The Hard Way w/ Joe De Sena

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

Discover the secrets of elite performers straight from a Special Forces expert! In this episode, Dr. Reginald O'Hara who has been working with special forces in the Department of Defense for 23 years. reveals how top soldiers push their limits and stay sharp. He explains game-changing techniques to boost your own performance, from breathing tricks to recovery hacks. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you achieve more. Find out how to train like a warrior, recover like a pro, and unlock your full potential. Don't miss these insider tips that could transform your life and career! Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:49 What makes a hard performer? 07:02 Excessive training can lead to chronic overtraining 10:16 Relaxation techniques for high-performing individuals 15:59 Dr. O’Hara’s training routine 18:19 The importance of moderate-intensity exercise 20:03 Developing healthy habits The views and opinions expressed in this podcast interview are those of the individual (Dr. Reggie O’Hara) and do not reflect the official policy or position of William Beaumont Army Medical Center, Department of the Army, Defense Health Agency, or the U.S. Government. Connect with Dr. Reggie O’Hara: LinkedIn: in/reggie-b-o’hara-m-sc-ph-d-8a91b1168

Most people struggle with low energy, willpower, and motivation. But what if you could feel energized and excited about life again? In this episode, former pro soccer player turned health entrepreneur Yuri Elkaim shares his unexpected journey from playing on the world stage to finding a new purpose through wellness. Yuri reveals the single change that transformed his life - and it can change yours in just one week. Discover why facing fears is so important for success and happiness. Plus, Spartan CEO Joe De Sena dives into the power of helping others and manufacturing adversity. Learn Yuri's top tips for feeling motivated, overcoming obstacles, and living your fullest life. It's time to stop sabotaging yourself and start feeling alive again! Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:03 Yuri’s background 03:48 Desire as a burning flame that trumps everything 05:21 Transferring your desire to another part of life 08:40 Finding energy and motivation in helping others 11:17 Energy is rare and hard to find 14:35 Reaching rock bottom to experience transformation 15:37 Yuri’s current business growth 16:56 Conflicting nutrition and health information in the digital age 19:00 Three most important things to change in our life 22:04 How to find Yuri Instagram: @healthpreneur Youtube: Healthpreneur/videos Website: https://healthpreneurgroup.com/

In this episode, fitness mogul Tom Dowd reveals how he went from working long hours in his family's supermarket business to partnering with Mark Wahlberg and saving struggling franchise F45. Growing up instilled a strong work ethic in Dowd, but his biggest test came when he took over F45 in crisis. Through strategic partnerships, focusing on culture, and his relentless drive, Dowd engineered an incredible turnaround. Tune in to hear directly from Dowd as he opens up about lessons from his past and shares the tactics that transformed both his career and the fitness industry, pulling companies from the brink of failure to massive success. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:37 Tom’s childhood and growing up in the family business 04:38 Networking, adding value, and connecting with influential people 08:58 Finding investment opportunities and growing a business 13:19 Challenges and growth in the health and wellness business 18:56 Business success a believing in fate 22:19 Recovering struggling business through hard work and commitment 26:27 Building a team and giving them the right to contribute 29:26 One thing that always helps through struggles 32:33 Joe’s partnership with Tom and F45

In this episode, Joe De Sena, chats with his friend Kalojan Georgiev, currently residing in Zanzibar. Kalojan provides an engaging insight into the untapped potential of Zanzibar as a prime investment destination and a wonderful place to live. Kalojan highlights the significant return on investment in Zanzibar, which can reach up to 15-20%, far exceeding returns in more developed regions. He explains the unique appeal of Zanzibar for tourists and investors alike, emphasizing its growing tourism industry and the high demand for quality accommodations. Kalojan also shares his personal lifestyle in Zanzibar, balancing work, family, and a range of outdoor activities. This episode will make you consider Zanzibar for investment opportunities as well as a new living destination, promising a vibrant community and a high quality of life. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:57 The work ethic of Eastern Europeans 05:32 Investing in tropical destinations 08:14 Potential high returns with investing in Zanzibar 14:41 Zanzibar real estate investing examples 16:33 Innovative education system in a beachside community 19:27 How to connect to Kalojan Gerogiev 21:03 Balancing work and family life in Zanzibar

Meet the world's toughest inspiration - 98-year-old Lala LaLanne! In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with the fitness legend to uncover her secrets to breaking records, crushing workouts, and staying motivated well into her 90s. Listen as Elaine shares incredible stories of her and her late husband Jack's accomplishments over the decades. She'll also give you an inside look at her current mission - rallying people worldwide to shatter her record of 2,251 jumping jacks. If you want to add years to your life and life to your years, you don't want to miss this rare chance to learn from the woman who proves aging is truly just a mindset. You can connect with Lala through her website jacklalanne.com and listen to more of her valuable advice on the Pass It Along Podcast which she co-hosts with Greg Justice. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:51 Who is Lala Lalanne? 04:48 Lala’s books and upcoming movie 07:54 Jack LaLanne jumping jack challenge 11:39 ARCH – attitude, resistance, consistency, harmony 15:06 Aging is like a sport, you have to train for it 17:55 If you want something to happen, don’t be a quitter! 26:18 Learn to like yourself and improve 28:19 Where can people find Lala?

Tired of feeling stuck in a rut? Discover how taking on new challenges can make you feel alive again at any age. In this empowering episode, Gwendolyn Bounds shares how she conquered self-doubt and found her inner athlete later in life. She discusses her transformation from a sedentary to a competitive obstacle course racer through grit and community support. Gwendolyn Bounds is an award-winning journalist and author whose career spans media brands including The Wall Street Journal, ABC News, Consumer Reports, CNBC, SmartNews, and more. Her latest book “NOT TOO LATE: The Power of Pushing Limits at Any Age” captures the mental and physical benefits of pursuing something hard that you love – a starkly different prescription for wellbeing in a world filled with hacks and shortcuts to find happiness and good health. Anchoring Gwendolyn’s book is the story of her own midlife evolution from an unathletic desk-bound news executive glued to her screens into an age-group medalist and world championship competitor in the daunting sport of obstacle course racing. In NOT TOO LATE, Gwendolyn offers a roadmap for action and realistic change that anyone can use to tap inner reserves, face fear, and push boundaries. You can find Gwendolyn on social media and sign up for her newsletter at gwendolynbounds.com. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:02 The power of pushing limits at any age 02:46 It’s never too late for sports or Spartan race 07:01 Lessons from the obstacle course racing 10:40 Helping people to get moving after the pandemic 17:12 The Death Race in Vermont 18:15 How can people find Gwendolyn 20:09 How to get started and Not Yet mentality 24:16 The joy of pushing yourself beyond your limits 28:39 Life is about small choices

Joe and Zackary delve into the powerful symbolism behind carrying a couch through Spartan Races, a tribute to those struggling with addiction and a call to leave comfort for the community. Zach shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and physical challenges, emphasizing the importance of helping others, especially adaptive athletes, to conquer obstacles. The conversation touches on modern issues like the dangers of fentanyl, the impact of simulated experiences on youth, and the need for real connections. With heartfelt anecdotes and practical wisdom, Joe and Zach inspire listeners to push beyond their limits and support one another in the journey of life. Highlights: 00:42 Intro 02:12 We seek comfort at all costs 05:57 Crazy trip to Wales and making connections 10:14 Empowering kids by challenging them 17:22 The dangers of fentanyl addiction 21:03 Carrying a couch to raise awareness 25:23 Race in a wheelchair and the shift in mindset 29:51 Creating real connections and relationships

When Kristin Smedley's young son was diagnosed as blind, she was devastated. But rather than accepting limits, she became fiercely determined to give him every opportunity. Tapping into creative problem-solving skills from her own athletic past, Kristin empowered her son to navigate life fearlessly. Through using all available tools and relentless advocacy, her sons thrived academically against all odds. But Kristin's vision didn't stop there. She now inspires others through her nonprofit, proving disability is no barrier to success with the right mindset and support. Hear Kristin's incredible story - from the shock of her son's diagnosis to his graduation at the top of his class. Discover practical lessons on nurturing independence, creative accessibility solutions, and transforming challenges into triumphs. Kristin will motivate and inspire you to believe in limitless potential. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:01 Kristin’s childhood in Philadelphia 03:43 Learning about the importance of team 07:19 The shock of hearing her firstborn was blind 10:13 Realizing what to do as a parent of a blind child 14:23 Finding a nonprofit to help the blind community 18:43 What I Can Be Is Up to Me book 20:31 Using all available tools and holding the school accountable 23:22 Things to apply to make your life better 26:28 Where can people find Kristin?

Tired of just getting by each day without making progress toward your goals? Learn how one man used an unconventional morning routine to overcome a near-death experience, beat cancer against all odds, and write a bestselling book impacting millions. Hal Elrod shares his strategies for developing resilience in the face of adversity, finding peace within through acceptance, and taking back control of your health and wellness. Discover the simple daily practices that comprise Hal's Miracle Morning ritual and how you can start your own ritual today to see positive changes in 90 days. This inspiring episode with Spartan Race founder Joe De Sena will give you practical tips to develop a growth mindset, overcome obstacles, and finally start living the life you want. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:00 Moving from California to Texas 04:11 Hal’s childhood and his first job 05:23 A car crash and 6 minutes of death 07:18 Accepting reality and having faith 11:22 A cancer diagnosis at 37 and a healing mindset 13:48 Doing everything in your power to succeed 16:22 The Miracle Morning book 18:09 Hal’s decision to run a marathon 20:07 How can people find Hal? 22:06 S.A.V.E.R.S - 6 practices of Miracle Morning

Kevin Kaiser has an unconventional approach to business that was shaped by his roots growing up on a farm in Canada. As a professor at Wharton, one of the top business schools in the world, Kaiser is challenging the status quo. In this fascinating podcast episode, Kaiser shares the philosophies that have made him an outlier - treating companies like living organisms that must constantly adapt to survive. He believes success breeds complacency if you don't disrupt yourself. You will learn Kaiser's unique strategies for avoiding complacency and staying motivated through unpredictability. You'll discover why he argues against giving employees clear goals and instead pushes them outside their comfort zones. Kaiser also dives into mindset, explaining how to "own" your thoughts and emotions rather than identify with them. For business leaders and entrepreneurs, this podcast provides an invigorating fresh perspective on value creation, leadership, and turning assumptions on their heads. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:01 Kevin Kaiser’s background 02:08 Business as a living organism 03:55 Who decides how to deploy resources? 06:03 Students at Wharton and fragility 09:44 How do big companies like Kodak fail? 13:18 Staying relevant as a company 15:33 Don’t listen to evolutionary wants 19:26 Challenges and the example of Toyota 22:26 Being the manager of your mind, body, and emotions 24:58 How can people find Kevin?

Dr. John Jaquish discovered a revolutionary way to build strong bones that goes against everything you've been told. In this insightful conversation with Joe De Sena, Dr, John reveals how he cured his own mother's osteoporosis and created a $100 million business - all by ignoring conventional wisdom. He will also open your eyes to why workouts like weightlifting don't work, and share his portable home gym that packs serious muscle-building power. By the end, you'll be left wondering what other "facts" about health and fitness are actually dead wrong. Dr. John will change what you think you know about building muscle and strength. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that just may transform your health forever. Tune in now! Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:15 Dr. John Jaquish and his biomedical company 02:49 Dr. John’s childhood, college, and entrepreneurship 06:32 OsteoStrong - a medical device that treats osteoporosis 11:13 Exposure to cold and health benefits 14:19 The importance of hip joint strength 16:07 Joe’s accident and dislocation of hip joint 18:55 Bone density, weight lifting, and the X3 System 26:24 Veganism and ancestral animal-based diet 33:54 Where can people find Dr. John?

In this episode, Joe se Sena is having an insightful conversation with TeamSnap CEO Pete Frintzilas. Pete shares how facing challenges as a child of immigrants built his resilience and success. He discusses lessons learned on instilling a strong work ethic in kids without spoiling them. Joe and Pete also discuss how continuous learning and seeking guidance from mentors fueled their growth and empowered them to overcome obstacles. Discover actionable advice on prioritizing your career early, developing an immigrant work ethic, and showing appreciation to accelerate your success from scratch. Tune in now! Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:01 Pete Frintzilas's background and childhood 03:55 Raising resilient children 07:31 Overprinting of the first child 09:05 Challenges of being a CEO of a big company 10:56 Hard work, mentors, and professional growth 13:24 Communication, gratitude, and working hard 15:55 Regret for not starting a business earlier 17:54 Where can people find Pete?

Victor Antonio knows what it's like to struggle. Growing up in poverty-stricken Chicago housing projects, he faced an uphill battle. But through grit and determination, he climbed his way to the top. In this fascinating episode, Victor pulls back the curtain on his amazing success story. From food stamps as a child to writing bestsellers, he shares the pivotal moments that changed his trajectory. Learn Victor's unorthodox tactics for understanding customers on a deeper level. Discover how he trains sales teams to minimize objections and build lasting relationships. You'll be inspired by the man who turned adversity into advantage through education, hard work, and never giving up. Highlights: 01:01 Victor Antonio’s childhood and family 03:45 Family dynamics and education 06:28 Culture shock of going to college 08:35 Fundamental attribution error and personal growth 13:31 The value of an engineering degree 16:01 Leaving his job and writing a book 18:53 Sales Ex Machina book and understanding AI 22:38 Data is the new oil 24:06 Sales engineer: Pre-internet and post-internet sales 27:23 The latest book Relationship Selling 28:36 Life or Debt reality show

In this episode of The Hard Way podcast, Joe De Sena interviews Paul Foster, the founder of the iconic fitness brand Reebok. Tune in as Foster recounts growing up in a family shoe business plagued by infighting, and his risky decision to break out on his own with his brother. Listen how this small startup found its big break by pivoting to capitalize on the aerobics craze just starting to sweep the nation. Foster shares the story of how resilience, innovation, and an openness to new opportunities allowed Reebok to outmaneuver giants and become the #1 brand in women's fitness worldwide. De Sena and Foster also discuss invaluable lessons around turning obstacles into opportunities and how perseverance can pay off big for entrepreneurs willing to work hard and think outside the box. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:49 How did Reebok start? 04:16 Selling Reebok and going into aerobics 06:24 Surviving and thriving in business 08:07 Working with family members 09:23 Why do most companies fail? 10:43 The role of luck in success 11:28 The importance of sports 12:55 Writing a book - Shoemaker 15:42 How can people find Joe? 16:08 Preparing the second book 17:53 Just keep going

The Lovesac founder Shawn Nelson started with a silly college project - giant beanbags. Now he leads the top-selling couch brand in America. How did he go from dorm room side hustle to building a business worth billions? Tune in as Shawn shares his wild journey of overcoming failures, bankruptcy and naysayers. Plus, hear Shawn and Joe discussing the couch controversy and finding common ground in their philosophies of pushing limits. Get practical tips on developing grit, balancing work and rest, and achieving your potential through consistent effort and facing fears. This inspiring conversation provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, parents, and anyone striving to maximize success while maintaining well-being. Don't miss Shawn Nelson's intriguing rise from beanbags to billions. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:49 Overnight success story of Lovesac 02:24 Furniture that evolves with you 04:01 Do we really need a couch? 06:36 Rewiring your brain to be active 11:11 Pushing your kids until it works 17:00 Opening dopamine pathways 20:34 Spartan race Massachusetts 21:05 Finding your own thing 24:50 Where can people find Shawn

When does pursuing your goals mean neglecting your relationships? For high-performing couples, maintaining intimacy may become hard and require intentionality. In this episode, Amy Wine shares her strategies for helping elite athletes, entrepreneurs and busy professionals prioritize connection - even when life gets hectic. Learn a system for designing communication around each partner's unique rhythms and needs. Learn about the "married roommate" trap and how to overcome it. Discover Amy's techniques for educating spouses on the elite mindset and scheduling meaningful moments together. Whether you're training for the Olympics or building an empire, get Amy's advice for keeping romance alive while chasing your dreams. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:04 Who is Amy Wine? 01:40 Troubles with relationships 03:57 Married roommates stage 07:31 High-class problems 09:21 Being there for your spouse 11:23 The mindset of wanting the change 15:46 Finding the joy 18:08 We don’t own stuff, it owns us 20:41 How can people find Amy?

While most would have quit after repeatedly getting cut from teams, Dre Baldwin refused to give up on his basketball dreams. This episode shares his incredible journey from benchwarmer to going pro, despite the countless setbacks along the way. You'll learn how he maintained an unstoppable motivation to improve day after day through strategies like constantly problem-solving new approaches. Dre also discusses the mindset it takes to achieve big goals, emphasizing the importance of working with others who are truly ready to put in the effort. For anyone wanting to up their game in life and business, this episode is a must-watch source of inspiration and practical advice on overcoming obstacles through grit and determination. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:46 Work on Your Game phrase 02:29 Why don’t people work on their game? 04:55 Staying focused and motivated 06:55 Fight against the gravity 08:45 How to motivate unmotivated people? 14:17 Joe’s invite to his event 15:18 Transformation stories 19:31 How can people find Dre

Tired of conflicting advice on diabetes? This episode sets the record straight. Dr. Robbie Barbero, who reversed his own Type 1 diabetes with a plant-based diet, unpacks the science on what really causes insulin resistance.ro You'll be shocked to learn it's NOT sugar as you've been told. Dr. Barbero reveals new research proving dietary fat - not sugar - is the true culprit behind the diabetes epidemic. He'll also share his own protocol for reversing pre-diabetes and Type 2 diabetes through a high-carb, low-fat, plant-based approach. Don't miss this revealing look at the real factors driving the diabetes crisis and take control of your insulin levels and health. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:04 Dietary fat and sugar's role in insulin resistance 04:06 Low fat, high carbs diet for managing Type 1 diabetes 06:16 Robby’s typical daily routine – exercise and diet 10:12 Monitoring blood glucose levels 12:30 Eat more salad 15:39 Do plants want to kill us? 17:16 Healthy packaged foods and use of microwaves 20:56 The experiment with liquid sugar diet 22:12 The biggest impact is what you not eat 24:40 Find what is best for you 26:04 Joe’s story about his dad

This episode follows the transformation of successful entrepreneur Andy Goldstrom from a results-driven corporate executive to a compassionate parenting coach. Faced with his own daughter's mental health struggles, Andy realized the tough love approach that worked in business failed his family. Through difficult lessons and parent coaching certification, Andy learned to see issues through his child's eyes. Now he shares these hard-won insights to help others strengthen bonds with kids facing unprecedented challenges. Tune in as Andy discusses his pivotal journey with Spartan Race founder Joe De Sena. Hear real-world strategies for setting boundaries, building trust and finding perspective - even in divorce. Discover how simple acts of attunement can ease parenting pressures in our hyper-connected world. Connect with Andy: www.parentsjourneycoaching.net Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Mental health challenges 04:03 Learning curve and coaching 08:11 Authoritative parenting styles 09:35 Setting boundaries around dating 11:10 When to allow the use of phones 12:56 Kids today have too much pressure 17:12 The importance of exercise for anxiety and depression 18:30 Welcome to Holland parable 20:57 Three things for parents to do 23:08 Kids need support and understanding