Acta Non Verba

This week’s episode begins with my 40th birthday and reveals what I learned when I died on the operating table - twice. During our time together I will share how I discovered the gift of Adversity through a spinal injury that drove me to being bedridden, broken, and acutely aware of everything I was taking for granted. Listen in to learn why I let go of anger, learned to find gratitude for b...

This week, Michael Ostrolenk, a master coach at SEALFIT Unbeatable Mind Academy and former Director of Human Resilience. With over 30 years of experience, Michael helps high performers and leaders master resilience and optimize relationships. Marcus and Michael delve into the concept of the 'Relationship Dojo,' where couples learn to communicate and grow together by incorporating principles from m...

This week, Raul Mendez shares his harrowing experience of surviving a mass shooting in July 2022. Mendez, who took swift action despite being severely wounded, recounts the events of that night where he saved his family and others by neutralizing the shooter. The discussion emphasizes the importance of firearm preparedness and carrying a weapon responsibly. Mendez talks about the psychological aft...

This week, John A. Dailey, a veteran Marine with over 20 years in special operations and author of the memoir 'Tough Rugged Bastards.' Dailey recounts his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of actions over words. The discussion highlights Dailey's military background, insights on leadership, and the concept of achieving a flow state during high-stakes operations. Daile...

This week, Marcus shares a powerful lesson he learned from a chiropractor during his time in chiropractic school. Emphasizing the importance of 'being' rather than 'trying,' Marcus discusses how embodying the qualities of the person you aspire to become can accelerate your success. He shares actionable steps on how to align your current actions with your future goals, whether they are professional...

This week J. Jason Hicks shares insights into battling resistance, the importance of daily writing practice, and the influence of authors like Steven Pressfield. Marcus and Hicks discuss how adversity can shape our paths, the significance of authentic partnerships, and practical advice for aspiring writers. Hicks also highlights his upcoming projects and how he integrates his life experiences into...

This week Dr. Trevor Wilkins, known as the Angry Viking Therapist, discusses the impact of early life experiences on current behavior, trauma in public safety and military professions, and the importance of changing one's mental filter to overcome adversity. Dr. Wilkins shares his journey from public safety to becoming a therapist and provides insight into his intensive, specialized treatment meth...

This week Marcus Torgerson, a leadership coach and author, shares his struggles with abuse, alcoholism, and familial challenges, and how these events shaped his path to writing his book, 'Be a Man: What the Firetruck Does That Even Mean?' The conversation highlights the importance of forgiveness, self-reflection, and the power of turning personal pain into a tool for helping others. Key topics inc...

This week Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the philosophy that 'moderation is for cowards.' He highlights the importance of extreme commitment and total effort, using examples from historical warriors and modern leaders. Marcus shares actionable strategies for applying this all-in mindset to various aspects of life, such as self-defense and personal growth. He also discusses the value of prepa...

This week Rich Diviney delves into his latest work, 'The Masters of Uncertainty,' which offers strategies for managing stress and performing under pressure. Rich shares the importance of understanding and deconstructing attributes, the concept of dynamic subordination in teams, and the critical role of trust. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience behind dealing with uncertainty, the pr...

This week Lara Jones, an award-winning leadership speaker, shares her journey of overcoming significant adversity, including personal traumas and challenges, to build a multi-million dollar empire and become a competitive athlete. The discussion delves into the importance of grit, resilience, and turning negative experiences into empowering opportunities. Lara also introduces her Grit Type Indicat...

This week, Rayron Gracie, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and four-time world champion from the famous Gracie family, shares his life journey, discussing his influential family background, his love for writing, and the philosophy of living a life based on actions, not words. The conversation explores Rayron's experiences and insights gained from competing at a high level, the importance of selfle...

Understanding human nature is critical for mastery. This week I’m exploring the lessons of Robert Greene and what he can teach us about emotional states, crossroads, and getting more by doing less. Listen in as I share the most profound lessons from his books and how you can apply them to utilize the power of seduction strategy in your own life.   Robert Greene is the author of the New...

On today’s episode Chris Lee, a former Green Beret turned life and mindset coach, shares his journey from serving as an 18 Delta, a Special Forces Medic, to transitioning into a career focused on coaching high performers and purpose-driven individuals. Marcus and Chris discuss the significance of actions over words, the challenges Chris faced during his 10-year military career, and the creat...

On today’s episode Steven Pressfield shares the power of resistance and how creatives can overcome self-doubt. Listen in as Steven and I discuss the barriers we create for ourselves by giving into resistance, the excavating process of writing, and how continuing to write after success is an ongoing process of following your own compass.   Steven Pressfield is the author of The War of Ar...

This week on Acta Non Verba, Damon D'Amore, a seasoned advisor to Fortune 500 executives, shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and authenticity. With over 25 years of experience, Damon discusses the importance of self-leadership, adapting to adversity, and maintaining one's core values. He recounts his personal struggles, including a pivotal life crisis that redefined his perspective on...

This week on Acta Non Verba, Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the concept of Dharma, exploring its various meanings in religions like Sikhism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, and simplifies it to purpose and nature. By sharing leadership lessons and stories, Marcus emphasizes adapting to and anticipating behavior based on true nature, rather than trying to change it. The episode concludes with actiona...

On today’s episode, Daniele is sharing his views on Daoism, enlightenment, and radical kindness that bring greater understanding. Listen in as Daniele and I explore what happens when we romanticize the concept of religion and philosophy, how Daoism teaches you to get back up, and how creating his own understanding of actions and philosophy led to less anxiety and greater peace.   Daniel...

This week on Acta Non Verba, Adam May discusses his journey of surviving cancer, battling mental health issues, and overcoming addiction. He shares insights from his new book 'A Fox in a Bear Trap,' which emphasizes the transformative power of asking for help and healing through vulnerability. The discussion covers personal development, leadership, and the importance of actionable steps in turning...

This week on Acta Non Verba, we explore the world of music, art, and Adversity with Luis Guerra and Adrián Terrazas-González. Luis, a musician diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, shares his journey of integrating therapies and his creation, 'Breathe Into Life,' dedicated to holistic well-being. Grammy-winning musician Adrián Terrazas-González, who also battled cancer, di...

This week on Acta Non Verba, I’m discussing the common practice of making New Year's resolutions, citing that 80% of people fail within two weeks. Rather than repeating the cycle, I have four transformational questions to help leaders align their goals with their vision and purpose. This episode provides an insight into the philosophies, tactics, and strategies used by successful leaders to...

In this episode Dr. Megan McElheran, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with uniformed service personnel delves into Dr. McElheran's development of upstream training programs aimed at preparing military and public safety professionals to manage stress before it becomes overwhelming. Marcus and Dr. McElheran explore the concepts of post-traumatic growth, the importance...

In this episode Marcus Aurelius Anderson delves into the theme of endurance, drawing lessons from historical and contemporary figures. He discusses the incredible resilience of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew during the Trans Antarctic Expedition, and highlights how modern-day warriors like Juan Pablo Quiñonez and Dean Stott overcame extreme challenges through endurance. Marcus outlines...

In this episode Juan Pablo Quiñonez, winner of the ninth season of the survival TV series 'Alone,’ shares his unique approach to wilderness survival, resilience, and embracing adversity. Raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, and trained with the French Foreign Legion, Juan Pablo discusses his journey from a love for nature to surviving solo for 78 days in the subarctic lands of Labrador. The conversation...

In this episode Dean Stott, a former British Special Forces soldier, world record-setting cyclist, and mindset coach discusses his journey from the military to private security and achieving a world record in cycling. Dean shares his views on the importance of adaptability, the danger of stagnation, and the necessity of pushing out of one’s comfort zone. Key highlights include his charitable effor...