Apogee Strong

It’s disheartening to witness corruption and a lack of accountability in spaces meant to uphold trust and integrity. When leaders and organizations fail to live up to their values, it shakes the faith of those who rely on them. These sectors are supposed to serve people and bring positive change, but mismanagement or unethical behavior can leave communities feeling betrayed. It raises tough questions about oversight, responsibility, and how to rebuild credibility. Christopher Ayoub and Nathan Apffel explore the inner workings of the religious and nonprofit sectors. Nathan, a filmmaker, produced "The Religion Business," a series on financial practices and transparency issues. Chris, his business partner, brings expertise in team building and business. Today, they discuss systemic issues like donor fund misuse and propose empowering donors and exploring alternative models for meaningful change. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Humans will human. Without accountability, it's not a good thing.” – Christopher Ayoub “Good intentions paved the way to hell, and we've created our own hell. What we see as a church in the US is only 111 years old.” – Nathan Apffel “The Christian church alone has enough financial resources to radically transform the world, and it wouldn't affect anybody's bottom line.” – Nathan Apffel “Anybody that's already operating in integrity will continue to do so. The only people that are going to struggle are those who have to switch over to becoming transparent.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Demand transparency from your church or nonprofit organization. Ask to see detailed financial reports and understand how donations are being used. Shift your support to smaller, community-focused ministries and charities that can demonstrate a high percentage of funds going directly to impact. Educate yourself on the legal and regulatory differences between churches and secular nonprofits. Understand the lack of oversight for many religious institutions. Become an active, engaged donor. Don't just write a check - seek out organizations that are making a measurable difference and hold them accountable. Consider supporting for-profit social enterprises that have pledged a portion of their profits to charitable causes. This model may be more effective than traditional nonprofits. Conclusion: The lack of transparency and accountability in the religious and nonprofit sectors raises serious concerns about the misuse of resources and misalignment with stated missions. Many organizations operate without adequate oversight, undermining donor trust and diminishing their impact. To address this, donors should be empowered to make informed decisions, while supporting smaller, community-driven efforts that prioritize direct impact. Exploring alternative approaches, such as for-profit social enterprises, can also help create meaningful change and rebuild confidence in these institutions.

Witnessing abuse firsthand can ignite a deep sense of responsibility, especially when the pain feels personal. For someone to take on that kind of burden, it often comes from a mix of anger, love, and a refusal to let the story end in suffering. The road forward is rarely straightforward—facing setbacks, self-doubt, and even resistance from others. But through persistence and a focus on creating change, they can rise as a leader, not just carrying their own scars but using them to inspire strength and hope in others. Mick Hunt is a dynamic force for meaningful change. Through Mick Unplugged, keynote speeches, and coaching, he combines strategy with inspiration to help leaders and athletes achieve lasting growth. His "MICK Factor" ethos—Mastery, Imagination, Character, and perseverance to Keep Going—builds legacies, while his top-rated podcast sparks ambition and resilience worldwide. Today, Mick stresses the importance of finding one's "because" - the driving force that propels us forward even in the face of adversity. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Your 'because' is what shapes who you are. It influences the decisions you make and, ultimately, determines the course of your life.” – Mick Hunt “You're never too young to put together a blueprint for your life, and you're never too old to say the buck stops here.” – Mick Hunt “Mastery keeps you innovative. The world is always changing, with new things happening all the time. Mastering something helps you stay relevant.” – Mick Hunt “If you lose sight of making a difference in the lives of other human beings, it is going to be unfulfilling in every way.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Identify your "because" - the driving force that propels you forward, even in the face of adversity. Use this as a guiding principle for your decisions and actions. Conduct regular "circle checks" to evaluate the people in your life and ensure they align with your goals and values. Be willing to distance yourself from those who do not. Practice making the right decisions, even when they are unpopular. Prioritize your standards over appeasing others' feelings. Commit to mastering a skill or passion. Use this as a foundation for innovation and staying relevant in a rapidly changing world. Embrace the role of mentor and leader, even if you don't have a formal title. Focus on developing other good leaders, as this is the true mark of success. Conclusion: Discovering and embracing your true purpose provides clarity and direction, even during difficult times. It serves as a steady anchor, helping to navigate challenges with focus and determination. By staying connected to what truly matters, you can approach adversity with a sense of meaning and resolve. This commitment to purpose allows for growth and fulfillment, regardless of the obstacles faced.

Child trafficking is a horrifying issue, a stark reminder of the darkest parts of humanity that demand attention and action. It’s hard to even fathom the scale of pain and exploitation involved. On a different note, the scarcity mindset can quietly rob people of personal growth, keeping them stuck in fear or limiting their potential. While these topics may seem worlds apart, both highlight the impact of limited thinking—whether in addressing global injustices or breaking free to achieve success. Paul Hutchinson, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, has dedicated his life to protecting children and providing hope. As founder of the Child Liberation Foundation, he has participated in over 70 undercover rescue missions across 15 countries, helping liberate over 5,000 children. He also served as Executive Producer of “Sound of Freedom,” a film highlighting one of history’s largest child rescue missions. Globally respected, Paul continues to inspire through his impactful advocacy and professional achievements. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “It's not just about rescuing the kids; it's about figuring out where the demand is coming from.” – Paul Hutchinson “We need to recognize the divinity within each of ourselves. Once you realize that your connection with God is here and your infinite potential in doing so, that changes everything.” – Paul Hutchinson “None of us were brought here to play small. If we're going to fix this problem, we're going to create a global movement.” – Paul Hutchinson “If you lose sight of making a difference in the lives of other human beings, it is going to be unfulfilling in every way.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Reflect on your daily interactions and ensure you treat everyone with dignity and respect, consciously avoiding viewing others as mere objects. Educate yourself and others about the root causes of child trafficking and brainstorm practical steps to reduce demand and support prevention efforts. Initiate conversations with your kids about safety and establish a foundation of trust where they feel comfortable sharing concerns. Practice gratitude and recognize the blessings in your life. Use your resources to help those in need around you. Commit to personal growth by examining and addressing any past trauma or issues. Seek out therapeutic avenues that contribute to healing and understanding. Conclusion: Addressing and eliminating the systemic issues that allow human trafficking to persist requires focused effort and commitment. Empathy and a deep respect for the inherent worth of every individual are important in confronting these societal mistakes. This challenge also calls for personal responsibility and active participation in building a world that is safer and more compassionate for all.

Life’s challenges have a way of pushing you to reevaluate your priorities while also opening doors you didn’t expect. Balancing personal hurdles with the desire to grow and lead can feel like walking a tightrope. It’s not always clear which opportunities are worth chasing or how to make the most of them. The process can be messy, but it’s also where you find out what really matters and what you’re capable of. Michelle Waterson-Gomez is a retired professional fighter renowned for her impressive career in mixed martial arts. With a black belt in both American freestyle karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Michelle brought strength and discipline to the competitive arena. Now retired, Michelle has transitioned from fighting in the ring to owning a Jiu Jitsu school and partaking in various other business ventures with her husband. Today, she talks about the importance of pursuing passion, staying true to oneself, and building a supportive community. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “You are who you surround yourself with. It's good to have at least three major people in your life: a mentor that you look up to and who can coach you, a teammate or partner that you can compete with and who pushes you to improve, and someone below you that you mentor yourself.” – Michelle Waterson-Gomez “You can have the mentality of a champion and still be a student. Understanding that and giving myself permission to be both a champion and a student really allowed me to flourish.” – Michelle Waterson-Gomez “Everything that you're experiencing right now isn't going to follow you into your future; it doesn't define who you are.” – Michelle Waterson-Gomez Takeaways: Reflect on your current social circle and ask yourself if the people around you inspire growth and accountability. If not, consider seeking out mentors and peers who support your personal and professional development. Identify a passion or dream you want to pursue and create a plan to incorporate it into your life. Ask yourself, "Am I willing to dedicate 10 years to consistently work towards mastering this craft?.” Evaluate your current definition of success. Consider whether financial success equates to personal fulfillment for you, or if there's a deeper sense of purpose that drives you. Set aside time each week for self-care and reflection to ensure you're maintaining balance in your life. Personal happiness should not be compromised for external expectations. Commit to a role of leadership and mentorship, whether by finding a mentor, becoming one yourself, or both. Cultivate relationships that foster continuous growth and learning. Conclusion: The people we surround ourselves with have a large impact on our growth, making a supportive and uplifting community important. Fulfillment comes from dedicating ourselves to what we are passionate about, rather than chasing financial success alone. At the same time, maintaining balance and prioritizing self-care are crucial to finding lasting happiness, free from the weight of external factors. By nurturing these aspects, we can create a meaningful and rewarding life.

Young men today wrestle with more than just career choices and relationships - they're searching for authentic purpose in an increasingly complex world. While there's no shortage of advice out there, many find themselves craving real guidance from someone who's walked the path before them. It's one thing to read about leadership in books, but it's another to learn from someone who's weathered the storms and emerged stronger. This is where mentorship becomes not just helpful, but essential - creating a bridge between hard-earned wisdom and those eager to learn from it. Shane Winnings is a leader, mentor, and author focused on faith-based initiatives. With a background in the military and law enforcement, he now leads at Promise Keepers. Shane authored Your Next Leap of Faith, helping readers strengthen their faith. Through his podcast, he discusses leadership, faith, and personal growth. Today, Shane shares how he overcame challenges that tested his faith and offers insights on leadership, mentorship, and remaining committed to one's beliefs. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Many Christians are afraid of stepping outside their comfort zone. They continue to provide for themselves without taking risks. Faith is spelled R-I-S-K. So, you take a risk for God and watch Him meet your need.” – Shane Winnings “If you can't pray with her, you're not going to marry her. You need to be praying with her. God is the perfect father when it comes to dating.” – Shane Winnings “Our hope is in a person, not in an outcome. If your idea of a perfect life as a Christian is never losing any of your fingers, well, you're in for a reality check.” – Shane Winnings Takeaways: Identify areas in your life where your actions may not fully align with your professed beliefs and set specific goals to adjust those actions accordingly. Choose one aspect of your faith where you are hesitant and take a concrete step to embrace risk, trusting that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Reach out to a potential mentor who exemplifies the qualities you admire and initiate a discussion about how they can guide you on your personal or spiritual journey. Develop a regular practice of praying with a partner or group, focusing on deepening your spiritual connection and supporting each other’s growth. Join or start a community group committed to exploring faith and personal development, providing a space for shared learning and accountability. Conclusion: Faith isn't just about Sunday mornings or memorized verses - it's about living boldly in a way that reflects your deepest convictions. When we dare to step beyond what feels safe and comfortable, we often discover strength we never knew we had. The journey isn't meant to be walked alone. Whether through mentors who challenge us to grow or friends who keep us grounded in truth, authentic relationships shape us into who we're meant to become. It's in this space - where belief meets action, where wisdom meets courage - that we find our true north and build lives of lasting impact.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new ideas, only to find yourself jumping from one to the next without seeing any of them fully realized. That constant chase for the next "big thing" can leave you feeling like you're always on the verge of success but never quite reaching it. The drive to innovate is powerful, but it can also become a distraction when the focus isn't there. It’s a common struggle, trying to balance ambition with the patience needed to bring ideas to fruition and make them truly work. Mike Ciorrocco is an entrepreneur who has built a diverse portfolio of successful ventures. From his roots in the mortgage industry to his current focus on media and personal growth, Mike has consistently demonstrated a knack for turning big ideas into tangible results. Today, Mike talks about the importance of aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with clear intentions. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “If you have big dreams and the people around you discourage you, throwing digs or talking trash, it's important to understand that they are not crazy. The people around you are simply confused.” – Mike Ciorrocco “You cannot lead others until you lead yourself. Leading is not about running your mouth; it's about being a living demonstration.” – Mike Ciorrocco “Intention gives attention direction. When your attention is focused, on point, and aligned with purpose, you start to notice things you never saw before.” – Mike Ciorrocco “People quit too early, trick themselves too soon, or start celebrating a bit too early before building something that can actually last in perpetuity.” – Matt Beaudreau “We have a distorted view of how long things really take. We often think something will happen in six months or a year, but the reality is it might take two, three, four, or five years. We might see that as too long, but it's not when you compare it to 30 years of doing it for someone else.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Align your thoughts, words, and actions with clear intentions to unlock your true potential. Invest in yourself and your personal growth before pouring resources into your business. Focus on the "able" people and help them become more capable, as this will naturally lift up the "unable" as well. Experiment with working fewer hours while still achieving high results and prioritize time with your loved ones. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, even if others are "confused" by your big dreams - their validation is not required. Conclusion: It’s important not to let the doubts and confusion of others stop you from pursuing your goals. Focusing on investing in yourself and your business should take priority, as this foundation is key to long-term success. By staying true to your vision and strengthening your own skills, you'll be better prepared for future opportunities. Ultimately, taking the time to build and grow what matters most to you will lead to more meaningful progress and achievements.

In a world where men are often encouraged to bottle up their emotions and follow rigid expectations, true resilience and leadership come from embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Cultivating emotional intelligence—being aware of and expressing feelings in healthy ways—helps build deeper connections and stronger personal foundations. Wisdom and leadership grow when men are encouraged to question societal norms, seek self-awareness, and lead with empathy and compassion. Brady Pesola is a former Marine Corps veteran who has faced significant challenges throughout his life, from growing up in poverty to enduring bullying and academic struggles. Today, Brady shares his insights on the power of stoicism, discussing how it has helped him develop mental resilience, emotional control, and a focus on what is within his control. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “When you go through adversity, you learn mental resilience. We call it the gift of adversity, and when you unwrap that gift, it reveals itself to be character development, mental resilience, and self-reliance.” – Brady Pesola “Emotions can be positive or negative. If you're overly happy, you can still make decisions that don't make sense, which can lead to bad outcomes.” – Brady Pesola “Stoicism is about being present with your emotions in the moment. It's not about saying, ‘I'm angry,’ and then acting on the influence of those emotions, because those emotions affect your mind much like drugs and alcohol do.” – Brady Pesola “The best lies are the ones we tell ourselves.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Practice stoicism through repetition and living the philosophy, not just reading about it. Recognize emotions, but make rational decisions not influenced by them. Seek wisdom and knowledge from diverse sources, including ancient philosophies and religious traditions, as they can provide valuable insights to integrate into your life. Don't reject knowledge, as it is a gift from God. Treat the people in your life, whether family, friends, or clients, with the same level of respect, customer service, and emotional control as an executive protection agent would. Be a protector and a source of support for those around you. Conclusion: Cultivating mental resilience is crucial for navigating life's challenges with strength and clarity. By drawing on ancient wisdom, such as Stoicism, and combining it with a strong sense of purpose and faith, individuals can develop valuable tools for coping with adversity. This approach fosters emotional control and encourages focusing on what can be controlled, rather than what lies beyond.

Creating financial security for your family often feels like a complex journey, with numerous choices and potential trade-offs along the way. Many people find it tricky to balance day-to-day expenses with the goal of building long-term savings and investments. Starting with small, steady efforts—such as budgeting, managing debt, and setting aside funds for the future—can gradually build momentum. With a clear vision and thoughtful planning, you can work toward a stable, prosperous foundation that supports your family’s financial well-being. Rachel Marshall is an entrepreneur, mother of three, and a passionate advocate for family legacy planning. With over 18 years of marriage to her husband Lucas, Rachel has navigated the challenges of balancing business and parenthood. Today, Rachel shares her personal journey, including a near-death experience during the birth of her second child, which sparked a profound shift in her family's priorities. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “If you remain open to conversation, learning, and keep an open mind, you'll experience growth in many areas. Your capacity will expand, leading to wonderful relationships and great opportunities as a result.” – Rachel Marshall “If you start that discipline early, it's much easier to maintain. Most people say they'll start saving when they make more money, but the challenge is that you'll likely feel the same way even when your income increases.” – Rachel Marshall “Money doesn't create our identity or satisfy any deep longing within us, but we often believe it does and repeatedly look to it to solve those issues.” – Rachel Marshall Takeaways: Prioritize saving and building a "foundational wealth habit" - aim to save 20-30% of your income, even if you start small. Celebrate your savings growth with your family. Explore the concept of "infinite banking" and how whole life insurance can be used as a tool for safe, liquid, and growing capital that you control. Involve your children in financial conversations and decisions early on. Teach them about earning, saving, spending, giving, and investing through hands-on experience. Create a family constitution or guidance system to document your family's mission, values, and legacy planning goals. This can help align your children to your long-term vision. Consider partnering with your children on future business or investment opportunities. Matching their savings can be a powerful way to build multi-generational wealth. Conclusion: A well-rounded financial strategy that effectively balances saving, investing, and the use of suitable financial tools is essential for reaching personal financial goals. By combining these elements, individuals can build security for the future, make the most of their assets, and manage risk. Thoughtful planning allows for both immediate needs and long-term aspirations, creating a foundation for financial resilience.

With so many devices around us constantly emitting electromagnetic fields (EMFs), it’s understandable to feel a bit uneasy about their possible impact on health. While research on EMFs is ongoing, some people take precautionary steps, like reducing screen time, using wired connections where possible, or simply turning off devices when not in use. Balancing the convenience of technology with potential health considerations can bring a little peace of mind. Being aware and proactive about EMF exposure, even in small ways, might help ease concerns about this unseen aspect of modern life. Aires Tech is a company dedicated to developing innovative solutions that address the growing concerns around electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure. Today, the Aries Tech team discusses their personal journey in discovering the impacts of EMF, the scientific evidence supporting their products, and their initiative to integrate these solutions into educational setting, such as Apogee schools, to protect the health and well-being of students and staff. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “We're not just taking the electromagnetic fields (EMF) that come off the devices, which can have a negative impact on your body, and leaving them as they are or blocking them or deflecting them somewhere else. We’re taking them and changing them so that they’re more bio-friendly.” – Grant “I'm one of those people who is intuitively driven. If I feel strongly about something, I’ll do the research and make a decision for myself. However, once I decide on something, it’s really hard to explain to someone why I made that choice.’” – Michaela “We live in this technological world, so it’s better to adapt rather than try to walk around in a Faraday cage all day and be fearful of it all the time.” – Michaela “The reality is, technology is here to stay. So I think we do a massive disservice to our kids by saying, ‘Hey, you’re never going to be able to touch it, never going to be able to use it. Good luck. I hope you’re off-grid and fully self-sustaining.’” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Explore ways to reduce EMF exposure in your home and daily life, such as unplugging devices when not in use, using speakerphone, and avoiding clock radios near the bed. Consider incorporating Aires Tech products into your home and school environments to help mitigate the effects of EMFs, especially for vulnerable populations like children. Stay informed about the latest research and developments in EMF science by checking out the "Wave Forward" podcast and blog, which feature in-depth discussions with experts. Advocate for more awareness and precautionary measures regarding EMF exposure, especially in schools and public spaces, to protect the health and well-being of our communities. Approach the topic of EMFs with an open and curious mindset, recognizing that there is still much to be learned, and be willing to experiment with different solutions to find what works best for your individual needs. Conclusion: Taking a proactive, balanced approach to managing EMF exposure is essential in today’s tech-driven world. By being mindful of potential risks while embracing the conveniences that technology offers, individuals and communities can make informed choices that support both health and well-being. Prioritizing small adjustments can help reduce exposure without compromising the benefits of modern connectivity. This approach fosters a healthier relationship with technology, ensuring that convenience and safety go hand in hand.

Child trafficking is a heartbreaking and urgent issue, with young lives being exploited in ways that are hard to imagine. Children are taken from their homes, often forced into dangerous and abusive situations with little chance to escape. The trauma they experience can have long-lasting effects on their physical and emotional health. Raising awareness about the harrowing realities of child trafficking is essential to protecting vulnerable children and pushing for change. Matt Murphy is a former Green Beret and CIA agent who has dedicated his life to combating human trafficking, particularly the exploitation of children. He currently serves as the director of US operations for the Signal Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on rescuing victims of child trafficking and providing humanitarian aid in crisis situations. Today, Matt discusses the systemic issues surrounding human trafficking in the United States, including the involvement of government agencies and high-level individuals. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “The most dangerous place for your child to be is on an iPhone—statistically speaking, that’s a fact. An iPhone or an iPad is, indeed, one of the most dangerous places for your child.” – Matt Murphy “When you give your children access to the world, you also give the world access to them. That's something we, as dads, really need to be aware of. We need to step back and ask, ‘Hey, how are we going to lead our family?’” – Matt Murphy “The biggest priority is trying to get foster homes, orphanages, and churches involved, especially through funding and connecting with good people in the community.” – Matt Murphy “It’s easier to build strong children than to fix broken men. Rescuing them and giving them the opportunity to grow into strong individuals who can, in turn, perpetuate good people is a big thing.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Become more aware of the child trafficking crisis and its prevalence, both online and in local communities. Educate yourself and others on the warning signs and ways to report suspected abuse. Prioritize being a strong, engaged parent and role model for children in your life. Limit unsupervised digital access and foster open communication to protect them from online predators. Consider supporting organizations like the Signal Foundation, either through financial donations or by exploring volunteer opportunities, such as the operator training course. Advocate for policy changes and increased funding to address the systemic failures in the foster care system and child protective services that enable trafficking to thrive. Reflect on your own role as a citizen and community member. What can you do to support vulnerable children and families, and help dismantle the networks that enable this abhorrent trade? Conclusion: The child trafficking crisis is a pervasive, systemic issue that affects communities both domestically and globally. Addressing this crisis requires a comprehensive approach that strengthens families, empowers communities, and holds institutions accountable. It is equally essential to confront the complicity and negligence of those in positions of power who may enable or overlook these abuses. Only through coordinated efforts and unwavering commitment can we begin to dismantle the structures that allow such exploitation to persist. Working together, we can create safer environments and protect vulnerable children worldwide.