Best Checkpoint Chat Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 271 - Tony Hawk's Mario Kart 1:38:54

11d ago1:38:54

1:38:54

It's a big week this week on Checkpoint Chat, with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, a brand new Mario Kart, and the new satisfying clicks of a Joy-Con. There's also loads of other games to talk about, like Elden Ring Nightreign, Blue Prince, and a bunch of upcoming titles such as Resident Evil Requiem from Summer Game Fest. Follow Checkpoint C…

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Episode 270 - Surprise Sounds 1:23:53

1M ago1:23:53

1:23:53

This week in Checkpoint Chat, Matty and Sandy are still floored by how exceptional Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is, turns out the demons of medieval times are just as fun to slaughter in Doom: The Dark Ages, and can you guess which of the characters in Final Destination are recurring ones? We sure can! Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://t…

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The Priory of the Orange Tree with Theys, Gays, and Bookworm Babes Part 2 40:42

1M ago40:42

40:42

The conversation continues! In this thrilling second half of our cross-podcast collaboration, The Growlery joins forces once again with The Gays and Bookworm Babes to unravel the magic, politics, queerness, and dragons of Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree. We pick up where we left off—diving deeper into the themes of power, prophecy,…

1
Episode 269 - Blue Filter Magicians 1:20:06

2M ago1:20:06

1:20:06

We're back at last and filled to the brim with nonsense discussions! This week we dive into Metroid Prime Remastered, Assassin's Creed Shadows, Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Monster Hunter Wilds. There's also talk of the Nintendo Switch 2, which is just around the corner... Follow Checkpoint Chat on...…

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Episode 268 - Dive-Bombing Poops 56:23

3M ago56:23

56:23

It's our last episode for a while, so pull up a seat for fresh impressions on 33 Immortals and final thoughts on Assassin's Creed Shadows! Bonus content this week includes: pigeons and their personal poop agendas, and the sun. Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChatI…

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Episode 267 - Daylight Saving Naps 1:10:54

3M ago1:10:54

1:10:54

This week on Checkpoint Chat, it's all about sneaking around (sometimes) in a gorgeous feudal Japan in Assassin's Creed Shadows! Does Ubisoft's latest additions to one of its biggest franchises have what it takes to pull them out of their recent slump, though? Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https:…

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Episode 266 - There's A Palico In My Boot 57:23

4M ago57:23

57:23

This week on Checkpoint Chat, there are monster to hunt out there and weapons to craft from their corpses, with both Matty and Sandy absolutely in love with Monster Hunter Wilds. What's new in the sequel to Capcom's most successful game of all time? Quite a bit actually! Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Fac…

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Episode 265 - Meatballs And Mash 1:08:21

4M ago1:08:21

1:08:21

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we check out Microsoft's first big game of the year with Obsidian finally releases Avowed. Is it the finally a game to fill the Skyrim-shaped hole in your heart or has the long wait underdelivered? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointCh…

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Episode 264 - Finally 1:23:56

4M ago1:23:56

1:23:56

We're back from an extended break and ready to talk about all the latest games like...2024's sleeper hit Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, as well as 2005's own Half-Life 2 (which turned 20 a short while ago). Join us in easing into the new year just before the avalanche of games in February kicks in. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https:/…

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Episode 263 - Game of the Year 2024 1:20:28

6M ago1:20:28

1:20:28

It's been a hell of a year for videogames, so join us in celebrating some of the best experiences the last 12 months have offered us by looking back at some standout experiences. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpoin…

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Episode 262 - Who Is Going To Win Big At The Game Awards 2024? 1:03:26

7M ago1:03:26

1:03:26

It's that time of year again where Geoff Keighley is opening up the stage to celebrate the best of the best and hopefully sneak in some surprising announcements along the way. Sandy and Matty return for their annual TGA predictions, with some surprising suggestions on who will walk away with the most accolades. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter:…

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The Priory of the Orange Tree with Theys, Gays, and Bookworm Babes Part 1 1:05:39

7M ago1:05:39

1:05:39

Hello! This episode is from the Theys, Gays, and Bookworm Babes podcast where I had the honor of having a conversation with Marz and Hanna on The Priory of the Orange Tree. Thank you to Marz and Hanna for allowing me to share this! This is Part one and Next up is Part 2...so stay tuned. Episode starts at: 2:39 Outro starts at: 1:04:33 How to find t…

1
265: 3 Messages to Make Thanksgiving More Meaningful 31:00

7M ago31:00

31:00

This Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect, grow, and give back. In this heartfelt episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with Parker Harger, founder of the nonprofit So Good to share 3 powerful messages that will make your Thanksgiving more meaningful. Discover how gratitude, giving, and connection with others can transform your holiday and lea…

1
Episode 261 - North Pole Portal 1:15:54

7M ago1:15:54

1:15:54

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Metaphor: ReFantazio has us locked into one of the best role-playing games of this generation, LEGO Horizon Adventures looks great but feels a bit thin, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is 2024's sleeper hit, and Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl has promise despite big technical issues Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Tw…

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264: You're This Close: A Live Chat on Resilience and Breakthroughs 12:57

7M ago12:57

12:57

This episode of UPBEAT was recorded LIVE on TikTok, where listeners joined in to share real talk on one powerful question: “What would you say to someone who’s struggling?” Parker Kane and his audience dive into raw insights, personal stories, and honest advice that truly hit home. Reflecting on resilience, breakthroughs, and the transformative pow…

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263: Believe in Your Dream Career: Hannah Lynn’s Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs 49:16

8M ago49:16

49:16

Get a FREE copy of Steampunk Darlings for UPBEAT Listeners only! Link to free download: https://www.hannahlynnart.com/upbeat.html/ In this powerful replay from one of UPBEAT's earliest episodes, Parker sits down with artist-turned-entrepreneur Hannah Lynn to uncover the secrets of transforming passion into profit. Hannah went from creating art as a…

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Episode 260 - Money Printing Machines 1:31:20

8M ago1:31:20

1:31:20

It's a stacked week on Checkpoint Chat! We do a 180 (noscope) on Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, go too fast in Sonic X Shadow Generations, mess with the balance of nature for no real reason in Monster Hunter Wilds, have our eyeballs treated in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and collect them all in Pokémon TCG Pocket. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter…

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262: More Than a Vote: Self-Leadership, Action, and Making a Difference 8:00

8M ago8:00

8:00

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane urges listeners to get out and vote! He also highlights how the same principles of taking action apply to personal growth—sharing insights on the power of self-leadership and why true change requires more than just talking about it. Parker breaks down how our actions and accountability can drive real impact in…

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Episode 259 - Irresponsible AI 1:10:15

8M ago1:10:15

1:10:15

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Metaphor: ReFantazio has us hooked with its familiar and drastically improved take on the classic Persona formula, while innovation is the name of the game in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and its far more varied campaign and gameplay mechanics. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Fac…

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261: 7-Minutes: 3 Wealth-Building Lessons for a Better Life 7:47

8M ago7:47

7:47

In just 7 minutes, Parker Kane delivers 3 key wealth-building lessons that can reshape your path to success. This episode of UPBEAT explores the mindset shifts and the role of relationships in creating not only wealth but also a fulfilling life—one where you uplift others and make a massive, positive impact along the way. Show notes and more: https…

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260: We Are Not Everybody: Leaving Ordinary Behind 13:25

8M ago13:25

13:25

Parker Kane talks about the concept of going beyond the ordinary and embracing the mindset that "we are not everybody." Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, Parker explores what it means to leave the comfort of mediocrity behind and strive for something greater in all aspects of life. He shares a special moment from a Citizen Soldie…

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Episode 258 - Con Air Mandela Effect 1:16:57

8M ago1:16:57

1:16:57

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Sandy and Matty copy everything in sight to solve emergent puzzles in The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, enjoy delightfully loot-ridden action in Diablo IV: Vessel of Hatred, and take a trip back in time to a period where Dragon Ball Z games were a little simpler, and for the better, in Dragon Ball Z: Sparkling Zer…

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259: Full Circle Moments: Your Impact is Greater Than You Know 10:00

9M ago10:00

10:00

In this heartfelt episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane shares one of his most powerful "full circle moments," revealing how we often have more impact on others than we realize. Parker reflects on how seemingly small actions can come back around in unexpected and meaningful ways, offering hope and encouragement to keep moving forward with purpose. Whether…

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Episode 257 - Raw Dog Baguette 1:08:33

9M ago1:08:33

1:08:33

This week on Checkpoint Chat, it's been 18 years since first meeting swole photographer Frank West, but he's never looked better than he does in Dead Rising Deluxe Remastered. Matty finally takes some time to sink his teeth into Diablo 4 and discovers just how well the game has evolved, before giving a final, final verdict on just how incredible As…

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258: No Empty Trips: Headkrack’s Blueprint for Success and Balance 36:25

9M ago36:25

36:25

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with the multi-talented Headkrack—radio host, TV personality, rapper, comedian, and entrepreneur—to reveal his blueprint for achieving balance and success. Headkrack shares how he’s mastered juggling multiple careers, ensuring no "empty trips" along the way. He discusses the importance of staying foc…

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257: You Are Not Alone: Stories of Survival and Hope 24:51

9M ago24:51

24:51

In honor of National Suicide Prevention Month, this episode of UPBEAT shares powerful stories of survival, resilience, and hope. Host Parker Kane opens up about the importance of mental health and provides a platform for inspiring stories from those who have faced darkness, learned to navigate their struggles, and have rediscovered hope. If you or …

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Episode 256 - Perfect Disaster 1:32:10

10M ago1:32:10

1:32:10

This week on Checkpoint Chat the deck is stacked once again with Astro Bot, Quidditch Champions, Star Wars Outlaws, and Concord all getting extensive love, with the silly season of game releases in full swing already.Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChatInstagram: …

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Shame and Shame Resilience with Murder Bot (Murderbot Diaries: Artificial Condition) 47:06

10M ago47:06

47:06

Oh the dreaded feelings of shame ....Well, Today's episode is all about shame and how Murderbot in Artificial Condition, in my opinion demonstrates shame and the journey to build shame resilience as explained by Dr. Brene Brown. Hope you enjoy today's episode and thank you so much for being patient with me in finally getting this episode out. Next …

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Episode 255 - Hutts And Puffs 1:24:35

10M ago1:24:35

1:24:35

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we travel to a galaxy far, far away to pickpocket everyone in sight in Star Wars Outlaws, we ponder the viability of Concord in today's saturated games as a service market, and calculate the perfect moves in one of this year's standout hit, Tactical Breach Wizards.Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.co…

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256: Free Marketing Guide: 5 Must-Know Strategies for Your Business and Brand 21:54

10M ago21:54

21:54

Elevate your marketing game with this free, step-by-step guide! In this episode, Parker Kane interviews Chandler Lyles from High Beam Marketing, who breaks down 5 essential strategies that every business and brand needs to know to compete in today’s market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your marketing approach, these actiona…

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255: Entrepreneurship's Cliff: Chandler Lyle's Guide to Risk, Growth, and Marketing 51:20

10M ago51:20

51:20

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with Chandler Lyles to discuss the "Cliff of Entrepreneurship." Together, they cover crucial lessons on managing risk, driving growth, and mastering marketing strategies that actually work in 2024. Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking to scale your business, Chandler’s…

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254: Going Live and Going Viral: Q&A with Parker Kane 16:41

11M ago16:41

16:41

Join Parker Kane as he shares his experiences with live-streaming and the crucial lessons he learned from going viral. Parker answers your questions from TikTok and provides valuable insights to help you elevate your online presence. Don’t miss this chance to learn from Parker’s experiences and take your content plans to the next level! Show notes …

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Episode 254 - Revenge Of The Cait Sith 1:12:25

11M ago1:12:25

1:12:25

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Matty is back from the Shadow of the Erdtree and has countless tales to tell about his second honeymoon in From Software's latest epic, Elden Ring. While Sandy has been burnt in the sun of Costa del Sol and blinding by the lights at the Golden Saucer as he continues to struggle with Final Fantasy VII RebirthFollow Chec…

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253: 4 Game-Changing Communication Hacks Everyone Should Know 10:23

11M ago10:23

10:23

Here's how to be more confident when selling your services! Join Parker Kane as he sits down with Ty Hoesgen on UPBEAT to discuss FOUR critical communication do’s and don’ts when selling services. The information is also effective in our daily interactions. Elevate your communication game, build confidence, and even increase your sales with Ty’s ex…

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GASP and a Crash Course on Nihilism (2015, Indie Game) 43:32

11M ago43:32

43:32

This episode may have no value but that's just the value of nihilism. (Gotta work on my jokes) Today's episode talks about a piece of obscure minor 2015 Steam history with the indie game Gasp by Dark Day Interactive and how the philosophy of nihilism might apply. Hope you enjoy! Next up -->The Murder Bot Diaries: Artificial Condition by Martha Well…

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252: Communication Hacks for Personal and Professional Freedom with Ty Hoesgen 47:19

11M ago47:19

47:19

Join Parker Kane as he interviews communication expert Ty Hoesgen, unlocking invaluable tips on how mastering effective communication can lead to ultimate personal and professional freedom. Ty shares hacks to build confidence, improve speaking skills, and use voice and body language to connect with your audience. Learn how these techniques can easi…

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251: Fight. Fight. Fight: Finding Unity and Strength in Adversity 9:41

11M ago9:41

9:41

In this powerful episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane addresses the recent tragic events at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, emphasizing the importance of unity, resilience, and peaceful advocacy. Parker reflects on the attempted assassination of Trump, the heroism of Corey Comperatore, and the need for respectful dialogue in these divided times. Wi…

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250: AI and Data-Driven Marketing Tips with Chris Norman 27:37

12M ago27:37

27:37

Y'all, this episode marks a significant milestone for UPBEAT, as this is officially our 250th episode! Don't miss Parker Kane's conversation with data and marketing expert Chris Norman about the power of AI and data-driven strategies for business growth. Chris shares his journey from starting a window washing company at age 17 to becoming a seasone…

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Episode 253 - Torrent You Glad To See Me 1:25:31

12M ago1:25:31

1:25:31

We're both back from holiday which means there's a lot to catch up on. We've got some Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, Stellar Blade, and a full round-up of all the biggest announcements from Summer Game Fest locked and loaded for the most comprehensive June recap you'll ever need. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/Checkpo…

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Worldbuilding in The Left Hand Of Darkness (Ursula K. Le Guin, 1969) 1:11:57

12M ago1:11:57

1:11:57

HELLO! Gosh so sorry for my absence but thank you for your patience. Today's episode covers the worldbuilding within the scifi masterpiece The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin and some of the history surrounding when the book was published. Hope you enjoy the episode and don't forget to try some worldbuilding for yourself! Up next -->Indi…

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249: Feeling Like You're Not on the Right Path? Listen to This! 14:03

12M ago14:03

14:03

In this special episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane revisits a powerful 3-4 minute clip from one of his earliest episodes featuring International Bestselling Author Paul Edwards. Reflecting on insights that have significantly influenced him over the past 5 years, Parker shares timeless advice on pursuing dreams and finding your calling. If you're feelin…

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248: Body Language Secrets for Creative Entrepreneurs with Ann Washburn 44:26

1y ago44:26

44:26

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with Braiden Belnap to explore the power of building strong friendships and overcoming life's toughest challenges. This episode dives deep into the transformative power of sharing stories, inspiring others, and building a supportive network for personal growth. Whether you're looking to strengthen yo…

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247: Every Person You Meet Knows Something You Don't 11:10

1y ago11:10

11:10

How do you know when you're an "expert?" What does it mean to become a better client or customer? Join Parker Kane in this 247th episode of UPBEAT where he explores what it means to be an expert and how to recognize when it's time to hire one. He also shares how to become a better client or customer and when you can confidently consider yourself an…

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246: Take a Break! The Power of Resetting and Recharging 9:04

1y ago9:04

9:04

Feeling overwhelmed? In this short episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane reveals the best practices around taking breaks to reset and recharge. Learn why self-care is essential for being your best self, with practical tips for enjoying nature, quality time with loved ones, and finding balance. Listen to this episode for an uplifting message on the importa…

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Episode 252 - WahSandy and WahMatty 1:20:46

1y ago1:20:46

1:20:46

Wait a minute, it's a new episode already? This week on Checkpoint Chat we dive into the surprisingly great action of Stellar Blade, check out Ubisoft's answer to Call of Duty in XDefiant, and take stock of all the games coming out in 2024 before Summer Game Fest takes hold.Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFa…

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Dredge (2023, Indie Game) and Lovecraftian Horror 33:44

1y ago33:44

33:44

WELLL....this episode is late on June 1st but let me tell you this episode gave me a big rabbit hole of research that I didn't expect and still has me questioning a lot but thank you for you patience. However, today's episode will be covering just the basics on Lovecraftian horror and how it is shown through the indie video game Dredge. Hope you en…

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245: The Power of Authentic Networking with Braiden Belnap 42:22

1y ago42:22

42:22

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with Braiden Belnap to explore the power of building strong friendships and overcoming life's toughest challenges. This episode dives deep into the transformative power of sharing stories, inspiring others, and building a supportive network for personal growth. Whether you're looking to strengthen yo…

1
Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1992, Film): Vampires, Cheerleaders and Camp 51:34

1y ago51:34

51:34

We are going back to 1992 for a retrospective look at the The Buffy Vampire Slayer film (not the TV series) I am talking about the things I felt make this film unique and the some of the things that make this film leaving me wanting more. Hope you enjoy the episode. Next up --> Dredge (2023,Indie Video Game) Time Stamps Episode Outline - 3:41 1992/…

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Episode 251 - Psychological Horror Puzzles 1:24:57

1y ago1:24:57

1:24:57

It's a stacked week on Checkpoint Chat, with discussions on games starting with H and ending in 2 (Hades II & Hellblade II, FYI), Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (the full review at last), Little Kitty Big City (GAME OF THE YEAR), Ghost of Tsushima (on PC), and more!Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https:…

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244: Leaving Mediocrity Behind: Life Lessons from Anthony Strickler 35:11

1y ago35:11

35:11

In this episode of UPBEAT, Parker Kane sits down with Anthony Strickler to discuss his inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, learning from marketing and leadership icons like Jim Rohn and famous boxer Eddie Garcia. Anthony emphasizes the importance of personal growth, mentorship, and faith. He shares how stepping out of his comfort zone and embrac…

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Checkpoint Chat Podcasts

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