Apogee Strong

Breaking free from a victim mentality feels like an uphill battle, especially when life’s challenges seem relentless. It’s easy to feel stuck, as if circumstances are always working against you. Taking control of your mindset starts with small shifts—focusing on what you can change rather than what’s out of your hands. Over time, those small changes build momentum, helping you see that even in tough moments, you have the power to shape your response and move forward. Mark England, co-founder and head coach of Enlifted, has over 18 years of experience helping individuals and organizations transform their lives through the power of words and mindset. Dedicated to breaking the cycle of victim mentality, he empowers others to reach their full potential. Mark defines mindset as "the story you tell yourself," a simple yet powerful reminder of the impact our internal dialogue has on shaping our reality. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Your mindset is the story you tell yourself.” – Mark England “When you learn to think about your thinking, you become alive in a new way.” – Mark England “The faster the story goes, the harder it is to change. So if you want your children to listen to you, slow down your rate of speech. It's easier.” – Mark England “Simplicity is evidence of genius. That is what I always strive for, and often fail at—creating simplicity in all that we are doing and things that I am saying—because it denotes an awareness and understanding that chaos cannot.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Slow down your rate of speech and incorporate intentional breathing when telling your own stories - this helps make them more meaningful and impactful. Identify and replace "soft talk" language (words like "maybe," "hopefully," "guess") with more confident, assertive phrasing to improve decision-making and reduce indecision. Write down your biggest questions for the year and explore how that differs from keeping them in your head - this can unlock new insights and clarity. Celebrate your wins from the previous year by titling them like a movie and describing them in detail - this builds evidence of your capabilities. Examine the stories you tell yourself about your identity, abilities, and circumstances - are they serving you, or is it time to rewrite the narrative? Conclusion: Changing how we speak to ourselves, selecting words intentionally, and celebrating progress can boost confidence and improve decision-making. These habits encourage a positive mindset and equip us to tackle challenges with clarity and assurance. Over time, they build self-worth and enhance our ability to handle both personal and professional decisions. This shift in perspective can transform how we relate to ourselves and the world around us.

Education is about helping kids learn and grow. It's about giving them the tools and opportunities to discover their passions, develop their talents, and become the best versions of themselves. It's about fostering a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their lives. A good education is a foundation for a fulfilling life, empowering children to become confident, capable, and contributing members of society. In this solocast episode, Matt Beaudreau, Founder of Apogee Strong, sets out to clarify Apogee's mission and how it differs from Acton Academy. He addresses any remaining confusion and public perception issues, digging into the philosophical differences between the two organizations and sharing his personal journey in educational philosophy. Matt emphasizes Apogee's unique approach, which actively involves parents, offers flexible part-time and full-time options, and provides a hands-on, coach-driven learning environment. He also highlights the extensive support and resources Apogee provides to its affiliates, contrasting it with Acton Academy's more hands-off approach. Quotes: "We want to be the education hub in a community. So, we want people to be able to drop in for the things that they want help with that we want those a la carte options. Acton is not an a la carte network. We are very much an a la carte network." - Matt Beaudreau "Forget not answering questions. We're answering a lot of questions, and we're proactively engaging with every single thing, from academia to the projects all the above, it is not anywhere near the Acton approach on that, nor is it near the traditional school approach." - Matt Beaudreau "We've got two foundations that that push towards, you know, scholarships for families to make these things available, the website, the CRM and the tech behind it all to give them the ability to have an internal community, or building an app that's on the way that will help for tracking of student work, student behavior." - Matt Beaudreau Key Takeaways: Apogee is a separate entity from Acton Academy, despite the host's previous involvement. Apogee emphasizes parent involvement, contrasting with Acton's kid-centric approach. Apogee believes in coaching parents alongside their children, fostering a strong family-oriented learning environment. Apogee offers part-time and a la carte options, catering to homeschooling families and those seeking flexible learning solutions. This is a significant departure from Acton's focus on full-time enrollment. Apogee coaches actively guide students, contrasting with Acton's philosophy of letting students discover answers independently. Apogee believes in providing direct support and mentorship throughout the learning process. Apogee prioritizes physical fitness and incorporates it into the curriculum, recognizing the importance of a healthy body and mind for optimal learning. Apogee is building out a university partnership program, offering students opportunities to earn college degrees and trade certifications while completing their high school education. Conclusion Choosing the right educational path for your child is a significant decision. We hope this episode has equipped you with a deeper understanding of the differences between Apogee and Acton Academy, highlighting their unique approaches to parent involvement, curriculum design, and student support. Remember, the best choice for your family depends on your individual needs and priorities. We encourage you to explore both options thoroughly, visit campuses, and engage with their communities. By actively participating in this decision-making process, you can find the educational environment that will best nurture your child's growth, unlock their potential, and empower them to thrive.

Finding purpose and identity as a young man today can feel overwhelming, with so many conflicting expectations pulling you in different directions. It’s easy to push away potential mentors, especially when you’re unsure if their guidance truly aligns with your path. That sense of being lost often comes from trying to navigate it all on your own, unsure of where you fit or how to move forward. Sometimes, purpose starts to take shape when you allow yourself to learn from others while still carving out a path that feels authentically yours. Judson Kauffman, entrepreneur, speaker, and CEO of EVRYMAN, has dedicated his career to helping men embrace personal growth and self-awareness. Drawing on his military and business experiences, Judson shares his journey from battling fear and identity struggles to becoming a leader. He shines the spotlight on the importance of modern rites of passage and building resilience in young men. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I had no idea what I was going to do. I had some interests, but not a lot of confidence, not a lot of self-love. I kind of rejected the mentors who were available at that time, which started a tough stage for me.” – Judson Kauffman “I think it's very rare that a boy, young man, or man in our modern society feels total, unconditional love from those who raise him. I think that's the exception rather than the rule.” – Judson Kauffman “When we identify ourselves by something in the external environment, we moor the most important part of ourselves to a moving target—a target we have no control over.” – Judson Kauffman “You pivot. All of it happens because you're taking action. None of it happens by sitting on the couch and just wishing for it to take place.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Reflect on your own identity and how it is tied to external roles or achievements. Consider how you can cultivate a deeper sense of self beyond these external factors. Identify opportunities to facilitate meaningful rites of passage for the young men in your life, whether through intentional ceremonies, challenges, or experiences that mark their transition to adulthood. Examine your risk-taking approach and consider the difference between calculated risks and reckless gambles. Seek to balance self-belief with an understanding of what is truly within your control. Encourage the young men in your life to seek guidance and practical advice from trusted mentors, such as fathers or father figures, rather than relying solely on impersonal online resources. Find ways to support organizations that are dedicated to helping men and young men develop self-awareness, emotional depth, and a sense of purpose. Conclusion: Rites of passage and mentorship are vital for helping young men grow into self-aware, emotionally intelligent individuals with a strong sense of purpose. These practices encourage them to move beyond superficial achievements and focus on living with integrity and understanding. By cultivating these qualities, young men gain the skills to face life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. This guidance doesn’t just shape individuals—it creates stronger, more resilient communities.

Separating who you are from what you achieve can feel liberating, allowing you to find worth in simply being rather than constantly doing. Gratitude plays a powerful role in shifting focus from what’s lacking to what’s already present, helping to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. A positive mindset doesn’t mean ignoring hardships but approaching them with the belief that they’re temporary and surmountable. Cody Askins is a successful insurance industry leader and entrepreneur. Despite facing personal and professional challenges early in his career, Cody has built a thriving business and developed a passion for mentoring and supporting other insurance agents. Today, Cody shares his life’s story, from working through illness as a 16-year-old to achieving financial success in the insurance industry. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Financial services have more millionaires than any other industry in the world, and insurance is a part of financial services. So if it's going to be tough and the toughest, it might as well be the most financially rewarding.” – Cody Askins “When I start off with gratitude, it's really hard not to smile and be unhappy when you're thinking about all the amazing things happening in your life and how grateful you are for those things.” – Cody Askins “Step one of success is showing up, especially when you don't want to.” – Cody Askins “No matter what someone is going through, if they want to do the right thing, stay connected, and work through it, they can.” – Cody Askins “There's this superpower of self-awareness and self-confidence, and when you have that, people understand they can trust and rely upon you.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Develop a mindset of gratitude and positivity, even in the face of adversity. Start your day by reflecting on what you're thankful for to maintain motivation and resilience. Embrace rejection and setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement. View "no's" as feedback to become better, not personal failures. Surround yourself with mentors and a support system that will challenge you and hold you accountable to your goals. Use the wisdom and experience of those who have walked the path before you. Consistently take small, positive actions towards your objectives, rather than relying on big, one-time breakthroughs. Compound your efforts over time to achieve lasting success. Prioritize integrity and doing the right thing, even when it's difficult. Maintain your principles and values as the foundation for your personal and professional life. Conclusion: Pursuing a resilient mindset begins with small, consistent practices like journaling, mindfulness, or taking a moment to appreciate life’s small wins. These simple actions gradually build the clarity and strength needed to face challenges with a calm and focused approach. Over time, they shape how we respond to obstacles, helping us navigate them with greater ease and confidence. This effort to nurture positivity and awareness ultimately empowers us to handle life’s ups and downs more effectively.

Fitness has a unique way of boosting confidence by showing you what your body and mind are capable of achieving. The discipline of working out can translate into a stronger belief in yourself, helping to push through self-doubt. Overcoming negative thought patterns often starts with small mental shifts—like focusing on progress instead of perfection—and celebrating even the smallest wins. Cultivating self-acceptance and resilience takes time, but it begins with treating yourself with the same patience and encouragement you’d offer to someone you care about. Brooke Ence is a fitness enthusiast and former CrossFit competitor. With a diverse background in sports and dance, Brooke has carved out a unique path, navigating the challenges of the entertainment industry and embracing her authentic self. Today, Brooke shares her career story, discussing her experiences in the Wonder Woman and Justice League films, and the importance of self-awareness and confidence in overcoming insecurities. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “I am not good at pretending, and I don't mean in the sense of acting. I mean, I can't cover up my feelings. If I feel something or know something, I'm either going to ask the question or I'm not.” – Brooke Ence “I had to work through my own feelings and insecurities every day. At this point, I'm older. I've done a lot of growth for myself.” – Brooke Ence “I want to be the person that you would assume I am based on things you watch online, social media, interviews, and in-person interactions.” – Brooke Ence Takeaways: Develop self-awareness through regular self-reflection, identifying the root causes of insecurities and challenging negative thought patterns. Celebrate the unique strengths and capabilities of your body and embrace physical fitness as a means to build confidence and resilience. Practice compassion and uplift others by offering genuine compliments, encouraging a culture of mutual support and empowerment. Seek out mentors and role models who embody authenticity and inspire you to stay true to your values. Approach new experiences with an open mind, recognizing that each opportunity can offer valuable lessons, even if it doesn't align with your long-term goals. Conclusion: Physical fitness plays a vital role in enhancing not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being. Regular movement and exercise provide the strength and focus needed to face life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Beyond its physical benefits, fitness supports a balanced mind and a sense of purpose. By prioritizing physical activity, individuals can build a foundation for a healthier, more resilient life.

Staying firm in your beliefs while respecting others' perspectives can be challenging but essential for meaningful connections. It’s about understanding that conviction doesn’t require imposing your views on others; you can hold onto what you believe while allowing room for differing opinions. Respecting diversity of thought often comes down to listening with an open mind and engaging in conversations with empathy, knowing that every perspective has value. JP Dinnell, a former Navy SEAL and Chief Training Officer at Echelon Front, is a seasoned leader and speaker. With a decorated combat background, including a Silver Star and two Bronze Stars, he now trains others in leadership and operational excellence. Today, JP shares his experiences balancing the demands of family, faith, and his professional responsibilities. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Knowledge is not power. You can have all the knowledge in the world, but if you do nothing with it, what good is it? You have to make a choice to implement that knowledge.” – JP Dinnell “Accountability is a tool. Don't use it as a crutch.” – JP Dinnell “There is a very real spiritual battle going on right now, and men need to be equipped to identify it, handle it, fight it, and lead their families.” – JP Dinnell “As men, to be capable every single day, we have to be intentional about our growth, development, and the relationships we build around us.” – JP Dinnell “Sometimes, it also means admitting what we don't know, which I've gotten better at over the years. At least I can pass along my curiosity and say, 'I think this is important for us to know. Maybe we can all learn this together.' That's a part of leadership too.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Reflect on your personal priorities and create a clear framework to ensure you're making intentional choices that align with your values as a leader, family member, and person of faith. Examine your communication style and identify ways to make it more simple, clear, and concise to foster better understanding and buy-in from those around you. Consider how you can empower and give ownership to the people in your life, whether it's your children, team members, or community, to cultivate a culture of accountability and growth. Identify opportunities to build genuine, trust-based relationships that allow you to positively influence others, even when they may be resistant to your guidance. Explore ways to share your faith and beliefs in a bold yet compassionate manner, respecting the diverse perspectives of those around you and focusing on leading by example. Conclusion: Intentionality, empathy, and a firm commitment to personal growth are essential for creating meaningful change. By focusing on these values, individuals not only improve their own lives but also improve the communities they serve. This combination encourages deeper connections, stronger relationships, and a more supportive environment for growth. In the end, personal progress and community well-being go hand in hand, driven by purpose and compassion.

The American dream of homeownership is becoming increasingly challenging in today's economic climate, but what if there's an alternative path, one that leads to affordability and financial freedom? This journey embodies the American Dream, but with a modern twist. It’s not just focused on individual success; there’s a passion for creating a path for others to achieve their dream of homeownership, especially in challenging markets. It’s redefining what it means to build wealth and stability, proving that the traditional route isn't the only way. Meet Franco Perez, founder of A Sexy Mobile Homes, a real estate entrepreneur who guides individuals and families toward homeownership through the often-overlooked mobile home market. He not only helps people find affordable homes but also educates them on construction, development, and financial strategies, empowering them to build a better future. In this episode, he shares his personal journey of overcoming adversity and building a business that helps others achieve their homeownership dreams. Tune in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and the pursuit of a redefined American Dream. Quotes: "Housing is such a critical foundation for so many people out there that are low income, and when you don't have a foundation of housing, it's hard to be able to grow." - Franco Perez "Those that go through these heavy crises or heavy trauma are those [who] really understand that, "Hey, I don't ever want to go through that again," and I have the fear of it, of that happening, and that's what causes that revelation." - Franco Perez "The American dream of home ownership and of financial freedom... it's my drive to want to protect that and make it available for those that don't have that opportunity." - Franco Perez "Look, you guys have all the resources in the world. It's time to learn to be resourceful." - Matt Beaudreau Key Takeaways: Unearth your core values and let them guide your personal and professional life, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth and purpose. Embrace resourcefulness as a lifelong skill, actively seeking knowledge and experiences that fuel personal and professional development. Develop a keen understanding of the dynamics within different markets, positioning yourself to provide maximum value and create solutions where they're needed most. Build genuine relationships rooted in trust and collaboration, focusing on creating win-win situations that empower everyone involved to thrive. Don't be afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and explore alternative paths to success, especially when it comes to finding affordable housing solutions. Recognize the power of personal experience and leverage it to fuel your passion for helping others. Develop a strong sense of self-awareness and identify areas where you can optimize your spending habits to achieve financial stability. Conclusion: Challenging the status quo can create opportunities for positive change. This innovative approach to affordable housing demonstrates that with determination, resilience, and a focus on impact, we can redefine the American Dream for ourselves and for generations to come. It’s a story about empowering others to achieve their dreams and build a better future, regardless of the obstacles they face.

Scaling a business while keeping the core values intact can feel like a delicate balancing act. As things grow, it’s easy for the original culture to get lost in the shuffle or become diluted. The key is being intentional about the people you bring on board and ensuring everyone aligns with the mission. Staying true to your roots often means constantly checking in with what made the business special in the first place and protecting that, even as the company expands. Pete Roberts is the visionary behind Origin, a company dedicated to revitalizing American manufacturing and the American Dream. With a background steeped in the principles of Jiu-Jitsu, Pete has applied the lessons of timing and resilience to the world of business, sharing his insights in an upcoming book. Today, Pete shares his leadership career, discussing the challenges of maintaining a strong company culture while scaling his two businesses, Origin and Jocko Fuel. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Leadership, in general, is something you practice. It's like Jiu Jitsu—you're never going to master it.” – Pete Roberts “To be trusted is more valuable than to be loved. It's an even higher honor than to be loved by someone you trust.” – Pete Roberts “Anything great in life takes 10 years to build. It takes 10 years to create something meaningful in life.” – Pete Roberts Takeaways: Reflect on your leadership approach - how can you practice leadership daily, like mastering a martial art, to navigate the ebbs and flows of your business? Assess the level of trust vs. likeability in your organization - are your employees trading time for meaningful work, relationships, and growth opportunities, or just seeking popularity? Identify the core values and purpose that drive your business, then relentlessly communicate and uphold them, even as your strategies evolve. Explore how the principles of Jiu-Jitsu, such as timing, leverage, and adaptability, could be applied to your own decision-making and problem-solving. Consider how you can better support and empower your "right-hand" employees to be solutions-oriented, resourceful, and emotionally intelligent partners in your venture. Conclusion: The key to success lies in balancing a strong commitment to core values with the flexibility to adapt strategies as market conditions change. By staying true to what matters most, while also being open to innovation, businesses can remain resilient through uncertain times. Empowering employees is also crucial, as it fosters a sense of ownership and drives collective growth. This ensures long-term stability and growth, even in the face of challenges.

Shifting away from unhealthy norms is very difficult, especially when so much of society pushes convenience over well-being. The idea of reclaiming health often starts with small, everyday changes—like making better food choices or prioritizing time together as a family. Families can feel more in control when they move away from what’s marketed as "easy" and instead focus on what truly benefits them. It’s not about perfection but about carving out healthier routines that feel right for each family. Hilary Boynton is the author of the "Heal Your Gut Cookbook" and the founder of the School of Lunch Training Academy, and Stephanie Gruenke is a dietitian and the co-host of the "Doctor Mom" podcast. Today, Hillary and Stephanie gets into the topic of nutrient-dense school lunches and empowering families to adopt healthier eating habits. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “Busyness is kryptonite for intuition, and intuition is the superpower that we’re all born with.” – Hilary Boynton “We really have to take ownership of what we're doing in our homes and with our families, rather than waiting for someone to come and save us. It starts with us, and I think that's one of the most important principles.” – Stephanie Gruenke “Never forget, simplicity is gourmet. It doesn't have to be Food Network worthy or complicated.” – Hilary Boynton “Protecting your family values, being around people and communities that uphold those values, and teaching your kids how to navigate relationships or situations where values might not be upheld, is so important.” – Stephanie Gruenke “Talking about how culture proceeds is crucial because the way it evolves is the defining thing. As I've always said, you make normal what you make normal.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Establish a culture of joyful, nutrient-dense eating in your home or school, as "culture precedes success." Involve your kids in the kitchen and meal planning to foster a positive relationship with food. Identify and address the root causes of picky eating, such as gut health and sensory issues, with the help of a functional health professional. Engage parents with empathy and open-ended questions to encourage them to take ownership of their family's health. Take advantage of local resources, like farmers and chefs, to build a sustainable, community-driven approach to nourishing your children. Conclusion: Creating a culture of joyful and mindful nourishment within families and schools is important for long-term well-being. Instead of depending on external solutions or quick fixes, the focus should be on empowering parents and educators to take responsibility for their own health and the health of their communities. By encouraging this sense of ownership, we can create a sustainable, community-driven approach to feeding future generations. This shift supports healthier, more connected communities and ensures a lasting impact on the next generation’s well-being.

Pulling kids away from screens when so much of their world revolves around them can feel like a constant struggle. Everywhere you look, technology is the default, and it’s easy for nature to take a backseat. You want them to experience the simple joys of being outside, but it’s hard to compete with the pull of games, videos, and apps. Sometimes it feels less like a battle and more like figuring out how to balance two very different worlds. Ginny Yurich is the founder of the 1000 Hours Outside movement and the author of the upcoming book "Homeschooling, You're Doing it Right, Just by Doing It." As a former public school teacher, Ginny witnessed firsthand the shift towards more academics and less play in the education system. Today, Ginny shares her thoughts on the cognitive, physical, and character-building advantages of letting kids explore and be "bored" outdoors. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond! Quotes: “You need to understand that even if you know it's right, and it truly is what's best for kids, the purpose of the institution is not to serve your individual child or family. Its primary goal is to sustain itself.” – Ginny Yurich “We often think the purpose of childhood is to become an adult, but it's actually to experience being a child.” – Ginny Yurich “I firmly believe that by choosing to homeschool, you're making many right choices, simply by stepping out of a system that isn't conducive to child development.” – Ginny Yurich “A man who views the world the same at 50 as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.” – Matt Beaudreau Takeaways: Incorporate more unstructured outdoor play and exploration into your family's daily routine, even if it means letting go of some structured activities. Challenge the traditional education system's priorities and consider alternatives that nurture your child's development. Embrace the gift of boredom and allow your children to cultivate their own imagination and problem-solving skills. Build a supportive community of like-minded families to help with prioritizing outdoor time and alternative education. Regularly review your family's priorities and make adjustments to ensure you're in an environment that aligns with your values and your children's needs. Conclusion: Nurturing a child’s imagination and allowing time for boredom are essential for developing creativity and independent thinking. We can help children develop a deeper connection with the world around them by prioritizing outdoor activities and exploring alternative education. Building a supportive community is key to navigating this unconventional path and encouraging these values. Ultimately, these practices promote a well-rounded, enriching experience that supports both personal growth and learning.