The Hyper Guy Motivational Podcast

n this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Akila Kadambi, a leading researcher at the UCLA Brain Research Institute, USC Brain and Creativity Institute, and fellow at the UCLA-CDU Dana Center. She is an expert in Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience, exploring how positive and humanistic neuroscience reshapes our understanding of the mind. Dr. Kadambi's groundbreaking work focuses on the neuroscience of empathy, pro-social behavior, and how societal factors shape our brain's expression of compassion and connection. From the wiring of our neural circuits to the impact of culture and community, she offers a compelling look at how kindness isn't just a moral ideal—it's a measurable, trainable, and deeply biological part of being human. Whether you're curious about the science behind empathy or how we can build a more connected and compassionate world, this conversation is a must-listen. Her work is funded by the Dana Center, Google Research, Sanford Institute, and the NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative #USC #UCLA #Neuroscience

Join Grace Nowzari—communications expert, clinical psychology graduate, and improv enthusiast—as she brings her signature energy and insight to the mic. With a B.A. in Communication and Journalism, a minor in French, and a Master's in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Grace blends academic depth with real-world wisdom. Grace shares powerful life lessons, confidence-building tools, and transformative conversations—all rooted in the spontaneity and joy of improv. Whether you're a student, creative, or just navigating adulthood, you'll walk away with fresh perspectives on thriving in college, relationships, and beyond. Authentic, uplifting, and just the right amount of unscripted—this is your invitation to say yes, and to life. #USC #motivation

Kelly Dormandy, USC women's strength coach and USC women's basketball director of sports performance, reveals her powerful journey. Dormandy is a nationally recognized expert in strength and conditioning and has trained elite athletes at the University of Southern California, the University of Georgia, Loyola Marymount University, and the Los Angeles Sparks. She has a BA in marketing and a master's degree in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. #USC #USCWBB #USC Follow her @kd_coachd

Former Green Berets James Mahurin and Robert Farmer host the new podcast Black Sheep Radio USA: A Conversation with Warriors, which offers an unfiltered, powerful dive into the world of resilience, strength, and survival after war. With over 17 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, both hosts have faced the brutal realities of war, enduring significant physical injuries and battling the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress. This podcast isn't just about their stories—it's about brotherhood, healing, and purpose beyond the battlefield. Through raw conversations with fellow warriors, veterans, and experts, Mahurin and Farmer shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those who have served their country. They tackle mental health, trauma recovery, and the mission to support others—inside and outside the military.

Former Green Berets James Mahurin and Robert Farmer are hosts of the new podcast Black Sheep Radio USA: A Conversation with Warriors, which offers an unfiltered, powerful dive into the world of resilience, strength, and survival after war. With over 17 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, both hosts have faced the brutal realities of war, enduring significant physical injuries and battling the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress. This podcast isn't just about their stories—it's about brotherhood, healing, and purpose beyond the battlefield. Through raw conversations with fellow warriors, veterans, and experts, Mahurin and Farmer shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those who have served their country. They tackle mental health, trauma recovery, and the mission to support others—inside and outside the military.        

Join Juan Dimas, an acclaimed financial adviser, student engagement expert, and financial aid professional, as he explores the intersection of financial empowerment and education. With a B.A. and M.B.A. in Business Management and Administration, Juan combines his extensive expertise in student loans, financial planning, and higher education with a deep commitment to social impact. Currently a doctoral student at the University of Southern California, Juan is also a passionate advocate for the rights and preservation of indigenous communities. Whether you're a student, parent, or financial professional, Juan offers actionable advice to help you take control of your financial future while promoting equity and inclusion.

Behind the scenes of the booming Boba Tea business. Are all Boba Tea shops equal? Here is the behind-the-scenes story of two entrepreneurs changing the face of the Boba tea business. Jenna Wu and Cameron Wong are USC Marshall School of Business graduates. Jenna combines her love of fitness and healthy foods with Cameron's Boba Milk Tea business expertise. Amino Avenue specializes in crafting low-sugar, low-calorie boba drinks and high-protein, low-calorie foods and snacks. #boba #USC #USCMarshall #motivation #business @Aminoave Check out: Aminoave.com

Voices in the Spotlight: The Musical Odyssey of Hannah Abrahim. Hannah is a graduate of the USC Thorton School of Music. She is an accomplished voice coach, singer, and writer. She studied under USC Music Professor and legend Patrice Rushen. Hannah has sung background vocals for Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Tiesto, and Lil Nas X, among others. She has sung at the Hollywood Bowl and has amassed 634k downloads for her music. Check out her fantastic song titled Fantasy. You can follow her on her social media at Made4Muisc, YouTube, and Instagram. You can also follow Hannah Abrahim on Linkedin.com and TikTok. USC student Cooper Brown is the co-host for today's podcast.

Join us in this inspiring podcast as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Bee Ayuso, a decorated bodybuilding champion, personal trainer, social media influencer, mother, and business owner. Bee shares her invaluable insights on building a healthy lifestyle while staying positive and motivated in facing challenges. Discover her secrets to balancing fitness, family, and business, and learn how you can achieve your goals with determination and a positive mindset. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or looking for motivation to reach your goals, this podcast has something for everyone. Tune in and get ready to transform your life with Bee Ayuso's expert advice and uplifting stories. Follow her social media: IG-Beeayuso IG-wearesharks_fitclub IG-bfit_mealprep

Fitness Rx: Jump Roping and Lifting Weights to Health with Future Doctor and Influencer Natalie Goldstone. Natalie Goldstone is a fitness enthusiast, avid jump roper, weight lifter, fitness influencer, and future doctor. She addresses fitness myths about weight lifting, dieting, challenges of staying fit while in a demanding graduate school program and staying positive regardless of obstacles in life. It was a fantastic interview, and she is an amazing person. You can follow her on her IG account @gainsbygoldstone and YouTube. Please enjoy my interview with Natalie Goldstone. Fight on!

Elite Leadership: Unveiling Strategy with Dr. Apollo Emeka,  Former Green Beret. Dr. Apollo Emeka is a former Green Beret and FBI intelligence analyst. He is currently a strategy and leadership consultant for his company, Apolly Strategy Group. Dr. Emeka has a B.A. in Sociology and a Doctorate in Policy, Planning, and Development from the University of Southern California. Contact: Apollo@apollostrategy.com #Courgage #Strategy #leadership 

Unlocked: A discussion with attorney Susan Lawrence and Nick Woodall on life after prison. Susan is a famous attorney and physician who tirelessly works for those in prison who want a second chance. She is also an expert on the impact of psychopathy on criminal justice reform and society. Nick Woodall is the founder of POSSE Solutions LLC. I provide clemency application and parole board portfolio preparation services. I also educate prisoners and promote rehabilitation unto release through correspondence certificate courses, which teach the development and understanding of causative factors, remorse, responsibility, impact & magnitude, among others.   

Dive into the captivating journey of Saeed Stikeleather, a true embodiment of resilience and dedication in the entrepreneurial realm. Through highs and lows, Saeed's unwavering determination led him to establish one of Las Vegas's premier Acai and smoothie destinations. Join us as we uncover the trials, triumphs, and invaluable lessons behind his remarkable ascent to success.  Check out his business, Liquid Las Vegas, the next time you are in Las Vegas. IG: Liquid_lasvegas #dedication #entrepreneur #perseverance #Success

Brad Taylor Talks: From Special Forces to writing a New York Times Best-Selling Novel series. I'm thrilled to have a true American hero and New York Times Bestselling author with us today – the only Brad Taylor. Brad spent most of his career as a silent force, serving in the Special Forces on assignments that took him across the globe. His debut novel, "Rough Man: A Spy Thriller," not only marked his entry into the literary world but also catapulted him onto the prestigious New York Times Bestseller list. With 18 novels under his belt, Brad has created a gripping book series that captivates readers with every page turn. And the wait is over! Brad's latest masterpiece, "Dead Man's Hand," is set to hit the shelves on January 23, 2024. The book can be ordered at bradtaylorbooks.com

Fitz Koehler is a world-renowned fitness trainer, media personality, best-selling author, motivational speaker, and cancer survivor. She has an M.S. in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of Florida. The author of Your Healthy Cancer Comeback: Sick to Strong. Check out her website at: www.Fitzness.com #fitness #Wellness #workouts #health #motivational  

Dive into the inspiring journey of Red Claybon III, a multifaceted individual who wears many hats as a successful entrepreneur, model, artist, and visionary founder of Spirit Gallery. With a solid educational foundation, holding both a B.A. and an M.B.A. in marketing, Red shares invaluable insights in this interview. Join us as he candidly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, advocates for the significance of equity and empathy in the employment space, and offers profound wisdom on achieving balance in the multifaceted tapestry of life. This podcast is your backstage pass to the triumphs, challenges, and lessons learned from a dynamic personality at the intersection of business, modeling, education, and the art of living well. #leadership #motivation #empathy #business #USC 

Unshackled Spirit: Triumph Over a Life Sentence: The Mianta McKnight Story. MIanta McKnight was incarcerated since the age of 17 and in prison for a life sentence. She was eligible for parole after serving 18 years and one day in prison. Upon her release from prison, she earned her B.A. and became a professional dancer, massage therapist, and life coach. She works at several non-profits and is the proud mother of two children. Her story chronicles a fantastic journey of survival and strength! #prisonreform #Socialjustice #inspiration #motivation #justice

Sara Ash is an accomplished ombudsperson, conflict resolution expert, and disability advocate. She has a B.A. in English and a Master's in Adult and Higher Education. She has worked in higher education for over 15 years and has experience as the director of student success. She was a Yale Writers Workshop attendee and was awarded staff member of the year twice. Ms. Ash provides excellent advice and insight on resolving conflicts in your organization while raising essential issues around disability issues. #disability rights #ombudsperson#conflict management #leadership

Frank Zane is a 3x Mr.Olympia and Mr. Universe and is a bodybuilding legend. He is a health and fitness pioneer and is believed by many to have one of the best physiques in bodybuilding history. He has been a lifelong educator, health/ fitness expert, trainer, author, podcaster, and Bodybuilder Hall of Fame member. You can learn more about this living legend at FrankZane.com. #fitness #inspirational #motivational #bodybuilding #health #goldsgym #Frankzane

Rick Loma has a successful social media business and promotes positive content. He has built a social media following on Instagram with over 249k followers. He has expertise in marketing, public relations, advertising, mass communication, and economics—excellent life advice on achieving success and staying positive.

Aminah Elster spent 15 years in prison for murder and today is an inspirational leader and advocate for women. Upon her release from prison, she immediately enrolled in school and was accepted to the University of California, Berkeley. Upon graduating from UC Berkeley, she started the non-profit Unapologetically Hers and is a successful Systems Change Consultant—a story of resilience and strength.

Director Christine Yoo and marathoner Markelle Taylor speak about the award-winning film 26.2 to Life! This film chronicles the inspirational story of San Quentin State Prison inmates who discover hope through running. Director Christine Yoo discusses her personal transformation while directing this film and the relationships she builds with San Quentin State Prison inmates. Markelle Taylor speaks about his transformation from running marathons at San Quentin to his invitation to run in the Boston Marathon while still incarcerated.

Gunner Johnson and Christian Branscombe made national news for their stories of redemption. Both men spent their early adult years behind bars for serious criminal offenses and came to a place of healing to lead productive and meaningful lives. Moreover, Christian Branscombe shot Gunner Johnson, and they are now best friends. This is their story.  Gunner Johnson is now the housing coordinator for Project Rebound at Sacramento State University and Christian Branscombe is a life coach for his own consulting company Bare Bones Coaching(https://www.christianbranscombe.com/)

The Return Of Steve Maxwell-Steve Maxwell is one of the world's best fitness trainers, a military veteran, and a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu legend. Today, he travels the globe training professional athletes and others on how to live a long and healthy life. Moreover, he continues to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu to others while displaying love and passion for life. Great interview and amazing fitness and life advice. 

Gloria Figueroa discusses the triumphs and challenges of raising nine children in Oakland, California. Enjoy the interview! Special thanks to all those incredible women and men making a difference in the world for our children. 

An International Matchmaker and Relationship Mentor, grounded in science and practical wisdom from a fascinating lifetime of experiences and working directly with individuals for over eighteen years, Joy Nordenstrom offers ways to be your best in partnership. To learn more, email her at joy@joyofromance.com: to join the private Intelligent Love Office Hours with INTELLIGENT LOVE LIST and for the VIP Membership to her Matchmaking Database, put JofR VIP APPLICATION, in the subject line. Get ready for her upcoming vodcast by subscribing to her YouTube Channel now: https://www.youtube.com/@JoyNordenstrom

Part one of this conversation is posted on the podcast "Learning the Hardway the Easy Way" with Alex Culley, which features an interview with Martin Figueroa. This interview is Part 2 of this podcast and addresses effective leadership and management approaches in small and large organizations. My guest for this podcast (i.e., Part 2) is Alex Culley, the Executive Director of the Institute of Executive Development and a leading expert/consultant/coach on effective leadership and management. Great insight on motivating people in the workplace, the perils of micromanagement, generational challenges, and the benefits of teleworking.

Dr. Carol Geffner is a global management consultant and executive coach, author, and leadership scholar and expert. She is the president of CB Vision Consultants and until recently a Professor of Practice in Governance and Management at the University of Southern California. Her new book, Building A New Leadership Ladder: Transforming Male-Dominated Organizations to Support Women On The Rise, focuses on what organizations and leaders can do to create workplaces that successfully combat gender discrimination. Through over 200 hours of interviews and leading-edge research, her book makes a strong claim that the onus is on Boards of Directors, executive leadership, and leaders everywhere to level up their commitment to building organizations that work for women on the rise.  

Willie C. Jenkins Jr. is a successful entrepreneur and owner of The Sammiche Shoppe. Willie is a native of Los Angeles and shares his extraordinary life story and strategies for starting a thriving restaurant in Los Angeles—a great perspective on life and staying motivated and focused on your goals.  

Amanda Sparso is a movie director, CGI professional, dancer, model, mentor, and professor. She has directed and produced the award-winning animation Yuafen(Youtube). Moreover, she is a CGI professional who has worked on projects for Nickelodeon and for shows such as Gossip Girl, to name a few. Ms.Sparso is also a professor, model, artist, and dancer. She shares her unique insight on achieving your goals and focusing on your dreams no matter the obstacles. You can follow her on IG and TikTok @amanda_Sparso, and her website is Amandasparso.com

Patrick Riccards is the CEO of Life After Hate. This organization is the nation's leader in violence intervention. The organization's primary focus is assisting those who want to leave extremist groups. His organization has been profiled by CBS, among other media outlets. Patrick has authored several books(i.e., Dadprovement, Dad in a Cheer Bow, and Why kids can't read) and has been published in the New York Times, U.S.A. Today and Washington Post. He is a nationally recognized expert in teaching and a strategic leader and communications professional. #leadership, #hate groups#education#teaching#Communication#Ethics#Politics

University of Southern California Professor(adjunct) Rick Culley is a Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Executive coaching expert. He and his son are the directors of the Institute for Executive Development(IED) in Las Vegas, Nevada—one of the country's most successful Strategic Planning, Leadership, and Executive Coaching organizations. Rick and Alex provide unique insight on becoming better leaders in both your professional and personal life. This episode will change the way you view Leadership and Strategic Planning. You will learn about Culleyisms. Alex Culley will launch his podcast next week-Learning the hard way-the easy way!

Scott Shafer is the senior editor for KQED(an NPR/PBS member station)Politics and Government Report. Scott Shafer came to KQED in 1998 to host the statewide California  Report. He is now Senior Editor for KQED's Politics and Government Desk, providing reporting, hosting, and analysis while also overseeing the politics desk. Scott co-hosts the weekly show and podcast Political Breakdown. This podcast explores his extraordinary life and professional journey. (Bio excerpts credited to KQED.com)

Darrell Rivera is a famous choreographer/dancer and social media sensation with over 20 million downloads on YouTube alone. He has appeared on Ellen, The Grammy Awards, The Billboard Awards, and in music videos. Darrell has also performed with Shania Twain and Aerosmith, among other entertainers. He is also the choreographer for the famous Las Vegas show Thunder from Down Under. He teaches weekly dance classes at Millennium Dance Complex in Las Vegas. You can follow him on IG/TikTok and Youtube at dareal08. My co-host today was USC Professor Paul Danczyk.

Olivia Lau is an engineer, former college athlete, and community educator. She is an Oakland native who excelled in music, sports, and athletics. While attending the University of Southern California, she was on the crew team for four years. She graduated from USC with a bachelor of science in biomedical engineering and works for the non-profit organization Engineering Tomorrow(i.e., provides free classes to high schools in engineering).

Katey Gilbert is a criminal defense attorney and prison reform advocate. Some of her clients include Marcus "China Dogg" Nunn, one of the founders of the Bloods street gang. She has her B.A. in Political Science/Psychology and received her law degree from Santa Clara University. USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, Professor, Paul Danczyk joined the podcast to round out the interview.

Carlos Becerra (CEO of Becerra Tutoring) is a testing expert, curriculum designer, Education tech. Specialist, tutor, counselor, and thought leader of Becerra Educational Counseling(https://www.bectutoring.com/). He has coached and guided thousands of individuals to achieve educational, professional, and personal goals. He has his B.A. from the University of Chicago and is a doctoral student in Education at the University of Southern California. My co-host for this program is Elan Carter from the podcast(co-host) Getting balanced with Tempting Conversations with Dr. Marissa.

Keith Hall is a pilot, teacher, and Director of Fleet and Aviation Services with the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. This agency is one of the most significant water and power districts in the United States. He has a B.S. in business management from Pepperdine and a master's degree in leadership from the University of Southern California. Moreover, he has a teaching credential from UCLA and spent many years teaching in the Los Angeles Unified School District. Great advice on how to promote in an organization, build effective teams, manage personnel, and recruit staff.

Tim Long is a passionate educator who overcame four life sentences-this is his story! He is currently the education coordinator for a large non-profit organization in the San Francisco Bay Area. Moreover, Tim mentors adults and juveniles to focus on education to build a better life free from the criminal justice system. He will be completing his B.S. in Mathematics in the Spring of 2023! Happy New Year, everyone. 

Trace Austin is a talented entertainer, musician, actor, singer, rapper, and influencer. His most recent album is The Offspring, and he is the founder of the non-profit anti-bullying organization "Together All Protected." He is the grandson of Otis Williams, the founder of The Temptations. 

Elan Carter is an actress, author, international model, and former Soul Train dancer. She has appeared on Seinfeld and Fresh Prince of Bel Air, to name a few. She was recently profiled on Youtube for the Soul Train Awards and has performed with Duran, Duran, the Jacksons, and Bobby Brown. She has traveled the world as an international model and is a writer. Her father is also Otis Williams, one of the founders of The Temptations(i.e., My Girl, Just My Imagination). She is working on a book, entertainment projects, and soon-to-be-released NFTs. Fantastic insight and advice about life and the entertainment industry.

Frank Zerunyan, J.D. is a University of Southern California Professor in Governance and Leadership at the Sol Price School of Public Policy. He is also the Director of Executive Education at the USC Bedrosian Center on Governance and The Neely Center for Ethical Leadership. Frank shares his perspective on leadership and his personal story of resilience. 

Steve Maxwell is a fitness and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend. He is the first person certified to teach Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the United States. In this episode, Steve shares his diet, fitness routine, longevity, teaching advice, and travel experiences. 

Sean Sheppard is a law enforcement and community relations expert and CEO of Game Changer. He has BA in Psychology from Georgetown and MA in Sports Psychology from San Diego State University. He has spent a good portion of his career coaching college and professional athletes and is doing groundbreaking work in police and community relations. Currently, he is the CEO of the non-profit organization Game Changer. 

Marco Hurtado is a social media dancing sensation, BJJ brown belt, world traveler, and retired accountant. He has over one million followers on his social media platforms and is a true inspiration. He has appeared on the hit NBC show "Dancing with myself." You can follow him on TikTok and Instagram at the bearded_boomer.

Jason Williams is a brilliant chemist, UCLA doctoral student, researcher, Marine veteran, and bodybuilder. This podcast chronicles his struggles from a marginal student to a rising star in research and helping to pioneer new medical treatments.

Sandra Johnson is a community activist, employee advocate, reformer, and ex-offender. She speaks about overcoming drug use and the murder of her son to dedicate her life to making a positive difference in the world. 

Arielle Fernandez is a successful financial trader/educator and survivor of domestic violence. She is a former national team soccer player with a master's degree from the University of Southern California in Health Administration and a B.S. in exercise science. She shares a fantastic story of personal growth and preseverace.

Nilda Palacios is an ex-offender, domestic violence /sex assault survivor, U.C. Berkeley student, health care worker, and community activist. Her story has been featured in Mother Jones and The New York Times. Note: This podcast has some mature content on domestic violence, drugs, and sexual assaults. 

Karoline Menezes is an amazing Brazilian-born musician who has played with Beyonce and Adele. Other artists include The Weekend, Andrea Bocelli, and Billy Eilish. She has also played at the Oscars and in orchestras and symphonies worldwide. She has led a fantastic life and is dedicated to giving back to the community. Listen in!

Graham Tuttle is a famous trainer and Instagram/TikTok  Influencer w/over 295K fans. Please check out his IG at Thebarefootsprinter. Incredible insight about training and pursuing your passions.