In this episode, Joe De Sena is talking with Rob and Alex, the authors of Warrior to Civilian, on the challenges veterans face after service.

They discuss a hidden veteran suicide crisis and why so many veterans struggle, how we can help them thrive, and the real steps for a successful transition.

Rob and Alex reveal the often-overlooked difficulties of reintegration, the importance of mentorship, and the complex system of VA benefits. They also offer practical advice designed to equip veterans, families, and civilians alike with tools to support and empower our nation’s heroes.

Whether you’re a veteran or simply want to help, this episode offers eye-opening insights and actionable solutions to help our veterans transition successfully into civilian life.

Highlights:

00:47 Transitioning from military to civilian life
02:31 Preparing for civilian integration and finding a purpose
03:59 Recognizing the need for early preparation for veterans
05:19 Veteran suicides and the urgency of support systems
09:38 Mentorship and non-profits with veteran initiative
11:19 How civilians can support veterans’ reintegration
13:39 Ideas for creating veteran events at Spartan races
19:09 The book Warrior to Civilian and its target audience
21:28 Nothing worthwhile is easy
23:21 Message of resilience and hope for veterans

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Get the Book Now! | Warrior to Civilian:

https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/1538769964

In this episode, Mario Kalpou from Man Eats Wild brings you into the world of primal living and real food.

Joe De Sena and Mario dive deep into why modern life has made us lose touch with what really matters, like knowing where our food comes from and learning the skills to survive in the wild. They share stories of hunting, foraging, and reconnecting with nature to fuel the body with real, nutrient-dense food.

From alligator hunting in Florida to sourcing food without relying on grocery stores, they show how ancestral living can build strength and resilience. If you’re curious about the power of going back to basics and challenging the comforts of the modern world, tune in now!

Highlights:

00:00 Intro
00:47 The inspiration behind "Man Eats Wild"
02:20 Alligator hunting & dangerous liver toxicity
03:43 Is eating liver healthy?
04:57 Taking high-net-worth individuals on adventures
06:06 Teaching basic survival skills to kids
07:32 The Importance of struggle & exercise
09:43 Nutritional challenges in the U.S. vs. Europe
11:19 Food industry & RFK’s Perspective
13:07 Health legislation and freedom debate
15:25 Growing up to be a man in the wild
16:52 Living a natural lifestyle vs. modern influences
19:03 The role of exercise in daily life
20:09 Joe’s Training routines over the years
22:01 Where to Watch "Man Eats Wild"

In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with Kim Pastore, a widow who faced unimaginable loss when her husband, a dedicated SWAT officer, was killed in the line of duty.

Kim opens up about the overwhelming grief and challenges she faced and shares how she found the strength to keep going by turning to the Spartan Way. Through gratitude, resilience, and a commitment to honoring her husband’s legacy, Kim founded a foundation to support the mental and physical wellness of first responders.

Kim’s journey offers hope, showing that even in the darkest times, we can find purpose, strength, and a way to help others. This is a story about love, loss, and the power of never giving up.

Highlights:

00:00 Intro
00:47 Kim’s husband George and his SWAT journey
02:50 George’s tragic death and the grieving process
09:04 The Spartan way of overcoming grief
13:29 The role of adversity in childhood
15:15 Gratitude as a tool in tough times
18:35 Launching the George Pastore Foundation
23:20 Humble warrior games and community support
24:16 How to get involved with the foundation

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Jorge Pastore Foundation | Website:
https://www.jpastorefoundation.org/