Men Talking Mindfulness

What happens when a rock musician battling addiction discovers mindfulness at 18?

Dave Smith shares his raw journey from personal tragedy and self-destruction to the clarity of 90-day meditation retreats. We break down common misconceptions about meditation, the power of emotional intelligence, and the challenge of confronting our inner selves. Dave opens up about his struggles with self-loathing, the path to sobriety, and how mindfulness helped him navigate suffering and self-discovery. Whether you're new to meditation or deepening your practice, this conversation offers powerful insights on finding peace within.

More about Dave's work here: https://www.davesmithdharma.com/

Our Next 9wk Live Virtual Meditation Course starts April 27th, Sundays at 4pm ET. Here is all the info and registration: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/learnmeditation

If you missed this one there will be more in the future, email [email protected] to get on the list.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

01:05 - Virtual Meditation Course Announcement

02:27 - Grounding Practice

03:12 - Dave's First Experience with Meditation

07:08 - The Awakening Moment

12:04 - Emotional Intelligence and Mindfulness

17:06 - Cultivating a Meaningful Life

21:13 - Understanding Dharma

23:56 - Mindfulness Beyond Buddhism

26:03 - Mindfulness as a Tool

29:10 - Overcoming the Fear of Meditation

30:56 - The Challenge of Inner Awareness

39:17 - Faith and Trust in the Process

40:56 - Building Capacity for Presence

43:33 - The Risks of Deep Meditation

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Get ready!! MTM dives into the enigmatic "plateau of latent potential," where discipline trumps motivation.

Jon shares his transformative journey, from weight loss to emotional growth, highlighting the importance of nutrition, consistency, and support.

Discover how humor, sleep, and community can be the secret ingredients to unlocking your full potential.

SPARTAN RACE INFO Oct 19th in Granbury, TX

https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2025

00:00 -The Plateau of Latent Potential

03:04 -Tracking Progress and Metrics

06:04 -Nutrition and Protein Challenges

09:01 -Discipline vs. Motivation

12:07 -Workout Strategies and Balancing Muscle Growth

15:03 -Lessons Learned

16:36 -Navigating Emotional Ups and Downs

18:24- Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations

20:02 -The Importance of Sleep and Recovery

22:34 -Nutrition Strategies and Meal Prep

24:01 - Seeking Support and Accountability

26:03 - The Role of Humor and Play in Wellness

28:03- Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if the secret to peak endurance wasn’t pushing harder, but going easier?

Today we dive into the world of endurance sports with Brett Blankner—athlete, coach, and host of Zen and the Art of Triathlon. Brett shares how mindfulness, relaxation, and smart training can enhance performance, challenging the common belief that grinding harder leads to success. From swimming 22 miles across Lake Tahoe to completing multiple Ironmans, he reveals how endurance efforts become a form of meditation, transforming both mindset and resilience. We explore Zen philosophy, the power of presence during grueling challenges, and how embracing discomfort leads to personal growth.

Upcoming Meditation Course with MTM starts April 27th sign up HERE

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

01:12 - Embracing Endurance: Mindfulness and Pushing Limits

07:10 - Exploring Zen and Mindfulness in Endurance Training

11:55 - Understanding Zen: Relaxing into the Moment

12:59 - Embracing the Moment: Zen Principles in Endurance Sports"

14:15 - The Intersection of Buddhism and Taoism"

18:18 - Exploring Self-Discovery Through Ultra Distance Challenges

19:20 - Embracing the Unknown in Ultra Distance Events

21:01 - Navigating the Mental and Emotional Challenges of Endurance Running

24:55 - Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from Ironman Training

29:13 - Race Realities: Lessons Learned from Endurance Events

34:09 - Endurance Training: Lessons in Mental Fortitude and Self-Discovery

45:52 - Embracing Fear in Adventure Racing

01:07:03 - Exploring Mindfulness and Endurance Training

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if the secret to peak endurance wasn’t pushing harder, but going easier?

Today we dive into the world of endurance sports with Brett Blankner—athlete, coach, and host of Zen and the Art of Triathlon. Brett shares how mindfulness, relaxation, and smart training can enhance performance, challenging the common belief that grinding harder leads to success. From swimming 22 miles across Lake Tahoe to completing multiple Ironmans, he reveals how endurance efforts become a form of meditation, transforming both mindset and resilience. We explore Zen philosophy, the power of presence during grueling challenges, and how embracing discomfort leads to personal growth.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

01:12 - Embracing Endurance: Mindfulness and Pushing Limits

07:10 - Exploring Zen and Mindfulness in Endurance Training

11:55 - Understanding Zen: Relaxing into the Moment

12:59 - Embracing the Moment: Zen Principles in Endurance Sports"

14:15 - The Intersection of Buddhism and Taoism"

18:18 - Exploring Self-Discovery Through Ultra Distance Challenges

19:20 - Embracing the Unknown in Ultra Distance Events

21:01 - Navigating the Mental and Emotional Challenges of Endurance Running

24:55 - Overcoming Challenges: Lessons from Ironman Training

29:13 - Race Realities: Lessons Learned from Endurance Events

34:09 - Endurance Training: Lessons in Mental Fortitude and Self-Discovery

45:52 - Embracing Fear in Adventure Racing

01:07:03 - Exploring Mindfulness and Endurance Training

What does it take to transition from the intense precision of a Marine sniper to the disciplined craft of storytelling?

We sit down with Jon Daly, a former Marine sniper and special operations leader, to explore the mindset forged through movement, discipline, and embracing discomfort. With over 20 years of service, including laying the foundation for MARSOC as part of Detachment One, Daly shares lessons from combat that apply to everyday life. Now a writer pursuing an MFA, he discusses his transition to civilian life, the raw realities captured in his book Tough Rugged Bastards, and the mission behind his newsletters Walking Point and RTFU (Rock the Fuck Up). Tune in for an unfiltered conversation on resilience, precision, and the power of storytelling.

Order Jon’s book here - https://www.jadailey.com/

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

00:40 - Challenging the Narrative: Redefining Modern Masculinity

04:17 - Understanding Masculinity Without a Father Figure

07:58 - Success Through Small Achievements: A Personal Journey

08:43 - The Impact of Athletic Success on Confidence and Social Connections

14:35 - The Impact of Gender Dynamics in the Workforce and Education

16:35 - Understanding Perspectives Across Socioeconomic Strata

18:38 - Men, Mindfulness, and Societal Perceptions

23:00 - Navigating the Tightrope of Masculinity and Its Psychological Impact

27:45 - Effortlessly Yourself: The Key to Authentic Conversations

34:51 - Overcoming Injury and the Power of Mindful Detachment

36:40 - Understanding Selfhood and the Precariousness of Manhood

46:37 - Teaching Vigilance and Critical Thinking to Daughters

52:47 - Navigating Romantic Interest and Cues: Advice for Young Men

58:19 - From Workplace Romance to Teaching Boys Emotional Expression

01:01:33 - Creating Psychological Safety at Home

01:03:15 - Understanding Emotional Miscommunication with Children

01:19:01 - Embracing Autonomy and Choosing Your Circle

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

This course is for ALL adults, NOT just men.

Course is on Sundays at 4pm ET

https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/learnmeditation

Check out this Testimony from one of our students, Kalina Bitter:

“I loved the MTM meditation course. It helped me calm my mind and become more aware of my heart and my intuition. I did the meditations every day for 10 weeks and often twice a day.

I liked the progression of the course. I noticed that I felt more relaxed, slept better, and felt the effects of stress less. There was a lot of support from the instructors, Will and Jon, and a sense of community with all of the class members. It was a great experience and I might take the class again. I highly recommend it.” 

⁠https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/learnmeditation⁠

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ever wondered what it takes to build an unbreakable warrior mindset?

We dive deep with Tim Kennedy, former UFC fighter and Green Beret, to uncover the secrets of mental toughness and resilience.

From the octagon to the battlefield, Tim shares his insights on discipline, consistency, and thriving under pressure.

We also tackle the controversy surrounding his military career and how he handles public scrutiny. Plus, get ready for some raw and unfiltered discussions on fear, integrity, and living life on purpose.

TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00:00) Introduction to Tim Kennedy and the episode's focus

(00:02:25) Tim Kennedy on consistency and discipline

(00:07:13) Development of mental toughness

(00:09:27) Staying calm and focused under pressure

(00:11:06) Similarities between special forces and MMA

(00:13:53) The raw nature of fighting

(00:16:13) What separates those who concede under pressure

(00:19:10) Controversy and character assassination

(00:26:32) Handling the emotional impact of controversy

(00:29:05) Embracing fear

(00:32:19) Focus on fundamentals

(00:33:06) Developing discipline

(00:37:12) Tim Kennedy-centric to others-focused

(00:42:28) Building mental toughness

• (00:43:46) Stoolgate: Overcoming disappointment

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if fear isn’t the enemy?

Jon and Will sit down with Kristen Ulmer, former world-class extreme skier and author of The Art of Fear, to rethink everything we believe about fear, anxiety, and performance. Kristen shares how embracing fear—not conquering or ignoring it—can unlock personal growth, peak performance, and even joy. From her experiences dominating the slopes for 12 years to her groundbreaking insights on mindset, she offers practical strategies to turn fear into a powerful ally.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction

03:30 - Understanding Our Relationship with Fear

12:35 - Connecting with Fear for Better Performance

20:24 - Mathematics of Fear and Intimacy: Understanding Suffering and Flow

28:18 - Understanding Resistance in Managing Fear and Anxiety

32:19 - Navigating Emotional Intelligence: Levels of Feeling and Fear

38:24 - Confronting Fear: The Cycle of Control and Resistance

41:08 - Emotional Awareness and Resilience

44:37 - Navigating Anger and Emotional Expression

46:28 - Understanding and Reframing Children's Fear

51:11 - Embracing Fear: A Love Affair with Risk

53:23 - Navigating Fear and Growth in Skiing

56:26 - Expanding Your Comfort Zone

01:01:32 - Visualization and Overcoming Fear

01:05:14 - Exploring Mindfulness

01:11:24 - Insights on Meditation and Emotional Health

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Jon is really making some changes through all his dedication, consistency, and hard work. He is definitely experiencing some struggles along the way too. Enjoy this monthly check-in.

Do you want to make some changes too? Perhaps signing up and joining Team MTM for our 5k Spartan race in Dallas on October 19th would motivate you to make the desired changes.

Here is the info to sign up and join our team:

https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2025

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What if the key to men’s strength lies in embracing vulnerability?

This conversation with Dr. Audra Horney dives into the often-overlooked topic of men's mental health, exploring barriers to therapy, societal pressures, and the stigma that discourages men from seeking help. Dr. Horney emphasizes the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces where men feel seen and understood, advocating for a redefined masculinity that embraces vulnerability and emotional intelligence. She shares insights on building trust, addressing shame, and helping men articulate their emotions to foster personal growth and deeper connections in relationships. The discussion highlights practical steps for improving mental health, the transformative role of therapy, and the unique power of music as an emotional outlet. Through authenticity and mindfulness, Dr. Horney advocates for therapy as a collaborative, empowering process tailored to men’s needs.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
03:18 - Men's Mental Health and the Stigma of Therapy
06:37 - The Farmer in the ER Metaphor
07:30 - Redefining Therapy's Appeal
10:57 - Encouraging Men to Seek Therapy
13:23 - Exploring Men's Mental Health Through Social Media
16:14 - The Role of Social Media in Therapy for Men
19:34 - Men's Therapy Preferences and Challenges
21:51 - Understanding Men's Unique Needs in Therapy
23:47 - Collaborative Healing: Understanding Client Struggles
25:48 - Embracing Vulnerability in Therapy
28:31 - Embracing Authenticity Through Mindfulness
30:44 - Mindfulness and Emotional Awareness
35:21 - Healthy Masculinity and Emotional Sensitivity
40:32 - Mental Health Conversations for Men
45:29 - Debunking Myths About Therapy and Gender
49:48 - Music as Emotional Therapy
54:16 - Therapy's Impact on Relationship Communication
59:30 - The Transformative Power of Vulnerability in Therapy
01:06:23 - Embracing Authenticity and Connection

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/