by Gene Crawford | Aug 18, 2025 | Podcast
A wide-ranging episode featuring Mark Devine and Tony Blauer as we explore the power of intuition, from sensing danger in self-defense to reading subtle social cues in daily life. We then dive into how social media has redefined fame, examining the antics of Elon Musk and Kevin Durant to show how platforms manufacture virality and blur the line between notoriety and influence. Shifting gears, we unpack marketing’s obsession with buzz over clarity, using American Eagle’s Sydney Sweeney campaign as a case study, and discuss Gen Z’s workplace challenges with feedback and fundamentals. We round out with humorous takes on persistent sales tactics and Mark Zuckerberg’s martial arts pursuits, blending insight, critique, and a dash of levity.
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by Gene Crawford | Aug 11, 2025 | Podcast
Aaron and I explore Elon Musk’s controversial productivity methods, cutting meetings, ditching jargon, and challenging workplace hierarchies, alongside the importance of structure and respect. Shifting to martial arts, we unpack the controversy of Moneyberg’s rapid black belt and contrast it with Helena Crevar’s inspiring rise under John Danaher. Featuring insights from Secret Service veteran Scott Bryson, we share self-defense strategies, mindset tools, and training frameworks that build real-world awareness. This episode delivers hard-hitting lessons on leadership, integrity, and personal growth, on and off the mat.
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by Gene Crawford | Nov 19, 2024 | Podcast
In this Debrief style episode let’s together delve into the balance between fitness and mental resilience, exploring the thin line between disciplined commitment and obsession. With insights from icons like David Goggins and Mark Manson, we uncover what drives extreme exercise and how to keep a healthy perspective. Pro surfer Laird Hamilton and free climber Alex Honnold bring fresh views on risk and motivation, helping us assess personal limits. From transitioning between fitness styles to the significance of martial arts etiquette, we discuss injury prevention, respect, and authenticity—offering a guide to achieving both personal and physical growth.
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by Gene Crawford | Nov 12, 2024 | Podcast
In this episode, we explore diverse topics, from Madrid subway pickpocketing to crisis management in programs for adults with intellectual disabilities. Ley Linder, a seasoned behavior analyst and gerontologist, shares insights on how empathy and observational skills enhance leadership, self-defense, and even dog training. We also dig into a story about one of Ley’s employees who exemplifies quick thinking during a sensory overload crisis, highlighting the importance of patience in challenging environments. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt discussion on the emotional weight carried by caregivers, offering humor and practical advice on adapting to challenges in fitness and daily life.
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by Gene Crawford | Sep 30, 2024 | Podcast
The leaked MrBeast employee manual, which surfaced in September 2024, provides insights into the operations and production philosophy behind one of YouTube’s largest channels. The 36-page document, intended as an internal onboarding guide, outlines the high expectations MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) has for his team. It stresses a results-driven culture, where employees are judged on their output rather than the hours worked. The document categorizes employees into “A-Players,” who are the best at what they do, and warns against keeping “C-Players,” who are seen as detrimental to the team’s performance. This leak has come at a time when MrBeast faces various controversies, adding more fuel to ongoing debates about his work culture.
The A, B, and C player section of MrBeast’s leaked employee manual has sparked debate. It categorizes employees based on their performance: A-players are high-performing, coachable, and obsessed with their work, while B-players are trainable. However, C-players are deemed “poisonous” and should be removed from the company immediately. This has led to mixed reactions, with some praising the focus on excellence, while others criticize the potential harshness and pressure this framework imposes on employees.
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