
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

Aug 25, 2024 • 58min
Dr. Kyle Gillett: Revolutionizing Healthcare with Integrative Medicine, Holistic Wellness, and Building Patient Trust
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.

Aug 22, 2024 • 59min
Herman Dolce Jr: Master Financial Literacy, Build Generational Wealth, and Mentor the Next Generation
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.

Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 16min
David Garibaldi: Overcome Resistance, Develop Discipline, and Embrace the Art of Living
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.

Aug 15, 2024 • 1h 18min
Will Reusch: Fostering Critical Thinking and Open Dialogue in the Classroom
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.

Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 52min
Brendan Schaub: Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Fatherhood as a Driving Force for Success
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.

Aug 6, 2024 • 49min
Nicholas Leo: 16-Year-Old Ultra-Runner Shares His Inspiring Story of Perseverance and Pushing Past Limits
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.

Aug 4, 2024 • 1h 9min
Lerrod Smalls: Empowering Yourself and Others Through Effective Communication and Boundary-Setting
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.

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 33min
Dr. Mike Simpson: Exploring the Evolving Landscape of Emergency Medicine, Fitness Strategies for Mature Men, and Supplement Transparency
In a world of ever-changing medical practices, fitness trends, and supplement controversies, finding reliable, evidence-based solutions can be challenging. Individuals must critically evaluate the credibility of sources and stay informed about the latest research. Consulting with healthcare professionals and relying on reputable organizations can provide valuable guidance. Additionally, distinguishing between marketing hype and scientifically proven benefits is crucial for making well-informed health and wellness decisions.
Dr. Mike Simpson is a true trailblazer in the world of emergency medicine and men's health. With decades of experience spanning both military and civilian settings, he has a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of pre-hospital care and the challenges faced by men over 40. Today, Dr. Simpson shares his journey from the military to the medical field, highlighting the evolving landscape of emergency medicine and the importance of adapting to new challenges. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!
Quotes:
“The winds of change in military medicine are very much leaning towards what we used to call prolonged field care. Now, it's referred to as prolonged casualty care.” – Dr. Mike Simpson
“If it sounds like snake oil, if it sounds too good to be true, it is—it's too good to be true.” – Dr. Mike Simpson
“If there's something out there that I can't back up, I don't talk about it on the website, I don't put it on the label, and I don't endorse it.” – Dr. Mike Simpson
Takeaways:
Consider getting genetic testing done to check for any connective tissue issues that may predispose you to spontaneous pneumothorax or other health conditions.
Evaluate your supplement regimen and focus on getting the basics right - proper nutrition, hydration, sleep, and stress management - before relying heavily on supplements.
Be wary of fitness "gurus" peddling quick fixes or unproven methods. Focus on proven, basic exercises and movements that fit your specific goals and abilities.
Carefully consider the decision to start testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), as it is a long-term commitment, not a cyclical treatment. Prioritize optimizing lifestyle factors before exploring TRT.
Develop self-awareness and critical thinking skills to avoid falling for "snake oil" claims or getting caught up in data overload from wearable devices and apps. Focus on how you feel rather than obsessing over metrics.
Conclusion:
Staying adaptable and taking a well-rounded approach to health is key. While it’s important to keep up with new developments in emergency medicine and fitness, we should also be cautious of quick fixes and overly data-focused methods. Emphasizing critical thinking, questioning experts, and taking charge of our own health helps us use an evidence-based approach to navigate changes in medical, fitness, and supplement practices effectively.

Jul 28, 2024 • 1h 2min
Dr. Camilo Ortiz: Redefining Parenting by Empowering Youth to Develop Independence and Resilience Through Carefully Guided Growth
Cultivating independence and resilience in children is vital for their growth. These traits enable them to face obstacles, make choices, and adjust to new experiences with assurance. Developing these skills prepares them to manage life's challenges and evolve into confident, self-sufficient adults. Encouraging problem-solving and allowing them to take on responsibilities from an early age further supports their journey toward becoming capable and adaptable individuals.
Dr. Camilo Ortiz is a pioneering child psychologist challenging the status quo in his field. Frustrated by the overprotective and anxiety-driven approach to parenting, he has developed a revolutionary method to empower children and reduce anxiety. Today, Dr. Ortiz discusses his use of "independence therapy", and how this approach challenges the overprotective and anxiety-driven trends in modern parenting and child psychology. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!
Quotes:
“Evolution has made kids quite flexible, powerful, and good problem solvers. It's hard to mess kids up.” – Dr. Camilo Ortiz
“Boredom is a wonderful motivator for kids. One big advantage we have over kids is that our frontal cortex is more developed, so boredom is not as terrible for us as it is for them.” – Dr. Camilo Ortiz
“Anxiety is destroying my field. We need to go back to a place where therapy is focused on the goals of the client and has nothing to do with the goals of the therapist.” – Dr. Camilo Ortiz
“All education is self-education. Ultimately, that's where it is.” – Matt Beaudreau
Takeaways:
Implement tech-free hours or zones in your home to encourage more in-person socialization and creativity in your children.
Consider allowing your children to take reasonable risks and learn from minor failures, rather than constantly intervening to protect them.
Reflect on your own parenting approach and identify ways you can reduce unnecessary accommodations and oversight to foster greater independence in your children.
Seek out resources and support networks that promote a balanced, non-politicized approach to child psychology and therapy.
Create a hiring process that ensures new team members align with company values
Conclusion:
Fostering independence and resilience in children is crucial, as it helps them develop problem-solving skills and the ability to take reasonable risks. By reducing parental anxiety and overprotectiveness, we can support better long-term outcomes for children. Furthermore, it is essential to approach child psychology and therapy in a balanced and non-politicized manner, ensuring that the individual needs and goals of each child remain the primary focus.

Jul 25, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ben Greenfield: Secrets to a Tight-Knit Family, Raising Resilient Leaders, and Embracing Spiritual Growth
Imagine waking up every day with the joy of knowing you're not just taking care of your health, but also creating a lasting legacy. You're more than just a fitness enthusiast; you're a dedicated family leader, weaving together your personal growth with the spiritual and physical well-being of your loved ones. Do you want to know how some people achieve this wonderful balance?
Ben Greenfield shares his life experiences, family routines, and insights into maintaining a balanced life to inspire young leaders. Household traditions and routines are emphasized as key components to building a strong family unit. As a leader in health, fitness, and entrepreneurship, Greenfield discusses the importance of consistency and intentionality in both personal and professional life. Tune in as young leaders ask questions about life, personal growth, entrepreneurship, and more!
Quotes:
"God made all things good. It just needs to be used responsibly." – Ben Greenfield
"One of the key habits that we have as a family is a bookend for each day where everybody's on the same page systematically, everybody's together, everybody knows what to expect. And it's just made our family a really tight unit." – Ben Greenfield
"The hack is to have a consistent schedule, make sure you're all doing something together, make sure you have a game plan together.” – Matt Beaudreau
Takeaways:
Establish consistent daily routines and traditions with your family to create a strong sense of unity and legacy. Make time for meaningful conversations and shared experiences with your children.
As the leader of the household, be intentional about controlling the energy and atmosphere in your home. Prioritize honesty, transparency, and spiritual growth in your marriage, even if it means facing difficult conversations.
Recognize the importance of rites of passage and ceremonial recognition for young men and women as they transition to adulthood. Mentor and guide them to focus on positive initiations.
Carefully consider the ingredients and dosages in the supplements you take. Avoid overreliance on mind-altering substances to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion:
Balancing family, fitness, and faith can be challenging, but there's a roadmap for those ready to give it a try. By creating consistent routines, involving your family in fitness, prioritizing spiritual practices, focusing on holistic health, and leading by example, you can achieve a harmonious and fulfilling life. Embrace these principles, and you might find yourself not just living but thriving in every aspect of your life.