You Have Infinite Power

Join Coaches Mike and Paul as they delve into the crucial mindset of starting from zero in any area of life…health, wealth, fitness, career, and family. They share impactful advice on setting realistic expectations, embracing the beginning, and focusing on consistent progress over perfection. Learn how to cultivate the "Balanced Warrior" mentality to be the high achiever you can be proud of! Key Highlights & Advice: Every Master Was Once a Disaster: Emphasizing that everyone, regardless of their current success, started at the beginning. Grandmasters were once white belts. Progress, Not Perfection: A powerful reminder to focus on taking action and accumulating small wins rather than being paralyzed by the pursuit of flawlessness. Stacking Small Wins: The importance of celebrating small victories to build momentum and motivation. Just like a baby's first words are celebrated, acknowledge every step forward. Reverse Engineering Goals: Start with the long-term vision but break it down into smaller, manageable steps with clear metrics and timelines. Attacking the Day: Shift from merely "trusting the process" to actively attacking the day with focused action steps that contribute to your goals. Winning the Day: Focus on identifying and achieving 3 key action steps in your core areas of life (business/production, health/fitness, relationships/family) to feel a sense of accomplishment and build confidence. Consistency Over Special Talent: Recognizing that long-term success often stems from consistent effort and habits rather than innate abilities. Tailored Coaching: The importance of a coach that provides the right kind of motivation and accountability, whether it's a firm push or gentle encouragement. And a ton more advice! Join the Balanced Warriors and learn how to achieve progress in all areas of your life.  

On this Episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have J.D. Crowell, a successful real estate investor from South Carolina. J.D. shares his entrepreneurial journey and insights on high achievement while maintaining a balanced life. J.D.'s primary business helps high performers convert hard-earned money into passive income through apartment building investments. He also has associated property management and transactional arms. Growing up in a blue-collar family and even living in the basement of a car dealership instilled a strong work ethic that fueled his entrepreneurial journey. Over five years, J.D. scaled his real estate portfolio to over 1250 apartment units by applying his finance and business acumen. Episode Highlights: The Power of Continuous Learning: J.D. emphasizes the importance of constant learning and self-education, highlighting his significant annual investment in professional development. "Dark Fuel" for Motivation: J.D. reveals that early skepticism and being underestimated served as "dark fuel" to drive his success. Family as Priority: J.D. stresses the importance of family, sharing his long-term relationship with his high school sweetheart and their two children. Life by Design, Not Chance: J.D. emphasizes that his lifestyle is a result of intentional planning, hard work, and navigating challenges. Continuous Self-Improvement: With financial success, J.D. remains committed to daily self-improvement and becoming a better version of himself. Challenging the Idea of "Balance": J.D. suggests that true "balance" might not exist in a time-for-time sense but rather focuses on the quality of time spent in different areas of life. Non-Negotiables: J.D. highlights the importance of daily non-negotiables, such as working out twice a day, to ensure his key priorities are consistently met.

In this episode, we delve into the art of living a multi-dimensional life with the inspiring Casey Schwartz of Schwartz Legacy Planning. Discover how this attorney, entrepreneur, wife, and mother expertly juggles a thriving career with family, self-care, and intentional living. Learn practical strategies for prioritizing what truly matters, setting powerful boundaries, and crafting a routine that supports your well-being in all areas. Key Pieces of Advice from Casey Schwartz: Prioritize Routine: Establish routines that incorporate all aspects of your life, including personal well-being. Schedule Everything Important: Treat family time and self-care with the same importance as client meetings and business obligations by scheduling them in your calendar. Embrace the Power of "No": Learn to say no to commitments that don't align with your priorities or will lead to overwhelm. Be Intentional: Consciously choose how you spend your time and energy in all areas of your life. Communicate with Your Partner: Especially when working together, establish clear boundaries and communicate about when you are and aren't available to discuss work. Self-Care is Essential, Not a Luxury: Recognize the importance of taking care of your physical and mental health to sustain your ability to manage multiple responsibilities. Reflect on Mortality (Without Being Morbid): The experience of working in estate planning can highlight the importance of making the most of your time and being present with loved ones. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to find your own balance!

In this empowering episode of The Balance Warrior Podcast, Coach Chris and Coach Paul break down a simple mindset strategy that can help you stay grounded, confident, and focused….even when life throws you off course. If you consider yourself a high achiever or someone working in a demanding career, coach Chris and Paul will help you simply shift your mindset. Ready?? When negativity strikes, counter it with the phrase: “Yeah, but…” This powerful reframe helps you acknowledge the challenge and immediately shift your perspective toward progress, gratitude, or growth. Key Highlights of this Balanced Warrior Podcast episode. “Yeah, but…” as a Reframe Tool: Use this phrase to redirect your thoughts when negativity creeps in. Mindset Is Everything: Letting negativity seep into your subconscious can lower confidence, affect performance, and breaks your flow. Catch It, Scratch It, Erase & Replace: Inspired by neuro-linguistic programming techniques, this approach helps you disrupt limiting thoughts and replace them with empowering language. Real-Life Examples: From tough coaching moments to a high-stakes lacrosse game, Coach Chris and Coach Paul share how reframing helped keep perspective and protect confidence. Language Awareness: Watch for disempowering words like “try,” “if,” and “should.” Replace them with decisive, intentional language to reinforce your mindset. Big Takeaway! Self-mastery starts with mastering your mindset. Use “Yeah, but…” as a quick and powerful tool to stay present, protect your energy, and lead with clarity in every part of your life. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

If you're working in a demanding career or you associate yourself with being a high achiever, and you're also raising children, this podcast episode is for you. In this episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we dive into a raw and emotional conversation about parenting, connection, and what it means to truly show up for your kids. All while managing and growing a demanding career. Coach Michael and Paul discuss parenting, not built on perfection, but on vulnerability. They discuss the realization that love, presence, and authenticity matter more than anything else. Key Highlights: Vulnerability Creates Connection: being a vulnerable parent can be hard, but it can make a big difference in your relationship with your children. Three Mantras That Matter: “I love you. I'm proud of you. I'm grateful you're my child.” Simple, consistent words that build unshakable emotional security. Presence Over Perfection: Rearranging life to be at every game, and important event because showing up matters. Meeting Them Where They Are: From sharing personal struggles to spontaneous dinners, scheduling one-on-one time, and learning new things together, it's about building trust on their terms. Positive Influence Through Media: Using digital platforms to subtly drip-feed uplifting, faith-based, and value-driven content as a counterbalance to mainstream noise. Parenting as Legacy: It's not about shaping kids in your image, but supporting their identity and cheering on their path, whether it mirrors yours or not. If you are a high achiever juggling a demanding career, this is a reminder that the most powerful thing a parent can do is be present, be real, and be consistent.  

In this inspiring episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, Coaches Mike and Chris discuss the importance of making your future better than your past. They explore how age should not be seen as a limitation but as an opportunity for growth, achievement, and new challenges. The Balanced Warriors provide actionable strategies to ensure continuous personal and professional progress. Call it a road map for high achievement later in life. Key Takeaways: Surround Yourself with the Right People. Choose relationships that inspire growth. Challenge Yourself at Any Age. Never stop pushing your limits. Embrace the Wisdom That Comes with Age. Experience enhances teaching, leadership, and decision-making skills. Prioritize Energy and Recovery. Sustainable success comes from maintaining vitality through strategic rest, exercise, and mindset practices. Maintain a Growth-Oriented Mindset. Focus on what's ahead in your career, relationships, and health. Constantly reminiscing about past successes can prevent you from building a brighter future. If something affects your quality of life, don't procrastinate. Address challenges head-on and make positive changes now. Action Steps: Identify and nurture relationships that motivate and challenge you. Set a new personal challenge, whether in fitness, business, or relationships. Implement a structured recovery plan to sustain energy levels. Reflect on areas where you can apply wisdom gained from experience. Plan for your next big goal. what excites you about the future? Your best days are still ahead. Keep growing, learning, and striving to make every chapter better than the last. Connect with the Balanced Warriors for more insights into achieving multi-dimensional success! https://empoweredmastery.com/

Are you a high achiever juggling a demanding career, family, health, and personal growth? Do you ever feel like you're forced to sacrifice one area of your life to excel in another? If so, you're in the right place. Welcome to the Balanced Warrior Podcast, where we believe that multidimensional success is not only possible but essential. Why Listen to the Balanced Warrior Podcast? Success is often narrowly defined by financial wealth or career achievements. But true success is about thriving in all areas of life, including your health, wealth, relationships, career, and personal fulfillment. We are here to challenge the idea that you must sacrifice one aspect of your life to excel in another. Instead, we will equip you with the strategies and mindset to create a robust, well-rounded, and fulfilling life, without compromise. What You'll Gain from This Podcast Proven Strategies for Multidimensional Success. Learn how to excel in your career without neglecting your family, fitness, or personal passions. Real-World Insights from Serial Entrepreneurs & High Performers. We've built businesses, trained elite athletes, and coached high-level executives. Now, we're sharing our hard-earned lessons with you. A Unique Blend of Eastern & Western Wisdom. We integrate martial arts philosophies like Il Il Shin (be better every day) with modern success principles. Actionable Tips & Inspiring Interviews. Hear from top professionals who have mastered balance and success. Who Are We? Michael, Chris, and Paul are seasoned entrepreneurs, former national-level martial arts competitors, business coaches, real estate investors, and family men who have successfully integrated high achievement with personal fulfillment. We've lived through the struggles, overcome the challenges, and now we're here to help you do the same. Why Subscribe? If you've ever felt like you had to choose between career success and personal happiness, this podcast is for you. We believe you can have it all….without burnout, without sacrifice, and without regrets. By subscribing, you'll gain access to weekly episodes packed with transformative insights, practical strategies, and inspiring conversations to help you achieve the life you truly deserve. Subscribe today and start your journey to multidimensional success! Listen to the Balanced Warrior Podcast and take control of your success on your terms. More about The Balanced Warriors can be found here: https://empoweredmastery.com/

In this episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we dive into the importance of taking consistent, intentional action and maintaining faith in the process of growth and self-improvement. We discuss how small, repeated efforts create lasting change and how shifting your mindset from “if” to “when” transforms your potential. Focusing on these key takeaways can help you, the high achiever, live a more balanced, and fulfilling life both personally and professionally. Key Takeaways: Shift your mindset: Remove “if” from your vocabulary and replace it with “when.” This simple change creates certainty and commitment. Visualize your future success: Imagine looking back a year from now, seeing the results of consistent action—like going to the gym 150 times or having 52 date nights—and let that vision motivate your daily choices. Believe in the power of compounding: Small, consistent efforts—like going to the gym 150 times a year or having weekly date nights—lead to significant long-term results. Be ruthlessly consistent: Progress happens when you show up and take action, even when it's inconvenient. Maintain faith and stay the course: Just like a plant takes time to grow, your efforts will bear fruit if you stay patient and positive. Thank you for joining us on the Balanced Warrior Podcast. We're here to provide you with strategies, stories, and real talk to help you live a life of multidimensional success. Stay tuned for more actionable insights and inspiration! https://empoweredmastery.com/ 

Welcome to the Balanced Warrior Podcast for high achievers.  In this episode, Coaches Mike, Chris, and Paul dive into the idea that sometimes the smallest adjustments lead to the biggest results. Inspired by a simple yet powerful training moment, Mike shares how a slight change in his exercise form dramatically improved his results—and how this concept applies to every area of life. The coaches explore why we often feel stuck and the importance of self-awareness and mentorship in making meaningful improvements. Through personal stories and examples from martial arts, business, and family life, they illustrate how small tweaks, not drastic overhauls, often lead to the greatest breakthroughs. They discuss the danger of mindlessly going through the motions and the value of asking the right questions, staying consistent, and making intentional adjustments. Key Points: Sometimes it's not about working harder but making a small, strategic change. Awareness and reflection are crucial for identifying what's not working. Mentorship provides valuable outside perspective for necessary adjustments. Consistency paired with mindful improvements drives long-term success. Evolution, not revolution. tiny tweaks often lead to the biggest breakthroughs. Action Steps: Take stock of your current results in key areas: health, relationships, career, and finances. Identify where you feel stuck and reflect on small changes you could make. Seek guidance from a mentor or expert who can help you adjust your approach. Stay consistent but stay mindful. Small tweaks can create a lasting impact. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

In this inspiring episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we sit down with Stephen McManus, a Marine veteran, real estate entrepreneur, and leader who embodies discipline, faith, and success. Stephen shares his journey from the military to corporate life and eventually entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of mindset, discipline, and authenticity in achieving a well-balanced life. Key Takeaways: The Power of Discipline: How the Marine Corps and The Citadel shaped Stephen's leadership and mindset. Authenticity is the Biggest Magnet: Why being real and transparent builds trust in business and personal relationships. Balancing Business, Family, and Faith: Stephen's formula for multi-dimensional success. Routines for Peak Performance: A breakdown of his daily habits, including fitness, faith, and focused work. Overcoming the Guilt of Hustle: How Stephen ensures his daughter understands his purpose and priorities. Building a Legacy Beyond Business: The importance of giving back, including his work with Battle on the Bricks to support veterans and local charities. Powerful Quotes: "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." – Proverbs 23:7 "Your mind is the general, your body is the soldier." – Napoleon "Success at work means nothing if you're failing at home." Resources & Links: Subscribe & Follow: Never miss an episode! Subscribe to Balanced Warrior Podcast on Apple Podcasts If you found value in this episode, leave us a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this message!  

Episode Summary: In this emotional episode of The Balanced Warrior Podcast, Coach Paul Melella and Coach Chris Berlow discuss the importance of living a life filled with purpose, gratitude, and adventure. Through personal stories—ranging from climbing volcanoes to overcoming a health scare—they remind us to prioritize what truly matters and to embrace life without hesitation. Key Takeaways: Multi-Dimensional Success: Balancing business, health, relationships, and personal fulfillment. Chris's Philosophy: "Ask my mother"—a reminder to live now because tomorrow isn't guaranteed. Paul's Perspective: How a sickness or disease could shift to gratitude and outlook on life. Practical Steps: Plan experiences, prioritize loved ones, and replace fear with faith. Action Steps: Schedule one meaningful experience you've been putting off. Reflect daily: If today was my last day, how did I do? Embrace gratitude and faith as you navigate life's challenges. Upcoming Event: Join Chris and Paul in Charleston for Surge Week, a transformative retreat featuring mindfulness practices, personal growth workshops, and goal-setting sessions for 2025. Check out the website for more info! Stay Connected: Website: EmpoweredMastery.com

In this episode of Balanced Warrior, we are joined by special guest Mike Regina, a serial entrepreneur who embodies the philosophy of multidimensional success. Mike successfully manages multiple businesses, oversees a team of over 40 employees, nurtures a nearly 25-year marriage, and prioritizes time for his three children, regular exercise, meditation, prayer, and giving back to his community.   Key Takeaways:   1. **Confidence and Enthusiasm**: Approach projects and businesses with confidence and excitement.   2. **Failure as a Stepping Stone**: View failure as a temporary setback on the path to success. Embrace fearlessness in the face of defeat.   3. **Building with the Right People**: Surround yourself with the right individuals as the foundation of any successful venture. Collaboration is key; great things are seldom achieved alone.   4. **Golden Rule**: Treat others with respect and love as you would want to be treated. Maintain a culture of mutual regard.   5. **Leading by Example**: As a leader, demonstrate that no task is above or below you. Lead with humility and responsibility.   6. **Creating a Positive Work Culture**: Focus on creating a work environment where your team looks forward to Mondays.   7. **Non-Negotiables for Team Members**:    - Be a proactive problem solver.    - Cultivate confidence in your abilities.    - Demonstrate emotional intelligence and self-control.    - Take ownership and fix mistakes promptly.    - Embrace failure as a learning opportunity for personal growth and improvement.   Tune in to this insightful episode of Balanced Warrior as Mike Regina shares his expertise on achieving success across various facets of life while embodying the principles of balance, leadership, and personal growth.

In this episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, hosts Michael Mertens and Coach Paul Melella interview Mike Epstein, CEO of Next Gen Agency, a leading provider of VIP outsourced business solutions. Mike shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Shrub Oak, NY, to building a multi-million-dollar company while pursuing his passions as a musician and Harley Davidson enthusiast. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive workplace culture, hiring the right people, and fostering employee engagement through meaningful incentives, team-building events, and personalized appreciation. Mike delves into his practices of visualization, meditation, and gratitude, which have been instrumental in his success. He explains how visualizing his goals and maintaining a positive mindset have helped him overcome challenges and achieve a fulfilling life. His nightly routine of affirmations keeps him focused and aligned with his vision. For entrepreneurs, Mike stresses the value of intentional culture, clear goals, and commitment to action. His message serves as a reminder that success is not just about financial achievement but also about happiness, balance, and giving back. This episode offers actionable insights for anyone striving for multi-dimensional success. Whether you're an entrepreneur or seeking personal growth, Mike's story highlights the transformative power of mindset and intentionality. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery

In this episode, Coaches Paul, Chris, and Mike are back to dive into how to live a balanced, fulfilled life across health, wealth, and personal growth. We start off with a laugh about Halloween candy temptations and how each of us managed to (mostly) stick to our health commitments by setting some non-negotiables. Then we get into the main focus of today's talk: the power of introversion—and why balancing both introverted and extroverted traits can actually help you be more successful and grounded. Paul shares how he evolved from a high-energy, attention-loving kid to a coach who's learned the value of listening and recharging. Chris talks about his need for solitude, finding his best insights when he's off in the mountains on a hike. Mike underscores the impact of active listening and asking the right questions, explaining how it helps us connect more deeply and get to the heart of what clients really need. We talk about the idea of "calm confidence," a mix of humility and grounded self-assurance. Building both listening and communication skills, we believe, can really level up your relationships, your leadership, and your coaching. And of course, we bring it back to martial arts: it's a powerful way to develop confidence, discipline, and life skills—especially for kids—like eye contact, respect, and composure that carry over to everything else in life. To wrap things up, we encourage everyone to work on both sides of the spectrum—embracing both introverted and extroverted skills to grow personally and professionally. Thanks for joining us, and tune in for more tips and strategies to find balance in all areas of your life on the next episode of The Balanced Warrior Podcast.

In this episode, Balanced Warrior coaches Chris Berlow and Paul Melella explore the five Rules of Il Il Shin to develop personal growth, self-mastery, and mindfulness. In the discussion, they emphasize the need for continuous improvement, self-awareness, and the establishment of individual rules and highlight the importance of balanced states, mental breaks, and meditation for maintaining productivity. They also stress the importance of humility, accountability, and having accountability partners in leadership.  Key takeaways from the podcast… Practice the 10 Rules of Ill Shin: Focus on eliminating anger and adhering to principles even without external expectations. Daily Tea Ceremonies: Maintain rituals with family for quality time and self-reflection. Regular Meditation: Implement morning, midday, and evening practices for balance and clarity. Mentorship: Continue guiding proteges and passing on specialized knowledge to the next generation. Accountability Practice: Take ownership of mistakes, ask for forgiveness, and engage in service recovery when necessary. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

In this episode of Balanced Warrior, we have the privilege of hosting Jill Russack, an empowerment coach dedicated to helping high-performing women navigate career uncertainties, conquer self-doubt, and emerge as confident leaders. Key Takeaways: 1. Cultivating a clear vision for advancing in your career. 2. Developing the ability to spot hidden opportunities and leverage them. 3. Investing in yourself, with a coach as a transformative ally. 4. Overcoming and dispelling internal narratives that hinder personal growth. 5. Embracing and aligning with your core values to shape your identity. 6. Setting clear goals and directions for personal and professional growth. 7. Embracing action over regrets to propel yourself forward. Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies to empower yourself on the path to success and self-actualization.

In this episode of the Balanced Warrior Podcast, hosts Michael Mertens and Paul Mellela dive into the critical concept of longevity and how to prepare for a life of multidimensional success. As they celebrate Michael's 54th birthday, they reflect on their journeys and share insights on maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health well into later life.  Key Discussion Points: Longevity Mindset: Mike  and Paul emphasize the importance of planning not just for financial security in old age but also for physical, mental, and emotional health. They challenge the notion that aging means slowing down and instead advocate for a proactive approach to staying robust and healthy well into your later years. The Role of Ego and Emotional Connection: While initial motivations for health may stem from ego, such as wanting to look good, they emphasize that deeper, more emotional reasons should drive long-term health goals—like being there for your family and experiencing life fully. Social Health: The episode also highlights the importance of maintaining a social network, which is crucial for longevity. Mike and Paul discuss how surrounding yourself with a community that values fitness and well-being can provide positive peer pressure and accountability. Simple Actions, Big Impact: Mike and Paul close by emphasizing the power of making small, consistent efforts in diet and exercise that can significantly improve your health.  If you found value in this episode, share it with someone who could benefit from these insights. For more resources on achieving multidimensional success, visit empoweredmastery.com or reach out to us at info@empoweredmastery.com.

- Avoid letting summer turn into the lost quarter - High performers celebrate, recuperate, and recharge, then swiftly return to their routines - Adapt your habits to the changing seasons, but maintain consistent effort - Consistency throughout the year leads to significant rewards in health, work, and career - Take control of how you perceive and approach the summer season Infuse excitement into your goals by gamifying them, enabling you to eagerly adapt and explore fresh concepts If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with anyone who might benefit from its content. For more information, visit empoweredmastery.com or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com with any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior podcast, coaches Chris Berlow, Michael Mertens, and Paul Melella join us to inspire and entertain. Inspired by one of Paul's clients, who admitted struggling to stay focused amidst the current political climate, this episode is not about politics but about maintaining focus. The central question is: How do we stay productive and focused with so many distractions around us? Paul, Chris, and Mike offer powerful insights on protecting your mindset and freeing yourself from distractions so you can maximize your time and live your best life. Key takeaways include: Clearly define your goals and the steps needed to achieve them. Be ruthless with time management. Schedule appointments with yourself and treat your most important tasks as if you were meeting a client or customer. Reflect on whether your current activities are deposits or withdrawals toward your success. If you find yourself getting distracted, spend time in nature to regain clarity. Ask yourself, as a result of this information, what will I do differently? Let your inner voice overpower external influences. Most importantly, always keep the main thing the main thing. If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with anyone who might benefit from its content. For more information, visit empoweredmastery.com or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com for any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

Curt Thomas, a dynamic keynote speaker with over 23 years of leadership and management expertise, shares his inspirational journey from overcoming the challenges of failing 9th grade to becoming a successful professional.  His diverse career spans from serving as an enlisted airman in the Air Force, a dedicated state trooper in South Carolina, to a seasoned account manager in a Fortune 500 company. Currently, Curt serves as a medical officer in the Air Force Reserve, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to service. Alongside, he is a thriving entrepreneur running CURT THOMAS UNLIMITED, LLC, and DENALI CONSULTING GROUP, LLC. With a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Claflin University, a Master's in Leadership from The Citadel, and pursuing a doctoral degree at Trevecca Nazarene University, Curt leverages his educational background and rich experiences to guide organizations towards achieving their goals through authentic leadership. As an accomplished author of 9 published books, Curt empowers individuals to unleash their full potential and become their best selves. His impactful message emphasizes the power of mindset and resilience in the face of challenges, inspiring lasting positive change and transformation within organizations nationwide.  **Key Takeaways from the Show:** - Curt's temporary failures fueled his drive to work harder and achieve success in life. - Transitioning from a life he disliked to focusing on his desired identity inspired his personal growth journey. - In the face of adversity, Curt shares the choice to either succumb like a victim or rise above challenges with resilience and a determined spirit. - Years of personal development and learning from high achievers empowered Curt to understand the importance of mindset and attitude shifts in navigating both personal and professional difficulties, leading him to rediscover the path to success.

This week on the Balanced Warrior podcast, coaches Chris Berlow and Mike Mertens delve into profound life philosophies. With decades of experience in martial arts training, personal development, entrepreneurship, and mentoring thousands of individuals, philosophy has become increasingly significant in their lives, particularly at their current life stage. Both Mike and Chris are 54 years old, with grown children, and while still actively engaged in their businesses and coaching, they reflect on the importance of living their best life. Whether facing a midlife crisis or recognizing the necessity of prioritization, this conversation resonates with individuals at all stages of life. Whether you are just starting your career or are retired, every day should be a good day to die, symbolizing truly living your best life. Key takeaways include: “Today is a good day to die.” - Native American saying “Remember you must die.” - Stoic saying “If today is to be your last day on earth, how do you choose to live?” - Grandmaster Byung Min Kim “Always be training” - Aspires you to strive for something and provides grace if you fall short Driven by Habits: Strive to be driven by habits and maintain consistency in your training Comprehensive Training: Training encompasses both physical and mental aspects, practiced consistently Reflect Daily: Ask yourself, “Am I leaving anything undone, unsaid, or unappreciated?” Focus on Calming Down: We cannot slow down, but we can focus on calming ourselves If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with anyone who might benefit from its content. For more information, visit empoweredmastery.com or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com with any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

In this week's episode of the Balanced Warrior podcast, coaches Chris Berlow and Mike Mertens delve into effective strategies for organizing overwhelming information. We also extend our congratulations to Mike for successfully hosting a National Convention with over 180 professional Taekwondo practitioners. The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers with decades of experience, offering attendees a wealth of knowledge. Post-convention, the challenge lies in digesting and implementing the extensive information shared. In this podcast, Chris and Mike discuss actionable strategies for effectively managing and utilizing the insights gained. Here are some key points and takeaways: Work on Your Business and Life: Conventions provide an opportunity to step back and focus on overarching goals rather than day-to-day tasks. Differentiate Between Notes and Actions: Understand the distinction between notes, lists, actions, and action plans. Evaluate Opportunities: When deciding on tasks, determine if they represent opportunities or distractions. Value-Driven Decisions: Run your business based on core values, avoiding the allure of the next "shiny object." Task Focus Within Projects: Concentrate on the specific tasks within projects rather than the projects as a whole. Strategic Project List: Create a strategic project list and consistently make progress on each item. If you enjoyed this podcast, please share it with anyone who might benefit from its content. For more information, visit empoweredmastery.com or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com with any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have all three coaches sharing their ideas on the best and most useful ways to whisk away the clutter with good Spring Cleaning.  Paul starts by discussing various strategies to rid toxins and purify his body for optimal performance.  Chris shares his approach to Spring Cleaning by tapping into the growth season with the abundant energy in nature and setting up for an adventure to get excited and inspired about the future.  Mike wraps up the conversation with strategies to clean out the clutter in business and assess what he and his team could do better.  All in all, listeners will surely benefit from three different approaches to Spring Cleaning.  Tune in and prepare for a fun conversation with all three Balanced Warriors and kickstart the Spring Season of growth to make an even more enjoyable summer.  Some key takeaways… Spring season is all about growth, so tap into the energy cycle of life. Spring is a time for new opportunities. Take the time to assess how to improve your health Spend more time in nature to align with growth energy. Spring is a great time to review what is working in business. Identify new KPIs and see how to maximize the team's efforts Do a budgeting purge with zero-based budgeting This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from decades among decades of experience. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

In this episode, Paul shares his experiencing with showing up to a speaking engagement that turned out to be far different than what he expected. Paul discusses how he overcame his initial feelings of embarrassment and disappointment using the "catch it, scratch it, erase and replace" method that allowed him to deliver a great presentation and enjoy the process as well.  Together Paul and Mike use this experience as jumping off point to discuss:  Why high performers in every field must have a strategy to obtain results, even when things don't go according to plan.  How to reconnect to your vision and keep the "main thing the main thing" when you find yourself  humbled by a surprise or a setback.  The importance of communicating from a sense of gratitude rather than ego.  How to frame all experiences as opportunities to learn.  This podcast has practical lessons to share for  workouts. Learn how to get the most out of every scenario so that you are always learning and growing. 

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have a special guest, Dylan Finn, a young man with unparalleled determination.  After fourteen days, Dylan awoke from a coma. Two weeks earlier, he was a typical college kid having fun, enjoying school, and hanging out with friends. But, on this particular day, Dylan had suffered a traumatic brain injury from a fall. With only a ten percent survival rate, Dylan found the strength and courage to flip the perspective of what happened to him and to use what he had learned to help others. His book titled Growth is the real story of what happened and Dylan's journey of learning, lessons, and light found at the end of the tunnel. A few takeaways from his inspiring story A positive attitude is everything when facing an obstacle, no matter how big. Focus on “I get to” instead of “I have to.” Always fail forward. Always strive for personal growth. Find a coach and mentor Embrace every moment like it's your last because it may be. This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from.  If you want to learn more about Dylan and his journey and purchase his book, please visit his website at https://www.dylan-finn.com/. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Podcast, we have coaches Chris Berlow and Paul Melella sharing their wisdom and experiences on maintaining their personal energy.  As discussed numerous times, restoring mental energy is vital to performing at a high level. If you are tuning into this podcast, you are likely a high performer.  And with all high-performance machines, you need to fuel it correctly, and rejuvenation time is our high-octane fuel.  Paul's scheduled March trip could not happen, and he is currently feeling the effects of not taking the time to rejuvenate.  He referred to the term professional bonking, and it is real, so we all have to pre-plan trips to ensure we are constantly restoring our mental energy to keep the momentum strong.  Some key takeaways are… Pre-plan respite time daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly to ensure you can sustain a high level of performance Don't take respite for granted Embrace change  Being present and mindful in whatever season of life you are in Nothing last forever, so absorb the moments fully now This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from decades among decades of experience and wisdom. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, all three Balanced Warrior Coaches discuss how to build the ultimate team. Whether you are a small or large business owner, a manager, a supervisor, or even someone looking for an intimate relationship, there are tips and strategies to help you find the right fit. Think about it…how much lost money and opportunity came from not hiring the right person?  It could be tens of thousands of dollars and countless hours before you figure out a relationship will not work.  Listen to this podcast and find out how to find the right fit for your company and even your life.  There are a lot of golden nuggets for you to take in, so be on the lookout for the following… Five Steps for onboarding  Share your Worthy Ideal, Worthy Ideal story.  (Your Why) Articulate your CORE values as an organization. Share the rules, responsibilities, and expectations of the role. Outline the goals of the position. Ask:  How do you see yourself fit in with our organization? Utilize the Kolbe System to find the M/O of the position and see if the candidate fits. Never discredit the importance of fitting in with the culture of the business. Employees are most important because they run the company/face the clients. This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from decades among decades of experience and wisdom. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

  This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have coaches Chris and Paul, who recently met with their Grandmaster, Grandmaster Byung Min Kim.  If you have been tuning in, you'll notice that Chris and Paul reference Grandmaster Kim's training often, and a lot of the lifestyle they both live is from Grandmaster Kim's teaching.  Of course, the meeting was profound and powerful, as with all of them, and had the two of them thinking and reflecting at a deeper level.  Tune in to learn a bit more about how to adopt the Il Il Shin (Be Better Everyday) lifestyle and listen to the takeaways that both Chris and Paul received.  Here are some key points to look out for… Sometimes, words have the same meaning but different interpretations. Stay out of the gap. Focus on progress, not perfection, and always be happy where you are. When feeling down, use three different stacks. Victory Stack:  Focus on your victories in life. Gratitude Stack:  Focus on what you're grateful for. Ego Stack:  Focus on the great things about you, the individual.  Ensuring that you are worthy of success. Take time for self-reflection: How could I do better?  Who am I? Evaluation of your personal behaviors. What is your personal definition of success? This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from decades among decades of experience and wisdom. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have a special guest, Master Antony Graf.  Master Graf has numerous accomplishments and accolades.  He was a nine-time US National Taekwondo Champion, a US Team Member winning 13 International medals, and more.  He turned his energy from competition to business and now owns and operates Believe Martial Arts, a highly successful martial arts school in Miami, Florida.  Even more significant, he has a fantastic marriage and two very inspiring and wonderful children.  He captured his stories and anecdotes on leadership and parenting in his new book, “Whispers of Wisdom.”  Master Graf profoundly impacts children, his own, and his students and many refer to him as the “kid whisperer.”  He is an empath who truly cares; he feels what others feel, and he has taken his unique abilities and is now sharing them with all of you.  There are numerous value bombs and golden nuggets you do not want to miss.  Whether you are a parent or a leader of a large organization, this podcast is for you.   Grab a pen and paper, be ready to take notes, and listen to all Master Graf has to share.  Some key points to look out for are…   “To teach is to learn.” When you speak to children, adults relate their own lives to the children's experiences. Most challenges adults face come from what happened when they were children. Feed the behavior you want, and starve the behavior you don't want. To help children or adults, you need to share their load and see things from their perspective. Up close, life is a tragedy; from afar, it is a comedy. Necessity is the mother of invention. Consistently challenging children allows them to overcome failure. Hard work doesn't guarantee success, but it greatly increases the odds. Conscious parenting: Be mindful of your words, eliminate “can't” and replace it with “I haven't done it yet.” This podcast has a ton of valuable wisdom, and it is right here for you all to benefit from.  If you would like to, and you should purchase Whispers of Wisdom, click this link: https://a.co/d/gAIZhNn.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

No matter what your external accomplishments are, your self worth tends to be dominated by your self perception. Mastering the "inner game" of a healthy self image is crucial for long term success. In this transparent and thought provoking discussion Paul and Mike discuss how to:    Challenge negative self-talk: Be mindful of your internal dialogue and challenge any self-deprecating or critical thoughts. Replace them with positive and empowering affirmations Reframe failure and mistakes: View failure and mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than proof of your inadequacy. Recognize that everyone makes mistakes and that it does not diminish your worth or competence Take care of your physical well-being: Engage in regular exercise, eat a balanced diet, and get enough sleep. Taking care of your physical health can have a positive impact on your self-esteem. Practice self-care: Prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Engaging in self-care regularly helps reinforce the belief that you are worthy of love and attention.  Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Instead of being discouraged by failures, see them as opportunities for growth. Learn from your mistakes, persevere, and celebrate your resilience.   These strategies are proven to boost your self esteem and energize you to pursue your goals with a renewed sense of passion and confidence! 

For those who do not know, BHAG stands for “Big Hairy Audacious Goals.”  And we always encourage our clients to set the BHAG at the beginning of the year.  However, doubt and fear set in as the year progressed, and things didn't go as planned.  This is normal, especially when someone creates goals that excite them and scare them simultaneously.  BHAGs are risky and require you to leave your comfort zone to accomplish your vision and worthy ideal.  In this podcast, Coaches Chris and Paul outline strategies to stay above the obstacles and keep the BHAG front and center, allowing you to stay away from the sharks and see yourself on the other side.  If you're not sure what that means, tune in to find out, as well as these other value bombs. Your goals should excite and scare you at the same time. You have to be above the obstacles. Be consistent in the day-to-day, and have to work to win the day. Set the 12-month goal and reverse engineer it to make manageable benchmarks. What is your definition of “winning the day.” Work to eliminate distractions, ease your mind, and when things get tough, do the next right action. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

On the Balanced Warrior Podcast this week, coaches Chris Berlow and Paul Melella discuss several ways to maintain a happy and loving relationship.  All three Balanced Warrior coaches pride themselves on having flourishing marriages with their wives, but of course, as with anything, there were challenges.  But always, the strength in the marriage is what allows them to overcome any obstacle that comes their way.  Coaches Chris and Paul share the seven strategies to build, maintain, and foster a deep relationship with the one you love the most.  And keep the spirit of Valentine's Day alive all the time in your marriage.  Because when things are good at home, you can successfully fulfill all the other obligations you have in life to the best of your ability. Always work on effective communication with your spouse. Pre-set quality time with and be present when you're together. Show appreciation…It's the little things that matter. Foster a relationship of trust and honesty. When facing adversity, work together as a team to resolve conflict constructively. Support each other's goals and ambitions. Maintain intimacy and work to keep the spark alive. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have coaches Chris Berlow and Mike Mertens talking about the empty-nesting season of life.  Many couples fall in love, get married, have children, raise their children, and when the children move out, they forget why they were together.  They focused solely on being great parents and providing for their children, which is very worthy and admirable, but they didn't take time for themselves.  Thankfully, that is not the case with Chris or Mike; in fact, it is quite the opposite.  Now that they have adult children, they have more time to pursue other hobbies and interests.  Both Mike's wife, Alisa, and Chris's wife, Kathy, completed a full Ironman and have taken their hobbies to an extremely high level.  Alisa rides her bicycle all over the world, and Kathy is always out for the next challenge.  The key to having a solid relationship is understanding and appreciating others' interests and passions, or as Mike put it, having an “Open ‘Hobby' relationship.”  Meaning they support each other in their endeavors but always find time for each other.  Some key takeaways to look our for are… Always invest in your relationships. Children should enhance a relationship and not change it. It is important to support your spouse's endeavors, no matter how bizarre and extreme. Be sure to come back to a “Common Ground” in between adventures. Ask your spouse, when proposing an idea, “Are you sure you are ok with it?” Communication is key. Earn your “Spousal approval credits.” If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

2023 was an interesting year for Balanced Warrior coaches Paul and Chris.  While Paul was growing his coaching business, Chris traveled the world and had a major knee replacement surgery.  Paul was highly focused, and Chris was, as Paul likes to joke, on the “Berlow world tour.”  There was a disconnect between them, and on this podcast, Chris and Paul put themselves through the powerful Rules and Values exercise to understand each of their perspectives.  On a very positive note, the two met at Paul's house in South Carolina, and both became reinvigorated.  In this very personal podcast, Paul and Chris drop many powerful lessons you could apply to keep your personal and professional relationships positive and meaningful. In a partnership, never go too long without connecting and aligning your goals. Be proactive with collaborative and creative meetings. Understand each other's motivation to appreciate their perspective. Keep the main thing the main thing. Paul values growth, and Chris values fun, which wasn't in alignment. Understanding each other's driving values allows for better communication. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

While most people set New Year's Resolutions that most likely fall by the waste side after a few weeks, Balanced Warriors Chris, Paul, and Mike share an alternative approach to New Year's Goals.  Why?  Because the fact is…New Year's Resolutions don't work!  They say the first action people take after New Year's is to join a gym, and the second one is to cancel the membership.  Paul shares his strategy on how he utilizes New Year's to make adjustments to the related areas of life, but because he is constant in his lifestyle, there is no need for dramatic change.  Please listen to what he says because he is masterful at maximizing his time and squeezing every ounce of juice out of his life.  He leaves no stone unturned and accomplishes more weekly than most people do monthly.  Now, Chris and Mike aren't slackers either; they also have some useful tips to add to the perfect formula for making 2024 the most productive and best year ever!  Here are some valuable tips to look out for… Identify the Core Four areas of life that are important to you when evaluating your New Year's Goals. Where are you going to invest more time and spend less time? Create three specific clarity goals for each area of life. Identify what you could do daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly to move the needle forward. Most importantly, time-block the action items in your calendar and protect it at all costs. Pre-plan rejuvenation time to make sure your batteries stay charged Commit to be consistent. And as always, If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

Many people are working tirelessly to finish the year strong at this time of the year. So much so that they work so hard that they become exhausted; while this is admirable, it does find reasons to reevaluate the end-of-year approach.  Chris and Paul have a powerful conversation that could help all aspiring Balanced Warriors approach 2024 consistently so they could have a strong and productive year while also enjoying the process. This takes prior planning and a proactive approach to the year rather than being reactive.  If you haven't heard of the “Five P's”, you will in this podcast.  “Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance,” especially for all high performers tuning in to the podcast.  Here is a list of highlights to look out for.  It's ok to hit the turbo buttons when needed Analyze the year to see how you could have done better Reflect on how you performed, what you could have done better, and when you excelled Learn to celebrate your victories and from your mistakes Rejuvenate and recover systematically so you can always have the energy to perform Plan for the next quarter and year with new strategic projects and goals Always work to level up!  (ABG..Always Be Growing) And most important, happy holiday season to all who take the time to listen to our podcast.  As always, If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have coaches Chris and Mike chatting about the holidays and how, for many, it is a very stressful time of year.  How do you get the perfect gift for your loved ones?  How much debt am I going to go into buying gifts for everyone?  Will our gathering be enjoyable or filled with stress?  Chris and Mike discuss all these points and how to keep the holiday spirit alive in your circles.  Listen and take notes on how to make your holiday season more memorable than ever before, and it very well could start with you.  As Balanced Warriors, we always strive to be better for ourselves and those around us, so embrace the holiday spirit, no matter what you celebrate, and make memorable moments that will last forever.  Here is a list for you all to ponder… Give the gift of experiences There is no greater gift than shared quality time When you give and do good deeds, it is good for your mental health Play “Dysfunctional Bingo” at your family gathering…a fun game to keep sensitive topics light-hearted And a very powerful quote from coach Mike, “I'm going to work with the state of the world that I create.” And most important, happy holiday season to all who take the time to listen to our podcast.  As always, If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have coaches Chris and Mike discussing the importance of treating people how you would want to be treated.   Chris just came off a European Cruise and was blown away by unparalleled customer service. He was so inspired that he shared it with Mike, and they decided it would be a powerful podcast topic.  The two of them dive into stories of excellent and negative customer experiences to demonstrate the extremes of the customer service spectrum.  Being in business for almost three decades, they have much to say about this topic.  Here are some of the highlights to look out for… We should never be too busy to be personable. It's all about relationship builders. Quote to live by, “Customers are not always right, but they are customers.” You tell a lot about a person and how they treat servers in a restaurant. Sincerity + Trust = Credibility Treat your clients like your family and your family like your clients. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

Being thankful and expressing gratitude is top of mind as we gather around the table for Thanksgiving. But how much more rewarding would you life and your relationships be if you centered them around gratitude every single day?  In this episode, Paul and Mike discuss how you can cultivate a gratitude mindset, and take consistent action to demonstrate your appreciation to others.  Paul's recommendation for music that creates the right state for starting each day The most powerful question you can ask yourself each morning  Real world examples of how your day succeeds or fails based on the "frequency" you are tuned in to  The relationship between appreciation and abundance  How getting emotionally connected to your goals creates momentum and follow through  Why successful  people expect to achieve what they envision  How Paul used the "gratitude theater" to reset his mind after a traumatic financial downturn  This is a powerful episode that has application to your health, home life and career. Listen in and learn how you can tap into the power of gratitude. 

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, all three coaches, Chris, Mike, and Paul, dig into the importance of responding to a situation instead of reacting.  Have you ever had a situation where you reacted a certain way and regretted it and wished you could have taken it back?  Or have you reacted in a way where all parties involved were better because of it?  Well. Chris, Mike, and Paul all experienced both and are sharing with all of the listeners the tips, tricks, and strategies to help you respond appropriately and not react in haste.  Because the latter will help you and those around you grow from the experience, whereas the former brings regret and could set you back in many ways.  So tune in, get a pen and paper ready, and take notes to learn how to respond and not react.  Some key takeaways to look for are…   When confronted with a situation, write it out and schedule time to address it. Run through a value checklist. Responding and not reacting takes conscious effort. If people bring toxicity to your world, disconnect with them. Understand the other person's rules, and you could respond more appropriately Make your rules easy to meet and hard to break Communicate your standards so they understand the rules of your game. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have coaches Chris and Mike reflecting on what they would tell their younger selves if they could do it again.  Both Balanced Warrior coaches discuss the mistakes they made in the past and what they would do differently if they turned back time.  Now that Chris is a new grandfather and Mike's children are adults, they took this opportunity to share their wisdom through the mistakes and successes of their past.  Hopefully, their children will listen, but if not, we know you will get great advice from this one. So, Tune in, grab something to take notes, put these tips into action, and use the hard-earned wisdom Mike and Chris share.  Here are some highlights to listen for… Don't wish for the future because it comes to you very fast. Show appreciation for people who help you, and do it at the moment. Keep the personal element in front of every communication because it is personal. Prioritize your priorities. Training for sport is excellent, but it's more important to train for life. YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG!…and don't let that be you! If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, Coaches Chris, Paul, and Mike discuss materialism vs. simplicity.  How it is possible to strive for growth and material things while maintaining a balanced state of existence.  And if it is possible, how do you do it?  This is a question that many people who experience some level of success often ask themselves. Well, the three Balanced Warrior coaches have some sound advice to ensure we all stay centered as we grow.  Some key takeaways are… Value experiences over things A sense of gratitude comes with a sense of abundance We are compensated in direct proportion to the impact that we make; want more? Make a more significant impact. Manifestation of money Create and deliver massive value The intention is to serve other people Have the right to earn money Residulalize the money Remember…success is good, but it must be earned! If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

  This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we again have all three coaches, Chris, Paul, and Mike, as they discuss the book, “Think Like a Monk” by Jay Shetty.  Mike had read the book and, because of what Balanced Warrior stands for, felt it was perfectly aligned with the Balanced Warrior philosophy.  While the book touches on many topics that have been discussed before, today's topic was how to stay positive when things aren't going the way you wish.  How do you stay positive in the face of adversity?  All three coaches share their personal stories, experiences, and anecdotes, making this episode one to tune into.  So grab your pen and paper, and get ready to jot down some value bombs that will surely keep you positive when things are not going your way.  Some key takeaways are… Have a set morning routine and get your mind in a positive state Put things into perspective when things are difficult Care less about the things you can't control and more about the things you can Use the statement, “Not Today!” when dark thoughts occupy your mind Spot, Stop, and Swap negativity Ask yourself, “What's the positive Focus on Progress, not perfection Time heals all wounds, and the pain you experience is only temporary If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Here is a link to “Think Like a Monk,” should you want to read it.  https://thinklikeamonkbook.com/ Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we are joined by all three coaches, Mike, Chris, and Paul.  The three of them dive deep into their extensive parenting experiences, through their own children, and from teaching thousands of kids, they share their most effective parenting tips to help children go back to school with a winning mindset.  There is no more meaningful work than parenting, and with Paul's children attending high school, Mike has one in college and is now into a career, and Chris has legitimate adults and is expecting to be a Grandfather this month, there is a wealth of knowledge to be shared, so tune in and get ready to send your kids back to school as Balanced Warriors.  Some key takeaways are.  Let your kids fail forward Tell them you love them, respect them, and are grateful they are your children Focus on character traits more than academics Be honest about their strengths, not just their weaknesses Encourage them to fulfill their passion Make their future bigger & and better than their past Be aware of the ramifications of the pandemic, and help them leave it in the past If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, we have an exceptional guest, Jerry Tavella, discussing the importance of replicable systems.  Jerry is a managing partner in Prosperian Wealth and a partner in Strategies for Wealth, the largest agency in the Guardian Life Insurance network located in Westchester, NY, and New York City. First as an advisor and now as a general agent, Jerry has cultivated a tremendous team, and continues to roll out top leaders in the industry.  He is a dedicated father, loving husband, and committed leader who has truly experienced multi-dimensional success and is now sharing his success strategies with all of you.  So get your pen and paper ready, and get ready to listen and write how to build a successful duplicatable and replicable business so you, too, can experience multi-dimensional success. Success is built on a duplicatable process, including a protege and a mentor. The protege must have a clear and concise growth plan and a clear progression from entry-level to partner. A protege model is a mutual relationship between the protege and the mentor. The protege model should be highly regarded as a paid graduate program. The protege model allows time expanse to free the junior and senior advisors to delegate and focus on higher-level tasks and projects. Be patient and don't rush the process, and allow the process to do its job so the quality of the team remains high. Create compensation based on the mentor's successes, so they can experience and see their potential. No better investment than an investment in good people. “When you invest in people, success is exponential.” Keep a steady proactive training program for the proteges. If you want to learn about what Jerry does, a possible career opportunity, and the ability to impact countless lives, you could contact Jerry at jtavella@prosperianwealth.com. If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, Coaches Chris and Mike are back to discuss the importance of properly preserving one's legacy.  Mike had the fortunate opportunity to purchase five martial arts businesses from his long-time Taekwondo Master, mentor, and business partner Grandmaster Chong.  The question was how to continue Grandmaster Chong's legacy while the businesses transitioned to new ownership.  There were many steps along the way, but most notable, were the two large retirement parties to celebrate Grandmaster Chong's legacy, which also acted as a celebration for the continuation of the organization under new leadership.  Mike and the team did it right!  They honored the man who started the business and showed all of the clients that they were in good hands.  Some notable takeaways to look for are… Small businesses should always properly plan for succession Respect and appreciation are key to passing on one's legacy It is important to pay it forward Position a business transition as a celebration Always remember where you came from and who helped you get where you are If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.

What do you do AFTER you accomplish a significant  goal that took you six months of daily effort  to achieve? That's the topic that Balanced Warrior coaches Paul Melella and Mike Mertens discuss on this episode. Having recently competed, and successfully won, his men's bodybuilding physique competition, Paul answers questions about how he felt in the moment and how he transitions on to his next higher set of goals. During this thought provoking conversation you will hear:  - The moment of clarity that struck Paul as he took to the stage regarding why he is driven to excel  - The degree of celebration that he allowed himself to enjoy after a victory  - The difference between a diet and a lifestyle  - The power of a vision board and keeping your most important goals in front of you  Mike also shares his own goals setting tips, including the link between physical goals and how to they impact your work and career goals as well.  As always, you can count on the Balanced Warrior podcast to provide you with interesting stories, real world examples, and strategies to help you aspire to and achieve more out of life. Enjoy listening and let us know what you think by providing us with a review. 

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, Chris shares with Coach Mike his path to recovery after double knee replacement surgery.  Just three weeks prior to his surgery, he was standing on to of the highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro, and then he was relearning how to walk.  Where most people in need of knee replacement do one at a time, Chris opted to get them both done at the same time so he would only have one surgery, one recovery, and one rehab.  Also, if it was a difficult recovery on one leg, he couldn't chicken out on the second one.  He knew it was going to be difficult, but he also knew the pain was going to be temporary and day by day he was going to improve.  For anyone who is hell-bent on keeping their passions alive as their body ages, or facing a hardship that needs to be overcome, this is the podcast for you.  Why, because no matter what obstacle is in front of you, it is having the right mindset that gets you through.  Some key takeaways are… It was necessary to mentally prepare prior to surgery Put a positive spin on whatever challenge you face It's all training Time is the greatest healer If something compromises your quality of life, just get it done We all should train for longevity  Strength and flexibility training becomes more important as we age If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.  

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast, Chris and Paul share some valuable tips on how to stay strong during the summer.  A lot of professionals believe that summer is inevitably going to be slow and in turn, business is going to be slow.  While it is true that people do take more time off in the summer, successful people will come up with innovative ways to make the most out of their time; not just in business, but all areas of life.  Paul and Chris give some solid strategies to take advantage of the summer and come out ahead, where most struggle to get through.  Some key takeaways are… It's ok to downshift during the summer but must continue growing If business is slow, put the energy towards other areas of life Use the summer to nurture key relationships Consistency is key Rejuvenate your mental energy daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly Pre-plan rejuvenation activities Eliminate distractions to be more production If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery. 

This week Mike and Paul discuss Paul's upcoming physique competition. The Balanced Warriors are all about taking on new fitness challenges, and pushing themselves to grow! As Paul explains, the benefits of taking on this unique challenge have extended to more than just the shape of his body. The discipline, habits, and sense of purpose required carry over into his relationships, work, and even faith.  Listen in as Paul shares:  A day in the life during the final phase of competition training  How to overcome temptation and peer pressure and stay on track  The 4 D's that make goal setting more effective  Why prioritizing your fitness is compatible with prioritizing your family Even if you never intend to lift a weight or to pose on a stage, Paul's experience will give you inspiration to take on your own unique fitness goals 

This week on the Balanced Warrior Podcast we have another very special guest, David Greenwood.  David is an accomplished author and podcaster, coach, and all-around great guy.  His two books, Overcoming Distractions and Overcoming Burnout are both timely and prescriptive given today's information overload that everyone is experiencing.  Dave's podcast provides tremendous value with insightful conversations on how to overcome the many distractions we face in our lives.  So whether you are a business owner, entrepreneur, manager, employee, parent, or student, this conversation will surely keep you focused, and provide proven strategies to help you accomplish all you set out to do.   Some key takeaways are… Self-awareness is key to overcoming distractions Clear your mind with a brain dump, then organize from there Don't just create a to-do list, schedule the actions in your calendar Keep tasks right in your face and make them easy to see You must own your ADHD and/or distractibility challenges Work to stay in control of your world instead of your world controlling you Always seek clarity   If you want to learn about David and all he has going on, go to overcomingdistractions.com, and we strongly recommend you listen to his podcast, Overcoming Distractions, and order either or both of his books.    If you enjoyed this podcast, please don't be shy and share it with anyone who would benefit from its content.  Visit empoweredmastery.com for more information, or contact us at info@empoweredmastery.com should you have any questions about Balanced Warrior and Empowered Mastery.