Team Never Quit

In this week’s Team Never Quit episode, Marcus and Melanie have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, a well-respected functional medicine practitioner and the founder of the Institute for Muscle-Centric Medicine®. Dr. Lyon is a leading expert in brain and thyroid health, lean body mass support, and longevity. Her insights into optimizing health and vitality are grounded in a wealth of knowledge and experience. She challenges the notion that becoming frail is a passive process, emphasizing the power of choice in shaping one's health and longevity. By identifying emotional, environmental, and psychological barriers to lasting health, Dr. Lyon guides individuals in designing personalized action plans and advanced nutrition interventions. Her philosophy revolves around the idea that vibrant health and longevity are achievable by unlocking one's potential for wellness through dedicated effort and personalized strategies. Join us in this enlightening conversation with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon as we explore the dynamic relationship between personalized health interventions and the foundation of an exceptional life. Learn how you too can unlock your potential for vibrant health and longevity. Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org - Fitbod.me/TNQ  In this episode you will hear: • I don’t make resolutions. I set standards. (1:34) • I never changed my direction. From 17 to where I am now, my direction never changed. I studied nutritional sciences. I was lucky enough to train under one of the world leading experts in protein metabolism. (10:46) • I was very unimpressed with the physical ability to be good at sports. (11:32) • I’ve always been interested in being of service. The worst thing someone could be is not be useful. (15:45) • I was always interested in being fit. (18:44) • I had this moment – “What the fuck are we doing?” You’re telling people to do these things, they’re following it, and we’re not telling them the right information. (22:12) • The biggest piece of advice as people are thinking about the new year: Don’t be surprised that you don’t want to go to the gym. Everybody is shocked. Plan for your weaknesses. (26:37) • There’s a lot of misinformation in the nutrition space. (27:33) • No, red meat is not killing the planet. (27:43) • Eat for strength. Everything else is a smokescreen. (27:45) • Policy, politics, money influences everything. (29:50) • There’s a lot of talk about eating for your blood type.  There isn’t evidence to support it. (35:46) • I take care of special operators, and early cancer detection. (49:54) • The other group of individuals are very entrepreneurial, motivated, mavericks, innovators, and moms. It’s an architect of a person. (50:23) • You wanna know our family motto? DBAP - Don’t be a pussy. (60:24) • This is about a mission that could change the narrative of medicine. (61:42) • Dr. Lyon’s Supplement recommendations: Mitopure (Urolithin A - a postbiotic), Vitamin D, Fish Oil, and a good multi-vitamin. 

THIS VIDEO IS ESSENTIAL VIEWING: A Leader’s Testimony Unleashing the Power of Transformation in the Depths of Darkness! | Mighty Oaks Testimonials https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mSD6hbeVH8 POLARIS GROUP WEBSITE: https://polarisgroup.federalgovernment.info/ POLARIS GROUP INTERNATIONAL INC is a dedicated organization committed to community service, emphasizing integrity and compassion, particularly in the realm of disaster relief. Our team comprises highly skilled veterans, including JSOC tier 1 operators and special operators, with extensive real-world experience. Focused on preserving lives, our missions unfold in challenging environments. Presently, we're establishing a forward operating base along the Ukrainian Poland border, featuring a comprehensive command operations center and logistics base. Our active missions encompass triage, evacuations for vulnerable individuals, security measures, and targeted humanitarian aid for orphans and children. By fostering a culture of empathy and lifesaving efforts, we aspire to inspire collective assistance, contributing to the overall well-being of those in need. In this week's episode of the Team Never Quit Podcast, join Marcus in an exclusive one-on-one conversation with Dennis Price, a USMC Force Recon, Scout Sniper, Ranger veteran, and the International Program Manager for the Mighty Oaks Foundation. With six military deployments and three stints as a Private Military contractor specializing in sniper/mobile DDM roles, Dennis brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having attended various Special Operations schools and served as the Head instructor for Field craft and stalking for the Army's Special Forces Sniper Course, Dennis shares his personal journey, including the difficult decision to end his military career to be close to his daughter battling two rare diseases. A devoted Christian, loving husband, and father of four, Dennis is also a martial arts enthusiast—engaging in boxing, Muay Thai, and Jiu-Jitsu, and actively participating in various tournaments. Tune in to hear Dennis's inspiring story of resilience, faith, and commitment. Sponsors: - Hims.com/TNQ In this episode you will hear: • If another man comes to me and tries to steal what is mine in front of my children, do I have the self-confidence to stop him?  I’m a man of violence. I know what I can do to him. Now I don’t have to back up in fear. (10:07) • I try to encourage males to take up Jiu Jitsu – anything – because you shouldn’t have to live in fear. (12:43) • If the only tool in the toolbox that you have is a hammer, then everything’s a nail. (14:43) • How do I say my story and not be too bible thumping. However I tell it, it leads to one conclusion. (17:03) • God uses war-torn warriors and exposes us to certain things and then uses us through Christ. (18:23) • We’re coming back here, trying to fit in; we came back to what we thought we left. (21:24) • Taking Christ out of the household, and taking the man out of the household is why we’re seeing chaos. (22:38) • On a dark night, I almost took my own life and that’s when I came to God and gave it all to Him. (26:21) • Guys like us come back and we’re looking for something to fill this void. Only a relationship with Jesus Christ and God will quench that thirst. (47:08) • My co-partner is a Green Beret. We teach “dual survivor”. Marine special operations, Army Special Forces; we teach of both of our experiences in combat, and we give you formal instruction. (65:47) • Alphas, when they walk into a room, they assess the possible threats. (76:24) • Speech made in anger will be the best speech you ever spoke that you’ll regret. (89:05 • Years of love are forgotten, in minutes of anger. (89:18)

Welcome listeners, to a special edition of the Team Never Quit Podcast. As we approach the end of another incredible year, it's time to reflect on the most powerful, informative, and downright motivating episodes that have graced our airwaves. From enlightening conversations with thought leaders to heart-pounding success stories that redefine what's possible, this recap is a celebration of the wisdom, inspiration, and transformative moments that have defined our journey together. We revisit the remarkable insights shared by our guests, the game-changing lessons learned, and the unforgettable stories that have left an indelible mark on our minds and hearts. Whether you're a longtime listener or joining us for the first time, we welcome you to the Team Never Quit Podcast. This is more than a recap; it's a celebration of the extraordinary, the enlightening, and the empowering. Sponsors: - Navyfederal.org Socials: - Team_neverquit In this episode you will hear: • I think something happens when you get to that age – they love sitting around talking, and I think there’s a certain age when you’re supposed to sit around and listen. (4:22) • When military people get together and names start getting dropped – when the civilian world and the military world clash, you hear about these guys that somehow, someway manage to get into every kind of environment. (5:11) • Get along with people but be yourself while you’re trying to get along with ‘em. That’s an actual skill set you have to have. (49:19) • For us, we just conversate - we get to know people, and that’s what our listeners come on for – to get to know who these people are, and get to know their stories. (50:03)

In this week’s incredible Team Never Quit episode, legendary bull rider and Netflix reality superstar Dale Brisby (How to Be a Cowboy) brings a brand of toughness, determination, fun, truth and faith to the table. From Facebook to Snapchat to TikTok, this guy has attracted thousands with his hilarious cowboy-lifestyle videos. Brisby is the self-proclaimed greatest rodeo cowboy on the planet, and shares an engaging conversation with Marcus Luttrell in the Team Never Quit studios. You’ll see pretty quickly that Dale Brisby is not your typical rancher. And you’ll hear - firsthand – how a future bull-riding rodeo comes to life at Dale’s Radiator Ranch. Dale Brisby: - rodeotime.com - IG: dalebrisby Sponsors: - Aeropress.com/TNQ In this episode you will hear: • I didn’t come here to get hurt. I came here to hurt you. (1:43) • There’s 2 opposite ends of the spectrum in our community. What happened to me is the worst, and it lets you know how much we can take, and Robby’s [O’Neill] lets you know how great we can be.  (6:07) • I probably cost the taxpayers a lot of money. (6:35) • I remember walking onto a village and they’d never seen a white dude. You could tell by the look on their face. (9:09) • Short of ray guns, we got all kinds of toys. You can’t believe it. (9:45) • You look completely different when you climb on that bull. • I could give you the world, but if I don’t give you any discipline, you won’t own anything. (13:25) • When you step into the arena you’re supposed to be in, you light up. (14:00) • If you’re standing there and there’s someone taking pain with you, especially if there’s other dudes dying, and they don’t go anywhere, it changes everything. (20:02) • The greatest gift I ever got is when someone knows not only will I take pain with them – I’ll die with them. (20:10) • A little suffering goes a long way. (20:52) • Jumping on a grenade is the epitome of a servant’s heart, but he only had two seconds and that was his knee jerk reaction, because his brothers were in there. (21:40) • Most of our life is picking on each other. That’s how you know they love you. (24:26) • Once you get your ass kicked in the military - if you come back with a good attitude, that’s good. (31:28) • Jocko took his boys in there. He would go out in the daytime and run an American flag to start a fight. He was like “C’mon bitches. You wanna start a fight? I’m here.” (33:12) • The Navy owns us, but the Army and Marine Corps own the battle spaces, so when we get put in there it’s at the behalf of them. (34:35) • If God puts an elk within bow range of you that is God telling you that is your elk for this hunt. (39:38) • There is being humble, and then there’s being so humble you don’t use the gifts you’ve been given. (39:46) • We all appreciate each other’s world because we appreciate how hard something is. (40:22) • The perspective it (hell week) gives you in your life, is you can do anything. (43:54) • There’ll be some stuff you go through that’s simple for someone, but difficult for you. (44:34) • Everyone fails down here. That’s part of life. Get that out of your head. (45:55) • There’s a big difference between training to fight and actually being in one. (64:09) 

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie are honored to have Cole Lyle, a passionate advocate for veterans' well-being and the driving force behind Mission Roll Call and the PAWS Act. Cole speaks of the experiences that led him to become a tireless advocate for veterans, including the inception of Mission Roll Call, shedding light on its mission to connect veterans with resources, support, and a community that understands their unique challenges. He also has been actively championing the significance of the PAWS (Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers) Act, which aims to provide service dogs to veterans struggling with physical and mental health challenges. Marcus and Melanie extend their heartfelt gratitude to Cole for his unwavering dedication to supporting veterans through Mission Roll Call and the PAWS Act. If you'd like to learn more or get involved, visit: https://www.missionrollcall.org/ www.kk9s.org Sponsors:   - GoodRX.com/TNQ   - NavyFederal.org   - Uncommongoods.com/TNQ  In this episode you will hear: • I’m a 7th generation Texan (3:46) • I actually joined the military straight out of High School. (7:03) • I was an Eagle Scout.  (8:11) • When you enlist, they give you a rank for it [Being an Eagle Scout]. (8:27) • I didn’t have a positive male influence except for my scout masters and football coaches. (9:11) • There’s a tangible benefit of having a group of people that come from all walks of life. You come from such diverse backgrounds, you forget all your differences and your bullshit to accomplish a mission. (10:35) • 67% of Gen-Z does not know a veteran or someone on active duty. (11:56) • That [Marine] uniform has gotten so many guys and girls. (15:05) • The majority of casualties in GWOT came from fuel convoys. (17:15) • Men and women get out, and they have to learn how to be an adult again. (25:53) • One night I spiraled down about that far away from being a suicide statistic. Another marine came and banged on my door. I was actually surprised that him banging on the door didn’t jerk my finger. (28:42) • My mindset went from ”I have nothing” to “I have the opportunity to do anything.” (29:05) • 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (29:16) • She [Kaya) was specifically trained to recognize when I was having a nightmare and she’d jump on the bed and lick my face, wake me up, and stay with me until my heartrate went down. Or she would recognize when I was having an anxiety attack and would do animal assisted intervention, where she’d get up in my face and distract me to keep the snowball effect from getting worse. (31:38) • You may have kids, you may have a wife that love you very much, but there’s something not wired right and you’re going down this path, so having a dog there you look down at the dog and think “this dog loves me.” (34:42) • Our connection with dogs is a lot like our relationship with God. (36:14)

In this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast, Dr. Kirk Parsley joins Marcus in the podcast studio to share his journey from living a seemingly hopeless childhood, to becoming a Navy SEAL, to becoming a leading authority on the importance of quality sleep for overall well-being. Learn about the pivotal moments that led him to focus on sleep as a critical factor in human performance. Dr. Parsley breaks down the alarming statistics and dives deep into the sleep crisis and discusses the societal and medication-related factors contributing to the widespread lack of quality sleep, and the profound impact it has on physical and mental health. As a former Navy SEAL, Dr. Parsley understands the significance of peak performance. Discover his insights into how optimizing sleep can enhance cognitive function, physical endurance, and overall resilience. Dr. Parsley has dedicated himself to developing effective sleep remedies to address the challenges many face in achieving restorative sleep. He brings to light the science behind his remedies and how they can be integrated into daily routines for improved sleep quality. Whether you're a high-performing individual seeking optimization or someone struggling with sleep issues, this episode offers valuable insights to help you unlock the full potential of a good night's sleep. Sleep Remedy Link: - https://docparsley.com/tnq/ Socials: - kirkparsley - team_neverquit Sponsors: - policygenius.com - Navyfederal.org  In this episode you will hear: • I was terrible student my whole life. (5:10) • I got told I was stupid all the time; felt I was stupid but I was fast, strong and athletic. I used to get in lots of fights. (5:33) • Our families values were if you can serve in the military, you should. (6:10) • I didn’t have any good male role models. (6:21) • [My mom and stepdad] were married 8 years. I was grounded for 7 years and 6 months of that. (8:19) • I literally had my 3rd grade teacher yell to the whole class that I was the dumbest kid she ever taught in her life. (8:57) • My stepdad told me I was dumb every day. (9:03) • {After excelling academically in military training] I thought “Well shit, maybe I’m not so dumb after all.” (11:46) • They walked us around to the different SEAL teams, and they said, “Here’s your dream list; put down what SEAL team you want to go to. It was at that moment I realized, “I don’t know what a SEAL does.” (12:35) • I didn’t know I was getting paid. I figured they’re gonna give me a place to live, a uniform, a place to eat. What do I need money for? That’s how naive I was. (15:01) • [When I learned that the] military had its own medical school, I figured I‘d give back to the SEAL teams - I’ll give back to the community that made me who I am. (21:12) • Because I had been a team guy, and guys trusted me, 1 guy comes in [with a problem], then 2, 4, 6. Within a month I gad 100 guys come in telling me the exact same issues. I thought they were rehearsed. (24:01) • I got to learn a lot pretty quick, and learned a lot of non-traditional stuff. [Because] I can’t put people on prescription medication either. (25:19) • It turns out that Ambien destroys 80% of REM sleep. (20:04) • [Melanie] Q: So you have a branded sleep supplement? [Dr. Parsley] A: Yes. Doc Parsley Sleep Remedy.  www.docparsley.com(37:03) • This is the most vindicating story of my life. SOCOM hired me, and they had all of the healthcare providers in one room and I did a six hour lecture, and they still use it to this day. (40:18) • We need a pipeline [for veterans dealing with mental issues]. Right now the only pipeline is once people have the barrel in their mouth. (59:11)

This week on the Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus and Melanie delve into the dynamic world of education and entrepreneurship with special guests, Jeff and Laura Sandefer of Acton Academy. Jeff, a seasoned entrepreneur and esteemed Socratic Guide, has a remarkable dual life, having founded multiple successful businesses and earned accolades as an outstanding teacher at the University of Texas. Laura, co-founder of Acton Academy and an author, takes us on her Hero's Journey in education, chronicled in her book "Courage to Grow." Acton Academy's learner-driven model has spread across the globe with over 130 locations, emphasizing real-world projects, apprenticeships, and Socratic discussions. The school's foundation lies in the Hero's Journey, a narrative pattern guiding children through adventures, victories, and transformations. Laura passionately discusses Acton Academy's commitment to inspiring children to find their callings, employing adaptive game-based programs and online tools like Khan Academy to teach core skills. Laura and Jeff share their passion for giving children hands-on entrepreneurial experience through Acton Academy's Children's Business Fairs. These fairs provide children with opportunities to be entrepreneurs, fostering confidence, imparting valuable lessons, and preparing them for success in a rapidly changing world.  Join us on this insightful journey with Jeff and Laura Sandefer as they discuss Acton Academy's innovative approach to education, combining entrepreneurship, the Hero's Journey, and hands-on experiences to inspire and equip the next generation of independent thinkers and lifelong learners. Website – https://www.actonacademy.org/ Sponsors: - aeropress.com/TNQ - Uncommongoods.com/TNQ In this episode you will hear: • The best teacher in the best school in Austin TX just told us not to send our children to traditional school because they’d be chained to a desk and lectured to all day. (7:17) • I’m not homeschooling. That wasn’t in my blood at all. (7:33) • One of the narratives of the experience is The Heroes Journey. (9:25) • An ordinary person hears a call, sets out on an adventure, wrestles monsters, has mentors and guides, seeking a treasure all the way. And they may or may not get the treasure, but they return home a changed person, ready to share their new ideas and character with the world around them. Then, they set out on a new adventure again. (9:38) • Every time they get knocked down – they may not win, but they’ll get back up. (10:13) • What a hero’s journey does is distinguish hero vs victim. Any child at an Acton Academy starts claiming the identity of the hero. That’s not someone who wins all the time; its someone who gets back up after they fall down. (10:23) • The hero takes responsibility and starts problem-solving, whereas a victim outs the blame on somebody else. (10:59) • They learn ways to work through problems with gritty decision-making (11:28) • The 3 big monsters starting at age 6: We start wresting with Victim-hood, Resistance, and Distraction. (12:18) • Sometimes your big brother needs to pick you up and say “get back in the fight.” (16:11) • IQ is so overrated - because its perseverance, grit, and getting along with people. That’s what really matters. (19:30) • People who are there because they want to be there, they choose to be there, and they’re on a mission for their life (21:08) • No adult on campus is ever allowed to answer a question. (25:43) • Things get chaotic – Part of the model is letting things fall into chaos, and let order arise as the young people figure out how to solve the problem. (26:41) • What’s the best thing about Acton Academy? They’ll say freedom. (27:11) • We believe every single child is a genius, who deserves to find a calling and change the world. (42:15) • The cave you fear to enter is where your treasure lies. (44:37)

In this episode, Marcus has the privilege of hosting a remarkable individual who has traversed diverse worlds - from the military to Hollywood, and beyond. Remi Adeleke, born in Nigeria, is not only an accomplished writer and actor but also a fierce advocate against organ trafficking. Join us as we delve into his incredible journey, from the streets of the Bronx to the high-stakes world of Navy SEALs and the glimmering lights of the entertainment industry. Remi's life story is one of resilience and determination. His world took a drastic turn following the death of his father. At just five years old, Remi, alongside his mother and brother, embarked on a new chapter in the Bronx, New York. Little did he know, this move would set the stage for a life of extraordinary experiences. Driven by a profound sense of duty and an unyielding spirit, Remi enlisted in the Navy, but his journey didn't stop there - he went on to join the elite Navy SEALs, specializing in combat medicine and HUMINT (Human Intelligence/tradecraft). From the battlefield to the big screen, Remi's transition into the world of Hollywood is a tale of its own. His notable roles in films such as "Ambulance" (2022), "Special Forces: World's Toughest Test" (2023), and "Plane" (2023) highlight not only his acting prowess but also the breadth of his experiences. Beyond the glamour of Hollywood, Remi is actively engaged in a cause close to his heart - combating organ trafficking. Drawing from personal experiences and a commitment to justice, Remi works tirelessly to raise awareness and combat this illicit trade. We explore the motivations behind his involvement in this critical issue and discuss the impact he hopes to make in the fight against organ trafficking. Join us as we unravel the layers of this multifaceted individual, gaining insights into the extraordinary life of a man who continues to inspire others through his actions and advocacy. Socials: - https://www.instagram.com/remiadeleke/ - https://www.youtube.com/@remiadeleke1278 - https://www.instagram.com/team_neverquit/ In this episode you will hear: • [Marcus] I wanted to be a Navy SEAL so bad, but I just thought it was impossible. (6:41) • Every single day of my life I try to maintain a standard of excellence. (7:51) • I feel like I owe it to guys who gave their lives. (8:01) • I want to be excellent because I want to honor their legacy. (8:18) • I love America. I’m not ashamed to say it. (8:31) • It’s so interesting how so many people outside America see it, and love it, and want it. (9:03) • [Marcus] When you really appreciate being an American is when you freakin’ leave. (9:19) • A lot of people don’t know this, but Nigeria is a very rich country, because there’s so much oils, natural gas, gold, and minerals. (9:59) • 9-11 played a role in me getting into the military. It’s bittersweet. (18:08) • [Organ trafficking] is a multi-billion dollar industry. (23:27) • There are some corrupt doctors that on the American border playing a role – “providing intelligence” to organ harvesters. (24:25) • A woman in India traveled to New Delhi for a job. When she went to get a physical, she heard the nurse say to the doctor “this is the girl who’s giving these organs”. She ran out, alerted the police and uncovered a multimillion dollar organ harvesting ring, any of whom were doctors. (25:21) • We’re not dealing with idiots. We’re dealing with intelligent people. (26:41) • My feature film is called: “Unexpected Redemption.” (31:02) • I love storytelling. I love taking and idea from the beginning, writing a screenplay, rolling a camera and shooting it. (32:03) • It’s a very tough business to be in, but just that “no quit” attitude had stayed with me. (32:58) It’s all about the story to me. What message can impact people the most? (33:56) • Fear breeds fear; Calm breeds calm. (43:35)

Welcome friends, to this week’s Team Never Quit Podcast with your host, retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell. In today's episode, Marcus has the honor of hosting Michael G Halterman, the Vice President of Operations at The Honor Foundation. With a career spanning over two decades, Michael has a wealth of experience, particularly in operations, leadership, and the military and veterans education sectors. His mission consists of a commitment to help fellow veterans navigate the transition process, ensuring they find their unique path and thrive in the process. Michael served as a Marine Infantryman for 10 years and is a Plank Owner of 1st Marine Raider Battalion. His profound respect for Special Operators is deeply rooted in his experiences and dedication to the military community. His story is a testament to the power of a clear personal why and the impact of laser focus in achieving remarkable goals. Join us as we explore the lessons learned and the wisdom gained through Michael's diverse and impactful career. Socials: www.honor.org Sponsors: - GoodRX.com/TNQ - NavyFederal.com - UncommonGoods.com/TNQ  In this episode you will hear: • I grew up waving the red, white, and blue. (4:58) • Growing up in the 80s, guns weren’t like pink and purple. (6:59) • I was a kid running around with tri-color camo on and realistic-looking guns. (7:05) • [In the military] I got to learn about life. People from other cultures, because you really don’t know nothing growing up in a small town. (8:28) • The first thing I remember pulling into Southern Nasiriya, [Iraq]. It was the first time I had seen American vehicles with bullet holes in them - on fire - American military uniforms with blood on them - Helmets tipped over. (12:48) • How do you go from spending as much time in the military as [the time] I’ve had on the planet? (45:35) • [The Honor Foundation] is fully designed for you to explore all opportunities in a safe space.  (48:22) • [The Honor Foundation] is an executive-style education, and it’s three months long. (50:15) • The big differentiator of who we are at the Honor Foundation is that the entire first phase has nothing to do with LinkedIn, resume’s or any of that. We make these dudes figure out who they are again. (51:44) • Who are you when no one cares about rank anymore; no one cares about sniper school; no one cares that you can free fall. They wanna know who you are, and before you can tell them that, you have to know who you are. And you have to articulate that well. (52:04) • The reality is… you’re gonna have to struggle with who you are, who your community is, how to make sense of the world, and the purpose and meaning of life for a while. (61:31) • We advocate the best time to get a job is when you have a job. (62:40) • At no time do we tell them what to do. We empower them to go do what they want to do. (70:29)

In this week's Team Never Quit Podcast, Marcus engages in a gripping conversation with Nick Allard, whose life took an unexpected turn at the onset of the Ukrainian war. Nick's seemingly ordinary life in Austin, Texas, was disrupted by two extraordinary events that ignited a profound shift in his perspective. Motivated by a newfound sense of purpose, Nick made a spontaneous decision to travel to Ukraine just weeks later, driven by a desire to amplify the untold stories of those affected by the conflict. The podcast delves into the transformative experiences that shook Nick to his core and convinced him of a greater calling. While in Ukraine, Nick encountered a man whose life had been shattered by the ravages of war. This encounter inspired Nick to create a powerful film titled "Dima." The film vividly captures the horrors endured by its protagonist along the perilous journey, providing a poignant glimpse into the human cost of the conflict. Kickstarter:  - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/nickallard/dima-0 Socials: - IG: iamnickallard In this episode you will hear: • Athletics was always king for me when I was growing up. (7:00) • I was a kid obsessing on war movies, and as I got older, I transformed into an athlete type, and once that ended, I transitioned back to what I’m doing now. It’s come full circle. (7:16) • That communal feeling was more important than anything growing up as a kid. (8:11) • [One night] I was knocking out emails on my computer, and all of a sudden I hear a knock on my door. There’s a voice mumbling “Please open the door” and there’s a woman with zip ties firm behind her back and she said that three guys had tried to rape her. (14:34)  • When things like that happen, I have to find ways to put meaning to it. Otherwise it’s just a thing that happens. (20:22) • [Marcus] If one thing goes wrong, that’s a day. Days are hard. They’re supposed to be. But when you have two or three constantly pushing you in a certain direction, a lot of people can’t pick that up. That’s why their life get so difficult. That’s your purpose. (22:07) • [When my friend was drowning] to save my friend was my second thought. The first thought was “God what the hell do you wanna do? What is this?” Then I went into the mode of we gotta pick this guy up and move him. And that was a defining moment. (27:57) • Once the train’s on the tracks, there’s always the prospect of something happening. (28:46) • The next place that I went to was Auschwitz. To see and feel the energy that place has was something - unlike anything I’d ever felt. (31:12) • The have photos of where specific things happened, and then looking at the photo of a woman with her son walking down the path to the gas chamber, and you’re looking at the photo taken in that exact spot. (32:21) • When you’re backpacking Europe, you get all the kids on vacation. When you’re backpacking in Ukraine, you get like every person from every walk of life that’s involved in war. (36:50) • [I asked a man] “Were you there when the invasion all started? All of a sudden in his face he was trying to get it out, but there was this pause, his eyes kind of like wearing off into the distance. It was this gut instinct at that moment. It felt like “Oh my something happened.” Something in that pause… (49:14) • Every dime I had went into that film. (50:53) • I grew up Catholic but I was always a dude that tried to skip church, then after those 2 life events, I gave up thinking I was in control of all this. (54:26) • The Ukrainian people feel like they’re ten years behind everybody. (58:22) • The history that Ukraine and Russia has is brutal. (58:36) • Don’t forget about it. You don’t have to be posting Ukrainian flags – everybody’s got things to do. Just don’t lose sight of it. (71:31)