Apogee Strong

Matt Beaudreau

Apogee Strong's online mentorship program was created to provide you with the ideals young men need to become strong, successful leaders among leaders. The name Apogee comes from an astronomical term meaning "summit," a homage to the life we envision for each of our participants. A life where they have the tools they need to reach the greatest heights of their potential.

  1. 2 小時前

    Zach Hanson: Turning Feral, Finding Faith – How Divorce, Wilderness, and Curiosity Forged a New Path to Purpose

    What happens when you do everything society tells you—earn the degrees, land the secure job, build the perfect life—only to find yourself feeling empty? Why do so many men chase grit, competition, and accomplishments, yet still end up lost? And what if the real answer isn’t in choosing between education or trade skills, city or wilderness, but in forging a life that blends both? Our guest today, Zach Hanson, has lived that journey. A former AI and machine-learning product management expert who helped build technology at the cutting edge, Zach walked away from the “safe” path to pursue something deeper. His story took him from competitive Jiu Jitsu and a tech career to the most remote town in Idaho, where he rebuilt his life after divorce through hunting, trapping, writing, and faith. Zach is not only an avid hunter, trapper, and trade advocate, but also a thought leader who bridges two worlds—the resilience of hands-on trades and the innovation of artificial intelligence. Today, he lives with his wife and three children at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains in rural Idaho, proving every day that success isn’t about titles or paychecks, but about discipline, curiosity, and a God-centered life. In this conversation, Zach shares hard-won lessons on self-reliance, the dangers of over-education without real skills, and why rediscovering community, faith, and practical knowledge may be the antidote to the frustrations so many men face. Quotes: "The arc of the book is, what I found out is I actually found community there. I found God there. And it was all through my trying to run away and have these experiences which were great, but took me full circle to realize that I actually really need community." "If you have the desire, you will find a way. Now there is a component of grit to that, but it is desire full stop, and that has kind of changed my mindset very recently.""When people ask, that's what I you know, that's my identity. Now, it's not I'm some fancy worker, whatever like I'm talking about the things that bring me joy as an individual, and those things do." Key Takeaways: Expand your definition of education – Don’t settle for “college or bust.” Ask yourself: What practical skills could I learn right now that would make me more self-reliant? Start with something simple like changing your own oil, learning basic welding, or even gardening. Audit your identity – How do you introduce yourself? Do you define yourself only by your job title, or by the passions and skills that truly bring you joy? Reframe your identity around what aligns with your values and long-term vision. Practice relentless curiosity – Treat everyday tasks as opportunities to learn. Instead of outsourcing everything, ask: Could I figure this out myself? Watch a tutorial, take a class, or shadow someone skilled. Prioritize communication and honesty in relationships – Daily devotionals, hard questions, and open dialogue can prevent small frustrations from eroding intimacy. What’s one honest conversation you’ve been avoiding? Have it this week. Balance grit with desire – Discipline will get you far, but true growth comes when your actions align with what you deeply desire. Reflect: Am I grinding out of obligation, or pursuing something I truly want? Zach’s story is a reminder that fulfillment doesn’t come from following a prescribed path, but from daring to carve out your own. Whether it’s through sharpening practical skills, deepening your faith, or embracing relentless curiosity, the challenge is the same: stop outsourcing your growth and start owning it. His journey—from artificial intelligence labs to the remote mountains of Idaho—proves that resilience and wisdom are forged not in comfort, but in the willingness to step into the unknown.

    58 分鐘
  2. 3 天前

    Sean Tepper: From Spreadsheet to SaaS Success – Building Ticker, Value Investing, and Empowering Everyday Investors

    Do you feel like the stock market is a game rigged against everyday people? Maybe you’ve tried dabbling in stocks, only to be overwhelmed with emotions, paralyzed by indecision, or burned by losses. Why do some investors consistently win while most struggle to even get started? And what if the key to building wealth isn’t luck—or insider knowledge—but a proven system that takes the guesswork out of investing? Enter Sean Tepper. Sean is the Founder and CEO of Tykr, a platform empowering over 12,000 customers across 50+ countries to confidently navigate the stock market. His journey reflects a deep understanding of both business and investment, honed over 20+ years in the corporate world and 15+ years dedicated to building wealth. He built and successfully merged a thriving agency in the 2000s, followed by a decade (2011–2023) as a highly sought-after project management consultant for industry giants like GE, Kohler, Kohl’s, and Direct Supply. What makes Sean unique is not just his experience, but his passion for making financial literacy accessible to all. In 2016, he created a simple Excel-based investment tool that generated over 15% returns for himself. By 2020, he transformed it into Tykr, a sophisticated yet user-friendly software platform designed to take emotions out of investing and empower people to grow wealth with confidence. In this episode, Sean shares how he went from corporate consultant to entrepreneur, why most traders fail while investors succeed, and the principles behind Tykr that can help you achieve greater financial freedom—and a more fulfilling life. Quotes: “People really want more than anything, and you hit on the word, which is confidence—they want the ability to know what stocks to look for, what to avoid. It’s literally the rest your head on your pillow at night and sleep better than you ever had before.” “Let us not become weary in doing good, because at the right time, you will reap a harvest if you don’t give up. If you’re providing value and there are people that are verbally saying thank you, or like you’re seeing people that are getting results, but you’ve got no fruit out of it—not yet—keep doing it.” “It’s the little steps. There’s too many people set like, these massive goals, and then if they don’t hit it, they’re disappointed and disappointed stop. It’s the little steps, that’s what you want to chip away at.” Key Takeaways: Invest, don’t trade → Ask yourself: are you trying to “get rich quick” by trading, or building long-term wealth through disciplined investing? 99% of traders lose money—investors win by letting their money work for them. Focus beats diversification (at first) → Instead of spreading thin across dozens of stocks, concentrate on 10–15 strong businesses if you’re in growth mode. Diversification is for wealth protection later, not wealth building now. Use math, not emotions → Before making your next investment move, ask: Am I reacting emotionally, or am I following a proven system? Building confidence starts by trusting data over feelings. Conclusion Sean Tepper proves that investing doesn’t have to be overwhelming, emotional, or reserved for Wall Street insiders. With the right system, the right mindset, and a commitment to values, anyone can build wealth and confidence in the stock market. His journey with Tykr is a reminder that financial literacy is not just about numbers—it’s about empowerment, freedom, and creating a life of greater impact. If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to start investing, this episode shows you that the best time is now—and that you don’t have to do it alone.

    58 分鐘
  3. 5 天前

    Kelsey Koehler: Overcoming Adversity, Healing PTSD, and Revolutionizing Holistic Health for Veterans

    Are you tired of chasing quick fixes for your health—pills for every symptom, supplements that don’t work, and doctors who never really ask why you’re struggling? What if the real answers to your pain, fatigue, or hormonal issues aren’t in another prescription, but in discovering and healing the root cause? Today’s guest, Kelsey Koehler, knows this firsthand. From surviving a controlling cult and an abusive marriage to secretly pursuing her education in functional medicine, her story is nothing short of extraordinary. Kelsey turned personal adversity into a mission: helping people reclaim their health, longevity, and freedom through functional medicine that actually works. She’s the founder of Profit High Performance Medicine, where she and her team blend advanced lab testing, root-cause analysis, nutrition, and hormone optimization to restore the body from the inside out. Her work doesn’t stop there—Kelsey is also pioneering new ways to serve veterans through a nonprofit that provides holistic solutions for PTSD, TBI, and other service-related health challenges. If you’ve ever wondered why your body still struggles despite doing “all the right things,” or if you want to learn how to build true resilience—physically, mentally, and emotionally—this episode will challenge what you thought you knew about health and give you a glimpse of what’s really possible. Quotes: “I define functional medicine as looking at the body as a whole, instead of siphoning it into a set of symptoms.” “I always operated based on my internal values. I never wanted to lie, manipulate, or use my body as a selling point to my programs.”“Instead of looking at what everybody else was doing, I was envisioning what my future was going to be and what I wanted.” Key Takeaways: Stop masking symptoms—ask “why?” → Before reaching for another prescription or supplement, dig deeper into the root causes of your health issues. What patterns, habits, or stressors might be driving them? Audit your daily environment → Look at your sleep, nutrition, toxins, and stress load. Which of these areas could be quietly sabotaging your energy, hormones, or mental health? Invest in testing, not guessing → Consider comprehensive lab work (blood, stool, genetics) to uncover the real story behind your symptoms instead of relying on one-size-fits-all treatments. Rewire your thinking → Explore tools like Neuro-Linguistic Programming or guided meditation (such as Dr. Joe Dispenza’s work) to help calm your nervous system and retrain your brain’s stress response. Build resilience through values → Ask yourself: Am I operating from integrity, or just following what others say works? Living by your own clear internal code is the foundation for lasting health, relationships, and leadership. Conclusion: Kelsey Koehler’s story is proof that even in the face of trauma, abuse, and broken systems, resilience and integrity can lead to true transformation. Her approach to functional medicine isn’t just about healing the body—it’s about restoring the whole person, inside and out. This conversation challenges us to stop settling for surface-level fixes and instead take ownership of our health, values, and future. If you’re ready to rethink what’s possible for your body, your mind, and your life—this episode is where that journey begins.

    1 小時
  4. 9月17日

    Maxim Smith: The Preparation Program – Redefining Education, Building Virtue, and Empowering Young Men for Real-World Success

    Do you ever feel trapped by the same old script—go to college, get the job, chase security—only to wonder if you’ll end up unfulfilled and unprepared? What if there was a different path—one that builds real skills, character, and opportunity? In this episode, we sit down with Maxim Smith, the very first beta tester of The Preparation—a four-year alternative to college designed to shape capable, virtuous leaders. At just 20 years old, Maxim has already become an EMT, fought wildfires, sailed through the Strait of Magellan, packed mules in the Rockies, flown planes, and worked on geophysics crews—all while studying economics, agriculture, and languages. Maxim’s mission is simple yet powerful: to become the man he wants to be—and inspire others to start their own preparation. His story will challenge how you think about education, success, and what it really takes to thrive in today’s world. Quotes: "I think one of the benefits of going on your own path at a young age is that you can lean heavily on the people around you without them pitying you for not knowing what to do." "Almost every experience is different than you think it's going to be. The deeper you get in, the more you realize, gosh, there's so much I don't know." "The purpose of activities is not just to do fun stuff, but it's also to build smaller competencies in areas that are more fun." Key Takeaways: Redefine success: Instead of asking “What do I want to have?” start asking “Who do I want to be?” and let that guide your daily actions. Create your own preparation cycle: Pick one skill or challenge you’ve been avoiding—physical, intellectual, or creative—and dedicate the next 90 days to immersing yourself in it. Build your personal code: Write down the virtues and principles you want to live by. Use this as a compass when making difficult choices. Share your journey publicly: Start a Substack, blog, or simple weekly update on social media. Reflection plus accountability will accelerate your growth. Question the illusion of security: Ask yourself, Am I pursuing the safe path because it’s right—or just because it’s expected? Conclusion: Maxim Smith’s journey proves that growth doesn’t come from following a scripted path—it comes from embracing challenges, building skills, and pursuing virtue over comfort. His story is a reminder that the most important question isn’t “What will I achieve?” but “Who will I become?” The Preparation isn’t just an alternative to college—it’s a blueprint for becoming capable, confident, and ready to seize opportunities in an uncertain world. Whether you’re 18 or 48, the challenge remains the same: step into discomfort, create your own preparation, and start building the life—and the character—you were meant for.

    1 小時 4 分鐘
  5. 9月14日

    Jamie Cochran: Extreme Ownership, Everyday Leadership, and Building Confidence in Young Women

    Do you ever feel like leadership is reserved only for people with titles, positions, or big personalities? Maybe you’ve doubted yourself, wondering if you’re “enough” to step up—or feared that mistakes and emotions might disqualify you from leading. What if leadership wasn’t about power or perfection, but about ownership, influence, and the small choices you make every day? Today's guest, Jamie Cochran, proves exactly that. Jamie is the Chief Operating Officer at Echelon Front, the premier leadership consultancy founded by former Navy SEALs Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. Over the last 12 years, Jamie has helped organizations of every size—from startups to global enterprises—develop leaders at every level. She not only runs the operational side of the business but also teaches leadership principles in the field, guiding teams to adopt practical tools for real-world challenges. What makes Jamie unique is her belief that leadership is the solution to every problem. She shows that anyone—whether you’re a student, a parent, a CEO, or a teammate—can lead with courage, humility, and clarity. Drawing on principles like Extreme Ownership, detachment from emotion, and the power of the “read back,” Jamie equips people with tools to influence others positively, solve problems effectively, and grow through mistakes rather than fear them. Her passion is clear: helping people realize they already have what it takes to lead, and showing them how to practice leadership in every corner of life—at home, at work, and within themselves. Quotes: "Leadership exists at every level. Any human being who's interacting with other human beings has an opportunity to influence them, and so you're a leader in whatever capacity that might be." "Leadership is something that can be learned. Even the best leaders have more opportunity to grow." "Our tendency as human beings is to let our emotions or our ego or our own opinions and perspectives sort of prevent us from seeing the truth of a situation." Actionable Takeaways: Practice Extreme Ownership. Instead of making excuses or blaming others, ask yourself: What part of this situation can I own? Write down one mistake you’ve made recently and identify one step you can take to fix or learn from it. Detach before deciding. Emotions cloud judgment. Build your own “detachment action plan” (like Jamie’s daughter did)—three quick things you can do to reset when you’re angry, stressed, or overwhelmed (e.g., take a walk, breathe deeply, write it out). Use the “read back” method. When someone gives you instructions, repeat back what you heard in your own words. This not only prevents miscommunication but also builds trust and shows you’re fully engaged. Look for leadership opportunities everywhere. Ask: Where can I step up today without being asked? Whether at home, school, or work, find one area where you can take initiative and serve others. Redefine failure as growth. Instead of fearing mistakes, view them as training reps. Journal: What’s one recent failure, what did it teach me, and how can I apply that lesson moving forward? Conclusion: Jamie’s journey reminds us that leadership isn’t about rank, title, or perfection—it’s about responsibility, humility, and the willingness to own our actions. Through Extreme Ownership, detachment from emotion, and practical tools like the read back, she shows that anyone can step into leadership right where they are. Her message is clear: the problems we face are really leadership problems, and the solutions begin with us.

    56 分鐘
  6. 9月11日

    Karsten Williams: From Ninja Warrior to Youth Mentor – Overcoming Adversity and Building Community

    Do you ever feel like you don’t quite fit into the traditional mold—whether in sports, school, or even life? Maybe you’ve tried the “standard” path but never felt at home, and deep down you wonder if there’s something more—something uniquely yours. What if the obstacles you face aren’t there to stop you, but to reveal your true strength? And what would it look like to transform those setbacks into a platform for purpose, impact, and leadership? Today's guest, Karsten Williams, embodies that very journey. From humble beginnings to becoming an 11-time American Ninja Warrior national finalist, Karsten has proven that resilience, creativity, and grit can carry you far beyond conventional boundaries. He turned his passion for movement into not only personal success, but also a mission to inspire others through mentorship, leadership, and community. Karsten Williams is an 11-time American Ninja Warrior national finalist, elite coach, and founder of Ninja Project—a movement platform redefining youth fitness and functional entertainment. With over a decade of experience across 50+ ninja gyms and events, he’s on a mission to turn everyday people into champions through movement, mindset, and mentorship. What makes Karsten unique is not just his decorated Ninja Warrior career, but his passion for creating spaces where belonging meets possibility. He’s leading a new generation to see obstacles not as limitations, but as opportunities to grow stronger, more confident, and more resilient. His story reminds us that failure isn’t the end—it’s the very foundation of greatness. Quotes: "Always stay true to you, don’t compare yourself, and don’t try to do what others can do. They might have a unique skill set that I don’t necessarily have." "I want to create a space for those people that feel like they’re maybe underserved, can come in and have their own experience, and have someone that can love on them, pour into them, encourage them, and it’s a win for everybody." "When you do get to the top or experience that success, it’s that much more meaningful and impactful because you know what the bottom feels like." Actionable Takeaways: Turn failure into fuel. Ask yourself: Where have I let a setback define me instead of refine me? Write down one failure you’ve experienced and list three lessons you gained from it. Run your own race. Don’t copy someone else’s path. Identify one area of life where you’ve been comparing yourself to others—then outline one action that reflects your strengths and style instead. Redefine obstacles. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow. This week, reframe a personal or professional obstacle by writing how it could actually serve as preparation for a future win. Create belonging for others. Who in your circle feels “on the outside” or like they don’t have a place? Reach out and invite them into an activity, group, or conversation that builds connection. Pursue impact, not just success. Ask: If I keep going the way I am, what legacy will I leave behind? Journal about one way you can shift your daily habits from self-focus to serving others.Conclusion: Karsten’s journey reminds us that obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re invitations to grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient. From crashing on his very first Ninja Warrior course to becoming an 11-time national finalist and mentor to thousands, he proves that success is built on perseverance, humility, and the courage to run your own race. His story challenges us to see every setback as a setup for impact—and to pursue a life that inspires others to rise above their own obstacles.

    58 分鐘
  7. 9月9日

    Greg Siewers: From Paintball Prodigy to Fitness Entrepreneur – Mastering Mindset, Overcoming Adversity, and Building a Business Empire

    Are you stuck trying to figure out your next move? Maybe you’ve got the talent, the passion, and even the drive—but you’re wrestling with doubt, outside pressure, or the fear of failure. What if the real problem isn’t the obstacles in front of you, but the mindset you carry into the fight? What would it look like to bet on yourself fully—no plan B, no safety net—and actually win? Today's guest, Greg Siewers, knows that battle better than most. Known to many as the Michael Jordan of paintball, Greg turned an obsession he discovered at age nine into a professional career that took him around the world, earning multiple world championships and representing Team USA. But Greg’s story doesn’t stop with sports. He’s a serial risk-taker who carried the lessons of elite competition into entrepreneurship—building gyms from scratch, scaling them to six-figure revenues, selling them at a profit, and now launching a supplement brand with the same relentless drive. Greg Siewers is a former World Champion paintball player, multi-gym owner, and now CEO of MAPtrition Supplements. His goal is to simplify fitness and nutrition for all levels as he works toward reaching 1,000,000 people, helping them become healthier, happier, and more dangerous versions of themselves. Known as the Michael Jordan of paintball by fans of the sport, Greg has translated the mindset of elite competition into entrepreneurship—building gyms, scaling them to six-figure revenues, selling them for profit, and now creating a supplement brand rooted in integrity and performance. What makes Greg unique isn’t just his achievements—it’s the way he translates the high-pressure mindset of world-class athletics into the everyday grind of business and life. He knows what it means to silence doubt, push past resistance, and take risks others wouldn’t dare to try. And in this conversation, he shares exactly how you can apply those same principles to your own journey—whether you’re building a business, chasing a dream, or simply trying to lead yourself and others with confidence. Quotes: "If I just keep trying. As miserable as it is, it's okay if it's miserable, but if I keep trying, it'll work."  "There was no plan B. If everything burned to the ground, I'm so able and willing to work hard to build it again that it won't matter."  "No one can teach you that. So the fact that you failed and are willing to do it again, you now have a stack of undeniable proof that you are willing and able to do that thing."  Actionable Takeaways: Bet on yourself with no plan B. Ask: If I stripped away the safety nets, would I still go all in? Write down one area of your life where you’ve been holding back out of fear—and commit to a decisive action this week. Focus on the “first 10 seconds.” Like Greg visualized the opening play in paintball, break down your next big challenge into the smallest first step. What’s the single action that will get you moving forward today? Reframe failure. Instead of asking, What if I fail? ask, What would I learn if I failed—and how would I rebuild? Journal through both the worst-case and best-case outcomes of a risk you’re considering. Surround yourself with A-players. Evaluate your circle—are the people closest to you challenging you to grow, or are you the smartest person in the room? Commit to connecting with one mentor, peer, or network that’s operating at the next level. Choose purpose over noise. Identify the “signal” that actually drives your goals and cut one distraction this week—whether it’s chasing trends, busywork, or other people’s opinions.Conclusion: Greg’s journey proves that greatness isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about having the courage to step into uncertainty, commit fully, and outlast everyone else. Whether on the paintball field, in the gym, or in business, his story is a reminder that betting on yourself is the most powerful investment you can ever make.

    1 小時
  8. 9月8日

    Adam Curry: From MTV to Podcasting Pioneer – Decentralizing Media, Embracing Faith, and Shaping the Future of Broadcasting

    Are algorithms controlling your voice, your reach, and even your freedom? Have you wondered why so many leaders, creators, and even ministries struggle to connect authentically in a digital world built on distraction? This week’s guest, Adam Curry, has lived through it all—and shaped much of it. Known as the “Podfather,” Adam went from MTV VJ to pioneering podcasting, transforming how millions consume media. With an uncanny ability to “see around corners,” he’s always been ahead of the curve—whether in pirate radio, television, podcasting, or now decentralized platforms like The Godcaster. Born in Washington, DC, and raised in Amsterdam, Adam has been a trailblazer at the intersection of media and technology for over 30 years. He became a household name as an MTV VJ (1987–1993), created one of the first digital agencies (On Ramp Inc.), co-invented podcasting with Dave Winer, and later launched Podcasting 2.0 to preserve free speech and independence in media. Today, through Podcastindex.org and Godcaster.fm, Adam is pioneering platforms that empower creators, churches, and communities to reclaim their voices. He also co-hosts the award-winning No Agenda Show podcast. If you care about leadership, responsibility, and preparing the next generation to thrive in an age of noise, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Quotes: "If you really go for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, X, Twitter, Facebook or TikTok, you're really at the mercy of their system." "Podcasting was so interesting because it's completely decentralized. You have a little file that you need to serve from a web server somewhere, known as an RSS feed, and that controls your destiny." "There is no such thing as artificial intelligence. There's Almighty intelligence—that certainly exists. There is artificial intimacy. That's what these things are selling, mainly right now." Actionable Takeaways: Reclaim your voice from platforms – Don’t rely solely on centralized platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok. Explore decentralized tools such as podcasting or The Godcaster that let you own your content and control your audience connection. Practice Value-for-Value – Instead of chasing ads or algorithms, ask: How can I deliver value directly to my audience, and invite them to reciprocate? Consider small ways to implement this model in your own work, family, or community. Teach responsibility through technology – When introducing kids or students to tech, focus less on consumption and more on creation. Ask: Am I raising passive scrollers or active builders? Create small projects together—record an audio story, start a blog, or make a simple podcast. Audit your relationship with AI and media – Reflect on how much time and trust you’re giving to chatbots, algorithms, and social feeds. Where are you letting them think or feel on your behalf? Take one intentional step this week to reduce dependency—whether that’s journaling, reading scripture, or having a real conversation instead of defaulting to digital interaction. Conclusion: Adam Curry’s journey reminds us that media and technology can either enslave us to algorithms—or empower us to lead with truth, freedom, and responsibility. His story challenges us to reclaim control of our voices, embrace personal accountability, and prepare the next generation to thrive in an uncertain digital world. The tools are in our hands, but the question is: will we use them to conform to the system, or to create something that truly matters?

    1 小時 13 分鐘
4.5
(滿分 5 顆星)
38 則評分

簡介

Apogee Strong's online mentorship program was created to provide you with the ideals young men need to become strong, successful leaders among leaders. The name Apogee comes from an astronomical term meaning "summit," a homage to the life we envision for each of our participants. A life where they have the tools they need to reach the greatest heights of their potential.

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