Best Post Traumatic Victory Podcasts (2025)

1
WARRIOR WIDSOM: EXCLUSIVE 1st Look My New Book "ACTA NON VERBA: Transforming Adversity Into Victory Through Actions, Not Words" and INSIDER ACCESS in ACTA NON VERBA's Inner Circle Now 8:47

Play Pause

4h ago8:47

8:47

Get an exclusive first look at "Acta Non Verba: Transforming Adversity into Victory Through Actions and Not Words." Marcus Aurelius Anderson shares personal stories, the philosophy behind the book, and actionable strategies for overcoming adversity and achieving growth. Episode Highlights: [1:31] The reality and lessons of Adversity: Marcus’s perso…

1
Lee McKinney on His Second Chance after coming out of a coma, Music, Mastery, Musashi, and Martial Arts (Replay) 1:43:26

6d ago1:43:26

1:43:26

Lee McKinney, the talented guitarist and songwriter of the American metal band Born of Osiris recounts his journey from being a seventeen-year-old professional musician to overcoming substance addiction that led to a coma. He offers insightful discussion on developing unique artistic voice, the significance of discipline, parallels between martial …

1
Dr. Megan McElheran: On applying Stoicism to combat PTSD, The Power of Post Traumatic Growth and the Importance of Preparation Before Operational Stress 45:58

13d ago45:58

45:58

In this episode, Dr. Megan McElheran, a clinical psychologist and CEO of Before Operational Stress, Inc. discusses stoicism's practical applications and the misinterpretations associated with it. Dr. McElheran shares her extensive work with trauma-exposed professionals, including military personnel and first responders, and highlights the importanc…

1
Ed Latimore on Hard Lessons From the Hurt Business, Stoic Street Smarts, and His Writing Process 1:12:58

20d ago1:12:58

1:12:58

In this episode of Acta Non Verba, host Marcus Aurelius Anderson sits down with Ed Latimore, a heavyweight boxer, Army veteran, author, and physicist. Ed shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to success in the ring and beyond, discussing the lessons learned from boxing, overcoming adversity, addiction, and the power of personal responsib…

1
Episode 39: Haze 3:04

24d ago3:04

3:04

Send us a text Haze emotional numbness and disconnection There’s a silence that settles when you’ve felt too much, for too long. You’re not broken. You’re protecting the part of you that still feels too deeply. This is Haze where the world keeps spinning, and you keep nodding, but something in you has gone quiet. It’s not surrender. It’s survival. …

1
Warrior Wisdom: The Art of Leadership - Philosophy, Science, and Application 14:41

27d ago14:41

14:41

In this solo Warrior Wisdom episode, Marcus Aurelius Anderson breaks down the three essential parts of the art of leadership—philosophy, science, and application. He shares actionable insights and real-world examples to help you master self-leadership and guide others through adversity. Episode Highlights: 01:35 – Defining the art, philosophy, scie…

1
Episode 38: Bend 2:24

1M ago2:24

2:24

Send us a text Bend the strength and toll of adapting You bent again. To keep things smooth. To keep things safe. It looks like strength. But inside, something’s slipping. Bend is the ache after. The part of you that wonders how much more can I give without losing myself? Support the show Project ReNew These are not just stories. They are anchors. …

1
Episode 37: Pour 3:06

1M ago3:06

3:06

Send us a text Pour the quiet cost of constantly giving You kept showing up. Kept pouring, even when nothing poured back. This isn’t burnout. It’s something deeper. A quiet unraveling. Pour is a return to your why before the noise, before the numb. You don’t need fixing. You need remembering. Support the show Project ReNew These are not just storie…

1
Jeff Smith on Operation Wealth, Finding True Freedom, and Building a Tactical Empire for Life 1:22:19

1M ago1:22:19

1:22:19

In this powerful episode, Marcus sits down with Jeff Smith, founder of The Tactical Empire and author of "Operation Wealth." Jeff shares his journey from special operations to entrepreneurship, the importance of intentional living, and how to build true financial freedom. The conversation covers family, resilience, mindset, and actionable strategie…

1
Steve Sims: Go for Stupid (Replay) 37:31

1M ago37:31

37:31

What could you achieve if you weren’t afraid of being laughed at? Today I’m sitting down with author and speaker Steve Sims as he shares the secret to building community, establishing authority, and taking calculated risks to achieve new levels of success. Listen as Steve and I explore why being author is an opportunity for more things, learning to…

1
Janice Bryant Howroyd: “The Art of War”, Work, Love and Business (Replay) 57:43

2M ago57:43

57:43

Finding opportunities to exercise gratitude allow us to keep growing through Adversity. In this episode Janice Bryant Howroyd shares her life-altering experiences of disfigurement, segregation, and family illness and how she has learned to seek moments of gratitude in each. During this conversation Janice teaches how deprivation breeds appreciation…

1
Warrior Wisdom: Why "Never Meet Your Heroes" is Horrible Advice and What To Do Instead 8:24

2M ago8:24

8:24

In this episode, Marcus Aurelius Anderson discusses the popular advice 'never meet your heroes' and why he believes it is overly simplistic and often misleading. Drawing from his own experiences as a leadership coach, author, and speaker, Marcus shares the lessons he learned from meeting his heroes, such as the co-founder of Quest Nutrition, Stephe…

1
Jack Donovan: "A Fire in the Dark" for Modern Masculinity (Replay) 43:43

2M ago43:43

43:43

Jack Donovan joins me to discuss what it means to be a man and defining true masculinity. During our conversation Jack and I explore who to trust, the fear of masculinity tied to protection, and how duty is tied to identity. Jack also dives into the concept of toxic masculinity and how to address it in everyday life. Jack Donovan is the author of T…

1
Chris Lee on Intentional Rest, the Double Edged Sword of AI, The Mindset Shift to Gratitude, and His New Book "Legacy Forged" 58:24

2M ago58:24

58:24

In this episode, former Green Beret Chris Lee discusses his new book 'Legacy Forged', designed to help people through intentional planning, identity shifts, and strategic goal setting. The conversation explores the importance of daily consistent actions, overcoming adversity, leveraging meditation and rest for heightened performance, and the practi…

1
Victoria on Being a Communism Survivor, How Bullying Changed Her Life, Ideological Blind Spots in Academia, and Critical Thinking in the Digital Age 2:11:39

3M ago2:11:39

2:11:39

In this episode, Victoria, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union who has built a successful practice in nutrition and health discusses the themes of resilience, Adversity, and the philosophy of living a life based on actions over words. The conversation spans a wide array of topics including personal growth, political ideologies, the shortcomin…

1
Warrior Wisdom: The Gift of Adversity (Replay) 8:33

3M ago8:33

8:33

When you’re paralyzed you learn to true value of things. In this episode I’m diving into what it means to be at your lowest and the hard-hitting questions to ask yourself in order to move forward. I’m also sharing how Adversity is critical for anyone who wants to reach their full potential. Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to h…

1
Sal Di Stefano on Logic, Cognitive Dissonance, and Physical Health (Replay) 57:37

3M ago57:37

57:37

Mindset is only part of the equation to finally stop chasing motivation. This week on Acta Non Verba Sal Di Stefano shares why short-term diets and “hard-core” fitness methods are not sustainable and how you can strategically rebuild relationship with physical health one step at a time. During this conversation Sal and I will discuss micro adversit…

1
Sydnee Falkner on Embracing Duality, Overcoming Adversity Through Personal Growth, Genuine Gratitude, and Life After Million Dollar Secret 43:39

3M ago43:39

43:39

In this week’s episode, Sydnee Faulkner shares her journey from rural Alaska to thriving in fitness, fashion, and medical sales, highlighting the importance of actions over words. Marcus and Sydnee discuss topics such as embracing one's duality, self-love, handling high-pressure situations with grace, the significance of rest and self-care, and the…

1
Warrior Wisdom: What I learned from dying on the operating table, twice (replay) 12:43

4M ago12:43

12:43

This week’s episode begins with my 40th birthday and reveals what I learned when I died on the operating table - twice. During our time together I will share how I discovered the gift of Adversity through a spinal injury that drove me to being bedridden, broken, and acutely aware of everything I was taking for granted. Listen in to learn why I let …

1
Michael Ostrolenk on The Relationship Dojo, Playfulness, Curiosity, and Personal Growth in Couples 1:10:55

4M ago1:10:55

1:10:55

This week, Michael Ostrolenk, a master coach at SEALFIT Unbeatable Mind Academy and former Director of Human Resilience. With over 30 years of experience, Michael helps high performers and leaders master resilience and optimize relationships. Marcus and Michael delve into the concept of the 'Relationship Dojo,' where couples learn to communicate an…

1
Raul Mendez on Stopping a Mass Shooter after being shot in the head, Showing Courage in the Face of Adversity, Why Gun Control Doesn't Work, and Trusting Your Gut 49:12

4M ago49:12

49:12

This week, Raul Mendez shares his harrowing experience of surviving a mass shooting in July 2022. Mendez, who took swift action despite being severely wounded, recounts the events of that night where he saved his family and others by neutralizing the shooter. The discussion emphasizes the importance of firearm preparedness and carrying a weapon res…

1
John Dailey On Leadership, Rebuilding Compassion and Empathy, and Being a Tough Rugged Bastard 1:01:04

4M ago1:01:04

1:01:04

This week, John A. Dailey, a veteran Marine with over 20 years in special operations and author of the memoir 'Tough Rugged Bastards.' Dailey recounts his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of actions over words. The discussion highlights Dailey's military background, insights on leadership, and the concept of achieving…

1
WARRIOR WISDOM: How to advance 6 years in less than 6 minutes 7:39

4M ago7:39

7:39

This week, Marcus shares a powerful lesson he learned from a chiropractor during his time in chiropractic school. Emphasizing the importance of 'being' rather than 'trying,' Marcus discusses how embodying the qualities of the person you aspire to become can accelerate your success. He shares actionable steps on how to align your current actions wit…

1
J. Jason Hicks on Shadow Careers, Ruinwaster's Bane, Finding Fulfillment Through Purpose, and The Power of Writing a Little Everyday 1:09:43

5M ago1:09:43

1:09:43

This week J. Jason Hicks shares insights into battling resistance, the importance of daily writing practice, and the influence of authors like Steven Pressfield. Marcus and Hicks discuss how adversity can shape our paths, the significance of authentic partnerships, and practical advice for aspiring writers. Hicks also highlights his upcoming projec…

1
Dr. Trevor Wilkins The Angry Viking Therapist on Dealing with Trauma, EMDR, and Dealing with Feeling Hopeless 56:59

5M ago56:59

56:59

This week Dr. Trevor Wilkins, known as the Angry Viking Therapist, discusses the impact of early life experiences on current behavior, trauma in public safety and military professions, and the importance of changing one's mental filter to overcome adversity. Dr. Wilkins shares his journey from public safety to becoming a therapist and provides insi…

1
Marcus Torgerson on True Forgiveness, Self Compassion, and his new book ‘Be a Man, What the Firetruck Does That Even Mean?’ 1:01:39

5M ago1:01:39

1:01:39

This week Marcus Torgerson, a leadership coach and author, shares his struggles with abuse, alcoholism, and familial challenges, and how these events shaped his path to writing his book, 'Be a Man: What the Firetruck Does That Even Mean?' The conversation highlights the importance of forgiveness, self-reflection, and the power of turning personal p…

1
Warrior Wisdom: Extremes > Moderation 6:57

5M ago6:57

6:57

This week Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the philosophy that 'moderation is for cowards.' He highlights the importance of extreme commitment and total effort, using examples from historical warriors and modern leaders. Marcus shares actionable strategies for applying this all-in mindset to various aspects of life, such as self-defense and per…

1
Rich Diviney: On Mastering Uncertainty, Building Trust, and Leading with Dynamic Subordination 49:56

6M ago49:56

49:56

This week Rich Diviney delves into his latest work, 'The Masters of Uncertainty,' which offers strategies for managing stress and performing under pressure. Rich shares the importance of understanding and deconstructing attributes, the concept of dynamic subordination in teams, and the critical role of trust. The conversation also touches on the ne…

1
Lara Jones on G.R.I.T, the power of commitment, and Overcoming Adversity 52:25

6M ago52:25

52:25

This week Lara Jones, an award-winning leadership speaker, shares her journey of overcoming significant adversity, including personal traumas and challenges, to build a multi-million dollar empire and become a competitive athlete. The discussion delves into the importance of grit, resilience, and turning negative experiences into empowering opportu…

1
Rayron Gracie on Jiu-Jitsu, Altruism, and the Authentic Path 2:16:30

6M ago2:16:30

2:16:30

This week, Rayron Gracie, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and four-time world champion from the famous Gracie family, shares his life journey, discussing his influential family background, his love for writing, and the philosophy of living a life based on actions, not words. The conversation explores Rayron's experiences and insights gained from c…

1
Warrior Wisdom: Lessons from the Works of Robert Greene (Replay) 37:18

6M ago37:18

37:18

Understanding human nature is critical for mastery. This week I’m exploring the lessons of Robert Greene and what he can teach us about emotional states, crossroads, and getting more by doing less. Listen in as I share the most profound lessons from his books and how you can apply them to utilize the power of seduction strategy in your own life. Ro…

1
Coach Chris Lee on Becoming a Green Beret, Goalsetting, Overcoming Adversity, and Purpose Beyond the Battlefield 57:03

7M ago57:03

57:03

On today’s episode Chris Lee, a former Green Beret turned life and mindset coach, shares his journey from serving as an 18 Delta, a Special Forces Medic, to transitioning into a career focused on coaching high performers and purpose-driven individuals. Marcus and Chris discuss the significance of actions over words, the challenges Chris faced durin…

1
Steven Pressfield on Overcoming Resistance as an Author, Putting Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be, and Why the Bigger the Dream, the Bigger the Resistance (Replay) 1:02:23

7M ago1:02:23

1:02:23

On today’s episode Steven Pressfield shares the power of resistance and how creatives can overcome self-doubt. Listen in as Steven and I discuss the barriers we create for ourselves by giving into resistance, the excavating process of writing, and how continuing to write after success is an ongoing process of following your own compass. Steven Pres…

1
Damon D'Amore on being a Legacy Mentor, The New Zero, Why 85% of His Clients are Women, and Turning Adversity into Opportunity in Life and Business 1:28:15

7M ago1:28:15

1:28:15

This week on Acta Non Verba, Damon D'Amore, a seasoned advisor to Fortune 500 executives, shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and authenticity. With over 25 years of experience, Damon discusses the importance of self-leadership, adapting to adversity, and maintaining one's core values. He recounts his personal struggles, including a pivo…

1
WARRIOR WISDOM: On Purpose, True Nature, and Why If You Don’t Have to Trust Them, You Can Always Trust Them 14:20

7M ago14:20

14:20

This week on Acta Non Verba, Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the concept of Dharma, exploring its various meanings in religions like Sikhism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, and simplifies it to purpose and nature. By sharing leadership lessons and stories, Marcus emphasizes adapting to and anticipating behavior based on true nature, rather than tryin…

1
Daniele Bolelli on Taoism, Ego, and Wisdom 58:53

8M ago58:53

58:53

On today’s episode, Daniele is sharing his views on Daoism, enlightenment, and radical kindness that bring greater understanding. Listen in as Daniele and I explore what happens when we romanticize the concept of religion and philosophy, how Daoism teaches you to get back up, and how creating his own understanding of actions and philosophy led to l…

1
Adam May on Overcoming Cancer, Alcoholism, and PTSD, and His New Book "A Fox in a Bear Trap" 53:35

8M ago53:35

53:35

This week on Acta Non Verba, Adam May discusses his journey of surviving cancer, battling mental health issues, and overcoming addiction. He shares insights from his new book 'A Fox in a Bear Trap,' which emphasizes the transformative power of asking for help and healing through vulnerability. The discussion covers personal development, leadership,…

1
Luis Guerra and Adrián Terrazas-González on Their Musical Composing Process, Using Adversity to Create the Best Music Possible, and the Power of Breathwork 1:56:34

8M ago1:56:34

1:56:34

This week on Acta Non Verba, we explore the world of music, art, and Adversity with Luis Guerra and Adrián Terrazas-González. Luis, a musician diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, shares his journey of integrating therapies and his creation, 'Breathe Into Life,' dedicated to holistic well-being. Grammy-winning musician Adrián Terrazas-González, who a…

1
WARRIOR WISDOM: 4 Transformational questions that are better than a bullshit New Year's Resolution 8:17

8M ago8:17

8:17

This week on Acta Non Verba, I’m discussing the common practice of making New Year's resolutions, citing that 80% of people fail within two weeks. Rather than repeating the cycle, I have four transformational questions to help leaders align their goals with their vision and purpose. This episode provides an insight into the philosophies, tactics, a…

1
Dr. Megan McElheran On Before Operational Stress, Applying Stoicism Not Just Talking About It, and Why I Cried During This Interview 45:58

8M ago45:58

45:58

In this episode Dr. Megan McElheran, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with uniformed service personnel delves into Dr. McElheran's development of upstream training programs aimed at preparing military and public safety professionals to manage stress before it becomes overwhelming. Marcus and Dr. McElheran explore the…

1
WARRIOR WISDOM: How to Build Real World Endurance 15:33

9M ago15:33

15:33

In this episode Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the theme of endurance, drawing lessons from historical and contemporary figures. He discusses the incredible resilience of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew during the Trans Antarctic Expedition, and highlights how modern-day warriors like Juan Pablo Quiñonez and Dean Stott overcame extreme cha…

1
Juan Pablo Quiñonez on Winning Season 9 of ALONE, Dethroning the Ego, and Leading with Resilience and Compassion to Improve the World 1:07:51

9M ago1:07:51

1:07:51

In this episode Juan Pablo Quiñonez, winner of the ninth season of the survival TV series 'Alone,’ shares his unique approach to wilderness survival, resilience, and embracing adversity. Raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, and trained with the French Foreign Legion, Juan Pablo discusses his journey from a love for nature to surviving solo for 78 days in…

1
Dean Stott on The Toughest Forces on Earth, Becoming Relentless, Breaking World Records, Coaching and The Blue Rose Foundation 1:02:13

9M ago1:02:13

1:02:13

In this episode Dean Stott, a former British Special Forces soldier, world record-setting cyclist, and mindset coach discusses his journey from the military to private security and achieving a world record in cycling. Dean shares his views on the importance of adaptability, the danger of stagnation, and the necessity of pushing out of one’s comfort…

1
WARRIOR WISDOM: What's the best philosophy? 14:08

9M ago14:08

14:08

In this episode Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the philosophies and strategies that world-renowned warriors, leaders, and entrepreneurs use to transform Adversity into success. He shares insights from over 220 episodes, featuring interviews with authors like Robert Greene, Donald Robertson, and Steven Pressfield. Marcus highlights the practic…

1
Franklin Annis on The Treachery of Scholars, Being an Actual Stoic Warfighter, and Captain Alden Partridge's Legacy 1:09:53

10M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

In this episode Dr. Franklin Annis, a military philosopher, historian, and educational theorist explores historical military practices, the importance of self-development, and the role of physical training. Dr. Annis shares insights about his upcoming book on Alden Partridge, a significant figure in American educational history, and the legacy of m…

1
Tina Grimm on Her Experience on Outlast, Bushcraft skills, Turning Her Adversity into Purpose, and the Power of Her Art 1:22:27

10M ago1:22:27

1:22:27

In this episode Tina Grimm, an adventure enthusiast and contestant on Netflix's survival show 'Outlast,’ discusses her passion for the outdoors, her artistic endeavors, and her experience on the show. She shares stories of overcoming personal adversity, including her escape from a violent relationship and coping with her mother's dementia. Tina exp…

1
Donald Robertson on How to Think Like Socrates, Why Socrates Accepted His Death Sentence without Apology, and Using Philosophy to Combat Hypocrisy and Rhetoric 1:06:50

10M ago1:06:50

1:06:50

In this episode Donald Robertson discusses Socrates' definitions of justice and courage, his trial and execution, his role in Athenian society, and the importance of self-awareness and philosophical inquiry. The conversation also includes insights into cognitive behavioral techniques and how Socratic principles can be applied to modern life and the…

1
Derek Wellington Johnson on Being a Strategic Sales Leader, Mastering the Art of Vision, Strategy, and Execution, Leading with Integrity, Clients vs Customers, and the 3 I's of Leadership 50:52

10M ago50:52

50:52

In this episode Derek Wellington Johnson discusses the importance of vision, strategy, and execution in business and shares insights from his books, 'The Wisdom of Leaders' and 'The Strategic Sales Leader.' Marcus and Derek’s conversation covers the gap between theory and action, the significance of congruency between words and actions, and the evo…

1
Warrior Wisdom: Why You Must Learn to Sharpen Your Blade Appropriately as a Leader 15:19

11M ago15:19

15:19

In this episode Marcus explores the theme of leadership enhancement through the metaphor of sharpening a blade. Drawing insights from martial arts master Guro Alvin Catacutan, known for his work on the 'Dune' films, and referencing historical figures like Sun Tzu and Lao Tzu, Anderson discusses the balance between hard work and necessary pauses for…

1
Matt Gagnon on Atomic Mornings, Speaking at The Gathering Event, His Hero's Journey That Led to His TEDX Talk, and The 5 Supply Lines of Success 55:20

11M ago55:20

55:20

In this episode Matt Gagnon discusses his journey from corporate burnout to living a fulfilling life aligned with his core values. The conversation delves into the benefits of personalized morning routines, the importance of actions over words, and how early rising can enhance personal fulfillment and productivity. Additionally, Matt shares insight…