The Hard Way w/ Joe De Sena

In this captivating episode, cognitive specialist Dr. Brandon Orr and Spartan founder Joe De Sena dive deep into the neuroscience behind unlocking your brain's full potential.
 
Discover proven strategies to build unbreakable mental resilience, conquer self-doubt and anxiety, and develop the grit and determination of elite performers.
 
Learn how to silence your inner critic and unleash your true capabilities. This is a must-listen for anyone striving to optimize their cognitive function and reach new heights of success.
 
Highlights:

00:00 Intro
00:56 What is a cognitive performance specialist?
03:12 The stigma around mental hea...

Discover the secrets of elite performers straight from a Special Forces expert!
 
In this episode, Dr. Reginald O'Hara who has been working with special forces in the Department of Defense for 23 years. reveals how top soldiers push their limits and stay sharp. He explains game-changing techniques to boost your own performance, from breathing tricks to recovery hacks.
 
Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you achieve more. Find out how to train like a warrior, recover like a pro, and unlock your fu...

Most people struggle with low energy, willpower, and motivation. But what if you could feel energized and excited about life again?
 
In this episode, former pro soccer player turned health entrepreneur Yuri Elkaim shares his unexpected journey from playing on the world stage to finding a new purpose through wellness.
 
Yuri reveals the single change that transformed his life - and it can change yours in just one week. Discover why facing fears is so important for success and happiness.
 
Plus, Spartan CEO Joe De Sena dives into the power of helping others and...

In this episode, fitness mogul Tom Dowd reveals how he went from working long hours in his family's supermarket business to partnering with Mark Wahlberg and saving struggling franchise F45.
 
Growing up instilled a strong work ethic in Dowd, but his biggest test came when he took over F45 in crisis. Through strategic partnerships, focusing on culture, and his relentless drive, Dowd engineered an incredible turnaround.
 
Tune in to hear directly from Dowd as he opens up about lessons from his past and shares the tactics that transformed both his career and the fitness industry, pu...

In this episode, Joe De Sena, chats with his friend Kalojan Georgiev, currently residing in Zanzibar. Kalojan provides an engaging insight into the untapped potential of Zanzibar as a prime investment destination and a wonderful place to live.   Kalojan highlights the significant return on investment in Zanzibar, which can reach up to 15-20%, far exceeding returns in more developed regions. He explains the unique appeal of Zanzibar for tourists and investors alike, emphasizing its growing tourism industry and the high demand for quality accommodations.   Kalojan also shares his personal lifestyle in Zanzibar, balancing work, family, and a range of outdoor ac...

Meet the world's toughest inspiration - 98-year-old Lala LaLanne!
In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with the fitness legend to uncover her secrets to breaking records, crushing workouts, and staying motivated well into her 90s.
 
Listen as Elaine shares incredible stories of her and her late husband Jack's accomplishments over the decades. She'll also give you an inside look at her current mission - rallying people worldwide to shatter her record of 2,251 jumping jacks.
 
If you want to add years to your life and life to your years, you don't want to mi...

Tired of feeling stuck in a rut? Discover how taking on new challenges can make you feel alive again at any age.
 
In this empowering episode, Gwendolyn Bounds shares how she conquered self-doubt and found her inner athlete later in life. She discusses her transformation from a sedentary to a competitive obstacle course racer through grit and community support.

Gwendolyn Bounds is an award-winning journalist and author whose career spans media brands including The Wall Street Journal, ABC News, Consumer Reports, CNBC, SmartNews, and more.

Her latest book “NOT TOO LATE: The Power of...

Joe and Zackary delve into the powerful symbolism behind carrying a couch through Spartan Races, a tribute to those struggling with addiction and a call to leave comfort for the community. Zach shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and physical challenges, emphasizing the importance of helping others, especially adaptive athletes, to conquer obstacles.
 
The conversation touches on modern issues like the dangers of fentanyl, the impact of simulated experiences on youth, and the need for real connections. With heartfelt anecdotes and practical wisdom, Joe and Zach inspire listeners to push beyond their limits and support one a...

When Kristin Smedley's young son was diagnosed as blind, she was devastated. But rather than accepting limits, she became fiercely determined to give him every opportunity. Tapping into creative problem-solving skills from her own athletic past, Kristin empowered her son to navigate life fearlessly.
 
Through using all available tools and relentless advocacy, her sons thrived academically against all odds. But Kristin's vision didn't stop there. She now inspires others through her nonprofit, proving disability is no barrier to success with the right mindset and support.
 
Hear Kristin's incredible story - from the shock of her so...

Tired of just getting by each day without making progress toward your goals? Learn how one man used an unconventional morning routine to overcome a near-death experience, beat cancer against all odds, and write a bestselling book impacting millions.
 
Hal Elrod shares his strategies for developing resilience in the face of adversity, finding peace within through acceptance, and taking back control of your health and wellness. Discover the simple daily practices that comprise Hal's Miracle Morning ritual and how you can start your own ritual today to see positive changes in 90 days.
 
This inspiring episode wi...