Welcome to The Apex Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, I sit down with Robert Mora, owner of Star Comics, a shop that's been part of the Lubbock community for 40+ years and a cornerstone of pop culture collecting in West Texas.

From growing up around comics to building a store that has adapted through decades of industry shifts, Robert shares the real story behind what it takes to survive—and thrive—in a world where trends, customers, and entire markets are constantly evolving. We dive into the business of comics and collectibles, from high-end statues and distributor challenges to the realities of used books, online sales, and why physical media continues to hold its ground.

We talk about the psychology of collecting, the different types of collectors, and how Robert's personal philosophy shaped Star Comics into something more than just a store—it's a living collection. This conversation also explores the bigger picture of pop culture—Image Comics as a creator-driven model, the rise of manga, the impact of corporate control on Marvel and DC, and what it really takes to create stories that last. From Absolute Batman to the future of comics in 2026, Robert breaks down the trends shaping the next generation of storytelling.

We also get into marketing, customer experience, and what it means to build a space—physical or digital—that people actually want to be part of.

From Lubbock-Con to Free Comic Book Day, this is a conversation about community, consistency, and staying relevant without losing your identity.

Chapters:

00:00 - The Statue Market Breakdown | Why High-End Collectibles Don't Always Make Sense

10:18 - McFarlane vs. Mattel | Corporate Buyouts & the Struggle for Control

12:30 - Sports Cards & Fantasy Football | The Hidden RPG World of Collecting

14:52 - Before the Comics | The Origin Story of Star Comics

17:56 - Used Comics vs. Digital | Why Physical Media Refuses to Die

20:32 - Growing Up in Comics | Star Wars Treasury Editions & Robert's Story

22:23 - The Psychology of Collecting | Why Everyone Collects Differently

24:48 - The Store Is the Collection | Robert's Unique Approach to Ownership

27:13 - More Than a Comic Shop | Lubbock-Con & Building Community

31:43 - The University Effect | New Faces, New Trends Every Year

33:59 - Back Issues, Newsstands & Direct Editions | The Evolution of Comic Buyers

35:29 - The Rise of Absolute Batman | Trends, Manga & the Future of Storytelling

38:38 - Inside Image Comics | Creator Power, Value & Market Demand

41:40 - What Makes a Story Last? | Building Perennial Pop Culture

48:10 - Marvel, DC & the IP Wars | Corporate Control & Zack Snyder vs. James Gunn

57:10 - The Next Era of Comics (2026) | Trends, Shifts & Robert's Picks

1:07:00 - Marketing That Actually Works | Consistency, Service & Showing Up

1:17:23 - Designing a Store That Feels Like Home | Environment Marketing

1:22:00 - The Digital Storefront | Translating Experience Into Online Design

1:28:15 - eCommerce Realities | Convenience, Branding & When to Fire Customers

Thanks For Watching!

Follow Star Comics:

Website: https://www.starcomicsonline.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/starcomicsonline/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starcomics/

FOLLOW:

https://www.ethanpeal.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

#TheApexMindsetPodcast #comics #comicart #marvel #dccomics #marketing #digitalmarketing

Welcome to The Apex Mindset Podcast!

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and bass teacher, John Reid, a professor and performing professional musician whose journey through sound, stages, classrooms, and studios has shaped more players than most people will ever realize. From discovering Steppenwolf and choosing the low end, to navigating early bands, career pivots, and the realities of making a life in music, John shares the moments that defined him, playing bass as a left-hander in a right-handed world, and the musicians who influenced his path.

We talk groove vs. technique, why bass is more than "just rhythm," the truth behind the "failed guitarist" myth, and how music theory becomes a language, not a rulebook. John also reflects on teaching at South Plains College, what it really takes to pursue music as a career having lived the life himself, and why passion sometimes evolves into purpose.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

00:53 - The Beatles & the Spark That Started It All

02:00 - Left-Handed, Right-Handed: Playing Bass Backwards

04:10 - Why Bass? John's First Love

06:15 - The Gibson eb-0 & The "Mudbucker"

07:17 - From Underage Prodigy to Sound Tech to Texas: A Career Pivot

16:20 - Finding His Lane at South Plains College

17:50 - Why Teaching Became the Real Calling

18:58 - Canadian Bands, Cold Winters & What-Ifs

19:53 - Early Days at SPC: Patience & Personalities

22:10 - First Bands, Gigs, First Lessons

23:45 - Jerry Serrano, Alma Quartet & Recording Solitude

38:38 - Genre Shapes Technique: Playing Across Styles

40:50 - Pick vs Fingers: Finding the Right Feel

45:25 - Groove vs Technique: Speaking the Language of Bass

50:27 - Are Bassists Just Failed Guitarists? (Let's Set That Straight)

54:23 - The Bass Player's Role: Locking in With the Band

58:03 - What John's Working On Now

1:03:46 - Current Influences & Live Playthroughs

1:10:00 - The Reality of a Music Career: Fitting Into the Nashville Mold

Thanks For Watching!

Follow John:

https://www.spccreativearts.com/home/john-reid/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/john.reid.7509/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reidjohnfrederick/

FOLLOW:

https://www.ethanpeal.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Purchase the Album "Solitude" Here! - https://almaquartet1.bandcamp.com/album/solitude

Listen to the Full Album - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ki9MQcU_xm_qKxdVaeqyX2TRLGF2kL3q8

Purchase Vinyl "Legends In Their Spare Time" Here! - https://www.discogs.com/release/2248142-Mackinaw-Legends-In-Their-Spare-Time?srsltid=AfmBOoqaIkOw4oKMjmg7JadGcmZF7dQW0pNGxdtEN2DlCkDqZLY06KDH

Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7kYPLDW2Ew&list=RDd7kYPLDW2Ew&start_radio=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rhup_Ikblo&list=RD4rhup_Ikblo&start_radio=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvfTO-mErzM&list=RDXvfTO-mErzM&start_radio=1

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonny_T.

#TheApexMindsetPodcast #bass #performingarts #musictheory #music

Welcome to the Apex Mindset Podcast!

In this Episode of The Roundtable, I sat down with Cody West, Director of Marketing at Wylie & Son, Inc. Owner & Broadcaster at West 11 Sports and ex-Radio DJ with over 20 years behind the mic ...

Radio shaped Cody's voice, discipline, and understanding of community. From owning a station to building West 11 Sports to navigating the rise of streaming and smartphones, this episode follows Cody's journey of adaptation and reinvention. We also explore the philosophy of advertising, the power of storytelling, and how those lessons carried directly into his transition into marketing leadership.

If you're interested in broadcasting, marketing, storytelling, or what it takes to evolve with changing technology while staying true to your purpose, this one is for you.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

01:11 - Growing Up in Andrews, TX: Life in the Permian Basin (1980s)

02:58 - Catching the Radio Bug: First Steps in Pecos, Texas

07:05 - The Power of AM & FM: Building Local Broadcasts

09:28 - Local Fame & Legendary Beginnings: When Radio Made Stars

10:55 - Radio's Golden Age: The Era That Shaped Everything

12:25 - Owning KTTZ-AM: Packing Up and Starting Over in Littlefield

17:34 - Behind the Mic: What Running a Radio Station Really Takes

19:59 - When Disaster Strikes: Tornado Scare & EBS

21:32 - Selling and Philosophy of Advertising

28:51 - Radio in the Modern Age: Smartphones, Streaming & Change

36:49 - West 11 Sports Is Born: Returning to Live Broadcasting

48:05 - The Grind Behind the Scenes: Family, Travel & Flexibility

50:15 - A Major Transition: West 11 Sports Closes & Wylie Begins

55:59 - Stepping Into Marketing: A New Role, A New Passion

58:25 - Crafting the Voice: What Makes a Great Radio Sound

1:01:48 - Rediscovering Purpose: From Broadcasting to Marketing

1:06:57 - Building a Story: What Makes Marketing Successful

1:07:41 - Taking Calculated Risks: Designing the Life You Want

1:10:02 - Reinvention: Lessons Learned & Looking Ahead

Thanks For Watching!

FOLLOW:

https://www.ethanpeal.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Resources:

https://storybrand.com

https://wyliesprayers.com/

#TheApexMindsetPodcast #radio #marketing #wylieimplementandspraycenter #littlefieldtx #reinvention

DUNES is a short documentary telling the story of my first 10K race through the sands of West Texas at Monahans Sandhills State Park.

This wasn't just a race. Running a 10K in sand tests more than your legs, it exposes your mindset, your preparation, and your purpose. In this film, I break down what it takes to step into longer distances, the mental and physical demands of racing, and the lessons learned along the way.

From learning the structure of distance races to navigating race-day nerves, weather, gear, and strategy, DUNES follows the run as it unfolded; mile by mile. I also reflect on the deeper side of running: faith, discipline, community, and the people who shaped my pursuit, including the influence of my stepdad, Jon Kelso.

If you're training for your first 5K or 10K, curious about competitive running, or simply looking for motivation to pursue something hard, this story is for you.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

02:23 - Why Distance Matters (5K vs 10K Rules Explained)

03:30 - The Running Community & Contagious Positivity

08:12 - Running the Race: Faith, Purpose, and the Word

11:06 - How Running Found Me

12:40 - My Origin Story: Flaws, Focus, and Becoming More

16:25 - Jon Kelso: Inspired the Run

19:08 - The Catalyst: Proving Something the Right Way

23:11 - Lessons From My Stepdad, Jon Kelso

25:50 - Pursuit, Passion, and Self-Motivation

30:07 - Who Wins and Why: Competition, Classes, and Demographics

33:20 - DNFs, Qualifying, and Running as a Career

41:15 - Training the Right Way: Prep, Planning, and Habits

47:32 - Weather, Gear, and Adapting on Race Day

50:54 - Starting Line Nerves & Pre-Race Rituals

59:16 - The Run Unfolds: Pace, Playlist, and Strategy

1:05:40 - Alone in the Dunes: The Mental Battle of a 10K

1:10:03 - The Finish Line & Fighting Through Injury

1:14:26 - Your Harshest Judge: Finishing 4th Unexpectedly

1:18:35 - After the Race: Recovery and What Comes Next

1:21:18 - Raising the Bar: Bigger Goals and Enjoying the Spoils

1:29:31 - Facing Limits and Choosing to Push Forward

Thanks For Watching & Being A Part Of My Journey!

Check Me Out: https://www.ethanpeal.com/

Follow Me: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Resources:

https://www.maxwellleadership.com/

https://simonsinek.com/

https://jocko.com/

https://cameronhanes.com/

https://www.courtneydauwalter.com/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Prefontaine

Books:

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Shoe-Dog/Phil-Knight/9781501135927

https://a.co/d/iMgyssf

https://cameronhanes.com/products/endure-book

Products:

Garmin Instinct 3 Watch - https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/1316397/

Collagen Peptides - https://orgain.com/products/collagen-peptides-pre-probiotics

Creatine - https://orgain.com/products/creatine-monohydrate-micronized-powder?srsltid=AfmBOopkl8ENy1Si5ZLSPtU_OQ83lAreppaRB_aeYuBS1j-20o-sAOj7

#TheApexMindsetPodcast #10krun #trailrunning #running #biography #firstrun @texasparksandwildlife ​

Welcome to the Finale of my Couch To Champion Journey!

This is it, the final check-in before race day. From the first steps off the couch to the battles with injury, burnout, and self-doubt, this journey has been anything but easy. In this episode, I look back on the highs, the lows, and the lessons that reshaped my view of success. I share how slowing down helped me rediscover joy, rekindle old passions, and reignite my purpose, not just as a runner, but as a creator and a person. From embracing consistency over motivation to transforming my nutrition and training with the Garmin Coach Plan, this is the chapter where confidence meets clarity. And it all leads to a huge announcement about what's next.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

02:27 - Birth of Couch to Champion

05:40 - My Year: Injuries & Mental Battles

09:19 - More Than a 5K

13:12 - Hitting Pause on Running

15:42 - Identity Lost & Found

18:00 - The Success You Don't See

19:00 - Rekindling Passion: Art & Community

24:20 - Consistency, No Matter What

25:00 - Rise. Pursue. Conquer.

27:10 - Where I Am Today

29:20 - New Diet, New Fuel

33:20 - A Final Word of Hope

36:04 - Final Thoughts & HUGE ANNOUNCMENT!!

39:30 - Outro

Thanks For Watching & Being A Part Of My Journey!

Check Out My Art:

https://www.artbyethanp.com/

Follow Me:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Welcome to Beyond The Gear!

This episode is all about the Hoka Mach 6 Shoes. Join me as I talk about specs and features, why I switched and why they are my new race day shoes. I'll share practical thoughts and honest feedback after 50 miles!

Chapters: 00:00 - Intro

01:11 - Why The Hoka Mach 6 Matters

01:41 - Specs & Features

03:57 - Unboxing & First Impressions

05:35 - Fit & Performance

08:09 - Honest Pain Points

09:07 - Durability Thoughts & Review

10:41 - Competitive Edge In The Running World

12:16 - Final Thoughts & Outro

Check Us Out:

https://www.theapex-mindset.com/

https://www.omegaconsultingtx.com/work-with-us-1

Follow Me:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Resources:

Buy It Here! - https://a.co/d/2ZgiGBD

400 Mile Review - https://youtu.be/m6GGdvajGqw?si=5Rm0ptn3Y8TMIlM1

Cut Open Review - https://youtu.be/iz6FSElw55I?si=xwXSrZWoHqKmK2bN

Thanks For Listening!​

Welcome to Part 05 of my Couch To Champion Journey!

This episode is all about he Turning Point. We're halfway through and I haven't given near enough! I took a hard look in the mirror and realized something had to change. From ditching the comfort of "gentle training" to confronting the toughest opponent, myself; this is where the real transformation begins. I'm shifting gears, resetting my mindset, and choosing consistency over motivation. This is how we unlock the Champion's Mindset and rise to our full potential.

It's time to Rise. Pursue. Conquer.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

01:00 - New Month, New Mission: Why We're Shifting Gears

02:42 - The Mirror Never Lies: Facing Myself Head-On

06:44 - The Trap of "Gentle Training" & The "Grey Zone"

09:24 - The Mindset Shift That Changed Everything

11:10 - The Biggest Enemy in Training? It's You.

11:38 - Unlocking the Champion's Mindset

14:34 - Consistency Over Hype: Reaching Your True Potential

19:56 - Motivation Fades. Discipline Builds Legends.

22:16 - Honor the Grind: Reflecting on the Road That Brought You Here

28:37 - RISE. PURSUE. CONQUER!

31:46 - Final Challenge & Outro

Check Us Out:

https://www.theapex-mindset.com/

https://www.omegaconsultingtx.com/work-with-us-1

Follow Me:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal

X - https://x.com/ethanApeal

Resources:

RHONDA ROUSEY MY FIGHT/YOUR FIGHT BOOK - https://a.co/d/9mgFEIi

WHAT COLOR IS YOUR PARACHUTE BOOK - https://a.co/d/8MdXaZy

DAVID GOGGINS CAN'T HURT ME BOOK - https://a.co/d/2TwAYhb

MY FITNESS PAL APP - https://g.co/kgs/Gy9xHMB

Thanks For Listening!

Welcome To my Conversation with Vic Valdez!!

What does it really take to live a life of discipline, purpose, and spiritual growth?

In this episode of the Apex Mindset Podcast, we sit down with Vic Valdez, a father, husband, and fitness-driven believer who's been through the fire and come out stronger. From growing up Pentecostal to finding balance between faith, family, and fitness, Vic shares raw, powerful truths about what it means to live with intention. We talk about the relentless pursuit of Christ, learning to trust God's plan even in the unknown, and how real strength is built both in the gym and in the quiet obedience of daily life. Whether you're struggling with motivation, seeking spiritual direction, or trying to juggle health with real-life responsibilities, this conversation will fuel your pursuit of becoming the person God designed you to be.

Chapters:

00:00 - Intro

01:17 - Meet Vic – His Story & Background

02:24 - Pentecostal Roots – How Faith Shaped Him

05:18 - Finding Balance: Spirit, Mind & Body

10:20 - Vic's Daily Workout Routine

12:18 - When You Feel Like You've Accomplished Nothing

15:48 - Mind-Muscle Connection: Why Form Matters

18:35 - Staying Motivated Through Nutrition & Discipline

20:36 - Cutting Through the Noise: What Really Works in Fitness

22:59 - Back to Our Roots – The Ancestral Approach

26:12 - Smart Grocery Shopping: What to Look For

28:86 - Nutritional Wisdom: Trial, Error & Listening to Your Body

31:22 - Making Time for Health, Even with Family & Distractions

34:28 - Raising Champions: Building Healthy Habits in Kids

39:00 - Being Present Spiritually – Gratitude Through Christ

42:34 - Living Truth & Intentional Growth in Faith

47:41 - Control What You Can – Trust God With the Rest

48:45 - Suffering Well – The Hidden Strength in Trials

50:40 - Obedience, Pain & Trusting God's Bigger Plan

57:19 - God's Grace & True Rest in the Chaos

60:02 - Relentless Pursuit: Building a Real Relationship With God

60:05 - Hearing God's Voice – Trusting Your Gut & Taking the Leap

60:12 - Spiritual Consistency – It's About Relationship, Not Religion

60:17 - Final Thoughts & Outro

Check Us Out:

https://www.omegaconsultingtx.com/work-with-us-1

Follow Me:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethan_peal/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ethanpealofficial

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethan.peal