WARRIOR WISDOM: What's the best philosophy?

This week J. Jason Hicks shares insights into battling resistance, the importance of daily writing practice, and the influence of authors like Steven Pressfield. Marcus and Hicks discuss how adversity can shape our paths, the significance of authentic partnerships, and practical advice for aspiring writers. Hicks also highlights his upcoming projects and how he integrates his life experiences into his work.

Episode Highlights:

09:22 The Writing Process

27:31 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose

34:55 Creating Your Universe

36:50 The Power of Daily Writing

46:07 Advice for Aspiring Authors

49:33 The Importance of a Supportive Partner

Jason Hicks studied English Literature, Political Science, and World Religions with a focus on classic literature at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Ruinwaster’s Bane: The Annals of the Last Emissary is his debut novel. He lives in Tucson, Arizona with his wife and his dog. A one-eyed Boxer named Drake.

Learn more at: www.jjasonhicks.com

Get Jason’s book at: https://a.co/d/3FKu9m9

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week Dr. Trevor Wilkins, known as the Angry Viking Therapist, discusses the impact of early life experiences on current behavior, trauma in public safety and military professions, and the importance of changing one's mental filter to overcome adversity. Dr. Wilkins shares his journey from public safety to becoming a therapist and provides insight into his intensive, specialized treatment methods for trauma. The episode emphasizes the significance of taking control and applying practical strategies to improve mental health and overall wellbeing.

Episode Highlights:

03:38 The Power of Predictions in Therapy

11:32 From Public Safety to Therapy

26:33 The Neurotrauma Project and EMDR

32:00 The Impact of Childhood Experiences

35:07 Addressing Trauma and Mental Health

42:42 Complex PTSD and Blocking Beliefs

Dr. Trevor Wilkins, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCTP, is a trauma-focused psychotherapist specializing in PTSD treatment for public safety professionals. A former police officer, firefighter, and EMT, he brings real-world insight to Thin Line Counseling in Lexington, KY. Known for his no-nonsense, action-oriented approach, Dr. Wilkins combines evidence-based methods like EMDR and REBT with deep expertise in law enforcement stress. He serves as Clinical Director for The Wounded Blue, teaches at the University of the Cumberlands, and is pursuing a second PhD in Trauma-Informed Care. Dr. Wilkins is a respected speaker, researcher, and advocate for those who protect and serve.

Learn more at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-wilkins-phd/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week Marcus Torgerson, a leadership coach and author, shares his struggles with abuse, alcoholism, and familial challenges, and how these events shaped his path to writing his book, 'Be a Man: What the Firetruck Does That Even Mean?' The conversation highlights the importance of forgiveness, self-reflection, and the power of turning personal pain into a tool for helping others. Key topics include the challenges and rewards of writing, understanding personal trauma, breaking down barriers in communication, and fostering genuine connection and introspection among men.

Episode Highlights:

11:43 Understanding and Embracing Manhood

29:27 Reflections on Personal Growth and Change

31:32 Understanding and Supporting Men

43:19 The Role of Self-Compassion

Marcus Torgerson, known as the “Warrior Shepherd,” blends over 40 years of martial and combat arts with two decades in security to guide others with strength and compassion. Grounded in faith and forged by life experience, Marcus walks the line between warrior and mentor. As a coach, he empowers individuals to rise above their challenges and grow into their full potential. His approach is deeply personal, shaped by the belief that everyone’s journey deserves tailored support, conviction, and heart. Through resilience, discipline, and grace, Marcus helps others find the balance needed to lead with purpose and live with strength.

Learn more at: https://www.marcustorgerson.com/

Follow him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/marcustorgerson/

Purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZTDRXTB?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYqtwrIg6zk9IItEhR8dacJswpiK6w0S-Pog_k8VsuchX-ZODwLiNWrD00_aem_S9Hu_PJreQ28uvBMCd3Lww

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the philosophy that 'moderation is for cowards.' He highlights the importance of extreme commitment and total effort, using examples from historical warriors and modern leaders. Marcus shares actionable strategies for applying this all-in mindset to various aspects of life, such as self-defense and personal growth. He also discusses the value of preparation in facing adversity. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe and explore over 200 episodes featuring interviews with peak performers, including former Navy Seal Commander Rich Devinney and legendary authors Robert Green and Steven Pressfield.

Episode Highlights:

01:41 Commitment and Action

02:32 Self-Defense and Situational Awareness

03:57 Applying Extreme Commitment

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week Rich Diviney delves into his latest work, 'The Masters of Uncertainty,' which offers strategies for managing stress and performing under pressure. Rich shares the importance of understanding and deconstructing attributes, the concept of dynamic subordination in teams, and the critical role of trust. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience behind dealing with uncertainty, the practice of moving horizons, and practical breathing techniques for managing autonomic arousal. Rich emphasizes the need for purpose-driven leadership and how mastering uncertainty can empower individuals to thrive in complex environments.

Episode Highlights:

03:57 Writing and Impact of 'The Masters of Uncertainty'

08:30 Applying SEAL Strategies to Everyday Life

24:07 Navigating Adversity with Micro Strategies

25:58 The Power of Breathing Techniques

41:51 The Four Pillars of Trust

44:34 Dynamic Subordination in Leadership

Rich Diviney is a retired Navy SEAL Commander. In a career spanning more than twenty years, he completed more than thirteen overseas deployments-eleven of which were to Iraq and Afghanistan. As the officer in charge of training for a specialized command, he spearheaded the creation of a SEAL directorate that fused physical, mental, and emotional disciplines. He led his small team to create the first ever "Mind Gym" in Naval Special Warfare that helped SEALs train their brains to perform faster, longer, and better, especially in high-stress environments. Since his retirement, Diviney has worked as a speaker, facilitator, and consultant, training more than five thousand business, athletic, and military leaders. Rich also works with Simon Sinek's organization, Start With WHY.

You can learn more about Rich here: https://theattributes.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week Lara Jones, an award-winning leadership speaker, shares her journey of overcoming significant adversity, including personal traumas and challenges, to build a multi-million dollar empire and become a competitive athlete. The discussion delves into the importance of grit, resilience, and turning negative experiences into empowering opportunities. Lara also introduces her Grit Type Indicator, a system designed to help individuals and organizations assess and develop their grit. Listeners will gain insights into maintaining a growth mindset, the necessity of facing hardships head-on, and strategies for personal and professional development.

Episode Highlights:

04:36 The Power of Grit and Resilience

10:26 The Grit Type Indicator

17:37 Pursuing the American Dream

28:27 Choosing Your Own Grit

29:29 Realizing Your Value and Taking Action

30:34 Facing Adversity and Embracing G.R.I.T.

39:41 Commitment and Accountability

40:32 Developing Good Habits and Simplifying Processes

As the renowned Global Grit Girl™, Lara has channeled her deep expertise and research into creating the Global G.R.I.T. System™. This innovative and tailored framework identifies the four pillars and ‘types’ of grit, accompanied by a bespoke adoption process that transforms theory into action, creating a bespoke quadrant for grit. Serving a diverse clientele, from Fortune 100 and 500 companies, mid-size businesses, elite executives, collaborative teams, to military personnel, celebrities, and individuals, Lara guides you in both identifying your grit strengths through the Grit Type Indicator™ and honing your abilities across all dimensions of grit to achieve peak performance and unparalleled excellence.

You can learn more about Lara here: https://larajones.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week, Rayron Gracie, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and four-time world champion from the famous Gracie family, shares his life journey, discussing his influential family background, his love for writing, and the philosophy of living a life based on actions, not words. The conversation explores Rayron's experiences and insights gained from competing at a high level, the importance of selflessness, and his new initiative, Victory of Arts, which aims to help children find their true calling through different forms of art. They also discuss the profound impact of altruism, the value of gratitude in the face of adversity, and the lessons learned from martial arts and philosophy.

Episode Highlights:

01:55 The Silent Retreat Experience

06:50 The Legacy of Gracie Jiu Jitsu

18:45 The Art of Teaching and Competing

44:39 Embracing the Muse

46:21 The Reality of Selfishness in Pursuing Greatness

47:22 Balancing Selfishness and Contribution

55:26 The Birth of Victory of Arts

01:06:05 The Importance of Altruism

01:21:24 Recommended Reads for Personal Growth

01:49:33 Building Resilience and Gratitude

02:11:54 The Power of Helping Others

Rayron Gracie is a jiu-jitsu athlete and a member of the Gracie Family, arguably the most important family in the history of this martial art, belonging to the 4th generation of the clan’s production of outstanding combat sports competitors. Rayron was officially promoted to the black belt rank by his cousin, Kyra Gracie (June 2023), but also worked extensively with a number of the family’s legendary members such as Renzo, Rolles, Igor, Gregor, and Roger Gracie. Rayron Gracie first made waves in the sport while successfully competing on the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) circuit, particularly in the gi (kimono) ruleset.

You can learn more about Rayron here: https://www.rayrongracie.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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Understanding human nature is critical for mastery. This week I’m exploring the lessons of Robert Greene and what he can teach us about emotional states, crossroads, and getting more by doing less. Listen in as I share the most profound lessons from his books and how you can apply them to utilize the power of seduction strategy in your own life.

Robert Greene is the author of the New York Times bestsellers The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, The 33 Strategies of War, and The 50th Law. His highly anticipated fifth book, Mastery, examines the lives of great historical figures such as Charles Darwin, Mozart, Paul Graham and Henry Ford and distills the traits and universal ingredients that made them masters. In addition to having a strong following within the business world and a deep following in Washington, DC, Greene’s books are hailed by everyone from war historians to the biggest musicians in the industry (including Jay-Z and 50 Cent).

Greene attended U.C. Berkeley and the University of Wisconsin at Madison, where he received a degree in classical studies. He currently lives in Los Angeles.

You can see a full collection of Greene’s work here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001IGV3IS/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=33a4f706-a8ef-4d25-8162-c1f038681070

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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On today’s episode Chris Lee, a former Green Beret turned life and mindset coach, shares his journey from serving as an 18 Delta, a Special Forces Medic, to transitioning into a career focused on coaching high performers and purpose-driven individuals. Marcus and Chris discuss the significance of actions over words, the challenges Chris faced during his 10-year military career, and the creation of his coaching business. Chris delves into his goal-setting methodology, the importance of establishing identity before setting goals, and how he helps clients achieve mental, physical, emotional, social, and financial balance. The episode also highlights Chris's darkest moments post-deployment, the significance of finding purpose, and the leadership lessons he learned from collaborating with Nick Lavery and SSLLC.

Episode Highlights:

02:10 The Journey of Becoming a Green Beret

09:05 Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield

13:51 Empowering Leadership in Business

27:42 The Importance of Identity in Goal Setting

35:28 The Value of Adversity and Physical Capability

40:02 Misconceptions About Special Forces

46:57 Finding Purpose After Military Service

Chris Lee is a former Special Forces Medical Sergeant turned Performance Coach, dedicated to helping others unlock their full potential. He believes that consistent, intentional action leads to exponential success—a mindset that carried him through the grueling Special Forces Qualification Course. From becoming a Green Beret to climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and launching his own business, Chris has proven that success is built on daily, disciplined effort. Now, he guides others in designing the life they want, creating actionable strategies to achieve it. His philosophy: investing in yourself doesn’t just change your life—it elevates everyone around you.

Learn more about Chris here: https://www.excellenceovermediocrity.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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On today’s episode Steven Pressfield shares the power of resistance and how creatives can overcome self-doubt. Listen in as Steven and I discuss the barriers we create for ourselves by giving into resistance, the excavating process of writing, and how continuing to write after success is an ongoing process of following your own compass.

Steven Pressfield is the author of The War of Art which has sold over a million copies globally and been translated into multiple languages. He is a master of historical fiction with Gates of Fire being on the required reading list at West Point and the recommended reading list of the Joint Chiefs. His other books include A Man at Arms, Turning Pro, Do the Work, The Artist's Journey, Tides of War, The Legend of Bagger Vance, Last of the Amazons, Virtues of War, The Afghan Campaign, Killing Rommel, The Profession, The Lion's Gate, The Warrior Ethos, The Authentic Swing, An American Jew, Nobody Wants to Read Your Sh*t, and The Knowledge.

His debut novel, The Legend of Bagger Vance was over 30 years in the making. He hasn't stopped writing since.

Steven lives and writes in California. You can follow him on IG @steven_pressfield. Sign up for his weekly writing newsletter at stevenpressfield.com

Donate to Steven’s GO FUND ME to rebuild after the California wildfires here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-steven-diana-rebuild-after-LA-fire-loss?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ...

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week on Acta Non Verba, Damon D'Amore, a seasoned advisor to Fortune 500 executives, shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and authenticity. With over 25 years of experience, Damon discusses the importance of self-leadership, adapting to adversity, and maintaining one's core values. He recounts his personal struggles, including a pivotal life crisis that redefined his perspective on business and life. The episode also explores the dynamics of female leadership, the role of storytelling in stakeholder communications, and the critical nature of making informed decisions in times of crisis.

Episode Highlights:

02:21 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership

14:27 The Power of Self-Leadership and Integrity

41:31 The Pendulum of Public Opinion and Female Leadership

45:19 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Workplace

47:04 Masculine vs. Feminine Leadership Narratives

51:18 Stakeholder Expectations and Leadership

Damon has spent more than 20 years working one-one-one with C-Suite leaders in Fortune 500 firms. His work focuses on psychological performance, crisis leadership and storytelling to gain stakeholder advocacy.

Damon speaks internationally on legacy, personal development, resilience, mindset, crisis leadership and applying the lessons of entrepreneurship to corporate environments.

Half of his clients are female leaders in the C-Suite.

You can learn more about Damon here: https://legacymentor.co/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week on Acta Non Verba, Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the concept of Dharma, exploring its various meanings in religions like Sikhism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, and simplifies it to purpose and nature. By sharing leadership lessons and stories, Marcus emphasizes adapting to and anticipating behavior based on true nature, rather than trying to change it. The episode concludes with actionable insights on identifying detrimental traits in yourself and others, removing toxic individuals from your life, and strategically leveraging true nature in relationships and business.

Episode Highlights:

01:24 Understanding Dharma

03:29 Stories of the Scorpion and Lessons on True Nature

06:58 Applying the Lessons in Real Life

11:17 Action Items for Personal Growth

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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On today’s episode, Daniele is sharing his views on Daoism, enlightenment, and radical kindness that bring greater understanding. Listen in as Daniele and I explore what happens when we romanticize the concept of religion and philosophy, how Daoism teaches you to get back up, and how creating his own understanding of actions and philosophy led to less anxiety and greater peace.

Daniele Bolelli is a writer, martial artist, and university professor. He was born in Italy and currently lives in Los Angeles.

His first solo book, "La Tenera Arte del Guerriero," was published when Bolelli was 22 years old. This work, which is a philosophical exploration of martial arts, went on to become a cult classic in Italy even outside the confines of martial arts circles.

His second book entitled "iGod: Istruzioni per l’Uso di una Religione Fai da Te" was published in Italy in 2011. This wild ride through comparative religion will be released in the United States in early 2013. Bolelli’s third book, "50 Things You’re Not Supposed To Know: Religion," was published in the United States in December 2011. Some of the most influential thinkers to have affected his world view include Tom Robbins, Friedrich Nietzsche, Ikkyu Sojun, Thomas Paine, Henry David Thoreau, Lao Tzu, and Heraclitus.

After graduating from UCLA with a B.A. in Anthropology, and earning graduate degrees at UCLA (in American Indian Studies) and CSULB (History), Bolelli began teaching at several colleges in Southern California. 

Bolelli was featured in "I Am Bruce Lee" which broke Spike TV’s rating record for documentaries. He has appeared as a guest on popular podcasts such as Duncan Trussell’s, Adam Carolla’s, and Joe Rogan’s.

You can learn more about Daniele at http://www.danielebolelli.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week on Acta Non Verba, Adam May discusses his journey of surviving cancer, battling mental health issues, and overcoming addiction. He shares insights from his new book 'A Fox in a Bear Trap,' which emphasizes the transformative power of asking for help and healing through vulnerability. The discussion covers personal development, leadership, and the importance of actionable steps in turning adversity into victory.

Episode Highlights:

16:25 The Make-A-Wish Experience and Its Impact

28:30 Struggles with Physical Limitations

31:13 Working with Adolescents and Young Adults

32:42 Personal Journey and Self-Discovery

34:22 Helping Others Navigate Life's Challenges

37:44 Misconceptions and Realities of Mental Health

Adam May, MS, is no stranger to life’s grueling battles. Diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma in 2005, he was hospitalized for 344 of 411 days and given just a 25% chance to live. But survival was only the beginning. Confronting survivor’s guilt, PTSD, anxiety, substance abuse, and obesity, Adam embarked on a journey to rebuild his life—body, mind, and spirit.

With over a decade of experience as a clinical provider, Adam has dedicated his career to helping others navigate their darkest moments. His struggles shaped a deep understanding of resilience, perseverance, and the power of asking for help. Unable to have children due to chemotherapy, Adam views writing as his legacy—a way to empower others to find strength in adversity.

Inspired by thinkers like Dale Carnegie and Viktor Frankl, Adam’s debut book, A Fox in a Bear Trap, explores vulnerability and transformation. Through his journey—including losing 150 pounds and becoming sober—Adam proves resilience can achieve the extraordinary.

You can read Adam’s book here: https://www.amazon.com/FOX-BEAR-TRAP-BOOK-HELP-ebook/dp/B0DR32LV3B?ref_=ast_author_mpb

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week on Acta Non Verba, we explore the world of music, art, and Adversity with Luis Guerra and Adrián Terrazas-González. Luis, a musician diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, shares his journey of integrating therapies and his creation, 'Breathe Into Life,' dedicated to holistic well-being. Grammy-winning musician Adrián Terrazas-González, who also battled cancer, discusses their transformative friendship and mutual growth. The show delves into their stories of Adversity, resilience, and the philosophies they adopt to turn challenges into victories. Emphasizing the power of breath and the mind, the conversation highlights the importance of adapting one’s skills under adverse conditions and inspiring others through authentic stories and music.

Episode Highlights:

02:04 Luis’ Journey and Collaboration

06:12 Adrián's Perspective and Musical Journey

20:45 Challenges and Inspirations in Music

36:53 Performing with Legends and Learning from Them

41:50 The Impact of Audience Size on Performances

46:32 Balancing Stress and Creativity

47:14 Coping Mechanisms for Soldiers and Law Enforcement

53:05 The Healing Power of Breath

01:03:06 The Role of Gratitude in Recovery

01:25:00 Impact of Adversity on Creativity

Luis Guerra is a Los Angeles-based music composer, arranger, and producer. He has worked extensively as a film composer and is an award-winning podcast composer. His credits include writing theme music for popular TV shows such as Ring City, film scores including Bernard and Huey and 18 ½, and podcasts such as Freakonomics Radio, Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History, Happy Forgetting, and No Stupid Questions. Currently, he is composing music for the Breathe Into Life podcast—stay tuned for more. 

Connect with Luis here: https://www.luisguerramusic.com/

Adrián Terrazas-González, born in Chihuahua, México, grew up immersed in the traditional music of Central America, discovering his passion for jazz and classical music at age 11. Inspired by Hubert Laws, he mastered the flute, tenor saxophone, and clarinet. In 2002, he overcame cancer and joined The Mars Volta in 2004, earning a GRAMMY in 2008. Now based in Los Angeles, he leads T.R.A.M. and collaborates with international musicians, touring extensively while teaching workshops worldwide. Terrazas-González’s career reflects a deep commitment to innovation and sharing music across cultures.

Connect with Adrián here: https://www.instagram.com/adrianterrazasofficial/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week on Acta Non Verba, I’m discussing the common practice of making New Year's resolutions, citing that 80% of people fail within two weeks. Rather than repeating the cycle, I have four transformational questions to help leaders align their goals with their vision and purpose. This episode provides an insight into the philosophies, tactics, and strategies used by successful leaders to overcome adversity and lead extraordinary lives.

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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In this episode Dr. Megan McElheran, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with uniformed service personnel delves into Dr. McElheran's development of upstream training programs aimed at preparing military and public safety professionals to manage stress before it becomes overwhelming. Marcus and Dr. McElheran explore the concepts of post-traumatic growth, the importance of action-oriented stoic philosophy, and practical steps for emotional regulation. Dr. McElheran shares her journey into psychology, the creation of the Before Operational Stress (BOS) program, and data-backed evidence of its effectiveness.

Episode Highlights:

12:45 The Role of Stoicism in Uniformed Services

24:28 The Importance of De-escalation and Self-Care

25:26 Training Gaps and Operational Stress

26:15 The Duality of Tactical Skills and Trauma

32:43 Facing Fear and Taking Action

Dr. Megan McElheran is a dedicated trauma therapist specializing in helping first responders, active-duty members of the Canadian Forces, and community members navigate the aftermath of traumatic events. With expertise in evidence-based practices such as Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Megan provides a safe, structured environment for clients to process and heal. Her work emphasizes resilience and the profound capacity for change, as shared in her 2011 TEDx talk, Trauma, Change, and Resilience. Megan’s compassionate approach empowers individuals to rebuild their lives, transforming the impact of trauma into growth and strength.

You can learn more about Dr. McElheran here: https://www.wayfound.ca/dr-megan-mcelheran

Take the course with discount code BOSPOD: https://education.beforeoperationalstress.com/pages/our-courses

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the theme of endurance, drawing lessons from historical and contemporary figures. He discusses the incredible resilience of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew during the Trans Antarctic Expedition, and highlights how modern-day warriors like Juan Pablo Quiñonez and Dean Stott overcame extreme challenges through endurance. Marcus outlines two key steps to building real-world endurance: setting a huge goal with a compelling why and training harder than ever before.

Episode Highlights:

03:24 Lessons from Sir Ernest Shackleton

06:52 Juan Pablo's Unconventional Strategies

09:09 Dean Stott's Record-Breaking Journey

09:51 Steps to Building Real-World Endurance

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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In this episode Juan Pablo Quiñonez, winner of the ninth season of the survival TV series 'Alone,’ shares his unique approach to wilderness survival, resilience, and embracing adversity. Raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, and trained with the French Foreign Legion, Juan Pablo discusses his journey from a love for nature to surviving solo for 78 days in the subarctic lands of Labrador. The conversation delves into his strategic decisions during the show, such as fasting and drinking unboiled water, and the broader philosophies of resilience, leadership, and the interconnectedness of life. Juan Pablo also talks about his current project, starting a homestead, and his upcoming book that explores the meta-crisis facing our civilization.

Episode Highlights:

07:03 Survival Challenges and Strategies

32:12 The Illusion of Goals and Fulfillment

33:43 The Importance of Process Over Goals

41:28 Compassion and Empathy in Survival

50:18 Navigating Complex Problems with Love

Juan Pablo Quiñonez is a survival specialist and outdoor professional with over 10 years of experience in outdoor recreation and survival. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership.

His outdoor and survival experiences include backpacking the entire Pacific Crest Trail (2650 mi) in 99 days; paddling over 1,500 miles during numerous whitewater and flatwater trips (including the Hayes River to Hudson Bay); living for six months in the wild with his partner, Jennifer Ford, foraging to complement their semi-starvation rations; and spending 100 days foraging in solitude during the boreal winter (supported only by small rations); and being a participant in Season 9 of the hit survival series Alone.

He is the author of Thrive: Long-Term Wilderness Survival Guide

You can learn more here: https://jpquinonez.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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In this episode Dean Stott, a former British Special Forces soldier, world record-setting cyclist, and mindset coach discusses his journey from the military to private security and achieving a world record in cycling. Dean shares his views on the importance of adaptability, the danger of stagnation, and the necessity of pushing out of one’s comfort zone. Key highlights include his charitable efforts with the mental health campaign Heads Together and his insights into coping with post-achievement voids. The conversation also delves into the Blue Rose Foundation's work against human trafficking and Dean's involvement in the Netflix series, 'Toughest Forces on Earth.'

Episode Highlights:

06:30 The Importance of Resilience

10:13 Dean Stott's Incredible Bike Ride

16:04 Raising Awareness and Funds for Mental Health

32:45 Understanding the Void in Success

33:59 Balancing Success and Family

36:52 Facing Hardships and Moving Forward

42:14 The Journey to TV and Toughest Forces

51:18 The Blue Rose Foundation

In everything he does, Dean Stott draws on a colorful and dramatic personal journey. A former soldier in the Special Boat Service (SBS), his military career was ended by a parachuting accident in 2011. He quickly transitioned to the private security sector, where he carved out a reputation for being willing to take on any job, no matter how dangerous. He has since become a record-breaking explorer and adventurer, while establishing a successful career as a motivational speaker.

Learn more about Dean here: https://www.deanstott.com/

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.