Former Marine and elite protection specialist Sir Byron Rodgers joins Jon to discuss his remarkable journey from surviving multiple IED explosions in Iraq to becoming one of the most respected figures in executive protection. Byron shares the near-death experience that transformed his life, his battle with PTSD, and how he found purpose in protection work. Their conversation covers the true meaning of being a warrior in modern times, raising resilient children, and why physical discipline builds character. Byron offers hard-earned wisdom about channeling warrior energy into service and the critical difference between having strength and having power.
NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas sits down with Jon for an honest conversation about his journey from second-round pick to NBA superstar. Arenas shares stories about his father's influence, the mental toughness that drove his success, and his unique perspective on leadership in sports. Now focused on youth basketball development, he offers insights on the current state of amateur athletics and raising the next generation of players.
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Ashley Stock shares her family's journey after her daughter Stevie passed away from brain cancer. She talks about the decision to bring Stevie home for end-of-life care, how she and her husband told their sons, and the impact of grief on their marriage. Ashley and Jon discuss helping children process loss, facing public judgment while sharing their story online, and the role of youth sports as an emotional outlet. They explore how tragedy reshaped their views on parenting, relationships, and life, highlighting the importance of honest conversations about grief.
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Jamie Lee Curtis joins Jon Bernthal for a conversation that begins with Jamie discussing her role in the film "Borderlands," touching on the unusual character trait of objectum sexuality. The discussion then shifts to Jamie's personal journey with addiction and recovery. She candidly shares her experience of realizing she had a problem with opioids and her decision to get sober. Jamie details the pivotal moments that led to this decision, and she explores the impact of recovery on her life, discussing how it has changed her perspective and helped her understand herself and her family better.
They discuss her family history, talking about her parents' experiences in Hollywood and how fame affected them, leading to a broader conversation about the challenges of expressing genuine emotions, especially given her upbringing in the entertainment industry. The conversation touches on aging in Hollywood, with Jamie sharing her thoughts on potential retirement and her approach to her career as she gets older. She discusses the rejecting nature of the industry and how she's learned to handle it, and shares an impactful anecdote about meeting a pediatric burn unit nurse, using this to highlight the importance of maintaining perspective in life and in the entertainment industry.
Throughout the interview, Jamie emphasizes the power of honesty, vulnerability, and changing one's perspective. She particularly stresses the importance of replacing the phrase "have to" with "get to" when approaching life's challenges and opportunities.
This powerful episode covers themes of fame, family dynamics, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and the process of personal growth and self-discovery. Jamie's candid and reflective responses provide insight into her experiences as an actress, a person in recovery, and a human navigating complex personal and professional landscapes.
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Jon Bernthal speaks with Will Jimeno, a former Port Authority police officer who survived being trapped for 13 hours under the World Trade Center rubble on September 11, 2001. Jimeno shares his extraordinary story of survival, his challenging journey of physical and emotional recovery, and how he found purpose in the aftermath of tragedy.
Key topics include:
This episode contains discussions of traumatic events which some listeners may find distressing.
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Dr. Nick Bernthal, Jon's brother and orthopedic oncologist, returns to REAL ONES.
This episode covers:
The brothers discuss these topics, offering insights into modern medicine, personal growth, and current social issues.
Note: This episode contains discussions of cancer, loss, and medical procedures that some listeners may find sensitive.
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Kevin Vance interviews Karl "Gus" Gustavson, a retired Navy SEAL with 22 years of service. Gustavson candidly discusses military brotherhood, sacrifice, and the transition to civilian life. This conversation offers unique insights into long-term military service and its lasting impact, and is the first in a new series with Kevin Vance profiling individuals living inspiring lives dedicated to service.
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Kevin - @kevinlvance
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Deborah Ann Woll talks candidly with Jon Bernthal about her journey in Hollywood. She discusses childhood bullying, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and maintaining authenticity as an actor. Woll opens up about self-doubt, the impact of parenthood, and her passion for Dungeons & Dragons. This conversation offers an honest look at the realities of life in the spotlight and the personal growth that comes with it.
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In this gripping episode of Real Ones, guest host Richard Cabral sits down with "Primo" Paulie for an unfiltered conversation about life on the streets of East LA, battling generational addiction, and finding redemption. From harrowing prison tales to the transformative power of fatherhood, this episode is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. Discover how cultural roots and unexpected moments of clarity can pave the way to a life of purpose.
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Don't miss Richard Cabral's new podcast, The Resilience Podcast, here on Spotify. Follow Richard on Instagram @richardcabralofficial
Join Richard Cabral as he sits down with Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries, in this inspiring episode of RESILIENCE. Explore the transformative journey from gang life to community leadership, and discover how healing-centered approaches are changing lives. Father Greg shares profound insights from his decades of work, offering hope and practical wisdom for anyone interested in social justice and personal transformation.
Follow the new podcast "Resilience with Richard Cabral".
Key moments:
Sean Penn shares his profound experiences from Ukraine, revealing the stark realities of war and the resilient spirit of its people. Penn and Bernthal delve into a deep conversation about the power of community in the face of adversity, the nuances of acting and documentary filmmaking, and the responsibility artists feel to represent real-life stories authentically. The discussion also touches on broader issues in the film industry, including the challenges of political correctness and the quest for genuine diversity in storytelling. Penn's candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the intersection of art, activism, and the human condition, making this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking insight into the complexities of our world today.
We look forward to hearing everyone's thoughts in the comments!
— Real Ones Team
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Dive into the transformative journey of Zack Skow, founder of Marley's Mutts and the Positive Change program. This initiative pairs rescue dogs facing euthanasia with inmates in a comprehensive canine training program. Zack's own tale of sobriety and second chances is mirrored in the experiences of prisoners who, through the program, rehabilitate dogs and in the process, find their own redemption.
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Dive deep into an emotional roller-coaster with Jeremy Locke as he recounts his experiences from war zones to the heart-wrenching stories of children in distress. Jeremy is the Founder and Chief of Special Operations for AERIAL RECOVERY, a organization dedicated to aiding in the fight against human and child trafficking. From confronting the harsh realities of war to battling personal demons and addictions, Jeremy's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Join Jon as he unravels the layers behind the man who's made it his mission to rescue and uplift those in dire situations.
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Cody is a former Marine Raider & Scout Sniper who was on the frontlines of the Battle of Fallujah. Cody discusses the concept of "normal" and how it's a societal construct that keeps individuals in a haze, going through the motions of life without truly living. He emphasizes the importance of breaking free from societal norms, finding one's voice, and paving your own path.
"There's either not enough of me, or there is too much" - Big Shun
Jon visits Shreveport to sit down with his longtime friend Big Shun for an intimate and raw conversation about the struggles of karma the power of family, this episode dives deep into the life experiences that have shaped Big Shun. Hear about the moments that have defined him, the lessons he's learned, and how he navigates the complexities.
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Join a candid conversation between Jon and the quintessential "real one", David Ayer. From the gritty streets of Los Angeles to the intense sets of "Fury" and "The Tax Collector", discover how Ayer's commitment to authenticity has shaped the careers and lives of many in Hollywood. This episode not only offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of some of your favorite films but also highlights how David Ayer serves as a connecting thread for many of the show's guests. Join us as we explore the raw beauty of storytelling, the challenges of the industry, and the bonds formed during the collaborative creative process.
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Join Jon as he dives deep into the life of Mel Chancey, exploring club rivalries, unwritten rules, and the key moments that paved the path toward redemption. From tense confrontations to heartfelt reconciliations, this episode offers a raw and unfiltered look into Mel's journey.
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Jon sits down with Lou Valoze, a former undercover agent, to explore the thrilling and often morally complex world of undercover work. Lou shares his journey from a directionless young man to a determined DEA agent, driven by the thrill of the game and the desire to take dangerous criminals off the streets. The conversation delves into Lou's experiences infiltrating motorcycle gangs, facing betrayals, and the philosophical questions that arise from his work. Lou also reflects on his post-retirement life, emphasizing the importance of self-care and family. His insights into law enforcement and human nature provide a unique perspective on crime, justice, and personal integrity.
