The Relentless Pursuit Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Surviving Trauma & Embracing Change | Austina's Relentless Journey Apr 20, 2025

Show notes

In this deeply powerful and emotional episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast, host Joe Adams sits down with longtime friend Austina Mellberg for a raw, unfiltered look into her journey of trauma, healing, and transformation.

Austina opens up about surviving childhood bullying, sexual abuse and a pattern of toxic, abusive relationships—including sexual and physical abuse, betrayal, and emotional abandonment. Despite these painful chapters, she emerged stronger, rebuilding herself from the inside out.

Together, they explore:

• The long-term impact of childhood trauma

• Struggles with self-worth and abandonment

• Emotional invalidation and unsafe family dynamics

• Surviving abuse in romantic relationships

• Finding the courage to set boundaries and speak her truth

• Discovering purpose through bodybuilding, professional football, and entrepreneurship

• Building emotionally safe, healthy love after pain

Austina’s story is one of resilience, identity, and the relentless pursuit of becoming who she truly is. Whether you’re healing from trauma, learning to trust again, or simply searching for your voice—this episode will speak to your soul.

👇 TIMESTAMPS + RESOURCES BELOW 👇

00:00 – Welcome to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast

01:15 – Introducing Austina Melbourne & friendship history

04:00 – Starting a painting business after pandemic

07:58 – Why she chose painting & her upbringing on job sites

10:44 – Childhood in Northern California & private school bullying

14:52 – Moving to Tennessee after severe bullying

19:00 – Family dynamics & emotional safety

22:46 – The night she was molested

26:55 – The trauma of silence, shame & rumors

30:21 – Confronting bullying, counselor support & reclaiming her voice

33:40 – High school experience & being labeled “Virgin Mary”

36:20 – Religious shame, cult-like church experience

39:10 – First serious relationship & betrayal in college

42:35 – Emotional collapse, marriage, and separation

46:55 – Ignoring red flags, infidelity, and emotional erosion

51:30 – Self-worth issues & cheating discovery story

56:58 – Final confrontation and abusive outburst

59:12 – Domestic violence: physical threats and fear

01:01:43 – Rebuilding from rock bottom & finding her strength

01:05:11 – The darkest relationship: abuse, trauma, survival

01:10:32 – Meeting safe people & Lydia’s support

01:13:10 – The power of validation & shared trauma

01:15:45 – Finally choosing herself and healing alone

01:19:20 – Learning to set boundaries and protect her energy

01:22:15 – Emotional growth, safe love & communication

01:26:30 – Why healthy relationships feel the hardest

01:28:44 – Real friendship, chosen family, and community

01:33:00 – From bodybuilding to pro football: the untold layers

01:35:22 – Her relentless pursuit: never losing her voice again

#RelentlessPursuitPodcast #AustinaMellberg #TraumaHealing #AbuseSurvivor #EmotionalHealing #MentalHealthMatters #WomensEmpowerment #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SelfDiscovery #SurvivorStory #PodcastInterview #JoeAdamsPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #BoundariesMatter #HealingJourney #EmbraceYourVoice #FromPainToPurpose #EmotionalResilience #PodcastClip #PersonalGrowthJourney

Full Circle Healing: From Kandahar to Home - A Veteran's Journey with Matt Watkins Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

In Part 2 of this deeply emotional and powerful episode, Matt Watkins returns to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast to open up about his experience serving on the color guard in Kandahar, Afghanistan. From performing repatriation ceremonies for fallen comrades to a life-changing encounter with the widow of Lt. Robert Kelly, this story is one of purpose, grief, and healing.
Matt walks us through the emotional weight of those ceremonies, the impact ofpost-deployment reflection, and the full-circle moment that helped unlockdeeper healing and reconnection with others affected by war.
This episode is about never giving up on what truly matters—and finding meaninglong after the mission ends.
🎙️ Hosted by Joe Adams

· 00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

· 01:37 Welcome to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast

· 02:04 Guest Introduction: Matt Watkins Returns

· 03:48 The Power of Writing a Book

· 05:50 Utilizing AI for Productivity

· 14:13 The Importance of Authenticity in AI

· 18:20 Deployment Stories and ImpactfulExperiences

· 37:36 Respect and Dignity in Service

· 38:55 The Color Guard Perspective

· 40:17 Personal Reflections and Comparisons

· 44:01 PTSD Diagnosis and Reflections

· 45:38 Full Circle Moment in San Antonio

· 46:48 Meeting Heather Kelly

· 01:12:26 Balancing Work and Family

· 01:18:07 Final Thoughts and Relentless Pursuit

Matt Watkins, Operation Headshot, Afghanistan war stories,Marine color guard, Lt. Robert Kelly, veteran grief healing, Kandahardeployment, veteran storytelling, military repatriation ceremonies, Joe Adamspodcast, Relentless Pursuit Podcast, veteran nonprofit, healing throughservice, photography and PTSD

#Veterans #Kandahar #OperationHeadshot #MarineStories#VeteranHealing #RelentlessPursuitPodcast #GoldStarFamilies #ColorGuard#NeverForget #AuthenticityMatters #JoeAdams #FullCircleHealing

From Marine to Mission: Matt Watkins Journey | Operation Headshot Apr 13, 2025

Show notes

In Part 1 of this raw and authentic conversation, MarineCorps veteran Matt Watkins joins Joe Adams to share his powerful journey ofservice, loss, transition, and healing.
From his upbringing in Texas to becoming an aviation mechanic in the military,Matt opens up about the struggles he faced after service—especially as arecruiter dealing with burnout, identity loss, and mental health challenges. Healso shares the origin story of Operation Headshot, his nonprofit that supportsveterans and military spouses through photography, creative expression, andpurpose.
This episode is a deep dive into the reality many veterans face afterservice—and what it looks like to redefine success on your own terms.
🎙️ Hosted by Joe Adams, founder of Relentless Pursuit

· 00:00 Intro & Welcome

· 01:20 Who Is Matt Watkin

· 05:42 Childhood & Early Influences

· 09:55 Life in the Marines

· 15:18 Aviation Mechanics & Deployment Roles

· 20:36 Recruiting Duty & Burnout

· 25:44 Mental Health Spiral & Drinking

· 30:50 Starting Over After Service

· 36:25 Identity Crisis After the Military

· 42:40 Founding Operation Headshot

· 47:15 Why Photography Heals

· 52:22 Giving Back to Veterans

· 56:00 Building a Mission That Lasts

· 01:01:10 Legacy, Growth & What’s Next

Matt Watkins, Operation Headshot, military to civiliantransition, veteran identity, mental health for veterans, Marine Corpsrecruiter, veteran nonprofit, PTSD recovery story, photography healing journey,creative expression for veterans, Joe Adams podcast, Relentless PursuitPodcast, veteran purpose, storytelling after service

#Veterans #MentalHealth #MarineCorps #OperationHeadshot#IdentityAfterService #RelentlessPursuitPodcast #VeteranHealing #JoeAdams#VeteranTransition #NonprofitLife #PhotographyHealing #PurposeBeyondUniform

Dalton & Samantha Black: A Story of Survival, Love & Unbreakable Faith Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

In this emotional and awe-inspiring episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast, Joe Adams sits down with Dalton and Samantha Black to unpack a story that will shake your soul. From a heart condition discovered by a horse accident… to a devastating motorcycle wreck… to brain surgery and a 3D printed skull — Dalton has been through the unimaginable.

But this is more than just survival. It’s about faith, resilience, and the kind of love that doesn’t flinch in the face of fear.

Hear how this couple kept going — through open heart surgery, brain trauma, ICU uncertainty, and spiritual awakening. You’ll hear raw moments, laughs, tears, and the reminder that life is fragile… and sacred.

Time Stamps:

00:00 A Gut Feeling: The Day of the Accident

01:26 Welcome to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast

02:01 Meet Dalton and Samantha Black

02:47 Life-Changing Events and Shared Experiences

05:08 The Journey to Nashville and Music Career

24:57 A Mother’s Love and Legacy

31:24 Open Heart Surgery and Life’s Unexpected Turns

40:23 The Moment of Realization

41:08 The Chaos at the Hospital

41:51 The Emotional Toll

44:55 The Accident Details

49:33 The Road to Recovery

53:43 The Rehabilitation Journey

55:36 The Turning Point

01:00:04 The Spiritual Awakening

01:01:53 The Final Reflections

💥 Subscribe for real, raw, unfiltered stories that inspire.

🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.

#RelentlessPursuit #NoFear #MotorcycleAccidentSurvivor #3DPrintedSkull #Resilience #OpenHeartSurgery #SurvivorStory #FaithOverFear #BrainInjuryRecovery #DaltonBlack #RealStories #LoveAndRecovery #PodcastInterview

Aaron Hines on Coaching Athletes, Discipline Over Motivation, and Building a Purpose-Driven Gym Mar 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast, I’m joined by Aaron Hines—gym owner, strength coach, and five-time author based in Brentwood, Tennessee. With a background in college football and decades of experience coaching youth athletes and adults 50+, Aaron brings wisdom on discipline, training, mentorship, and business ownership.

We talk about how to stay consistent when motivation fades, why fitness should be approached with long-term purpose, and the mindset it takes to run a successful gym. Aaron shares his journey from sports to entrepreneurship, how to coach character—not just performance—and why real change starts from within.

This episode is a must-watch for:

• Fitness professionals and coaches

• Entrepreneurs building from the ground up

• Athletes seeking structure and mindset

• Anyone striving for consistent growth

🧠 Relentless Pursuit is a veteran-owned brand and podcast focused on purpose, mindset, and authenticity. Subscribe for real conversations and stories that inspire.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 The Importance of Starting Early

00:47 Welcome to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast

01:21 Introducing Aaron Hines

02:56 Aaron's Current Life and Work

04:55 Aaron's Family and Personal Life

09:43 Aaron's Journey: From Childhood to Fitness

11:08 Life on the Indian Reservation

18:47 Moving to Nashville and High School Years

31:02 Unconventional Training Methods

32:53 College Football Journey

34:15 Transition to College Life

36:07 Overcoming Challenges in College

39:57 Building Lifelong Friendships

41:23 Career Path and Education

42:23 Entering the Workforce

43:31 Pursuing Graduate Studies

55:04 The Importance of Authenticity in Training

01:04:08 Navigating Health Advice: Truths and Myths

01:04:31 Intuitive Eating and Personal Choices

01:05:09 Exercise Preferences and Misconceptions

01:06:05 The Overwhelming World of Nutrition Information

01:07:09 Finding Balance in Health and Fitness

01:14:32 The Journey to Building a Fitness Business

01:22:43 Overcoming Adversity and Building a Community

01:26:35 The Importance of Support and Mentorship

01:34:09 Final Thoughts and Relentless Pursuit

#AaronHines #RelentlessPursuitPodcast #StrengthCoach #GymOwner #FitnessOver50 #YouthAthletes #DisciplineOverMotivation #LongevityTraining #EntrepreneurMindset #FitnessPodcast #CoachingAthletes #MindsetMatters #FitnessBusiness #MentalResilience #VeteranOwnedBusiness #PurposeDrivenLife #TrainWithPurpose #PodcastClips #FitnessEducation #PainFreeLiving #ConsistencyIsKey #LeadershipInFitness

Navigating Motherhood, Entrepreneurship & NFL Life | Alexis Jones Mar 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Relentless Pursuit Podcast,host Joe Adams sits down with Alexis Jones—entrepreneur,tech founder, mother, and NFL wife—to explore the reality of balancing family, business, and an ever-changing lifestyle.

Alexis opens up about:
✔️ The challenges of being anNFL wife & constantly moving
✔️ Starting a tech company withzero background in tech
✔️ Navigating motherhood whilebuilding a business
✔️ Staying grounded & alwaysstriving to do the right thing

✔️ Real estate investing,fitness, & lessons from entrepreneurship

From hilarious childhood stories to majorlife lessons on resilience and growth, this episode dives deep into what it means to relentlessly pursue your dreams—without losing sight of what truly matters.

🔥 Timestamps:
00:00 The Relentless Pursuit of Doing the Right Thing
01:06 Hilarious Choir Audition Story (Confidence at 12? Notquite!)
01:49 Welcome to The Relentless Pursuit Podcast
02:21 Meet Alexis Jones: NFL Wife, Mom & Entrepreneur
04:04 Building a Business While Raising Kids
07:33 Family Influence & Childhood Lessons
13:27 How Alexis Met Her Husband in College
15:41 The Journey into Nursing & Unexpected Challenges
28:28 Adapting to Tennessee & Southern Culture Shock
31:38 Balancing Northern & Southern Roots
32:13 Marriage, Family & The Realities of NFL Life
39:10 Career Pivots & How the Pandemic Changed Everything
41:15 How a Simple Idea Sparked a Business Revolution
42:19 The Hardest Lessons of Entrepreneurship
51:24 Fitness, CrossFit & Finding Strength as a Mom
54:34 Flipping Houses & Real Estate Investing
57:00 The NFL Lifestyle: The Truth Beyond the Game
01:01:50 Snapback Returns App: Making Online Shopping Easier
01:07:04 Final Thoughts: Chasing Purpose & Doing the Right Thing

📌 If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe & leave a review! Your support helps us bring more powerful stories.

Breaking Free | Matt Culp's Journey from Addiction to Redemption Mar 16, 2025

Show notes

From addiction to redemption—Matt Culp’s journey is raw, real, and proof that second chances exist.In this powerful episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast, Joe Adams sits down with Matt Culp, who went from addiction, crime, and rock bottom to leading a sober living facility that helps others break free.✅ How did Matt escape the cycle of addiction?✅ What was the moment that changed everything?✅ How can you rebuild life after hitting rock bottom?🚀 Watch now and discover the power of transformation.🎧 Like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful conversations!⸻Timestamps:00:00 🎧 Intro: Headphones On or Off?01:24 🔥 Meet Your Host: Joe Adams01:58 🎙️ Guest Introduction: Matt Cove03:15 🏠 Childhood & Family Struggles18:12 🌆 Growing Up in Memphis19:12 ⚔️ Violence, Anger & Early Struggles25:27 🍻 Teenage Substance Abuse28:36 ⚡ A Life-Changing Event35:03 💊 The Depths of Addiction44:00 🚀 The Chaos & Hustle of Drug Life46:30 🙏 Foxhole Prayers & Spiritual Awakening48:15 🚔 Run-Ins with the Law55:22 🛑 The Turning Point: Seeking Help01:00:18 🌱 Recovery & Rebuilding Life01:19:52 ❤️ Finding Purpose & Giving Back01:28:24 🏁 Closing Reflections#BreakingFree #AddictionRecovery #Redemption #Podcast #RockBottomToSuccess #SoberLiving #OvercomingAddiction #InspiringStories #RelentlessPursuit #NeverGiveUp

From Prison to Prosperity: Chris Hamrick's Incredible Journey Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

From Prison to Building a Business – Chris Hamrick’s Powerful Story

In this episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast, host Joe Adams sits down with Chris Hamrick, a man who turned his life around from prison to entrepreneurship. Chris shares his powerful mindset shift, the importance of burning bridges to move forward, and how he went from a high-risk youth to building a successful company.

This episode is packed with real talk, grit, and relentless perseverance, making it a must-watch for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone looking for inspiration to overcome adversity.

📌 Topics Covered in This Episode:

✔️ The defining moment that changed Chris’s mindset

✔️ Why burning bridges is sometimes necessary for growth

✔️ His journey from prison to running a multimillion-dollar business

✔️ Grit, discipline, and the lessons of failure

✔️ The impact of the right relationships & building a strong team

✔️ The importance of intentionality in business & life

✔️ How Chris navigated massive setbacks and built a resilient mindset

💡 If you’re chasing success, pushing through adversity, or looking for real inspiration—this is the episode for you.

🔔 LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and HIT THE BELL to never miss an episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast!

⏳ Timestamps for Key Moments:

0:00 – Introduction & Guest Introduction (Chris Hamrick)

2:15 – Chris’s background: Growing up in inner-city Macon, Georgia

5:48 – Getting kicked out of school at 7th grade & early struggles

8:30 – The moment that changed everything: Chris’s mindset shift in prison

12:15 – Burning bridges to never go back – Chris’s last words to his old crew

16:45 – Leaving prison with no plan & making the hard decision to change

22:10 – Starting over in Eastern Kentucky & working in the coal mines

28:55 – How Chris built a new career & learned high-value skills

35:20 – The accident that changed his perspective on life & work ethic

42:10 – Why entrepreneurship was the only way forward

48:30 – Starting his business from scratch & the brutal first year

55:12 – The big break that changed his company’s trajectory

1:03:50 – Navigating setbacks, team betrayals, and massive business shifts

1:10:15 – Why mindset & grit separate successful entrepreneurs from the rest

1:18:20 – The power of intentionality & surrounding yourself with the right people

1:25:00 – Chris’s Relentless Pursuit & final words of wisdom

The RP Pod #132 | Living Baggage Free: Fausta Phelan's Journey to Emotional Freedom & Leadership Mar 02, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode of the Relentless Pursuit Podcast,host Joe Adams sits down with leadership coach and author Fausta Phelan.

Fausta shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming a tumultuous upbringing, multiple marriages, and emotional baggage to find her true purpose in life. She discusses the importance of self-awareness, effective communication, andleading oneself before leading others.

Fausta also introduces her book 'Living Baggage Free,' a guide to emotional freedom and personal growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that delves into the complexities of human relationships, the power of forgiveness, and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional development.

00:00 Understanding Life's Purpose

00:30 The Journey of Emotional Baggage

01:47 Introduction to the Podcast

02:24 Meet Fausta Phelan

04:24 The Concept of Leadership

07:58 Living Baggage Free: The Book

11:01 Generational Baggage and Family Dynamics

39:10 The Beginning of a Bodybuilding Journey

40:06 Military Life and Personal Decisions

43:07 Challenges and Reflections on Relationships

49:18 Understanding Personal Baggage

56:20 The Importance of Self-Awareness

01:06:40 Leadership and Communication

01:12:05 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

The RP Pod #131 | Mountain Mission: Rebuilding Appalachia with Dan Nunez & We The People Mission Feb 23, 2025

Show notes

Join host Joe Adams in a special episode recorded in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, featuring Dan Nunez, founder of We The People Mission.

This nonprofit is dedicated to helping flood victims and those in need across WNC. The episode dives into the aftermath of a devastating hurricane, the mission's efforts to aid affected communities, and the powerful stories of resilience and hope.

Hear from Dan about his military background, the challenges the mission faces, and the importance of coming together as a community. Learn how you can support these impactful initiatives and make a difference.

To help check out: wethepeoplemission.us

To be a part of the Key Lime Pie Festival go to: relentlesspursuitlifestyle.com/keylimepie

00:00 Introduction and Support for We the People Mission00:38 Relentless Pursuit Podcast Sponsorships01:41 Welcome to the Relentless Pursuit Podcast02:02 Special Episode in Spruce Pine, North Carolina02:39 Joe's Experience with We the People Mission06:59 Dan Nunez's Background and Military Service10:09 Moving to Spruce Pine and the Hurricane12:28 The Devastation and Immediate Response16:20 Community Efforts and Challenges19:43 Organizing Relief and Support32:45 Coordination Challenges and Initial Setup34:17 International Aid and Unexpected Support36:57 Local Efforts and Community Resilience42:04 Navigating Bureaucracy and Nonprofit Formation46:25 Volunteer Stories and Personal Sacrifices57:38 Addressing Small-Scale Needs and Future Plans01:01:18 Guiding People: The Essence of Community01:01:43 Unity Beyond Differences01:02:39 The Importance of Mental Strength01:03:02 Military Discipline and National Pride01:06:03 The Power of Conversations01:07:29 Supporting Each Other in Times of Need01:09:29 Call to Action: Sponsorship and Donations01:11:36 Challenges in Disaster Relief01:26:49 Family and Community Resilience01:29:47 Final Thoughts and Future Goals

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