Resilient Mental State

About Resilient Mental State

Conversations with experts, writers, and extraordinary individuals on the skill of mental, physical, and spiritual resilience. www.resilientmentalstate.com (https://www.resilientmentalstate.com?utm_medium=podcast)

Publisher

Kyle Shepard

Category

health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

21 May 2025

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

52 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Acta Non Verba with Marcus Aurelieus Anderson

   Marcus Aurelius Anderson is a remarkable man with an extraordinary story. After enlisting in the United States Army at age 38 and becoming a team leader in his unit, Marcus suffered a devastating neck injury during pre-deployment training that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Following an emergency surgery, during which he technically died twice before being resuscitated, he was told he would never walk or use his arms again. Depressed, angry, and suicidal, Marcus was in a hospital bed for months before his mindset and willpower began to shift. Not only did he eventually regain control of basic movements, he also returned to practicing martial arts, firearms training, and extreme physical challenges like the grueling 4x4x48 workout made popular by David Goggins. Marcus went on to transform his experience into a professional career as an executive coach, podcaster, and international speaker on resilience and overcoming hardship. In this conversation, we discuss Marcus’s story and philosophy around reframing adversity, personal responsibility, acceptance, gratitude, disciplined action, and focusing on what is within our control. We also dig into other lessons he shares in his first book, The Gift of Adversity (https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Adversity-Overcoming-Paralysis-Purpose/dp/1978225547/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886748&sr=8-2), and get a sneak preview of his new book, Acta Non Verba (https://www.amazon.com/ACTA-NON-VERBA-Transforming-Adversity/dp/B0HMM8YGC7/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886667&sr=8-2), which is available today! Having read Marcus’s first book, I can’t wait to dig into this new one. Marcus also hosts one of my favorite podcasts, Acta Non Verba (https://open.spotify.com/show/1B0gkbZbEI7Htnl69sFlq2?si=dcc9be594cb549c7). Marcus truly embodies his philosophy, both through what he has overcome and because of what he continues to do today. His story and wisdom reveal resilience is possible no matter how severe a setback. Adversity creates opportunities for adaptation and expanded purpose. Link to his new book: (https://www.amazon.com/ACTA-NON-VERBA-Transforming-Adversity/dp/B0HMM8YGC7/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886667&sr=8-2) (https://www.amazon.com/ACTA-NON-VERBA-Transforming-Adversity/dp/B0HMM8YGC7/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886667&sr=8-2)Acta Non Verba (https://www.amazon.com/ACTA-NON-VERBA-Transforming-Adversity/dp/B0HMM8YGC7/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886667&sr=8-2) Link to his first book: (https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Adversity-Overcoming-Paralysis-Purpose/dp/1978225547/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886748&sr=8-2) (https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Adversity-Overcoming-Paralysis-Purpose/dp/1978225547/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886748&sr=8-2)The Gift of Adversity (https://www.amazon.com/Gift-Adversity-Overcoming-Paralysis-Purpose/dp/1978225547/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UNJsCkXfI8mLswDtPurEqs42uE5YaUifTO5wUrmN-YWWNUJRwJRWiFyVygTX0-ikYCIGYXfsz6zK_7YUx0L1MHbP4SPFEd6KfoQ3AnDlzZA6tHRp4G4nlw_dU4KCl9qmLJDIIIAdTxb3aknP_luvb_bRKwdx9ZAeWuA66G6huXjU5ZK7v-TZ0A4b0cQIpKPz_VAIBN-yZZO8dhhBj2CijFwsQ3sNDWNKMa-vpCfq61I.tIsBEvHPqC94_hO_ddiHfnfV-jyFgY-dPfdNNJf2YiE&qid=1791886748&sr=8-2) Link to his podcast: (https://open.spotify.com/show/1B0gkbZbEI7Htnl69sFlq2?si=dcc9be594cb549c7) (https://open.spotify.com/show/1B0gkbZbEI7Htnl69sFlq2?si=dcc9be594cb549c7)Acta Non Verba (https://open.spotify.com/show/1B0gkbZbEI7Htnl69sFlq2?si=dcc9be594cb549c7) Link to his TEDx Talk: (https://youtu.be/iXicUawrH6o?si=1RtfYDdMDkwhWsmI) (https://youtu.be/iXicUawrH6o?si=1RtfYDdMDkwhWsmI)The Gift of Adversity (https://youtu.be/iXicUawrH6o?si=1RtfYDdMDkwhWsmI) Resilient Mental State is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Resilient Mental State at www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe (https://www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

2. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Continuous Learning with The Lost Creonte

   Sean aka The Lost Creonte BJJ (https://substack.com/profile/241272977-the-lost-creonte-bjj) has become my favorite writer on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). He is BJJ brown belt, coach, and competitor who has spent more than twelve years on the mats. His Substack draws from systems thinking, mental models, evolutionary biology, and other disciplines to integrate practical knowledge for becoming a better grappler. What I particularly enjoy about his writing is that it expands beyond BJJ. Anyone interested in adaptability, decision-making under pressure, and continuous learning can benefit from his work. In this conversation, we discuss the evolution of MMA and BJJ, martial arts culture, growth vs. performance goals, the benefit of competition, specialization vs. generalization, iteration and innovation, roles and identity, and how lessons from training can extend into everyday life. Sean’s writing makes me a better grappler, coach, and person. Some of his best articles include: The 6 books that completely changed how I think about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (https://thelostcreonte.substack.com/p/6-books-that-completely-changed-the?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer) The enduring wisdom of Chris Haueter’s 4 Golden Rules (https://thelostcreonte.substack.com/p/why-chris-haueters-4-golden-rules?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer) The Most Important Skill in Jiu-Jitsu Isn’t a Technique (https://thelostcreonte.substack.com/p/why-decision-making-is-the-most-important?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer) How the Lindy Effect changed the way I think about BJJ (https://thelostcreonte.substack.com/p/how-the-lindy-effect-changed-the?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer) Marcelo Garcia and the art of the in-between (https://thelostcreonte.substack.com/p/the-biggest-lesson-from-marcelo-garcias?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer) Regardless of grappling experience or interest, I cannot recommend subscribing to The Lost Creonte BJJ (https://substack.com/@thelostcreonte) enough. Resilient Mental State is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Resilient Mental State at www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe (https://www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

3. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Strength for Life with Scott Shetler

   Scott Shetler (https://substack.com/profile/86961943-scott-shetler) is the most impressive physical trainer I’ve ever met. Mentored by the legendary Louie Simmons and working in the fitness industry for three decades, he is masterful at distilling complex training methods into simple, actionable principles while providing direction for continuous improvement. He recently published two books, Barbell Ronin (https://www.amazon.com/Barbell-Ronin-Masterless-Strength-Influencers/dp/B0H3GKY9BC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4kwxhqSeHve7Yc73QDvde2FRBfkAb4qsKcHqGj-nVTsk7Er_rfxwrcRUtqX3WW9tjMx7ujEgXRKQB27Yr5OoTdmyWkpLrDWU2HmKNkX0bJ8.vd0LIq-92sYCmn-YqdQgVOVYtiL9ZIushxRfO-BcSak&qid=1787512748&sr=8-1) and Conjugate for Old People (and Recovering Meatheads) (https://www.amazon.com/Conjugate-Old-People-Recovering-Meatheads/dp/B0H4PYNG1V/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.O2sLX6FyyZlrrbmC7z79STsePisR_n_Vz1NlsMjTq_rGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.1UvQjEfIsWyuf9CSTl4mTRJ-7acjueRQlCCAyw_i34s&qid=1787512833&sr=8-1). Barbell Ronin focuses on the mindset and philosophy behind training. In a world full of noise, influencers, and endless information, Scott emphasizes brilliance in the basics to become the best version of yourself. Conjugate for Old People then explores the skillsets and practical methods to consistently apply the proven concepts he learned at Westside Barbell. I’ve never met anyone who is able to write and speak on progressively variable training as well as Scott. His Substack, Strength and Health (https://substack.com/@strengthandhealth), is a goldmine for fitness knowledge. He has a recent series titled “Fix the Limiter, Build the Lift (https://strengthandhealth.substack.com/p/fix-the-limiter-build-the-lift-part?r=1cn3fa&utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=post%20viewer),” which can help anyone determine the weakest link in their strength and then provides movements to improve it. He takes it a step further through his online coaching platform he runs in conjunction with his gym Extreme Performance Training Systems (https://www.eptsgym.com/). Whether you’re a beginner, advanced, or aging athlete, Scott’s wisdom will add incredible value in the gym and life. Scott’s Substack: Strength and Health (https://substack.com/@strengthandhealth) Scott’s Website: Extreme Performance Training Systems (https://www.eptsgym.com/) Book Link: Barbell Ronin (https://www.amazon.com/Barbell-Ronin-Masterless-Strength-Influencers/dp/B0H3GKY9BC/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4kwxhqSeHve7Yc73QDvde2FRBfkAb4qsKcHqGj-nVTsk7Er_rfxwrcRUtqX3WW9tjMx7ujEgXRKQB27Yr5OoTdmyWkpLrDWU2HmKNkX0bJ8.vd0LIq-92sYCmn-YqdQgVOVYtiL9ZIushxRfO-BcSak&qid=1787512748&sr=8-1) Book Link: Conjugate for Old People (and Recovering Meatheads) (https://www.amazon.com/Conjugate-Old-People-Recovering-Meatheads/dp/B0H4PYNG1V/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.O2sLX6FyyZlrrbmC7z79STsePisR_n_Vz1NlsMjTq_rGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.1UvQjEfIsWyuf9CSTl4mTRJ-7acjueRQlCCAyw_i34s&qid=1787512833&sr=8-1) Resilient Mental State is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Resilient Mental State at www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe (https://www.resilientmentalstate.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)

Who has been a guest on Resilient Mental State

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Jeff Boss
• Nadia Booysen
• Lieutenant Commander Kyle Shepard
• Mikel Lauren Proulx
• Kyle Shepard

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 39 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

78

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about Resilient Mental State