Reflecting Back with Zach Stiffler

Zach Stiffler

Our mission at Reflecting Back is to dare you to be different—and equip you to live boldly with defiant clarity and unapologetic confidence. Join the world's leading thinkers in exploring the intersection of health, high performance, and relationships to craft a life worth living.

  1. APR 28

    Dr. Rachel Pope - Putting MEN back into MENopause: Why She Needs You to Step Up and How

    In this essential episode of Reflecting Back, Zach breaks down barriers around a topic most men ignore—menopause. Inspired by the eye-opening South by Southwest panel, "Hotter Than Ever: The Truth About Sex in Midlife," Zach is joined by Dr. Rachel Pope, a renowned gynecologist and menopause expert, to shine a light on the vital importance of communication and awareness around women’s health. They discuss why menopause isn’t just a "women’s issue," how desire discrepancies can impact relationships, and why open conversations about sexual health are crucial. With women more empowered than ever to advocate for their well-being, it's time men step up, educate themselves, and become the supportive partners their relationships need. Links: Dr. Pope’s Insta: @drrpope @mim.menopauseFB: @drrpope @mim.menopauseTikTok: @thevulvadoctorInsta: https://www.instagram.com/zachstiffler

    25 min

  2. APR 14

    The American Dream is Making You Lonely - Gavin Greenberg and Jess Pink

    In this episode of Reflecting Back, Zach sits down with Gavin Greenberg and Jess Pink, founders of Travel World Culture (TWC) and the speakers behind the impactful TEDx talk, "The American Dream is Making You Lonely." They discuss their bold decision to leave corporate life to create a travel business focused on building community and meaningful experiences. Gavin and Jess share how living abroad reshaped their views on personal fulfillment, community involvement, and cultural awareness. They also explore the real-world challenges of entrepreneurship, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and offer practical advice on travel safety, building genuine relationships, and thoughtfully balancing privilege with empathy. This conversation will prompt you to reconsider your own ideas of success and connection. Links: Travel World Culture’s Insta: https://www.instagram.com/travelworldculture/ Zach's Insta: https://www.instagram.com/zachstiffler

    1h 5m

  3. APR 7

    Modern Love Is Lonely AF - Expert Relationship Panel On Forging Meaningful Relationships in 2025 - Baya Voce, Kate Durocher, & Joel Monteleone

    Guests: Couples Therapist - Baya Voce, Austin-Based Dating Coach - Kate Durocher, and Hot Takes Hot Dates Host - Joel Monteleone This episode charts the full journey of modern relationships—from building unshakable self-worth to navigating long-term connection with depth and clarity. Kate Durocher shares how embracing solitude and doing the internal work laid the foundation for finding a healthy, aligned partnership. Joel Monteleone, Founder of Austin’s “Hot and Sober” and Host of “Hot Takes Hot Dates” events, highlights the power of in-person connection and why play, presence, and risk are essential antidotes to dating app fatigue. Baya Voce delivers a masterclass in conflict and repair, breaking down her five-step framework that turns rupture into reconnection. She explains why most relationships don’t fall apart because of conflict—but because of the lack of meaningful repair. This conversation is an invitation to reimagine what love looks like when it’s rooted in accountability, emotional attunement, and the courage to stay in the mud together. Together, we challenge outdated ideas of what dating and relationships “should” look like. We explore how to build resilience in a culture that avoids discomfort, how to spot the patterns we inherit from our caregivers, and how to step into relational maturity by taking ownership of our emotional experiences. Links: Baya Voce: https://bayavoce.comhttps://www.instagram.com/baya_voce/Kate Durocher: https://coachkatedurocher.comhttps://www.instagram.com/coachkatedurocher/Joel Monteleone: https://www.instagram.com/joel_monteleone/Zach Stiffler: https://www.instagram.com/zachstiffler/

    1h 28m

  4. FEB 4

    Omid Scheybani - Chasing Moonshots: North Korea, China, and Creating a Life Worth Living

    In this episode, Omid Scheybani—global storyteller and tech entrepreneur—shares his insights on time, purpose, and personal growth. He reflects on the rewards and challenges of a nomadic lifestyle, the power of cultural exploration, and the importance of curiosity in fostering empathy. Drawing from experiences in living in China, visiting North Korea, and embracing his Iranian heritage, he challenges media-driven narratives and highlights the profound impact of human connection. Omid also discusses setting ‘moonshots’ for growth, embracing discomfort, and the role of gratitude and perspective in shaping a fulfilling life. Links: Omid’s Insta: https://www.instagram.com/omidscheybani/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/zachstiffler Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 00:52 Reflections on Time and Life at 34 05:33 Life in China and the Decision to Move 10:37 The Nomadic Lifestyle and Its Challenges 15:28 Curiosity and Empathy: A Global Mindset 20:18 Experiencing Iran: A Journey of Discovery 25:18 Influencing Perspectives on Iran 26:50 Adventures in North Korea 33:32 Haunting Memories from North Korea 35:44 The Reality Behind the Scripted Experience 39:03 Emotional Expression in a Controlled Society 40:46 Travel Opportunities for North Koreans 43:42 Defining Moonshots and Personal Growth 50:53 Setting Intentions and Themes for Life 55:13 Gratitude Through Painful Experiences 01:03:13 Introduction to Amid's Journey 01:03:41 Reflections on Loss and Moving Forward

    1h 4m

  5. 11/26/2024

    Tanji Johnson Bridgeman - Failure Isn’t the Enemy: It’s the Secret Weapon You’re Ignoring

    In this episode of Reflecting Back, host Zach Stifler speaks with Tanji Johnson-Bridgeman, a military veteran turned fitness champion and health coach. Tanji shares her journey from a disciplined upbringing to a thriving career in bodybuilding, offering insights on resilience, self-discovery, and the value of failure in achieving success. They discuss defining identity beyond titles, transforming fear into excitement, focusing on what you can control, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Tanji’s advice on wellness and navigating life’s transitions provides practical inspiration for personal growth and fulfillment. Links: https://www.instagram.com/officialtanjijohnson/ Reflecting Back Insta: https://www.instagram.com/reflectingbackpod/ Chapters: 00:00 The Concept of Reflection and Growth02:24 Growing Up in a Military Family07:24 Rebellion and Autonomy in a Controlled Environment12:23 Transitioning to Fitness and Bodybuilding19:29 Early Experiences in Bodybuilding and Learning from Failure23:40 Building Community in Competition26:35 Leadership and Vulnerability27:37 Redefining Success and Identity30:29 The Journey of Self-Discovery35:42 Embracing Failure as a Path to Success39:35 Power Signals and Mental Cues44:36 Applying Lessons in Real Life49:43 Future Ventures and Belief in Innovation

    56 min

  6. 11/12/2024

    Michelle ‘MACE’ Curran - No Room for Regret: The Raw Truth on Authenticity, Vulnerability, and Developing a Fighter Pilot Mindset

    In this episode, we welcome Michelle "MACE" Curran, former F-16 fighter pilot and lead solo for the USAF Thunderbirds, who shares her journey from a small-town girl to making history in one of the world’s most elite demonstration teams. Michelle opens up about the intense pressure of flying high-stakes missions, the grit required to break barriers as a female fighter pilot, and the lessons learned in the cockpit that now fuel her motivational speaking and writing career. We dive into topics like overcoming self-doubt, embracing vulnerability, and how to lead with authenticity—both in the air and on the ground. Whether you're looking to conquer personal challenges or gain insights on elite performance, this episode delivers actionable wisdom and an inspiring story of defying the odds and pursuing bold goals. MACE’s Links: https://macecurran.com https://www.instagram.com/mace_curran https://www.linkedin.com/in/macecurran/ Reflecting Back Insta: https://www.instagram.com/reflectingbackpod/ Chapters 00:00 Navigating Uncertainty in Business and Life 02:19 The Power of Vulnerability 07:56 Embracing Fear and Taking Risks 13:50 Adaptability in High-Stakes Environments 23:34 The Mindset of a Fighter Pilot 33:22 The Importance of Humility, Approachability, and Credibility 35:35 Vulnerability in High-Stakes Environments 42:05 Navigating Identity and Stereotypes in the Military 51:57 Finding Authenticity Beyond the Uniform 01:00:57 The Perspective of Death and Living Authentically 01:08:31 Reframing Regret: A New Perspective 01:11:28 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with the Right People 01:14:27 Identifying and Maintaining Energizing Relationships 01:18:29 Future Aspirations: Speaking and Writing 01:22:25 Advice to My Younger Self: Embracing Vulnerability and Connection

    1h 23m

  7. 08/15/2024

    Alex King - Embracing Discomfort, Silence, and Presence for a Purposeful Life

    In this episode, Alex shares his journey by discussing strategies for managing stress, anxiety, presence, and designing a life worth living. The conversation delves into the impact of social media on our ability to be present and productive, highlighting the addictive nature of scrolling and constant distractions. He also discuss the importance of balancing consumption with creation, the value of silence, and trusting the present moment for fostering authentic thoughts and ideas. Links Alex King Insta: https://www.instagram.com/alexkiing/ Reflecting Back Insta: https://www.instagram.com/reflectingbackpod/ Chapters Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:05 Being Present and Managing Stress 02:28 Morning Routines and Meditation 08:27 Navigating the Influence of Social Media 14:51 The Impact of Social Media on Presence and Productivity 25:35 The Power of Silence and Being Present 29:22 Balancing Consumption and Creation 38:35 Trusting the Present Moment

    40 min

  8. 08/12/2024

    Jacoby Kang - Cold Plunges Can Change Your Life with Jacoby Plunges Founder

    Jacoby Kang shares his journey from a low point in life to discovering his purpose, emphasizing the importance of being present, taking one step at a time, and exploring different paths without comparison. He discusses leaving his corporate job to focus on health, building community, and the transformative power of cold plunging at Barton Springs. Jacoby highlights the significance of visualization, sustainability, and finding joy in the moment. The conversation covers themes of authenticity, team-building, and the challenges of being a founder, offering insights into his mindset and the growth of his business. Links Jacoby Kang Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jacobykang/ Jacoby Plunges Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jacobyplunges/ Jacoby Plunges Website: https://jacobyplunges.co/ Reflecting Back Insta: https://www.instagram.com/reflectingbackpod/ Chapters 00:00 Finding Purpose and Success 03:40 Embracing the Present Moment 10:01 From Low Point to Personal Transformation 14:22 Creating a Personal Resume 36:14 From Solo Plunges to Community Events 41:45 The Power of Connection: Holding Hands in the Water 45:29 Preparing the Mind and Body: Visualization and Meditation 50:50 The Physical and Mental Benefits of Cold Plunging 58:02 Sustainability and Safety in Cold Plunging 01:02:49 Measuring Success Backwards: Reflecting on Accomplishments 01:12:33 Appreciating Wins and Avoiding Burnout 01:15:32 The Importance of Celebrating Accomplishments 01:19:55 Hiring and Building a Team 01:23:43 Avoiding Mediocre Hires 01:28:03 Not Everyone is Meant to be a Founder 01:37:05 Trial Periods and Influencer Marketing 01:41:25 Acting Fast on Identified Problems 01:46:12 Building a Community and Selling Cold Plunge Units

    1h 48m
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Our mission at Reflecting Back is to dare you to be different—and equip you to live boldly with defiant clarity and unapologetic confidence. Join the world's leading thinkers in exploring the intersection of health, high performance, and relationships to craft a life worth living.

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