities. With 27 years in the boxing world and a journey marked by resilience, Cary is uniquely qualified to guide young women through life's toughest battles - both inside and outside the ring.Quotes:"We're not successful in every single thing that we do, and when we are successful, it's because we have probably failed before doing that." - Cary Williams"Confidence comes from what are your alkalines? What have you accomplished? It wasn't because of how I looked. It was because of what I did and what I accomplished." - Cary Williams"Whatever you perceive to be is going to be reality, and it's going to be the reality for everybody else who is looking at you and engaging with you." - Cary WilliamsKey Takeaways:Embrace failure as a learning opportunity, not a final destinationBuild confidence through consistent action and self-careDevelop mental resilience by focusing on what you can controlCreate your own path, regardless of external expectationsConclusion:Cary Williams delivers a powerful message of resilience and personal transformation that cuts through the noise of self-doubt and societal expectations. Her journey from boxer to entrepreneur illustrates that success is not about perfection, but about the courage to keep moving forward after each setback. Through her experiences, Cary proves that it's never too late to rebuild, reinvent, and rise stronger than before.

What does it take to risk everything—your business, reputation, and safety—for what you believe in? In a world where silence often feels safer than standing out, how far would you go to protect your principles? Would you risk your career, your comfort, or even your children's future to speak truth in a time of confusion? If you've ever felt the inner war between playing it safe and doing what's right, this episode will shake you awake.Today's guest is Lindsey Graham—no, not the senator. We're talking about the bold, unstoppable Patriot Barbie. Lindsey is a fearless entrepreneur, speaker, mother, and unapologetic advocate for faith, family, and freedom. She refused to be canceled when cancel culture came knocking. After losing her salon business and nearly everything in Oregon for defying lockdown orders in 2020, she didn't back down—she rebuilt from the ashes with a renewed fire and bigger mission. With her fashion brand Pretty Little Patriot, her nationwide Melaleuca network of over 300 women, and a platform rooted in biblical values and conviction, Lindsey isn't just talking the talk—she's living it out loud. Her story is raw, resilient, and rooted in truth. This episode is not about playing politics—it's about playing for legacy.Quotes:• "I don't want to get canceled again. But more than that—I want everything I build to glorify God and reflect my convictions.” - Lindsey Graham• “Courage isn't about not having fear. It's about doing the right thing while you're shaking.” - Lindsey Graham• “If you call me a racist and I know I'm not one, why should I care? You don't get to define me—God does.” - Lindsey Graham• “I didn't open my business because I wanted to be a hero. I opened it because I had three kids to feed—and that made me brave.” - Lindsey Graham• “I would rather my kids be ‘uneducated' and get to heaven than be indoctrinated and lost in this world.” - Lindsey Graham• “Doing the right thing is always the right thing, including when it's really, really scary to do it, because that's the hardest time to actually do the right thing." - Matt BeaudreauKey Takeaways:• Use your voice—even if it's shaking. Don't wait for a crisis to stand up. Speak up now for your values, especially when it's uncomfortable.• Faith gets real in the fire. Lindsey's relationship with God deepened after losing everything. When comfort disappears, conviction gets tested.• Family leadership starts with example. Your kids are watching how you respond to adversity. Model bravery, humility, and unapologetic truth.• Conviction > Convenience. Make decisions that align with your faith and principles, even when it costs you popularity, money, or approval.Conclusion:Lindsey Graham reminds us that being bold isn't about having no fear—it's about trusting that standing for truth is always worth the risk. Her journey from salon owner in Oregon to Patriot Barbie powerhouse in Texas is a blueprint for courageous living in a time of cultural confusion. If you've been waiting for permission to be loud about what matters—this is it.

When boys grow up without strong examples of what it means to be a man, they're often left guessing their way through life. They chase validation in all the wrong places—status, substances, shallow wins—while quietly feeling like something is missing. Without guidance or real milestones to mark their growth, they drift, unsure of when or how they become “men.” It's not just a personal loss, it ripples through families, relationships, and communities, creating cycles that are hard to break.Dan Smith, once a police officer and FBI agent, now runs Voyage Rites—a program helping fathers guide their sons through meaningful rites of passage. Homeschooled with his twin brother, Dan knows firsthand the struggles of building confidence without structure. His mission is simple: give young men clear, intentional milestones as they grow. He speaks about balancing intense careers with family life and why these father-son connections matter more than ever. His focus now is on creating moments that shape character, not just outcomes. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “I was working to live, not living to work. Experiencing that was eye-opening for me, as it made me realize what truly mattered in my life—my family.” – Dan Smith“There are people in your neighborhood, community, and church who may be living through the worst day of their life—and this happens every single day.” – Dan Smith“The masculine journey is a continuous process of growth—it's something that never truly ends.” – Dan Smith“Great thoughts speak only to the thoughtful mind. Great actions speak to all mankind.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Schedule a dedicated time to write a heartfelt, handwritten letter to your son about what you see in him and your hopes for his future.Seek out a ride-along or shadowing opportunity in a field you're interested in to gain real-world insight beyond classroom learning.Identify one area where you're not being fully present with your family and create a specific plan to change that behavior.Plan a meaningful rite of passage experience with your son that challenges him and marks his transition into manhood.Reach out to a mentor or community leader who can provide guidance in an area where you want to grow personally or professionally.Conclusion:It's critical to have clear rites of passage for young men, especially since modern society has lost many of the traditional ways of guiding boys into adulthood. Intentional mentorship, strong father-son relationships, and structured experiences play a significant role in shaping young men's growth. There is a pressing need to restore meaningful cultural practices that can help young men navigate key life stages. By doing so, we can raise more purposeful, responsible, and emotionally intelligent individuals who contribute positively to society.

Cary Williams' journey is a true testament to resilience and the power of perseverance. She's not just an entrepreneur and the founder of Tussle Gear—she's someone who has weathered the highs and lows of life and learned the most valuable lessons during the most challenging times. For Cary, success isn't just about hitting milestones—it's about how you rise when things go wrong, how you keep moving forward no matter the hurdles in your path.A pivotal moment from Cary's childhood shaped who she is today. At just eight years old, she wanted to walk to the store alone but was terrified of a group of girls in her neighborhood who often picked on her. Instead of stepping in to protect her, her dad handed her a stick and told her, “You've got this. Take control.” Though it seemed simple at the time, this small but powerful gesture taught Cary that facing her fears was a decision she had to make herself. It was the beginning of her journey toward independence and strength, a foundation that would carry her through life's challenges.Quotes:● "The only way through fear is to face it head-on." – Cary Williams● "It's not about waiting for things to get easier, it's about deciding you're going to keep going, no matter what." – Cary Williams● "I've learned that failure isn't the end—it's just the beginning of something new." – Cary WilliamsTakeaways:● Fear doesn't go away on its own. The only way through it is to face it and keep moving forward.● Life's challenges don't define you. It's your response to them that shapes who you become.● There's power in failure—it's where you learn the most and find your true strength.Conclusion: Cary's story teaches us that success isn't about avoiding failure—it's about how we respond to it. By facing fears, overcoming setbacks, and continuing to push forward, we can take control of our lives and create something meaningful. Cary's journey shows that no matter what life throws at you, you have the strength to rise, rebuild, and make the life you want. With courage and determination, we can all rewrite our stories.

Some people carry the weight of their past like an anchor, while others use it as fuel. It's wild how a single comment, a single failure, can echo for years—shaping the way you see yourself, even if it was never true to begin with. But then there are those moments when everything snaps into focus, and instead of running from the pain, you turn and face it. That's when things start to shift. Sometimes the very thing you thought would break you is what ends up unlocking everything.Stephen Scoggins went from sleeping in a car to running a nine-figure business, but his real story is about identity—not income. He shares how breaking free from limiting beliefs and rewriting internal narratives changed everything. Instead of chasing success for validation, he started building from purpose and integrity. His message is clear: your past doesn't define your future—your choices do. Growth starts the moment you stop pretending and decide to own who you really are. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Your identity is simply an evolution of your choices. Consistently choosing the healthy version of yourself will consistently shape a healthy version of your identity.” – Stephen Scoggins“I believe every person on this planet has a unique calling—something only they can do or share in a way that is uniquely theirs.” – Stephen Scoggins“There is no such thing as failure. You either win or you learn, and if you learn, it's going to take you towards winning.” – Stephen ScogginsTakeaways:Write down the top 5 skills you're naturally good at, then research industries or careers that match those strengths.Start each morning with 30 minutes of gratitude, prayer, and self-reflection - create a personal mantra that reinforces your worth.Challenge the limiting beliefs spoken over you by identifying lies you've internalized and replacing them with empowering truths about your potential.Practice viewing "failures" as learning opportunities by objectively documenting lessons from setbacks and using them to improve future choices.Choose one personal development area each week to focus on deeply, seeking mentors or resources that can help you grow in that specific domain.Conclusion:Success often has less to do with outside conditions and more to do with how someone chooses to respond to them. Those who stay open to learning, ask for guidance, and keep building a clear sense of who they are, tend to move forward, even through setbacks. It's not about avoiding failure but growing through it. Over time, this mindset shapes both confidence and results. Real progress starts with deciding to keep going, no matter what.

Ever feel like your inner voice is your biggest critic? Like you're trapped in your own thoughts, repeating stories of self-doubt, fear, and uncertainty? You're not alone—and the good news is, there's a way out.In this energizing and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Kimberly Kesting, mindset coach and trainer with Enlifted, to uncover how the words we speak—and think—shape our reality. From breaking free of the victim mindset to using "language magic" to rewire your brain, Kimberly guides you through real, practical steps to shift your story and reclaim your confidence. Her warmth, relatability, and deep understanding of how young women think make her the perfect guide for anyone ready to rewrite the narrative in their head.This is more than a conversation—it's a language game, a mindset reset, and a heart-to-heart reminder that you already have the power to cast your own spell of confidence, clarity, and change.Quotes:● “The way we talk to ourselves directly shapes our mindset and emotional responses.” – Kimberly Kesting● “We are not victims of our circumstances; we are the creators of our stories.” – Kimberly Kesting● “Our words have the power to create magic or reinforce limits—choose them wisely.” – Kimberly KestingTakeaways:● Pay attention to how you talk to yourself. The words you use shape how you feel.● Shift your mindset. Instead of seeing yourself as a victim, think of yourself as someone who can make things better.● Focus on solutions. Change the way you speak so that it helps you find answers to problems.● Slow down when you feel stressed. Take a deep breath, think things through, and focus on what you can control.● Reframe your thoughts. Use words that reflect your strengths and what you can achieve.Conclusion: Kimberly's message is clear: the stories we tell ourselves matter. By changing the way we think and speak, we can face challenges with confidence and take control of our lives. Her approach isn't just about feeling good—it's about taking action and becoming the best version of ourselves. With the right mindset, we can all rewrite our stories and achieve the things we've always wanted.

Many young people face challenges they don't always understand, such as stress, self-doubt, or confusion about the future. These struggles can feel overwhelming, but they don't have to control you. The key is realizing that the way you talk to yourself can make a huge difference. It's not about pretending everything is okay, but taking charge of your thoughts and working through problems.Garrett Powell, a golf professional and entrepreneur, shares his story of learning to balance work, family, and personal growth. He talks about how his mindset shifted when he decided to focus on effort over outcome, the importance of surrounding himself with the right people, and his deep love for his family. As he prepares for fatherhood, Garrett reflects on what truly matters and how he wants to shape his life and leadership.Matt Beaudreau also adds insight, pointing out that “you'll never be criticized by someone doing more than you” and that criticism often comes from those who are doing less. This is a reminder to focus on what you're doing, not the negative opinions around you.Quotes: “The way we talk to ourselves directly shapes our mindset and emotional responses.” – Garrett Powell “Effort is more important than outcome. If you focus on that, the rest will follow.” – Garrett Powell “Time is the most precious resource, and you can't get it back once it's gone.” – Garrett Powell “You'll never be criticized by someone doing more than you. You'll be criticized by someone doing less.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Focus on effort, not just results. Celebrate trying hard, even if things don't go perfectly.Prioritize relationships over impressing others. People appreciate real connections more than perfection.Own your time. Decide how you spend it and with whom you spend it.Let go of the need for approval. Fulfillment comes from being true to yourself.Conclusion:Garrett's story reminds us that life isn't about chasing fame or external approval. By focusing on what matters—effort, relationships, and time—we can approach life's challenges with more confidence and peace.

So many women face health challenges they don't fully understand—symptoms they've come to accept as just part of life, assuming they're normal. But when these issues are ignored, they quietly take a toll. Breaking free from this cycle starts with realizing that feeling unwell doesn't have to be your norm, and that there's always more to learn about your body and health. It's not about looking for a quick fix; it's about taking control and being proactive about your wellness.Kelli Musa, a wellness coach specializing in autoimmune conditions and menopause, understands this firsthand. After surviving an autoimmune disease, Kelli became passionate about helping women understand their bodies, primarily through the lens of autoimmune disease and menopause. She shares her recovery journey, explaining how embracing science and functional medicine helped her transform her life. She highlights the importance of self-awareness and finding the proper support to navigate health challenges. Her story is one of empowerment, healing, and proactive care.Quotes:“It's not right to feel poorly, it's not right to not have energy, it's not right to not have libido.” – Kelli Musa“You can put lupus. You can put any of these diseases into remission.” – Kelli Musa“When you get to the root cause of something, and you rebuild the system, you can actually bounce back.” – Kelli MusaTakeaways:Listen to your body. If something feels off, investigate it—don't just assume it's normal.Seek the proper support. Avoid generic advice—find professionals who listen and help you understand your health.Take control of your health journey. Knowledge about conditions like autoimmune diseases and menopause empowers you to make informed decisions.Challenge the norm. While healthcare often focuses on quick fixes, true healing comes from addressing the root causes and being proactive.Prioritize self-awareness. Truly understanding how your body works is the first step toward lasting wellness.Conclusion: Kelli's journey is a powerful reminder that wellness goes beyond just managing symptoms. By taking the time to understand your body and your health, you can make lasting, meaningful changes. Approaches like peptides, functional medicine, and a holistic perspective on health can help rebuild and strengthen your body, but it all starts with being knowledgeable and proactive. When you're in tune with your body, you can take charge of your wellness better.

A lot of people carry beliefs they never chose—rules they absorbed from family, school, or culture without even realizing it. When those patterns go unchecked, they quietly shape how kids see the world and what they think is possible. Breaking that cycle means doing the hard work of noticing what's really being passed on. It's less about giving advice and more about becoming someone worth watching.Garrett Gross is a former pro fighter from Southern Illinois who turned his life around after battling addiction. Now a father and advocate, he works with Operation 17 to fight online child exploitation. Today, Garrett shares how martial arts, faith, and strong community ties helped him rebuild. He stresses the need for men to lead with purpose, protect their families, and stay grounded in positive values. His story is one of grit, redemption, and responsibility. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Bad company corrupts good morals. He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” – Garrett Gross“God grants us gifts, but it's up to us to decide how to use them—whether for good or for harm.” – Garrett Gross“Weak men are the downfall of everything. Weak leaders and weak men have been the downfall of our civilization.” – Garrett Gross“We live in a strange world, especially for young men, where there's a tendency to label everything—often in a negative light—while fostering a false bravado around things that don't truly matter.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Audit your inner circle - who are the people influencing your daily choices and character?Start teaching your children practical life skills now, not just sports or academic achievements.Commit to personal growth by identifying one destructive habit and creating a plan to replace it with a positive behavior.Practice open, honest self-reflection about your weaknesses without shame, viewing them as opportunities for transformation.Develop a weekly accountability system with a mentor or trusted friend who will challenge you to become a better version of yourself.Conclusion:Martial arts and combat sports offer more than just physical training—they teach focus, patience, and the value of steady effort. When practiced with intention, they become a way to build character and strengthen the mind. The lessons learned on the mat often carry into daily life, shaping how we handle stress, conflict, and setbacks. At their best, these practices help individuals grow not just as athletes, but as people.

Teenagers today are facing pressures that most adults can barely understand, and it's easy for communication to become a one-sided effort. As mental health struggles rise, parents often feel like they're talking past their kids, unable to break through the walls of silence or frustration. Social media, school, and emotional turmoil add layers of complexity that make meaningful conversations feel impossible. But the more parents understand the silent struggles, the more they can find ways to connect and offer real support.Kristin MacDermott is a marriage and family therapist specializing in resilience training. Her work, initially with cancer patients, evolved into creating a digital platform to support mental health for teens, military, and first responders. She developed the "Mindset Moments" program and parenting courses to improve communication between parents and teens. Today, Kristin discusses how simple, weekly conversation prompts can strengthen emotional intelligence and foster resilience. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Resilience is realizing that life is not always a straight path. You can have great plans, but then your life can end up somewhere that is often way cooler than you could have imagined.” – Kristin MacDermott“The single most protective factor against depression and anxiety in adolescents is spirituality. This doesn't necessarily refer to a specific religion or even religion at all—it can simply mean a sense of transcendence, such as connecting with nature.” – Kristin MacDermott“The kind of therapist I am focuses on teaching what I know so that my clients no longer need me. Typically, I don't have clients who come to me for extended periods of time.” – Kristin MacDermott“You make normal what you make normal. If it becomes routine early on to discuss these things, talk about them at the dinner table, and identify emotions, over time, it naturally becomes a regular topic of conversation. It becomes something they focus on, pay attention to, and recognize—you establish what is normal.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Practice curiosity with teens by asking open-ended questions about their emotions, experiences, and perspectives instead of giving unsolicited advice.Create a weekly family ritual of discussing one skill or mindset topic, using simple prompts that spark genuine conversation about resilience, values, or personal strengths.Identify and discuss your teen's personal strengths together, helping them recognize their unique capabilities without judgment or pressure.Commit to being vulnerable with your teen by admitting when you don't have all the answers, showing that learning and growth are ongoing processes.Develop a family communication approach that prioritizes listening over lecturing, focusing on understanding your teen's world and building trust.Conclusion:Building strong relationships with teenagers starts by creating safe spaces for open conversations and focusing on their unique strengths. By treating them as whole individuals with valid perspectives, families can support their mental wellness in a meaningful way. Rather than trying to fix problems, the focus should be on teaching skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. These tools will help teenagers face personal and social challenges with confidence and grow into self-aware, resilient individuals.Links: Use the code "APOGEE30" for a 30% discount on the Parent/Teen Relationship Reset! You can read more about the reset here

Many nonprofit leaders carry the weight of doing more with less, constantly stretching limited resources while trying to meet rising demands. That pressure can turn into a mindset where scarcity feels permanent, like a fact rather than a challenge. But sometimes the real shift happens not in the budget, but in how people see what's possible. When teams stop seeing constraints as stop signs, the work starts to move in new directions.Robin Berlinsky is a nonprofit leader and educator who focuses on fostering creative learning and collaboration. At the College of Charleston, she guides nonprofits and educators to embrace innovative approaches to growth. Today, she discusses overcoming scarcity mindsets in nonprofits and the power of building positive, abundant cultures. She emphasizes leadership, strategic funding, and the importance of board engagement. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Time and money hold the value we assign to them. Some people value time more than money. Some people value money more than time.” – Robin Berlinsky“When another nonprofit leader receives a significant donation, we celebrate it because that nonprofit, standing on the stage with the big check and being in the news, demonstrates what is possible.” – Robin Berlinsky“Life is all about change; nothing remains the same. As adults, we should approach these changes with positivity and make the most of them.” – Robin BerlinskyTakeaways:Audit your current mindset about resources - shift from scarcity thinking to believing there's enough opportunity for everyone.Practice the "bless and release" approach when encountering unproductive situations or relationships that don't align with your mission.Create a culture of gratitude by sending handwritten thank you notes and celebrating others' successes, even in small ways.Develop a conflict resolution strategy that focuses on understanding, not winning - prioritize organizational growth over individual ego.Challenge yourself to have direct, honest conversations with team members about performance and cultural fit, viewing these as opportunities for mutual growth.Conclusion:Success in the nonprofit sector comes from collaboration rather than competition. By celebrating each other's achievements and maintaining clear communication, organizations can strengthen their collective efforts. Staying focused on the core mission of making a positive impact ensures that actions are aligned with long-term goals. Working together, nonprofits can create more meaningful change and better serve the communities they aim to support.Follow Robin on Instagram to stay updated on funding opportunities: https://www.instagram.com/robin_berlinsky/

It's a common struggle—pouring hours into a business that feels more like a job than a vehicle for freedom. Even with great skills and experience, it can feel like you're constantly chasing instead of building something that works for you. The shift happens when you start thinking beyond the clock and start packaging what you know in a way that creates real value. That's often where both the freedom and the income start to scale.Russell Ruffino is the founder of Clients on Demand, a company that's helped thousands of coaches sell high-ticket programs. His focus is on turning expertise into clear, results-driven offers that scale. Today, he talks about breaking through mindset blocks, building outcome-focused coaching programs, and using AI without losing the human touch. He emphasizes the importance of psychology in marketing and staying grounded in personal values while growing a business. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “If you truly have something transformational, you have a moral obligation to promote it as strongly as you can because there are so many people out there who need it.” – Russell Ruffino“Being promotional only feels wrong if the product you're promoting is subpar or if you're exploiting people.” – Russell Ruffino“The only reason to make money is to create the space to be with the people you love and to share incredible experiences with them. Nothing else truly matters.” – Russell Ruffino“I differentiate between teachers and educators. I believe it's something ingrained in their DNA—a blend of passion and purpose.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Define a crystal-clear, measurable outcome for your coaching or business offer that solves a specific problem for your target audience.Identify the exact pain points your ideal client experiences and craft marketing that speaks directly to those challenges.Create a free lead magnet or mini-training that demonstrates the transformation potential of your core program.Challenge your internal money mindset by setting more ambitious revenue goals that push you beyond current comfort zones.Audit your current business model to ensure you're not just trading time for dollars, but building a scalable, high-ticket service that creates real impact.Conclusion:At the heart of strong coaching and business work is a clear grasp of how people think, what they struggle with, and what they truly need. It's not about fancy tactics, but about paying close attention and offering real solutions that improve someone's life. When you focus on solving the right problem, progress comes naturally. That's what builds trust, impact, and long-term success—keeping things human, focused, and useful.

There's a growing weight on young men who feel like they're stuck between who they are and who they're supposed to be. Fear, doubt, and the constant noise of comparison create this low hum of paralysis that's hard to shake. Some fold under it, others find a way to push through—and that difference often comes down to refusing to give up responsibility for their own life. It's not about having the answers right away, but being willing to take back the wheel.Jason Redman is a retired Navy SEAL, speaker, and author of Overcome and The Trident. Known for his "Sign on the Door" mindset, he teaches resilience, leadership, and growth through his military and life experiences. Today, he speaks about leading at home and in life. He shares stories from combat, lessons on marriage and parenting, and stresses the value of responsibility, grit, and constant self-improvement. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Every single human can relate to the bullets and bombs of life. You've been blown up by rejection and failure. You've been shot down by injury, illness or loss.” – Jason Redman“God provided the skills and talent, but it's up to you to unlock the greatest version of yourself—He wasn't the one lifting those weights; you were.” – Jason Redman“Your success and your ability to be great in this life is directly proportional to you. It doesn't guarantee you're going to accomplish every goal and dream you go after. But we need to teach kids once again that you have the power to be amazing.” – Jason Redman“You have the standards and values, you don't compromise on them, and then you build everything else and you keep building that over time.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Write your personal "sign on the door" - a clear statement of who you want to become, and place it where you'll see it daily.Choose one area (physical, personal, professional) and commit to being 10% better this month through specific, measurable actions.Have an honest conversation with your spouse or closest teammate about shared goals and dreams for the next 5 years.Pick one physical or skill-based activity that pushes you out of your comfort zone and requires consistent practice.Identify one victim mentality thought pattern you currently have and replace it with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.Conclusion:Real leadership starts with self-awareness—knowing what matters most, staying focused on clear goals, and not allowing outside pressures to shape who you are. When people choose to face challenges head-on instead of backing down, they grow stronger and more confident in every area of life. This mindset not only builds personal strength, but also supports deeper connections and a greater sense of purpose. It's less about control and more about showing up fully, even when things are hard.