Growing Up Hustling in Brooklyn Anthony Espo shares how growing up in Bay Ridge shaped his early mindset around work, independence, and hustle. He talks about his mother’s example as a relentless businesswoman, running a bike shop while raising three kids on her own. From delivering newspapers at ten years old to cutting friends’ hair in his basement, Anthony learned to earn early. That drive stayed with him as he hustled through high school selling sneakers, jewelry, and electronics.Early Lessons That Shaped Espo's PathAnthony reflects on how sports and street competition built his mindset. He highlights how physical conditioning and mental grit translated into everyday life. He explains the importance of competition, but also the need to balance it—especially for kids. He shares how he avoids becoming the “fitness dad” who pushes too hard, instead creating a family culture rooted in sustainable health habits and open communication.When Anthony Espo Took Over the Family BusinessAs a young adult, Anthony stepped in to run his mother’s bike shop when she became ill. That experience forced him to mature fast. He talks about juggling that with his side hustles and how it sparked deeper self-reflection. After her passing, Anthony began asking himself bigger questions about his identity and direction. That turning point helped fuel the start of what would become his long-term path in health and fitness.Espo’s Pivot into Health and CommunityWhat began as teaching free bootcamps in the park turned into a business built on community impact. Anthony discusses how these early workouts led to the founding of Badass Academy—a group fitness facility focused entirely on classes. At the time, this model was unusual, but Anthony trusted the power of connection and consistency. He shares how he created systems to help others while continuing to evolve his own habits.The Resilience Behind Anthony’s GrowthAnthony recounts the challenging years of building Badass Academy. From software failures to financial setbacks, and eventually surviving a nine-month COVID shutdown, he explains how gratitude, structure, and daily health routines helped him stay grounded. He breaks down how journaling, breathing, and morning and evening gratitude help him manage stress and stay clear on his goals.The Legacy Espo is Building NowAnthony now runs a successful gym and has published a self-help book titled “WAHOOS in Life” (We All Have Our Own Shit). His son even followed in his footsteps by publishing a book of his own. Anthony talks about teaching by example, investing in his staff, and continuously refining what it means to lead. His message is simple: time matters more than money, and growth starts with showing up for yourself first.More From Anthony Espohttps://www.amazon.com/Wahoos-Life-Anthony-Esposito/dp/B0BNJ3KRJ9https://badassacademy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-espo-45aba3169/ https://www.instagram.com/badassacademyhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/74372986-wahoos-in-lifeMentioned book: The Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman