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Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Scott Anthony had already lived a life most people wouldn't believe. He grew up in Chicago street gangs, robbed drug dealers, trafficked cocaine, fled the United States, lived under aliases, and eventually built a new life in Mexico. Then he discovered another business: Cuban cigars. While still on federal probation, Scott says he began traveling to Cuba, buying hundreds of boxes of cigars, moving them through Mexico, and smuggling them across the U.S. border. What started with 40 boxes eventually grew into loads of hundreds at a time. His customers ranged from wealthy businessmen and cigar dealers to some of Chicago's biggest names—including Michael Jordan. In this episode, Scott breaks down the rise of his Cuban cigar operation, the border seizures, the people who moved the merchandise, his encounters in Cuba, and why he ultimately walked away from the business and put the money into building a legitimate fitness empire in Mexico. This is the story of a career criminal who eventually decided he'd pushed his luck far enough. Go Support Scott! IG: https://www.instagram.com/scottanthonyog YouTube: @ScottAnthonyOG Website: https://www.scottanthonyog.com/ Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Preview & Scott Anthony Intro 7:12 Gangs, Prison Influence & the Criminal World 14:58 Early Scores & Blowing the Money 21:55 Police Brutality & Run-Ins With Law Enforcement 28:12 Going From Petty Crime to Bigger Scores 38:17 Robbing Dealers 45:14 The $300K–$400K Drug Score 49:40 Shootout With the Cops 56:26 What Scott Was Wanted For 58:09 Fleeing to Mexico 1:07:35 Robbing Dealers & His Cop Cousin 1:12:26 Starting a New Life in Guadalajara 1:18:25 Fake Names & Living as a Fugitive 1:26:02 The Federales Find Him in Mexico 1:34:20 The Federal Plea Deal & Eight Years Probation 1:44:35 Back in Chicago & Life After the Case 1:53:59 How the Cuban Cigar Hustle Started 1:59:09 Smuggling Cuban Cigars Across the Border 2:04:49 Buying Cigars in Cuba & Moving Them North 2:10:12 Michael Jordan & Celebrity Cigar Customers 2:17:09 Smuggling Costs, Profit Margins & $500 Boxes 2:24:05 How Big the Cigar Operation Became 2:30:16 Could the Cuban Cigar Hustle Work Today? 2:39:40 Divorce, Scott's Books & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
George "Joby" Walters grew up in Ohio, joined the Army, and developed a passion for mechanics and motorcycles before joining the Avengers Motorcycle Club in Alabama. After an injury pushed him away from the club, he eventually landed in Arizona, where he patched into the Hells Angels in the late 1990s and became close personal friends with the legendary Sonny Barger. Over the next decade, Joby found himself in the middle of violent conflicts with rival clubs including the Mongols and Vagos and was present at the infamous Harrah's Casino riot in Laughlin, Nevada, on April 27, 2002, when the Hells Angels and Mongols clashed in one of the most notorious biker confrontations in American history. In the aftermath, he went on the run to Mexico, eventually took a plea deal that sent him to prison, and ultimately made the decision to walk away from the Hells Angels after 10 years. Now, Joby is telling the complete story of what life inside one of the world's most notorious motorcycle clubs was really like — from brotherhood and loyalty to violence, prison, and what it took to finally leave it behind. _____________________________________________ Thank you to HUNGRYROOT, AG1 & CASH APP for sponsoring this episode: Hungryroot: Explore my Hungryroot Digital Cookbook "THE COMMISSARY UPGRADE" at https://hungryroot.com/LOCKEDIN _____________________________________________ AG1: For a limited time, save 20% on your first subscription order of AG1 Next Gen or AG1 Pro at https://drinkag1.com/lockedin _____________________________________________ Cash App: Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/6pao71et #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. _____________________________________________ Connect with George "Joby" Walters: https://www.jobywalters.com/ _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:41 Growing Up in Rural Ohio 01:29 Joining the Army 02:16 Young Joby's Personality 03:00 Joining the Military 04:03 Life in the Army 05:39 Quitting Drugs and Alcohol 06:48 Life After the Army 08:07 Heading to Alabama 09:20 Meeting the Avengers 10:51 Finding Brotherhood 11:36 Prospecting with the Avengers 12:53 The Prospecting Process 15:24 What It Meant to Be a Biker 16:40 A Story with the Pagans 20:59 Communication and Money 22:45 Clubhouses and Fights 23:47 Marking People Out 26:00 Rules and Politics 27:44 Law Enforcement 28:54 Leaving the Avengers 30:30 Joining the Circus 33:44 Working with Elephants 36:35 Running From Yourself 39:04 Leaving the Avengers 43:45 Life in Arizona 47:01 Getting Back into Bikes 51:10 Meeting the Hell's Angels 56:39 Becoming a Prospect 59:16 The Warning 01:01:36 Prospecting Differences 01:04:36 Getting Patched In 01:06:11 The Reality of the Patch 01:07:58 Wars and Conflicts 01:09:00 The Laughlin River Run 01:11:20 The Aftermath 01:13:28 The Root of the War 01:15:20 Arrest and Charges 01:18:00 Jay Dobyns Revealed 01:20:39 The Vagos Incident 01:22:40 Fleeing to Mexico 01:24:30 Life in Mexico 01:26:00 Returning and Getting Caught 01:28:45 Going to Prison 01:30:40 Finding God 01:32:36 Last Conversation with Sunny 01:33:40 The Club's Evolution 01:35:50 Federal Prison 01:37:20 Preaching in Prison 01:40:12 Removing the Tattoos 01:41:12 Would You Do It Again? 01:43:00 Riding with Sunny 01:48:24 Getting Out of Prison 01:51:45 Pee-Wee and George Christie 01:53:30 Life After the Club 01:58:20 Final Thoughts _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka
What happens when the uniform comes off, but the skills, discipline, and drive to serve stay with you? At Advancing The Line, Elizabeth Stephens shares her journey from the U.S. Marine Corps to corporate leadership, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and international business.The conversation goes beyond career transition.Elizabeth talks about what it means to be a woman in the military, stepping into spaces where you may be the first or only one, and learning how to carry military experience into a civilian world that operates very differently.She also shares how she moved from corporate life into entrepreneurship, why she built DVS Cyber, and how her work expanded into cybersecurity, AI, global supply chains, risk, and projects across Africa.Segment Discussed:00:00 Opening and Advancing The Line Introduction05:06 Meet Elizabeth Stephens and Her Journey07:51 Women in Service and Women's History Month11:26 Being the First and Breaking New Ground13:06 Reframing Challenges and Operating in Chaos15:28 Understanding the Female Veteran Transition18:01 Identity, Confidence and Life After the Uniform23:08 Entering the Corporate World as a Woman25:34 The Need for Better Support for Female Veterans26:34 From Corporate Career to Entrepreneurship26:50 Why Elizabeth Built DVS Cyber30:23 Bringing Cybersecurity and Technology to More People31:40 Expanding Business and Technology Into Africa33:44 Adapting to Change and Finding New Opportunities35:06 Global Supply Chains, Mining and Responsible Business37:04 Government Contracting and Creating Global Impact38:18 Finding Opportunity in Changing Markets39:32 Culture, Community and Commerce40:20 Building Stronger Supply Chains and Managing Risk41:49 What It Really Means to Invest in Security43:16 Workforce Development and Community Opportunity44:02 Showing Up as Yourself Without Trying to Fit the Room47:23 Collaboration, Community and Closing Remarks Watch the full conversation with Elizabeth Stephens and hear how her experience moved from military service into technology, entrepreneurship, global business, and continued service to others.Subscribe for more conversations with veterans, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and people building their next chapter beyond the uniform
On February 17, 2024, five experienced cyclists set out on a familiar gravel-bike route through Washington's Cascade foothills. Nineteen miles into their ride, two cougars appeared on the trail. Seconds later, 60-year-old Keri Bergere was on the ground with a cougar's jaws clamped around her face.Her four friends rushed toward the attack. Armed with little more than rocks, sticks, and the equipment they carried on their bicycles, they faced a predator that refused to let go. With unreliable cell service and another cougar somewhere in the surrounding forest, the women were running out of options.In this episode of The Crux: True Survival Stories, Kaycee and Julie reconstruct the terrifying encounter, examine the medical dangers of a cougar attack, and explore the survival decisions that followed.A true story of wilderness survival, extraordinary friendship, and a fight that lasted far longer than anyone could have imagined.Episode Chapters 00:00– Introduction00:28 – A Cougar Encounter in Washington01:54 – Meet the Five Cyclists03:23 – The Magic Carpet Gravel Route05:30 – Two Cougars Appear06:16 – The Fight to Save Keri11:19 – The Medical Dangers of a Cougar Attack13:35 – A Multitool and a Chance to Escape16:00 – Trapping the Cougar With a Bicycle19:12 – Calling 911 and Finding GPS Coordinates21:57 – Wildlife Officer Arrives24:07 – Keri's Injuries and Recovery26:17 – Why Did the Cougar Attack?27:36 – Cougar Safety and the Fatal 2018 Attack32:00 – Life After the Attack35:29 – Survival Lessons and ClosingDan Becker Podcast. (2025, December 9). The BRUTAL Cougar Attack That Lasted 55 Minutes. Interview with Keri Bergere and fellow survivors.Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5qYp058PJe8UxMIK83wTf7Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-brutal-cougar-attack-that-lasted-55-minutes/id1867315096?i=1000744190052REFERENCES & FURTHER LISTENINGWashington Department of Fish and Wildlife. (2024). WDFW Statement on Cougar Incident in King County.https://wdfw.wa.gov/newsroom/wdfw-statement/wdfw-statement-cougar-incident-king-countyCarnegie Hero Fund Commission. (2024). 18 Will Receive Carnegie Medal for Extraordinary Acts of Heroism.https://www.carnegiehero.org/awardee_pr/18-will-receive-carnegie-medal-for-extraordinary-acts-of-heroism/Carnegie Hero Fund Commission. (2024). Carnegie Medal Presentation to Annie Bilotta, Tisch Schmidt-Williams, Aune Tietz, and Erica Wolf.https://www.carnegiehero.org/carnegie-medal-presentation-to-annie-bilotta-tisch-schmidt-williams-aune-tietz-and-erica-wolf/King, A., & Newcomb, N. A. (2024). A Cougar Attacked Them. They Fought Back for 45 Harrowing Minutes. KUOW.https://thankyou.kuow.org/stories/cougar-attack-washington-state-cyclistsThe Seattle Times. (2024). What Life Has Been Like for the 5 WA Cyclists Who Survived a Cougar Attack.https://replica.seattletimes.com/popovers/dynamic_article_popover.aspx?appcode=SEATTL&artguid=fc562bab-2913-4872-aecc-4e00f32a1b88&eguid=898dacfc-ca94-4db7-9458-9e581ee289e2&pnum=138The Guardian. (2024). Women Rescue Friend Being Mauled by Cougar in Washington State.https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/mar/18/washington-state-cougar-attackWroe, S., McHenry, C., & Thomason, J. (2005). Bite Club: Comparative Bite Force in Big Biting Mammals and the Prediction of Predatory Behaviour in Fossil Taxa. Proceedings of the Royal Society B, 272(1563), 619–625.https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2004.2986Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-crux-true-survival-stories--7265181/support.Listen AD FREE: Support our podcast at patreon: http://patreon.com/TheCruxTrueSurvivalPodcastEmail us! thecruxsurvival@gmail.comInstagram https://www.instagram.com/thecruxpodcast/Get schooled by Julie in wilderness medicine! https://www.headwatersfieldmedicine.com/This episode includes AI-generated content.
Welcome back to NICU Awareness Month. In this episode, Katie is sitting down with Kim Holland, mom of Tripp who was born at 27 weeks and also developed NEC. NEC, or Necrotizing Enterocolitis, is the inflammation of the intestine that often leads to the death of intestinal tissue/lining, which caused Tripp to undergo multiple surgeries and spend months in the NICU. Kim delves into the raw emotions she went through during her pregnancy with Tripp and his stay in the NICU as she had to make tough medical decisions. She also gives us some insight into how she coped and was ultimately able to create a new normal after the NICU. Katie and Kim speak on how to build community and support during a time of healing for all parents. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 1:30 - Kim's Family and Background 4:18 - Emergency C-Section and Preeclampsia Experience 7:39 - Tripp's Birth and NICU Journey 10:20 - Navigating the NICU 13:28 - Understanding NEC and its Impact 16:33 - Surgery and the Role of Faith 19:25 - Post-Surgery and Ongoing Challenges 34:57 - The Grim Reality of Medical Decisions 46:28 - Coping Mechanisms in the NICU 54:26 - Life After the NICU 58:34 - Building Community and Support Medical information shared in this episode is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your healthcare team for guidance specific to your child and family.
What happens when the mission changes, but the mindset stays the same?For Elizabeth Stephens, the lessons that carried her through military aviation also followed her into Microsoft, cybersecurity, AI, entrepreneurship, and her next chapter of public service. In this conversation from Advancing The Line, Zachary Broughton sits down with Marine veteran Elizabeth Stephens to talk about what military experience can really bring into life after service.Elizabeth shares her journey from the Naval Academy and Marine Corps aviation to working in cybersecurity and eventually managing major technology operations at Microsoft.But one idea keeps coming back throughout the conversation: veterans may not need to completely reinvent themselves when they leave the military.The ability to stay calm in chaos, manage risk, make decisions under pressure, adapt when plans change, and keep the mission moving can carry into business, technology, leadership, and entrepreneurship.Segments Discussed:03:24 Meet Elizabeth Stephens13:44 Why She Chose the Marine Corps15:34 How the Marine Corps Shaped Her Leadership19:02 Service, Mission, and Taking Care of Your People21:46 How Modern Warfare Is Changing22:45 Cybersecurity, Drones, and AI28:02 Life After the Military29:16 Finding a New Mission After Service30:25 Breaking Into Cybersecurity32:26 The Road to Microsoft34:39 Learning to Lead in Big Tech36:55 What Veterans Bring to the Civilian World37:47 Risk Management and Decision Making40:23 From Military Aviation to Microsoft41:39 The Veteran “Translation Gap”42:25 A Mission in Iraq That Tested Everything45:17 How Military Decision Making Translates to Corporate Leadership46:25 Why Veterans Still Need Community48:35 Finding the Next Mission49:28 Cybersecurity and the New Front Line51:40 Why ATL Vets Represents a New Mission52:26 Elizabeth's Decision to Enter Public Service53:24 Entrepreneurship, Cybersecurity, and Global Work59:48 Closing Conversation and Veteran CommunityIf you are a veteran building your next chapter, or a leader who wants to better understand what veterans bring to business and technology, watch the full conversation.Subscribe for more conversations from Advancing The Line and share this episode with someone looking for their next mission.
Ca$h Carter has been a Crip since he was 8 years old. Growing up in New York City with his father out of the picture, his mother battling addiction, and a foster mother raising him, the Harlem Crip set became the family he found in the streets. More than 20 years later, Cash has cycled through juvenile detention, Rikers Island, and multiple stints in New York State prison. He survived Rikers as a Crip, navigating gang politics, violence, and the realities that come with carrying that identity behind the wall. _____________________________________________ #crimenews #newyork #prison #harlem #rikersisland _____________________________________________ Thank you to CASH APP for sponsoring this episode: Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/6pao71et #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Discounts and promotions provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. _____________________________________________ Connect with Ca$h Carter: YouTube: https://youtube.com/@cashcarter_sobutta?si=L7a2Ih_PyG_HhOUl Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everythingsobutta?stkn=em5jcWpsaHpxaXlv _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 What Being a Crip Means 00:50 Growing Up in Roosevelt Island 01:34 Absent Parents and Foster Care 02:50 Mom's Addiction and Feeling Embarrassed 03:40 Stepping Up as a Young Man 05:00 A Wild and Reckless Kid 06:14 Becoming a Crip at 8 Years Old 08:06 Finding a Set and Crip Loyalty 09:50 Maturity and Changing Views on Bloods 11:34 Street Beefs in New York Today 12:40 Crips vs. Crips 13:07 Grandma's Disapproval 14:17 Teenage Dreams and First Arrest 15:01 Juvenile Detention Journey 17:00 Escalating Through Juvenile System 19:24 Source of Aggression 21:02 Violence and Respect 22:20 First Prison Reflection and Change 24:50 The Robbery That Wasn't 27:00 Wrongfully Accused Again 29:00 Fighting the Case 30:20 New Start in Florida 33:00 Struggling to Leave the Streets Behind 34:40 Arriving in Florida 36:00 Brotherhood in Florida 39:10 Rikers Island Overview 41:30 Standing Tall as a Crip 42:40 Manhood and Respect in Jail 44:00 Jail Became the Norm 45:26 Getting Stabbed 50:00 Life After the Stabbing 52:10 Finding Out Who Did It 54:50 Prison Weapons and Survival 56:48 The Jail Fight That Led to Extradition 01:03:43 State Time for Both Charges 01:04:12 Hospital and Involuntary Protective Custody 01:07:45 Accountability in Prison 01:11:00 Prison Hierarchies and Leadership 01:14:20 Racism and Guard Brutality 01:19:11 Doing the Time and Coming Home 01:20:40 Music as an Outlet 01:22:20 Why I Kept Carrying Guns 01:28:20 The Third Gun Charge 01:30:30 Taking the Fall for a Friend 01:33:13 Legal Troubles in New Jersey 01:35:00 The Jersey Court Process 01:36:50 Facing Parole and Discrimination 01:41:04 Jersey Charges Explained 01:43:10 Making the Best of the Last Bid 01:45:50 Still Crip, But Focused on Business 01:47:40 No Need to Prove Anything Anymore 01:52:40 Gang Members vs. Bangers 01:55:57 Advice to My Younger Self 01:58:40 Closing Thoughts on Crip Identity _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka
What I Discussed With Amy Gabrielle- How losing a partner can change our relationship with our body, identity, and desire.- Why grief and pleasure can exist alongside each other after loss.- Amy's experience of rediscovering sexuality and confidence after becoming a widow.- Dating after loss, including her experiences with dating apps and exploring new relationships.- How women can reconnect with their own desires without shame or guilt.- Why sexuality does not disappear as we get older.- The difference between seeking connection, companionship, and emotional security.- How society shapes the way women think about aging, relationships, and sexual expression.- Why rebuilding a relationship with yourself can be an important part of healing.- How honest conversations about sex and desire can create more freedom and confidence.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Amy Gabrielle on Desire After Loss03:00 Losing a Partner and Rediscovering Desire08:00 Dating After Loss and Starting Over13:30 Sexual Desire, Relationships and Life After 5018:00 What We Want From Relationships Now22:00 Widow's Fire: When Grief and Desire Meet26:00 Sex, Aging and Challenging Expectations30:00 Shame, Confidence and Accepting Your Body34:00 Dating, Boundaries and Finding What Feels Right37:00 Pleasure, Freedom and Owning Your Desire40:00 Closing Thoughts and Amy's Book Widow in the CityShownotesIn this episode of Sex Advice for Seniors, I'm joined by Amy Gabrielle, writer, digital creator, and author of Widow in the City.After losing her husband to cancer, Amy found herself navigating grief, identity, and an unexpected return of desire. In our conversation, we explore what happens when loss changes the way we see ourselves, our bodies, and our relationships.We talk about the complicated relationship between grief and pleasure, the experience of dating after loss, and what it means to rediscover yourself in midlife.Amy shares openly about rebuilding confidence, exploring sexuality, and letting go of the shame that many women carry around aging and desire.This is a conversation about much more than sex. It is about identity, healing, connection, and giving ourselves permission to continue growing and changing throughout life.Key Takeaways- Grief does not erase desire; both can exist at the same time.- Rediscovering yourself after loss can be a powerful part of healing.- Sexuality and intimacy continue to evolve as we age.- Women deserve to explore their own desires without shame or judgment.- Relationships after 50 do not have to follow traditional expectations.- Confidence often comes from reconnecting with yourself first.- Honest conversations about sex can help reduce shame and create deeper connections.About the GuestAmy Gabrielle is a writer, digital creator, and advocate for authentic self-expression in midlife women. Following her husband's death from cancer, she began using memoir and social media to explore the complex intersection of grief and desire, cultivating a community of thousands drawn to honest conversations about life after loss. Her work appears in Absolute Pleasure on Substack, as well as Medium publications including The Memoirist and Slackjaw. She lives in New York City, where she enjoys photography, travel, and raising her son.About SuzanneSuzanne Noble is a sex and relationship expert, author, and host of Sex Advice for Seniors, a podcast for people who want to enjoy sex, intimacy, and connection at every age.Through her podcast, newsletter, courses, and community, Suzanne challenges the idea that sex has an expiry date and offers honest, practical conversations about sexuality, ageing, relationships, and pleasure.Connect With SuzanneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexadviceforseniorsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sexadviceforseniorsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sexadviceforseniorsSubstack: https://sexadviceforseniors.comConnect with AmyWebsite https://amygabrielle.com/Instagram @amygabriellenyc https://www.instagram.com/amygabriellenyc/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amygabriellenycWant More?Visit the Website: https://sexadviceforseniors.com — includes FREE guides and resources for better sex at any age.Free Downloadable Guide: 10 Most Overlooked Secrets to Better Sex PDF: https://subscribepage.io/suzannenoblefreebieSign Up for My FREE Newsletter: https://sexadviceforseniors.comOvercome Erectile Dysfunction & Stay Firm: https://www.stayfirmprogram.comCheck Out My Storefront for Better Sex: https://zaap.bio/stayfirmInterested in 1:1 Coaching or Custom Sex Advice for Seniors Sessions? https://tidycal.com/suzannenoble/30-minute-mentoringRelated EpisodesSex and Dating when a Widower https://www.sexadviceforseniors.com/p/episode-83-sex-and-dating-when-a?utm_source=publication-searchDating After Loss: Redefining Love and Intimacy After Widowhoodhttps://www.sexadviceforseniors.com/p/sex-grief-and-starting-over-dating?utm_source=publication-search This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.sexadviceforseniors.com/subscribe
If you're wondering whether things really do get better after divorce, this episode is proof that they can - one step at a time.Kate is joined by Michelle Lynne, a Canadian concert pianist and singer, who shares how she found her way back to herself after a painful divorce, and turned that journey into her debut album.In this episode, we cover:How Michelle found her way back to herself after divorceHow a creative outlet can help you sit with grief instead of rushing past itWhy it's ok to tell people what you actually need from themWhat it took to turn Michelle's experience into her debut album, One Step at a TimeThis episode is for anyone who feels lost after a relationship ending and looking for a creative way to process a difficult season.Trigger warning: this episode touches on poor mental health, including thoughts of suicide, alongside grief and divorce-related trauma. If any of this feels close to home, please take care while listening - support is available from Mind, Samaritans, or your GP. Meet Michelle LynneCanadian pianist, singer and speaker Michelle Lynne is known for her dynamic, communicative performances and her ability to forge warm, personal connections with audiences. Appearing frequently as a chamber musician, collaborative pianist, and educator, she is currently on tour in Europe and has performed for over 250,000 people, most recently in the Eiffel Tower. Her debut album One Step at a Time released Nov 2025, and was born out of her own journey through a painful divorce.You can find out more about Michelle on her website and make sure to follow her on Instagram and you can listen to her debut album One Step at a Time on Spotify. More divorce resourcesNeed expert help right now?Book a free 15-minute consultation with an amicable expert for guidance on the legal, financial, emotional or co-parenting aspects of separation. Want ongoing support as you rebuild after separation?Join amicable space for bonus podcast episodes, exclusive webinars and articles on healing after divorce and an interactive community where you can share questions and get expert advice from amicable specialists. Start your free trial here.Kate's book amicable divorce includes dedicated chapters on emotional readiness and timing, navigating separation with kindness and rebuilding your identity and moving forward with confidence. Find it on Amazon today.Got a question for a future episode?Share your thoughts at hello@amicable.co.uk or through direct messages on Instagram.#LifeAfter
Are you a pest control owner looking to grow? Join Our Facebook Group with 4,600+ Members: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pestcontrolmillionairesNick Bartolo is the Founder and Managing Partner of Essential Partners: www.essentialpartners.comCheck out his Socials!: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bartolo/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickbartolo_ep/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EssentialExit Email: info@essentialpartners.comJonas's Socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonasaolson/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonas.olson.18/Check out Jonas's Book ‘'Zip Code Kings'': https://pestcontrolmillionaires.com/zip-code-kings/The Pest Control Millionaire Podcast is all about helping small business owners scale their lawn and pest companies by talking to experts in the service industry.For business coaching and mentorship, visit: pestcontrolmillionaires.com Produced by Sofia Salaverri and Dalton Fisher, Fisher Multimedia LLCFisherMultiMedia.comChapters:00:00 — Intro & Nick's Background02:04 — Who Are the Biggest Players in M&A Right Now06:29 — Are Premium Multiples Here to Stay?07:18 — The Pesco Question: What Happens When Big Roll-Ups Sell10:33 — Rollins Down 45%: Why It Matters for the Industry16:52 — AI Disruption vs. the Blue-Collar Advantage19:09 — Where All the PE Money Is Coming From20:55 — Lead Costs, CAC & Knowing Your Numbers24:44 — Preparing to Sell: The Business Side29:00 — The Personal Side: Identity, Loneliness & Life After the Sale36:20 — On the Fence? Running the Scenario Analysis39:20 — The Biggest Mistake: Tax Planning Before the LOI47:49 — Investing After the Exit: Getting Rich vs. Staying Rich52:18 — Pestworld Plans & Wrap-Up#pestcontrolmarketing #pestcontrolbusiness #pestcontrolleads #pestcontrolowner #pestcontrolpodcast #jonasolson
Jimmy “Easy” Saracco lived the kind of Mafia life most people only know from movies. In this episode, the former DeCavalcante associate opens up about coming up in New York's underworld, making serious money through bookmaking and loansharking, carrying out violent orders, and operating around the New Jersey crime family often associated with the real-life inspiration behind The Sopranos. Jimmy also tells the story of his explosive feud with John Gotti Jr., including his claim that Gotti Jr. was involved in a plot to have him killed. After surviving a brutal attack that left him stabbed and in a coma, Jimmy says he wanted revenge—but Mafia politics made Gotti Jr. untouchable. Years later, the world Jimmy had lived by began collapsing from the inside. Bosses, captains, and associates started cooperating with the federal government, leaving Jimmy facing the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison. Eventually, he made the decision he once thought was unthinkable: he cooperated too. Jimmy explains why he flipped, what it felt like walking out of his first proffer session, the murders and rackets he admitted involvement in, his time in witness protection, and why he says his life today is better than the one he left behind. This is the story of money, murder, loyalty, betrayal, the real-life Mafia world behind The Sopranos—and what happens when the code everyone swore to live by finally falls apart. Go Support Jimmy! Book: https://a.co/d/0iR1D8xx YouTube: @JIMMY_EASY_SARACCO This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Quince! Find your next fall favorites at Quince. Download the Quince app for app-exclusive offers, or go to https://quince.com/connect Shopify! The only thing standing between you and your own income is getting started. Free trial at https://shopify.com/mitchell Quo! Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://quo.com/theconnect Mood! Head to https://mood.com, browse their amazing selection of functional gummies, and find the perfect gummy for whatever you're dealing with. Use promo code CONNECT at checkout to save 20% on your first order. Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 0:00 Jimmy Easy: Murder, Loansharking & the DeCavalcante Family 7:03 Becoming an Earner & Entering the Mob Life 14:29 Social Clubs, Rikers Island & Early Prison Time 20:12 Vigilante Street Justice & a Brutal Mob Story 22:59 This Episode Is Sponsored By Quince 24:52 Building His Crew & the Holmdel Robbery 35:09 Bookmaking, Loan Sharking & Mob Collections 41:07 This Episode Is Sponsored By Shopify 42:18 Vinny Palermo, Mob Hits & Disappearances 49:29 The 1997 Arrest, FBI Setup & Cooperators 56:17 Mob Territory, Kickbacks & Making Money 1:00:12 This Episode Is Sponsored By Quo 1:01:22 John Gotti's Influence & Sopranos Connections 1:10:34 Extortion, Tow Trucks & Illegal Businesses 1:15:34 This Episode Is Sponsored By Mood 1:16:54 Jewelry Heists, Fences & Whitey Bulger 1:22:18 Chop Shops, Stolen Cars & Insurance Fraud 1:28:08 Courtroom Corruption & Buying Your Way Out 1:33:33 The Night John Gotti Jr.'s Crew Tried to Kill Him 1:39:32 Inside the DeCavalcante Family Structure 1:45:24 Medical Fraud, Hospitals & Massive Kickbacks 1:51:05 The World Trade Center Robbery & Ralphie Flips 1:58:45 Insurance Money, Wiretaps & the Coming Indictment 2:05:03 The Feds Close In & the Murder Charges 2:13:23 Facing Life in Prison & Deciding to Cooperate 2:20:00 Sentencing Deals, Cooperators & Witness Protection 2:27:35 Leaving WitSec & Life After the Mafia 2:30:00 Hit Man Tells All, Jimmy's YouTube & Closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
I spent nearly 15 years in bodybuilding, competed almost 20 times, became an IFBB Pro, and coached other women through contest prep. So why did I eventually walk away? In this episode, I'm getting brutally honest about the side of women's bodybuilding that nobody really talks about - steroids and performance-enhancing drugs, post-show rebound, body image, genetics, the insane cost of competing, judging, coaching, posing, and what happens when bodybuilding becomes your entire identity. I'm sharing what I wish someone had told me before I stepped on that first stage, including the reality of contest prep, what happens to your body after a show, and why "just stick to the plan" isn't always enough. And this is only Part 1. Next week, we're getting into perimenopause, your cycle, fat burners, GLP-1s, and how bodybuilding can affect your relationships. #Bodybuilding #WomensBodybuilding #BodybuildingWomen Key Takeaways: 00:13 Why I Stayed for So Long 01:45 What Happened After My First Show 03:39 How Bodybuilding Became My Identity 06:07 Becoming the Go-To Bodybuilding Girl 10:15 When I Started Seeing the Cracks 12:14 My Biggest Backstage Wake-Up Call 14:48 The Reality of Post-Show Rebound 17:46 The Biggest Post-Show Danger Zones 20:06 Why You Never Really Come Out Ahead 22:00 How Much Does Bodybuilding Actually Cost? 24:43 The Real Cost of Competing 26:22 Can You Actually Make Money Competing? 28:11 The Ego Trap of Bodybuilding 28:45 You're the Product, Not the Customer 29:47 Why the Goalpost Keeps Moving 33:06 Where's the Protection for Athletes? 34:45 Red Flags to Watch for in a Coach 36:54 The Reality of Life After a Show 39:55 Why Posing Can Make or Break You 43:09 Steroids, Drugs & The Genetics Factor 47:54 The Health Risks You Can't Undo 48:47 I Literally Passed Out Trying to Win 50:58 What's Coming in Part 2 + Share This Episode Links mentioned: Listen to last week's episode here: https://bossbitchradio.libsyn.com/is-bodybuilding-actually-healthy-a-pros-honest-answer Want more? Join the newsletter! Behind the scenes of the pivot, brand partnerships, real life in progress, and the things I'd only tell you in a DM: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/newsletter Connect with Diane: Website: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/ Come find me on Instagram and reply to my Stories. I actually read everything and your opinion literally shapes the brand work I do: https://www.instagram.com/thebossbitchdiane/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dianeflores_ifbb_pro Are you a brand looking to work with me? I create content for brands I actually use and love. With 19 years of marketing and sales experience and an audience of women over 40 who are done being ignored by the brands that should be speaking to them. View my portfolio and let's talk: https://buffbunny.my.canva.site/diane-flores-ugc-portfolio Freebies: Fit Girl Gift Guide: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/fit-girl-gift-guide My Favorite Supplements: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/myfavoritesupplements Protein Snack List: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/protein-snack-guide Lower Body Blueprint: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/lower-body-blueprint Full Body Training Program: https://www.bossbitchradio.com/full-body-gym-program
Glen "Big Baby" Davis grew up with a love for theater, got drafted to the NBA, won a championship with the Boston Celtics, had his career ended by injury, navigated the struggles of life after the league, made decisions that produced a federal indictment, went to prison — riding Con Air, surviving the specific realities of federal institutional life, and collecting the stories most people never get to hear — and is finally sitting down for his first interview since being released to tell the complete truth about everything. _____________________________________________ #prison #truecrimestories #prisonstories #NBA #bostonceltics _____________________________________________ Thank you to CASH APP for sponsoring this episode: Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/6pao71et #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Intake: The Weirdest Strip Search 00:36 From NBA Champion to Federal Prison 01:02 Landing the Role on Power 03:17 Growing Up in Baton Rouge 04:40 Forced into Sports vs. Theater Passion 05:23 The Origin of 'Big Baby' 06:33 Teenage Curiosity and Escaping the Streets 08:25 Realizing the NBA Dream 10:20 College Years: LSU and Full Sail 12:56 The Hidden Side of Big Baby 13:27 Drafted to the Celtics: Championship Run 15:18 Timing, Fate, and the Celtics-Lakers Rivalry 16:35 Life After the Celtics: Orlando and Clippers 17:10 The Fake Car Accident Story 18:51 Staying Away from Trouble at the Peak 20:33 Survivor's Guilt and Keeping Boundaries 21:44 Athletes Losing Identity After Sports 23:20 Planning for Life After Basketball 25:54 Rebuilding Finances: Cash App Green 28:16 Financial Mistakes and Lack of a Plan 29:25 Going Back to School for Acting 30:44 Would the Injury Have Prevented Prison? 31:50 The Fraud Scheme Explained 34:38 Discovering the Federal Investigation 36:18 The Timeline and Lack of Concern 37:02 Why He Didn't Reach Out to Co-Conspirators 38:40 Arrested and the Media Firestorm 40:02 Disproportionate Punishment: $80K Restitution 41:35 Others Who Got Away: Tony Allen, Matt Barnes 43:36 Dealing with Public Scrutiny and Betrayal 45:46 Losing Relationships and Reputation 46:35 Pre-Trial Release and the Decision to Go to Trial 47:38 Why the Jury Convicted Him 49:30 The Verdict: Feeling Helpless 51:02 Aftermath: Cut Off and Shunned 51:50 NBA Treatment and the Cloud Over Him 53:09 Sentencing: Four Years for $40K 56:34 Preparing for Prison and Self-Surrender 57:20 First Day: The Drive to Duth 59:49 Intake: The Booty Hole Jump 01:00:17 The Guard Knew Who He Was 01:00:33 The Ride with the Girl 01:01:00 Building 7: The Horrible First Housing 01:01:44 Prison Welcome and Getting a Phone 01:03:38 Smuggling Phones and the Cost 01:04:16 First Prison Meals and Holiday Food 01:05:29 Commissary Favorites: Nachos and Crack Bars 01:06:36 Mackerel as Currency and the Laundry Business 01:08:50 Roommate Steve McBee 01:09:43 Smuggled Food and Best Dishes 01:10:56 Case Managers and the Halfway House Struggle 01:12:33 Halfway Houses: Worse Than Prison 01:13:00 Rehabilitation and Recidivism 01:14:06 Why He Got Transferred from Duth 01:15:19 Watching Power in Prison 01:16:34 Getting Caught with Contraband 01:19:22 Solitary Confinement: The Horror 01:21:02 Reflecting on Mistakes in Solitary 01:21:20 Con Air: The Ride and the Chaos 01:23:58 Arriving at Terra Haute 01:25:03 The Journey to Yankton 01:26:36 Terra Haute: The Transfer Experience 01:28:14 Oklahoma City: The Hellhole with K2 01:30:05 Encounters with Gang Members and Murderers 01:32:43 The Constant Strip Searches 01:33:18 The Month-Long Transfer Process 01:33:57 Yankton: A Camp Run Like a Low 01:35:36 Sports and Gambling in Prison 01:38:20 Inmate Treatment and Photos 01:39:02 Celebrity Support and Power Cast Relations 01:40:11 Total Time Served and Release 01:40:51 Getting Out: The Halfway House 01:41:21 Home Confinement: The Ankle Monitor 01:42:47 Working at Hidden Empire Films 01:43:28 Reaching Out After Release 01:44:38 Current State: At Peace and Moving Forward 01:45:56 Restitution: Still Paying for His Own Money 01:46:46 Probation and Public Reception 01:48:54 Advice to Younger Self 01:49:41 Final Thoughts and Future Plans _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka
Episode 263 of the Transition Drill podcast explores military career transition and rebuilding your identity after service for veterans and first responders navigating the move into civilian life. You'll hear retired Navy Senior Chief Timothy Henderson on leaving behind nearly three decades in uniform, and what it takes to turn military experience into a meaningful next chapter.Tim grew up in Chicago's Cabrini-Green projects surrounded by gangs, drugs, and limited examples of what life could become. After losing both parents young, becoming a father as a teenager, getting into trouble, and nearly losing his direction, a judge pushed him toward a military recruiter. He joined the Navy in 1997.What began as one enlistment became a 27-year career. Tim went from an undesignated sailor to Gunner's Mate, serving aboard ships, in San Diego and Japan, with Naval Special Warfare, in training commands, and ultimately in senior leadership. Along the way, mentors changed how he viewed education, leadership, professional development, and preparing for the day the uniform came off.Tim didn't wait until retirement to think about what came next. He built relationships, developed his network, and lined up civilian work before leaving service. Still, employment didn't eliminate the challenge of separating Tim Henderson from Senior Chief Henderson.Today, he's a civilian department head at Navy Munitions Command while pursuing public speaking, mentoring, process-improvement consulting, and plans for a future business focused on ethical AI. His story shows why transition isn't simply finding another job. It's figuring out who you're becoming next.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comCHAPTERS0:00:00 — Intro: The Decision That Changed Everything0:00:46 — Growing Up in Cabrini-Green0:08:05 — Trouble, Loss, and Losing Direction0:10:51 — Fatherhood at Seventeen0:13:08 — A Judge Offers Another Path0:20:30 — Joining the Navy in 19970:28:44 — Reenlisting Before 9/110:30:43 — Finding His Calling as a Gunner's Mate0:35:13 — Going Home Changed His Perspective0:42:30 — Trouble in the Navy and a Second Chance0:44:34 — Stop Living for Other People0:47:24 — The Leaders Who Gave Him a Clean Slate0:50:31 — Earning His Way to SEAL Team One0:57:31 — Responsibility Changed the Sailor0:59:30 — Finally Making Navy Chief1:00:21 — Why He Stayed Beyond 20 Years1:04:52 — Education as Personal Growth1:11:32 — Preparing for Life After the Navy1:15:16 — When the Uniform Is No Longer You1:18:12 — Building the Next Mission1:23:36 — Your Transition Is Your Own1:26:27 — Outro: The Next Chapter BeginsSPONSORS:GRND Collective: Premium, veteran-owned sportswear built for those who show up, outwork the excuses, and give 100%. Score 15% off your order at thegrndcollective.com using promo code TRANSITION15 at checkoutBlue Line Roasting: Premium, law-enforcement-owned coffee roasted to fuel the shift. A portion of every order directly supports law enforcement families facing line-of-duty injury or loss. Save 10% at bluelineroasting.com with promo code Transition10Frontline Optics: Premium eyewear founded by a firefighter and built to withstand the job. Every single purchase helps support the First Responders Children's Foundation, serving families who've paid the ultimate price. Save 10% off your pair at frontlineoptics.com using promo code Transition10
Milo Deported: The Law, Laura Loomer, Free Speech & Life After the First AmendmentMilo Yiannopoulos has been deported from America and returned to Britain.But what actually happened?In this episode of Go Right with Peter Boykin, we examine the reported immigration timeline, Milo's missed hearing, his final removal order, his American marriage, unanswered immigration questions, Laura Loomer's involvement, and the growing debate over whether this was straightforward immigration enforcement or whether there is more to the story.Then we move into The Go Right with Peter Boykin Perspective.I have disagreed with Milo plenty. He blocked me on X. He has said things I found offensive.That does not change the principle.You don't have to like someone to defend their right to speak.You don't have to excuse immigration violations to demand due process.You don't have to choose between strong borders and limited government.The law should apply equally, and government power should always have guardrails.We also examine Milo's return to Britain and the major differences between American and British laws involving free speech, online expression, radical Islamist terrorism, firearms, and self-defense.And at the end of the podcast, hear my original medieval folk political anthem:“The Law at the Gate”Because when enforcement becomes personal, principles matter most.Full articles, sources, and continuing updates:Go Right News:https://gorightnews.com/milo-yiannopoulos-got-deported-the-bigger-story-is-what-nobody-has-explained-yet/https://gorightnews.com/milo-is-back-in-britain-the-first-amendment-didnt-follow-him-home/SubStack:https://gorightnews.substack.com/p/milo-yiannopoulos-got-deported-the?r=2j2tehttps://gorightnews.substack.com/p/milo-is-back-in-britain-the-first?r=2j2teRumble:https://rumble.com/v7eu5cu-milo-deported-the-law-laura-loomer-free-speech-and-life-after-the-first-ame.htmlYoutube:https://youtu.be/q0GTH_iH_8kBitchute:https://www.bitchute.com/video/Os1SUudnkyd8/Spreaker:https://www.spreaker.com/episode/milo-deported-the-law-laura-loomer-free-speech-life-after-the-first-amendment--74751828Follow Peter Boykin the Constitutionalist for Liberty on Substack.Share this video if you believe in:Strong borders.Fair hearings.Free speech.Equal justice.Limited government.Let's Go Right.#MiloYiannopoulos, #MiloDeportation, #Immigration, #ICE, #FreeSpeech, #FirstAmendment, #DueProcess, #LauraLoomer, #RuleOfLaw, #CivilLiberties, #Constitution, #BorderSecurity, #UK, #Britain, #GoRight, #GoRightNews, #PeterBoykin,#ConstitutionalistForLiberty, #TheLawAtTheGateBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/go-right-with-peter-boykin-the-constitutionalist-for-liberty--3096608/support.
Some marriages get tested by distance. This one got tested by war, by silence, and by a version of a man that combat left behind. In this episode, I sit down with Marcus Capone, a retired Navy SEAL of 13 years, and his wife Amber Capone, co-founder and CEO of VETS (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions). We walk through the true cost of elite military service and their recovery, individually and as a couple. Marcus speaks candidly about compartmentalization, a survival skill that protects a SEAL in combat but erodes his home life, his drinking habits, treatments that failed him, and a period when suicide felt logical. Amber talks about her resentment and the personal work that freed her from waiting to be rescued. It's a story of refusing to stay stuck, and of a treatment that changed everything afterward.What we explore:- How deployment trains you to compartmentalize, and why that skill quietly erodes a marriage.- Why conventional PTSD treatments failed Marcus, and the undiagnosed traumatic brain injury behind it.- What ibogaine treatment actually involves and what shifts after.- How Amber healed through therapy, faith, and surrender rather than waiting on Marcus.- Why heavy drinking and pharmaceuticals became coping tools, and what finally broke the cycle.- Why roughly 17 veterans die by suicide daily, and what VETS is building to change it.Chapters:00:00 A Navy SEAL Couple's Journey to Healing02:17 Choosing the SEAL Path After 9/1106:17 Raising Kids Alone as a SEAL Wife11:41 The BUD/S Mindset That Changes You16:21 What Constant Deployments Do to a Family18:09 How SEAL Wives Compartmentalize Marriage21:26 Life After the Teams and Losing Purpose29:35 Why He Left the SEALs for Banking35:24 The Therapy Breakthrough That Saved Amber43:34 How Suicidal Thoughts Start With Numbing45:57 Why Ibogaine Worked After Everything Failed52:56 What Happens During an Ibogaine Trip01:01:00 How Amber Saw Her Husband Change01:05:08 Fighting FDA Barriers to Fund Veteran Healing01:08:31 How to Support Veterans With PTSDAbout Marcus and Amber Capone: Marcus Capone served 13 years as a U.S. Navy SEAL before facing a harder battle at home: depression, TBI, PTSD, and treatments that never held. Amber Capone supported that career while raising their family, then drove the search for what conventional medicine missed. In 2019 they co-founded VETS, a nonprofit expanding access to psychedelic-assisted therapies for veterans through treatment grants, research, and policy reformConnect with Marcus and Amber Capone:Website: https://thecapones.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@conversationswiththecaponesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcus_amber_caponePodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ssUKN0CoCBU0SRDqFCYIu–The Gabby Reece ShowThis is where I have real conversations with the people I find most worth listening to: scientists, athletes, coaches, parents, and thinkers who are doing the hard work of building a life that holds up over time. No hacks. No quick fixes. Just honest, practical conversations about performance, longevity, relationships, and what it actually takes to show up well at every age.If you are here, you probably already know that health is not a destination. It is how you live. I am glad you are along for it.Connect with Gabby Reece:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbyreece/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gabbyreeceofficialWebsite: https://gabriellereece.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thegabbyreeceshow.substack.com
Marine Corps Sergeant Major Jean-Paul Corville served 22 years in the United States Marine Corps from 1991 to 2013, earning the Bronze Star with Valor and rising to the rank of Sergeant Major.In this episode of Urban Valor, Corville shares Marine Corps boot camp stories, infantry life, combat in Iraq, leadership lessons, disaster response in Japan, and the decision that ultimately changed the course of his career.He talks about growing up shy and overweight in Louisiana, transforming himself through training, choosing the Marines, becoming an 0331 machine gunner, serving at 29 Palms, deploying to Okinawa, becoming a drill instructor, and eventually reaching the highest enlisted levels of Marine Corps leadership.Corville also opens up about combat, loss, mistakes, consequences, and what happened when one decision cost him more than he ever expected.From hilarious Marine Corps stories to some of the darkest moments of his life, this is an unfiltered look at a 22-year military career from someone who lived it at every level.
Before there was Dubya, there was Ann Richards the sharp-tongued, silver-haired Democrat who went from schoolteacher to Governor of Texas. Ann Richards battled alcoholism, got sober, transformed the Texas Treasury, and became a national political star after her unforgettable speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention. But first, she had to survive one of the wildest gubernatorial races in Texas history, featuring an opponent who seemingly could not stop saying the worst possible thing at the worst possible time. Nathan tells Katy the story of the woman behind the famous one-liners, her rise through Texas politics, and the legacy she left behind. You can watch her DNC speech here: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pvrvRT23is - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CzzkUHyDLI Timestamps: 00:00 Patreon Preview Intro 01:06 Who Was Ann Richards? 07:09 Ann Richards Enters Texas Politics 11:47 Alcoholism, Rehab & Political Comeback 14:10 Texas State Treasurer & “Magic Money” 17:44 Ann Richards' 1988 DNC Speech 23:38 The 1990 Texas Governor's Race 26:53 Ann Richards vs. Clayton Williams 31:03 Ann Richards Becomes Governor of Texas 34:18 Education Reform & the Texas “Robin Hood” Plan 38:46 Life After the Governor's Mansion 41:21 Ann Richards' Death & Legacy ----- Queens podcast is part of Airwave Media podcast network. Please get in touch with advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast. Want more Queens? Head to our Patreon, and follow us on Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the HUNTR Podcast, we're joined by Pat Burns to break down his incredible six-year pursuit of a giant public land whitetail he called the “Electric Buck.” After finding his first set of sheds, Pat spent years collecting trail camera data, tracking through the snow, studying scrapes, and piecing together the buck's movement across thousands of acres. That obsession eventually brought him face-to-face with an 11.5-year-old whitetail. Pat shares everything the journey taught him about mature buck behavior and why, sometimes, the pursuit means more than the kill. Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you next week. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.0:00 Podcast Intro & Meeting Pat Burns7:00 Pat's Hunting Roots in New England18:13 Shed Hunting & Finding the Electric Buck31:38 The 6-Year Pursuit Begins38:44 Trail Camera Strategy for Mature Bucks41:33 Community Scrapes & Mature Buck Behavior50:44 Tracking & Patterning the Electric Buck54:30 Finding His Core Area1:02:18 The Final Hunt for the Electric Buck1:18:22 An 11.5-Year-Old Public Land Buck1:28:18 Life After a 6-Year Pursuit1:32:15 Why the Pursuit Means More Than the KillFollow Pat:https://www.instagram.com/hunter_gatherer_evolved/SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNEL:https://www.youtube.com/c/HUNTRTUBEShop HUNTR Merch:https://wearehuntr.com/HUNTR Podcast is presented by:Hoyt Archery: https://hoyt.com (Code HUNTR for 20% off apparel)DeerGro: https://www.deergro.com (Code HUNTR for 15% off)Predator Camo: https://www.predatorcamo.com/ (Code HUNTR for 20% off)Beast Broadheads: https://beastbroadheads.com/ (Code HUNTR for 10% off)Lone Wolf Custom Gear: https://www.lonewolfcustomgear.com/ (Code HUNTR for 10% off your first purchase)Tactacam: https://www.tactacam.com/ (Code HUNTR for 15% off)RackHub: https://www.rack-hub.com/huntr (Code HUNTR for 10% off)Pure Wildlife Blends: https://www.purewildlifeblends.com (Code HUNTR for 10% off)Primos: https://www.primos.com/ (Code HUNTR for 15% off)Bushnell: https://www.bushnell.com/ (Code HUNTR for 15% off)HHA: https://www.hhasports.com/
This podcast is made possible by our listeners and viewers. If this show has brought you value, you can support it by becoming a member of The Way Forward, our platform designed to help you find the health and freedom community (people, practitioners, schools, farms, and more) near you. Your membership directly supports the podcast and the work we do.Plasma makes up 99.9% of visible reality, yet no one talks about what that means for consciousness, healing, and the nature of experience itself.My guest, Dana Kippel, is an author, filmmaker, and researcher who wrote A New Force after a transcendental meditation session handed her the full definition of plasma in a single moment. She'd barely heard the word before that. Four years later, she's built an entire framework around it.She argues plasma isn't just the fourth state of matter. It's sentient, feminine, and the layer where consciousness, memory, belief, and physical reality feed back into each other. Ether by another name.The implications get interesting: why the same "demon" appears differently to different people, why UFOs keep changing shape across centuries, what happens to your beliefs when you die, and why she thinks alien disclosure distracts from a bigger story about your own biofield.If beliefs shape reality, the question isn't whether that's true; it's what you do with it. You'll Learn:[0:00] Introduction[9:21] Dana's definition of plasma breaks from the mainstream fourth-state-of-matter model[17:33] Deeply held beliefs get reflected back to you when you die[30:24] A divine, fixed reality versus one we co-create[49:08] Clearing “forever chemicals” through plasmoid cavitation, echoed in the unicorn tapestries[58:55] Waking up to weather modification without co-creative power feeds the thing you fear[1:43:54] UFOs as plasmoids reflecting your own beliefs[1:58:42] Repelling Sabrina Wallace's biofield-hacking claims by staying high in love[2:19:58] Common mistakes channelers make, and the AI psychosis spreading now[2:25:16] The Maharishi Effect might not be unique to transcendental meditation[2:32:16] The gnosis of plasma convinced Dana she's never aloneRelated The Way Forward Episodes:Near Death Experiences: Examining the Evidence of Life After the Body with Dr. Bruce Greyson | PodcastIs Plasma the Key to Decoding the Paranormal? with Dana Kippel | PodcastTelepathy, Autism & The Mind Beyond the Brain with Dr. Diane Hennacy Powell | PodcastBlindfold Vision, Luminous Children & The New Way of Being with Dr. Edith Ubuntu Chan | PodcastHow Telepathy & Animal Communication Question Our Understanding of Reality with Ditte Young | PodcastThought, Light & The Liquid Language of God with Veda Austin | PodcastThe Biofield & The Internet of Psyops with Chris Crutchfield | PodcastSubtle Energy, Resonance & the Cosmic Tower with Nico Martens | PodcastTuning the Zodiac & Balancing Through Sound featuring Eileen McKusick | PodcastThe Lies Modern Science Told Us About Alchemy, Consciousness, & Quantum with Dr. Steven A. Young | PodcastResources Mentioned:A Fool's Wisdom by Steven A Young, PhD | Book or AudiobookFind more from Dana:Dana Kippel | Instagram | YouTube | SubStackA New Force | BookYou can buy her book and check out her magic classes here.Find more from Alec:Alec Zeck | Instagram | XThe Way Forward | InstagramDonate to The Way Forward here.The Way Forward is Sponsored By:New Biology Clinic: Redefine Health from the Ground UpExperience tailored terrain-based health services with consults, livestreams, movement classes, and more. Use code THEWAYFORWARD (case-sensitive) for $50 off activation.The Way Forward members get the $150 fee waived.Want more crypto insights and a community to back you up?Join the Crypto Freedom Academy today. It's 100% free and designed to help you master the markets.
Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/INRjvz4emc4 Hosts Jodi and Keith interview documentary filmmaker Reid Davenport about his film "Life After," which revisits the 1983 case of Elizabeth Bouvia to examine ongoing debates about assisted dying, autonomy, and systemic abandonment of disabled people. Reid explains he was drawn to tensions between nondisabled and disabled progressives and to how media framed Bouvia's desire to die as caused by disability while ignoring factors like divorce, miscarriage, discrimination, isolation, poverty, and inadequate healthcare. He argues bodily autonomy is shaped by surrounding conditions and that people need the right and support to live as they choose before the right to die. The discussion highlights medical and state ableism, misjudgments about disabled quality of life, the need to center disabled voices, and concerns illustrated in the film about assisted suicide access in Canada amid poor support and care. Watch "Life After" on PBS Independent Lens: https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/life-after/ "Life After" website: https://www.lifeafterfilm.com/ Reid Davenport's website: https://www.reiddavenport.com/
Eli44 grew up in Texas, took to the streets at a young age, did his first bid in the Texas Department of Corrections where he joined the Tango Blasts, and then caught a nearly 15 year federal sentence that sent him into federal medium security facilities and federal penitentiaries where he spent nearly a decade navigating the gang politics, the violence, and the disciplinary transfers that define life as a Tango Blast inside the federal system. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, he shares what being a Tango Blast inside the federal system actually looks like — the rules, the politics, the violence, and the specific survival mindset that nearly 10 years inside some of the most brutal federal facilities in the country required of him — and what finally getting out and turning his life completely around actually took after everything those years produced. _____________________________________________ #crimestory #prison #truecrimestories _____________________________________________ Thank you to FACTOR & HIMS for sponsoring this episode: Factor: Head to https://factormeals.com/lockedin50off and use code lockedin50off to get 50 percent off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until! _____________________________________________ Hims: Visit https://hims.com/lockedin to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you. _____________________________________________ Connect with Eli44: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_eli44/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd1XjhE0mMb34j-FwQsez3A/feed TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thereal_eli44 _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:20 Growing Up in Austin 01:47 Finding the Streets and Music 04:21 Early Hustle and First Arrests 05:59 The Katrina Clash and Carrying a Weapon 08:00 The Music Scene and Getting Deeper 10:10 Jack Boys and Robberies 13:29 Caught with Drugs and a Gun 15:31 Going to TDC and Getting Initiated 18:00 Life in the State Prison 20:00 The Music Blows Up 22:00 Returning to the Drug Game 24:04 The Setup and Getting Caught 34:00 The Arrest and Aftermath 36:48 The Feds Get Involved 40:35 Cartel Pressure and Family Threats 44:00 Federal Sentence and Time in County 47:59 Life in the Federal Pen 54:00 The Politics of the Yard 01:04:00 A Standoff and Stealing an Amp 01:09:00 The Theft and Its Consequences 01:13:00 A Show of Force and Diplomacy 01:20:00 A Fight and a Stabbing 01:29:00 Spiritual Awakening at Atwater 01:36:00 The SMU Program 01:44:00 Meeting Kodak Black 01:50:00 The Horrors of the SMU 01:55:00 Texas Syndicate Rivalry 02:00:00 Life After the SMU 02:00:04 The SMU Experience 02:02:30 Coming Home and New Beginnings 02:04:55 Current Life and Outreach _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBick
In this episode of For All The Saints, I sit down with Martin Turvey, a former Area Seventy in the Europe Area, former England Leeds Mission President, and long-time Church leader. I wanted to chat with him about his five-year tenure as an Area Seventy and get an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at what it's really like to serve in high-level leadership across the UK, Europe, and beyond. From traveling to small districts in Romania and large stakes in Portugal to visiting the island nation of Cape Verde for his first personal window into the African continent, Martin shares profound personal insights on the quiet operations of the priesthood, the heavy weight of stake presidency reorganizations, and the vibrant future of the Church in Britain. A tech CEO in the data-quality sector and a second-generation Latter-day Saint, Martin brings a deeply grounded, compassionate perspective on leadership, being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and seeing people through Heavenly Father's eyes.We explore the spiritual mechanics behind priesthood callings, the realities of managing a "part-time" assignment that spans across continents, and the powerful, modern fulfillment of apostolic promises regarding the revival of the Church in Europe.Some highlights from this episode include:Serving Alongside Elder Patrick Kieran: Martin reflects on his time serving as a counselor to Elder Patrick Kieran when he was a newly called stake president in Bristol. He shares what it was like working with him before he became an Apostle, highlighting Elder Kieran's extraordinary ability to connect with people and make everyone feel like his best friend.Behind the Scenes of an Area Seventy: A transparent look at what the calling actually entails—from juggling weekday Zoom meetings and weekend travel across Europe to managing coordinating councils, overseeing service missions, and expanding British Sign Language resources in the Gospel Library.The Sacred Weight of Reorganizing Stake Presidencies: Martin shares the profound, spiritual process of calling new stake presidencies in areas where he didn't know a single soul, illustrating how the Spirit speaks in completely unanimous and undeniable ways when discerning the Lord's chosen leaders.A Quiet Moment with President Nelson & The Birmingham Temple: The incredible, personal story behind the announcement of the Birmingham England Temple. Martin recounts a powerful spiritual impression about growth in Birmingham, followed by a surprise lunchtime conversation where President Nelson whispered the upcoming temple announcement to him days before General Conference.Life After the Calling: A candid conversation on what it feels like to transition out of such an intense, multi-year leadership responsibility, balancing family life, and adjusting to the sudden quiet of open weekend calendars.The Divine Future of the Church in the UK & Europe: Addressing the common "persecution complex" or minority mindset members can fall into, Martin echoes apostolic promises from Elder Holland and President Nelson, sharing why he firmly believes the best days of the Church in Britain and wider Europe are right ahead of us.Articles and Media Links:Calling Announcement Article (2020): "Martin J Turvey to serve as Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" https://news-uk.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/martin-j-turvey-to-serve-as-area-seventy-for-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saintsEnsign Local Pages Link: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2020/06/eur-eng-local-pages/local-news-002?lang=engGeneral Conference Sustaining (April 2020): "Sustaining of General Authorities, Area Seventies, and General Officers".https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/04/21oaks?lang=engArea Leadership Message (October 2025): "Charity, the Pure Love of Christ" by Elder Martin J. Turvey.https://uk.churchofjesuschrist.org/charity-the-pure-love-of-christFor further Information of serving in Prison Ministry as a member of the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-day Saints see the link:https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/prison-ministry/general-principles/1-1-introduction?lang=engFollow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspodhttps://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Qhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via hello@forallthesaints.org or DM on InstagramConversations to Refresh Your Faith.
In this episode, Kristen continues her conversation with former second-generation cult member and author Chris Shelton as he shares the emotional aftermath of leaving a high-control group, exposing the lasting effects of coercive control, trauma, and the difficult process of rebuilding his life. You'll Learn: Why leaving a cult is only the beginning of the healing process. How coercive control continues long after someone walks away. The emotional impact of losing relationships after leaving a high-control group. What Chris discovered after researching the organization he dedicated 25 years of his life to. Why Chris now speaks out to help prevent others, especially those raised in cults, from experiencing the same manipulation. Connect with Chris Shelton here: chrissheltonmsc.org When you purchase Chris Shelton's book through these Amazon affiliate links, you're helping support the podcast at no extra cost to you: 1. Scientology: A to Xenu: An Insider's Guide to What Scientology is All About 2. What Now?: A Practical Guide to Life After a Cult Subscribe HERE and get a free 5-day journal to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. Connect with Kristen: Get Kristen's newsletter, packed with tangible tools, resources, and inspiration Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Kristen on Instagram Kristen's TikTok Have Kristen Speak at Your Event Disclaimer This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.
Send us Fan MailYou can leave a cult and still feel trapped in your own head and that's the part nobody prepares you for. I'm joined by author, activist, and longtime cult-recovery educator Chris Shelton to talk about his new book, What Now? A Practical Guide to Life After a Cult, and the real work that starts after you walk out the door.We get into why so many people assume leaving is the finish line, even though it's really step one. Chris breaks down how trauma can stay invisible, how “trauma comparison” derails healing, and why recovery timelines aren't a competition. We also talk about the impact on families and friends who are trying to help someone still inside Scientology or another high-control group, including why yelling “it's a cult” can backfire and what a calmer, smarter approach can look like.Chris shares what surprised him most when studying coercive control academically, especially the crucial differences between ethical therapy and Scientology-style auditing. From there, we shift into practical next steps: Maslow's hierarchy of needs as triage, the importance of a real support system, and why boundaries and critical thinking are essential skills for rebuilding your identity and learning to trust yourself again. If you're searching for guidance on cult recovery, coercive control, religious trauma, or life after Scientology, this conversation offers grounded tools and language you can use immediately.Subscribe for more conversations like this, share the episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Support the showBFG Store - http://blownforgood-shop.fourthwall.com/Blown For Good on Audible - https://www.amazon.com/Blown-for-Good-Marc-Headley-audiobook/dp/B07GC6ZKGQ/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=Blown For Good Website: http://blownforgood.com/PODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2131160Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/blown-for-good-behind-the-iron-curtain-of-scientology/id1671284503RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2131160.rssYOUTUBE PLAYLISTS:Spy Files Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWtJfniWLwq4cA-eBNXD...
Stop chasing cheap metrics in your youth only to end up a broken, thirty-five-year-old former athlete who doesn't even know how to properly brace. When high school geometry teachers double as strength coaches, young lifters pay the price decades later with wrecked spines and destroyed joints. Mark Valenti spent seventeen years on the road as a professional Highland Games athlete and Strongman before realizing that the real test of strength begins when the competition stops and you have to rebuild your movement from the ground up. INSIDE THIS CONVERSATION The Three-Phase Motivation Trap: How strength athletes cycle through vanity, money, and avoiding shame throughout a competitive career. Conjugate for Throwers: The exact Westside Barbell adjustments Louie Simmons gave Mark to build world-class power. The Highland Games Reality: Why competing twenty times a year develops elite competitors faster than powerlifting alone. Bracing vs. Breathing: The fundamental core stability mistake that continues to ruin everyday lifters and former high school athletes. Life After the Platform: How to lose one hundred pounds, restore joint mobility, and keep setting new PRs without destroying your body. MEET THE GUEST Mark Valenti is the owner of Blind Dog Gym and a StrongFirst Certified Elite Instructor and Team Leader with more than eighteen years of experience as a professional Highland Games heavy-events athlete. A former world-record holder in the sheaf toss and member of the 2008 World Team Champions, Mark built his strength under throw legend Jud Logan and trained directly at Louie Simmons' Westside Barbell. After retiring from professional competition, he transformed his philosophy of training—earning the 48 kg Beast Tamer Challenge, lifting the legendary Húsafell Stone in Iceland, and pulling a three-times-bodyweight deadlift after age fifty to prove that true performance is built for a lifetime. FIND MARK Website https://blinddogstrong.com Instagram (Mark Valenti) @mvalenti100 Instagram (Blind Dog Gym) @blinddogstrong Podcast The Refined Savage Become an elitefts Channel Member Get early access to Dave Tate's Table Talk, exclusive content, and member-only perks. ➡️ @eliteftsofficial Support Dave Tate's Table Talk Full Crew Access https://www.elitefts.com/join-the-crew Limited Edition Apparel https://www.elitefts.com/shop/apparel/limited-edition.html Programs & Exclusive Content https://www.elitefts.com/shop/dave-tate-s-table-talk-crew.html TYAO Coaching Application https://www.elitefts.com/dave-tate-s-tyao-application Best-Selling elitefts Products Pro Resistance Training Bands https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bands.html Specialty Barbells https://www.elitefts.com/shop/bars-weights/specialty-bars.html Wraps, Straps & Sleeves https://www.elitefts.com/shop/power-gear.html Official Sponsors & Discounts elitefts — Save 10% OFF with code TABLE TALK https://www.elitefts.com/ Marek Health — Save 10% OFF Labs with code TABLETALK https://marekhealth.com/tabletalk LMNT — Get a FREE 8-Count Sample Pack http://www.drinklmnt.com/tabletalk ChiliPad 2.0 — Save Up to $255 with code TABLETALK https://sleep.me/tabletalk Visionary Meals (Official Meal Prep Partner) — Save 10% OFF with code TABLETALK10 https://visionarymeals.com MASS Research Review — Save 20% OFF with code ELITEFTS20 https://massresearchreview.com/ RP Hypertrophy App — Save 10% OFF with code TABLE TALK https://rpstrength.com/pages/hypertrophy-app Support Massenomics https://www.massenomics.com/
Rome didn't fall because it ran out of great men. It fell because it reached a point where being great simply wasn't enough anymore.Marcus Aurelius was arguably the most competent emperor Rome ever produced. Stoic philosopher trained from childhood. Disciplined administrator. Physically brave general who spent over a decade personally commanding the Danube frontier through the winters. If you designed a system to produce the ideal leader, Marcus is what it looks like when the system works exactly right.And during his reign (161-180 AD), all three fault lines of the Roman system opened at the same time for the first time in history. The Antonine Plague — likely smallpox — arrived in 165 and killed somewhere between 5 and 10% of the empire, hitting the army disproportionately. The Marcomannic Wars broke on the Danube in 166 and never stopped for the rest of his life. In 175, one of his own most trusted generals declared himself emperor on nothing more than a false rumor that Marcus had died.Marcus responded exactly right at every turn. He sold imperial jewelry to pay soldiers rather than debase the currency. He held the frontier personally for a decade. He put down the Cassius revolt without civil war. He knew, from his Stoic training and his study of Roman history, exactly what was happening to him. And he still couldn't stop it.This is Episode 111 — the transitional episode between the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series and the upcoming Roman Republic series. It's the moment where the pattern first becomes visible at the peak of the empire. And the answer to "why couldn't Marcus stop it" is: the fault lines were built into the Roman model centuries before Marcus was born. To understand where they came from, we have to go back to the Republic. That's where we're headed next.CHAPTERS:00:00 The Philosopher-Emperor Writing While Losing03:11 The Peak Marcus Inherited (Adoption Succession)06:17 The Three Fault Lines Open at Once (161 AD)06:41 Money: The Antonine Plague Breaks the Economy09:58 Borders: The Marcomannic Wars Begin12:57 Power: The Avidius Cassius Revolt (175 AD)14:55 Why Marcus Could See the Pattern16:24 The Meditations as a Diagnostic Document18:07 Commodus: The Succession Failure22:06 The 23-Year Record: Right Decisions, Wrong Direction24:32 Modern Parallel: Competent People in Failing Systems26:31 What Comes Next: Back to the RepublicSOURCESMarcus Aurelius, Meditations — Books 2, 4, 6, and 12 — the private notebooks written on campaignCassius Dio, Roman History — Books 71-72 covering Marcus's reign, contemporary-adjacentHistoria Augusta — "Life of Marcus Aurelius" — later and often unreliable but useful for details like the Trajan Forum auctionAnthony Birley — Marcus Aurelius: A Biography — the definitive modern biography, thorough on campaigns and successionMary Beard — SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome — for the sharp point on adoption succession being biology-driven rather than principledKyle Harper — The Fate of Rome — essential for the Antonine Plague context and demographic collapse argumentPeter Heather — The Fall of the Roman Empire — for the ongoing money/borders/power framework consistencyWalter Scheidel — demographic modeling of the Antonine Plague
Timestamps - 0:00 – Intro: Aaron Returns to LL LIVE0:33 – Aaron's 7.4 cm Femur Lengthening and Bow-Leg Correction Overview1:14 – Femur X-Rays, Nail Removal, and Full Consolidation3:03 – Post-Removal X-Rays and How Strong the Bone Looks3:43 – Bow-Leg Correction: Osteotomy, Plates, Screws, and Bone Graft6:04 – Follow-Up X-Rays and Early Tibia Healing Progress8:04 – Weight-Bearing Rules After Bow-Leg Correction9:35 – Aaron Walking Four Weeks After Surgery11:44 – Pain Comparison: Bow-Leg Correction vs. Femur Lengthening14:26 – Live Q&A Begins15:45 – Shin Conditioning, MMA, and Tibia Bone Strength After Healing17:23 – Insurance, Costs, and Budgeting for Surgery19:02 – PMAX Quadrilateral Timing and Realistic Height Goals21:24 – Clothing, Proportions, and Life After 7.4 cm21:52 – Why Aaron Chose Limb Lengthening23:41 – Aaron's PT Routine and Pool Therapy “Cheat Code”25:42 – MK-677, Appetite, and Recovery Supplements28:01 – Bow-Leg Hardware: Keep It In or Remove It Later?29:37 – Why 10+ cm on Femurs Alone Can Be Problematic32:31 – Pre-Surgery Stretching and Mobility Prep34:42 – Peptides, Stem Cells, and Recovery Timing35:57 – Nerve Pain, Numbness, and Aaron's Recovery Timeline39:42 – Gabapentin, Ice, and Slowing Down for Nerve Symptoms40:52 – Master Distractor Joins with Weight-Bearing Update42:26 – Athleticism After Bow-Leg Correction44:21 – Tibia-to-Femur Ratio and Choosing Femurs First46:59 – Rebuilding Leg Muscle After Lengthening49:23 – Peroneal Nerve Release and PMAX Tibia Questions52:18 – Squatting, Ratios, and Biomechanics After Lengthening55:48 – Master Distractor's Recovery and Proportion Update1:07:09 – Athletic Tradeoffs After Limb Lengthening1:14:14 – Regret, Gatekeeping, and Doing LL for the Right Reasons1:18:42 – Is 7 cm Safe on Femurs?1:20:25 – Quadrilateral PMAX Timing and Final Q&A1:21:52 – Closing Sign-Off______________________Find Links to Everything Here and Below: https://sleekbio.com/cyborg4life
Cole Goldberg was 22 years old when his girlfriend — a woman who appeared on the TLC reality TV show 90 Day Fiancé: Happily Ever After — accused him of attempted murder at the 2022 Boca Bash, a massive annual boating event in Lake Boca Raton, claiming he held her head underwater during an argument on the boat. He was charged with attempted second-degree murder, domestic battery by strangulation, and simple battery — and spent nearly four years fighting those charges before finally going to trial. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, he shares his complete account of what happened that day on the water, what facing an attempted murder charge for nearly four years actually required of him, why he turned down a plea deal that would have required six months in jail and three years of probation rather than accept a felony conviction, and what the judge's not guilty verdict on all counts actually produced in someone who spent four years living under the most serious accusation available. _____________________________________________ #florida #attemptedmurder #truecrimestories _____________________________________________ Connect with Cole Goldberg: https://www.instagram.com/lmcolee/ _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:01 Moving to Florida and Sports Life 02:13 College, Law Aspirations, and Life Changes 03:14 Bokea Bash: Setting the Scene 05:20 Day of the Incident: Boating and Tensions 07:52 Boat Hopping, Parties, and Escalation 09:13 Drinking, Arguments, and Boat Incident 12:13 Accusations Begin and Sequence of Events 16:13 Events Escalate: The Swimming Incident 20:22 Alleged Drowning and Confrontation 24:22 Police Arrive: Investigation and Arrests 29:13 In Jail: The Fallout and Media Frenzy 33:39 Public Opinion, Press Coverage, and Personal Fallout 37:12 Legal Struggles and Ongoing Trials 41:52 Criminal Trials and Legal Delays 45:16 The Court of Public Opinion and Advocating Change 49:40 Defense Strategy and Trial Outcomes 52:32 Final Trial, Verdict, and Life After the Case 56:00 Lessons Learned, Moving Forward, and Advocacy _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka
In this episode, Kristen is joined by Chris Shelton, a former second-generation cult member and author, who shares how he broke free from decades of cult indoctrination, exposing the psychological tactics of coercive control and the long journey to reclaiming critical thinking and personal freedom. You'll learn: How love bombing and emotional manipulation are used to recruit people into cults. Why coercive control makes it difficult to question or leave high-control groups. How isolation and black-and-white thinking reinforce cult indoctrination. What finally prompted Chris to question Scientology after decades of involvement. How critical thinking and self-awareness can help people reclaim their freedom Connect with Chris Shelton here: chrissheltonmsc.org When you purchase Chris Shelton's book through these Amazon affiliate links, you're helping support the podcast at no extra cost to you: 1. Scientology: A to Xenu: An Insider's Guide to What Scientology is All About 2. What Now?: A Practical Guide to Life After a Cult Subscribe HERE and get a free 5-day journal to begin closing the chapter on what doesn't serve you and open the door to the real you. Connect with Kristen: Get Kristen's newsletter, packed with tangible tools, resources, and inspiration Watch the episodes on YouTube Follow Kristen on Instagram Kristen's TikTok Have Kristen Speak at Your Event Disclaimer This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to you to educate you about ideas on stress management and as a self-help tool for your own use. It is not psychotherapy/counseling in any form. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. For counseling services near Indianapolis, IN, visit www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com. Pathways to Healing Counseling's vision is to provide warm, caring, compassionate and life-changing counseling services and educational programs to individuals, couples and families in order to create learning, healing and growth.
The Roman pattern didn't end with Rome. It just kept running at a smaller scale.Everywhere the Western Empire had held together — Hispania, Gaul, North Africa, Italy, Britain — the political form gave out, but the substance didn't disappear. It fragmented, reassembled, and kept running the same three-part pattern at a new scale: money weakens the center, borders get harder to defend, and power drifts from institutions to individuals. That's the kill chain. And every post-Roman kingdom ran it, in slightly different form, over the next three centuries.By 800 AD, a Frankish king was crowned Emperor of the Romans by a pope who was still running what was left of Roman administration. 324 years after the "fall." The empire hadn't come back. It had been transformed — Roman memory fused with post-Roman military and economic power, held together by the Church.This is the finale of the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series. It's the synthesis of every argument the series has made: what actually happens when a civilization ends. And it's the setup for what comes next — because the Roman pattern didn't start with the fall. It started centuries earlier in the Republic. That's where we're going next.CHAPTERS:00:00 The Roman Pattern Didn't End with Rome02:03 Money, Borders, Power: The Three Fault Lines08:32 Visigothic Hispania: Religion as a Political Wall15:06 Frankish Gaul: The Most Successful Adaptation22:27 North Africa: Vandals, Byzantines, and Arabs28:13 Lombard Italy: Decentralization as Survival33:23 Anglo-Saxon Britain: The Frontier That Collapsed First38:21 The Papacy: How the Church Kept the Substance41:13 The Byzantine East: The Roman System That Survived47:38 800 AD: Charlemagne Becomes Emperor of the Romans51:24 The Modern Question: Money, Borders, Power Today1:00:33 Where the Pattern Started: The RepublicSOURCESPeter Heather — The Fall of the Roman Empire (2006) — the argument that barbarian kingdoms were assembled from Roman parts, not opposed to RomeMary Beard — the "lights went out" version of the fall was largely invented by later generationsBrian Ward-Perkins — The Fall of Rome and the End of Civilization (2005) — the archaeological evidence for material collapse, especially in BritainProcopius — History of the Wars — Belisarius's secretary, firsthand witness to the Vandal War and Justinian's Italian campaignsThe Corpus Juris Civilis (Justinian Code, compiled 530s) — the surviving Roman legal framework
Marine Corps veteran Keith Johnson served as an electronics surveillance operator during the Vietnam era, intercepting Russian military communications from a highly classified communications center in Morocco. Assigned to 2nd Radio Battalion, Keith monitored the Russian Black Sea Fleet while working inside a facility containing sensitive military intelligence, classified messages, and enormous quantities of explosives.But Keith's Marine Corps story didn't begin at boot camp…It began with a brutal childhood in Chicago.At only six years old, Keith sat in a courtroom and testified against the stepfather who had violently beaten his mother. He grew up surrounded by alcoholism, abuse, street violence, broken trust, and moments that would remain burned into his memory for the rest of his life.And somehow… he refused to let any of it destroy what was good in him.In today's Urban Valor episode, Keith shares how he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, became a squad leader during boot camp, stood against violent “blanket parties,” and discovered that real leadership wasn't always about using more force.Sometimes, strength meant protecting the person everyone else wanted to punish.Keith later became a Marine Corps electronics surveillance operator with a top-secret security clearance. While many of his friends received orders to Vietnam, Keith was sent to North Africa, where he helped process sensitive military communications and intercept activity from the Russian Black Sea Fleet during the Cold War.His stories range from the deadly serious…To a care package filled with popcorn and mold-covered pepperoni that somehow became a feast for an entire barracks.Yeah… this interview takes a few turns.Keith also opens up about heartbreak, anger, faith, suicidal thoughts, brotherhood, and the deeper reason he believes he was prevented from going to Vietnam.Today, he continues serving others through prison ministry, Bible studies, veteran organizations, scholarships, military funerals, and support for people who feel like society has left them behind.This isn't simply a Marine Corps story.It's a story about surviving violence without becoming consumed by it…Leading without abandoning people…Finding purpose after pain…And learning that sometimes the hardest person to save is yourself.
The Independent Characters - A Warhammer 40k Podcast | Radio
In Episode 281 of The Independent Characters, we open the doors once again to The Warrior Lodge, our roundtable-style discussion format where we bring together voices from across the Warhammer 40,000 community. This episode, Carl, Josh, and Adan are joined by Blake, better known to the community as "Big Nasty B", from Life After the Cover Save! Blake brings his own perspective from across the hobby to the table as we dig into a variety of topics currently on the minds of 40k players everywhere. Whether you're a veteran general or newly initiated into the grim darkness of the far future, The Warrior Lodge always has a seat at the table for you - and this time around, we've pulled up an extra chair. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Independent Characters! Time Stamps: 0:00:00 - Show Intro, Elite Choice, Hobby Progress, and Games Played 1:03:45 - The Warrior Lodge: Part 1 1:43:35 - The Warrior Lodge: Part 2 2:08:20 - Final Discussion and Show Closing Relevant Links: The Independent Characters Patreon Tablewar! - SPONSOR Herrick Games & Hobbies - SPONSOR Adepticon Games Workshop The Black Library
FMX pioneer Matt Buyten joins the Whiskey Throttle Show to talk about his incredible career, the rise of freestyle motocross, X Games, Nitro Circus, and the life-changing crash that left him paralyzed. From unforgettable stories to hard earned perspective, this is an episode you won't want to miss.---Hey guys! If you like our content, show your support by leaving a LIKE, a COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE! It'll really help us out, and if you REALLY like our stuff, hit the NOTIFICATION BELL button so you never miss a post from us!Cheers! • Ping & the WTM Crew---Click the link below and get you some killer threads!WTM MERCH!! - https://www.whiskeythr...Check out our website and socials to stay updated on what we do next!Whiskey Throttle Media Website:https://whiskeythrottlmedia.comWTM Instagram: @whiskeythrottlemediaTimestamps:00:00 Intro & Show Sponsors02:43 Welcome Matt Buyten03:47 Life After the Accident08:41 Motocross Risks & Mental Health11:51 Seven X Games Gold Medals12:37 Has X Games Lost Its Magic?20:55 Growing Up in Carson City, Nevada23:25 Buyten Family History & Dutch Roots29:12 How Motocross Became an Obsession35:17 Discovering Freestyle Motocross37:13 Ready to Quit Before the Big Break40:44 The X Games Qualifier That Changed Everything48:21 Winning His First X Games Gold53:02 Building the Ultimate Step-Up Bike56:40 Colby Raha & The Evolution of Big Air57:28 The Nevada Freestyle Crew01:00:19 Surviving 24 Years in Freestyle Motocross01:08:18 Riding Smarter & Managing Risk01:13:18 Breaking Down the Step-Up Rivalries01:18:52 Mid-Show Break01:27:08 Life After Freestyle & Monster Jam01:32:48 Becoming a Monster Jam Driver01:40:58 Chasing New Challenges01:47:34 Recovering From Paralysis01:53:50 Learning to Accept Help02:01:30 Why He Still Loves Motocross02:08:44 Goals for the Future02:16:12 Favorite Tracks & Riding Style02:23:30 Current Motocross Talk02:28:25 Final Sponsors02:42:19 Closing Thoughts
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bill Ackman built one of the most closely watched hedge funds on Wall Street; when he speaks, markets move. Literally. Today, he joins Nicole to break down the opportunities he's seeing in the market, which companies are in his portfolio, and what could trigger the next 2008. Bill walks Nicole through his investing playbook, the biggest mistake new investors make, and whether we're in an AI bubble. Then, Nicole and Bill play a rapid-fire round of Bullish or Bearish where Bill gives his takes on gold, Bitcoin, Chipotle, Starbucks, T-bills, Trump, and Mamdani. Bill also gets personal about his inheritance plans for his four daughters, what he actually thinks makes someone successful in business, and whether he would run for office. Check out Nicole's financial literacy course The Money School Find a Financial Advisor or Financial Coach from Nicole's company Private Wealth Collective Watch video clips from the pod on Money Rehab's Instagram and Nicole Lapin's Instagram Follow Bill Ackman on X Learn about Pershing Square Here's what Nicole covers with Bill: 00:00 Are You Ready for Some Money Rehab? 01:14 Bill Ackman on the State of the Economy Right Now 03:00 Who Wins the AI Race: OpenAI vs. Anthropic vs. SpaceX 04:31 Why a Great Business Is Like a Bond 05:56 Is the Stock Market Too Expensive Right Now? 07:01 Where to Put Your First $1,0000 7:39 Inside Pershing Square's 12-15 Stock Portfolio 09:22 Democratizing Hedge Funds with PSUS 10:39 Buying Stocks at a Discount 11:18 Apple's Innovation Problem and Life After the iPhone 12:33 The Best Advice for New Investors 14:06 Are We in an AI Bubble? 16:46 Predicting the Future and the Next Financial Crisis 17:52 Why You Should Never Borrow Against Your Stocks 19:20 Carl Icahn's Billion-Dollar Leverage Cautionary Tale 20:16 The Worst Investing Advice He's Ever Heard 23:00 Fixing the Retirement Crisis 25:48 Bullish or Bearish: Gold, Bitcoin, Chipotle, Starbucks, Trump and Mamdani 33:30 What It's Like When Your Tweets Move Markets 35:15 Would Ackman Ever Run for Mayor of NYC? 38:01 The World He Wants for His Four Daughters (and His Inheritance Plan) 42:25 The Real Formula for Success in Business 44:21 Bill Ackman's Tip You Can Take Straight to the Bank All investing involves the risk of loss, including loss of principal. This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any financial decisions or investments.
The Roman Empire didn't really fall. It just changed its uniform.In September of 590, Rome was down to 30,000 people rattling around inside a city built for a million. The Lombards were at the gates. No army, no treasury, no functioning administration. Just one man — Gregory, the new pope — negotiating with the Lombards, feeding the city out of church granaries, and paying the soldiers with church silver. The Empire couldn't do any of it anymore. The Church could.That's the moment the transfer completes. Not through conquest or revolution — through vacancy. The Church had spent two centuries growing inside the Roman administrative apparatus: adopting the Roman geographic grid, seating bishops as civil judges, running the grain supply. When the political form gave out, the substance migrated to the institution still doing the work.This is Episode 5 of the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series — the capstone argument. The evidence is hiding in plain sight: Christian basilicas are literally repurposed Roman civic buildings. Church vocabulary (diocese, parish, pontiff, cardinal) is Roman administrative terminology. Western property law still runs on Justinian's Code. The Catholic Church is the longest-continuously-operating Roman institution on Earth.▶️ START HERE — Episode 1: "Rome Didn't Fall" https://youtu.be/iHvJUx1cNSQ?si=E2RiiMtquuar9N6t▶️ Full playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtUC344qk-mpdez1lz7Gd6kLrhehvVX_E▶️ Vatican companion episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdksZGOXVeY#FallOfRome #CatholicChurch #RomanEmpire #PopeGregory #ChurchHistory #TheRomanPatternCHAPTERS:00:00 Rome Didn't Fall — It Just Changed Its Uniform02:05 Rome Was Held Together by Administration, Not Armies05:35 313 AD: Constantine Integrates the Church07:40 The Church Adopts the Roman Grid09:02 Bishops Take Over Governance12:03 The Monasteries as Rome's Backup Drives14:53 Gregory the Great and the Lombards at the Gates (590)18:11 Why the Barbarian Kings Needed the Church23:09 The Evidence Hiding in Plain Sight24:33 Political Forms Change — Substance Migrates
Howard Robertson had every reason to go down the wrong path. His parents died. His siblings were in the streets. But instead of following them he chose corrections — and over a 22 year career from the late 1970s to the early 2000s he rose from correctional officer to captain to deputy warden to warden of Rikers Island — the largest and most violent jail in America. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, Howard pulls back the curtain on everything — from his brutal upbringing to what made him choose corrections to what Rikers Island looked like from the inside during its most violent era to the notorious inmates he encountered to how programs reduced violence to how politicians destroyed what it could have been to the problems with closing it and what the future of Rikers Island really looks like. _____________________________________________ #rikersisland #jail #truecrimestories _____________________________________________ Thank you to FACTOR & GLD for sponsoring this episode: Factor: Head to http://factormeals.com/lockedin50off and use code lockedin50off to get 50 percent off and free daily greens per box, with new subscription only, while supplies last until 09/27/2026. (See website for more details). _____________________________________________ GLD: New customers get 40% Off with code LOCKEDIN at https://www.gld.com/ _____________________________________________ Connect with Howard Robertson: https://www.amazon.com/Student-Game-Become-Unstoppable-Smarts/dp/1977283896 _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 Howard Robertson's Unlikely Journey 01:12 Overcoming Tragedy and Choices 02:29 Early Mindset: Learning from Role Models 03:53 Shooting for the Moon: Mentorship & Goals 05:02 Rising Above Average Through Hard Work 07:01 Is Drive Innate or Learned? 07:42 Family, Bad Paths, and Purpose 08:03 Helping Inmates and Preventing Recidivism 09:36 From Speaking to Writing: Reaching Youth 10:16 Authenticity in Storytelling: Why the Book Matters 11:01 Personal Stories: Bullying, Friendship, and Impact 13:02 How the Past Shapes Leadership Style 14:47 Navigating Street Ties Inside Rikers 18:00 Inmate Politics and Safe Resolutions 21:22 Respect, Boundaries & Saying No 23:40 Life Lessons and Staying Clean 24:43 Sponsor Segment: Factor Meals 27:40 Entering Corrections: Career Choice 29:34 Knowing the Community: Double-Edged Sword 30:14 Respect, Fairness, and Avoiding Violence 32:00 Overcrowding, Programs, and Jail Services 34:49 Correctional Culture: Then and Now 36:32 Political Changes & Rikers' Decline 41:13 Burough Jails, Funding, and Flawed Solutions 44:43 Sponsor Segment: GLD Chains 45:56 Corrections Leadership & Barriers to Progression 47:13 Mass Incarceration, Bad Policy, and Population Issues 51:01 Physical Conditions & Racial Makeup 54:35 Bail, Releases, and Systemic Injustice 56:39 Promotions, Process & Rules of the System 01:00:31 Programs: Entertainment and Violence Reduction 01:03:35 The Winner's Dorm: Transforming Inmates 01:04:41 Solitary Confinement: Problems & Alternatives 01:08:06 Expanding Special Housing and Culture Change 01:10:44 Medical, Mental Health, and Malingering 01:13:36 Mental Health, Career Impact and Life After 01:14:50 Defining Real Success for Youth 01:15:55 Numbers that Shock: Mass Incarceration 01:17:00 Notorious and Celebrity Inmates 01:18:36 Retirement, New Mission, and Legacy 01:18:56 Biggest Takeaways: Excuse-Free Success 01:19:56 Book Recommendation & Final Thoughts _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Everywhere Rome fell, civilization transformed. In Britain, it stopped.That's not a myth. That's what actually happened. Everywhere else the empire fell — Gaul, Hispania, Italy, North Africa — the barbarian successor kingdoms absorbed Roman administration and kept the machine running. The Franks kept Roman law. The Visigoths kept the Christian church. The Ostrogoths kept the Senate and the aqueducts. Even the Vandals in North Africa kept Roman urban life going.In Britain, none of that happened. The Roman garrisons pulled out in 407. The emperor told the Britons to defend themselves in 410. And when the Anglo-Saxons arrived, they didn't do what every other post-Roman successor group did. They didn't inherit. They built wooden halls next to abandoned Roman villas and let the villas fall down. Latin didn't evolve into a Romance language the way it did in Gaul and Hispania — it just vanished. Christianity didn't survive the transition — Pope Gregory the Great had to send Augustine of Canterbury in 597 to start over from pagan ground. Cities didn't get built on top of the old Roman ones — they got built somewhere else while Colchester sat empty for centuries.This is Episode 4 of the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series. Britain is the comparison case for the whole thesis. Everywhere else Rome fell, it transformed. Britain is the exception that proves the rule — the one place where the Hollywood version of the fall (villas abandoned, libraries lost, languages disappeared, lights actually going out) turned out to be true. And the reason it happened is quieter and more dangerous than any invasion narrative: successors who chose not to inherit.The barbarians didn't destroy Roman Britain. Roman Britain was already failing on its own. What the Anglo-Saxons did was build something entirely different on top of it — a new culture with no interest in preserving what came before. That indifference, more than any battle, is what real collapse actually looks like.If you're new to the series, start with Episode 1 ("Rome Didn't Fall — Here's What Actually Happened") linked below.
Lito Villanueva went from a junior Air Force cyber specialist to a military contractor in Afghanistan, a special operations communications expert, and eventually a volunteer supporting teams near the front lines of the war in Ukraine.In this episode, of Urban Valor, Lito shares the uncensored story of leaving the U.S. Air Force after two years, landing a $164,500 Afghanistan contractor job at 21, surviving daily mortar attacks at FOB Shank—better known as “Rocket City”—and entering the hidden world of special operations, C4ISR, military communications, drones, intelligence, surveillance, and kinetic strike operations.He also opens up about the psychological cost of war, witnessing lethal operations, returning home disconnected from civilian life, battling depression, and finding a new sense of purpose through veteran suicide prevention and humanitarian work.Years later, after Russia invaded Ukraine, Lito entered the country alone with humanitarian aid and eventually joined a team that needed his expertise in tactical communications, blue-force tracking, intelligence organization, and battlefield command-and-control systems.
Aryan Brotherhood leader, Michael Thompson, reveals what life was really like inside California's most violent prisons — from Old Folsom and San Quentin to the rise of The Brand, prison gang politics, violence, survival, and ultimately walking away. In this explosive interview, he breaks down how the Aryan Brotherhood gained power behind the walls, how prison gangs controlled money, drugs, alcohol, protection, and violence, and why the California prison system of the 1970s was unlike anything seen today. He also opens up about growing up on a Native reservation, being recruited inside prison, surviving brutal conflicts, getting shot multiple times, building influence within the AB, and the moment he decided to leave that life behind. This is a rare inside look at the Aryan Brotherhood, Old Folsom Prison, prison gang history, redemption, and the reality of surviving decades behind bars. Go Support Michael! YouTube: @michaelskythompson Book: https://a.co/d/0cfbYgLn This Episode Is #Sponsored By The Following: Cash App! Download Cash App Today: https://capl.onelink.me/vFut/1ekoiacn #CashAppPod Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App's bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. Cash App Visa® Debit Flex Cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC, and The Bancorp Bank, N.A., pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. See terms and conditions for the Sutton prepaid card, Sutton debit flex card, and Bancorp debit flex card. Cash App Green features, Savings, Direct deposit, Round ups, Overdraft coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit https://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Superpower! Head to https://superpower.com and use code CONNECT at checkout for $20 off your membership. Unlock your new health intelligence. 100+ biomarkers. Every year. Detect early signs of 1,000+ conditions. #superpowerpod #AryanBrotherhood #PrisonStories #FolsomPrison #PrisonGangs #TrueCrime #TheBrand #CaliforniaPrisons #SanQuentin #PrisonInterview #TrueCrimePodcast Join The Patreon For Bonus Content! https://www.patreon.com/theconnectshow 00:00 Opening: Gangs and Violence in Prison 01:17 Michael Thompson's Background & Aryan Brotherhood 02:53 Prison System Changes Over Time 04:40 California's Prison Expansion & Crime Trends 06:08 Race, Gang Control, and Prison Culture 09:13 Growing Up on a Native American Reservation 14:09 Survival, Community, and Formative Years 21:50 This Episode Is Sponsored By Cash App 23:15 Transition: Institutional Life & Youth Ranch 27:03 Joining the Aryan Brotherhood: Gangs in 70s Prisons 33:59 Violence, Rackets, and Organized Crime Inside 41:44 Weapons and Survival in Prison 44:04 This Episode Is Sponsored By Superpower 45:27 Folsom's Culture of Violence 53:10 Structure and Economics of the Aryan Brotherhood 01:05:04 Building the Brand: Racketeering & Operations 01:13:47 Evolution of White Supremacy and Expansion 01:23:09 Moving to San Quentin & Gang Alliances 01:36:18 Forming the Commission: Running the Organization 01:46:13 Stepping Away: Moral Dilemmas and Defection 01:55:15 Testimony, Cooperation, and Attempts on His Life 02:09:41 Life After the Brand and Modern Incarcerations 02:18:28 Release, Challenges, and Reflections 02:27:32 Life After Prison & Giving Back 02:32:31 Memoir, Advocacy, and Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Rome wasn't killed by its enemies. It was killed by a rescue.Everyone knows the fall of Rome — 476, the last emperor, the barbarian king, the lights going out. Almost nobody knows what happened when the Eastern Empire under Justinian tried to take Italy back. The Gothic Wars of 535-554 emptied the peninsula. Milan — one of the great cities of the north — was leveled, its men slaughtered, its women and children enslaved. Rome itself was besieged over and over. The aqueducts were cut for the first time in the city's history. And the Plague of Justinian rode the exact same roads Belisarius had reopened for trade, killing perhaps a third of the Mediterranean world.By the time Justinian declared victory in 554, Rome held maybe 50,000 people — down from hundreds of thousands under Theodoric. There was almost no one left to govern. So the Pope started doing it. Not because God willed it — because no one else was left standing.This is Episode 3 of the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series. We're going to follow the 20-year kill chain from Justinian's decision to reconquer Italy through Belisarius's early successes, the sieges, Milan's destruction, the plague, the Gothic king Totila appealing directly to Italians against their supposed "liberators," and the arrival of the Lombards in 568 who found an Italy that 20 years of Byzantine reconquest had prepared for them.The barbarians took the crown in 476. The Eastern Empire took the civilization in 554. And the pattern is closer to an operating manual for every rescue operation that's ever been launched: when a government tries to restore something that no longer exists, it doesn't bring back the past — it destroys what's left.If you're new, start with Episode 1 ("Rome Didn't Fall — Here's What Actually Happened") and Episode 2 ("Theoderic: The Goth Who Kept Rome Alive for 33 Years") linked below.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The last Roman wasn't Roman.When Rome "fell" in 476, almost nothing actually changed. The Senate still met. The law still applied. The grain still came in from Sicily. A Gothic general named Odoacer ran Italy for 17 years using the same Roman bureaucracy that had always been there — and then a man named Theoderic crossed the Alps from Constantinople and built something even stranger: a Gothic kingdom that governed Rome more competently than the last six Western emperors combined.This is Episode 2 of the "Life After the Fall of Rome" series. We're going to follow Theoderic's 33-year experiment — a Roman senator writing the West's most important philosophical text from inside a Gothic prison cell, a Gothic king minting coins in the Senate's name, two parallel systems (Roman civilian apparatus, Gothic military class) held together by one man's force of personality — and watch how it all came apart not when the "barbarians" arrived, but when the empire took it back. Justinian's reconquest did more damage to Rome than every barbarian invasion combined.The barbarians didn't destroy Rome. They tried to become it. The tragedy is that by the time they tried, the system was already so broken that even the most capable outsiders could only slow the collapse.If you're new, start with last week's episode "Rome Didn't Fall — Here's What Actually Happened" linked below.
SPONSORS: 1) DOSE: Head to dosedaily.co/JULIAN or enter JULIAN to get 35% off your first subscription. 2) AMENTARA: Go to amentara.com/go/julian and use Code: JDP22 for 22% off your first purchase. JOIN PATREON FOR EARLY UNCENSORED EPISODE RELEASES: https://www.patreon.com/JulianDorey CLIPPERS DISCORD: https://discord.gg/8QmWEKJ3BT (***TIMESTAMPS in Description Below) ~ Robert J. O'Neill is a former U.S. Navy SEAL (1996–2012) and SEAL Team Six leader, widely recognized for his role in clandestine military operations. During his career, he participated in over 400 combat missions across four theaters of war, including the rescue of Captain Phillips and the 2011 raid that killed Osama bin Laden. ROBERT'S LINKS: IG: https://www.instagram.com/mchooyah/ BUY HIS BOOK: https://rjoapparel.com/ X: https://x.com/mchooyah?lang=en PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/theoperatorpodcast/ FOLLOW JULIAN DOREY INSTAGRAM (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/juliandoreypodcast/ INSTAGRAM (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/julianddorey/ X: https://twitter.com/julianddorey JULIAN YT CHANNELS - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Clips YT: https://www.youtube.com/@juliandoreyclips - SUBSCRIBE to Julian Dorey Daily YT: https://www.youtube.com/@JulianDoreyDaily - SUBSCRIBE to Best of JDP: https://www.youtube.com/@bestofJDP ****TIMESTAMPS**** 0:00 - Bin Laden Raid, Body Cam, Pakistan 20:08 - Pakistan Both Sides, Why Rob Became Marine, Charlie Sheen Script 30:26 - Hell Week Quitter, Woman Found Bin Laden, Last Call Before Mission 44:15 - Secret Helicopters, Delta Force is Legit, Maduro Capture, China Lying 58:48 - Drones Are Horrifying, Forgotten War Kosovo, Back to Church 1:07:57 - Panic Contagious, Ibogaine Treatments, PT5D, Entering Bin Laden's House 1:28:31 - I K*lled Osama, Pakistani Live Tweeting, Arriving w/ Body Story 1:38:10 - Bin Laden Location, Gaddafi fake out, 1 Thing Rob loves about Hillary 1:51:07 - Bohemian Grove Declined, Nothing Created in DC, We Are Burning Books 1:57:40 - How Rob Sees War, The Awakening Iraq, When Rob Knew They'd Lose 2:08:21 - Rescued Marcus Luttrell, CIA Saves Sources, Can't Conquer Afghanistan 2:19:55 - Joining Navy SEAL Team 6, Military Officers Can't Win, Red Tape Everywhere 2:28:06 - Joined Six on Whim, Combat Like Skydiving 2:40:23 - Kids Changed Everything, Goodbye Before Mission, Humanity Ruins Everything 2:46:53 - How Rob went Public, Writing The Operator, Germany on 9/11 3:01:11 - Bin Laden Detractor Discrepancies, Life After the Fact 3:13:42 - Brent Tucker Litigation False Claims 3:19:04 - Rob's Work CREDITS: - Host, Editor & Producer: Julian Dorey - COO, Producer & Editor: Alessi Allaman - https://www.youtube.com/@UCyLKzv5fKxGmVQg3cMJJzyQ - In-Studio Producer: Joey Deef Julian Dorey Podcast Episode 439 - Robert O'Neill Music by Artlist.io Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Al Smith. Interview Purpose The purpose of this interview is to explore life transitions, resilience, and financial discipline through the lens of elite performance, using Al Smith’s journey from NFL All‑Pro to executive, entrepreneur, and community leader as a blueprint. The conversation highlights how preparation, education, mindset, and adaptability are essential when dreams evolve or abruptly change. This interview also serves to connect the experiences of professional athletes with those of small business owners and entrepreneurs, emphasizing that success in both arenas requires discipline, accountability, and long‑term thinking. Major Themes & Key Takeaways 1. Education as a Safety Net and Strategy Al Smith made the deliberate decision to finish his college degree before fully committing to the NFL, recognizing that professional sports offered no guarantees. This choice gave him leverage, confidence, and security—both mentally and financially—throughout his career. Key takeaway: Always secure something tangible before going “all in” on an uncertain opportunity. 2. Turning Fear into Fuel Smith openly discusses fear—fear of being cut, fear of competition, fear of uncertainty—and how he learned to convert fear into motivation rather than paralysis. He treated each season as if it were his last, approaching preparation with urgency and focus. Key takeaway: Fear is inevitable; how you respond to it determines longevity and success. 3. Competition Is Not the Enemy Competition played a central role in Smith’s development. Rather than avoiding it, he embraced it, understanding that growth requires discomfort. He credits adversity, pressure, and coaching challenges with sharpening his performance and character. Key takeaway: Competition strengthens discipline and reveals accountability. 4. Financial Literacy and Lifestyle Discipline Smith addresses the common financial pitfalls faced by professional athletes, many of which also apply to entrepreneurs: Lifestyle inflation Supporting others without boundaries Delegating financial decisions without understanding them Trying to maintain an image instead of sustainability Smith’s financial stability was aided by mentors, personal involvement in decisions, and a mindset focused on not owing—not just earning. Key takeaway: Financial success is not about income—it’s about control, habits, and awareness. 5. Mentorship and Environment Matter Smith emphasizes the value of surrounding himself with successful, disciplined people both on and off the field. Mentorship influenced how he thought about money, effort, competition, and leadership. Key takeaway: Proximity shapes thinking; environment influences outcomes. 6. Preparing for Life After the Dream Even while succeeding in the NFL, Smith planned for the transition ahead. This forward thinking led to opportunities in the front office, business, and leadership. He viewed this transition as a chance to open doors for others and to understand the business side of sports. Key takeaway: The end of one dream can be the beginning of a larger purpose. 7. Athletes and Entrepreneurs Face the Same Reality Smith draws a direct parallel between: Athletes competing yearly with no guarantees Entrepreneurs running businesses without security or routine Both require maximum effort, preparation beyond the clock, and resilience. Key takeaway: There is no 40‑hour workweek when you are building something of your own. Notable Quotes “I turned my fear into fire.” “There are no guarantees—every year is a one‑year deal.” “I treated every season like it was my last.” “You don’t want to owe. You want to own.” “Don’t be scared of competition.” “The gain outweighs the strain.” “Prepare so that if it ends tomorrow, you’re still standing.” Overall Message Al Smith’s interview is a powerful lesson in discipline, foresight, and adaptability. It reframes success as something built through preparation before opportunity arrives and sustained by humility, mentorship, and intentional decision‑making. His story reinforces that dreams evolve—but character, work ethic, and financial awareness determine whether those transitions become setbacks or stepping stones. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.