Episodes

  • Responsibility and accountability form the bedrock of personal integrity and growth. While being responsible means acknowledging our role in actions and decisions, understanding their impact, accountability is the bridge that transforms responsibility into tangible growth, requiring us to answer for our choices and learn from them. Together, they craft a powerful narrative of self-awareness, pushing us to navigate life with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

    Today’s guest needs no further introduction, but for those who don’t know him yet, Andre Iguodala is a legendary basketball player. During his career, Andre played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Denver Nuggets, Miami Heat and the Golden State Warriors. He played a crucial role in the Warriors' success, contributing to 4 NBA championships with the team. Andre was recognized for his outstanding performance and impact on the court, earning the NBA Finals MVP (Most Valuable Player) award in 2015.

    Embark on a captivating storytelling journey with Andre as the conversation unfolds organically, spanning from Andre's morning routine and tech insights to his small-town upbringing and the struggles that shaped him. Exploring individuality, emotional intelligence, and the significance of teamwork, this episode navigates the complexities of life, mentorship, and the pursuit of purpose.

    As Andre shares his non-negotiables in collaboration and insights on responsibility in young athletes, he touches on contemporary issues, including healthcare and the perceived decline of grit in society. In the concluding moments, Andre imparts a powerful reminder to surround oneself with those who uplift and bring out the best.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro00:41 What were you reading this morning?01:12 Listening to a podcast to keep up with tech updates03:11 Take a look at Andre’s impressive resume04:16 If you were asked what you do for a living, what would you say?06:35 Growing up in an environment surrounded by struggles11:04 What were you trying to proof against a small-town mindset12:20 Did you know you are different in some ways?13:41 When did you pick up on your emotional intelligence?16:44 What’s your workout routine now?18:51 The team that you build can make or break you21:19 What are the non-negotiables when you’re working with someone?25:55 “Knowing your role, knowing your time.” 29:01 How do you make young athletes more responsible?32:30 Why do you do what you do?34:49 There’s so much stimulus for the younger generation35:46 Healthcare situation nowadays39:26 Are we losing grit?44:07 We all have a human side in us46:40 What’s wrong with you?50:40 Not everyone wants to go viral54:01 There are three types of Americans58:21 We’re always told to humble ourselves01:01:54 Do you think everybody has a purpose?01:07:10 Surround yourself with people who can help bring out the best in you

    Follow Andre Iguodala:

    https://twitter.com/andrehttps://www.instagram.com/andrehttps://www.youtube.com/@pointforwardhttps://www.instagram.com/pointforward/The Sixth Man: A Memoir

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  • Valuing your worthiness involves recognizing and appreciating your inherent value as a human being, independent of external factors or validation from others. By nurturing a positive relationship with yourself and honoring your inherent worth, you can cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, confidence, and resilience in all areas of your life.

    Today, let’s welcome renowned relationship expert Vienna Pharaon. Vienna is a licensed marriage and family therapist and one of New York City’s most sought after relationship therapists. She has practiced therapy for over fifteen years and is the founder and owner of the group practice, Mindful Marriage and Family Therapy.

    Vienna and Mary touch on the essence of human existence and the dynamics of relationships. Explore the origins of our identity and the restorative power found in therapy and discover the delicate balance between self-assurance and vulnerability, and the importance of expanding our skill sets to navigate life's complexities.

    Together, they unpack the intricate landscape of emotional wounds that shape our interactions and perceptions. From the struggle with self-worth to the challenges of belonging and trust, we uncover the layers of our innermost struggles. Along the way, we challenge societal narratives and misconceptions about therapy, emphasizing the significance of genuine connections and emotional honesty.

    Join us as we unravel the complexities of human emotion, relationships, and self-discovery in this transformative episode.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro00:45 The Origins of You01:52 Being a therapist can be restorative for some05:08 The “I Got This” mindset06:34 Continue to expand your skill set19:35 It’s harder to say, “I’m not fine.”14:00 Our gifts come through our survival18:30 Origin is the first time we question our worth20:33 How do you become an effective listener?24:30 How your behavior is protecting you from something, always26:15 Do you understand yourself?28:11 The Worthiness Wound32:12 “I don’t want to be responsible for someone else.”35:54 How your story gets internalized makes a huge difference38:32 Can you handle someone else’s emotional baggage?39:41 The Belonging Wound44:58 “You’re so unique, just like everybody else.”46:50 We can rationalize things and still need to connect to our emotion about it51:18 The Trust Wound55:32 The Safety Wound56:39 How hard can origin work become?01:00:50 What are the good things to look for in a therapist?01:04:44 Misinformation about therapy on social media01:08:24 The narrative: “You didn’t get into this field to earn money.” 01:15:11 Unsolicited advice are never helpful01:18:59 You're intimidating because you're too masculine01:22:54 When embodied anger rises into our head01:28:37 When saying you’re not okay makes everyone else uncomfortable01:31:20 Can therapists self disclose to genuinely connect with clients?01:34:44 What is EMDR Therapy?01:37:32 Something is always happening at home01:41:36 How unexpressed emotions manifest into the body01:48:23 Relationships with our family can become complicated01:52:10 Sometimes, it’s easier for us to find ourselves in other people’s stories 01:56:21 A book about the final chapter in our life02:02:17 What is an End of Life Doula?

    Follow Vienna Pharoan:

    https://viennapharaon.com/https://www.instagram.com/mindfulmfthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vienna-pharaon-lmft-a7a66346/The Origins of You: How Breaking Family Patterns Can Liberate the Way We Live and LoveThis Keeps Happening with Vienna Pharaon

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

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  • Anxiety is like a tricky friend we all know. It's not just everyday worry; it's that feeling when your mind won't quiet down, and your heart races for no clear reason. It makes normal stuff feel like a big deal. Living with anxiety means sometimes facing those fears and finding moments to relax. It's not a flaw but just part of being human. .

    Reality television personality, actor, author, and podcast host Vinny Guadagnino joins Mary in a raw and authentic conversation about embracing vulnerabilities and overcoming anxiety. They talk about diverse topics, ranging from the initiation into the world of keto to the psychological intricacies of perfectionism. Unfiltered authenticity is championed, emphasizing the importance of being raw and real both online and offline.

    Sleep, anxiety, and the profound link between them surface, unveiling the potential for perception change to facilitate better sleep. Practical insights follow, offering tools to train the mind to avoid overreaction. As the episode draws to a close, personal revelations abound—from navigating OCD, structure, and rigidity to gaining a sense of dietary boundaries. The revelation that "your food has a face" serves as a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked interconnectedness of our choices.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro01:26 Can we share our weaknesses openly?04:43 It was the best party ever that I didn’t get to enjoy07:40 Constantly working on getting through severe anxiety09:21 When did you start doing keto?16:04 Perfectionism is the core issue of everything19:10 Just being raw and real online and offline20:56 When you start to fear not being able to sleep25:40 What is Jersey Shore?28:40 Why did it become a hit?30:49 It was the first of its kind31:31 I almost had a law degree32:24 Do you get fulfillment from doing reality TV?34:06 What makes us feel different? 36:59 I didn’t want to limit myself39:00 Link between lack of sleep and heightened anxiety45:06 The perception change to help you sleep better52:14 You can train your brain to not overreact 55:02 OCD, structure, rigidity, and perfectionism59:16 Getting a sense of what you can and can’t eat01:02:59 What is something people don’t know about you?01:05:14 Your food has a face

    Follow Vinny Guadagnino:

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    https://vinnygshop.com/

    Something Went Wrong W/ Vinny

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

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  • Building a community where you can work on personal growth, be your genuine self, and thrive in what you do best is what we all need. We need people that will push us to our limit and influence us to become better, stronger, and wiser.

    Actor, stuntman, former professional MMA fighter, and entrepreneur Tait Fletcher joins Mary in a vulnerable and genuine conversation about growth and healing. Tait Fletcher is known for his roles in movies and TV shows, including appearances in "Breaking Bad," "John Wick," and "The Mandalorian."

    They kick things off by diving into the quest to understand Mary’s pain and illness, a journey that became the catalyst for significant transformation. They also explore the importance of doing what you love and building on those passions, navigating the complex emotions of always feeling like the 'big kid,' and the profound sense of disconnection from life.

    The narrative takes a poignant turn as we address the weight of suicidal thoughts and the crucial act of reaching out to those in need. From the evolution of communities to the film industry's wild twists, the two dive deep into the mysteries of our bodies, the slow road of growth, and the positive impact one can have on their community.

    This conversation is a tale of resilience, revelation, and the unwavering pursuit of well-being. It's a reminder that growth is a journey, and sometimes, all we need to do is keep trying.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro00:36 Figuring out why I was sick and in pain09:27 Do what you love and build on that13:08 Are you always the big kid?14:37 The feeling that you’ve dislocated from life17:06 Overcoming suicidal thoughts, guilt, and reaching out to someone who’s struggling22:43 Who is Tait Fletcher?27:11 Dog Brothers, stick fighting, and martial arts30:10 Built to be strong, tough, and tenacious32:39 Community is built and defined differently before 34:25 From mixed martial arts to building a space to train athletes43:59 Meeting a Ukrainian mobster and getting introduced to Carl45:28 Filming at a defunct prison in Santa Fe, getting opportunities in other films54:07 Pharmaceutical companies are trying to kill us56:09 Nutrition is a tool to control your life58:06 We don’t anything about what formulates our body01:00:38 Putting attention into something that you want to focus on01:03:14 Getting a concussion during a match01:05:37 Ignored symptoms, continued training, health neglect01:12:40 Can head concussions cause other health problems?01:17:36 Growth is not a light switch, it’s like a slow road01:19:33 The film business is wild01:22:43 Logan’s positive effect on his community01:26:49 You just need to keep trying 01:32:09 How to find Tait online

    Follow Tait Fletcher:

    https://www.instagram.com/taitfletcher/

    https://www.youtube.com/c/TaitFletcher

    https://www.facebook.com/tait.fletcher/

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

    https://www.instagram.com/paleochef

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  • In a very personal episode, Mary sits down to talk about her personal journey. She had suffered a lot in her younger years not knowing she had gluten intolerance and later found out that she had full-blown Celiac. The choice was either to depend on what the doctors tell her and be on medication all her life or start working on herself.

    Mary assessed her food choices and stumbled upon a paleo diet and how to restart gut health. As she ventured more into eating food that worked for her, she got her first client which then started the chain of clients that ultimately led to her becoming a performance chef. It’s a journey truly worth sharing.

    In the second part of the episode, Mary answers some questions from her community where she gladly shares her tips on nutrition, proper diet, and eating right for optimal performance.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro00:12 It’s my birthday week and this is how I started as a performance chef06:51 Tested for gluten intolerance, came out with Celiac disease13:47 Getting asked to cook for my first client17:37 Timing, luck, opportunity, and the choice to follow through22:37 I just had to leave San Francisco27:36 Eggs are my go-to food28:26 Foods that can help with focus32:25 Thoughts on genetic testing34:06 Send more jokes34:53 Trying new food 37:59 Blue zone diet versus paleo diet40:19 What has been your favorite thing about starting a podcast?41:41 Have you celebrated the launch of the EPC podcast?43:03 I black seed oil worth the hype?44:16 What movies do I watch?44:56 How did I learn to make recipes?47:52 How to become a private chef 55:44 Skin care secrets

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

    https://www.instagram.com/paleochefhttps://paleochef.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryshenouda/https://www.tiktok.com/@paleochef
  • Embracing the cliché "New year, new you" as a powerful motivator, many of us strive to shed the burdens of the past and reinvent our journey with the turn of the calendar. Life itself often prompts us to reassess, recalibrate, and make substantial changes. Decisions, inherently uncertain, become stepping stones to accumulated experience and wisdom, shaping our readiness for transformative shifts.

    In our first episode of 2024, Mary invites you to reflect on three pivotal questions she initiates her year with: What do you want to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing? Honest responses to these inquiries pave the way for a purposeful path in the coming year.

    Mary imparts invaluable advice on dietary enhancements for a healthier, more energized body. She explores the intricacies of a gut reset, providing personalized insights into navigating this process successfully.

    The episode also offers a succinct recap of enlightening conversations with revered experts from past interviews. If you haven't tuned in yet, now's the perfect time to dive into these wealths of knowledge.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro01:17 The 3-question prompt I start my year with05:20 This is why I have a PhD in uncertainty08:37 I started simplifying everything in my life14:56 Recommendations from a performance chef18:07 What’s my go-to food?19:41 Ingredients and supplements to consider22:01 Incorporate small bites of movements throughout the day23:25 Your emotional well-being is top priority25:26 The proper way to reset your gut30:34 Checkout Eat Play Crush podcast’s awesome guests51:53 What topics do you want me to cover?

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

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  • The goal was always to solve problems for people. This is one of the mantras that Jon Bier lives by and has helped him succeed in what he does best. Jon Bier is the founder and chief executive of Jack Taylor PR, a boutique public relations agency with offices in Brooklyn and Venice Beach.

    Jon sits down with Mary in a conversation that revolves around PR, winning clients, growing a brand, and running a successful business. There is no shortcut to success and Jon knows the kind of work one needs to put in to get to the top. It’s not an easy task to tackle, but it is definitely now impossible to achieve.

    The duo talks about how providing value to your customers can help you win them over, the tactics used by people who manage to build a billion-dollar brand, and the importance of focusing on consumer-based solutions when dealing with client needs and requests.

    Jon also shares snippets of his life before he became a PR brand himself, how he found love, life living on a farm, and how changing his lifestyle has made him a changed man.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro00:52 Sticking to the paleo chef04:18 Who is Jon Bier?06:18 Looking back when he practiced law08:21 This is how Mary met Jon10:20 How the fear of failure became a powerful motivator13:25 How to crush PR and bring in more clients15:35 Solving big problems for brands and helping people18:07 Providing value to you and your consumers21:50 People who built billion-dollar brands28:10 The tale of Cerro Gordo33:36 Joe Rogan’s brand builder tactics36:11 When the brand doesn’t have a future39:49 Jeans preferences and functional clothing42:43 Becoming a husband, a dad, and a family man49:38 From being carefree and free-spirited to the current Jon52:47 People use vulnerability and human emotions to sell products58:59 How do you express your anger?01:04:33 Media manipulation to hike up interest in the market01:06:51 What do you think about aliens?01:09:19 Mini bars are out of touch nowadays01:17:23 Consumer-based solution when dealing with clients01:20:13 Everyone has different needs and how you change your lifestyle01:22:37 What does your supplementation look like?01:26:58 What made you start a podcast?01:30:24 Living a life on a farm

    Follow Jon Bier:

    One Day with Jon Bierhttps://www.jacktaylorpr.com/https://www.instagram.com/jacktaylorpr/

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

    https://www.instagram.com/paleochefhttps://paleochef.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryshenouda/https://www.tiktok.com/@paleochef
  • “The hardest part of improving your fitness and nutrition is finding someone that understands why you struggle.” And the best person who can help you overcome this struggle is someone who has helped prominent and successful people overcome the same struggle themselves.

    Born Fitness is one of the leading brands when it comes to getting back in shape and taking care of your overall health and wellness. And the man behind this is Adam Bornstein. Adam is a nutrition advisor for LeBron James, Cindy Crawford, Lindsey Vonn, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He's also the founder of Pen Name Consulting, the former Chief Nutrition Officer at Ladder, and the Vice President of Nutrition for FitOn, the largest fitness app in the world.

    With candor and authenticity, Adam unravels the layers of his career evolution and shares pivotal moments that shaped his path. Discover how to become so exceptional that clients can't ignore you, drawing from Adam's rich experiences in working with industry giants like Tim Ferris and managing Arnold Schwarzenegger's media infrastructure.

    The episode isn't just about professional success; it delves into the human aspects of keeping people engaged in your product, dismantling the illusion of a magic solution, and why Adam wrote the book, "You Can't Screw This Up."

    The conversation extends to the challenges of nutrition education and practical solutions to issues of cost, convenience, and compliance. As the episode unfolds, listeners gain access to Adam's strategies for setting up for success, adding layers of authenticity and wisdom to the narrative.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro01:03 Adam retells his journalism journey and how he became a fitness editor09:23 The leap you can take if you keep pursuing your goals14:22 Everything is evolving and so does the men’s health industry19:14 Reflecting on being a negligent parent27:57 Feeling unwelcomed in an event where Adam and Mary met36:17 Working with Tim Ferris40:28 Be so good that prospect clients can’t ignore you44:22 Managing Arnold Schwarzenegger’s daily media infrastructure47:22 Tips to keep people interested in your product52:09 When the customer acquisition cost is too messed up56:38 There is no magic pill to make things work01:02:44 Why did you write the book?01:14:00 The way people are educated about nutrition is so backwards01:20:31 You Can’t Screw This Up was the perfect title01:21:33 Addressing issues about cost, convenience, and compliance01:22:56 How do you set yourself up for success?

    Follow Adam Bornstein:

    https://www.bornfitness.com/https://www.instagram.com/bornfitness/https://twitter.com/BornFitnessBooks

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

    https://www.instagram.com/paleochefhttps://paleochef.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryshenouda/https://www.tiktok.com/@paleochef
  • Before the success of Deuce Gym, Logan Gelbrich was a professional baseball player turned fitness professional and entrepreneur. He is known for his work in the fitness and wellness industry, particularly in the realm of strength and conditioning. His expertise extends to areas like strength training, functional fitness, and holistic well-being.

    As a former athlete himself, Logan understood the importance of strength training. When he founded the Deuce Gym, his goal was to create a safe space for people, especially aspiring athletes, to develop and maximize their full potential.

    Logan sits down with Mary to talk about the early days of Deuce Gym and why he built it, insights on creating value from a successful CEO, the nuances of leadership, the challenges of reconciling troubles, and the art of making sacrifices for small wins.

    We also touch on personal struggles amid growing success, understanding when to stay grounded in the most challenging situations, fostering meaningful connections ultimately leading to a bonded community, and the profound impact of pursuing your purpose while in service to others.

    With Logan's continuous journey for personal growth, we get to listen to his approach to creative problem-solving, and the commitment to showing up better every day. Explore the world Logan is building and gain insights into when one truly knows they've made it.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro03:49 Who is Logan Gelbrich?07:02 Leaving the corporate life and moving into LA09:54 Creating a space for anyone to aspire to reach their highest potential12:59 Exposing yourself to high performers18:21 It started off with a very singular mindset19:39 How to create value from a successful CEO23:16 From an underdog team to hosting the game27:51 Pursuing peak performances and flow state31:56 How to not be a leader when you’re supposed to be one34:49 The true meaning of leadership40:46 Our troubles generally exceed our ability to reconcile48:28 Sacrifices for the little moments, for the small wins55:15 Feeling sad despite the growing success59:51 It’s not flexing, it’s shrinking to not stand out01:01:50 How do you keep yourself grounded?01:05:34 Having meaningful connections with people01:08:57 The Hold the Standard Summit 01:11:42 Adaptive leadership addresses two types of challenges01:14:33 The creation of Deuce gym01:17:24 Traversing the gap between where we are and where we can be01:19:45 Creative problem solving while pivoting to a different business industry01:24:49 Growth comes when life grows on them01:29:53 How can you show up better?01:34:10 Why asking for honest feedback is difficult01:38:07 Community support does wonders for people01:39:57 When do you know if you've made it?01:42:15 Where to find Logan online

    Follow Logan Gelbrich:

    https://www.instagram.com/functionalcoach/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/logan-gelbrich-72714248/

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063648906174

    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6llftpbtL3N6WCU6X0jRw

    https://www.deucegym.com/gym/

    Going Right: A Logical Justification for Pursuing Your Dreams

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

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  • Mark Sisson is an OG in the health and wellness space, celebrated for advocating primal/ancestral living.

    He’s the author of the popular “The Primal Blueprint” and the man behind the influential 'Mark's Daily Apple' platform which led to becoming the founder of Primal Kitchen which sold for $200 million just a few short years after it launched and can be found on almost every store shelf nationwide.

    Mark is no stranger to going against the grain and taking on challenges as a lifetime triathlete, creating solutions and products to solve for himself first before taking it to market and he’s on a mission to do that again with Peluva, shoes designed to offer a comfortable, barefoot-like experience.

    In this episode, Mark shares his journey into the 'Primal' lifestyle out of necessity as a professional athlete back before there was any such thing as sponsors or endorsements, rolling up his sleeves in true entrepreneurial spirit to support his passion.

    He shares insights from his story from doing odd jobs like painting houses to support his running passion to hitting it big with Primal Kitchen to the highs and lows of being an entrepreneur and why family always comes first for him.

    Mark also dives into the story behind 'Peluva'—the shoes he created for comfy, barefoot walking. He spills the beans on getting the best shoe designers on board and the long process of making these shoes just perfect.

    Join us as Mark dishes out advice for folks looking to start their own thing and shares why he thinks everyone can benefit from wearing Peluva shoes. It's a chat that's all about good vibes, cool shoes, and making life a bit comfier!

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro

    00:38 The story behind how Mark and I first met

    02:31 How would Mark introduce himself today

    03:38 Getting into the Primal lifestyle

    08:01 Painting houses and doing different jobs to support his running career

    13:18 Why Mark’s success is earned

    14:12 Pre-Primal Blueprint ventures

    19:25 Building “Primal Kitchen”

    24:53 The ups and downs of being an entrepreneur

    26:49 Mark on selling Primal Kitchen to Kraft Heinz Company

    27:57 Managing stress and discomfort

    30:50 Family first, success second
    34:30 “Everything I created was for me first”

    35:11 What inspired “Peluva”?

    40:29 Hiring the best shoe designers in the world

    43:01 The iterations and wear tests to perfect each shoe design

    45:07 “My foot came home…”

    46:53 Creating this footwear is Mark’s gift to the world

    50:49 The adjustment period of wearing barefoot shoes

    56:34 Why Peluva’s are the best shoes for athletes

    58:49 How and where non-athletes can wear Peluvas?

    1:00:19 Long term effects of wearing Peluva shoes

    1:02:23 The meaning behind the name “Peluva”

    1:03:34 An advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

    Follow Mark Sisson:

    https://www.instagram.com/marksissonprimalhttps://www.primalkitchen.com/https://www.marksdailyapple.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoRWj9kt6kmLFaSFvEhRQEwhttps://x.com/Mark_Sissonhttps://www.instagram.com/wearpeluvahttps://peluva.com/

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  • Max Lugavere is a health expert breaking boundaries in nutrition and wellness. With bestselling books like Genius Foods and Genius Kitchen, he's shown how food and health are a power duo. His podcast, The Genius Life, is a sanctuary for millions seeking health enlightenment. Max is also a familiar face on TV, from The Rachael Ray Show, The Today Show, PBS’s Brief but Spectacular, and The Doctors, along with features in VICE, Fast Company, The New York Times, People Magazine, and CNN.

    In this episode, Max shares his journey from the glitz of TV hosting to the depth of health and nutrition advocacy. He shares the ups and downs of his career transition, moving away from the camera's allure to discover a new purpose. Hear about the twists and challenges that reshaped Max's path, including moments of doubt and family health crisis.

    Join us as Max also opens up about vulnerability, the changing tides of relationships, and the pursuit of a purpose-driven life. Explore his insights on health, fitness, and even the intricacies of stable relationships in the modern world. This episode will surely teach you how to live a genius life!

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro01:34 Max’s journey from med school to filmmaking04:39 Working for Al Gore07:11 Becoming a hand model 08:37 Co-hosting and balancing screen time 09:56 Not knowing what to do after the job ended13:04 Being vulnerable and emotional14:02 People turning their back on you as soon as you become no value to them16:11 Trusting the process during challenging times21:49 How Max’s passion for health was awaken25:57 Advocating for dementia28:03 Fortune cookie messages and manifestation31:24 Deciding to go all in on something33:17 Max’s formula to success36:08 How to accept criticisms38:36 Max on releasing a documentary 41:45 Advice for someone who wants to prioritize their wellness47:58 Adapting diets for changing needs49:58 Exploring concussion-related health issues52:03 How reading a book about ketogenic diet influenced his bodybuilding journey54:43 Heavy lifting, muscle growth, and injury risks57:48 Max shares the positive impact of change on his overall well-being1:00:13 How to date when you’re purpose driven?1:01:08 Going through life stages and finding meaning in relationships1:03:44 Being in a relationship with someone who has their life together1:05:10 What does stability look like?1:06:11 It’s okay to not know everything in life1:08:07 Max’s non-negotiable habits1:09:44 Rediscovering simple flavors in cooking1:12:31 Opinion on eating oatmeal before workout1:14:51 The debate around sugars and sweeteners1:16:59 What’s next for Max?

    Follow Max Lugavere:

    https://www.maxlugavere.com/https://www.instagram.com/maxlugavere/https://www.facebook.com/MaxLugavere/https://twitter.com/maxlugaverehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw-1kRP-tFmU7Byesum5XaQhttps://www.maxlugavere.com/podcast-1

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

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  • Jay Ferruggia is more than a fitness coach; he's a legend in the industry. With a remarkable journey that began in the underground gym scene and led to global recognition as a fitness expert. He’s works with athletes and organizations across the NFL, MLB, and WWE both from a strength and conditioning perspective but also being recognized as a leader in player development when it comes to mental toughness, connection, and leadership.

    In this episode, we'll have a candid conversation with Jay as he shares his remarkable journey from the early days in the underground gym scene to becoming a globally recognized fitness expert with stops along the way from his health scare, heavy Hip Hop influence, and why he things improv belongs in every sports organization.

    Join me as we uncover the secrets to Jay's success and delve into how he connects with people on a deeper level to foster transformation. You'll discover that the path to a stronger, healthier, and happier you might be simpler than you think and maybe add as song or two to your training playlist.

    What We Discussed:

    00:00 Intro

    02:13 Jay’s journey in sports training

    04:22 There was no concrete marketing strategy

    06:42 Coaching with attitude and results resonated with anyone

    08:56 Bringing swag in the gym

    10:04 Surviving tuberculosis and hitting rock bottom

    12:13 Talking recovery slow and started training people

    13:22 Getting recognition from local media and started making money

    14:12 Overspent hard earned money and eventually went broke

    16:43 Jay rebuilds himself and started started getting book deals and magazine

    19:54 First time inviting people over and it felt so natural

    20:41 Getting tattoos to boost your ego

    21:48 Hip-hop influence on training and culture

    23:10 Creating a culture of unity and solid support for each other

    25:17 Jay shares how to create an atmosphere of unity and build relationships in any crowd

    30:30 The three elements of charisma to break down anyone’s wall

    31:36 This is what you need to do to get better at what you do

    34:48 The ability to make a quick connection and being fully present with someone

    37:13 Getting genuine interest and attention from the person you just met

    40:34 How do you approach someone who looks nervous and uncomfortable?

    42:32 Introduction to improv in sports

    47:40 Becoming comfortable in public speaking

    51:01 Getting learning and influence from leaders in the industry

    55:17 Breaking free from the overtraining myth

    57:01 Different training approach for different body types

    1:00:28 Understanding minimal effective dose

    1:03:25 Prioritizing nutrition and sleep

    1:06:48 Wacky dances and gift of friendship

    1:09:44 What’s next for jay?

    1:13:22 Writing your own rules

    1:16:40 Imposter syndrome

    Follow Jay Ferruggia:

    https://www.instagram.com/jayferruggia

    https://jasonferruggia.com/

    https://www.youtube.com/user/JasonFerruggia

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonferruggia/

    https://jasonferruggia.com/podcast/

    Follow Mary Shenouda:

    https://www.instagram.com/paleochef

    https://paleochef.com/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryshenouda/

    https://www.tiktok.com/@paleochef

  • Today I welcome a good friend of mine and thought leader, Mark Groves. Mark Groves is a human connection specialist, motivational speaker, and author who is known for his work in the field of personal development and relationships. He often shares insights and advice on topics related to self-improvement, emotional intelligence, and building healthy and fulfilling relationships.

    Mark is the creator of “Create the Love” platform, where he offers guidance and resources to help people navigate the complexities of modern relationships. In this episode we dive deep into the intricacies of personal growth and meaningful relationships.

    We also talk about learning to trust ourselves, the power of walking away and choosing to prioritize self-care by developing healthy mind and body rituals.

    Whether you're seeking insights into personal development, relationship dynamics, or the keys to lasting happiness, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration.

    Episode highlights:

    00:00 Intro

    00:30: Intro question: Dropped off at LAX, what car would you be driving and what song is playing?

    02:50: How we met

    03:30 Mark’s experience with the gut reset

    06:15 Men and their inverse relationship to sensitivity and how it correlated with the fast

    10:30 The importance of mastering your impact

    15:00 Marks past relationship and when he wanted to call it off

    19:00 Internal conflicts and how they impact our external

    20:05 The realization that really helped Mark leave the relationship

    24:40 The perspective shift that he needed

    25:17 “Do you want to step up?”

    32:30 What led Mark to research relationships and they truth of staying together

    39:45 What inspired “Create the Love”

    45:15 Relationship advice that has evolved over time

    49:30 “Am I still curious?”

    54:00 Understanding that your partner may not be the priority in your life

    58:25 How to do things that make us both come alive and the importance of having individual purpose

    01:02:14 The power of contributions in relationships

    01:05:02 Mark unpacks his relational pattern

    01:09:20 The most powerful words your partner can say

    01:14:30 The closing ceremony

    01:21:25 Shifting focus from chasing someone to focus on myself

    01:22:30 When we get what we need through lessons

    01:26:45 The power of clarity and alignment

    01:29:15 Finding richness in being alone before entering a relationship

    01:31:50 Allowing space to freely express emotions including anger

    01:35:55 The influence culture plays on relationships

    01:39:00 How negative emotions invite us to reflect

    01:39:55 The power of honoring your truth

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createthelove/Instagram: @paleochefInstagram: @eatplaycrushWebsite: eatplaycrush.comGut Reset: https://eatplaycrush.com/products/gut-reset-prototcolLyvecap: https://eatplaycrush.com/pages/lyvecap
  • Today I welcome one of my favorite humans to the Eat Play Crush Podcast, Tim Ferriss. You probably know him as the author of the NYT Best Seller, The 4-Hour Work Week, a book that has changed the lives of millions of people around the world.

    He also authored The 4-Hour Body, The 4-Hour Chef, and The Tools of Titans. If that isn't enough he is also the host of a top podcast called "The Tim Ferriss Show," where he interviews a wide range of influential individuals from different fields, exploring their strategies for success and personal growth.

    Tim and I go back in time to 2012 as we talk about ways he and I have evolved personally as well as professionally over the last decade. We revisit stories from when Tim caught me talking to the Caribou I was preparing for the first time for his dinner party to topics ranging from his thoughts on leaving a legacy, mental health, the importance of celebrations, poetry, and a few more unique gems I’ll leave you to hear in the episode.

    Performance Spotlight aka Free Game: Stick around for this segment, today's highlight is Black Cumin Seed Oil aka Nigella Sativa.

    Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts.

    If anything stands out to you, share it on social and tag me, @paleochef.

    Be well. Do Good. Trust your Gut.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 Intro01:04 How Tim Introducing Himself Today: TeacherHow We Met in 2012Preparing “Hunter’s Pie” for Tim and Friends with Caribou He HuntedHonoring Sacrifice and GratitudeThe 4-Hour Chef and Tim’s TV Show | Would Tim Do Anything DifferentlyWhich Book is Tim Most Proud of WritingTim’s Burnout Led To Launching His Podcast2012 BattlesPausing to experience joy while being a high achiever“The struggle ends when gratitude begins…”Implementing Grace and “Pauses” to Limit Dark Days“Sometimes In Order To Feel Good, I have To Feel Bad”Let your emotions (whatever they are) landAudio and Video Journaling Practice“State, Story, Strategy”01:12:14 “Only keep what’s yours”01:15:57 Celebrations Matter, Schedule It | Celebrate Your Wins01:17:45 Defining Legacy, 2012 Tim vs 2023 Tim01:25:02 Psychedelic TherapyLucid DreamingFull Circle Moment: Gifting Back Notes and A Book Tim Gifted Me From 2012“The Heroes Farewell” and “The Price of Power”01:40:30 Tim’s Current Favorite PoemTim’s Parting Advice To Me As A Rookie PodcasterHat tip to Sesame Street & The “Performance Spotlight” Mention

    Resources:

    Website: https://tim.blog/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimFerriss/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/timferrissLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timferriss/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timferriss/X: https://twitter.com/tferrissInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/paleochef/X: https://twitter.com/paleochefYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCemdgXT-qmjzZkXxtOWbBOwInstagram: @eatplaycrushWebsite: eatplaycrush.comGut Reset: https://eatplaycrush.com/products/gut-reset-prototcolLyvecap: https://eatplaycrush.com/pages/lyvecapBlack Seed Spotlight: https://www.instagram.com/p/CucaWw1xLy6/
  • Disclaimer: Before we get into today's episode, a quick disclaimer that this was recorded prior to the SAG AFTRA strike.

    Today I welcome and kick off the Eat Play Crush Podcast with my incredible client and friend, Lupita Nyong’o. She has graced our screens in iconic roles and is the recipient of multiple awards, including an Academy Award.

    Lupita is someone that embodies total commitment to her craft and in this conversation, she takes us through her remarkable experience and transformation preparing for her role in Wakanda Forever which required intense training as well as prep for her upcoming role which required an entirely different body composition.

    We also discuss how those experiences compared to her prep for the first Black Panther movie, before she and I began working together to unlock her personal nutrition design.

    Lupita shares the behind-the-scenes experience of our work together, what performance nutrition means to her, and how changing the way she ate allowed her to get into optimal shape to embody her character Nakia once again but also how it expanded her own self awareness and relationship to food in her everyday life.

    Lupita delves into the challenges, learnings, and dedication required and how that experience transcended into her habits off the screen.

    Beyond that, we also talk about her personal journey preparing for these roles while so much is going on in the world as well as in her personal life and how she keeps herself grounded and where she draws inspiration.

    You are sure to be drawn in, inspired, and empowered by this episode.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:00 Intro01:40 Catching Up Since Filming & Fueling in London02:06 When We Met And Started Working Together in 202102:48 Why Mary For Performance Nutrition for Wakanda Forever04:25 Prepping for Black Panther vs Prepping for Wakanda Forever (Before Mary/After Mary)05:59 General Nutrition vs Fully Formed Nutrition06:35 Lupita Was Taken Aback and Put At Ease By Mary’s Expectations From Her Clients08:00 Client Buy In & Support Is Key to Success08:30 Mary’s EPC 7 Day Gut Reset08:54 Tastes and Preferences Changing Through Gut Reset09:34 Breakthrough On The Gut Reset09:58 Understanding Relationship with Food and Body10:10 Eating to Compliment Your Day and Activities10:55 Taking Agency Over Self With Deliberate Nutrition11:29 Comparing Black Panther Prep for Another Role, Dropping Weight Safely11:54 Holding Space For Vulnerability, Self Awareness, and Expression13:12 Intentional Approach To Food and Nutrition16:08 Slow And Steady Learning18:20 Sugar Is No Longer A Craving20:26 What Does Eat Play Crush Mean To Lupita20:50 Uncompromising Mealtimes24:36 Awareness Around Discomfort After Meals28:29 Avoiding Conflict in the Form of Fighting31:17 The Humbling Feeling When Conditioning Your Body34:08 Allowing Life To Be When It’s So Undesirable40:47 The Illusion Of Having Control46:45 What Is Intuitive Cooking?51:28 How Do You Start Intuitive Cooking?54:24 Surrender Happens When We Stop Fighting

    Resources:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lupitanyongo/Instagram: @paleochefInstagram: @eatplaycrushWebsite: eatplaycrush.comGut Reset: https://eatplaycrush.com/products/gut-reset-prototcolLyvecap: https://eatplaycrush.com/pages/lyvecap
  • Welcome to the Eat, Play, Crush podcast. I am your host, Mary Shenouda. Over my career as a performance chef and specialist to some of the most elite athletes and entertainers, I found that the gap between what they do and what you can accomplish is much more relatable than we make it seem. Performance and wellness should be inclusive, and I believe that if you have a body, you're performing at some level, whether you're a world-class athlete or simply someone like you and me. And it goes far beyond just nutrition. So my aim with this podcast is to share real-life stories, tips, and not tricks to inspire and make a difference so that you may eat well, play hard, and crush life.