Episódios

  • In this episode, Joe De Sena is talking with Rob and Alex, the authors of Warrior to Civilian, on the challenges veterans face after service.

    They discuss a hidden veteran suicide crisis and why so many veterans struggle, how we can help them thrive, and the real steps for a successful transition.

    Rob and Alex reveal the often-overlooked difficulties of reintegration, the importance of mentorship, and the complex system of VA benefits. They also offer practical advice designed to equip veterans, families, and civilians alike with tools to support and empower our nation’s heroes.

    Whether you’re a veteran or simply want to help, this episode offers eye-opening insights and actionable solutions to help our veterans transition successfully into civilian life.

    Highlights:

    00:47 Transitioning from military to civilian life
    02:31 Preparing for civilian integration and finding a purpose
    03:59 Recognizing the need for early preparation for veterans
    05:19 Veteran suicides and the urgency of support systems
    09:38 Mentorship and non-profits with veteran initiative
    11:19 How civilians can support veterans’ reintegration
    13:39 Ideas for creating veteran events at Spartan races
    19:09 The book Warrior to Civilian and its target audience
    21:28 Nothing worthwhile is easy
    23:21 Message of resilience and hope for veterans

    ---

    Get the Book Now! | Warrior to Civilian:

    https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/1538769964

  • In this episode, Mario Kalpou from Man Eats Wild brings you into the world of primal living and real food.

    Joe De Sena and Mario dive deep into why modern life has made us lose touch with what really matters, like knowing where our food comes from and learning the skills to survive in the wild. They share stories of hunting, foraging, and reconnecting with nature to fuel the body with real, nutrient-dense food.

    From alligator hunting in Florida to sourcing food without relying on grocery stores, they show how ancestral living can build strength and resilience. If you’re curious about the power of going back to basics and challenging the comforts of the modern world, tune in now!

    Highlights:


    00:00 Intro
    00:47 The inspiration behind "Man Eats Wild"
    02:20 Alligator hunting & dangerous liver toxicity
    03:43 Is eating liver healthy?
    04:57 Taking high-net-worth individuals on adventures
    06:06 Teaching basic survival skills to kids
    07:32 The Importance of struggle & exercise
    09:43 Nutritional challenges in the U.S. vs. Europe
    11:19 Food industry & RFK’s Perspective
    13:07 Health legislation and freedom debate
    15:25 Growing up to be a man in the wild
    16:52 Living a natural lifestyle vs. modern influences
    19:03 The role of exercise in daily life
    20:09 Joe’s Training routines over the years
    22:01 Where to Watch "Man Eats Wild"

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  • In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Kim Pastore, a widow who faced unimaginable loss when her husband, a dedicated SWAT officer, was killed in the line of duty.

    Kim opens up about the overwhelming grief and challenges she faced and shares how she found the strength to keep going by turning to the Spartan Way. Through gratitude, resilience, and a commitment to honoring her husband’s legacy, Kim founded a foundation to support the mental and physical wellness of first responders.

    Kim’s journey offers hope, showing that even in the darkest times, we can find purpose, strength, and a way to help others. This is a story about love, loss, and the power of never giving up.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:47 Kim’s husband George and his SWAT journey
    02:50 George’s tragic death and the grieving process
    09:04 The Spartan way of overcoming grief
    13:29 The role of adversity in childhood
    15:15 Gratitude as a tool in tough times
    18:35 Launching the George Pastore Foundation
    23:20 Humble warrior games and community support
    24:16 How to get involved with the foundation

    ---

    Jorge Pastore Foundation | Website:
    https://www.jpastorefoundation.org/

  • In this episode, Joe De Sena explores the powerful lessons of military leadership with Ryan P. Crayne, an experienced Army officer.

    Ryan shares how tough training, mental resilience, and leading by example forge exceptional leaders. Learn how the same principles that guide soldiers can help you develop personal discipline, build trust, and tackle challenges head-on in your own life.

    Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, improve your physical and mental fitness, or just gain inspiration from military strategies, this episode is packed with actionable tips you can start applying today.

    Highlights:

    00:41 Major Crane's background in military service and teaching
    02:17 The rewards and challenges of military service
    03:19 Ranger School experiences and leadership development
    05:16 Pushing limits and developing resilience in youth
    08:50 Leadership tips: Trust, example, and expertise
    12:13 Military recruiting and benefits of military service
    16:00 The value of overcoming tough challenges
    17:39 Major Crane's future military service plans
    18:34 Daily habits inspired by military discipline
    21:00 How to connect with Major Crane?

  • In this eye-opening episode, Joe De Sena sits down with a holistic health practitioner Brett Hawes to explore the incredible capacity we all have to heal ourselves.

    They tackle the rising concern of orthorexia and discuss how the obsession with "perfect" eating can actually harm our well-being. Brett emphasizes the importance of simplifying our health journeys, moving away from fad diets, and focusing on whole, nourishing foods that support our bodies.

    You will learn practical strategies for combating lifestyle diseases, enhancing sleep quality, and fostering a balanced approach to nutrition. Brett's wealth of experience in functional medicine provides actionable insights that can easily be integrated into daily life.

    Highlights:

    00:44 Brett's experience in functional medicine
    01:43 Balancing traditional and holistic medicine
    05:47 Growing popularity of functional medicine
    08:01 Challenges of competing with large food companies
    09:11 Vision for a healthier future
    10:23 Brett’s view on the healthcare system
    12:02 Discussing food subsidies and taxes
    13:47 Importance of exercise vs. healthy eating
    15:42 Three key practices for preventing lifestyle diseases
    20:20 Health practices shouldn’t be so complicated
    22:21 Brett's current podcast and activism work1

  • In this powerful episode, Joe De Sena talks with JC Glick, a veteran of 11 combat tours, about the challenges veterans face after leaving military service.

    JC opens up about his struggles with identity, purpose, and mental health, while sharing how his Commit Foundation helps veterans and their families rebuild their lives and find new meaning.

    Hear the untold stories of military service, learn about the importance of teamwork, and how we can all play a part in supporting veterans after their service.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:42 Introduction to JC Glick, CEO of Commit
    01:03 JC Glick’s journey into the military
    03:47 The impact of military service on identity and leadership
    04:39 The value of service and teamwork in building gratitude and empathy
    07:16 The national service initiatives for young people
    09:21 Privileges and challenges of living in the U.S
    10:49 Finding a new identity and purpose after leaving the military service
    15:09 The significance of military spouses and their unique challenges
    16:19 How to support the Commit Foundation and their missione

  • Struggling to break free from unhealthy eating habits?

    In this episode, Joe De Sena talks with nutrition coach Mike Millner, who shares his personal story of overcoming years of yo-yo dieting and gaining over 100 pounds. Mike dives deep into the powerful connection between our subconscious thoughts, beliefs, and food choices.

    Find out how your beliefs and identity shape your eating habits, and discover actionable strategies to transform your relationship with food for good. Learn practical strategies for rewiring your mind to break free from emotional eating and how mindset shifts are the true foundation for lasting change.

    Whether you're battling cravings or trying to lose weight, Mike's unique approach will show you how to break the cycle and finally achieve lasting results!

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:48 Mike's journey into nutrition
    03:52 How to change a relationship with food
    06:30 Joe's personal relationship with food
    09:15 Rewiring subconscious thoughts about food
    12:34 Success rate in changing eating habits
    15:51 How to change a country’s relationship with food
    18:30 How to help kids eat healthier
    21:51 VIP event in the desert of Abu Dhabi

    ---

    Mike's Instagram: @coach_mike_millner
    Website: https://neurotypetraining.com/mike-millner/

  • In this episode, Joe De Sena talks with Tom Farrey, author of Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of Our Children, about the state of youth sports in America.

    Tom explains that only 1 in 4 kids are active, largely due to barriers in the U.S. sports system. Now leading Project Play, he works to make sports more accessible and fun for all children.

    They discuss how Spartan Races promote self-improvement over competition, and how Norway’s child-focused sports model could inspire the U.S.

    Tom emphasizes the importance of letting kids enjoy sports rather than pushing them into activities they don’t love. They encourage parents to listen to their children’s interests and prioritize fun and accessibility to keep kids engaged in sports.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 Intro
    01:03 Mapping the Problem: Why Aren’t More Kids Active?
    03:31 Youth Sports Around the World
    05:46 Challenging Kids to Do Hard Things
    07:46 Screens and Devices as a Competition to Youth Sports
    10:23 Rethinking Competition for Kids
    11:51 Breaking Through School Bureaucracies to Reach Kids
    13:15 How Can Parents Support Their Child’s Interests
    16:57 Should You Let Your Kid Quit a Sport?
    19:01 Parents Overanalyzing Their Child's Performance
    21:29 Norway: The World’s Best Youth Sports System
    25:10 - What the U.S. Can Learn from Norway
    26:16 - Final Thoughts: Creating Better Youth Sports Systems

  • In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Marc Fucarile, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, to hear his powerful story.

    Marc vividly recounts the horrific events of that day, describing the chaos and the severe injuries he sustained when the bombs exploded. Despite the trauma, he shares how the outpouring of support from the community motivated him to focus on his recovery and being a father to his young son.

    Marc's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. He emphasizes the importance of acceptance, concentrating on what you can control, and drawing inspiration from the sacrifices and accomplishments of those around you.

    His story is a powerful example of transforming tragedy into purpose and using one's experiences to uplift and empower others facing similar challenges.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    01:30 Boston Marathon bombing incident
    04:01 Surviving 100 days in the hospital
    08:33 The aftermath and support system
    11:50 Mental challenges after traumatic experience
    17:58 Simple tips for leveling up in life
    19:58 The importance of family and faith
    23:39 Building the MARC Network and future goals

    Website: www.marcnetwork.world | www.marcfucarile.com
    Instagram: @marcnetworkinc | @marcfucarile

  • In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss the importance of improving health and fitness across the country.

    Kennedy addresses concerns related to public health agencies and the food industry, emphasizing the need for reform. He also shares personal stories about his family's commitment to physical endurance and discipline, including his father's 50-mile walk, which shaped his views on resilience.

    They explore how modern lifestyles, particularly increased screen time and reduced outdoor activity, have impacted children's fitness. Kennedy advocates for reintroducing fitness into schools and encouraging parents to promote resilience and physical activity in their children.

    The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of developing healthier habits and fostering a culture of physical fitness.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 Intro
    00:45 Addressing health and fitness challenges in America
    02:16 Concerns about public health agencies and the food industry
    05:03 The decline in physical toughness and fitness
    09:56 RFK Jr.'s family story of his father's 50-mile walk
    15:30 Discipline and endurance in family life
    19:09 Bringing fitness and physical education back to schools
    20:42 Building resilience through physical challenges
    22:18 A vision for improving national health
    26:03 Encouraging resilience over comfort
    28:53 The role of gratitude and a positive mindset
    30:26 Insights from ancient Spartans and stoic philosophy

  • In this episode, Steve Hasty, a swimming expert, joins Joe De Sena to give us a behind-the-scenes look at the world of competitive swimming. As a former elite swimmer and the owner of Swimming World Magazine, Steve really knows his stuff when it comes to this sport.

    Steve explains the intense training regimen of elite swimmers, noting that even high school swimmers can train up to 5 hours per day.

    They discuss the mental toughness and resilience required to maintain such a grueling schedule and achieve success. Drawing from his own experiences growing up with a tough swim coach, Steve offers some great advice on developing a consistent routine and mindset to overcome obstacles, whether in swimming or in life

    Highlights:
    00:00 Intro
    00:43 Demanding routine of high school swimmers
    02:33 Mental resilience of swimmers
    03:30 How big is the swimming community?
    05:02 A narrow path to the top
    06:29 The importance of body type
    07:00 Michael Phelps’s and his success
    09:08 Lessons learned through swimming
    12:05 The power of routine and discipline
    15:00 The Swimming World app

    IG: @swimmingworldmag
    Youtube: /SwimmingWorldSPI
    LinkedIn: /company/swimming-world
    Website: www.swimmingworldmagazine.com

  • In this episode, Joe de Sena and wrestling champion Ben Askren dive into their co-authored book on "Extreme Balance," a concept emphasizing that true excellence comes from balancing hard work, mental skills, and self-care.

    Ben opens up about his personal journey, detailing how he shifted from relentless grinding to focusing on strategic thinking and body awareness. He highlights how balancing physical and mental aspects was key to unlocking his full potential.

    The discussion includes practical strategies for managing performance anxiety, recognizing when to push through pain versus when to rest, and finding the optimal balance between rigorous training and high-pressure performance.

    They also examine the lives of successful individuals who achieved remarkable success but struggled with personal balance, concluding that sustainable excellence demands a holistic approach.

    This episode provides valuable insights for elite performers aiming to elevate their game by mastering the principles of "Extreme Balance."

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:49 The journey to balance through wrestling
    08:24 How to manage performance anxiety
    11:54 Balancing hard work and rest
    15:30 The role of balance in elite performance
    20:45 Extreme success and balance – Spartans, Musk, Jobs
    23:44 The importance of family time
    26:26 How to find the book and final thoughts

    PRE ORDER NOW:

    https://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Balance-Paradoxical-Principles-Champion/dp/1642011770

  • In this episode, we follow the remarkable journey of Marco Robinson - a man who overcame a challenging upbringing marked by poverty, abuse, and adversity to become a highly successful entrepreneur and philanthropist.

    From his humble beginnings as a homeless, bullied youth to his meteoric rise in the world of sales and business, Marco's story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams.

    Through his candid recollections, we learn how Marco's pivotal moment of self-belief transformed his life, leading him to unprecedented sales success and the creation of thriving enterprises. His willingness to confront personal tragedies and emotional barriers further inspires, showcasing the transformative power of facing one's fears and embracing vulnerability.

    Prepare to be captivated and empowered by Marco's extraordinary story of triumph over adversity.

    Timestamp:
    00:00 Intro
    00:44 Marco’s background and childhood
    04:02 Transition to sales and his first success
    06:42 The importance of believing in yourself
    07:53 Career highs and lows in Malaysia
    10:10 Marriage problems, writing a book, and the first million
    12:47 Flipping properties in the US and TV show
    16:01 Resolving a childhood trauma
    17:26 Advice to people who are stuck in life
    18:23 Struggles make you stronger
    19:21 Three things to do for success
    20:57 Final thoughts

  • This episode of the Hard Way Podcast features an inspiring conversation with Nigel Thomas, an entrepreneur who shares his powerful story of overcoming a devastating personal betrayal.

    After hitting rock bottom and contemplating suicide, Nigel realized he needed to empower the "champion" within himself, rather than succumbing to the "victim" mindset.

    Through discipline, exercise, and rebuilding his support network, Nigel embarked on a remarkable journey of resilience and self-discovery. He now shares his experiences in his popular newsletter, "David to Goliath," inspiring others to believe in themselves and write their own comeback stories.

    Nigel's insights on the importance of purpose, community, and consistent self-improvement offer valuable lessons for anyone facing adversity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking the courage and determination to overcome life's challenges and emerge stronger than ever before.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    02:22 Nigel’s background and personal story
    04:41 From corporate job to successful entrepreneurship
    05:40 Personal betrayal that led to a mental health crisis
    08:49 Meeting yourself and taking the responsibility
    10:56 Nigel’s David to Goliath newsletter
    12:22 Joe’s invitation and the importance of finding a community
    14:12 Fining purpose in helping others
    16:26 Opening up but avoiding victim mentality
    17:32 The importance of consistency and accountability
    18:55 Where can people find Nigel?

  • In this raw and honest conversation with Joe De Sena, Dr. Samantha Harte shares her incredible journey from addiction and trauma to redemption and healing.

    Growing up in a dysfunctional family in Brooklyn, Samantha's path was riddled with substance abuse, shame, and relationship turmoil. But through the power of the 12 steps and her own unwavering resilience, she transformed her life, finding sobriety, self-love, and ultimately, a thriving marriage and business.

    Now, Samantha is on a mission to modernize the 12-step approach, using her personal experiences to help others overcome their own challenges and unlock their full potential. Tune in for more!

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:45 Dr. Samantha’s childhood, academic struggles, and drug addiction
    08:44 Overdosing and decision to recover
    13:23 Marriage and recovery challenges
    16:52 Finding a sponsor and 12-step program
    20:19 The beginning of her fitness business
    22:23 Separation from her husband and getting back together
    26:31 Miscarriages, postpartum depression, and the loss of her dad
    29:13 Losing a sister to overdose and writing a book
    32:38 Joe’s support and future plans

  • Meet Greg Yocom, a real estate investor, and lifelong competitor who has defied age and odds by completing over 100 Spartan Races. Discover the unshakable mental toughness and resilience that propels this 65-year-old to push his limits, even as others his age are retiring.

    Dive into Greg's inspiring journey, from overcoming a devastating divorce to developing an unwavering "no excuses" mindset. Learn how he applies the lessons of Spartan Racing to achieve success in business and life and hear his thoughts on instilling the right mindset in the next generation.

    Don't miss this amazing conversation with Greg Yocom, the 65-year-old Spartan who refuses to quit. This episode is a must-watch for anyone seeking the secrets to becoming unstoppable, no matter your age or circumstances.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 Intro
    01:23 Greg’s background
    04:11 The importance of preparation
    05:29 Failing without being a failure
    08:14 Retiring is quitting
    11:55 What’s so good about the Spartan Race?
    13:36 Applying Spartan Race experience to business
    15:05 How to deal with losing motivation
    16:00 The use of social media
    17:18 What is the first step?
    19:23 Greg’s struggles with high cholesterol
    22:09 Installing healthy mindset in kids
    24:05 How can people find Greg?

  • Are our freedoms under siege? In this episode, Joe De Sena is talking to an amazing guest - Connor Boyack, an author, speaker, and staunch advocate for personal freedom and education.

    They tackle the unsettling rise of Big Government and the danger of becoming a Nanny State. As bureaucratic regulations multiply and control tightens, we’re faced with crucial questions about the erosion of personal liberty. How far will government overreach go, and what are the implications for our future?

    Joe and Connor talk about the growing influence of regulations in everyday life, examine the consequences of increased governmental control, and discuss strategies to protect our freedoms.

    Tune in for an insightful exploration of how we can safeguard our rights and ensure that personal autonomy remains intact in an increasingly regulated world.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:49 Connor’s background and career path
    02:52 Too much freedom vs too restricted laws
    07:21 San Francisco's lack of prosecution for small crimes
    10:38 Left-right binary and the need to find common ground
    14:30 Corporations lobbying against simplification efforts
    17:38 The need for decentralization of power
    21:11 Using market pressure to rebalance power
    23:10 Why the international community loves Trump
    25:03 The importance of resilience
    25:48 Degrading from freedom to a nanny state
    27:51 History's cyclical patterns
    29:30 How can people find Connor?

  • In this episode, Joe de Sena is having a powerful conversation with fitness icon Clark Bartram, who is on a mission to inspire men to embrace a life of resilience, purpose, and health.

    This 60-year-old “fitness anomaly” shares his philosophy on making small, daily choices that can have a profound impact on your well-being.

    His message is both thought-provoking and actionable, as he challenges listeners to choose the stairs over the escalator, to walk instead of calling an Uber, and to prioritize physical activity in a world that often promotes convenience over health.

    Since his recent prostate cancer diagnosis, Bartram is using his platform to empower men to take control of their health and live life to the fullest.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to break free from the "busy dying" mentality and embrace a mindset of living with energy, purpose, and resilience.

    Highlights:
    00:00 Intro
    01:22 Being anomaly on life is the goal
    03:10 Get busy living or get busy dying
    04:22 Living with energy and purpose
    07:32 Laziness and 10,000 steps a day as a goal
    10:38 Clark’s motivation for his fitness journey
    14:53 Why are we the way we are
    17:10 The absurdity of celebrating obesity
    19:45 Clark’s personal challenge with prostate cancer
    25:26 How can people find Clark?

  • In this captivating episode, join Joe De Sena, the founder of Spartan, and Frank Schwartz, the CEO of F3 Nation, as they dive deep into the transformative power of fitness, fellowship, and faith.

    Discover how these two dynamic leaders are on a mission to inspire men to break free from self-limiting beliefs and unlock their true potential.

    Hear the inspiring stories of how F3 Nation's unique approach to community-driven workouts is changing lives, helping men reclaim their health, rediscover their purpose, and become leaders in their own right. Explore the fascinating concept of "nantan" and how it empowers men to take charge of their own growth and development.

    Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and empowered to become the best version of yourself.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:43 What are F3 and Nantan?
    04:43 Transformative power of challenging oneself with dirty and difficult activities
    08:35 Removing self-limiting beliefs and recognizing your true potential
    11:31 Pushing beyond limits and find your true purpose
    14:10 Mental health and the usefulness of therapy
    17:54 What’s next for F3?
    21:28 How can people find Frank?
    23:34 The main objections and overcoming excuses
    26:24 A success story

  • In this captivating episode, cognitive specialist Dr. Brandon Orr and Spartan founder Joe De Sena dive deep into the neuroscience behind unlocking your brain's full potential.

    Discover proven strategies to build unbreakable mental resilience, conquer self-doubt and anxiety, and develop the grit and determination of elite performers.

    Learn how to silence your inner critic and unleash your true capabilities. This is a must-listen for anyone striving to optimize their cognitive function and reach new heights of success.

    Highlights:

    00:00 Intro
    00:56 What is a cognitive performance specialist?
    03:12 The stigma around mental health
    04:36 Acknowledge failure, identify constraints, and reengage
    08:12 Anxiety triggering a sympathetic response
    13:14 Identifying constraints limiting performance and adapting
    15:20 Recognizing the signs of warning to stay in the game safely
    18:43 Can words cause damage?
    20:25 Challenges of comparing trauma
    25:24 How to level up your game?
    27:57 Overcome anxiety by reframing thoughts