This Is Where Real Growth Happens (And Why You’re Avoiding It)

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

#Motivation #Self-Improvement #Fitness #Spartan Race #Alternative Health #Joe De Sena #Podcasting Education

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. You can also find us online at ⁠travelandleisure.com/lostcultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

18 days ago 22:40

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In this episode, Joe De Sena talks with strength coach and entrepreneur Chris Duffin about what it really takes to become mentally and physically unbreakable. Chris shares his powerful 6-phase framework for personal growth — from standing on the edge of a big decision to climbing out of rock bottom stronger than ever. You’ll hear raw stories of failure, recovery, and the daily discipline it takes to build true resilience. He explains why discomfort is essential for growth, how to train your mind like a muscle, and how small, consistent actions can carry you through even the hardest seasons of life. If you’re facing setbacks, burnout, or just want to get tougher, this episode gives you the tools and mindset to rise. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:44 Meet Chris Duffin: The Mad Scientist of Strength 01:22 From Wilderness Trauma to Resilience Expert 05:19 How to Grow Through Hard Times 10:05 The Pit Is the Place 12:08 Don’t Stay on the Peak Too Long 14:39 Squatting 800 Pounds a Day for 30 Days 18:16 Go Public, Find a Why, and Take It Day by Day 19:02 Helping People Build Mental Toughness 19:50 Merging Biomechanics and Mental Resilience Connect to Chris: Website: https://chrisduffin.com Instagram: @mad_scientist_duffin Facebook: Chris Duffin – Kabuki Strength LinkedIn: Chris Duffin YouTube: @MadScientistDuffin

961 episodes

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

This Is Where Real Growth Happens (And Why You’re Avoiding It)

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

1,922 subscribers

published 18 days ago

MP3•Episode home

961 episodes

#Motivation #Self-Improvement #Fitness #Spartan Race #Alternative Health #Joe De Sena #Podcasting Education

All episodes

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

1
Ran 50 Marathons in 50 Days—Here’s How He Stays Fit at 60+ 18:16

4 days ago18:16

18:16

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Dean Karnazes, one of the world’s most relentless endurance athletes. Dean is an ultra-marathoner and is still competing hard at 60+. From a spontaneous 30-mile run sparked by tequila to training like a Spartan with no gym, he shares powerful lessons on discipline, resilience, and building a body—and mindset—that doesn’t quit. You’ll learn how micro workouts can transform your day, why breathing through your nose can upgrade your endurance, and how to push past your limits when your mind wants to give up. If you’re looking for motivation to get moving, level up your habits, or stop making excuses, this is the episode you need. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:41 Dean’s Spartan Roots 01:47 Why People Hate Running 02:57 The Drunken Start of Dean’s Running Career 05:09 How He Stays Healthy Over 60 06:20 Nose Breathing and Ancient Spartan Tactics 06:56 Dean’s Hardest Challenge: 50 Marathons in 50 Days 07:55 The Power of Not Thinking 09:49 What’s Next: From Dead Sea to Everest 12:42 Advice for Regular People 16:49 The One Workout Everyone Should Do 17:11 Where to Find Dean Connect to Dean: Website: https://www.ultramarathonman.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultramarathon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deankarnazes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deankarnazes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UltramarathonDean Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/DeanKarnazes…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

1
Kidnapped in Somalia: 93 Days to Survive or Die 22:43

11 days ago22:43

22:43

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Jessica Buchanan, a humanitarian worker who was kidnapped in Somalia and held hostage for 93 harrowing days. With no weapons, no training, and no escape in sight, Jessica relied on grit, faith, and the raw power of the human spirit to survive. She shares the terrifying details of her abduction, the mental strength it took to stay alive, and how she turned her pain into purpose. If you’ve ever doubted your own resilience, this conversation will remind you: you are stronger than you think. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:50 Jessica’s 93-Day Kidnapping Story 01:21 Realizing Inner Strength in Captivity 04:09 The Value of Manufactured Adversity 06:24 What Happened in Somalia 12:09 Building Mental Resilience, One Minute at a Time 14:48 The Rescue: Navy SEAL Operation 20:05 Life After Trauma and Finding Purpose 21:39 How to Connect with Jessica 21:53 Final Message Connect to Jessica: Website: jessbuchanan.com Instagram: @jessicacbuchanan Facebook: Jessica Buchanan LinkedIn: Jessica Buchanan YouTube: Jessica Buchanan…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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This Is Where Real Growth Happens (And Why You’re Avoiding It) 22:40

18 days ago22:40

22:40

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

1
Adopt the “Never Zero” Mindset & Be the Man Who Never Quits 21:31

25 days ago21:31

21:31

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with CrossFit Games champion and Train Hard founder Jason Khalipa to explore what it really means to build grit, discipline, and lasting strength in a world that’s getting softer by the day. Jason shares the powerful life lessons he’s learned through elite competition, fatherhood, and personal adversity. They dive into the “Never Zero” mindset, the Train Hard code, and why fitness isn’t just about reps or aesthetics but about showing up strong for your family, your mission, and yourself. Whether you're struggling to stay consistent, looking to level up, or just need a wake-up call, this episode will challenge you to train harder, live better, and never quit. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:42 Meet Jason Khalipa 01:13 Pushing through when you want to quit 02:07 The power of “why” and the right mindset 04:52 Jason’s upbringing and the impact of immigrant grit 06:06 How to raise tough kids in a comfortable world 08:06 Jason’s daughter’s leukemia journey 08:57 Why fitness matters beyond the physical 10:37 Discovering CrossFit and building a gym empire 12:22 Jason’s mission to help men train hard and do better 16:24 On fatherhood, energy, and avoiding the slow decline 19:44 “Never Zero” mindset: keep the momentum going 20:57 Practical & simple nutrition rules to follow 23:01 Where to find Jason and the Train Hard community Connect to Jason: Website: jasonkhalipa.com Instagram: @jasonkhalipa Facebook: Jason Khalipa LinkedIn: Jason Khalipa YouTube: Jason Khalipa Twitter/X: @jasonkhalipa…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Raise Girls Who Lead, Fight, and Never Flinch 25:13

5 weeks ago25:13

25:13

What does it really take to raise strong, confident girls in today’s world? In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Cesalina Gracie – Mount Everest climber, self-defense expert, and member of the iconic Gracie Jiu Jitsu family. Cesalina runs an all-women’s martial arts academy and has trained girls as young as two to stand their ground, trust their instincts, and lead with power. They dive deep into the real difference between competition and challenge, how to motivate kids without pressure or fear, and why female empowerment starts with mindset, not medals. Cesalina shares unfiltered stories from her own upbringing in the world’s most famous fighting family and explains how she turned discipline, self-awareness, and real-life preparedness into a lifelong mission. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Meet Cesalina Gracie 01:59 Upbringing, Discipline, and Family Values 04:25 Leading by Example 07:33 Building Confidence in Girls & Women 09:00 When Competition Becomes a Burden 13:51 The Importance of Self-Motivation 18:11 Competition vs. Challenge Debate 25:14 How to Connect with Cesalina’s 26:15 Final Thoughts Connect to Cesalina: 🌐 Website: https://cesalina.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cesagracie 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cesalinagracie 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesalina-gracie-096792117 ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/cesalinagracie ✖️ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/cesagracie…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Samurai Wisdom for a Modern Warrior’s Mind 20:15

6 weeks ago20:15

20:15

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with James Pieratt—a man who turned a past of heroin addiction and prison into a life of discipline, grit, and ultra-endurance. Now, he’s gearing up to run 1,000 miles along the California coast. Discover how James rewrote his life's script by embracing ancient warrior wisdom, conquering addiction, and pushing human limits. Whether you're feeling stuck, battling personal demons, or just need a massive dose of inspiration, this episode will light a fire in your soul and show you that NO obstacle is too big to overcome. Get ready for a raw, unfiltered journey of human resilience that will make you believe anything is possible! Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 01:15 James’ Upbringing and Early Struggles 06:11 Cold Turkey Recovery & Methadone Withdrawal 06:59 Sources of Wisdom & Role of YouTube 09:55 Ancient Warrior Wisdom Applied to Modern Life 12:55 Ego as the Biggest Obstacle to Face 14:25 Endurance as a Path to Grow 15:24 Legendary Runners Who Inspire 20:26 3 Life Lessons to Apply Now Connect to James: Website: wildhuntconditioning.com Instagram: @wildhuntconditioning Facebook: James Pieratt LinkedIn: James Pieratt YouTube: Wild Hunt Conditioning Twitter/X: @wildhuntactual…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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The Man Who Laughs in the Face of Impossible! 19:21

7 weeks ago19:21

19:21

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with one of the most unstoppable humans on the planet—a former Gurkha and UK Special Forces operator, Nims Purja, who walked away from a military pension to chase a dream the world called impossible. Discover how he shattered mountaineering records, rescued stranded climbers on Everest, and turned purpose into power when no one believed in him. From brutal discipline to next-level mindset shifts, this is your blueprint for doing what others won’t—even when everything’s on the line. If you’ve ever wanted to quit, play small, or wait for the “right time”—watch this first. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:42 Meet Nims Purja 01:16 Early Life and Joining the Gurkhas 02:27 What Makes a Gurkha Different 03:28 How to Level Up Like a Gurkha 06:39 The Betrayal on Kanchenjunga 10:05 The Power of Purpose 12:05 The Next Big Goal 14:23 3 Rules for Success in Life 15:46 Climbing K2 with No Oxygen 17:03 Climbing 14 Peaks in 26 Days 19:05 Final Thoughts Connect to Nims Purja: Website: https://www.nimsdai.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nimsdai Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NimsPurja LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nirmal-nimsdai-purja-392320209 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nims_Dai/featured Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/nimsdai…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Break Free from the Code Controlling You 20:58

8 weeks ago20:58

20:58

In this episode, Norman Wolfe reveals the hidden “psychic DNA” that silently drives your decisions, relationships, and business outcomes. Once you understand it—you can rewrite it. Learn to rewrite the internal stories holding you back Break through the barriers that block execution and growth Hack your brain’s natural resistance to change Turn failure into a foundation for lasting success Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, or simply striving for personal growth, this episode gives you practical tools to decode unconscious patterns, lead meaningful change, and overcome resistance—so you can think bigger, lead smarter, and become truly unstoppable. Timestamps: 00:45 Meet Norman Wolfe 01:22 Norman’s Career Journey 04:09 Becoming a Consultant 06:14 What Stops Leaders from Executing? 10:20 How to Shift Organizational Behavior 13:53 The Fast Eat the Slow Slogan 15:44 Norman's Personal Relationship Story 18:11 Rituals & Scaffolding for Change 19:02 How to Reframe Resistance 21:35 How to Connect with Norman 22:44 Final Thoughts Connect to Norman: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/norman.wolfe.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfe YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbnRB_fX-9ZKMf5hvCwHLKg Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/nswolfe Grab the first three chapters of Norman’s book—completely free! www.quantumleaders.com/podcast/ Get the book on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Living-Organization-Transforming-Business-Extraordinary/…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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No Excuses: Quadruple Amputee Kyle Maynard’s Extreme Journey 22:30

9 weeks ago22:30

22:30

What happens when a man with no arms and no legs decides to bear crawl to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro? Meet Kyle Maynard—quadruple amputee, extreme athlete, ESPY Award winner, and living proof that no excuse is ever big enough. In this raw and inspiring episode, Kyle opens up about brutal workouts, life-altering injuries, climbing one of the world’s tallest mountains on all fours, and the mindset that turned his greatest obstacles into unstoppable momentum. If you're struggling, doubting yourself, or just need a fire lit under you—this episode will move you into action. Timestamps: 00:56 Meet Kyle Maynard, a quadruple amputee & extreme athlete 01:51 Childhood and early understanding of disability 04:30 The role of support in Kyle’s journey 05:24 Pushing through serious injuries 08:54 Joe explains the 'Valley of Death' concept 10:21 The Hero’s Journey as a life blueprint 12:14 Climbing Aconcagua and reaching breaking point 16:46 Identifying the biggest excuse holding you back 18:15 Lessons from Navy SEALs: 'Not dead, can’t quit' 20:45 How to connect with Kyle? 21:05 Final message Connect to Kyle: Website: https://www.kyle-maynard.com/ Instagram: @kylemaynard Facebook: Kyle Maynard LinkedIn: Kyle Maynard YouTube: KyleMaynardVideos Twitter/X: @kylemaynard…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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The Power of Going Slow: Smarter Training for a Better Life 17:21

10 weeks ago17:21

17:21

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with endurance coach Floris Gierman to talk about the surprising power of slowing down to get faster, building consistency, and creating a healthier, more intentional life. From heart rate-based training and journaling habits to sleep, movement, and mindset shifts, this episode is full of simple, practical takeaways that can help anyone—athlete or not—feel better, live longer, and perform at their best. Floris shares lessons from world-class athletes and everyday runners alike, showing how long-term change is built through patience, self-awareness, and small daily wins. If you're tired of burnout, overwhelmed by fitness advice, or just looking for a smarter way to train and live - don’t miss this conversation. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Meet Floris Gierman from Extramilest 01:39 Finishing hard things rewires the brain 03:50 Slowing down to get faster 05:13 Science behind the 80/20 training rule 07:05 Focusing on heart rate zones 07:39 Lessons from elite Swedish racers 09:15 Journaling and pattern recognition 11:50 Track sleep, stress & screen time 12:12 Three life optimization tips 14:43 Where to find Floris online 15:05 Low heart rate training explained Connect to Floris: 🌐 Website: extramilest.com 📸 Instagram: @florisgierman 📘 Facebook: Extramilest Community 💼 LinkedIn: Floris Gierman ▶️ YouTube: Floris Gierman Channel ✖️ Twitter/X: @florisgierman…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Cut the Noise, Own Your Mindset & Find Your Why 11:57

10 weeks ago11:57

11:57

In this solosode, Joe De Sena dives into the raw truth about extremism—why it can either fuel your greatness or sabotage your life. He opens up about his own intense lifestyle, the myth of moderation, and why chasing more is often a trap. Whether you're grinding toward a big goal, feeling burned out, or stuck in a cycle of doing too much, this episode is your wake-up call. Joe shares practical mindset shifts to help you define your why, eliminate distractions, and live with unstoppable purpose. Find clarity. Cut the noise. And start living aligned with what truly matters. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:45 The problem with extremism 02:35 Joe’s personal struggle with moderation 04:18 Define your standards & stick to them 06:10 How removing comfort brings happiness 08:38 De-programming social pressure around success 10:17 Find your why and align your life with it…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

1
What Spartan Racing Taught This Combat Veteran – Tara Pipia 16:27

11 weeks ago16:27

16:27

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with veteran, coach, and author Tara Pipia to explore how Spartan Racing and military discipline can help you overcome life’s greatest challenges. Tara shares her journey from serving in Afghanistan to rebuilding her life through community, fitness, and purpose. Together, they dive into how doing hard things—whether on the battlefield or on the Spartan course—can heal emotional wounds, build resilience, and create lasting transformation. If you’re looking for real-world strategies to thrive through adversity, tap into grit, and find meaning in discomfort, tune in now! Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:43 Meet Tara Pipia 01:44 Military service & leadership lessons 02:08 Sara’s most challenging experience 03:36 Lessons from doing hard things 05:21 Turning pain into progress 06:58 Growing up tough in New York 08:02 Family lessons on resilience 08:59 Joe’s story on kids quitting the camp 09:36 How Spartan race inspired Tara’s book 12:40 Spartan race & recovery 14:20 How to live an optimal life 15:31 How to connect with Tara Connect to Tara: Website: https://www.tarapipia.com/ Instagram: @spartandekadog Facebook: Tara Pipia LinkedIn: Tara Pipia…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Ditch the Gimmicks, Train Hard, and Build Real Strength 22:23

12 weeks ago22:23

22:23

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with fitness expert and Mind Pump co-founder Justin Andrews to cut through the noise and get real about strength, discipline, and building a resilient body and mind. They dive into the biggest fitness myths, the power of hard work, and why modern parenting is failing kids when it comes to health and toughness. From training smarter and staying injury-free to raising kids who embrace challenges instead of screens, this conversation is packed with no-nonsense advice you can apply today. If you’re tired of gimmicks and want real strategies for lasting strength, energy, and resilience, don’t miss this one! Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:51 Longtime Friendship & First Encounter 01:30 Fitness Trends & Industry Challenges 02:31 Technology vs. Physical Activity 04:26 The Battle Against Screens 06:09 The Power of Physical Work in Parenting 10:00 The Decline of Hard Work in Society 11:44 Toughening Up the Next Generation 13:49 The Blueprint for an Optimal Day 15:00 Optimal Daily Habits for Health 17:02 Training with Intention & Adapting with Age 20:25 How to find Jason? Connect to Justin: Website: Mind Pump Media Instagram: @mindpumpjustin LinkedIn: Justin Andrews YouTube: Mind Pump TV Twitter/X: MindPump…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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No Excuses! The Formula for Breaking Records Like Sophie Power! 15:39

13 weeks ago15:39

15:39

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Sophie Power, a mom of three who defied all odds - going from an unathletic, overweight teenager to a record-breaking endurance athlete! Sophie shares how she transformed her mindset, tackled extreme challenges like a 250km race across the Sahara, and set a world record for 48 hours on a treadmill—all while juggling motherhood. She reveals the key to pushing past fear, taking that first step, and building unstoppable momentum to achieve the impossible. Whether you’re struggling to get started, looking for motivation, or ready to level up your life, this episode will challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and take on something bigger than you ever thought possible! No more excuses—get ready to be inspired! Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:57 Sophie Power, endurance athlete and mother of three 01:20 Balancing extreme challenges with motherhood 01:34 The story behind the name Sophie Power 02:03 From couch to 250km Sahara race at 26 04:55 Personal challenges and support networks 06:10 The importance of taking risks and facing fears 07:08 How challenges rewire the brain 08:29 Pushing limits in a comfortable world 10:01 Deep connections through extreme endurance events 11:05 Advice for those stuck in their comfort zone 14:54 Where to find Sophie Connect to Sophie: Website: https://www.sophiepower.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultra_sophie/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powersophie/ Twitter/X: https://x.com/ultra_sophie…

The Hard Way With Joe De Sena

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Train Hard, Suffer Smart – The Secrets of Endurance Mastery! 25:29

14 weeks ago25:29