In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans sit down with Jim and Becky Hario to remember their son, PFC Eric Hario—the 2025 Hero Games honoree. Eric’s story is one of courage, legacy, and sacrifice, from his younger years and entry into the Ranger Regiment to the impact he left on his family, his brothers, and all who knew him. 

The conversation dives deep into Eric’s life, exploring not just the Ranger he became but the young man behind the uniform. Jim and Becky share reflections on what it meant to see Eric choose the path of service, the bonds he built within the Regiment, and how his memory continues to shape their lives today. 

Joshua and Johnny also discuss the 2025 Hero Games and the powerful role it played for the Hario family—Jim as a competitor, Becky as a spectator. Together they highlight the mission of Hero Games, the importance of honoring Gold Star Families, and how events like these carry forward the legacies of those who gave everything. 

This is more than remembrance—it’s a reminder of why we gather, why we honor, and why we carry these stories forward. If you’ve ever wondered about the true weight of sacrifice and the mission to keep names like Eric’s alive, this episode will leave a lasting impact. 

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Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Dr. Barbara Thompson as they introduce an exciting new Counter Culture Solutions course: The Purpose Trek. Designed to challenge, inspire, and reconnect participants with their true purpose, this immersive experience takes individuals into the mountains, away from distractions, and into a journey of self-discovery.

Joshua and Barb dive into the why behind the Purpose Trek—exploring the power of disconnecting from the noise, embracing adversity, and using the Hero’s Journey framework to forge resilience and clarity. They break down what participants can expect, the thought process behind the course structure, and how it differs from traditional leadership or self-improvement programs.

Beyond the course itself, the conversation explores the psychology of transformation, the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones, and why so many people feel stuck in today’s world. Along the way, Joshua and Barb share personal insights, lessons learned, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from developing this unique experience.

If you’ve been looking for a way to reset, find direction, or simply push yourself beyond the ordinary, this episode is for you. Don’t miss it!

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Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans as they dive into an exciting end-of-year wrap-up discussion. Together, they reflect on some of the most memorable moments and milestones of 2024, while also sharing a glimpse of what’s ahead.

JD and Johnny kick things off with updates on Sharp Top CrossFit's impressive new building, set to open in spring 2025, and the community impact this expansion will bring. They then revisit the highlights of the 2024 Hero Games, honoring the legacy of SGT Robert Sanchez and celebrating camaraderie and resilience.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as they discuss the formation of Counter Culture Solutions, its mission, and the journey so far in helping individuals build a culture of safety and preparedness. Finally, they tackle one of the year's quirkiest topics: mysterious drones over New Jersey. Are they aliens, hobbyists, or something else entirely?

Whether you’re here for inspiring reflections or curious insights, this episode offers a perfect mix of substance, storytelling, and a few laughs along the way. Don’t miss it!

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Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

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Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

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Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel, founder and CEO of Counter Culture Solutions, and Barbara Thompson, Operational Psychologist at Counter Culture Solutions, as they dive into an engaging conversation about the upcoming Violent Encounter Survival Course. Taking place on January 18th, 2025, at SharpTop CrossFit in Bedford, VA, this course is designed to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate dangerous situations.

In this episode, JD and Barb explore the purpose behind the course, the type of participants it’s geared toward, and the core concepts it covers. From developing a resilient mindset and sharpening situational awareness to mastering boundary control, weapon employment, and everyday carry (EDC) strategies, they break down how the course blends instruction with practical exercises to create a transformative learning experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a concerned civilian, this episode will give you valuable insights into how the Violent Encounter Survival Course can prepare you for real-world threats. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the experts and get inspired to take control of your personal safety.

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Hero Games Charity Website

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Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join 20-year Green Beret and Ranger JD as he breaks down the impact of Hurricane Helene on the Appalachian region.
 
Drawing from personal experience, JD offers a unique perspective on how both civilians and government responded to the storm. We’ll examine the challenges faced, the actions taken, and the critical lessons we can apply to better prepare for future disasters. Whether you're interested in disaster preparedness, leadership in crisis, or the real-world consequences of natural disasters, this episode delivers invaluable insights on resilience in the face of nature’s fury. 

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Counter Culture Solutions Website

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Hero Games Charity Website

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Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

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Willie's Instagram

In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Mother and Brother, Wendy and Logan Holland. SGT Robert Sanchez was Killed in Action on 01 October, 2009 in Zharay District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.

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Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

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Willie's Instagram

We've started something new, and we think you're gonna love it!

Are you looking to become a more capable and confident person? Are you interested in learning skills from former Special Operators and successful entrepreneurs that may save your life or your career?

Yah, we figured you would. That's why we started Counter Culture Solutions, our new training and mentoring company geared towards helping you become the best version of yourself.

Enjoy.

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Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Ever feel like it's hard to feel happy? We get it. While the pursuit of happiness is an inalienable right, happiness itself is not inherently available to everyone. Happiness is a spectrum and we all feel it differently.

This impromptu conversation between JD, Willie, and third-time guest, Logan Lewis, dives deep into the pursuit of happiness while living with trauma. 

Like always, get ready to shift gears between laughter and serious dialogue.

Enjoy.

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Counter Culture Solutions Website

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Hero Games Charity Website

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Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

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Willie's Instagram

Questions from the PEOPLE!

1. Depression and how I handled it.

2. Our new LLC: Mountain/Youth Survival, Leadership and Culture Consulting, Purpose Finding Treks, and Violent Encounter Prevention and Survival.

3. "What is something you want, but don't have?" 

4. 2024 Hero Games

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The Catalyst Collective Instagram

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Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

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Willie's Instagram

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is changing your perspective to find gratitude everywhere.

Links to articles referenced during episode:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301826526_Does_gratitude_writing_improve_the_mental_health_of_psychotherapy_clients_Evidence_from_a_randomized_controlled_trial

2. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/#neuroscience

Support the show

Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/

HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/

HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram