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Welcome to EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, hosted by Zander Sprague, bestselling author and acclaimed motivational speaker. If you're looking to kickstart the EPIC chapters in your life, you've come to the right place! Here, you will find inspiring stories, practical resources, and transformative insights to guide you on your journey.
Whether you're an entrepreneur scaling your business, a leader fostering a better workplace culture, an author penning your next bestseller, an athlete prepping for the big game, or simply someone striving to maximize their potential—this podcast is for you. Learn how to plan, achieve, and enjoy the journey towards achieving your EPIC goals.
Each episode showcases interviews with individuals who have conquered challenges to achieve something truly EPIC. You can do the same! With the proper guidance, timing, and skills that you'll find here—your next step can be meaningful and impactful.
The man behind the mic is Zander Sprague, an award-winning author and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). He's penned three popular books, including the one that inspired this podcast, EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward: How to Plan, Achieve, and Enjoy the Journey. Get to know him better at www.epicbegins.com.
By blending his formal education, professional journey, and personal growth, Zander is dedicated to steering listeners like you towards unlocking their fullest potential and kickstarting an epic life. His infectious enthusiasm has even earned him the moniker "God of Enthusiasm."
Each episode dives deep into interviews with real people who overcame their self-doubts and fears to realize the scale of their ambitions. Gain insights into the strategies they deployed, the hurdles they cleared, and the support that fueled their momentum.
Tune in for candid discussions about the highs and lows of their personal and professional quests. Despite setbacks and obstacles, these individuals never wavered in their resilience and determination.
If a laundry list of unrealized dreams is weighing on your career or psyche, this is your wake-up call. Maybe you're paralyzed by fear of failure or trapped by harsh self-criticism, but the key to making your dreams a reality is courage. You must be brave, confront the risks, and make the jump.
Allow the inspirational narratives and wisdom shared on this podcast to embolden you to unlock your dormant potential and bring your epic ideas to life. All it takes is the resolve to stand up, muster your confidence, and take action. Remember, no goal is too lofty, no idea too wild, and no promise too good to be questioned.
Don't let anyone or your own self-doubts hold you back. To make your next move count, you'll get the essential trifecta of right guidance, timing, and skills right here on this show.
Only by consciously taking steps toward your ambitions can you truly live life to its fullest. So push past your limits and refuse to settle for mediocrity in any area of your life. With Zander and his remarkable guests as your steadfast guides, you'll find the courage you need to evolve into an extraordinary person leading an equally extraordinary life.
If you've been searching for a catalyst to commence the major endeavors in your life, your search ends here. Soak in the motivating stories, invaluable advice, and plethora of resources to finally achieve your most cherished goal—and then aim even higher. Don't wait; take that crucial first step today!
EPIC Choices, EPIC Life. Don't miss out on the next episode! Listen on your preferred podcast platform or right here.
104 Episodes
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In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Troy Horne—musician, Broadway actor, author, and dedicated dad—to explore a life built on bold decisions. From driving to Los Angeles with $1,500 and no plan, to signing a record deal, touring with legends, and starring in Rent on Broadway, Troy’s story proves the power of simply saying “yes” to your dreams. He shares behind-the-scenes insights from NBC’s The Sing-Off and his bestselling book Mental Toughness for Young Athletes, written with his son to help kids build resilience in sports and life. Now, with new projects like Middle Management, Troy reflects on parenting, reinvention, and the courage to chase your “not yet” dreams.https://EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #NotYetDreams, #MentalToughness, #Musician
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague is joined by former CFL athlete, teacher, and executive coach Quinn Magnuson to explore a game-changing philosophy: Effort Over Results. Drawing from his professional sports background, coaching experience, and leadership training, Quinn reveals why focusing solely on wins and losses sets us up for burnout, while recognizing effort builds resilience, growth, and long-term success. Together, they unpack how celebrating small wins, embracing a growth mindset, and creating psychological safety can transform not only sports and education but also business and family life. From marathon finish lines to classroom struggles, Quinn shows that progress—not perfection—is what truly defines achievement. This conversation will inspire you to value the journey as much as the destination.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #EffortOverResults, #GrowthMindset, #RethinkingSuccess
For the 100th episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague celebrates this epic milestone with Danny Lehr—author, coach, and master of making extraordinary achievement accessible to everyone. Danny shares how he went from a PE teacher to building businesses, training alongside Olympians, and even transforming a used beach cruiser into a bike capable of conquering 72 miles around Lake Tahoe. Drawing from his book, Win Your Next Hour, Danny breaks down his blueprint for success: Words, Invest, Note Your Wins. Together, they discuss what billionaires, athletes, and everyday achievers have in common—and how anyone can apply these principles to their own life. This inspiring conversation proves that greatness isn’t reserved for the elite; it starts with your next choice.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #WinYourNextHour, #SuccessBlueprint, #HighAchievers
In this motivating episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague talks with Coach Sandy Cohan, a former hockey player turned mindset development coach and author. After years of coaching elite athletes – from Olympians to college players – Sandy discovered that skill alone does not separate the good from the great. The real difference? Mindset. Together, they explore the power of belief, grit, emotional control, and focus as the true foundations of performance. Sandy shares insights from his bestselling books 99 Rules Every Athlete Needs to Know and 99 Rules Every Sports Parent Needs to Know, while also tackling the myths around confidence, failure, and growth. Whether you are an athlete, a parent, or just someone looking to level up in life, this conversation is packed with epic, actionable wisdom.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #MentalPerformance, #SelfAffirmation, #ShowingUp
In this enlightening episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague speaks with somatic movement therapist and author Angel Howard about the powerful connection between body and mind. With decades of experience, Angel explains how somatic therapy addresses unresolved trauma and stress stored in our tissues, shaping emotions, thoughts, and even life patterns. From breathwork that calms the vagus nerve to movement practices that unlock buried emotions, Angel shares practical ways to tap into the body’s wisdom and reclaim balance. They also discuss her book Issues in Your Tissues, which makes somatic healing fun and accessible through stories, music, and guided exercises. This conversation will inspire you to trust your body’s messages, release what’s holding you back, and embrace your own epic journey toward healing and wholeness.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #BodyPsychology, #OxygenRejuvenationTherapy, #SomaticHealing
In this inspiring episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes Dr. Matt Kutz, professor, author, global leader, and prostate cancer survivor. Matt shares his extraordinary journey from athletic training and academic research to writing leadership books that reached Fortune 500 companies worldwide. But his most powerful lessons came after a life-altering diagnosis. During 40 days of radiation, Matt wrote the foundation of his new book, Becoming Epic, which introduces the EPIC Leadership Loop: Excellence, Perception, Inspiration, and Compassion. He also opens up about launching the Battle for the Bulge foundation to raise awareness for men’s health. With candor, humor, and resilience, Matt shows how adversity can become fuel for growth. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking to rise above mediocrity and embrace an epic life.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Leadership, #AthleticTraining, #MensHealth
In this thought-provoking episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Fredrik Haren, self-described “Creativity Explorer,” who has spent 25 years interviewing creative minds across 75 countries. From jazz guitarists who play “imaginary instruments” to watchmakers who solve design problems in their dreams, Fredrik reveals the surprising and powerful ways creativity shows up in our lives. Together, they explore why true creativity teaches us about ourselves, the importance of loving the process over the outcome, and how the stories we tell shape our epic journeys. Fredrik also shares the origin of his novel The Unvisible, inspired by a nightmare, and why he believes some ideas are gifts from beyond. An inspiring conversation for anyone ready to unlock their own creative potential.EpicBegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #CreativityExplorer, #EpicJourneys #TrueCreativity
In this powerful episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague speaks with Trent Carter, board-certified nurse practitioner, addiction medicine specialist, and founder of Renew Health in New Mexico. Trent shares how his passion for helping others led him to build a network of clinics dedicated to treating substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders in some of the most underserved communities. From confronting New Mexico’s fentanyl crisis to carrying Narcan in his car, Trent’s commitment to saving lives is personal and relentless. They also explore his new book, The Recovery Tool Belt, and how small steps of hope can lead to life-changing transformation. This episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a message of renewal for anyone embarking on their own EPIC journey.https://epicbegins.comFree E-book https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okroApply to be a Guest on My TV show https://www.epicchoicemedia.com#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #NewMexico, #PsilocybinTreatments, #AddictionRecovery
In this unforgettable episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with retired attorney, Marine Corps veteran, and author Rand Timmerman to explore his extraordinary hiking adventure on the Appalachian Trail. At 72, Rand and his brother set out to conquer over 2,000 miles of rugged wilderness, facing snowstorms, relentless climbs, falls that nearly ended the journey, and the physical limits of age. Along the way, Rand reflects on his Vietnam service, his recovery from alcoholism, and the resilience it takes to keep moving – one step at a time. Blending grit, humor, and wisdom, Rand’s story isn’t just about hiking a trail, but about navigating life’s most challenging climbs. This episode will leave you inspired to push beyond your limits and embark on your own epic journey.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #AppalachianTrail, #Alcoholism, #VietnamVeteran
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with serial entrepreneur Trevor Schade, whose life was transformed by what he calls a “total life implosion.” Within 18 months, Trevor underwent an epic reset: he endured divorce, career loss, real estate setbacks, and two strokes – events that shattered his belief in control and reshaped his outlook on life. Together, they explore the difference between control and influence, why mindset can make or break recovery, and the importance of giving yourself time to heal before moving forward. Trevor also shares how he built thriving businesses, created zero-attrition teams, and designed systems for success. Packed with hard-won wisdom, this conversation will inspire you to face your own epic unexpected moments with courage and clarity.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #EmotionalRecovery, #PassiveInvesting, #TotalLifeImplosion, #SerialEntrepreneur
In this candid and laughter-filled episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with speaking coach and facilitator Marianne Hickman to unpack the real challenges of professional speaking—both on stage and in the virtual world. They tackle the sting (and value) of feedback, the art of reading a room you can’t see, and the mental gymnastics of staying engaged with “Zoom face” audiences. From cringe-worthy old footage to developing true camera connection, Marianne shares her journey with humility and humor. The conversation shifts into the power of curiosity to bridge divides, even in hot-button topics, and touches on AI’s role in the speaking world. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and EPIC truths.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #ProfessionalSpeaking, #PublicSpeaking, #SpeakingCoach
In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with philanthropist and global changemaker Morgan DeNicola. From running her family’s foundation to serving as Vice Chair of an NGO that partners with the United Nations, Morgan’s work spans humanitarian awards, global health, cultural diplomacy, and conservation. She shares transformative stories from her travels, including an unforgettable moment being kicked by a gorilla in Rwanda while exploring the power of discomfort, curiosity, and connection across cultures. Morgan also opens up about overcoming dyslexia and anxiety to become a global voice for change, offering inspiring insights on pushing beyond comfort zones. This is a conversation about courage, purpose, and the epic growth that comes from saying “yes” to the unknown.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #Cultural Diplomacy #SpecialEducation #AfricanCulture
In this powerhouse episode of EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with TEDx Brisbane curator and public speaking coach Juanita Wheeler to unpack the art—and science—of persuasive communication. Juanita shares her personal journey from self-described “screaming introvert” to global speaking strategist, revealing the deep research and psychology behind becoming a compelling speaker. She dives into what TEDx organizers really look for, how to craft a standout idea, and why perfection is the enemy of progress. The conversation also explores how to silence inner critics, why authenticity matters more than theatrics, and the power of starting—even when you feel you’re not ready. Juanita also shares her inspiring “Not Yet” list and how she’s turning midlife into a mission. Whether you’re TEDx-bound or terrified of the mic, this episode is packed with actionable insight and encouragement to take your first epic step forward.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #TEDxOrganizer, #PublicSpeaking, #PersuasiveCommunication
In this thrilling episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes Jennie “AdrenaJen” Milton—a world-traveling adventurer whose life reads like an action movie. From heli-skiing down remote Alaskan peaks to surviving a near-fatal crevasse fall, Jennie shares what it takes to face fear head-on. But her most epic challenge didn’t come on the mountain—it came in the form of brain aneurysms and life-threatening surgeries. With raw honesty and electrifying energy, Jennie dives into how adrenaline, mindset, and resilience carried her through extreme sports, unexpected trauma, and recovery. You’ll hear about real mountain rescues, polar bear run-ins, public speaking nerves, and the power of saying “not yet.” This episode is a masterclass in courage, personal growth, and pushing your edge—whether you’re jumping out of helicopters or just trying to take your next brave step. Get ready. Get your mindset. Go.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #AdrenalineRush, #BrainSurgery, #OvercomingFear
In this inspiring episode of EPIC Begins with One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes solo travel coach and global citizen and storyteller Tsvety Roo. From leaving behind a corporate life to living in 22 countries and counting, Tsvety shares the empowering truth about traveling alone – and thriving while doing it. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just dreaming of your first solo trip, this conversation dives deep into conquering loneliness, making meaningful connections, and embracing the unknown. Learn practical solo travel tips, hear unforgettable travel stories, and discover how “not yet” can be one of the most powerful phrases in your journey. Packed with wisdom, laughter, and honest moments, this is a must-listen for anyone ready to step into their epic life – one bold, brave step at a time.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #EpicDestinations #Meaningful Connections #Travel Stories
What does it take to survive the unthinkable? In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague sits down with author and professor AJ Otjen to share the raw, harrowing, and ultimately inspiring story behind his book, Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen. When a wall of fire swallowed Dan during what should have been a routine grassfire call, no one expected him to live—let alone return to the fireline two years later. AJ recounts the emotional two-and-a-half-year journey of writing Dan’s story, the fight for survival after 60% of Dan’s body was burned, and how one man’s resilience united an entire community desperate for hope. This isn’t just a story about firefighting—it’s about family, forgiveness, stubborn grit, and what it truly means to come home. Ready to hear what real courage sounds like? Press play and let’s go.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #BurnedOver, #FirefighterSurvival, #MontanaWildfires
Are you burned out… or just chasing someone else’s dream? This week on Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with success catalyst Zoia Ye (ZY) for a brutally honest, no-fluff conversation about authenticity, boundaries, and why so many of us feel stuck in lives that don’t fit. Zoia shares her personal journey of surviving domestic abuse, finding her true voice, and helping others break free from the cycle of people-pleasing and self-neglect. Together, they unpack the lies we tell ourselves, the silent expectations we place on our relationships, and why the scariest—and most freeing—work you’ll ever do is learning to love yourself. From relationship dynamics to personal growth, this episode offers raw truths, real strategies, and a reminder that you don’t need permission to live life on your terms. Ready to stop playing small? Let’s get uncomfortable… and let’s get epic.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Burnout, Boundaries, #AuthenticSelf
Do you ever feel like you know something deep down… but you ignore it anyway? You’re not alone. In this episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague is joined by Sarah Gregg and Jill Ritchie, co-founders of The Intuitive Psychology Association, to explore why we’ve become so disconnected from our intuition—and how to reclaim it. You’ll learn why modern life keeps you stuck in your head, how multitasking blocks your inner wisdom, and why tuning in starts with something as simple as closing your eyes and taking a breath. From meditation and journaling to the science of “felt sense,” Jill and Sarah break it all down with humor and heart. Plus, they share their free Question Method tool to help you take that first step toward living more intuitively. Ready to reconnect with your inner knowing? Let’s begin.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Intuition, #Gut, #InnerWisdom
In this moving episode of EPIC Begins with 1 Step Forward, host Zander Sprague is joined by special guest Mark Collins for a heartfelt conversation about grief, healing, and the journey to reclaim purpose after profound loss. Mark shares his personal story of navigating sibling loss and how it reshaped his outlook on life, purpose, and resilience. Together, Zander and Mark explore what it really means to take one EPIC step forward—even when life feels shattered.This episode isn’t about “fixing” grief. It’s about honoring it, learning from it, and finding the strength to move through it with authenticity and courage. With raw honesty and practical wisdom, Mark and Zander dive into how we can empower ourselves to live fully, even while carrying the weight of loss.If you’ve ever felt stuck in your grief or unsure of your next step, this conversation will speak directly to your heart. Because healing doesn’t happen all at once—it happens one courageous step at a time.epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #PersonalGrowth, #LifeByDesign, #Healing
What if your purpose isn’t something to search for—but something you already are? In this transformative episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, host Zander Sprague welcomes engineer-turned-spiritual guide Manal El-Ramly for a soul-expanding conversation about self-worth, manifestation, and embracing the power of “not yet.” Manal blends a sharp analytical mind with deep spiritual insight, offering a refreshing take on personal growth that bridges logic and intuition. Together, she and Zander explore what it means to stop striving and start aligning—to realize that we are already worthy, already love, already free. From the joy of pursuing epic goals to navigating the emotional potholes along the way, this episode dives into the beauty of becoming without pressure. Whether you’re manifesting a dream, climbing your next personal mountain, or just trying to reconnect with your true self, this conversation will help you shift your perspective and reignite your journey. Full of wisdom, laughter, and undeniable energy, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. epicbegins.comFree E-bookApply to be a Guest on My TV show#EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Manifestation, #SelfWorth, #NotYet
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