Comeback Stories

Uncover the untold story of rapper Armani White’s journey from West Philly to the center stage as he shatters misconceptions of instant success with his hit “Billie Eilish.” Join hosts Darren and Donny as they delve into Armani's resilience in the face of adversity - overcoming house fires, relentless house fires, relentless gun violence, his father's battle with cancer, and discovering how Armani, through vulnerability, learned to embrace bravery, celebrating small victories while embracing the uncertain future. Discover how music and fitness served as therapeutic outlets for Darren and Armani, and watch as Donny reveals Darren’s rap talents.

0:00 - In West Philadelphia Born and Raised

9:48 - The Seed of Inspiration

24:23 - Planting Your Feet

41:20 - Get Out of Your Own Way

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Co-Founder of Inflection Point Entertainment and esteemed sports journalist Michael Smith takes Darren and Donny on a deeply personal journey, sharing stories from his days as a church kid in New Orleans to becoming a trailblazing sports host and analyst. Michael reveals how he overcame professional obstacles, navigated change, and ultimately found empowerment in launching a production company and The Inflection Network. Michael’s “comeback” story is one of passion, persistence, and proper perspective.

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Comeback Stories hosted by New York Giants tight end Darren Waller and mental health and mindfulness coach Donny Starkins is back! And we’re proud to announce we’re part of Michael Smith’s Inflection Point Entertainment's new podcast network family!

On this episode entitled, “Back Like We Never Left,” Darren and Donny come back together after a summer full of change. After a trade from the Las Vegas Raiders to the New York Giants, Darren shares how he's adapting to his new surroundings while maintaining his recovery and healthy habits. Donny also gives an update on evolutions in his life.

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“Comeback Stories,” hosted by New York Giants tight end Darren Waller and mental health and mindfulness coach Donny Starkins, joins Michael Smith’s Inflection Point Entertainment's new podcast network with the debut of a new third season.

The show will continue to spotlight real-life tales of resiliency including insight into the hosts’ ongoing recovery journeys and interviews with guests whose stories illustrate a broad spectrum of “comeback” stories.

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by Steven Pressfield, an American author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays, for a part 2!

Steven is filled with so much knowledge and continues to share all that he has learned in this journey called life. In this episode Darren, Donny, and Steven talk about how desperation saved them, making the most out of the time you have here on earth, getting uncomfortable, being selfless, and so much more! 

Follow Steven Here:

https://twitter.com/SPressfield 

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS  

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Steven Pressfield, an American author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and screenplays, including his 1995 novel, The Legend of Bagger Vance, and 2002 non-fiction book, The War of Art. The War of Art has sold over a million copies globally and has been translated into multiple languages.

He joins Comeback Stories to share the process of becoming an author and the lessons he's learned along the way. Steven wrote for 27 years before he got his first novel published, he was 55. During those previous years, he worked 21 different jobs in 11 different states. Steven also goes into great depth about how resistance has been his greatest motivation.

Today Steven has written over 20 books, some of which are best-sellers, some that have been turned into movies, and many that have changed the lives of those who read them.

Follow Steven Here:

https://twitter.com/SPressfield 

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS 

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL linebacker turned analyst for Fox Sports 1. Emmanuel shares how his story as a Nigerian-American shaped his childhood and his father's continuous impact as an adult. 

He then explains how he was able to partner with Oprah on his book, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man” as well as work with a mystery caller who pushed him to find his purpose as a communicator and fine-tune his revelations to those who will listen.

Follow Emmanuel Here:

https://twitter.com/EmmanuelAcho 

Have a question or topic for our next show? Text or leave us a VM at 480-701-8844

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS  

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by Austin Ekeler, a top running back in the NFL. In the last two seasons, Austin has led all running backs and wide receivers in touchdowns and has become the most valuable player in the fantasy football community.

He joins Comeback Stories to share a little about his childhood and how growing up in his household helped him develop mental toughness at an early age. Austin credits how gaining that mental toughness early on as why he is as successful as he is today. He also walks us through his underdog story and how growing up his size he was constantly overlooked and doubted. 

Austin has a relentless work ethic in the gym and is passionate about prioritizing his mental health and physical fitness. He shares his take on the importance of working hard and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone in order to achieve the goals you set out for yourself.

Austin also has a heart for helping others and started the Austin Ekeler Foundation with the mission to help create opportunities for people to fulfill their passions and ultimately their lives. He is now heading into his 7th season in the NFL and is excited to see where he is going to end up next. 

Whatever locker room gets him is a lucky one!

Follow Austin Here:

https://twitter.com/AustinEkeler

Have a question or topic for our next show? Text or leave us a VM at 480-701-8844

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► YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCriVmGIBt38uDKYOL3pmjkw 

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS 

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#ComebackStoriesPodcast

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by CC Sabathia, a former MLB pitcher, six-time All-star, Cy Young Award Winner, and 2009 World Series Champion. CC talks about how his childhood and being so young in such a big game led him to become an alcoholic. CC details his battles with losing his father, depression, alcohol dependency, and lack of identity during what should've been the peak of his career.

He then describes what led him to the point where he was fed up and offers his experiences and perspectives for anyone currently trapped in a similar situation. He provides hope that there is another side to this thing!

CC has now been sober for seven years and is co-hosting a podcast called “R2C2,” he is passionate about helping inner-city kids through his foundation and works to stop the stigma around mental health and alcohol dependency. 

Follow CC Here:

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Have a question or topic for our next show? Text or leave us a VM at 480-701-8844

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► YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCriVmGIBt38uDKYOL3pmjkw 

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS 

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On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny welcome David Nurse, a 2x best-selling author, and speaker. David is known for his expertise in player development and mental toughness, with his motivational coaching business, he has helped thousands of employees and athletes develop unshakeable mindsets. 

David breaks down how he bounced back after being cut from his semi-pro team, and the impact his family had on him. He then describes how to leave the fear of other people's opinions off the court

Follow David here:

https://twitter.com/DavidNurseNBA?s=20

Have a question or topic for our next show? Text or leave us a VM at 480-701-8844

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► YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCriVmGIBt38uDKYOL3pmjkw 

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DARREN WALLER

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DONNY STARKINS  

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#ComebackStoriesPodcast

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