The Catalyst Collective

37 Episodes

By: The Catalyst Collective

The voice of Sharp Top CrossFit, Hero Games Charity, and Counter Culture Solutions. We are the spark that drives change — where people come together to push limits, challenge the norm, and choose growth over comfort. This is where strength is built, purpose is sharpened, and community is forged. If you’re ready to break barriers and walk a different path, you’re in the right place.

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Episode 30: “Grit: You Don't Rise to the Occasion” w/ Ranger & Green Beret, JD

Today at 4:00 AM

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, JD explores the concept of grit and challenges one of the most common misconceptions about resilience—that it shows up when you need it most.

Drawing from his time in the Ranger Regiment and Special Forces, JD shares how grit is not built in moments of crisis, but through consistent, everyday decisions that often go unnoticed. From early experiences in selection and combat deployments to a life-altering accident in 2021 that forced him to choose between an easier path and a harder one, he reflects on how resilience is developed long be...

Episode 29: “The Massive Career Mistake Nobody Could Fix But Me” w/ Ranger & Green Beret, JD

06/15/2026

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, Joshua Daniel shares the story of the most significant professional setback of his career and the lessons that emerged from it.

Drawing from his early years in the Ranger Regiment, Joshua reflects on the intersection of performance, leadership, standards, identity, and accountability. As a young Ranger with multiple combat deployments, and a growing reputation as a warfighter, he found himself on a path that appeared to be leading toward greater responsibility and opportunity. Instead, a series of decisions, attitudes, and missteps placed his career on uncertain ground and forced him...

Episode 28: “Competition Shooting, Gunfighting, and the Space Between” w/ Antoiwon Brooks

06/01/2026

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, Joshua Daniel sits down with Antoiwon Brooks—former Army Joint Fires Observer (JFO), current law enforcement officer, competition shooter, husband, and Christian—for a thoughtful conversation about competition shooting, gunfighting, and the space between.

Drawing from their respective backgrounds in military service, law enforcement, firearms instruction, and competitive shooting, Joshua and Antoiwon explore where competition fits within a broader training path and how different experiences shape performance, decision-making, and personal development.

The conversation covers topics including neural adaptation, training glidepath, performance under pressure, cognitive overload, and the realities of p...

Episode 27: “Remember PFC Eric Hario” w/ Jim and Becky Hario

10/01/2025

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans sit down with Jim and Becky Hario to remember their son, PFC Eric Hario—the 2025 Hero Games honoree. Eric’s story is one of courage, legacy, and sacrifice, from his younger years and entry into the Ranger Regiment to the impact he left on his family, his brothers, and all who knew him.

The conversation dives deep into Eric’s life, exploring not just the Ranger he became but the young man behind the uniform. Jim and Becky share reflections on what it meant to...

Episode 26: Unveiling the Purpose Trek – A New Counter Culture Course

02/23/2025

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Dr. Barbara Thompson as they introduce an exciting new Counter Culture Solutions course: The Purpose Trek. Designed to challenge, inspire, and reconnect participants with their true purpose, this immersive experience takes individuals into the mountains, away from distractions, and into a journey of self-discovery.

Joshua and Barb dive into the why behind the Purpose Trek—exploring the power of disconnecting from the noise, embracing adversity, and using the Hero’s Journey framework to f...

Episode 25: End of Year Wrap-Up...and Aliens

12/30/2024

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans as they dive into an exciting end-of-year wrap-up discussion. Together, they reflect on some of the most memorable moments and milestones of 2024, while also sharing a glimpse of what’s ahead.

JD and Johnny kick things off with updates on Sharp Top CrossFit's impressive new building, set to open in spring 2025, and the community impact this expansion will bring. They then revisit the highlights of the 2024 Hero Games, honoring the legacy of SGT Robert Sanchez and celebrating camaraderie and resilience.

The conversation ta...

Episode 24: Counter Culture Solutions' Violent Encounter Survival Course

12/23/2024

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel, founder and CEO of Counter Culture Solutions, and Barbara Thompson, Operational Psychologist at Counter Culture Solutions, as they dive into an engaging conversation about the upcoming Violent Encounter Survival Course. Taking place on January 18th, 2025, at SharpTop CrossFit in Bedford, VA, this course is designed to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate dangerous situations.

In this episode, JD and Barb explore the purpose behind the course, the type of participants it’s geared toward, and the core concepts it covers. From developing a resilient mi...

Episode 23: "After the Storm" Hurricane Helene in Appalachia

10/11/2024

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join 20-year Green Beret and Ranger JD as he breaks down the impact of Hurricane Helene on the Appalachian region.

Drawing from personal experience, JD offers a unique perspective on how both civilians and government responded to the storm. We’ll examine the challenges faced, the actions taken, and the critical lessons we can apply to better prepare for future disasters. Whether you're interested in disaster preparedness, leadership in crisis, or the real-world consequences of natural disasters, this episode delivers invaluable insights on resilience in the face of nature’s fury...

Episode 22: "Remember SGT Robert Sanchez", w/ Gold Star Mother and Brother, Wendy and Logan Holland

09/02/2024

In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Mother and Brother, Wendy and Logan Holland. SGT Robert Sanchez was Killed in Action on 01 October, 2009 in Zharay District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:<...

Episode 21: "Counter Culture Solutions", HGC's New Training and Mentoring LLC

06/24/2024

We've started something new, and we think you're gonna love it!

Are you looking to become a more capable and confident person? Are you interested in learning skills from former Special Operators and successful entrepreneurs that may save your life or your career?

Yah, we figured you would. That's why we started Counter Culture Solutions, our new training and mentoring company geared towards helping you become the best version of yourself.

Enjoy.

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Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture...

Episode 20: "Life is Shitty and Beautiful", w/ Logan Lewis, Black Flag Nation

06/10/2024

Ever feel like it's hard to feel happy? We get it. While the pursuit of happiness is an inalienable right, happiness itself is not inherently available to everyone. Happiness is a spectrum and we all feel it differently.

This impromptu conversation between JD, Willie, and third-time guest, Logan Lewis, dives deep into the pursuit of happiness while living with trauma.

Like always, get ready to shift gears between laughter and serious dialogue.

Enjoy.

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The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter C...

Q/A Episode #1: Depression, "Something you want, but don't have", 2024 Hero Games, and our new LLC.

01/28/2024

Questions from the PEOPLE!

1. Depression and how I handled it.

2. Our new LLC: Mountain/Youth Survival, Leadership and Culture Consulting, Purpose Finding Treks, and Violent Encounter Prevention and Survival.

3. "What is something you want, but don't have?"

4. 2024 Hero Games

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HGC Shorts Episode #6: "Gratitude Adjustment"

01/01/2024

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is changing your perspective to find gratitude everywhere.

Links to articles referenced during episode:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301826526_Does_gratitude_writing_improve_the_mental_health_of_psychotherapy_clients_Evidence_from_a_randomized_controlled_trial

2. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/#neuroscience

Support the show

Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/

HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/

HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/

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The Catalyst Collective Instagram

HGC Shorts Episode #5: "Stop Waiting"

11/27/2023

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is finding your purpose. Stop waiting for it to find you.

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HGC Shorts Episode #4: "For Peace"

10/30/2023

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is the duality of PEACE and WAR.

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HGC Shorts Episode #3: "Burn the Ships"

10/23/2023

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is WIN or DIE. Burn the ships, and let 'er rip tater chip!

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HGC Shorts Episode #2: "Money is Not a Core Value"

10/16/2023

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is prioritizing SERVICE over MONEY. Money is NOT a core value.

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HGC Shorts Episode #1: "Take the Compliment"

10/08/2023

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is being content with where you are, while staying hungry for improvement.

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Episode 19: "War is a Drug", w/ Former Army Ranger, Angel Cortes

09/05/2023

The boys are back in town! In this episode, all three HG Podcast hosts - JD, Johnny, and Willie - sit down with former Army Ranger and owner of OG Pumpkin, Angel Cortes, to discuss some hard hitting topics.

We talk WAR STORIES, survivor's guilt, Angel's kidney donation, ketamine therapy, and leaving your mark on your community.

Grab some tissues, crack a beer, and get ready to laugh your ass off.

Angel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelgcortes175/

OG Pumpkin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_og_pumpkin/
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Episode 18: "Remember SSG Jason Dahlke", w/ Gold Star Wife, Niki Dahlke

08/09/2023

In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Wife, Niki Dahlke. SSG Jason Dahlke was Killed in Action during Objective Berlin on 29 August, 2009 in Paktika Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.

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Episode 17: "Starve The Ego", w/ Army Ranger, Logan Lewis

06/21/2023

In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with return guest, Army Ranger, Logan Lewis. You may remember Logan from Episode 14 where we talked Ranger Regiment, Afghanistan, and the death of his Squad Leader SSG Kevin Pape. If you haven't listened, head there now!

As for this one, we talk leadership; empathy, burnout, ego, good leaders and bad leaders.

If you're looking for an in depth conversation about leadership philosophy, this one's for you.

0:00 Introduction

3:27 Good Leader Experience

8:47 Ranger Regiment Leadership

54:38 <...

Episode 16: "Living is the Most Punk Shit I've Ever Done", w/ Former Green Beret, Zack Garner

05/23/2023

In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with return guest, Zack Garner. You may remember Zack from Episode 11 where we heard his story of trauma and recovery.

Life has it's ups and downs, and Zack is now enjoying a series of fortunate events. He's fresh off the 7x Project where he travelled across the world visiting 6 of 7 continents for a series of runs, swims, and sky dives collectively with the team involved. After that he joined Task Force Dagger for a MIA dive off the coast of Saipan, attempting to recover the remains of WWII Service M...

Episode 15: "Be Extraordinary", w/ Bad Ronald

05/09/2023

In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with Bad Ronald, the man who made the man behind Hero Games Charity. This is not your typical episode.

If you're struggling to find your purpose, this episode is for you. Enjoy!

0:00-6:52 Introduction
6:52-28:05 Growing Up in the 60’s-‘70s
28:05-41:35 Doing Extra
41:35-53:49 Nails in Tires
53:49-1:08:45 Faith
1:08:45-1:14:48 Getting Through Failures
1:14:48-1:25:15 Snow Cones and Butt Whoopins’
1:25:15-1:32:00 Girlfriends, Cops, and Grace
1:32:00-1:43:47 Watching Your Son Go To War
1:43:47- 2:05...

Episode 14: "Train for Tomorrow's War" w/ Logan Lewis, Black Flag Nation

04/25/2023

In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with former 1/75 Ranger, Logan Lewis, to discuss life in the Ranger Regiment, the tragic death of his Squad Leader, SSG Kevin Pape, Ranger Indoc, and the mission of his organization, Black Flag Nation. Buckle up, suckaz!
0:00-2:25 Introduction
2:25-7:05 Baby Lou/Joining the Army
7:05-45:09 Haters and Supporters
45:09-1:10:26 Life in the 75th Ranger Regiment
1:10:26-1:21:20 War Stories (Suicide Vest Man and Peek-a-Boo)
1:21:20-1:43:13 Ranger Indoctrination Program (RIP) / Ranger...

Episode 13: "Fuel For Your Fight", w/ Kyle Crim, Strike Force Energy

04/11/2023

In this episode, JD and Willie sit down with Kyle Crim, Business Developer at Strike Force Energy (SFE).
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Episode 12: "Remember SGT Jon Peney", w/ Gold Star Mother, Sue Peney and Active Duty Army Ranger Todd Fingerlos

07/20/2022

SGT Jonathan Kelly Lee Peney, a Combat Medic in 2nd Platoon, Delta Company, 1st Ranger Battalion, was Killed in Action (KIA) on June 1st, 2010 while coming to the aid of one of his wounded Rangers.

We sit down with his mother, Sue Peney, and his mentor, SFC Todd Fingerlos, to talk about the man Jon was.

This episode is full of emotion. From from the story of how Jon died, to the emotional roller coaster associated with being a Gold Star Family, we promise to make you cry.

This episode is intended to...

Episode 11: "Hard as Woodpecker Lips" w/ Former Green Beret, Zack Garner

06/22/2022

Just a year ago Zack was blind, partially paralyzed, heavily medicated, and slowly dying. Today he sits down with JD to talk about his journey from the trenches to the mountain peaks.

Zack is a former Green Beret and DoD Contractor, and is now the Vice President of Tactical Relief. Tactical Relief is a CBD company who is exploring non-pharmaceutical solutions to Traumatic Brain Injury, Post-Traumatic Stress, and Anxiety.

Zack has experienced an enormous amount of adversity from being medically retired from the US Army due to epilepsy, to being hit by a car, recovering, a...

Episode 10: "Mountain Survival Challenge Intel Drop"

06/07/2022

In this episode, JD starts with a message regarding mental health and how Hero Games Charity is affecting it's supporters.

Later, JD shares details regarding the upcoming Mountain Survival Challenge, including some secrets that can only be found in this episode. Those secrets will undoubtedly provide favor to competitors who listen.

JD finishes the episode with future plans and the way ahead for Hero Games Charity.

Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero...

Episode 9: "Carrying the Fire", w/ Special Forces Operator, Brett S.

05/24/2022

You are not a victim of your circumstances unless you choose to be. Brett's story of childhood trauma is one for the horror films, but he didn't let it define him. After years of mental and physical abuse, Brett found who he was through hard work and determination. We hope that his story inspires you to be the best version of yourself.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

...

Episode 8: "25 Years and a Wake Up", w/ Former Special Forces Operator, Mike Reagan

05/10/2022

Mike Reagan is a 25-year Special Forces Operator with a career full of outrageous stories. In this laughter-filled episode, we discuss his time in the 82nd Airborne Division, 2nd Infantry Division in Korea, 5th Special Forces Group (A), 10th Special Forces Group (A), USASOC, 7th Special Forces Group (A), USAJFKSWCS, National Assessment Group, Mobile Technology Repair Complex, and GoTenna.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit I...

Episode 7: "Hero Games 2022 Intel Drop"

04/26/2022

In this episode, JD conducts a Q/A answering questions regarding the 2022 Hero Games fitness competition on July 16th, 2022, honoring SGT Jonathan K. Peney.

Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Episode 6: "Chasing Submarines", w/ Korean War Veteran, Jerry Besozzi

04/12/2022

Jerry Besozzi joined the US Navy four days after graduating high school in 1951, knowing that he'd soon be engaged in the Korean War. During his three cruises to Korea, he chased enemy submarines and bombarded enemy positions while aboard the USS Perkins, a Gearing-Class Destroyer.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's...

Episode 5: "War Scars", w/ Former Asymmetric Warfare Group Operator, Mike K.

03/29/2022

JD sits down with former Asymmetric Warfare Group Operator, Mike K., to discuss the war scars that are unseen, and the stigma associated with seeking help with mental health while in the military.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

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Episode 4: "Combat Product Design", w/ Edgar Sherman, CEO of Edgar Sherman Design

03/15/2022

We sit down with Edgar Sherman of Edgar Sherman Design to discuss his role in increasing the survivability and lethality of his primary end user, the American Special Operations Soldier.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Episode 3: "My Family is Trapped in Afghanistan", w/ Former Afghan Interpreter, "Ali"

03/01/2022

We sit down with former Afghan Interpreter, "Ali", to discuss the dire situation his family faces in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Episode 2: "Who We Are", w/ The Hero Games Crew

02/15/2022

The four founding members of Hero Games Charity, two of which are the owners of Sharp Top CrossFit in Bedford, VA, discuss "Who We Are".
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Episode 1: "Escape from Afghanistan", w/ Former Afghan Special Forces Soldier, "RPG"

02/01/2022

We sit down with former Afghan Special Forces Soldier, "RPG", and discuss his recent escape from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
Support the show
The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website

Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram