The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus

SARAH REINERTSEN, Paralympian, World Champion, Ironman Athlete: Find Your Brave Muscle Oct 12, 2018

Sarah Reinertsen, Paralympian, ITU Paratriathlon World Champion, Runner, and Ironman triathlon athlete joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus for a milestone 100th episode. Sarah “Iron Sarah” Reinertsen is a true pioneer. Born with proximal femoral focal deficiency (PFFD), she made the bold decision as a seven year old to amputate her leg. She envisioned jumping right in with other kids and leading a fully active life, and that vision drives her today in breaking barriers and challenging perceptions. Sarah’s list of “firsts” could fill several lifetimes: setting her first World Record (100m dash) at age 13, first amputee featured on the cover of Runner’s World Magazine, first female athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship on a prosthetic (2005), first amputee (male or female) to grace the cover of ESPN Magazine’s Body Issue, first amputee (male or female) to participate in CBS’s “The Amazing Race”, first amputee (male or female) to complete the World Marathon Challenge (7 half-marathons on 7 continents in 7 days), and first female athlete to run the Great Wall Marathon in China on a prosthesis. Oh yeah, and Sarah’s represented Team USA at the Paralympics, is a three-time ITU Paratriathlon World Champion, has won six gold medals, and held five previous world records…all while having a full-time job at Nike. Despite Sarah’s extensive accomplishments, she will tell you that she’s made of the same stuff inside all of us, and she truly believes that we can all seek and accomplish what we envision. The bolder the better. That’s what’s bringing her back to the Kona Ironman World Championship on October 13, 2018 on Ironman’s 40th anniversary. Get ready for a serious shot of inspiration - Sarah’s energy and can-do attitude is contagious! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

NELSON DELLIS, 4x USA Memory Champion: How to Improve Your Memory Oct 10, 2018

Nelson Dellis, 4x USA Memory Champion and Alzheimer’s activist, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. In this device and app-laden landscape of our day to day lives, when was the last time you aimed to remember a phone number or directions, or do some simple math relying only on your memory? While we are using our brains in new ways, we’ve also let our memory muscles go, having the ability to record, remind, and navigate through the ease of technology. Nelson Dellis wants to help and believes that developing memory is the ultimate act of being present. Being able to focus, limit distractions, and use the “awesome computer” in our heads not only helps us make more meaningful memories, but multiplies those we make and keeps our brains healthy. Nelson is a sought after author (“Remember It!”) and consultant, appearing on FOX’s Superhuman, the TODAY Show, CNN, OWN, NatGeo and many more outlets in addition to working with Fortune 500 companies, schools and universities, and professional athletes. His work is recommended by Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Maria Shriver, founder of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement. By the end of this episode, you’ll even be able to put into practice his memory tips! Inspired to learn and develop memory strategies after his grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Nelson also combined his passion for mountaineering with raising awareness of and funding for Alzheimer’s research through his charity Climb For Memory. His list of ascents is impressive, including Cotopaxi, Denali, Khumbu, Matterhorn, Mt Blanc and near Everest summits. He brings along those looking to make an impact, grow, and literally reach new heights in their lives! Get ready to use your brain in an impactful, practical, and calming way! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_

RYAN HOWARD, MLB World Series Champion & Venture Capitalist: Doing What it Takes Sep 21, 2018

MLB legend, World Series champion, and venture capitalist, Ryan Howard joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Ryan Howard is one of the best baseball players of the modern era, having played for the Philadelphia Phillies from 2004-2016. In baseball, he’s pretty much done it all: He hit almost 400 career home runs, had almost 1200 RBIs, and was a three-time All Star, World Series champion (2008), and National League MVP (2006) and Rookie of the Year (2005). He’s also led the league in home runs twice and RBIs three times. Needless to say, Ryan is a stud. But, what’s even more impressive than his baseball career is who Ryan is as a person and philanthropist. In this conversation, Ryan graciously shares his story of discipline, integrity, and persistence and how those skills are translating into his new pursuits as a venture capitalist. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

MERRIL HOGE, Former NFL Running Back + Sports Personality: Find a Way Sep 07, 2018

Merril Hoge, football analyst and former NFL running back, joins The Brink of Midnight with John Brenkus. Football season is now in full swing for both the NCAA and NFL, and Merril Hoge excelled at both levels playing running back for Idaho State University as well as the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears. He’s also been a trailblazing analyst for many years. Whether you know Merril from the grid iron or studio, one thing is unmistakeable - Merril Hoge defines tough. He had to help provide for his family starting at age 12 with the labor intensive job of laying pipe, and it instilled a lifelong work ethic that helped him survive nearly losing his hand, reach his childhood goal of playing in the NFL, beat cancer, and survive major head trauma and open heart surgery. Merril inspires us all to, no matter what, “find a way” - the motto he’s had pinned to his wall since childhood. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

SCOTT FLANSBURG, The Human Calculator: On Confidence Aug 29, 2018

Scott Flansburg, “The Human Calculator” and multi-award winning Guinness Book of World Records holder, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Scott Flansburg has a powerful relationship with and understanding of numbers. He’s on a mission to help kids (and grown ups) feel great about math. His most powerful moments of self-discovery occurred in third, fifth, and eighth grades, so he knows a thing or to about guiding kids toward a confident and fun relationship with arithmetic. He’s a New York Times best-selling author, has been interviewed by Oprah Winfrey, Ellen Degeneres, Larry King, Tony Robbins, and has appeared on CNN, The Today Show, Good Morning America, and countless other major outlets. My production company also produced Scott's History Channel show, "Human Calculator." Scott travels the world speaking to educators, parents, corporate leaders, and thousands of students each year and has even visited our own kids’ school! Remarkably, Scott didn’t graduate high school, got kicked out of the Air Force, was homeless for a period of time, and by chance met comedian Jon Lovitz, who ended up spearheading his career in becoming an “edutainer”. This conversation will truly spark the pathways in your brain as Scott teaches us some fun number patterns, the origin of Roman numerals and the shape of modern numbers, why we should question our calendar, and how to delight in the math in our everyday surroundings, biology, and economy. He has a contagious energy that makes you want to look for math all around you! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

JOHN O'LEARY, Best-Selling Author & Speaker: Moving Beyond Challenge Aug 23, 2018

John O’Leary (@JOLearyInspires), best-selling author and inspirational speaker, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. John O’Leary is a miracle. Set on fire during a childhood accident and suffering burns over the vast majority of his body, he was given a zero percent chance at survival. The ensuing surgeries, amputations, and recovery were fraught with challenge that the majority of us will never know. Living became his purpose. Sharing how to live - his gift. Today, John is a husband, father of four, the best-selling author of “On Fire”, a high-demand speaker, and host of the Live Inspired Podcast. He knows all about pain, but is on a mission to help others see and move beyond it. He wants to make sure we all open our eyes and “wake up” from accidental living. This conversation is all about perspective, hope, love, and potential. In 45 minutes, John O’Leary just might help you see something new on your horizon. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_

DOUG GOTTLIEB, Sports Personality: How to Find Your Authentic Voice Aug 16, 2018

Doug Gottlieb (@gottiebshow), sports media personality and host of “The Doug Gottlieb Show” on Fox Sports, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. In the world of sports media and being a personality on radio and TV, it’s a challenge to find an authentic voice. A lot of people have a shtick or act they put on that’s designed to get people to listen. Doug is unique - his shtick is being himself. Doug was a great basketball player in the day, but, as you’re about to hear, it didn’t work out exactly how he thought it would. His rise to the top in sports media, working with ESPN, CBS Sports, and now Fox Sports, has been the result of sticking to his authenticity. But where did that come from? How did he nurture his voice and stay true in a business when everyone is trying to stand out? Doug graciously goes deep on one of the biggest mistakes he made in college, and how he overcame it to build a life and career he loves. He shares how to think about finding your voice, and how to shift from being results-oriented to process oriented. Sometimes our most important building blocks in life stem from the moments when we fall down. We are all imperfectly human and meant to grow and learn. Doug helps remind us that life is truly what we make of it! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

BRETT HUGHES, Fomer MLL Player, Co-Founder, Lacrosse the Nations: On Service Aug 10, 2018

Former Major League Lacrosse player and co-founder of Lacrosse the Nations, Brett Hughes, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Brett is a one-of-a-kind change maker. Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, he was an All-State high school athlete in both football and lacrosse. He chose to pursue lacrosse at University of Virginia, where he was a three-time All American and captured the National Championship. Brett went on to play professional lacrosse for the MLL (Major League Lacrosse) for the New Jersey Pride, Los Angeles Riptide, and Denver Outlaws and was named both an All Star and MVP. He's really done it all in lacrosse, including co-founding Lacrosse the Nations, an organization helping children in need around the world. Brett's passion for sport, travel, and serving others is contagious. He's currently doing good from a new home base abroad in Paris with his singer songwriter wife, Kate Voegele, who was also a former podcast guest! Sit back and get ready to learn from this true trailblazer. Brett will inspire you to use your strengths and passions to give back, grow community, and learn about yourself in the process! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight and @johnbrenkus_

ROBERT GRIFFIN, III, NFL Quarterback: On Perseverance Jul 25, 2018

Robert Griffin, III (“RG3”), NFL quarterback, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. RG3 won the Heisman Trophy with Baylor University and stormed onto the NFL scene in 2012 when he was drafted second overall by the Washington Redskins. He took the Redskins to the playoffs and was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. To say RG3 owned Washington, D.C. is an understatement. But things didn’t go quite as planned and he was plagued with injury after injury. He moved on to the Cleveland Browns for a stint in 2016, sat out the 2017 season, and recently signed with the Baltimore Ravens. In his early years, RG3 experienced incredible success and really being the face of the league to then the unpredictability that follows injury. The setbacks he experienced could have forced anyone off course permanently, yet he’s found his way back to the NFL through deep faith, persistence, and perseverance. In this conversation, he pulls back the curtain on how he got through the dark times. He also shares his most powerful childhood lesson that helped shape how he approaches every obstacle! RG3’s mindset will remind you that we all have control over how we react to our circumstances and that the good stuff already exists inside of us. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (instagram, Facebook, twitter) and @johnbrenkus_

DAVID BURKUS, Best-Selling Author, Thought Leader: Redefining Networking Jul 18, 2018

David Burkus (@davidburkus), thought leader, multi best-selling author, & networking expert joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. David Burkus is on a mission to translate and bring the best, scientifically-based ideas out of the ivory tower and into the offices, coffee shops, and meeting rooms where good work is done. From the theories of how creativity is generated to best practices in leadership and management, and now to redefining what good networking looks like, David is making an impact across all spectrums of work and life. Outside of his best-selling books, you can find his insights in Forbes, Inc., the Ted Talks stage, and many other outlets. He speaks around the world and works with organizations like Google, Fidelity, Microsoft, and many others. In this conversation, we dive into the nitty gritty from his recently published book, “Friend of a Friend: Understanding the Hidden Networks That Can Transform Your Life and Career”. He turns the idea of those awkward “What do you do?” conversations on it’s head to help us understand that we don’t create a network, we live inside one. David also gives us actionable steps on how to approach networking from the elevator pitch to extended conversations, tells us common pitfalls and what NOT to do, and how to think about the role that social media plays. He then looks through the lens of society at large, describing how networks form and how the danger of defaulting only to what is familiar to us can lead to division of groups. Especially poignant in today’s political climate, he illustrates how and why we need to start intentionally creating opportunities to move outside our default network to learn from others and have dialogue with a diverse set of opinions. This conversation is fully of takeaways that you can immediately apply to your work and life, and his ideas will keep you thinking long into the weeks and months ahead! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

DANIELLA MONET, Actress, Nickelodeon Star, Activist: Seizing Opportunity Jul 11, 2018

Daniella Monet (@daniellamonet), actress, Nickelodeon star, and activist, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Daniella Monet is a doer, a dreamer, a believer, and has mastered the art of living creatively at the age of 29. She’s worked in Hollywood since the age of nine and is most well known for roles on hit TV shows like “Victorious”, “iCarly", "The Bernie Mac Show", "Listen Up!", and most recently "Paradise Run". She's become a significant player in new media with her Facebook Watch show "D Takes Your V Card", which exposes guests to vegan food and shares ideas and resources for an animal product and cruelty-free lifestyle. Daniella works with a fantastic roster of ethical and cruelty-free brands and shares her knowledge and experiences with her massive social media following. But, her goals in life go way beyond acting and her media presence. She's the ultimate entrepreneur and willing to try her hand in anything she's curious about. She owned her first property at 17, became a landlord at 18, has her real estate license, is an angel investor, rides motorcycles, and so much more...she is well aware of her one life and embodies the idea of "carpe diem" every day. Listen and learn from this young, but old soul and you'll be inspired to start trying new things - whether it's a vegan sandwich or something you never thought you'd do! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

JENNIFER FERRO, KCRW President/GM: On Culture Jun 27, 2018

Jennifer Ferro (@jenniferro), President and General Manager of world renown L.A. public radio station KCRW (@kcrw), joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Founded in 1945, KCRW (College Radio Workshop), was originally created to train WWII veterans in the then new technology of FM broadcasting and ever since has blazed a trail in influencing culture, particularly in music and breaking bands, in a profound way. Jennifer truly embodies what KCRW is all about - building community around shared values while having fun, and all in an effort to make life better. She got her start as an intern and it was the vibe, intelligence, and values of the station that kept her. In a world of paid social media influencers, bloggers, and constant marketing, Jennifer and her team of trusted culture curators offer a refreshing take on what is great from music, to food, to entertainment, to ideas. A mom of two, she has a grounded view on creating equilibrium with family, work, life, and wellness. In this conversation, Jennifer graciously pulls back the curtain on what it takes to make it all work while committing to growth and real, human connection. She also throws in the fun story of how Fitz and the Tantrums blew up from their first appearance on KCRW and a chance listen by Maroon 5's Adam Levine! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

KELLEY JAMES, Musician with MARC ROBERGE, O.A.R. Lead Singer: Put Yourself Out There Jun 21, 2018

Renown musician and freestyle rapper, Kelley James (@kelleyjamesmusic), and special guest, O.A.R. lead singer, Marc Roberge (@marcroberge) join The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Kelley James has carved out a unique niche in the music world. Sought out out for being a high profile event performer and freestyle rapper, he’s played over 1000 shows to date and has toured and opened for acts like Kid Rock, Robin Thicke, LMFAO, Goo Goo Dolls, Sara Bareilles, Weezer, and O.A.R., among many others. Even more impressive is the roster of companies where Kelley is often the featured act: Oakley, Red Bull, Vans, Corona, Honda, AT&T, Google, Spin Magazine, Wheels Up, and more. Kelley got his start as a singer songwriter, but soon realized that his strength was harnessing the combination of his own musical ability, what’s happening in the moment, news and pop culture, and creating a crazy, unique experience. No two shows are alike and Kelley prides himself on genuinely surrendering to being in the flow, whether that’s freestyle rapping, playing guitar, channeling grunge or pop, or mashing it all up. In this conversation, he hones in on what can help us all climb whatever mountain we’re on and it comes down to getting really honest with yourself, asking for constructive criticism at every point, and being willing to put yourself out there knowing full well that you will fail, but grow, along the way. This episode gets really special when Kelley invites close friend and O.A.R. lead singer, Marc Roberge, to join the conversation and share how his band got their start. Marc offers up some great gems on what it takes to make it, and then Kelley and Mark treat us with a surprise jam session! Marc hops on the guitar while Kelley freestyle raps on the topic of what else -- life-changing moments! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

DR. OZ, Cardiac Surgeon, "The Dr. Oz Show": How to Make a Change Jun 13, 2018

World renown cardiac surgeon, host of "The Dr. Oz Show", and health and wellness expert, Dr. Mehmet Oz (@DrOz), joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. As one of the most well-recognized names and faces in modern medicine, the impact Dr. Oz is making on the world extends far beyond his operating room. From his original appearances on The Oprah Show to his books, TV show, and teaching at Columbia University, Dr. Oz has introduced us to dramatic and simple ways to live our best lives. His matter-of-fact approach combined with empathy, tough love, and education compels us all to get in the driver's seat when it comes to health, wellness, and happiness. In this conversation, we talk a lot about change. How to consider change, what triggers change, when to make important life decisions, and even the relationship between biology and change. It's a fascinating take that will make you look at the milestones in your own life - and those to come - with fresh eyes and ideas. And, of course, Dr. Oz shares the powerful childhood moment involving Fluffernutter sandwiches that got him thinking about change and wellness to begin with. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

RIC BUCHER, Sports Analyst, Sirius/XM Radio Host: On Storytelling Jun 05, 2018

Sports analyst, Sirius/XM Radio Host, and master storyteller, Ric Bucher (@RicBucher) joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Ric Bucher is one of the most well-known and respected sports journalists, analysts, and hosts of today's sports world. His deep insights and coverage have connected us to powerful sports stories and the best of humanity. He hosts shows for MadDog Sports and the NBA on Sirius/XM, is the Senior Writer for Bleacher Report, and co-hosts the "BJ x Bucher Podcast" with NBA star BJ Armstrong. Ric's resume includes work at top media outlets like ESPN, ESPN the Magazine, Comcast, and The Washington Post, but his start in journalism will surprise you. He shares how being turned down for big jobs out of college and taking a low-paying job covering high school sports in San Diego was his turning point as a storyteller. He was forced to discover his process for finding captivating stories, and to this day, he does it all himself because of his pure love of the craft. This conversation is especially powerful in terms of highlighting how a perceived failure can create the foundation for finding our calling. Ric teaches us how to find and chase our passions and how ask the right questions to put us on our unique paths. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

PAUL RABIL, Lacrosse Legend, Entrepreneur: The Key to Happiness is Empathy May 29, 2018

Professional lacrosse player, entrepreneur, and storyteller, Paul Rabil (@paulrabil), joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. He's been called "the most tech-savvie athlete of 2017", the "Lebron James of Lacrosse" by the New York Times, and was named a "Top 40 Most entrepreneurial athlete" by Entrepreneur Magazine. He's appeared on or authored pieces in just about every media outlet, has his own well-known "Suiting Up with Paul Rabil" Podcast, and it was when Paul came into the ESPN Sport Science lab that he and I met. Paul is best known for being the current face of lacrosse. He played for Johns Hopkins University, went #1 overall in the 2008 MLL draft, is a two-time MLL Champion, and whopping 10-time All Star. His accomplishments on the lacrosse field are undeniable and he's on a mission to help share and improve the game, but also to use sport and his platform to change lives for the better in any way he can. Paul, in a word, is fascinating. He operates at a high level with everything that he does. Most impressively, he applies that ethic every day in how he can improve not only on the lacrosse field and in his businesses, but as a person and in his relationships. In this conversation, Paul shares never-before-told stories, breaks down how he approaches practice, the ethos of his company, and how to handle criticism. For full show notes, visit www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

SHANTI DAS, Music Vet & Founder, Silence the Shame May 25, 2018

Music veteran, Hip Hop Professional creator, and founder of the "Silence the Shame" movement, Shanti Das, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Shanti Das is a name popular with some of the most successful urban artists including Outkast, Usher, Toni Braxton, TLC, Jermaine Dupri, Prince, and L.A. Reid, among many others. She climbed her way to the top of music marketing working at La Face Records, Capitol Records, Arista, Columbia, and finally at Universal as their Executive Vice President of Marketing. She had it all going on, beloved by countless artists and music professionals, but no one really knew of the periods of darkness and depression Shanti would experience with her unprocessed feelings from her father's suicide. One particular dark moment, after contemplating ending her life, she reached out for help and began the process of true healing and now she's made it her mission to help others battling the same darkness. Out of her most difficult time, the seed was planted for what would become her "Silence the Shame" movement for mental wellness and advocacy. She is peeling back the layers of shame and stigma surrounding mental health issues, touring the country, helping students, collaborating on research with Emory University, and sparking dialogue with the help of friends from the music industry including: Nick Cannon, Bell Biv DeVoe (BBD), Estelle, Andra Day, Will Packer, Stephanie Mills, Takeo Spikes, Chloe X Halle, Shanice, Flex Alexander, Terri J Vaughn, Nicci Gilbert Daniels and Ed Lover. Shanti, like the meaning of her name, is bringing peace to the masses and helping save lives. In this poignant conversation, Shanti bravely tells her story, educates, and provides tools for anyone in need. She believes "peace is the new success" and that when we can all help each other out, we all win! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

ERIC the TRAINER, Celebrity Trainer: Intention is Everything May 22, 2018

Celebrity trainer and host of Discovery Channel's "Celebrity Sweat", "Eric the Trainer" joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Take one look at Eric the Trainer (Eric Fleishman) and a ripped comic book character origin story comes to mind. For the last 27 years, he's worked with UFC fighters, police officers, special forces, and celebrities and artists across the spectrum of entertainment and music. He is especially well-known for his methods of total transformation and his roster, among countless clients, includes: Nickelback, Def Leppard, Fallout Boy, The Strokes, the casts of "House of Cards", "Game of Thrones", "Walking Dead", "Mindhunter", "Seal Time", countless movie starts, and many on-air personalities. A glance at the extensive roster of "Celebrity Sweat" guests will show you Eric really knows what he's talking about. He's also the Fitness Director for the American Culinary Federation (ACF), helping the best chefs do what they do best through health and wellness. But it's not just about physical transformation...from rural Maine farm boy (with the nickname "Squeaky"), Eric transformed his life from the inside out and apprenticed under the great fitness and health pioneer, Jack Lalane. As in his own daily life, he helps people through a holistic approach, including East/West lenses, and working backward from intention to make new habit-forming change. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com |Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

PHIL COLLEN, Def Leppard Lead Guitarist: Your Destiny is Up To You May 15, 2018

Phil Collen, lead guitarist and songwriter for legendary rock band, Def Leppard, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Def Leppard is one of only a few bands to receive two Diamond records (over 10 million copies sold for each; for “Hysteria” and “Pyromania”) and have been together for over 36 years. In this special episode, we turn back the clock with Phil Collen as he takes us through his musical journey and the evolution of Def Leppard. At the beginning of our conversation, he graciously sits down with his guitar and breaks down the creation of hits like “Hysteria”, “Pour Some Sugar on Me”, “Armageddon It”, “Love Bites”, “Rock It”, among others, sharing behind-the-scenes stories that will make 80s and rock fans feel like they’re playing and singing right in the studio with Phil. Raised in London by parents who survived WWWII, he learned at a young age an incredible work ethic and not to take anything for granted. Those values are the foundation of Phil’s every day, whether that’s writing and recording songs, performing in arenas across the globe, being a dad, practicing martial arts, or raising awareness for causes he supports (PETA and Omaze). Brush off your air guitar skills and get ready to rock with a VIP seat to music history courtesy of Phil Collen! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_

Friday Findings: Mental Health, the 80s, & More May 11, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In today's short episode, John is joined by special (and former) podcast guest, Rob Vaka, pro athlete mentor and philanthropy pioneer. John and Rob are coming at you from a charity golf event in Alabama and riff on a variety of topics from mental health awareness month to reflecting back and looking forward. Happy Friday change makers! For full show notes and more episodes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

MATT STOVER, 2x Super Bowl Champion, NFL Kicker: The Importance of Failure May 08, 2018

Former NFL kicker and two-time Super Bowl champion, Matt Stover, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. A professional football kicker in the NFL for an amazing 19 years, Matt played for the New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, and Indianapolis Colts. One of his Super Bowl victories also happened to be on the same Raves team as former podcast guests Ray Lewis and Trent Dilfer! Matt’s remarkable career garnered him some amazing stats — he’s a two-time All Pro player, he scored the sixth most points in NFL history, and he is the third most accurate kicker in the history of the league. As a kicker, Matt is no stranger to handling big moments under intense pressure and scrutiny. In this conversation, we go deep on failure and how to handle when things don’t go your way. We also talk about finding bigger purpose in being a teammate and serving others. We can all learn from Matt’s playbook on and off the field! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

Friday Findings: Don't Be a Donut May 04, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In today's short episode, John and Lizzie break down how all the little, daily choices in life really do add up, especially as we get older. Make it all count! For full show notes and other episodes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

GARY BRACKETT, Super Bowl-winning NFL Linebacker: How to Live Apr 30, 2018

Gary Brackett, Super Bowl-winning NFL linebacker, founder, and entrepreneur joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Most people know Gary Brackett as being an absolute force on the football field. As one of the smaller, lighter linebackers in NFL history, Gary's game was different. He rose to every occasion by being elusive, forcing mistakes, getting to the football...and it helped him become second in the ACC in tackles as well as help the Indianapolis Colts win a Super Bowl. There is much of Gary's story and the challenges he faced, however, that people don't know, and that is where we really dive in during this conversation. Gary walked on to the Rutgers University football team, and only after not being able to afford tuition anymore did they offer him a scholarship. Never to take an opportunity for granted, he rose to become captain and MVP of the defensive team. The next hurdle came when he went un-drafted. The Colts eventually gave him shot. The next series of crushing news came in the span of 18 months when he lost his father, mother, and brother. Circumstances that could have destroyed anyone helped Gary turn extreme loss at the young age of 23 into the foundation of his strength and resilience. He developed the idea that "how you honor the dead is how you live your life." Football became his sanctuary. Playing the game helped him express how he intended to live and honor his family. Gary asks us all to consider what bargain we want to make with life and powerfully suggests we all write our obituaries so we are in touch with the legacy we want to leave behind. Everything Gary does is about legacy, from football to how he currently gives back to his community through mentoring, jobs, and professional development. Get ready to think big and learn from the living legend that is Gary Brackett! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

Friday Findings: "Soul and Science" Debut on NFL Network Apr 27, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. This week John announces his new property with Trent Dilfer - "Soul and Science", where they explore the intangible (soul) and tangible (science) aspects of elite human performance and beyond! The premiere of "Soul and Science" is on the NFL Network with the NFL Draft and all the top quarterback pics! Ford has come on as the title sponsor and you can watch episodes at: on NFL Network! Happy Friday, change makers! For full snow notes and more episodes, visit: Contact: Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

CJ ANDERSON, Super Bowl-winning NFL Running Back: Grit and Grind Apr 24, 2018

Pro Bowl and Super Bowl-winning NFL running back, CJ Anderson, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. From being named to a Pro Bowl team to winning a Super Bowl, CJ Anderson has had so much success as a professional football player in the NFL, but he's never had it easy and went un-drafted before being signed to the Denver Broncos. CJ grew up in a tough part of Northern California where he witnessed first-hand how drugs and violence could tear apart families, and where the life expectancy of his peers was less than 30 years old. Football was his outlet, but despite having a phenomenal high school career, he had to go to Junior College before transferring to University of California Berkeley on a football scholarship. It was at this turning point, and with some help from his high school coach, when CJ formed the mindset he uses today and when he decided to live a clean and sober life. In this conversation, CJ graciously shares how he chose a clean path, despite growing up around drugs, alcohol, and violence. He shares how he developed his mindset and the most important questions to ask yourself when you need perspective. CJ also pulls back the curtain on his darkest lows and highest highs, illustrating how we ALL have greatness and potential in us no matter what we've been through. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

JAY CHANDRASEKHAR, Comedian, Actor, Director "Super Troopers 1&2": How to Pave Your Own Road Apr 20, 2018

Jay Chandrasekhar, comedian, actor, and director ("Super Troopers 1 & 2") joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. There isn't much in Hollywood that Jay Chandrasekhar hasn't done. Director. Actor. Writer. Touring stand up comedian. He's also broken barriers as one of the first Indians in comedy. From his early days forming the comedy group "Broken Lizard" at Colgate University in the 90s to creating comedy film hits and cult classics like "Super Troopers", "Beerfest", "Club Dread" among many others, he's played as many hats as possible. It all comes full circle with this week's "Super Troopers 2" premiere, whose prequel originally sold at Sundance Film Festival in 2001, and returns to over 2000 movie theaters after a massive $4.4 million crowd-funding campaign. In this conversation, Jay gets "dead honest" with the peaks and valleys of his life and career in entertainment. He shares his struggles with alcohol and drugs at a young age, how his sister's suggestion to try theater changed his life, and, rejected from all the top film schools, how he literally paved his own road in show business, or what he calls the "no" business. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

KEVIN HEFFERNAN, Comedian, Super Troopers 1&2: On Perseverance Apr 17, 2018

Comedian, writer, actor, and podcaster, Kevin Heffernan, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Kevin is part of the comedy group Broken Lizard, which has put out highly successful comedy films like "Super Troopers", "Beerfest", "Club Dread", and "The Slammin' Salmon", and originally formed at Colgate University over 25 years ago. You may also know Kevin from hit TV shows like "Curb Your Enthusiasm" "How I Met Your Mother" "Veep", and "Arrested Development". In this conversation, we pull back the curtain in Hollywood and Kevin shares the highs, lows, pitfalls, and roller coaster ride of what it means to "make it". Kevin's story is one of perseverance, resilience, and always being ready to seize the day even if that means figuring it out along the way. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

The Power of Trying Something New Apr 13, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. Coming to you from Boston and three days before Lizzie runs the Boston Marathon! In this episode, John and Lizzie explore the power of trying something new and how it can create incredible shift in your life and your community. Whether big or small, trying something new is usually a stepping stone to profound self-discovery. We share tips to just start, how to tap into passion, and stories of transformation…and geek out a little on running. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TATYANA MCFADDEN, 17x Paralympic Medalist, Team USA, Nike Athlete: Ya sama! (I Can Do It!) Apr 10, 2018

Record Paralympic medalist, multi-world record holder, Nike athlete, and Team USA wheelchair racer, Tatyana "The Beast" McFadden, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Born in Russia with a hole in her spine caused by spina bifida, Tatyana spent the first six years of her life in an orphanage. Six years without going to school, never using a wheelchair, and walking on her hands until Deborah McFadden, then Commissioner of Disabilities for the United States Department of Health, adopted her. Tatyana got her first wheelchair, and with her remarkable drive and determination, the rest is literally history. She made her first Paralympic Games in 2004 at the age of 15 and, in 2013, went on to become the first human being to win the grand slam of marathons - Chicago, London, Boson, and New York City. Tatyana repeated that same grand slam victory tour in 2014, 2015, and 2016! In 2016, she broke the world records in 100, 400, 800, 1500, and 500 meters. The very next year in 2017, Tatyana survived a series of dangerous blood clots that nearly killed her and she believes that marathoning saved her life. At the root of Tatyana's fierce competitive nature is her desire to live big, push limits, and grow. We all can learn a lot from Tatyana! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnigt.com | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) and @johnbrenkus_ (twitter)

FRED FUNK, PGA Golf Legend: Never Say Never Apr 06, 2018

We continue our special "Masters Week" at The Brink of Midnight Podcast with PGA Tour legend, Fred Funk. With eight wins on the PGA Tour and nine wins on the PGA Champions Tour, he's one of the greatest golfers of all time. Fred and I caught up while both playing in the 10th Ave North Classic Golf Tournament. He was kind enough to share his one-of-a-kind golf journey and some never shared publicly stories from the tour. He got his start as a Division 1 golf coach at his alma mater, the University of Maryland, and at the time was the youngest NCAA D1 golf coach ever. With some rough years of ups and downs while playing, and finding it hard to make a living as a golfer, he found himself at a crossroads with three choices: quite the PGA Tour, enter law enforcement school to become a police officer, or give it one more go at a single tournament. He got his first win, and the rest is history. It's always been about the work for Fred and he's a self-proclaimed "blue collar golfer" because he out-worked everyone around him. He's one of the shorter players on the tour and he started out not hitting the ball as far as his peers. He had to create his own style and ability to compete out of necessity if he was going to make it. To this day, Fred's main ingredients for success and fulfillment are: Passion, Mindset, and Work Ethic. Listening to Fred both shoot the breeze and get philosophical makes it immediately clear why he's one of the most well-liked golfers around…and you won't believe the story of how he played a role in shaping the course of sports history! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect on Socials: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

SEAN FOLEY, PGA Golf Coach: How to Train Your Mind Apr 03, 2018

Acclaimed PGA Golf Coach, Sean Foley, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Sean Foley is one of the most impactful PGA golf coaches of all time. He's coached some of the world's best from Steven Ames, to Sean O'Hair, Lee Westwood, Hunter Mahan, Justin Rose, Tiger Woods, Si Woo Kim, and Danny Willett, in addition to coaching the Canadian Junior Golf Association. Sean's style isn't like any coach you've had. He combines his impeccable understanding of physics and biomechanics with philosophy, and he has a refreshing take on how thoughts and curiosity impact our daily life. He introduces the idea of having an immune system that deals with thought viruses just like our immune system deals with biological viruses. Sean also puts the power to revoke our estimation of a situation and our consequent suffering into our hands. A former freestyle rapper, he's a devoted East Coast hip hop fan, and listeners get a taste of that when John puts Sean on the spot to freestyle later in the conversation! Sit back, grab your notepad, and get ready to step into Coach Sean's flow…his outlook is contagious! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect on Social Media: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

Friday Findings: The Good Side of Obsessing Mar 30, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In this episode, John and Lizzie consider what sparks a positive obsession, how that can lead to habit, and how it can positively influence how we think about living our best days. For all episode show notes, visit: Contact: Connect on Socials: , ,

JOHN ONDRASIK, Five For Fighting, Multi-Platinum Artist: On Persistance Mar 27, 2018

Multi-platinum singer songwriter, John Ondrasik, of Five for Fighting joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. [Be sure to check out our bonus video content on The Brink of Midnight !] The child of an astro-physicist father and musician mother, John Ondrasik is the consummate artist and performer. He also happens to love his native Los Angeles Kings and the band name "Five for Fighting" is a reference to a major penalty in hockey. He got his start in music nearly cracking the hair metal scene with a little help from some of the guys in Whitesnake, but like all musical acts of the time, the rise of Nirvana put the kibosh on that trajectory. He stayed true to his roots and musical style, ultimately creating the musical backdrop of one of our most profound moments of modern day - 9/11. In this conversation, John graciously shares his creative and entrepreneurial journey, the highs and lows, and many behind the scenes stories from the music industry that he's never talked about publicly. You'll learn the story behind and depth of meaning in songs like "Superman (It Ain't Easy)" and "100 Years" and John does a rare musical and lyrical breakdown of the song that changed everything for him. You'll learn how to get the bad stuff out so the good ideas can come. You might just be moved to tears with how John has used his music to impact lives with active military and veterans, those suffering from ALS, and families challenged by autism. You'll also hear how to get past the quitting point and remain persistent. For full show notes + information, visit | Contact: | Connect on Socials: , ,

Friday Findings: Slay Your Day Mar 23, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings on The Brink of Midnight Podcast - our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In this episode, John and Lizzie consider what it takes to set up your day to win it, how to get back to center when you get derailed, and which reflective questions to ask as the day closes. A little serious, a lot lighthearted, a little yin, a lot of yang...and some laughs along the way. What are you finding that works? Have a great idea you'd like to share? Email us at . Or, let us know on or

AUBREY MARCUS: CEO/Founder ONNIT, Podcaster, Author: Own Your Day - Own Your Life Mar 20, 2018

Aubrey Marcus (), Founder/CEO of ONNIT and host of the popular Aubrey Marcus Podcast joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. If you take a first glance at Austin, Texas native, Aubrey Marcus, and what he's been able to create with his company, podcast, new clothing brand, and forthcoming book, you immediately pick up on his mission of human optimization and vibe of living big every day. But that's only the half of it. As any top performer in sport, business, and life will attest, the mental and spiritual game is the foundation from which everything flows. Aubrey is no different and in this unique conversation, he graciously gets very vulnerable as we go on a journey inward through the darkness, struggle, transformation, and rise that he's experienced through intense self-study and helping others discover and optimize their unique gifts. A gifted athlete and thinker with influences from family in the fields of business, homeopathy, and athletics, one might assume that Aubrey succeeded out of the gate. However, through a combination of circumstances, he found himself lost and spinning into the darkness of heavy partying and complacency. A key friendship with Olympic skier, Bode Miller, and the desire to turn his life around laid the foundation for his process-oriented "warrior ethos". ONNIT was born out of Aubrey's redefining the foundation of his life - one rooted in self-discovery, transformation, growth, optimization, and choosing to be one's best. We explore Aubrey's orientation to the world, the universe, God, and transcendence. He also shares his powerful suggestions on how to shift perspective subtly so we can analyze our choices, thought patterns, and tap into what parts of us carry our highest wisdom. Get ready for this spiritual and tactical download of ideas to, as Aubrey puts it: own your day and own your life! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight across socials

SEBASTIAN ABBOT, Author, Former AP Bureau Chief: How to Chase Dreams Mar 16, 2018

Sebastian Abbot (), author, former AP Bureau Chief, and foreign correspondent joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Not many people can own the unique combination of life plot points that Sebastian has experienced. He grew up in a military family, played soccer at Princeton, and received his Masters of Public Policy at Harvard's Kennedy school. He began his journalism career as a foreign correspondent after the urge of wanderlust led him to quit investment banking and start writing while traveling the world on a shoestring and with a backpack. Starting at the bottom rung, he climbed the ladder of the Associated Press, worked in the Cairo office and became Bureau Chief in Pakistan. He's embedded with rebel fighters in Libya and spent several embedded missions with US troops in the most dangerous areas of Afghanistan. Seb's stories truly leave you on the tip of your seat! He also just published an already-acclaimed book called THE AWAY GAME, which details the world's largest sport talent search for soccer. The book is four years in the making and is a riveting look behind the curtain of both the passion and big business of soccer. In this conversation, we get into some of Seb's crazy stories, but what this episode really highlights is how vast and rich a life can be if you're willing to say yes to the unknown, new adventure, and listen to your gut. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: Follow Brink of Midnight at @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) Follow John Brenkus at @johnbrenkus_ on twitter

DR. MICHAEL GERVAIS, High Performance Psychologist: How to Train Your Mind Mar 13, 2018

High performance psychologist and thought leader, Dr. Michael Gervais, joins The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT Podcast with John Brenkus. What is greatness? What is mastery? Today’s guest, Mike Gervais, has spent a career helping people, especially elite athletes, coaches, business leaders, and organizations achieve their absolute best. He's worked with the Seattle Seahawks, Pete Carroll, Kerri Walsh Jennings, Felix Baumgartner, Luke Aikins, among many others. His fascination with what he calls the "razor's edge" is contagious and he reminds us how essential it is to find what that means for us in terms of developing our unique minds, ability to focus, and approach to organizing our days. Mike helps us dismantle the idea of simply "doing more" as a measure of success and breaks down what it means to cultivate happiness and meaning in every moment. He believes there is equal power in every moment and that we can either pay attention to the "noise" of life around us or develop an orientation to our unique "signal". We peel back the layers and psychology of social media in terms of it's dangers and our unpreparedness as a society when it comes to the temporary pleasures and darkness that can come from how we engage with it. We talk about thoughts, their weight, origin, and impact, and how our thoughts can help shape our collective human experience. We dive into the details and impact of brain waves, creativity, letting go, and re-centering. Both being family men, we also tap into the struggle of creating equilibrium as a parent, professional, and game changer and playing all roles equally or in the most impactful and fulfilling way. This episode is so chalk full of wisdom and insight that you can implement into your life today…right now. Grab your journal or note-taking app and get ready for a master class courtesy of Dr. Mike! For full show notes and more episodes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight across socials

Friday Findings: The Art of the Pitch Mar 09, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings on The Brink of Midnight Podcast. This is our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. Today, John and Lizzie break down the art of the pitch. Pitching yourself, your idea, your product, your services…these are all part of today's world and there are elements of a successful pitch that stand the test of time and relevance across circumstances. John has been in the business of pitching and being pitched for 26 years across film, TV, music, and advertising and Lizzie brings to the conversation her perspective from the book publishing world. Lizzie turns the table on John and asks about pitfalls, most common mistakes, and how he approaches a pitch of any kind. Listen for John's 5-step process for crafting a pitch, how to avoid common missteps, and how to know when you're ready. Show notes for all episodes: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight across socials

DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE, Pro Wrestling Legend: Own Your Life Mar 06, 2018

Professional wrestling legend and WWE Hall of Fame inductee, Diamond Dallas Page, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. Professional wrestling has crazy athletic moves, awesome story lines, and most of all, larger than life characters. Without a doubt, one of the biggest personalities to ever emerge from the wrestling scene is today’s guest Diamond Dallas Page, or DDP for short. Professional wrestling is the greatest physical theater there is. You can’t fake a giant man throwing another giant man out of a ring. Gravity and pain exist. It’s simply part of the job. Imagine the dedication it takes to become the Heavyweight Champion in professional wrestling. DDP started as a wrestling manager like Captain Lou Albano, and, in a long and impressive wrestling career, was a 3-time WCW Heavyweight World Champion, 4-time WCW World Tag Team Champion, WCW Triple Crown Champion, and the list goes on and on. In today's conversation, Diamond Dallas Page takes us on his journey to becoming a champion, not only in wrestling, but in life. Since his wrestling days, he’s gone on to create DDPYoga and is focused on empowering everyone that crosses his path. DDP Yoga has been featured on the Today Show, Shark Tank, and Good Morning America, and has a simple message: Own Your Life. Never underestimate the power of believing in YOU. I feel so honored that DDP spent so much time with me for this podcast and that he opened himself up, scars and all, so that we can learn what kind of commitment, vision, and discipline it takes to make it. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight on socials

DAVID GREATHOUSE, Film Producer, Oscar-Winning "Hacksaw Ridge": Live an Adventurous Life Mar 02, 2018

David Greathouse, the multi-talented film producer, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast with John Brenkus. It’s Oscars week! The pinnacle of the year in film. We are so excited to bring you today’s guest, the multi-talented film producer, David Greathouse. Dave and his wife also happen to be some of our closest friends. We’ve shared lots in the world of entertainment and endured agonizing training together for endurance events. The timing of this conversation is special because Dave was the executive producer for multi-Oscar award-winning film, “Hacksaw Ridge”, which was directed by Mel Gibson. In the world of entertainment, there are a lot of folks known for their larger than life presence and Dave possesses a unique mix of humility, wisdom, and insight while having a larger than life imagination. He’s worked with some of the very best in Hollywood. He got his start at Disney and then learned under the mentorship of Scott Rudin. He’s worked with legend Robert Benton and special effects innovator Sam Winston. He’s most recently worked with Kevin Smith and Mel Gibson. His upcoming film “Icebox”, a powerful and moving movie centered on the topic of immigration should be on your radar. Dave is like a Swiss Army knife meets savvy finance executive meets strong and accomplished endurance athlete. He’s completed three full Ironman triathlons, multiple Tahoe Death Rides, and does things like ride his bike from San Francisco to Santa Barbara for the heck of it. He favors the journey and process over the destination in all that he does. Sit back and enjoy these stories, simple joys, and adventures with Dave…and how it all began with Star Wars in a small town in Texas. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight on socials

TAKEO SPIKES, Legendary 2x All Pro Linebacker: How to Be Consistent Feb 27, 2018

Legendary 2-time All Pro NFL linebacker, Takeo Spikes, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Known to teammates as "TKO", "Bam Bam", and for the size of his neck (21 inches), Takeo Spikes has left a legacy both on and off the football field. He was team captain of 13 out of 15 of his NFL seasons and had a rare 219 starts in his career with the Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and San Diego Chargers. Takeo is known for his incredible discipline, sense of creativity, and belief in teamwork, and he credits growing up in a small town in Georgia with building that foundation. Despite having a mother who was an educator, Takeo struggled in school and had difficulty with test-taking. He had to sacrifice at an early age to make sure he did whatever it took to take advantage of opportunity when it came. His life-changing moment came at 15 years old when his father gave him the VHS tape “How to Be a Champion” by Lou Holtz. He learned about putting priorities in order to set up a blueprint for success in life and it's this same blueprint that he reviews ever year. Takeo honed in on the word "ethos" and it led to becoming All State in high school, being called "Mr. Football" in Georgia, and to making a lasting mark at Auburn University, where he developed his sense of discipline, mindset and consistency. In this conversation, we go deep on Takeo's life-changing moments and how he developed his character and consistency despite never making a playoff game in his 15 year career. He shares how he continues to develop his mindset, express his creativity, and commit to lifelong learning. That same struggling student became the kind of guy who went back to finish his bachelor’s, get his masters, take executive classes at Stanford University, find a love for photography, and write a book! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

[From the Archive] APOLO OHNO, Record 8x Winter Olympic Medalist Feb 24, 2018

Apolo Ohno, record 8x Winter Olympic Medalist joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. This episode originally appeared last season as #11. In honor of the Winter Olympics, and Apolo's timeless wisdom, we knew we had to bring back this special conversation! Apolo Ohno, retired short track speed skater, has won a record eight Winter Olympics medals for the USA. He started breaking records at age 14, when he became the youngest US National Champion and the winning streak continued, but not without a devastating bump in the road and a rude awakening that nearly derailed him. You won't believe the one distinctive and pivotal moment that shaped the rest of his life. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: | Connect on socials: @brinkofmidnight

ERIK SCHLOPY, 3x Olympic Alpine Skier: Never Give Up Feb 21, 2018

Erik Schlopy, 3x Olympic Skier and former World Cup ski racer joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Erik Schlopy is a walking miracle and may even be part super hero. "Schlopes" is a three-time Olympic alpine skier for Team USA, World Champion, 7-time National Champion, and last year, was inducted into the USA Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame. Considered an innovator for Team USA skiing, he helped establish Team USA's European training base in Austria with teammate Bode Miller and has been credited for advancing the "double stack" structure for ski bindings that allows ski racers to travel at greater speeds. He’s also married to one of our previous podcast guests, Olympic swimmer, Summer Sanders. Erik is indestructible. He has not one, but several remarkable comeback stories. He made his second Olympic team cobbling together race wins and points after being ranked dead last in the world. He’s experienced crashes that will send chills down your spine, and has come back strong from an unthinkable list of injuries. He’s even survived a deadly avalanche in the famed Alaskan Chugach mountains...and that's only a few stories among many. Erik's collection of accomplishments and comebacks will blow you away, but what is perhaps most striking are his abilities to never give up and to let instinct take over when it’s needed most. In this conversation, we go on an unreal adventure exploring Erik's journey and hone in on what it takes to both survive and perform when the deck is stacked against you. Sit back, listen, and enjoy the wild ride of Erik's life and hard-earned lessons. You just might leave this conversation feeling a little more like a super hero! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

BARRY BAKER, Business Titan & Media Icon: On Innovation and Comebacks Feb 16, 2018

Business titan and media icon, Barry Baker, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Barry Baker has played an instrumental part in pioneering nearly every facet of media and entertainment, and has collaborated with the likes of Rupert Murdoch, Bob Eiger, Barry Diller, and more. This episode is like having a front row seat in a master class for entrepreneurship and we chronicle Barry's rise from radio to TV, to cable networks and the rise of HBO, to dot.coms and new media models. You may know Barry best from running Sinclair Broadcasting Group (193 TV stations, 612 channels, 89 US markets) or USA Interactive (at the time: USA Network, Sci Fi Channel, HSN, Ticketmaster, USA Studios, Dick Wolf Productions - Law & Order, The Jerry Springer Show, The Sally Jesse Raphael Show, The Maury Povich Show, Citysearch, Hotels.com, Match.com). Becoming a force in media wasn't easy or without risk and Barry shares his most pivotal moments, all which depended on living outside his comfort zone. Barry is a fighter and winner in every aspect of his life. He knows a thing or two about rises and falls, dramatic turns, and most of all comebacks - he’s had over a whopping 700 procedures on his throat and vocal chords after surviving throat cancer. His collaborators and circle of friends includes some of the most powerful people in politics, business, sports, and entertainment and he is a true believer that rising tides raise all ships. That approach to life is evident in how Barry interacts with absolutely everyone he meets and how he continues to be fascinated by learning about new markets, research, and breakthroughs across entertainment, technology, medicine, and health care. What’s so striking about Barry, is that despite all that he’s achieved, he’s still that same hungry kid who was hustling and building businesses at the age of 14. He hit the ground running - literally - for the subway in his tough Bronx childhood neighborhood and he hasn’t stopped yet. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, Instagram, Facebook)

GARY VAYNERCHUK, Media & Business Mogul: How to Hustle Feb 13, 2018

The uber creative and animated media and business mogul, , joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. 4x New York Times Bestselling Author. Wine entrepreneur. YouTube entrepreneur. Media and new media mastermind. Early investor (twitter, Uber, tumblr, Venmo). Publisher. Sports agent. On Forbes' "40 Under 40" List. Part of Apple's first original series "Planet of the Apps" (with Gwyneth Paltrow and Wil.i.am). You name it in business and media -- Gary has done it, and he has a visceral repulsion to complacency. Reflecting on his early years, he proclaims that "90% of his childhood was business." Gary questioned the meaning of "success" early on. On the one hand, he was a "D" and "F" student, regularly receiving negative reinforcement from teachers and being told he was a loser. Yet, on the other hand, his hustle would earn him hundreds of dollars in various entrepreneurial pursuits. He would always find ways to win. In this conversation, Gary turns back the clock to share how his winning mentality led to two of his most transformative moments: Overpaying for a baseball card table as a 13 year old and, how looking back on his life on his 30th birthday forced him to call out his own B.S. and make a change. Gary also shares with us something about his process that he's never mentioned publicly! This conversation is for the hustlers and for those who don't know where or how to start their own hustle. Gary reminds us that we can start at 13, 30, or wherever you are today in your life. If you are willing to get really honest, do the work, learn as much as you can, and trust your gifts, you are ready to get going! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (, , ) Leave a Review

Friday Findings: Be Like Nick (Foles) Feb 09, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. What a week in sports with an incredible Super Bowl, the rise of Philadelphia Eagles QB, Nick Foles, and beginning of the Winter Olympics! In this short episode, we talk about how we are all the underdog or "back up" at different points in our lives and what it means to truly be ready for our breakthrough moments when opportunity crosses our paths. Happy Friday! For all episode show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (, , )

BRENDAN SCHAUB, Podcaster, Comedian: Taking Chances + How to Pivot Feb 05, 2018

Comedian, podcaster, and former MMA fighter, Brendan Schaub joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. You may know Brendan Schaub from his MMA days fighting heavyweight in the UFC, but you probably know him best from co-hosting the wildly successful "The Fighter and the Kid" podcast with Bryan Callen and from the stand up comedy world. Now, how could heavyweight MMA fighter and comedian possibly be used to describe the same person? In this conversation, we explore how Brendan, a Denver-based All Colorado athlete in football and lacrosse, was able to pursue his childhood dreams of being both a professional athlete and comedian using the dual traits of unwavering self-confidence and open-mindedness. While Brendan made it to the Buffalo Bills training camp after a stand out football career at University of Colorado (as a walk on), he was forced to change course, and ended up fighting professionally for the UFC. And, while he had no connection to the entertainment world, his podcasting career took a turn into stand-up comedy, where he now regularly headlines places like The Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, and Hollywood Improv. Brendan's ability to recognize and seize opportunity combined with the willingness to pivot has allowed him to live a life beyond his dreams. "Self-made", "all in", and "hustle" -- all phrases that capture "Big Brown" Brendan Schaub's mindset toward every endeavor. If you feel like there is no blueprint for what you want to pursue, tap into Brendan's approach to trying new things, walking down unlikely paths, and being flexible in the journey toward your goals. Like Brendan, you just might surprise yourself in the best possible way. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (, , )

Friday Findings: Super Bowl Wisdom Feb 02, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In honor of Super Bowl week, we turn to the sports world and wisdom of Vince Lombardi to reflect on how to seize the day, go for it, and make the most of this life. Have a thought on helping love keep center stage in your mindset and reactions? Let us know in the comments, on socials (, , ) or shoot us an email: Happy Friday, change makers!

SANTONIO HOLMES, Super Bowl XLIII MVP: On Teamwork Jan 30, 2018

Super Bowl XLIII MVP and former NFL wide receiver, Santonio Holmes, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Best known for his Super Bowl XLIII game winning catch with the Pittsburgh Steelers against the Arizona Cardinals, arguably one of the most powerful pieces of Super Bowl history, Santonio's story from very modest upbringing to being the ultimate teammate is nothing short of inspiring. Hailing from Belle Glade, the third poorest city in Florida, Santonio is a powerful example of what hard work and dedication can become, regardless of background. As a triple letterman in track, football, and basketball, he helped his high school track and football teams win multiple state championships. That streak continued in college football at Ohio State University, where he was part of the 2002 BCS National Championship team. In the NFL, Santonio played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears, and New York Jets. Santonio is the first to credit teammates and the importance of teamwork in his success, and he knows more than a thing or two about caring for others. He started raising his three younger siblings, each from different fathers, at the tender age of eight years old. That care extended to his grandmother and to serving others when he chose to follow the path of faith at age 12. His devotion to family, friends, teammates, and strangers is the center of his life and he is deeply passionate about helping those with sickle cell disease, which his son has and the gene for which Santonio carries. He founded the Third and Long Foundation to provide financial support and treatment options for families affected by the disease. This conversation will bring you back to your roots, your center, and what is most important in life. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

Friday Findings: Loving Your Enemies Jan 26, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In this episode, John and Lizzie explore the tall order of loving your enemies and how to find room to choose good, kindness, and honesty when your instinct might be the opposite. Happy Friday, change makers! Show notes for all episodes: www.brink of midnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

ADAM CAROLLA, Comedian, Podcaster: On Going All In Jan 23, 2018

The hilarious and prolific comedian and radio/podcast host, Adam Carolla, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Adam is truly a self-made man in every sense. Straight out of North Hollywood and from a self-proclaimed "intellectual white trash" family, he grew up with no stability of any kind and with a mom on welfare. Role models and mentors were non-existent and Adam went straight from high school graduation to construction sites where he learned the lessons that would take him everywhere in life: the value of hard labor, the ability to put things together, and that he had a great sense of humor. Adam's entry into the world of comedy and show business is one of the most compelling you will ever hear and at it's core are powerful motivators: taking a massive leap of faith, going all-in with no Plan B, and wanting the simple things he never grew up with like a credit card, auto-insurance, and air-conditioning. His story will blow you away and inspire you to take the risks necessary to become your best. Adam shares his three-step method for creating change in your life and how to literally start from scratch. He won't let you off the hook either - make no mistake, he believes everything in life is on you, so you better get to work. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

Friday Findings: How to Stick with Goals Jan 19, 2018

Welcome to Friday Findings, our short-form episode full of takeaways, tips, and great ideas to help you cultivate positive change in your life and in your community. In this first edition episode of Friday Findings, John and Lizzie talk resolutions, and, more importantly, how to stick with goals and think about the conditions for setting yourself up for success! What are you finding that works? Have a great idea you'd like to share? Email us at info@brinkofmidnight.com. Or, let us know on socials: @brinkofmidnight across platforms!

SAGE STEELE, ESPN Anchor: On Authenticity & Diversity Jan 16, 2018

ESPN Anchor and mom of three, Sage Steele joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast to talk authenticity, diversity, and what it means to be human. Growing up around the world in a military family, Sage learned at an early age profound lessons in resilience. Staying tightly connected to family, developing friendships, navigating new environments, and cultivating community were really essential to survival and those same skills have become Sage’s strengths. Sage shares incredibly powerful turning points in her life from the first time she was called the “n” word, to being told she wasn’t worth her salary, to turning down her first ESPN offer in order to focus on family. She also shares her views on diversity, acceptance, and what it means to truly embrace each other’s unique makeup and gifts, regardless of race or any other label. Sage is truly a sage for our time and inspires us all to tap into our authentic, unique purpose. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com/podcast | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

Best of 2017 Dec 11, 2017

In this 2017 season closing episode, John brings his wife, Lizzie, who produces the podcast, into the conversation to share some favorite podcast moments, quotes, ideas, and behind-the-scenes fun from the year. They also discuss the story behind founding the Ray of Hope Foundation with Ray Lewis and Rob Vaka, and how you can submit a request to help loved ones in dire need. Thank you to all our guests and listeners for helping create our community and sharing the goal of bringing more positive into the world. Happy Holidays from us to you and yours! We'll be back in January with brand new episodes and captivating conversations! For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

VINNIE TORTORICH, Radio/Podcast Host, Author: On Doing It Your Own Way Dec 04, 2017

The truly one-of-a-kind, Vinnie Torturich, host for the popular "Fitness Confidential Podcast", top-selling author, and fitness and nutrition pioneer joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. You couldn't begin to write the life and times of Vinnie Tortorich. He personifies one of our favorite ideas: "carpe diem". From growing up in the swamps of New Orleans and playing Division 1 football at Tulane University, he always knew he would be out in the world, carving out a life that most around him thought he'd never experience. Cut to becoming one of the most sought after trainers and fitness experts in Hollywood, creator of the "No Sugar, No Grains #nsng" movement, and talented and accomplished ultra-endurance athlete. At the top of his game, Vinnie battled and beat leukemia, and has since gone on to cultivate an incredible career helping people live their best selves through health, fitness, and some hilarious entertainment. Vinnie has done so much - more than most humans - but he really feels like he's only getting started. From a guy who can literally for days on end and who wants to use his second chance in life to help others, we can all take a cue from Vinnie and seize every single day. There is no perfect time like right this very minute to make your comeback or chase a dream. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

RICH "BIG DADDY" SALGADO, CEO Coastal Advisors, Insurance Mogul: On Cultivating Community Nov 27, 2017

The incredible and charismatic Rich "Big Daddy" Salgado joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Big Daddy is a hub for greatness and positivity. His larger than life personality is contagious and you feel it immediately when he walks in the room. As the ultimate insurance consultant and risk manager in the world of sport, he has touched the lives of and helps protect professional athletes, especially in the NFL. Growing up, he became a self proclaimed "misfit". However, intervention from his high school counselor ultimately led him to the University of Maryland where he played football. The mentorship from this beloved guidance counselor and his coaches "woke him up" to the significance of community and friendship, thus laying the foundation for how to cultivate and cherish quality relationships with people. These very qualities make Big Daddy one of the most well-known and respected people in sport - especially well known for his kindness, friendship, and loyalty. Surviving an aneurysm and brain surgery in 2008, and getting a remarkable second chance, he reminds us that "every day is an opportunity to get better." For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Questions/Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

SUSANNE CONRAD, Leadership & Communications Advisor: How to Create Life Vision Nov 20, 2017

Leadership and communications advisor, philanthropist, and one-of-a-kind change maker, Susanne Conrad, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Susanne Conrad has coached thousands of people on an individual level and through the work of her company, Lightyear Leadership. She's consulted professional sports teams throughout North America, international government officials, and Fortune 500 companies like Hilton, Hewlett Packard, and lululemon athletica, where she held the title of Director of Possibility. Truly, possibility is what Susanne is all about. Her calling is to help unlock the true sense of possibility in others and pull out of people, teams, and companies what she believes is already there. Her unique approach of "remembering your future" taps into how to fully articulate vision and work backward in alignment with intention and the right goals to get there. We are so fortunate to have Susanne on the podcast. During this conversation, she graciously shares her special practices for interacting in a positive, kind, and productive way with self, family, others, money, goals, media and news, and vision. This conversation is chock-full of gems and takeaways, and you may find yourself feeling a little lighter in spirit and energy viewing the world through Susanne's lens. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

MIKE PHILLIPS, Legendary Saxophonist, Nike Musician: How to Create Your Destiny Nov 13, 2017

Legendary saxophonist and Nike musician, Mike Phillips, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. He talks about the importance of process in any endeavor in life and how music can be a unifying force in the world. Mike Phillips is a guy after our own heart. The creative avenues of music and sport are constantly mixing and mingling in the venn diagram of his life. His unique gifts are recognized by legends and he's the only saxophone player to record and tour with the "Big Three" of American soul music: Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Michael Jackson. Nike also honored Mike's musical genius and signed him as the first non-athlete and musician to the Nike Jordan brand. Early in life, Mike discovered the importance of taking chances, self-belief, and hard work. At age nine, the saxophone called him and sucked him into a world that he hasn't left. He developed a sense of joy in diving deep into his soul, but also that he had to take every shot that came his way. Whether it was sport or music, Mike jumped at the chance to fully inhabit his space and go for it. In high school, he'd play in every football game, finish up, grab his sax, and then rock out on the field with the band in his football uniform. That same spirit prompted him to take a risk and, while only a teenager (and underage), jump on stage without permission for an impromptu debut at famed Chaz and Wilson's in New York City. That bold performance set him on the path to become the musician he is today. Teenage Mike and the Mike Phillips of today remind us to truly listen to what is calling us for that is the inner genius unique to us all. The great Pablo Picasso once said: "The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." Mike echoes that sentiment and says: "I have nothing to prove, but everything to share." For full show notes, visit: | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TOMMY NEWBERRY, NYT Best-Selling Author: How to Change Your Thought Life Nov 07, 2017

"Whatever you dwell upon seems to grow in your experience." - Tommy Newberry joins . "America's success coach", Tommy Newberry, is also the NYT and WSJ best selling author of , , and many other impactful books. He has helped countless people start to take control of their "thought lives" through his online, group, and private coaching programs and continues to be a sought after speaker and media guest. In this episode, Tommy shares with us his powerful crossroads moments when he had to radically redefine his life intention and what ultimately led him to becoming one of the most sought after coaches around. This conversation is full of actionable takeaways from how to immediately boost relationships and marriage to breaking down how you can change your life in a matter of 30 minutes. Tommy's hands-on exercises and common sense approach to taking control of your thoughts will leave a lasting impression on how you view the course of your day and how you experience the life you lead. Show Notes: | Contact: | Connect: (, , )

OREN PELI, "Paranormal Activity" Franchise Creator: On Being Resourceful Oct 30, 2017

Today's special Halloween episode of is with Oren Peli (@Oren_Peli), the creator, director, and producer of one of the most successful franchises in Hollywood History: . Almost 10 years to the day, Oren had the world premiere of "Paranormal Activity" at the Screamfest Horror Film Festival and, in this conversation, we get to hear his fascinating tale and life-changing moments he experienced along the way. Oren grew up near Tel Aviv, Israel, and, from a young age, he's lived his life from a place of deep curiosity, wonder, and personal belief. While being high school drop-out, he is a true self-starter. At 17, inspired by Atari, he became a self-taught programmer and developed the computer program Photon Paint that earned him three times his father's salary in just a year. The simple act of starting with an idea, going for it, and figuring out how to execute developed Oren's "why not" attitude toward trying and developing his goals and vision. A move to the USA, being a talented Sony video game developer and movie connoisseur, and experiencing peculiar incidents in his house all collided, and he decided to make "Paranormal Activity" in his spare time with a camera he bought with an employee discount. Oren has since gone on to make several successful films and now is back in the world of technology, having launched his brand new event creation and discovery app, . His story is remarkable by all standards. However, it was all up to Oren to realize and he did so because of his ability to have a growth mindset and willingness to try anything while being resourceful and having fun at every step. He reminds us of the sheer importance of starting - wherever we are and with whatever we have at our fingertips. For full show notes, click or visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (, , ) This episode is brought to you by . To save $30 on your first week of farm-to-box fresh meal kit deliveries, visit and enter special promo code midnight30.

BRUCE ARIANS, Head Coach, Arizona Cardinals, 2x NFL Coach of the Year: How to Handle Ups and Downs Oct 23, 2017

Bruce Arians, Head Coach for the Arizona Cardinals, two-time NFL Coach of the Year, three time cancer survivor, and author of "The Quarterback Whisperer" joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. One of the most well-liked and respected people in the NFL, Bruce Arians was part of the coaching staff at Virginia Tech, Mississippi State, and Alabama. Bruce made his first big head coaching impact at the young age of 30 at Temple University. Coach Arians' NFL career includes working with the Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, and currently with the Arizona Cardinals. He has worked with some of the best players in league history, including Peyton Manning, Ben Roethlisberger, Andrew Luck, Carson Palmer, and many others. Coach has some great nuggets for you to take into your day and week, but what’s most striking is how Bruce is a powerful example of handling uncertainty and life’s ups and downs while cultivating community and maintaining a strong sense of purpose. We’re lucky to have Coach Arians with us today and are excited to pull you into his huddle. Whether you've had to start two new chapters or ten new chapters, Coach Arians wants you to go for it in whatever is calling you. As he always says: "No risk it, no biscuit." For full show notes to today's episode and all past episode, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

LEWIS HOWES, Lifestyle Entrepreneur, Author, Podcaster: How to Live What You Dream Oct 16, 2017

Lewis Howes, lifestyle entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and athlete joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Lewis is a two sport All American, former pro arena football player, and current USA Men’s National Handball Team athlete. He’s experienced a ton of success and is best known for his NYT Best-selling book and inspiring podcast - both called “The School of Greatness”, and practical resources to help you live a better life day in day out. Lewis' brand-new book “The Mask of Masculinity” is equally ground-breaking. All of his success, however, hasn’t come easily and to say he has gone through some highs and lows would be an extreme understatement. If you have ever been knocked down or felt very lost, this conversation and Lewis’ unique life-changing moments will move you to start creating important shift in your life and climb out of the darkness toward your fullest potential. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

BRIAN SACCA, Actor, Writer, Producer: On Creating Momentum Oct 10, 2017

Brian Sacca, actor, writer, and producer joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Hailing from upstate New York, far from Tinseltown, Brian got his creative start as a kid shooting, editing, and producing videos with his brother during cold winter months. That same style of jumping right into every endeavor, creating new opportunities, and approaching work with a "why not" attitude are still evident in his work even today. Brian is a versatile trifecta of writer, producer, and actor and his work spans across improv, shorts, major feature films like Martin Scorsese's "Wolf of Wall Street" and his current hit television series "Wrecked" (TBS). His open mind and genuine sense of gratitude are refreshing and Brian reminds us to create positive momentum in our own lives by first starting with curiosity and fun, learning everything possible, and then sharpening through practice. As he sagely advises: "Do what is necessary to instill the confidence in yourself to help create what you want to create." For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

THEO VON, Comedian, Actor, TV Personality: How to Overcome Oct 02, 2017

Theo Von, comedian, actor, TV personality, and podcaster joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Recorded at the hallowed Comedy Store in Hollywood, Theo shares his emotional journey from a troubled childhood in Louisiana to the very best stages of comedy. He got his start in college on MTV's "Road Rules" and later appeared on NBC's "Last Comic Standing" and various Comedy Central shows. Theo continues to make people laugh around the world touring with his stand up, and with his recent Netflix comedy special "Theo Von: No Offense" and iTunes chart-topping comedy album "30lb Bag of Hamster Bones". His two podcasts "Allegedly with Theo Von & Matthew Cole Weiss" and "This Past Weekend" are must listens for laughs and deep, philosophical advice on life. Theo believes we all need to fight to be good people, and that's how he grew his wings to soar in the cutthroat world of comedy. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

JIM O'HEIR, Comedian, Emmy Award-Winning TV/Film Actor: The Importance of Laughter Sep 25, 2017

The hilarious comedian and actor, Jim O'Heir, shares his creative journey on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Comedian and actor, Jim O'Heir, has truly done it all in entertainment. He's graced theater stages as part of sketch comedy troupes with Second City and "White Noise", and with comedic and dramatic roles in countless plays. He's played memorable roles in all your favorite TV shows (Friends, 3rd Rock From the Sun, Malcom in the Middle, Startrek: Voyager, ER, Boston Legal, Brooklyn 99, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Comedy Central shows), especially as beloved Jerry Gergich in NBC's Parks and Recreation. Jim's acting versatility also extends to film, including his latest movie, Steven Sodorberghs' Logan Lucky. Jim's career is vast and deep, and although he will tell you he was "born into funny", he never intended to be a comedian or actor when he was getting started. Listen to hear how an unknown caller during Jim's time in small-market radio and feeling the effects of a first laugh changed the course of Jim's life forever! Jim O'Heir reminds us to laugh. Often! He also wisely reminds us that you never know who is listening or watching…when we step into our authentic selves, the next step toward realizing our purpose and dreams could be a simple phone call or conversation away! For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

CHASE RICE, Country Music Star: The Importance of Vulnerability Sep 18, 2017

Country music star, Chase Rice, shares his most life-changing moments, highs and lows, and how he discovered what he was made of on The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Chase Rice lit the country music charts on fire with the song "Cruise", which he co-wrote with Florida Georgia Line and has become the biggest country song in history. Chase's story, however, is not that of a typical musician. A Florida farm boy and gifted athlete, Chase grew up with the dream of being an NFL player. Playing ball for University of North Carolina and with prospects looking good, he was sidelined with injury. During the same time, he experienced the sudden and devastating loss of his father, an event that rocked him and changed the course of Chase's life. Traveling down a dark road, it took pulling off the mask and owning his vulnerability to really discover who he was and step into being the man he knew he could be. Chase is all about the doing. The reps. The action. Taking chances. Vision and personal faith are the start, but making that first move is essential. Whether on the football field, boldly moving to Nashville to start a music career, or taking back control of his music and releasing new tunes that represent his ethos, Chase leaves no cards on the table. He reminds us that life is a grand adventure if you are open to discovering yourself and who you can be. Life can begin again on any given day. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

ROB VAKA, Pro Athlete Mentor, Master Connector, Giver: Happiness is a Choice Sep 14, 2017

Rob Vaka, mentor to professional athletes, master connector, philanthropist, and cancer survivor joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Rob Vaka is on a mission to help people live more confidently, fully, and purposefully and it's evident in everything he does. He's raised multiple millions of dollars for hundreds of charities and has helped countless professional athletes, founders, and CEOs not only manage but design their lives around a positive mindset and values-driven intention. Rob developed his competitive nature as a college athlete, but really fine-tuned his personal manifesto after learning he had a grapefruit sized tumor in his chest and being given a 50/50 chance of surviving non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Today, Rob is cancer-free and the insight he chooses to bring to every waking moment, interaction, and challenge will inspire you. As you take in all the gems and resources Rob shares, you may find yourself changing the narrative of your day and rethinking the very vocabulary you use for self-talk and conversations with family, friends, and colleagues. As Rob so eloquently shares: "YOU are going to be the creator of your own joy and happiness." For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

LARRY FITZGERALD, 10x NFL Pro Bowl Wide Receiver, Arizonal Cardinals: How to Be a Student of Life Sep 11, 2017

Larry Fitzgerald, 10x NFL Pro Bowl Wide Receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. An All-American at University of Pittsburgh, Larry has gone on to have a remarkable 14 year career with the Arizona Cardinals. He's won countless awards on the football field and makes an incredible impact off the field with his team and his First Down Fund foundation. A self-pronounced "student of life" and talented photographer, he's traveled the world, and continues to learn and give all that he's got in every facet of life. This is a different kind of episode. Recorded while playing a round of golf, Larry and John explore what it is to be honest, to climb out of depression, and to engage fully with life. Larry shares his journey and most powerful life lessons through the lens of loss and growth. If you have ever lost someone close, Larry's insight on how to move through the darkness is a powerful dose of wisdom. His genuine take on paying it forward once you find the light reminds us all to offer small acts of kindness in our communities and to leave the people we encounter with a smile. For full show notes, visit: www.brinkofmidnight.com | Contact: info@brinkofmidnight.com | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

BOB BABBITT, Ironman + USA Triathlon Hall of Fame, Co-Founder Challenged Athletes Foundation + Competitor Magazine: On Service and Entrepreneurialism Sep 04, 2017

Bob Babbitt, Ironman Hall of Fame and USA Triathlon Hall of Fame inductee, and co-founder of Challenged Athletes Foundation and Competitor Magazine joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Bob Babbitt is the ultimate connector, cheerleader, and seeker - of great ideas, people, and causes. His name is a part of triathlon and endurance racing history in the United States, and while he's helped grow anything run-bike-swim, he's also made it accessible to all levels and abilities. Bob co-founded Competitor Magazine, which just celebrated it's 30th anniversary, with the goal of shining a light on the sports of triathlon, cycling, and running while bringing people together for fun and competitive events. Out of Competitor, he co-founded Challenged Athletes Foundation, which has raised over 80 million dollars in grant money for challenged athletes and helped so many discover sport again or even go on to compete and medal in the Paralympics. His group bought and grew the entire Rock n Roll Marathon Series to become one of the coolest running and music experiences out there. He also created the Muddy Buddy series, a fun and challenging adventure obstacle race to benefit charities. Bob has truly done it all and he's not done yet! Bob teaches us to stick with our big ideas, especially when they might seem impossible, and to seek out the experiences that will change our lives. Taking a leap of faith is the most important step to grow, learn, and make an impact in your life and in your community. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

Special Edition: Hurricane Harvey in Perspective - Please Help Aug 31, 2017

This special edition episode puts the magnitude of Hurricane Harvey in perspective. Hopefully by better understanding the size and scope of this natural disaster, you will be compelled to help in any way you can. As the Dalai Lama wisely shares, "Our prime purpose in this life is to help others." Opportunities to give: Houston Food Bank - http://www.houstonfoodbank.org/ JJ Watt's You Caring Fund - https://www.youcaring.com/victimsofhurricaneharvey-915053 Red Cross - (Choose Harvey donation fund) For a more in-depth list of giving opportunities, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

STEVE LEMME, Comedian, Actor, Writer, Producer, Podcaster: How to Climb Out of Darkness Aug 28, 2017

Stand Up comedian, actor, writer, producer, and podcaster, Steve Lemme, shares his creative journey and life-changing moments on The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Steve Lemme has an incredible comeback story of self-realization. Born and raised in New York, Steve's father was an immigrant who hustled to realize the American dream and his mother worked as an educator at an elite prep school, where Steve was able to attend. His formative years were a juxtaposed experience and he quickly fell into bad habits, the world of drugs and alcohol, and, in his words "being a punk". Dramatic moments of coming to realize his potential, develop his confidence, and come full circle with his father's immigrant story finally put Steve on the path to applying himself and he hasn't looked back. Through ups and downs, he's managed to carve out a unique comedic and creative path with his fellow Broken Lizard comedy team, writing and acting in movies (Super Troopers, Beerfest, Club Dread, The Slammin' Salmon, and Puddle Cruiser), doing stand up across the country, hosting a top podcast (Chewin' It), and starring in shows on Netflix and Comedy Central. Steve's story reminds us that it's never too late to realize we can change our lives at any moment! For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

CASEY POWELL, Lacrosse legend, World Lacrosse Foundation, Speed Lacrosse: Start in Your Backyard Aug 24, 2017

Lacrosse legend, Casey Powell, shares his journey on and off the lacrosse field on The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Casey Powell is one of the most accomplished lacrosse players in history. From winning NCAA (Syracuse University) and world championships (MLL, NLL), All Star and MVP titles, and being the face of the only major lacrosse video game on the market, he has truly done it all in the world of lacrosse. Like a lot of us, Casey was drawn to sport through imagination and backyard games. The first to have and hold a lacrosse stick in his small New York town, he developed an almost instant passion for lacrosse that underscores all that he does in the sport community today. Whether it's innovating through his new Speed Lacrosse, serving others through his World Lacrosse Foundation, or connecting one-on-one with youth players across the country, Casey's authenticity is undeniable and a unique mix of humility and style…the same mix he developed as a kid dodging clotheslines and apple trees, playing in the neighborhood. Sports matter. From the lessons earned and community built around shared purpose, and this conversation will move you to think creatively about how to chase your passion while supporting your own community in profound ways. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

SUMMER SANDERS, 2x Olympic Gold Medalist Swimmer, TV Personality: Lead With Passion Aug 21, 2017

Olympic gold medalist swimmer, TV Personality, and philanthropist, Summer Sanders, shares her journey in and out of the pool on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. From the time of ditching her floaties to keep up with her older brother, Summer developed a true love of water that took her on an incredible NCAA and Olympic swimming journey and taught her lessons she still draws upon today. Summer's first major turning point was when she, at age 15, "understood her power" and learned how to take life's opportunities into her own hands. After a year of finishing last in many races, she made it to the Olympic Trials and narrowly missed a spot on the team. She doubled down on her vision, earned a full ride scholarship to Stanford University and helped the Cardinals win NCAAs in 1992. Making the 1992 Olympic swimming team, she then gave up the rest of her scholarship eligibility to compete on the Olympic stage in Barcelona, from which she brought home four medals: a bronze (400 medley), a silver (200 medley), and two golds (200 Fly, 4x100 Medley). After hanging up her cap and goggles, Summer launched full-time into her TV career, appearing as a reporter and host for shows on MTV, Nickelodeon, Fox Sports, ABC, NBC, CBS Sports, HLN, MSN, Yahoo Sports and even competing on "Celebrity Apprentice" for charity. Summer's contagious energy and real talk are based on a "perfectly imperfect" life as a working mom, deep commitment to philanthropy, and pursuit of adventure. She reminds us to always lead with passion, but make room for growth along the way. For full show notes, visit: Contact: Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, and Facebook)

Special Edition: Behind One of the Most Popular Toys Aug 17, 2017

THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus #28: Special Edition: On the Brink of Creating One of the Most Popular Childhood Toys This is a lighthearted, just for fun, "brink of midnight" back story of how one of the greatest childhood toys was created. What do soap, wallpaper cleaner, Kroger, Captain Kangaroo, and the National Toy Hall of Fame have in common? Listen, take a trip down memory lane, and share with the kids in your life! For full show notes, visit: Contact: twitter: @brinkofmidnight instagram: @brinkofmidnight Facebook: @brinkofmidnight

YOGI ROTH, Pac-12 Analyst, Filmmaker, Podcaster: Living with No Limits Aug 14, 2017

Pac-12 College Football Analyst. Award-winning documentary filmmaker. Best-selling author. Podcaster. Part of Pete Carroll's USC coaching staff. World traveler. This is Yogi Roth, one of the most curious seekers, travelers, and thinkers we know. We're thrilled to bring you our conversation on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Hailing from a small town in Pennsylvania, Yogi started making bold moves by walking on to the University of Pittsburgh football team and those moves haven't stopped. He transitioned from playing to coaching at USC, and after exploring the world, he made his move to sports broadcasting. Nine years in, he's worked at ESPN, Fox, and is now calling games and creating special pieces for the Pac-12 Network. Yogi's impeccable work in college sports hardly scratches the surface of what he does and he doesn't apply limits to what he chooses to pursue. Curiosity, seeking, and questioning are at the core of everything he does in making documentaries like his award-winning "Life in a Walk" and short films like 'What Does it Mean to Love?", writing books, and producing the episodes of his Life Without Limits Podcast. He's paved his own unique path by leading with heart, personal faith, and curiosity, and all along the way he encourages everyone he meets to do the same. Listen, learn, and watch your sense of wonder come alive. For full show notes, visit: Contact: @brinkofmidnight across social platforms

Special Edition: The Closest We've Been to Nuclear War Aug 10, 2017

#26: Special Edition on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus This Special Edition episode tells the story of the closest we've ever come to nuclear war and how one hero saved the day in 1983. We are fascinated by the life-changing "brink of midnight" moments in the lives of our guests, luminaries across the worlds of sport, entertainment, business, tech, philanthropy, and beyond. We also believe these moments happen in our collective human history and our shorter format Special Edition episodes chronicle stories that have shaped our shared experience in profound ways. www.brinkofmidnight.com twitter: @brinkofmidnight instagram: @brinkofmidnight Facebook: @brinkofmidnight

KATE VOEGELE, Singer/Songwriter, Actress: Finding Your Muse Aug 07, 2017

Singer/Songwriter, Actress, and Founder, Kate Voegele, shares her creative journey and process on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Growing up as a suburban kid in Cleveland, OH, in a creative household, writing and creating art with family was a natural and normal part of daily life. As a teenager, Kate played her original music in countless shows from Ohio to Pennsylvania and, despite label interest, decided to pursue college to ensure she was rounded out and considering all potential future opportunity. What she didn't expect was MySpace "first friend" and co-founder, Tom Anderson, sending a direct message on MySpace to inquire about her interest in signing with him. Taking a class that allowed her to visit LA and explore the industry deeper, Kate found herself inking a great deal and making her first record shortly thereafter. At a crossroads with the options of staying in college and facing the reality of an uncertain, but much more cemented path as an artist, she took the leap of faith, dropped out of school, and went for it. A few months after arriving in LA, she made a last minute decision to audition for a single episode role on well-loved TV show "One Tree Hill" playing a singer-songwriter and she nailed it. That single episode job turned into four seasons of playing a role reflective of her life and sharing her original music with her target demographic on a unique platform. She's gone on to make several more albums, including her most recent "Canyonlands", tour the world, and take back control of her entire catalogue. To say it all came easy, however, would be to ignore the grit, passion, work ethic, wisdom, and business acumen Kate brings to the table every single day. If you are questioning whether or not to go for a creative pursuit, or if you just want to live more creatively in your day to day life, this episode is a must listen. Kate's refreshing take on inspiration and her music just might trigger your muse to start knocking! - For full show notes, visit: - @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook) - info@brinkofmidnight.com

MORTEN ANDERSEN, All-Time Leading Scorer in NFL History: Step Outside Your Comfort Zone Aug 03, 2017

Legendary NFL kicker and Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee, Morten Andersen, "The Great Dane", joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. All-Time Leading Scorer. Played in a record 382 games. All-time leader in field goals made. Pro Football Hall of Fame. This is Morten Andersen. His story is unlike the common thread of growing up playing flag football and eventually donning pads for tackle. A foreign exchange student from a small fishing village in Denmark, Morten only set foot on an American football field because his American father was Vice Principal of his high school and they needed a kicker on the football team. Coming from competitive soccer in Europe, they figured he might be able to kick some pigskin, too. So, at 17 years old, while still learning English and figuring out the life of an American teenager, part of sport history was written. An All-American and Academic All-Big 10 at Michigan State University, Morten went on to have a 25 year career kicking for the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, and finishing with the Falcons in 2007, his most accurate year - at the age of 46. Morten's approach to life will move you, motivate you to be ready for opportunity, and illustrate how stepping way outside your comfort zone might be the most important start to discovering your passion. For full show notes, visit: @brinkofmidnight (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) info@brinkofmidnight.com

HALEY JOEL OSMENT, TV/Film Actor, Academy Award Nominee: Make Room for Self Discovery Jul 31, 2017

TV and Film Actor and Academy Award Nominee, Haley Joel Osment, joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Haley Joel Osment's artistic journey began with a shopping trip at IKEA with his mom when he was four years old. A casting director spotted him and the next several months propelled him into the world of acting from national commercials to "Forrest Gump" with Tom Hanks, and eventually M. Night Shyamalan's "The Sixth Sense", and Steven Spielberg's "A.I. Artificial Intelligence". Despite major film roles and working with the biggest names in Hollywood, Haley and his family thought it was important to be a well-rounded person, so he continued to go to his hometown high school and eventually college at New York University. It was at NYU that he cemented his love for the arts. Haley's story is one of committed self-discovery and evolution. Listen and be inspired to make room for adventure and self-discovery in your own life! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

JAY ABRAHAM, Business Growth Strategist: How to Be a "Multiplier" Jul 27, 2017

Legendary business growth strategist and best-selling author, Jay Abraham, joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Jay Abraham is a name that resonates with some of the world's most influential business minds and thought leaders. He has increased the bottom lines of over 10,000 clients in more than 400 industries and 720 sub-industries worldwide. Advisor to people like Tony Robbins, Daymond John (Shark Tank), Dave Asprey (Bulletproof), and entrepreneurs around the world, Jay delights in helping develop and encourage what he calls "value creators". With no formal college education, Jay's journey is founded on hustle and the instinctive ability to connect dots and people in unique and innovative ways. His curiosity and love of process will get you fired up to travel outside your comfort zone, and you just may be thinking about this question all day, courtesy of Jay Abraham: "In life, are you a multiplier or a 'diminisher'?" For full show notes, visit: Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

JORDAN RAPP, 6x Ironman Triathlon Champion, ITU World Champion: How to Make a Comeback Jul 24, 2017

Jordan Rapp, ITU World Champion and Champion Ironman Triathlete joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. A natural athlete, Jordan's diverse athletic journey started as an All-American High School lacrosse goalie, proceeded to rowing for Princeton, and, on hiatus from rowing, finally led to triathlon, where he has been a pro for the last 11 years. Winning several Ironman triathlons and winning the ITU World Championship are some of Jordan's professional highlights, but what's even more incredible is that most of these wins came after an incredible comeback story. On a long training ride, Jordan collided with a car in a hit and run accident, suffered serious injuries, and was left for dead bleeding out in the middle of the road. With the clock ticking and minutes to live, Chief Petty Officer Thomas Sanchez happened to be driving by, stopped and reached inside Jordan's neck to save his life. Jordan's comeback and willingness to work as hard as possible remind us of the best of the human spirit and how amazing things can happen when we look for ways to help each other out. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

MARK DACASCOS, Champion Martial Artist, Iron Chef Chairman, Actor, Food Entrepreneur: Keeping Adventure Alive Jul 20, 2017

Mark Dacascos, champion martial artist, actor, Iron Chef Chairman, and food entrepreneur, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. To say Mark Dacascos is a Renaissance Man is an understatement. You may know him from his commanding presence as The Chairman on Food Network's "Iron Chef America", or perhaps from fighting Jet Li in "Cradle to the Grave", or perhaps as the tough Wo Fat on "Hawaii Five-O"…but did you know he had no intention of being in entertainment? Growing up in Germany, the son of two Kung Fu instructors, Mark cut his teeth on his first stage in Kung Fu competition and as a young man moved to Taiwan to become a monk. He has taken chances ever since and his ride in this lifetime is rich with diverse experience. Just like the fluidity that is characteristic of great martial artists, Mark has traveled through his remarkable life seizing opportunities to strike, learn, and honorably give his best. This episode will inspire you to live with a sense of adventure, curiosity, and faith. Allez Cuisine! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

THOMAS DIMITROFF, General Manager, Atlanta Falcons: Soar, Savor, & Share Jul 17, 2017

Thomas Dimitroff, General Manager of the Atlanta Falcons, joins The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST and shares his life-changing moments, outlook, and unique take on teamwork. Football is in Thomas Dimitroff's blood. The son of a football coach and scout, Thomas played the game growing up and into college, grew through the ranks as an executive with the New England Patriots, and now manages the Atlanta Falcons. Football is the canvas where Thomas learns, grows, and leads. His outlook on life, despite ups and downs, and how we articulate purpose while listening to instinct will captivate you. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TREVOR MOAWAD, Thought Leader, Mental Conditioning, Peak Performance: Less Negative, More Neutral Jul 13, 2017

Powerful thought leader, Trevor Moawad, joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST and shares his life-changing moments and hard-earned insight. Trevor hails from the worlds of sport, mental conditioning, and peak performance. Trevor, himself, was a two sport athlete at Occidental College, was inducted into the athletic hall of fame at Charles Wright Academy, and is the son of late performance educator, Bob Moawad, who was one of the original contributors for "Chicken Soup for the Soul". For the last 15 years, he's been part of the leadership and mental conditioning teams for the IMG Performance Institute, EXOS, NCAA teams, NFL teams, US Soccer, and now his own Moawad Consulting Group…not to mention working with elite individual athletes across the nation like Seattle Seahawks quarterback, Russell Wilson, who considers Trevor Moawad to be a difference maker in his career. Trevor appears regularly on ESPN, SI, Fox Sports, NPR, USA Today. Get your notepad ready - this episode is full of tips and inspiration to live your fullest and most authentic life! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

SHANNON FARAR-GRIEFER, Ultra Marathoner, 7x Badwater Finisher, MS Warrior: You Are Enough Jul 09, 2017

Shannon Farar-Griefer joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST and shares her life-changing moments in motherhood, ultra-running, and fighting MS. Shannon is a true force. She's an incredible mom to three boys and accomplished ultra-marathoner, including seven finishes of the Badwater 135 Ultra Marathon and being the first female double-Badwater finisher, running 270 miles from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, summiting, and running back through Death Valley. Shannon was a late bloomer in long distance running and started when she made the life-changing decision to go for a run at 35 years old after watching the LA Marathon on TV with her two youngest boys. Any one of her major ultra marathon, "hundo" (100 mile race), or Badwater finishes could be a "brink of midnight" moment, but her world truly changed when she was diagnosed with MS. Despite daily injections, IV treatment, and the total disruption and toll this disease has taken on her life, she has not given up running. She considers putting one foot in front of the other her life force and what makes her strong enough to go to battle against MS. She heroically fights every day and shows us all that the human spirit and faith can reign in the toughest of circumstances. Shannon also challenges us to abandon the idea that we somehow aren't enough to chase our dreams, and that no excuse should stop us from seizing every day in pursuit of those dreams. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

MICHAEL VICK, Former Pro Bowl NFL Quarterback: On Redemption and Salvation Jul 06, 2017

Michael Vick shares his rise, fall, and resurrection on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Drafted #1 in the 2001 NFL draft, Michael Vick was a force of nature and a natural leader. His rise carried with it an unmistakeable momentum and he became the face of the NFL. Yet, deep inside he was becoming a person he didn't know and of whom he wasn't proud. The incredible high came to a crashing low when Mike was arrested for his involvement in a dog-fighting ring and sent to prison for 18 months. That time he now considers a blessing and, with the deck stacked against him to never reform or succeed again, he managed to evolve, grow, and redeem himself. He came back to the NFL until recently announcing his retirement, and now uses his platform on and off the field to educate and work with kids, trying to make a major impact in areas of conduct and accountability. This episode will challenge your idea of what it means to grow and evolve, to reform and forgive, and ultimately what the arc of a life can be. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

SCOUT BASSETT, Team USA Track & Field Paralympian, American and World Record Holder: Knowing Your Worth Jul 03, 2017

Team USA Paralympic Track and Field athlete, Scout Bassett, shares her truly remarkable journey on THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. No one has a story like Scout. Burned in a fire as a baby, she lost her right leg and was abandoned on the street in Nanjing, China. Transferred to a government orphanage, she endured years of emotional hardship, never seeing the light of day, and never knowing there was a world outside those orphanage walls. She had never even looked in a mirror or seen a photo of herself. When she was eight, a loving couple adopted Scout and brought her to Michigan to have a better life. Imagine seeing everything in the world - nature, cars, the sky, people, running water, a family…literally everything - for the first time at eight years old. Scout struggled to grow and learn about herself and the world and eventually found solace in sport. It allowed her to learn the strength, endurance, and grace within her and was her outlet to express so many emotions many of us will never know. In less than two decades of knowing the outside world, Scout earned a full ride scholarship to UCLA, found her running legs with the help of Challenged Athletes Foundation, broke both American (100m, 200m) and World (400 meter) track and field records, competed for Team USA Track & Field in the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games, and became a sponsored Nike athlete. Listen and be mesmerized by Scout's life-changing moments and her other-worldly wisdom. Your perspective will be challenged and your definition of words like "inspiration", "grit", "determination", and "endurance" just might get an update. You'll also be challenged to answer Scout's bold question: "What are you willing to give and give up for your dream?" For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facaebook)

JOEY MCINTYRE, New Kids on The Block, Solo Artist, Actor: Nothing is Random Jun 29, 2017

The versatile, talented, and ultra-creative Joey McIntyre joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST to share some of his most life-changing moments. From performing a duet with his sister at the young age of six, Joey McIntyre found comfort and joy on stage and, from that day, he hasn't stopped performing and growing as an artist. The youngest of nine kids, Joe cut his teeth singing and traveling with Neighborhood Children's Theater of Boston and a few years later would get a phone call from Maurice Starr to become the final member of New Kids on the Block. The rise of NKOTB nearly didn't happen without the sequence of some very key moments, from a standing ovation at the famed Apollo Theater, a Tampa Bay radio station deciding to spin the New Kids record, and so many more. Joe shares his unique insight during the beginning, rise, and initial band break-up during the context of grunge and early 90s. He has since gone on to star on Broadway ("Wicked"), release solo albums, write and perform in a one-man show, and play roles in TV series and in major films. He's taken up marathon running, as well, and his chilling account of the Boston Marathon bombing will move you. Joe is a fantastic example of creating a life based on passion and he's still doing what he loves today. NKOTB is on tour, has now been back together longer than they initially were, and Joe recently wrapped his TV comedy series "The Return of the Mac". Joe's insatiable hunger to create and grow is contagious and you just may find your inner artist wanting to emerge or re-emerge. As Joe states so eloquently, "nothing is random" and "experience is everything." For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

RYAN LEAF, Former NFL QB, Addiction Recovery Advocate: Coming Back Even Better Jun 26, 2017

Ryan Leaf, former NFL quarterback and addiction recovery addict joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Ryan is a modern American hero. Picked #2 in the NFL draft after Peyton Manning, he had a world of potential ahead of him. Not long into his career, he fell into a world of addiction that ended up landing him in prison. His comeback is one to marvel at and Ryan now leads a life devoted to serving and helping others who are struggling. His turn-around and rise is a story that benefits all with whom he comes into contact. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TRENT DILFER, Former Pro Bowl Quarterback and Super Bowl XXXV Champion: There is Always Room for Better Jun 22, 2017

Former Pro Bowl Quarterback and Super Bowl XXXV Champion, Trent Dilfer, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast and shares his journey from his youth, to college, to the NFL, and beyond. Trent has had what he calls "mountain top" moments that are the stuff of dreams and vision realized and extreme challenges that tested him in every way. We are are fortunate that he's willing to open up about winning, losing, and everything in between. We explore handling devastation, finding oneself, the value of being a teammate, and ultimately, transcendence. This episode will crack open your heart and lift your spirit to new heights. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Faacebook)

APOLO OHNO, Record 8x USA Winter Olympic Medalist: Listen to Your Inner Wisdom Jun 19, 2017

Record winter Olympic medalist and legendary speed skater, Apolo Ohno, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Apolo Ohno, retired short track speed skater, has won a record eight Winter Olympics medals for the USA. He started breaking records at age 14, when he became the youngest US National Champion in short track speed skating. The winning streak continued, but not without a devastating bump in the road and a rude awakening that nearly derailed him. You won't believe the one distinctive "brink of midnight" moment that shaped the rest of his life. In Apolo's words: "When you win, you win. When you lose, you learn." For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

BRYAN CALLEN, Stand Up Comedian, Actor, Podcaster: On Honesty and Curiosity Jun 15, 2017

Sell-out stand up comedian, podcaster, and actor, Bryan Callen, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. You know Bryan from sell-out stand up shows, hilarious roles in movies like "The Hangover" and TV shows like "MAD TV", "How I Met Your Mother", and "The Goldbergs", and from his successful podcasts (The Fighter and the Kid, Mixed Mental Arts, The Bryan Callen Show). Our long time friend and favorite funny guy, Bryan Callen, is a unique combination of comedian, actor, podcaster, philosopher, and history fanatic. Born overseas and living in six countries outside the U.S. before age 14 gave Bryan a world lens few experience. A master observer of the world and himself, asking difficult questions is the foundation of everything Bryan does from stand-up and acting to podcasting and being a family man. His pattern of repeatedly questioning everything and choosing to get uncomfortable has developed his sense of responsibility to his opportunities and his process for growth as an artist and human being. Bryan believes self-growth begins by being brutally honest with yourself. By honestly asking of yourself, "What would I want if I knew I couldn't fail? What would I really ask for if I knew I would 100% get it?" This conversation is chock-full of gems and takeaways on how to question, pivot, commit to your personal vision, practice less attachment, be more generous, and start with honesty and curiosity. Listening to Bryan make a point is like taking a journey through philosophy, poetry, history, real talk, self-deprecation, and gut-wrenching laughter. Bryan's vast knowledge and willingness to learn will make you want to simultaneously pick up ancient texts, learn a language, LAUGH, scare yourself, and share your original talents with the world for the greater good. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

DIANA NYAD, Swimming from Cuba to Florida: Realizing Dreams Against the Odds Jun 12, 2017

Legendary and record-holding swimmer, Diana Nyad, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Diana Nyad is the only human being to successfully swim the 111 treacherous miles from Cuba to Florida (without a shark cage). That fact alone stops us all in our tracks. The ONLY human being. But that is just one piece of Diana's story. The arc of ultra-endurance swimmer Diana Nyad's life so far is anything but traditional or predictable. What she has endured and also chosen to endure is remarkable in every sense of the word. Simultaneously coming to terms with an abusive childhood and understanding the fleeting nature of our individual human experiences led her down a path of chasing unthinkable dreams and living with fierce passion and personal belief. Accomplishing numerous swimming feats by the time she was in her 30s, she hung up her cap and goggles for 30 years before embarking on a goal that still captivated her decades later. Learn how the combination of Christopher Reeves' influence, a chance conversation with a Holocaust survivor, the death of her mother, turning 60, and reading Mary Oliver's poem, The Summer Day, led Diana to step into the water on Cuban shores convinced she would make the swim to the shores of the Florida Keys. You will be shocked and moved by this conversation, and Diana's plea to live to your fullest potential will both give you the chills and light you on fire. You may re-evaluate the excuses you've been telling yourself, perhaps for years. Like Diana, you, too, may deeply consider Oliver's poignant, poetic question: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TONY HALE, 2x Emmy Award-Winning Actor, Veep, Arrested Development: Be Present Jun 08, 2017

Emmy-Award winning actor, Tony Hale, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. You've seen him on "Arrested Development" (FOX, Netflix) and "Veep" (HBO), the latter for which he won two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In this episode, we learn how impactful a 7th grade theater class was in Tony's life and how his creative journey evolved from his very first NYC Shakespeare performance in a parking lot! In an industry obsessed with "what's next", Tony also shares how fatherhood woke him up to being more fully present and how he carries that perspective with him in all that he does. As Tony says,"Wake yourself up 100 times a day to where you are." For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

DR. DREW PINSKY, Addiction Specialist, Radio/TV/Podcast Star, Best-Selling Author: Leading with Passion Jun 05, 2017

The prolific and insightful Dr. Drew Pinsky joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Dr. Drew is most well known for his daily podcasts and radio shows that span medicine to inspiration, his work with Adam Carolla on podcasts and LoveLine (MTV), and his role in helping spread the message of prevention with the initial AIDS crisis. Did you know that Dr. Drew almost didn't become a doctor? In this episode, learn how Dr. Drew Pinsky created a life by following what intrigued him. From nearly falling to his death to leaving medicine altogether, you will be surprised and inspired by how Dr. Drew has learned to lead with his heart and help so many along the way. The simple sense of urgency in talking to young people about prevention, whether in the context of AIDS, drugs, or addiction, led him down a unique path in medicine, radio, and TV, in the quest of reaching and educating people about living with intention and conscious decision-making for a better life. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

DAYMOND JOHN, Shark Tank, Master Brand Builder: The Power of Hustle May 31, 2017

Master brand builder and "Shark" Daymond John joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Known for Shark Tank and starting out by developing his first ground-breaking company, FUBU, Daymond John is the ultimate DIY businessman. From the powerful moment of selling $800 worth of hats on a street corner in an hour to scaling to $1million per day, Daymond learned everything by innovating and persevering. Daymond takes us through his most life-changing "brink of midnight" moments starting with unrelenting tough love from his mother, the pressure of growing up around serious drug culture in Hollis Queens, and how joining the Run-DMC tour and Russell Simmons' developing music scene would forever change his life. Ready to be challenged and inspired to hustle for your dreams? Concerned that you might not be enough for whatever wild pursuit is calling you? This conversation with Daymond John will light you up! For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

RANDY COUTURE, MMA legend, Hollywood star, Retired U.S. Army Sergeant: Facing Fear May 29, 2017

Randy Couture, MMA legend, Hollywood star, and retired U.S. Army Sergeant joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Randy has led a remarkable life and his most pivotal, "brink of midnight" moments were grounded in the faith that he was moving in the right direction and that things would eventually work out how they're supposed to. Hear how Randy's circuitous pursuit of his dreams in wrestling led him to the military, UFC, Hollywood, and beyond. Learn how, from the age of 12, visualization has been essential to his success as an athlete and human being and how the simple act of trying something new led to phenomenal opportunities he never considered. Randy shares several life lessons, among others, how getting back to fun was the key to getting over his fear of failure. His perspective and true patriotism will move you and fill you with inspiration. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

MARSHAWN LYNCH, Beast Mode, NFL Star: The Importance of Community May 25, 2017

Mr. Beastmode, NFL star for the Seattle Seahawks and Oakland Raiders, Marshawn Lynch, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Marshawn Lynch is a true character and unequivocally true to himself. Known for his incredible "beast mode" run, he has made "Beast Mode" a way of life outside of football and in giving back to his hometown community of Oakland, California. Few successful athletes who come from an underprivileged neighborhood make a point to come back and actually live in the same neighborhood like Marshawn has. Marshawn is a staple in his Oakland community, biking through the streets, "walking through the same pissy hallways", often showing up unannounced in classrooms to check on kids, expanding the life vision of Oakland youth through his foundation, and sharing his "Beast Mode" approach to life through his statement apparel and production company projects. For full show notes, visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

BILL ENGVALL, Comedian, Blue Collar Comedy Tour: How to Give in to Your Purpose May 22, 2017

Sell-out stand up comedian, and part of the legendary Blue Collar Comedy Tour, Bill Engvall joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. Bill Engvall is one of the most successful comedians from the last three decades and was part of the famed BLUE COLLAR COMEDY TOUR, along with Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy, and Ron White. From writing and performing stories at a young age to literally building his first college stand-up stage with lightbulbs in coffee cans, Bill was born to make people crack up, however most people don’t realize he was a reluctant comic. Dreams of becoming an actor, singer, professional baseball player, doctor, and then to being rejected from both the Navy and being a Texas Highway patrol officer preceded the realization, twenty years after college, that the answer had been with him all the time. Mentored by Gary Shandling, Jerry Seinfeld, and Jay Leno, it was Jay Leno pushing Bill to think beyond being an “opening act”. You will cackle your way through this episode as Bill charts his top moments across the county that range from…say, for example, the huge moment of his topless bar boss encouraging him to pursue comedy to being handed the “Best Standup Comedian in a Nightclub” Award from Joan Rivers, from the rise of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour to becoming an ordained minister, and so many more scenes you couldn’t possibly write. For show notes visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

ROB RIGGLE, Actor, Comedian, Former Marine: How to Commit to Your Vision May 17, 2017

Rob Riggle, Actor, Comedian, and former Marine joins THE BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST. Rob Riggle is one of today's best-known and successful comedians and comedic actors. You've seen him on The Daily Show, Saturday Night Live, countless movies, including The Hangover, Fox NFL Sunday, and even hosting the ESPY Awards. What many don't know is how Rob made it to some of comedy's biggest stages via Flight School, the Marines, digging out the WTC rubble from 9/11, and serving in two wars in Kosovo and Afghanistan. Rob's story is unlike any other. It's one of years of perseverance, faith, visualization, total commitment, and cultivating opportunity. He reminds us that there is no one way to work toward achieving a dream. And, being on a path that isn't the perceived "traditional" path, does not somehow make you less than or unworthy of really going for it. For show notes visit: | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

RAY LEWIS, Super Bowl MVP: Glory is on the Other Side of Pain May 15, 2017

Super Bowl MVP and NFL analyst, Ray Lewis, joins The Brink of Midnight Podcast. This is the story of Ray Lewis before you knew who Ray Lewis was... a unique look at Ray unlike any interview with or article on him you've ever seen. Ray Lewis' story is one of remarkable self-actualization. From growing up in a violent household and having to skip meals to a complete stranger investing $15 in him to play for his local Lakeland Lumberjacks football team, Ray is the ultimate example of doing the best he can, with what he has, when he has it. He shares how, at a young age, he found a way to develop his physical and mental strength from nothing, and how developing that strength was motivated by honoring his mother. Ray also shares the importance of finding, articulating, and nurturing one's own foundation and considers it the most important work we can all do. This conversation both humbles and inspires and you can't help Ray's energy from entering your soul like a ray of light. He continues to pay it forward every day in his day-to-day interactions to working with fellow elite athletes like Michael Phelps. For complete show notes, visit | Contact: | Connect: @brinkofmidnight (twitter, instagram, Facebook)

TRAILER: The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus May 09, 2017

Learn what we're up to with The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus! We talk to luminaries in the worlds of sport, entertainment, business, tech, philanthropy, and beyond about the moments in their lives when everything changed.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The BRINK OF MIDNIGHT PODCAST with John Brenkus

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected