Episodes
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In this episode of Spartan Leadership, I sit down with Alana Stott—entrepreneur, author, producer, and philanthropist—whose career spans security, finance, media, and global activism. Alana shares her journey from running high-stakes security operations to raising millions for charities like Heads Together with the support of Prince Harry. We also dive into her relentless fight against human trafficking and how her work earned her the prestigious MBE (Member of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in the King’s 2023 Honor List.
We cover:
✅ The defining moments that shaped Alana’s path
✅ How she and Dean Stott became involved in high-profile charity work
✅ The harsh realities of human trafficking and how to take action
✅ Breaking barriers in male-dominated industries
✅ The mindset of resilience and excellence
If you're looking for an inspiring conversation on leadership, purpose, and real-world impact, this one is for you.
Follow Alana Stott: https://linktr.ee/alanastott
Follow Josh Kosnick: https://linktr.ee/joshkosnick
Blue Dot Foundation: bluedotfoundation.org
📌 Subscribe & turn on notifications to never miss an episode!
#Leadership #HumanTrafficking #Philanthropy #AlanaStott #SpartanLeadership #Podcast #MindsetCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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How do you truly influence people? Rene Rodriguez, a leading expert in behavioral neuroscience and leadership, joins Josh Kosnick on Spartan Leadership to break down the science of influence, personal branding, and leadership development.
🔹 The Neuroscience Behind Influence
🔹 Building a Personal Brand That Commands Attention
🔹 Leadership, Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness
🔹 How to Prepare for the Moments That Matter
🔹 Why Your Credibility is Determined by Others, Not You📖 Rene's Book: Amplify Your Influence
🎙️ Listen to the full episode & subscribe for more leadership insights!👉 Connect with Josh: https://linktr.ee/joshkosnick?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=d011d0d2-7c6a-4ace-8d1e-d4c995ec22d1
👉 Connect with Rene: www.meetrene.com/free-month
#Leadership #Influence #PersonalBrand #Podcast #JoshKosnick #ReneRodriguez
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In this episode, host Josh Kosnick dives into the latest political, economic, and cultural shifts impacting leadership today. Alongside Emmanuel Whitfield and special guest Jason Smith, owner of The Tasting Room cigar lounge, they tackle:
✅ The rapid-fire executive orders shaking up policies
✅ The real impact of DEI and its unintended consequences
✅ Immigration policies under Trump’s new administration
✅ The hypocrisy of modern political narratives
✅ The controversial role of the military in funding transgender surgeries🔹 Why are America’s most critical issues being ignored in favor of ideological battles?
🔹 How do these policies affect business owners, professionals, and everyday citizens?🔥 This conversation pulls no punches—just real talk about leadership, politics, and the future of America.
📩 Like, share, and comment! Join the conversation and help us push leadership forward.
#Leadership #Politics #Trump #SpartanLeadership #CigarsAndConversation #DEI #Immigration #Truth
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What do NBA superstars and top business leaders have in common? Elite discipline.
In this episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, Drew Hanlen shares how adopting an NBA-level mindset can transform your leadership, success, and resilience. From cutting sugar for 10 years as a teenager to embracing discomfort through cold plunges and relentless self-discipline, Drew reveals the mental edge that separates champions from the rest.
In this episode, we discuss:
🏀 The work ethic that fuels NBA stars & high achievers
🔥 How pushing past discomfort builds mental resilience
🛑 The "invisible string" holding most people back from success
🚀 Why small, consistent habits create unstoppable momentum
✅ Practical steps to build the mindset of an elite performerIf you want to lead, perform, and execute at the highest level—this episode is for you.
📺 Watch now and start applying NBA-level discipline to your life!
🎙 More from Josh Kosnick:
🔗 Website: JoshKosnick.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Josh Kosnick
🔗 Instagram: @JoshKosnick📢 Subscribe for more leadership and high-performance insights!
📌 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:15 – Josh’s journey from adversity to leadership
10:30 – The importance of building bridges in business and life
22:00 – Why faith and mindset are crucial for success
35:45 – Lessons from coaching leaders and entrepreneurs
50:00 – How to apply these insights to your own growthCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this powerful episode of Spartan Leadership, Josh Kosnick sits down with Dave Bechtold, founder of Outside the Walls, to explore faith beyond traditional church settings. Dave shares his journey of ministry, the impact of Holy Smokes, Dads at Dave’s and others, and why real conversations often happen outside the pews—sometimes over a good cigar.
💬 Key Topics Covered:
✔️ Dave’s journey from Chicago to Madison’s faith community
✔️ How vulnerability builds trust in leadership
✔️ The mission of Outside the Walls and how it’s changing lives
✔️ The power of authentic relationships and why faith needs to be real, not performative
✔️ How cigar lounges and coffee shops are becoming modern-day sanctuaries
✔️ Why men need to step up as spiritual leaders in their homes🚀 Join the Conversation:
💡 What’s your take on faith outside traditional church settings? Drop a comment below!🔗 Connect with Dave & Outside the Walls:
🌍 Website: Outsidethewalls.co#Faith #Leadership #Community #OutsideTheWalls #SpartanLeadership #ChristianPodcast #MensMinistry
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Dive into the latest episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, where Josh Kosnick and guests tackle the harsh realities facing America today. From the erosion of free speech to the government’s mishandling of resources, this highlight reel is packed with candid discussions and bold perspectives.
Featured Topics:
The state of free speech in AmericaGovernment accountability and the $36 trillion debt crisisThe role of truth in today's divided societyConspiracy theories and the fight for transparency🎧 Subscribe for more unfiltered conversations and leadership insights.
Stay Connected: 🌐 JoshKosnick.com
📱 Instagram: @JoshKosnick
📩 Subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive content and updates.CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Trevor Wilkins, also known as the Angry Viking Therapist. With over two decades of experience in law enforcement and trauma therapy, Dr. Wilkins shares his no-nonsense approach to tackling mental health challenges, especially for men in high-stress professions like military, law enforcement, and first responders.
Topics we cover include:
- Why men avoid conversations about mental health.
- The stigma surrounding vulnerability and seeking help.
- How cumulative trauma impacts high-stress professions.
- Practical tools for mental resilience and toughness.
- The unacceptable prevalence of suicide in military and law enforcement communities—and what we can do about it.
We also discuss the work of organizations like Spartan Valor Foundation and how systemic changes can create a lasting impact.
This is a must-watch for anyone passionate about mental health, personal growth, and supporting those who serve on the front lines.
Referenced in this episode:
Josh Kosnick: https://joshkosnick.com/
Spartan Valor Foundation: spartanvalor.org
Dr. Trevor Wilkins’ resources: https://www.avt.help/
Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more impactful conversations on leadership, growth, and resilience!CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this episode, I sit down with Tyler Dickerhoof, an empathetic leader, speaker, and host of The Impact Driven Leader Podcast. Tyler’s journey from self-doubt and insecurity to authentic leadership is nothing short of transformative.
We dive into:
Tyler’s “Four Walls of Insecurity” framework (00:50:00:00)How vulnerability and self-awareness transformed his relationships and leadership (00:10:18:02)The importance of "cleaning your windshield" for leadership clarity (00:16:37:15)Tyler’s insights from decades of leadership experience and working with John Maxwell (01:00:23:12)Tyler’s mission is to empower leaders to embrace their insecurities and create meaningful impact in their industries. With over 20 years of experience, $500M in business growth, and a thriving global community, he’s a master at helping others build self-aware, authentic leadership.
Don’t miss this powerful conversation that will challenge and inspire you to grow. Watch now!
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Join Spartan Leadership host Josh Kosnick as he delves into the transformative power of gratitude with Matthew and Shannon Missimer, the visionary founders of the Motion of Gratitude. In this special holiday episode, they explore how to lead with purpose and live with impact through intentional gratitude practices. Discover practical tips for rewiring the brain for gratitude, the science behind it, and how it can benefit you, your relationships, and your workplace. Whether you're an individual, parent, teacher, or corporate leader, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to enhance mental health and overall well-being. Don't miss this chance to learn how gratitude can be a game changer in your life. Perfect for the season of giving and reflection!
themotionofgratitude.com
Key Topics:
- The Power of Gratitude
- Shannon's Journey to Gratitude
- Matthew's Transformation
- The Science Behind Gratitude
- The Power of the First Follower
- Getting Involved in the Gratitude Movement
- Tools for Individuals: 28-Day Experience
- Gratitude in Schools: Addressing Youth Mental Health
- Corporate Wellness: Implementing Gratitude
- Gratitude in Marriage: Strengthening Relationships
- Personal Practices: Breathwork and Meditation
- Final Thoughts and Unpopular BeliefsCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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Join Josh Kosnick and Emanuel Whitfield on this powerful episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast as they tackle the critical issues of leadership, politics, and societal change. From exposing hypocrisy in media narratives to addressing the need for accountability in leadership, this episode is a deep dive into the importance of demanding better leadership across all levels.
🔹 What does it mean to be a leader in today's political climate?
🔹 How can we hold leaders accountable for their actions?
🔹 The untold stories of leadership failures and triumphs.
This episode isn’t just about politics—it’s a masterclass in understanding the dynamics of leadership, diplomacy, and integrity.
🎙️ Don’t miss this candid conversation filled with insights, facts, and real talk.
📌 Share your thoughts in the comments below!
#Leadership #Politics #SpartanLeadership #Accountability"CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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Are your finances as secure as they should be? In this thought-provoking episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, Josh Kosnick sits down with Christine Brunner, a seasoned forensic accountant with over 23 years of experience in litigation support and financial investigations.
Known as the "brains behind the operation," Christine shares invaluable insights on safeguarding your business against fraud, maintaining financial accountability, and understanding the red flags that could save your business.
What we discuss:
[00:01:00] Why Christine believes people are good by nature despite financial crimes
[00:03:00] What forensic accounting REALLY is (Hint: It’s not CSI!)
[00:09:00] Top red flags for fraud in your business
[00:12:00] How small businesses can leverage QuickBooks auditing features
[00:28:00] The truth about PPP fraud and what it means for YOU
[00:47:00] Why forensic accounting is a career worth exploring
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or simply curious about forensic accounting, this episode is packed with actionable insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on financial accountability.
🔗 Resources & Links:
Connect with Christine Brunner: BrunerSierraGroup.com
Subscribe for more leadership insights: JoshKosnick.com
Don’t miss out on this episode that could SAVE your business from financial catastrophe.
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In this episode, host Josh Kosnick speaks with entrepreneur Ian Sperry, a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and owner/operator of Christian Brothers Automotive franchises. Ian shares his journey from ministry to business ownership, discussing how culture, leadership, and faith interplay in his life and work. The conversation explores Ian's podcast, Kingdom Flow, which features stories of faith-led entrepreneurship.
00:00 The Power of Leadership and Culture
01:08 Addressing Veteran Suicide: Spartan Valor Foundation
03:32 Introducing Spartan Leadership Podcast
03:51 Meet Ian Sperry: Entrepreneurial Journey
06:23 Overcoming Challenges in Business
21:24 The Importance of Culture in Business
35:56 The Importance of Being Led as a Leader
37:28 Creating Leaders with Ownership
41:03 Balancing Leadership and Personal Care
43:47 The Power of Prayer and Support
46:15 Starting the Kingdom Flow Podcast
59:46 Hearing God's Voice
01:03:50 Everything Rises and Falls on Leadership
01:05:05 Connecting with Ian Sperry
Follow Josh Kosnick: linktr.ee/joshkosnick
Check out the Kingdom Flow Podcast with Ian Sperry: linktr.ee/kingdomflowpodcastCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this inspiring episode of 'Spartan Leadership,' host Josh Kosnick talks with Dean Stott, MBE, a former member of the British Special Forces and record-setting cyclist. Dean shares his incredible journey from single-handedly evacuating the Canadian embassy in Libya to overcoming life-changing injuries and setting a world record on the Pan-American Highway.
The discussion covers Dean's military experiences, his transition into the private security sector, his mental health advocacy, and his recent ventures into plant medicine. Listeners will gain insights into leadership, resilience, and the importance of mental well-being.
00:00 Heroic Evacuations and Personal Reflections
01:14 Introduction to Spartan Leadership Podcast
01:54 Meet Dean Stott: A Life of Resilience and Courage
03:24 Dean's Military Upbringing and Career
05:37 Special Forces Insights and Leadership Lessons
12:15 Overcoming a Career-Ending Injury
14:48 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Private Security
20:42 The Pan American Highway Challenge
31:50 Navigating Team Dynamics and Contracts
34:22 The Role of Alana in Dean's Journey
38:01 Fundraising Success and Alana's Contributions
39:35 Insights into the Security Industry
44:17 Building Trust in High-Stakes Environments
47:59 Mental Health Advocacy and Plant Medicine
58:59 Future Aspirations and Legacy
joshkosnick.com
kairos.joshkosnick.comCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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Welcome back to Spartan Leadership. I’m your host, Josh Kosnick, and if it’s your first time here, welcome! Today’s Leadership in Review is packed with some powerful perspectives, humor, and a few cigars.
Let’s dive right in. Trump’s 2024 campaign – this is shaping up to be more than just an election; it’s a promise to bring unity, to keep us strong, safe, and prosperous. His motto? Simple – promises made, promises kept. Together, America’s aiming for a future that’s safer, richer, and more unified than ever before. That’s the message we’re carrying forward today, sparking conversations about leadership, integrity, and what it takes to bring us together.
Today, I’ve got Emmanuel Whitfield with me. Together, we’ll be diving into the highs, the challenges, and the steps we want to see from this new administration. So grab your favorite cigar and join us for a real talk on leadership and unity.CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, I’m joined by JR Butler, a former college hockey player who took the grit he learned on the ice and built a powerhouse career in tech. From leading teams to scaling companies, JR has proven that athletes and veterans bring something rare to the business world. Now, as the CEO of Shift Group, he’s helping other former athletes and vets find their place as high-impact leaders in business.
We dive into what makes athletes and veterans a cut above in leadership roles, why they’re primed to thrive in high-stakes environments, and how JR is bridging the gap between the field and the boardroom. If you’re ready to learn what it really takes to dominate in business—from resilience to drive and the hunger to win—this one’s for you.
Listen in for JR’s journey and why athletes and veterans are ready-made for leadership.
Josh Kosnick: linktr.ee/joshkosnick
JR Butler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrbutler/
Shift Group: https://shiftgroup.io/about-us/CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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On this episode of Spartan Leadership, I sit down with Dominic Caminata, the CEO and Founder of Grosso University. Dominic breaks down his proven Grosso University System—a step-by-step approach that transforms sales reps into consistent top producers. We’re not just talking theory here, we’re diving into real-world tactics that make sales predictable and repeatable.
We cover: 🔥 How to master a proven sales process that anyone can learn. 🔥 Why the right training turns rookies into six-figure producers. 🔥 The critical steps to leading a team and building a winning culture.
If you’re looking to grow your sales game or lead your team more effectively, this is one you can’t miss. Dominic drops the blueprint for real success in any competitive market. Hit play, take notes, and share this with anyone ready to level up!
👉 Make sure to subscribe and drop a comment on your biggest takeaway from this episode!
Grosso University Website: https://grossouniversity.com
AGOGE Growth & Profitability Summit Registration:
https://grossouniversity.com/events. Promo code GU-VIP24.
Podcast – Profits for Sanity:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPnI2UdA7kdILVmNJDf13-Q.
#SalesTraining #SalesLeadership #GrossoUniversity #JoshKosnick #DominicCaminata #SalesSuccess #SpartanLeadership #SalesProcess #BusinessGrowthCONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this episode of the Spartan Leadership Podcast, Emanuel Whitfield and I dive deep into the potential 2024 election showdown between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.
What would a Trump vs. Harris matchup mean for America, and how will it shape the future of our country?
We break down:
Trump’s potential return: What it means for leadership and policy.
Kamala Harris’s path: Could she be the next president?
Key issues: The topics that will define this election—economy, security, and leadership.
This episode is packed with straight talk on the political landscape, offering insights into the potential impact of these candidates on the future of America.
If you're a leader, entrepreneur, or just interested in how this election could change the game, don't miss it.
Inspire & Impact,CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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In this gripping episode, former FBI Special Agent Daniel Brunner shares his 20-year journey battling some of the world’s most dangerous criminals, including MS-13, cartels, and the hidden threats posed by AI scams. Now the Co-Founder & COO of Brunner Sierra Group, Daniel brings his expertise to the private sector, serving high-net-worth clients with security consulting and forensic accounting. Tune in as he exposes the reality behind cartel activity, government failures, and what every citizen needs to know to protect themselves and their communities.
🔥 Key Topics Discussed:
Chasing MS-13 leaders across the globeThe rise of AI scams and their deadly potentialFBI failures and what needs to change in law enforcementThe shocking truth about human trafficking and cartel activities in unexpected places like MontanaWhy deporting criminals might make them more dangerousGlobal threats: How cartels are being trained in warfare tactics by foreign governments🔗 Connect with Daniel Brunner:
LinkedIn: Daniel BrunnerWebsite: Brunner Sierra GroupNewsletter: Brunner Sierra Group NewsletterDon’t miss this eye-opening discussion that will change the way you see organized crime, AI risks, and law enforcement challenges. Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications for more game-changing leadership insights.
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Are you ready to level up your health and your business? In this episode, I sit down with Justin Cobb to dive deep into how mastering your health can unlock your full potential as an entrepreneur.
We’ll cover everything from overcoming the grind of the entrepreneurial journey to building a health-first mindset that fuels long-term success. Whether you're struggling to balance your health and hustle, or you're just looking for ways to sharpen your game, this episode is packed with practical tips and real talk to help you thrive.
What we talk about:
The critical connection between health and business success
How to balance your physical, mental, and entrepreneurial growth
Real-life stories of overcoming adversity in business
Wellness routines that can boost your energy and productivity
This episode is for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone who wants to perform at their best – inside and outside of the office.CONNECT WITH ME HERE:
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