Straight Talk - Mind and Muscle Podcast

Wendy Fortino is an eight-time Olympia figure competitor, former elite track athlete, media host, and fitness professional whose career bridges high-performance athletics, bodybuilding, science, and storytelling. With degrees in exercise science and a master’s in exercise physiology, her background combines academic rigor with real-world experience at the highest levels of physique competition and performance media.Long before stepping onto bodybuilding stages, Wendy’s identity was built through athletics. A gifted middle-distance runner with a gymnastics background, she dedicated her life to track and field and was training for the 2008 Olympic Trials in the 800 metres when a stress fracture abruptly halted her pursuit. What initially felt like devastation became a turning point. Introduced to bodybuilding through friends, she entered her first figure competition almost by accident — and won the overall title. What followed was a complete reinvention: national titles, an IFBB pro card, and eight Olympia appearances. Yet what truly drove her was not early success, but adversity. The first major loss in bodybuilding became the catalyst that hooked her deeper into the process. Her philosophy is clear: champions are forged through setbacks, challenge, and the willingness to step into difficult environments where growth is possible.Throughout the conversation, Wendy speaks openly about identity, resilience, and the psychology behind performance. She reflects on the pressures women face in physique sports, particularly the tendency to tie self-worth to appearance or stage results. Coming from an athletic background gave her a different perspective — one rooted in feedback, improvement, and resilience rather than validation. She emphasises that bodybuilding, at its best, is not simply about aesthetics, but about developing discipline, confidence, and self-respect. Health and longevity must remain the foundation. Wendy also discusses the evolution of bodybuilding itself, the balance between science and practical experience, and why true growth often comes from curiosity, creativity, and stepping outside rigid systems. Today, through her media work with Olympia TV, Muscle & Fitness, and numerous fitness brands, she focuses on telling deeper stories — revealing the person behind the public image and helping others understand what truly drives high performers.🔗 Connect with WendyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendyfortino/Website: http://www.polishedpresentation.com/http://www.cyberbodyshop.com/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com  and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreatLinks for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on:  spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2   Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Laurin is a transformation coach focused on relationships, mindset, and personal development, with a direct focus on male–female dynamics. Her approach is simple: “Raw truth. Real growth. No apologies.”In her words: “Truth over comfort. Structure over chaos. Coaching for people ready to lead themselves and stop repeating the same patterns.“Her starting point wasn’t unusual—stable job, predictable routine, and a life that looked fine from the outside. Underneath it, things weren’t working. That drift led her to nearly 125kg (275 lbs), before a moment where she made a clear decision: continue as is, or take control. What followed wasn’t a quick fix, but a shift in identity, standards, and behaviour.Laurin shares her transformation from 275 pounds to bikini competitor, This amazing physical change came from consistent execution—early mornings, structured training, disciplined nutrition. But that wasn’t the hard part. Relationships that once felt normal started to break down. The hard part was addressing the behaviours behind it. Binge eating, people-pleasing, avoidance—none of that gets fixed in a gym. It gets fixed by recognising it, owning it, and changing it.Her patterns weren’t solved with workouts—they were addressed through awareness, coaching, ownership over emotion.Growth is selective. Not everyone comes with you.We talk about how her coach became her husband, and the “controversial” marriage rules that keep their relationship structured, passionate, and functional—covering respect, submission, boundaries, and avoiding sexless marriages. She also breaks down why the majority of her audience is male, the reality behind resistance to accountability, and what men can actually do to stay attractive, lead with confidence, and maintain polarity in male/female relationships.Laurin is direct about what most people avoid: without standards, you tolerate things you shouldn’t. Over time, that creates resentment, confusion, and instability—whether that’s dating or marriage (long-term relationships). Most of the time, it’s not a compatibility issue. It’s a self-leadership issue.Her work on masculine and feminine dynamics is grounded in what actually plays out, not theory. Attraction and stability rely on polarity. When there’s no direction, no accountability, no emotional control—things fall apart. Respect drops first. Attraction follows. What’s left is tension, inconsistency, and eventually, disconnection.This isn’t about control or dominance. It’s about clarity. Knowing your standards, holding them, and acting in line with them—consistently.Laurin’s message is simple:You don’t rise to your intentions—you fall back to your behaviours. Standards you don’t enforce do not exist. And how you lead yourself determines everything that follows.At its core Lauren's message is grounded in reality: transformation hinges not on motivation, but on daily decisions, a supportive environment, high standards, and a powerful mindset.Transformation is not about motivation. It’s about your decisions, repeated daily.Don't miss Laurin's insights on the dangers of silence in marriage, roles in relationships and why your mindset matters more than anything.🔗 Connect with LaurinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishwithlaurin/ Website: https://linktr.ee/FlourishWithLaurinI am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com  and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreatLinks for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on:  spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

I want to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. J’aime Goguen-Locke for taking the time to share her knowledge and experience on this episode. Her ability to bridge the gap between clinical rehabilitation and real-world strength training is exceptional, and the work she is doing to help athletes recover, rebuild, and return stronger is having a meaningful impact across the strength community.J’aime is a rehabilitation clinician specialising in strength athletes, particularly powerlifters. Originally trained in Canada, she earned her doctorate before opening a private practice focused on musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Alongside her husband, she built a strength sports coaching company that now works with athletes around the world, and she co-owns a powerlifting coaching company called Kodiak Barbell.Working in a traditionally male-dominated space, J’aime has built a reputation through competence, clarity, and results. Coaching strength athletes requires more than simply writing programmes — it requires listening, understanding the athlete in front of you, and building a relationship that allows honest feedback and continuous improvement. Often the ability to communicate, analyse, and adapt proves more valuable than brute strength or athletic reputation alone.Her work also challenges a common belief within strength sports: that heavy weight itself is the primary cause of injury.One of the most powerful examples she shares is her own experience of herniating a disc while bending down to pick up a J-hook weighing less than a pound.The lesson is clear. Strong people often get injured doing simple things.The problem is rarely a single lift or one moment under a heavy bar. More often, injury is the result of cumulative stress, fatigue, poor recovery, and small technical faults that build over time — until the final straw breaks the system.J’aime’s work focuses on identifying and correcting those underlying causes. Many clinicians are not trained to rehabilitate barbell athletes, and movements like squat, bench press, and deadlift are rarely taught in medical education. As a result, athletes are often told to simply reduce load or stop training, only to return later with the exact same problem.Central to her approach is teaching athletes how to move and brace properly. Bracing — creating controlled pressure and stability through the core — protects the spine and allows force to move safely through the body. When bracing fails, stress accumulates in the wrong places and eventually becomes pain or injury.Her message extends beyond powerlifting. Learning how to brace and move efficiently is not just a gym skill — it is a life skill. Whether lifting heavy, carrying children, or performing everyday tasks, movement quality protects the body and builds long-term durability.But rehabilitation is not purely mechanical. Sleep, stress, emotional load, and recovery capacity all influence how the body responds to training. The body does not separate life stress from training stress — it simply accumulates it.Having helped over a thousand athletes return to training, she continues to bridge the gap between medicine, strength coaching, and performance.At its core, her message is simple:Fix the cause. Respect recovery. Learn to brace. Move well — not just in training, but for life.🔗 Connect with J’aimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaimegoguenlockehttps://www.kodiakbarbell.comOnline resources, rehabilitation guides, and consultations available through her Instagram bio link.I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

I want to extend a sincere thank you to Lieutenant Commander Kegan “SMURF” Gill, U.S. Navy (Ret.), former F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot, for making this connection possible with Justin SheehanKegan’s commitment to helping high-performance professionals is phenomenal, and he continues to bring important voices and real-world experience to a wider audience. Kegan — I appreciate the trust and the bridge you built here.Justin Sheehan is a former SEAL Team Six operator, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, and coach whose experience spans elite special operations, traumatic brain injury recovery, and high-performance training. His career placed him in environments where discipline, adaptability, and resilience were not concepts — they were survival requirements. Today, he applies those lessons to coaching athletes, civilians, and professionals seeking durability in both body and mind.Justin’s perspective is shaped by hard realities. He speaks openly about the hidden toll of traumatic brain injuries — not only from combat, but from repeated concussive exposure through training, firearms use, and contact sports. The cumulative damage is often misdiagnosed, manifesting as depression, hormonal disruption, sleep issues, and cognitive decline. His message is direct: the small hits add up, and awareness, assessment, and recovery must be taken seriously.Discipline, in Justin’s view, is not rigidity — it is maintenance. In military life, accountability is built in; in civilian life, it must be intentional. Sleep, nutrition, hydration, and consistent movement form the foundation of recovery and longevity. Alcohol, poor sleep, and inactivity erode performance faster than age ever will. Movement is medicine. Intensity — scaled to reality — preserves capability.He draws clear parallels between special operations and athletics: both involve trauma, recovery, stress adaptation, and mental resilience. Training must reflect reality. Live sparring, pressure testing, and scenario-based training build the mindset and competence required when stakes are real. Sport fighting has rules; self-defense does not. The goal is survival and creating the opportunity to escape.As a coach, Justin emphasizes humility, specialization, and continuous learning. Elite teams rely on experts; effective coaching requires knowing your limits and building networks of competence. He also stresses the importance of empowering others — especially women — with practical self-defense skills and the confidence to act under pressure.At its core, Justin Sheehan’s message is about resilience built through discipline, awareness, and purposeful training. Protect the brain. Maintain the body. Train for reality. Stay adaptable. Capability is not preserved by accident — it is maintained through consistent, deliberate effort.🔗 Connect with Justin onInstagram:https: https://www.instagram.com/justin.sheehan.779/For BJJ- Detachment North BJJ- Traverse City, Michigan. Email: Sheehan1876@gmail.com I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Rob Ingram, Inside McDojo Life: Real Self-Defense vs. Rule-Based FantasyFounder of McDojo Life3rd Degree Karate Black BeltCo-founder of academysafe.orgThis week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Rob Ingram, known globally as McDojo Life. He has spent nearly three decades inside the martial arts world as a practitioner, instructor, and insider. With 28 years of experience across multiple disciplines, and a 3rd Degree Karate Black Belt, he has become one of the most visible voices exposing corruption, abuse, and fraud.We spoke about an amazing range of topics, from Sarah Haspel’s brilliant invention - “The BESTIE” co-designed by a Rocket Scientist, safety from sexual predators for kids and females in martial arts, founding a USA wide database of convicted and fake “senseis”, Tim Kennedy the green beret turned UFC fighter to Pressure Testing martial arts for real world self defence!Rob’s work shines a light on a hard truth: martial arts in the United States operates largely without regulation, allowing unqualified and dangerous individuals to assume positions of authority—often over children.Beneath the glossy surface of martial arts the industry—especially in the United States—faces serious challenges: lack of regulation, abuse of authority, and even criminal behavior. His response was not just criticism and calling them out, he took action. As co-founder of Academy Safe, Rob is on a mission to solve this- in his words:“At Academy Safe, we are driven by a deep commitment to protecting martial artists from abuse, assault, and the inherent risks that exist in the absence of federal or state regulations. Founded to address the unsettling prevalence of sexual assault, abuse, and rape in martial arts, our mission is to create safe, supportive, and secure environments for students across the United States.As a non-profit organization, our primary focus is the development of a national registry of martial arts academies. This registry will establish a new benchmark for safety, holding academies to strict standards designed to protect both students and staff.”Equally important to Rob is the preservation of martial arts as something real and functional. He stresses that training must extend beyond tradition and competition rules into pressure-tested, real-world applicability. His message is consistent: if a system or weapon fails under stress, it fails—regardless of how good it looks in theory.This is a necessary conversation about integrity, accountability, and what martial arts should stand for and I loved how authentic, real and passionate this conversation got!🔗 Connect with Rob onYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/mcdojolife.Websites: https://mcdojolife.com/https://academysafe.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMcDojoThe BESTIE by Sarah Haspel- https://bestie-defense.com/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance. 100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreatLinks for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Rachel Godfrey- Blonde. Wild. Spiritual. Disruptive. Delusionally Optimistic. Rachel is a former physiotherapist, professional trainer, and high-performance mentor with over 19 years of experience operating at the intersection of health, strength, and leadership. She has built multiple performance consulting and digital businesses, advised senior executives and entrepreneurs, and had her work published globally in outlets including Oxygen Magazine, Shape, Cosmopolitan, Men’s Fitness, Entrepreneur.com, the Sydney Morning Herald, and The National UAE. Known as the “A-Players Mentor” and co-director of Chase Life Consulting, Rachel has earned a reputation for working with people who operate at the top — and who refuse to be managed with soft answers.At the core of Rachel’s work is a simple but confronting question: do you want kindness, or do you want nice? Raised as a tomboy in Wales, forged through rugby, and shaped early in her career by treating severely injured soldiers in a military ICU, Rachel learned that real performance is built through emotional resilience, personal responsibility, and doing the minimum effective work required — not endless grind. Her coaching blends scientific precision with deep identity and mindset work, challenging high-achieving women (especially over 35) to rebalance strength, femininity, and self-worth without abandoning ambition.Today, Rachel mentors executives and entrepreneurs to align body, business, and identity through strength training, intelligent supplementation, and direct, no-nonsense coaching. Her work focuses on sustainable performance, fast belief-building wins, and teaching clients how to lead with both power and awareness. This episode is an unfiltered conversation about trauma, discipline, mindset, and what it actually takes to perform at a high level — without losing yourself in the process.P.S. Don’t forget to follow Rachel on Instagram @rachelgodfrey and check out Chase Life Consulting and The House of Onyx for more resources and coaching. Links are in the show notes!🔗 Connect with Rachel onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/therachelgodfrey/Websites: https://www.thehouseofonyx.com/https://chaselifeconsulting.com/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Firstly I would like to thank my friend and podcast sponsors Samantha and Shaun Sargent of STAIT FOR MEN for making this amazing episode happen.This week, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Mark Direen,, a former soldier and special forces operator with the Australian SAS.- turned Author, Adventurer and Public speaker.Mark’s journey from military service to adventuring, public speaking, and writing is nothing short of inspiring. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation that I think you’ll find both intriguing and motivating:We discuss the evolution of purpose, identity, and connection. He reflects on the challenges of transition, the value of adventure and resilience, and the importance of controlling what you can in life. Mark offers practical advice on embracing new experiences, maintaining authenticity, and applying lessons from high-stress environments to everyday challenges, inspiring listeners to live more fully and intentionally.He shares his journey of evolving purpose from military service to inspiring others through adventure and storytelling. We covered- The Importance of Adventure, life experiences and challenges. Whether it’s climbing mountains or starting a new business, these adventures teach us resilience and positivity.Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life: Mark opens up about the challenges of leaving the military and how he maintained his sense of purpose and identity. Control the Controllables: A recurring theme in our discussion was the importance of controlling what you can in life. From military operations to everyday challenges, maintaining control over the small things can lead to greater success and safety.Learning from Adversity: Mark shares how he turns difficult experiences into positive learning moments. His approach to debriefing himself and extracting lessons from tough times is something we can all apply to our own lives.Getting Blown Up: Yes, you read that right. Mark recounts the harrowing experience of driving over an IED and how his training kicked in to keep him functioning in a life-threatening situation.Travel Safety Tips: For those of you who love to travel, Mark offers practical advice on staying safe abroad, from getting travel insurance to learning self-defense and maintaining situational awareness.Mark’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adventure, and living authentically and I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did🔗 Connect with Mark onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark.direen/Websites: www.markdireen.com www.pointassist.com.au    I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Firstly I would like to thank my friend and expert Alan Brosnan for making this amazing episode happen.This week, I had the honor of speaking with René Ashford- a VICTOR of years of abuse, René’s mission and mandate is clear - to save lives! Repeated sexual assaults, multiple violent relationships and addictions to drugs and alcohol led René down a dark and lonely path which included multiple suicide attempts, the earliest when she was only 9 years old.René is now the Australian Ambassador for the National Association of Adult Child Abuse Survivors (NAASCA) and a most amazing human who has gone on to become an inspiring Australian author and Public Speaker who has turned her harrowing experiences of child abuse into a powerful mission to educate and protect others.René’s story is a powerful reminder that we can all play a part in protecting children and breaking the cycle of abuse. Her book, Battlescars are Beautiful: From Victim To Victory, is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and combat child abuse.She offers practical advice on child safety, including teaching body boundaries, using correct anatomical terms, and empowering children to say no.René addresses breaking the silence around abuse, the importance of support networks, and her ongoing work helping others heal.The episode is a moving call to action for education, transparency, and protecting vulnerable children.We talked about the topics ofThe Power of Transparency: Early Education on Body Safety: Recognising Abuse: Empowering Children: Breaking the Cycle: Practical Actions for Parents and Caregivers: Teaching Body Safety Early: Using Correct Terminology: Respect Consent: Vigilant Parenting.We mentioned famous personalities in the s space such as former 22 SAS ( Special Air Service ) soldier Big Phil Campion,, Former West Australia Police Officer Kristi McPhee, and former guests on the show world record holder Brooke McIntosh, and Delta Force Commander and Author of “The Common Sense Way” Pete Blaber.I hope you find this episode as enlightening and inspiring as I did. Let’s continue to have these important conversations and work together to create a safer world for our children.In her words.. “Survivors are not defined by their experiences, nor are they limited by them. Anyone can rise beyond adversity with the right mindset, and it begins with a decision to do whatever it takes, for as long as it takes.”Her journey can be discovered and understood in her incredibly powerful and inspiring book which has received rave reviews and is endorsed by mental health professionals, counsellors, war veterans, and law enforcement. René’s story is gripping, raw and profound – and yet another reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome life’s greatest challenges.🔗 Connect with René onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rene_ashford01/Email her direct: renemichele1975@gmail.comHer book on Amazon : https://amzn.asia/d/i6xOinKI am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com- the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance. 100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule. And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreatLinks for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode  - I  interview Scott Bryson- who spent three decades in law enforcement, from the streets of Charlotte to the White House, in the Secret Service.He has protected President George Bush on his security detail, been a Member of the CAT ( Counter Assault Team) and worked all aspects of the Secret Service and international assignments.His core philosophy: service over ego. The “switched-on” mindset—calm under stress, decisive in chaos—matters more than size, rank, or background. Protection is about preparation, vigilance, and routine discipline, not Hollywood heroics.Today, Scott applies the same lessons in schools, executive protection, and public education. He emphasizes authenticity, integrity, and the power of words to lead and protect. His advice is simple but actionable: build situational awareness, carry tools that work, train realistically, plan for transitions, and never forget that survival—not engagement—is the goal.Through his podcast Beyond the Service and direct outreach, Scott continues to share hard-earned wisdom, offering a roadmap for resilience, safety, and purposeful living.This episode with Retired Secret Service Agent Scott Bryson is a must-listen for anyone who values real-world safety, resilience, and actionable wisdom. From high-stakes protective work to everyday life lessons, Scott delivers insights you won’t find anywhere else—practical, honest, and inspiring. Whether you’re in law enforcement, a concerned parent, or just someone who wants to be better prepared, this conversation will leave you smarter, safer, and motivated. Tune in—you won’t want to miss a single moment.🔗 Connect with Scott onInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottbrysonbts/?hl=enWeb: https://scottbrysonbts.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@scottbrysonbtsI am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Will overcame severe physical injuries and mental health struggles after his service. Will shares his journey from being told he'd be wheelchair-bound by 35 to running across Australia to raise awareness for veteran mental health. Will is a veteran, ultra-endurance athlete, father of five, and founder of The Vital Way® — a framework built to recalibrate the nervous system, reclaim health, and awaken true leadership. He’s run 81 consecutive ultramarathons across Australia setting multiple world records, mentors executives and entrepreneurs on becoming conscious creators, and he is building Forged® — the world’s first clinical reintegration program for Veterans transitioning from military life to the civilian world. We Speak About What Will Chooses to Perform Best as a Father, Husband, Business Owner, Athlete and Guinness World Record Holder- Spoiler Alert- it’s Stait! Read THAT story here- https://staitformen.com/blogs/stait-team/what-will-burnett-chooses-to-shows-up-best-as-a-father-husband-business-owner-athlete-and-guiness-world-record-holderA raw, open and refreshing conversation of both masculine and esoteric- we discussed his unique healing approach, combining breathwork, movement, and alternative therapies, and how he now helps others overcome trauma and get the life they want and deserve. The conversation covered resilience, the importance of community, and practical strategies for physical and emotional healing.🔗 Connect with Will onEmail: info@thevitalway.coInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevitalway_ App: https://the-vital-way.lovable.app/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

In this episode I sit down with Simon Carkeek from PracMed, a New Zealand-based company focused on practical first aid training. Simon shares how PracMed’s hands-on, evidence-based approach has saved 127 lives by emphasizing essential skills like bleeding control and airway management. The discussion covers the importance of confidence, real-world scenarios, and mental health support for responders. Simon also talks about his military background, the company’s high training standards, and their mission to empower people to act decisively in emergencies, both in New Zealand and globally.In Simon’s words- “"It all began with a vision of a better way.After spending nearly 7 years working in hostile environments around the globe, I returned home and started working in industry training.  Simon saw firsthand how poor the quality training was in NZ, and how many organisations treat courses as ‘tick-the-box’ exercises only for compliance. He knew that in order to save more New Zealanders from preventable death, Kiwis needed to be given the knowledge and opportunity for engaging, relevant training.  His goal is to ensure there are more competent and confident responders, and less qualified witnesses.In 2018, PracMed NZ was born."🔗 Connect with Simon onWebsite: https://pracmednz.com/L:inkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/pracmednz/?originalSubdomain=nzYouTube :https://www.youtube.com/@pracmednzI am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

ASHLEIGH GASS- A CANADIAN IN FLORIDA-MERGING GYMNASTICS STRENGTH TRAINING (Calisthenics)  WITH TRADITIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING NUTRITION/MOBILITY/STRETCHING/MOVEMENT/STRENGTH/ www.movegst.com Firstly let me apologise for the very inconsiderate Australian wildlife you will hear in the show- bloody crows and kookaburras!! But I digress- on with the show! Ashleigh Gass- owner of movegst.com, based in Florida, successfully grew her business during the dark ages of 2020-2022 and I was intrigued to find out exactly how she did it. The answer lay in three words- EVOLVE, GROW & DISOBEY. The lockdown saw the team launch online in 2020, at a time much like Body Synergy gym in NZ Dunedin did, and stayed ahead of the curve. We spoke about former Olympic Coach Christopher Sommer’s programming and how it saved her body post neural surgery and  by simply following the process from baby beginner steps to where she is now- it works.Ash has adapted the exercise programming  at movegst.com to combine GYMNASTICS WITH TRADITIONAL STRENGTH TRAINING like kettlebells, dumbbells etc. And they achieve phenomenally surprising fat loss with teaching NUTRITION/MOBILITY/STRETCHING/MOVEMENT/STRENGTH. We talked about the similarities of our processes with clients using empowering nutrition, trusting the programming and not being too tied to the process of weight loss, to achieve great success for the people who are ready to learn. Experts like Professor Andrew Huberman, Dr Peter Attia, Robb Wolff came up in our  discussion, and it was great to share the synergies in what we learn, teach and use in our daily lives. Ashleigh Gass is an underrated understated wealth of knowledge, and I am sure you will love watching her videos on Insta🔗 Connect with Ashleigh onHer Linktree - https://linktr.ee/ashleighrgassFacebook at https://www.facebook.com/ashleigh.gass/aboutInsta- @ashleighrgass https://www.instagram.com/ashleighrgass/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/

Ania Drozd never set out to become a clinical movement specialist. She began, instead, with a single question: Why? Why do people move the way they do? Why does pain persist even after treatment? Why do standard protocols so often fall short?The answers weren’t in the textbooks. They were in the body. And they were inside her own.Raised in a family where sports were as natural as breathing, Ania’s first passion was equestrian show jumping. Her early years were marked by discipline, competition, and performance under pressure—qualities that would later define her professional philosophy. But when the mental and physical toll of that life became unsustainable, she did something rare: she listened to her instincts and walked away.What followed was not retreat, but reinvention. Ania dove into weightlifting, calisthenics, and eventually clinical movement practice—not as a hobby, but as a form of personal problem-solving. Injuries, chronic pain, and a lack of clear answers from specialists forced her to build her own solutions. When MRIs, X-rays, and professional opinions led nowhere, she trusted her gut and went inward, combining her formal education in neuropharmacology with thousands of hours of experimentation and self-study.What emerged was a framework grounded in biology, behavior, and biomechanics—a common-sense system built not on trends, but on truth. She came to understand pain not as an enemy, but as a signal—one that reveals the body’s inefficiencies, compensations, and imbalances. She began asking better questions—and helping others do the same.Today, Ania leads a select group of clients through that same process: breaking cycles of chronic pain and rebuilding functional movement from the ground up. Her work is defined by precision, quality, and a refusal to do anything halfway. She prioritizes depth over scale, impact over popularity, and results over trends.Her philosophy is simple:“You don’t fix movement by treating symptoms. You fix movement by understanding the system.”This mindset has shaped her transition from in-person coaching to a streamlined, high-accountability online practice that spans time zones and continents. She’s built a trusted brand, not by marketing noise, but by meaningful results—and by earning her clients’ respect through clarity, consistency, and care.Ania Drozd is not selling movement. She’s selling autonomy. For those willing to do the work, her process doesn’t just relieve pain—it redefines the way people move through life.🔗 Connect with Ania:Instagram: @ania.drozd – Message her directly for coaching or collaboration - https://www.instagram.com/aniamoves/YouTube (Coming Soon): Breakdown videos and movement insights.Workshops & Courses: Rolling out late 2025 - https://aniamoves.com/I am Damian Porter , Former NZ Special Forces Operator, Subject Matter Expert from www.hownottodieguy.com and www.eatwellmovewell.netAnd you are listening to my STRAIGHT TALK MIND AND MUSCLE PODCAST sponsored by www.mystait.com - the ultimate daily formula for optimum hormone health, stress management, energy and performance.  100% natural and clinically proven ingredients, it provides everything you need to raise your game, in a convenient gut-friendly capsule.  And the Mason Survival Protocol - https://www.carnivoreretreat.com/post/masonsurvival-protocol-carnivore-retreat Links for my former shows are here- WATCH on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpt-Zy1jciVn7cWB0B-y5WATyzrzfwucZLISTEN on: spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rlAGRXCwLIJfQCQ5B3PYB?si=UmgsMBFkRfelCAm1E4Pd3QItunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-mind-and-muscle-podcast/id1315986446?mt=2 Amazon https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/5bce2d31-a171-4e83-bada-d1384c877e76Subscribe for more amazing tips, interviews and wisdom from phenomenal guests ------- And get your ** FREE Video Workshop here- https://www.hownottodieguy.com/