WARRIOR MINDSET

NEVER GIVE UP.   NEVER QUIT.   KAIZEN.

Charting New Territories in Career and Creativity

Charting New Territories in Career and Creativity

As the seasons of our careers change, so does our perspective on the work we do and the lives we lead. This heartfelt discussion with Greg Storey, a dear friend and former owner of Happy Cog, not only traces his professional voyage from bagging groceries in Alaska to the boutique agency world and through the corporate colossus of IBM Design, but it also unravels the beauty of midlife career introspection. Embracing change, Greg has moved from leading companies to imparting wisdom through coaching, a journey that mirrors my own pivot towards fitness and mental health coaching, where the reward lies in guiding others to their zenith.

Join us for a reflective and thought-provoking episode where we celebrate the rich tapestry of our past experiences, while keeping an eager eye on the horizon. We revel in discussions about the legends who’ve shaped our industry, touching on the privilege of choosing our own adventures and the vitality of continuous engagement with our creative endeavors.

This episode is also a candid exploration of the complexities of the workplace, from the integration of AI to the dynamics of leadership. We debate the current resistance to remote work models, advocate for leadership that empowers and supports, and tackle the tough emotional realities of decision-making, like firing employees. Whether you’re a seasoned vet or just starting out, there’s wisdom here for anyone navigating the undulating paths of their professional landscape. Join us and take away invaluable insights that will enrich your approach to work and life.

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Quest for Balance: Unraveling America’s Hustle Culture & Reclaiming Our Lives

Quest for Balance: Unraveling America’s Hustle Culture & Reclaiming Our Lives

Have you ever caught yourself checking emails while on vacation, or find it difficult to truly unplug and enjoy downtime? You’re not alone. America’s hustle culture has us collectively wrapped around the notion that work should always come first, often at the expense of our health and well-being. In our latest episode, we peel back the layers of this phenomenon, revealing how our national reluctance to take time off not only underscores our values but also impacts our quality of life. Together, we question the undercurrent of fear that keeps us tethered to our desks and share personal tales that highlight the importance of setting boundaries for a healthier work-life integration.

The conversation deepens as we scrutinize the generational shift in work values, especially as it pertains to Gen Z’s approach to work and leisure. We challenge the negative stereotypes, celebrating instead their prioritization of time and mental health. But it’s not just about generations; it’s about a collective realization. This isn’t just an exploration; it’s a call to rediscover the joy in hobbies that don’t come with a price tag and the balance that leads to a more fulfilling existence.

We tackle the often-misunderstood concept of productivity, emphasizing that efficiency in work should serve to increase our leisure and not the other way around. We share uplifting anecdotes about individuals who’ve successfully crafted lives that prioritize passions and family over work without sacrificing professional success. Wrapping things up, we laugh over the irony of how setting firm boundaries can sometimes be the key to success, both personally and professionally. So, join us for an engaging discussion that’s all about redefining success, embracing rest, and the courage it takes to say “no” in a world that constantly demands “yes.

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Redefining Masculinity: Strength, Discipline and Emotion

Redefining Masculinity: Strength, Discipline and Emotion

Get ready for an interesting chat with my guest host, Darren Norris @norrisactual, as we explore different aspects of masculinity, moving away from what you’d normally expect from someone like Arnold Schwarzenegger. We discuss our views on masculinity; covering teamwork, self-discipline, and facing challenges head-on. We also dive into our life experiences, highlighting qualities like strength and the importance of learning life skills. Through personal stories, we stress the value of integrity and character. The discussion extends to topics like inspiration, wisdom, and how staying active contributes to mental well-being. We touch on societal views of masculinity, emphasizing the need to break free from expectations. Wrapping up, we reflect on fitness, self-discipline, and the impact of positive character traits on our lives. Join us for this thought-provoking talk, encouraging you to embrace your own version of masculinity without conforming to societal norms.

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Inside the Grid League: A Conversation with Gainesville Wild’s Owner & Head Coach

Inside the Grid League: A Conversation with Gainesville Wild’s Owner & Head Coach

Explore the thrilling world of Grid, a unique team sport combining the excitement of American Ninja Warrior, football strategy, and CrossFit intensity. Joined by Gainesville Wild’s owner and head coach, we unravel the sport’s captivating universe. From adrenaline-pumping races to the delicate balance of strength, utility, and body weight movements, Grid provides a lively platform for athletes to showcase their strengths. Constructing a formidable Grid League team goes beyond assembling superb athletes; it’s about building a family. Dan’s journey, as the head coach and owner, reflects the rollercoaster of investing time, money, and energy into a venture without guaranteed returns. Yet, the reward lies in the team’s growth and unity, emphasizing our values of communication and mutual support.

Leadership in a team demands assertiveness, trust, and effective communication, topics I’ll explore with Dan. Looking into the future, we discuss plans for the upcoming season, tryouts, and sponsorships. Our journey doesn’t end here; as we prepare for the FGL/AGL and Grid’s overall growth, Dan shares his experiences as a player and leader, offering an enticing glimpse into the community, competition, and excitement that grid brings. Get ready for this episode to redefine your perception of fitness and competition!

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Embracing Triumph Through Daring: Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” Speech

Embracing Triumph Through Daring: Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” Speech

In the annals of history, there exist words that transcend time, resonating with unwavering significance. Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech encapsulates such timeless wisdom, inspiring generations to embrace the essence of triumph through bold endeavors. Let’s delve into the profound insights of this eloquent oration, dissecting its resonance within the pursuit of success and resilience.

It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.

Theodore Roosevelt, Man in the Arena speech

The Critic’s Irrelevance: Pioneering Beyond Judgment

Roosevelt adeptly captures the futility of critics’ voices in the grand symphony of achievement. “It is not the critic who counts,” he proclaims, highlighting that true significance lies not in the voice that merely observes but in the one that dares to participate. This wisdom underscores the importance of action over idle critique.

Triumph Amidst Adversity: A Mark of Honor

The imagery of a warrior marred by dust, sweat, and blood conjures a vivid portrayal of resilience in the face of adversity. The modern business arena mirrors this sentiment, where challenges and setbacks are inevitable. Roosevelt’s words remind us that triumph is born from relentless pursuit, as each failure becomes a stepping stone toward victory. His words demand the tenacity to persistently refine and improve yourself, acknowledging that excellence is found in the journey rather than the destination.

Striving Valiantly: Embracing Imperfection

Roosevelt’s proclamation, “Those who strive valiantly,” spotlights the courage of those embracing imperfection. This idea deeply resonates with me. It emphasizes the valor in pursuing goals with unwavering determination, even when errors and setbacks are certain. In my own journey, both as a business owner and father, I’ve learned progress isn’t always linear. Mistakes are stepping stones to growth. Just as an artist refines their work through trial and error, success in life follows a similar path. This philosophy frees us from fearing imperfections, urging us to experiment, learn, and improve. It reminds us that progress thrives when we push beyond comfort zones and boldly chase excellence.

The Dance of Enthusiasm and Devotion

The reference to “great enthusiasms, the great devotions” illuminates the fervor needed for significant achievements. This concept speaks volumes about the passion and dedication essential on the journey to success. It’s a reminder that to achieve remarkable feats, whether in martial arts or any endeavor, mere effort isn’t enough. Genuine enthusiasm fuels the fire within, propelling us forward even when challenges arise. Just as a martial artist’s devotion to training hones skills.

Forging the Path of Triumph: A Worthy Cause

Roosevelt’s declaration, “Who spends himself in a worthy cause,” resonates as a resounding call to embark on purpose-driven journeys. This notion evokes a powerful invitation to direct our energies towards endeavors that hold true significance. Just as a martial artist dedicates themselves to honing skills and embodying discipline. Roosevelt’s words inspire us to invest ourselves fully, understanding that the path to triumph lies in championing a cause that elevates both ourselves and those we interact with.

The Epitome of Achievement: Triumph Amidst Daring

As Roosevelt aptly concludes, the zenith of accomplishment is reserved for those who embrace audacity. This notion encapsulates the essence of rising to greatness through fearless endeavors. Failure, rather than acting as a hindrance, becomes a pivotal stepping stone on the journey to glory.

Just as a martial artist strives for mastery, often stumbling before soaring, the map to of high achievement is navigated by those willing to take calculated risks. Roosevelt’s words underline the idea that triumph isn’t exclusive to those who avoid failure; it’s a reward for those who confront challenges head-on, undeterred by setbacks. Like a martial artist learning from every fall, we all gain wisdom from mistakes, making each stumble an invaluable lesson.

Embracing Victory and Defeat

Roosevelt’s words reverberate across eras, carrying an enduring truth. The arena of life, be it a literal battleground or the business world, demands unwavering courage, resilience, and boldness. Each facet of this journey, whether victorious or defeated, holds significance.

Roosevelt’s wisdom underscores that life’s challenges test our mettle and define our character. In martial arts, victories are celebrated, but it’s the defeats that offer profound lessons. It is the same in business and life in general.

In essence, all arenas of life demand a relentless spirit, an ability to bounce back, and the courage to embrace challenges. Just as victories are celebrated, even the fiercest defeats yield their own victories: the victory of growth, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to chase greatness.