Matt Griffin: The Power of Vulnerability - A First Responder's Guide to Emotional Resilience

Feeling stuck can be frustrating, especially when it seems like everyone else is moving forward with ease. Working harder often feels like the answer, but without the right direction, it just leads to exhaustion instead of progress. Real breakthroughs come from learning the right things at the right time and surrounding yourself with people who challenge and support you. Success isn’t just about effort—it’s about knowing where to focus that effort so it actually moves you forward.Eric Wilson is a versatile professional with experience in coaching, business development, and outdoor pursuits. As the host of the Do Not Go Quietly podcast, he interviews experts in hunting, business, and personal growth. With a background in football coaching, medical sales, and consulting for plastic surgeons, Wilson is passionate about transformation through persistence and challenge. Today, he shares insights on leadership, team building, and personal development. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “If you can outlast others or are willing to do something difficult, you'll surpass 90% of people. Most won't attempt it because it's hard, or they’ll give up when it gets tough and discouraging.” – Eric Wilson“A mission statement isn't just something you write on a plaque and hang on the wall. It should serve as your map and be concise enough for people to understand.” – Eric Wilson“No amount of money is worth being in a situation where you don’t love or at least enjoy being.” – Eric Wilson“All the best leaders I know—and the ones I learn from and pay attention to—are voracious learners. They are also followers in a sense, seeking guidance and counsel from others they respect.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Schedule 30 minutes each morning for personal growth - read, pray, exercise, or learn a new skill before checking emails or starting work.Interview potential team members using STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to uncover true problem-solving abilities and cultural fit.Create a clear, actionable mission statement that guides decision-making and can help team members make choices even when leadership isn't present.Identify 2-3 mentors in different areas of life who embody the values and success you want to achieve and actively seek their guidance.Challenge yourself quarterly with a new skill or experience outside your comfort zone to maintain mental sharpness and personal development.Conclusion:The most effective professionals prioritize continuous learning, stay focused on their core mission, and invest in people who drive results. They recognize the importance of supporting top performers while quickly addressing areas that hold the team back. Progress isn’t about working harder but about making smart, decisive choices that move the needle. Success comes from balancing high standards with the ability to adapt and improve along the way.

When men grow up without clear role models or a sense of purpose, they’re left to navigate life without a map. The result is frustration, uncertainty, and a quiet struggle to figure out where they fit in a world that often tells them they’re either too much or not enough. Strength isn’t about aggression, and confidence isn’t about dominance—real masculinity comes from knowing who you are and standing firm in it. Reclaiming that means tuning out the noise, finding mentors who challenge and support growth, and building a life rooted in discipline, integrity, and self-respect.Adam Allred, an entrepreneur, speaker, and social media influencer, is known for his candid take on masculinity and personal growth. Raised in a military family, his adaptability and communication skills helped him build multiple businesses, including a garbage company he sold for $3.5 million. Today, he shares insights on the challenges modern men face, reflecting on his experiences in door-to-door sales, business success, and navigating relationships. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Life isn't happening to you, it's happening for you. Whatever happens is a blessing.” – Adam Allred“Weakness cannot exist in a power evolving universe, and so there's no place for weakness here. Complacency is death.” – Adam Allred“The greatest threat right now to society is weak masculinity, and we have to own that. We can't blame it on women. We can't blame it on our problems. This is a man issue.” – Adam Allred“The default setting of a human being is to seek challenges and tackle hard things. When they started walking, no one had to encourage them—they just went for it. They'd fall, get back up, and keep going.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Commit to never quitting when facing challenges, using setbacks as opportunities to develop personal character and resilience.Practice switching between different "masculinity hats" by being intentional about your energy and approach in various life roles (husband, father, entrepreneur).Identify and challenge societal programming that limits your potential, focusing on continuous self-improvement and authentic personal growth.Have honest, open conversations with your children about real-world challenges, supporting their individual passions without forcing conformity.Set clear boundaries in relationships, understanding that respect matters more than being "nice" - be willing to walk away if core values are consistently disrespected.Conclusion:Real masculinity isn’t defined by meeting outside expectations but by having the courage to grow, stand by one's principles, and contribute to others without losing a sense of identity. It requires discipline, accountability, and the strength to make difficult but necessary choices. A man who respects himself and his values doesn’t seek approval—he builds a life rooted in purpose and conviction. In the end, true strength comes not from dominance or validation, but from the quiet confidence of knowing who you are and what you stand for.

Stepping into the role of a first responder means proving yourself in ways most people never have to. It requires pushing past doubt, staying sharp under pressure, and committing to the kind of preparation that turns split-second decisions into instinct. Courage doesn’t appear out of nowhere—it’s built through relentless effort, failure, and the choice to keep going when giving up would be easier. The ones who succeed are the ones who refuse to let obstacles decide their limits.Becca Mangan, a firefighter paramedic with Dallas Fire Rescue, comes from a family of first responders and found her passion for the job through CrossFit. Hired in 2021, she now works across ambulances, fire engines, and as a hazmat technician. Today, she shares her journey into firefighting, highlighting the challenges and rewards of the job. She also offers advice for young women interested in emergency services, emphasizing resilience, strength, and dedication in the field. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Motivation is fleeting, but discipline is where you see the results. It's where you see the long-term benefits of things.” – Becca Mangan“Always remember, it's not your emergency. If you keep in mind that this is someone else's urgency, you can respond professionally while maintaining that perspective.” – Becca Mangan“Your preparedness aligns with your opportunity. If you’ve done the work to prepare and are placed in a position to seize that opportunity, you’ll usually feel confident.” – Becca ManganTakeaways:Memorize 3-5 critical phone numbers without relying on your smartphone, ensuring you can contact help in any emergency situation.Practice identifying exit routes in every new environment you enter, from schools to shopping centers, to build situational awareness.Sign up for a local CPR certification class to gain practical life-saving skills that could potentially save someone's life.Shadow or interview a professional in a career you're curious about, learning directly from their real-world experiences and challenges.Create a family emergency plan that assigns specific roles and responsibilities to each family member during a potential crisis.Conclusion:A smooth career transition isn’t just about acquiring new skills—it demands a strong mindset, adaptability, and the discipline to keep moving forward despite uncertainty. Those who succeed are willing to step outside their comfort zones, stay patient through setbacks, and commit to continuous learning. True progress comes from balancing strategic planning with the flexibility to adjust when circumstances change. With the right preparation and persistence, any career shift can become an opportunity for lasting growth and fulfillment.

The obsession with productivity can become a trap—always chasing the next hack, the next milestone, the next proof of progress. At some point, the grind stops being about growth and starts feeling like a cage, where rest feels like failure and busyness replaces real achievement. The irony is that pushing harder doesn’t always lead to better results; sometimes, it just leads to burnout. Real success isn’t about how much you do—it’s about whether what you’re doing actually moves you forward.Craig Ballantyne, known as the World’s Most Disciplined Man, is an entrepreneur, author, and business coach specializing in personal development and productivity. He created the Turbulence Training fitness system, owns EarlyToRise.com, and wrote The Dark Side of Discipline and The Perfect Day Formula. Today, he talks about the importance of tackling “level 10 problems”—the biggest challenges in life—rather than getting lost in excessive discipline. He explains how rigid routines can sometimes become a distraction from real growth and success. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Discipline can be your savior up to a point, but there is a fine line where it can turn into your master. Once crossed, it stops serving you, and instead, you find yourself serving it.” – Craig Ballantyne“The ultimate definition of discipline is putting a level 10 effort into your level 10 problem.” – Craig Ballantyne“Make the world play by your rules. Don't play by the world's rules.” – Craig Ballantyne“We often get lost by focusing on how we look, how we're addressed, and how we signal to others. But it's much more about reinforcing who I am. It's not just about being physically comfortable—though that's important—but also about achieving psychological comfort.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Identify your top 3 level 10 problems and commit to giving them focused, intentional energy this week.Create a personal narrative that sets clear boundaries, helping you say no to requests that don't align with your core values.Check your daily habits: Are you sacrificing great opportunities by getting stuck on good but less impactful activities?Write out your 3-5 year vision with specific details about your ideal life, using it as a filter for making decisions.Spend 30 minutes this week reflecting on your personal identity - what standards define who you are and want to become?Conclusion:Real success comes from setting clear priorities, staying true to personal values, and not letting outside noise dictate your path. Those who learn to say no to distractions and short-term validation can focus on what truly matters. Every decision should reflect a larger vision rather than a reaction to external expectations. The people who achieve the most are the ones who stay disciplined, think long-term, and refuse to be swayed by fleeting pressures.Pre-order Craig's NEW book Here! - The Dark Side of Discipline

Clothing has always been more than just fabric—it’s a statement, a reflection of who someone is before they even open their mouth. In a time when masculinity feels constantly debated and redefined, style becomes a way to take control of that narrative. It’s not about chasing trends or dressing to impress others; it’s about wearing something that aligns with confidence, purpose, and self-respect. The right look doesn’t just turn heads—it reinforces who you are and how you carry yourself in the world.Tanner Guzy, a men's style expert and author, teaches men how to use clothing as a form of self-expression. Through his book The Appearance of Power and his platform Masculine Style, he explores the psychology behind personal style. A father of seven, boxer, and coach, he emphasizes intentionality in both appearance and personal growth. Today, he speaks about how style influences leadership and identity, showing that dressing well isn’t just about fashion—it’s about confidence and purpose. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “From a parenting perspective, more is caught than taught. If I want my kids to challenge themselves, take on hard tasks, and step out of their comfort zones, it won't matter how often I tell them to do so if they don't see me doing the same.’” – Tanner Guzy“I teach men to use their clothing and appearance as a visual language, helping them become as articulate with their style as they are with their words and writing.” – Tanner Guzy“Bad men use their appearance to deceive others about who they are. Weak men use it to conceal who they are. But the ultimate goal is to live a life that genuinely reflects who you are.” – Tanner Guzy“We often get lost by focusing on how we look, how we're addressed, and how we signal to others. But it's much more about reinforcing who I am. It's not just about being physically comfortable—though that's important—but also about achieving psychological comfort.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Spend 30 minutes analyzing your current wardrobe and identify one piece that truly represents your authentic self, then replace something that feels inauthentic or disconnected from your identity.Practice giving genuine, specific compliments about style to three different people this week - men or women - to build social confidence and awareness.Reflect on your personal archetypes by taking Tanner's style quiz and understanding how your clothing can signal your internal values and aspirations.Challenge yourself to incrementally upgrade one aspect of your appearance each month, focusing on psychological comfort over trend-chasing.Create a mood board or digital collection of style inspirations from people you respect in your professional or personal spheres, identifying what specific elements resonate with your personal growth goals.Conclusion:Personal style is more than just clothing—it reflects confidence, identity, and how one moves through the world. The way we present ourselves can shape first impressions, influence interactions, and even reinforce our own mindset. Dressing with intention isn’t about following trends but about aligning outward appearance with inner values. When style is approached with purpose, it becomes a tool for both self-expression and personal growth.

The weight of the job can be crushing—long hours, constant trauma, and the unspoken expectation to stay strong no matter what. For many first responders, the pressure builds silently until it feels unbearable, leaving them trapped in isolation and despair. Hitting rock bottom isn’t just a personal crisis; it’s a breaking point that forces a choice—give in to the darkness or fight for something better. The path to healing isn’t easy, but it starts with breaking the silence, finding support, and realizing that strength isn’t about suppressing pain—it’s about confronting it. No one should have to fight that battle alone.Matt Griffin, a former Navy rescue swimmer and police officer, transitioned into public speaking and sales after law enforcement. His book, The Journey to Midnight, details his battles with trauma, suicide, and recovery. After losing his partner to suicide and enduring a tough divorce while raising four sons, he became a mental health advocate. Today, he speaks about his first responder experiences, the need for mental health support in law enforcement, and his journey from suicidal thoughts to motivational speaking. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Depression fights dirty and doesn't fight fair. We've had to fight fair our whole life, and now it's time to fight back.’” – Matt Griffin“Your identity isn't tied to the badge, what's in your wallet, or your rank. It's tied to the type of person you are and the way you treat others.” – Matt Griffin“We can use comparison in two ways. You can torture yourself with it, or you can use it as a teacher.” – Matt Griffin“If you can be really good at something, you can almost always figure out how to transfer it to what you want to be really good at.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Do a weekly "real talk" session with your family/team where you share one personal struggle or vulnerability to create deeper connection and trust.Challenge yourself to do one intentional act of kindness daily - not for recognition, but as a personal commitment to growth and serving others.Audit your current identity: Are you defining yourself by your job title or by the genuine impact you're making in people's lives?Create a 30-day personal accountability plan focused on mental health - could include therapy, journaling, or specific wellness goals.Identify one unresolved trauma or emotional block and commit to addressing it through professional support or structured healing process.Conclusion:Real resilience isn’t built on status or past success, but on the courage to be honest with ourselves, learn from our experiences, and show up for others in meaningful ways. It comes from acknowledging our struggles without letting them define us and using what we’ve learned to uplift those around us. Strength grows when we choose reflection over avoidance and purpose over ego. The most impactful leaders aren’t the ones who appear invincible, but those who embrace their humanity and use it to create lasting change.

Masculinity today is often caught between outdated stereotypes and shifting societal expectations, leaving many young men uncertain about their place in the world. The pressure to conform—to be either hyper-aggressive or completely passive—makes it difficult to develop a sense of true purpose. But real strength isn’t about fitting into a mold; it’s about embracing responsibility, self-mastery, and integrity. In a culture that often discourages strong, principled men, forging your own path requires courage, resilience, and a willingness to stand firm in who you are.Ryan Michler is the founder of Order of Man, a platform focused on men’s personal growth and leadership. He’s written Sovereignty and the Masculinity Manifesto, tackling self-leadership and responsibility. His Order of Man podcast features conversations with leaders, athletes, and high achievers on growth and masculinity. Today, he emphasizes self-leadership, how AI shapes personal and professional development, and why men must build strong networks for success. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “Rock bottom is simply when you stop digging. Rock bottom is when you decide, ‘You know what, I'm going to put the shovel down, I'm going to stop digging because this hole is not working for me.’” – Ryan Michler“Strong people can suffer longer than weak people, which means we can exacerbate the problem and exponentially make it worse because we can tough it out mentally and emotionally.” – Ryan Michler“A man needs two things: a framework and a network. These are the two essentials every man needs to thrive in life.” – Ryan Michler“Most men say what they wish they believed and don't have the heart to stick with it. They don't stay long enough to see a dream through, and that alone is a big deal.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Audit your current network. Identify three successful individuals who challenge your thinking and can hold you accountable, then schedule a coffee meeting or call with each of them in the next 30 days.Experiment with AI as a productivity tool. Choose one professional or personal task this week and use an AI platform to help streamline your process, tracking how it saves you time and enhances your output.Practice radical empathy by finding one opportunity each day to serve someone without judgment. This could mean helping an elderly neighbor, holding a door, or listening to someone's story without offering immediate advice.Create a personal "framework of virtue" by writing down 3-5 core principles that guide your decision-making. Review these monthly and assess how consistently you're living them across different areas of your life.Challenge your comfort zone by saying "yes" to one unexpected experience or opportunity this month that pushes your personal growth boundaries, whether it's a skill, event, or conversation you'd typically avoid.Conclusion:Redefining masculinity means taking ownership of your actions, striving for growth, and breaking free from outdated expectations. Strength isn't just physical or financial—it comes from character, discipline, and a commitment to self-improvement. Rather than viewing technology and personal growth as separate paths, they can work together to expand opportunities and sharpen skills. True leadership starts with mastering oneself before trying to guide others. A well-rounded man builds his future with intention, integrity, and a willingness to adapt.

It’s easy to feel stuck, going through the motions while the weight of expectations keeps piling on. The pressure to succeed, provide, and fit into a predefined mold can make life feel more like an obligation than an adventure. But real fulfillment doesn’t come from following a script—it comes from redefining success on your own terms. When a man shifts from passive endurance to intentional action, life stops feeling like a trap and starts feeling like a mission worth pursuing.Harrison Schenk is an entrepreneur, father, and thought leader based in Raleigh, North Carolina. He runs “Save Your Sons,” a brand helping men reclaim masculinity and build purposeful lives. A former law student turned startup employee, he became a full-time entrepreneur, coaching men through his online incubator program. With a strong social media presence, he shares insights on fatherhood, business, and personal growth. Today, he discusses his journey to independence, balancing business with family, staying consistent in entrepreneurship, and the role of faith and personal sovereignty in achieving lasting success. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “If you're not getting better, if you're not moving forward, you're slowly dying. The purpose of life, as I see it, is to improve everything every day.” – Harrison Schenk“As long as I can think and use my brain, and I'm able-bodied, I know I'll make it happen.” – Harrison Schenk“Until you sell that first thing and prove that people want to buy what you can do, you don't have anything.” – Harrison Schenk“There are other people out there who see things in a similar fashion. We just might not necessarily have them around us in physical proximity.” – Matt BeaudreauTakeaways:Commit to 4 hours of focused work daily outside your main job - track your progress toward specific financial goals before quitting.Create a personal "non-negotiable 4-5 things" list you'll do every single day, no matter what - these become your foundational actions that drive consistent progress.Stop overcomplicating business startup - focus first on selling something people actually want, before building websites, logos, or complex infrastructure.Treat your family like a high-performance team: hold regular meetings, discuss objectives, set performance indicators, and create a shared vision everyone understands and contributes toward.Challenge yourself with this question: "If my income disappeared tomorrow, what skills and network could I immediately activate to rebuild?" - this forces you to continuously develop transferable capabilities and relationships.Conclusion:Real success comes from staying grounded in who you are, standing strong through difficulties, and being willing to learn along the way. Challenges will always arise, but those who stay committed to their values and growth will find a way forward. Progress isn’t about perfection—it’s about adapting, improving, and refusing to give up. The ability to learn, adjust, and keep moving is what separates those who thrive from those who stay stuck.

Resilience isn’t just about external victories; it’s about the inner battles that shape a person’s strength. For a young woman facing bullying, constant change, and the weight of competition, every challenge becomes a test of willpower. Discipline keeps her moving forward, while passion fuels the fire to keep going despite the setbacks. When the odds are stacked against her, it’s not just about proving others wrong—it’s about proving to herself that she’s unstoppable.Lexi Arnold is a 20-year-old martial artist with a strong background in Muay Thai, jiu jitsu, and wrestling. She began training at five after facing bullying, turning adversity into strength. A jiu jitsu purple belt and two-time Pans champion at blue belt, she competes at high levels while running JotunnUSA, her martial arts gear company. She teaches at Diego Bispo Academy and shares her journey through social media and speaking events. Today, she discusses switching training gyms, the power of discipline over motivation, and how consistent training has built her confidence. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “It's discipline over motivation. I want to earn it. I don't just want things to be given to me.” – Lexi Arnold“No matter how hard it gets, it's going to be harder if I don't do what I need to do right now.” – Lexi Arnold“If I can't be a trustworthy friend, how am I going to be a trustworthy teacher in the future? So I have to embody what I want for the future now.” – Lexi ArnoldTakeaways:Craft a daily discipline routine that supports your goals - start with 2-3 non-negotiable habits like Lexi's morning water intake, protein-focused breakfast, and movement sessions.Practice the "discipline over motivation" mindset: commit to your goals even when you don't feel like it, recognizing that consistent small actions trump sporadic bursts of enthusiasm.Create a personal growth "decision framework" where you regularly assess if your current environment (gym, school, job) is truly helping you develop skills and reach your potential - be willing to make strategic changes.Design a personal "confidence blueprint" by intentionally acting like the person you want to become in the future, focusing on trustworthiness, responsibility, and consistent effort in your current roles.Develop a resilience practice: after setbacks or losses, immediately identify 1-2 specific lessons you can apply to improve, transforming disappointment into strategic growth opportunities.Conclusion:Real progress comes from facing obstacles head-on, staying committed to meaningful goals, and understanding that lasting success is built over time. Shortcuts may offer quick wins, but real achievement comes from steady effort and thoughtful decisions. When challenges arise, those who stay focused and willing to adapt will be the ones who move forward. The most rewarding accomplishments are not handed out—they are earned through patience, resilience, and a clear sense of purpose.

Sometimes, it takes a life-altering moment to break free from the comfort of routine and see what truly matters. A near-fatal accident can shatter the illusion of stability, forcing a shift in priorities and a deeper search for meaning. What once felt safe—corporate life, predictable paychecks—can suddenly seem hollow in the face of newfound clarity. For many, that wake-up call becomes the catalyst for reinvention, turning survival into purpose and routine into passion.Greg Ray is an entrepreneur and outdoor enthusiast from Tulsa, Oklahoma. He founded Outdoor Solutions, offering hunting trips, firearms training, and culinary experiences. After a serious accident in 2005, he turned his side hustle into a thriving business focused on long-range shooting and ethical hunting. Through his YouTube channel and educational programs, he’s made a strong impact in the hunting industry. Today, Greg shares his journey of resilience and passion, emphasizing his Field to Table program, which teaches hunting, processing, and cooking wild game while fostering community in the outdoors. Join in as young leaders pose inquiries about life, personal development, and beyond!Quotes: “None of us are promised another tomorrow, so it gives you a whole different appreciation and outlook on life.” – Greg Ray“Always keep an open mind and be nice to everybody, because you never know who you might be working with or working for at some point.” – Greg Ray“There's always going to be struggles, but after going through what I went through, there's not much that really worries me.” – Greg RayTakeaways:Learn proper firearm handling, ethical hunting practices, and local hunting regulations before your first hunt.Start a journal or video log tracking your progress in a new outdoor skill, whether it's shooting, hunting, or field dressing game.Reach out to someone experienced in hunting, firearms, or outdoor skills who can guide your learning and provide real-world insights.Choose an outdoor activity that teaches practical skills and builds deeper relationships through shared experiences.Look for opportunities that combine skill development with community and practical knowledge transfer.Conclusion:Success in business often comes from a willingness to adapt and find opportunity in unexpected places. Side projects can grow into something much larger when approached with creativity and persistence. Beyond financial gains, the most rewarding ventures are those that bring people together and add real value to their communities. A flexible mindset and a focus on long-term impact can turn small ideas into something truly significant.