This Dude Started Something

JT (J.T. 126) joins This Dude Started Something to break down the moment he pressed the $1,000,000 button on Beast Games Season 2 — the most watched unscripted show on Amazon Prime Video.We dive into: • What it felt like to eliminate his entire team • The real story behind the Mia drama • Behind-the-scenes secrets from MrBeast’s production • Strong vs Smart strategy • What happens after you win $1,000,000 • Life as a law enforcement officer turned reality TV starSeason 1 of Beast Games hit over 50 million viewers in 25 days — and Season 2 just changed the game.JT explains why he took the million, how he handled the backlash, and what MrBeast is really like off-camera.Comment on IG: Would YOU have pressed the button?#Beast Games, Beast Games Season 2, MrBeast, Mr Beast Amazon Prime, JT Beast Games, JT 126, 1 million dollar button, MrBeast million dollar challenge, Beast Games interview, Mia Beast Games, Beast Games drama, MrBeast reality show, Amazon Prime Beast Games, pressed the button Beast Games, Beast Games season 2 episode, MrBeast behind the scenes, law enforcement on Beast Games, This Dude Started Something podcast

Jack Bunker didn’t start a brand in college. He started one in high school — and not an easy one.In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Jack Bunker, founder of Blow It Gum, a liquid-core caffeine gum built to do one thing: make a boring product loud again.Please note: This episode was recorded at 1:00 AM and may include some spontaneous tangents.Jack walks us through how a random moment at school turned into a real consumer brand, why he built the brand before the product, and how he spent months hunting for a chemist while most kids his age were playing Fortnite.“I wanted to find something boring that everyone uses every day and just try to make it cool.”From giving away 70% of his first shipment, to DM’ing athletes and artists nonstop, to literally running business meetings out of an 18-passenger van in his high school parking lot, Jack breaks down what it actually takes to go all-in early.“It was me and ChatGPT versus the world.”We also get into:Why Blow It Gum uses a liquid core for faster caffeine absorptionHow caffeine hits through your gums in 5–10 minutesBootstrapping vs. raising money (and why Jack held onto equity)Marketing through chaos, giveaways, and bold contentJumping out of helicopters… for brandingTurning learning curves into leverageAnd why Jack is stepping away for two years — on purpose“Even if it all goes to sh*t, I’ll never lose the learning experience.”This episode is part startup case study, part brand breakdown, part unfiltered founder brain. If you’re into consumer brands, DTC, marketing, or just hearing what it looks like when someone actually sends it early — this one’s for you.

In this NYE 2025 episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Dan O’Toole, Founder & CEO of Arrive AI — the company reinventing how packages are delivered in an autonomous world.Dan shares how he:Beat Amazon, the U.S. Postal Service, and Big Tech to a critical patentBuilt a company through crowdfunding instead of VCTook Arrive AI public on NasdaqCreated the “mailbox 2.0” powering drones, robots, and autonomous deliveryMaintained control while scaling a massive investor baseThinks about AI, infrastructure, and execution at scaleThis episode is a masterclass in thinking big, moving fast, and executing before anyone else.If you’re an entrepreneur, founder, inventor, or just obsessed with how the future gets built — this one’s for you.Ticker: $ARAI Exchange: Nasdaq Arrive AI is publicly traded. Nothing in this episode is financial advice — this conversation is for educational and informational purposes only.🔗 How to Connect with Dan & Arrive AIArrive AI Website: https://arriveai.comFollow Arrive AI on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arriveai/Dan O’Toole on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-otoole-3b6a4631/

On today’s episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Luke Porada — a third-generation donut kingpin better known across Michigan as The Yeast Beast.Luke wakes up earlier than anyone we’ve ever met just to make your morning taste better. But behind the sugar, glaze, and perfect rings is a wild entrepreneurial story. From taking over his family’s shop during COVID, to dealing with crazy customers, donut thieves, city drama, and the science of baking in different weather — Luke gives us the real behind-the-scenes of running a generational business.We talk legacy. We talk yeast. We talk donut diggers. This episode is hilarious, insightful, and unexpectedly inspiring.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a donut shop — this is the one.📢 FOLLOW OUR GUESTInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetex99/Donutville USA: www.donutvilleusa.com🎧 FOLLOW USThis Dude Started Something Instagram: @thisdudestartedsomething

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with Aravind Krishnaswamy — a world-traveling photographer and longtime Google engineer whose breathtaking images have appeared on TVs around the world through Google’s featured photos program.When he’s not building the future of technology, Aravind is deep in the wild capturing rhinos in South Africa, gorillas in Rwanda, and bears in Alaska — moments that blend art, patience, and adventure. The trio dives into how he balances life at Google with creative passion, how AI is reshaping photography, and why emotion still beats perfection in every image.They also explore Aravind’s behind-the-scenes stories — from photographing a chest-beating silverback to explaining how his photos ended up on millions of screens. Whether you’re into photography, creativity, or the intersection of art and tech, this episode will make you see your camera (and your world) differently.📸 Explore Aravind’s stunning work:Website: akimagery.comInstagram: @akimagery

In this episode, we sit down with Sean Nguyen — founder of 40 Love, future doctor, and all-around powerhouse of a human being. What started as a high school project turned into a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting the homeless through tennis and pickleball events that bring people together, raise money, and spark real change.Sean shares how he grew 40 Love into a multi-city movement, what it’s really like working on the front lines of homelessness, how his family shaped his mission, and why he’s balancing all of this while pursuing a career in medicine.We also talk about:The early days of 40 LoveHosting events across the countryPresenting research at StanfordUsing sport as a tool for social goodWhy this generation has the power to create change🗽 We’ll be attending Sean’s next event in NYC AUGUST 10th— and you should come too! 👉 RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/forty-love-nyc-pickleball-fundraiser-tickets-1502020887909Follow Sean: 📸 Instagram – @fortyloveorg 🌐 Website –https://www.fortyloveorganization.org

In this episode, we talk with up-and-coming filmmaker Jake Apgar about what it really takes to bring ideas to life. From making films in high school to directing his first full-length feature, Jake shares how storytelling, teamwork, and emotional honesty matter more than flashy equipment or big budgets. We cover how AI is creeping into the industry, which directors inspire him, why some popular films fall flat, and how you can start creating with whatever you have. If you’re a creative, a builder, or just someone figuring it out—this one’s for you.

What if you could print the ingredients of an entire drink onto the inside of a cup — and all you had to do was add water? Chris Kanik did exactly that.In this episode, Oliver and Brayden sit down with the inventor of Smart Cups, the world’s first printed beverage technology, to talk about how a lifelong comedian built one of the most sustainable innovations in the world. From stand-up stages to science labs, Chris shares how his obsession with ideas, humor, and impact led to a technology that could reshape not just the beverage industry — but global access to nutrition.They dive into his wild origin story, the science behind the cup, his passion for comedy, and why being underestimated might be the ultimate superpower.Chris Kanik Instagram - @CEODADLIFESmart Cups - https://smartcups.com

What do World War II, American history, and luxury watches have in common? RT Custer. He’s the founder of Vortic Watches, a company that revives antique pocket watches and turns them into one-of-a-kind wristwatches that can survive the apocalypse—and look good doing it.In this episode, RT breaks down how he built a 7-figure business out of history, scaled American manufacturing, and created something truly timeless. From buying up estate-sale treasures to surviving on spreadsheets and SBA loans, this is one of the coolest stories we’ve ever heard. He even got sued by one of the industry giants!If you’ve ever wanted to start something unique, build something real, or just make your grandpa’s old watch sexy again… this one’s for you.We apologize that we've been quiet for a bit… Oliver just made the move to NYC, and Brayden has been DJ'n. Big changes, big energy, and even bigger episodes coming your way. Kicking it off with one of the coolest founders we’ve ever talked to.

Season 3 kicks off with a full-throttle conversation featuring Mark Tapscott and Daniel Davey, the ex-Tesla and Lucid engineers behind Longbow Motors — the featherweight EV sports car company that just might change everything. These guys have shared meetings with Elon Musk, built Lucid’s international ops, and now they’re betting it all on a handmade electric car that’s lighter than a Miata and sexier than anything under $3 million.In this episode, we dive into:The moment Daniel had to plug a Tesla into a hotel window extension cordWhy Longbow’s first 150 Speedsters are done forever after launchHow they’re using harmonics to turn motor noise into an authentic EV soundtrackWhat they learned from Tesla’s “no d*ckheads” ruleWhy their cars are made to be stared at, driven hard, and passed down generationsThis isn’t another soulless EV. It’s the rebirth of sports cars — and it starts here.Guest SocialsInstagram - @longbowmotorsWebsite - https://longbowmotors.com/

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Sean Cook, the founder of the TEA app — a revolutionary platform giving women a safer, smarter way to navigate the dating world. Sean shares how a personal experience with his mom led him to build TEA, why the current dating app landscape is broken, and how his platform empowers over 600,000 women through honest reviews, background checks, and anonymous community support. We dive into building a mission-driven tech company, protecting users at scale, and what the future of dating safety looks like. If you've ever wondered what it really takes to change an industry — this is the conversation you need to hear.Learn more about TEA:🌐 Website: www.teaforwomen.com📱 App Store: Download TEA on IOS📲 Google Play: Download TEA on Android📸 Instagram: @theteapartygirls

Forget Marvel, forget Gotham — This Dude Started Something is bringing you a real-life superhero straight from the streets of LA. Meet Rock Hard: MMA-trained vigilante, tree crime investigator, proud owner of a $70 Amazon shield, and possibly David Goggins' tougher cousin.In this episode, Oliver and Brayden dive into Rock Hard's origin story (spoiler: no radioactive spiders involved), the strange case of LA's midnight tree-chopper, and his unfiltered beef with his wannabe arch-nemesis, Flaccid Sand. From patrolling crime scenes with a taser-baton to debating whether he'd save his hater from a burning building — this one goes from hilarious to heroic and back again.And yes — we finally answer the question: How hard is Rock Hard?

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Cameron Mauk, the founder of Backbone Coffee. Cameron shares the story behind his no-nonsense coffee company that's built for people who work hard and love coffee served black, hot, and straight to the point. We dive into the origins of the brand, the challenges of bringing high-quality coffee to the blue-collar world, and the journey of creating a product that connects with everyone from oil workers to doctors. Whether you're in work boots or just spiritually blue-collar, you’ll want to hear Cameron's insights on creating a brand that resonates with real, hardworking people. Plus, get the inside scoop on Backbone’s coffee blends and what makes them stand out from the crowd.Where to Buy: Check out Backbone Coffee’s website at www.backbonecoffee.com to purchase their signature blends and get your hands on some of the best coffee around.Follow Backbone Coffee on Socials:Instagram: @backbonecoffeeco

In this inspiring episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Jeremy George, the founder of Bucket Match AI—a platform born from a life-changing mission to complete 52 bucket list goals in 52 weeks. From cliff jumping in Hawaii to launching a startup that helps others chase their dreams, Jeremy opens up about how a low point in life led to a movement centered around purpose, passion, and action.We dive into:His TEDx talk journeyThe highs and lows of goal-chasingHow Bucket Match helps people connect and complete goals togetherWhy failing at a goal can be just as meaningful as achieving itAnd the deeper impact of doing what truly matters—before it's too lateWhether you're into skydiving, learning guitar, or just cooking the perfect eggs (yes, we went there), this episode will make you want to stop scrolling and start doing.

In this eye-opening episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with seasoned patent attorney Austin Bonderer, a man with over 700 issued U.S. patents and more stories than your average legal thriller. Austin pulls back the curtain on the chaotic world of intellectual property—where billion-dollar ideas are born, stolen, or buried.We kick things off with the basics: what is a patent and why does it matter? But things quickly spiral into everything from patent trolls buying bankrupt portfolios to sue tech giants, to how you can literally patent a grape, and even how a simple idea like adding food coloring to white powders got patented.The guys also get real about how AI and ChatGPT are accidentally killing people’s chances at protection just by asking the wrong questions online. You’ll learn why it’s not just about the idea—it’s about who files it first, why “patent pending” doesn’t mean you’re safe, and how the U.S. law still struggles to keep up with tech.Brayden pitches a few (hilarious) product ideas like a mirror that glazes you in the morning and a dog collar that translates barks into sass, while Austin explains why even crazy ideas might actually be patentable—if you solve the right problem.We also dive into the difference between design patents, utility patents, plant patents, and the wild world of trademark law (yes, you can TM your podcast name, but not “Deez Nuts”—Brayden asked).If you’ve ever dreamed of inventing something, starting a business, or just wanted to know how IP law works without falling asleep—this is the episode for you.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with filmmaker, drone pilot, editor, and co-founder of Appian Media, Craig Dehut. Craig and his team are on a mission to bring biblical history to life through stunning documentaries filmed on location across Israel, Egypt, Turkey, and more.Appian Media creates high-quality, biblically accurate video content that’s completely free and accessible to anyone around the world. From the story of Jesus to the seven churches of Revelation and the path of the Exodus, Craig shares how they bring scripture off the page and into real landscapes that make the Bible feel tangible, real, and relevant.The guys dive into:The wild story of how Appian Media started with a Kickstarter campaignWhat it’s like filming in war-torn countries with a camera crew and dronesNavigating international permits and nearly getting gear confiscatedCraig’s favorite spiritual “wow” moments while standing where Jesus once walkedThe real impact these documentaries have had—especially with young people and new believersHow visual storytelling and new formats (like short-form video) are shaping the future of faith-based contentThey also get into drone licenses, traveling light, creating curriculum for schools, vertical video headaches, and why Appian Media might just become the Marvel Cinematic Universe of the Bible.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to turn biblical storytelling into a career—or how faith and filmmaking can change lives—this episode is for you.Where to Find Craig & Appian MediaWebsite: appianmedia.org YouTube: Appian Media on YouTube Podcasts: Search “Appian Media” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen Instagram / Facebook / YouTube Shorts: @AppianMedia Want to connect directly? Use the contact form on their website—it goes straight to Craig and the team.Where to Find Us📲 Follow the podcast: @ThisDudeStartedSomething on Instagram 💬 DM us if you’ve got someone we should interview next or if you started something.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with the Morrstedt family — a father who walked away from the traditional 9-to-5 to build a content-first lifestyle with his Gen Alpha kids. Together, they’re redefining what it means to grow up in a digital world.This isn’t your average “kidfluencer” story. We dig into how and why these kids don’t have phones, the power of teaching entrepreneurship early, and what it takes to raise builders instead of consumers. From launching merch and brainstorming meme coins to tackling the dark side of content like ragebait, short-form addiction, and AI, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and unfiltered Gen Alpha perspective.If you’re a parent, creator, entrepreneur, or just wondering what the next generation is really about — this is the episode you can’t miss.Because Gen Alpha isn’t just watching the world — they’re already reshaping it.

This week on This Dude Started Something, we sit down with platinum-selling artist and producer @therealjdash, the mastermind behind the viral anthem “WOP.” But J. Dash is way more than a one-hit wonder.From learning piano by ear at age 5 to producing “WOP” in his college apartment using only GarageBand, his journey blends pure talent with DIY hustle. We talk about how Miley Cyrus twerking in a unicorn onesie took his song to platinum, how he used to moonlight as a systems engineer while secretly going viral, and why he believes building wealth in the music game has never been easier.J. Dash also breaks down his ongoing advocacy for music education, including his visits to Capitol Hill to push for better funding in schools. He’s using his voice not just to make hits, but to make change.We also dive into his powerful new project, Twilight Zone, a performance series created in honor of his late sister, filmed on the world’s first 3D-printed stage in Austin, TX. And yes — he’s hitting the stage again in May with T-Pain in Jacksonville, his hometown. 🎤🔥If you’re into music, creativity, entrepreneurship, or just love an insane story, this one’s for you.Follow J. Dash:🔹 Instagram: @therealjdash🔹 Twilight Zone Project🔹 Website: jdashmusic.com

This week on This Dude Started Something, we sat down with the band behind the ultimate windows-down, scream-the-lyrics, feel-good anthem: The Mowgli’s. With almost 500 million Spotify streams, they’ve defined a generation of good vibes — and they’re officially making a comeback.In this episode, Josh, Katie, Andy, and Matt open up about their roots in the Southern California garage scene, how their love for live performance turned into a national movement, and what it's like to look back on the wild journey that made them the soundtrack to so many people's lives.We dive into how their breakout hit San Francisco went from a local jam to a global anthem, how the band formed (spoiler: love story included), and what it’s really like to write, tour, and evolve as a creative group. You’ll also hear about their musical philosophy, why they believe collaboration > isolation, and how they’re approaching this next era of music with more excitement than ever before.And yes — we got the exclusive: The Mowgli’s are officially releasing new music starting this April, with a fresh rollout of singles and a renewed spirit.This episode features their iconic song "Say It, Just Say It" as both the intro and outro — a full-circle moment we couldn't be more stoked about.👉 Follow The Mowgli’s on socials:📸 Instagram: @themowglisMusic Platforms - The Mowglis🎧 Stream their music on all platforms!Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6AGUQK1EWK6nvN4pLIDQDQ?si=wGGI1WoPRsmIEJUh-3_u0g🔥 And don't forget — our brand new merch just dropped! Rep This Dude Started Something wherever you go. Check it out on our page. @thisdudestartedsomething

In this episode, Oliver and Brayden sit down with actor Sheldon Austin to talk about the realities of breaking into the acting industry as a young performer. Sheldon shares how he went from background roles to landing parts in commercials, short films, and most notably, playing a guard on Amazon Prime Video’s Beast Games. He opens up about the audition process, how he got his agent, and the highs and lows of trying to make a name for himself in the entertainment world.We also dive deep into what it’s like working on a massive production—how he prepared for his role, what filming on set was actually like, and whether the stacks of cash were really real. But beyond Beast Games, Sheldon gets real about the acting grind, why rejection is just part of the game, and how he stays motivated.Plus, we get into his dream roles, his idea for a hilarious horror movie, and his take on whether acting is easier or harder to break into today compared to 50 years ago. Whether you’re an aspiring actor, a film nerd, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is packed with laughs, insight, and some seriously inspiring moments.Guest SocialsInsta - @SheldonAustinB

In this first solo episode of Season 2, Oliver and Brayden take listeners behind the scenes of This Dude Started Something, pulling back the curtain on their guest outreach strategy. From DMing reality TV stars and business moguls to tracking listener locations in real time, this episode is packed with hilarious banter, unpredictable conversations, and raw insights into how they’re growing the podcast.Along the way, they explore insane guest ideas, debate the ethics of subwoofer-induced destruction, and even attempt to contact the CEO of Xbox. Will they land a dream guest? Or will their messages go unread forever? Find out in this chaotic yet entertaining episode! *Also as soon as the EP ended we got in contact with Connor from Love on the Spectrum, we are now working with Netlfix to get him approved!! Hoping we can make it happen!Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisdudestartedsomething/Website - https://thisdudestartedsomething.com/

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with the Hummus King himself—Chris Kirby, the founder and CEO of Ithaca Hummus. What started as a small stand at a farmers market has now turned into a multimillion-dollar brand found in over 10,000 stores nationwide. Chris takes us through his journey from burnt-out chef to entrepreneur, revealing the key moments that turned a single hummus flavor into a household name.We get into the real grind of starting a food business—figuring out how to market a perishable product, the challenges of scaling production, and how going deep before going wide set Ithaca apart from the competition. Chris also shares his take on flavor innovation (spoiler: cinnamon butter hummus might be on the horizon), his passion for Bitcoin, and his latest project, Sat Chats, a show breaking down Bitcoin for beginners.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a food empire—or if you just love hummus—this episode is for you. Plus, stay tuned because we’ll hopefully be hopping on Sat Chats soon!A huge thank you to Chris for coming on the show—go grab some Ithaca Hummus at your local grocery store (except Walmart… for now). And if you haven’t already, subscribe to Sat Chats on YouTube and follow This Dude Started Something for more inspiring stories.

In this special episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with childhood icon and Hollywood veteran Alexander Gould, best known as the voice of Nemo in Finding Nemo and Shane Botwin in Weeds. From the moment his voice echoed through minivans, living rooms, and theaters worldwide, Alexander became a part of millions of childhoods. But what happens after you grow up from being one of the most famous animated characters of all time?Alexander takes us on a deep dive into his early start in Hollywood, reminiscing about his experience auditioning for Finding Nemo at just five years old and the long three-year process of recording the movie. He shares behind-the-scenes insights into how Pixar animated the film around his voice, how he recorded his lines alone without ever meeting his co-stars in the studio, and the unexpected call that led him to land the role of a lifetime.We also explore his time on Weeds, where he played Shane Botwin for eight years, growing up alongside his character in one of television’s most daring and darkly comedic dramas. Alexander reflects on the challenges and perks of being a child actor, the reality of being recognized in public, and how his experiences shaped his outlook on Hollywood, fame, and life itself.But where is Nemo now? Alexander has since pivoted from acting full-time to working as a software engineer and entrepreneur, founding a company that uses tech to track security guards and even developing his own Minecraft-inspired space game. We discuss how he transitioned from philosophy major to coder, his thoughts on AI in Hollywood, and whether he would ever return to acting full-time—or even voice an adult Nemo in a potential Finding Nemo 3.Of course, we couldn’t let Alexander go without having some fun—so we put our acting skills to the test and re-enact a brand-new Finding Nemo scene, complete with an AI-generated script! This episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and incredible insights. Whether you grew up watching Finding Nemo, binging Weeds, or are just curious about the life of a former child star turned tech entrepreneur, this one’s a must-listen!🎤 Big thanks to Alexander Gould for joining us! Follow him on Instagram and keep up with his latest projects—whether in tech, acting, or the Minecraft-in-space game we’re all now waiting for!🚀 Pixar, if you’re listening… It’s time for Finding Nemo 3! 🐠🎬Insta: @alexandergouldreal

In this deep yet entertaining episode, Oliver and Brayden sit down with JB Copeland, the content creator behind the Sappy brand, who has amassed over 2 million followers with his introspective and emotion-driven content. JB opens up about his journey through personal struggles, addiction recovery, and learning how to regulate emotions as a man in today's world.The conversation dives into mental health, self-awareness, and breaking free from societal norms that discourage emotional expression—especially for men. JB shares his philosophy on healing, self-trust, and embracing authenticity while discussing his upcoming podcast Sappy Hour, his creative process, and the meaning behind Sappy as a brand.From hilarious takes on frat culture to reflections on anxiety, addiction, and self-love, this episode is a mix of raw wisdom and good vibes. Plus, JB reveals the best advice he’s ever received, what he’d say if he only had 10 minutes left to live, and his plan for expanding Sappy into fashion, scents, and more.If you’re looking for inspiration, real talk, and a reminder that you already have everything you need within you—this episode is for you.Insta- JB_CopelandTiktok- JB_Copeland

Today on This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Scott Taube, the genius behind Bad Cards for Good Golfers, a hilarious, unpredictable card game that’s shaking up the golf world. What started as a way to add some chaos and competition to a round of golf has turned into a massive business, with Scott selling tens of thousands of decks, partnering with major brands like Liquid Death and the PGA Tour, and racking up millions of views on social media.In this episode, Scott shares the behind-the-scenes journey of taking a simple idea and making it viral, his wild Shark Tank audition experience, and how leveraging social media marketing has helped him grow a loyal community of golfers and content creators. We also talk about the power of making a product that people actually want to share, and why getting started—even before you have it all figured out—is the key to building something big.And this isn’t the last time you’ll be seeing us together—This Dude Started Something will be collabing with Scott on some epic golf course content soon! Be sure to follow him on Instagram and TikTok (@badcardsforegoodgolfers) to see how he’s turning golf into the most fun, unpredictable game out there.If you’ve ever had a crazy idea and wondered if it could turn into something huge, this episode is for you. Hit play, take notes, and get ready to start something.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Silas Deane, a former DJ turned entrepreneur who unexpectedly found himself tackling one of America’s biggest social issues—prisoner reentry. After a chance encounter at a Louisiana jail, Silas discovered a shocking gap in the system: many inmates were being released with no resources, no ID, and no plan—virtually guaranteeing their return to prison.Determined to create change, Silas taught himself to code, built a reentry platform connecting former inmates to jobs and resources, and scaled it so effectively that it was acquired by Tyler Technologies, a Fortune 500 company, when he was in his early 20s. Now, as a master's student at the University of Pennsylvania, he’s doubling down on reform with his new venture, 2Vita, bringing innovative solutions to the space.We dive into his incredible journey—from almost working with Drake’s label, to scaling a tech startup with no experience, to what he’s building next. If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, social impact, or just a crazy success story, this is a must-listen.Episode Highlights:How Silas went from DJing frat parties to working with government techThe shocking truth about the U.S. reentry system and why it's brokenHow his startup helped over 500,000 former inmates stay out of jailThe role of AI and technology in criminal justice reformWild stories, unexpected moments, and why networking can change your lifeEpisode OUT NOW! Watch, listen, and learn how one idea can spark real change.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with professional DJ Sixten Franz, who has been making waves in the music scene from Melbourne to Europe. Sixten talks about how he got into DJing, starting from mixing beats on an iPad as a kid to playing at festivals in Germany and Ibiza. He shares insights into the business of DJing, finding bookings, and the importance of building energy in a live set.The conversation gets into Aussie slang, the stereotypes Australians have about Americans, and a hilarious moment where Sixten accidentally starts picking up an American accent. The guys also discuss DJ culture in different countries, the hype-building techniques DJs use, and Sixten’s thoughts on remixing viral sounds. They wrap up with a deep dive into Australian football (AFL), pickleball, and the wildest gigs Sixten has ever played.

In this episode, we sit down with Luis Perez (@perezluisqb), quarterback of the Arlington Renegades, to talk about his unbelievable journey from competitive bowling to professional football. Luis shares how he went from never playing high school football to becoming a championship-winning QB, teaching himself the game through YouTube videos, and grinding his way through JUCO, the NFL, and now the UFL.With the UFL season kicking off on March 29, Luis and the Renegades take the field on March 28 in their first game of the year. We dive into what he's expecting from the season, how spring football is evolving, and his personal goals for the future.We also talk about his new book, The Spring King, releasing March 27, which details his underdog story, mindset, and journey through football. Plus, we help him come up with a signature touchdown celebration, talk about his biggest inspirations, and get his thoughts on the future of spring football vs. the NFL.This one’s packed with inspiration, football insight, and some unexpected stories. Don’t miss it.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Beast Games contestants Ava Redding and Ivy Odom. From surviving in Panama to high-fiving MrBeast, Ava and Ivy share the wild behind-the-scenes of the hit game show. They reveal what it was really like to compete in this social experiment that took the world by storm, including the thrills, the fears, and the secrets of life on the island. Expect laughs, memorable moments, and surprising insights as they dive into the nitty-gritty of their experiences, from the insane weather conditions to unforgettable interactions with MrBeast and the crew.They also discuss their next big move—starting their own podcast, Ivy and Ivy Talk, where they’ll cover everything from hit TV shows to real life, and beyond. Check it out and get a peek into their post-Beast Games journey.Listen now to hear all the laughs and real talk.Follow Ava and Ivy: Instagram: @AvarRedding Instagram: @Ivy.Odom Podcast: @AvanIvyTalk

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden sit down with Matt Drago, an actor, director, producer, and fourth-degree black belt. Raised in a dojo by a sensei father, Matt shares how martial arts shaped his self-discipline, career, and mindset in the entertainment industry. He discusses his latest lead role in "Somewhere in Montana", the grit behind stunt work, and his method acting approach, including losing 25 pounds for a role.The conversation dives deep into auditioning for major Hollywood roles, including his near-casting in Pirates of the Caribbean, the challenges of action films, and the importance of storytelling in indie cinema. Matt also gives an inside look at his film production company, and their upcoming Christmas film set in his hometown of Front Royal, VA.And of course, the guys put Matt’s martial arts expertise to the test, debating who would win in a street fight: Timothée Chalamet vs. Tom Holland.https://linktr.ee/mattdrago

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, Oliver and Brayden dive into the world of unusual and fun words that can spice up your vocabulary. From petrichor (the smell of earth after rain) to the overwhelming feeling of limerence, they explore a variety of words that you probably didn't know existed. Along the way, they share some hilarious moments, including discussing their personal clinomania (the desire to stay in bed) and getting into deep debates about words like zerts (to gulp something down quickly). Tune in for a mix of learning, laughs, and a few questionable word choices!

What does it take to compete on Beast Games, the biggest YouTube competition show ever? Apparently, delivering a fresh chunk of glacial ice to MrBeast himself—at least, according to contestant #991, Jeremy Grant. 😂In this episode, Jeremy shares the real story of how he got on the show, the intense audition process, and what it was like competing for a life-changing $5 million. But that’s not all—Jeremy is also a polar bear guard (yes, that’s a real thing), and he takes us deep into the Arctic to talk about how he earns the respect of 1,100-pound apex predators. 🐻‍❄️Beyond the games and the wilderness, Jeremy also opens up about his faith, how it guided him through the highs and lows of Beast Games, and why he never compromised his values for competition. 🙏 He also shares details about an incredible fundraiser for Legacy831's son, who has an ultra-rare brain disorder, and how he's walking across California to raise awareness.From YouTube’s biggest game show to the wildest corners of the world to making a real impact in people's lives, this episode is packed with crazy stories, powerful lessons, and true inspiration.

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with Chris Huk, the mastermind behind Official Master Mindset (instagram) and mastermindsthinkalike (tiktok) , a rising motivational content brand with nearly 100K followers and over 50 million views and 8 million likes. Chris shares how he went from a recent college graduate to a viral content creator in just seven months, using nothing but his iPhone, CapCut, and a relentless work ethic.We dive deep into:How one viral video skyrocketed his brandThe power of consistency in content creationWhy attention spans dictate the success of short-form videosThe business of social media, from growing a niche to potential monetizationHow a mystery NFL player reached out to him after seeing his contentThe importance of blocking out negativity and just startingChris also gives some game-changing advice for anyone looking to start a TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube presence. If you're looking for inspiration, strategy, and motivation—this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in and hear how Chris is mastering the mindset of success!

In this episode of This Dude Started Something, we dive into the fascinating world of cologne with special guest Coltino, sharing expert insights and tips for fragrance enthusiasts. We also explore coffee culture, touching on its effects and the economics behind your daily brew. While technical difficulties kept us from discussing Star Wars as planned, stay tuned to our Instagram (@thisdudestartedsomething) for fun clips featuring stormtrooper helmets and behind-the-scenes chaos. Thanks for tuning in to this shorter solo episode—catch us next week with a brand-new guest!

In the first SOLO episode of This Dude Started Something, we dive headfirst into the world of haircuts and what they say about you—whether you're in the boardroom, on the soccer field, or just trying to survive the awkward grow-out phase. Oliver and Brayden discuss the confidence it takes to rock a buzz cut, the creative vibe of mullets, and the eternal debate on whether man buns belong in the workplace. Along the way, they veer into tangents about jawlines, snowstorms in Charleston, and even Aquaman’s hairstyle. Join us for a hilarious, unfiltered take on personal style and professional life.

In the premiere episode of This Dude Started Something, hosts Oliver and Brayden sit down with Jack Bishop, CEO and founder of Bishop Athlete Representation, and Matt Brines, a representative for the company. Jack shares how he transformed an Instagram art account into a full-fledged marketing firm that helps underrepresented UFL athletes secure brand deals, public appearances, and more.The duo discusses their journey from college students at Mizzou to building a network of pro athletes and navigating the challenges of running a business while in school. Jack opens up about the pressure of being a 21-year-old CEO, the power of connections, and the long-term vision of creating a sports agency that rivals the industry's giants.Packed with advice for entrepreneurs and athletes, this episode is an inspiring deep dive into the grind, grit, and glory of starting something from scratch.