Tony Stark's Hero Up Podcast

Tony Stark Policci

Hero Up: Everyone loves a great hero story, but only some know they have what it takes to be the hero in their own life.The Hero Up podcast is here to give you practical, actionable advice and insights into the stuff I'm known for (copywriting and marketing), but that's just a tiny piece of the show. I'm going to talk about mindset, lifestyle, impact…and being freaking human. We are going to talk very openly about things in your business or personal life that fall into any of these categories: unexpected, traumatic, heartbreaking, terrifying, miraculous, extraordinary, life-changing.If you have goals that changed, dreams you gave up on for something else, hard lessons learned, big successes, big failures, finding faith, losing faith, addiction, love... things you were unsure how to achieve - this is the place to find commonality, connection, and confidence to be the hero you were created to be!

  1. Clutter Isn’t What You Think! It’s Postponed Decisions

    JAN 30

    Clutter Isn’t What You Think! It’s Postponed Decisions

    What if the thing holding you back isn’t just physical clutter but the decisions you never made? In this episode of The Hero Up Podcast, Tony Stark Policci sits down with organizational pioneer Barbara Hemphill, the bestselling author of Taming the Paper Tiger and founder of the Productive Environment Institute. Her work has shaped what’s now a multi-billion-dollar productivity industry, and she’s helping people move beyond clutter to clarity, purpose, and peace.  In this conversation, you’ll learn:  • Why clutter is truly postponed decisions — and how that insight transforms everything. • The surprising emotional roots of clutter (even for high‑achievers). • Her breakthrough systems for finding instead of filing. • How physical clutter intertwines with spiritual and emotional life. • How to finally get clarity on what matters most — so you accomplish more and enjoy life. 👇 Links to resources mentioned: Website: https://barbarahemphill.com Productive Environment Score: https://productiveenvironmentscore.com 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes that help you Hero Up in life, business, and purpose. #ClutterIsDecisions #BarbaraHemphill #ProductivityExpert #OrganizingWisdom #TamingThePaperTiger #HeroUpPodcast #LifeClarity #ProductiveEnvironment #EmotionalClutter #ADHDProductivity #DecisionMaking Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 3m
  2. What It Takes to Be a Female Leader Today With Monika Malan

    06/21/2025

    What It Takes to Be a Female Leader Today With Monika Malan

    She was told she couldn’t lead. Now she coaches leaders. In this powerful episode of the Hero Up Podcast, I sit down with leadership coach Monika Malan, founder of She Leads Boldly, to discuss how women can step into leadership with confidence, without burning out or compromising their values. With over 18 years in corporate leadership, Monika has seen it all: imposter syndrome, gender bias, toxic cultures, and self-doubt. She’s lived it, led through it, and now she’s on a mission to help other women rise on their own terms. In this conversation, we cover: How to overcome self-doubt and find your voice as a female leader Why EQ is the secret edge in male-dominated industriesThe importance of aligning your career with your personal valuesSetting boundaries that protect your sanity and your teamThe impact of cycle-based leadership (yes, really)What to do when you’re working somewhere that doesn’t “get” youHow parenting made her a better leader Whether you're new to leadership or coaching others yourself, this episode is packed with insight, real talk, and practical wisdom. Takeaways Mentorship is crucial for developing future leaders.Women often face unique challenges in leadership roles.Company culture significantly impacts leadership effectiveness.Aligning personal values with corporate values is essential for job satisfaction.Setting boundaries is vital to prevent burnout.Empowering others can enhance your own leadership skills.Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many leaders.Parenting can teach valuable lessons about leadership.Women should support each other in their leadership journeys.Self-care is important for effective leadership.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:13 Leadership Journey and Mentorship 06:37 Navigating Challenges in IT Leadership 09:09 Company Culture and Gender Dynamics 11:42 Difficult Decisions and Leadership Mistakes 13:39 Coaching Philosophy and Supporting Women 16:18 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt 18:39 Aligning Values with Career Choices 21:23 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence 24:00 Conclusion and Future Aspirations 36:49 Revolutionary Insights on Women's Health and Leadership 40:26 Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout 44:23 Balancing Career and Family Responsibilities 50:39 Lessons in Patience and Empowerment from Parenting 54:59 Navigating Corporate Values and Personal Integrity 59:27 Ideal Clients and the Ripple Effect of Coaching 01:01:16 Valuable Lessons from Mentees 01:05:22 Advice to My Younger Self 01:08:10 Being a Hero to Young Women Want to connect with Monika? Website: https://www.sheleadsboldly.com Take her free quiz: https://www.sheleadsboldly.com/quiz Follow Monika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monikamalan 🔔 Like this episode? Subscribe for more real conversations with everyday heroes Leave a comment and let us know your biggest takeaway from Monika’s story #SheLeadsBoldly  #WomenInLeadership  #LeadershipCoach   #ConfidenceForWomen  #OvercomingSelfDoubt  #FemaleEntrepreneur   #WorkingMoms  #EmpoweredWomen  #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment  #WomenInTech  #HeroUpPodcast  Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 11m
  3. 26: Six AI Secrets No One Is Talking About (And Why They Matter More Than Prompts)

    04/17/2025

    26: Six AI Secrets No One Is Talking About (And Why They Matter More Than Prompts)

    In this episode of The Hero Up Podcast, Tony Stark Policci sits down with Jonathan Mast — founder of White Beard Strategies and one of the most value-driven voices in AI today. They reveal 6 powerful (and under-the-radar) truths about how AI is transforming business, marketing, faith, and personal growth — without losing your soul, your voice, or your purpose. ✅ How to use AI as a tool to amplify your expertise (not replace it) ✅ The real ethical dilemmas that no one wants to admit ✅ The #1 mistake small businesses make when adopting AI ✅ Why faith, integrity, and failure still matter in the AI era ✅ A simple strategy to save 30+ minutes every day using AI ✅ How neurodivergent entrepreneurs can thrive with the right tools Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, coach, or creator — this episode will challenge you to think bigger, go deeper, and use AI with purpose. 🔗 Connect with Jonathan: https://jonathanmast.com/linktree 🎙️ More Tony Stark: https://www.tonystark.vip/ Want to use AI to grow your business? 12 of the top connection, marketing and AI experts show you how in this self-paced AI Masterclass https://aibusinessgrowthmasterclass.com/ Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    57 min
  4. 25: The Silent Epidemic: What Parents Don’t Know About Their Kids’ Mental Health with Katey McPherson

    02/26/2025

    25: The Silent Epidemic: What Parents Don’t Know About Their Kids’ Mental Health with Katey McPherson

    In this powerful episode of Hero Up with Tony Stark Policci, I sit down with Katey McPherson, a nationally recognized advocate for youth mental health, TEDx speaker, and expert in internet safety. Katey has spent decades working with schools, parents, and law enforcement to protect children from the hidden dangers of technology, mental health struggles, and the rising threats to today’s youth.  Katey shares her journey from working as a school administrator to her role with B.A.R.K., an AI-powered app that helps keep kids safe online. We dive deep into the realities of parenting in the digital age, the misconceptions parents have about their children's mental health, and practical strategies to foster open communication, empathy, and presence in kids' lives. If you're a parent, educator, or just someone who cares about the well-being of young people, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips. What We Cover in This Episode: ✅ The Illusion of "Not My Kid" – Why most parents are blind to what’s really happening in their children’s lives ✅ The Digital Wild West – How predators, explicit content, and peer pressure invade kids’ screens daily ✅ Why Kids Don’t Tell Their Parents the Truth – The breakdown of trust and what to do about it ✅ The "Five-Year Rule" – When and how to start critical conversations with your kids ✅ The Power of Connection – How to make sure your child feels seen, heard, and loved every single day ✅ Tech Solutions That Help Parents – How AI tools like B.A.R.K. are helping prevent tragedy ✅ The Role of Schools & Educators – What teachers are up against and how parents can step up PLUS: - How an app called B.A.R.K. helps protect kids from online dangers - The biggest misconceptions parents have about their children's mental health - Why technology is both a connector and an isolator for youth - How to foster open communication and empathy with kids - Practical tips for supporting youth mental health - Why understanding brain development is key to effective parenting - The importance of community involvement in raising resilient kids - Overcoming barriers to accessing mental health resources - Innovations in tech that support youth well-being And a Shocking Truth: The average age of first exposure to pornography is eight years old, and sexting begins at eleven. If you think your child is safe just because you raised them right, think again. Katie’s Game-Changing Parenting Hacks: The Central Charging Station Rule – A simple way to reclaim family timeThe ‘Mayor of Your 5-Mile Radius’ Mindset – How small actions create big changeThe "WIGGY" Method – A powerful way to actually hear your kidIf you’re a parent, educator, or anyone who cares about the well-being of today’s youth, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss. Connect with Katey: Tedx: How to Be the Mayor of Your 5-Mile Radius | Katey McPherson | TEDxGilbert Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kateymcph/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katey-mcpherson-04396a50 Bark: https://www.bark.us/ Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 17m
  5. 24: Sex, Scams, and Shootouts: Author Reveals The Wild Life of Bob Leach, Texas’ Last Desperado

    01/17/2025

    24: Sex, Scams, and Shootouts: Author Reveals The Wild Life of Bob Leach, Texas’ Last Desperado

    Get ready to discover the untold story of the modern-day Texas outlaw, Bob Leach. In this engaging conversation, Author Pepper Anne shares her incredible journey from a curious child in Texas to uncovering family secrets that led her to write 'The Notorious Texas Swindler.'  She walks us through her process of capturing the unbelievable true story of Bob Leach, a modern-day desperado whose criminal escapades rival the legends of the Wild West. From cattle rustling and con games to a daring jailbreak that earned him and his crew the infamous title “The Grayson County Five,” Leach’s life was a whirlwind of crime, blackmail, and evasion. This gripping interview explores: 🔸 The notorious “party ranch” blackmail scheme raking in millions 🔸 A statewide chase, dramatic hostage situation, and shootout 🔸 Secrets, scandals, and the shocking revelations that could reopen old cases Join Tony Stark as he and Pepper Anne unravel the saga of one of Texas’ most wanted men and uncover how his story echoes the outlaws of the 1800s while being steeped in modern-day crime. 📚 Want to learn more? Check out Pepper Anne’s book, The Notorious Texas Swindler: The Mastermind Behind the Grayson County Five, and discover the full story of Bob Leach’s infamous reign. https://www.pepperanneauthor.com/ Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 12m
  6. 23: Mark Fournier: The Emmy-Winning Maverick Who Mastered the Mind and Defied Death

    12/21/2024

    23: Mark Fournier: The Emmy-Winning Maverick Who Mastered the Mind and Defied Death

    Join me as I engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Mark Fournier, a life coach and filmmaker. Together, we explore themes of happiness, fulfillment, and the power of mindset. This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and actionable advice to help you unlock your true potential. Inside This Unmissable Episode: Mark Fournier's journey in finding happiness and fulfillment.The impact of a mindset of unlimited possibilities.The importance of thoughts and creating balance in life.Insights into Mark's filmmaking journey and Emmy wins.Overcoming dark moments and personal growth.Self-acceptance and the power of an opportunity mindset.The role of Omni Coach in accessing historical wisdom.The importance of emotional intelligence and relationships.Exploring plant medicines and human resilience.Evolving consciousness to keep pace with technology. This episode isn’t just a conversation; it’s a masterclass in navigating life’s challenges, building resilience, and finding fulfillment. Whether you’re striving for personal growth, overcoming obstacles, or seeking inspiration, Marc Fournier’s journey and insights will resonate deeply. Connect with Mark: Website: https://thelimitlesscoach.com/home/ : Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@markfournierpresents : Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markfournierpresents/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfournierpresents/# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fournier-a8294613 Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkFournierPresents/shorts Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    2h 27m
  7. 22: From Ironman to the ICU to Personal Evolution: Risa August's Journey of Resilience

    11/17/2024

    22: From Ironman to the ICU to Personal Evolution: Risa August's Journey of Resilience

    Discover a story that defies the odds as Risa August dives into her powerful transformation from battling a hidden illness to embracing a whole new self. In this episode, we explore Risa’s raw and unfiltered path through grit, endurance, and self-acceptance.  With a past that reads like an adventure novel, Risa takes us through her athletic achievements, health struggles, and the moment her life changed with a long-overdue diagnosis. If you've ever wondered what it truly takes to turn struggle into strength, you won’t want to miss this. Inside This Unmissable Episode: Born to Defy: How Risa’s adventurous childhood and compassionate spirit became the bedrock of her resilience.A Decade of Discovery: Risa’s transformative years in fitness and wilderness guiding, pushing limits, and finding her passions.From Triathlons to Ironman: The journey that began with a triathlon and led Risa to conquer one of the toughest endurance feats.Health Battles Ignored: The health warning signs doctors dismissed and the resilience that kept Risa fighting for answers.The Shocking Diagnosis: How Risa’s persistence led to an acromegaly diagnosis, revealing a hidden pituitary tumor and changing everything.Redefining Identity: Risa’s journey through recovery, self-perception, and redefining who she is after a life-altering health crisis.Family and Freedom: Insights into how family dynamics shaped her self-image and what it took for Risa to reclaim her freedom.From ‘Bucket List’ to ‘Fk It’ List**: Risa’s liberating mindset shifts to live on her own terms, making fear-based goals a thing of the past.Courage to Change: The powerful role of Gestalt therapy and self-growth in letting go of past identities and embracing a new one.Inspiration to Empower: Risa’s strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs, daring to dream bigger, and inspiring others to live fully.Dive into Risa’s world for an empowering, candid conversation on resilience, redefining self, and the courage to embrace life’s twists and turns. Tune in—you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for life’s unpredictable journey. Connect with Risa: Website/s: https://www.risaaugust.com/ Book: "The Road Unpaved - Border to Border With a Bike and a Brain Tumor"Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/risaunleashedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/risaunleashed/ Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 5m
  8. 21: Criticism Crusher: Turn Haters Into Stepping Stones with Richard Weiler

    10/18/2024

    21: Criticism Crusher: Turn Haters Into Stepping Stones with Richard Weiler

    Join me for an insightful conversation with Richard Weiler, CEO and founder of Market Leap, as he shares his journey from door-to-door sales to becoming a marketing expert. In this episode, Richard reveals how to build authentic business relationships and navigate the ever-changing world of marketing. Discover the evolution of marketing strategies, from the decline of traditional methods like the Yellow Pages to the rise of digital marketing. Richard emphasizes the power of hybrid marketing approaches and the crucial role of authenticity in business growth. Learn why following up with connections is key to success and how to use social media effectively while staying true to yourself. This episode offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. Richard shares strategies for mastering SEO, attracting the right clients, and most importantly, overcoming criticism with resilience. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, you'll find valuable insights on rapid business growth and leaving a lasting legacy. Key Topics You Don’t Want to Miss: Richard Weiler's journey: From door-to-door sales to marketing successThe shift from traditional to digital marketing strategiesHybrid marketing: Combining online and offline approachesBuilding authentic relationships and the importance of follow-upUsing authenticity to attract the right audienceLeveraging public speaking and social media for business growthSEO mastery: Understanding what Google wantsTurning criticism into fuel for long-term success Tune in to learn from Richard's wealth of experience and gain actionable insights for your own business success. Don't forget to subscribe to Hero Up for more inspiring conversations with industry leaders! Connect with Richard: Website/s: https://www.marketleap.biz/ Book: https://www.guerrillaconnector.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardWeiler1/ Text Tony Stark! Support the show Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

    1h 9m

Ratings & Reviews

About

Hero Up: Everyone loves a great hero story, but only some know they have what it takes to be the hero in their own life.The Hero Up podcast is here to give you practical, actionable advice and insights into the stuff I'm known for (copywriting and marketing), but that's just a tiny piece of the show. I'm going to talk about mindset, lifestyle, impact…and being freaking human. We are going to talk very openly about things in your business or personal life that fall into any of these categories: unexpected, traumatic, heartbreaking, terrifying, miraculous, extraordinary, life-changing.If you have goals that changed, dreams you gave up on for something else, hard lessons learned, big successes, big failures, finding faith, losing faith, addiction, love... things you were unsure how to achieve - this is the place to find commonality, connection, and confidence to be the hero you were created to be!