Earned, Not Given | The Real Story Behind Elite Success

In this no-excuses, fire-filled episode of The Burn Podcast, Ben Newman brings the heat by combining two of the most powerful messages we’ve ever released.First: Lock the Gates.Ben shares the life-changing mindset shift that came from one simple but powerful principle: YOU have the power to lock YOUR gates. That means protecting your peace, guarding your standards, and refusing to let negativity or distractions inside. When Ben started applying this, everything changed—focus sharpened, relationships leveled up, and results skyrocketed.Second: What Have YOU Done for 5 Years Straight?Too many people quit when it gets hard. They crave speed but lack staying power. Ben challenges YOU to ask the tough question: Have YOU done anything long enough, consistently enough, to earn greatness? Because if YOU haven’t put in 5 years—don’t complain about not having 5-year results.This episode might inspire YOU, piss YOU off, or finally ignite that fire that’s been waiting to burn through YOUR excuses.Whichever it is—don’t just listen. Act.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zvALBf203dI🎧 Listen here: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coaching: https://www.workwithbnc.com🔥 BIG AS TEXAS Bootcamp 2025: https://bennewman.net/texas-boot-camp/Get Ben’s latest book The STANDARD:  https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1stWork directly with Ben: https://www.bennewmancoaching.comConnect with Ben Newman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693https://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

This week on The Burn Podcast, we revisit one of the most unforgettable and soul-stirring episodes we’ve ever released—our powerful conversation with John O’Leary, a man whose story will stop YOU in your tracks and reignite YOUR perspective on pain, purpose, and possibility.At just 9 years old, John was burned on 100% of his body. No one thought he’d survive the night. But he did. And not only did he survive—he turned that tragedy into a mission to inspire millions.John doesn’t ask “Why me?” with pity—he flips the script and challenges YOU to live as a VICTOR, not a victim. He reminds us that no matter the fire YOU face in life, YOU have a choice: to shrink from it or to rise through it with purpose and passion.With his story now coming to life in the upcoming major motion picture Soul on Fire—starring Joel Courtney, John Corbett, and William H. Macy, and hitting theaters October 10, 2025—there’s no better time to revisit this message of resilience, faith, and unshakable hope.🎬 Soul on Fire, directed by Sean McNamara and based on John’s bestselling book On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, will move hearts and awaken spirits around the world.John O’Leary is also the author of:📘 On Fire: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life → https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Choices-Ignite-Radically-Inspired-ebook/dp/B010MH1GG2?ref_=ast_author_mpb📘 In Awe: Rediscover Your Childlike Wonder to Unleash Inspiration, Meaning, and Joy → https://www.amazon.com/Awe-Rediscover-Childlike-Unleash-Inspiration-ebook/dp/B07W8D2T69?ref_=ast_author_dpThis episode will challenge YOU to look at YOUR struggles differently… to stop asking “Why me?” and start living BOLDLY through them.Because sometimes YOUR greatest pain can become YOUR greatest platform.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1oYRSAhx3Q🎧 Listen here: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coaching: https://www.workwithbnc.com🔥 BIG AS TEXAS Bootcamp 2025: https://bennewman.net/texas-boot-camp/Get Ben’s latest book The STANDARD:  https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1stWork directly with Ben: https://www.bennewmancoaching.comConnect with Ben Newman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693https://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

In this special episode of The Burn Podcast, we bring you three incredible conversations that dive deep into leadership, discipline, and growth—on and off the field.We begin with Alexander Martin, whose journey in student-athlete development and player engagement at the University of Miami is built on transitions, relationships, and a commitment to serving others. Alexander shares how unexpected opportunities shaped his career and how investing in people can lead to the most powerful wins.Next, we sit down with Jerry Rice, the GOAT of wide receivers, to uncover the mindset that made him great. Jerry breaks down how preparation, consistency, and setting high standards fueled a legendary NFL career—and how YOU can apply those same principles in YOUR life.Finally, Coach Scott Cochran, one of the most influential voices in strength and conditioning, shares how he helped build powerhouse programs at Alabama and Georgia. But this conversation goes deeper—into his personal battle with addiction, his path to healing, and his passion for developing young athletes through connection and communication.If YOU are looking to elevate YOUR standard, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration from three powerful leaders who live it every day.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/qsoDoLA8UyY🎧 Listen here: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coaching: https://www.workwithbnc.com🔥 BIG AS TEXAS Bootcamp 2025: https://bennewman.net/texas-boot-camp/Get Ben’s latest book The STANDARD:  https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1stWork directly with Ben: https://www.bennewmancoaching.comConnect with Ben Newman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693https://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

In this powerful compilation episode of The Burn Podcast, Ben Newman brings together the voices of three extraordinary women who are driving transformation in the world and helping others unlock the best version of themselves.Dawn Harper-Nelson—Olympic gold and silver medalist—kicks off this episode with her raw and honest journey from injury to international triumph. Dawn opens up about what it takes to develop a true champion mindset and why adversity is often the greatest teacher. Now a mindset speaker and coach, she shares how facing fears, embracing pressure, and staying rooted in purpose have helped her not only win on the track but win in life. Her burn? It’s that relentless drive to push past limits and help others rise.Jen Gottlieb—former VH1 host turned top motivational speaker and co-founder of Superconnector Media—shares how her career evolved through the power of daily discipline and intentional discomfort. Jen dives into how connecting with purpose and people through her HOPE framework has created exponential growth in both her business and her confidence. With real stories and actionable tools, Jen’s burn is fueled by showing others how to manifest results through daily commitment—not just dreaming.Angie Wisdom, Master Certified Coach and author of The Non-Negotiable YOU, closes the episode with a powerful message on self-leadership. Angie reveals how carving out space for YOUR non-negotiables transforms how you show up—for yourself and for others. With over 25 years of business experience and elite coaching credentials, she shares insights on mastering discipline, aligning actions with values, and building a foundation that sustains long-term success. Her burn is helping people become the leader they’ve always needed.This episode is a celebration of courage, discipline, and the belief that one decision—one burn—can change the trajectory of your life.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------🔥 Connect with the guests:Dawn Harper-NelsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/dharp100mhJen GottliebWebsite: https://www.jengottlieb.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_gottliebAngie WisdomWebsite: https://angiewisdom.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/angiewisdomlifecoach----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dBqH50VRUwE🎧 Listen here: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coahttps://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

In this powerful and emotional compilation episode of The Burn Podcast, Ben Newman brings together the unshakable stories of three elite athletes who rewrote the narrative of their lives—not by believing the facts, but by living their TRUTH. This episode is about what separates those who accept limitations from those who overcome them. It’s about what fuels greatness when the world tells YOU that YOU aren’t enough.We start with NFL Hall of Fame cornerback Aeneas Williams, who didn’t even play college football until his junior year. The same coach who gave him a shot also told him he’d never play in the NFL because he was too slow. That was a fact. But Aeneas didn’t accept that as TRUTH. He trained with everything he had, turned the impossible into a career, and became one of the greatest to ever do it. His story proves that what matters most isn’t what others say about YOU—it’s what YOU believe about YOURSELF.Next, we hear from Andrew Whitworth, Super Bowl champion and 2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year. Known as much for his leadership and impact off the field as for his long-standing excellence on it, “Big Whit” is the definition of sustained greatness. For nearly two decades, he brought discipline, toughness, and heart to the NFL. Andrew shares what it means to be consistent at the highest level, to lead with purpose, and to never take a single rep for granted.Finally, we spotlight Antoine Bethea, who knows firsthand what it feels like to be overlooked. Too short. Too small. Too light. That’s what recruiters said. On National Signing Day in 2002, he had zero D1 or D2 offers. But instead of folding, he walked on at Howard University, bet on himself, and built a career that included a Super Bowl ring and three Pro Bowl appearances. Antoine’s journey is living proof that when YOU stop listening to the noise and lean into YOUR burn, there is no ceiling to what YOU can accomplish.This episode is about defying expectations. It’s about betting on YOURSELF. It’s about understanding the difference between the facts and the TRUTH—and choosing to chase greatness no matter what stands in your way.Don’t let the world define YOUR limits. YOU define YOUR legacy. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kGrVj5pc3S4🎧 Listen here: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coaching: https://www.workwithbnc.com🔥 BIG AS TEXAS Bootcamp 2025: https://bennewman.net/texas-boot-camp/Get Ben’s latest book The STANDARD:  https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1stWork directly with Ben: https://www.bennewmancoaching.comhttps://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

In this powerhouse compilation episode of The Burn Podcast, Ben Newman brings together three iconic guests—Trent Shelton, Justin Gatlin, and Phil Heath—each of whom redefines what it means to chase greatness.First, Trent Shelton opens up about his journey from NFL hopeful to global motivator. He shares the pressure, pain, and pivotal turning point that led him to mindfulness and authenticity. His story is a call to Protect YOUR Peace and stay grounded in WHO YOU are, even in a chaotic world.Next, Olympic gold medalist Justin Gatlin reflects on a sprinting career filled with victories, controversy, and comebacks. From his early dreams to becoming one of the most decorated athletes in history, Justin shares the mental fortitude it takes to stay focused at the top—and how he’s now passing that mindset to the next generation, including Ben’s own daughter, Kennedy Rose.Finally, we revisit the intense discipline and self-mastery of Phil Heath, seven-time Mr. Olympia. Phil gets real about what it takes to build a champion’s body and mind, revealing the inner battles that forged his legacy. This is more than muscle—it’s about mindset, meticulous execution, and a relentless pursuit of YOUR best.This episode is a raw, unfiltered reminder that true champions are made not just in the arena—but in the shadows, the struggle, and the stillness.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Trent's New Book--- https://amzn.to/3tLiBaT-------------------------------------------------------------------------GET JUSTIN'S NEW BOOK- READY. SET. GO.https://amzn.to/46CgO6Z-------------------------------------------------------------------------Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/m2h3enRItB8Listen on all platforms: https://www.theburnpodcast.com************************************Learn about upcoming events and coaching: https://www.workwithbnc.com🔥 BIG AS TEXAS Bootcamp 2025: https://bennewman.net/texas-boot-camp/Get Ben’s latest book The STANDARD:  https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1stWork directly with Ben: https://www.bennewmancoaching.comConnect with Ben Newman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693https://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693

“Too short”, “too light”, “too small”… that’s what they said about Antoine Bethea when National signing day rolled around in 2002.Not a single Division 1 or Division 2 offer.At 5’11” and 170lbs, college recruiters weren’t looking at what he DID have instead of what he didn’t…AB went to walk on at Howard University and betting on himself paid off as he grew into play in the NFL and become a Super Bowl Champion and 3x Pro Bowler.Antoine and I recently connected down at PAC and hit it off instantly. What he has done on and off the field is nothing short of remarkable.His story is truly shows the POWER the underdog holds when they bet on themselves.Full episode live on YouTube and all podcast platforms.Get Antoine's book here: https://antoinebethea.com/ab41-store/https://www.bennewmancoaching.com************************************ Learn about our Upcoming events and programs:https://www.workwithbnc.comLet’s work TOGETHER https://www.bennewmancoaching.comLet's work together to write YOUR next book- BNC PublishingSend us a message Order my latest book The STANDARD: Winning at YOUR Highest Level: https://amzn.to/3DE1clY1st Phorm | The Foundation of High Performance Nutrition1stPhorm.com/bnewman Connect with me everywhere else: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/continuedfight Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Continuedfight/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ContinuedFight Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-newman-b0b693