Mindset is only part of the equation to finally stop chasing motivation. This week on Acta Non Verba Sal Di Stefano shares why short-term diets and “hard-core” fitness methods are not sustainable and how you can strategically rebuild relationship with physical health one step at a time. During this conversation Sal and I will discuss micro adversity, how restriction sets you up for failure, and how his understanding of science has changed the way he communicates fitness and health to others.

 

Sal was 14 years old when he touched his first weight and from that moment he was hooked. Growing up asthmatic, frequently sick and painfully skinny, Sal saw weightlifting as a way to change his body and his self-image. At age 18 his passion for the art and science of resistance training was so consuming that he decided to make it his profession and become a personal trainer. By 19 he was managing health clubs and by 22 he owned his own gym. After over 18 years as a personal trainer he has dedicated himself to bringing science and TRUTH to the fitness industry. Sal is also a dedicated father to a son and daughter.

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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In this week’s episode, Sydnee Faulkner shares her journey from rural Alaska to thriving in fitness, fashion, and medical sales, highlighting the importance of actions over words. Marcus and Sydnee discuss topics such as embracing one's duality, self-love, handling high-pressure situations with grace, the significance of rest and self-care, and the challenges of breaking free from societal expectations. Sydnee also delves into her personal battles with self-image and how overcoming adversity has shaped her mission to inspire and lead others.

 

Episode Highlights:

04:52 Balancing Ambition and Self-Care

10:11 Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Adversity

23:15 Struggles with Self-Image and Eating Disorders

24:26 Journey to Self-Love and Body Positivity

25:59 Balancing Health and Fitness Goals

26:46 Lessons from Competing and Coaching

 

Sydnee Falkner is dedicated to empowering women to embrace self-love and achieve healthy lifestyles. Her own journey of transformation—both physical and mental—has shaped her passion for helping others. Struggling with body image and self-worth growing up, Sydnee found strength through weight training, nourishing her body, and working with coaches. This process helped her cultivate a strong sense of self and a clear vision for her future. Now, Sydnee’s mission is to guide women, whether they’re just starting or already on their journey, to fall in love with themselves and become the confident, strong individuals they’ve always dreamed of being.

 

Learn more about Syndee and her services here: https://www.sydliana.com/

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week’s episode begins with my 40th birthday and reveals what I learned when I died on the operating table - twice. During our time together I will share how I discovered the gift of Adversity through a spinal injury that drove me to being bedridden, broken, and acutely aware of everything I was taking for granted. Listen in to learn why I let go of anger, learned to find gratitude for both positive and negative experiences, and how you can snap yourself out of the slumber of mediocrity.

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

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This week, Michael Ostrolenk, a master coach at SEALFIT Unbeatable Mind Academy and former Director of Human Resilience. With over 30 years of experience, Michael helps high performers and leaders master resilience and optimize relationships. Marcus and Michael delve into the concept of the 'Relationship Dojo,' where couples learn to communicate and grow together by incorporating principles from martial arts, playfulness, and self-awareness. The discussion also covers the importance of emotional safety, circadian rhythms, and the interplay between physiological and psychological wellness in personal and professional relationships.

 

Episode Highlights:

03:42 The Impact of Circadian Rhythms and External Factors

11:52 The Relationship Dojo: Training for Love and Connection

39:51 The Role of Play in Learning and Relationships

44:41 Morning and Evening Rituals for Couples

01:04:18 Emotional Safety and Masculine-Feminine Dynamics

 

Michael Ostrolenk, MA, MFT, is a Master Coach with over 30 years of experience specializing in resilience, leadership, and elite performance. He has worked with former special operators, executive leaders, and high-performing individuals to help them master self-leadership, expand resilience, and unlock peak potential. Michael integrates psychological, physiological, and tactical disciplines into a holistic system that supports growth across mind, body, spirit, and relationships. Known for his multidisciplinary expertise and grounded presence, he empowers clients to deepen self-awareness, optimize performance, and live with greater purpose and clarity in every area of life.

 

You can connect with him here: https://www.michaeldostrolenk.com/

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Raul Mendez shares his harrowing experience of surviving a mass shooting in July 2022. Mendez, who took swift action despite being severely wounded, recounts the events of that night where he saved his family and others by neutralizing the shooter. The discussion emphasizes the importance of firearm preparedness and carrying a weapon responsibly. Mendez talks about the psychological aftermath of the incident, the vital role of training, and the impact of his story on promoting self-defense awareness.  

Episode Highlights:

29:00 Facing Fears and Preparing for the Future

29:34 Emotional Challenges and Tough Love

32:58 Media Attention and Social Media Challenges

36:01 Advocating for Gun Rights

42:18 The Importance of Self-Defense 

 

Raul Mendez is a mass shooting survivor, a husband, and a proud advocate for the Second Amendment. Born and raised in California, Raul moved to Arizona in 2009 in pursuit of a better life. A lifelong supporter of the right to bear arms, he is a trained and responsibly armed citizen who used his firearm in self-defense to save lives during a violent attack. Today, Raul shares his story to raise awareness and remind others of the importance of protecting our constitutional freedoms. He stands as living proof that responsible gun ownership can make all the difference.

You can connect with him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ga110_ent

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, John A. Dailey, a veteran Marine with over 20 years in special operations and author of the memoir 'Tough Rugged Bastards.' Dailey recounts his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of actions over words. The discussion highlights Dailey's military background, insights on leadership, and the concept of achieving a flow state during high-stakes operations. Dailey also explores the psychological challenges faced by veterans and the critical importance of finding purpose after military service. The conversation dives into the necessity of maintaining ethics in combat and the struggles of transitioning back to civilian life while retaining one's core values.

 

Episode Highlights:

04:04 Combat Experiences and Flow State

08:03 The Physiology of Combat

12:56 Applying Military Lessons to Civilian Life

33:36 Misconceptions About Leadership

35:41 Creative Thinking in Problem Solving

43:08 Finding Purpose After Military Service

54:34 Moral Injury and Rules of Engagement

 

John Dailey left his home in West Virginia at seventeen to join the Marines, which led to a career of over twenty years. As a Platoon Sergeant in the Marine Corps’ 1st Force Reconnaissance Company on deployment in Australia on Sep. 11th, 2001, he and his men soon found themselves in Afghanistan battling the Taliban. In 2003 he was selected to serve as a team leader in the first Marine Corps unit assigned to U.S. Special Operations Command —Detachment-1. Det -1’s 2004 Iraq deployment solidified the Marines’ place in special operations and led to the formation of the Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC). John received his MFA in creative writing from the University of North Carolina - Wilmington in 2018. John continues to train Marine Raiders, and he provides leadership training and performance coaching through his company, Walking Point LLC. He lives in Hubert, North Carolina with his wife, Tracy.

 

Get the book here: https://a.co/d/bRU0DZh

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Marcus shares a powerful lesson he learned from a chiropractor during his time in chiropractic school. Emphasizing the importance of 'being' rather than 'trying,' Marcus discusses how embodying the qualities of the person you aspire to become can accelerate your success. He shares actionable steps on how to align your current actions with your future goals, whether they are professional, physical, or personal. The episode encourages listeners to conduct themselves like their future selves now, creating a transformative impact on their journey to success.

 

Episode Highlights:

00:45 Marcus's Chiropractic Journey

02:14 Becoming Your Future Self

04:50 Practical Steps to Transformation

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week J. Jason Hicks shares insights into battling resistance, the importance of daily writing practice, and the influence of authors like Steven Pressfield. Marcus and Hicks discuss how adversity can shape our paths, the significance of authentic partnerships, and practical advice for aspiring writers. Hicks also highlights his upcoming projects and how he integrates his life experiences into his work.

 

Episode Highlights:

09:22 The Writing Process

27:31 Overcoming Adversity and Finding Purpose

34:55 Creating Your Universe

36:50 The Power of Daily Writing

46:07 Advice for Aspiring Authors

49:33 The Importance of a Supportive Partner

 

Jason Hicks studied English Literature, Political Science, and World Religions with a focus on classic literature at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Ruinwaster’s Bane: The Annals of the Last Emissary is his debut novel. He lives in Tucson, Arizona with his wife and his dog. A one-eyed Boxer named Drake.

 

Learn more at: www.jjasonhicks.com

Get Jason’s book at: https://a.co/d/3FKu9m9

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Dr. Trevor Wilkins, known as the Angry Viking Therapist, discusses the impact of early life experiences on current behavior, trauma in public safety and military professions, and the importance of changing one's mental filter to overcome adversity. Dr. Wilkins shares his journey from public safety to becoming a therapist and provides insight into his intensive, specialized treatment methods for trauma. The episode emphasizes the significance of taking control and applying practical strategies to improve mental health and overall wellbeing.

 

Episode Highlights:

03:38 The Power of Predictions in Therapy

11:32 From Public Safety to Therapy

26:33 The Neurotrauma Project and EMDR

32:00 The Impact of Childhood Experiences

35:07 Addressing Trauma and Mental Health

42:42 Complex PTSD and Blocking Beliefs

 

Dr. Trevor Wilkins, PhD, LPCC-S, NCC, CCTP, is a trauma-focused psychotherapist specializing in PTSD treatment for public safety professionals. A former police officer, firefighter, and EMT, he brings real-world insight to Thin Line Counseling in Lexington, KY. Known for his no-nonsense, action-oriented approach, Dr. Wilkins combines evidence-based methods like EMDR and REBT with deep expertise in law enforcement stress. He serves as Clinical Director for The Wounded Blue, teaches at the University of the Cumberlands, and is pursuing a second PhD in Trauma-Informed Care. Dr. Wilkins is a respected speaker, researcher, and advocate for those who protect and serve.

 

Learn more at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-wilkins-phd/

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Marcus Torgerson, a leadership coach and author, shares his struggles with abuse, alcoholism, and familial challenges, and how these events shaped his path to writing his book, 'Be a Man: What the Firetruck Does That Even Mean?' The conversation highlights the importance of forgiveness, self-reflection, and the power of turning personal pain into a tool for helping others. Key topics include the challenges and rewards of writing, understanding personal trauma, breaking down barriers in communication, and fostering genuine connection and introspection among men.

 

Episode Highlights:

11:43 Understanding and Embracing Manhood

29:27 Reflections on Personal Growth and Change

31:32 Understanding and Supporting Men

43:19 The Role of Self-Compassion

 

Marcus Torgerson, known as the “Warrior Shepherd,” blends over 40 years of martial and combat arts with two decades in security to guide others with strength and compassion. Grounded in faith and forged by life experience, Marcus walks the line between warrior and mentor. As a coach, he empowers individuals to rise above their challenges and grow into their full potential. His approach is deeply personal, shaped by the belief that everyone’s journey deserves tailored support, conviction, and heart. Through resilience, discipline, and grace, Marcus helps others find the balance needed to lead with purpose and live with strength.

 

Learn more at: https://www.marcustorgerson.com/

Follow him on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/marcustorgerson/

Purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZTDRXTB?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYqtwrIg6zk9IItEhR8dacJswpiK6w0S-Pog_k8VsuchX-ZODwLiNWrD00_aem_S9Hu_PJreQ28uvBMCd3Lww

 

Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.