The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

Attacked by a Grizzly bear, twice, Todd Orr survived a modern day version of The Revenant. He not only lived through dual brutal attacks from a grizzly mother, but was conscientious enough attempt writing a warning note to hunters before driving himself to the emergency room. The extent of his injuries made this impossible. His survival was not due solely to luck, but to forethought and preparation. It gave him the best chance to walk away from these dire attacks. Orr is a true Spartan and his story will impart valuable lessons on how to face and transcend extraordinary challenges. Lessons: 1. Chance favors a prepared mind. 2. The will to survive sets the standard for our innate resilience. 3. Bad things have the potential to happen at any time and any place; be ready, but don't be afraid. LINKS: Todd Orr http://www.thetoddorr.com/ Todd's Knives http://www.skybladeknives.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

When Georgina Pazcoguin witnessed the second tower fall on 9/11, it codified her commitment to her ballet, something she had been practicing since preschool. Her mother urged her to quit and come home, but she doubled down knowing that the world needed the art that she could contribute to heal. In this episode, she describes the dedication and physical hardship it takes to make it into the New York City Ballet company. Despite what many people think of ballet, this is an endeavor that requires an excess of grit and determination. Lessons: 1. When you feel exhausted from your path in life ask yourself whether this is really want to do. If the answer is yes, keep on going. 2. The journey of dedicating years, if not decades, to developing an art can be more meaningful than a meteoric rise to the top. 3. In the face of calamity, you have to honor your unique strength. LINKS: More about Georgina Georginapazcoguin.com More about Orphaned Starfish https://video.aplus.com//j/zRxBDw1g/this-ballerina-is-teaching-orphaned-abused-girls-how-to-dance From Ballet to Broadway http://tv.ivy.com/drive-from-ballet-to-broadway/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Win battles through trust, good stories, and building relationships - this is the surprising and refreshing approach of this paradigm shifting green beret, Scott Mann. He introduced "rooftop leadership" in Afghanistan to a skeptical NATO crowd, but his courage to live it and its subsequent success changed minds. In this episode, Mann shows us his methods and how to work them at in all of our challenges. We need this type of leadership more than ever and it's within our capabilities. Listen and learn how to develop them. Lessons: 1. Lead from the bottom up, through relationships and human connection. 2. The greatest leaders have a vision they are able to articulate through story. 3. Leave tracks in the world which serve the people that follow you. Links: Rooftopleadership.com MannUpReport.com Theheroesjourney.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialScottMann/ Twitter: @REALSCOTTMANN Instagram: @ROOFTOP_LEADER www.spartan.com/165 SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

What can a member of the Royal Family teach us about grit? Does a privileged background make it tougher to acquire the passion to succeed? Peter Phillips, eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth, was brought up to make sure he didn't take his good fortune for granted. As you'll learn in this episode, there were several strategies to ensure that he would be a team player who had the tools to DIY. They also discuss the ways most people think versus the way successful people think. Find out which category you fit in, and if it's the wrong one, how to change it. Lessons: 1. Favor lateral thinking, over linear thinking. 2. There is no such thing as a " Lessons: 1. Favor lateral thinking, over linear thinking. 2. There is no such thing as a " 1. Favor lateral thinking, over linear thinking. 2. There is no such thing as a " 2. There is no such thing as a "self made man." You need people to help you along the way. 3. A "fear factor," having something up for 3. A "fear factor," having something up for stake in business, often drives success. Link: http://people.com/royals/prince-william-heads-together-impact-mental-health/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Interviewed during labor, Rose Wetzel proves her mettle! We've always said Spartan women are tough, maybe tougher than the men. How many would be able to maintain composure and be interviewed for a podcast between painful contraction? We are so grateful that Rose did! Rose is an accomplished athlete known for her success in American Ninja Warrior and in Spartan Race and now for her composure, strength and grace while giving birth. We highly suggest you make the time to watch this one. Tune in to hear the surprising lessons she shares and see true strength in action. LESSONS Obstacles come up in life. Have your attitude ready. To achieve the overwhelming, focus on one contraction at a time. When facing challenge you need to have to have a sense of confidence in yourself and find a way to relax in the face of adversity. LINKS More about Rose http://rosewetzel.com/ Rose on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Rose-Wetzel-602541086461407/ Rose on Twitter https://twitter.com/rosewetzel Rose on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/runningrosie/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Two hundred fractures before the age of 18 from a rare bone disease involuntarily made Sean Stephenson an expert in navigating through pain and adversity. But, he insists, it wasn't the disability that made him a better person, but the choices he made despite it. He is an advocate of working on all aspects of the self, everyday. In this episode, Stephenson talks about how to distinguish good pain from bad and to invite the former into your life while extinguishing the latter. Good pain tends to disappear with achievement, while the bad lingers on if we're not careful. Lessons: 1. You can only save those who swim towards you. 2. The cure for insecurity is self care. 3. Your life runs better when your mind, body and spirit are clean. Links: More about Sean seanstephenson.com ​https://www.facebook.com/theseanstephenson ​ https://twitter.com/TheSeantourage ​ https://www.instagram.com/3footgiant/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

To be your best, get still. In this episode Onnit wellness company founder, Aubrey Marcus, explains why this is not a paradox. Nor, he says, is it contradictory to say that to optimize yourself and your mission you need to focus on others, or to overcome obstacles you need to seek them out. Marcus will guide you through the contrasts in life to highlight your warrior spirit. He is tooled by the example of high achieving parents, shamans and philosophers and is setting a worthy precedent in his own life. Lessons: 1. Get still or quiet enough to be able to discern your mission in life. 2. To the ordinary person everything is a blessing or a curse; to the warrior there are only challenges. 3. Being open to whatever can be helpful is the way to find mastery. Links: Onnit https://www.onnit.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS: Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Your life is a story, that means it can be re-written. A profound childhood loneliness prompted Jeff Gomez to seek solace in story which in turn connected him back to people and became his livelihood. His storytelling skills have been put to use by the media giants and even the US Government. His method of storytelling, inspired by anime, is transmedia and fleshes out a story across multiple media platforms. In this episode, Gomez explains how each of our lives is a story which you can shape in new and beneficial ways. If your story starts with an unfavorable or faulty premise, there's always a possibility of a revision. Lessons: 1. You are living a story and you're the screenwriter. 2. You are capable of revising the story of your life to reflect your current wisdom. 3. Once people realize their connection to each other they'll do less harm. LINKS: https://blog.collectivejourney.com/ https://medium.com/@Jeff_Gomez linkedin.com/in/jeffgomez Facebook: Starlight Runner Entertainment SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS: Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

10,752 is the number Jesse Itzler had at the time of this interview, and on each of these he challenges himself to hack his mind into living a more productive and meaningful life. How do you get the most out of each day? Challenge yourself. Itzler believes in immersing himself in new worlds, changing his frame of reference. He turned over his life for a month to an ultra running Navy SEAL. This interview is so engaging we made Jesse Itzler keep talking with us all the way to our next meeting! Lessons: 1. Remember your mortality to gain an appreciation for life. 2. All the best lessons are from things that are challenging. 3. Immerse yourself in a different culture to create a different frame of reference. LINKS: 29029 - Climb Everest in Vermont with Jesse: http://29zero29.com/ KNOW FOODS: https://knowfoods.com/ Listeners receive 10% of any purchase at Knowfoods.com using the code SPARTANSKNOW 100 Mile Man: http://www.the100mileman.com/ Living With a SEAL: http://www.the100mileman.com/living-with-a-seal/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Eleven seconds was all it took. Eleven seconds stopped cold a promising hockey career scarcely before it started - all on live television. Travis Roy was a promising 20-year-old hockey star, moments into his first collegiate game as a B.U. freshman, a freak accident cracked his fourth vertebra left him paralyzed from the neck down. One misdirected check in the most important hockey game of his life sent Travis Roy crashing into the boards and ended his dreams of hockey greatness. Instead of fulfilling his lifelong dream, he now found himself paralyzed and a quadriplegic. Yet he sees his life's glass not as half empty or half full but as overflowing! How did Roy deal with such a dramatic shift in his life? What lessons can you take to overcome obstacles How did Roy deal with such a dramatic shift in his life? What lessons can you take to overcome obstacles in your own? This optimist talks about his challenges and the strategies he has used to cope, including starting a foundation to help others in a similar predicament. Lessons: 1. Sometimes you choose challenges, sometimes they choose you. How you handle them defines you. 2. Quality of life goals Lessons: 1. Sometimes you choose challenges, sometimes they choose you. How you handle them defines you. 2. Quality of life goals 1. Sometimes you choose challenges, sometimes they choose you. How you handle them defines you. 2. Quality of life goals 2. Quality of life goals are as important as career goals. 3. Don't underestimate the joy in simple moments. Links: The Travis Roy Foundation https://www.travisroyfoundation.org His book "Eleven Seconds" https://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0446521884/ref=sib_dp_rdr/103-9648985-3773401#reader-link More about Travis Roy http://www.travisroy.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, 3. Don't underestimate the joy in simple moments. Links: The Travis Roy Foundation https://www.travisroyfoundation.org His book "Eleven Seconds" https://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0446521884/ref=sib_dp_rdr/103-9648985-3773401#reader-link More about Travis Roy http://www.travisroy.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, Links: The Travis Roy Foundation https://www.travisroyfoundation.org His book "Eleven Seconds" https://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0446521884/ref=sib_dp_rdr/103-9648985-3773401#reader-link More about Travis Roy http://www.travisroy.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, The Travis Roy Foundation https://www.travisroyfoundation.org His book "Eleven Seconds" https://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0446521884/ref=sib_dp_rdr/103-9648985-3773401#reader-link More about Travis Roy http://www.travisroy.com/ SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Wearing a pageant sash did not come naturally to Neely Fortune, that's why she did it. Her challenges with social anxiety, especially in public speaking, were what spurred her into the pageant world in the first place. Then she used the platform to promote PTSD awareness, a cause close to her heart. Through a number of happy coincidences it lead her to Spartan Race, the Death Race all eventually to a role as Race Director of a Spartan Agoge. In this episode Neely talks about the qualities that enabled her rising fortunes. Lessons: 1. Seek out situations that will give you the qualities you seek. 2. Find your area of weakness and tackle it. 3. Pursue your passions to the fullest extent and see where they lead. SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

He's faced death more than once on his adventures, but ask him which was the toughest and he'll always answer "the last one." It's always the freshest in his mind. Ray believes in the possible and started a foundation called Impossible to Possible. i2P brings his expeditions to classrooms, sharing his journeys and his lessons with kids in an interactive way. Zahab uses these experiences to inspire kids to see possibilities in their own lives. He wasn't always adventurous, hear how he went from a pack a day smoker afraid to take a chance to the man he is today, and how you can do it too. Lessons: 1. We overcomplicate things; the first step you take doesn't have to be monumental. 2. Take a chance and you will be surprised where life will take you. Links: More about Ray's organization Impossible 2 Possible http://www.impossible2possible.com/ More about Ray https://www.rayzahab.com/ More about his latest expedition http://impossible2possible.com/arcticextreme/home SUBSCRIBE: iTunes: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpShow YouTube: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpYT Google Play: http://bit.ly/SpartanUpPlay CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Naval tells Joe De Sena It all boils down to desire. Is it possible to tame your monkey mind ever distracted by desires and pleasures that only soothe you in the short term? Naval Ravikant, the founder of Angel List, says to reach a true sense of happiness, it is not only possible but necessary. Ravikant explains how to find your true calling and why doing so gifs you the upper hand in any business or personal venture. You become unbeatable. Success may involve years of hard work, but paradoxically, not much struggle. Instead it's about a quest for flow. How can we tap into that flow? Ravikant will show you how. Lessons: 1. If you want to be the best, you need to pick one thing to be the best at. 2. The ones who succeed are the ones who are irrationally passionate about what they're doing. 3. Happiness is the sense that nothing is missing in this moment. Link: AngelList https://angel.co/ Naval on Twitter https://twitter.com/naval Naval on Tim Ferriss https://tim.blog/2015/08/18/the-evolutionary-angel-naval-ravikant/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

http://spartan.com/154 A marketing genius, a renowned connector of the elite, carpet cleaning taught Joe Polish everything he needed to know about business. But there's much more to the story. Joe is best known for his his Genius Network, a meeting of industry transformers. He is known as the master connector. In the interview he also discusses his path from a troubled childhood of addiction and abuse in which connection was hard to come by and what he's doing now to help addicts of all kinds. Lessons: 1. Doing things the hard way, selling something as dull as carpet 1. Doing things the hard way, selling something as dull as carpet cleaning, can pay off with expertise and strength. 2. When you take the human mind from one level to another you are being entrepreneurial. 3. Addiction is a connection disorder, what you do when you don't feel safe in the world. To learn more about Joe Polish and his passion projects, please visit: www.JoePolish.com www.GeniusNetworkEvents.com www.JoesMarketingBook.com/request www.ArtistsForAddicts.com www.GeniusRecovery.com CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Will lessons learned behind the desk transfer to physical challenges? This week's guest says yes! When you stop climbing corporate ladders, what do you climb next? For Vanessa O'Brien the answer is almost everything! The more difficult the better. She applied what she learned in the challenging environment of the Fortune 500 to the natural environment in a dramatic way. The extreme conditions taught her valuable lessons about happiness and success. Growing up, she was thrust into a challenging situation as well. Learn how O'Brien has combined all these life lessons into a satisfying and productive life. Lessons: 1. Three S's of success: speed, simplicity and self confidence apply as well on the mountain as behind the desk. 2. Try something new, make a change, you can always go back. 3. You will fail, don't panic. It just means you're going to succeed. Link: Vanessa O'Brien | Mountain Climber, Explorer, Speaker http://vobonline.com/ Vanessa O'Brien Breaks Explorer Record https://youtu.be/xeyEn1K6J2U CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

The founder of Bar beverage has 5 tenets for success: be audacious, authentic, tenacious, obsessive and inspire others to be great. No wonder he built a company that just sold for 1.8 billion. A company that uses the civet to represent the highest achieving employees, has to be a little different. Bai has bucked many beverage company trends and has been incredibly successful. See the quirky company tour in this week's episode, the secret Bag basement, and hear how he built the company and drives innovation. Lessons: 1. You can't fail by working hard. 2. If you're able to unbelieve, life can be unbelievable. 3. To be successful with your product you need to be able to read and tap into the zeitgeist. Be nimble. Link: UNBELIEVE – http://www.drinkbai.com/unbelieve The Unbelievers Trailer https://youtu.be/-Y9CHW3Aqvg CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle with guest Chris Irving Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

What's the point? Is it money? Is it something more? Roman gathers today's most influential icons and leaders to do what's NBDB (Never Been Done Before.) How can we drive culture in a positive direction? Roman Tsunder thinks he's found a way. In this episode, he explains his mission with PTTOW (Plan To Take On the World) and WORLDZ, and tells Joe how he carved out success from rejection. When he received 73 rejection letters in response to 72 applications, it just meant "yes" must be coming soon. Hear his story and how he now works to shape our world. Lessons: 1. Don't just preach to those that agree, reach out to the unindoctrinated. 2. The lowest points in your life can be the greatest pillars for growth. 3. To be the best, cultivate a healthy obsession for what you do. Link: PTTOW http://pttow.com/ WORLDZ http://worldz.us/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle with guest Zach Even-Esh ( http://zacheven-esh.com/ ) Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Dan Pena is an F-ing maniac! He lives in a castle in Scotland, has run ultra-marathons, has made and lost fortunes, never uses a cell phone and his motto is just F-ing do it (obviously). He's a living contradiction. He speaks at Oxford but you can still hear the echoes of his gritty upbringing on the streets of East L.A. in his voice. He can dance the waltz, play tennis and golf, but you wouldn't want to mess with him. He knows how to make money, fast. And he'll tell you and you had better listen to him. Lessons: 1. Whatever gives you confidence, do that. 2. Indecision is the worst decision, 3. Show me your friends and I'll show you your future. Links: The Official Website of Dan Pena. http://www.danpena.com/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

"Love is the answer" is the conclusion you might expect from a new age guru not a successful internal medicine doctor and trauma center director as Dr. Erika Schwartz was. But she always went against the grain of conventional protocol. Only now are her views starting to be vindicated. She urges doctors to connect with their patients and for patients to take greater responsibility for their health. How can they do this? Joe and Dr. Erika Schwartz discuss the ways modern medicine has gone astray and how to steer it back onto a more righteous path in this episode. Lessons: 1. The patient and doctor should be on equal terms since the patient lives in their body and is the expert of their own state of being. 2. Teach others through your own healthy lifestyle. 3. Bringing people together is crucial in a disconnected world and the ultimate connection is called love. Links: Dr. Erika Schwartz https://www.drerika.com/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Is Paleo the best diet? The CrossFit pioneer who authored "The Paleo Solution" says maybe. Results may vary according to who you are. The point is you'll need to experiment a little. Similarly when he started the first CrossFit gym. Rob Wolf didn't have the franchise model or rule book, He had to write it himself. If you're going to be successful, he urges you to do the same. Listen this week to learn why Robb Wolf got into CrossFit, wrote "The Paleo Solution," why you should read his new book "Wired to Eat," and his secret to success. Lessons: 1. Sometimes you succeed because you're left with no other choice. 2. Experiment: try something for a month then determine its cost/benefit for you. 3. Run with your passion and find people who will compensate for your weaknesses. Links: Robb Wolf's new book "Wired to Eat" https://robbwolf.com/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Have you given up? Know someone who has? There's an answer for everything and Peter Cohen thinks he has it. We live a life our ancestors may have envied, largely free of hardship, so why are so many unsatisfied? Why, Cohen asks bluntly, is the world so messed up? A lot of us, he says, have simply given up. It shouldn't be this way. Cohen taps from a career of helping people and seeing his wife beat the odds of "terminal" cancer to give you strategies to optimize your life. Three Lessons: 1. Striving keeps us vital. 2. Action leads to inspiration, not the other way around. 3. Always have an ikigai, a reason for being. Links: Pete Cohen's Podcast mi365 https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/mi365s-podcast/id1090082990?mt=2 www.Mi365.me CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye & Dr. Delle Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

People are kidnapped, run away to the circus, sell a business for 1.7 Billion, complete the explorer's grand slam, and just talk philosophy, grit, and resilience. Today the team previews the next batch of podcast episodes. We have guests that will change your frame of reference, give you tools to change your life, and teach you to rewrite your own story

When a leader changes his life, the implications can be great. With fifty pounds shed in five years, Ric Urrutia now sets an example for his 550 employees and for his family. His company, Taos Mountain Software, has been growing for twenty-five years and his clients include all the biggest names in Silicon Valley. What makes for a successful employee? What are the secrets to running such a successful company for so long? The answers are not what you'd expect. Lessons: 1. The best employees are those who are gritty and hungry, not necessarily the ones with prestigious degrees. 2. Get out of your comfort zone and expand your career horizons. 3. Lead by example, you affect more people than you realize. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Knowing your opponent wins championships. For Olympic fencer Jose Luis Abajo this has been paramount to his success. Self-knowledge too, knowing what will bring out the best in himself. It's what's in the mind that wins the match. This has meant being prepared for the unexpected, for just about anything that comes his way. How do you get ready for unfathomable circumstances? Abajo has a few secrets you can follow. Lessons: 1. We're still animals and have the survival instinct; discovering that part of ourselves can be transformative. 2. Let "no" motivate you. 3. The moment you are prepared to lose is also the moment you start to win. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Paradigms are made to be broken. Question everything. But do it in such a way that is data driven and informed by the best possible research. That means question the gut instincts, question what you've "always done," and question the ideas you see on social media. This is the way Jack Easdale has maintained the prominence of a billion dollar business. How can you apply this to your life? Find out on this week's podcast. Lessons: 1. The two most dangerous statements are--that's the way we've always done it and that's just the way it is. Always challenge the existing paradigm. 2. Utilize good, vetted research. 3. Winging it is not going to suffice when there's a lot at stake. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Kombucha, heard of it? If you have, GT Dave is the reason. He says Kombucha, and restores an essential balance to your body. The Kombucha King dropped out of high school to spread his love of this drink after seeing it's positive effect on his mother's recovery from cancer. In the process he created a $600 million category--one that he still dominates. In this episode you'll hear the story behind his love of Kombucha, and how he blazed his own path. Lessons: 1. Gradual, organic growth can yield authentic and powerful results. 2. Health is often about restoring balance in your body, not about the total eradication of threats. 3. If it feels true, focus on your particular journey without being unduly swayed by outside pressures. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

This mountain warfare instructor accepts no excuses; just learn and do. He speaks with the same force of confidence that he hopes to instill in others. First growing up gaining woodsman skills in Maine and then later through a 36 year tenure in the military, Smith always sought and found strong role models from who to learn. That learning soon transitioned into leadership and mentoring. His methods are deceptively simple, but are you strong enough to see them through? Lessons: 1. In order to see yourself in new ways you need to change your exposure. 2. Give one tool at a time; don't overwhelm them with the whole kit. 3. Do the job; do your best; pay attention. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

What is a "Not to do" list and why would you need one? Dean Graziosi found business success at a young age. It was a way to gain control in his own life in what felt like an out of control world. He has been doling out, through books and television, the techniques and wisdom that worked for him for nearly twenty years. It's the mindset, he says, not the medium. The principles are the same whether you're selling real estate, flipping cars, or building Spartan Race. He shares a few surprising concepts in this interview: Lessons: 1. Make a not to do list. 2. Don't drive without putting the settings in the GPS. 3. Your "why" may change, but always have one. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

When feeling stuck, what do you do to get back in the game? What's the one thing you can do right now? Mordechai Winer discovered a series of simple steps that changed his life. A self-made success in business, he had been unable to control his eating or his weight. What he discovered was that it wasn't about restrictions, shame, and punitive measures, but a few simple steps. Learn what those things were and the best way to apply them in this week's episode. Lessons: 1. Eliminate excuses. 2. Look for successful moments ins your life to apply to your current struggles. 3. Commit to simple daily rituals that will make positive change a matter of course. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan Lessons: 1. Eliminate excuses. 2. Look for successful moments ins your life to apply to your current struggles. 3. Commit to simple daily rituals that will make positive change a matter of course. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

One of the most successful women in the venture capital field and dedicated runner, Elizabeth took her cue from her mother. Come hell or high water her mother would be out the door at 4 am to swim or run, and in her 70s she's still at it. Similarly, Weil never stops driving toward success. Within her hectic schedule of career, and raising twins, she stresses the importance of "non-negotiables." They are key to a successful career and happy life. She describes them and her three keys to success in this interview. Weil shows us how it is possible to achieve balance even when you build your life to precipitous heights. Lessons: 1. Life's too short. Work in a location you love. 2. Make the important parts of your life non-negotiable then commit. 3. Create a personal advisory committee. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Olympic marathoner Rod Dixon believes in the transformative power of physical activity so much that he started the Kids Marathon program. He won the New York Marathon in 1983 and an Olympic Bronze, now his program trains kids to run as soon as they enter school. The schools are realizing that keeping kids active brings test scores up, improves student's focus and brain power, and reduces the reliance on pharmaceuticals to keep the more rambunctious kids in line. What Dixon also found through his program is that the healthy habits percolate up to the adults. Lessons: 1. Instead of medicating kids in school, keep them active. 2. Physical and nutritional education are essential. 3. Kids are capable. Links: Rod Dixon's KiDSMARATHON http://www.kidsmarathonfoundation.org/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Is it possible to develop a surfing culture without an ocean? What would that mean? Keno Knieriem left the navy and to developing surf parks on man made lakes that simulate Hawaiian waves with his company Honokea. It is either the best thing or worst thing to happen to surfing. Will it nurture a whole new generation of surfers who would not experience the sport otherwise? Will introducing the sport to the masses allow for the proper amount of respect to grow around it? The company hopes to spread not only surfing but the traditional values that com with it. Lessons: 1. In the spirit of aloha, give all that you can. 2. Start at zero, carrying no expectations, everyday. 3. You must go through a rite of passage to appreciate what you have. Honokea Surf Parks http://honokea.com/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

You excel in ANY situation. Director of Counseling and Psychological Services at Cornell University Dr. Greg Eells explains how. In this interview describes how Viktor Frankl created meaning out of senseless and horrific circumstances. Frankl was imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp and not only maintained his wits but retained the wherewithal to help the other prisoners. This shows the vital role that an imperturbable set of values can have in directing a productive life. Eels discusses some easy to follow guidelines to build this same sense of resilience. They may not be as easy to execute and incorporate into a routine, but that's on you, Lessons: 1. To be resilient remember SAVES: Social connections, Attitude, Values, Emotional Acceptance, and Silliness. 2. We are not punished for our attitudes we are punished by them. 3. You can make meaning out of even the most trying circumstances and in so doing persist. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

His doctor forbade world champion power lifter Robert Herbst to lift anything when he was a child with scoliosis. Eighteen world championships and twenty one consecutive national championships later, what compelled him to rebel? Herbst believes in managing risk but errs on the side of throwing caution to the wind. It's paid off spectacularly. His MO in all his successes, including his Clark Kentian day job as a lawyer, is that as soon as he identifies a challenge, he burns his ships. He makes an irrevocable commitment. Period. Lessons: 1. Better to fail on the stage, than fail by staying home. 2. Make an irrevocable commitment to your goal. 3. Be physically active enough that it becomes a need. Links: Make America Fit Again (TM). http://w8lifterusa.com Robert Herbst on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIT0iclJGOGQ68uKvFgJu1uvYjo50amBu CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Demali Elliott mentors young women in challenging situations through creative and introspective activities to redirect their stories onto a positive trajectory with her program Petals-N-Belles. It is a rigorous program designed to help those ready to receive that help, sixty- eight young women at last count. The organization, largely staffed by volunteers, utilizes physical and mental challenges like rock climbing, trapeze and yoga to build emotional wellness and resilience. In this podcast Elliott describes three qualities she's seen in the girls that have most inspired her own success. Lessons: 1. Model energy that will energize those around you. 2. Bounce back. Be inspired by the ability of children, they fall and get up every day. 3. Dream big, you can fill in the details later. Link: Petals-N-Belles http://petalsnbelles.org/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Musical prodigy Ray Ushikubo emulated what he saw on television and, contrary to what you might fear, discovered his passion. At five years old and with the help of supportive parents he his calling. Are there days he doesn't want to practice? Or course. But he practices without fail and is fast approaching the theoretical 10,000 hours of study to reach virtuosity. Ushikubo is already well on his way. Find out what it takes to go so far so fast so young. This young man has advice we can all learn from. Lessons: To alleviate anxiety, focus 100% on the task. Many times when setting out to accomplish a big task it's beneficial not to know what exactly you're getting into. An appreciative audience is a great motivator. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Marcello (an author and physics professor at Dartmouth College) and Kari (with a Ph.D focussed on trauma and PTSD,)decided to build an obstacle course in their backyard. What's the connection? Marcelo, the physicist, sees OCR and physics as a way to go beyond the known boundaries. Kari, the psychologist, sees it as a way to get out of our heads and connect with the physical, a vital way to get past anxiety. Both agree it's a great way for their family to develop life skills that translate into our personal and professional lives and transcend the inevitable resistance we face each day. Lessons: 1. Get in touch with your physical side to become a whole person. 2. Introduce mystery, possibility and the unknown into your world in order to transcend your boundaries. 3. The important thing is not to meet your goal but keep trying to meet your goal. LINKS: Marcello Gleiser http://marcelogleiser.com/ Kari Gleiser https://www.aedpinstitute.org/faculty/kari-gleiser-phd/ CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Son of pioneering Hawaiian surfer "Buffalo" and a living legend in his own right, Brian Keaulana had two mentors. The first was his father who taught him to share the ocean's bounty. The second was the ocean itself which served as a playground, school and church. Before he and his siblings could walk their father would toss them into the surf. Keaulana, who calls himself a "Waterman," uses this wisdom as a stunt coordinator on projects like Hawaii-Five-O, teaching ocean risk management and mentoring at risk kids. Lessons: 1. The ocean, through its unpredictability, teaches you to be in a state of constant readiness. 2. Transcend fear is through knowledge. 3. He shares the brilliant acronym S.S.A.F.E. - protection from any danger. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Starting Health Warrior, a business borne out of a passion for health and fitness, moved Daniel Gluck away from Wall Street. He seized the opportunity to fill a niche in a food industry dominated by overly processed and high sugar offerings with healthful chia based alternatives. He was inspired by the legendary Tarahumara Indians who, fueled with chia seeds, are the ultra endurance runners described in the book "Born To Run." Gluck talks about what it takes to build something from scratch and how building this business changed his life for the better. Lessons: 1. Follow your passion even if it means struggling through hardship to find it. 2. Celebrate the wins; don't dwell on the losses. 3. Focus on the big picture of how it's going to work without getting mired in the day to day problems. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Battling addiction late in the Vietnam era, the US Army's Deputy Chief of Chaplains Brigadier General Thomas Solhjem found redemption through his faith and other's mentorship. As he realizes now, isolation, though a common strategy, is the worst way to deal with adversity. Reaching out to others and sharing your experiences is an admission of strength. He has spent an extremely long time in the military, forty years with thirty of those as a chaplain, helping others cope with the rigors of battle and drawing strength from trying circumstances. Solhjem sources his vast experiences to tell us how to be better people. Lessons: 1. The person who overcomes adversity is the person who is able to channel strength from outside theirself. 2. Post traumatic order is finding a positive context for hardship and becoming stronger as a result. 3. Resilience is the integration of elements into your life that enable you to be flexible. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Running across the Sahara, all 4600 miles, 50 miles a day for 111 consecutive days. That's what Ultrarunner Charlie Engle did to raise 6 million dollars for H20 Africa (now Water.org). In doing so he took his passion and did good with it. Engle overcame addiction and an unexpected jail sentence, but instead of running away from adversity, he embraced it. He started running marathons which turned into a gateway for more daunting races like ecochallenges. All told he's been racing for 30 years. His top piece of advice: attempting to make your life easier is a mistake. Lessons: 1. Welcome some suffering when it enters your life, some of the greatest lessons are from hardship. 2. Keep forward momentum going. 3. Find a way to use what you love to improve the world. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Behavioral scientist & expert on adventure, Jon Levy knows what makes Spartans tick. He wrote a book about it, The 2AM Principle: Discover the Science of Adventure. A big reason why people undertake challenges outside their comfort zone is to reach flow state, a zen like sense of timelessness, total absorption in an activity, and sense of mastery. The IKEA effect, loving an activity according to the amount of effort you invested in it, also explains how Spartans are made. But the real gift of adventure, Levy explains, is it's transformative power. In this episode, Levy explains how to live a fun and exciting life and gain success in the process. Lessons: 1. Say yes to experiences. 2. Do something a little outside your comfort zone to help induce a state of flow. 3. Take advantage of the winner effect by getting some easy victories and building momentum for larger challenges. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2017 Spartan

Not wanting to spend his life on the sidelines, blind athlete Pete Cossaboon started participating in Spartan events. He sought out and found a way to achieve this seemingly impossible goal. Nelson Diaz has dedicated himself to facilitating the implausible achievements of adaptive athletes through compassion and action. The events only have meaning and purpose to the degree that they can be applied to life at large and to what extent the athletes can use them to tell their unique story to the world. Lessons: - Any new situation, when confronted, evolves from fear to adaptation. - If life is a dash between you birthday and your death day, measure your value by the lives you have you changed in the interim. - Avoid distractions to the degree that they are diverting you from the main purpose of your life. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2016 Spartan

Trauma care is a creative process for Dr, Jeffrey Upperman. He mentors young surgeons by throwing them in a room together with very little to work with and let their ingenuity and communication skills come to the fore to solve a problem under duress. He points out that these skills are becoming a lost art in the age of texting and tweeting but they are no less vital in forming a successful person. Upperman in his years as a general surgeon took cues from his father, a man who prided himself in working with his hands, and stresses the importance of upbringing, yet acknowledges that the whole community bears responsibility for nurturing a success. Lessons: 1. Creativity is key in emergencies, and it can be learned. 2. We are all responsible to hold each other accountable. 3. We need rites of passage to learn to cope under duress.

Cal Fussman, author as well as a writer for Esquire, went on a ten year worldwide journey with little money to his name. He subsisted on the good will of others, most often on those he met on the bus ride to his next destination. It was the perfect way to satisfy his insatiable curiosity and hone his interviewing skills. In this episode Fussman will talk about how to make everyday an opportunity for adventure and connection. Lessons: 1. Ask a canned question and you'll get a canned answer. Talk to people with authenticity. 2. When starting a big project don't reflect long enough to talk yourself out of it; just keep going forward. 3. Treat each day like a unique experience. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2016 Spartan

When your business is in trouble, this is the guy you need. Tim Gentry develops people to motivate his own success. As an Ironman competitor he exemplifies strengthening the body as a way to maintain a powerful mind, something he believes many business people neglect to their detriment. His suggestion: keep it simple and do just one thing every day. Listen for more tried and true methods to persevere and thrive. Gentry shares some gems on this week's podcast. Lessons: 1. Focused on the people in your business,and let hurdles dissolve to white noise. 2. To revive someone who is lagging, put them in charge of others. 3. Write down all the great things that are happening in your life and read them when you need inspiration.

Mortgage officer and part of a Vermont family maple sugaring business, Ray Morvan found extreme multi day racing at random, after a battle with alcohol and opiate addiction. By helping him find community and a way to exert and build mental resilience it's exactly what the doctor ordered . He went on to compete in nine Peak Death Races which is almost certainly a record. We spoke with him at the Spartan Winter Agoge. Morvan credits stoicism for getting through life challenges that would break a lesser man. He is now championing the issue of addiction by assisting anyone who is willing to reach out to him. Morvan's phone line is open. Lessons: 1. Figure it out. There's always a way. 2. Simply put yourself out there, everyday, and have faith that it will get better. 3. In addition to PTSD think about PTSG - Post Traumatic Growth. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra Alexandra, Col. Tim Nye, Dr. Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz Copyright - 2016 Spartan

Damion Hahn came a hair's breadth away from making the Olympics and advises those not achieving there goals "be mad about it, then turn your attention to tomorrow." He channels that drive training a team that has been near dynasty for the last quarter century of Ivy League wrestling. They got there by honing raw talent. The best persist, the rest need to find their niche elsewhere. Hahn has seen this success translate into the wrestler's everyday lives and he shares the methods that have built such consistent winners. Lessons: 1. Everybody's motivated differently; adjust your approach accordingly. 2. Enter each day with a purpose! 3. Be part of a community that motivates you achieve.

This week's podcast features two Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, Christian Johnson and Chad Grills, disrupting the world of business. Johnson started Fotition a platform to unite brands people and charities to create a positive social outcome. He arrived at this idea by following his lifelong mantra, "creativity will save the world," which lead him to a vocation that will leave a legacy. Grills, a former Army infantryman, took note of better ways to do things during deployments in Egypt and Iraq and channeled them into a sharing and trading service for business assets called Twist.com. He discusses the ways he has used the challenges of the military and life to overcome obstacles. Lessons: 1, The problem is the solution (permaculture principle). 2, Learn to love the word no. Turn it into an opportunity to overcome challenge. 3. Ask yourself if you are living up to your life's mantra and serving the greater good. CREDITS Producer – Marion Abrams, Madmotion, llc. Hosts: Joe De Sena with Johnny Waite, Sefra, Col. Tim Nye, Delle & David Deluca Synopsis – Matt Baatz © 2016 Spartan