
Apogee Strong
Apogee Strong's online mentorship program was created to provide you with the ideals young men need to become strong, successful leaders among leaders. The name Apogee comes from an astronomical term meaning "summit," a homage to the life we envision for each of our participants. A life where they have the tools they need to reach the greatest heights of their potential.
Latest episodes

Oct 5, 2023 • 39min
Mark S. Allen's Inspiring Journey: From Childhood Dreams to Comedy Central Success
Did you choose the same career path that you had in mind as a child? When they became adults, some people made different decisions, while others kept working toward the goals they set for themselves as children. Doing it requires commitment and consistency, which is challenging. But because of his character and outlook on life, Mark S. Allen makes it seem straightforward and effortless.
Mark S. Allen worked full-time at a radio show while attending college, which led him to some television contracts. He segwayed over and started doing television, landed a great agent and landed his dream job, which was hosting his own show on Comedy Central. Tune in as Mark talks about his early interest in movies and entertainment, his relationship with his parents during his adolescent years, taking advantage of opportunities and creating opportunities, and the importance of giving back to the community.
Quotes:
“If you ever find yourself going through something, or if you have siblings or family members who are going through something, I beg you to understand that the problems are temporary, that this too shall pass, and that there is something better on the horizon. No matter how bad things get, something great is right around the corner. Just make sure you make it next door.” - Mark S Allen
“I think parents are more in touch these days. And if not, you young people should get in touch with your parents. They might have some solutions for you.” - Mark S Allen
“Stay true to who you are, and look for those opportunities. And every day, they'll show up.” - Mark S Allen
Takeaways:
It is inevitable to experience setbacks in life. But you must always keep in mind that these are just temporary challenges. If you endure through them, you will have something to be thankful for. So, despite how difficult things become, never give up.
Parents did not always encourage their children's interests back then. And although some parents may not actively discourage their children, they also do not actively encourage them. However, parents today are less controlling and more accepting of their children's career choices. Try to get in touch with your parents if they aren't willing to share their opinions with you because they are also capable of support.
There are a lot of opportunities out there. Keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities; more often than not, they will present themselves to you each and every day. Show up and grab the chance.
Conclusion:
Try to continue with some additional learning even if you discover a trade or a skill because it will round you out. You will also pick up knowledge you didn't know you needed to know until you actually do. You become more well-rounded as a result. Keep an open mind, and look for opportunities. Even if you didn't see it as an opportunity at the time, turn up and seize the moment.
Your current situation might end at any moment. Therefore, the ideal course of action is to build on your existing success by positioning it for future success or, at the very least, by getting several plates spinning. Never spend too much time resting to admire your work. Keep growing and building. Always build on this success to achieve your next goal.

Oct 3, 2023 • 48min
Unlocking Success: Brandon Vera's Inspiring Journey from MMA Fighter to Film Industry Star
It is never simple to succeed in life when dealing with challenges. You need to stay committed, consistent and motivated. While forging your own route, you could get lost, but if you keep going, you'll figure everything out. Making the decision to go from being a professional mixed martial fighter to working in the film industry is not common. While some people attempted to do this, few of them were successful.
Brandon Vera shares his life experiences dealing with racism as a kid, dealing with pushback, finding success early in his career, and the power of trusting the process. Tune in as you will learn a lot about life, personal growth, and success.
Quotes:
“Racism right away opened my eyes to the realities of life and helped me realize that I must fight. Life is unfair. That, I believe, was the first lesson it taught me. You need to figure it out.” - Brandon Vera
“I believe that this is the reason I have the freedom I have. I don't pay attention to what people think.” - Brandon Vera
“I've never had the problem of lacking confidence. I've struggled with the question of whether I truly want to do it.” - Brandon Vera
Takeaways:
There will be many things in life that you need to figure out on your own. Spend some time getting to know yourself well so that when someone says something negative about you, you won't be upset because you are the one who knows yourself the best.
Even though everything will go well for you, people are going to keep focusing on what is wrong with you. Just ignore them and continue your life as you have always wanted to, not paying attention to such types of people.
Do you truly want to continue living your life as you do now? Even though you are confident, there may still be instances when you have second thoughts about whether or not you really want to pursue something in your life. Just trust the process itself, and let it control your thoughts. You might be shocked by the outcome even though you're not entirely committed to accomplishing it.
Conclusion:
The majority of people don't strive for perfection. They are unwilling to invest the necessary time and effort. But going all in is key to success in life. Just go all in on anything you're trying to achieve, and you'll get surprising results.

Oct 1, 2023 • 43min
The Importance of Teaching Manners and Etiquette in Today's World w/ Max Martini
Teaching and instilling manners and etiquette in younger generations is essential for the continuity of these values. By passing down these timeless principles, we equip them with the tools to navigate social situations, respect others' boundaries, and develop strong interpersonal skills. In a society that thrives on empathy and understanding, good manners have become an integral part of fostering a more compassionate and cohesive world.
Max Martini shares his life experiences, lessons, and advice to future leaders. Manners and etiquette serve as the bedrock of our social fabric. They elevate our interactions, showcase our character, and create a sense of unity and respect. Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and more!
Quotes:
"Teaching kids to be mindful of their behavior towards others, especially those older than them, is crucial. It sets them up for success in life and business." – Max Martini
"Challenging my own limitations and stepping into the unknown has opened up new opportunities and eliminated fear." – Max Martini
"Communication skills are vital in my business, especially as I transition into directing. As a leader, you have to inspire and effectively communicate with everyone involved in the production." – Max Martini
Takeaways:
Small acts of politeness and respect can have a significant impact on how we are perceived and how we interact with others. Being mindful of our behavior and showing basic manners can positively impact personal and professional relationships.
You can exude a genuine sense of confidence and inner peace when you have nothing to prove and are unafraid. This allows a person to navigate life's challenges calmly and assuredly.
The impact of a person in our lives, like a grandparent, who imparts valuable lessons and aligns with our values, can make them our heroes. It's not always about grand gestures but the small acts of kindness and wisdom that shape us.
Constantly entering and integrating new environments will hone a person. Being able to adjust quickly, connect with people, and become a part of different teams or projects is a valuable skill set.
Conclusion:
Even though our world is becoming more digital and technological, good manners and politeness are still very important. Acting reasonably in social situations is essential to build trust, strengthen relationships, and feel like you belong anywhere, online or off.

Sep 29, 2023 • 36min
Turning Dislike into Delight: The Benefits of Completing Unwanted Tasks w/ Bo Heins
Do you ever find yourself pushing extra effort to do a task you really don't want to do? What was the outcome? In life, there are situations that we need to do something, even if it's against our will. However, when you actually accomplish what you're doing, you'll be surprised at how great the outcome is. So, if you notice yourself avoiding something you know is beneficial for you, just dive in; you'll find that not only will you get better at it, but you'll also start to like it.
Bo Heins shares his life experiences, lessons and advice to future leaders. He discusses how he made the decision to pursue success on his own, the importance of grounding yourself in your beliefs, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals, and the consequences of speaking the truth. Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and more!
Quotes:
“I wanted a different challenge, to do something that no one in my family could help me do. And often, when you do that, it scares many people around you who love you. Because you really have to figure it out on your own. When you go down a new road, you have to find your own path and find your own way.” - Bo Heins
“Make sure you know what you believe before you try to tell others what to believe.” - Bo Heins
“You have to ground yourself, you have to be principled, but then you have to find a goal that you want to achieve.” - Bo Heins
Takeaways:
It will be difficult to do something different for you and your family. Your loved ones may discourage you from taking those steps out of concern that you could fail because you must work everything out on your own. However, what matters is that you are so dedicated to pursuing your goals that you are willing to overcome all obstacles.
People will likely ask you questions, and you must be able to answer them in a highly coherent and cognitive way. So before telling other people to believe you, it is important to make sure you understand what you're doing and why.
When you have a short-term goal that is simple to achieve, you frequently lose sight of the bigger motivation pushing you toward your desired path. Write down your goals and keep them in mind every single day, even if they seem lofty or unattainable. It will focus your attention on the daily tasks you must complete to attain your goal.
Conclusion:
There will be so many people in your life who will have an influence on you in various ways. You're going to have challenges all the time, and people are constantly going to be coming after you. And the higher you go, the bigger target you have on your back. Therefore, you need to strengthen your attention and enhance your dedication to what you do. You have to have a get-up-and-go mentality.

Sep 28, 2023 • 1h 9min
Unlocking Personal Growth: Wisdom and Inspiration from Adrian DelMonte
Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, uncertain about the next step in your journey? Life often presents us with challenges that require more than individual strength. In these moments of uncertainty, seeking guidance and support from those who have tread similar paths can be a transformative decision. Embracing the wisdom of mentors and drawing inspiration from a community of shared experiences can pave the way for remarkable personal growth.
Adrian DelMonte shares his life experiences, lessons, and advice to future leaders. By openly discussing these experiences, individuals inspire and provide a roadmap for those aspiring to lead with purpose and authenticity. Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and more!
Quotes:
“As I've grown and undergone therapy, I've learned to reframe my self-talk and realized that how I communicate with myself holds the key to my happiness.” – Adrian DelMonte
“You have to challenge that inner voice that wants to bring you down. The outer support, like a friend, brother, or mentor, can lift you up.” – Adrian DelMonte
“Imagine you're the king of a medieval castle, deciding who comes into your inner room. Only your brothers, those you trust deeply, should come inside.” – Adrian DelMonte
Takeaways:
Don't assume negative judgments from others without evidence. Seek feedback from trusted sources to gain a more accurate perspective and avoid unnecessary self-doubt.
Surround yourself with people who uplift you. Having an outer support system can counteract self-doubt and provide encouragement during challenging times, whether it's a friend, sibling, mentor, or coach.
Be willing to advocate for ideas that align with your values, even if they initially face resistance. The journey to meaningful change might involve persistence, research, and collaboration.
True change often arises from intrinsic motivations, not external rewards. Let your passion and purpose guide your decisions, especially in areas where conventional norms resist change.
Conclusion:
In life's journey, we often discover that our true strength lies in our efforts and our ability to connect, learn, and grow together. Embracing our vulnerabilities and seeking guidance from trusted sources can lead us to remarkable transformations. Remember, it's not a sign of weakness to ask for help; rather, it's a testament to our commitment to becoming the best versions of ourselves.

Sep 27, 2023 • 55min
Why Hard Work Matters: Building Character and Resilience w/ KJ Keightley
Hard work is an essential ingredient of success in any field, whether it be personal or professional. It involves dedicating time, energy, and effort towards a particular goal or task, sometimes even at the expense of immediate gratification or comfort. Hard work can help build character, develop resilience and determination, and achieve greater levels of skill and mastery. However, it's important to remember that hard work is not synonymous with overworking or burnout, and should always be balanced with rest, self-care, and meaningful relationships.
KJ Keightley imparts his life's lessons, wisdom, and counsel to everyone listening today. There are two types of people in this world: those who make it happen and those who watch it happen. Make sure you’re the former! Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, and more!
Quotes:
“You have an option for liberty. No one's going to give it to you, you have to take it.” – KJ Keightley
“Nothing's going to change if you aren't inputting into your community. You have to be actively involved somehow.” – KJ Keightley
“You learn everything about discipline, character, virtues, and hard work when you beat your body against dust and dirt every day.” – KJ Keightley
Takeaways:
By taking initiative and actively pursuing the things that matter to us, we can achieve greater freedom, autonomy, and success in our lives.
Getting involved and contributing our time, talents, and resources to our community can help build stronger, healthier, and more vibrant communities for all.
Through pushing ourselves beyond our limits and confronting challenges head-on, we can develop resilience, grit, and a strong work ethic that can help us achieve success and fulfillment in all aspects of our lives.
Conclusion:
Hard work and community involvement can be powerful tools for personal growth, social change, and overall well-being. By pursuing our goals with determination, persevering through challenges, and engaging with our communities in meaningful ways, we can achieve greater success, fulfillment, and impact in our lives. Furthermore, we can also inspire and empower others to do the same, creating a positive cycle of growth, learning, and progress for all.

Sep 25, 2023 • 1h 13min
Transformative Journey to Success: Embracing Challenges and Growth with Allan Blain's Wisdom
Success is the outcome of a journey marked by struggles, learning, and a shift in mindset. Challenges and setbacks aren't barriers but steppingstones for growth. Achieving success means embracing change, displaying resilience, and a perpetual hunger for knowledge, all of which lead to personal development. It's a dynamic process where each obstacle encountered is an opportunity to evolve and ascend to new heights.
Allan Blain imparts his life's lessons, wisdom, and counsel to everyone listening today. A growth mindset reframes failures as valuable lessons rather than defeats, paving the way for transformation! Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, and more!
Quotes:
“I believe that we all have varying levels of hard and we can succeed anyway. It does not define us nor hold us back.” – Allan Blain
“I've learned a few things and I'm still learning things and I love to get to share some of those things.” – Allan Blain
"Everything is won or lost in the six inches between our ears." – Allan Blain
Takeaways:
Our potential for success transcends the challenges we face, as they neither define nor limit us.
Life is a continuous journey of learning, and sharing our experiences can be both enlightening and enriching.
Success and failure are determined by the mindset we cultivate within ourselves.
Conclusion:
Success is not an endpoint but a transformative journey. It's about turning obstacles into lessons, learning from every setback, and cultivating a mindset of resilience and growth. Every challenge encountered is an opportunity for evolution. In the end, success is not just about reaching a goal; it's about becoming the best version of yourself along the way.

Sep 23, 2023 • 34min
Saying Yes to Success: Derek Woodske's Insights on Seizing Life-Changing Opportunities
Opportunities are things that come where they can change your life. And in the face of it, you only have two choices: yes or no. But people tend to say no to high-risk opportunities for fear of failing and getting hurt, not knowing that no matter whether they fail or succeed, opportunities are a great way to improve yourself and learn until, someday, you reach success.
Derek Woodske shares his life lessons growing up in undeveloped land and how he overcomes his circumstances through his love for sports and taking risky opportunities. Often, people back down from taking high-risk opportunities due to the fear of failing. But on the flip side, saying no to opportunities only takes away your chance to grow and see the direction where you really want. Stay tuned as they dip into topics about
life, personal growth, and more!
Quotes:
“If you're willing to say yes to some very nerve-wracking opportunity. And you say yes, more than you say no, there is a weirdness to the universe and how it will somehow put people in your life that will guide you through that fear.” – Derek Woodske
“If you enter into the situation with some level of clarity in what you're trying to achieve. You can't guarantee success in sports, and you can't guarantee success in a lot of things. But you dramatically change the odds against you.” – Derek Woodske
“One of the most valuable characteristics of successful people I've been around is that they don't have to do anything but be who they are. And for better or worse, that's the reality. I've never met one who didn't have incredible self-awareness of not only who they are and what they're good at, but how the world perceives them.” – Derek Woodske
Takeaways:
Fire, aim, ready, which translates to " Say yes, and go for it." The aim or goal will come after you've gathered some background information as a result of pulling the trigger. And that goal is finding mentors and the ideal community for you. But If you begin to understand that you made a mistake. At the very least, you now know that you can proceed in this path rather than this direction. But it only happens if you say yes and go for an opportunity.
If you live in an environment without amazing people, you are wrong. Because it doesn't mean the people you're with aren't amazing, you just don't get to interact with as many.
Self-awareness is the trait you want to have if you desire to be successful because understanding who you are–the good and bad things about you will give you the ability to know what you can and can’t do, as well as to attract and influence other people.
Conclusion:
Say yes to those risky opportunities because it will lead you to connect with the right people. If you say yes more than no to opportunities, the universe will guide you through your fear. And even if you fail, it is a way for you to determine which direction in life you would take. And the effort you’ve put into taking those risky opportunities will never be futile as it serves as a way for you to become better and better.

Sep 22, 2023 • 1h 18min
Embracing Your Identity: Kipp Sorensen's Insights on Authenticity, Empathy, and Personal Growth
Embracing your own identity is liberating. It allows you to stand out in a crowd, follow your own path, and pursue what genuinely matters to you. Your identity is your compass, guiding you through life's challenges and triumphs. It empowers you to make choices aligned with your authentic self rather than succumbing to societal pressures or expectations. Your identity is the combination of your beliefs, values, experiences, and aspirations that make you distinctly "you."
Kipp Sorensen imparts his life's lessons, wisdom, and counsel to everyone listening today. Life is about understanding who you are at your core, embracing your individuality, and confidently expressing it to the world! Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, and more!
Quotes:
“There's power in empathy and understanding.” –Kipp Sorensen
“It was just me that I was offering the world. Not some knockoff of some superficial hip hop artist or someone else.” – Kipp Sorensen
"I believed that through effort and hard work, I would figure it out." –Kipp Sorensen
Takeaways:
In a world often divided by differences, empathy and understanding are the tools that can bring us closer.
In a world filled with imitations, being yourself is a powerful statement that can lead to genuine connections and a more fulfilling life.
Taking control of your life, even in challenging times, can have a huge impact on your mental well-being.
Conclusion:
Your personal identity is your greatest asset. It's the foundation upon which you build a fulfilling life, make a positive impact on the world, and form meaningful connections with others. Embrace your uniqueness, for it's the key to unlocking your full potential and living a life that's truly your own.

Sep 21, 2023 • 45min
Beyond the Degree: Isaac Morehouse's Insights on Education and Employment
There’s a saying that education is the most powerful weapon you can use, and that is true. But our current education system doesn’t teach students the required knowledge to prepare for their careers. And it doesn’t help students acquire traits like independence and work ethic, two valuable traits a person should have. Thus, those who graduate from college often find it challenging to find a job.
Isaac Morehouse shares his experiences of how he realizes the flaws in the current education system and why you don’t need a college degree in order to be hired and work at a company. Nowadays, people think that getting a college education is the path to a successful career. Little do they know that the job marketplace gives little value to college degrees and instead goes to people with talent, basic skills, or eagerness to learn. Tune in as they talk about life, education, employment, and
more!
Quotes:
“You just need a handful of basic skills, a mindset shift, a self-ownership mindset, personal responsibility mindset, and a curiosity and eagerness mindset. That's enough for a company to hire you, especially when you're young, because you can go in at a very low cost to that company.” – Isaac Morehouse
“Degree from whatever university is almost worthless now in the workplace. But meanwhile, because of the digital world, you have the ability to be your own credential, to create a body of work that signals your ability, whatever it is demonstrating, like showing your work instead of just saying, here's a bunch of degrees and grades that I got. ” – Isaac Morehouse
“The beauty of the market is incredible because there's an opportunity for every kind of person, skill set, and interest. And if you think like, I'm not very smart, I don't have many skills and much offer. That's absolute garbage; get that mindset out of you.“– Isaac Morehouse
Takeaways:
Basic skills and a proper mindset are the only things you need if you want to be hired at a company.
Nowadays, a university degree doesn’t hold a value that much. Because we are in the digital world, you now have the ability to create projects and demonstrate your capabilities outright rather than show worthless degrees.
The market world is vast, and you have an opportunity everywhere. So throw away your negative thoughts about yourself and just start learning basic skills and have the proper mindset.
Conclusion:
If you are tired of entering college or feel it doesn’t help you achieve your dream career. Drop out of it. These days, workplaces don’t find value in college degrees. Rather, they go to those people with talent, basic skills, and eagerness to learn. You can also utilize our digital world to create projects and show what skills you have to be hired.