Embrace Your Awesome

How do you recognize greatness before anyone else sees it?In this powerful episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, host John Geyston sits down with Damon Oppenheimer — Vice President and Director of Scouting for the New York Yankees — to explore what truly separates elite performers from everyone else.For more than two decades, Damon has helped evaluate and develop some of baseball’s biggest names, including Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, Ian Kennedy, and Brett Gardner before they became stars.But this conversation goes far beyond baseball.You’ll discover:What high performers consistently do differentlyWhy mindset and character matter more than raw talentThe traits scouts look for under pressureHow parents, coaches, and leaders can better identify potentialWhat separates those who succeed… from those who never maximize their giftsThis episode is packed with insights on leadership, discipline, resilience, and the mindset required to perform at the highest level—in sports, business, parenting, and life.🎧 If you want to understand how greatness is truly built… this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Podcast Description

Sometimes the biggest thing holding you back…isn’t fear, failure, or lack of opportunity.It’s the people you keep trying to carry.In this powerful episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, John Geyston dives into one of the hardest — yet most life-changing — lessons we all face:learning when to let go.If you’ve ever felt emotionally drained, undervalued, constantly explaining yourself, or stuck trying to earn appreciation from people who refuse to grow… this episode is for you.You’ll learn:🔥 Why protecting your peace is not selfish🔥 How loyalty can become self-destruction🔥 Why raising your standard changes your life🔥 And how letting go creates room for growth, purpose, and healthier relationshipsBecause not everyone is meant to go where you’re headed.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast for more episodes on leadership, mindset, confidence, and performance.

Today’s guest is one of the most respected coaches in wrestling and MMA — Marc Fiore.From the Olympic Training Center to the U.S. Olympic coaching staff… to co-founding the legendary H.I.T. Squad with Matt Hughes… Marc has spent decades building champions.He’s cornered over 100 fights in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and coached elite athletes like Robbie Lawler and Raquel Pennington.In this episode, we break down the mindset, leadership, and process behind creating true champions.

What if your child’s confidence could be built every single day… with just a few words?In this episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, we break down a simple but powerful tool—creating a positive word board—to help shape your child’s mindset, self-talk, and identity.Learn how to turn everyday moments into confidence-building opportunities and give your child a voice that empowers them for life.👉 Because the words around your child… become the words within them.

What does it really take to rise from overlooked to elite—and stay there?In this powerful episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, I sit down with Corey Anderson—a man who has built his career on grit, resilience, and relentless work ethic.From NCAA Division II National Champion… to winner of The Ultimate Fighter… to Bellator MMA Light Heavyweight World Champion… and now competing in the Professional Fighters League—Corey’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance and growth.But this conversation goes beyond titles and accolades.We dive into:The mindset it takes to push through adversityHow to silence doubt—both external and internalThe discipline required to perform at the highest levelAnd what it truly means to stay ready… for overtimeWhether you're a parent, athlete, or someone chasing your next level, this episode will challenge you to raise your standard and commit to the process.Because champions aren’t born… they’re built—one round at a time.

What if one of the greatest gifts you could give your child is the belief that their voice matters? In this episode of Embrace Your Awesome, John Geyston shares how simple conversations at home can shape your child’s confidence, identity, and self-worth. Learn how helping your child feel heard, seen, and valued can change the way they think, walk, and live—now and for years to come.

What does it take to go undefeated—not for a season… but for an entire career?In this powerful episode of Embrace Your Awesome, host John Geyston sits down with legendary champion Mike Stone—a man who stepped into over 90 black belt matches and never lost.Known as “The Animal,” Mike didn’t just compete—he dominated an era with unmatched intensity, pressure, and mental focus. But this conversation goes far beyond competition.👉 Was it talent… or was it mindset?👉 What separates champions from everyone else?👉 And what can YOU apply from his approach to life, leadership, and performance?You’ll also hear powerful stories from his relationships with icons like Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris, along with insights into his personal life—including his connection to Priscilla Presley.🔥 This episode reveals the mindset, discipline, and internal standards required to operate at the highest level—whether in business, leadership, or everyday life.If you're ready to elevate your focus, confidence, and performance…🎧 Don’t miss this episode.

The way your child talks to themselves…will shape who they become.And here’s the part most parents don’t realize…That voice is being built right now.And whether we know it or not…we’re influencing it every single day.

What if the biggest thing holding you back… isn’t your ability—but your decision?In this powerful episode of the Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, host John Geyston sits down with actress, creator, and storyteller Maria Libri to explore what it truly means to build a life by design instead of drifting through life by default.From her early days in Springfield, Illinois as a FOX 55 TV host—where John first worked with her in the late 90s—to stepping into the world of film, media, and creative storytelling… Maria’s journey is a real-time example of what happens when you choose growth over comfort.This isn’t just a story about success.This is about identity.Risk.Confidence.And becoming someone you didn’t originally plan to be.#MariaLibri#SpringfieldIllinois#SmallTownToBigDreams#LifeTransformation#TakeTheLeap#DesignYourLife#CourageToChange#OvercomeFear#ReinventYourself#BuildYourFuture

What do you do… when someone you trusted lets you down?Not just anyone… But someone close. Someone you believed in.Someone you poured into.Betrayal rarely comes from a distance—it comes from proximity.Because betrayal doesn’t just hurt… It shakes your foundation.But what if betrayal isn’t the end of your story…What if it’s actually revealing your strength?Today, we’re talking about betrayal—and how to rise stronger, not bitter.www.johngeyston.com

What does it take to perform when the entire world is watching?In this powerful episode of Embrace Your Awesome, John Geyston sits down with Olympic Gold Medalist Herb Perez — a true pioneer who helped put American Taekwondo on the global stage.But this isn’t just a story about winning gold.It’s a masterclass in mindset, pressure, and perseverance.Herb takes us inside the reality of Olympic competition — where years of sacrifice come down to a single moment… a single exchange… a single point.And what you’ll discover is this:👉 Champions aren’t made on the podium.👉 They’re built through adversity, discipline, and relentless preparation.From overcoming setbacks… to leading at the highest levels of World Taekwondo… to mentoring the next generation of martial artists and leaders — Herb shares lessons that apply far beyond sport.This episode is for:• Athletes chasing excellence• Parents raising resilient kids• Coaches developing leaders• Anyone who wants to perform at their best when it matters mostBecause in life — just like in the Olympics — the moment will come.The question is: will you be ready?

Welcome to Embrace your Awesome Podcast, I am your host John Geyston, I am going to break down the first three foundational powers that shape a child’s confidence and long-term success: Focus, Self-Discipline, and Respect.Drawing from over four decades of coaching and teaching, I will explain how these principles are not just leadership concepts—but life skills that impact learning, behavior, and leadership.Parents, coaches, and mentors will walk away with practical tools to help children:Improve attention and learning habitsDevelop internal discipline (not just external correction)Build respect for themselves and others

My guest today is a true pioneer in the martial arts world — Keith Vitali.Keith is a 10th-degree black belt and was ranked the number one karate fighter in the United States for three consecutive years from 1978 to 1980 — undefeated during that time. In 1981, he was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame as Fighter of the Year and has been recognized as one of the 10 Best Fighters of All Time by Black Belt Magazine. He has appeared on more than 12 covers of National Martial Arts Magazines. Beyond competition, Keith made a successful transition into film, starring in classics like Revenge of the Ninja, Wheels on Meals alongside Jackie Chan, No Retreat, No Surrender 3, and American Kickboxer. As well as Nash Bridges and recent work in western titled Black Creek in 2024. He’s also an author, producer, and passionate advocate for child safety and anti-bullying education — writing books like Bullyproof Your Child and producing instructional programs to protect kids.

Every parent says they want their child to be confident… but very few are teaching them how to actually become it.Because confidence doesn’t come from encouragement alone— it comes from responsibility, discipline, and doing hard things.In this episode, I’ll give you the blueprint.

In this powerful episode of Embrace Your Awesome, host John Geyston welcomes one of the most respected leaders in the martial arts world — Hanshi Dave Kovar. With a journey that began in 1972 and a teaching career that started at just 15 years old, Kovar has spent over five decades shaping students, instructors, and leaders around the world.Having trained under legendary martial artists such as Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee, Remy Presas, and the Gracie family, Hanshi Kovar has competed in more than 200 tournaments and earned over 90 first-place titles. Yet what truly defines his legacy is not the trophies, but his unwavering commitment to lifelong learning, mentorship, and leadership.As the founder of Kovar’s Satori Academies, serving nearly 3,000 students and producing thousands of black belts, Hanshi Kovar shares the principles that have guided his success: humility, discipline, ethical leadership, and the mindset of always remaining a student.This conversation goes far beyond martial arts. It is about mentorship, personal growth, and the responsibility of passing wisdom forward to the next generation.If you are a martial artist, instructor, parent, entrepreneur, or anyone striving to grow into the best version of yourself, this episode will leave you with practical insights and timeless lessons.Key Themes in This Episode:🥋 The mindset of lifelong learning🥋 Leadership and mentorship in martial arts🥋 Building character through discipline and standards🥋 Lessons from five decades of teaching and competition🥋 The responsibility of passing knowledge to the next generationCome with an empty cup — and leave with tools you can apply in your life, your school, and your leadership journey.

After coaching young athletes for more than 40 years, I’ve seen a pattern that surprises many parents and coaches.Some of the most naturally talented kids quit.Meanwhile, other athletes who start out average go on to become exceptional performers and leaders.The difference is almost never talent.It’s what’s happening inside their mindset, habits, and identity.In this episode of The Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, I break down the six most common internal barriers that hold young athletes back — and more importantly, how parents, coaches, and athletes can overcome them.We explore:• Why confidence is built through competence • The mindset shift that unlocks performance • The hidden pressure young athletes feel • How parents can support without pushing • The habits that create long-term success • Why identity matters more than talentThis episode is for: ✔ Young athletes who feel stuck ✔ Parents who want to guide without overwhelming ✔ Coaches who want to develop the whole athlete — not just win gamesBecause peak performance isn’t built by trophies.It’s built by habits, mindset, and the belief that you are capable of more.

In this powerful episode of The Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, host John Geyston sits down with a longtime friend and respected martial artist he has known for nearly 28 years — Allie Alberigo.A lifelong martial artist with more than six decades of experience, Allie is the founder of the renowned L.I. Ninjutsu Centers, an accomplished author, entrepreneur, and the dynamic host of the Warrior’s Way Podcast. Throughout his career, he has taught thousands of students, promoted nearly 200 black belts, and built one of the most respected martial arts communities in the country.But beyond the titles and achievements lies a deeper story — one about resilience, relentless ambition, and the mindset required to grow through adversity.In this conversation, John and Allie explore the lessons that shape true warriors in life and leadership. Together they dive into powerful themes including:Why discomfort is often the gateway to growthHow to recognize the difference between temporary failure and defining momentsWhat real resilience looks like when life tests youHow to develop the mindset and internal drive needed for purpose, excellence, and longevityWhether you're a martial artist, parent, entrepreneur, coach, or someone striving to become the best version of yourself, this episode delivers timeless wisdom from a man who has spent a lifetime walking the warrior’s path.This is a conversation about discipline, adversity, leadership, and the mindset required to embrace your awesome and keep moving forward — no matter the challenge.

What do you do when the job you were hired for… doesn’t exist anymore?You adapt. You serve. You grow.Today’s guest on The Embrace Your Awesome Podcast went from morning radio personality to walking into a dealership on day one only to be told the role he was hired for was already filled. Instead of quitting, he went to the back of the store as a service advisor — and turned that pivot into a pathway.He would go on to become General Manager and Managing Partner of Green Family Stores — while also serving as Chairman of the Springfield Chamber, an executive member of the Illinois Automobile Dealers Association, founder of Peacekeepers, and the in-venue host for Illinois Fighting Illini basketball.This episode is about:✔️ Leadership earned, not given✔️ Turning setbacks into strategy✔️ Serving before leading✔️ Building influence through communityReal leadership isn’t scripted. It’s forged.

Embrace Your Awesome Lifestyle Podcast, with a very Powerful Guest Antony Graf, (Master Instructor, Business Owner, Author and USA TKD Olympic Team reserve team member. Antony and I go deep into sharing his practical systems that parents, coaches, and educators can implement immediately… on how to create lasting behavioral change… and how to raise strong, capable humans in a world that desperately needs them.

Embrace Your Awesome Lifestyle Podcast, with a very Powerful Guest Antony Graf, (Master Instructor, Business Owner, Author and USA TKD Olympic Team reserve team member. Antony and I go deep into sharing his practical systems that parents, coaches, and educators can implement immediately… on how to create lasting behavioral change… and how to raise strong, capable humans in a world that desperately needs them.

Today, we’re joined by a truly powerful guest — Dustin Lash. Dustin is a high-level entrepreneur, business coach, and the host of the Fitpreneur Evolution Podcast. He’s built and scaled multiple online businesses, including turning his own fitness company into a seven-figure success. Now, he dedicates his life to helping coaches, trainers, and entrepreneurs create freedom — financial freedom, time freedom, and the confidence to pursue their purpose at the highest level.Dustin is a living example of what happens when ambition meets discipline and mindset meets action. His journey is all about evolving, taking ownership, leveling up, and refusing to settle for anything less than your potential.

We live in a culture that tells us to want more.More success.More passion.More excitement.More fulfillment.And growth is a good thing.But there’s a difference between growing and never being satisfied.Most people don’t lose happiness because life falls apart.They lose it because their focus shifts.From what’s working…to what’s missing.So today, I want to talk about something I call the 75% rule—and why chasing the missing 25% can quietly cost you everything that was already good.

What if your lowest moment wasn’t the end…but the beginning of your comeback?In this powerful episode of The Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, John Geyston sits down with Phil Albenze, a man whose life story reads like a movie script—and proves that transformation is possible no matter how far you’ve fallen.For over 20 years, Phil battled alcohol addiction, declining health, and a life that felt completely out of control. At over 315 pounds, he was facing moments most people never recover from.But Phil didn’t just survive—he reinvented himself.He lost over 140 pounds in his first year, became a natural bodybuilding champion, and today coaches others to reclaim their health, discipline, and identity.This conversation goes far beyond weight loss. It’s about:• Breaking free from addiction and self-sabotage• Rewriting the story you’ve been telling yourself• Becoming the example your family, children, and community need• And learning that the strength you’re searching for is already inside youWhether you’re a parent, athlete, student, or someone quietly fighting a battle no one sees—this episode will remind you that your past does not define your future.🎧 Press play and discover what’s possible when you decide to embrace who you’re meant to become.

Happiness gives you moments. Fulfillment gives you meaning. And confusing the two may be what’s quietly draining your life.In this episode of Embrace Your Awesome Lifestyle, we explore the powerful difference between feeling happy and living fulfilled—and why so many high-functioning, successful people still feel a sense of emptiness despite doing everything “right.”Fulfillment doesn’t come from status, achievement, or staying busy. It comes from alignment—when your values, your actions, and your priorities are moving in the same direction.When you’re aligned, life still requires effort…but it stops feeling heavy. Pressure gets replaced by peace. Proving gets replaced by purpose.This episode will help you recognize where you may be chasing moments instead of meaning—and how the discomfort you feel might actually be guiding you back to who you are meant to be.If you’ve ever felt successful yet unfulfilled, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of The Embrace Your Awesome Podcast, John Geyston introduces the Emotional Resilience Framework—a simple, practical 3-step system that helps kids build emotional strength from the inside out.This isn’t theory or “just calm down” advice.It’s real-world tools you can use immediately.You’ll learn how to help kids:• Recognize emotions before they escalate• Regulate stress and overwhelm• Express feelings in healthy, confident waysThe framework is simple:Awareness. Regulation. Expression.If you want to raise emotionally strong, confident kids—this episode is for you.