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
13 snips
Aug 23, 2025 • 57min
Proven Strategies for Accelerating Fat Loss & Slowing Aging | Dr. Vonda Wright
Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon and longevity expert, shares transformative insights on aging and fat loss. She reveals a groundbreaking 30-second sprinting technique that trumps long-distance running. Discussing proper nutrition, she debunks myths around protein and carbs, emphasizing muscle over mere weight metrics. Vonda explores how stress and trauma impact aging and promotes sustainable wellness practices. Listeners gain practical strategies for improving health, highlighting the vital interplay of exercise, hormones, and mental resilience.
Aug 21, 2025 • 58min
Stop Settling: How To Defeat Self-Sabotage, Toxic Love & Emotional Pain | Case Kenny
Case Kenny, an entrepreneur and author of 'The Opposite of Settling,' joins the discussion to unpack the perplexities of modern love. He analyzes why good people often find themselves in toxic relationships and advocates for embracing one's uniqueness within partnerships. Kenny encourages a playful approach to love, emphasizing emotional honesty as a strength, and redefines vulnerability in men. Listeners will learn to navigate relationship challenges while prioritizing self-worth and mutual respect.
Aug 18, 2025 • 58min
How Erase The Fear That's Secretly Destroying Your Potential & Confidence | Dr. Michael Gervais
Dr. Michael Gervais, a high-performance sports psychologist, shares insights on overcoming the fear of people's opinions that can stunt confidence and potential. He discusses finding purpose in adversity and the importance of resilience and self-awareness. Gervais redefines failure and success, emphasizing personal growth over traditional metrics. He highlights the fragility of time, the power of presence, and the rising mental health challenges children face, advocating for mindfulness and support.
7 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 56min
How To Skyrocket Your Energy Levels & Transform Your Health | Dan Garner
Dan Garner, founder of Team Garner, Inc. and expert trainer for professional athletes, shares powerful insights to boost energy and health. He reveals the root causes of chronic fatigue and emphasizes the importance of mindset and recovery tools. Discover how stress negatively affects health and why understanding blood biomarkers can transform your wellness journey. Garner also discusses innovative fat loss strategies and the critical role of journaling in personal growth, sleep quality, and overall cognitive performance.
15 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 48min
The #1 Reason You’re Afraid to Change & How to Finally Get Unstuck In Life | Ken Coleman
Ken Coleman, a bestselling author and career coach, shares invaluable insights on overcoming the fear of change. He discusses why many feel stuck, emphasizing the importance of confidence and skill-building. Listeners learn how to navigate career shifts with calculated risks and the value of networking effectively. Coleman also addresses the emotional toll of unfulfilling work, urging individuals to focus on clarity and personal goals. His advice on creating supportive connections and maintaining a curious mindset is a recipe for true fulfillment.
Aug 11, 2025 • 1h 19min
Struggling With Your Mental Health? - Here's How To Fix It For Good | Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring, a board-certified psychiatrist and expert on psychiatric drug side effects, shares insightful perspectives on mental health. He challenges common beliefs about depression and anxiety, emphasizing personal control and holistic approaches. The conversation explores the loneliness epidemic fueled by social media, the need for meaningful relationships, and the critical link between mental and physical health. Dr. Witt-Doerring also critiques the focus on quick fixes in the healthcare system, advocating for deeper patient dialogues and sustainable solutions.
9 snips
Aug 9, 2025 • 51min
How To Lose 20+ Pounds of Fat Without Losing Muscle | Ebenezer Samuel
Ebenezer Samuel, the fitness director for Men’s Health and a veteran trainer, shares his expertise on losing fat while maintaining muscle. He discusses sustainable diet strategies like the 80-20 rule and emphasizes the importance of gradual changes in fitness habits. Throughout the conversation, he highlights workout intensity and the significance of tracking caloric intake. Samuel also reflects on unforgettable moments with icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger, underscoring how personal narratives shape our fitness journeys.
Aug 7, 2025 • 49min
The Real Reason You Continue To Numb The Pain & 3 Steps To Finally Break Free From Addiction | Ryan Soave
Ryan Soave, a licensed mental health counselor and trauma therapist, shares insights on the hidden struggles of high-functioning individuals with addiction. He discusses his three-step framework for breaking free from numbing behaviors and emphasizes the deep connection between trauma and addiction. The conversation highlights the importance of mindfulness, emotional resilience, and community support in recovery. Soave also delves into why 12-step programs may not resonate with everyone, advocating for a more personalized approach to healing.
11 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 37min
Neuroscientist: The Fastest Way To Rewire Your Brain Your & Erase Anxiety, Stress & Negative Thoughts | Dr. Caroline Leaf
In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Caroline Leaf, a cognitive neuroscientist and best-selling author, unpacks the nuances between the brain and the mind. She shares insights on how to quickly rewire your brain to escape panic mode and transform toxic thought loops into personal growth. Dr. Leaf emphasizes the mind-body connection in stress responses and offers practical techniques for self-regulation. Her 'neurocycle' method provides a structured approach to managing thoughts and emotions, paving the way for lasting mental resilience.
Aug 2, 2025 • 1h 6min
The No BS Guide To Building Muscle Without Gaining Fat | Dr. Allan Bacon
Dr. Allan Bacon, a certified personal trainer and nutritionist, dives into the crucial balance between muscle building and fat loss. He emphasizes that focusing on muscle gain is key to long-term health, especially as we age. The discussion reveals common myths about protein intake and debunks misconceptions regarding fasting and ice baths. Allan also shares effective workout strategies and the importance of tracking dietary habits for optimal muscle growth. His insights encourage a realistic approach to fitness, prioritizing health over aesthetics.
