Harder Than Life

Latest Episodes:

123: Tiny Changes, Massive Results: Your Blueprint for Transformation w/ Molly Smith Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

🌟 Ready to break free from burnout and live a life of alignment and purpose?

In this episode of Harder Than Life, Kelly Siegel sits down with a transformational coach, speaker, and author, Molly Smith. Molly shares her inspiring journey from corporate burnout and self-doubt to health transformation and mindset mastery. Through her book What the Funk?!: A Practical Guide to Getting Out of the Funk You Are In With Your Health, Mindset, and Purpose, Molly helps readers overcome life’s funks and align their health, mindset, and purpose for a fulfilling life.

Discover how Molly went from feeling stuck in societal definitions of success to living a life of self-love and intentional growth. She opens up about her struggles with burnout, regrets as a parent, and finding the courage to let go of alcohol and embrace true alignment. This powerful conversation is packed with practical advice, heartfelt moments, and actionable steps for anyone looking to reclaim their life.

Key Takeaways:

✅ How to identify and break free from unhealthy patterns

✅ The transformative power of self-love and mindset shifts

✅ Why small, consistent changes create lasting results

✅ The Step Formula: Align your skills, passions, and purpose

✅ Real tools to overcome the funk and live fully

✨ Get Molly Smith’s book, "What the Funk? A Practical Guide to Getting Out of the Funk You’re In with Your Health, Mindset, and Purpose," now available on Amazon.

👉 Don’t miss this transformative episode filled with insights that could change your life!

📲 Follow Molly Smith:

Instagram & TikTok: @MollyPositivePants

🎙️ Subscribe for more life-changing conversations and practical advice!

🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of Harder Than Life!

#HarderThanLife #KellySiegel #MollySmith #WhatTheFunk #SelfLove #Mindset #PersonalGrowth

122: Why Influence is a Skill, Not a Talent And How to Learn It with René Rodriguez Jan 14, 2025

Show notes

How do you truly amplify your influence? Whether you’re a business leader, an entrepreneur, or someone looking to make a greater impact, this episode is for YOU.

Today, Kelly Siegel sits down with René Rodriguez—bestselling author, keynote speaker, and transformational leadership coach—to break down the science behind influence, communication, and personal growth. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral neuroscience applied to leadership and sales, René has shared the stage with legends like Ed Mylett, Tony Robbins, and Gary Vaynerchuk.

💡 Key Takeaways:

The 3 S’s of Influence: Significance, Suffering, and Skills
How self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership
The secret to capturing attention in a distracted world
The power of storytelling to inspire action
How emotional intelligence & discipline impact success

René also shares his personal transformation journey—from letting himself go to reclaiming his health—and explains how your mindset and habits determine your future.

🎤 Learn more about his game-changing Amplify Workshops &René’s bestselling book "Amplify Your Influence": https://www.meetrene.com/

Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and drop a comment with your biggest takeaway!

#HarderThanLife #Influence #Leadership #Mindset

121: Think Like the 1% & Make Quantum Leaps in Life w/ Chris Patterson Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

Are You Ready to Break Through to the Next Level?

In this powerful episode of Harder Than Life, I sit down with my good friend and legendary entrepreneur Chris Patterson, CEO and founder of Live Large Coaching and Interchanges. With over 20 years of experience helping businesses grow by billions, Chris reveals the mindset, mastery, and strategies that have propelled NFL stars, top CEOs, and high achievers to greatness.

What You’ll Learn:

The Power of Simplicity – How the "Top 5 Rule" creates unstoppable momentum in life and business.
Quantum Leap Mindset – What separates the top 1% from everyone else and how to reprogram your mind for success.
From Rock Bottom to Breakthrough – Chris’s inspiring transformation, from struggles to being mentored by Zig Ziglar.
The Terror Barrier – How fear stops most people and the mindset shift needed to push through.
Faith Over Fear – The secret to rewiring your brain for abundance, not scarcity.
The Power of Forgiveness – Why letting go of the past is the key to true freedom and fulfillment.

Chris and I also swap wild Detroit and Windsor stories, dive into fitness, business, emotional intelligence, and personal growth, and break down the habits of top performers.

Key Takeaways:

Success is built daily through small, consistent actions.
Fear is the gatekeeper to your biggest breakthroughs.
Help others first and watch abundance flow into your life.
Your mindset controls everything – change your thoughts, change your life.
The best investment? Your own growth.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more game-changing insights.

#HarderThanLife #ChrisPatterson #SuccessMindset #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship

120: The Universe is Hiring w/ Anniston Blair Riekstins Dec 31, 2024

Show notes

In this transformational episode of the Harder Than Life Podcast, host Kelly sits down with Anniston Blair Riekstins, a high-performance coach, spiritual teacher, motivational speaker, and the brilliant author of the new book The Universe is Hiring. This conversation dives deep into the themes of purpose, alignment, overcoming fear, and how to co-create with the universe to manifest your most fulfilling life. Anniston shares personal stories, actionable insights, and a glimpse into her spiritual journey, making this episode a must-listen as you step into a new year of possibilities.
Pre-order your copy of The Universe is Hiring today! https://amzn.to/3Pikini
Key Takeaways:
Purpose Commitments: Define your purpose not by a title but by the actions that align with your gifts. Example: "I open hearts and minds with my words."

Emotional Intelligence: Differentiate between nervousness and excitement. Shift your perception to embrace all emotions as part of your growth.

Practical Manifestation: Combine intention with aligned action to bring your dreams to life.

"You are here for a reason, with gifts only you can bring to the world." – Anniston Blair Riekstins

Anniston Riekstins’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annistonblairriekstins/?hl=en

Podcast: https://www.inpoweruniversity.com/the-inpowered-life

Harder than Life Website: https://www.harderthanlife.com/
Shop HTL merch: https://harderthanlifeshop.com/
Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com/Harder-than-Life-Overcoming-Addiction/dp/1544539126/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2V9ID7MLAX3XX&keywords=harder+than+life+kelly+siegel&qid=1673314631&sprefix=harder+than+life%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-1
Business Website: https://www.trustntm.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harderthanlife.pod/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kelly.siegel.71
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-siegel-0146a3
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCncVFeA5P2LrAovuofQQcDg
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kellysiegel71

119: Secrets to Entrepreneurial Success w/ Debbie Hart & Shawn Finnegan Dec 24, 2024

Show notes

In this heartfelt and transformative episode of Harder Than Life, Kelly Siegel welcomes two extraordinary guests: Shawn Finnegan, a serial entrepreneur known as a “super connector,” and Debbie Hart, founder of Ignition Point, a platform empowering entrepreneurs across all stages. Together, they unpack stories of triumph, failure, and growth, demonstrating how challenges shape us into our best selves.
Key Takeaways:
Relationships Over Everything: Both Shawn and Debbie emphasize the importance of building and nurturing relationships in personal and professional life.

Forgiveness Frees You: Shawn’s story of reconciliation highlights how letting go of grudges can lead to peace and renewed connection.

The Power of Action: Debbie and Shawn share how taking imperfect action is better than waiting for the "perfect" moment to start.

Leverage Knowledge: Entrepreneurs often miss out on opportunities like tax deductions due to lack of knowledge. Education is key to growth.

Empowerment Through Events: Debbie’s Ignition Point events provide access to industry leaders in an intimate, actionable setting.

"No one builds an empire alone. Success is always a team effort." – Shawn Finnegan

"It’s not what happens to you, but what you choose to do with it that defines your future." – Debbie Hart

Debbie & Shawn’s Links:

Website: https://ignitionpointacademy.com/

Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@IgnitionPointpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_debbiehart/, https://www.instagram.com/finneganshawn/?hl=en
Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Resilience and Innovation

01:32 - The Power of Relationships in Entrepreneurship

04:29 - Mindset Shifts: From Hardship to Ease

09:12 - Shawn's Journey: Overcoming Business Challenges

12:30 - Debbie's Transformation: From Stay-at-Home Mom to Entrepreneur

19:04 - Finding Strength in Vulnerability

23:58 - The Importance of Sharing Stories

29:52 - Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

33:51 - Taking Your Power Back

34:15 - The Depth of Character Development

35:14 - Finding Gratitude in Challenges

36:40 - Building the Future vs. Fighting the Past

37:31 - The Importance of Foxhole Friends

39:54 - Navigating Difficult Relationships

42:25 - The Healing Journey of Forgiveness

44:52 - The Power of Communication

46:40 - Listening as a Tool for Resolution

49:48 - Understanding Tax Implications for Entrepreneurs

54:29 - Role Models and Personal Growth

01:00:43 - Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

118: From Body Shame to Peak Performance w/ Justin Roethlingshoefer Dec 17, 2024

Show notes

In this transformative episode of the Harder Than Life podcast, host Kelly sits down with Justin Roethlingshoefer, co-founder of the groundbreaking Own It Coaching and a trailblazer in the health and wellness space. With a background as a performance coach for NCAA and NHL athletes, a USA Today bestselling author, and host of The Own It Show, Justin has dedicated his life to helping leaders and high performers redefine health and live life on their terms. Justin shares his inspiring journey from being an overweight, body-shamed child to becoming a powerhouse in health optimization.
Key Takeaways:
What is Ownership? Ownership is the intersection of accountability and responsibility. It’s about taking charge of your health and life with intentionality and consistency.

The Cellular Approach to Health: Justin emphasizes that true health begins at the cellular level, where 30 trillion cells must work synergistically. His team uses DNA, epigenetic, and cellular testing to craft hyper-personalized health plans.

Why "Looking Healthy" Isn’t Enough: Justin’s journey revealed that even with a six-pack and elite athletic performance, internal health can tell a very different story. His wake-up call led him to focus on holistic, integrated health solutions.

Sleep Apnea, Testosterone, and Statins – Debunking Myths: Justin shares a powerful client success story of overcoming health challenges like sleep apnea and low testosterone without lifelong dependence on medication or devices.

Health Impacts Wealth: Justin and his team are working with entrepreneurs to track how improved health correlates with financial success.

"The world has taught us to base our confidence on outcomes. True transformation comes from intentionality and consistency." -Justin Roethlingshoefer

Justin Roethlingshoefer’s Links:

Website: https://ownitcoaching.com/testing/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justinroeth/?hl=en

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-roethlingshoefer/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDetLdQmF_t_sEM-6d4eFkQ

117: Balance Urgency & Importance w/ Matt Reynolds Dec 10, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Harder Than Life, host Kelly Siegel welcomes Matt Reynolds, founder of Barbell Logic and author of the upcoming book, Undoing Urgency. With over 25 years of experience in strength and fitness coaching, Matt dives into his philosophy of voluntary hardship, balancing urgency and importance, and redefining personal training with simplicity, effectiveness, and cutting-edge technology. Matt shares his journey from being a professional strongman and powerlifter to running a global fitness empire. Together, Kelly and Matt explore actionable advice for life, fitness, and business that listeners can implement today.
Matt Reynolds is offering a special discount for the listeners of the Harder Than Life Podcast. They can enjoy 50% off their first month of coaching by using the discount code "HARDER" at checkout at barbell-logic.com/harder

Key Takeaways:
Voluntary Hardship: Choosing difficult, refining experiences prepares us for the inevitable involuntary hardships of life.

Simplicity and Focus: Success in fitness and life comes from focusing on what’s important—simple, hard, and effective practices.

Undoing Urgency: Matt's book emphasizes identifying core values and aligning actions to live a life that matters.

Online Coaching Benefits: How Barbell Logic's innovative model provides freedom and accessibility for both clients and coaches.
Actionable Productivity: Tips from Matt’s GAME Plan framework—Goals, Actions, Metrics, Execution.
"Simplicity, when paired with effort, is the most effective strategy in fitness and in life." – Matt Reynolds
Matt Reynolds’s Links:

Website: https://ryanmattreynolds.com/, https://barbell-logic.com/

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

X: https://x.com/ReynoldsStrong
Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Harder Than Life Podcast

02:05 - The Concept of Undoing Urgency

05:54 - Identifying Core Values

09:49 - The Importance of Focus and Efficiency

11:46 - Game Plan for Achieving Goals

16:05 - Voluntary vs. Involuntary Hardship

19:58 - The Philosophy of Voluntary Hardship

23:48 - The Benefits of Online Coaching

28:04 - Simplicity in Strength Training

33:44 - The Evolution of Strength Training

37:22 - AI in Coaching: Opportunities and Challenges

41:43 - The Shift to Online Coaching

48:54 - The Future of Coaching: Authenticity and Connection

53:57 - Lessons Learned in Coaching and Business

116: Summer Camps and Life Lessons w/ Rabbi Josh Bennett Dec 03, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful episode of Harder Than Life, host Kelly Siegel sits down with Rabbi Josh Bennett, spiritual leader at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, and host of the Waking Up to Life podcast. Rabbi Josh shares his journey from a Midwest upbringing to becoming a rabbi and social action advocate. Together, Kelly and Rabbi Josh explore deep topics ranging from authenticity and spiritual leadership to charity work and bridging political and religious divides.

Key Takeaways:
Embracing Authenticity: Authenticity is about honoring your truth while respecting others. It requires self-awareness and balance, especially in roles of leadership and community service.

The Power of Social Action: Social action is a core tenet of Reform Judaism and a way to create impactful change. Initiatives like Fresh Pantry demonstrate how helping neighbors in need fosters connection and understanding.

Unity Through Understanding: Bridging divides, whether religious or political, starts with finding common ground and recognizing shared values. True progress comes from listening and collaboration.

Gratitude and Presence: Practicing gratitude and living in the present are transformative for mental well-being. Slowing down and embracing stillness can help us refocus on what truly matters.

Summer Camp as a Growth Catalyst: Summer camps provide a unique opportunity for children to develop independence, leadership, and lifelong friendships. It’s a chance to grow within a supportive community.

The Duality of Life: Life is about balancing instincts and aspirations. Recognizing the “good” and “bad” inclinations allows for self-growth and alignment with personal values.

The Importance of Community: Communities thrive when people step up to give back. Whether through charity, mentorship, or social action, collective efforts build stronger bonds and improve lives.

The Role of Meditation: Regular meditation fosters mindfulness, reduces stress, and enhances clarity. Starting with even a few minutes a day can unlock new levels of self-awareness and peace.

Building Bridges Across Faiths: Understanding and respect among different religions are essential. Leaders like Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed all share teachings of unity and morality, demonstrating the universality of compassion.

Mistakes as Opportunities: Mistakes, while humbling, are vital learning experiences. They teach us the importance of preparation, presence, and being thoughtful in how we engage with others.

"Gratitude and presence are the keys to unlocking happiness and peace."

Rabbi Josh Bennett’s Links:

Podcast: https://www.temple-israel.org/wakinguptolifepod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rabbijoshbennett/

X: https://x.com/tirabbijosh

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Rabbi Josh Bennett

02:47 - The Journey to Spiritual Leadership

06:06 - Social Action and Community Engagement

09:00 - Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding

11:53 - The Role of Charity in Judaism

15:11 - Project Healthy Community and Its Impact

17:56 - Authenticity and Self-Discovery

20:49 - Living a Life of No Regrets

34:59 - The Value of Conversations and Regrets

36:57 - Understanding Duality: Good vs. Bad

40:48 - Finding Balance in Life Choices

46:08 - Parenting and Professional Life Balance

48:01 - The Impact of Summer Camp on Growth

51:51 - Generational Wealth and Breaking Cycles

54:11 - Creative Pursuits and Personal Growth

57:02 - The Role of Law and Justice in Society

59:55 - Dinner with Historical Figures: A Theological Discussion

01:01:50 - Meditation and the Importance of Quietude

01:06:02 - Finding Unity in a Fractured World

115: Overcoming Challenges & Building Community w/ Nikki Jacobs Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

In this vibrant episode of Harder Than Life, host Kelly Siegel sits down with the multifaceted Nikki Jacobs—a natural connector, actress, singer, dancer, and cannabis industry broker. Nikki shares her journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the art of building meaningful relationships. Whether navigating the cannabis business, her creative pursuits, or life’s challenges, Nikki's story is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

Key Takeaways:
The Power of Connection

Being a connector means prioritizing relationships over transactions.
Trust and honesty are the foundations of meaningful relationships.

Resilience Through Change

Major life shifts can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.
Grieving requires both emotional space and active steps toward healing.

The Importance of Self-Care

A morning routine rooted in stillness and intention can set the tone for the day.
Practices like journaling, movement, and meditation help cultivate inner peace.

Eastern Philosophy and Personal Growth

Martial arts emphasize surrender, discipline, and respect—principles that apply to daily life.
Learning to let go of control can open doors to growth and connection.

Authenticity and Vulnerability

Showing up as your authentic self builds trust and deepens connections.
Failure is not the end but a chance to pivot and learn.

"Failure is feedback—an opportunity to pivot, learn, and keep moving forward."

Nikki Jacobs’s Links:

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikki.fayne/

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

00:07 - Meet Nikki Jacobs

02:29 - The Art of Connection

04:50 - Journey into the Cannabis Industry

16:44 - Coping with Loss Through Movement Therapy

28:30 - Lessons from Martial Arts

38:03 - Nikki’s Morning Routine

45:05 - "All the World’s a Stage"

52:15 - Musical Inspiration and Jazz Hands

58:56 - Final Reflections

01:01:36 - Closing Thoughts & Call to Action

114: Awakening to Your Higher Self w/ Emily Andrews Nov 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Harder Than Life, host Kelly Siegel sits down with Emily Rivera Andrews, known as The Angel Coach. Emily has dedicated her life to guiding people toward clarity and purpose by connecting them with their higher selves and spiritual intuition. The conversation dives deep into personal transformation, spiritual awakening, and using one's gifts for greater impact. Emily shares powerful stories, including life-changing moments of divine intervention, her journey through immense personal loss, and how she helps clients transcend self-doubt and embody their true potential. Together, Kelly and Emily explore the importance of surrender, play, and embracing life's challenges as catalysts for growth and spiritual awakening.

Key Takeaways:

Embracing Divine Guidance: Emily shares her journey to becoming The Angel Coach and how listening to divine guidance has shaped her life and work.
The Power of Surrender: Emily and Kelly discuss the transformative power of surrendering to grace and trusting in divine timing to help navigate life's challenges.
The Importance of Play & Joy: Discover why play, joy, and laughter are essential components of personal and spiritual development.
Awakening to Your Gifts: Emily emphasizes the significance of embracing your gifts and leaning into your anointing to create meaningful impact.
Navigating Self-Doubt: Practical advice on identifying, listening to, and transcending self-doubt to step into your higher self.

"If it’s been seeded, it’s been given. Your vision wasn’t meant to tease you. It’s meant to show you what’s already possible.”

Emily Andrew’s Links:

Website: https://theangelcoach.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyTheAngelCoach/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theangelcoach

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-rivera-49456130/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTtE1R0sBADQo0e46KrrOsg

Chapters:

[00:00] - Introduction: Self-Love and Spiritual Awakening

[02:30] - Emily Rivera's Journey to Becoming The Angel Coach

[04:50] - Exploring Intuition and Divine Guidance