Welcome to 'Life to the Max Podcast,' where resilience meets inspiration! Join us on a transformative journey through the life stories of remarkable individuals, including Quadriplegic Army Veteran Maximilian Gross. In this empowering podcast, we dive into tales of triumph, courage, and the human spirit's unwavering ability to overcome obstacles. Our show is a celebration of diverse narratives, from awe-inspiring achievements to the darkest of traumas. 'Life to the Max' is a testament to the ...
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Eat What You Kill: How the Navy Forged a Hospital Leader from a Lost Teen
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1:18:57Discover how Chris Blair transformed from a directionless small-town teenager into a successful hospital administrator through military service, healthcare experience, and exceptional leadership skills. Chris shares his pivotal moment of clarity when he realized he needed to make a profound choice to change his life trajectory, leading him to join …
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Navy Commander Michelle Blair: Resilience in God's Plan | Treating Wounded Soldiers and Beating Cancer
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1:01:11Michelle's journey from the cotton fields of West Texas to Navy Commander reveals a life defined by resilience through seemingly insurmountable challenges. Raised by a cotton farmer in a small Texas town where children chased rattlesnakes for fun, Michelle's childhood foundation of toughness would serve her well. When her parents divorced during he…
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From Inmate to Advocate: Lucky Chucky's Story of Redemption & Reform | 60 Days In
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1:08:39Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Lucky Chucky, a former inmate turned influential advocate for change. Growing up in the challenging streets of Chicago, Chucky faced numerous adversities that culminated in his life of crime and subsequent incarcerations. He shares firsthand accounts of his experiences while participating in the re…
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Double Ontendre: Mic in Hand, Game in Mind
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58:21Imagine navigating life's ups and downs with the wisdom and artistry of Dre, also known as Double Ontendre. With a nod to his unique style that resonates with Bob Marley, Dre shares intimate stories of his upbringing, moving frequently as a child, and finding solace with his aunt and uncle. His candid reflections on his parents' struggles offer a p…
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Medical Tech CEO: Brian Murphy Trailblazing with NanoVibronix
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1:15:30Unlock the secrets to entrepreneurial success and innovative medical technology with our fascinating guest, Brian Murphy, CEO of NanoVibronix. Join us as we journey through Brian's rise from his modest beginnings in Morton Grove, Chicago, to his achievements in the sales industry. Discover how Brian's unorthodox sales approach and perseverance in t…
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The Joy of the Race: Pure Marathon Passion with Filip Latocha
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1:09:05Ever wondered if juggling multiple passions is a blessing or a curse? We sit down with Phillip Latocha to unravel the intertwined paths of running and personal growth. From childhood soccer fields to college tracks, Phillip discovered his enduring love for running, challenging both the mental and physical demands of endurance sports. We reflect on …
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Murfee's Artistic Evolution and the Pursuit of Dreams
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52:13What if a hard drive crash could change the trajectory of your career? Join us as we sit down with Jackson Charles Murphy, known as MURFEE, the musical genius behind many of the songs on "Life to the Max." Discover how he transformed from his early days as "Slunk" into a respected producer, with the LTTM theme song "Green Thumb" becoming an emblem …
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8 Seconds That Changed My Life: Kenneth Jennings
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1:14:32What happens when a promising athlete faces a life-changing injury that threatens to silence his dreams? Kenneth Jennings, a remarkable football coach and quadriplegic, opens up about his powerful journey from the southside of Chicago to becoming an inspiring mentor for others with spinal cord injuries. With a vibrant narrative, Kenneth shares the …
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Tim Terrell: Legendary NFL Knockouts and Seizing Opportunities
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1:14:14After growing up in the vibrant neighborhood of Hoffman Estates, Illinois, Tim Terrell's journey to the NFL is as inspiring off the field as it was on. With stories of tight-knit community bonds and childhood adventures, Tim paints a picture of a supportive upbringing that set the stage for his future. A chance meeting with a coach reignited his pa…
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John Cerasani: 2000% Raise Double or Nothing
1:04:42
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1:04:42Intro Track: Green Thumb - Murfee https://open.spotify.com/track/5iBOPNbvuETK411hQigh07?si=2d38b5bc1e13422d Join us as we kick off the new era "Life to the Max" for an electrifying conversation with Instagram star and casino aficionado John Cerasani. Ever wondered how a high-stakes gambler balances the thrill of the casino with motivational content…
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Southern Flavors and Community Spirit: Duke Seward
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52:31What if the secret to extraordinary barbecue lies in the heart of Mississippi? Join us for a savory conversation with Duke Seward, the culinary virtuoso behind Duke's Blues N BBQ. From cherished family recipes to the essence of Southern hospitality, Duke takes us on a flavorful voyage that starts in Greenville, Mississippi, and leads to his celebra…
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From Sizzle to Success: A Grill Master's Journey with Luis Meza
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1:13:35They say life is what happens when you're busy making other plans, but for Luis Mesa, it's all about embracing the sizzle of the moment. On our latest adventure through soundwaves, we've roped in the master griller himself to share his culinary journey – from igniting passions with a single Weber Grill to char-broiling his way onto Daytime Chicago.…
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"Living in a Circus!" Ft Nick Johnson
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1:12:57They say nostalgia is a seductive liar, but when Max reconnected with his high school comrade Nick Johnson, the only fibs were the ones that made the stories even funnier. From the mischief in Mr. Butcher's auto class to the shenanigans in the neighborhood, we shared a hearty laugh reliving the moments that solidify lifelong friendships. As the tal…
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"16 Years Later" Ft Ross Capicchioni
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1:40:27Ross returns to "Life to the Max Podcast" for a second time, sharing his harrowing survival story of betrayal and attempted murder by a supposed "friend." Despite enduring three devastating shotgun blasts to his arm, chest, and HEAD, Ross fought valiantly for his life. Join us as Ross vividly recounts his near-death experience at the age of 17. In …
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"Split Second" Part 2 Ft The QuadFather
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1:05:50When life knocks you down, it's not the fall that defines you, but how you choose to get back up. Maximilian Gross, lovingly known as the Quad Father, joins us to share a powerful saga of service, sacrifice, and the unrelenting will to survive. His pre-Army days, and the life-altering accident – each moment is a puzzle piece in the portrait of a ma…
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"Crashed and Stuck in my Truck for Six Days" Ft Matt Reum
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1:25:25Stranded under a bridge for six days during the holidays, Matt Reum's extraordinary survival experience tested the limits of human endurance and ingenuity. Imagine being crushed and trapped in your vehicle: under a bridge, out of sight, in the cold, and with no food for six days. Matt has a remarkable narrative of survival, adaptation, and resilien…
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"Doctors Paralyzed Me When I Was Ten" Ft Destiny & Julia
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1:18:13Strap in for a roller-coaster of emotions with Destiny, as we recount surviving a childhood illness that led to a coma and accidental paralysis! During such unexpected difficult moments, we paint a mental picture for the listeners on how terrifying it can be while paralyzed. While shedding light on how the support from family and friends is the abs…
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"Paralyzed Neck Down & FOLLOWING DREAMS" Ft Trey & Max
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1:01:18introduce you to Trey, a quadriplegic whose zest for life is as contagious as his expertise in navigating the gaming world with the aid of a QuadStick. His story isn't just about technology; it's about human connections, the bond with caregivers, and the shared moments that transcend physical limitations. Embark on a journey through the peaks and v…
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"Paralyzed Pulling a Parachute" Ft Curtis
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1:10:56
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1:10:56Air Force Veteran, Curtis Grant Kmiecek, SMSgt, a fellow spinal cord injury survivor, shares with us his story during a terrifying skydiving mishap. With resilience that's nothing short of awe-inspiring, our latest episode takes you through the harrowing yet uplifting saga of Curtis's journey—from his accident to his remarkable recovery. His tale i…
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"From Breakup to Breakthrough" Ft Leeuhm
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1:01:17*Disclaimer: Max is extremely baked throughout this episode.* Nonetheless, this episode serves up an unfiltered look into the soul-stirring process of turning personal turmoil into powerful art. With our guest "Leeuhm" by our side, we go on a rollercoaster ride through the twists and turns of crafting his first album "I Time Bomb" born from the ash…
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After contacting a technician to service our fridge, we met Ethan! Ethan fixed our refrigerator, and we had to invite him on the show! Listen to Ethan discuss how he unexpectedly found himself diving into a new hobby of riding bulls! Ethan accepts opportunities that are handed to him, whether its new jobs fixing luxury appliances, new adrenaline fi…
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In this captivating episode, Scud blows smoke in the air and delves into the significance of family and moral values that have shaped his artistic identity. He offers a glimpse into his personal story, emphasizing how it all started from being a part of a church choir. From being a business man, to dealing with the challenges of being an artist, Sc…
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The Journey of Becoming an Artist Ft Jack Murfee
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45:08Dive even further into the world of music and fame with Jack Murfee, a young musician on the cusp of professional success. We explore his fears and struggles, the relentless determination required to succeed, and the tricky navigation of fame. Also, don't miss out on our freestyle session! This episode is an open door into the world of music, fame,…
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"The High Life of a Pro Skateboarder" Ft Omar Sandoval
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55:09Join us on this thrilling episode of skateboarding across the world, and working in a dispensary with professional Skater, Omar Sandoval. Omar's riveting tale takes us from the streets of Elgin, Illinois, to skate scenes around the world, hitting ramps, grinding rails, and leaving haters in the dust. Omar takes us on a ride outside the US, sharing …
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"Vietnam War Stories" Ft Ted Biever
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1:02:37Did you ever wonder what it takes to survive a war? Experiences that leave scars, yet foster unbreakable friendships, and tales of bravery that can't be forgotten. Join us in our recent conversation with Vietnam War veteran Ted Biever, as he walks us through the gripping chapters of his life in the military. From the stringent discipline of boot ca…
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Leo bravely recounts his harrowing encounter with violence, getting shot four times in the backseat of a car, on his way home from a party, an incident that left him paralyzed. As we move through this raw and unfiltered story, you'll hear Leo candidly discuss the aftermath of his shooting and the life-changing paralysis it caused. From confronting …
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"Street Food Kingz" Ft The Empanada Man
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1:50:37Brace yourselves, dear listeners, as we journey through the extraordinary life of Denny, fondly known as the Empanada Man! This episode promises an exhilarating ride, weaving through the streets of Puerto Rico, pulsating with vibrant nightlife and Denny's infamous empanadas! From jokes of paying child support, to starting his food business in the s…
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50 Episodes In: Reflecting, Celebrating and Looking Ahead
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26:25Join us on a trip down memory lane! For our 50th episode, we're reliving some of the memorable moments and guests that have shaped our podcast journey. This milestone episode isn’t just about reflecting on our past, but it's also packed with excitement for our future. Prepare to be thrilled as we spill the beans about the second season of Life to t…
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"A Cure is Coming!" Ft John O'Connor
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1:50:37Can you imagine turning a personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for countless others? That's exactly what John O'Connor son did when he was left paralyzed after a debilitating accident. Together, they founded the Rehabilitation Center and the "Next Steps" organization, dedicating their lives to helping those in similar circumstances, and even pion…
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Have you ever faced challenges that seemed impossible to overcome, only to find the strength to push through and come out stronger on the other side? Join us as we sit down with the inspiring car detailer, Sergio, who shares his stories of resilience and perseverance against all odds. From getting pulled over with a suspended license to being evict…
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"Surviving a Near Fatal Motorcycle Accident" with Young Merc
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1:05:02We're joined by Marcus aka Young Merc, an up-and-coming rapper, who shares his story experiencing a terrible motorcycle accident that nearly ended his life in the blink of an eye! Throughout our conversation, Young Merc discusses his passion for perfecting his craft with music and the importance of giving your all in everything you do. While Marcus…
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"Reunion of Brothers in Arms" Ft Chuck & Brandon
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1:06:13
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1:06:13Max is surprised by a special visit from his dear friend and fellow army veteran, Chuck. Although, serving different years in the military, they both served in 101st Airborne Division, and their bond runs deep. Chuck, who was previously interviewed on the show, shared his incredible story of survival after breaking his neck in "Episode 19: Decapita…
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In this episode, we welcome Tomas Dockus, a personal trainer originally from Lithuania who now resides in the United States. Tomas shares his experience growing up near the Chernobyl nuclear disaster and the impact it had on his life. He also talks about the cultural differences between his home country and America, and how he's adjusted to life in…
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"Finding Light in the Darkness" Ft Mike Morrison
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1:21:12In this episode, we interview Mike Morrison, a successful entrepreneur and owner of an official Blackhawks bar in the suburbs called "Chubby Bullfrog Bar and Grill". Mike shares his unfortunate experience of being forced to close down the bar due to COVID-19. Although it was a crushing blow for Mike to lose his business, listen to how he explains h…
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"Wedding on Fire" Ft Nick Talan the Wedding Photographer
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43:07Nick Talan joins us today on Life to the Max to discuss the wildest moments he has experienced while shooting photos and videos for weddings. From fires breaking out, to fist fights, and family feuds, Nick is there to capture all of those "Special" moments.By QuadFather & Erratic
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Andrew Moore is a talented artist, musically inclined, and an all around positive individual! With his entire life revolving around music, listen to Andrew explain how he utilizes music to uplift his community, bond with his family, establish an income, and most importantly, follow his dreams!By QuadFather & Erratic
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"Survived Three Shotgun Blasts" Part.2 Ft Ross Capicchioni
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53:51Part two of Ross Capicchioni's interview dives into the aftermath and recovery after surviving a murder attempt. Ross explains certain things to us that he has never told anyone else before on an interview! How his family was affected, more unexplainable events, and how every unfortunate thing that happened to him during those times, has positively…
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"Survived Three Shotgun Blasts" Part.1 Ft Ross Capicchioni
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49:13Imagine someone you've known for years, asking you for a ride across town. After fulfilling such a good deed for this particular friend, imagine getting to that destination only to be looking down the barrel of a shotgun being held by that very same friend! Ross Capicchioni drove all the way from Michigan to join us on "Life to the Max"! Listen to …
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"My Wife Shot Me" Ft Gold Star Megan
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1:09:25Megan joins us once again since her previous appearance on episode 4, "I Think I'm Gay". Self Proclaimed, Gold Star Lesbian, registered nurse, survivor of a point blank gunshot wound to her torso from her WIFE, and ultimately a wonderful friend of ours! Listen to Megan explain how she lived and how she continues to live "Life to the Max"!…
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"How it All Started" Ft QuadFather and Erratic
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39:26We sat down today and decided to tell our listeners what "Life to the Max" means to us! Listen to our story of how we originally met and how this podcast went from a dream, to a reality!By QuadFather & Erratic
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"Roles of Men and Women" Ft Castro and Daniel
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1:00:52Castro makes his third appearance on Life to the Max! Preaching to the men and women in relationships about the responsibilities and duties we have and must uphold. Debating on if being a creator on "Onlyfans" is acceptable, and the difference of men and women cheating.By QuadFather & Erratic
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While the Quadfather was getting a tattoo of a dragon on his shoulder, we decided to take a break and knockout a podcast episode! BillyGunz is a talented tattoo artist that learned the basics of tattooing while he was serving a sentence. Listen to his story of becoming creative and learning about yourself while being locked up. Finding entertainmen…
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Carter is a driven 19 year old hiphop artist. Performing at as many shows as he can and promoting himself as an artist every day. Listen to his story of his family winning the lottery, and losing it all in less than a year. dropping out of school, and struggling to find a place to stay, music is what pushed Carter to persevere through the obstacles…
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"Good Vibes, Better Music" Ft Double Ontendre
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36:11Double Ontendre starts this podcast off freestyling straight fire off the top. With a new album that just released called "Liquid Love", and many more projects to come, Double Ontendre keeps delivering HEAT! Preaching nothing but positivity and good vibes, listen to DiAndre talk about his musical journey.…
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Meet Mario Canon. A successful actor, talented rap artist, witty entrepreneur, and ultimately a super down to earth human being. Rated top actor of Chicago in 2020, new song featuring NLE Choppa called "Praying Bad", and owner of a fitness gym he used to work hourly at. Mario explains the obstacles he's been through, and how overcoming those hardsh…
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"Tumbling Into My Dreams" Ft Zavell Perry
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58:08Zavelle is a force of nature when it comes to his tumbling skills. From flipping over multiple cars, to backflipping off of rooftops, this man looks like he defies gravity when he jumps. Tumbling coach, Power tumbler, Retired cheerleader, and pro stuntman, listen to Zavelle talk about following his dream by flipping until they came true!…
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Gabby courageously tells her story of being taken advantage of while at a party. Explaining the psychological aspect of her mind blocking most of it out until a certain trigger all of a sudden brought everything back to her years later. Listen to Gabby explain how she overcame her traumatic experience, how it affected the people around her, and mos…
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Jesseca Overland joins us on Life to the Max with a traumatic story of nearly losing her life while pulling into her driveway and getting t-boned by a vehicle going over 70mph right in front of her home. While Jesseca explains her experience and her injuries, Listen to her and Max compare their very similar stories flatlining for a period of time, …
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"Pain and Comedy" Ft Larro the Comedian
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1:26:59After attending a comedy show at the Chicago Improv, I caught Larro getting off stage, and invited him on the show with Max. Larro's immediate response was "can i roast him?". I responded with a "Hell yea!". Find out how Max handled getting roasted by Larro the comedian. Larro tells his life story from growing up in poor neighborhoods, fist fightin…
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Max's battalion chief commander, Kurt Smith, has recently retired from the military. Whilst living in Florida, Colonel Smith tells us about his experience beginning a thrilling new hobby... Spear fishing! Listen to Kurt tell his new adventures in the ocean living Life to the Max!By QuadFather & Erratic
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