How Alex Boylan Built The College Tour and Traveled the World With Nothing
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Emmy-winning producer and Amazing Race Season 2 winner Alex Boylan, creator of the hit series The College Tour and author of his new memoir The Miles That Make You.Alex shares how growing up with nothing, embracing discomfort, and chasing adventure shaped his entire life; from traveling the world for free to building a show that helps students find the right path in education. Key Takeaways-Your past doesn’t define you; your choices do.-Growth happens when you get comfortable being uncomfortable.-Education is valuable when it aligns with your path and ROI.-Hard experiences build resilience and character.-Community and connection matter more than ever.-Action and consistency create real impact over time.-The weight you carry shapes who you become. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAAlex Boylanhttps://www.instagram.com/boylanalex/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Hala Taha Built Young and Profiting After Losing Everything
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this powerful episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with entrepreneur and media powerhouse Hala Taha, founder of Young and Profiting and CEO of YAP Media.Hala shares the raw truth behind being rejected, blackballed from the radio industry, and feeling like the “black sheep” of a high-achieving family, only to later build a podcast and media empire generating over $1M in sponsorship revenue. Key Takeaways-Rejection can become your greatest advantage.-Determination is built through consistency, not perfection.-You don’t need permission to pursue your path.-Action matters more than motivation.-Confidence comes from repetition and self-belief.-Social media growth is driven by emotion and shareable content.-Your struggles can shape your strongest identity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAHala Tahahttps://www.instagram.com/yapwithhala/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Pulse: Becoming the Person You Want to Be
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this powerful Pulse episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with his business partner and close friend Pat Sitkins to reflect on the evolution of the show, the power of clarity, and what it actually takes to become the person you want to be.They discuss why most people never start, how preparation builds confidence, and why the “messy middle” is where real growth happens. Shawn breaks down the difference between wishing for success and manifesting it through daily discipline, while Pat shares what makes this community-driven movement so impactful. Key Takeaways-Clarity is the cheat code to real progress.-Cringing at old work means you’re growing.-You don’t need perfect conditions to start.-Preparation is what separates winners from wishers.-Manifestation only works when paired with action.-The messy middle is where strength is built.-Extreme accountability creates real transformation.-Impact is the true purpose of The Determined Society. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAPat Sitkinshttps://www.instagram.com/patsitkins/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The Wake-Up Call That Changed Stacey Kay's Health, Career, and Life
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Stacey Kay, founder of hydr.ate, to unpack a powerful journey through addiction, anxiety, burnout, and personal transformation.Stacey opens up about struggling with alcohol and drugs in her twenties, pushing herself through high-pressure sales careers, and the moment her body forced her to stop; heart palpitations, numbness, and an anxiety episode that looked like a heart attack. That wake-up call sparked a complete shift inward.The conversation explores how stress, unresolved grief, and self-criticism can silently destroy mental and physical health, and how meditation became a turning point in Stacey’s healing journey. Key Takeaways-Burnout often shows up physically before we acknowledge it mentally.-Addiction and anxiety thrive when emotions go unprocessed.-Meditation creates space between reaction and response.-True accountability must be paired with self-compassion.-Slowing down is sometimes the most productive move.-It’s never too late to pivot into meaningful work. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAStacey Kayhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-kay-hydrate/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Zach Cogen on Elite Recovery, Rehab, and Mental Resilience
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn sits down with Zach Cogen, Head of Athlete Rehabilitation for the New York Red Bulls, to break down what real recovery actually looks like; physically, mentally, and emotionally.Zach shares his journey from collegiate wrestling to working with elite professional athletes across UCLA, EXOS, DC United, and now Major League Soccer.He explains the critical difference between return to play and return to performance, and why simply getting back on the field isn’t enough for high-level athletes whose careers depend on elite output. Key Takeaways-Return to play is not the same as return to performance-Recovery must address both physical and mental readiness-Sleep and nutrition are essential for healing and performance-Pneumatic compression improves circulation and recovery-Trust between athlete and practitioner is critical-Discipline and determination are built through consistency Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAZach Cogenhttps://www.instagram.com/thesportsphysio_/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Nicole Jaques Helps Parents Replace Chaos With Connection
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode of The Determined Society, Sean sits down with Nicole Jaques, creator of the “House CEO” framework, content educator, and systems-driven parent helping families calm the chaos of modern life.Nicole shares how leaving a corporate public-relations career after becoming a mother forced her to confront an outdated narrative around being a “stay-at-home mom.” What emerged instead was a powerful reframe: running a household requires leadership, systems, and intentional design, just like any successful business.Throughout the conversation, Nicole breaks down how time blocking, simplified systems, and documented routines can reduce burnout, eliminate resentment, and create more space for real family connection. She explains why rest is not a luxury, why the “default parent” role is operational and how accountability and structure can actually bring freedom back into the home. Key Takeaways-Running a home requires leadership, not more effort-Systems reduce burnout by removing emotional friction-Time blocking creates freedom, not rigidity-Rest is essential to regulating mood and nervous system health-The “default parent” role works best when it’s structured and shared-Boundaries determine family connection Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGANicole Jaqueshttps://www.instagram.com/itsnicolejaques/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Sobriety, Faith, and Doing Hard Things Changed Brady McDonald’s Life
Check Out Therabody 👇https://www.therabody.com/discount/DETERMINEDUse Code: DETERMINED to get 15% off at checkout------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this powerful episode of The Determined Society Podcast, Brady McDonald shares his raw journey from alcohol dependency and fear to sobriety, faith, ultra-endurance racing, and building a life rooted in discipline and purpose.Brady opens up about quitting alcohol after realizing the cycle he was passing down to his daughters, how doing hard things like 75 Hard and ultra running gave him clarity, and the moment God intervened and changed the trajectory of his life. We dive deep into fatherhood, leadership, failure, faith, resilience, and why children don’t do what we say, they do what we do.This conversation also explores Brady’s mission to use running for something bigger than himself through 50K in 50 States, raising millions for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and how serving others brings more fulfillment than success ever could. Key Takeaways-Sobriety gave Brady clarity, courage, and control over his life.-Doing hard things builds confidence that transfers into every area of life.-Discipline is simple, but it’s never easy.-Fitness became the gateway to mental, emotional, and spiritual growth-Failure isn’t the end; it’s feedback for the next attempt.-The right people in your corner determine how far you go.-Faith showed up when quitting no longer felt like an option.-Serving others creates deeper fulfillment than personal success. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGABrady McDonaldhttps://www.instagram.com/brady.mcdonald84/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How to Take Your Power Back After Toxic Relationships with Sara Davison
What do you do when heartbreak, betrayal, or a toxic relationship leaves you broken on the floor?In this powerful episode of The Determined Society Podcast, Shawn sits down with world-renowned breakup and divorce coach Sara Davison to talk about reclaiming your power when life knocks you down.Sara shares the deeply personal story behind her mantra “Screw You, Watch This,” how toxic relationships quietly trap people in cycles of fear and self-doubt, and the practical tools anyone can use to break free. Key Takeaways-Toxic relationships often feel familiar and safe, which is why people repeat them.-Healing starts when you take responsibility for your own power and decisions.-Emotional recovery requires replacing old patterns with new daily standards.-Small, consistent actions create momentum and long-term change.-Taking care of yourself first is essential, not selfish.-Children learn how to cope by watching how parents handle adversity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGASara Davisonhttps://www.instagram.com/saradavisondivorcecoach/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How to Take Your Power Back After Toxic Relationships with Sarah Davison
What do you do when heartbreak, betrayal, or a toxic relationship leaves you broken on the floor?In this powerful episode of The Determined Society Podcast, Shawn sits down with world-renowned breakup and divorce coach Sarah Davison to talk about reclaiming your power when life knocks you down.Sarah shares the deeply personal story behind her mantra “Screw You, Watch This,” how toxic relationships quietly trap people in cycles of fear and self-doubt, and the practical tools anyone can use to break free. Key Takeaways-Toxic relationships often feel familiar and safe, which is why people repeat them.-Healing starts when you take responsibility for your own power and decisions.-Emotional recovery requires replacing old patterns with new daily standards.-Small, consistent actions create momentum and long-term change.-Taking care of yourself first is essential, not selfish.-Children learn how to cope by watching how parents handle adversity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGASara Davisonhttps://www.instagram.com/saradavisondivorcecoach/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How David Royce Built a $500M Pest Control Empire From Door-to-Door Sales
What does it really take to build a scalable business that survives without you?In this episode of The Determined Society Podcast, David Royce shares how he went from knocking doors as a college student to building and exiting multiple pest control companies, including a $500M empire operating across 34 states and 5,000+ cities.David breaks down the real mechanics of scale, why blue-collar businesses with white-collar systems are massively underrated, and how obsession, systems, and cash flow discipline separate businesses that grow from those that collapse. Key Takeaways-A business is truly scalable if you can step away for 30 days and it still runs without you.-Growth is meaningless without strong cash flow and financial control.-Some of the most profitable opportunities exist in overlooked, blue-collar industries.-Systems and processes create freedom and allow a business to operate without constant involvement.-Great sales come from listening, understanding people, and solving real problems.-Obsession and persistence matter more than talent, because most people fail by quitting too early. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGADavid Roycehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/david-royce-22539425/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What 2025 Taught Me About Discipline
2025 was a turning point.Personally, professionally, and mentally. This episode is a raw reflection on how fixing one overlooked area of my life changed everything, from my marriage and mindset to the growth of The Determined Society.If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like something small is quietly holding you back, this conversation is about identifying that one thing and committing to real change.Growth doesn’t come from motivation, it comes from discipline, ownership, and doing the work when no one’s watching. Key Takeaways-Personal growth off-camera directly fueled professional success on-camera.-Fixing the “one thing” holding you back unlocks progress in every area of life.-Physical health improvements led to better clarity, confidence, and communication.-Consistency and discipline drove massive growth in 2025.-Emotional regulation improved relationships with family, team, and guests.-Growth in the show was a byproduct of personal accountability and self-care.-Feeling “seen” by the audience came from staying authentic and mission-driven.-Long-term thinking (years, not months) is key to sustainable success.-Momentum is built by doing the mundane work consistently and intentionally. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Can Longevity Go Too Far? Regenerative Medicine, Testosterone & the Cost of Living Longer
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Dr. David Karli, a renowned physician and entrepreneur in regenerative medicine, to explore the intersection of health, determination, longevity, and the future of medical technology.Dr. Karli opens up about his personal health crisis in his early 40s; including burnout, panic attacks, hormonal imbalance, and the wake-up call that forced him to rethink everything he believed about aging, performance, and medicine. What followed was a complete transformation that reshaped not only his body, but his mindset, career, and mission.Together, they dive into testosterone optimization, mental health in men, the psychology of discipline, and why process, suffering, and systems are unavoidable if you want real change. The conversation expands into cutting-edge regenerative medicine, AI-driven stem cell therapy, and the ethical questions surrounding longevity; including whether living longer actually means living better. Key Takeaways-Hormonal health is foundational to both physical and mental performance-Discipline is doing the work long after motivation fades-True transformation comes from systems, not shortcuts-Longevity without mobility and quality of life is a hollow win-Suffering is not the enemy, it’s part of growth-The future of medicine will be personalized, data-driven, and ethically complex Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGADavid Karlihttps://www.instagram.com/davidkarli/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Matthew Dillon Turned Rock Bottom Into Unbreakable Determination
In this raw and deeply emotional episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Matt Dillon for a powerful conversation about adversity, identity, addiction, resilience, and what it truly means to build yourself back up when life breaks you down.Matt opens up about leaving Australia for New York, starting over from nothing, navigating addiction, loneliness, and career pressure, and learning how to survive by showing up every single day, even when everything felt impossible. From swimming through rock bottom to rebuilding discipline, trust, and self-worth, this episode explores the realities most people never talk about.The conversation also dives into Matt’s life-changing bond with a chimpanzee that gave him purpose during one of the darkest chapters of his life, reshaping how he views love, responsibility, and connection. Key Takeaways-Why rock bottom can become the foundation for real personal growth-The difference between fake confidence and earned self-belief-How eliminating toxic people and habits creates momentum-Why discipline, presence, and self-trust change everything-How purpose can come from unexpected relationships and responsibility-Redefining success, greatness, and ambition on your own terms Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAMatthew Dillonhttps://www.instagram.com/mattdillon1983/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Robinhood Co-Founder Baiju Bhatt on Space Energy, AI Power & Building the Galactic Brain
In this episode of The Determined Society, Shawn French sits down with Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of Robinhood, for a wide-ranging conversation that spans entrepreneurship, immigration, resilience, artificial intelligence, and humanity’s next energy frontier: space.Baiju opens up about growing up as the child of Indian immigrants, learning English by watching TV, and how that outsider perspective shaped his worldview, work ethic, and belief in opportunity. He reflects on building Robinhood in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, the skepticism they faced, and how democratizing access to the markets reshaped an entire generation’s relationship with money.The conversation then moves beyond finance into the future of energy and AI. Baiju introduces his newest venture, Aetherflux, and the bold vision behind what he calls the “Galactic Brain” a solar-powered AI data centers and energy grids built in space.From space-based power transmission using lasers to solving the massive energy demands of artificial intelligence, this episode explores ideas that sound like science fiction but are rapidly becoming reality. Key Takeaways-Baiju Bhatt’s immigrant upbringing and how it shaped his mindset-The real story behind building Robinhood after the 2008 financial collapse-Why access to investing became a cultural and generational shift-The philosophy of failure, stubborn belief, and customer-driven validation-What the “Galactic Brain” means for AI, power, and the future of humanity-How space solar power and laser energy transmission actually work-Health, discipline, confidence, and how self-respect changes outcomes Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGABaiju Bhatthttps://www.instagram.com/realbaijubhatt/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Singing as Medicine: How Liz Caplan Healed Through Music
In this deeply moving episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Liz Caplan, world-renowned vocal coach, founder of Liz Caplan Voice Studios, and trusted voice teacher to some of the biggest names in film, television, and Broadway, including Hugh Jackman, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Andrew Garfield, Ben Platt, Stephen Colbert, and more.From growing up with asthma to discovering that singing and breathwork could literally change how her body functioned, Liz explains how music became her first medicine, long before success, recognition, or a thriving business.She shares how deep, intentional breathing can calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and create a natural “high” with no crash, no hangover, and no harm.Liz also pulls back the curtain on her journey from teaching a few students to becoming one of the most trusted vocal coaches in the industry, explaining how small steps, word of mouth, and genuine care built a world-class career rooted in service, not ego. Key Takeaways-Your voice and breath are powerful healing tools, not just performance skills.-Deep, intentional breathing can regulate the nervous system and reduce anxiety naturally.-True success is built slowly through service, trust, and word-of-mouth consistency.-Burnout often comes from absorbing others’ energy; learning to release it is essential.-Creativity, music, and movement can be medicine when used with intention.-Determination means continuing your mission with empathy, care, and integrity. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGALiz Caplanhttps://www.instagram.com/lizcaplan/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Olivia Mock Shares The Truth About Self-Love, Fitness & Discipline
In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Olivia Mock, founder and CEO of The Check-In Club, a rapidly growing fitness accountability app helping thousands of people build discipline, community, and confidence, without the toxicity, filters, and comparison traps of modern social media.What begins as a conversation about fitness quickly turns into a deep discussion on mental health, self-talk, consistency, childhood insecurities, and the emotional battles people face long before they ever touch a weight. Shawn and Olivia open up about their own struggles with anxiety, body image, shame, yo-yo dieting, and the internal narratives that keep people stuck.Olivia shares the story behind The Check-In Club, why she built a judgment-free platform, and how accountability communities help moms, beginners, athletes, and everyday people stay consistent. Key Takeaways-You cannot build a lasting fitness journey from shame—only from self-love.-Small wins compound. Consistency beats intensity every time.-Nutrition and movement dramatically improve mental health, anxiety, and confidence.-Walking counts. Any movement is better than none.-Community accelerates progress—accountability builds discipline.-Showing up for yourself first allows you to show up better for your family, work, and relationships. Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAOlivia Mockhttps://www.instagram.com/oliviamockk/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
How Horses Heal the Mind and Body
At the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, miracles happen on horseback. Host Shawn French steps onto the 10-acre sanctuary where horses help humans heal — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Joined by Executive Director Michelle Schweber, Marketing & Outreach Director Christian Vanorsdale, and Leah Haven, the center’s lead trainer for over 20 years, the conversation explores how connection, confidence, and compassion reshape livesFor nearly 30 years, this nonprofit has empowered children and adults facing mental, physical, and emotional challenges through equine-assisted therapy. From sensory trails and occupational therapy to anxiety reduction and emotional regulation, each session becomes a story of courage and transformation.Leah shares how horses synchronize with riders’ heart rates, helping regulate emotion and reduce anxiety — while volunteers find their own sense of peace and purpose. The discussion also uncovers moving stories of nonverbal riders finding their voice, rescued horses finding their purpose, and families rediscovering joy in the process.This is more than therapy — it’s a reminder of what connection can do.Key Takeaways-Horses mirror human movement and emotion — creating natural therapy through rhythm and empathy.-The Naples Therapeutic Riding Center serves over 800 people annually, including 115 active riders.-Every rider’s program is tailored for specific developmental, physical, and emotional goals.-Confidence is built through doing hard things — one ride at a time.-Volunteers experience their own emotional healing through service.-Even the horses heal: many arrive from rescue situations and thrive through connection.-“Behind the Red Wall” isn’t just a location — it’s a community that transforms everyone who enters.Connect with me :https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGANaples Therapeutic Riding Centerhttps://www.instagram.com/naplestherapeuticridingcenter/
Jay Huguley: Causing Trouble in “Death on the Brandywine”
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 Huguleyhttps://www.instagram.com/jayhuguleyofficial/
Girl Climber: Emily Harrington’s Ascent Beyond Limits
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_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAEmily Harringtonhttps://www.instagram.com/emilyaharrington/
How Andrew Pollack Made Florida Schools Safer for Every Child
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, FloridaAndrew 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_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGAAndrew Pollackhttps://www.instagram.com/andrewpollackfl/
Step into the world of Culture Unscripted, where the bright lights meet thoughtful depth. Every episode takes you behind the headlines as we interview celebrities, renowned authors, and elite athletes—not to talk press lines, but to uncover their core truths and cultural perspectives.
We dive into the stories behind the personas: What inspires a bestselling author to tug at society’s threads? How does an athlete navigate identity beyond the game? How do cultural icons harness influence to spark social change? These aren’t surface-level soundbites—they’re raw, revealing conversations that reflect who we are and where we’re headed.
Expect humor. Expect heart. Expect breakthrough insights.
Whether we’re unpacking a book that reshapes dialogue, exploring the impact of fame on mental health, or analyzing how sports stars challenge societal norms—Culture Unscripted brings you the human stories behind cultural icons and the societal conversations they spark.
If you’re curious, driven, and ready for a show that celebrates the richness of culture through the faces shaping it—Culture Unscripted is where you belong. Tune in, and let’s explore the world through the voices that help define it.
