The Determined Society with Shawn French | Adversity & Mindset

Latest Episodes:

Jay Huguley: How Authenticity Powers Creative Determination Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

In this cinematic new episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with acclaimed film and television actor Jay Huguley — days away from the world premiere of Death on the Brandywine, the Delaware-made thriller that’s taking the festival circuit by storm.

With three screenings added after sell-outs at the Rehoboth Beach International Film Festival, Huguley opens up about stepping into his latest role as Rye Riley, a mysterious and morally conflicted character whose presence tilts the film’s entire emotional gravity. Directed by Nick Wilkinson and produced by Lisa Black, Death on the Brandywine stars Huguley alongside Tuc Watkins, Kate Burton, Rena Sofer, and Guy Nardulli — and is already being hailed as the most successful feature ever shot entirely in Delaware.

Jay takes listeners behind the scenes of the production — the creative alchemy that comes from indie filmmaking, the freedom to build complexity into a role, and the thrill of watching audiences respond in real time. He also reflects on his larger body of work — from 12 Years a Slave and The Walking Dead to Taylor Sheridan’s new Paramount+ series Landman — and offers insight into how an actor stays sharp, grounded, and creatively alive across decades of transformation.

This is a conversation with an actor at full stride — one who turns every project into proof that determination is the ultimate talent.

-Death on the Brandywine showcases the power of independent filmmaking done right.

-Playing Rye Riley let Jay explore the tension between danger and empathy.

-A “troubled” character can be the heartbeat of a story when grounded in truth.

-Success comes from longevity — and embracing reinvention across roles.

-Determination isn’t a mindset; it’s a discipline.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Jay Huguley

https://www.instagram.com/jayhuguleyofficial/

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Girl Climber: Emily Harrington’s Ascent Beyond Limits Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

In this gripping episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Emily Harrington — world-renowned professional climber, mother, and IMAX documentary star of Girl Climber.

Emily opens up about the physical and emotional peaks behind her record-breaking climbs, including her free ascent of El Capitan, balancing motherhood, and the deep human lessons that come with facing fear thousands of feet in the air.

What makes Emily’s story so powerful isn’t just the scale of her climbs — it’s the honesty behind them. She shares how fear still finds her on every wall, how she’s learned to trust her gear, her partners, and herself, and how failure is not the enemy but the environment climbers live in.

Together, she and Shawn explore the psychology of resilience, the beauty of imperfection, and the parallels between climbing and life — from battling self-doubt to finding meaning beyond the summit.

The conversation also touches on her marriage to fellow climber and guide Adrian Ballinger, her late mentor Hilaree Nelson, and her deep love for Ecuador, where she and Adrian were married. Between discussions of altitude, family, and fear, Emily paints a portrait of determination that transcends sport.

If you’ve ever faced something that scared you, doubted your own strength, or wondered what’s left after achieving the impossible — this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways

-Fear doesn’t disappear — it evolves. Even pros feel it at the edge.

-Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s the path to mastery.

-Parenthood and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive — both require endurance and grace.

-The real summit isn’t the wall, it’s who you become climbing it.

-Vulnerability is strength; perfection is a myth.

-Gratitude and perspective are the antidotes to burnout.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Emily Harrington

https://www.instagram.com/emilyaharrington/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Breaking Norms in School Safety | Andrew Pollack's Discipline-Driven Movement Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

In this profoundly emotional episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Andrew Pollack, father of Meadow Pollack — one of the victims of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida

Andrew shares his journey from unimaginable loss to relentless advocacy, turning grief into a nationwide movement for school safety, accountability, and change. He speaks candidly about the failures that led to the tragedy, the reforms Florida has implemented since, and his ongoing mission to make sure no parent endures what he has.

Through moments of heartbreak and hard truth, Andy’s voice cuts through the politics and noise to remind listeners that parental involvement, training, and accountability save lives. From holding local officials responsible to designing cutting-edge safety technology, Andy’s message is clear: complacency kills — action protects.

The conversation expands beyond headlines into personal conviction, faith, and leadership. Andy shares how Florida became a national model for school safety, why armed guardians and plain-clothes officers matter, and how technology is reshaping emergency response. He also exposes the systemic failures, misguided leniency policies, and lack of courage that cost innocent lives.

This episode is not political — it’s personal. It’s a father’s mission to protect every child in America.

Key Takeaways

-Parents have the power to demand change and protect their children.

-Florida leads the nation in school-safety reforms — accountability matters.

-Complacency kills: “You gotta know better now.”

-Accountability for law enforcement and policy leaders saves lives.

-Technology and training together create real-world safety solutions.

-Victims deserve action, not excuses.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Andrew Pollack

https://www.instagram.com/andrewpollackfl/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelly Bensimon: Breaking Norms After Reality TV | Rebuilding Identity & Mental Resilience Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

Kelly Bensimon on overcoming failure, breaking norms, and rebuilding identity beyond reality TV. In this raw conversation, the model, author, and luxury broker opens up about the mental toughness required to transform after intense public scrutiny, the daily disciplines that fuel authentic power, and why curiosity and vulnerability are not weaknesses—they're the foundation of real resilience. For founders and high performers navigating their own adversity.

Key Takeaways:

-Music fuels mindset — every success story starts with a rhythm.

-Minnows can become sharks through curiosity and work ethic.

-Public perception ≠ personal truth — redefine yourself through action.

-Mental toughness and self-awareness outlast hype.

-Curiosity is the secret weapon in business and life.

-Authenticity wins — people feel what’s real.

-Family and legacy matter more than fame or followers.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Kelly Bensimon

https://www.instagram.com/kellybensimon/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Burned 100% But Alive | How Community Transformed John O'Leary's Adversity Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

We present a deeply moving conversation with host Shawn French as he sits down with John O’Leary — bestselling author, motivational speaker, and the real-life inspiration behind the new William H. Macy film Soul on Fire.

At just nine years old, John survived an explosion that left him with burns over 100% of his body and a 0% chance to live. What followed was nothing short of miraculous — a story not of one man’s toughness, but of an entire community showing up when it mattered most.

John and Shawn dive into the transformative power of love, faith, and community, exploring how the people around us can literally bring us back to life. John shares how his parents’ fierce love, Jack Buck’s unwavering mentorship, and his wife Beth’s quiet strength helped shape a life of purpose. He opens up about the fine line between victimhood and victory, and how choosing to serve others became the ultimate path to healing.

The two also reflect on Soul on Fire, the film that immortalizes John’s journey — including personal touches like his wife’s actual wedding dress and his late father’s powerful final scene on set. Together, they reveal how acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripples that outlive us all.

This isn’t a story about survival. It’s a masterclass in what it means to live — fully, vulnerably, and for others.

Key Takeaways:
-You can be a victim or a victor — the choice is always yours.

-Community is the most powerful medicine for healing.

-Tough love isn’t cruelty; it’s the pathway to freedom.

-Mentorship and service are legacy multipliers — they outlive us.

-True love sees beyond scars, ego, and circumstance.

-Every act of kindness has a ripple effect far beyond what you’ll ever see.

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

John O'Leary
https://www.instagram.com/johnoleary.inspires/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Finance to Fame | Daniel Mac on Breaking Norms & Building Viral Determination Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

From finance job to viral creator—Daniel Mac shares his raw journey asking strangers "What do you do for a living?" in luxury cars. In this deep conversation, he opens up about the adversity of pioneering a new format, overcoming rejection at filming locations, breaking norms when everyone doubted him, and the relentless mental toughness required to build a global following. A story of life transformation, resilience, and the power of asking bold questions.

Key Takeaways

-Rejection is fuel—Daniel’s early failures became his foundation.

-Authenticity outperforms gimmicks. Viewers can sense real connection.

-Social media algorithms reward consistency and platform fluency.

-Timing matters—post when people care most.

-Celebrities are human too—approach them with curiosity, not worship.

-Passion and persistence trump perfection.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Daniel Mac

https://www.instagram.com/itsdanielmac/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lamborghini: Living a Full Throttle Life Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

Nick Del Negro, General Manager of Lamborghini Naples, joins Shawn French on The Determined Society to talk about what it really means to live at full throttle.

From a humble start in Worcester, Massachusetts, to leading one of the most prestigious dealerships in the world, Nick’s story is pure drive — a masterclass in grit, gratitude, and relentless focus.

We talk about:
-Turning hard work into a luxury lifestyle

-How Lamborghini culture builds community, not ego

-Growing up blue-collar and never losing his edge

-The art of staying grounded while chasing greatness

This episode is more than horsepower — it’s heart, hustle, and heritage.

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Nick Del Negro
https://www.instagram.com/lamborghini_nick/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathy Ireland: From Supermodel to Super Mogul Oct 13, 2025

Show notes

Global icon Kathy Ireland joins The Determined Society for a deeply personal and empowering conversation about reinvention, resilience, and faith.

From her rise to fame as a supermodel to building a billion-dollar global brand, Kathy opens up about the defining moments that shaped her journey — from rejection and anxiety to advocacy and entrepreneurship. This is a story of grit, grace, and grounded leadership from one of the most influential women in business and philanthropy today.

She and Shawn French discuss how she turned lessons from the runway into a blueprint for business — one rooted in service, integrity, and a fierce commitment to family. Kathy’s reflections on mental health, parenting, and purpose reveal the same authenticity that has made her brand a household name.

This episode is more than an interview — it’s a roadmap for turning faith and determination into action.

We explore:
-How Kathy Ireland transformed rejection into billion-dollar reinvention

-Lessons in leadership, transparency, and brand trust

-Faith as the foundation for resilience and creativity

-The reality of anxiety and the importance of mental health advocacy

-Building family-first businesses with empathy and excellence

-What women entrepreneurs need to hear right now

-Why serving others is the ultimate key to sustainable success

This conversation is a masterclass in determination — and proof that success built on faith, service, and courage never goes out of style.

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Kathy Ireland
https://www.instagram.com/kathyireland/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

William H. Macy: From Shameless to Soul on Fire Oct 10, 2025

Show notes

Academy Award nominee William H. Macy joins Shawn French on The Determined Society for a powerful conversation about his latest film, Soul on Fire — the true story of John O’Leary, a boy who defied the odds after a devastating fire and grew into a beacon of hope.

In this wide-ranging discussion, Macy reflects on the film’s deeper message — that determination, compassion, and connection can pull us through even the darkest moments. From portraying legendary sportscaster Jack Buck to exploring the healing power of music, Macy brings humility and depth to every insight.

He opens up about the creative process behind Soul on Fire, the challenge of balancing authenticity and artistry, and what drew him personally to the story. The episode also dives into Macy’s views on parenting, resilience, and defining success on your own terms — all anchored in the belief that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when fueled by purpose.

This episode is an invitation to rediscover your own spark — and to believe, no matter what, that you can rise again.

Key Topics:
-Behind the making of Soul on Fire and the story of John O’Leary

-Portraying Jack Buck and honoring his real-life legacy

-The emotional power of music and Macy’s lifelong connection to it

-Why community support and human empathy matter more than ever

-Defining determination as the art of finding a way forward

-Life lessons on parenting, common sense, and success

Whether you know him as Frank Gallagher, Jerry Lundegaard, or one of the many unforgettable characters he’s brought to life, you’ll leave this episode with a new perspective on William H. Macy—the man behind the roles, and the fire that still drives him.

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

William H. Macy
https://www.instagram.com/williamhmacy/

SOUL ON FIRE MOVIE
https://www.instagram.com/soulonfiremovie/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Built on Biohacking: Joseph Rivera and the MoreLife Movement Oct 08, 2025

Show notes

When chasing success costs you your health, it’s time to biohack your way back to balance.

Joseph Rivera—founder of the MoreLife Biohacking Summit—joins Shawn French on The Determined Society to talk about redefining success through wellness, mindset, and faith. What started as a personal search for health and meaning has evolved into one of the nation’s fastest-growing health and performance events, featuring names like Gary Brecka, Tito Ortiz, and Lara Trump.

In this episode, Joseph and Shawn dive deep into:
-Why true wealth begins with health

-How chasing success can cost your soul if you’re not careful

-The movement behind the MoreLife Biohacking Summit

-The power of community, accountability, and faith-based recovery

-The daily practices that rewire focus, energy, and purpose

Joseph opens up about losing himself in the pursuit of achievement—and the moment he realized transformation starts on the inside. This conversation hits on discipline, identity, and the courage to reclaim control of your mind, body, and spirit.

The MoreLife Biohacking Summit takes place October 11–12 at Sea Table Convention Center, Florida—featuring 50 vendors, immersive health tech, and an all-star speaker lineup.

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Joseph Rivera
https://www.instagram.com/josephriverax/

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

The Determined Society with Shawn French | Adversity & Mindset

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected