Apogee Strong

Do you struggle to connect with your partner and truly understand their needs? Many men find themselves trying to "fix" problems instead of truly listening and validating their partner's emotions. This can lead to frustration, disconnection, and the breakdown of the relationship. Relationships require a lot of effort and dedication. They can be challenging to maintain because they involve navigating different needs and emotions. Larry Hagner is a relationship expert on a mission to transform the way men approach marriage and fatherhood. As the founder of The Dad Edge, he helps husbands and fathers navigate the complexities of intimate relationships and raise the next generation of leaders. Today, Larry shares his expertise on building and maintaining healthy marriages and families. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I prioritize my marriage over parenting. I know some people hear that and think, 'What the hell?' To me, it's not strange at all.’” – Larry Hagner “Emotions are neither bad nor good. They just are.” – Larry Hagner “I need to show these young men what it looks like to love a woman: how she's treated, how I love her, how I'm affectionate with her, how I communicate with her, and how I handle conflict resolution.” – Larry Hagner “Education is about who gets to transfer their way of life to your kids.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Prioritize your marriage over parenting - make your relationship with your spouse the foundation for a healthy family. Validate your partner's emotions, don't try to immediately fix the problem. Use phrases like "That sounds really hard" to create a safe space for them to open up. Teach your children what a healthy, loving relationship looks like through your own marriage. Be intentional about modeling respect, affection, and conflict resolution. Regularly check in with your partner and ask if they need you to listen and validate their feelings, or if they want you to help problem-solve. Adjust your approach based on their needs in the moment. Implement financial literacy lessons with your kids, even at a young age. Sit down weekly to discuss budgeting, saving, and the value of money - equipping them with crucial life skills. Conclusion: Prioritizing your marital relationship, developing emotional intelligence, and teaching valuable life skills to children are essential for a healthy family dynamic. These efforts strengthen bonds, promote understanding, and prepare children for success. Together, they create a foundation for lasting relationships and personal growth within the family.

Struggling to find balance as a woman while trying to reclaim your power and make a meaningful impact can be challenging. The desire to serve others often clashes with the need to prioritize self-care, leading to feelings of being stretched too thin. It’s hard to juggle these responsibilities while staying true to your personal well-being and greater purpose. Visionary coach and leader Jessie Torres is on a mission to help women alchemize their pain into power and cultivate soulful, impactful leadership. With a background in overcoming trauma and an abusive marriage, Jessie has developed a transformative approach to reconnecting women with their authentic, sensual selves and bridging the gap between love and business. Today, she discusses her holistic approach to helping women "alchemize" their pain into power and cultivate soulful, impactful leadership. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Guilt is never the right answer. If your ‘no’ is a no, you are beautiful, magnificent, and wonderful. It's okay to say, ‘That's a no for me.’” – Jessie Torres “Love is an act. Sometimes, saying no is the greatest act of love.” – Jessie Torres “Wealth follows service. When you make an emotional connection, when you feel the desire to come alive and want that for others because you know they are suffering, it will drive what you do.” – Jessie Torres “The resistance is the fear of leaving the problem we're currently in because we feel like we can manage that and live with it.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Define what love means to you - is saying "no" sometimes the greatest act of love? Reflect on how you can set boundaries with love. Identify where you may be resisting the next level of growth or transformation in your life. What fears are holding you back from living fully? Examine your relationship with guilt. Challenge the notion that guilt is a necessary emotion when setting boundaries or prioritizing self-care. Consider how you can model healthy boundary-setting and resilience for the young people in your life. What lessons do you want to teach through your actions? Reflect on your "why" - what is the deeper purpose or desire that drives you to serve others? Stay connected to that as the foundation for your work and business. Conclusion: Transforming pain into purpose, setting boundaries with love, and cultivating resilience are powerful strategies for personal growth and effective coaching. By turning challenges into meaningful goals and maintaining compassionate boundaries, individuals can build strength in themselves and those they guide. These practices not only foster personal development but also enhance the overall coaching experience.

It's common to feel like external circumstances or societal norms are hindering personal growth. Many people encounter obstacles that seem insurmountable, often due to systemic issues or traditional expectations. However, recognizing these barriers can be the first step toward overcoming them, whether through self-reflection, seeking supportive communities, or challenging the norms. By focusing on personal strengths and setting clear goals, it's possible to carve out a path that aligns with your true potential. Dale Dupree is a sales rebel on a mission to transform an industry plagued by manipulation and empty promises. As the son of an entrepreneurial trailblazer, Dale learned early on that the traditional path isn't always the right one. He's built a thriving sales community centered on authenticity, service, and personal growth. Today, Dale discusses his family legacy and early influences, his transition from music to sales and business leadership, and much more. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “My rebellion is built on hope, not on pitchforks, flamethrowers, or burning down everything in my path.” – Dale Dupree “Good leaders sacrifice. We sacrifice comfort and the status quo because we don't want to conform to them. We challenge the myths around discomfort and push beyond them.” – Dale Dupree “There are no shortcuts or hacks for it. The one thing I would encourage people to think differently about is this: What are the things in your life that are going to be permanent?” – Dale Dupree “We often think of being rebellious in a negative way, defining it as going against a status quo that should exist. However, sometimes being rebellious and leading is really hard.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Cultivate a "rebellion built on hope" - Identify areas where you can challenge the status quo in a positive, constructive way to drive change. Embrace mistakes and failures as opportunities for growth - Distinguish between permanent failures and temporary setbacks that can make you better. Surround yourself with a community of supportive, like-minded peers - Seek out mentors and friends who are going through similar struggles and can provide accountability. Prioritize authenticity and service over sales tactics - Focus on providing an excellent experience and truly understanding your customers' needs. Invest time in your spiritual life and relationship with God - Develop a daily practice of seeking guidance, wisdom and strength through prayer and reflection. Conclusion: Authentic leadership, learning from mistakes, and maintaining a strong spiritual foundation are key to personal and professional growth. These principles foster resilience, guide decision-making, and help individuals lead with integrity. By embracing them, one can create a lasting impact and navigate challenges with confidence and purpose.

A holistic healthcare provider offers unique insights on navigating the evolving landscape of modern medicine by emphasizing a balance between traditional treatments and natural approaches. They focus on treating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—rather than just symptoms. With the rapid advancements in medicine, holistic providers advocate for patient-centered care, prevention, and the integration of lifestyle changes to support overall well-being. Dr. Kyle Gillett is a holistic, integrative healthcare provider who takes a comprehensive approach to patient care, addressing the body, mind, and soul. With a background in homeschooling and working alongside his father in the medical field, Dr. Gillett has developed a unique perspective on personalized healthcare and patient empowerment. Today, Dr. Gillett discusses his focus on preventative medicine, longevity, and the importance of addressing physical, mental, and spiritual health in tandem. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “The best diet is one you can stick to in the long run, that's sustainable, and consists of mostly whole foods—at least 80%, if not 90%.” – Dr. Kyle Gillett “God has given us the tools to have dominion over nature, and part of that is using our knowledge of pharmacology for good—improving our health spans and those of our family, friends, and communities.” – Dr. Kyle Gillett “The more natural you are and the more you return to the mean in those circumstances, the better.” – Dr. Kyle Gillett Takeaways: Establish trust and rapport with patients/clients by meeting them where they are and taking the time to explain things in a personalized way, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Consider evaluating your own health and wellness through the lens of "medication" rather than just "vaccinations/immunizations" - this can help provide a more holistic perspective. Optimize your sleep quality and quantity, as it plays a crucial role in hormonal health and overall wellbeing. Consider using sleep tracking devices or getting a sleep study done. When it comes to your diet and nutrition, focus on consuming mostly whole, minimally processed foods (80-90%) for long-term sustainability and health benefits. Explore how you can use your knowledge and resources to not only improve your own health span, but also positively impact the health of your family, friends, and community. Conclusion: In conclusion, a holistic and personalized approach to healthcare is essential, as it considers the interconnected aspects of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. By addressing all of these areas, individuals can achieve more balanced and comprehensive health. This approach promotes lasting wellness and a better quality of life.

Building financial literacy and generational wealth for your family can be overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of credit, real estate, and business funding. The intricacies of these areas often pose significant challenges, making it difficult to create a solid financial foundation. Balancing these elements while striving for long-term wealth requires careful planning and understanding. Herman Dolce Jr. is a trailblazing entrepreneur and financial literacy advocate who is transforming the lives of young people and families. Today, Herman talks about the crucial role of mentorship, the importance of instilling financial literacy from a young age, the strategic use of business credit and alternative funding sources, the value of curating one's social media circles, and the mindset of embracing failure as a path to mastery. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Mentors are the cheat code. Sometimes you have to pay mentors, but you're paying to learn from their mistakes, so you don't have to make them yourself.” – Herman Dolce Jr. “Recessions are the Black Friday for the rich.” – Herman Dolce Jr. “There is a king and a fool in every man. The one you speak to is the one who responds.” – Herman Dolce Jr. “If I could change one aspect of human nature, it would be people’s ability to execute on the knowledge they have.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Identify and connect with mentors who have achieved the level of success you aspire to. Prioritize learning from their experiences and mistakes. Start building financial literacy and good financial habits early, even with young children. Teach them about concepts like LLCs, assets, and credit. Leverage business credit and alternative funding sources, such as private money and grants, to acquire real estate and other assets. Diversify your funding approach. Audit your social media circles and intentionally follow influential figures in the finance, entrepreneurship, and real estate spaces. Use these platforms as tools for learning and growth. Embrace the mindset of "hurry up and fail" - be willing to take calculated risks and learn from your mistakes quickly. This will accelerate your path to mastery. Conclusion: Strategic mentorship, financial literacy, and early education are crucial for building wealth and assets. Understanding these elements helps individuals make informed decisions and effectively leverage diverse funding sources. By combining these strategies, one can create a solid foundation for long-term financial success and growth.

As a creative professional, it can be tough to overcome resistance, develop discipline, and strike the right balance between passion and preparation. The creative process often comes with its own set of challenges, from battling procrastination to managing the demands of your craft. Finding that balance between inspiration and the structure needed to bring your ideas to life can sometimes feel like an ongoing challenge. David Garibaldi is a trailblazing artist, educator, and entrepreneur who has carved out a unique niche in the world of performance art. Today, David talks about his journey from high school dropout to successful artist and educator, sharing insights on overcoming resistance, developing discipline, and harnessing the power of creativity, storytelling, and imagination to build a fulfilling career and inspire others. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I only choose to put energy into things that are worth reaching the action phase. If I'm willing to be disciplined and show up at 8:30 a.m. every day for it, then it's worth moving on to the next step.” – David Garibaldi “I don't decide if it's great or not, but people will. That realization gave me peace while being on this journey.” – David Garibaldi “Imagination is influenced by your openness, awareness, and observations in the world. It's affected by so many things, mostly by what you're taking in on a daily basis because that’s what fuels your imagination.” – David Garibaldi Takeaways: Reflect on your own educational journey and consider how your character, relationships, and discipline have contributed to your success, even if your path was unconventional. Identify areas in your life where you can give yourself dedicated "experimental" time to explore new ideas, without the pressure of immediate results or perfection. Audit the content and influences you're exposing yourself to on a daily basis and consider how they may be shaping your imagination and creative potential. Explore ways to incorporate your passions and creative skills into your current work or business, rather than viewing them as separate pursuits. Challenge yourself to set deadlines and commit to creative projects, even if they don't immediately align with your primary goals - the discipline and process can be invaluable. Conclusion: Developing character, discipline, and a growth mindset is essential for achieving lasting success in both creative pursuits and life. These qualities build resilience, foster personal growth, and help individuals overcome challenges. By focusing on these traits, one can create a strong foundation for sustained success and fulfillment.

Understanding the difference between being a teacher and an educator is important. While a teacher focuses on delivering content, an educator creates a learning environment that encourages curiosity, open-mindedness, and respectful discussions. Fostering these qualities in educational settings helps students think critically and engage deeply with the material. Creating such an environment not only enhances learning but also prepares students to contribute thoughtfully to society. Will Reusch is a pioneering educator on a mission to transform how history and civics are taught. Frustrated by the disconnect between traditional curricula and students' real-world concerns, he developed an innovative approach that brings the past to life through engaging analogies and Socratic questioning. Today, Will talks about his journey from avoiding hardships as a young man to becoming an educator focused on connecting academic content to students' lives and fostering open-minded, civil discourse. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I think that taking the approach of asking questions is the best way to navigate.” – Will Reusch “The school didn't connect. The teachers didn't relate what I was learning in a history class to my life as a teenager.” – Will Reusch “I think we're all just kind of stumbling around this together, so stay curious.” – Will Reusch Takeaways: Embrace doing hard things - start small and incrementally increase difficulty to build resilience and personal growth. Ask yourself "What is one hard thing I can do today to challenge myself?" Cultivate intellectual humility, genuine curiosity, and grace when engaging in discussions, especially around controversial topics. Seek to understand different perspectives, even if you disagree. As an educator, focus on connecting curriculum to students' real lives and experiences. Use metaphors, analogies, and Socratic questioning to make learning relevant and thought-provoking. Prioritize creating a culture of open dialogue and civil discourse in educational settings. Set clear expectations around intellectual safety vs. ideological safety. Consider supplementing traditional education with alternative, flexible learning platforms that allow for personalized pacing and depth of study. Explore opportunities to collaborate across educational models. Conclusion: Connecting content to students' lives, fostering critical thinking, and maintaining an environment of curiosity and civil discourse are essential for effective education. These practices not only engage students but also encourage deeper understanding and respectful dialogue. By integrating these approaches, educators can create a more dynamic and impactful learning experience.

Fostering resilience and finding meaning in setbacks involves reflecting on the challenges we face and using them as opportunities for growth. Embracing a positive mindset and learning from difficulties can help build strength and adaptability. Seeking support and staying focused on long-term goals also play crucial roles in navigating and overcoming obstacles. Brendan Schaub is a former UFC fighter, successful entrepreneur, and devoted father who has mastered the art of reinvention. After a promising athletic career, he faced setbacks and adversity that could have derailed him. Instead, he channeled that intensity into building a thriving media empire and becoming a role model for the next generation of men. Today, Brendan talks about his journey as a father, the importance of work ethic and perseverance, and how he has overcome challenges and adversity throughout his life and career. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I'm willing to do things that others aren't. When you stop, I don't. When you sleep, I'm not. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to get to where I think I can go.” – Brendan Schaub “If you're worried about pleasing everybody, you're never going to get where you need to go.” – Brendan Schaub “Once you believe in yourself as much as I believe in you, the sky is the limit.” – Brendan Schaub Takeaways: Develop an unrelenting work ethic and commitment to your goals, no matter the obstacles. Don't be afraid to go against the grain and be an "outlier" or "zebra" - stay true to yourself and your values, even when it's unpopular. As a parent, focus on instilling the right mindset and work ethic in your children, rather than just giving them everything. Make them earn it. Reflect on your past failures and challenges - they can become the fuel that propels you forward if you approach them with the right mindset. Be present and savor the meaningful moments in life, especially with your family. Don't get so caught up in constantly striving that you miss out on cherishing the journey. Conclusion: In conclusion, cultivating a strong work ethic, maintaining a positive mindset, and staying authentic are vital in any role, whether as a father, entrepreneur, or athlete. Embracing challenges, taking accountability, and turning setbacks into opportunities for growth are key to achieving success. Finding purpose, staying true to one's values, and leading by example, even during difficult times, are essential for meaningful progress and resilience.

The pursuit of personal growth and leadership development is a journey that often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges directly. It requires pushing beyond your perceived limits and being open to new experiences and learning opportunities. Embracing these challenges can lead to significant personal and professional growth. By continuously striving to improve and adapt, you build the skills and confidence needed to become a more effective leader. Nicholas Leo is a 16-year-old ultra-runner who is redefining what's possible for young people. While most of his peers are content with sedentary lifestyles, he has pushed his body and mind to the limit, completing grueling 60+ mile races through extreme conditions. Today, Nicholas talks about his experiences training for and competing in ultra-running events, the importance of hard work and perseverance, and how he finds motivation and inspiration in pushing himself to his limits. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “There's really no substitute for just pounding out the hard work. I've learned that there's no difficulty or disability that can't be overcome by complete exertion.” – Nicholas Leo “I think it's definitely important to be with your thoughts. If you're not, then you're not really contemplating yourself or your surroundings.” – Nicholas Leo “If you're not with your own thoughts and are just latching onto something else, you might try to make that your problem. This can lead down a whole road of nasty stuff.” – Nicholas Leo “Many of man's problems stem from his inability to sit alone with his own thoughts. We don't give time for that input to sink in, for us to actually wrestle with it, and then maybe have some output because of it.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Embrace the power of solitude and self-reflection - Make time to be alone with your own thoughts and contemplate your goals, challenges, and personal growth. Cultivate an unwavering work ethic - there are no shortcuts. Success comes through consistent, dedicated effort. Seek out mentors who can guide and inspire you. Surround yourself with supportive, experienced individuals who can help you reach new heights. Challenge yourself physically and mentally - Consider taking on an ambitious physical challenge like an endurance race to push your limits and discover your true capabilities. Prioritize your health and nutrition. Have a disciplined approach to fueling your body with nutrient-dense foods to support your athletic pursuits. Conclusion: Embracing independence, self-motivation, and pushing one's limits are crucial for achieving remarkable feats, even at a young age. Solitary reflection and pursuing physical challenges are valuable for finding inspiration, rather than relying on external shortcuts. Parental guidance and support play a significant role in shaping a young person's mindset, helping them develop the resilience and determination needed to excel in their pursuits.

Time is our most precious resource, yet many struggle to manage it effectively. Understanding the importance of prioritization, staying true to yourself, and leading by example can unlock personal growth and fulfillment. By discovering and applying strategies to better manage your time, you can strengthen your relationships and pursue your passions with greater determination. Learning to focus on what truly matters helps you reclaim your time and live a more balanced, meaningful life. Lerrod Smalls is a serial entrepreneur and personal growth expert who has weathered the ups and downs of business and life. After experiencing bankruptcy and personal setbacks, Smalls discovered the power of authenticity, prioritization, and leading by example. Today, Lerrod Smalls talks about the importance of prioritizing time, setting boundaries, and being authentic in order to achieve personal growth and success as an entrepreneur. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Your story is the lies you tell yourself and the truth you're willing to tell other people. Because we tell ourselves lies all the time that everything is all right.” – Lerrod Smalls “Actions reveal your priorities. If this thing mattered enough to me, it would be done.” – Lerrod Smalls “The most powerful person in any room is the one who has nothing to hide. You raise your power in any room by being authentic.” – Lerrod Smalls “People will go and get for themselves what they see in others that they want for themselves.” – Lerrod Smalls “If you want it badly enough, no matter what it is, I promise you, you will find a way or make a way.” – Lerrod Smalls Takeaways: Identify the "S.H.I.T." (story, health, income, time) in your life and prioritize them based on your values and goals. Practice saying "no" to protect your time and resources and focus on what's most important to you. Develop a morning routine that nurtures your mind, body, and spirit to start your day with intention. Reflect on the truth in your life - what lies are you telling yourself, and what truths are you willing to share with others? Consider how you can lead by example for your family and community, rather than just giving instructions. Conclusion: Prioritizing time and resources is key to achieving personal growth and fulfillment. Being authentic, avoiding self-deception, and leading by example are essential, rather than just following advice. Developing a structured morning routine, setting boundaries, and pursuing passions with determination can help individuals reclaim their time and find true happiness.