“The secret hack of life is empathy.”

In this gripping episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, Michael Dargie sits down with Anthony McDuffie Jr., a man whose incredible life story is a testament to resilience and redemption. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles during a volatile period, Anthony experienced both the warmth of a loving family and the chaos of a troubled community. When tragedy struck, and his father passed away, Anthony’s life spiraled into rebellion, leading to a gang-affiliated crime and a 25-year prison sentence at the age of 17.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Anthony takes us through his journey, from surviving the harrowing conditions of incarceration to discovering the transformative power of self-accountability, empathy, and creativity. He reflects on how mentorship, writing, and spirituality became his tools for rehabilitation. Today, Anthony is an author, a mental health advocate, and a passionate creative force, designing custom fashion and pursuing film projects.

This episode is an inspiring reminder that no matter how dark life gets, it’s never too late to rewrite your story.

Cool things Anthony says

• “I discovered I’m more powerful positive than negative.”
• “Redemption starts with accountability—and forgiving yourself.”
• “Nature is my reset button.”
• "The secret hack of life is empathy.”
• “Go for it. Don’t second-guess your dream.”

Episode Highlights

•  Childhood Challenges: Growing up in South Central L.A. amidst the Rodney King riots and community strife.
• Turning Point: The loss of his father at age 8 and its profound impact on his life trajectory.
• Life-Altering Choices: Gang involvement and the crime that led to a 25-year prison sentence.
• Prison Redemption: How Anthony found mentors, adopted self-help practices, and embraced spirituality to transform his life.
• Creative Outlet: Writing poetry and books while in prison, leading to his published works.
• Life Today: Custom jacket design, authorship, and mental health advocacy.
• Advice for Rebels: Take the leap and don’t let fear delay your dreams.

Links from the Episode:

GRITGRINDANDGLORY.COM BOOK: Grit, Grind, and Glory BOOK: My Life in Poetry

Hosted by: Michael Dargie THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM | LINKEDIN.COM

Get Your Copy of Michael's Book: "BrandJitsu™: Move Your Brand From 'Meh' To Memorable" Indigo | Barnes & Noble | MichaelDargie.com

“Your dreams matter, but it’s your actions that get you there.”

In this inspiring episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, Michael Dargie connects with Callum Armstrong, an environmentalist and entrepreneur from New Zealand, whose work bridges the gap between conservation and business. Callum shares his journey from childhood business ventures to becoming the founder of Paste and Publish, a marketing coaching and consulting company, and Conservation Amplified, a charity aimed at raising awareness and funds for environmental protection.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Listeners will hear about Callum’s early fascination with entrepreneurship, his innovative approach to content marketing, and his deep-seated love for the environment. He explains how his passion led to projects like reforesting native lands and creating demand for sustainable products. Callum also shares invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, including how to stay focused, take actionable steps, and turn failures into lessons. His story is both a call to action and a testament to the power of combining passion with purpose.

Cool things Callum says

• "If you look up a mountain, it’s scary. But if you take it one step at a time, you’re at the top before you know it.”
• “Environmental solutions are often right on our doorstep, but they lack awareness and funding.”
• “Your dreams matter, but it’s your actions that get you there.”
• “The people helping the environment are some of the most amazing people in the world.”
• “Marketing for me is about creating awareness and capability for lasting change.”

Episode Highlights

• Callum’s childhood inspirations and early business ventures.
• His passion for environmental conservation and how it shaped his career.
• Founding Paste and Publish and transitioning into a marketing coach.
• Creating Conservation Amplified to amplify environmental storytelling.
• The incredible impact of reforestation and the Manuka plant’s role in ecosystem recovery.
• Practical advice for rebels in waiting to take their first steps.
• The concept of the “30, 60, 90 Day Plan” for personal and business growth.
• Fun insights into New Zealand’s nature, food culture, and more.

Links from the Episode:

• Callum Armstrong Links: LinkedIn Paste and Publish
• Conservation Amplified (https://conservationamplified.org/)
• The Secret by Rhonda Byrne (https://www.thesecret.tv)
• The Four-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss (https://fourhourworkweek.com)
• Sam the Trapman by Sam Gibson (https://samthetrapman.nz/products/book)
• Manuka Honey Benefits (https://manukahoney.com)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM | LINKEDIN.COM

Get Your Copy of Michael's Book: "BrandJitsu™: Move Your Brand From 'Meh' To Memorable" Indigo | Barnes & Noble | MichaelDargie.com

“You make your own luck by saying yes to opportunities.”

Liz Drury’s journey from an academic career in archaeology to becoming a successful voiceover artist is a masterclass in embracing unexpected opportunities. During this episode, Liz shares how a passion for storytelling and a chance experience with media led her to pivot from academia into the creative world of voiceovers. Liz discusses the evolution of the industry, the challenges posed by AI, and the importance of human connection in narration.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Her career includes working on diverse projects like museum tours, corporate videos, and even perfume commercials. Beyond her professional life, Liz is an active community member involved in local theater and music. She emphasizes the power of networking, adaptability, and pursuing what genuinely excites you. Whether you’re an aspiring creative or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

Cool things Liz says

• "You make your own luck by saying yes to opportunities.”
• “There’s something uniquely human about how we tell stories that AI just can’t replicate.”
• "Every day as a voiceover artist is different, and that’s what I love about it.”
• “Networking can be a lifeline for small business owners and creatives alike.”
• “Sometimes the driest projects carry the most important messages.”

Episode Highlights

• Liz’s unique journey from archaeology to voiceover artistry.
• The diverse and exciting nature of voiceover work.
• Liz’s take on the impact of AI on her industry.
• Her favorite projects: museum tours and documentaries.
• How networking shaped her career and her advice to rebels in waiting.
• Liz’s extracurricular passions, including theater, brass band, and ghost walks.
• The story of how saying “yes” to a move to the U.S. changed her life.

Links from the Episode:

• Liz Drury’s website: LizDrury.com
• Social Liz: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook
• Bill Bryson’s book: At Home: A Short History of Private Life
• Edge Studio: Link

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM | LINKEDIN.COM

Get Your Copy of Michael's Book: "BrandJitsu™: Move Your Brand From 'Meh' To Memorable" Indigo | Barnes & Noble | MichaelDargie.com

“The more technology we embrace, the less we interact on a human level.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie welcomes David Blake, known as the Flip Flop Philosopher. David is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, and advocate for bringing human-ness back to business in an era increasingly dominated by technology. Blake shares his incredible journey of transformation after a life-altering surgery left him temporarily unable to walk, talk, or even hold himself up. This pivotal moment sparked his unique philosophy—embracing the power of “flip-flopping” one’s mindset to find solutions to life’s challenges.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

David explores the value of human connection, which is often lost in today’s world of digital interactions and automation. His philosophy encourages people to pause, re-evaluate, and flip their perspective to approach life and business with renewed clarity. He also shares his powerful 10-10-10 rule for balancing work, creativity, and personal recovery, offering insights into how saying “no” can be the most liberating decision.

The conversation looks into the loss of human interaction, technology’s influence on our daily lives, and how to reclaim meaningful communication in business and personal relationships. Blake’s advice for entrepreneurs and “rebels in waiting” is both practical and deeply motivational: ask questions, connect with mentors, and don’t be afraid to fail.

PULL QUOTES

“Be the person you wish was there for you.” “Flip-flop your mindset to unlock new possibilities.” “We’ve lost a lot of touch. The more technology we embrace, the less we interact on a human level.” “The 10-10-10 plan is about balance—10 days for work, 10 for creation, and 10 for recovery.” “Ask, ask, ask. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance. That’s how you grow.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

David Blake shares his recovery journey after a surgery that took away basic motor skills and how he rebuilt his life. Explanation of the Flip Flop Philosophy—flipping your mindset when you hit a roadblock. Insight into the 10-10-10 Plan for balancing professional, creative, and personal time. Discussion about how technology has distanced people from human interactions. The importance of saying no and taking time to prioritize mental and physical well-being. David’s passion for scuba diving and how it has shaped his understanding of focus and mindfulness. Practical advice for entrepreneurs and “rebels in waiting” on how to start new ventures without fear.

LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

David Blake’s Website (https://davidblakepresents.com) Pizzeria Uno - The Original Deep Dish (https://www.unos.com/) David Blake on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakedavid/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: David Blake, FLIPFLOPPHILOSOPHER.COM

“We’re energizing water in a way that’s scientifically backed. It’s a game changer for performance and recovery.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie chats with entrepreneur Krish Sidhu, the visionary behind Evolve Co. and its groundbreaking Perform H2O.

Broadcasting from Vancouver, Krish walks us through his latest venture in hydration science—a tech-enhanced water that improves absorption using frequency technology. Developed over ten years with $12.5 million in research, this water’s secret lies in a sticker embedded with thousands of nano layers, using Earth’s natural atmospheric frequencies to make water more bioavailable. This innovation helps athletes stay hydrated, improves recovery time, and enhances performance.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Krish shares the journey of launching his product on major platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Shopify, with expansion plans across international markets. Beyond hydration, he explores the possibilities of using the same technology for wearables and skincare. The conversation gets into Krish’s background in sports, martial arts, and construction, and his passion for entrepreneurship and growth. His entrepreneurial journey spans industries from real estate development to cannabis.

Wrapping up, Krish offers advice for “Rebels in Waiting,” emphasizing resilience, readiness, and the importance of taking risks in both business and life.

COOL STUFF KRISH SAYS

“We put a frequency-embedded sticker on the water bottle, and it changes everything about how your body absorbs it.” “It’s better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war. Always be ready.” “I want to make lots of money, help lots of people, and have lots of fun—that’s my parameter for success.” “We’re energizing water in a way that’s scientifically backed. It’s a game changer for performance and recovery.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• Krish explains Perform H2O’s revolutionary frequency technology that enhances hydration.
• Launching Perform H2O globally on Amazon, Walmart, Shopify, and more.
• Krish’s background in construction, martial arts, and cannabis.
• Exciting projects, including a new cannabis-themed movie.
• Insights on entrepreneurship and how resilience is built through failures.
• Krish’s philosophy: making money, helping people, and having fun.
• Advice to young rebels about staying strong, prepared, and embracing life’s challenges

LINKS FROM EPISODE

• Krish Sidhu on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/krish-sidhu-53952b36/)
• Evolve Co. (https://www.theevolvedco.com/)
• Perform H2O on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9JTVF4V)
• Perform H2O Instagram (https://instagram.com/performh2o)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: Krish Sidhu, THEEVOLVEDCO.COM

“The self-care was the choice to not go for the job that was sucking the life out of me.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie connects with Rebecca Sidoti, the dynamic founder of Mind by Design, a virtual mental health practice based in New Jersey. Rebecca shares the innovative ways her practice breaks from traditional methods to make mental health care accessible and effective, including using VR for exposure therapy and offering ketamine treatments for PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. With a rebellious spirit rooted in personal experience, Rebecca’s journey from Catholic school to pioneering virtual therapy reflects a lifelong resistance to unnecessary norms.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Rebecca explains how Mind by Design embraces alternative approaches to therapy, helping clients face fears head-on with VR technology that allows for a gradual, controlled exposure to anxiety-inducing situations. This approach proved successful even for clients who hadn’t flown in nearly two decades. Rebecca’s empathy and creativity are evident as she shares stories of how unconventional methods like these have helped her clients reclaim their lives. She also highlights her personal commitment to self-care through art, particularly pottery, and reflects on the value of aligning one’s work with personal passion.

Through this conversation, listeners are encouraged to confront uncertainty, embrace their own rebellious paths, and do things scared if necessary. Rebecca’s insights provide practical advice for anyone looking to break free from conventions and pursue their own way in life and business.

Cool Things Rebecca Says

“Uncertainty isn’t a threat. We don’t have to react to it like fight or flight.”  “Do it scared. Do it uncertain. No guts, no glory.” – Rebecca Sidoti “The self-care was the choice to not go for the job that was sucking the life out of me.” – Rebecca Sidoti “I wasn’t allowed to wear pants. That’s so crazy!” – Rebecca Sidoti “Failure is only when we accept it. It doesn’t exist if we keep going.” – Rebecca Sidoti

Episode Highlights

Rebecca shares the unconventional beginnings of her journey into mental health care and the rebellious experiences that shaped her mindset. Exploration of Mind by Design’s unique virtual and community-based therapy model, focusing on accessibility and personalization. A deep dive into VR exposure therapy and its effectiveness in treating phobias and anxiety, including an inspiring client success story. The introduction of ketamine therapy in Rebecca’s practice and how it assists in treating PTSD and treatment-resistant depression. Rebecca’s personal story about defying norms and finding her purpose despite challenges, including a reflection on her formative years in a Catholic school. The role of art and pottery in Rebecca’s self-care routine, and how creativity keeps her grounded. Rebecca’s advice for embracing uncertainty, learning from failure, and moving forward without fear.

Links from Episode

Rebecca Sidoti on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-sidoti-lcsw/) Mind by Design – Rebecca Sidoti’s virtual mental health practice (https://mindbydesignllc.com/) Mind By Design Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/MindByDesignCounseling/) Fuck Anxiety Workbook (https://mindbydesignllc.com/therapy-worksheets-mental-health-resources/) In the Whale – Two-person punk band recommended by Michael Dargie (https://www.inthewhalecult.com/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: Rebecca Sidoti, MINDBYDESIGNLLC.COM 

“Entrepreneurs often become the biggest bottleneck in their own business.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie speaks with Laurent Notin, an entrepreneur-turned-coach who shares his remarkable journey from Cambodia to Finland and how he now helps entrepreneurs overcome the barriers that hold them back. Laurent discusses his experiences in the business world, including the pivotal moment when he decided to leave his role as a company shareholder and focus on coaching others to succeed.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

As the “Bottleneck Coach,” Laurent specializes in identifying and removing the internal and external obstacles that entrepreneurs face. He explains the steps entrepreneurs can take when they realize they’re stalling their own progress and offers practical advice on how to move forward. His passion for self-awareness, growth, and discipline shines through, as he shares stories from his time in Southeast Asia and his personal connection to CrossFit, which helped him in both his personal and professional life.

Whether you’re running a small business or managing a larger team, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you unlock your full potential.

PULL QUOTES

“People should understand better the power of knowing oneself.” “You can’t control your emotions, but you can control the way you react to them.” “Entrepreneurs often become the biggest bottleneck in their own business.” “Perfection doesn’t exist. Just go and do it.” “Consistency beats motivation. Find your way to stay consistent.”

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

Laurent’s transition from France to Cambodia and later Finland. His journey from managing an advertising company to coaching entrepreneurs. How entrepreneurs can unintentionally hold back their business growth. Laurent’s approach to helping business owners overcome both mental and operational bottlenecks. The importance of knowing yourself and practicing self-awareness in both life and business. Laurent’s experience with CrossFit and how it played a key role in his personal transformation. Key advice for entrepreneurs: Stop waiting for perfection, take risks, and act.

LINKS FROM EPISODE

Laurent Notin’s Website (https://www.laurentnotin.com/)  Laurent on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurentnotin/) Laurent on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/laurentnotin/) 

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COMGuest: Laurent Notin, The Bottle Neck Coach

“Healthcare needs rebels. ”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie chats with Michael Silva, a business coach specializing in healthcare, particularly physical therapy. Silva shares his journey from being a passionate physical therapist to becoming a business coach who helps other PTs navigate the challenges of the industry. The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about life in Rhode Island, Silva’s favorite local foods like “stuffies,” and his thoughts on what it means to be a true Rhode Islander.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

The conversation explores the challenges facing healthcare professionals, including declining reimbursements, administrative burdens, and burnout. Silva’s mission is to empower physical therapists to find joy and sustainability in their careers by starting their own practices. He opens up about his personal journey, including the struggles of working for a large corporate healthcare system and the transformative decision to start his own business.

Through candid stories and humorous insights, Silva reveals his philosophies on life: taking action without fear, asking for help when needed, and the importance of social connections as we age. Silva’s passion shines as he talks about his current mission—to save the physical therapy profession one business at a time.

Cool Stuff Michael Says

“Don’t live by ready, aim, fire. Live by ready, fire, aim.” “Healthcare needs rebels. We keep people out of surgery and off drugs, but we’re getting squeezed.” “If you don’t make time for the warm-up now, you’ll make time for an injury later.” “Everyone thinks they’re more important than they are. You’re not that fucking important.” “There’s a mass exodus of quality human beings leaving healthcare, and it’s time to change that.”

Episode Highlights

Michael Silva’s Background: Former physical therapist turned business coach, focusing on healthcare professionals. Life in Rhode Island: A glimpse into Rhode Island culture, including Silva’s love for “stuffies” and the unique charm of the small state. Challenges in Healthcare: Insights into the difficulties healthcare professionals face, from declining reimbursements to high student debt. Starting a Business: Silva shares his journey of breaking free from corporate healthcare to start his own practice and eventually become a coach. Philosophies on Action: Emphasizing the “ready, fire, aim” approach and encouraging rebels not to let fear hold them back. Importance of Social Connections: Discussing the impact of maintaining friendships and social activities as key to aging well. Personal Struggles and Triumphs: From dealing with family losses to finding new purpose, Silva’s story is both inspiring and relatable.

Links from Episode

Michael J Silva’s Website (https://michaeljsilva.com) Michael J Silva oon LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljsilva-pt-consultant/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: Ryan Holck, DISTILLYOURSTORY.COM

“I wish the world realized the importance of curating your own story well.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie sits down with Ryan Holck, the founder of Distill Your Brand, to explore the art and power of storytelling in business. Ryan shares his unique journey from musician to marketer, revealing how his love for creativity and his knack for distilling complex conversations into clear, impactful messages shaped his career. Ryan dives deep into the importance of branding, discussing how businesses can connect authentically with their audience by focusing on what truly matters—their story.

This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Throughout the episode, Ryan opens up about his transition from being hands-on in the creative process to taking a more strategic role, emphasizing the significance of knowing your core message and the value of storytelling. He provides insights into how businesses can effectively communicate their value proposition by stripping away unnecessary details and focusing on the heart of their message. Ryan’s candid reflections on leadership, the challenges of running a business, and the need to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success offer invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs and creative rebels alike.

Whether you’re just starting your business or looking to refine your brand, Ryan’s advice on curating and communicating your story will inspire you to rethink how you present yourself to the world. Tune in for a conversation packed with wisdom, humour, and actionable tips that can help you elevate your brand storytelling to the next level.

Cool Stuff Ryan Says

“If you can connect the story to your message, it drives it home and makes it memorable.” “The only way to discover who you best serve is to continue in the process, even if it means failing often.” “Give yourself the freedom to fail and to fail often.” “We have to be willing to tell the stories that connect with our audience, not just the ones that make us feel good.”

Episode Highlights

Ryan Holck’s journey from music to marketing. The power of storytelling in creating authentic brand connections. Ryan’s shift from deliverables to strategy and the challenges that came with it. The importance of defining and focusing on the core message of your brand. Insights into managing creative teams and the balance between freedom and deadlines. The role of failure in the creative and entrepreneurial journey. How businesses can hone their message to connect better with their audience.

Links from the Episode

Distill Your Story - Ryan Holck’s website (https://distillyourstory.com/) Ryan on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/rholck) Ryan on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/distillyourstory/) Ryan on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanholck/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: Ryan Holck, DISTILLYOURSTORY.COM

“Do it your way. That’s the only way to bring the change you’re here to create.”

In this episode of The RebelRebel Podcast, host Michael Dargie sits down with Lauri Smith, a soulful speaking coach for sensitive visionaries, ambitious empaths, and loving rebels. Lauri shares her journey from an imaginative child enacting stories in her backyard to becoming a passionate advocate for authentic, soulful speaking. Her work is rooted in her early experiences with theater, where she discovered the transformative power of presence, empathy, and breath.

This episode is sponsored by Make More Creative, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world.

Throughout the episode, Lauri delves into the challenges of being an empath and how she manages emotional boundaries, both in her personal life and in her work with clients. She emphasizes the importance of doing things your way, particularly for rebels in waiting who are just stepping into their power. Lauri’s insights into the art of speaking from a place of deep authenticity provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact through their voice.

Listeners are also treated to stories from Lauri’s time in the theater, her love for dark chocolate and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” and her reflections on the energetic exchange between a speaker and their audience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to find and express their true voice in the world.

Cool stuff Lauri says

“We need all of the soulful voices playing full out to raise human consciousness.” “When we make our energy bubble small, it makes whatever we’re feeling more intense. Expanding it allows us to transform the vibe in a room.” “Speaking from a place of deep authenticity is where real resonance happens.” “My process is helping people reawaken the kind of resonance that makes your hair stand up on end.”

Episode Highlights

Lauri’s journey from childhood storytelling to becoming a soulful speaking coach. The influence of theater on Lauri’s approach to speaking and coaching. The concept of “soulful speaking” and its impact on raising human consciousness. Lauri’s strategies for managing empathy and emotional boundaries. The importance of doing things your way and staying true to your unique voice. Stories from Lauri’s theater experiences, including her time directing and performing. Lauri’s love for dark chocolate and her connection to “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” The energetic exchange between a speaker and their audience, and how to harness it. Practical advice for rebels in waiting on stepping into their power.

Links from the Episode

Lauri Smith’s Website: Voice Matters (https://voice-matters.com) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/)| LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/) Theater Lunatico (https://theatrelunatico.wordpress.com/)

Host: Michael Dargie, THEREBELREBELPODCAST.COM Guest: Lauri Smith, Voice-Matters.com