Good Skill

The Making of Eric Bland - An Intimate Look Behind the Headlines PART 1 | EP14 Nov 11, 2024

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Eric Bland

From Evidence to Impact: Dr. Kenny Kinsey on the Murdaugh Case and Beyond | EP13 Nov 04, 2024

In this episode of the Good Skill podcast, we sit down with Dr. Kenny Kinsey, one of South Carolina’s leading forensic experts. With over three decades in law enforcement and forensic analysis, Dr. Kinsey shares the story behind his remarkable career, the challenges of working on high-profile cases, and his passion for teaching future forensic scientists. This conversation dives into the crucial role of forensics in the justice system and explores Dr. Kinsey’s insights on integrity, perseverance, and the future of forensic science.

Key Topics Discussed

● Dr. Kinsey’s background and early inspirations in law enforcement and forensics

● Handling pressure in high-stakes, high-profile cases like the Murdaugh trial

● Skills and tools crucial for forensic experts today

● Memorable cases and the lessons they imparted

● Dr. Kinsey’s commitment to education and his role as a mentor

● Reflections on the evolution and future of forensic science

Takeaways

● The importance of integrity and precision in forensic science

● The reality versus the misconceptions about forensic investigations

● How experience and education shape the next generation of forensic experts

Links & Resources

Dr. Kenny Kinsey’s official website: https://kennykinseyandassoc.com/

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Eric Bland

"Highly" Inspired: A Conversation with Creative Visionary Doreen Sullivan EP|12 Oct 29, 2024

In this episode of Good Skill, host Eric Bland sits down with Doreen Sullivan, the innovative mind behind My Bud Vase and Post No Bills. Doreen’s entrepreneurial journey has been anything but conventional. Starting with her successful brand-building agency, Post No Bills, Doreen later dove into the cannabis industry with My Bud Vase—an internationally recognized brand that transforms vintage vases into elegant, discreet smoking accessories.

Doreen opens up about the challenges she faced in the evolving cannabis space, how creativity has been the cornerstone of her career, and what the future holds for both her brands and the cannabis industry as a whole. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a cannabis enthusiast, or simply interested in the power of creativity, this episode will leave you feeling inspired.

Key Discussion Points:

The Early Days
Doreen shares her journey into entrepreneurship and how she founded her branding agency, Post No Bills.
The Creation of My Bud Vase
Learn about the inception of My Bud Vase and how Doreen transformed vintage vases into unique smoking accessories, blending art and cannabis culture.
Breaking into Cannabis
The cannabis industry comes with unique challenges. Doreen discusses the hurdles she faced and how she overcame them to build a thriving brand.
The Role of Creativity
Creativity is a vital part of Doreen’s success. Discover how she stays inspired and continues to innovate in an evolving industry.
Elevating Cannabis Perceptions
Doreen discusses her mission to change the perception of cannabis through design, storytelling, and artistic expression.

What’s Next for the Cannabis Industry

Doreen gives her take on the future of the cannabis industry and what’s next for My Bud Vase and Post No Bills.

ABOUT DOREEN

Doreen Sullivan is a creative entrepreneur, brand strategist, and a pioneer in the cannabis industry. As the founder of My Bud Vase, she has revolutionized cannabis smoking accessories by combining functionality with high-end, inspired designs. Doreen is also the founder of Post No Bills, a strategic branding agency that has worked with some of the world’s top brands for over 20 years. Recognized for her ability to blend creativity and business acumen, Doreen has been featured in Forbes, Dope Magazine, and Vogue.

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

Doreen Sullivan’s My Bud Vase: Discover Doreen’s luxury cannabis accessories that blend vintage design and modern functionality www.mybudvase.com
Follow My Bud Vase on Instagram: Keep up with Doreen’s latest creations and cannabis designs https://www.instagram.com/mybudvase
Book a consult for creative coaching or product development https://tr.ee/pBfQ5XA4kY
J. M. Balbuena's book https://a.co/d/eGEnhP8

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Eric Bland

Billion Dollar Fundraising with Philanthropic Visionary Bob Carter EP|11 Oct 21, 2024

In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into the world of philanthropy with Bob Carter, a globally recognized connector and visionary in the field. With decades of experience reshaping the philanthropic landscape, Bob shares his unique perspective on creative, human-led solutions to mega fundraising, donor relationships, and organizational strategy.

Bob's journey in global philanthropy is nothing short of extraordinary. Having spearheaded campaigns that raised billions of dollars, he's revolutionized the approach to fundraising and donor engagement. We'll explore his philosophy of turning the traditional vertical, top-down business model on its side, championing a horizontal leadership style that replaces "I" with "we" – a method he believes is crucial for building robust and lasting organizations.

Our conversation will touch on Bob's four pillars of mindset work, grounded in how human behaviors lead to altruistic actions and motivate others for the greater good. We'll also delve into his personal story of recovery from alcohol addiction, uncovering how this experience has informed his approach to both life and business. Bob will share insights on how committed action reveals our potential and teaches us to endure, focusing on solutions rather than problems.

As we discuss Bob's extensive career, including his 26 years with fundraising powerhouse Ketchum (15 as President and CEO), we'll uncover the strategies behind his success in advising global organizations like Berkeley Prep, National Geographic, World Vision, and the Ronald McDonald House. Bob will introduce us to his Mega Donor Roadmap, a signature process that has consistently yielded success in approaching potential donors.

We'll explore Bob's work as a founding member of the World Health Organization Foundation and the African American Development Officers Network Board, discussing how these roles align with his philanthropic vision. The conversation will also touch on his background in athletics and how it has shaped his "Champion Mindset" approach to leadership and philanthropy.

Throughout the episode, we'll address key questions about Bob's most impactful projects, his work with the Holocaust Museum, and his experience working with Elie Wiesel. We'll delve into the lessons he's learned about motivating high-net-worth individuals to give and his insights on the future of philanthropy.

Join us for this enlightening conversation with Bob Carter, where we'll uncover the secrets to successful philanthropy, the power of relationship-based fundraising, and the importance of adaptability in creating lasting change. Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist, a nonprofit leader, or simply interested in making a difference, this episode promises to provide valuable insights and inspiration for your journey.

Don't forget to rate & review the podcast for more fascinating discussions on leadership.

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Connect with Bob Carter

Website https://carter.global/

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/carter-global/

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Eric Bland

Fixing Our Broken Healthcare System with Dr. Marcelo Hochman EP|10 Oct 14, 2024

In this compelling episode, Dr. Marcelo Hochman, a distinguished healthcare advocate and double Board-certified surgeon, discusses the urgent need for reform in the American healthcare system. Recognized by CNN, the Wall Street Journal, and USA Today, Dr. Hochman shares insights from his experiences during the Covid crisis and his ongoing efforts to empower both patients and physicians in healthcare decisions.

Key Topics

-Healthcare Bureaucracy Disruption: Dr. Hochman's mission to challenge and change the current healthcare system that limits options for doctors and patients.

-Covid Crisis Response: His leadership in providing PPE to healthcare workers nationwide during the pandemic.

-Independent Medical Practices: The importance of independent doctors and the challenges they face in today's healthcare landscape.

-Legislative Advocacy: Efforts to repeal Certificate of Need laws, prohibit economic credentialing and non-compete clauses, and introduce tax incentives for pro-bono medical care.

-Patient and Physician Empowerment: Strategies to increase choice and decision-making power for both healthcare providers and recipients.

About Dr. Marcelo Hochman

-Double Board-certified head, neck, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon

-President of Independent Doctors of South Carolina (IndeDocs)

-Founder of Charleston's Facial Surgery Center

-Advisor to presidential candidates on healthcare reform

-Recipient of The Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina's highest award

-Consistently listed in "The Best Doctors in America"

Key Insights

-The importance of putting choice back into the hands of patients and physicians

-The role of independent medical practices in improving healthcare quality and accessibility

-The need for policy changes to support healthcare reform

-The potential impact of disrupting the current healthcare system on various stakeholders

This episode offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges facing the American healthcare system and presents innovative ideas for creating better medicine through better business.

Please help us by reviewing the show.

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About Dr. Marcelo Hochman

President of Independent Doctors of South Carolina, Dr. Marcelo Hochman is a double Board-certified head, neck, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, founder of Charleston’s Facial Surgery Center, and Past President of the Charleston County Medical Society.

Dr. Hochman’s mission: To put the power of choice back into the hands of patients and physicians and disrupt the healthcare bureaucracy that controls and limits options.

Specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery, Dr. Hochman provides pro-bono care for children with vascular anomalies as the Founder and Medical Director of the Hemangioma International Treatment Center.

Website https://facialsurgerycenter.com/

https://indedocs.com/

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Eric Bland

Unfinished Justice: Mike Burgess and the Willie Leapheart Legacy EP|9 Oct 07, 2024

In this compelling episode of the Good Skill podcast, we dive deep into a historical case that continues to resonate with contemporary issues of race and justice. Our distinguished guest, Mike Burgess, brings nearly three decades of experience as a public high school history teacher to shed light on the Willie Leapheart case from 1890. Burgess, an accomplished educator and historian, teaches at the Center for Law and Global Policy Development at River Bluff High School in Lexington, South Carolina. His accolades, including being named the 2023 South Carolina History Teacher of the Year, underscore his commitment to bringing history to life.

The Willie Leapheart case, involving an 18-year-old African American man convicted of a serious crime in post-Reconstruction South Carolina, garnered both national and international attention. Burgess, co-creator of "The Wrong Walk Home" podcast, will guide us through the complexities of this case, exploring its significance in American history and its relevance to ongoing discussions about justice and race relations. His approach to teaching history, emphasizing full, fair, and honest examination of the past, promises to provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of this pivotal moment.

Throughout the episode, we'll explore how the Leapheart case captured widespread attention in 1890 and why it remains crucial to examine today. Burgess's innovative teaching methods, including the development of "A Call To Duty," a student-led history hike, demonstrate his passion for making history accessible and engaging. This conversation aims not only to illuminate a specific historical incident but also to foster critical thinking about the interconnections between past and present. Join us for an enlightening journey through history that challenges our understanding and encourages a deeper engagement with the complexities of American society, both then and now.

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Eric Bland

Leadership Lessons with USC Football Legend Kevin "Chief" Hendrix | EP8 Sep 30, 2024

Welcome to the Good Skill podcast, where we explore stories of dedication, leadership, and community impact. Today, we have the honor of speaking with Kevin "Chief" Hendrix, a man whose life exemplifies these qualities both on and off the football field.

Guest Biography

Kevin "Chief" Hendrix is a former football player and coach with a career spanning from college to the professional level, both in the US and internationally. His accomplishments include:

USC Football Letterman (1985-1988)
Team Captain (1988)
Named Decade Player of the 80's
Voted Best Defensive End in the Second 50 Years of Carolina Football History
Inducted into the Hall of Captains (1988)
Played in the Ricoh Japan Bowl All-Star Game
Drafted by the Washington Redskins (1989)
Played for Frankfurt Galaxy in the World League of American Football (1991-1993)

After his playing career, Kevin transitioned to coaching, working with various age groups from youth to high school. He led his high school team to a South Carolina 4A State Championship. Beyond sports, Kevin is deeply involved in community service, working with troubled youth and speaking about addiction awareness.

Discussion Points

Early influences and passion for football
Leadership lessons from college captaincy
Balancing athletic success with academic responsibilities
Pivotal moments in college career
Impact of playing professionally in Germany
Adapting to cultural differences abroad
Challenges in transitioning from player to coach
Coaching strategies for different age groups
Philosophy on building team culture
Overcoming career adversity
Key factors in positively impacting troubled youth
Approach to discussing addiction with young people
Role of faith in career and personal life
Maintaining work-life balance
Crucial leadership lessons learned
Handling high-pressure situations
Strategies for self-motivation and motivating others
Most significant career achievements
Evolution of mentoring approach
Desired legacy in football and community work

Join us as we delve into the experiences, wisdom, and skills of Kevin Hendrix - a true testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and giving back to the community. His journey from college football star to community mentor offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone striving to make a positive impact in their field and community.

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Eric Bland

Paralysis, Perseverance, and Possibility: How Adam Gorlitsky Achieved the Impossible | EP7 Sep 23, 2024

Adam Gorlitsky is a pioneer in the world of adaptive athletics and the founder of I GOT LEGS, a non-profit organization dedicated to ReEnabling individuals with spinal cord injuries. On December 30, 2005, Adam was involved in a catastrophic car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Doctors believed he would never walk again. However, a decade later, Adam defied the odds and became the first paralyzed man to walk the Cooper River Bridge Run using a ReWalk robotic exoskeleton.

Since his groundbreaking achievement in 2016, Adam has participated in over 50 road races, including breaking a Guinness World Record for exoskeleton marathon walking. His journey from paralysis to becoming a beacon of hope for others with spinal cord injuries is a testament to human resilience and the power of innovative technology.

Show Notes

Adam's life-changing accident and initial prognosis
Introduction to the ReWalk robotic exoskeleton in 2015
The birth of I GOT LEGS and its evolution from a personal fundraising effort to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
Adam's first major achievement: completing the 2016 Cooper River Bridge Run
The mission of I GOT LEGS and its impact on the spinal cord injury community
Adam's remarkable athletic achievements, including his Guinness World Record
The concept of being "ReEnabled" and how it differs from traditional notions of disability and ability
The future of adaptive technology and its potential to transform lives

Adam's Stats

Date of car accident: December 30, 2005
Type of injury: Spinal Cord Injury, complete T-9
Date of ReEnablement: December 30, 2015
Assistive device: ReWalk Robotic Exoskeleton
Total steps taken: 2 million and counting
Total races walked: 51
Career highlights:
2016 Cooper River Bridge Run
2018 Portlandathon
2020 Charleston Marathon
Guinness World Record Holder for Fastest Marathon Distance in a Robotic Walking Device

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Connect with Adam Gorlitsky

Website https://www.igotlegs.org/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/i_got_legs/

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Eric Bland

Strong Foundations, Success, and Building a Fitness Empire with Heart with Lori Lapin | EP6 Sep 15, 2024

In this episode of the Good Skill podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Lori Lapin, a true pioneer in the wellness industry with an impressive 38-year career. Armed with a degree in exercise science from the University of Georgia, Lori has dedicated her life to personal training and health coaching, helping countless individuals achieve healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Lori's passion for fitness culminated in the opening of Strong Foundations, a cutting-edge boutique fitness center. The center's mission is to cater to individuals of all ages and life stages, providing tailored fitness journeys that empower clients to become their best selves. Recently, Strong Foundations expanded its reach through a partnership with Prisma Health, further enhancing its ability to provide comprehensive wellness solutions to the community.

Beyond her local impact, Lori has extended her influence nationally as a coach for The FasterWay to Fat Loss fitness and nutrition company. Her innovative approaches and unwavering dedication have earned her respect throughout the fitness community.

Lori's commitment to making a difference extends beyond the realm of fitness. She is an avid hiker and a passionate advocate for childhood cancer research. Through her involvement with CureSearch, a nonprofit organization raising funds for childhood cancer trials, Lori has completed five ultimate hikes and raised over $150,000 for this vital cause.

Throughout the interview, we'll explore various facets of Lori's remarkable career and personal life. We'll discuss the evolution of fitness trends over her 38-year journey, the challenges and rewards of running a boutique fitness center, and her insights on creating personalized fitness journeys. We'll also delve into how she balances her roles as a national coach and local business owner, and the impact of the recent Prisma Health partnership.

Lori will share her experiences with ultimate hikes and fundraising, while also shedding light on how she manages to balance her professional success with her role as a mother of three sons, offering a glimpse into the life of this multifaceted wellness guru.

As we wrap up, we'll explore Lori's future goals for Strong Foundations and her personal aspirations, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable woman who has dedicated her life to fostering health, happiness, and hope.

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Connect with Lori Lapin

Website https://strongerfoundations.wixsite.com/my-site

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lori.lapin.9

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Eric Bland

https://humandurability.com.au/

Death, Determination, and Human Durability with Derrick McManus | EP5 Sep 09, 2024

In this gripping episode of the Good Skill podcast, host Eric Bland sits down with Derrick McManus, a former sniper, counter-terrorist operative, diver, and elite STAR Group Officer. Derrick shares his incredible story of survival, resilience, and the journey that led him to develop the concept of Human Durability.

Key Topics

-Derrick's background in law enforcement and special operations

-The high-risk operation that changed his life

-Surviving 14 gunshot wounds and a three-hour wait for rescue

-The grueling 2.5-year rehabilitation process

-Returning to full operational duties against all odds

-Developing the concept of Human Durability

-Lessons on thriving under pressure and pushing beyond perceived limits

Takeaways

-The power of the human spirit in overcoming extreme adversity

-Techniques for developing mental and physical resilience

-How to apply Human Durability principles in everyday life

-Insights into elite law enforcement and counter-terrorism operations

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Connect with Derrick McManus

https://www.facebook.com/derrickmcmanus14

https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickmcmanus/

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Eric Bland

Murdaugh, Mental Health, and Making an Impact with Mandy Matney | EP4 Sep 01, 2024

In this episode of the Good Skill Podcast, we welcome Mandy Matney, an award-winning journalist, author, and chart-topping podcaster. Originally from Kansas, Mandy's career has spanned newspapers in multiple states before she ventured into the world of podcasting and became a key player in exposing Alex Murdaugh.

Mandy shares her journey from traditional journalism to founding Luna Shark Productions and co-hosting two successful podcasts: "True Sunlight" (formally the"Murdaugh Murders Podcast") and "Cup of Justice" (with Eric Bland). We explore the challenges and rewards of this transition, diving into Mandy's approach to investigative journalism and her commitment to exposing the truth.

A key focus of our conversation is Mandy's experience with ADHD and how it has impacted her professional life. She offers valuable insights into leveraging neurodiversity in the workplace, particularly in the fast-paced world of media and podcasting.

We also discuss:

Balancing storytelling with journalistic integrity in true crime podcasts
The importance of victim-focused reporting
How podcasts can influence the justice system
Mandy's strategies for holding power accountable through her work

Throughout the episode, Mandy's dedication to honest, justice-focused journalism shines through, offering listeners a glimpse into the evolving landscape of media and the personal qualities driving successful investigative journalists today.

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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More about Mandy Matney

Mandy Matney is an award-winning journalist from Kansas who has worked for newspapers in Missouri, Illinois, and South Carolina and now lives on Hilton Head Island where she pursues mission-based investigative journalism.

Mandy is Co-Founder of Luna Shark Media, Host of Murdaugh Murders Podcast – now True Sunlight Podcast – and Cup of Justice Podcast.

Mandy is a KU grad with deep roots in the Sunflower State, but currently lives on Hilton Head Island with her husband David and pups Luna and Joe Pesky where she enjoys beach life.

Website https://lunasharkmedia.com/

Mandy's Book https://lunasharkmedia.com/book/

Podcasts https://lunasharkmedia.com/episodes/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/truesunlightpod/

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Eric Bland

The Art of the Comeback: A Resilience Masterclass with Mark Sanford | EP3 Aug 25, 2024

In this compelling episode of The Good Skill Podcast, host Eric Bland sits down with former presidential candidate and governor Mark Sanford, a political icon whose career has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. Sanford's journey through American politics is marked by high-profile successes, controversies, and remarkable comebacks, making for a fascinating discussion on resilience, redemption, and the complex landscape of U.S. politics.

In this interview, Bland, Sandford, and producer Whitney McDuff will delve into the highs and lows of his political career, discussing the lessons learned from his falls and how they shaped his future decisions. They'll explore insights from Sanford's political memoir "Two Roads Diverged," in which he shares his brutally honest story of maintaining integrity in the face of political pressure.

Listeners can expect a candid conversation about political principles, personal growth, and the challenges of navigating public life in today's polarized political climate. Whether you're a political junkie or simply interested in stories of resilience and redemption, this episode promises to offer valuable insights from one of American politics' most intriguing figures.

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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More about Mark Sanford

Sanford burst onto the national stage in 1994 when he was elected to represent South Carolina's 1st congressional district. A fiscally conservative Republican, Sanford quickly gained a reputation as Congress's most fiscally conservative member, known for his unwavering commitment to reducing government spending. His political star continued to rise as he was elected Governor of South Carolina, serving two terms and accomplishing a long list of firsts designed to better people's lives and make the state more inviting for businesses and entrepreneurs.

However, Sanford's life took a major turn in his sixth year as Governor. In 2009, a well-chronicled affair brought about the collapse of his 20-year marriage and what seemed to be the end of his political career. Yet, in a remarkable display of political resilience, Sanford made a comeback in 2013, winning a special election to reclaim his old congressional seat and serving until 2019.

During his second stint in Congress, Sanford became known as one of President Trump's most vocal Republican critics, a stance that ultimately contributed to his primary defeat in 2018. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Sanford briefly threw his hat into the ring for the 2020 Republican presidential nomination, positioning himself as a voice for fiscal responsibility.

Discover more about Mark Sanford at https://www.marksanford.com/

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Eric Bland

Strength, Innovation and Legacy with Bert Sorin | EP2 Aug 18, 2024

In this compelling episode of the Good Skill podcast, we dive deep into the life and career of Bert Sorin, a true titan in the world of strength and conditioning. As the President and co-owner of Sorinex Exercise Equipment, Bert has transformed his passion for fitness into a globally respected brand, revolutionizing the approach to strength training.

Bert's journey from a Division I track and field athlete at the University of South Carolina to a leader in the fitness industry is a testament to his dedication and visionary thinking. Under his guidance, Sorinex has become synonymous with innovation, quality, and excellence in fitness equipment. Bert's expertise goes beyond mere business acumen; He is described as a "master craftsman of human potential," blending his athletic background with a deep understanding of physical performance to create equipment that pushes the boundaries of what's possible in strength training.

Throughout the episode, Bert shares insights into his holistic approach to strength, emphasizing that true power encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects. This philosophy has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the fitness world, with his contributions featured in prominent publications like Men's Health. He discusses how losing his father profoundly impacted his view on legacy, driving him to create lasting contributions in the fitness world.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in strength training, entrepreneurship, or the pursuit of excellence in their chosen field.

Key Highlights:

-Bert's transition from Division I athlete to fitness industry innovator

-The growth of Sorinex and its impact on modern strength training

-Bert's holistic approach to fitness, emphasizing physical, mental, and emotional strength

-The influence of personal loss on Bert's perspective and business philosophy

-Exploring the concept of legacy and its role in shaping Sorinex's mission

Follow the show for more and thanks for listening!

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Bert Sorin

Website https://www.bertsorin.com/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bertsorin/

Sorinex

Website https://www.sorinex.com/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sorinex/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sorinex.strength/

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Eric Bland