REAL ONES with Jon Bernthal

Former Marine and elite protection specialist Sir Byron Rodgers joins Jon to discuss his remarkable journey from surviving multiple IED explosions in Iraq to becoming one of the most respected figures in executive protection. Byron shares the near-death experience that transformed his life, his battle with PTSD, and how he found purpose in protection work. Their conversation covers the true meaning of being a warrior in modern times, raising resilient children, and why physical discipline builds character. Byron offers hard-earned wisdom about channeling warrior energy into service and the critical difference between having strength and having power.

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NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas sits down with Jon for an honest conversation about his journey from second-round pick to NBA superstar. Arenas shares stories about his father's influence, the mental toughness that drove his success, and his unique perspective on leadership in sports. Now focused on youth basketball development, he offers insights on the current state of amateur athletics and raising the next generation of players.

Check out ⁠Gil's Arena on YouTube⁠.

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Ashley Stock shares her family's journey after her daughter Stevie passed away from brain cancer. She talks about the decision to bring Stevie home for end-of-life care, how she and her husband told their sons, and the impact of grief on their marriage. Ashley and Jon discuss helping children process loss, facing public judgment while sharing their story online, and the role of youth sports as an emotional outlet. They explore how tragedy reshaped their views on parenting, relationships, and life, highlighting the importance of honest conversations about grief.

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Jamie Lee Curtis joins Jon Bernthal for a conversation that begins with Jamie discussing her role in the film "Borderlands," touching on the unusual character trait of objectum sexuality. The discussion then shifts to Jamie's personal journey with addiction and recovery. She candidly shares her experience of realizing she had a problem with opioids and her decision to get sober. Jamie details the pivotal moments that led to this decision, and she explores the impact of recovery on her life, discussing how it has changed her perspective and helped her understand herself and her family better.

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Jon Bernthal speaks with Will Jimeno, a former Port Authority police officer who survived being trapped for 13 hours under the World Trade Center rubble on September 11, 2001. Jimeno shares his extraordinary story of survival, his challenging journey of physical and emotional recovery, and how he found purpose in the aftermath of tragedy.

Key topics include:

Will's experience as a rookie cop on 9/11 The collapse of the towers and 13 hours trapped underground The rescue operation and Will's last radio call Battling PTSD and the long road to recovery Finding meaning and helping others after trauma Lessons on resilience...

Dr. Nick Bernthal, Jon's brother and orthopedic oncologist, returns to REAL ONES. 

This episode covers:

Challenges of treating cancer patients and delivering difficult news How personal loss influences life and medical practice Current state of cancer research and drug discovery Balancing a high-pressure career with family life Issues of diversity and access in healthcare and education Recent experiences with crime and community support in Southern California

The brothers discuss these topics, offering insights into modern medicine, personal growth, and current social issues.

Note: This episode contains discussions of cancer, loss, and medical procedures t...

Kevin Vance interviews Karl "Gus" Gustavson, a retired Navy SEAL with 22 years of service. Gustavson candidly discusses military brotherhood, sacrifice, and the transition to civilian life. This conversation offers unique insights into long-term military service and its lasting impact, and is the first in a new series with Kevin Vance profiling individuals living inspiring lives dedicated to service.

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Kevin - @kevinlvance

Gus - @kgus245

Deborah Ann Woll talks candidly with Jon Bernthal about her journey in Hollywood. She discusses childhood bullying, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and maintaining authenticity as an actor. Woll opens up about self-doubt, the impact of parenthood, and her passion for Dungeons & Dragons. This conversation offers an honest look at the realities of life in the spotlight and the personal growth that comes with it.

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In this gripping episode of Real Ones, guest host Richard Cabral sits down with "Primo" Paulie for an unfiltered conversation about life on the streets of East LA, battling generational addiction, and finding redemption. From harrowing prison tales to the transformative power of fatherhood, this episode is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. Discover how cultural roots and unexpected moments of clarity can pave the way to a life of purpose.

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Join Richard Cabral as he sits down with Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries, in this inspiring episode of RESILIENCE. Explore the transformative journey from gang life to community leadership, and discover how healing-centered approaches are changing lives. Father Greg shares profound insights from his decades of work, offering hope and practical wisdom for anyone interested in social justice and personal transformation.

⁠Follow the new podcast "Resilience with Richard Cabral".⁠

Key moments:

00:05:00 - The origins of Homeboy Industries 00:15:14 - Shift from job-centric to healing-centric approach 00:30:00 - Challenges of d...