Episodes

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," Tommy Walsh, founder of Shroom Bar, shares his journey from early entrepreneurial ventures to creating a unique product inspired by a hike in Slovenia. He discusses overcoming initial doubts, finding the right partners, and the challenges of scaling his business to 30 stores. Tommy reveals the learning curve of perfecting recipes and the role of creative branding. He offers candid advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of tak...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we dive into the compelling journey of Olivia Schwender, a dynamic individual balancing the roles of MMA fighter, Certified Nursing Assistant, and artist. Raised in a Christian household, Olivia discusses how her upbringing has shaped her values and driven her pursuit of excellence across diverse fields. She shares inspiring stories of overcoming adversity, including navigating a toxic relationship and environment at a former gym, and highlights th...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," Joe Makowski shares his journey from growing up in Erie, PA, to becoming a law enforcement officer and entrepreneur. He discusses his transition from construction to policing, tackling challenges in both fields, and his experiences as a SWAT negotiator. Joe also talks about balancing family life with business responsibilities and embracing a "yes" culture to seize opportunities. Tune in to hear his practical insights on personal growth and overcomi...

Join us in this compelling episode of "The Relentless Project," where we sit down with Kevin Donaldson, a retired police officer, author, and mental health advocate. Kevin opens up about his personal journey through PTSD and the resilience he found by confronting his trauma head-on. As the host of "The Suffering Podcast," Kevin shares how he uses his platform to destigmatize mental health and empower others through stories of overcoming adversity. We explore his non-profit work with The Dente...

In this episode, we meet Tom Flynn, a police officer whose life was upended by a life-altering incident on March 28, 2019. Arrested and thrust into a grueling legal battle, Tom faced not only charges but the emotional fallout on his family, especially his daughters. Despite hitting rock bottom, he found purpose in advocacy, finding FACE NJ to fight for fathers' rights and equality. Tom shares raw insights from his journey through the legal system, emphasizing fatherhood as his guiding force. Lis...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," meet Timmy Ball II, a multifaceted leader as a Husband, Father, Assistant Pastor, Officer, Coach, and Martial Arts expert. We dive into how his father's influence shaped his early discipline and unstoppable mindset, leading to remarkable achievements in martial arts. Timmy discusses his law enforcement role and the crucial integration of Jiu-Jitsu for police training. He also shares his dedication to faith and how he balances his demanding life whi...

In this impromptu episode of “The Relentless Project,” we welcome back Berbardo Figueiredo, a Gracie black belt and jiujitsu gym owner, for his third appearance—this time in person at the studio. Join us as we delve into the psychology of training and life, exploring deep and thought-provoking conversations that challenge the status quo. Berbardo shares his unique insights and experiences, inspiring us to embrace our journeys and push beyond our limits. This episode is packed with motivation and...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we explore the inspiring journey of Eric Crafton, a law enforcement officer and founder of the New Jersey Veteran Support Alliance. Eric's path from dropping out of high school to earning a Master's degree in Law Enforcement Administration highlights his resilience and dedication. We discuss his military career, and his unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy for veterans and law enforcement. Eric shares insights into the founding of his no...

In this episode of The Relentless Project, we explore the compelling journey of Dr. Ric, Ricardo Londono, MD/PhD, a pioneering biotech founder. From his beginnings in Colombia to adapting to life in the U.S., Ricardo's path through engineering and medical school underscores a strong work ethic, bolstered by resilience. Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship, he shares groundbreaking work in tissue engineering and diabetes treatment, highlighting his innovative contributions to biotech. ...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we welcome back Andy Grove, founder of the POSE Fitness App, to discuss his journey since June 2024. Andy shares key milestones and challenges from the app's launch, emphasizing the role of user feedback in its development. He provides insights on building a successful fitness business, highlighting how POSE differentiates itself through innovation. We also explore the difference between social media and genuine community-building, with Andy sharin...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we sit down with author and fitness enthusiast Jillian Scacchi, who shares her journey from a big Italian family in Cleveland to becoming a passionate cycle instructor in Pittsburgh. Jillian opens up about the pivotal moment in her life when she chose to put her baby up for adoption at seventeen, a decision that shaped her resilience and wisdom. Her memoir, "Fearless," serves as a powerful testament to self-love, friendship, and the importance of s...

In this episode of “The Relentless Project,” we talk with Rob Ingram, founder of McDojo Life and Vice President of Academy Safe. Rob shares his journey in martial arts, highlighting his credentials as a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Karate and Lissajous-Do, along with his competitive records in boxing and kickboxing. We discuss the mission of McDojo Life to expose fraud in the martial arts community and the importance of integrity and accountability in the industry. Rob also shares personal stories f...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we sit down with Dom Carter, a multifaceted individual whose life journey spans from a disciplined military career to the disciplined stage of competitive bodybuilding. We explore Dom's upbringing in a mixed household, where early influences from an athletic family fueled his diverse interests and career paths. Discover how Dom balances his demanding professional life with personal commitments and a passion for bodybuilding, driven by a philosophy ...

In this episode of “The Relentless Project,” we welcome husband and wife duo Eric Smith and Kate Califano. With over a decade of experience as a State Trooper, Eric shares his remarkable journey through law enforcement and the resilience he developed after surviving a near-fatal crash. Meanwhile, Kate, an inspiring entrepreneur and founder of both Sozoaid LLC and Seminar Stack, discusses her motivations and triumphs in building impactful businesses. Together, they delve into the transformative p...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we sit down with Mike McSorley, a gym owner and boxing promoter deeply rooted in Pittsburgh's boxing community. Mike reflects on his early days as a Golden Gloves boxer and how those experiences influenced his career. He discusses the founding of The Conn-Greb Boxing Club, the challenges of training fighters, and the diverse roles he plays in the boxing world. With notable successes like Oleh Dovhun’s rise to #2 in the WBA, Mike shares his vision f...

In this episode of The Relentless Project, we sit down with Oleh "The Ukrainian Pitbull" Dovhun, an undefeated professional boxer with a record of 16-0 and 5 KOs. From his early beginnings in Ukraine, training under the esteemed Semenishin Roman, to his courageous move to the United States, Oleh shares the challenges and triumphs that have defined his boxing journey. We delve into his motivation for greatness, the rigorous discipline required to remain unbeaten, and the personal sacrifices he...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we sit down with Branko Busick, a father, husband, and professional MMA fighter. Raised in a wrestling family, with his father Big Bully Busick in the WWF, Branko shares how his unique background shaped his passion for fighting. He discusses his journey from backyard brawls to competing in the cage professionally, emphasizing the challenges he faced along the way. Branko’s story is a testament to resilience and determination, aligning perfectly wit...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," filmmaker Domenic Porcari returns to discuss his transition from engineering to filmmaking and his mission to breathe new life into the action movie genre. He shares practical advice for parents considering art school for their children and insights into the underground writing scene. Domenic offers a candid look at martial arts in films and shares unique experiences from working on major film sets. The episode ends with a powerful reading of a poe...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we dive into the journey of Matt Leyshock, a retired fighter and founder of Southside Boxing Club. Matt discusses how moving across various states shaped his perspective and fueled his passion for fighting. He shares insights from his early days fighting in unconventional venues and his drive to establish one of Pittsburgh’s first fighting promotions. With practical advice for aspiring fighters, Matt offers a no BS clear-eyed view on overcoming adv...

Join us on "The Relentless Project" as we explore the no-nonsense journey of Rick Steigerwald, the Pennsylvania Athletic Commissioner and former boxer. From starting in the boxing ring at a young age to refereeing over 500 matches, including world title fights, Rick's career is a testament to resilience and dedication. We'll delve into his transition from referee to commissioner and his role in shaping boxing in Pittsburgh. Rick shares candid stories from the ring and beyond, offering hard-ea...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," Derek shares his transformation from a military career to becoming a cybersecurity expert and mental health advocate. He discusses how his military experience influenced his pivot to cybersecurity in 2008 and his passion for innovation in the field. Derek also opens up about his journey into content creation and his dedication to promoting men's mental health. As a father of five, he provides insights on balancing family life with professional ambi...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we delve into the eclectic journey of ADARA47, whose life on the move across various cities has infused his music with a rich blend of Southern, country, and Hispanic influences. His artistic evolution from Imaginedaindigo to ADARA47 reflects a seamless integration of diverse styles and interests, inspired by the powerful impact of 90s East Coast hip-hop. We discuss his latest release, "Activate," now available for streaming, and explore how his mu...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we sit down with Andy J Gonzalez, an entrepreneur and brand manager, who shares his compelling journey from a small town in Chester, West Virginia. Despite early health challenges and the profound impact of his mother's passing, Andy navigated various jobs and discovered his passions in entrepreneurship and talent management. He recounts his adventurous move to Florida to become a professional jockey and the valuable lessons learned along the way, ...

In this episode of "The Relentless Project," we talk with David Sachs, a retired pro-MMA fighter and BJJ black belt. David shares his journey from a D1 wrestler to a seasoned fighter, with over 30 years in combat sports and a solid educational foundation in exercise physiology. He discusses his transition from the ring to coaching, including experiences from around the globe and unexpected roles in films like "Warrior." We dive into his expertise in strength and conditioning and his impact on...