In this episode, Mario Kalpou from Man Eats Wild brings you into the world of primal living and real food. Joe De Sena and Mario dive deep into why modern life has made us lose touch with what really matters, like knowing where our food comes from and learning the skills to survive in the wild. They share stories of hunting, foraging, and reconnecting with nature to fuel the body with real, nutrient-dense food. From alligator hunting in Florida to sourcing food without relying on grocery stores,...
Nov 19, 2024•23 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Kim Pastore, a widow who faced unimaginable loss when her husband, a dedicated SWAT officer, was killed in the line of duty. Kim opens up about the overwhelming grief and challenges she faced and shares how she found the strength to keep going by turning to the Spartan Way. Through gratitude, resilience, and a commitment to honoring her husband’s legacy, Kim founded a foundation to support the mental and physical wellness of first responders. Kim’s jou...
Nov 12, 2024•25 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena explores the powerful lessons of military leadership with Ryan P. Crayne, an experienced Army officer. Ryan shares how tough training, mental resilience, and leading by example forge exceptional leaders. Learn how the same principles that guide soldiers can help you develop personal discipline, build trust, and tackle challenges head-on in your own life. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, improve your physical and mental fitness, or just gain i...
Nov 05, 2024•22 min
In this eye-opening episode, Joe De Sena sits down with a holistic health practitioner Brett Hawes to explore the incredible capacity we all have to heal ourselves. They tackle the rising concern of orthorexia and discuss how the obsession with "perfect" eating can actually harm our well-being. Brett emphasizes the importance of simplifying our health journeys, moving away from fad diets, and focusing on whole, nourishing foods that support our bodies. You will learn practical strategies for com...
Oct 29, 2024•25 min
In this powerful episode, Joe De Sena talks with JC Glick, a veteran of 11 combat tours, about the challenges veterans face after leaving military service. JC opens up about his struggles with identity, purpose, and mental health, while sharing how his Commit Foundation helps veterans and their families rebuild their lives and find new meaning. Hear the untold stories of military service, learn about the importance of teamwork, and how we can all play a part in supporting veterans after their se...
Oct 22, 2024•19 min
Struggling to break free from unhealthy eating habits? In this episode, Joe De Sena talks with nutrition coach Mike Millner, who shares his personal story of overcoming years of yo-yo dieting and gaining over 100 pounds. Mike dives deep into the powerful connection between our subconscious thoughts, beliefs, and food choices. Find out how your beliefs and identity shape your eating habits, and discover actionable strategies to transform your relationship with food for good. Learn practical strat...
Oct 15, 2024•24 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena talks with Tom Farrey, author of Game On: The All-American Race to Make Champions of Our Children, about the state of youth sports in America. Tom explains that only 1 in 4 kids are active, largely due to barriers in the U.S. sports system. Now leading Project Play, he works to make sports more accessible and fun for all children. They discuss how Spartan Races promote self-improvement over competition, and how Norway’s child-focused sports model could inspire the U....
Oct 08, 2024•30 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Marc Fucarile, a survivor of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, to hear his powerful story. Marc vividly recounts the horrific events of that day, describing the chaos and the severe injuries he sustained when the bombs exploded. Despite the trauma, he shares how the outpouring of support from the community motivated him to focus on his recovery and being a father to his young son. Marc's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. He empha...
Oct 01, 2024•30 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to discuss the importance of improving health and fitness across the country. Kennedy addresses concerns related to public health agencies and the food industry, emphasizing the need for reform. He also shares personal stories about his family's commitment to physical endurance and discipline, including his father's 50-mile walk, which shaped his views on resilience. They explore how modern lifestyles, particularly increased scree...
Sep 25, 2024•34 min
In this episode, Steve Hasty, a swimming expert, joins Joe De Sena to give us a behind-the-scenes look at the world of competitive swimming. As a former elite swimmer and the owner of Swimming World Magazine, Steve really knows his stuff when it comes to this sport. Steve explains the intense training regimen of elite swimmers, noting that even high school swimmers can train up to 5 hours per day. They discuss the mental toughness and resilience required to maintain such a grueling schedule and ...
Sep 17, 2024•16 min
In this episode, Joe de Sena and wrestling champion Ben Askren dive into their co-authored book on "Extreme Balance," a concept emphasizing that true excellence comes from balancing hard work, mental skills, and self-care. Ben opens up about his personal journey, detailing how he shifted from relentless grinding to focusing on strategic thinking and body awareness. He highlights how balancing physical and mental aspects was key to unlocking his full potential. The discussion includes practical s...
Sep 12, 2024•28 min
In this episode, we follow the remarkable journey of Marco Robinson - a man who overcame a challenging upbringing marked by poverty, abuse, and adversity to become a highly successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. From his humble beginnings as a homeless, bullied youth to his meteoric rise in the world of sales and business, Marco's story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams. Through his candid recollections, we learn how Marco's p...
Sep 10, 2024•23 min
This episode of the Hard Way Podcast features an inspiring conversation with Nigel Thomas, an entrepreneur who shares his powerful story of overcoming a devastating personal betrayal. After hitting rock bottom and contemplating suicide, Nigel realized he needed to empower the "champion" within himself, rather than succumbing to the "victim" mindset. Through discipline, exercise, and rebuilding his support network, Nigel embarked on a remarkable journey of resilience and self-discovery. He now sh...
Sep 03, 2024•20 min
In this raw and honest conversation with Joe De Sena, Dr. Samantha Harte shares her incredible journey from addiction and trauma to redemption and healing. Growing up in a dysfunctional family in Brooklyn, Samantha's path was riddled with substance abuse, shame, and relationship turmoil. But through the power of the 12 steps and her own unwavering resilience, she transformed her life, finding sobriety, self-love, and ultimately, a thriving marriage and business. Now, Samantha is on a mission to ...
Aug 27, 2024•18 min
Meet Greg Yocom, a real estate investor, and lifelong competitor who has defied age and odds by completing over 100 Spartan Races. Discover the unshakable mental toughness and resilience that propels this 65-year-old to push his limits, even as others his age are retiring. Dive into Greg's inspiring journey, from overcoming a devastating divorce to developing an unwavering "no excuses" mindset. Learn how he applies the lessons of Spartan Racing to achieve success in business and life and hear hi...
Aug 20, 2024•26 min
Are our freedoms under siege? In this episode, Joe De Sena is talking to an amazing guest - Connor Boyack, an author, speaker, and staunch advocate for personal freedom and education. They tackle the unsettling rise of Big Government and the danger of becoming a Nanny State. As bureaucratic regulations multiply and control tightens, we’re faced with crucial questions about the erosion of personal liberty. How far will government overreach go, and what are the implications for our future? Joe and...
Aug 13, 2024•30 min
In this episode, Joe de Sena is having a powerful conversation with fitness icon Clark Bartram, who is on a mission to inspire men to embrace a life of resilience, purpose, and health. This 60-year-old “fitness anomaly” shares his philosophy on making small, daily choices that can have a profound impact on your well-being. His message is both thought-provoking and actionable, as he challenges listeners to choose the stairs over the escalator, to walk instead of calling an Uber, and to prioritize...
Aug 06, 2024•32 min
In this captivating episode, join Joe De Sena, the founder of Spartan, and Frank Schwartz, the CEO of F3 Nation, as they dive deep into the transformative power of fitness, fellowship, and faith. Discover how these two dynamic leaders are on a mission to inspire men to break free from self-limiting beliefs and unlock their true potential. Hear the inspiring stories of how F3 Nation's unique approach to community-driven workouts is changing lives, helping men reclaim their health, rediscover thei...
Jul 30, 2024•31 min
In this captivating episode, cognitive specialist Dr. Brandon Orr and Spartan founder Joe De Sena dive deep into the neuroscience behind unlocking your brain's full potential. Discover proven strategies to build unbreakable mental resilience, conquer self-doubt and anxiety, and develop the grit and determination of elite performers. Learn how to silence your inner critic and unleash your true capabilities. This is a must-listen for anyone striving to optimize their cognitive function and reach n...
Jul 23, 2024•31 min
Discover the secrets of elite performers straight from a Special Forces expert! In this episode, Dr. Reginald O'Hara who has been working with special forces in the Department of Defense for 23 years. reveals how top soldiers push their limits and stay sharp. He explains game-changing techniques to boost your own performance, from breathing tricks to recovery hacks. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you ach...
Jul 16, 2024•23 min
Most people struggle with low energy, willpower, and motivation. But what if you could feel energized and excited about life again? In this episode, former pro soccer player turned health entrepreneur Yuri Elkaim shares his unexpected journey from playing on the world stage to finding a new purpose through wellness. Yuri reveals the single change that transformed his life - and it can change yours in just one week. Discover why facing fears is so important for success and happiness. Plus, Sparta...
Jul 09, 2024•27 min
In this episode, fitness mogul Tom Dowd reveals how he went from working long hours in his family's supermarket business to partnering with Mark Wahlberg and saving struggling franchise F45. Growing up instilled a strong work ethic in Dowd, but his biggest test came when he took over F45 in crisis. Through strategic partnerships, focusing on culture, and his relentless drive, Dowd engineered an incredible turnaround. Tune in to hear directly from Dowd as he opens up about lessons from his past a...
Jul 02, 2024•37 min
In this episode, Joe De Sena, chats with his friend Kalojan Georgiev, currently residing in Zanzibar. Kalojan provides an engaging insight into the untapped potential of Zanzibar as a prime investment destination and a wonderful place to live. Kalojan highlights the significant return on investment in Zanzibar, which can reach up to 15-20%, far exceeding returns in more developed regions. He explains the unique appeal of Zanzibar for tourists and investors alike, emphasizing its growing tourism ...
Jun 25, 2024•23 min
Meet the world's toughest inspiration - 98-year-old Lala LaLanne! In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with the fitness legend to uncover her secrets to breaking records, crushing workouts, and staying motivated well into her 90s. Listen as Elaine shares incredible stories of her and her late husband Jack's accomplishments over the decades. She'll also give you an inside look at her current mission - rallying people worldwide to shatter her record of 2,251 jumping jacks. If you want to add yea...
Jun 18, 2024•30 min
Tired of feeling stuck in a rut? Discover how taking on new challenges can make you feel alive again at any age. In this empowering episode, Gwendolyn Bounds shares how she conquered self-doubt and found her inner athlete later in life. She discusses her transformation from a sedentary to a competitive obstacle course racer through grit and community support. Gwendolyn Bounds is an award-winning journalist and author whose career spans media brands including The Wall Street Journal, ABC News, Co...
Jun 11, 2024•30 min
Joe and Zackary delve into the powerful symbolism behind carrying a couch through Spartan Races, a tribute to those struggling with addiction and a call to leave comfort for the community. Zach shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and physical challenges, emphasizing the importance of helping others, especially adaptive athletes, to conquer obstacles. The conversation touches on modern issues like the dangers of fentanyl, the impact of simulated experiences on youth, and the need fo...
Jun 04, 2024•32 min
When Kristin Smedley's young son was diagnosed as blind, she was devastated. But rather than accepting limits, she became fiercely determined to give him every opportunity. Tapping into creative problem-solving skills from her own athletic past, Kristin empowered her son to navigate life fearlessly. Through using all available tools and relentless advocacy, her sons thrived academically against all odds. But Kristin's vision didn't stop there. She now inspires others through her nonprofit, provi...
May 28, 2024•28 min
Tired of just getting by each day without making progress toward your goals? Learn how one man used an unconventional morning routine to overcome a near-death experience, beat cancer against all odds, and write a bestselling book impacting millions. Hal Elrod shares his strategies for developing resilience in the face of adversity, finding peace within through acceptance, and taking back control of your health and wellness. Discover the simple daily practices that comprise Hal's Miracle Morning ...
May 21, 2024•26 min
Kevin Kaiser has an unconventional approach to business that was shaped by his roots growing up on a farm in Canada. As a professor at Wharton, one of the top business schools in the world, Kaiser is challenging the status quo. In this fascinating podcast episode, Kaiser shares the philosophies that have made him an outlier - treating companies like living organisms that must constantly adapt to survive. He believes success breeds complacency if you don't disrupt yourself. You will learn Kaiser'...
May 14, 2024•29 min
Dr. John Jaquish discovered a revolutionary way to build strong bones that goes against everything you've been told. In this insightful conversation with Joe De Sena, Dr, John reveals how he cured his own mother's osteoporosis and created a $100 million business - all by ignoring conventional wisdom. He will also open your eyes to why workouts like weightlifting don't work, and share his portable home gym that packs serious muscle-building power. By the end, you'll be left wondering what other "...
May 07, 2024•34 min
