couple things interviews

By familymadeSociety & Culture Relationships

couple things interviews episodes

April 27 The Meaning of Life with Authur Brooks
Back for round two, we sit down again with Arthur Brooks to go even deeper into the science and soul of a meaningful life. In this conversation, we move beyond the fundamentals of happiness and explore what it really takes to sustain it—especially through change, success, setbacks, and the evolving chapters of life.
Arthur shares fresh insights on emotional resilience, the hidden challenges of achievement, and how our definition of purpose shifts over time. We also get personal, unpacking habits, mindsets, and daily practices that can help you stay grounded, connected, and fulfilled in a fast-moving world.
If you’ve ever wondered how to not just find happiness—but keep it—this episode is for you.
Drop your thoughts, questions, or takeaways in the comments—we always love hearing how these conversations resonate with you. And if this episode speaks to you, send it to someone who could use it right now.
Love you guys!
Shawn & Andrew
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(00:00) the meaning of your life
(01:25) ready for part two with arthur?
(02:26) the macronutrients of happiness
(05:45) why can’t you articulate meaning?
(07:25) the effect of the technological world
(10:30) when should you “know” the meaning of your life
(14:50) is it possible to learn meaning if you only know “screens”?
(19:20) habits and relationships aren’t meaning
(23:00) the matrix is lying to you
(24:08) we are a kin-based species
(29:55) “you can’t be each other’s idol”
(35:25) having a noble struggle
(37:17) practice, then feel
(40:40) the first two steps of meaning
(51:20) should we do a part 3?
53 min
April 09 Mother & Daughter vs Husband & Wife: What Competing Together Really Does
In this episode, we sit down with Gia and Teresa Giudice to unpack their unforgettable journey on Special Forces. From the intense physical and mental challenges to the deep bond that carried them through, Teresa and Gia share what it was really like competing side by side and what it was like for Gia to ultimately take home the win with Shawn!!
They open up about how the experience affected their relationship and the strength it takes to push past limits under pressure. Beyond the show, the conversation dives into the Giudice family- where everyone is now, what they’re up to, and how they’ve grown through the years in the public eye.
We hope you love it!!
Follow Gia here! https://www.instagram.com/_giagiudice/?hl=en
Follow Teresa here! https://www.instagram.com/teresagiudice/?hl=en

(00:00) the mom and daughter duo we quickly became friends with
(01:12) teresa on raising such a strong, special daughter
(03:45) the personalities the show brought into our lives
(06:07) what it’s really like behind the scenes of reality tv
(07:24) protecting our family in the public eye
(08:37) gia and teresa’s individual goals on special forces
(12:50) teresa’s bodybuilding phase
(14:09) teresa’s mindset before leaving the show
(16:52) holding grudges
(18:48) why we don’t go against family
(21:10) do grudges get in the way of family?
(26:02) the milling fights
(26:59) gia’s strong sense of self
(31:33) getting lost in others’ opinions
(38:00) what special forces taught us
(39:30) teresa’s interrogations and ptsd
(40:30) what we want our legacy to be
(42:06) what teresa is really like
(47:39) has tv been worth it for the giudice family?
(50:37) gia, what did you take away from winning?
(56:50) the dunk and wrap-up
1 hr 1 min
April 02 Vision Without Execution Is Useless (Pat Lencioni Explains)
Everyone tends to fall into one of two patterns: thinking or doing.
In this conversation, Pat Lencioni explores the tension between visionaries and doers and why some people generate ideas but struggle to act, while others execute but lack direction. More importantly, he breaks down why real progress requires both.
This isn’t just about business, but it’s about how we all approach work, goals, and life. Why do we get stuck even when we know what to do? And what actually helps us move forward?
We hope you enjoy this one with Pat Lencioni and make sure to check out his books!
https://www.tablegroup.com/books/?srsltid=AfmBOoq_hAIT4OVa4oGBoXJHizwaLBpo1AsOUUpZoqb64_xYdXSSvKRT
(00:00:00) meet pat
(00:01:30) how the working genius has changed the way we see ourselves and what they mean
(00:08:13) what are the different “genius”
(00:18:30) couples navigating their genius
(00:23:00) it’s okay to suck at something
(00:24:55) being comfortable with the uncomfortable
(00:28:30) how the working genius can be applied so quickly
(00:30:20) are there patterns with the working genius and different careers?
(00:33:45) the human part of business
(00:39:45) confidence vs arrogance vs humility
(00:43:15) how you are in work vs at home and balancing the two
(00:50:40) navigating finding your family’s core values
(01:00:00) this is not about virtue
1 hr 4 min
March 12 The Lie You Don’t Know You Believe | Jennie Allen
In this episode, we sit down with our friend, bestselling author, and speaker Jennie Allen. Jennie is also the founder of IF:Gathering, a global movement that equips and disciples women around the world.
Jennie has just released her newest book, The Lie You Don't Know You Believe, which explores the hidden lies many of us carry about ourselves. In the book, she unpacks how these quiet but powerful beliefs influence our decisions, our identity, and the way we pursue success and fulfillment.
One of the themes we explore in this conversation is the surprising emptiness many people feel after reaching the goals they once believed would finally make them happy- whether it’s career success, influence, financial stability, or personal milestones.
Thank you for coming on our show, Jennie! https://www.jennieallen.com/
You can order her book directly here: https://www.amazon.com/Lie-You-Dont-Know-Believe/dp/1400249821?crid=1O55W1X8A66DJ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.z1ASMlbX_ciP8Y5YryxYPaJ6zdNjIGZIwzzOweF24-gj5K23Xjtj3dS0UlZPxaY63-awEySPdUnqKXOCW5riUYfytvqsFyjTN1v44h5iE7-Dl0TkySW2d2F4X0DONwSQ.Y1vMFOIBHK9RFIkiMQ4Tt8VaihRiQR0rSAvoOwIIxO8&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+lie+you+dont+know+you+believe+jennie+allen&nsdOptOutParam=true&qid=1772506059&sprefix=the+lie+you,aps,212&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&linkCode=sl2&tag=emilycanlette-20&linkId=35a9accd0c8fe7a2444f826bfe26acc5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

(00:00) why we love jennie allen
(01:33) raising kids who become our best friends
(04:25) choosing to see the good and being okay with messing up
(07:46) the lie you don’t even realize you believe
(10:20) the three most common lies people believe
(15:10) are these lies preventable?
(19:00) how community helps us face vulnerabilities and insecurities
(24:20) the lies we believed and the moment it clicked
(26:55) how not to feel discouraged as parents
(32:55) becoming aware of the lies and learning the truth
(36:55) balancing ambition, faith, and the lies we face
(40:05) what it looks like to confront a lie
(43:33) is believing a lie a choice?
(43:35) who is the god you believe in?
(48:10) why is it so hard for us to be loved?
(52:16) how marriage counseling changed our life
(54:45) the closer we get to god, the louder the enemy gets

1 hr
March 05 Wake Up Your Life: Hal Elrod on the Miracle Morning
In this episode, we sit down with Hal Elrod, bestselling author of The Miracle Morning, to explore the habits and mindset shifts that can transform your life. Hal shares the story behind his life-changing morning routine and how the S.A.V.E.R.S. method — Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing — has helped millions take control of their days before the world takes control of them.
We also dive into his personal journey of overcoming a near-fatal car accident and a battle with cancer, and how those experiences shaped his philosophy on resilience, emotional responsibility, and choosing faith over fear. This conversation is packed with practical strategies for building discipline, elevating your mindset, and creating extraordinary results through small, consistent actions.
If you're looking to upgrade your mornings — and ultimately your life — this episode delivers both inspiration and a clear roadmap to get started. We enjoyed this interview so much and hope you did as well!
Love you guys,
Shawn & Andrew
(00:00:00) how we met hal
(00:02:45) the milestones that changed hal’s life
(00:07:45) the five-minute rule
(00:09:25) accepting what we can’t change vs resisting reality
(00:13:30) unwavering faith — but faith in what?
(00:21:15) the miracle equation
(00:31:10) learning to pay attention to feedback
(00:33:19) the miracle morning
(00:40:20) discovering your gifts and “divine” calling
(00:44:44) chosen convictions vs personality traits
(00:49:10) navigating cancer
(00:57:50) unlimited potential
(01:00:30) the “there is no other option” mentality
(01:04:52) choosing the mindset that leads to a fulfilled life
(01:10:07) balancing miracle morning in different seasons of life
1 hr 17 min
February 19 Surviving Special Forces with Brianna LaPaglia: Our Story
In this episode, we sit down with Brianna LaPaglia (Brianna Chickenfry) for one of her most honest conversations yet. She opens up about her life, the relationships that shaped her, and what it was really like to face the grueling challenges of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test.
Brianna shares moments the cameras didn’t capture, the obstacles that pushed her to her limits, and the lessons she took away from an experience that changed her forever.
On top of that, we dive into our unexpected friendship, how it started, and the bond that grew out of shared experiences. Laughs, raw honesty, and real-life stories make this conversation one you won’t want to miss!!
Whether you’re a fan of reality TV, curious about the life of Brianna Chickenfry, or just love real, unfiltered conversations about life, love, and resilience, this episode has something for you. We love you Brianna!!
Love you guys,
Shawn & Andrew
(00:00) all about brianna
(01:06) end of an era
(03:37) the start of her journey
(05:57) the “party” background
(09:33) why special forces
(12:27) andrew’s soapbox
(14:28) negative self-talk & healing
(19:37) the impact of the internet
(23:00) toughest special forces challenge
(26:30) what really happened during “murder ball”
(31:29) bri’s creative process & heart for family
(39:17) how bri almost lost her leg
(41:32) hobbies, work, goals & purpose
(44:20) most shocking & favorite moments from special forces
49 min
February 05 an electric interview
In this conversation, we explore a very important conversation and touch on parenting in a modern world, making informed choices around health and wellness, and why legacy isn’t built through grand gestures, but through small, consistent decisions made over time.
The daily ride to school is an overlooked public health issue, how diesel exhaust impacts children’s development, and why electric school buses offer immediate, tangible benefits for kids, families, and communities.
Duncan breaks down what makes fleet electrification uniquely challenging — and how Highland removes the financial and logistical barriers so school districts can focus on what matters most: education.
From local school districts to the global stage of the LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games, this episode is a reminder that progress doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel — sometimes it means making something familiar healthier, quieter, and better for the next generation.
Love you guys!
Shawn & Andrew

(00:00) duncan & highland electric fleets — overview
(02:40) meet duncan
(06:04) curating meaningful experiences with your kids
(07:44) duncan’s how and why
(10:29) why join a startup in this industry
(15:00) what highland electric fleets does
(17:23) the benefits of electric fleets
(20:50) a community-driven mission
(24:35) la school districts + la28
(30:35) efficiency of this energy source
35 min
December 04, 2025 Faith, Mental Health & MLB Life — The Burgers’ Story
In this episode, we sit down with Jake and Ashlyn Burger- a powerhouse couple whose story blends faith, resilience, and purpose. Jake is a MLB player known not just for his talent on the field, but for his openness about mental health and the challenges that shaped his career. Ashlyn, a former athlete herself, brings warmth, honesty, and strength, and together they’ve built a platform that goes far beyond sports.
The Burgers are also the founders of the Burger Family Foundation, created to support mental health initiatives and give back to communities in meaningful, accessible ways. https://www.burgerfamilyfoundation.org/about
Through their foundation, they’ve become advocates for transparency, encouragement, and breaking the stigma around mental health conversations, especially for young athletes.
In this conversation, we dove into everything from Jake’s journey through injuries and setbacks, to how the couple balances life, marriage, and being parents. We touched on their heart behind the foundation, their passion for serving others, an inside look at their relationship and the realities of navigating MLB life as a family, and the vulnerable moments that shaped their perspective. We had lots of laughs with our new friends and can't wait to hear what you guys think!!
Love you guys!
Shawn and Andrew
Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter
Follow our podcast Instagram ▶
https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/
Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson
Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson
Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson
Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson
Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast
Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en
(00:00) all about the burgers
(01:30) their charity softball game
(07:20) how the burgers met
(12:36) massive life changes affecting marriage
(14:45) the power of adversity
(16:25) navigating parenthood and the different needs each kid has
(21:50) being a professional athlete while being a parent
(25:55) mental health in the world of professional sports
(38:40) how to support your spouse well
(40:43) the role of faith in their journey
(43:40) the mission of the burger family foundation and the softball game
(49:40) seeing things differently and joining in on the beauty
(54:35) what do you want to be known for?
58 min
November 13, 2025 Intentional parenting with Brook and Elizabeth Mosser
Today we sit down with Brook and Elizabeth Mosser, founders of Intentional Parents, to talk about marriage, parenting, and navigating life’s toughest challenges. From chronic illness to raising children with unique needs, they share their personal stories, practical advice, and faith-based strategies for building resilience in family life.
Tune in for an honest, inspiring conversation about how to lead with intention, love, and purpose in your home :)
Love you guys!
Shawn & Andrew
(00:00) all about the mossers
(00:55) let’s dig into this chat
(03:55) why live an intentional life?
(07:30) being intentional without being overbearing
(12:55) needing to do the work internally
(14:15) self-help, fear, and spiritual transformation
(23:25) what’s the hidden seed?
(26:40) helping your kids learn to be intentional
(37:50) how to protect the joy when planning intentionality
(45:17) take the wisdom, be thoughtful, and figure out what works for your family culture
(53:00) how special forces affected our marriage dynamic
(57:00) simple daily habits that help with intentionality
(01:06:20) speaking life into our kids and being curious
(01:10:56) intentional fatherhood and soul friends
1 hr 14 min
October 30, 2025 trauma bonding with the special forces cast
GUYS!!! The full (nashville) Special Forces cast interview you’ve been waiting for! We’re spilling everything- the wildest behind-the-scenes stories, never-before-told details, emotional moments, and hilarious memories from our time on the show. From what really went down off-camera to the moments that changed us for good. It’s raw, funny, and full of surprises. We hope you're enjoying the season :)
Subscribe to our newsletter ▶ https://www.familymade.com/newsletter
Follow our podcast Instagram ▶
https://www.instagram.com/shawnandandrewpods/
Follow My Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/ShawnJohnson
Follow My Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@shawnjohnson
Shop My LTK Page ▶ https://www.shopltk.com/explore/shawnjohnson
Like the Facebook page! ▶ https://www.facebook.com/ShawnJohnson
Follow Andrew’s Instagram ▶ https://www.instagram.com/AndrewDEast
Andrew’s Tik Tok ▶ https://www.tiktok.com/@andrewdeast?lang=en

(00:00:00) the nashville special forces crew has entered the chat!
(00:01:04) let’s begin :)
(00:01:45) entering our thirst trap era
(00:03:34) meeting everyone and why each of us said “yes”
(00:10:27) everyone’s expectations and how long we had to prepare
(00:12:00) snacks, pee, and water — oh my
(00:16:20) never knowing what to expect and how to sleep through it
(00:19:00) what happened that didn’t get caught on camera
(00:21:45) the food on base and the weight we had to carry
(00:22:44) everyone’s thoughts on the tunnels and being all beat up
(00:27:33) jessie, her bra, and first day thoughts
(00:31:30) ravi’s boxing experience
(00:35:35) everyone’s boxing experience
(00:39:39) the heat, the dust, the real and low moments that brought us closer
(00:53:35) getting to each meal and navigating long days
(00:57:35) ripping armbands off and nick’s breakdown
(00:59:29) back to our lows
(01:01:30) cast members leaving, heat strokes, and being challenged
(01:04:03) shawn’s low point
(01:07:30) would we do the show again?
(01:17:45) adjusting after the show and closing thoughts
1 hr 24 min

About couple things interviews

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Former Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson and her husband, former NFL player Andrew East, open up like never before, sharing their most vulnerable and authentic stories together. Every Wednesday, join one of social media’s favorite couples as they reflect on their unforgettable experiences, from heartfelt moments to hilarious mishaps, offering their life lessons along the way. With raw honesty, laughter, and even a few tears, Shawn and Andrew bring you personal stories as well as interviews with some of their favorite guests.