The Manhood Experiment

How do you balance gratitude with the drive for more? 

In this episode, B.I.G Dreamz dives into this question with standup comedian AJ Foster, who’s toured with Jay Pharoah and appeared on Kevin Hart’s LOL Network and MTV. AJ opens up about his journey in comedy, sharing how he finds gratitude even while chasing big ambitions.

From the leap of faith into full-time comedy to the people that keep him grounded, AJ reveals how he stays motivated without losing sight of what matters. He talks about transforming life’s challenges into art, balancing contentment with drive, and choosing inner peace over the allure of controversy. Packed with humor and real-life wisdom, this episode offers fresh inspiration to help you find your own balance between gratitude and ambition.

“It’s tough to find that balance… trying to appreciate how far you’ve come, but also still having the ambition to keep the goals in sight of all the things you still want to accomplish” - AJ

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Insights on how to be grateful even when you’re striving for more

• A fresh perspective on how to make ambition and gratitude truly coexist

• The story of AJ Foster, a comedian who’s appeared on FOX, MTV, and Kevin Hart’s LOL Network

• A clear definition of gratitude—and how it influences your mindset

• Ways to show gratitude to yourself instead of being overly self-critical

• Insights into the people AJ is grateful for and how he stays motivated when times get tough

• How AJ turns life’s biggest challenges into comedy material

• The pivotal moment when AJ decided to go all-in on his comedy career

• A look at AJ’s process for creating and fine-tuning his comedy bits

• Reflections on AJ’s struggle with greed versus ambition and how inner peace sometimes outweighs the spotlight

• The Manhood Experiment that will help you step into gratitude

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com


Resources Mentioned:

• AJ Instagram: @ajfostercomedy

Two years in—how far have we come, and what’s next?

This episode marks a major milestone: the podcast’s two-year anniversary! What started with a microphone, a laptop, and a vision from three Leos has grown into over 100 episodes, diving deep into what it means to be a man in the 21st century. In this special reflection, the guys look back at the past year’s standout moments, favorite episodes, and the lessons they’ve learned—both personally and professionally. And today, it’s all about you, the listener.

From the true meaning of appreciation to the guests who made the greatest impact, the guys share what the Manhood Experiment has meant to them. They talk about the value of listening, how to ask the right questions, and what it takes to build trust. If you’re curious about the bold dreams they have for the Manhood Experiment and how they want it to evolve, this episode dives into their vision for what’s next and the legacy they’re building.

“This podcast is a place to explore what it means to be a man in this 21st century” - B.I.G. Dreamz

You’ll leave this episode with…

• A look back at how the podcast began and the vision that sparked it

• The deeper meaning and purpose behind the Manhood Experiment

• The guys views on what it means to be a man at this stage of life

• Reflections on the past year’s most powerful and unforgettable moments

• The guys’ top two favorite episodes from Season 2 and what made them special

• The biggest lessons they’ve gained, both personally and professionally

• The guests who left the strongest impressions on them

• How preparing each episode has shaped their growth and perspective

• Tips on how truly listening and asking the right questions can transform your connections

• What it takes to build trust with the people around you

• How to approach life expecting a “yes” and why this mindset matters

• The bold vision they have for the future of the Manhood Experiment and the growth they’re aiming for

Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes.

https://ratethispodcast.com/man



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

Resources Mentioned:

• #67: How You Can Live 10x Bolder Than You Are Right Now with 7-Figure Motivational Speaker Cesar Rodriguez - https://link.chtbl.com/eDYEklNL

• #90: Want to Level Up Your Dating Game? Expert Dating Coach Gracie Pleschourt Tells You How - https://link.chtbl.com/ZfxHRSF8

• #75: From Dreams to Reality: Travel Hacks & Tips with Seasoned Traveler Jacki Mercer - https://link.chtbl.com/68JBvauB

• 9 Powerful Books to Inspire, Move, & Transform You - https://link.chtbl.com/EUxIT3Yc

• Navigating Change: 4 Practical Tools for Unexpected or Expected Transitions in Your Life - https://link.chtbl.com/cpOYweNt

• The Art of Bouncing Back: An Interview with Darleen 'Coach Dar' Santore, Best-Selling Author & Mental Conditioning Coach to Elite Athletes - https://link.chtbl.com/e7Z7mVjm

What drives someone to take on an Ironman?

In this episode, J Dragon shares his journey of completing Ironman 70.3 North Carolina—a goal he set out to conquer just three months ago. From signing up to crossing the finish line, he breaks down the realities of training: the early mornings, the nutrition adjustments, and the mindset shifts needed to tackle each part of the race.

J Dragon dives into the mental battles he faced during each leg of the race, from overcoming nerves at the swim to pushing through painful cramps on the run. He shares the fears he conquered, the goals he set, and the thrill of crossing that finish line. Plus, hear his biggest takeaways on training, mindset, and the lessons that stay with you long after the race is over. This episode is packed with insights that just might inspire you to take on a challenge of your own.

“It’s crazy how the body adapts, and it’s like any challenge in life, you become bigger than those challenges” - J Dragon

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Inspiration from J Dragon’s Ironman journey and insights on what it takes to tackle a challenge like this

• A breakdown of what it’s like to sign up, train, and mentally prepare for an Ironman

• An in-depth look at the “70.3” distance and what’s involved in completing Ironman North Carolina 70.3

• The power of setting a bold goal and the impact it can have on your mindset

• A look at what motivated J Dragon to take on this extreme challenge, and how you can find your own motivation to push your limits

• A firsthand look at race day: from early wake-ups and nutrition to the electric atmosphere

• What it’s like to tackle each leg of an Ironman and how you can push through physical limits

• Insight into the biggest benefits of endurance sports and how they can change your life

• Tips from J Dragon’s experience on staying resilient, from pushing through painful cramps to overcoming his fear of the swim

• Mental strategies J Dragon used to stay focused under pressure, from race-day nerves to tackling unexpected setbacks

• Lessons J Dragon learned that can help you approach your own challenges with a strong mental game

• The Manhood Experiment of the week to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man 



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

Resources Mentioned:

Gracie Pleschourt's Social Media

• Instagram (@datingwithgracie)

• Tiktok (@datingwithgracie)

Two ways men can work with Gracie:

Option 1: Dating Profile Audit 

Book your 1:1 call with Gracie and she will review your dating profile with you & help make it stand out/get more matches with attractive women.

www.self-madeu.com/offers/nqzUHubv/checkout

Option 2: Dating With Gracie Membership 

With this membership you will have personalized 1:1 on-going support for as long as you need with Gracie. It includes monthly 1:1 coaching sessions with Gracie, access to on demand dating courses on how to approach/meet/connect with women, a place to ask me questions 24/7, access to daily group calls, 50% off any additional 60 minute 1:1 coaching sessions.

https://www.skool.com/dating/about

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Struggling to crack the code of modern dating? It might not be as tricky as you think.

In this episode, the guys sit down with dating expert and life coach Gracie Pleschourt, who specializes in helping single men build confidence in the dating world and form meaningful relationships. Whether you're re-entering the dating scene or looking to level up your approach, Gracie delivers actionable advice on everything from optimizing your dating profile to mastering the first date. She shares bold strategies to help men cut through the noise of the crowded online dating world and build real, authentic connections.

But this episode isn’t just for men—it offers hope for anyone feeling stuck or frustrated with dating. Gracie shares her journey into coaching, her approach to handling awkward moments on a first date, and tips on where to meet women beyond dating apps. With hundreds of thousands of followers across social media, Gracie is on a mission to transform the dating experience for men. Hear the worst dating advice she’s ever heard, along with real-life success stories and strategies to help you navigate the dating world with confidence. 

“If she feels really good when she’s out with you, when she’s talking to you… that’s what we’re going for” - Gracie

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Gracie’s story of how she became a dating coach and began helping men navigate the online dating world

• Strategies to help you navigate the modern dating scene with confidence

• Gracie’s top recommendations for the best dating apps and how to use them

• Tips to help you optimize your dating profile and stand out from the crowd

• Insights on how you can make authentic connections both online and offline

• Actionable advice on how you can approach and structure a successful first date

• How to shift your mindset and overcome dating fears

• What you can say in your first messages to spark real connections

• Ways to move past rejection and grow from it

• How to smoothly ask for a second date and the best way to approach it

• Tips to help you overcome awkward moments during dates

• Where you can meet people outside of dating apps

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Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man 



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

How do you build a successful business while creating something truly unique?

In this episode, J Dragon sits down with Dave Olit and Luke Rimkus, the dynamic duo behind Supreme Nutrition, to explore their inspiring founder’s journey. They share how they transformed a simple supplement shop into a thriving brand with six locations, building more than just a business but a loyal community and motivated team along the way. Uncover the effort behind their success, from overcoming challenges to the relentless hustle that built this thriving business.

Tune in to hear how Dave and Luke turned rejection into a tool for personal growth, their leadership strategies, and the unique culture they've created within their stores. From running clubs with over 5,000 participants to empowering employees to become store owners, these guys are redefining how to build a business that ignites passion in their team and drives community impact. This episode is packed with insights into what it takes to build a brand that resonates with people and leaves a lasting impression.

“Act like you’re the owner, and one day you will be” - Dave

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Insights into the inspiring founders' journey of Supreme Nutrition and what sets their business apart

• The story of how Dave transitioned from building over 60 stores for another business to taking the leap and branching off on his own

• Luke’s inspiring path from driving Ubers in college to breaking free of expectations and building a thriving business

• How you can turn rejection into a character building experience

• How they create brand loyalty with an inside look at their company culture and leadership style 

• How they empower their employees by giving them ownership of their stores

• The two core values that drive every Supreme Nutrition store before opening

• The risks involved in leaving a secure job to pursue a business venture and the hustle it took to make it succeed

• The process behind hiring and training top-tier employees who align with their vision

• What it’s like to walk into a Supreme Nutrition store and the unique experience they offer customers

• The Manhood Experiment of the week that will push you to take that first step and build unstoppable momentum toward what scares you

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man 



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com 


Resources Mentioned:

• Supreme Nutrition -www.supremenutritionusa.com

What goals have you set for yourself, and how will you ensure you hit them with laser focus and precision?

In this episode, the guys break down the importance of setting SMART goals—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. They explore how this powerful framework can keep you focused and moving steadily toward your goals, no matter how big or small. From understanding the difference between vague ambitions and crystal-clear objectives to knowing exactly how to track your progress, this episode offers practical tips to keep you on the path to success.

The hosts also share their own SMART goals for the last quarter of 2024, demonstrating how this method has helped them get closer to their desired outcomes. You’ll learn the significance of setting deadlines, maintaining accountability, and ensuring your goals hold personal meaning—so that each step you take is driven by purpose. 

“You’ve gotta isolate your dream, isolate your goal from everything else… that way you can always keep an eye on it” - B.I.G Dreamz

You’ll leave this episode with…

• A clear understanding of what SMART goals are and how they can transform the way you set and achieve your goals

• A step-by-step blueprint for setting your SMART goals 

• Insights on how to set goals that push you toward becoming the champion of your life

• Strategies to help you follow through on goals, even when motivation is low

• The difference between setting vague goals and creating specific, actionable objectives that move you forward

• How to measure your progress and know if you're on track toward achieving your goal

• Tips on making your goals meaningful and important to you, so they stay top of mind

• The importance of outward accountability and how it can push you to stay committed

• The critical role of setting deadlines for your goals and why it matters

• How to assess whether your goals are realistic and achievable, based on your current situation

• Why your goals need to be relevant to your overall vision and how to align them with your long-term aspirations

• The Manhood Experiment of the week that will inspire you to create your own SMART goal 

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man 



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment 

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

Are you ready to make the last months of the year count?

In this episode, the guys reunite to help you make the most of the final months of 2024. They share actionable tips on how to assess your progress, refine your goals, and shift your mindset to ensure you finish strong. You'll also hear personal insights from the hosts on their own goals—whether it's making movies, achieving a 20-year dream, or conquering fitness goals—and how you can break free from a victim mentality and become the victor of your own life.

Learn how to manage your time effectively, develop strategies for success, and use the "off-season" as a chance to reset and maximize your potential. With just a few months left in the year, this episode will motivate you to take control and drive your life toward the goals you’ve set. 

“This is your life! You can be in the passenger seat of somebody else’s life or you can take control and you can drive” - J Dragon

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Strategies from the guys on how to finish the year as strong as possible

• Actionable tips the hosts are using to accomplish their own goals

• Inspiration to fine-tune your hero’s journey and optimize the path you’re on

• Tools to shift the internal dialogue in your head and achieve your goals

• Insights on how to break free from a victim mentality and become a victor

• The importance of consistency over intensity for long-term success

• Inspiration to create your own strategy and finish what you set out to do before 2025 hits

• How you can optimize your "off-season" preparation and maximize your potential

• What it means to “burn the ships” and how doing so can spark momentum for real transformation in your life

• Tactics to turn your desires into goals and put them into action

• The Manhood Experiment of the week that will help you win the year

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Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

How can you optimize your health today to ensure longevity and vitality for tomorrow?

In this episode, Dr. Allen Holmes, a board-certified emergency physician with over 20 years of experience, shares his insights into optimizing health, rather than just reacting to disease. After battling his own health challenges, including low testosterone and the frustration of not seeing results from consistent workouts, Dr. Holmes shifted his focus to proactive health strategies. Now leading the way at BioSymmetry, he discusses the importance of early bloodwork, personalized hormone therapy, and strength training for long-term wellness.

Learn about the difference between being 'healthy' and 'optimized,' and why taking a proactive approach is key. Dr. Holmes also tackles common health misconceptions, from fat loss mistakes to the benefits and pitfalls of weight loss drugs like GLP-1. Whether you're looking to maintain muscle mass into your 70s or combat metabolic issues like pre-diabetes, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you optimize your body and life.

“It revolutionized my own health journey and got me thinking I want to be on this side of medicine” - Dr. Allen Holmes

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Dr. Holmes' personal approach to how he overcame low testosterone and regained his vitality

• The difference between being healthy and being optimized

• Why getting early bloodwork is essential for setting a health baseline

• Proactive strategies you can start now to take charge of your health and prevent disease

• What GLP-1 weight loss drugs do in your body and how they impact your workouts and overall fitness

• How hormones can affect weight loss and metabolism (and ways you can improve it)

• Common mistakes people make with fat loss drugs, and an alternative probiotic that can support weight loss

• Clients who visit Dr. Holmes' clinic and personal stories of those who appeared healthy but weren't optimized

• Why type 2 diabetes may be reversible and what that could mean for you

• How strength training now can set you up for a stronger 70s and 80s

• Why the “eat less, move more” mentality can be misleading for long-term fat loss

• Why we're seeing a rise in obesity and digestive issues 

• The Manhood Experiment of the week that will help you get 1% better every day

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man

What is the Manhood Experiment?

It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com 


Resources Mentioned:

• MHE: New 30-Day Challenge to Supercharge Your Life

• Dr. Allen Holmes: BioSymmetry - www.biosymmetrywilmington.com

How would your life change if you lived 10 times bolder than you are right now?

In this episode, we are joined by Cesar Rodriguez, the founder of the B10XB movement, renowned for his ability to ignite audiences and inspire them to step into the thrill of the unknown. As a sought-after 7-figure motivational speaker, mentor, and coach, Cesar shares his journey from broke college student to top-tier success, equipping you with actionable strategies for overcoming rejection, mastering sales skills, and cultivating a mindset of boldness.

Discover how to conquer fear, doubt, and indecision with one powerful question, and learn game-changing techniques to shift your paradigm and embrace a life of limitless possibilities. With practical advice on mastering sales and cultivating essential life skills, Cesar's wisdom will propel you toward greatness, inspiring you to step boldly into the unknown and create the life you've always dreamed of.

“What if I lived like this every day? Well you would live a life that was truly unleashed and unlocked” - Cesar

You’ll leave this episode with…

• What it would look like if you lived 10x bolder than you are right now

• The origin story of how Cesar went from a broke college student to a 7-figure motivational speaker, mentor, and coach

• The learnable skills that can help you get past the rejection of the “No’s”

• What it means to be “Bold”

• What B10XB is all about and how it can help you become more bold

• The three enemies of success and a game you can play to help you overcome them

• What is Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

• How cultivating sales skills can help you better your life

• One question you can ask yourself to help you overcome fear, indecision, and doubt

• Three of Cesar’s book recommendations that are worth reading 

• The story of how Cesar manifested his new home

• The Manhood Experiment of the week that will help you step out into boldness, come alive, and be in the thrill of the unknown

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Leave a Review: 


If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes.

https://ratethispodcast.com/man



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com


Resources Mentioned:

• Cesar Rodriguez: www.cesarlrodriguez.com

• B10XB Course:  https://b10xb.com/Gear

• Cesar L. Rodriguez Instagram: CesarLRodriguez

• Big Dreamz Music

• How to Win Friends & Influence People - Dale Carnegie

• Meditations - Marcus Aurelius

• Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires - Esther & Jerry Hicks

What's pushing you to finally take the leap and start your own business?

In this episode, the guys share invaluable insights and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Discover how to break through the limiting beliefs that hold you back from launching your own business dreams. The hosts discuss common fears, from financial risk to criticism and legal obstacles, and offer actionable tips on overcoming them.

Learn about the different types of business structures, from sole proprietorships to LLCs, and get guidance on the essential legal steps to set up your business. Uncover the mindset shifts needed to put yourself out there and strategies for pushing past the fear of the unknown. This episode will leave you equipped with the knowledge and confidence to turn your business aspirations into reality.

“We all have these motivations to do something great, to be the boss” - B.I.G Dreamz

You’ll leave this episode with…

• Tips to help you overcome your fears and limiting beliefs when starting a business

• The cost behind being your own boss

• Common mindsets that get in the way of starting your own business

• What you need to know about the legal side of starting a business

• The three types of businesses you can own

• What a sole proprietor and LLC entails

• Where you can get an EIN (Employee Identification Number)

• The ‘Why’ behind you wanting to start a business

• The mindset you need to take a financial risk

• How to deal with the criticism and fear of putting yourself out there

• The importance of a business coach

• The Manhood Experiment of the Week to boost your confidence and help you move past the fear of 'I don't know how.'

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Leave a Review:

If you enjoyed the show, please leave us an encouraging review and tell us why you loved the show. Remember to click ‘subscribe’ so you get all of our latest episodes. 


https://ratethispodcast.com/man



What is the Manhood Experiment? 


It’s a weekly podcast where we give you one experiment to level up your mind, career, business, health, relationships and more!

For more tips and behind the scenes, follow us on:


• Instagram @ManhoodExperiment

• Tiktok @ManhoodExperiment

• Threads @ManhoodExperiment

• Submit your questions @ www.manhoodexperiment.com

Resources Mentioned:

- Bizee - bizee.com  - Irs.gov - LegalZoom - legalzoom.com - MHE Guide - https://manhoodexperiment.com/