Victoria on Being a Communism Survivor, How Bullying Changed Her Life, Ideological Blind Spots in Academia, and Critical Thinking in the Digital Age

In this episode, Marcus Aurelius Anderson discusses the popular advice 'never meet your heroes' and why he believes it is overly simplistic and often misleading. Drawing from his own experiences as a leadership coach, author, and speaker, Marcus shares the lessons he learned from meeting his heroes, such as the co-founder of Quest Nutrition, Stephen Pressfield, and other prominent entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of seeing heroes as humans, not placing them on pedestals, and understanding that success requires hard work, not handouts. Marcus provides actionable advice on how to approach meeting your heroes and underscores the need for focused action and dedication to achieve personal success.   Episode Highlights: 00:47 Why 'Never Meet Your Heroes' is Bad Advice 01:46 Personal Experiences with Heroes 02:54 Advice on Meeting Your Heroes 05:08 Actionable Steps for Personal Growth   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Donovan joins me to discuss what it means to be a man and defining true masculinity. During our conversation Jack and I explore who to trust, the fear of masculinity tied to protection, and how duty is tied to identity. Jack also dives into the concept of toxic masculinity and how to address it in everyday life.   Jack Donovan is the author of The Way of Men — a straightforward, politically incorrect theory of masculinity that became an underground hit around the world.   You can learn more about Jack here: https://www.jack-donovan.com/   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, former Green Beret Chris Lee discusses his new book 'Legacy Forged', designed to help people through intentional planning, identity shifts, and strategic goal setting. The conversation explores the importance of daily consistent actions, overcoming adversity, leveraging meditation and rest for heightened performance, and the practical use of AI in boosting productivity and decision-making. Listeners will gain valuable insights into transforming intentions into actions and fostering self-mastery through rigorous yet attainable protocols.   Episode Highlights: 03:42 The Importance of Progress Over Perfection 11:50 The Art of Recovery and Rest 26:38 Gratitude and Mindset Shifts 29:55 The Pursuit of Validation 31:39 Shifting Motivations 36:01 AI in Everyday Tasks 38:04 The Future of AI and Entertainment 41:34 The Importance of Adaptation 52:12 Commitment to Consistency   Chris Lee is a former Green Beret turned high-performance coach and business consultant who helps driven individuals and organizations operate at elite levels. With over a decade of service as an 18D Special Forces Medical Sergeant, Chris brings deep expertise in leadership, resilience, and decision-making under pressure. Today, he uses that experience to guide high-achievers in unlocking their full potential, strengthening their mindset, and building legacies that endure. Whether working with executives, teams, or entrepreneurs, Chris is committed to helping others lead with clarity, perform with purpose, and rise to their next level of excellence.   Connect with Chris on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/coach_chris.lee/ Purchase “Legacy Forged” here: https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Forged-90-Day-Command-Discipline/dp/B0F844XH75   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Victoria, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union who has built a successful practice in nutrition and health discusses the themes of resilience, Adversity, and the philosophy of living a life based on actions over words. The conversation spans a wide array of topics including personal growth, political ideologies, the shortcomings of modern education, the influence of big pharma and big food, and the importance of free speech. Victoria shares her personal journey, from her difficult childhood to her success in the U.S., offering insights into the challenges she faced and how they shaped her mindset.   Episode Highlights: 02:25 Victoria's Journey from the Soviet Union 15:55 Experiences of Communism and Immigration 22:06 Challenges of Assimilation and Cultural Differences 52:16 The Influence of Social Media 57:57 Parenting and Societal Changes 01:09:45 Historical Parallels and Modern Consequences 01:26:37 Education and Media's Role in Society 01:31:28 Critique of DEI and Identity Politics 01:32:22 The Importance of Free Speech 01:32:27 Censorship and Social Media 01:37:58 The Role of Media and Misinformation   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you’re paralyzed you learn to true value of things. In this episode I’m diving into what it means to be at your lowest and the hard-hitting questions to ask yourself in order to move forward. I’m also sharing how Adversity is critical for anyone who wants to reach their full potential.   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mindset is only part of the equation to finally stop chasing motivation. This week on Acta Non Verba Sal Di Stefano shares why short-term diets and “hard-core” fitness methods are not sustainable and how you can strategically rebuild relationship with physical health one step at a time. During this conversation Sal and I will discuss micro adversity, how restriction sets you up for failure, and how his understanding of science has changed the way he communicates fitness and health to others.   Sal was 14 years old when he touched his first weight and from that moment he was hooked. Growing up asthmatic, frequently sick and painfully skinny, Sal saw weightlifting as a way to change his body and his self-image. At age 18 his passion for the art and science of resistance training was so consuming that he decided to make it his profession and become a personal trainer. By 19 he was managing health clubs and by 22 he owned his own gym. After over 18 years as a personal trainer he has dedicated himself to bringing science and TRUTH to the fitness industry. Sal is also a dedicated father to a son and daughter.   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode, Sydnee Faulkner shares her journey from rural Alaska to thriving in fitness, fashion, and medical sales, highlighting the importance of actions over words. Marcus and Sydnee discuss topics such as embracing one's duality, self-love, handling high-pressure situations with grace, the significance of rest and self-care, and the challenges of breaking free from societal expectations. Sydnee also delves into her personal battles with self-image and how overcoming adversity has shaped her mission to inspire and lead others.   Episode Highlights: 04:52 Balancing Ambition and Self-Care 10:11 Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Adversity 23:15 Struggles with Self-Image and Eating Disorders 24:26 Journey to Self-Love and Body Positivity 25:59 Balancing Health and Fitness Goals 26:46 Lessons from Competing and Coaching   Sydnee Falkner is dedicated to empowering women to embrace self-love and achieve healthy lifestyles. Her own journey of transformation—both physical and mental—has shaped her passion for helping others. Struggling with body image and self-worth growing up, Sydnee found strength through weight training, nourishing her body, and working with coaches. This process helped her cultivate a strong sense of self and a clear vision for her future. Now, Sydnee’s mission is to guide women, whether they’re just starting or already on their journey, to fall in love with themselves and become the confident, strong individuals they’ve always dreamed of being.   Learn more about Syndee and her services here: https://www.sydliana.com/   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 both positive and negative experiences, and how you can snap yourself out of the slumber of mediocrity.   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 martial arts, playfulness, and self-awareness. The discussion also covers the importance of emotional safety, circadian rhythms, and the interplay between physiological and psychological wellness in personal and professional relationships.   Episode Highlights: 03:42 The Impact of Circadian Rhythms and External Factors 11:52 The Relationship Dojo: Training for Love and Connection 39:51 The Role of Play in Learning and Relationships 44:41 Morning and Evening Rituals for Couples 01:04:18 Emotional Safety and Masculine-Feminine Dynamics   Michael Ostrolenk, MA, MFT, is a Master Coach with over 30 years of experience specializing in resilience, leadership, and elite performance. He has worked with former special operators, executive leaders, and high-performing individuals to help them master self-leadership, expand resilience, and unlock peak potential. Michael integrates psychological, physiological, and tactical disciplines into a holistic system that supports growth across mind, body, spirit, and relationships. Known for his multidisciplinary expertise and grounded presence, he empowers clients to deepen self-awareness, optimize performance, and live with greater purpose and clarity in every area of life.   You can connect with him here: https://www.michaeldostrolenk.com/   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 aftermath of the incident, the vital role of training, and the impact of his story on promoting self-defense awareness.   Episode Highlights: 29:00 Facing Fears and Preparing for the Future 29:34 Emotional Challenges and Tough Love 32:58 Media Attention and Social Media Challenges 36:01 Advocating for Gun Rights 42:18 The Importance of Self-Defense    Raul Mendez is a mass shooting survivor, a husband, and a proud advocate for the Second Amendment. Born and raised in California, Raul moved to Arizona in 2009 in pursuit of a better life. A lifelong supporter of the right to bear arms, he is a trained and responsibly armed citizen who used his firearm in self-defense to save lives during a violent attack. Today, Raul shares his story to raise awareness and remind others of the importance of protecting our constitutional freedoms. He stands as living proof that responsible gun ownership can make all the difference. You can connect with him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ga110_ent   Learn more about the gift of Adversity and my mission to help my fellow humans create a better world by heading to www.marcusaureliusanderson.com. There you can take action by joining my ANV inner circle to get exclusive content and information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.