Stronger with Don Saladino

Don sits down with guitarist Dave Kushner, best known for his work in Velvet Revolver alongside former Stone Temple Pilots singer Scott Weiland and members of Guns N' Roses, including Slash and Duff McKagan, and goes behind the scenes of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle to explore the physical demands of being a world-class musician. Don and Dave pivot from the stage to the gym, discussing how legendary performers like Slash maintain the stamina required for three-hour high-energy sets. Dave shares his personal approach to staying fit while touring the world, the mental toughness required to sustain 36 years of sobriety, and how training serves as a vital tool for silencing "the voices in the head." From his early days in the LA music scene to his current role as Senior Director at Guitar Center, Dave offers a unique look at how health and fitness have become the foundation for his long-term success and career reinvention. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Timeline / Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don welcomes a powerhouse panel of Hollywood’s elite stunt professionals, the athletes responsible for the most intense action you've seen on the big screen. Hayley Wright (Furiosa, Birds of Prey), George J. Cottle (Spider-Man, Black Panther), and Chris O'Hara (John Wick, Free Guy, Jurassic World) show Don the reality of "mitigating risk to create the illusion of danger," sharing stories from the sets of blockbuster films and explaining how they maintain a perfect safety record while pushing the envelope. The panel discusses the mental and physical adaptability required to survive the business of stunt work, why backgrounds like gymnastics were the ultimate training ground, and the upcoming recognition of stunts at the Oscars. Don also shares his unique perspective on why training A-list actors like Ryan Reynolds for action roles is often more challenging than training professional athletes. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: MasterClass: Get an additional 15% off any annual membership at http://masterclass.com/stronger - with MasterClass you can learn from the best to become your best. With plans starting at $10 a month, billed annually, you get unlimited access to over 200+ classes taught by the world’s best business leaders, writers, chefs, and more. David Protein: Buy 4 Cartons of David Protein Bars, Get 1 Free. Use code STRONGER at checkout. Go to https://davidprotein.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former NHL enforcer and Stanley Cup Champion, George Parros joins Don to share highlights of his incredible career path. From starting out on figure skates to playing Ivy League hockey at Princeton, and eventually winning the Stanley Cup with the legendary 2007 Anaheim Ducks. They dive deep into the specific role of the "enforcer," the mindset required to "answer the bell" every night, and how the game has evolved since his playing days. George also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his transition into his current role as the Senior VP of Player Safety for the NHL. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or interested in the transition from elite athletics to executive leadership, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience and career evolution. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: OneSkin: Try OneSkin with 15% off using code SALADINO at oneskin.co/SALADINO. Timeline / Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don is joined by physical therapist Dr. Charlie Weingroff. Charlie explains his core philosophy that training and rehab are the same thing. He challenges the traditional medical model, discusses why surgeons aren't always the best leaders for recovery, and explains why "X doesn't always mark the spot" when it comes to identifying pain on your body. From treating NFL Hall of Famers to helping the general fitness community, Charlie shares why you should almost never "shut down" your training entirely when injured and how to navigate the path back to 100%. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: OneSkin: Try OneSkin with 15% off using code SALADINO at oneskin.co/SALADINO. Cozy Earth: Luxury shouldn't be out of reach. Go to https://cozyearth.com/pages/stronger for up to 20% off CozyEarth’s best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. Timeline / Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don brings together a "Nutrition Dream Team”, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, Dr. Layne Norton, and Dr. Donald Layman, for a roundtable on the most vital (and trendy) macronutrient: protein. This episode explores the new phenomenon of "Proteinification" - the surge of "high protein" labels appearing on everything from cereals to snacks. Is this a win for public health, or is it a marketing mask for ultra-processed foods? The panel covers the "bare bones" of protein consumption, the reality of anabolic resistance in aging populations, and how to protect muscle mass during menopause. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Timeline / Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger Cozy Earth - Luxury shouldn't be out of reach. Go to https://cozyearth.com/pages/stronger for up to 20% off CozyEarth’s best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it take to perform 4 to 6 brain surgeries a day? In this episode of Stronger, Don Saladino welcomes Dr. Ricardo Komotar, a world-renowned neurosurgeon based in Miami. Dr. Komotar breaks down the "grit and resilience" required for his profession and why he believes physical fitness is a non-negotiable requirement for cognitive excellence. The conversation explores brain health, the biggest mistakes people make with their cognitive habits, and the fascinating process of "awake" brain surgery. Dr. Komotar also shares his intense daily routine, including twice-a-day workouts, and explains why he advocates for mandatory nutrition education in schools. Whether you are interested in medical breakthroughs or optimizing your own daily performance, this episode is a masterclass in discipline and service. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: MasterClass: Get an additional 15% off any annual membership at http://masterclass.com/stronger - with MasterClass you can learn from the best to become your best. With plans starting at $10 a month, billed annually, you get unlimited access to over 200+ classes taught by the world’s best business leaders, writers, chefs, and more. Warby Parker: Get 15% off + Free Shipping when they buy 2 or more pairs of prescription glasses at WarbyParker.com/STRONGER David Protein: Buy 4 Cartons of David Protein Bars, Get 1 Free. Use code STRONGER at checkout. Go to https://davidprotein.com/stronger Timeline / Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don sits down with one of the world's most renowned celebrity men’s groomers, Kristan Serafino. While she has prepped Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Ryan Reynolds, Kristan reveals that her work is less about vanity and more about a masterclass in confidence. Kristan shares the vulnerable story of her career pivot at age 30, leaving a secure six-figure corporate job to follow her passion. From the "implosion" of her first live TV appearance to bootstrapping her successful product line, The Best Piece, this episode explores resilience, authenticity, and why looking your best is a fundamental pillar of wellness. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Cozy Earth - Luxury shouldn't be out of reach. Go to https://cozyearth.com/pages/stronger for up to 20% off CozyEarth’s best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don is joined by three of the most influential minds in modern nutrition: Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, Dr. Layne Norton, and Dr. Donald Layman to debate the new groundbreaking (and often controversial) changes to the US Dietary Guidelines in a new "Expert Roundtable" format designed to give you credible information quickly. Dr. Donald Layman, who helped write the current standards, explains the shift toward prioritizing protein and moving away from the "upside-down" food pyramid of the past. Dr. Gabrielle Lyon shares her mission for muscle-centric medicine and why these guidelines are vital for vulnerable populations, while Dr. Layne Norton breaks down the "three levers" of health: calories, protein, and fiber. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Mitopure - Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger Cozy Earth - Luxury shouldn't be out of reach. Go to https://cozyearth.com/pages/stronger for up to 20% off CozyEarth’s best-selling temperature-regulating sheets, apparel, and more. ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Get Stronger at negotiating with this new episode. Retired Federal Agent and interrogation expert Desmond O’Neill joins Don to discuss his 30-year career spanning the Secret Service and Homeland Security, sharing valuable tips on how to improve your own communication and negotiation skills. Desmond served as a lead instructor for the High Value Detainee Interrogation Group (HIG), a unit created to revolutionize intelligence gathering through non-coercive, science-based methods. Desmond shares high-stakes stories from the interrogation booth and translates those lessons into practical tools for everyday life. You’ll learn the "Four Animal Archetypes" for decoding behavior in real-time, the vital difference between manipulation and influence, and why "robbing someone of their moment" is the biggest mistake you can make when building rapport. Whether you’re negotiating a major business deal or simply trying to get your kids to listen, Desmond’s insights on curiosity, empathy, and active listening will transform your approach to communication. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: 35% Off Mitopure Gummies by Timeline: Get 35% off a one month subscription of Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER35 at checkout for 35% off for a limited time. Go to https://timeline.com/stronger35 Cozy Earth - Buy One Get One Pajamas: Use code STRONGERBOGO to get Cozy Earth’s PJs for you and someone you love this Valentines Day. This deal is only available January 25th to February 8th, 2026 at http://cozyearth.com/STRONGERBOGO ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former NFL quarterback and Florida State standout Christian Ponder joins Don to discuss his journey from the high-stakes world of Texas high school football to the Minnesota Vikings. Christian shares the lessons learned from the field and the challenges of identity after the game. The heart of this conversation focuses on the current state of youth sports. Christian and Don discuss the monetization of youth leagues, the dangers of early specialization, and the vital role of sports in building character rather than just chasing trophies. Christian also shares his journey as a father and coach, offering practical advice for parents on how to stay focused on human development over athletic performance. Plus, learn about Christian’s innovative business venture, The Post, and why community is the missing link for former athletes in the business world. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: 35% Off Mitopure Gummies by Timeline: Get 35% off a one month subscription of Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER35 at checkout for 35% off for a limited time. Go to https://timeline.com/stronger35 David Protein:Buy 4 Cartons of David Protein Bars, Get 1 Free. Use code STRONGER at checkout. Go to https://davidprotein.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Dwayne Jackson returns to the show to discuss gut health. While "microbiome" has become a wellness buzzword, Dr. Jackson explains why your gut is actually the command center for your immune system, brain health, and athletic performance. The conversation begins at the very beginning, exploring how our initial microbial colonization during birth (vaginal vs. C-section) and early-life antibiotic use sets the "blueprint" for our health decades later. Dr. Jackson uses his "Lawn Analogy" to describe the delicate balance of bacteria in the colon and what happens when "weeds" (bad bacteria) take over the "grass" (good bacteria). ----------------------------- Sponsored By: 35% Off Mitopure Gummies by Timeline: Get 35% off a one month subscription of Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER35 at checkout for 35% off for a limited time. Go to https://timeline.com/stronger35 Cozy Earth - Buy One Get One Pajamas: Use code STRONGERBOGO to get Cozy Earth’s PJs for you and someone you love this Valentines Day. This deal is only available January 25th to February 8th, 2026 at http://cozyearth.com/STRONGERBOGO Express VPN: ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure, encrypted servers, so your ISP can’t see your browsing history. Get up to 4 months free by visiting https://expressvpn.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don is joined by Dr. Brad Currier, a leading expert in muscle physiology and human performance with Timeline, for a science-backed conversation on why muscle may be the most important longevity organ in the body. They break down what the research really says about strength training, aging, and disease prevention, including why even minimal resistance training dramatically lowers the risk of mortality, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic decline. Brad explains the difference between lifespan and healthspan, why muscle power matters as much as muscle mass, and how consistency beats complexity when it comes to training. The conversation also explores mitochondria, recovery, supplements like creatine and Urolithin A (Mitopure), and the limits of modern biohacking. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: 35% Off Mitopure Gummies by Timeline: Get 35% off a one month subscription of Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER35 at checkout for 35% off for a limited time. Go to https://timeline.com/stronger35 Rag & Bone: Upgrade your denim game with Rag & Bone!. Get 20% off sitewide with code “Stronger” at http://rag-bone.com/ David Protein: David Protein: Buy 4 Cartons of David Protein Bars, Get 1 Free. Use code STRONGER at checkout. Go to https://davidprotein.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stress, anxiety, and mental burnout affect your performance, focus, and physical health. In this episode of Stronger we are going to dive into what builds real resilience and mental strength, not just physical strength. Don Saladino sits down with author, meditation teacher, and hospice volunteer Elena Brower to break down how strength training, meditation, and breath work work together to regulate stress, calm the nervous system, and build real mental resilience. Elena shares profound insights on presence, compassion, grief, and emotional resilience, offering a refreshing perspective on how meditation and movement work together to calm anxiety, regulate stress, and build what she calls cellular resilience. From reframing grief as love to learning how stillness can heal the nervous system, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what true strength really looks like. You’ll also experience a short guided meditation led by Elena, along with practical takeaways on breathwork, emotional regulation, and why listening itself can become a form of prayer. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Everyday Dose: Get 61% off your first Coffee+ Starter Kit, a free A2 Probiotic Creamer, and over $100 in free gifts. Plus, enter for a chance to win $100 cash or get your entire order refunded! Visit http://EverydayDose.com/STRONGER or use code STRONGER at checkout. Express VPN: ExpressVPN reroutes 100% of your traffic through secure, encrypted servers, so your ISP can’t see your browsing history. Get up to 4 months free by visiting https://expressvpn.com/stronger ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special solo episode of Stronger, Don shares a practical, no-nonsense approach to creating healthy habits and sustainable New Year’s resolutions for 2026. Drawing on nearly three decades of coaching experience, Don explains why 88% of resolutions fail within two weeks, and how to avoid becoming part of that statistic. Don introduces the concept of micro momentum, showing how small, repeatable wins build consistency, discipline, and long-term success. From rethinking exercise intensity and nutrition rules to focusing on non-scale victories, this episode is a roadmap for building habits that improve energy, body composition, sleep, and overall happiness, without burnout. ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Psychiatrist and bestselling author Dr. Sue Varma joins Don Saladino for a conversation about emotional fitness, practical mental health tools, and the mindset shifts that help us live with greater purpose and optimism. Drawing from her clinical experience and her signature framework, Dr. Varma explains how small, science-backed habits can dramatically improve resilience, confidence, and day-to-day wellbeing. She and Don explore the connection between physical health and emotional health, how to manage anxiety during stressful seasons, and why optimism isn’t naïve, it’s a skill that can be trained. Dr. Varma also shares strategies for strengthening relationships, setting boundaries, improving sleep, and building a more compassionate inner voice. ----------------------------- Sponsored By: Mitopure: Get 20% off Mitopure to Target Age-Related Cellular Decline and Promote Anti-Aging and Health Longevity. Use code STRONGER at checkout for 20% off. Go to http://timeline.com/stronger MasterClass: Get an additional 15% off any annual membership at http://masterclass.com/stronger - with MasterClass you can learn from the best to become your best. With plans starting at $10 a month, billed annually, you get unlimited access to over 200+ classes taught by the world’s best business leaders, writers, chefs, and more. Vuori: Get yourself some of the most comfortable and versatile clothing on the planet at https://vuori.com/STRONGER - Vuori’s clothes are great for a workout, but also great for running errands before, or meeting up with friends after. Gusto: Get three months free when you run your first payroll at gusto.com/stronger - Gusto provides unlimited payroll runs for one monthly price. No hidden fees, no surprises. ----------------------------- Got a question for Don? Call 1-855-348-3546 Please direct business inquires to: [email protected] Music Credits: Adam Arcuragi at The Moon Recording Company —----------------------------- 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes of Stronger 📲 Follow Don Saladino on Instagram: www.instagram.com/donsaladino Follow [guest] on Instagram 💪 For coaching, programs, and more USE CODE YOUTUBE15 FOR 15% OFF: https://donsaladino.com/gym-programs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices