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  • He Sold His Startup — But What He Found After Is Way More Valuable ft. Tyler Hall

    He Sold His Startup — But What He Found After Is Way More Valuable ft. Tyler Hall
    2025/11/17
    In this episode of the Dark Work Podcast, former NFL linebacker turned entrepreneur Tyler Hall joins the host to discuss identity, personal growth, and the realities of entrepreneurship. Tyler shares his journey through professional highs and devastating lows, emphasizing the importance of character, presence, and prioritizing family over external success. The conversation explores men's mental health, the value of authentic connections, and the power of vulnerability. Both speakers reflect on life-changing hardships and the legacy they hope to leave, encouraging listeners to embrace resilience, support others, and pursue genuine self-improvement. ---------- · Exploration of identity beyond professional achievements · The impact of personal growth on entrepreneurship · Challenges and emotional toll of startup life · Importance of resilience and navigating hardships · The role of personal values in shaping identity · The significance of being present and prioritizing relationships · The necessity of vulnerability and emotional connection among men · Reflections on legacy and the impact on family and community · The balance between professional ambitions and personal life · Encouragement for continual self-improvement and support for others Timestamps Introduction & The Power of Impact (00:00:00) Discussing how people are remembered for how they make others feel, not material success. Introducing Tyler Hall & Identity (00:00:20) Host introduces Tyler Hall and sets up the episode's focus on identity and personal growth. Defining Identity & The "I Am" Statement (00:02:32) Tyler and the host discuss the meaning of identity and Tyler shares his personal "I Am" statement. Chasing Money & Early Career (00:06:21) Tyler reflects on prioritizing money, his early startup experiences, and professional milestones. The Pressures of Entrepreneurship (00:08:04) Tyler describes the intense pressures and emotional toll of being a startup founder and CEO. Wearing Masks as a Leader (00:10:40) Exploring the unhealthy habit of adopting different personas for different stakeholders. A Day of Extreme Highs and Lows (00:12:08) Tyler recounts a 24-hour period of crisis: employee betrayal, major business wins, and financial stress. Surviving the Roller Coaster (00:18:56) Discussing the resilience required to survive entrepreneurship's ups and downs. Who Should Be an Entrepreneur? (00:19:08) Tyler and the host debate who is truly suited for entrepreneurship and the sacrifices involved. Selling the Company & The Next Crash (00:23:03) Tyler describes selling his company, achieving success, and then facing new personal challenges. Life-Changing Encounter in Dallas (00:25:18) Tyler shares a profound elevator encounter with a grieving father that shifted his perspective. Wife's Medical Emergency & Personal Crisis (00:27:01) Tyler details his wife's life-threatening medical emergency and the emotional aftermath. Lessons from Near-Loss & Becoming Present (00:34:50) Tyler explains how the experience changed his priorities, making him more present and intentional. Circle Management & Prioritizing Relationships (00:36:10) Tyler discusses being intentional with time, family, and managing his inner circle. Giving Back & Men's Mental Health (00:38:52) Tyler talks about his podcast, new brand, and efforts to support men's mental health and community. Legacy & Making People Feel Special (00:42:45) Tyler shares his hope to be remembered for making others feel special, not for material achievements. God's Promise & Living by Example (00:45:33) Tyler reflects on his purpose: to change lives by example and use his intuition to help others. Closing Thoughts & Continuous Improvement (00:47:05) The host and Tyler discuss the importance of always seeking improvement and applying life's lessons. Guest Contact Information · www.DarkWorkAssessment.com · https://www.instagram.com/tyler.hall?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Dark Work Podcast, Tyler Hall, identity, personal growth, entrepreneurship, NFL linebacker, startups, venture capital, professional challenges, character, consistent habits, core values, family, integrity, resilience, emotional toll, startup life, financial hardship, personal crisis, presence, mental health, men's health, vulnerability, community, legacy, emotional connection, public speaking, leadership, personal values, authenticity, support, purpose, self-discovery, hardships, gratitude, personal experiences, connection, personal development, continuous improvement, commitment, podcasting, meaningful conversations, emotional impact, youth mentorship, God's will, intuition, balance, boundaries...
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    48 分
  • DWP S1 E5

    DWP S1 E5
    2025/11/03
    In this episode of the Dark Work Podcast, I sit down with Mel Abraham to talk about his transformation from a conventional accounting career to a life centered on purpose, freedom, and family. Mel opens up about how embracing dark work — personal growth through hardship — helped him overcome setbacks, redefine wealth, and prioritize meaningful relationships. We dive into the pitfalls of chasing material success, the importance of intentional living, and how adversity can actually become a catalyst for lasting fulfillment. My hope is that this conversation inspires you to face your own challenges and intentionally build a richer, more purposeful life. ____________ · Transition from a traditional career to a fulfilling life aligned with passions and values. · The distinction between wealth and richness, emphasizing meaningful relationships and purpose. · The concept of "dark work" as a means of personal growth through hardship. · The courage required to leave a conventional career for a true purpose. · The impact of societal and familial expectations on career choices. · The importance of self-awareness and intentionality in personal growth. · The relationship between money, life, and purpose, highlighting the need for a balanced approach. · The negative influence of social media on perceptions of wealth and happiness. · The transformative power of adversity and embracing difficult experiences. · Encouragement for listeners to engage in their own dark work to create meaningful change. -------------------- Timestamps Introduction & Setting the Stage (00:00:00) Anthony introduces Mel Abraham, previews the episode's focus on money, relationships, and personal growth through "dark work." Mel's Current Life & Philosophy (00:03:34) Mel describes his current life, the concept of a "get to life," and the difference between wealth and richness. Early Career & Lack of Direction (00:06:40) Mel discusses his initial path as an accountant, influenced by others, and his lack of a personal definition of success. Quitting Accounting & Facing Pushback (00:08:59) Mel recounts quitting his accounting job, the pushback from family, and the realization he needed change. Journey to Japan & Martial Arts Training (00:10:35) Mel cashes out his 401(k), travels to Japan for martial arts, and begins a journey of self-discovery. Lessons from Martial Arts & Building Confidence (00:18:02) Mel shares how intense training in Japan built his quiet confidence and ability to handle adversity. Returning to Accounting with New Perspective (00:24:38) Mel returns to a smaller firm, negotiates for control, and quickly becomes managing partner. Transition to Speaking & Professional Growth (00:26:32) Mel starts public speaking to build credibility, which leads to new opportunities and eventually conflict with his partners. Forced Out & Starting Over (00:29:20) Mel is pushed out of his firm, faces financial and personal hardship, and describes the shock and acceptance process. Breakthrough from Speaking Engagement (00:31:12) A speaking gig in Arkansas leads to a major client, marking a turning point in Mel's new solo career. Parenthood & Redefining Success (00:32:59) A drawing from his son prompts Mel to rethink work-life balance and inspires the concept of the "money machine." Money Philosophy & Intentional Living (00:34:50) Mel explains his philosophy: money is a tool for a rich life, not just wealth, and stresses intentionality in spending and living. Social Media & Comparison Trap (00:38:58) Discussion on how social media skews perceptions of success and happiness, leading to unhealthy comparisons. Cancer Diagnosis & Life Reassessment (00:39:56) Mel shares his 2019 cancer diagnosis, how it shifted his priorities, and the importance of financial freedom during crisis. Finding Purpose Through Adversity (00:42:47) Mel reframes his cancer as a calling to serve others, leading to writing his book and embracing a new life mission. Conclusion & Legacy (00:46:39) Mel shares where to find his book, reflects on his purpose, and Anthony closes with encouragement to embrace your own "dark work." --------------------- Guest Contact Information · www.DarkWorkAssessment.com · https://www.instagram.com/melabraham9?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Dark Work Podcast, Anthony Trucks, Mel Abraham, personal journey, professional journey, entrepreneurship, transition, accounting career, intentional dark work, personal growth, hardship, true purpose, wealth vs richness, meaningful relationships, life fulfillment, self-discovery, martial arts training, Japan, financial struggles, life choices, expectation association, self-awareness,...
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    49 分
  • Season 1 Episode 4: The Dark Work I Did AFTER Being Benched That Got Me a Pro Offer ft. Brock Dolman

    Season 1 Episode 4: The Dark Work I Did AFTER Being Benched That Got Me a Pro Offer ft. Brock Dolman
    2025/10/20
    In this episode of The Dark Work Podcast, host Anthony Trucks interviews professional football player Brock Domann. Brock shares his journey from high school championships to playing at multiple colleges and ultimately going pro in Germany. The conversation explores overcoming setbacks, the importance of community, and the value of "dark work"—the unseen effort behind success. Brock discusses self-actualization, embracing humility, and finding purpose beyond football, including his work with Conscious Quarterback. The episode offers insights on resilience, personal growth, and staying committed to one's dreams, even when the path takes unexpected turns. ---------- · Brock Domann journey as a professional football player, including his experiences at multiple colleges and playing overseas in Germany. · The concept of self-actualization and personal growth through sports and life challenges. · The importance of community and shared experiences in personal development. · Overcoming adversity and the lessons learned from setbacks in athletic and personal pursuits. · The significance of having fun and passion in one's endeavors, particularly in sports. · The role of family influence and background in shaping aspirations and identity. · The idea of being "QB1" in life, taking charge of personal and professional responsibilities. · The concept of "dark work" and the unseen efforts that contribute to success and character development. · The evolution of goals and perspectives on success throughout Brock's athletic career. · The importance of readiness and preparation for opportunities, and the value of self-reflection and humility in personal growth. ----------- Timestamps Handling Disappointment (00:00:00) Brock shares advice on dealing with not getting what you want—accepting you may not be ready yet. Introduction & Episode Overview (00:00:21) Anthony Trucks introduces Brock Domann and outlines the episode's focus on navigating life's ups and downs. Brock's Background & Journey (00:02:31) Discussion of Brock's football journey, family background, and the concept of "dark work" in personal growth. High School Football & State Championship (00:03:14) Brock recounts his senior year, overcoming doubts, and winning the state championship with his high school team. Playing at Clemson & Self-Actualization (00:04:27) Brock describes playing at Clemson, throwing a touchdown, and realizing he could compete at the highest level. Building Community Through Conscious Quarterback (00:07:05) Brock discusses his business, Conscious Quarterback, and the impact of community involvement in Louisville. The Importance of Community (00:07:59) Anthony and Brock reflect on the value of community, referencing tribal living and modern disconnection. Family Influence & Early Aspirations (00:11:15) Brock shares how his family's achievements and a formative trip to Cabo shaped his dreams and desire for freedom. College Football Journey: Transfers & Adversity (00:14:05) Brock details his path through multiple colleges, the challenges of being a journeyman, and adapting to new environments. The Challenge of Being the New Guy (00:17:18) Discussion about the difficulties and growth that come from repeatedly being the newcomer in different teams and places. Questioning the Football Path (00:18:13) Brock describes a pivotal moment during his senior year at Louisville when he considered quitting football. Letting Life Unfold & Finding Fun (00:20:14) Brock explains his approach to letting opportunities unfold, focusing on fun and passion, and how he got the call to play in Germany. Transition to Professional Football in Germany (00:23:24) Brock talks about receiving the offer to play in Germany, taking time off, and rebuilding his training and mindset. Apprehension and Acceptance of New Opportunities (00:26:04) Brock discusses mixed feelings about playing in Germany, letting go of the NFL dream, and embracing unexpected paths. Excitement for Growth & Community in Germany (00:31:21) Brock shares his excitement about being himself, experiencing new cultures, and contributing to the German football community. Darkest Hours: Campbell University & Humility (00:33:22) Brock reflects on his lowest point at Campbell, feeling lost, and the humbling process of returning to junior college. The Value of Tough Love & Listening to Others (00:38:31) Anthony and Brock discuss the importance of listening to tough love from friends and family during hard times. Climbing New Mountains & Personal Growth (00:39:54) Brock talks about always seeking new challenges, focusing on personal development, and preparing for life beyond football. Expression, Embodiment, and Doing the Dark Work...
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    52 分
  • Season 1 Episode 3: NFL Player reveals what actually happens after you achieve your dream ft. Jojo

    Season 1 Episode 3: NFL Player reveals what actually happens after you achieve your dream ft. Jojo
    2025/10/06
    In this episode of the Dark World Podcast, host Anthony Trucks welcomes NFL player JoJo Domann for a candid conversation about personal growth, resilience, and self-discovery. JoJo shares pivotal moments from his football career, including overcoming injuries, battling fear, and redefining his identity beyond the game. Together, they discuss the importance of self-love, setting boundaries, and embracing vulnerability. JoJo also reflects on his mission to help others in the NFL explore deeper purpose and authenticity. The episode offers inspiring insights on navigating challenges and finding meaning both on and off the field. · JoJo Domann's personal and professional journey as an NFL player. · Overcoming fear and self-doubt in high-pressure situations. · The importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing mental health. · The impact of family support on personal growth and self-discovery. · The transition from seeking external validation to finding internal purpose. · The role of injuries in shaping identity and perspective on life. · Embracing the full spectrum of emotions and self-acceptance. · The significance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. · The influence of mindset on performance and personal fulfillment. · The importance of self-love and its effect on relationships and personal development. Timestamps ACL Injury & Early Setback (00:00:00) JoJo recounts his ACL injury during a pursuit drill, marking a pivotal early career setback. Introduction & JoJo's Background (00:00:16) Anthony Trucks introduces JoJo, highlighting his maturity, background, and the depth of his experiences. Lessons from Adversity & Letting Light In (00:00:55) Discussion on extracting wisdom from hardships and the idea that "light enters through the wounds." JoJo's Journey & Growth (00:01:38) Anthony reflects on JoJo's personal growth, their history, and the unique pace of JoJo's development. Pride in Overcoming Self-Destruction (00:02:59) JoJo shares pride in not self-destructing, crediting his family and support system. Questioning Humanity & Purpose (00:03:19) JoJo discusses questioning his humanity, purpose, and the meaning behind his experiences. Fame, Fear, and Boundaries (00:04:05) JoJo describes the pressure of NFL fame, fear of losing success, and the importance of setting boundaries. Breakthrough Moment & Playing Free (00:06:22) JoJo explains how setting boundaries and embracing the unknown led to renewed confidence and performance. Finding Deeper Meaning & Presence (00:07:16) JoJo connects to deeper meaning through family, leading to a pivotal NFL play and personal clarity. Letting Go of Fear & Performance (00:08:32) JoJo describes how letting go of fear allowed him to perform at his best and achieve a childhood dream. Mindset, Visualization, and Expectations (00:10:06) Discussion on the power of mindset, visualization, and surrendering expectations for consistent performance. Navigating NFL Pressure & Early Career (00:13:00) JoJo reflects on the pressures of the NFL, competition, and the transition from high school to college football. Injury, Identity Crisis, and Internal Purpose (00:14:44) JoJo recounts back-to-back knee injuries, questioning his identity, and shifting from external to internal motivation. Relationships as Lifelines (00:16:28) JoJo credits relationships and empathy for helping him avoid self-destruction during dark times. Identity, "JoJo" vs. "Johansen" (00:18:38) JoJo explains the duality of his identity—competitive "JoJo" and compassionate "Johansen"—and learning to balance both. Embracing All Aspects of Self (00:21:03) JoJo discusses accepting his full emotional range and knowing when to deploy different aspects of himself. Break & Sponsor Message (00:22:32) Brief break for a sponsor message about identity and personal growth. Fearing and Desiring to Feel Fully (00:23:39) JoJo explores the paradox of fearing and desiring to feel deeply, and the importance of integrating all emotions. Judgment, Mirrors, and Social Dynamics (00:26:03) Discussion on how we judge others, act as mirrors, and the challenge of being authentic in unsupportive environments. Darkest Hours & Growth Through Adversity (00:28:19) JoJo shares how his darkest moments, especially injuries, became sources of growth and internal drive. Football as a Life Teacher (00:34:10) JoJo views football and relationships as teachers, using judgment as a tool for self-reflection and growth. Humility & Empathy: The Ping Pong Story (00:36:50) JoJo recounts a humbling experience at a ping pong bar, learning empathy and breaking down judgments. Three Keys to Overcoming Darkness (00:40:09) JoJo offers three pieces of ...
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    57 分
  • Season 1 Episode 2: Beyond the Game: NFL Agent Craig Domann on Identity, Forgiveness & Finding Purpose

    Season 1 Episode 2: Beyond the Game: NFL Agent Craig Domann on Identity, Forgiveness & Finding Purpose
    2025/09/16
    In this episode of The Dark Work Podcast, host Anthony Trucks interviews NFL agent Craig Domann, who shares his journey from sidelined athlete to "dream guide" for pro football players. They discuss overcoming setbacks, the importance of self-honesty, and Craig's "Pro Mindset" philosophy—performing at your best by rewriting your story and embracing personal growth. The conversation explores mental resilience, the power of forgiveness, and separating self-worth from external success. Through candid stories and practical advice, Craig and Anthony inspire listeners to do the "dark work" required for transformation and lasting fulfillment. Craig Domann's journey from college athlete to NFL agent and "dream guide." The impact of injuries on Craig's athletic career and subsequent career shifts. The development of the "Pro Mindset" philosophy focused on personal growth and performance. The importance of authenticity, self-honesty, and overcoming internal obstacles. The role of fatherhood in shaping Craig's personal growth and perspective. The significance of forgiveness and letting go of past grievances for personal freedom. The distinction between self-worth and net worth, emphasizing intrinsic value over external measures of success. The challenges athletes face in transitioning to life after sports and finding new purpose. The necessity of embracing difficult experiences to build resilience and mental toughness. The concept of "dark work" as essential for personal transformation and achieving success · TIME STAMPS Introduction & Episode Overview (00:00:00) Host introduces Craig Domann, outlines episode themes: humanity, NFL agent life, personal growth, Pro Mindset, plant medicine. Craig's Background & Family Success (00:03:12) Craig shares his 30-year career as a "dream guide" for NFL players, and reflects on his children's athletic achievements. Parenting, Pride, and Athlete Challenges (00:04:16) Discussion about the challenges and pride of parenting athletes, and the hard choices kids make in sports. Pinch-Me Moments & Athlete Vulnerability (00:06:18) Craig describes surreal moments working with high-profile athletes and the emotional rollercoaster of their careers. Craig's Career Path: From Player to Agent (00:08:34) Craig recounts his journey from college football, through corporate accounting, to law school, and becoming an NFL agent. Overcoming Skepticism & Embracing Variety (00:10:41) Craig discusses skepticism he faced, his love for variety, and the excitement of working with athletes. Learning from Clients & Passing Wisdom (00:12:32) Craig explains how he learned from athletes' experiences and passed that wisdom to future clients and his kids. Catalyst for Change: Family & Self-Reflection (00:14:08) Craig describes a turning point when his sons challenged him to live his own advice before teaching others. Defining Pro Mindset (00:15:34) Craig introduces the "Pro Mindset" concept: performing at your best, rewriting your story, and maintaining high standards. Personal Transformation & Facing Denial (00:17:11) Craig admits to being in denial about his own shortcomings and describes the struggle to regain willpower and authenticity. Self-Reflection & Accountability (00:19:07) Advice on reflecting on personal failures, taking responsibility, and identifying patterns of self-sabotage. Plant Medicine Ceremony & Identity Shift (00:20:39) Craig shares his transformative plant medicine experience, intentions, and the resulting shift in identity and purpose. Integrating Change: Breathwork & Cold Plunges (00:24:13) Craig details his post-ceremony practices—breathwork and cold plunges—to build mental resilience and discipline. Benefits of Doing Hard Things (00:28:20) Craig explains how embracing hard things improved his relationships, discipline, and ability to handle difficult conversations. Dark Moments & Professional Setbacks (00:30:02) Craig recounts painful professional setbacks, including being fired by a client, and the impact on his self-worth and family. Self-Worth vs. Net Worth & Letting Go (00:39:00) Craig discusses separating self-worth from net worth, practicing forgiveness, and cutting loose the "parachute" of the past. Finding Purpose After Football (00:40:03) Craig explains how he helps athletes transition after football by finding the intersection of passion, skill, and calling. The Importance of Singular Focus (00:42:12) Craig emphasizes the need for athletes to focus solely on their sport, postponing "Plan B" until after their career. Craig 2.0: Mindset Shifts in Daily Life (00:43:49) Craig describes how his new mindset has improved his approach to daily challenges, relationships, and business. Overcoming Self-Sabotage & Internal Fears (00:45:42) Craig highlights the importance of...
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    56 分
  • Season 1 Episode 1: How To Build an Identity That Can't Lose in the Light

    Season 1 Episode 1: How To Build an Identity That Can't Lose in the Light
    2025/09/02
    31 分
  • What do you do in the dark?

    What do you do in the dark?
    2022/06/22
    3 分