• A Soldier's Path to Emotional Clarity
    Jun 25 2024

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    Imagine living every day on high alert, never able to relax or feel truly at ease. That's been my reality, and in this episode of Excellence Above Talent, I peel back the layers of my emotional struggles that came to light during a marriage counseling session with Pastor Mark Martha at Hope Alive Church. My wife Yanni's poignant observation that I've never been emotionally regulated hit hard, forcing me to reflect on my turbulent childhood and intense military career. From the weight of being the "man of the house" at a young age after my father left, to the relentless edge I lived on as a 19 Delta Cavalry Scout, I share my raw and personal journey toward understanding and managing my emotions.

    Join me as I recount the pressures of growing up in a financially strained household, dealing with societal judgments, and navigating life’s challenges without an emotional compass. This episode isn't just about my story—it's a call to other men who recognize these buried struggles within themselves. Together, let's break the cycle of constant survival mode and learn to regulate our emotions, creating a better version of ourselves for our own sake and for those who depend on us. Tune in, and let's start this journey of growth and self-discovery together.

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    16 mins
  • Faith, Vulnerability, and Personal Transformation
    Jun 14 2024

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    Imagine transforming your life by embracing change and uncovering your true potential. Join me, Aaron Thomas, on this soul-searching episode of Excellence Above Talent as I recount my personal journey of confronting mental barriers and negative perceptions about wealth. From childhood misconceptions that led to self-sabotage, to utilizing faith-based affirmations to reshape my mindset, we delve into the broader implications of change. This episode reveals the crucial role of emotional, spiritual, and mental maturity in attaining the blessings we aspire to in life.

    We also tackle the importance of vulnerability in relationships, especially before marriage. I open up about an eye-opening conversation with my partner that revealed hidden fears and tendencies to control. By sharing the challenges of relinquishing self-reliance and seeking spiritual guidance, I highlight how these realizations propel personal growth. Tune in to understand why embracing change is essential, how perseverance and self-awareness can foster a more fulfilling life, and the transformative power of facing life’s challenges head-on. This is an episode that encourages you to reflect, grow, and align more closely with your spiritual and personal aspirations.

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    19 mins
  • Surviving Combat and the Battle Within: Aaron Thomas on PTSD, Mental Health, and Support Systems for Veterans
    Jun 7 2024

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    What happens when a soldier returns home but finds no support to help them cope with the shadows of war? On this impactful episode of Excellence Above Talent, I, Aaron Thomas, share my deeply personal journey from the battlefields of Iraq to the daunting reality of civilian life. You'll hear about the harrowing encounters with IEDs, the tragic loss of comrades, and the ever-looming threat of death that haunted each mission. As I transitioned back home, the absence of a robust support network led me down a dark path of unhealthy coping mechanisms, including alcohol and seducing women. This raw and honest recount aims to illuminate the profound struggles veterans face, urging for a greater understanding and stronger support systems.

    Shifting our focus to another critical issue, we delve into the poignant story of a crisis center worker in West Texas who tried valiantly to save a friend from the brink. Despite his efforts, the friend tragically passed away, leaving behind a legacy of heartbreak and profound self-reflection. This tragic event catalyzed the creation of a Facebook support page for veterans and the nonprofit organization, Excellence Above Talent, dedicated to combating high suicide rates among men and addressing abuse. By sharing these stories, we hope to stress the importance of mental health awareness and the collective efforts needed to support those in distress. Join us for a powerful discussion on healing, resilience, and the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support.

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    21 mins
  • Breaking Down Barriers in the Conversation on Manhood
    May 31 2024

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    As I sat across from Keelan, Darrien, and Mavrick, the gravity of our conversation about manhood and masculinity couldn't be clearer. Together, we peeled back the layers of what it means to be a man in the fabric of today's society, where the threads of traditional and modern expectations are tightly interwoven. We brought our personal definitions to the table, grappling with the ideals of leadership, provision, and the stark reality that vulnerability remains a silent struggle for many. Our dialogue ventured into the realms of emotional expression and strength, challenging the stereotype that to be masculine is to be devoid of fear or softness.

    In the company of my nephews, this heart-to-heart uncovered the monumental influence of male role models and the societal pressures that shape our very beings. We tackled hard-hitting topics, from male suicide rates to domestic violence, probing the depths of these issues with the hope of understanding and change. Our exchange transitioned from the societal to the personal, as we shared the trials and triumphs that young men encounter while forging their paths. The conversation was a testament to the courage of authenticity and the enduring quest to build legacies beyond material wealth, rooted in the strength of character and the power of mentorship. Join us in this profound reflection—a tribute to all men navigating their identity with purpose and integrity.

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    29 mins
  • Aaron Thomas's Tale of Overcoming Cyber Seduction and Reclaiming Life
    May 24 2024

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    Struggling with an addiction that lurks behind screens and clicks, I, Aaron Thomas, have fought a personal war against the grip of pornography. Today, I invite you into my world, not as a passive observer, but as a companion on a path paved with resilience and determination. Witness the profound impact this battle has had on my life, carving deep into the fabric of my first marriage and the valleys of my soul. It's been a year and a half of relentless pursuit towards recovery, where technology isn't just a gateway to temptation but a barricade against it, where a return to faith isn't a cliché but a cornerstone for rebuilding, and where initiating a heartfelt dialogue through this podcast serves as a beacon for others lost in similar shadows.

    Embarking on this episode, I unravel the threads of enticement that weave through the fabric of social media and the deceptive allure of superficial attractions. This journey is not just an outward quest but an inward odyssey, confronting the depths of our desires, understanding the distinction between looking and lusting, and embracing the vulnerability that comes with such stark honesty. As we navigate these revelations, I emphasize the powerful symbiosis of faith and action, the transformative shift from distraction to devotion—to family, self-improvement, and authentic connections. To those of you fighting this invisible foe or any other that threatens to undermine the essence of who you are, let's walk together with courage, unraveling the hold of addiction and stepping into a realm of genuine fulfillment.

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    23 mins
  • A Teacher's Mission: Transforming Lives and Mentoring the Next Generation of Leaders
    May 17 2024

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    When I stepped into the classroom at Nimitz Middle School, I wasn't just teaching math; I was embarking on a mission to transform lives. In today's episode, I, Aaron Thomas, open up about the powerful lessons learned from both my students and influential community figures like Colin Sewell. I share the emotional journey from being a spectator in life's arena to an active combatant for positive change, informed by the ups and downs of personal loss and the drive to mentor our youth. This narrative isn't just mine; it's a reflection of the collective struggle to uplift the next generation despite the weight of our own challenges.

    Our dialogue then pivots to the crucial role of men in shaping young boys into tomorrow's leaders. I delve into my own path of rediscovery and growth after a tough divorce, underscoring the surprising sources of support that emerged when I reached out for help. As we discuss the silent crisis faced by many men today—heightened suicide rates and incarceration—I highlight the men who stand as beacons of hope, guiding boys toward a better future. It's a candid conversation about resilience, the transformative impact of mentorship, and the powerful statement our actions make to the young minds watching and learning from us. Join me in this heartfelt exploration of what it takes to inspire men's journeys to greatness and empower our next generation through mentorship and positive change.

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    27 mins
  • Men in the Making Understanding and Reversing Harmful Patterns
    May 10 2024

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    When I stepped into my 7th grade math classroom, I didn't expect to confront the harsh reality of how young boys treat their female teachers. But there it was, a microcosm of the disrespect and intimidation that can seed future abusive behaviors. In my latest podcast episode, I, Aaron Thomas, take you through a journey that is both harrowing and hopeful. I invite courageous men, who once walked a troubled path, to share their stories of transformation and the conversations they wish they'd had earlier. This is a deep look into the origins of abuse, the societal constructs of masculinity, and the critical importance of early intervention.

    Together, we question the societal blueprint that shapes the way young boys view strength, control, and power. Are they learning from family dynamics, societal pressures, or is it the toxic influence of objectifying women? We dissect these complex influences with the aim of understanding and reshaping the narrative around what it means to be a man. This episode isn't just an exploration—it's a call to action for anyone who cares about the development of our boys and the safety of our communities. Tune in for an insightful conversation that challenges us to be better mentors, educators, and allies in the fight against the cycle of abuse.

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    19 mins
  • The New Brave Embracing Emotional Openness in Manhood
    May 3 2024

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    Caught in a silent struggle, many of us grapple with the heavy weight of what it means to be a man in today's society. I'm Aaron Thomas, and on our latest podcast, I bear my soul in a candid conversation about the internal wars we're too often fighting alone. We delve into the consequences of toxic masculinity, the impact of societal expectations on our mental health, and the transformative journey towards understanding our spirituality and purpose. Through my own experiences and those I’ve witnessed as a junior high math teacher, I reveal the importance of fostering spaces for vulnerability and honest discussions about emotions, dismantling the outdated narratives that bind us.

    Our recent episode is more than just a conversation; it's an urgent call to redefine masculinity for the modern world. Addressing the heart-wrenching issue of male suicide and the life-saving potential of mentorship, I underline the need for a new paradigm—one where strength is measured by the courage to unveil one's true self and seek support. We explore how the pressure to provide and protect fails to encompass the full scope of a man's identity and how embracing a holistic approach to manhood can create a blueprint for resilience, growth, and a more compassionate society. Join us for an episode that promises to challenge, inspire, and perhaps even heal.

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    26 mins