Determined Society with Shawn French | Adversity & Mindset - podcast cover

Determined Society with Shawn French | Adversity & Mindset

Shawn French | Adversity & Determination Expertthedeterminedsociety.com
Discover The Determined Society with Shawn French, your gateway to exploring determination, adversity, and mindset. Each episode delves into raw conversations with celebrities, authors, and athletes revealing their cultural perspectives and mental health journeys. We unpack how these icons break norms and develop habits that fuel success. Dive behind the headlines for breakthrough insights into overcoming life's challenges and embracing resilience. 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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Episodes

From Fighter to Elite Coach: Phil Daru's Story of Purpose And Training Dustin Poirier & Amanda Nunes

Phil Daru, world-class performance coach, former Mixed Martial Artist, and trainer to elite athletes like Dustin Poirier, Amanda Nunes, and Colby Covington, joins The Determined Society for a powerful conversation on discipline, faith, purpose, adversity, and what it really means to become unkillable in life. In this episode, Phil opens up about his early life in Broward County, training martial arts from a young age, playing Division I football, losing both parents within months, becoming a fat...

Jun 08, 20261 hr 5 minEp. 279

Blaire White On Growing Up Broken, Going Viral, and Finding Herself

She grew up with no friends, no roadmap, and a father who died before she could tell him who she really was. By 32, she had 400 million views, a national tour, a Fox News debut, a Washington Post profile, and a spot in a Billboard Award-winning music video — playing a Wild West sheriff. Blaire White is one of the most-watched, most-debated, and least-understood people on the internet. In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Blaire for the conversation her own platf...

Jun 01, 20261 hr 9 minEp. 278

From Losing Everything to Building Redcon1: The Inspiring Story of Aaron Singerman

ABOUT THIS EPISODE What does real determination actually cost? Aaron Singerman has a story that most people only know one chapter of. He grew up in New Orleans, survived Hurricane Katrina, became an intravenous heroin and cocaine addict, lost people he loved to violence and overdose, and found his way out through fitness and bodybuilding. He broke into the supplement industry with nothing but hustle — became editor-in-chief at RxMuscle, co-founded Blackstone Labs at a kitchen table, and then lef...

May 25, 20261 hr 1 minEp. 277

How Skip Bertman Built a Dynasty for LSU: Winning, Leadership, and Building Champions

In this unforgettable episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with legendary LSU baseball coach Skip Bertman, alongside former LSU Tigers Ryan Theriot and Blair Barbier, for a powerful conversation on leadership, character, culture, brotherhood, and building champions beyond the game. When Skip arrived at LSU, the program had no national championships, only a few hundred fans in the stands, and a culture still waiting to be built. Through vision, belief, discipline, and a commi...

May 18, 20261 hr 29 minEp. 276

From Broke to Biohacked: Anthony & TereZa Lolli on Health, Wealth, and Rebuilding Everything

What does it actually take to rebuild your body, your business, and your belief in yourself, from absolute zero? Anthony Lolli knows. He was a millionaire at 23, running 800 agents across 100+ New York City real estate locations. He had the Rolls-Royce. The mansion. 50 Cent filming commercials in his backyard. Then came his two-year-old daughter, who looked up at her 315-pound father and said: "Daddy, you're fat. I don't want you to die." That sentence changed everything. TereZa Lolli came to Am...

May 11, 202659 minEp. 275

Determination & Discipline | From Random Gigs to Pitbull Collabs

Tyler Filmore shares how overcoming obstacles in the music industry taught him the power of determination and breaking norms. From refusing to quit when success didn't match his timeline to landing a Pitbull collaboration through one random performance, Tyler reveals the mindset shifts that separate those who persist from those who quit. Raw, authentic, and actionable—for anyone betting on themselves. Key Takeaways -Success often comes from opportunities that look small at first. -Most people st...

Apr 27, 202658 minEp. 274

Jana Kramer | How Adversity Builds Determination and Discipline

Determination. Adversity. Discipline. Mindset. Most people want to heal—but very few are willing to face the adversity it takes to rebuild trust, set boundaries, and develop the discipline to choose themselves. Real growth happens when your mindset shifts from surviving to taking control. In this episode, Jana Kramer opens up about healing from trauma, learning to trust herself again, and building the determination and mental toughness required to stop repeating the same patterns. This conversat...

Apr 20, 20261 hr 22 minEp. 273

The Turning Point: Adversity, Discipline & Mindset Shifts

Most people talk about chasing their dreams—but very few have the determination and discipline to sacrifice everything when adversity strikes. In this episode, rising country artist Coey Red reveals the exact moment he chose commitment over comfort, and shares the three tactical strategies he used to transform obstacles into unstoppable momentum. Discover the mindset shifts that separate dreamers from doers. Key Takeaways If you don’t go all in on yourself, nobody else will— determination has to...

Apr 17, 202656 minEp. 272

The Hollywood Reality Check | Adversity Builds Discipline

Most people see success, but they don’t see the adversity , discipline , and relentless determination it takes to get there. What looks like overnight success is really years of rejection that build the mindset and mental toughness required to last. In this episode, Tony Goldwyn shares the reality of breaking into Hollywood, the power of committing fully, and how adversity shapes your determination , discipline , and long-term success. This is about developing high performance habits , choosing ...

Apr 13, 20261 hr 25 minEp. 271

Adversity Builds Determination and Discipline | The Catalyst

Most people see adversity as a stop sign, but it’s actually an invitation to grow. In this episode, Shawn breaks down how hard seasons expose your habits, force you to build discipline, and shape you into the person you need to become. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or tempted to quit, this message will help you shift your mindset and move forward. Key Takeaways -Adversity reveals who you are and where you need to grow -The work beneath the surface is the real win -Confidence is built by keepin...

Apr 10, 202629 minEp. 270

Diana Mahrach: From Business Collapse to Resilience | Overcoming Obstacles

She built a thriving fashion business… then faced the kind of adversity that forces you to discover your true determination . What she lost overnight became the exact moment that tested whether she would break—or rebuild. In this episode, Diana Mahrach shares how she went from multiple stores in New York to survival mode during COVID, and how she fought her way back. This is a raw, powerful story about resilience, staying in your lane, and never quitting when everything falls apart. Key Takeaway...

Apr 06, 20261 hr 19 minEp. 269

Career Pivots: How Adversity Builds Discipline | The Real Catalyst

Adversity isn't a setback—it's your setup. When LaMyiah Pearlinia lost her job, she faced an identity crisis that forced her to rebuild from zero. In this raw conversation, she reveals how losing everything became the exact catalyst for finding real discipline, purpose, and what she's truly called to do. A candid exploration of career pivots, mental resilience, and trusting God through uncertainty. Key Takeaways: Losing your job isn’t failure — it’s adversity redirecting you toward where your de...

Apr 03, 20261 hr 30 minEp. 268

The Missing Piece: Mental Health & Cellular Longevity | Dr. Sophia Hadar

Explore a cultural perspective on breaking norms in traditional health approaches as Shawn French sits down with Dr. Sophia Hadar to uncover what traditional medicine often misses. From hidden imbalances to deeper root causes, this conversation challenges how we think about true health. You can look healthy on the outside and still be struggling internally. Key Takeaways -Looking fit doesn’t mean your body is functioning optimally -Traditional medicine often treats symptoms—not root causes -Fati...

Mar 30, 20261 hr 9 minEp. 267

The Pulse | Cultural Perspectives on Success

Everyone sees the success, but no one sees the weight behind it. In this episode, Shawn French and Pat Sitkins pull back the curtain on Exploring the cultural perspectives on entrepreneurship and breaking norms around success From pressure, sacrifice, and family impact to the loneliness of leadership, this is the raw truth about entrepreneurship. Key Takeaways -Building something meaningful comes with pressure no one prepares you for. -Success impacts your family more than people realize. -You c...

Mar 23, 20261 hrEp. 266

Doug Bopst: Breaking Norms Through Transformation

Doug Bopst shares his journey of breaking norms and cultural transformation through personal struggle with addiction and landing himself incarcerated. What started as fear and addiction turned into discipline, purpose, and a complete identity shift. Key Takeaways -Hitting rock bottom forced him to take full accountability for his life. -Jail became the environment that built discipline and new habits. -Real transformation starts when you separate from your old identity. -Confidence is built by d...

Mar 20, 20261 hr 25 minEp. 265

Building Discipline in Youth | Cultural Perspective on Fitness & Mindset

Donnie Keller, owner of Ionic Fitness in Bonita Springs and founder of Wilson's Fit Futures, reveals how discipline and cultural perspective transform kids' lives. In this episode, we explore youth mental health, breaking norms in fitness education, and how building habits early becomes the ultimate adversity-breaker. Learn actionable strategies to help young people develop confidence and determination through fitness and nutrition—a conversation every parent needs to hear. Key Takeaways -Fitnes...

Mar 16, 20261 hr 30 minEp. 264

Breaking Norms: Jessie Morales’ Breast Cancer Journey

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ At just 33 years old, Jessie Morales heard the words no one expects to hear: “You have Stage 3 breast cancer.” In this powerful and emotional episode, Jessie shares her journey from finding a lump accidentally, to receiving her diagnosis, and navigating life as a young mother fighting ...

Mar 13, 20261 hr 15 minEp. 263

Fatherhood & Mindset | Breaking Norms to Build Determination

Men's mental health through authentic conversations. Shawn French sits down with entrepreneur David Waldy to explore fatherhood, identity, and the discipline required to break norms. They unpack how vulnerability—not stoicism—builds determination, and why honest dialogue is the missing piece in modern masculine culture. A powerful deep-dive on overcoming obstacles through real connection. Key Takeaways -Many men struggle because they lack vulnerable conversations with other men. -Real strength c...

Mar 09, 20261 hr 18 minEp. 230

Christy Primmer | Radical Responsibility & Rebuilding Your Mindset

Most people want a better life, but few take radical responsibility for it. In this raw conversation, Shawn French sits down with TV host and author Christy Primmer to explore how self-accountability and discipline become the foundation for real personal transformation. Discover the mindset shifts that separate those who overcome obstacles from those who stay stuck—and actionable strategies to rebuild your life from the inside out.. Key Takeaways -Radical responsibility is the starting point for...

Mar 06, 20261 hr 39 minEp. 9

The Young Men Crisis | Discipline, Mental Health & Cultural Perspective

Young men are struggling with mental health, identity, and discipline—but few are talking about it openly. Therapist and Rugged Counseling founder Trey Tucker joins Shawn French to explore the crisis facing young men today: the absence of strong father figures, lack of mentors, and how broken cultural norms are leaving a generation without guidance. In this raw conversation, discover actionable strategies for building resilience, reclaiming discipline, and breaking the cycle of neglect. Perfect ...

Mar 02, 20261 hr 10 minEp. 8

Mental Health Over Abs | How to Overcome Anorexia & Diet Culture

Most people chase the perfect body but ignore mental health and emotional resilience. In this raw episode, Francesca Scerbo shares her powerful journey overcoming anorexia, body dysmorphia, and toxic fitness culture. She reveals how hormonal balance, true discipline, and breaking limiting beliefs about diet are the real keys to sustainable health—and why the fitness industry's biggest lies often destroy mental health first. Key Takeaways -Your mindset and self-love are the foundation of lasting ...

Feb 27, 20261 hr 12 minEp. 262

The Pulse: How Shawn French Rebuilt His Life After Losing His Identity

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ What happens when the thing that defines you disappears? In this behind-the-scenes Pulse episode, Shawn French opens up about losing his identity after baseball and how that collapse became the catalyst for purpose, growth, and reinvention. This conversation dives deep into discomfort,...

Feb 23, 20261 hr 14 minEp. 263

Gayle Guyardo: Breaking Norms After 33 Years | Authenticity & Career Pivots

After 33 years building a prestigious journalism career, Gayle Guyardo made a shocking choice: walk away to embrace authenticity. In this raw conversation, she reveals the breaking point, the fear of losing identity, and what it actually takes to break limiting beliefs and step into your true self. This is a masterclass in overcoming obstacles most people never admit they face—and finding discipline in uncertainty. Key Takeaways -Authenticity builds trust and long-term success. -Identity shifts ...

Feb 20, 20261 hr 13 minEp. 262

Daria Berenato Breaks Down the Real Formula for Success

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this powerful episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Daria Berenato, professional wrestler, actress, producer, and former WWE superstar, for a deep and raw conversation about authenticity, discipline, and the mindset required to build lasting success. Da...

Feb 16, 20261 hr 7 minEp. 261

From Seizures to Strength | Overcoming Obstacles & Building Discipline

After a vaccine-triggered seizure disorder in her late 20s, Zoe Karli transformed adversity into determination, building Zeta Body to help others reclaim cellular health. In this raw conversation, Shawn French uncovers how overcoming obstacles became the blueprint for discipline, the mindset shifts that saved her career, and why authentic health conversations matter now more than ever. Discover actionable strategies for resilience when life changes overnight. Key Takeaways -You always have a cho...

Feb 13, 20261 hr 1 minEp. 260

How a Health Crisis Forced Derek Carlson to Rebuild Everything

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this powerful live episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Derek Carlson, CEO of MVP Realty, to share a life-altering story of survival, faith, and transformation. After suffering three heart attacks in 2023, Derek was forced to confront the reality that ...

Feb 09, 202634 minEp. 259

Trusting Your Instincts | How Taja Abitbol Built Fearless Determination

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with entrepreneur, author, and Members Only Palm Beach star Taja Abitbol to talk about manifestation, fearless action, and building a life without waiting for the perfect plan. Taja shares how she built multiple business...

Feb 06, 20261 hr 17 minEp. 258

Alex Boylan | Breaking Limits With Discipline and Determination

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Emmy-winning producer and Amazing Race Season 2 winner Alex Boylan, creator of the hit series The College Tour and author of his new memoir The Miles That Make You. Alex shares how growing up with nothing, embr...

Feb 02, 20261 hr 8 minEp. 257

Breaking Norms & Building Empires | Hala Taha's Adversity Story

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ In this powerful episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with entrepreneur and media powerhouse Hala Taha, founder of Young and Profiting and CEO of YAP Media. Hala shares the raw truth behind being rejected, blackballed from the radio industry, and feeling like ...

Jan 30, 20261 hr 1 minEp. 256

The Pulse | Building Discipline to Become Your Best Self

Check Out Therabody 👇 https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINED Use 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 m...

Jan 26, 20261 hr 2 minEp. 255
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