Best Randy Highsmith Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 32: The Cost Of The Wars We Wage On Ourselves 58:50

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5d ago58:50

58:50

In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, the hosts reflect on holiday traditions as a doorway into deeper conversations about commitment, self-discipline, and the quiet battles we wage within ourselves. They explore the idea that personal struggle can lead either to destruction or renewal, depending on the level of intention and com…

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Episode 31: “The Meaning We Choose: Rewriting the Stories That Shape Us” 1:01:53

12d ago1:01:53

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In this episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson unpack the timeless wisdom of Epictetus: “Man is not troubled by events, but by the meaning he gives them.” Their conversation takes a deep look at how perspective shapes experience, exploring the difference between what happens to us and the stories we at…

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Episode 30: “Trading Comfort for Growth: Lessons From Racing, Life, and Jiu Jitsu” 1:00:32

19d ago1:00:32

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In this episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, Randy Highsmith and Jordan Lopez dive into an honest, wide-ranging conversation about identity, growth, and the transformative power of challenge. Jordan traces his journey from baseball to mountain biking and eventually to Jiu Jitsu, reflecting on how each discipline shaped his mindset, resilience, and …

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Episode 29: The Truth About Accountability 53:27

26d ago53:27

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith sits down with regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson to unpack the often-misunderstood concept of accountability. Together, they explore why accountability is more than correction—it’s a powerful feedback mechanism that fuels growth, strengthens relationships, and shar…

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Episode 28: Where Resistance Meets Opportunity 57:42

1M ago57:42

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith with regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson unpack Albert Einstein’s powerful reminder that “in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” They explore how challenges are often less about circumstances and more about the mindset we bring to them. Through personal stori…

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Episode 27: The Holes We Dig: Power, Perspective, and the Path to Growth 1:00:29

1M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson explore the metaphor of digging holes as it relates to personal growth, self-awareness, and the complexities of human experience. They discuss the importance of recognizing when we are in a 'hole' and the need for discernment in our actions. Th…

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Episode 26: Beyond the Fear: Reclaiming Control of the Mind 1:04:36

2M ago1:04:36

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson deep-dive into the complexities of imagination and fear, exploring how our minds often exaggerate potential suffering. They discuss the evolutionary roots of fear, the differences between childhood and adult imagination, and the importance of m…

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Episode 25: The Wound Is Where the Light Enters 1:07:17

2M ago1:07:17

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In this episode, Join Randy Highsmith with guests Jordan Lopez and Linda Chavez as they deep-dive into a profound discussion on the transformative power of wounds and healing. Through personal stories and philosophical insights, they explore how life's challenges can illuminate new paths and foster growth. Tune in for an engaging conversation that …

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Episode 24: Finding Strength in What You Can Control 1:01:19

2M ago1:01:19

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In this episode, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson reflect on Marcus Aurelius’ teaching that true strength comes from mastering the mind. They discuss self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the importance of holding personal principles in a world full of noise and external pressure. Through the lens of jiu-jitsu and lived experien…

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Episode 23: Built, Not Born: Redefining Success with Austin Cheviron 1:01:09

2M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

In this engaging conversation, Austin Cheviron shares his journey from a challenging childhood marked by family dynamics and adversity to becoming a successful entrepreneur and coach. He emphasizes the importance of family traditions, decision-making frameworks, and the lessons learned from financial struggles. Austin discusses the significance of …

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Episode 22: The Thin Line: Redefining Success and Failure 51:30

3M ago51:30

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson, explore the thin line that separates success from failure, discussing how perspective, emotions, and personal experiences shape our definitions of both. They face head on the importance of communication, the role of failure in growth, and the …

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Episode 21: The Art Of Changing Your Mind 1:01:32

3M ago1:01:32

1:01:32

In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Kris Anderson, and Dave Kimmelman explore the concept of revolution, both personal and societal. They discuss the importance of awareness and perspective in facilitating change, particularly in the context of Jiu-Jitsu. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of Jiu-Ji…

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Episode 20: Feelings Are The Liar 57:57

3M ago57:57

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In this episode, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson explore the quote by Harry Stark Sullivan: 'It's easier to act yourself into a new way of feeling than to feel yourself into a new way of acting.' The conversation delves into the relationship between action and feelings, emphasizing the importance of self-talk, personal experiences,…

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Episode 19: Time - The River, The Tiger, The Fire 58:14

3M ago58:14

58:14

In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson engage in a deep philosophical discussion about the nature of time. They explore various metaphors that illustrate time's essence, such as the river, tiger, and fire, and how these concepts relate to our lives and choices. The conversation deep…

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Episode 18: Suffering, Scars, Strength 1:06:06

3M ago1:06:06

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Randy Highsmith, Kris Anderson, and Ian Johnson delve into the complex topic of suffering. They explore the nature of suffering, its various forms, and how it can lead to personal growth and resilience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of intentional suffering, self-awareness, and t…

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The Middle Ground: How Balance Shapes Mental Health and Growth 1:00:57

4M ago1:00:57

1:00:57

In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, Host Randy Highsmith, and regular guests Jordan Lopez, and Kris Anderson explore the multifaceted concept of balance in life. They discuss personal experiences with balance, the role of competition, and how stress can indicate imbalance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of small adj…

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Be Followable: The Art of Authentic Leadership with Russ Laggan 1:06:45

4M ago1:06:45

1:06:45

In this engaging conversation, Randy Highsmith interviews Russ Laggan, exploring his unique journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of embracing one's uniqueness, the value of stillness, and the role of craftsmanship in life. Russ shares insights on leadership, branding, and the concept of being fol…

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Episode 15: The Price of Easy: Why Hardship Still Matters 58:50

4M ago58:50

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, host Randy Highsmith with regular guests Jordan Lopez and kris Anderson deep dive into the complex relationship between convenience, entitlement, and empathy. They explore how modern conveniences can lead to a sense of entitlement, draining empathy and creating societal divides. Through perso…

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Episode 14: Defeat Isn’t What You Think...Or Is It? 54:59

4M ago54:59

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In this episode, the host Randy Highsmith and regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson explore the profound quote by Rainer Maria Rilke, 'The purpose of life is to be defeated by greater and greater things.' They delve into the meanings of defeat and failure, discussing how these concepts relate to personal growth, self-discovery, and the impo…

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Episode 13: Burnout Vs. Breakthrough 57:52

5M ago57:52

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In this episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith is joined by regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson to unpack the often-overlooked difference between endurance and resilience — and why understanding that difference can transform your approach to life’s challenges. Drawing from personal stories, jiu-jitsu lessons, and experi…

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Episode 12: Freud, Feeds, and False Selves: Rethinking the Ego 54:06

5M ago54:06

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In this episode, the hosts delve into the multifaceted concept of ego, exploring its definitions, implications, and the societal perceptions surrounding it. They discuss the negative connotations often associated with ego, particularly in the context of social media, and how it can be both a driving force for personal growth and a source of insecur…

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Episode 11: Glamping And Grit - Facing Fear and Finding Joy 1:02:29

5M ago1:02:29

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, host Randy Highsmith and guest Alyssa Specht engage in a lively conversation that spans various topics, including Alyssa's recent wilderness camping trip, her experiences with glamping, and the challenges of hiking the Notch Trail. They explore themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and t…

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Episode 10: Habits Over Hype - The Real Key to Growth 57:29

5M ago57:29

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, host Randy Highsmith and regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson examine the intricate relationship between habits and self-control. They explore how our habits shape our futures, the importance of consistency, and the impact of societal pressures on our choices. The conversation emphas…

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Episode 9: "The Violence Within: Society, Self-Defense, and the Human Experience" 49:02

6M ago49:02

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In this episode, host Randy Highsmith is joined by regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson exploring the complex nature of violence, its impact on society, and the choices individuals make regarding violence. They discuss the importance of understanding violence as part of the human condition, the role of personal responsibility in self-defen…

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Episode 8: The Long Road: Justin Doyle on Pain, PTSD, and Purpose 1:22:30

6M ago1:22:30

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In this raw and unflinching episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith sits down with ex-Army Ranger Justin Doyle for a conversation that pulls no punches. From the unforgiving heat of combat zones to the chilling moment he stood face-to-face with Saddam Hussein, Justin opens up about the intensity of life on the front lines. But the…

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Episode 7: Consistency Over Time: The Secret to Success 54:44

6M ago54:44

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In this episode of the Sweeter After Difficulty podcast, host Randy Highsmith, along with guests Jordan Lopez and Chris Anderson, delve into the profound impact of consistency over time. Through the lens of Jiu-Jitsu, they explore how intentional practice and time investment lead to success, both on and off the mat. Join them as they discuss the ph…

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Episode 6: Let It Kill You 50:53

6M ago50:53

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Hosted by Randy Highsmith with regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson, Sweeter After Difficulty explores the hauntingly beautiful quote, “Find what you love and let it kill you.” Each episode unpacks the meaning behind obsession, passion, purpose—and the cost of giving yourself fully to what moves you. Through deep conversations and raw stor…

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Episode 5: Tyler Larsen With Ethos MMA: Leadership, Legacy, and the Long Road 50:05

6M ago50:05

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In this episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith, with regular guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson, does a deep dive with MMA gym owner and father Tyler Larsen for a powerful conversation about leadership in and out of the cage. Tyler shares his journey from fighter to entrepreneur, the lessons learned through building a gym cult…

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Episode 4: "Beyond Limits - Tyler Brey on Grit, Growth, and Gratitude" 56:22

7M ago56:22

56:22

In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith sits down with Tyler Brey — a jiu jitsu black belt, competitive bodybuilder, wrestling coach, and personal trainer — who was born with spina bifida. From the early days of childhood adversity to the triumphs of adult discipline, Tyler shares his extraord…

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Episode 3: “The Unseen Within: Making the Unconscious Conscious” 46:53

7M ago46:53

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In this thought-provoking episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith is joined by Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson to unpack the powerful quote by Carl Jung: *“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”* Together, they explore how unconscious beliefs, fears, and patterns quietly shape…

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Episode 2: Testing Yourself - Accidental Vs. Intentional Growth 59:12

7M ago59:12

59:12

In this powerful second episode of Sweeter After Difficulty, host Randy Highsmith is joined by guests Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson to explore the transformative impact of testing yourself. From physical trials to emotional and mental challenges, the trio dives deep into how discomfort and difficulty can forge resilience, character, and clarity of…

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Episode 1: Courage in the Quiet: Facing Pain, Finding Stillness 55:43

7M ago55:43

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In this premiere episode, Randy Highsmith sits down with Jordan Lopez and Kris Anderson, to explore the raw intersection of courage, pain, and stillness. Together, they unpack how courage is often quieter than we expect—sometimes it's simply choosing to stay, to breathe, to wait. Jordan shares how pain shapes identity, while Kris reflects on how st…