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The Determined Society with Shawn French
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The Determined Society with Shawn French

Author: Shawn French

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Step into the world of Culture Unscripted, where the bright lights meet thoughtful depth. Every episode takes you behind the headlines as we interview celebrities, renowned authors, and elite athletes—not to talk press lines, but to uncover their core truths and cultural perspectives.
We dive into the stories behind the personas: What inspires a bestselling author to tug at society’s threads? How does an athlete navigate identity beyond the game? How do cultural icons harness influence to spark social change? These aren’t surface-level soundbites—they’re raw, revealing conversations that reflect who we are and where we’re headed.
Expect humor. Expect heart. Expect breakthrough insights.
Whether we’re unpacking a book that reshapes dialogue, exploring the impact of fame on mental health, or analyzing how sports stars challenge societal norms—Culture Unscripted brings you the human stories behind cultural icons and the societal conversations they spark.
If you’re curious, driven, and ready for a show that celebrates the richness of culture through the faces shaping it—Culture Unscripted is where you belong. Tune in, and let’s explore the world through the voices that help define it.
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Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this powerful Pulse episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with his business partner and close friend Pat Sitkins to reflect on the evolution of the show, the power of clarity, and what it actually takes to become the person you want to be.They discuss why most people never start, how preparation builds confidence, and why the “messy middle” is where real growth happens. Shawn breaks down the difference between wishing for success and manifesting it through daily discipline, while Pat shares what makes this community-driven movement so impactful. Key Takeaways-Clarity is the cheat code to real progress.-Cringing at old work means you’re growing.-You don’t need perfect conditions to start.-Preparation is what separates winners from wishers.-Manifestation only works when paired with action.-The messy middle is where strength is built.-Extreme accountability creates real transformation.-Impact is the true purpose of The Determined Society. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAPat Sitkinshttps://www.instagram.com/patsitkins/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Stacey Kay, founder of hydr.ate, to unpack a powerful journey through addiction, anxiety, burnout, and personal transformation.Stacey opens up about struggling with alcohol and drugs in her twenties, pushing herself through high-pressure sales careers, and the moment her body forced her to stop; heart palpitations, numbness, and an anxiety episode that looked like a heart attack. That wake-up call sparked a complete shift inward.The conversation explores how stress, unresolved grief, and self-criticism can silently destroy mental and physical health, and how meditation became a turning point in Stacey’s healing journey. Key Takeaways-Burnout often shows up physically before we acknowledge it mentally.-Addiction and anxiety thrive when emotions go unprocessed.-Meditation creates space between reaction and response.-True accountability must be paired with self-compassion.-Slowing down is sometimes the most productive move.-It’s never too late to pivot into meaningful work. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAStacey Kayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-kay-hydrate/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn sits down with Zach Cogen, Head of Athlete Rehabilitation for the New York Red Bulls, to break down what real recovery actually looks like; physically, mentally, and emotionally.Zach shares his journey from collegiate wrestling to working with elite professional athletes across UCLA, EXOS, DC United, and now Major League Soccer.He explains the critical difference between return to play and return to performance, and why simply getting back on the field isn’t enough for high-level athletes whose careers depend on elite output. Key Takeaways-Return to play is not the same as return to performance-Recovery must address both physical and mental readiness-Sleep and nutrition are essential for healing and performance-Pneumatic compression improves circulation and recovery-Trust between athlete and practitioner is critical-Discipline and determination are built through consistency Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAZach Cogenhttps://www.instagram.com/thesportsphysio_/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, Sean sits down with Nicole Jaques, creator of the “House CEO” framework, content educator, and systems-driven parent helping families calm the chaos of modern life.Nicole shares how leaving a corporate public-relations career after becoming a mother forced her to confront an outdated narrative around being a “stay-at-home mom.” What emerged instead was a powerful reframe: running a household requires leadership, systems, and intentional design, just like any successful business.Throughout the conversation, Nicole breaks down how time blocking, simplified systems, and documented routines can reduce burnout, eliminate resentment, and create more space for real family connection. She explains why rest is not a luxury, why the “default parent” role is operational and how accountability and structure can actually bring freedom back into the home. Key Takeaways-Running a home requires leadership, not more effort-Systems reduce burnout by removing emotional friction-Time blocking creates freedom, not rigidity-Rest is essential to regulating mood and nervous system health-The “default parent” role works best when it’s structured and shared-Boundaries determine family connection Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGANicole Jaqueshttps://www.instagram.com/itsnicolejaques/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Nik Kleverov joins The Determined Society to break down the biggest misconceptions about AI, creativity, and the future of Hollywood.From his journey as an immigrant storyteller to becoming one of the first creatives working with OpenAI, Nik explains why there is no “magic AI button,” why creatives are more important than ever, and how AI is opening doors to original films, brand storytelling, and entirely new forms of entertainment.This episode dives deep into AI-generated films, advertising, originality, copyright, and why storytelling is still the true differentiator. Key Takeaways-There is no magic button in AI, great work still requires real effort.-AI doesn’t replace creativity; it amplifies strong storytellers.-Authenticity comes from human perspective, not the tool.-AI-created work can still be original and copyrightable.-Creatives who adapt will thrive in the next era of entertainment.-AI allows smaller teams to create bigger ideas faster.-Hollywood isn’t ending — it’s evolving.-Collaboration matters more than ever in AI workflows. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGANik Kleverovhttps://www.instagram.com/kleverov/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this powerful episode of The Determined Society Podcast, Brady McDonald shares his raw journey from alcohol dependency and fear to sobriety, faith, ultra-endurance racing, and building a life rooted in discipline and purpose.Brady opens up about quitting alcohol after realizing the cycle he was passing down to his daughters, how doing hard things like 75 Hard and ultra running gave him clarity, and the moment God intervened and changed the trajectory of his life. We dive deep into fatherhood, leadership, failure, faith, resilience, and why children don’t do what we say, they do what we do.This conversation also explores Brady’s mission to use running for something bigger than himself through 50K in 50 States, raising millions for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and how serving others brings more fulfillment than success ever could. Key Takeaways-Sobriety gave Brady clarity, courage, and control over his life.-Doing hard things builds confidence that transfers into every area of life.-Discipline is simple, but it’s never easy.-Fitness became the gateway to mental, emotional, and spiritual growth-Failure isn’t the end; it’s feedback for the next attempt.-The right people in your corner determine how far you go.-Faith showed up when quitting no longer felt like an option.-Serving others creates deeper fulfillment than personal success. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGABrady McDonaldhttps://www.instagram.com/brady.mcdonald84/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What do you do when heartbreak, betrayal, or a toxic relationship leaves you broken on the floor?In this powerful episode of The Determined Society Podcast, Shawn sits down with world-renowned breakup and divorce coach Sara Davison to talk about reclaiming your power when life knocks you down.Sara shares the deeply personal story behind her mantra “Screw You, Watch This,” how toxic relationships quietly trap people in cycles of fear and self-doubt, and the practical tools anyone can use to break free. Key Takeaways-Toxic relationships often feel familiar and safe, which is why people repeat them.-Healing starts when you take responsibility for your own power and decisions.-Emotional recovery requires replacing old patterns with new daily standards.-Small, consistent actions create momentum and long-term change.-Taking care of yourself first is essential, not selfish.-Children learn how to cope by watching how parents handle adversity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGASara Davisonhttps://www.instagram.com/saradavisondivorcecoach/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What does it really take to build a scalable business that survives without you?In this episode of The Determined Society Podcast, David Royce shares how he went from knocking doors as a college student to building and exiting multiple pest control companies, including a $500M empire operating across 34 states and 5,000+ cities.David breaks down the real mechanics of scale, why blue-collar businesses with white-collar systems are massively underrated, and how obsession, systems, and cash flow discipline separate businesses that grow from those that collapse. Key Takeaways-A business is truly scalable if you can step away for 30 days and it still runs without you.-Growth is meaningless without strong cash flow and financial control.-Some of the most profitable opportunities exist in overlooked, blue-collar industries.-Systems and processes create freedom and allow a business to operate without constant involvement.-Great sales come from listening, understanding people, and solving real problems.-Obsession and persistence matter more than talent, because most people fail by quitting too early. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGADavid Roycehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/david-royce-22539425/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2025 was a turning point.Personally, professionally, and mentally. This episode is a raw reflection on how fixing one overlooked area of my life changed everything, from my marriage and mindset to the growth of The Determined Society.If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like something small is quietly holding you back, this conversation is about identifying that one thing and committing to real change.Growth doesn’t come from motivation, it comes from discipline, ownership, and doing the work when no one’s watching. Key Takeaways-Personal growth off-camera directly fueled professional success on-camera.-Fixing the “one thing” holding you back unlocks progress in every area of life.-Physical health improvements led to better clarity, confidence, and communication.-Consistency and discipline drove massive growth in 2025.-Emotional regulation improved relationships with family, team, and guests.-Growth in the show was a byproduct of personal accountability and self-care.-Feeling “seen” by the audience came from staying authentic and mission-driven.-Long-term thinking (years, not months) is key to sustainable success.-Momentum is built by doing the mundane work consistently and intentionally. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Dr. David Karli, a renowned physician and entrepreneur in regenerative medicine, to explore the intersection of health, determination, longevity, and the future of medical technology.Dr. Karli opens up about his personal health crisis in his early 40s; including burnout, panic attacks, hormonal imbalance, and the wake-up call that forced him to rethink everything he believed about aging, performance, and medicine. What followed was a complete transformation that reshaped not only his body, but his mindset, career, and mission.Together, they dive into testosterone optimization, mental health in men, the psychology of discipline, and why process, suffering, and systems are unavoidable if you want real change. The conversation expands into cutting-edge regenerative medicine, AI-driven stem cell therapy, and the ethical questions surrounding longevity; including whether living longer actually means living better. Key Takeaways-Hormonal health is foundational to both physical and mental performance-Discipline is doing the work long after motivation fades-True transformation comes from systems, not shortcuts-Longevity without mobility and quality of life is a hollow win-Suffering is not the enemy, it’s part of growth-The future of medicine will be personalized, data-driven, and ethically complex Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGADavid Karlihttps://www.instagram.com/davidkarli/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this raw and deeply emotional episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Matt Dillon for a powerful conversation about adversity, identity, addiction, resilience, and what it truly means to build yourself back up when life breaks you down.Matt opens up about leaving Australia for New York, starting over from nothing, navigating addiction, loneliness, and career pressure, and learning how to survive by showing up every single day, even when everything felt impossible. From swimming through rock bottom to rebuilding discipline, trust, and self-worth, this episode explores the realities most people never talk about.The conversation also dives into Matt’s life-changing bond with a chimpanzee that gave him purpose during one of the darkest chapters of his life, reshaping how he views love, responsibility, and connection. Key Takeaways-Why rock bottom can become the foundation for real personal growth-The difference between fake confidence and earned self-belief-How eliminating toxic people and habits creates momentum-Why discipline, presence, and self-trust change everything-How purpose can come from unexpected relationships and responsibility-Redefining success, greatness, and ambition on your own terms Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAMatthew Dillonhttps://www.instagram.com/mattdillon1983/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of Robinhood, for a wide-ranging conversation that spans entrepreneurship, immigration, resilience, artificial intelligence, and humanity’s next energy frontier: space.Baiju opens up about growing up as the child of Indian immigrants, learning English by watching TV, and how that outsider perspective shaped his worldview, work ethic, and belief in opportunity. He reflects on building Robinhood in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, the skepticism they faced, and how democratizing access to the markets reshaped an entire generation’s relationship with money.The conversation then moves beyond finance into the future of energy and AI. Baiju introduces his newest venture, Aetherflux, and the bold vision behind what he calls the “Galactic Brain” a solar-powered AI data centers and energy grids built in space.From space-based power transmission using lasers to solving the massive energy demands of artificial intelligence, this episode explores ideas that sound like science fiction but are rapidly becoming reality. Key Takeaways-Baiju Bhatt’s immigrant upbringing and how it shaped his mindset-The real story behind building Robinhood after the 2008 financial collapse-Why access to investing became a cultural and generational shift-The philosophy of failure, stubborn belief, and customer-driven validation-What the “Galactic Brain” means for AI, power, and the future of humanity-How space solar power and laser energy transmission actually work-Health, discipline, confidence, and how self-respect changes outcomes Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGABaiju Bhatthttps://www.instagram.com/realbaijubhatt/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this deeply moving episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Liz Caplan, world-renowned vocal coach, founder of Liz Caplan Voice Studios, and trusted voice teacher to some of the biggest names in film, television, and Broadway, including Hugh Jackman, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andrew Garfield, Ben Platt, Stephen Colbert, and more.From growing up with asthma to discovering that singing and breathwork could literally change how her body functioned, Liz explains how music became her first medicine, long before success, recognition, or a thriving business.She shares how deep, intentional breathing can calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and create a natural “high” with no crash, no hangover, and no harm.Liz also pulls back the curtain on her journey from teaching a few students to becoming one of the most trusted vocal coaches in the industry, explaining how small steps, word of mouth, and genuine care built a world-class career rooted in service, not ego. Key Takeaways-Your voice and breath are powerful healing tools, not just performance skills.-Deep, intentional breathing can regulate the nervous system and reduce anxiety naturally.-True success is built slowly through service, trust, and word-of-mouth consistency.-Burnout often comes from absorbing others’ energy; learning to release it is essential.-Creativity, music, and movement can be medicine when used with intention.-Determination means continuing your mission with empathy, care, and integrity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGALiz Caplanhttps://www.instagram.com/lizcaplan/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Olivia Mock, founder and CEO of The Check-In Club, a rapidly growing fitness accountability app helping thousands of people build discipline, community, and confidence, without the toxicity, filters, and comparison traps of modern social media.What begins as a conversation about fitness quickly turns into a deep discussion on mental health, self-talk, consistency, childhood insecurities, and the emotional battles people face long before they ever touch a weight. Shawn and Olivia open up about their own struggles with anxiety, body image, shame, yo-yo dieting, and the internal narratives that keep people stuck.Olivia shares the story behind The Check-In Club, why she built a judgment-free platform, and how accountability communities help moms, beginners, athletes, and everyday people stay consistent. Key Takeaways-You cannot build a lasting fitness journey from shame—only from self-love.-Small wins compound. Consistency beats intensity every time.-Nutrition and movement dramatically improve mental health, anxiety, and confidence.-Walking counts. Any movement is better than none.-Community accelerates progress—accountability builds discipline.-Showing up for yourself first allows you to show up better for your family, work, and relationships.  Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAOlivia Mockhttps://www.instagram.com/oliviamockk/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with entrepreneur and wellness advocate Jerome, whose life story is a raw testament to trauma, resilience, and the determination to build something better for the next generation.What begins as a conversation about childhood adversity becomes a shocking revelation:Jerome discovered that he was likely a surviving twin, the result of selective abortion practices in 1970s France. That discovery unraveled decades of unexplained psychological pain, complex PTSD, and emotional disconnection. For the first time publicly, he opens up about prenatal trauma, childhood neglect, and the generational patterns he is determined to break as a father of three young girls. Key Takeaways:-Trauma isn’t just emotional, prenatal and childhood trauma shape the brain, identity, and adulthood.-Breaking generational cycles requires intentionality, vulnerability, and emotional honesty.-Children don’t need perfect parents, they need present, loving, apologetic, humble ones.-Determination is built in moments where your instinct is to react, but you choose to respond with love.-Mental health struggles are not weakness; silence is. Talking about it is the first step to freedom-Affordable healthcare is possible, removing middlemen makes life-saving medication accessible for families in need. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAJerome Knyszewskihttps://www.instagram.com/jeromeknyszewski/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Kwame Christian, a bestselling author, attorney, corporate negotiation consultant, TEDx speaker, and host of Negotiate Anything, the #1 negotiation podcast in the world.Kwame breaks down the real meaning of determination: making an agreement with yourself and keeping the promise, even when fear, conflict, or discomfort stand in the way.But this conversation goes far beyond traditional negotiation. It dives into the psychology of people-pleasing, childhood conditioning, internal self-talk, emotional regulation, boundaries, and what keeps so many of us from speaking up for ourselves.Kwame shares the origin of his compassionate curiosity framework, a simple but transformative method for navigating conflict without anger, defensiveness, or emotional shutdown. Key Takeaways-Determination is keeping the promises you make to yourself, even when it’s hard.-Most people fear tough conversations because of childhood conditioning or people-pleasing habits.-Conflict becomes easier when you use Compassionate Curiosity: regulate emotions, ask better questions, and approach the problem together.-You can win an argument and lose the relationship. Focus on connection, not domination.-Discipline grows when you celebrate the pride of honoring your commitments.-Mastery comes from deliberate practice. Focus on the process, not the outcome. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAKwame Christianhttps://www.instagram.com/kwamenegotiates/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this inspiring episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Greg Rosenbaum, SVP of Programming at South by Southwest and a 15-year veteran behind one of the most influential festivals in the world.From dyslexia to leadership, Greg shares the personal and professional journey that shaped him, and how SXSW has become a global model for community, creativity, and connection across music, film, TV, technology, comedy, and education.Greg reveals how adversity forced SXSW to reinvent itself after losing its long-standing convention center home, and why focusing on community over convenience transformed everything.He also opens up about mentorship, parenting, discipline, creativity, and the mindset required to build a festival that helps thousands of artists, innovators, and storytellers share their work with the world. Key Takeaways-Reinvention happens when adversity demands creativity, community must guide every major decision.-Dyslexia shaped Greg’s determination, discipline, and belief in incremental progress.-SXSW thrives because it bridges industries, music, film, innovation, comedy, and education under one roof.-The festival’s 40th year challenged the team to reimagine everything, leading to a more immersive, city-wide experience.-Networking is the real “cheat code”, authentic connection accelerates growth faster than any strategy.-Discipline in fitness and routine fuels creativity, clarity, and leadership.-Presence is the foundation of great parenting, partnership, and professional impact. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAGreg Rosenbaumhttps://www.instagram.com/sxsw/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Guerdy Abraira, world-renowned event designer, Real Housewives of Miami star, cancer survivor, and now author of her powerful memoir 'From Trauma to Trophies'.Joined by her husband Russell, the two open up about identity, childhood trauma, cultural reinvention, marriage, betrayal, fame, survival, and the inner work required to reclaim your voice.Guerdy shares intimate details about immigrating from Haiti to Paris to the United States, being separated from her family at just nine years old, building self-worth through service, navigating reality TV conflict, creating the Let Me Theory, and fighting, and beating, breast cancer with ferocity and grace.Together, she and Russell reveal the truth behind healing, partnership, intention, forgiveness, and what it really means to win at life. Key Takeaways-Reinvention is a lifelong journey — from Haiti to Paris to Miami, every chapter shaped Guerdy’s confidence.-Childhood trauma creates patterns of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and over-performing, until you decide to break them.-Cancer forces surrender: losing control, facing mortality, and rebuilding identity from the inside out.-The Let Me Theory empowers you to reclaim autonomy, set boundaries, and choose peace on your own terms.-A strong marriage is built on intention, patience, presence, and seeing every version of each other with love.-Being “too much” is a superpower, your energy, joy, and authenticity are your gifts, not liabilities.-Self-worth is not material, it’s who you become, not what you own. Guerdy's trophies are her growth, her family, and her freedom. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAGuerdy and Russell Abrairahttps://www.instagram.com/guerdydesign/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with visionary developer Gil Dezer, the mind behind Dezer Development and the groundbreaking Bentley Residences in Sunny Isles, Florida.From an unprecedented 36-hour mat foundation pour to $630 million construction loans and engineering innovations the world has never seen, Gil breaks down exactly what it takes to build one of the most luxurious residential towers on earthGil reveals the unseen world of mega-development: 40-foot excavations, 2,300 concrete trucks, faceted diamond glass walls, in-unit car elevators, private balconies with swimming pools, saunas in every home, and the relentless problem-solving required to turn an idea into a skyline-defining reality. Key Takeaways-Engineering greatness requires obsession — every inch of Bentley Residences is intentionally designed.-Massive construction projects succeed through coordination, problem-solving, and relentless attention to detail.-A 36-hour continuous mat pour involves 2,300 trucks, 40-foot excavations, and year-long preparation.-Innovation demands risk: faceted diamond glass, car elevators, balcony pools, and hurricane-tested engineering.-Real estate is a delayed-gratification industry — planning, permitting, and execution take years of discipline.-An educated buyer understands value: more space, better engineering, and elevated living experience. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAGil Dezerhttps://www.instagram.com/dezerdev/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this powerful episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Marcus and Morgan Luttrell, Navy SEAL legends, brothers, warriors, and survivors whose stories have shaped a generation.From helicopter crashes and TBI recovery to the invisible battles that happen long after war ends, the Luttrell's open up about pain, resilience, identity, fatherhood, marriage, and the hard road back to civilian life.They reveal what most people never see: the withdrawal from war, the deep loss of tribe, the spiritual journey of healing, and how psychedelic-assisted therapy changed everything. Through raw honesty and unmatched brotherhood, Marcus and Morgan share what it truly means to suffer with purpose, raise strong families, and refuse to quit, no matter what life demands.Key Takeaways-True resilience comes from facing hardship head-on, not running from it.-Brotherhood, tribe, and shared suffering shape identity long after the battlefield.-Psychedelic-assisted therapy can help veterans reclaim clarity, connection, and emotional balance.-Discipline begins with the smallest daily choices — even one push-up or one cold shower.-Suffering creates appreciation; comfort creates complacency.-The greatest battles often happen at home — in marriage, fatherhood, and identity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Marcus Luttrellhttps://www.instagram.com/marcusluttrell/Morgan Luttrellhttps://www.instagram.com/repluttrelltx/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Comments (3)

Talha wisal

ye its greed episode according to me i have enjoy alot and learn different things

Jan 22nd
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Slice Master

Great episode — Shawn’s conversations always hit on real grit, growth, and mental clarity. After listening to such high-energy, reflective talks, I like to reset with a quick, focused game like Slice Master (https://slicemaster.net/ ) — it’s simple, addictive, and a great way to recharge without losing your sharpness.

Nov 25th
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