The Adversity Advantage with Doug Bopst
Doug Bopst
The Adversity Advantage is where life’s hardest struggles become your greatest strengths. Each week, host Doug Bopst — a former felon and addict who used fitness to save his life — brings you raw, powerful conversations with world-class experts and thought leaders.
From Andrew Huberman to Mel Robbins, Gabby Bernstein, Gabor Maté, Robert Greene, Rich Roll, Kevin O’Leary, and more - you’ll hear the untold stories of how they turned setbacks into comebacks.
You’ll also walk away with practical, everyday tools to help you: build resilience in the face of adversity, rewire your brain and body for growth, strengthen relationships and mental health, transform your health, recover from addiction and unlock the discipline to create the life you want.
From Andrew Huberman to Mel Robbins, Gabby Bernstein, Gabor Maté, Robert Greene, Rich Roll, Kevin O’Leary, and more - you’ll hear the untold stories of how they turned setbacks into comebacks.
You’ll also walk away with practical, everyday tools to help you: build resilience in the face of adversity, rewire your brain and body for growth, strengthen relationships and mental health, transform your health, recover from addiction and unlock the discipline to create the life you want.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 15, 2025 • 1h 3min
CIA Spy: The Fastest Way To Master Your Mind, Erase Fear & Outsmart Anyone | Andrew Bustamante
Andrew Bustamante, a former covert CIA intelligence officer and founder of EverydaySpy.com, shares his thrilling experiences and insights. He discusses how mastering fear on dangerous missions can help erase anxiety. Bustamante reveals a secret CIA skill to outsmart anyone and the importance of discipline shaped by stress inoculation. He also offers a survival toolkit for emergencies and highlights global relocation opportunities for families. With practical tips, he inspires personal growth and resilience through understanding and mindset.
15 snips
Sep 13, 2025 • 1h 17min
The Golden Rules Of Building Muscle and Losing Fat At The Same Time | Dr. Joey Munoz
Dr. Joey Munoz, a Ph.D. in Nutritional Science and founder of Fit4Life Academy, shares his expertise on achieving muscle growth while losing fat. He debunks myths around body composition and emphasizes its importance for health beyond just weight loss. Topics include effective training strategies, the impact of excess body fat on inflammation, and the mental aspects of body image. Joey also highlights the significance of sustainable practices, balanced nutrition, and finding joy in the fitness journey, making wellness feel achievable and enjoyable.
7 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 43min
How Love Dies: 13 Harsh Relationship Truths That Nobody Wants To Hear | Adam Lane Smith
In this engaging discussion, Adam Lane Smith, an attachment coach and relationship expert, shares his insights on love and relationships. He reveals the harsh truth about why passion fades and how to reignite it. Adam emphasizes the distinction between being 'nice' and 'kind,' while highlighting how validation-seeking ruins connections. The conversation dives into the importance of effective communication and how conflict can actually strengthen bonds. Learn how to navigate emotional dynamics and build trust for healthier relationships!
Sep 8, 2025 • 49min
Signs You're Stuck In Survival Mode & How To End Your Anxiety For Good | Dr. Russell Kennedy
Dr. Russell Kennedy, known as “The Anxiety MD,” is an expert in helping people overcome anxiety disorders and has a unique background that includes comedy and meditation. He shares insights on recognizing when you're stuck in survival mode and the importance of feeling safe in your body for healing. The discussion covers techniques for managing anxiety, including reconnecting with your inner child, embracing neuroplasticity, and using mindfulness practices. Kennedy emphasizes the need for holistic approaches to truly combat anxiety and thrive in life.
Sep 6, 2025 • 47min
#1 Burnout Expert: How To Cure Brain Fog & Reverse Exhaustion | Dr. Claire Plumbly
Dr. Claire Plumbley, founder of Plum Psychology and an expert in burnout and stress management, discusses the alarming burnout epidemic and its connection to trauma. She reveals what brain fog truly is and how it affects our cognition. Claire emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and community support in overcoming exhaustion. She also offers practical strategies to regain energy, underscores the necessity of compassionate decision-making, and debunks myths surrounding burnout, advocating for holistic recovery and self-compassion.
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 7min
From $0 To Millions: How Maxx Chewning Got Rich Without A Single Morning Routine
Maxx Chewning, a fitness influencer and founder of Sour Strips, shares his journey from nothing to millions. He discusses how traditional advice can hold you back and reveals why a lack of structure worked for him. Maxx opens up about the importance of authenticity in content creation and the emotional impact of losing a parent. He emphasizes embracing chaos and spontaneity over rigid routines while highlighting the mantra 'ever forward,' inspired by his father's military influence, to encourage resilience and continuous progress.
Sep 1, 2025 • 53min
#1 Transformation Expert: Why "The Biggest Loser" Failed & The Best Way To Lose 50+ Pounds | Chris Powell
Chris Powell, personal trainer and transformation expert known for ABC’s Extreme Weight Loss, discusses the downfall of The Biggest Loser and the ethical dilemmas of reality weight loss shows. He explains his evolved philosophy on weight loss, emphasizing identity change and sustainable practices over extreme measures. Chris critiques the psychological impacts of competitive weight loss, advocating for a compassionate, holistic approach that includes balanced eating and accountability in achieving lasting results.
17 snips
Aug 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
From Rock Bottom to Rockstar: Morgan Wade's Powerful Story of Sobriety, Transformation & Reinvention
Morgan Wade, a rising Country and Americana singer-songwriter, shares her gripping journey of sobriety and transformation. She discusses the challenges of maintaining sobriety while touring and how discipline and fitness have anchored her recovery. Wade candidly addresses the pressures of comparison in the music industry and the importance of self-reflection. She also highlights lessons learned from touring with icons like Alanis Morissette and Joan Jett, emphasizing the power of kindness and perseverance in her music career.
Aug 28, 2025 • 1h 7min
Neuroscientist: How To Rewire Your Brain After Trauma & Manifest Your Dreams | Dr. Tara Swart
Dr. Tara Swart, a neuroscientist and leadership advisor from MIT Sloan, discusses her journey of healing after loss and the power of community support. She reveals how to rewire your brain to overcome trauma and manifest dreams, backed by science. Tara dives into the concept of having more than five human senses, the gut-brain connection, and the importance of gratitude in boosting mental health. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their emotional experiences, utilize creativity, and trust their intuition for personal growth.
Aug 25, 2025 • 1h 27min
Signs You Were Raised By A Narcissist & How To Heal From A Damaging Childhood | Dr. Jerry Wise
Dr. Jerry Wise, a leading voice in family systems, shares his extensive insights on the impact of being raised by narcissists. He identifies subtle signs of such upbringings, the differences between strict and narcissistic control, and how these experiences affect adult relationships. The conversation covers the journey from self-blame to healing, the critical unmet needs of children from toxic families, and offers strategies for breaking unhealthy patterns. Wise emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and setting boundaries to reclaim personal power.
