The Resilient Life

Ryan Manion welcomes Marine veteran, fighter pilot, and leadership instructor Dave Berke to explore what true leadership looks like in everyday life. Dave reflects on lessons from his time in combat, his experience training at TOPGUN, and how those moments shaped the leadership principles he now teaches through Echelon Front. He also dives into his new book, The Need to Lead, which offers a compelling roadmap for anyone ready to step up and lead with actionable wisdom. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Dave Berke

On this 9/11 anniversary episode of The Resilient Life, host Ryan Manion sits down with former FDNY firefighter Tim Sullivan, who served on the frontlines during the September 11th attacks. Tim recounts the harrowing realities of that day, the resilience required in the months and years that followed, and the challenges of healing while carrying the weight of loss. In 2006, Tim had the opportunity to meet Ryan’s brother, 1stLt Travis Manion, USMC, when Travis visited Sullivan’s firehouse in New York City. Just one year later, Travis was killed in Iraq while protecting his fellow Marines. Tim reflects on that connection and how the legacies of Travis and the many heroes of 9/11 continue to inspire him today. This conversation is a moving reminder of the sacrifices made on 9/11 and the enduring strength of our first responders and veterans. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation

In this moving episode of The Resilient Life, host Ryan Manion sits down with Brielle Persun, a young widow navigating life after the sudden loss of her husband, Tyler, earlier this year. With raw honesty and courage, Brielle shares her journey through grief, the challenges of raising her son in the wake of tragedy, and the ways she is discovering resilience in the hardest season of her life. She opens up about the loneliness of grief, why she chose to speak out and become a voice for other young widows, and the strength she draws from her son and community. Brielle’s story is one of heartbreak—but also of hope. It’s a reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, resilience can light the way forward. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Brielle Persun Instagram

On August 26, 2021, a suicide bombing at Abbey Gate during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan claimed the lives of 13 American service members and 170 Afghan civilians. Marine Sergeant Tyler Vargas-Andrews survived that day, though with life-changing injuries, and has since carried the stories of those who were lost. In this moving episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan Manion is joined by Tyler as well as Zachary Bell—best known as Veteran With a Sign—for a conversation about service, sacrifice, and healing. Tyler shares candidly about his survival, the weight of grief, and how he continues to find purpose in honoring his brothers and sisters in arms. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Tyler Vagas-Andrews and Zach Bell https://x.com/TylerAndrews13https://www.instagram.com/whistlingdeath/https://www.instagram.com/veteranwithasign/https://x.com/zacharyebell

In this powerful episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan Manion sits down with retired Marine and Fox News contributor Johnny Joey Jones for an honest, moving conversation about purpose, perspective, and the people who inspire him most. From his combat experience and recovery journey to his latest book Behind the Badge, Joey shares why telling the stories of others is just as important as sharing his own. With heart, humor, and unshakable grit, this episode is a reminder that true resilience is found not just in what we overcome—but in how we lift others along the way. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theresilientlife.podcast/SUBSCRIBE https://www.youtube.com/TravisManionOrg/?sub_confirmation=1https://ryanmanion.com/podcasts/CONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/ryanmanionTMF/https://twitter.com/rmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/rmanionhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-manion-a5081832/LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation: www.travismanion.org MEET Johnny Joey Jones Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnny_joey/ Twitter: https://x.com/Johnny_Joey

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Christian Schauf, the founder of Uncharted Supply Co., a company built to help people navigate emergencies and embrace the unexpected with confidence. He’s an entrepreneur, adventurer, and musician who once toured the globe bringing smiles to the faces of our troops through morale-boosting performances in some of the world’s most dangerous places. Christian shares what led him from concert stages in Iraq and Afghanistan to designing gear that could save lives in a snowstorm or blackout. Find out which life skills really matter, how resilience shows up in preparation, and why helping others is at the heart of everything he does. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theresilientlife.podcast/SUBSCRIBE https://www.youtube.com/TravisManionOrg/?sub_confirmation=1https://ryanmanion.com/podcasts/CONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/ryanmanionTMF/https://twitter.com/rmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/rmanionhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-manion-a5081832/LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation: www.travismanion.org MEET Christian Schauf https://www.instagram.com/christianschauf/

In this powerful Memorial Day episode, Ryan Manion sits down with Sarah Ross Geisen, Gold Star sister of Captain Andrew Ross. Ryan and Sarah share their deeply personal stories of loss, resilience, and remembrance. As Gold Star siblings to fallen service members, they offer a moving perspective on what Memorial Day truly means beyond the barbecues and long weekends. Reflecting on both Travis Manion and Drew Ross' legacies, Ryan and Sarah reveal how each of us can honor the true meaning of sacrifice. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/theresilientlife.podcast/SUBSCRIBE https://www.youtube.com/TravisManionOrg/?sub_confirmation=1https://ryanmanion.com/podcasts/CONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/ryanmanionTMF/https://twitter.com/rmanionhttps://www.instagram.com/rmanionhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-manion-a5081832/LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation: www.travismanion.org MEET Sarah Ross Geisen https://www.instagram.com/srgeisen/

Charlotte North isn’t just a lacrosse player—she’s a force of nature. A two-time Tewaaraton Award winner, a national champion, and one of the most electrifying players the sport has ever seen, Charlotte has redefined what’s possible on the field with her record-breaking shots and unmatched intensity. But off the field, she’s just as impressive—an advocate, a mentor, and a role model for young athletes everywhere. In this episode, Ryan dives into Charlotte’s journey from picking up a stick for the first time to becoming a household name in lacrosse. Charlotte talks about pressure, perseverance, the power of leadership, and what drives her to keep raising the bar—not just for herself, but for the next generation of players. So whether you’re a fan of the sport or just love a good story about grit and greatness, this one’s for you. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theresilientlife.podcast/ SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast: https://www.youtube.com/TravisManionOrg/?sub_confirmation=1 Get the latest audio podcast: https://ryanmanion.com/podcasts/ CONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ryanmanionTMF/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/rmanion Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rmanion LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-manion-a5081832/ LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation: www.travismanion.org MEET Charlotte North https://www.instagram.com/charlottenorth8/ https://x.com/charlotten8rth

In this powerful and compelling episode, Ryan Manion sits down with Norm Hooten, a legendary figure whose heroic actions during the Battle of Mogadishu were immortalized in the film Black Hawk Down. Norm reflects on the harrowing events of that day, sharing firsthand insights on courage, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the heat of battle. Beyond the battlefield, Norm’s journey didn’t stop. He opens up about life after combat, his continued service in the military community, and his mission to support veterans in their fight for resilience and mental health. From his transition to working as a clinical pharmacist helping those struggling with opioid addiction to lessons learned from a lifetime of service, Norm’s story is one of leadership, purpose, and perseverance. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Norm Hooten InstagramHooten Young

A Green Beret, former NFL player, and co-founder of the veteran-focused nonprofit Merging Vets and Players (MVP), Nate Boyer's path has been anything but ordinary. From deploying to combat zones with Special Forces to walking onto the football field as a 34-year-old rookie with the Seattle Seahawks, his journey is a testament to pushing limits and chasing purpose, no matter the odds. In this episode, Nate sits down with Ryan Manion and explores how he navigated the challenges of military service, transitioned into the world of professional sports, and became a leading voice for veterans and athletes tackling life after service through MVP. Don't miss this conversation on the power of teamwork, finding identity beyond the uniform, and the importance of community in building resilience. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Nate Boyer https://x.com/NateBoyer37https://www.instagram.com/nateboyer37/

In this episode, Ryan and Blayne dive into Veteran Check-In, a powerful, no-cost initiative that encourages veterans, service members, and their families to stay connected and supported by providing a bridge to needed resources and care. Blayne discusses challenges facing our nation's veterans, and how those challenges have shown up in his own life. Listen in as he reveals his own personal mission to be present for others and create deep, meaningful relationships in his new community. Whether you’re a veteran, a military family member, or someone who wants to support those who’ve served, this episode is for you. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Blayne Smith https://www.instagram.com/blayneps/

On this episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan sits down with a guest who defines resilience, reinvention, and unapologetic confidence—Erika Jayne. You know her from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, her electrifying music career, and the headlines that have followed her every move. But today, we're getting the real story—straight from her. From the highs of performing on stage to the challenges of navigating personal and legal battles, Erika sets the record straight and shows you who she really is. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Erika Jayne Instagram

In this special 100th episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan sits down with a guest whose story of resilience and purpose is redefining what it means to serve. Matt Howard served as a Marine for 20 years, several of those as a Marine One pilot, even flying President Bush to ground zero in New York City mere days after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Driven to serve others after he left service, he connected with Travis Manion Foundation. Inspired by TMF's mission, Matt was ready to become involved in any way he could. Two weeks later, life threw him a curveball—an unexpected stage four cancer diagnosis. Matt vowed to be a "cheerful warrior" and has defied the odds that were stacked against him. He continues to fight with courage each day and spends his time building up his community and mentoring youth through TMF's Character Does Matter program. Get ready to be inspired by this conversation about Matt's journey, the lessons he’s learned, and the legacy he’s determined to leave behind. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation

Bo Nickal is a three-time NCAA wrestling champion, a rising star in mixed martial arts, and one of the most talked-about fighters of his generation. With a perfect 7-0 professional MMA record, Bo has quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional grappling skills and relentless fighting spirit. In this episode of The Resilient Life, Bo sits down with Ryan Manion and discusses his journey from wrestling to MMA, his foundation for physical and mental resilience, and what drives him to be the best. Bo discusses his thoughts on the "Wild West" of UFC matchups, including his highly anticipated showdown with Khamzat Chimaev. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Bo Nickal https://www.instagram.com/nobickal1/?hl=en

This special episode of The Resilient Life is packed with tradition, rivalry, and a guest who knows this topic inside and out. Ryan sits down with Connor Crehan, better known as Captain Cons from Barstool Sports. He’s an Army veteran, content creator, podcaster, and a voice of Barstool Sports' wildly popular Zero Blog Thirty. Connor is one of the most passionate voices when it comes to military culture, sports, and, of course, the legendary Army-Navy football game. As a West Point graduate and former quarterback for the Black Knights, Captain Cons brings us an insider’s perspective on one of the oldest and most intense rivalries in sports. Dive into the history, the pageantry, the stakes, and what this game means to service members and veterans across the country. Plus, hear some behind-the-scenes stories, insights on Army-Navy traditions, and why this matchup transcends football. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Connor Crehan Instagram

Sage Steele is one of the most recognized faces in sports broadcasting, a trailblazer who spent nearly two decades at ESPN bringing us all closer to the games and the athletes we love. She's a journalist, a mom, a podcaster, a self-proclaimed "Army brat", and a champion for staying true to yourself, even in the face of adversity. In this episode of The Resilient Life, Sage shares her journey with Ryan—how she navigated the highs and lows of her career in sports media, the lessons she's learned about resilience and authenticity, and her bold decision to embrace new opportunities. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Sage Steele Instagram

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL, CEO of Echelon Front, bestselling author, and the host of the wildly popular Jocko Podcast. His insights on discipline, ownership, and mindset have transformed lives in boardrooms, on battlefields, and beyond. From leading combat missions in Iraq to helping businesses and individuals thrive under pressure, Jocko’s approach to life is as relentless as it is empowering. In this episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan sits down with her long-time friend to answer some of the most-requested questions. From advice to transitioning service members, to improving mental health, and what's on Jocko's Thanksgiving table, don't miss this up close and personal conversation. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Jocko Willink Instagram

Don Faul, CEO of CrossFit, is not only a veteran, having served as a platoon commander with the United States Marine Corps, but he is also an accomplished business leader with an impactful track record at top-tier companies like Google, Facebook, Pinterest, and Athos. In this episode, Don sits down with Ryan Manion and dives into Don's journey from the battlefield to the boardroom, exploring the lessons he has learned along the way and how they have shaped his approach to leadership. From the turmoil of recent CrossFit events to his favorite Hero WOD, Don discusses his approach to resilience and how he puts one foot in front of the other, especially in challenging times. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Don Faul Instagram

In this episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan sits down with USMC veteran and Barstool podcaster Kate Mannion. Kate’s journey is full of transformation and resilience, from joining the Marines as a last resort, to being one of the few females beyond the wire in Afghanistan, and battling a crippling medical diagnosis and fighting for advocacy as a mom. Whether it's her unique perspective on life, her unfiltered humor, or her ability to tackle difficult topics with grace, Kate's story is one you won't want to miss. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Kate Mannion Instagram

On this episode of The Resilient Life, Ryan Manion sits down with the 20th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, Sergeant Major Carlos Ruiz, a leader whose dedication and service has shaped the lives of countless Marines and whose wisdom continues to inspire the Corps. With over 30 years of service, SgtMaj Ruiz has navigated the complexities of modern warfare, championed the values of honor, courage, and commitment, and has remained a steadfast pillar in the Marine Corps community. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of enlisted leadership, his journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering patriotism. Listen in as Ryan and SgtMaj Ruiz explore the advice that he gives to new recruits, insights that have guided his leadership, lessons learned from the frontlines, and the vision for the future of the Marine Corps. CONNECT with The Resilient Life Podcast: Instagram SUBSCRIBE Get the latest video podcast on YouTubeGet the latest audio podcastCONNECT Ryan Manion on Social Media: Facebook - Twitter - Instagram - LinkedIn LEARN about Travis Manion Foundation MEET Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps Instagram