
The Hard Way With Joe De Sena
Learn the Spartan mindset. Founder & CEO of Spartan Race and NY Times best-selling author, travels the globe seeking and answers authors, academics, athletes, adventurers, entrepreneurs, CEOs and thought leaders. It will shift your thinking, make you laugh and and give you the tools you need. He’s on a mission to find the secrets to success in all aspects of life. Not only does Joe interview epic people, he has brought together an amazing panel to break down and analyze every aspect of these interviews. We give you the ultimate blueprint and action steps to assimilating these powerful conversations into your own life.
Latest episodes

Feb 13, 2024 • 23min
Beyond Stereotypes: Redefining Masculinity Through Authenticity
In this episode, Joe De Sena interviews Michael Holt from Savage and Saint on redefining masculinity through integrity, authenticity and inner strength. They discuss growing up tough and how it shapes character, plus the importance of discipline and relaxation in achieving goals and relationships. Michael shares his daily wellness routine of meditation, breathing, nutrition and movement - practical self-care habits that unlock spiritual growth and sustainable energy. Discover an empowering blueprint for well-being, success and real relationships - without macho posturing or martyrdom. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 01:15 How can we define masculinity? 04:40 The balance of challenge and acceptance 07:51 Going too far in achieving the mission 12:08 The fear of stopping and relaxing 15:54 Six pillars of well-being 19:52 The meditative path is the warrior path

Jan 23, 2024 • 24min
Never Quit: Craig Levinson's Story of Pivoting from Failure to Success
Craig Levinson has overcome countless obstacles on his journey from South Africa to Silicon Valley. After immigrating as a teen, he chased his basketball dreams in the US only to have a devastating injury end his career. But he refused to quit, pivoting to build supplement brands and manage inspirational clients. Through it all, 3 principles have guided him: accountability, consistency, and self-care. In this episode, Craig shares gripping tales of his moves across the world, business failures, and backstage encounters that led him to create a very sought-after agency. His story is an inspiration for anyone willing to keep chasing their dreams against all odds. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Craig Levinson’s family and background 02:34 Moving to the United States at 19 05:13 Playing college basketball and getting injured 08:18 Creating a supplement brand and failing 11:31 Pivoting and finding a way through 13:10 Meeting his faith in the backstage of Ellen DeGeneres show 15:33 Working with A-list clients 17:34 Thee things important for success 20:48 How to find Craig? 21:54 Final words

Jan 16, 2024 • 16min
Getting Kids Moving: Solutions to the Physical Inactivity Crisis | Amy Bantham
Tired of kids glued to screens when they should be running around outside? Frustrated with the lack of PE and recess in schools? Dr. Amy Bantham has had enough - and she's starting a revolution to get our youth active again. As the founder of Move to Live More, Amy is trying to empower families and schools in a fight against physical inactivity. In this motivating episode, she shares why movement matters for mental and physical health, tips for fun family fitness, and innovative solutions to get kids off devices and onto the field. Whether you're a parent wanting to role model wellness or a community member passionate about youth sports, this show will energize and inspire you to join Amy's movement. Discover practical ways to weave activity into everyday life and help reverse the inactivity crisis - one kid at a time. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Who is Amy Bantham? 02:27 The lack of physical activity in kids 04:59 What can school and parents do? 08:26 Kids going outside for recess policy 11:12 What can we do? 12:32 How can people join the Move to Live More movement? 14:17 Start with a small activity

Jan 9, 2024 • 36min
From the Brink of Death to the Forefront of Healthcare Innovation | Jacob Peters
Jacob Peters almost died after a COVID-19 vaccine left him hospitalized. Instead of accepting defeat, he was driven to help others avoid similar struggles. His new company Superpower aims to put people in charge of their health data and connect them to innovative care. This episode follows Jacob's incredible journey—from building Legos into a six-figure business as a teen to founding a major health tech company after a chance meeting on Wall Street. But it was facing his mortality that lit a fire within Jacob. Now, he's building the future of healthcare, one that ensures no one has to fight for their life alone. Get ready to be inspired to reclaim your health and well-being. Highlights: 00:15 Jacob Peters's journey into health space 05:04 Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Military Career 07:45 From Lego reselling company to Wall Street 09:57 A start-up started by solving Microsoft’s problem 13:28 Lego blocks translated into business building 17:06 Jacob’s health problems after COVID vaccine 26:14 The help of holistic physicians 28:51 Jacob’s current business in health space - Superpower 33:03 Three things everyone should be doing every day

Jan 2, 2024 • 24min
Challenging the Status Quo: Disrupting the $2 Trillion Alcohol Industry | Ruari Fairbairns
Tired of the same old drinking culture? In this unconventional podcast episode, Spartan CEO Joe De Sena joins forces with wellness entrepreneur Ruari Fairbairns to drop bombshell strategies for helping people take back control over their lives from Big Alcohol. From waking guests at dawn with burpees to proposing "water-only" bars, these disruptors will challenge your assumptions with their boldest ideas yet for growing the global sobriety movement. You'll also get the surprising backstory of how their chance meeting in Iceland sparked their amazing friendship and partnership. Plus, discover little-known industry tactics that have fueled a drinking epidemic worldwide. For anyone looking to reclaim their freedom from alcohol or support loved ones, this can't-miss conversation provides the unfiltered insights you need to finally change your lifestyle. Are you ready to join the disruption? Listen now to get your game plan. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:54 A crazy story about meeting in Iceland 05:07 You must be available for opportunities 07:02 Making the hard road easy 10:45 How to get more people to join? 15:15 Alcohol destroys our ability to deal with stress 16:36 Manipulations of the alcohol industry to increase alcohol consumption 19:34 Peer pressure and choosing not to drink 21:16 Helping people control drinking ------ Ruari Fairbairns is the founder and CEO of OYNB, a leading figure in the health and well-being space. He was awarded Great British Entrepreneur of the Year for Scotland and Northern Ireland 2020, with OYNB also being named The Spectator’s Economic Innovator of the Year in the UK. Known for his passionate advocacy for healthier living, Ruari has been instrumental in steering OYNB to the forefront of the alcohol-free movement, inspiring over 100,000 people worldwide to reassess their relationship with alcohol and strive to become the best version of themselves.

Dec 26, 2023 • 20min
From Lab to Market: Navigating the Obstacles of Medical Innovation | Dr Jeff Karp
In this fascinating discussion, Dr. Jeff Karp, a top biomedical innovator pulls back the curtain on the difficult journey medical breakthroughs must take to actually help patients. From navigating financial hurdles and clinical trial complexities to manufacturing challenges, hear the surprising barriers promising cures often face on their journey to your local pharmacy. You'll also get an inside look at how real solutions are being developed. Discover how a nasal spray was created to potentially block COVID transmission and learn about groundbreaking "medical superglue" aiming to revolutionize heart repairs. If you've ever wondered what really happens after exciting discoveries are made in white coats and petri dishes, don't miss this amazing conversation revealing the untold story of how cutting-edge science becomes accessible healthcare. Highlights: 00:00 Intro 00:45 Who is Dr. Jeff Karp? 02:30 Complexity of finding and commercializing new solutions 06:42 Dr. Karp’s new book overview 08:30 Indigenous holistic approach to health 09:44 Narrowing of the senses we use to experience the world 11:40 Spartan shield for your nose – Profi Nasal Spray 15:10 Developing glue that can work inside the body

Dec 19, 2023 • 14min
Starve Yourself of Synthetic Pleasures: Find Authentic Challenges | Seth Goldstein
Former financier and entrepreneur Seth Goldstein shares his journey of creating an authentic snack brand called MASA Chips. He offers proven strategies for making a successful business without compromising your idea. Highlights include the importance of discipline, the challenge of promoting authentic experiences in society addicted to synthetic pleasures, and delivering high-quality products and experiences. Seth also discusses the significance of making healthy food choices and provides valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Dec 12, 2023 • 15min
90% Indoors: How Disconnecting from Nature is Hurting our Health | Mason Kuhr
Tired of feeling drained? Struggling with inflammation or other health issues? Mason Kuhr shares his holistic approach to tapping into your inner strength. Through simple daily rituals like cold exposure, meditation, and burpees, Mason has optimized his energy levels, productivity, and recovery. He'll reveal how reconnecting with nature can boost your immunity, testosterone, and more. You'll also learn Mason's unique take on making wellness accessible and how Stampede Network is revolutionizing holistic living for the modern man or woman. Discover real stories of people healing from issues like infertility and immobility through bee products and lifestyle tweaks. Mason will motivate you to optimize your health and performance from the inside out by harnessing your spiritual power. Highlights: 00:00 A spiritual take on health and wellness 01:27 The benefits of bee bread 03:04 Making holistic wellness cool 05:50 Dopamine hacking 06:44 Mason’s daily routine 09:14 Meditation and dealing with stress 11:01 What’s next for Mason Kuhr?

Dec 5, 2023 • 23min
Achieving Your Dreams: The Power of Your Circle and Consistent Action | Dominic Schlueter
Dominic Schlueter, an 18-year-old with a thriving podcast and brand, talks about pushing himself to the limit through running, life-changing lessons about grit, influence, and turning passion into purpose.

Nov 28, 2023 • 27min
SquidHaus's Secret Weapon: How to Dominate the Fitness World | Lukas Pakter
Joe De Sena sits down with a young entrepreneur Lukas Pakter, the founder of the SquidHaus fitness apparel company, to discuss sensitive global issues with nuance, as well as Lucas' unconventional path to building his booming athletic apparel brand. Lucas shares his viral strategy of leveraging an "influential army" of top fitness creators to take over the scene. He plans to sell thousands of discounted tickets to Joe's Spartan Race using influencer codes, donating over $1M to charity in the process. Joe gives the plan his stamp of approval. Viewers will learn Lucas's unique brand story, top tips for starting young, and lessons on accountability from these experienced leaders. With open discussion on controversy and actionable advice, this episode is a must-watch for anyone pursuing a business or looking to better understand complex issues. Highlights: 00:00 Joe’s “controversial” post on IG 02:34 The conversation has to happen 04:06 We shy away from having a stance 05:59 What does SquidHaus mean and represent? 08:06 Finding a job vs. starting a company 10:04 Leveraging business through Spartan Race 14:34 How to start a business? 16:44 Three things every entrepreneur should do every day 19:55 Three books everybody needs to read 21:57 How to find Lukas Pakter?
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