The Shadows Podcast

Dr. James Onate is an Associate Professor in the College of Medicine at the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences and Division Director, Division of Athletic Training at the Ohio State University.

During this episode of the Shadows Podcast Dr. Onate discusses his journey as a first-generation American after his parents came to the United States from Chile. He’s gone on to work with and coach people from middle school to the United States military.

Udo Erasmus has lived a fascinating life. He was born in Poland and separated from his family during the middle of World War II. He's traveled the world, taken on almost every job imaginable, and developed the first-ever flaxseed oil. He shares eighty years of his story with us on the Shadows Podcast this week! 

Ricky Price was All-ACC and a two-time regular season champion at Duke from 1994-1998. He played for the legendary Coach K and now passes those lessons taught to him onto youth basketball programs and as a public speaker. Ricky shares his remarkable journey this week as the Shadows Podcast presents Rebound: Season 3.

Thurl Bailey was a leader on the "Cardiac Pack" North Carolina State's Men's Basketball 1983 National Championship team. He also spent 13 years in the NBA as part of the Utah Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves organizations. Thurl shares his remarkable journey this week as the Shadows Podcast presents Rebound: Season 3.

Matt Doherty won a national championship as a member of the 1982 North Carolina Men’s Basketball team. He also coached at Notre Dame, North Carolina, Florida Atlantic, and SMU. He was the 2001 Associated Press Men’s Coach of the Year. He’s now an executive coach, author of Rebound: From Pain to Passion - Leadership Lessons Learned, and host of the Rebound Podcast.

During this episode of the Shadows Podcast presents the Rebound series, Coach Doherty discusses:

- Growing up in East Meadow, New York

- Discovering his passion for playing basketball

- The recruiting process and how culture ultimately led him to Chapel Hill.

- There was a lot of uncertainty surrounding the 1981 National Championship game due to the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. What was his mindset on the day of the biggest game of his career?

- His first impressions of a freshman named Mike Jordan?

- What were his takeaways from playing with James Worthy?

- Disappointment after missing a free throw with under a minute to go in the 1982 National Championship. What three things can you do when faced with adversity?

- What did Coach Smith say with his Tar Heels trailing Georgetown before Michael Jordan’s historic game-winning shot?

- Takeaways from his time playing for Coach Smith?

- How did the events of the 1984 NBA Draft push him away from basketball and into a downward spiral?

- Was diagnosed with symptoms of a chronic alcoholic, and his most significant accomplishment is being 35 years sober.

- His season as head coach at Notre Dame

- The summer of 2000 and landing the job at his alma mater, North Carolina.

- How did he feel watching Roy Williams and the players he recruited cutting down the nets after winning the 2005 National Championship?

- What would he do over again from his time in North Carolina?

- What makes him happy coaching now in 2023?

- Dealing with heavy depression and triggers after leaving North Carolina.

- What transpired and allowed himself forgiveness and closure with his meeting with Roy Williams?

- His book: Rebound: From Pain to Passion - Leadership Lessons Learned and The Rebound Podcast

- What does he want his legacy to be?

Joanne P. McCallie tips-off Season 3 of the Shadows Podcast: Rebound Series! Coach P has 32 years of coaching experience. She was the head coach at Maine, Michigan State, and Duke. Coach P earned National Coach of the Year honors in 2005. She’s the first Division 1 coach to win conference titles in four conferences. She’s a two-time gold medalist coach with Team USA Basketball and a Hall of Famer. Finally, she’s an author, public speaker, mental health trailblazer, advocate, and coach.

During this episode of the Shadows Podcast: Rebound Coach P discusses:

- Growing up in a military family. Her father was a Navy Pilot. Listen as she retells the love story of how her parents met.

- What were her aspirations as a child?

- The moment she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 30

- How did she balance coaching and her personal life?

- Mental health awareness

- What it meant as a military brat to coach Team USA Basketball

- The Growth of Women’s Basketball

- Her time coaching at Michigan State and Duke

- How COVID impacted her and the Duke program

- When did she decide to retire?

- Her books “Choice Not Chance: Rules for Building a Fierce Competitor” and “Secret Warrior: A Coach and Fighter, On and Off the Court.”

- Her public speaking and coaching

Iman Tucker is an entrepreneur and professional DJ. He currently serves as a DJ for the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Hoosiers. During Part II of this episode of the Shadows Podcast, Iman discusses

Stay tuned for Part II of this episode this Thursday, March 2.

Iman Tucker is an entrepreneur and professional DJ. He currently serves as a DJ for the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Hoosiers. During Part I of this episode of the Shadows Podcast Iman discusses:

Stay tuned for Part II of this episode this Thursday, March 2.

Sandra Gonzalez is a retired United States Marine Corps officer, life coach, and public speaker.

Part II starts with Sandra discussing her proudest moment and biggest regret in her military career. She talks about starting a business in Dubai, where she coached ambitious local Arab women. Hear her talk about the struggles of a brutal divorce after 15 years of marriage.

Sandra Gonzalez is a retired United States Marine Corps officer, life coach, and public speaker.

During Part I, Sandra takes us back to her upbringing in Los Angeles. Her father was an assertive father with a strong moral compass. Listen to her explain how he helped shape and mold her into the woman she is today. What led her to walk into the Marine recruiter's office? What was her experience as the Private First Class for General James Mattis? Being one of three females in her Marine regiment, was she the brunt of discrimination or harassment early in her career? Finally, Sandra talks about her 20-year career, including her time as a Marine Drill Instructor.

Welcome to the Shadows Podcast Bowl II with Super Bowl legend and former New York Giants wide receiver David Tyree! His “Helmet Catch” led to the game-winning drive against the previously unbeaten New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. The catch is also #1 in the all-time Super Bowl moments of Athlon Sports.

In this special episode, David talks about his upbringing in New Jersey. He discusses his time at Syracuse University. Where was he during the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001? He also discusses the 2003 NFL Draft. What were some internal demons he had to conquer early in his pro career?

David also walks us through the 2007 NFL season and the 2008 Playoffs. And, of course, he takes us back to his historic moments in Super Bowl XLII. What going through his head during and after the famous “Helmet Catch”?

Finally, David talks about life after football, including his journey as a public speaker and his Catch Camp.

Leah Amico is a 3x Olympic Gold Medalist, 3x NCAA National Champion, 2x World Champion, 3x First Team All-American, 3x Academic All-American, 2009 National Softball Hall of Fame Inductee, and host of the Gold Standard Podcast.

During Part II, Leah talks about the championship mindset and internal pressure she placed on herself once she returned to Tucson after the 1996 Summer Olympics. How did she balance academics and athletics and the stress of social comparisons? What new habits did she have to establish once she grated from college?

Leah then opens up about the tragedy that struck her college and Team USA Softball coach, Mike Candrea, just four weeks before the Olympics. She also shares her time with a friend and teammate, Julie Reitan. Julie taught her boldness and obedience and helped her find Christ in her life. Julie passed away one month after the national championship, but Leah shares how her legacy still lives.

Finally, Leah talks about her books, Victorious and Softball, Glory & God’s Story. She also discusses her decision to start her own Gold Standard Podcast.

Leah Amico is a 3x Olympic Gold Medalist, 3x NCAA National Champion, 2x World Champion, 3x First Team All-American, 3x Academic All-American, 2009 National Softball Hall of Fame Inductee, and host of the Gold Standard Podcast.

During Part I, Leah talks about her upbringing in California. When did she know she was highly gifted on the softball diamond? What intrigued her to follow this newfound passion? What and who helped her commit to the University of Arizona? She unpacks her first two years in Tucson and won two NCAA National Championships. What did she learn from her coaches in victory and defeat? Finally, Leah talks about the grueling process behind being selected and training for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta. What was going through her mind as she stood on the gold medal podium and heard the national anthem playing?

Find out all about Leah at www.leahamico.com

Tune in this Thursday for Part II of this great conversation!

Shana Francesca is a life designer, speaker, founder, and CEO of Concinnate. Shana has been featured in Shoutout LA, Living Cozy, and Emotional Intelligence + Magazine.

Previously on Part I of this conversation, Shana talked about the struggles she endured as a child. As an infant, her parents joined a Christian cult. Her parents also had no tools to process their childhood trauma. As a result, this led to an abusive household. Shana discusses being a victim of sexual assault throughout her childhood, which led to suicidal ideology, anorexia, and bulimia.

In Part II, Shana tells us what she did to escape that toxic environment at 26. What ultimately saved her life? How did generational trauma from her parents trickle down to her? How has it impacted her in relationships? Finally, Shana discusses being an author.

Find out all about Shana and Concinnate at: www.concinnate.world

Next Monday, the Shadows Podcast brings to you a 3x Olympic Gold Medalist with USA Softball and 3x National Champion during her time at the University of Arizona, Leah Amico!

Shana Francesca is a life designer, speaker, founder and CEO of Concinnate. She’s been featured in Shoutout LA, Living Cozy, and Emotional Intelligence + Magazine.

During Part I of this conversation, Shana talks about why our home needs to be an authentic reflection of who we are and ties our space into our mental health.

Then Shana opens up about the struggles she endured as a child. As an infant, her parents joined an evangelical Christian cult. Her parents also had no tools to process their childhood trauma. As a result, this led to an abusive household. Shana discusses being a victim of sexual assault throughout her childhood, which led to suicidal ideology, anorexia, and bulimia.

Stay tuned for Part II of Shana Francesca’s journey from victim to victor this Thursday!

After graduating college, Chancellor Jackson traveled to China to teach English. Then on April 4, 2019, the Beijing Police showed up at his apartment door and arrested him on drug charges.

Part II of this conversation hears Chancellor talk about his 14 days in a Beijing prison, his release, his mentality after he returned to the United States, becoming an author, and his work with at-risk teens.

After graduating college, Chancellor Jackson traveled to China to teach English. Then on April 4, 2019, the Beijing Police showed up at his apartment door and arrested him on drug charges.

Part I of this conversation hears Chancellor talk about traveling as a child, playing football and graduating from Stetson, and how he landed the job teaching English in China.

Also, Chancellor talks about the day the Beijing police showed up and his apartment and what transpired upon their arrival.

Stay tuned for Part II of this conversation this Thursday!

From Broken To Bold

Mo Isom Aiken had a record setting career as a goalie for Louisiana State University, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Christ-Follower.

Part II picks up with Mo discussing her mental and physical recovery from her horrific car accident. She talks about the NCAA loophole that allowed her to make national headlines by trying out for the LSU football team. How does she balance her spiritual, emotional, physical, and social pillars in her life while living on the road with her family? Mo discusses her New York Times best-seller Sex, Jesus, and the Conversations The Church Forgot as well as when is the right time to have the conversation every parent dreads with their children. Finally, Mo tells us all about BOLDLIFE Ministry and all the fantastic things they’re doing.

Instagram: @moisom

From Broken To Bold

Mo Isom Aiken had a record setting career as a goalie for Louisiana State University, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Public Speaker, and Christ-Follower.

Part I of this raw and candid interview starts with Mo taking us back to her upbringing in Marietta, Georgia. When did she discover her love for soccer? How did her healthy drive for success evolve into an unhealthy need for perfection? Everyone was praising Mo, but inside she was battling anorexia, bulimia and was addicted to diet pills. Listen as she talks about a heartwarming conversation her mother had with her before heading off to LSU.

Mo is transparent in talking about losing her father to suicide when she was nineteen. She says this filled her with hurt, pain, anger, and suicidal ideations. She also opens up about the car wreck she was involved in while driving from Baton Rouge to Atlanta. While hanging upside down in her car and blood pouring down her face, she became overwhelmed by the support and love of God.

Part II of this incredible interview will be available this Thursday, January 19.

Instagram: @moisom

Biko Skalla is an Emmy Award-winning broadcast entertainer for the Savannah Bananas!

Listen to Part II with Biko talking about living his dream of making his network television debut on ESPN only to have a worst-case scenario unfold on live television. How did he react at the moment? He also talks about the Bananaland Documentary, the 2022 and upcoming 2023 Bananas World Tour, winning his Emmy award, and more Banana Ball!

Finally, Biko gives you a peak behind the curtain at the creativity that transpires with the Savannah Bananas team and gives some recipes for getting those creative juices flowing.

Biko Skalla is an Emmy Award-winning Broadcast Entertainer for the Savannah Bananas!

Listen to Part I with Biko discussing his childhood aspirations and friendship with his late-neighbor Frank. How did that relationship plant the seeds for him to attend Syracuse University? How did he go from calling Saugerties Stallions baseball games for chicken tenders, hamburgers, and hotdogs to an associate producer role with the Major League Baseball Network? How did the events from the global pandemic lead to him landing a gig as the Broadcast Entertainer with the Savannah Bananas? Finally, how have social media and fan interaction become a vital part of the success of the Bananas?

Happy New Year from the Shadows Podcast! We roll into 2023 with a very special co-host, Jerry Dugan! Jerry is the host of the Beyond the Rut Podcast and tag team partner with the Lima Charlie Network.

This week we recap the months of July-December. Some of the topics discussed in this episode include:

- Recap of the Veterans Series and the way ahead for 2023.

- Rise From The Shadows Season 2: Behind the Mask.

- The experience of being a part of the Podcast Influencer group at the Air Force Sergeants Association Conference this past August in San Antonio, including Tripp’s travel issues.

- The idea behind rebranding and the 100th episode

- Jerry talks to Tripp about changes for the Shadows Podcast starting next week.

Merry Christmas from the Shadows Podcast! We welcome you to our Christmas Day 2022 Year in Review Special!

During this episode, we recap what happened from January to the end of June.

Also, the host of the Drive On Podcast, Scott DeLuzio, and the host of the Wartime Leadership Podcast, Nathan Coy, join us to talk about their shows, the non-profit organizations they competed for, and what’s next for 2023.

At the end of this episode, we announce the podcast that received the most 5-star review over a week during our first annual Streams of Giving competition! 100% of the winnings were donated to the winning non-profit at the end of the episode!

Stay tuned for part 2 of our 2022 Year in Review New Year’s Day episode next week!

From Paralyzed
To Fitness Trainer

Holly Frances delivered a healthy baby girl on January 26, 2011. Twenty days later, she would become paralyzed from the neck down from a rare illness called GBS. Holly would fight for her life over the next 70 days until she was taken out of the intensive care unit. She would eventually return home after 126 days.

Listen as Holly recounts that time in her life and tells us about what she’s doing to assist other GBS patients. Also, Holly talks about being an author and transitioning into becoming a fitness trainer.

From Airman To Helping Veterans

Trevor Gilliland is a twenty-year retired active-duty Senior Noncommissioned Officer in the United States Air Force. He was Tripp’s Military Training Instructor at Basic Military Training in San Antonio! Now he’s helping veterans as an Orion Talent Account Executive.

During this episode, listen to Trevor talk about his upbringing in Minnesota. Why did he join the United States Air Force? What did his primary job in the military? What made him want to become a Military Training Instructor? What were the benefits and challenges of the MTI lifestyle? When did he decide to retire? What were the struggles of the transition from active-duty to civilian? What does he do with Orion Talent?

Also, listen as Tripp and Trevor tell stories from their experiences at Basic Military Training.

“I am not a heart surgeon, but mending broken hearts is my true calling.”

Dr. Omar Reda is a global trauma expert, author, and public speaker. This week he joins us on the Shadows Podcast to take us through his journey of pain and joy, suffering and hope.

In this episode, Dr. Reda discusses the tribulations of his adolescent years in Libya. At an early age, his family suffered unimaginable losses, ultimately leading him to become a doctor. What was it like moving to the United States and facing discrimination and profiling as a young Arab Muslim man five months after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001? Dr. Reda endured tremendous trials and tribulations throughout his life, but he explains how he’s maintained such a positive mindset to this day.

Listen to this episode:

“Everyone has a number over their heads. Wouldn’t you like to find out yours?”

This week the Shadows Podcast welcomes a returning guest, Jeremie Kubicek! Jeremie co-founded GiANT Worldwide, a global speaker and a best-selling author.

In this episode, Jeremie takes you through an internal personality assessment by discussing his newest book, the Peace Index: A Five-Part Framework to Conquer Chaos and Find Fulfillment. He talks to us about the genesis of this book, establishes what internal peace means to him, and explains the context of the Peace Index Assessment and the Hope Meter. Jeremie also explains the five elements that help you assess your current level of peace: Purpose, People, Place, Personal Health, and Provision.

Listen to this episode:

This week the Shadows Podcast welcomes a coach, mentor, educator for adult survivors of child abuse, and podcast host, Michael Unbroken!

In this episode, Michael takes us through his hyper-volatile upbringing, consisting of a drug-addicted mother who attempted to cut his finger off at four years old, an abusive stepfather, and a racist grandmother. He spent the majority of his childhood homeless and in poverty. This led to Michael struggling with an identity crisis and a downward spiral involving drug and alcohol abuse.

Michael overcame these insurmountable odds and turned his life around, and now he motivates and inspires thousands through his work with the Think Unbroken Podcast.

Listen to this episode:

THE SHADOWS PODCAST CELEBRATES 100 EPISODES! We couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than with master special effects artists specializing in clay modeling, creature creation, stop motion, and animatronic Stephen and Edward Chiodo! The Chiodo Brothers have worked on An American Werewolf in London, Critters, Elf, Gremlins, Killer Klowns From Outer Space, Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure, Team America: World Police, RoboCop and now they’re here to share their story on this weeks episode of the Shadows.

Charles, Edward, and Stephen Chiodo were fascinated with movies and film-making at a young age. In this episode, they discuss how they grew up in Long Island making homemade 8 mm movies with a camera projector setup. One thing led to another, and their childhood dreams of film-making eventually led them to Los Angeles and the creation of their first feature film, Killer Klowns from Outer Space. Over 30 years later, their movie is still celebrated with Universal Studio’s Halloween Horror Nights, a new video game release, and fans still celebrating their legacy.

Clay Smeltzer is the founder and host of the Purpose Infused Brotherhood Podcast and a returning guest to the Shadows!

During this episode, Clay discusses his upbringing in the woods of York, Pennsylvania. What lessons did he learn from his grandfather and parents during his adolescent years that helped shape him into who he is today? Listen to Clay discuss how he went from a tunnel vision focus on playing professional baseball to realizing his dreams had shattered. How did this impact him later in life? How did this come to a head during Game of Thrones?

Clay also discusses his battles with anxiety and not being his authentic self. What advice would he give to adults and adolescents with this mental illness?

Happy Halloween from the Shadows Podcast! This Halloween, we have the honor of having the man who played Super Freddy in A Nightmare on Elm Street 5, Pluto in the Hills Have Eyes, and Belthazor and Sax in the television series, Charmed, Michael Bailey Smith, join the Shadows! Michael has been in over 100 films and is the Vice President of Global Sales at LEXI.

During this episode, Michael discusses his upbringing as an Air Force brat, including graduating high school in Iran. He talks about his time in the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper. He talks about playing football at Eastern Michigan University and eventually landing a free agent with the Dallas Cowboys. Michael talks about the transition from football to the incredible opportunity that landed him an acting role in A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child. Hear Michael cover his astonishing acting career and discuss behind the scenes as he embraced his shadows.

Carrie Schmidt is a certified Life Mastery Consultant, Executive Leadership Coach, and CEO of Infinite SOULutions, LLC. She is also the author of "Behind The Screen: A 7-Step Life Timeline System of Transformation.".

During this episode, Carrie discusses:

- The struggles of living with a broken family at eight.

- How did her parent's divorce impact her relationships with her mother, father, and older sister?

- She talks about being stuck in a relationship that everyone else could see was toxic except for her.

- What events transpired on Christmas Day 2005 that she identifies as her rock bottom?

- How has her son changed her into who she is today?

Don Colliver spent twenty years in television production and is the author of, “Wink: Transforming Public Speaking with Clown Presence.”

During this episode, Don talks about:

- How did one year of driving across the country led to his connection with a television producer from the Travel Channel?

- His twenty years of television production include his time on House Hunters and $40 a Day with Rachael Ray.

- How did his divorce lead him to take an improv class, ultimately leading to him attending the Clown School?

- His experience with Toastmasters and improv comedy.

- We discuss how he defines clown and why are so many people have coulrophobia.

- What are the highs and lows of his career as an entertainer?

- He provides four tips for adding humor to any public speaking engagement.

- He discusses his book, “Wink: Transforming Public Speaking with Clown Presence.”

- Plus much more!

Deb Whitcas is a two-time Emmy winning Supervising Producer and Sports Journalist. She’s produced highly rated national/international prime time and daytime shows for ABC, CBS, FOX, MGM, CW, Universal, HGTV, WE, Style/E! Entertainment and MTV Networks. She has also held media credentials for the USFL, 2022 NFL Draft, Super Bowls LV & LVI, 2021 NFL season games for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons and 2020 XFL: LA Wildcats. And this week, she joins us on the Shadows Podcast!

During this episode Deb talks about her upbringings in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and how her love for sports started with her relationship with her father. She takes us through her incredible career to include her time working with the Jerry Springer Show. However, with all the spotlight and glamor that comes with television, there is also obstacles. She explains the behind the scenes struggles she’s had to overcome to include the recent global pandemic. She also talks about her role in rescuing pets, the Touchdown Time Out Podcast, and the legacy of her father.

Every day we interact with other people’s masked versions of themselves. Most people have a select few that they allow to unmask them. Often, our biggest struggle isn’t understanding others but it’s trying to figure out who we indeed are. When we pull off our masks and do some soul searching, it’s scary and frightening, but it can also be grateful and rewarding.

This week we bring you an Airman Leadership School Instructor at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. Briton Lee Hurdle! Briton was going through a divorce at an all-time low in his life. He started to display suicidal tendencies, but he bounced back and went on to become an incredible instructor. Briton talks to us about the evolving adversity we face and how to overcome it. He teaches us about his ACT acronym along with his Three Stones analogy.

Then we bring you the host of the Shadows Podcast, Tripp Bodenheimer. Tripp is an Instructor at the Enlisted Professional Military Education Instructor Course at Maxwell-Gunter Annex, Alabama. Tripp takes us through his journey from being diagnosed with performance anxiety and having a tremendous fear of public speaking to conquering that fear. He now seeks opportunities to get behind a microphone or stand in front of an audience. He shares his pointers to help you transition from the 80% that fear public speaking to the 20% who’ve overcome it.

Every day we interact with other people’s masked versions of themselves. Most people have a select few that they allow to unmask them. Often, our biggest struggle isn’t understanding others, but it’s trying to figure out who we truly are. When we pull off our masks and do some soul searching, It’s scary and frightening, but it can also be grateful and rewarding.

This week the Shadows Podcast has the honor of welcoming a United States Marine Corps veteran, author of “Can I Speak?” and host of the Purpose Pod, Allen Levi Simmons, to the show.

During this episode, Allen walks us through his upbringing and is vulnerable, talking about a void he felt due to his relationship with his mother. He also opens up about a traumatic event he witnessed as a child. What difficult decision did he face at a young age that forced him to join the United States Marine Corps? Allen then takes us through the moments in Afghanistan leading up to and the aftermath of discovering an improvised explosive device, survived a rocket-propelled grenade blast, and his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder.

This week we have an incredible and inspiring story from someone who struggled throughout high school to hanging out with the President of the United States. This week the Shadows Podcast has the honor of welcoming retired 44-year United States Air Force General, former Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and author of Dark Horse, Larry Spencer, to the show.

During this episode, Larry talks to us about his upbringing in the Southeast District of Columbia. He tells us about his father’s legacy and an injury that occurred while serving. Why did he decide to join the Air Force in the early 70s? What were some of the struggles he dealt with when it came to discrimination early in his career? What did it mean to him to be a Commander? What was the one moment that stands out the most when he thinks of leadership? He also talks about his time interacting with the Presidents of the United States while serving in the White House Military Office. What was his time like as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force?

Today the Shadows Podcast celebrates what would have been the 71st birthday of Charlie Bodenheimer. He was the father of Tripp Bodenheimer, host of the Shadows Podcast. Charlie passed away on 9 June 1993 from a sudden heart attack, but his legacy still lives to this day, and his parenting and leadership are very instrumental in the success of this podcast.

During this episode, Cameron Chilcote takes over the hosting position and interviews Charlie’s son, Tripp. We talk about Charlie’s upbringing in Red Springs, North Carolina, and how the sudden loss of his mother due to a cerebral brain hemorrhage impacted him in his early childhood and throughout his life. We also cover his time at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, why he joined the Navy during the height of the Vietnam protest, being one of the first graduating classes from Campbell Law School, and his career as a defense attorney.

Also, we cover Charlie’s biggest successes in life: being a husband and father.

Jeff Johnston is an Author, Founder of The Living Undeterred Project, and President of Premier Investments of Iowa, Inc.

During this episode, Jeff opens up about being on top of the mountain in life. He had a healthy family and a great job, and then one phone call changed his life.

On October 4, 2016, he received a phone call notifying him that his son had passed away from a heroin overdose. Jeff talks about having to break the news to his sons and the powerful message he delivered. He then chronicles the demons he and his wife had to battle with alcohol. Jeff would eventually become sober, but his wife never recovered, and unfortunately, Jeff’s wife passed away in June of 2021.

Through all his adversity, Jeff refuses to live with a victim mindset and focuses more on having a victor mindset. Things don’t happen to him; they happen for him.

He also talks about the Choices Network, being an author, his podcast, and the Living Undeterred Tour.

Christina Mendez is a 3x Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor. She’s also a hydration and circulation specialist.

During this episode, Christina walks us through her heartbreaking story of discovering she was diagnosed with cancer and all the nightmare experiences she encountered with various doctors and hospitals. She didn’t quit fighting through all the obstacles she faced and leaves you feeling inspired. Christina also talks about giving back and assisting cancer patients.

Christina also talks to us about the health benefits of living a holistic lifestyle to include her journey as a hydration and circulation specialist.

Alan Payne is the man who built the longest-lasting Blockbuster franchise chain in the country, the author of an Amazon Best-Seller, Built to Fail: The Inside Story of Blockbuster's Inevitable Bust, and was recently featured on the Netflix film, The Last Blockbuster.

During this episode, Alan discusses his upbringing in Breckenridge, Texas until graduating from Texas Tech. What did he do to get an interview at H-E-B? How did he get into the video business?

Then Alan starts to take us through the downfall of Blockbuster Video.What happened when Blockbuster passed on a chance to buy Video Central, which was eventually sold to Hollywood Video? What did Video Central and Hollywood Video do differently to out-perform Blockbuster? What brought Alan to Blockbuster? He also takes us behind the scenes through the various leaders at Blockbuster and how their “If it’s not invented here, we’re not interested” mentality hindered their success.

As Alan mentions in his book, “Netflix didn’t kill Blockbuster, Blockbuster killed Blockbuster.” What happened when Blockbuster had a chance to purchase Netflix? Where is the Russell Crowe memorabilia, and how did it feel to close his final stores in Alaska?

Alan also talks about the Last Blockbuster film on Netflix, Buc ee’s, the Blockbuster World theme park, and much more in this Business 101 episode of the Shadows Podcast.

Grab a copy of Alan’s Amazon Best-Seller, Built to Fail: The Inside Story of Blockbuster’s

What does Bruce Lee, Muhammad Ali, Christopher Reeve, Chuck Norris, Tom Hanks, and Jimmy Hoffa all have in common? They’ve had interactions with our guest this week, Jack O’Halloran! Jack is known for his role in the original Superman films as the supervillain, “Non”. He’s also a former professional boxer, actor, and author, and grew up around organized crime. This episode was previously only available on YouTube, but now you can enjoy the very interesting story of Jack O’Halloran on the Shadows Podcast!

(3:19) What’s being discussed for the next Superman movie? Actor? Storyline?

(7:53) What was Jack’s role in the Rocky franchise?

(11:15) How did he go from aspirations of playing for the Philadelphia Eagles to becoming a professional boxer?

(14:38) Being diagnosed with acromegaly.

(19:52) Transitioning from boxing to acting and landing his first movie role in “Farewell My Lovely”.

(24:30) His interactions with Muhammad Ali and Jack walk us through his boxing career.

(33:16) Is he worried about possible chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) from a career in boxing?

(37:05) What it meant to be inducted into the California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania Boxing Hall of Fames.

(40:16) What role did he turn down that he regrets?

(43:30) He discusses being a part of King Kong.

(47:08) What was it like to work with Christopher Reeve? Issues with filming Superman and his opinions on the Richard Donner Cut.

(51:50) How was it filming a mute villain, Non?

(54:29) Memories from working with Dan Akroyd and Tom Hanks on the set of Dragnet.

(01:00:00) His relationship with Bruce Lee.

(01:02:40) His father was the head of Murder, Inc. He tells us about interactions with Jimmy Hoffa, the Teamsters, and the Kennedy’s. He also discusses his book, “Family Legacy”.

This week Jason Earle joins the Shadows Podcast! Brian is the Founder and CEO of Got Mold and MycoLab USA. You won't believe the unbelievable story he shares with our listeners this week on the Shadows Podcast.

(10:34) Growing up in what he recalls as a dysfunctional 1970's/80's house as a latchkey kid in central New Jersey.

(18:53) Going through his parent's divorce at 12 years old.

(23:15) He is transparent and vulnerable while recounting an argument with his mom, which led to her taking her life moments after. After this, what saved his life, and how did he overcome his inner demons?

(24:32) Diagnosed with Lyme disease.

(33:05) How did Jason go from dropping out of high school and getting a job at a gas station to getting hired to work on Wall Street, becoming the youngest broker ever?

(38:00) His experience at Hanover Sterling & Co. and how success came with increased drug and alcohol consumption.

(44:13) While sitting in Hawaii, his life changed while reading an article on a $55 million settlement from a moldy hotel.

(51:09) His mold sniffing dog, Oreo.

Jay Ly is a trainer, speaker, coach, military veteran, Founder and President of Golden Compass, and host of the Live Free Series Podcast.

During this episode, Jay talks about some of his struggles growing up. Why did he decide to join the United States Navy in 2008? How did he go from SEALs training to a career in Explosive Ordinance Disposal? What life event led to him separating from the military after thirteen years?

Jay also opens up about a life-changing moment that nearly cost him and many others their lives in Afghanistan. How did this moment push him in the direction of becoming a personal finance coach? Jay also talks to us about Golden Compass and his Live Free Series podcast.

“The Money Healer” and Founder of NFA-Money, Dr. Amanda Barrientez joins us this week on the Shadows Podcast!

During this episode, Dr. Barrientez opens up about something most people consider taboo, her financial struggles and successes. She discusses lying on a floor crying after suffering from a relationship and financial hardships and what she did to turn things around. Her success story walks us from being on food stamps to building a six-figure business, NFA-Money.

Some other topics Dr. Barrientez tackles include becoming a business consultant, our money blocks, how to make money make money for you, and her presence in the social media world.

Do you want to feel confident about making money in your business? Do you want to check out her newly launched Mindset Course, or are you curious about all things NFA-Money related?

Adam Bird joins us this week on the Shadows Podcast! Adam is the founder and CEO of Heroes Media Group.

During this episode, Adam opens up about the crucial moment in his life when one person took an interest in him and how that changed his trajectory in life. He also talks about his time in the Army National Guard.

Adam spends time being very candid about being a single father and some of the lightbulb moments he learned along the way. He talks to us about some of his struggles as a parent and what he did to overcome his internal demons?

The Shadows Podcast wraps up season 2 of our March Madness-inspired Rebound series with Anne O’Neil! Anne was an academic and athletic All-American at Iowa State; she played in the WNBA, is currently a Senior Cyber Transformation Leader at Palo Alto Networks, and is the host of a new podcast titled, Get Busy Livin’.

In this episode, Anne walks us through her upbringing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and how trying new things as a curious kid led her to discover her love for basketball. Anne would eventually become a top 5 finalist for the Naismith High School Player of the Year and the 2000 Miss Iowa Basketball. What made her commit to the University of Illinois? As an All-Big Ten Freshman, why did she transfer to Iowa State? Anne also talks about the mental block she faced during her college career and what she did to overcome it. What was it like to wear a Team USA uniform during the World University Games?

Anne also talks about her career as a Senior Cyber Transformation Leader at Palo Alto Networks, her charity work, including the Special Olympics, and her podcast, Get Busy Livin’,

We continue the Rebound series with the legendary Head Coach from Louisiana State University, "The Master Motivator," Dale Brown! Over his 25-year career, Coach Brown led LSU to two Final Four appearances (1981 & 1986), was named the Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year on four occasions, and coached Shaquille O'Neal and Chris Jackson.

Coach Brown takes us through his remarkable journey from watching basketball in the stands as a high school coach to standing on the court at the Final Four. How did writing letters to colleges and universities as a high school coach lead to him getting hired as an assistant coach at Utah State? What was his relationship with Press and Pete Maravich after becoming the head coach at LSU?

Coach Brown also talks about a turning point in his life when someone took a vested interest in him. What are his thoughts on the National Collegiate Athletic Association? How did he feel about getting the court at Pete Maravich Assembly Center? What did he say to his players to get nicknamed "The Master Motivator"? What role did the legendary coach John Wooden play in his life?

He then tells us a touching story that shows the character of the athletes he recruited and developed that involved Shaq and a sick fan at the 2000 NBA Finals.

We continue the Rebound series with the legendary Hall of Fame Head Coach from the University of Oklahoma Women's Basketball program, Sherri Coale! Over her 25-year career, Coach Coale led Oklahoma to three Final Four appearances and coached Team USA in the Junior World Championship and World University Games.

During this episode Coach Coale talks about her upbringing in Oklahoma. How did she go from coaching high school basketball directly to Division I and heading up the Oklahoma women's basketball program? What were some of the early struggles she went through during the transition? What were some of the fantastic things her student-athletes did off the court to assist the community? How was awareness a vital part of the 2000 Sweet Sixteen run?

What was her experience like coaching the USA team in the Junior World Championships? How was her experience coaching alongside legendary Connecticut Head Coach, Gino Auriemma? Coach Coale then talks about "as fate would have it" she ended up coaching against Coach Auriemma and his women's Huskies in the 2002 National Championship game. What did she learn the most from her 2009 and 2010 Final Four teams? How was her experience winning a gold medal in Russia during the 2013 World University Games?

Finally, listen to Coach Coale walk us through her and her team's experience when the news broke that the 2020 season was shutting down during the pandemic. What was it like during the COVID season in 2021? How did a walk through her house lead to her retiring from coaching?

Jim Nantz said, "It's the all-time turnaround title!". The University of Virginia basketball program went from the wrong side of history to cutting down the nets a year later.

We continue with our March Madness-inspired Rebound series of the Shadows Podcast with Kyle Guy! Kyle was the 2016 Mr. Basketball in Indiana, McDonald's All-American, 2-time First-Team All-ACC, 2-time Third Team-All American, 2018 ACC Tournament MVP, 2019 Final Four MOP, National Champion at the University of Virginia, and currently a member of the first-place Miami Heat.

This episode takes us through the recruitment process and how even though he dreamed of playing basketball for the Indiana Hoosiers, he ultimately ended up at Virginia. How did it feel the first time he suited up for the Cavaliers? Why did he consider transferring after his freshman year?

The Virginia basketball team was #1 in the country and coming off an ACC Tournament title. They went into the 2018 NCAA Tournament as solid favorites to cut down the nets at the end of the season. Then history was made on March 16, 2018, in Charlotte, North Carolina, when the unthinkable happened. The #16 seeded UMBC Retrievers shocked the sports world and defeated Kyle and the #1 seed Virginia Cavaliers for the first time ever. What was their mindset before the game? When did he get an uneasy sense that that wasn't their night? What was the leadership lesson Coach Tony Bennett taught him that night? Listen to Kyle explain how the team had to be escorted into the hotel due to death threats.

“If you learn to use it right, the adversity, it will buy you a ticket to a place you could not have gone any other way.” Tony Bennett

Virginia used that loss as motivation and made a dramatic run through the 2019 NCAA Tournament en route to a national title. Listen to Kyle walk us through being faced with a familiar deficit a year later against a #16 Gardner Webb. He also talks about the pressure of hitting clutch shots and free throws in three of the greatest college basketball games ever played: The Regional Finals against Purdue, the National Semifinals against Auburn, and the National Championship against Texas Tech.

We kick off our second year of the Rebound series with Jackie Stiles! Jackie is one of the most celebrated basketball players in college basketball history. She became the all-time leading scorer for women’s college basketball while leading Southwest Missouri State to the 2001 Final Four. She was an All-American in college, drafted 4th overall in the 2001 WNBA Draft, and would become the WNBA Rookie of the Year.

In this episode, Jackie discusses her upbringing in the small town of Claflin, Kansas. How did an injury in high school, which could have derailed her goals but helped adjust her mindset? This new focus and drive led to her being recruited by some of the most significant programs in college basketball, including national powerhouse Connecticut. Why did she choose Southwest Missouri State over Connecticut? She talks about her college career, including the numerous scoring records she set and how it felt to cut down the nets after leading the Lady Bears to the Final Four. She also walks us through her experience of being inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

With all of the success, Jackie has had to overcome some obstacles. Injuries led to her career being cut short. She also opens up about her struggles with ocular melanoma.

Jackie talks about the importance of fitness and her ability to serve others with NexGen Fitness. What did she learn about herself during the pandemic?

Sean Lake is the co-founder of Bubs Naturals. During this episode of the Shadows Podcast, Sean shares the events and aftermath of September 11, 2012, when his best friend Glen Doherty, a Navy SEAL was killed in Benghazi. Sean talks about how he continues to celebrate Glen’s legacy with the Glen Doherty Memorial Foundation and how he dedicated his product, Bubs Naturals, to his fallen friend.

Sean also shares his incredible journey from Massachusetts to the west coast, his time as a professional snowboarder, his time as the team manager for U.S. Olympian Shaun White, his work with ESPN and the X-Games, Tony Hawk,

Also, listen to the story about Sean Lake and his wife confronting Michael Bay after the release of the movie 13 Hours.

Bodhi and his special co-host, Nina Choy-Rohmiller had the privilege to interview Vice Admiral Sandra Stosz, United States Coast Guard (Retired), on this week’s episode of the Shadows Podcast. She was a member of only the third class of cadets at the Coast Guard Academy to admit women. She was the first woman to command an icebreaker on the Great Lakes and to lead a U.S. Armed Forces Service Academy. She spent 12 years at sea, commanding two cutters. She was the first woman assigned as Deputy Commandant for mission support. Newsweek named her to their list of "150 Women Who Shake The World".

During this leadership episode, Sandra takes us through her upbringing and how she established a strong work ethic at a young age. What historical moment sparked her interest in joining the military? She explains some of the challenges she faced and overcame throughout her 40-year career.

Nathan Coy is a Senior Noncommissioned Officer in the United States Air Force and the current Commandant at the Joint Base Charleston Airman Leadership School.

During this episode, Nathan discusses his military career to include his time as a Military Training Instructor. He talks about his “mental kill switch” to separate personal and professional life. Then Nathan walks us through the emotional journey of adopting his son during the early stages of the pandemic. This episode takes an emotional turn when Nathan talks about a breakthrough conversation with his son during a lengthy car ride.

Finally, Nathan gives us a sneak peek of his upcoming podcast, the Wartime Leadership Podcast, to include the concept, potential guest, etc. Follow Nathan’s Wartime Leadership Podcast on Instagram @wartime_leadership

Brandi Benson is a military veteran, cancer survivor, entrepreneur, and author of, The Enemy Inside Me: A Young Soldier’s Unexpected Battle With Cancer.

In this episode of the Shadows Podcast, Brandi discusses her upbringing, why she chose to join the Army, early struggles in the military, and her deployment to Iraq in 2009.

Then she walks us through her battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma. Listen to Brandi break down her mindset during those trying times and how her positive outlook, strong support system, and speaking things into existence helped her overcome this insurmountable obstacle. Brandi also talks about escaping from the hospital to buy a new car and why it was important.

Finally, she talks about being presented with the Sarcoma Foundation of America Courage Award, her company Resume Advantage, and why she decided to write a book.

This week we welcome Cristian Plascencia, the co-founder of The Durable Athlete, to the Shadows Podcast!

Cristian discusses how an early injury playing basketball landed him in a physical therapy clinic. This event eventually led to an internship before graduating high school. He continued to intern throughout college and was introduced to a holistic approach to health and fitness. He was taught the importance of nutrition, sleep, and our mental practices, which would later become part of the Durable Athlete pillars. He also discusses receiving a grant to research the effects of whole-body vibration techniques. Cristian also discusses his time at the University of Texas, Austin, and how he landed a personal coaching position at the Onnit Gym. Finally, Cristian discusses all the incredible things he’s doing with the Durable Athlete.

If you’re looking to maximize the time you spend working out and want to optimize your recovery and performance, head over to https://durableathlete.com/

Scott DeLuzio is an Army infantry veteran who served with his younger brother, Steven, in Afghanistan in 2010. That same year, Steven was killed in action just miles away.

Scott talks about growing up in a patriotic household and reflects on how the events from Operation Desert Strom and 9/11 inspired him and his brother to serve their country. Scott remembers his brother’s legacy and what led him to write his book, Surviving Son. Scott also opens up about his struggles with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and the importance of mental health.

Oleg Lougheed and Scott Mason are the co-creators and hosts of the weekly Facebook Live and LinkedIn Live, Just a Squirrel Looking For a Nut, every Thursday evening. This week they return together on the Shadows Podcast!

During this episode, they discuss how they connected initially, how they came up with the concept for their show, the importance of the audience interaction, and how they determine which topics they discuss each week.

Tune into Just a Squirrel Looking For a Nut every Thursday on Facebook Live and LinkedIn Live!

The creator of Comedy Central, former President of Court TV, and author of Constant Comedy: How I Started Comedy Central and Lost My Sense of Humor, Art Bell joins us this week on the Shadows Podcast!

While working at HBO, Art Bell had an idea for a 24/7 all-comedy channel. He pitched the idea to the head of programming and was told, “It’s the worst idea I’ve ever heard.” He didn’t let the rejection crush his dream. That idea eventually became known as Comedy Central.

Art talks about his upbringing, why humor is essential in every aspect of life, his jobs at CBS, HBO, creating the Comedy Channel, the merger with Ha! to create Comedy Central, his time as President of Court TV, and his book, Constant Comedy.

We've been downloaded in over 50 countries and have recorded over 3,291 minutes of Shadows Podcast content as we recap this incredible year with our 2021 Year in Review episode!

During this episode, we go behind the scenes. What were some of the original plans for 2021? Why did the show transition to one host? How did the Ignite Podcast get started? What was the thought process behind the creation of Rise From The Shadows? When did the Lima Charlie Network talks begin? We answer all of these questions, plus some questions from Lima Charlie teammates, the host of the EQ Gangster Podcast, Noble Gibbens, and the host of the HeroFront Podcast, Josh White.

We also have a special announcement and a special guest joining us at the show's end.

From steaming collard greens and shucking peas to writing and recording a smash hit, “Whoomp! There It Is”, the Chronicles of DC Glenn is now available!

DC is a film actor, voice-over artist, and one-half of the iconic 90’s hip hop duo, Tag Team.

In this episode of the Shadows Podcast, he talks about how he established his hustler mentality at a young age. He also talks about he’s constantly trying to learn new things. He says, “There are no mistakes and no missed opportunities if you learn from it.”. DC also talks about meeting the other half of Tag Team, Steve Gibson, writing “Whoomp! There It Is”, how they got discovered, signing a bad record deal, being stuck in a twenty-year legal battle, and the viral Geico commercial, “Scoop! There It Is”.