Relentless Positivity

Rick Koenig's life could easily be a movie. Growing up as an angry child, he started training martial arts at the age of 4 and it became a lifelong obsession.

His journey has led him through the nightclub industry, prison, fighting in the early professional mixed martial arts days, moving to Branson, Missouri, losing his son under mysterious circumstances, and now helping others be their best through his fitness coaching.

And that is just skimming the surface! Rick is a really interesting guy with a compelling story, I can't wait for you to meet him!

00:00:01 - Introduction
00:00:18 - Rick's Childhood and Anger Issues
00:03:31 - Rick's Martial Arts Journey
00:07:29 - Rick's Involvement in the Nightclub Industry
00:09:11 - Brush with the Law and Outcome
00:13:09 - Early Life and Criminal Involvement
00:14:20 - Fatherhood and Rehabilitation
00:16:50 - Financial Struggles and Moving to Branson
00:19:32 - Transition to Weight Training and Online Business
00:22:24 - Overcoming Tragedy and Finding Inspiration
00:27:38 - Doing Time in Prison
00:29:28 - Martial Arts and Hip Replacement
00:31:38 - Mindset and Training
00:33:16 - Accountability and Community
00:36:31 - Passion and Mental Approach
00:40:21 - How to Connect with Rick Koenig
00:41:27 - Finding the Right Program for You
00:41:49 - Rick's Offerings
00:42:02 - Appreciation and Call to Action

Disclaimer- this is one of the best times I've ever had on a podcast! The father-son John and Mark Cronin are simply amazing.

Together they have created a crazy sock juggernaut. A business that is not only thriving financially but is making a huge difference for individuals with disabilities.

Does this sound familiar? You've been told that creating a positive and inclusive work environment is as simple as implementing a diversity training session.

But despite your efforts, you still see low employee morale and customer dissatisfaction. The pain of investing time and resources into an ineffective action without seeing the desired results can be disheartening.

It's time to break free from this cycle and discover the strategies and best practices that truly foster employee happiness and improve overall business success.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover how John's Crazy Socks built a successful business by spreading happiness through unique socks.

• Learn about the entrepreneurship and employment opportunities available for individuals with disabilities and how they contribute to creating a positive and inclusive work environment.

• Explore the power of personalized socks in supporting different causes and interests, and how this can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Gain insights into the strategies and best practices for creating a positive and inclusive workplace, fostering employee happiness and improving overall business success

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction
00:00:51 - Favorite Wrestler and Baseball Team
00:01:24 - Favorite Food and Love for Crazy Socks
00:02:19 - Favorite Pair of Socks and Sock Designing
00:04:33 - The Story of John's Crazy Socks
00:15:19 - John's Partnership with Zappos
00:16:42 - Best Selling Socks
00:18:10 - The Spring Happiness Podcast
00:19:21 - Future Plans
00:23:29 - Creating a Great Place to Work

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Today's episode covers Benjamin Franklin's 13 Virtues. Since the new year is right around the corner, these are a few areas to strive to improve to make your life better.

A few quotes from this episode:

-Don't be stanking and don't be trifling.

-If you want to separate yourself in this world, do what you say you're going to do.

-You don't have to be miserable to get results. Moderation is the key.

There is actually some really good advice in there from old Benny Frank. Although #12 got a little squirrely...

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My guest in this episode is Nick Jones, more commonly known as Coach Nick. He is a remarkable coach with a true heart for helping kids.

Growing up in public housing, Coach Nick faced the challenges of choosing between the right path and the wrong path. Despite the obstacles, he found guidance and support from his grandmother, who instilled in him the values of respect, kindness, and trying his best.

Coach Nick's journey took a turn when he attempted to sell drugs at a young age to support his struggling family. However, the people in his community, including mentors from the Boys and Girls Club, recognized his potential and intervened to steer him in the right direction.

Through their support and the influence of a tough yet caring assistant principal, Coach Nick's life took a positive turn. Today, he continues to make a difference in the lives of young people, spreading relentless positivity and empowering them to overcome challenges and build a better future.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the childhood experiences and influences that shaped Coach Nick's journey, providing valuable insights into building resilience and leadership skills.

• Explore the positive impact that community organizations can have on children, fostering a sense of belonging, empowerment, and personal growth.

• Learn about the importance of unity and collaboration within communities, and how these values can create stronger bonds and support systems for children and caregivers alike.

• Uncover the power of community mentorship, and how it can inspire and guide children towards their goals, unlocking their full potential.

• Gain valuable insights into the exciting redevelopment plans for Mill Creek and Low Mill areas, and how these initiatives will create opportunities for community connection, educational resources, and a thriving environment for children to thrive in.

00:00:45 - Growing Up in Public Housing
00:02:57 - Struggles and Turning Point
00:05:06 - The Woman Who Saved My Life
00:07:02 - The Influence of My Mother
00:16:17 - Coach Nick's Tennessee Fandom
00:17:20 - Tennessee vs. Auburn
00:18:23 - Coach Nick's Journey to Helping Kids
00:21:08 - Challenging Perceptions of Different Areas
00:24:07 - Important Lessons for Kids
00:32:20 - Community Support
00:34:11 - Boys and Girls Club
00:35:37 - Unity and Collaboration
00:36:46 - Future Goals
00:38:53 - Appreciation for Coaches

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So many people wanted to har my sermon that I thought I would try to re-create that for this week's episode. Hope you get something out of it.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the transformative power of staying connected to God's Word and find guidance for every step of your journey.

Learn how to be a light in the world and let your good deeds shine, making a positive impact on those around you.

Explore the beauty of agape love and discover how loving others relentlessly and consistently can bring joy and fulfillment to your life.

Gain insights on supporting and guiding young people in today's challenging world, helping them navigate through life's obstacles and find their purpose.

Find hope in the midst of difficult times by trusting in God's unwavering love and experiencing the peace that surpasses all understanding.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction,

00:00:24 - Paul's Story,

00:02:25 - Finding Hope in the Storms,

00:03:32 - Bringing Hope to a Hopeless World,

00:07:55 - God's Plans for You,

00:11:09 - Writing God's Word in Our Hearts,

00:11:29 - Prayer and Connection with God,

00:11:49 - Avoiding Busyness and Slowing Down,

00:13:08 - Being a Light in the World,

00:13:55 - Loving Relentlessly and Consistently,

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A big lesson I learned from a major setback I had with an injury, some good news out of Yemen, and a campfire dad joke.

Please support my sponsors! I know them all personally and can vouch for their integrity and quality.

Dai brought it in last week's episode! And he brings the fire again this week. If you are someone who is looking to change their life in a radical way, you need to listen to this episode.

Some key moments from this episode: Embracing Change,
The Decision to Seek Help,
A Year of Sobriety,
Dating Your Spouse,
Making a Change,
No Regrets,
Can I do it?,
Am I worth it?,
Get to work,
You are worth it,

If you're feeling a constant sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction, despite your efforts to live a fulfilling life aligned with your values, then you are not alone! You may find yourself taking actions such as chasing material possessions or societal recognition, only to realize that these external markers of success do not bring lasting happiness.

Instead of finding fulfillment, you may be caught in a cycle of seeking validation and approval from others, neglecting your true desires and passions.

My special guest in this episode is Dai Manuel. He embodies the ethos of positive change and relentless self-improvement. His youthful struggles with obesity shaped his life's mission, to empower a million role models worldwide to lead a fit and healthy life. Driven by his own transformative experiences, Dai offers an empathetic yet practical approach to achieving a fulfilling life.

This one was so awesome, we had to break into two parts! Dai dropped so many amazing nuggets.

Here are the key moments in this Part 1:
00:00:09 - Introduction,
00:01:15 - Power of Community,
00:04:10 - Growing Up in Ontario,
00:08:08 - Overcoming Obesity,
00:11:03- The Power of Change,
00:13:14 - The Power of Shared Experiences,
00:13:38 - The Origins of the Nickname "Coach Moose",
00:19:22 - The Five F's Approach to Living,
00:24:29 - The Importance of Fun,
00:26:14 - The Power of Mentorship,
00:27:01 - Embracing Vulnerability,
00:27:35 - Connecting Through Shared Struggles,
00:29:12 - The Skill of Vulnerability,

You've been told that pain is an inevitable part of getting older, so you've accepted it as a normal part of your life. But what if I told you that the action you've been taking to manage that pain is ineffective? Instead of finding relief, you're left feeling even more discomfort and frustration.

Dr. Delaine Fowler is here to address the misconception that pain is inevitable with age and discover a new approach that can truly empower you to live a pain-free life.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction to Dr. Delaine Fowler,
00:00:40 - Dr. Fowler's Background and Interest in Physical Therapy,
00:05:12 - Life in Salisbury, North Carolina,
00:06:25 - Specializing in Workplace Injuries,
00:08:41 - The Concept of Industrial Athletes,
00:12:53 - The Importance of Functional Screening for Injuries,
00:13:28 - Addressing the Emotional Aspect of Pain and Injury,
00:16:17 - Challenging the Misconception of Age and Pain,
00:19:11 - The Power of Movement and Taking Action,
00:20:21 - Growing and Expanding ATP's Services,

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to simply accept the physical decline that comes with age, but deep down, you know there must be a better way. Yet, despite your efforts, you're stuck in a cycle of ineffective actions that leave you feeling frustrated and in pain.

It's time to break free from this vicious cycle and discover the fitness hacks specifically designed for adults over 50. Say goodbye to the pain of unfulfilled results and embark on a journey towards improved physical and mental health for a truly fulfilling life.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction,
00:00:37 - Childhood and Education,
00:03:04 - Passion for Teaching,
00:04:38 - Inspiration to Live a Long and Healthy Life,
00:06:08 - Hacking Life After 50,
00:12:06 - The Importance of Maintaining Muscle Mass,
00:15:24 - The Benefits of Strength Training,
00:17:37 - The Importance of Staying Engaged and Curious,
00:20:58 - The Underrated Importance of Sleep,
00:24:49 - We're All in This Together,
00:25:04 - The Value of the Book,
00:25:24 - Spreading the Message,
00:25:33 - It's Not Over at 50,
00:25:40 - Conclusion

Mark Barnes is a lifelong resident of Northeast Ohio with a fascinating story. Mark's initial insight into teaching came through his love for sports, leading him down a fulfilling path of shaping young minds for over two decades. However, Mark's journey didn't end in the classroom.

When he turned 50, Mark tapped into another part of himself, his physical well-being. Grounded by his parents' experiences with age-related health issues, Mark began to explore ways to ensure he could live long and well. His honest, joyful pursuit of a healthy life past 100 is not just about physical changes, but about nurturing a mindset of ongoing growth and fulfillment.

Does this sound familiar? You're dealing with stress, anxiety, and physical health issues, desperately seeking relief but feeling trapped in a cycle of ineffective solutions.

Maybe you've been told to simply push through the pain, but deep down, you know it's not working. The constant battle between your mind and body is taking its toll, leaving you feeling exhausted, frustrated, and disconnected from your own well-being.

It's time to break free from this cycle and discover holistic approaches that truly address the root causes of your struggles.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the healing properties of yoga therapy in managing chronic pain.

• Uncover some common health concerns specific to women such as frozen shoulder, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, and post-surgery pain.

• Unravel the intricate relationship between stress, anxiety, and how they might be contributing to your physical health conditions.

• Gain insights on understanding and effectively addressing pelvic floor dysfunction for a healthier lifestyle.

• Revel in the alluring benefits and immersive details of organizing a women's wellness retreat with a primary focus on pelvic floor and pelvic health issues.

My special guest is Sarah Cummins

Meet Sarah Cummins, a pillar of strength and resilience. Growing up in Kansas, Sarah was an ardent reader who had the world at her fingertips through the power of words. As an adult, she faced the daunting trials of being a military spouse, loneliness, stress, and chronic pain. However, Sarah was not one to admit defeat. She found solace and strength in yoga. Today, she empowers others to regain control over their health through her organization, Waterfall Yoga Therapy. Sarah's journey from being an anxious mother to a yoga therapist is a testament to her indomitable spirit, determination, and her unwavering belief in the power of self-healing. Her story continues to inspire countless people to chart their path to holistic health and wellbeing

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introducing Sarah Cummins,
00:00:20 - Childhood and Love for Reading,
00:01:20 - Fond Childhood Memories,
00:02:54 - Finding Laughter with a Kitten,
00:05:23 - Meeting Her Husband and Dealing with Chronic Pain,
00:10:01 - Using Yoga to Heal and Help Others,
00:15:24 - Sarah Cummins' Services,
00:17:12 - Causes of Health Issues,
00:19:19 - Identifying Pelvic Floor Dysfunction,
00:22:52 - Preventing Future Problems,
00:25:48 - Understanding Kegels,
00:31:20 - Importance of Individualized Approach in Yoga Therapy,
00:32:35 - Women's Wellness Retreat,
00:34:32 - How to Sign Up for the Wellness Retreat,
00:35:54 - Who Should Attend the Retreat

Say hello to Reino Gevers, a seasoned journalist, mentor, and prominent speaker. Hailing from South Africa, Reino has navigated his way through many life journeys - including navigating through the apartheid era, unearthing his roots in Germany, and a stressful career in news agency journalism. These experiences have guided him to a path of spiritual enlightenment and personal growth. Discovering the transformative power of the Camino pilgrimage on his journey, Reino found clarity and healing. His thirst for self-development has propelled him to not just walk but truly live this pilgrimage annually, gaining profound insights along the way.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:01 - Introduction,
00:08:30 - The Camino Experience,
00:10:40 - The Three Stages of the Camino,
00:13:21 - The Traditional Camino Frances,
00:15:19 - Getting Through the Dark Times,
00:19:38 - The Ancient Origins of the Camino,
00:20:38 - Finding Answers on the Camino,
00:22:05 - Preparation and Timing,
00:23:54 - Individual Journeys,
00:25:37 - Corporate Health Management and Personal Transformation

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My guest in this episode is a retired Army Colonel, an Army Ranger, a longtime football official, a dedicated family man, and the owner of Get It Right something that is changing the sport of football for the better in a big way.

"In the army, I learned that relentless positivity can get you through even the toughest of times. It's about finding peace in the chaos and having confidence in yourself". - Bob Arnone

Some interesting things you will learn in this one:

• Discover Bob Arnone's inspiring transition from satisfying military duties to a thriving career in football officiating.

• Delve into the essential role of family and community support in shaping an individual's success and attitude towards life.

• Uncover the potential of high school activities and sports in equipping you with valuable life lessons.

• Understand the significant sway of technology in reinventing football officiating and its effect on Bob's enterprise, Get It Right.

• Embrace the significance of player safety and commitment towards concussion prevention in the realm of football officiating.

My guest in this episode is Daniel Maigler. Daniel is a school social worker, therapist in private practice, host of the Not Allowed To Die Podcast, and the mental health advisor for Paws for Patrick. Most of us have heard of emotional support animals, but are they actually helpful? And what's a therapy animal? What's a service animal?

We discuss that as well as the major mental health crises teens are facing these days and how we can support our teens.

Have you ever experienced a moment so outrageous, so unexpected, that it sent you into fits of uncontrollable laughter? Picture this: a plate of M&Ms, a wobbly folding chair, and a wild ride down a hill. It sounds like a recipe for disaster, doesn't it?

But what if I told you that this hilarious mishap actually brought me immense joy? Laughter, my friends, has a power like no other. It has the ability to brighten our darkest days and forge connections with the people around us.

So, are you ready to embark on a journey of laughter and discover the secret to a happier, healthier life? Well, then buckle up, because this story is just the beginning...

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the critical role of laughter in maintaining and enhancing your overall well-being.

• Grasp effective techniques to invite more laughter into your life.

• Recognize laughter as a tool for stress reduction and mood enhancement.

• Realize the profound impact of laughter on strengthening bonds and fostering relationships.

• Unveil the surprising health benefits of laughter, from boosting immunity to relieving pain.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction,
00:01:54 - Enjoying Other People's Misfortune,
00:04:02 - Health Benefits of Laughter,
00:06:25 - Laughter and Brain Health,
00:08:15 - Conclusion

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From football fields to the frontlines of music, former tight end turned Marine Corps rock musician Luke Morgan defies odds as he battles setbacks and a pandemic, relying on his faith and resilience to rebuild his career and release his upcoming single Shotgun, showcasing the power of never giving up and trusting in God's plan.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the parallels between the world of sports and music.

• Track Luke Morgan's transformation from a football player to a Marine to celebrated musician.

• Learn the unique musical strains and influences that shape Luke Morgan's style.

• Unearth powerful strategies for navigating hurdles and achieving success in the music sector.

• Understand the importance of perseverance, trust in God, and maintaining faith while dealing with adversity.

My special guest is Luke Morgan

If you ever wonder how one person can lead multiple lifetimes in one lifespan, my guest today, Luke Morgan, serves as an embodiment of this notion. An astute observer might detect echoes of his grandfather's wisdom in his demeanor; a man who migrated from Honduras, served in the Korean War, and later helped put the first man on the moon. Similarly, Luke charted an extraordinary path, with a pivotal phase in the Marine Corps, and an unexpected but stellar music career. First, as a member of the acclaimed heavy metal band Edema, and now as a country singer, he’s navigating a genre deeply intertwined with his roots and family lore.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction,
00:00:17 - Football Memories,
00:03:59 - Lessons from Football,
00:05:44 - Music Journey Begins,
00:08:01 - Joining Edema,
00:12:29 - The Inspiration of Luke's Grandfather,
00:14:02 - Luke's First Performance,
00:16:20 - The Impact of the Pandemic,
00:18:13 - Lessons Learned Along the Way,
00:19:25 - Luke's New Single,