The Essential 11

Life’s challenges have a way of pushing you to reevaluate your priorities while also opening doors you didn’t expect. Balancing personal hurdles with the desire to grow and lead can feel like walking a tightrope. It’s not always clear which opportunities are worth chasing or how to make the most of them. The process can be messy, but it’s also where you find out what really matters and what you’re capable of.

Michelle Waterson-Gomez is a retired professional fighter renowned for her impressive career in mixed martial arts. With a black belt in both American freestyle karate and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Michelle brought strength and discipline to the competitive arena. Now retired, Michelle has transitioned from fighting in the ring to owning a Jiu Jitsu school and partaking in various other business ventures with her husband. Today, she talks about the importance of pursuing passion, staying true to oneself, and building a supportive community. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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The people we surround ourselves with have a large impact on our growth, making a supportive and uplifting community important. Fulfillment comes from dedicating ourselves to what we are passionate about, rather than chasing financial success alone. At the same time, maintaining balance and prioritizing self-care are crucial to finding lasting happiness, free from the weight of external factors. By nurturing these aspects, we can create a meaningful and rewarding life.

Young men today wrestle with more than just career choices and relationships - they're searching for authentic purpose in an increasingly complex world. While there's no shortage of advice out there, many find themselves craving real guidance from someone who's walked the path before them. It's one thing to read about leadership in books, but it's another to learn from someone who's weathered the storms and emerged stronger. This is where mentorship becomes not just helpful, but essential - creating a bridge between hard-earned wisdom and those eager to learn from it.

Shane Winnings is a leader, mentor, and author focused on faith-based initiatives. With a background in the military and law enforcement, he now leads at Promise Keepers. Shane authored Your Next Leap of Faith, helping readers strengthen their faith. Through his podcast, he discusses leadership, faith, and personal growth. Today, Shane shares how he overcame challenges that tested his faith and offers insights on leadership, mentorship, and remaining committed to one's beliefs. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Faith isn't just about Sunday mornings or memorized verses - it's about living boldly in a way that reflects your deepest convictions. When we dare to step beyond what feels safe and comfortable, we often discover strength we never knew we had. The journey isn't meant to be walked alone. Whether through mentors who challenge us to grow or friends who keep us grounded in truth, authentic relationships shape us into who we're meant to become. It's in this space - where belief meets action, where wisdom meets courage - that we find our true north and build lives of lasting impact.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new ideas, only to find yourself jumping from one to the next without seeing any of them fully realized. That constant chase for the next "big thing" can leave you feeling like you're always on the verge of success but never quite reaching it. The drive to innovate is powerful, but it can also become a distraction when the focus isn't there. It’s a common struggle, trying to balance ambition with the patience needed to bring ideas to fruition and make them truly work.

Mike Ciorrocco is an entrepreneur who has built a diverse portfolio of successful ventures. From his roots in the mortgage industry to his current focus on media and personal growth, Mike has consistently demonstrated a knack for turning big ideas into tangible results. Today, Mike talks about the importance of aligning one's thoughts, words, and actions with clear intentions. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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It’s important not to let the doubts and confusion of others stop you from pursuing your goals. Focusing on investing in yourself and your business should take priority, as this foundation is key to long-term success. By staying true to your vision and strengthening your own skills, you'll be better prepared for future opportunities. Ultimately, taking the time to build and grow what matters most to you will lead to more meaningful progress and achievements.

In a world where men are often encouraged to bottle up their emotions and follow rigid expectations, true resilience and leadership come from embracing vulnerability and authenticity. Cultivating emotional intelligence—being aware of and expressing feelings in healthy ways—helps build deeper connections and stronger personal foundations. Wisdom and leadership grow when men are encouraged to question societal norms, seek self-awareness, and lead with empathy and compassion.

Brady Pesola is a former Marine Corps veteran who has faced significant challenges throughout his life, from growing up in poverty to enduring bullying and academic struggles. Today, Brady shares his insights on the power of stoicism, discussing how it has helped him develop mental resilience, emotional control, and a focus on what is within his control. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Cultivating mental resilience is crucial for navigating life's challenges with strength and clarity. By drawing on ancient wisdom, such as Stoicism, and combining it with a strong sense of purpose and faith, individuals can develop valuable tools for coping with adversity. This approach fosters emotional control and encourages focusing on what can be controlled, rather than what lies beyond.

Creating financial security for your family often feels like a complex journey, with numerous choices and potential trade-offs along the way. Many people find it tricky to balance day-to-day expenses with the goal of building long-term savings and investments. Starting with small, steady efforts—such as budgeting, managing debt, and setting aside funds for the future—can gradually build momentum. With a clear vision and thoughtful planning, you can work toward a stable, prosperous foundation that supports your family’s financial well-being.

Rachel Marshall is an entrepreneur, mother of three, and a passionate advocate for family legacy planning. With over 18 years of marriage to her husband Lucas, Rachel has navigated the challenges of balancing business and parenthood. Today, Rachel shares her personal journey, including a near-death experience during the birth of her second child, which sparked a profound shift in her family's priorities. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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A well-rounded financial strategy that effectively balances saving, investing, and the use of suitable financial tools is essential for reaching personal financial goals. By combining these elements, individuals can build security for the future, make the most of their assets, and manage risk. Thoughtful planning allows for both immediate needs and long-term aspirations, creating a foundation for financial resilience.

With so many devices around us constantly emitting electromagnetic fields (EMFs), it’s understandable to feel a bit uneasy about their possible impact on health. While research on EMFs is ongoing, some people take precautionary steps, like reducing screen time, using wired connections where possible, or simply turning off devices when not in use. Balancing the convenience of technology with potential health considerations can bring a little peace of mind. Being aware and proactive about EMF exposure, even in small ways, might help ease concerns about this unseen aspect of modern life.

Aires Tech is a company dedicated to developing innovative solutions that address the growing concerns around electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure. Today, the Aries Tech team discusses their personal journey in discovering the impacts of EMF, the scientific evidence supporting their products, and their initiative to integrate these solutions into educational setting, such as Apogee schools, to protect the health and well-being of students and staff. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Taking a proactive, balanced approach to managing EMF exposure is essential in today’s tech-driven world. By being mindful of potential risks while embracing the conveniences that technology offers, individuals and communities can make informed choices that support both health and well-being. Prioritizing small adjustments can help reduce exposure without compromising the benefits of modern connectivity. This approach fosters a healthier relationship with technology, ensuring that convenience and safety go hand in hand.

Child trafficking is a heartbreaking and urgent issue, with young lives being exploited in ways that are hard to imagine. Children are taken from their homes, often forced into dangerous and abusive situations with little chance to escape. The trauma they experience can have long-lasting effects on their physical and emotional health. Raising awareness about the harrowing realities of child trafficking is essential to protecting vulnerable children and pushing for change.

Matt Murphy is a former Green Beret and CIA agent who has dedicated his life to combating human trafficking, particularly the exploitation of children. He currently serves as the director of US operations for the Signal Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on rescuing victims of child trafficking and providing humanitarian aid in crisis situations. Today, Matt discusses the systemic issues surrounding human trafficking in the United States, including the involvement of government agencies and high-level individuals. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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The child trafficking crisis is a pervasive, systemic issue that affects communities both domestically and globally. Addressing this crisis requires a comprehensive approach that strengthens families, empowers communities, and holds institutions accountable. It is equally essential to confront the complicity and negligence of those in positions of power who may enable or overlook these abuses. Only through coordinated efforts and unwavering commitment can we begin to dismantle the structures that allow such exploitation to persist. Working together, we can create safer environments and protect vulnerable children worldwide.

Creating the life and career you envision often requires taking bold, sometimes uncomfortable steps. It might mean leaving a stable job to pursue a passion project, moving to a new city, or investing time in learning skills outside your comfort zone. These decisions are rarely easy, but each one can bring you closer to a life that feels aligned with your goals and values. Embracing a bit of risk and staying committed to the vision you have can make all the difference in building a life you’re truly excited about.

Juliana Folks and Fearon DeWeese are two dynamic women who have carved out impressive careers in the entertainment industry. Today, Juliana and Fearon discusses their personal journeys of self-acceptance, the importance of building a supportive team, and the challenges of balancing their creative ambitions with the demands of motherhood. Their insights offer a glimpse into the realities faced by women striving to succeed in an often male-dominated field. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Finding balance and building a strong support system are essential for pursuing ambitious career goals, especially for women. Juggling professional aspirations with personal responsibilities requires intentional planning and a network of encouragement. By prioritizing self-care and seeking out supportive relationships, women can sustain their momentum and achieve success without compromising well-being. This approach not only helps manage the demands of a high-powered career but also fosters resilience and fulfillment along the way.

Falling into a cycle of unhealthy habits can feel frustrating, especially when you’ve tried to make changes but keep slipping back. It’s easy to get caught up in the short-term comfort those habits bring, even though you know they’re not serving you long-term. Lasting change often requires both patience and a deeper look at why those habits exist in the first place. Sometimes, shifting your environment or mindset—rather than just relying on willpower—can help break the cycle and make new, healthier habits stick.

Ethan Suplee is an acclaimed actor known for his roles in popular TV shows and films. Today, Ethan discusses his personal journey of overcoming lifelong struggles with weight and finding sustainable solutions through addressing deeper emotional and mental factors. He also shares insights into the importance of support systems, self-worth, and embracing discomfort for lasting personal growth. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Cultivating self-worth, inner peace, and a supportive network is essential for achieving lasting change. Relying on external validation or quick fixes often leads to temporary satisfaction, while building a strong foundation from within fosters resilience and confidence. When we prioritize our self-esteem and surround ourselves with supportive individuals, we empower ourselves to navigate challenges effectively. This internal growth creates a more stable and fulfilling path toward personal development.

It's not uncommon to feel stuck, like you're just going through the motions, especially when life becomes routine or overwhelming. That feeling of quiet desperation can be a sign that something needs to change, whether it’s in your personal life, work, or mindset. Breaking free and living on your own terms often starts with small, intentional choices—whether it’s setting boundaries, exploring new passions, or simply giving yourself permission to pursue what truly makes you happy. It’s all about creating a life that feels more aligned with who you are and what you value.

Abel James Bascon is a valedictorian and Ivy League graduate turned entrepreneur, musician, and health advocate. In his journey of personal growth, he emphasizes personal responsibility, embracing change, and maintaining integrity. Today, Abel shares insights on navigating the health and fitness industry, the impact of technology and AI, and balancing financial sustainability with personal fulfillment. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!

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Personal responsibility, adaptability, and authenticity are essential in successfully navigating life's challenges. By owning our actions, being open to change, and staying true to ourselves, we can approach difficult situations with confidence and resilience. These qualities not only help us overcome obstacles but also allow for personal growth along the way. Embracing these traits leads to a more fulfilling and balanced life.