The Hard Way w/ Joe De Sena

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

Tired of being average? Want to take your game to the next level and become unstoppable? This episode will show you how to maximize your innate strengths, tap into your deepest interests, and unleash an unstoppable drive to win.   Former military strategist James King shares his science-backed approach to identifying your "sweet spot" and aligning your goals in a way that ignites your full potential. Spartan CEO Joe De Sena opens up about applying these principles to build an empire and change millions of lives.   Discover the secrets of the world's top performers and leave with an action plan to optimize your body and mind for total excellence.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:42 Who is James King? 02:45 Studying performance science at the University of Edinburg 09:26 Key goals to pursue in order to excel 12:42 Leaning into strengths or fixing the weaknesses? 15:01 How hard is it to figure out your interests? 17:41 Just start doing something 20:22 Finding your sweet spot 23:13 The University of Better For more insights into James King, be sure to explore: Social Media Handles- Instagram: @jamesaking_ LinkedIn: @acceleratingexcellence Youtube: @acceleratingexcellence Twitter: @jamesaking Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B15MT2F9?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_WC2SR2T9WSA12ZZCTFDP Spotfiy: https://open.spotify.com/show/5LJFspGl7b0e5YuxMfPLpx?si=be50920d345347ea Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-accelerating-excellence-podcast/id1706636304

In this episode, marketing pioneer Seth Godin shares his proven strategies for building viral movements and brands. He and the Spartan founder Joe De Sena talk about the power of cultivating small, passionate communities over mass appeal.   Godin draws from his experience helping top brands connect through stories and building a community. He explains how understanding the way ideas spread socially unlocked his viral successes.   Seth points out that the most successful brands are built like "religions" that unite people through shared experiences. He also talks about happiness as a choice and the advantages of the world we live in.   For anyone wanting to inspire a change, this conversation provides valuable lessons on spreading ideas that uplift, becoming a viral phenomenon, and establishing movements that empower lives. Episode presented by MudGear   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:42 The world is not your customer 02:08 Is a small audience enough? 04:31 The secret to becoming viral 08:01 The success of Joe’s New York restaurant 09:10 What would Seth as a head of Spartan? 13:33 How did Seth find his path? 14:25 Being happy is a choice 16:47 Building a brand is building a religion 18:36 The war in Ukraine from a marketing perspective 21:12 How can you find Seth?

In this episode, Joe De Sena interviews Michael Holt from Savage and Saint on redefining masculinity through integrity, authenticity and inner strength.   They discuss growing up tough and how it shapes character, plus the importance of discipline and relaxation in achieving goals and relationships. Michael shares his daily wellness routine of meditation, breathing, nutrition and movement - practical self-care habits that unlock spiritual growth and sustainable energy.   Discover an empowering blueprint for well-being, success and real relationships - without macho posturing or martyrdom.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:15 How can we define masculinity? 04:40 The balance of challenge and acceptance 07:51 Going too far in achieving the mission 12:08 The fear of stopping and relaxing 15:54 Six pillars of well-being 19:52 The meditative path is the warrior path

Craig Levinson has overcome countless obstacles on his journey from South Africa to Silicon Valley. After immigrating as a teen, he chased his basketball dreams in the US only to have a devastating injury end his career. But he refused to quit, pivoting to build supplement brands and manage inspirational clients.   Through it all, 3 principles have guided him: accountability, consistency, and self-care. In this episode, Craig shares gripping tales of his moves across the world, business failures, and backstage encounters that led him to create a very sought-after agency. His story is an inspiration for anyone willing to keep chasing their dreams against all odds.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Craig Levinson’s family and background 02:34 Moving to the United States at 19 05:13 Playing college basketball and getting injured 08:18 Creating a supplement brand and failing 11:31 Pivoting and finding a way through 13:10 Meeting his faith in the backstage of Ellen DeGeneres show 15:33 Working with A-list clients 17:34 Thee things important for success 20:48 How to find Craig? 21:54 Final words

Tired of kids glued to screens when they should be running around outside? Frustrated with the lack of PE and recess in schools? Dr. Amy Bantham has had enough - and she's starting a revolution to get our youth active again.   As the founder of Move to Live More, Amy is trying to empower families and schools in a fight against physical inactivity. In this motivating episode, she shares why movement matters for mental and physical health, tips for fun family fitness, and innovative solutions to get kids off devices and onto the field.   Whether you're a parent wanting to role model wellness or a community member passionate about youth sports, this show will energize and inspire you to join Amy's movement. Discover practical ways to weave activity into everyday life and help reverse the inactivity crisis - one kid at a time.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Who is Amy Bantham? 02:27 The lack of physical activity in kids 04:59 What can school and parents do? 08:26 Kids going outside for recess policy 11:12 What can we do? 12:32 How can people join the Move to Live More movement? 14:17 Start with a small activity

Jacob Peters almost died after a COVID-19 vaccine left him hospitalized. Instead of accepting defeat, he was driven to help others avoid similar struggles. His new company Superpower aims to put people in charge of their health data and connect them to innovative care.   This episode follows Jacob's incredible journey—from building Legos into a six-figure business as a teen to founding a major health tech company after a chance meeting on Wall Street. But it was facing his mortality that lit a fire within Jacob. Now, he's building the future of healthcare, one that ensures no one has to fight for their life alone. Get ready to be inspired to reclaim your health and well-being.   Highlights: 00:15 Jacob Peters's journey into health space 05:04 Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Military Career 07:45 From Lego reselling company to Wall Street 09:57 A start-up started by solving Microsoft’s problem 13:28 Lego blocks translated into business building 17:06 Jacob’s health problems after COVID vaccine 26:14 The help of holistic physicians 28:51 Jacob’s current business in health space - Superpower 33:03 Three things everyone should be doing every day

Tired of the same old drinking culture? In this unconventional podcast episode, Spartan CEO Joe De Sena joins forces with wellness entrepreneur Ruari Fairbairns to drop bombshell strategies for helping people take back control over their lives from Big Alcohol.   From waking guests at dawn with burpees to proposing "water-only" bars, these disruptors will challenge your assumptions with their boldest ideas yet for growing the global sobriety movement.   You'll also get the surprising backstory of how their chance meeting in Iceland sparked their amazing friendship and partnership. Plus, discover little-known industry tactics that have fueled a drinking epidemic worldwide.   For anyone looking to reclaim their freedom from alcohol or support loved ones, this can't-miss conversation provides the unfiltered insights you need to finally change your lifestyle. Are you ready to join the disruption? Listen now to get your game plan.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:54 A crazy story about meeting in Iceland 05:07 You must be available for opportunities 07:02 Making the hard road easy 10:45 How to get more people to join? 15:15 Alcohol destroys our ability to deal with stress 16:36 Manipulations of the alcohol industry to increase alcohol consumption 19:34 Peer pressure and choosing not to drink 21:16 Helping people control drinking  ------ Ruari Fairbairns is the founder and CEO of OYNB, a leading figure in the health and well-being space. He was awarded Great British Entrepreneur of the Year for Scotland and Northern Ireland 2020, with OYNB also being named The Spectator’s Economic Innovator of the Year in the UK. Known for his passionate advocacy for healthier living, Ruari has been instrumental in steering OYNB to the forefront of the alcohol-free movement, inspiring over 100,000 people worldwide to reassess their relationship with alcohol and strive to become the best version of themselves.

In this fascinating discussion, Dr. Jeff Karp, a top biomedical innovator pulls back the curtain on the difficult journey medical breakthroughs must take to actually help patients. From navigating financial hurdles and clinical trial complexities to manufacturing challenges, hear the surprising barriers promising cures often face on their journey to your local pharmacy.   You'll also get an inside look at how real solutions are being developed. Discover how a nasal spray was created to potentially block COVID transmission and learn about groundbreaking "medical superglue" aiming to revolutionize heart repairs.   If you've ever wondered what really happens after exciting discoveries are made in white coats and petri dishes, don't miss this amazing conversation revealing the untold story of how cutting-edge science becomes accessible healthcare.   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:45 Who is Dr. Jeff Karp? 02:30 Complexity of finding and commercializing new solutions 06:42 Dr. Karp’s new book overview 08:30 Indigenous holistic approach to health 09:44 Narrowing of the senses we use to experience the world 11:40 Spartan shield for your nose – Profi Nasal Spray 15:10 Developing glue that can work inside the body

Tired of synthetic pleasures leaving you unfulfilled? Former financier and entrepreneur Seth Goldstein knows how easy it is to fall for fake dopamine hits. But he firmly believes that through discipline and authentic challenges like the Spartan Race, people can find genuine happiness and fulfillment.   In this episode, Seth shares his journey of creating an authentic snack brand called MASA Chips. From identifying a problem and analyzing reports to frying small batches of chips and testing the product, he offers proven strategies for making a successful business without compromising your idea. He made a 100% healthy and satisfying snack to help people ditch addictive junk and feel the real thing!   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:52 A demand for discipline & challenge 03:00 Starve yourself of synthetic s**t 05:07 Cucumber salad vs Snickers 06:06 Seth’s MASA Chips Company 10:38 Figure out how to fail cheaply 12:18 Find a real problem and solve it

Tired of feeling drained? Struggling with inflammation or other health issues? Mason Kuhr shares his holistic approach to tapping into your inner strength. ​​  ​​Through simple daily rituals like cold exposure, meditation, and burpees, Mason has optimized his energy levels, productivity, and recovery. He'll reveal how reconnecting with nature can boost your immunity, testosterone, and more. ​​  ​​You'll also learn Mason's unique take on making wellness accessible and how Stampede Network is revolutionizing holistic living for the modern man or woman. ​​  ​​Discover real stories of people healing from issues like infertility and immobility through bee products and lifestyle tweaks. Mason will motivate you to optimize your health and performance from the inside out by harnessing your spiritual power. ​​  ​​Highlights: ​​00:00 A spiritual take on health and wellness ​​01:27 The benefits of bee bread ​​03:04 Making holistic wellness cool ​​05:50 Dopamine hacking ​​06:44 Mason’s daily routine ​​09:14 Meditation and dealing with stress ​​11:01 What’s next for Mason Kuhr?

Dominic Schlueter was a regular kid who loved running. Through consistency, the right influences, and taking action on his dreams, he's built a thriving podcast and brand at just 18 years old.   In this episode, Dominic recounts how from a young age he found joy in challenging himself on the track. That drive soon led him to seek out greater obstacles through podcasts and books. And it inspired him to start his own show to share the stories of people that he found inspiring.   Dominic talks about his fascination with Joe’s podcast and “threats” from his dad to send him to Joe De Sena's infamous farm. Years later, he is having an interview with Joe himself and talking about pushing himself to the limit through running, life-changing lessons he learned about grit, a circle of influence, and turning passion into purpose.   Tune in to hear more from this fascinating young man!

Joe De Sena sits down with a young entrepreneur Lukas Pakter, the founder of the SquidHaus fitness apparel company, to discuss sensitive global issues with nuance, as well as Lucas' unconventional path to building his booming athletic apparel brand.   Lucas shares his viral strategy of leveraging an "influential army" of top fitness creators to take over the scene. He plans to sell thousands of discounted tickets to Joe's Spartan Race using influencer codes, donating over $1M to charity in the process. Joe gives the plan his stamp of approval.   Viewers will learn Lucas's unique brand story, top tips for starting young, and lessons on accountability from these experienced leaders. With open discussion on controversy and actionable advice, this episode is a must-watch for anyone pursuing a business or looking to better understand complex issues.   Highlights: 00:00 Joe’s “controversial” post on IG 02:34 The conversation has to happen 04:06 We shy away from having a stance 05:59 What does SquidHaus mean and represent? 08:06 Finding a job vs. starting a company 10:04 Leveraging business through Spartan Race 14:34 How to start a business? 16:44 Three things every entrepreneur should do every day 19:55 Three books everybody needs to read 21:57 How to find Lukas Pakter?

In this powerful episode, Spartan founder Joe De Sena sits down for an in-depth conversation with the amazing Brian Johnson, also known as the Heroic Philosopher CEO. They discuss Brian's strategies for building anti-fragile confidence through consistent action.   Brian shares how we can close the gap between who we are and who we want to be by doing what we say we'll do. He explains the importance of living each day with virtue and intensity.   Joe and Brian also discuss forging strength through challenges and gaining emotional stamina. Brian provides practical tools for taking control of your life through developing a clear protocol.   This episode will motivate and inspire you to play the ultimate game of life to your fullest potential. You'll walk away with actionable advice for overcoming obstacles and living without regret. Tune in to hear more!   Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:19 Who is Brian Johnson? 02:52 Why did Brian write a book? 05:13 How do we become our best selves? 07:26 The power of Now 11:17 The new “phone” generation 14:16 Training heroes to become gods 16:57 Forge anti-fragile confidence 20:13 Surviving was the way of life 21:48 Anxiety and depression in today’s world 25:01 Brian’s protocol and advice 29:12 The eulogy exercise 32:44 How to find Brian? 34:31 Behind the scenes of the podcast