Best Functional Training Institute Podcasts (2025)

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Sam Mackey: From Juvenile Hall to a New Start in the Military | MTNPOD #126 57:51

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3d ago57:51

57:51

Join us for an inspiring conversation with retired Navy SEAL Sam Mackey, CEO of Outsider, an outdoor and lifestyle brand. In this episode, Sam shares his incredible journey, from a troubled youth involving expulsion, juvenile hall, and house arrest to a 20-year career in the SEAL Teams, and now leading a performance-driven business. Discover how hi…

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Rethinking Weakness, Movement, and Connection with Dave Liow 40:55

10d ago40:55

40:55

What if tightness isn’t the problem but a symptom of something deeper? In this eye-opening episode, Dave Liow, founder of the Holistic Movement Coach Programme, shares how he integrates musculoskeletal science with traditional Chinese medicine, emotional health, and sensory activation to help the body move better and feel stronger. With over two de…

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Byron Owen: From Force Recon to Pentagon Leadership - Evolving Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #125 1:23:00

10d ago1:23:00

1:23:00

Listen to this episode with Colonel Byron Owen, a Marine Corps veteran whose career spans Force Recon to Pentagon leadership. Discover how Byron’s mindset has evolved from the intense, survival-driven mental toughness of combat to the strategic, people-focused resilience required in today’s complex military landscape. He shares gripping stories fro…

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Steve Decker: Conserve Habitat, Empower Hunters | MTNPOD #124 58:38

17d ago58:38

58:38

Join us for an inspiring episode with Steve Decker of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF)! Since 1984, RMEF has been a powerhouse in habitat conservation and public land access, now leading as a major owner of Outdoor Class. Discover how RMEF has helped double North American elk populations to over 1.1 million, the critical role hunters play i…

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Redefine Ageing Through Epigenetics, DNA Testing and Cognitive Fitness with Dr Denise Furness 43:58

24d ago43:58

43:58

What if your daily choices were shaping your biological age more than your birthday ever could? In this compelling episode of the Purpose Driven Movement Podcast, host Tarek Michael-Chouja is joined by Dr Denise Furness, a functional geneticist and global leader in nutrigenomics and epigenetics. Together, they explore the future of healthcare, shin…

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Pedro Ampuero: Stop Making Excuses and Start Exploring | MTNPOD #123 1:06:07

24d ago1:06:07

1:06:07

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with world-renowned bowhunter Pedro Ampuero for an in-depth conversation on mental toughness, global adventure hunting, and the mindset required to push through the extremes. From growing up in Spain to chasing some of the toughest mountain hunts on the planet, Pedro shares his personal phil…

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Jeremy Noble: What Army Rangers Do Every Day to Build Unbreakable Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #122 1:06:29

1M ago1:06:29

1:06:29

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Jeremy Noble, a former U.S. Army Ranger Regiment psychologist, to explore the mental toughness forged in Special Operations. Jeremy shares his journey from traditional psychology to operational psychology and offers a deep dive into the mindset of elite warfighters. He unpacks what make…

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Recovery, Fascia and Fluid Flow for Performance and Longevity with Ian O'Dwyer 38:50

1M ago38:50

38:50

What if your body’s pain, performance, and emotional baggage were all flowing through the same system? In this episode of Purpose Driven Movement, host Tarek is joined by returning guest Ian O’Dwyer, Co-Founder of Feel SOMA. Together, they explore the living, moving matrix of fascia - how it stores emotion, responds to stress, and thrives through p…

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Philip Winchester: Mental Toughness, Discipline, and Hollywood Grit | MTNPOD #121 1:29:37

1M ago1:29:37

1:29:37

🚨GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🚨 WIN a pair of SIG SAUER Zulu 6 Stabilized Binos ($1099.99 MSRP)!!!To enter is very simple!1. Visit the podcast link on YOUTUBE here: [https://youtu.be/HN5LQ8F9kjc]2. LIKE the full podcast video3. SUBSCRIBE to the MTNTOUGH Podcast Channel4. COMMENT on the full podcast video, we will select a winner from the comment section of THAT…

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Senator Tim Sheehy: How His Mental Toughness Took Him From Navy SEAL to Senator | MTNPOD #120 40:02

2M ago40:02

40:02

Join Senator Tim Sheehy, former Navy SEAL, on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he shares his journey from battlefield to Capitol Hill. Discover his raw insights on mental toughness, leadership, and tackling America’s challenges with grit and heart. Use code MTNPOD for 6 weeks free on the MTNTOUGH app! Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness La…

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Beyond Prescription: Understanding GLP-1 Treatments with Jennifer Halsall & Dr Lou Atkinson from The Collective 40:17

2M ago40:17

40:17

If you’re a health or fitness professional wanting to stay ahead of the curve, this episode of the Purpose Driven Movement podcast is essential listening. Host Tarek chats with Jennifer Halsall and Dr Lou Atkinson from The Collective, about the cultural shift sparked by the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These treatments are giv…

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John Doolittle: Navy SEAL’s Secrets to Boost First Responder Mental Health | MTNPOD #119 1:07:37

2M ago1:07:37

1:07:37

Host Dustin Diefenderfer interviews former Navy SEAL John Doolittle, who shares his extensive experience in addressing mental health, sleep, and performance challenges faced by first responders, veterans, and active-duty military. Doolittle discusses his 25-year Navy career, including his work with SOCOM’s Preservation of the Force and Family progr…

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Dr. Shawn Rowland: Unveiling America's Pharma Crisis - Jase Medical’s Mission to Empower Preparedness | MTNPOD #118 1:08:25

2M ago1:08:25

1:08:25

Dr. Shawn Rowland reveals America's pharma crisis and Jase Medical's mission to empower readiness! Check out our Episode with Andy Stumpf! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXp4Tqz0Klg&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1ms Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Menta…

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Win Broken, Rise Stronger with Whitney Jones 36:29

2M ago36:29

36:29

What if the fear holding you back is actually the key to your next breakthrough? In this episode, host Tarek Michael-Chouja is joined by Whitney Jones, three-times Ms. Fitness Olympia Champion, mentor and author of Win Broken. Whitney shares the raw reality behind the medals: injuries, setbacks and the deep internal battles most never see. You’ll l…

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Micah Fink: From War to Wilderness - How This SEAL Heals Veterans Without Medication | MTNPOD #119 2:40:08

2M ago2:40:08

2:40:08

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Micah Fink, former Navy SEAL, paramilitary contractor, and founder of the Montana-based nonprofit Heroes and Horses. Micah shares his journey from military service to launching a revolutionary program aimed to transform the lives of veterans. In this conversation, he dives into the fail…

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Neal McDonough: Faith, Family, and Perseverance in Hollywood | The Power of God’s Providence | MTNPOD #117 33:29

2M ago33:29

33:29

In this powerful episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, actor Neal McDonough shares his journey of faith, perseaverance, and redemption in Hollywood. From overcoming personal struggles to making films that glorify God, Neal opens up about how faith, family, and discipline have shaped his career and life. Discover how his commitment to honoring God throug…

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Taking & Giving Feedback Professionally w/ Bill Schick FCMO | Power Theory Podcast 1:00:25

3M ago1:00:25

1:00:25

🔵 Interested in Coaching? https://www.sojournpartners.com/coaching-and-leadership-programs/customized-coaching-programs/one-on-one-executive-coaching/ Bill's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BillSchickFCMO/ Bill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/founderandcdo/ Bill helps life science companies accelerate product adoption & make marketing wor…

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Sean DeGrey: From Failed Ventures to Archery Empire | MTNPOD #116 1:03:35

3M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Sean DeGrey's gritty journey from failures to building an archery empire with family & passion! Loved this podcast? Check out this episode with Matt McPherson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB4hXEVhVZo&list=PLdAelJZ1bZWr5v6K_-IPix0tq8b7xH1ms&index=2 Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App…

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Matt McPherson: Founder of Mathews Archery | MTNPOD #115 1:08:19

3M ago1:08:19

1:08:19

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Matt McPherson, the visionary behind McPherson Guitars and Mathews Archery. From revolutionizing bowhunting to crafting world-class guitars with groundbreaking designs, Matt shares how his passion for engineering, music, and the outdoors has shaped his career. We’ll dive into the latest…

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Kyle Thompson: Host of Undaunted Life + Daily Blade Podcasts | MTNPOD #114 1:38:00

3M ago1:38:00

1:38:00

🎉 LAUNCH GIVEAWAY ALERT! Details below...To celebrate our new channel, we’re giving away a YETI 65 cooler, an MTNTOUGH merchandise package, and a free yearly MTNTOUGH+ membership!🚨 Welcome to the NEW MTNTOUGH Podcast YouTube Channel! 🚨 Join host Dustin Diefenderfer for hard-hitting conversations on physical fitness, mental toughness, and backcountr…

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Jim Burgen: The Hard Truth About Leading Men | MTNPOD#113 1:13:09

3M ago1:13:09

1:13:09

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Jim Burgen, Lead Pastor of Flatirons Community Church in Colorado. Jim shares insights from his leadership experience, the challenges of guiding a large church, and how he helps men reset through Moss Rock Ranch, a retreat space designed for leaders to recharge. Jim opens up about the i…

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Elite Athlete Recovery: Strategic Planning, Communication, and High-Performance Sport with Dr. Stephen Bird 44:59

4M ago44:59

44:59

What does it take to keep elite athletes at their peak, even under relentless travel, pressure, and fatigue? In this episode of Purpose Driven Movement, host Tarek Michael Chouja speaks with Dr Stephen Bird, a professor in sport and exercise science, about the realities of athlete development. You'll hear about the power of planning, the importance…

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TJ Dillashaw: Embracing Fear as a Privilege | MTNPOD #112 55:15

4M ago55:15

55:15

In this episode of the MTNTOUGH podcast, Dustin sits down with TJ Dillashaw and talks about his transition from MMA fighting to entrepreneurship, highlighting his retirement in October 2022 due to severe shoulder injuries requiring a replacement. He shares his journey with stem cell treatments, particularly from Colombia, which helped manage his in…

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Levi Lusko: Fitness, Mindset, and Life Seasons | MTNPOD #111 1:04:33

4M ago1:04:33

1:04:33

Join Levi Lusko on the MTNTOUGH Podcast as he dives into fitness training, mental resilience, and navigating life’s shifting seasons. Levi shares insights from his book Blessed Are the Spiraling, exploring midlife crisis, purpose, and legacy-building for entrepreneurs, leaders, and faith-driven individuals. Follow Levi on Instagram at @levilusko Pr…

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Fitness Lab Discussion: MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel, Your Body is Gear 37:59

4M ago37:59

37:59

Dustin sits down with longtime friend and newly instated MTNTOUGH President Lyle Hebel to chat all things hunting, and how critical it is to be physically prepared for your mountain endeavors. Presented by Sig Sauer. ----🔫 AmmoSquared is America’s Ammunition Reserve! Get 75 rounds of 9mm—completely FREE when you sign up: bit.ly/MtnTough 🥩 MEAT! You…

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Cognitive Fitness Training: Creating a Sharper Mind and Building Mental Resilience with Anna Milani 34:37

4M ago34:37

34:37

In this insightful episode, host Tarek sits down with cognitive fitness expert Anna Milani to explore how movement can transform both body and mind. They discuss the impact of cognitive fitness training on mental health, longevity, and the fitness industry, highlighting the importance of complexity in training and the benefits of a holistic approac…

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Eva Shockey: The UNTOLD Story Behind Field & Stream's Second Female Cover Star | MTNPOD #110 1:08:43

4M ago1:08:43

1:08:43

From competitive Latin ballroom dancer to one of the most recognized women in the hunting world, Eva Shockey’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Eva shares how she transitioned from dance to the outdoors, the mental toughness she’s built through hunting, and what it meant to break barriers as the second woman ever on the cover…

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John Nores: Former Game Warden Reveals DEADLIEST Poaching Ring in America | MTNPOD #109 1:20:45

4M ago1:20:45

1:20:45

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with John Nores, a former California Fish and Wildlife warden, author, and expert in anti-poaching operations. Growing up in rural Santa Clara County, his love for wildlife led him to a career protecting endangered species and combating black-market wildlife trafficking. He shares insights f…

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The Power of Breath: How Breath Shapes our Face, Body and Mind: Dr Sachin Patel 52:02

5M ago52:02

52:02

In this podcast episode, Dr Sachin Patel, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, shares groundbreaking insights on the transformative power of breathwork in health and wellness. Health professionals will find invaluable information on how breath can be a powerful tool for regulating the nervous system, facilitating emotional release, …

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Nick Jones: Breaking Isolation and Building Support | MTNPOD #108 1:54:41

5M ago1:54:41

1:54:41

Nick Jones is a Marine Raider who served in the United States Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC). With a background in elite military service, he brings a wealth of experience in leadership, resilience, and overcoming personal challenges. After his military career, Nick has become a passionate advocate for mental health, focusing on t…

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Ryan Manion: STOP Living in Fear of Loss. Start Living with Purpose. | MTNPOD #107 1:12:50

5M ago1:12:50

1:12:50

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, Dustin sits down with Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, a leading organization dedicated to empowering veterans and families of fallen heroes. As the daughter of a Marine and someone who has faced profound personal loss, Ryan is a fierce advocate for resiliency, service, and honoring the lega…

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#027 Breaking the Pain Cycle 46:20

5M ago46:20

46:20

Join three leading experts from Gray Institute—Dr. Gary Gray, Dr. David Tiberio, and Dr. Andrea Wasylow—as they explore the complexities of pain from a functional movement perspective. Listen in to discover how neuromechanics, holistic assessment, and patient education converge to help reduce discomfort and improve overall function. Whether you’re …

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Fitness Lab Discussion: The ULTIMATE 8-Week Spring Training Program 32:00

5M ago32:00

32:00

Spring Training Camp 2.0 is an 8-week, dynamic fitness program designed to enhance functional strength, endurance, and mobility through a mix of heavy carries, barbell work, kettlebell/dumbbell movements, and shoulder flexibility training, pushing athletes mentally and physically to prepare for backcountry hunting or summer trail running after comp…

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Post-Injury Training: Rebuilding Strength and Confidence with Dane Larsen 36:45

5M ago36:45

36:45

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to recover from an injury—both physically and mentally? In this episode, Dane Larsen, an Exercise Physiologist at Total Fusion Gym, shares practical strategies for rehabilitation. From working with physios in the early stages to building strength and confidence for a full return to sport, he breaks down t…

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John Eldredge: The Future of Christian Masculinity | MTNPOD #106 1:04:09

5M ago1:04:09

1:04:09

John Eldredge is the founder of Ransomed Heart Ministries, dedicated to helping men and women deepen their relationship with God through resources, writing, and retreats. He is the bestselling author of *Wild at Heart*, which explores masculinity and encourages men to embrace their adventurous, untamed nature. Alongside his wife Stasi, he co-wrote …

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Adam LaRoche: ESCAPE Fame to Fight Human Trafficking | MTNPOD #105 1:10:15

5M ago1:10:15

1:10:15

Adam LaRoche is a former MLB first baseman who played 12 seasons with teams including the Atlanta Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago White Sox. Born into a baseball family—his father, Dave LaRoche, was a pitcher, and his brother, Andy LaRoche, a third baseman—Adam achieved a .260 batting average, 255 home runs, and 882 RBIs during his career. …

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Fitness Lab Discussion: Homeland Security Pulls Us Off The Plane! Jaw-Dropping Moments from MTNTOUGH's 2024 Ibex Hunt 1:22:55

5M ago1:22:55

1:22:55

Dustin sits down with Peter Howell of Sig Sauer to reminisce and tell stories about their 2024 Mid-asian ibex hunt. Watch the full hunt film here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjALfOCF_2I&t=669s Presented by Sig Sauer. ---- Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “MTNTOUGH” here: https://t.ly/m62rK MTNTOUGH is for $10 off Jase ⁠https://jasemedical.com/?…

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Navigating Health & Fitness Trends: Insights from Beyond Activ Founder Ross Campbell 42:51

6M ago42:51

42:51

Dive into the cutting-edge of fitness industry evolution with Ross Campbell, founder of Beyond Activ, in this must-listen episode for fitness professionals. Campbell, a veteran in market insights and industry growth, unpacks the transformative trends shaping health, wellness, and fitness businesses in 2025. From the rise of "light training" like Pi…

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Kevan Miller: The Mindset That Separates the Elite from Everyone Else | MTNPOD #104 1:14:05

6M ago1:14:05

1:14:05

On this episode of the MTNTOUGH Podcast, former NHL defenseman Kevan Miller shares his journey of grit, resilience, and mental toughness. From captaining the University of Vermont hockey team to playing 352 games with the Boston Bruins, Kevan built a career on perseverance and relentless drive. Known for his physical style of play, he battled throu…

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Remi Warren: How Elite Hunters Master Mental Toughness | MTNPOD #103 1:43:13

6M ago1:43:13

1:43:13

Kicking off Season 2 ofThe MTNTOUGH Podcast, we’re joined by legendary hunter, guide, and conservationist Remi Warren. With a passion for the outdoors and a lifetime of experience, Remi has built a career as a hunting guide, outfitter, outdoor writer, and TV personality. At just 22, he founded Montana OutWest Outfitters, leading public land elk and…

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Fitness Lab Discussion: Master MTNTOUGH Yoga for Holistic Functional Fitness 52:41

6M ago52:41

52:41

Dustin sits down with Danni Mackenzie, MTNTOUGH's newest Daily Coach about her new program: MTNTOUGH Yoga Daily. MTNTOUGH Daily Yoga is designed to address several key challenges faced by fitness enthusiasts. Many struggle to find workouts that not only test their physical strength but also push their mental resilience, and this program provides th…

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The Pulse Cure: A Guide to Preventative Health with ER Doctor Dr Torkil Færø 35:45

6M ago35:45

35:45

How would you and your loved ones’ lives change if you could prevent illness rather than treat it? Dr Torkil Færø, an ER Doctor and leading voice in preventive healthcare, shares why the future of medicine lies in empowering individuals to take control of their well-being. You’ll learn how simple, accessible tools like wearable tech and heart rate …

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Jim Miller: Escaping a Career-Ending Disease to Breaking UFC Records | MTNPOD #102 1:21:54

6M ago1:21:54

1:21:54

Jim Miller is a seasoned American mixed martial artist currently competing in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Born on August 30, 1983, in Sparta Township, New Jersey, Miller holds several notable records in the UFC, including the most bouts (45), most wins (27), and most wins in the Lightweight division (26). H…

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Fitness Lab Discussion: Remi Warren + Randy Newberg Chat Backcountry Fitness 1:00:00

6M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Dustin sits down with Remi Warren and Randy Newberg at Wild Sheep Foundation's SHEEP SHOW in Reno NV to talk all things backcountry fitness. From Remi's experience as a guide to Randy's AK Dall Sheep hunt this past year, the 3 dive into how fitness is a key factor in conquering the demands of the backcountry. ----🧊 Get 20% Off IceBarrel with code “…

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Erwin McManus: How Modern Comfort Created The Weakest Generation of Men | MTNPOD #101 1:06:41

6M ago1:06:41

1:06:41

Erwin McManus is a pastor, author, and cultural innovator, best known for his leadership of Mosaic, a church based in Los Angeles. His approach to faith combines a deep commitment to spirituality with a focus on creativity, culture, and personal transformation. McManus is the author of several books, including The Last Arrow, Chasing Daylight, and …

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#026 Todd Wright: A Conversation in Innovation and Performance 42:26

6M ago42:26

42:26

Todd Wright, Vice President of Player Performance for the LA Clippers and founder of Train 4 The Game, shares his journey of redefining performance training and injury recovery using principles of Applied Functional Science®. Todd recounts compelling stories of working with elite athletes and resolving chronic pain through advanced biomechanics, in…

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#025 Michael Kane: A Conversation in Creativity and Consilience 58:42

6M ago58:42

58:42

Michael Kane, founder of Pro-Motion Physical Therapy, shares how decades of experience, creativity, and a commitment to lifelong learning have shaped his approach to patient care. Michael explores the concept of consilience—bridging diverse disciplines like anatomy, physiology, movement science, and manual therapy—to create tailored solutions that …

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Thosh Collins: Senior Trainer for Native Wellness Institute | MTNPOD #100 1:31:40

6M ago1:31:40

1:31:40

Thosh Collins is a Native American photographer, fitness advocate, and cultural storyteller. A member of the Hopi and O'odham nations, Thosh uses his photography to capture the beauty, resilience, and diversity of Native communities while promoting cultural preservation and environmental awareness. Alongside his artistic work, Thosh is deeply passi…

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Damon West: How Faith and Mental Toughness Helped Me Escape Prison | MTNPOD #99 1:05:49

7M ago1:05:49

1:05:49

Damon West's life is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. A former college quarterback turned keynote speaker, Damon shares his remarkable journey from addiction and a 65-year prison sentence to personal transformation and redemption. In this episode, we explore his early life, athletic career, and descent into addiction, as …

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Imposter Syndrome & Navigating Professional Relationships w/ BillSchick | Power Theory Podcast 36:41

7M ago36:41

36:41

🔵 Interested in Coaching? https://www.sojournpartners.com/coaching-and-leadership-programs/customized-coaching-programs/one-on-one-executive-coaching/ Bill's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BillSchickFCMO/ Bill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/founderandcdo/ Bill helps life science companies accelerate product adoption & make marketing wor…