Rebuilding The Beast

#86 - Season Finale: Reflecting On This Season’s Beasts

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 12:00:00 -0800

Welcome to the season 3 finale of Rebuilding the Beast! On this episode I reflect on all the guests we’ve had this season and the things I learned from them. We also dive deep into where my life is headed and the future I imagine for the podcast.

Your guy’s support means the world to me and I’m so glad to have you all on this journey. But I need your help… if you’d like the podcast to keep going, I need you to rate us, follow us on all platforms, subscribe, and leave us reviews. It truly does help! We have an exciting season planned and just need y’all’s help to accomplish it.

Thank you for your support. Stay blessed, and I’ll see you soon.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#85 - Storytime with Fes - Farmer With Two Buckets

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Hello my fellow beasts! As our season starts winding down, I wanted to share this quick story called the Farmer With Two Buckets. It’s a great reminder that even though we may feel broken or have flaws, we can still inspire those around us in a positive way.

I created this podcast for you to get inspired and have tips as we all journey through our own rebuilds. Surround yourself with others that inspire you and uplift you. And remember that you are a BEAST!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#84 - Alexa Towersey: Sobriety, Fitness, and Mental Health

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Trigger Warning: Suicide

Our next guest is joining us all the way from Australia, today we have Alexa Towersey! Alexa, also known as “Action Alexa,” is a celebrity trainer, nutritionist, writer, sports model, and mental health advocate. This woman is a literal BEAST! After being bullied for being too skinny, the gym became her safe place as she developed strength both mentally and physically.

Alexa has had many turning points throughout her life. She is 14 years sober after losing her father to alcoholism. She almost lost her mother to attempted suicide, then suddenly later to a lung injury. Then after needing hip surgery, Alexa died on the operating table and needed to be resuscitated 4 times.

That’s not even all that we cover. We talk more about

· Growing up in a military family where she didn’t have a “quitters” mentality.

· Her mother being diagnosed with a mental illness then becoming the sole caretaker of her after her father turned to alcohol.

· Her relationship to her father and how she turned to alcohol as well.

· The decision to become sober after losing her father.

· How becoming sober was the hardest thing she had done.

· Finding a purpose that gets you out of bed every day.

· Witnessing her mother’s attempted suicide and the misconceptions around mental health.

· Being fully present with someone.

· The one regret she has in life.

· How she became a trainer the sense of fulfillment it gives her.

· Injuring her hip and needing to get surgery.

· The reason she had to be resuscitated 4 times while on the operating table.

· The moment of clarity she had when she had awoken.

· Writing and why she has been single for the past 10 years.

I felt like I had a therapy session by the end of this interview. I’m so grateful for how open and vulnerable Alexa was and I hope you enjoyed this episode.

Want to keep up with Alexa? Follow her on Instagram!

You can also check out Alexa’s website here.

Want to read the article Alexa wrote? Click here!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#83 - Xeana Kamalani Dung: Discovering Your ‘Why’

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Let’s say Aloha to our next guest Xeana Kamalani - aka, Kama! Kama is a model, actress, Philanthropist, founder of Kama Training, and is the first pro league pitcher in softball that’s from Hawaii. And being only 25 years old, she has accomplished so much.

Today we cover,

· What growing up in Hawaii is really like and how her hometown, Makaha, would be best described as the ghetto.

· The hardest part growing up poor.

· How her parents really pushed her to venture outside of Makaha and pursue her studies and softball.

· Getting full scholarships to Fresno State then UC Berkely to be able to play softball.

· The decision to continue with softball and what it means to her to be the first ever pro softball player from Hawaii.

· The biggest frustrations of being a female pro athlete.

· Almost losing her mom to a stroke and realizing the army she had supporting her.

· Not letting other’s opinions affect her.

· What Kama Training is.

I am amazed by Kama and how well she has her head on her shoulders. She is an inspiration and I can’t wait to see where else life will take her.

Want to keep up with Kama? Follow her on Instagram!

Learn more about Kama Training here.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#82 - Tara Mackey: Addiction, Natural Medicine, and Motherhood

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0800

Trigger Warning: Suicide

Our next guest has been a long time coming… today we have my good friend Tara Mackey on the podcast! Tara is the CEO of “The Organic Life,” founder of “Genetix,” Author of Cured By Nature and Wild Habits, a musician, a scientist, and then her most important job – a solo mother. She’s on the journey of always pursing her interests and using her knowledge to help others. But like so many of us, all of this came with trials and tribulations.

At a young age, Tara witnessed her mother overdose twice, was adopted by her grandparent, then soon started to be prescribed several different medications. Resulting her to be on 14 different drugs at one point. After a major life event in her 20s, Tara decided it was time to gain control back over her life, and quit cold turkey on all her medications.

So today, we cover

· How this is Tara’s first interview in over 2 years due to the birth of her son.

· Growing up and witnessing her mom overdose two times by the age of 6, and the moment her grandparents swooped in and adopted her.

· Remembering every single detail about her childhood, being grateful that it happened, but not wanting that life for her son or any child for that matter.

· Finding forgiveness after starting therapy at the age of 13.

· The reason she started being prescribed medicinal drugs and how it got to the point where she was on 14 all at once.

· Why she decided to quick her medication cold turkey and how she almost died.

· Working as a scientist in a 9-5 where she didn’t feel fulfilled.

· Losing her best friend to suicide at the age of 24 causing her to shift the way things were going in her life.

· Turning to her God given gifts to bring not only joy to herself, but also others.

· Her own suicide attempt and recognizing she wasn’t ready to die.

· Her blog “The Organic Life” and how that turned into a book deal.

· Creating a DIY breast oil and then launching her company “Genetix” from it.

· Her proudest accomplishment.

· If she still thinks medicine is important.

I feel so thankful for Tara’s vulnerability. She has a beautiful soul and I’m lucky to call her my friend.

Want to keep up with Tara? Follow her on Instagram!

Check out “The Organic Life” and “Genetix” while you’re at it.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#81- Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf: “Stand” ft. Joslyn Rose Lyons

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0800

You guys, I am so excited about our next guest. Today on the podcast we the legendary Mahmoud Abdul Rauf! Mahmoud is a former NBA player who has played for the Denver Nuggets, the Sacrament Kings, and Vancouver Grizzles. He is one of the greatest players in the game, even while living with a form of Tourettes.

We have seen his name in headlines often and not just for his incredible free throw shooters. In 1996, he made headlines for not standing up during the national anthem as a form of protest that ultimately lead to a temporary suspension.

To perfectly encapsulate his life, on February 3rd, a documentary called Stand will be airing on Showtime directed by our co-guest today Joslyn Rose Lyons.

Together with Mahmoud and Joslyn we cover

· How Mahmoud was comfortable enough to share his story in his new documentary.

· Joslyn’s experience working with Mahmoud and what it was like to talk to the people that know him.

· Growing up in Mississippi and how your environment shapes who you are.

· Getting opportunities to go to Basketball camps as a teenager, then how Mississippi withheld those opportunities from him.

· Getting diagnosed with Tourettes and how that helped and almost killed him on the court.

· Witnessing racism and his first-hand experience with the KKK.

· Why he chose LSU, excelling there, and then ultimately going to school with Shaq.

· What it was like not growing up with a father and how he tried to track him down.

· The pressure of being the 3rd draft pick for the Denver Nuggets.

· The anxiety and depression he experienced after moving to a new city and almost moving back to Mississippi.

· The decision to convert to Islam and how fasting improved his game.

· The decision to not stand during the national anthem and what he thinks of Colin Kaepernick.

· The affects 9/11 had on the Muslim community.

· Life after basketball.

There is so much more we hit on this episode and so much more I wish we did, so you already know I’m going to have him on for a part 2!

Be sure to tune into Stand Friday, February 3rd at 9pm EST.

Want to keep up with Mahmoud? Follow him on Instagram!

Want to keep up with Joslyn? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#80 - Karly Ashworth: Big Brother, Hypnotherapy, and Finding Purpose

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0800

We have a beautiful, inspiring episode this week my fellow beasts! My friend Karly Ashworth is our next guest. She is also our first ever reality tv star that we’ve had on the podcast.

After her time on the UK’s Big Brother, Karly decided to leave the world of fame and climb the ladder of the corporate world. After finding success there, feeling burned out, and then the pandemic, Karly decided to follow a new career path when hypnotherapy accidently fell into her lap. So now, she excelling as a hypnotherapist and mindset coach while also being the host of Soul Family Podcast.

Today we cover

· A post she had breaking down the timeline of her life and how she kept coming back to the word, refocus.

· Being born in Scotland and how her grandfather taught her how to lean into love.

· Losing her job and then seeing an audition for Big Brother in her hometown.

· How from a young age, she always felt there was something bigger to go towards to in life and how she thought she’d be famous one day.

· What fame meant to her and what it could look like for her life.

· Her time on Big Brother and how no one is being real.

· The price of finding this new fame and it not being what she was expecting.

· Her friend talking about this job position at a financial firm in Edinburgh and how she should go for it.

· Having to start back at the bottom of this new job, working her way to the top, then the feeling of burnout and overextending herself.

· Becoming a hypnotherapist by accident after taking a transformation coaching course.

· The stigma attached to hypnotherapy and what it means to be a hypnotherapist.

· Success stories she’s had.

· How to find purpose in the world.

Karly left me speechless at some many different points in this episode. The advice she gives, I’m taking with me to the grave. She radiates positivity and empathy and I hope you could feel that too.

Want to keep up with Karly? Follow her on Instagram!

You can also learn more about Karly here.

Don’t forget to search for the Soul Family Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#79 - Lana Shay: Erotic Dancing, Sexuality, and Psychedelics

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0800

This week on Rebuilding the Beast we are breaking down the stigma of the sex industry and the use of psychedelics. I ask that you come in with an open mind and heart and be ready to learn something, because I for sure did! With that being said, our guest today is Lana Shay! Lana is a conscious sex worker, the co-founder of Psychedelic Times, and author of Erotic Hustle: Redefining Sin Through Sacred Sexuality. Today, Lana shares her journey as an exotic dancer in the sex industry as well as the visions she has received using psychedelics as plant medicine.

You’ll also hear

· How she entered the world of sex work.

· Her upbringing by her progressive thinking family in the Midwest.

· How she was introduced to psychedelics and the moment she turned to them for help instead of partying.

· What tantra is and how she got into it.

· Growing up with parents who both suffered through mental illness and the abuse she endured.

· What she has learned about dancers working in the sex industry.

· The type of men that come into these clubs and what they can do better.

· Nerves when she first went onstage and then the moment that she felt in her element.

· The need to legalize sex work and what others can do to change their perspective.

· Finding a partner who does not judge her for her work.

· What she hopes everyone gains from reading her book.

I hope you enjoy this episode and can learn something from it. Really grateful to have someone like Lana in my life who is so open, vulnerable, and willing to answer a variety of questions.

If you want to keep up with Lana, follow her on Instagram!

Want to buy her book Erotic Hustle: Redefining Sin Through Sacred Sexuality? Buy it here.

Also be sure to check out Psychedelic Times.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#78 - Caity Lotz: Acting, Directing, and Getting Married

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0800

We’ve got a special episode this week, my good friend Caity Lotz is our next guest! Caity is an actress, dancer, director, and stunt woman. You may have even seen her on shows like Mad Men, Arrow, and Legends. Recently, Caity got engaged, so get ready to hear a loved-up episode!

Today we talk about

· How she met her fiancé Kyle and how she finally understands the phrase “when you know, you know.”

· What work she did for herself to finally get to a place where she could accept love.

· The difficulties of the pandemic and having to isolate.

· Using meditation and weed to help her reflect and look introspectively.

· Falling in love with dancing and who influenced her the most as a kid.

· Getting dancing jobs on movies and TV shows and realizing her desire is to be where the actors were.

· Learning how to deal with time management and balancing relationships.

· New things she’s experienced that has brought her joy.

· What’s she’s looking forward to.

· Getting ready to get married.

I had too much fun being able to chat to Caity and reflect on shared memories.

Want to keep up with Caity? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#77 - Advice You’d Give Your Younger Self Part 2

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0800

Happy New Year!

To kick off the new year we have compiled all the answers this season to my favorite question, “If you could talk to your younger self, what advice would you give them?” I love looking back on the answers to these questions because they perfectly encapsulate that person’s journey of rebuilding.

Please enjoy as we reflect on these 10 guests that we’ve had this season so far.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#76 - Box Full of Kisses

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 09:00:00 -0800

Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanza, and a Happy New Year! This week we’re taking it easy as we get ready to enter the New Year. Today you’ll hear the story, Box Full of Kisses. It’s a beautiful reminder that love is the most precious gift in the world, so hold onto your loved ones tight and check in with them.

Now, before you read this next section, take a listen to the episode.

Did you listen?

Great!

As you heard, we are doing a giveaway and here’s all the information again, written out for you.

1. Win a signed photo of me, a Rebuilding the Beast t-shirt, and a golden state warriors t-shirt.

2. To enter, prove that you are subscribed to the podcast (either YouTube, Apple, Spotify, or wherever else you listen), leave a comment, leave a like or a 5 start rating, and make sure you follow us on Instagram or TikTok.

3. Send those screenshots over to contactrebuildingthebeast@gmail.com.

4. Winner will be announced over on my Instagram January 1st, 2023.

Can’t wait to connect with you all!

Happy Holidays!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#75 - Thomas Vu: Finding A Rose Among the Thorns

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0800

This episode was a long time coming because my good friend Thomas Vu is finally our guest here on the podcast. If you remember from season 2 of Rebuilding the Beast, I went to the Joe Dispenza retreat. Well, the person who introduced that retreat to me, was none other than Thomas! Thomas is a master meditator and so I fully trusted him in attending this retreat, and I am so glad did.

Other than a master meditator, Thomas is also a father, tech investor, video game builder, quantum healer, and just won an Emmy for a show he produced! And on this episode, we talk about -

· Our own experiences at the Joe Dispenza retreat and what we gained from it.

· What the benefits for meditating are.

· How Thomas meditates anywhere from 1 to 2 hours daily in part of his self-care routine.

· What it means to have his daughters meditate with him.

· Being born in Vietnam right after the war and coming to America on a boat.

· Climbing Kilimanjaro and winning an Emmy for his Netflix show Arcane.

· What it means to be a tech investor and key things he looks for in people who come to him.

· Thanking his mom for his love of video games.

· Building the world of video games like the all-time favorite, Sims.

· What it means to be Asian American and prejudice he has faced.

· How we need to be the change we like to see in the world.

I’m so thankful that Thomas came into my life. He dropped some major facts on this episode and I hope you gained something from him.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#74 - Marcellus Wiley: From Compton to an Ivy League to the NFL

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Buckle up because this week we have Marcellus Wiley on the podcast! After growing up in Compton and South Central Los Angeles, Marcellus didn’t let where he grew up define how his life was going to pan out. He would soon go to Columbia University to further his education as well as play football. Then after being a second-round pick in the 1997 NFL Draft, Marcellus would soon go on to be a defensive end for the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, and Jacksonville Jaguars. He then went on to fulfill his dream of being a sports broadcaster and host of the More To It podcast on iHeart radio.

Today we talk about

· How Marcellus is the biggest home body I know and how fatherhood brought that on.

· Growing up in Compton and how he knew it was important to define his own success.

· Golf being the first sport he tried out because of his father. Then being told to try football based on his speed and ability to catch things coming his way.

· Choosing an Ivy League school because he recognized the importance of having great academic representation, and could play football wherever.

· How he learned to accept that he was smart and let his inner nerd shine.

· His biggest cheerleaders are the ones between his ears.

· Having to take a year off from football in college to not only better his academics, but also his mind and body.

· Getting drafted and how the world and people around him changed.

· Learning to say no without guilt.

· Broadcasting being his biggest passion but he joined when it wasn’t “cool.”

· The nerves of starting something new.

· Meeting his wife and how his world and priorities changed after having children.

I’m so thankful for all the time Marcellus gave us. I gained so much from this episode, and I hope you did too.

Be sure to tune in to Marcellus’s podcast More To It!

Want to keep up with Marcellus? Follow him on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#73 - Kevin Olusola: Pentatonix, Faith, and Managing Time

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Next up on our holiday special is my Nigerian brother Kevin Olusola! You may know him from the Grammy award winning acapella group “Pentatonix” or his own podcast that he cohosts called “Imagine Faith Talk.”

Kevin has a beautiful soul and we got deep on this episode today. We talk about,

· Growing up and what it means to be an immigrant as well as a half Nigerian, half Caribbean in Kentucky.

· How his parents shielded him from the prejudice around him.

· How is life turned out differently than what his family originally hoped for, but the support that have for him now.

· Going to top schools like Yale and learning Chinese, the cello, and beatboxing all at the same time.

· How his teacher pushed to get over his fear and recognize his gifts. Resulting in him creating a world where beatboxing meets classical music.

· How he joined Pentatonix a day before the group auditioned for Sing Off.

· Winning the competition but then getting dropped by their label soon afterwards.

· How they didn’t let being dropped stop them and started to put out their own content on YouTube. Soon, they recognized they could use Christmas as a time to put out an album.

· The struggles they went through as a group and how it wasn’t always positive.

· Getting married and what fatherhood is like while on the road.

· How he makes goals for the month to properly prioritize his time.

· Favorite moments from his career and how he still gets nervous.

We cover so much on this episode and didn’t even hit all that I wanted to talk about. So, you already know there will be a part 2! But in the meantime, be sure to check out Pentatonix’s new album Holidays Around the World, see them on tour, or watch their holiday special PTX Around the World on Disney Plus now!

Want to keep up with Kevin? Follow him on Instagram!

Want to learn more about Pentatonix? Click here!

Want to listen to Kevin’s Podcast, check out Imagine Faith Talk.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#72 - Chloe Arnold: Dancing Through Life

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0800

We’re kickstarting this holiday season with my good friend Chloe Arnold! Chloe is a multi-talented dancer, an Emmy nominated choreographer, a featured dancer in the Syncopated Ladies, and so much more! She has also gone viral on YouTube with 100 million views for the Syncopated Ladies “Viral Tap Band” to Beyoncé. Her love of tap dancing has brought upon countless opportunities, and she has even taught me a few moves. Most recently, she choregraphed the new Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell Christmas movie Spirited. Out now on Apple TV!

Today we talk about

· Growing up and not having the financial means to support her dreams, but her mom “making something out of nothing”

· Her mom teaching Chloe and her sister Maude how to be independent at such a young age.

· The long list of jobs her and her family had to have to support themselves out in New York.

· Getting a full ride to Harvard but making the decision to instead go to Columbia.

· Thinking that she had to be a lawyer but the moment she discovered that you could have a career in dance.

· What drew her to tap dancing as well as the origin story of tap.

· Auditioning for Debbie Allen and the role she has had in her life.

· Moving to LA and getting the idea to start the Syncopated Ladies after joining an improv group.

· Things she has yet to achieve and where she sees the Syncopated Ladies going.

You guys, Chloe is so inspiring and I feel honored to have her in my life. If you haven’t already seen Spirited, go check it out! You’ll get right in the mood for Christmas. You may even spot her in it.

Want to keep up with Chloe? Follow her on Instagram!

Also follow the Syncopated Ladies on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#71 - Crystal Adesanya: Immigrant from Nigeria to CEO

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Buckle up because we’ve got my Nigerian sister Crystal Ola Adesanya! Crystal is an entrepreneur, on the Forbes 30 under 30, and CEO of Kiira Health. Crystal’s hard work, determination, and confidence have gotten her so far in life, something that she thanks her Nigerian upbringing and 5 older brothers for. And I have full confidence that after listening to this episode, you’ll feel inspired.

Today we cover everything from

· Meeting her husband and how he’s her biggest inspiration.

· Having health problems and feeling like there was no one she could talk to, leading her to the idea of her company, Kiira Health.

· College and different career paths she thought she’d take before deciding to be an entrepreneur.

· How there is not much diversity in the medical field and the importance of having black doctors.

· Companies she had before Kiira Health.

· Winning pitch competitions and her techniques at creating the best pitch.

· How raising funds as a black woman, and for black people in general can be quite difficult.

· Growing up in Nigeria and how boarding school taught her hard work and determination.

· What it was like growing up with 5 older brothers.

· The mentality of always wanting to be the best.

It was so much fun catching up with my friend. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as me.

Want to keep up with Crystal? Follow her on Instagram!

Also check out Kiira Health!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#70 - Corey Phelps: Weight Loss, Homelessness, and Being Queer

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Welcome back everyone! Today on the show we have Corey Phelps. I stumbled across Corey’s Instagram a few months ago and instantly knew I wanted to have him on the podcast. Corey is a “bad bitch” (as he would say), but also a leader in body positivity, owning his queerness, and an advocate for mental health and homelessness. You may have watched him on the hit TLC show Too Large or seen him on YouTube sharing his weight loss journey.

Corey’s story is a beautiful example on how to be a Beast. You’ll hear all about

· When he first started his weight loss journey and was at 664 pounds, to how he’s now lost over 350 pounds.

· His relationship with food and the bullying he went through at school.

· How he let go of what people thought about him and how he was able to do defend himself.

· Coming out as gay and feeling support from most of his family, but not his mother.

· His mom being diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder, and the abuse he endured.

· His own diagnosis of Bipolar disorder.

· How he became homeless and the journey of getting out of it.

· Signing up for Too Large after a family member sent him the information.

· His time on the show and how he didn’t allow the show to make him look weak.

· How getting surgery was just a tool to help in his weight loss journey but it’s mainly how you keep up with the new goals you’ve created.

· How he changed his relationship with food and how eats healthy and is no longer afraid to work out in front of others.

There's honestly so much more we talked about and I can’t wait for you to hear. I’m honored that Corey came onto the podcast and shared his story. I can’t wait to see what else life has in store for him.

Want to keep up with Corey? Follow him on Instagram and subscribe to his YouTube.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#69 - Alexa Mansour: Hollywood and Knowing Your Worth

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0800

TW: Eating Disorder

Welcome back! This week we have the very talented Alexa Mansour! Alexa is an actress who you’ve probably seen on The Walking Dead and soon, Avalon. After struggling with an eating disorder that caused her to end up in the ICU, Alexa decided it was time to regain control over her life and start putting herself first.

Today, you’ll hear all about

· Alexa’s life growing up with and Egyptian father and Mexican mother.

· Traditions her family would uphold.

· How her entire school life she was bullied and how it left her being shy as an adult.

· The moment her mom put her into acting class to try and help her open up.

· What the world of acting looks like and how sometimes it feels too good to be true.

· Booking The Walking Dead.

· Who she looks up to the most and what life was like being an older sibling.

· Developing an eating disorder after her parents split, thinking she had control it, but then ending up in the ICU in 2020.

· The moment she realized her worth.

Alexa was such an amazing guest and I feel so lucky to be able to call her my friend.

Want to keep up with Alexa? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to check out Avalon coming soon to ABC.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#68 - India Shawn: Singing, Vulnerability, and Pushing Through

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to Rebuilding the Beast! Today we have India Shawn. India is a singer, songwriter, and my good friend! After growing up singing in the church, singing backup for artists like Anderson Paak, Chris Brown, and Harry Styles, India began to pursue her own career. And just recently, she released her debut album, “Before We Go Deeper.”

We talk about so much on this episode…

· What life was like growing up singing in the church.

· The moment she knew she wanted to be a singer.

· How she met her first manager walking out of a Best Buy in Atlanta.

· Booking her first gig at a club when she was 16 years old.

· How she confronts her anxieties and the voice in her head that tells her she can’t do this.

· Lessons learned from the artists she sang back up for.

· The creation of her album “Before We Go Deeper.”

· Dating!

· Biggest misconceptions about the music industry and how things have changed.

· The difficult decision to move from Atlanta and back to Los Angeles.

· Having several different jobs that would allow her to continue to pursue her dreams. Even jobs that felt embarrassing at times.

· Then at one point, India even takes over the podcast!

Didn’t I tell you there was a lot? And guess what? There’s even more I didn’t mention!

This episode was so much fun and I hope you enjoyed it.

Want to keep up with India? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#67 - Wesley Hamilton: Disabled But Not Really

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to Rebuilding the Beast! Today we have Wesley Hamilton. You’ve potentially could’ve seen him on the hit Netflix show Queer Eye, or his feature in Men’s Health, or have even seen one of the countless speeches he has done. But now, he’s graced us with his presence on our show!

Wesley grew up on the east side of Kansas City, where many young African Americans struggled to find opportunity outside of the streets. Back in 2012, 5 days after his 24th birthday, and just recently winning sole custody of his daughter, Wesley was shot multiple times, paralyzing him below the waist. And with the help of his daughter, Wesley found a new purpose for life.

Throughout the episode we cover,

· Life in Kansas City and what that meant for a young Black man.

· Being in a toxic relationship and getting sole custody of his daughter.

· The day he got shot and how he never met his shooter before then.

· Life after getting shot and feeling like a burden.

· How his daughter helped realize there is more to life, which jumpstarted his career into nutrition and fitness.

· How without manifestation, he would not be where he is right now.

· Being on Queer Eye and how the show brought face to face Wesley and the man who shot him.

Wesley is a force and I feel honored to have been able to talk with him.

Want to keep up with Wesley? Follow him on Instagram!

Haven’t seen Wesley’s Queer Eye episode? Check out Season 4 episode 2 on Netflix

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#66 - Jimmer Fredette: Basketball, Mormonism, and Persevering

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 08:00:00 -0700

Welcome back to Rebuilding the Beast! Today, we have my friend Jimmer Fredette. Jimmer is a basketball player, entrepreneur, husband, father, and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

There’s so much we talk about, so let’s get into it!

● Growing up in a small town and having to hear people doubt him about wanting to be a basketball player.

● Attending Brigham Young University and what it means to be a Mormon.

● Upholding his values and then meeting his wife in college.

● Getting drafted to play for the Sacramento Kings and his debut game against the Golden State Warriors.

● How the NBA was much different than he expected and what it meant to be traded to a few different teams.

● Heading overseas to China and being a leader over there.

● What he wants life after basketball to look like and his charity Jimmerosity.

● How having children has changed him and the lessons they teach him every day.

I remember watching Jimmer back in his college days back at BYU. His drive and how he is always wanting to make himself better is so inspiring, and I hope you gained something from this episode.

Want to keep up with Jimmer? Follow him on Instagram and TikTok!

Be sure to check out his charity Jimmerosity.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#65 - Festuz Ezeli & Nicole Fox: Burning Man

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Rebuilding the beast is back, baby!!! For our season 3 premiere, I’m sitting down with my good friend Nicole who is helping me guide you through the amazing, transformative summer I had. When we last spoke, the Golden State Warriors just became NBA champions, again! And now, I have the opportunity to go back to the Bay area for my second year as an NBC broadcaster.

But before I do that, I want to share my summer with you all… On this episode, you’ll hear all about;

· My time in Africa with Rise, a summit sponsored by NBA Africa where 100 kids chosen from 42 countries, work together to try and better the world.

· My time with my family and the importance of seeing the ones who keep you grounded.

· And finally, my most favorite thing… My time at Burning Man! Nicole and I break down what Burning Man is and how it affected both of us. You’ll also hear from several people I experienced Burning Man with, and what their takeaways were.

You guys, season 3 is about to be epic! So, buckle up and get ready.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

Season 2 Finale: A Box Full of Kisses

Sat, 13 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0700

Surprise! I’m back! And another surprise, I’m taking another break. I know, I’m sorry.

This episode is our season 2 finale, and first let me say how exciting it is to have two seasons of Rebuilding the Beast! Thank you all for coming on this journey with me. It’s been amazing and I’ve learned so much from our guests, and I hope you have too.

As I say goodbye for just a little bit, I leave you with a story. It’s called A Box Full of Kisses and the moral of the story is how love is the most important thing in the world. Love and our families are things that we can sometimes take for granted, and that’s something I do not want to do. That’s why I’m taking this break. To spend time with loved ones and rebuild my own inner beast.

I can’t wait for you all to see what we have in store for season 3. To the ones who have been here since day one and to our new listeners, I love you and you guys keep me going. Thank you for everything!

Stay safe and I’ll talk to you all soon.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#64 - Jessica Ping-Wild: Succeeding With Disabilities

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Welcome back! This week we have Jessica Ping-Wild. Jessica is out here changing the game by bringing awareness for people with disabilities. In Jessica’s formative years, she was diagnosed with CHILD syndrome. A syndrome that affects the left side of her body. After going through years of bullying and struggling to find her place, Jessica is now using her voice to bring awareness in a fun, attention grabbing way. Not to mention, she’s an actress, model, writer, content creator, and world traveler. Nothing is getting in her way!

Today we talk about,

Her childhood and not finding her forever friend (that wasn’t a family member) until middle school.
Recognizing from a young age that the world doesn’t really create things with disabled people in mind.
The decision as to why she wanted to become a model and an actress. As well as the pressures she feels from industry.
The moment she hit rock bottom while attending Notre Dame for college and the deciding factor to go to therapy.
Once recognizing she’s allowed to fill up space and use her voice, she started her journey of speaking up about discrimination and the experiences she’s had.
Graduating with a BA in English literature and using the knowledge gained to amplify her voice on a larger scale. Thus, creating her blog, The Rolling Explorer.
Creating AccessibiliTEA, a segment on her blog that lists which places around the world are the most accessible.
What we can do to be an ally and the reminder that disabled people are human as well.

Jessica was an amazing guest on the podcast and I’m so glad I got to virtually meet her. She’s an inspiration and I can’t wait to see what else she’s going to accomplish.

Want to keep up with Jessica? Follow her on Instagram!

Wanna read up on her blog? Check out her Website!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#63 - Tori Hope Petersen: From Foster Care, To Mrs. Universe, to Author

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 05:00:00 -0700

We have an amazing episode for you all today! Tori Petersen is our guest here on Rebuilding the Beast. She’s a best-selling author, Mrs. Universe, a mother, a wife, and a child of the foster care system. Growing up, Tori was placed into foster care after men busted down her doors and took her and her sister. As she got older, she found out that it was for a drug bust and her mother was having mental health struggles. After in and out of about eleven homes, at the age of 18, Tori emancipated herself from the foster care system and found a forever home with her track coach.

But that’s not all we cover!

The moment she realized that she was conceived out of abuse and the trauma her mother went through.
Getting separated from her younger sister after Tori tried to report an incident at their then foster house. Teaching her unfortunately, to keep her head down and to not report things.
Building a relationship with God and how He taught her how to forgive and love others.
Good moments and families that she had in foster care and the lasting impact it gave her.
Becoming exceedingly good at track.
Creating a nonprofit called the Beloved Initiative that specializes in helping out foster care families.
Getting told to do pageants, then entering in the Mrs. Universe pageant with a mindset of winning it all, then doing just that.
Taking this new platform to continue to spread the word of God and creating awareness around the foster care system.
How her proudest achievement is becoming a wife and a mother because she never thought she’d be able to have a stable family and home life.

This episode got me emotional! Tori is so inspiring and I hope you’re able to gain something from this episode.

Want to keep up with Tori? Follow her on Instagram and TikTok!

Interested in her book Founded? Click here!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#62 - Kiera Newsome: 20 Years of Wrongful Incarceration and the Continued Fight

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 13:00:00 -0700

Our next guest’s story will make your jaw drop to the floor. In June of 2001, Kiera was incarcerated for a crime she did not commit. When did she get released? Not until almost 20 years later in April of 2020. She was only 16 years old and had her life planned out of how she wanted to break away from the mold she grew up with and create her own journey.

We cover a lot on this episode. Everything from,

Her childhood years and being the eldest of 5 children and how she shielded her younger siblings from the struggles her parents had due to being a part of gangs.
Having straight A’s and how she had the dream of wanting to be an attorney or a child psychologist when she got older.
At 13, she started dating a boy who also received straight A’s, got into the wrong crowd and joined a gang. Then in December of 2000, she witnessed him get shot in front of her in a drive by.
How in June of 2001, the police brought her in for what she thought would be a lineup to point out the person her shot her boyfriend, but they arrested her for the murder of a boy killed on April 16th 2001. A day that she was in school and had proof from her teachers that she was there. Next thing she knows, she was given 60 years to life for a crime she did not commit.
The moment she got to see her family for the first time in prison and how she had to learn how to explain to her younger sisters that looked up to her, what was happening.
How she wanted to give up in prison and was ready to end her life. But then describes the exact moment when she went to the church inmates were allowed to go to, and Sister Esther Wallace Scott gave her a message from her grandmother. A message that Sister Scott was able to give through God, but Kiera knew was from her grandmother. A message that gave Kiera hope.
How school kept her going in prison and anytime she could take a class, she would. Resulting in helping her be able to become a Social Worker once she got out of prison.
The moment she got out of prison learned about the world and how much it had changed in 20 years.
How her fight is still not over, even though she’s out of prison, she’s not fully free yet.

There is so much more we cover that I couldn’t put above. But man, this episode is eye opening on the legal system and how we do not take care of people properly once they’ve been released. Kiera’s fight is not over and it’s our job to get her story out there to help so many other innocent people who have been wrongfully incarcerated. Please share this episode and get her story out there. We hope to be able to come back with Kiera soon to get updates.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#61 - Jorge Sanchez: Amputee’s Journey to Olympic Gold

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0700

It’s crazy witnessing the universe align when it’s pushing you to meet someone. A few friends had sent me Jorge Sanchez’s profile saying I needed to have him on the podcast. Then a week later at a Warriors game, I got to meet him and understood why he needed to be on the show.

Jorge is a professional wheelchair basketball player and a part of the Dub nation! At the age of 8, Jorge was diagnosed with Osteogenic Sarcoma, which is a type of bone cancer that caused him to have his leg amputated. Through the countless surgeries and navigating this new way of life, Jorge was approached by someone in Costco who told him to try out wheelchair basketball. Years later, he’s now an Olympic Gold Medalist!

Today we dive deep into Jorge’s journey. We cover;

What it means to be a Warriors fan right now and the inspiration he gets from all the players on the team.
His childhood before getting diagnosed with Osteogenic Sarcoma, then how his parents let him decide if he wanted to keep his leg or not, all before he was 10 years old.
How even after surgery, Jorge had to fight for his life after falling into a coma for 2 months.
The rebuild at such a young age where he struggled to not care what others had to say about him, and the stares he got that made him call out to God asking, “why me?” Then the moment his aunt helped him embrace his differences.
Getting cut 3 different times from the Olympic basketball team, loosing against Great Britain in one of the biggest wheelchair basketball games, then coming out on top at the 2020 Olympic Games and receiving his first gold medal.
Wanting to be the Steph Curry of Wheelchair Basketball and the hard work he’s doing to get to that position.
Meeting his wife and how he thought he could never be in a relationship due to his disability.
Then what people can do as well as what companies and organizations can do to be more disability accessible.

I am so inspired by Jorge, and his story even made me emotional at some points. Jorge is a true beast, and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for him and the lengths he’s going to go.

Want to keep up with Jorge? Follow him on Instagram and Twitter!

Want to learn more about the organization, BORP that Jorge talked about? Click here.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#60 - Festus Ezel: Reflecting on the Warriors Victory

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0700

The journey of becoming a sports commentator for the Golden State Warriors was something I never imagined was in store for me. Basketball is my life, and even after my injury, I knew I still needed to be a part of it somehow. So, on this episode, I thought I could reflect on how I got to where I am today.

You’ll hear

How I didn’t ever plan on becoming a sports commentator and how that decision came to fruition.
Why I started this podcast, and what one of my first guests, Steve Kerr, had to say.
The answer to the question I get all the time, “Is it hard not being on the court?”
Watching my teammates rebuild after being described as the “worst team in the NBA.”
Things I still need to work on when I am on live TV, like not letting the losses get to me.
What lies ahead.

Thank you all for your continued support these past several months. I wouldn’t be here without you all, and I am eternally grateful!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#59 - Festus Ezeli: The Green Sea Turtle

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:00:00 -0700

It’s story time here on Rebuilding the Beast! This week we’re reading from the book The Why Café by author John P. Strelecky. The book is centered around finding your purpose with some short stories filling the pages. One of those stories is, The Green Sea Turtle, and that’s what you’ll be hearing today.

This podcast is all about sharing different types of stories in hopes it will help you on your rebuilding journey. The Green Sea Turtle focuses on the importance of where you should put your time and energy since we often give too much away on things that don’t fulfill our purpose.

Enjoy!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#58 - Kelsi Sheren: Veterans, PTSD & Psychedelics

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Kelsi Sheren is a powerhouse! At the age of 18, Kesli joined the military in Canada and was quickly deployed to Afghanistan after that. She is a fellow podcast host and is the owner of Brass and Unity, a jewelry company that gives 20% of their proceeds to organizations that help veterans. One of her main goals is to help bring awareness to mental health and the dire action to help veterans. Kesli is so open and honest about her journey that it’s a privilege to have her on the podcast.

On this episode we cover,

Kelsi’s childhood and her formative early teenage years, where someone she looked up to, broke her trust.
How a conversation with a veteran on a bus ride was the deciding moment to join the army.
Her time in the army with training, being deployed, then being medically retired. A decision that wasn’t hers, but the journey afterwards of having PTSD.
Being immediately put on pharmaceuticals to help “cure” her PTSD. After those weren’t working and she became reliant on them, how therapy, working out, art therapy, cannabis and the Ayahuasca retreat, were her saving grace.
The early stages of Brass and Unity and how people like Justin Mikita, Beth Behrs, Kevin Hart, and Ellen DeGeneres were just some of the people who helped kick start her company.
Then how former podcast guest Neal McDonough and his wife Ruvé are working together with Kelsi to create a limited series about her life… so stay tuned!!

Kelsi gave an eye-opening depiction of life during and after the war. Her strength is astounding and I’m so thankful to have her on the podcast.

If you’re interested in her company or are wanting to learn more about how to help veterans, check out Brass and Unity’s Website.

Want to keep up with Kesli? Follow her on Instagram. Also follow Brass and Unity on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#57: Chloe Hakim-Moore - How to Enjoy Life While Leading Change

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Where to begin on Chloe Hakim-Moore… We recorded this the day after the shooting in Uvalde, Texas and we both had a heavy heart. Talking with Chloe though, hearing all the work she’s doing, especially for kids, inspired me. Chloe is a Social Designer, mental health advocate, a first-generation American born citizen, a business woman, and so much more!

Let’s break down what we unpacked, shall we?

The 4 different pillars of activism for well-being and what you can do to make a difference.
Her family life and how her grandfather was born into sharecropping and her father being born during segregation. Then how her mom immigrating from Trinidad allowed Chloe and her siblings to have so many more opportunities, especially when it came to schooling.
The first time she understood what race was at the age of 8 and the memory she has of the moment her dad realized it was time to tell his daughter what it means to be a black woman in this world.
How therapy saved her life and the important lesson she learned that the only person that can take care of you, is you.
In 2020, Forbes called Chloe “a key revolutionary changing the course and the face of business and society.” Putting her on their renowned Forbes 30 under 30 list.

I’m very thankful for this interview with Chloe and the words of wisdom she gave us all. I hope you feel as inspired as I do.

Want to keep up with Chloe? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

Moment of Silence

Thu, 26 May 2022 12:00:00 -0700

On May 24th, 2022, 19 children and 2 teachers were killed after a gunman went to Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Young children’s lives were lost, parents are grieving, and change needs to happen.

It’s okay to send out your thoughts and prayers to the lives lost but remember, faith without works, is dead. If you’re wanting change there are things you can do.

Vote for your local officials who believe in stricter gun laws
Call your local congressional office asking for change. Here’s a link to find your U.S. Senator and U.S House of Representatives.
Consider donating to the families who lost someone, here.
Share the stories and try to impact at least one person.

One of the goals of this podcast is to teach people how to overcome. But you can’t have change without putting in the work.

Love you all.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#56: Sarah Taylor - Staying the Course: Life After Trauma

Wed, 18 May 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Trigger Warning: Abduction and Human Trafficking

When we talk about how one person’s story can be someone else’s survival guide, this episode is what we mean! Sarah Taylor is a sports psychologist who a few years ago was a victim in an attempted human trafficking abduction. After moving to San Diego to start a new job as a reporter, Sarah was on her morning run when a man grabbed her from behind, tasered her, and attempted to shove her into his car. Immediately, Sarah remembered a story she saw on Oprah about a woman who fought for her life when a man tried to abduct her. Sarah instincts came in and she fought for her life. After breaking free, a guardian angel drove by and drove Sarah to safety.

Sarah today is using her story to try and help others. After we first heard her story on the platform “I Am Second”, we asked Sarah to come on Rebuilding the Beast to inspire us. We cover everything from…

The trauma she was going through and how after playing so many ‘what if’ stories in her mind, and visualizing him in places he wasn’t, her church helped her find a therapist.
How therapy gave her the tools to be the woman she is today and say goodbye to the fear that was holding her back.
Her relationship with God and how in a therapy session she heard His voice clear as day and has never felt alone since.
How her relationship with God gave her a peace of mind and the ability to forgive this man who wronged her.
The moment she felt she was called to go on a new career path and got her master’s in sports psychology.
What you can do to help victims of slavery.

If you or anyone you know have tips on a potential human trafficking case, call 1 (888) 373-7888 or text HELP to ‘befree’ at 233733 to save lives.

Check out Sarah’s story on I am Second.

Want to keep up with Sara? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#55 - Advice You’d Give Your Younger Self

Wed, 11 May 2022 05:00:00 -0700

This week on Rebuilding the Beast we’re looking back at my favorite answers to my favorite question I ask all my guests, “If you could go back and talk to your younger self, what advice would you give?”

You’ll hear;

Episode 3 – Nicole Buchanan
Episode 4 – Jenna Free
Episode 6 – Lauren Sesselmann
Episode 7 – Marreese (Mo) Speights
Episode 9 – Bridgette W.
Episode 10 – Bryony Hopkins
Episode 11 – Andrew Bogut
Episode 12 – Victoria Jancke
Episode 14 – Kaliegh Garris

Everyone’s answer is always so raw and inspirational and has stayed with me. Please enjoy this trip down memory lane!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#54 - Festus Ezeli: Having the Power to Heal Myself

Wed, 04 May 2022 21:00:00 -0700

This past week, I went to the Joe Dispenza retreat in San Diego. It was a week-long meditation retreat that teaches you how to heal your own body. At first, I had a lot of apprehension. Like a week-long retreat? I have to work! But I did, and boy am I glad I did. There was so much I learned, but mainly learned how to love myself and be kind to myself. Then I recognized a lot of walls I had unconsciously put up.

I met so many wonderful, inspiring people at this retreat and hearing their stories was so fulfilling. That is what this podcast is all about and I didn’t want to let their stories and experience be unheard. So please enjoy, and I hope you feel as inspired as I did.

Check out Joe Dispenza’s website!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#53 - Mary Shenouda: Trusting Your Gut

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0700

We’ve got the Paleo Chef here today on Rebuilding the Beast! Mary Shenouda is a private chef whose journey starts all the way back to the 2nd grade. While in elementary school, she would experience extreme headaches that caused her to be sick with no fever, resulting in doubts from her teachers. But after decades of pain, countless trips to the ER, and people telling her it was all in her own head, Mary decided to take matters into her own hands. By 25, she discovered she was Celiac. A sense of relief absorbed Mary because she finally figured out how she could heal her body – by changing the way she ate. After coworkers saw a beautiful change in Mary, they asked if she could cook for them, bringing to light something she never thought was on her journey.

We cover everything from

How she thought this pain was her everyday normal and tried to bargain with God for answers.
Dropping out of high school and then immediately succeeding in her corporate job while being so much younger than her coworkers.
How meeting Tyler Florence (a big time chef) was the sign from the universe to quit her corporate job and become a full time chef for others.
Success stories she’s had from her clients and people who have downloaded her “Gut Reset Program”.
Her success with her own recipe “Phat Fudge” and how the pandemic has caused an unexpected rebuild for it.
Why she likes to say PaleYou instead of Paleo.

You can hear the passion Mary has in her work. She emphasizes that this changes from person to person, but you can gain control over your body again. Through time and patience, you can heal your gut.

Want to keep up with Mary? Follow her on Instagram and check out her Website!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#52 - Festus Ezeli: The Businessman and the Fisherman

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Happy Wednesday everybody! We’re doing something new here on Rebuilding the Beast. Occasionally, I’m going to share a short story. A story that hopefully you all can apply to your life.

Our story today is called The Businessman and the Fisherman. This story is a reminder to enjoy the simple things in life and do what makes you happy. We all have this inner voice inside our head that likes to block the things we’re called to do. Try not to listen to it unless it’s serving you. Enjoy this journey that you’re on!

I hope you all like this new segment! I can’t wait to share more stories with you all.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#51 - Fabrice Gautier: How to Rebuild the Body and Mind

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Our next guest is Fabrice Gautier! Fabrice is a major part of many athlete’s journeys and their comebacks with 20 years of experience as a physical therapist and osteopath in Los Angeles. He started out playing soccer and many different sports growing up, but his teenage dream was to play basketball with Magic Johnson for the LA Lakers. He has a diploma from France as an Osteopath, and works as a private consultant for professional athletes, and still makes time to play a little basketball just for fun in his spare time.

We dive in on…

His transition from an aspiring NBA player (and being forced to retire from playing basketball professionally) to becoming a health and performance specialist.
The injury that inspired his journey into physical therapy.
How he built up a successful practice in Los Angeles as a French immigrant and the people who inspired, mentored and encouraged him.
Some challenges that he faced early on in his professional career and how he learned from them.
Learning how to let go of control and find inner peace.
Why it takes a team to rehabilitate clients back into action after an injury and how to build your own dream team in order to rebuild your body and your mind.
How there’s more to physical recovery than just the injury itself and how to overcome these challenges.
Some tools to get back on track after physical trauma (for those who can’t work with him personally) and advice on how to stick to a healthy lifestyle.
And his favorite, inspiring Kobe Bryant story.

Fabrice shares some very encouraging personal and professional stories. Whether you are aiming to rebuild yourself mentally, physically, or both, this episode is sure to inspire you!

Want to keep up with Fabrice’s journey? Follow him on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#50 - Victoria Moghaddami: Living with POTS and Learning Gratitude

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Trigger Warning: This episode hits on subjects about suicide and sexual abuse.

My friend Victoria Moghaddami is our guest today! Victoria is a huge inspiration to me and a prime example of what it means to be constantly rebuilding yourself. In her 20’s, Victoria was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; POTS, which is a blood circulation disorder. After a life of overcoming and working hard, Victoria had to learn what it means to take a step back and relearn her body. She’s done everything from sports growing up, being a TV Host, an advocate, and now is working on this new chapter of being a Real Estate Agent. But that’s not all we cover!

We dive in on

Advice she has for me on this new journey I’m on being a TV Host.
Her journey with POTS and oftentimes being misdiagnosed by doctors and the frustrations she has with the medical system now.
Having to lean onto her mom for assistance after not being able to be alone once diagnosed with POTS. Then how she’s able to take care of herself today, 5 years later.
Going through current grief and healing after losing her brother to suicide and the importance of remembering to check in on others.
Being a survivor of sexual assault starting at the age of 6 years old and how it has shaped the woman she is today.
Then tips she gives to heal from trauma, remembering that it is okay to grieve and we should give ourselves time, and how we should have a sense of community around us.

Victoria was very gracious in sharing so much in this interview. We even hit on subjects she hasn’t talked about before. I feel honored to know her and feel inspired by her every day!

Want to keep up with Victoria’s journey? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#49 - Tamyra Mensah-Stock: From Tragedy to Olympic Gold

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Olympic Gold Medalist Tamyra Mensah-Stock is my guest today. Tamyra is a pro wrestler as well as the first black woman and only the 2nd woman ever to win gold at the Olympics! This girl is making history! Not only is Tamyra a literal beast on the mat, she’s also using her voice to inspire other young girls and spread the word of God.

We cover everything from

How Tamyra first started off doing track and field, but after constant bullying in High School, decided to join the wrestling team after following the advice from her twin sister.
Then after hating wresting at first, the moment she discovered her love and passion for it.
She speaks on advice she’d give young girls, women, men – everyone! On how to follow their dreams and work hard.
How at the age of 16, she lost her father due to a car accident and the trauma she’s still working through now at the age of 30.
What it means to her being a child of God and the ups and downs she’s had with her relationship with God. Especially after losing her father
Then we go over what it’s like being in a biracial marriage and the stereotypes she faces along the way.

This episode had me all in my feels. Tamyra was so open and vulnerable that I was left in awe of her! Please enjoy!

Want to keep up with Tamyra? Follow her on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#48 - Chester Santos: The International Man of Memory

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0700

Our guest today is Chester Santos! Chester is the “International Man of Memory”, also regarded as one of the leading memory experts in the world! After winning the U.S Memory Championship back in 2008, Chester decided to use his skills and help others with their memory. People in business, actors, politicians, and so many more have reached out to Chester to be coached and now he’s here, giving us a full breakdown on Rebuilding the Beast!

Today, we cover a variety of different subjects.

How Chester realized he had an amazing memory from excelling in school and decided to try out for the USA Memory Championship after scrolling through the TV.
After winning, Chester wanted to use the momentum of the attention he was receiving to create a business, but due to the recession in 2008, struggled to even make a profit. But then, he talks of the moment he realized this job could sustain him.
We also talk about the improvements he has seen from his clients and now the school he’s forming online to reach out to more and more people.
And finally, Chester puts our memory skills to the test by doing an interactive exercise!

I’ve always considered myself to have a terrible memory, but let me tell you, Chester is the real deal! This is a fun episode everyone, please enjoy!

If you’re interested in learning more about Chester, check out his website!

Want to join Chester’s school, use code FESTUS and the first 50 people will get a free enrolment! Sign up here.

Want to follow Chester on LinkedIn? Message him saying you listened to the Rebuilding the Beast podcast!

Follow Chester on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#47 - Neal McDonough: Putting God First While Facing Hollywood

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0700

“In fire, gold is tested.” - Sirach Chapter 2

Today we have my friend and favorite person, Neal McDonough! Neal is a devout Catholic, Husband, Father, Actor, and overall good person. Anytime I speak to Neal, I learn so much and wish I could talk to him for hours.

We cover a lot on this episode.

How Neal always puts his family and God first, then himself second and how that can lead to saying no to opportunities.
His early life playing every type of sport you can think of, then getting a contract to pitch for the Pittsburgh Pirates, while at the same time landing one of his first roles in Hollywood as Lou Gehrig.
How the love of his wife; Ruvé, keeps him a better man and the exciting producing journey they’re now going on together.
Then how he recognizes that as his career elevates, so does this responsibility to be God’s son and spread His word elevates.

There is so much more to look forward to! Get ready to hear the gospel and fall in love with Neal McDonough. And make sure to check out his next movie “Boon” coming to screens on April 1st!

Follow Neal on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#46 - Honey Beuf & Tess Kunik: The Liv Project

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0800

TRIGGER WARNING: Suicide

Today, we have Honey Beuf and Tess Kunik, a mother and daughter duo who are founders of The Liv Project; an organization created after Honey lost her daughter, and Tess her sister, Liv, to suicide back in 2019. It’s a tough conversation, but something that needs to be talked about. And both Honey and Tess have turned their grief into a chance to help others.

On this episode we talk about:

Liv’s life and how even while struggling with anxiety and depression, she was a light.
The hardest moments for Honey and Tess right after Liv’s death and how sharing stories about Liv’s life brings a huge release for them.
They share advice for what friends or peers can do to support each other during the grieving process. As well as the warning signs people should look out for when their child or someone they know might be suicidal.
What The Liv Project is and how they collaborate with different people who’ve been affected by suicide. Together they created a card game called “The Game that Goes There” which opens up conversation between people and breaks down walls.
Recognizing through therapy that grief is love and there are ways to take care of yourself.
Then finally, what they would tell Liv now if they had the chance to.

I hope this episode inspires you to reach out to your loved ones and friends or to even call on others to ask for help. You are not alone, you are loved and wanted in this world. Let’s all take some time today to reach out to someone and tell them that you love them.

If you or someone you know is struggling call the Suicide Prevention Line at 1(800) 273-8255 or text TALK to 741-741 for the crisis text line.

To learn more about The Liv Project, check out their website!

Follow The Liv Project on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#45 - Solomzi Nqweni: Powering Through Gillian-Barré Syndrome

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0800

This episode, we spend some time with Solomzi Nqweni, a professional Cricket player for the Aberdeenshire Cricket Club in Scotland. At the young age of 26, Solomzi developed a rare auto immune disease called Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a disorder where the immune system attacks the nerves, leaving him in the hospital for 9 months before starting a long recovery process. 2 years later, he is here talking about what that long road to recovery looks like and the ways he is rebuilding himself.

This interview left me with tears in my eyes of how much I related to being at the top of your game in a sport you love the most, then in a blink of an eye, everything changes. I hope this resonates with you as much as it did with me.

To learn more about Solomzi’s story, follow him on Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#44 - Elie Samaha: Building Things You Believe In

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Our guest today is Elie Samaha, a Los Angeles based business tycoon. Elie is going to take us through his rebuilding journey from being an immigrant from Lebanon who didn’t think he’d live past the age of 18, to today, being a Real Estate mogul, Movie Producer, family man, and so much more. He’s also my friend and mentor, and I’m so excited to have him share his inspirational story.

Today, Elie shares his story of how he came to America after serving in a war he didn’t believe in with only a few dollars in his pocket. But he rebuilt his life here and became one of the most successful businessmen in all of Los Angeles. We touch on advice he has received along the way and how everything he does is to give back to others. Elie is the definition of the American dream and I feel so lucky to know him.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#43 - Cindy Jarrett: Bringing Truth Back Into Dating (Part 2)

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0800

We are back for part 2 with Cindy Jarrett! Cindy gifted us with so much wisdom that we had to split it up for you all. As we sat down and talked, I reflected on myself and the times I could’ve been a better partner and I know you will also gain something from this conversation. Here, Cindy dives deeper into Conscious Dating and tackling more questions you submitted.

If this episode sparks your interests, check out Cindy’s book Path of the Golden Heart: Conscious Dating in an Unconscious World.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#42 - Cindy Jarrett: Bringing Truth Back Into Dating (Part 1)

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥️

On this special episode, author and consultant Cindy Jarrett shares insights from her book, Path of the Golden Heart: Conscious Dating in an Unconscious World. With the overload of dating apps, sometimes we wonder if we can ever find our beloved person. Cindy gives thoughtful advice on the resonance we exude, learning how to be emotionally mature and responsible, to be able to both find our beloved and be a beloved. She shares advice on how to meet people in the real world, her opinion about dating apps, and her take on the trending topic “The Tinder Swindler.”

Come on this journey with me my fellow Beasts as we look to rebuild our idea of dating and the definition of relationships.

If this episode sparks your interests, check out Cindy’s book Path of the Golden Heart: Conscious Dating in an Unconscious World.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram!

#41 - Mia Styles: Waking Up To A Nightmare

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0800

Mia Styles; CEO, mother, and grandmother. Today, our guest fearlessly reveals how she was awoken to police raiding her house, arresting her husband and searching for evidence. A man who she would soon discover is a serial child predator.

Mia shares her gripping story of experiencing grief and trauma for the very first time, how she learned to rebuild her inner beast, and why she knows that God put her in this scenario to become a voice for the victims.

Interested in Mia’s business? Check out A Limo Excursion & Wine tours

Follow Mia on Instagram!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#40 - Festus Ezeli: Taking Time to Rebuilding My Beast

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0800

After a comment from a friend, I realized that I haven’t been taking enough time for myself lately. I’ve been trying to fill the cup of others instead of my own. But, it’s time to practice what I preach and Rebuild my Beast a little stronger. With that said, I will be taking some time to recalibrate.

Thank you all for your continued love and support. We will be back soon!

Yours Truly,
Festus

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#39 - Festus Ezeli: What 2021 Has Taught Me

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from all of us here at the Rebuilding the Beast podcast!

What a wild ride 2021 has been for everyone! Through the ups and downs, I have learned a lot about myself, what I want in life and how to do things differently.

Today's episode is short and sweet but very dear to my heart.

Cheers to 2022 everyone!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#38 - Alia Kruz: From Being Adopted to Founding Bail Bag

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0800

In the studio with Festus today is Alia Kruz, founder of Bail Bag.

Alia was born in Bogota, Columbia and adopted into a family in Fargo, North Dakota. It was always well known that Alia was destined for greatness but before that happened, she needed to find her own way in the world. The journey from Catholic school to foster home to group home to finally land in a Youth Correctional Facility seemed grim but Alia didn’t give up.

Listen as she explains who her life went from drug use and teen pregnancy to acting, producing and most importantly, founding Bail Bag!

Follow Alia on Instagram!

Check out the Bail Bag website!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#37 - Katherine Haysbert: Balance Your Hormones, Regulate Your Menstrual Cycles & Eliminate PMS Symptoms

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Ok guys, this episode is NOT just for the ladies. You can benefit from the tips talked about as well!

Joining Festus today is Certified Nutrition Consultant, Certified Natural Chef and Integrative Energy Healer, Katherine Haysbert. Listen as Katherine explains why she began her wellness journey and how she was inspired to help other women struggling just like her.

As you’ll hear, Katherine’s diet methods aren’t restrictive like most! She will teach you how to use food as nourishment to help reveal the root cause of your symptoms along with the culinary guidance and breathwork practices to help with stress management.

Check out Katherine and her work on IG and on her website.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#36 - Walking Rich: Being Shot, Wheelchair Gang & Living Boundless

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Rich got shot on June 18th 2017, just a month after he graduated college. He joins Festus to talk about the day of the shooting and the years that followed after. After rehab and slowly getting used to his life in a wheelchair, he never lost his drive and positive outlook. Rich founded his own brand “Walking Rich” and the wheelchair gang movement. He promotes positivity amongst wheelchair users, who are struggling to balance life and wants to encourage wheelchair users all around the world, that they can live boundless. That they can be independent, just like Rich himself!

Follow Rich on Instagram and support his movement!
@walkingrich

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#35 - Brittany Pilgreen: Miscarriage Awareness

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Far to many women experience miscarriages and it’s a topic that is also not talked about enough. But especially in those tough days and weeks after losing a baby, not feeling alone can be essential. Brittany runs an Instagram page where she shares stories of women who have unfortunately experienced a miscarriage. She herself has also struggled with losing a pregnancy and talks to Festus about the difficult mental stages she went through after. From blaming herself to being scared to try again and also the physical pain a miscarriage can cause. Brittany also gives advice on how a partner can be a support system and why it’s so important to talk about the subject.

Read the stories on Britt’s instagram account.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#34 - Sarah Seasol: Non-Binary, Transgender & Growing Up In A Cult

Wed, 24 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Sarah Seasol joins host Festus to talk about the difficulty of exploring sexuality as an adolescent while being brought up in infamous cult leader Sun Myung Moon’s Unification Church. Sarah opens up about difficult times from being kicked out by her parents, learning to embraced herself as being transgender and standing on her own two feed. This is a story of self discovery, self love, and navigating strained relationships with parents for many in the LGBTQ+ community.

Follower Sarah on Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#33 - Matt Manzari: Two Fateful Accidents & Miracle Recoveries

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Matt’s story will blow your mind: In the middle of his promising wakeboarding career Matt had a bone shattering accident, when he smashed against rocks at full speed. After a lengthy road to recovery, he decided to give his life to god and enter into ministry. Just when things started to become normal again, another fateful accident almost took his life. After 14.000 volts shot through his body and into his brain, the doctors were sure there was no way he could survive. But here he is, sitting in front of his computer, calmly drinking his cup of coffee and having an incredible conversation with Festus. There is much to learn from his outlook on life, his incredible strength to overcome his injuries and his indestructible faith in life.

Follow Matt on Instagram check out his website or watch his documentary

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#32 - Festus Ezeli

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0800

Welcome back to Season 2 of the Rebuilding the Beast podcast!

We had a nice little break to recoup and now we're back and ready to rock!

Don't forget to keep checking back every Wednesday because we have some amazing people that will be sharing incredible stories with us.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

Season Finale

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Hey Guys! We’ve made it to the end of Season 1 of Rebuilding the Beast!

On behalf of myself & my team, we’d like to thank you all for your continuing support of the show & the Rebuilding the Beast Movement.

We will be returning on October 20, 2021 with Season 2!

🙏 Much Love & Stay Safe!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#31 - Chad Ehlers: A Single Dad on Childhood Cancer

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Chad, also known as Its Da Chad from Instagram and TikTok, is a single dad who’s youngest daughter Mia is currently battling leukaemia. In this inspiration conversation with Festus he talks about the tough days, chemotherapy and challenges they had to face since the diagnosis.

Chad also opens up about his own personal journey and that he sadly lost his first wife to suicide. He also talks about how dancing has become a coping mechanism for him, how he found a way to co-parent with the mother of Mia and the “Chad Change” that aims to bring light and positivity to others.

Follow Chad on Instagram or Tiktok and keep up to date with his and Mia’s journey.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#30 - Dxtr Spits: How Men Cry

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0700

This episode is an important conversation between two men: It’s about men showing their emotions, being vulnerable, working on their mental health and most importantly being able to cry. Festus talks with Jordan aka Dxtr about his project “How Men Cry”, which aims to feature 1000 different men who share moments of when they cried. It also opens up the conversation about men and mental health.

Dxtr shares his own struggles from dealing with suicidal thoughts, deep depression and being on the verge of snapping. Through therapy and a lot of inner work he is rebuilding his relationship to his younger self as he realized how many things are deeply rooted in his upbringing. He now champions showing emotions and believes that men displaying crying early and often will finally make it acceptable in society and remove the stigma attached to it.

You can follow Dxtr on Instagram and read all How Men Cry stories on the movement’s Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#29 - Alexis Lete: Miss Indiana on Breaking the Mold

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today’s guest is Alexis Lete, Miss Indiana 2020, who shares her journey from D1 athlete to becoming a pageant contestant and embracing her authentic self. The now actress, model and aspiring game show host aims to use her voice for good.

With her "Break the Mold Tour," she gives talks inspiring others to chase their dreams and break through societal pressures by celebrating their individuality and being unapologetically themselves.

Alexis also touches on the topics of how she learned to appreciate the simple things and what keeps her humble after briefly having a big head when she was younger.

You can follow Alexis on Instagram to stay up to date with her journey.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#28 - Ashleigh Di Lello: Bio Emotional Healing

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today Festus speaks with Ashleigh who is the creator of Bio Emotional Healing. It is a process based in neuroscience that wants to rewire the brain. The concept aims to help with mental issues such as anxiety, depression and past traumas but also with physical pain or health issues. Ashleigh had her own fair share of challenges: She was told at a young age that she wouldn’t live past her teenage years but refused to give up. She then struggled with chronic pain and a failed hip surgery that ended her career as a professional dancer.

Ashleigh now helps others on their path to healing and recovery.

You can follow Ashleigh on her Instagram or find out more about her healing techniques here.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#27 - Avery Schlereth: Thyroid Issues & Hashimoto Disease

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Avery talks to Festus about being diagnosed with Hypothyroidism. For her it meant having to deal with a slow running thyroid, which led to a slow metabolism, hormones being off, feeling tired and gaining weight rapidly. Avery had to learn her body all over again, find out what really works for her and go through drastic diet and exercise changes. Through that she was able to overcome her body image issues and learnt that actual success meant being able to help others who struggle with the same issues.

As you know on Rebuilding the Beast we like to go through all emotions from serious talks to humorous conversations. Therefore, Festus also asked about her previous experiences on being on a reality tv show and what it was like growing up with a famous football player as her dad.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#26 - Stephanie Drenka: Korean Adoptee & Birth Family Search

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Stephanie Drenka is a Korean adoptee who shares her journey from growing up in a white family in Texas, feeling like she does not fit in, to searching for her birth family and after years reuniting with them. Her story is filled with many ups and downs from internal racism, going on a Korean TV show, meeting her birth mother for the first time and creating a strong bond with her middle sister.

Stephanie also sheds a light on adoption as a whole, from unresolved trauma and loss from the separation, abandonment issues in later relationships and being told to feel grateful for being saved.

Lastly the episode touches on the very important topic of Asian Hate Crimes and Stephanies on experiences with being sexualised as an Asian women from a very young age. We are planning a second episode focusing solely on this topic as well, as Stephanie who is a writer and studied Asian American and Women’s Studies has done extensive research on it.

Follow Stephanie on Instagram, read her blog and check out her amazing articles.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#25 - Abi Feltham: Addiction, Sobriety & Borderline

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 05:00:00 -0700

TW: Addiction & Suicide.

Abi Feltham says it how it is and is very open about her journey from being addicted to alcohol, using drugs, getting sober and dealing with her Borderline Personality Disorder. Her mix of bluntness, humor and vulnerability really shows in this great conversation with Festus. Abi shares her low points from going on alcoholic fulled binges, using crack, being in a toxic relationship and trying to commit suicide. She also dives into her recovery explaining how tough her withdrawal was and how she found a way to finally love herself. You will also learn what it’s like to have a Borderline Personality and ways to ease it through therapy and forming positive habits.

Oh and don’t miss her story about being a groupie back in the day! We should all be more honest like Abi, it’s so refreshing and proofs it destroys the shame that many of us carry.

You can follow Abi on Instagram and TikTok. Don’t miss her reels and confessions on Friday.

You can watch the full episode on our YouTube channel!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#24 - Rachel Engstrom: Losing My Late Husband to Cancer

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Imagine becoming a widow at 31-years-old. Today we are talking about a topic that unfortunately far too many people have experienced. May it be themselves, a friend or family member - cancer is far too common. Rachel talks to Festus about losing her husband to leukemi. From the diagnosis, the fight that followed, to chemotherapy and having to take her late husband off of life support - Rachel explains what the tough journey was like. After many challenges and having to say goodbye she decided to write a book called “Wife, Widow, Now What?” that aims to help navigate these difficult times dealing with cancer. Rachel also shares about her (dating) life now and how she was able to heal.

You can purchase her book on Amazon or get in touch via Facebook.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#23 - Aleesha Barlow: Survivor of Child Sexual Abuse

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0700

TW: Sexual Abuse

Today we are diving straight into a very important but also sensitive topic: Aleesha talks about being a survivor of child sexual abuse. After years of being molested by her grandad and being told by her mother to keep it quiet, she was finally able to speak up about her traumatic experiences. Aleesha has since written two best selling books. She aims to sweep the secrets from under the rug, urging children and adults to “tell somebody today” as silence and shame are big contributors to this widely spread issue. Aleesha has been able to break her generational curse, as she reveals that her grandfather was himself molested. She has been able to work on her trauma, find peace and forgive her grandfather and mother. Aleesha urges child molesters to seek help and wants parents to teach their children to recognise and speak up about wrongful and inappropriate behaviour through her book “Tell Somebody”

Follow Aleesha on her personal Instagram or her foundation Tell Somebody Movement.

Watch the full conversation on our Youtube Channel!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#22 - Festus Ezeli: Olympic Team Cuts, Car Break Ins & Real Talk

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0700

In this solo episode Festus takes a moment to reflect on his past weeks. On the podcast’s first two episodes Festus told his story and wants to continue being open and transparent about his own Rebuilding the Beast journey. On a quest to not only share his triumphs but also his tough days, he talks about not making the cut for the Nigerian Olympic team and having his car broken into just a week after. He opens up about days where he doesn’t want to get out of bed, days where he feels sad or disappointed or days where things just don’t go as planned. But most importantly Festus also speaks about how he deals with those days, finds ways to trust in his path and embraces life with all its ups and downs.

He also reflects on the podcast and how the amazing conversations have impacted him and people who listened.

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#21 - Leilanie Marianetti: Multiple Sclerosis, Caregiving & Faith

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today we are telling a beautiful love story. It’s one with many obstacles but of two people who never gave up and are continuing to show tremendous strength. Hear about how Leilanie and Michael met and the moment Michael found out he had Multiple Sclerosis. Leilanie never left his side and is currently a caretaker for her husband.

Leilanie explains what exactly Multiple Sclerosis is and how it affects Michael’s body and their daily life. The conversation with Festus also touches on the subject of caregiving, its mental and physical challenge and how faith, as well as hope, continues to guide them through challenges. There are many touching moments like when Leilanie explains how Michael is an incredible dad and what makes their marriage so fulfilled.

Both Michael and Leilanie are true sources of inspiration. You also can not miss their tiktok and reels, as they try to find what Leilanie calls little pockets of joy everyday.

Follow Leilani’s and Michaels journey together on Instagram.

You can watch the full episode on YouTube!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#20 - Todd Gurley: NFL Success & Setbacks

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Festus sits down with NFL player Todd Gurley. Todd talks about his journey so far, from his high school playing days in North Carolina then moving to Georgia and finally being drafted to the NFL. You can instantly tell that Todd is someone who always keeps a positive outlook and prides himself on living life to the fullest. At the same time he learned to cope with setbacks such as injuries, losing the Super Bowl or being let go by the LA Rams.

The conversation also touches on how to deal with negative comments online, why it is important to stay true to yourself and learning to handle money as a first generation millionaire.

Todd founded the MADE (Make a Difference Everyday) Foundation, which provides mental health services and strives to guide the younger generation.

Stay up to date with Todd on his Instagram.

You can watch the full episode on YouTube!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#19 - Leigh Collins: Surviving a Break In, Attack & Trial

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Festus is speaking to Leigh today who is talking about a life-altering event: Being attacked by a man who broke into her apartment while she was asleep. Even more difficult than the horrible event, where the months that followed after, as Leigh suffered with severe PTSD and depression. The question “Why me?” haunted her but Leigh was nevertheless able to fight through those dark times and recovered from her injuries inside and out.

Festus also shares for the first time that his apartment was also broken into, luckily while he wasn’t at home. Lastly, Leigh explains how she made it through the trial that followed and how she found acceptance and relief after.

Stay up to date with Leigh on her Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#18 - Aaron “Showtime” Taylor: Prison, Redemption & the Warriors

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0700

We got a special guest today: Aaron “Showtime” Taylor, who famously went viral after making it from being a game announcer in prison to calling a Golden State Warriors home game.

Aaron served 26 years in prison and has so many stories to tell and life lessons to share. You simply can not miss this amazing conversation with Festus. From a fellow inmate who refused to lose his smile and positivity in prison, to how he turned his own life around from being a criminal to stepping on the floor of the arena and being embraced by Steph Curry, there are so many wow-moments.

This is a true redemption story: From San Quentin To Chase Center.

Stay up to date with Aaron’s journey on his Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#17 - Svetlana Chernienko: Domestic Violence, Trauma & Self Love Queen

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0700

On today’s episode Festus is joined by the beautiful and strong Svetlana, who’s a domestic violence survivor, mental health advocate and the queen of self love. Svetlana shares the trauma she endured at the hands of her ex boyfriend – from manipulation to physical violence and being kidnapped by him together with her son.

Most importantly she shares how she was finally able to break free and later start to heal. She’s since been very active in spreading awareness about domestic violence, leading marches and even talking to men who have been abusers.

Lastely, Svetlana shares her secret to self love and confidence. The episode is full of amazing moments and emotions – from sad, heartfelt and deep to uplifting, funny and inspiring.

Make sure to follow Svetlana on her Instagram or check out her website and non profit organization here.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#16 - Taylor Nielsen: Heavy Hearts, Suicide & Addiction

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today’s episode is a little bit different. It’s heavier, more raw and most importantly vulnerable. We need to start talking about our tough times when we go through them and not wait to share when everything is fine again. That’s exactly what our guest Taylor is doing. He’s currently facing a divorce and in the midst of it decided to share his story. Unfortunately, he lost his mother to suicide a few years ago. He also experienced a tough childhood due to his mum's addiction. Taylor talks about his depression and own problems with alcohol. His relationship with his dad and how his wife helped him through his darkest moments.

It’s not always sunshine and rainbows and you might be able to tell that Festus’s spirit wasn’t up to his usual upbeat self. But that is what makes this episode special because it’s honest and unfiltered. It shows a moment of two men having an honest conversation about their struggles.

You can get in touch or follow Taylor via Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#15 - Alegra Kastens: OCD, Intrusive Thought & Therapy

Wed, 26 May 2021 05:00:00 -0700

This topic was so interesting, that after the first conversation, Festus felt like he needed to sit back down with our guest Alegra for a second talk. Alegra suffers from OCD and intrusive thoughts which affect every area of her life – from sleeping, dating to even sex.

In this gripping episode you’ll learn to understand what OCD really means. Find out what irritating thoughts started haunting her from when she was 19 years old and how Alegra learned to live with them.

She is now a practising therapist and also shares her wisdom from a therapeutic standpoint. Alegra is a strong and powerful woman who isn’t afraid to show her vulnerable side and at the same time is an activist and advocate for others.

You can follow Alegra on Instagram or check out her website.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#14 - Kaliegh Garris: Miss Teen USA, Natural Hair & Misconceptions

Wed, 19 May 2021 05:00:00 -0700

2019 was a record breaking year: All three titles Miss USA, Miss Teen USA and Miss America were held by black women. And today Festus is talking to Miss Teen USA, Kaliegh Garris, who won the title while famously rocking her beautiful, natural curls on stage.

The conversation dives into the world of pageantry as Kaliegh debunks some myths and misconceptions about what the competitions are like.

The episode also gets more deep and personal, as Kaliegh opens up about the sexual abuse she experiences at a young age and how she coped with it. On top of that she shares her thoughts on the pressure of social media, her experiences in the modeling industry and her perspective on confidence and self love.

You can follow Kaliegh on her Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#13 - Shayoon & Alexander: Healing, Emotional Pain & Purpose

Wed, 12 May 2021 05:00:00 -0700

What an interesting and insightful conversation! Today Festus talks to Shayoon & Alexander about inner healing, the effects of trauma and purpose alignment. The couple learned first hand that our thoughts can heal and how powerful that learning is. Together they have founded the Light Force Center which helps them guide others on their own individual journeys.

Festus had a lot of questions that you might have about these topics as well. Shayoon and Alexander answer each question beautifully all while opening up about their relationship, how they found love and how they are now expecting their second child.

You can follow Shayoon and Alexander on Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#12 - Victoria Jancke: PTSD, Near Death Experience & Fempreneurship

Wed, 05 May 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Trigger Warning: Sexual Assault & Suicidal Thoughts

I promise you’ll be surprised how many facets and stories Victoria Jancke has to share in today's conversation. The German actress, model and fempreneur has recently opened up about the traumatic experience she faced at a young age: Being sexually assaulted at 17. Victoria’s strength is beyond. She has learned to love herself again, find peace with the past and forgive.

Her story doesn’t end there. Victoria also talks to Festus about her near death experience and surgery to prevent cervical cancer. The episode is jam packed with life lessons on how to deal with PTSD, why therapy is key, how men can be better allies and how you can live life to the fullest without burning out.

Follow Victoria Jancke on her journey and keep up to date.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#11 - Andrew Bogut: NBA First Pick, Injuries & Athlete Life

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today’s guest is Andrew Bogut, first pick in the 2005 NBA draft and former teammate of Festus. The conversation takes you into the world of professional basketball, from the tough schedule and pressure you face in the league to making the decision to retire and finding your path after. Andrew shares his own personal journey on what struggles he had to overcome to win an NBA title, what the team did differently than everyone else and how he realized that material things don’t matter.

Andrew has his own podcast Rogue Bogues and you can stay up to date with him on his Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Follow us on Instagram for daily inspirational stories!
Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#10 - Bryony Hopkins: Chronic Illness, Self Love & Determination

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Bryony has Crohn’s disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It’s a chronic illness that she has been battling with most of her life.

Tune in to her Bryony explain to Festus how she had to have her large intestine removed at only 12-years-old. How she dealt with the trauma of her body working against her and living with a stoma bag in her teenage years. She had to work on finding self love and accepting her abdominal scars. Throughout her journey Bryony stayed determined to live life to the fullest and has achieved her goals, from becoming a BBC journalist to freelance writing for Metro, Independent and MTV. As an advocate for normalizing chronic illnesses, she has founded the Bad Gut Club: Good people bad guts.

Follow Bryony’s journey on her Instagram and stay up to date with her articles!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#9 - Bridgette W.: From Alcoholic to Therapist

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0700

TW: Substance abuse & alcoholism

Today’s guest is Bridgette, who sits down with Fes to talk about her experiences with being a high functioning alcoholic. From growing up with two alcoholic parents, being the college party girl to getting sober and relapsing – listening to Bridgette tell her story so vividly, it will feel like you were there watching it unfold.

After hitting rock bottom, hiding bottles, being a morning drinker and crashing her car twice in the same night with no recollection, she was able to get and stay sober.

Bridgette now uses her past experience to help others by being a therapist working with addicts and alcoholics.

Tune in to find out what questions you should ask yourself to determine if you have a healthy relationship with alcohol.

Follow Bridgette on Instagram.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Follow us on Instagram for daily inspirational stories!
Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#8 - Alicia Jay: TallSWAG, Bullying & Faith

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today’s conversation is with Alicia Jay, who takes us on a journey: From being bullied in high school, dealing with racism and finding self acceptance through basketball. With her stunning 6’6 height, infectious energy and endless life lessons to share, Alicia is a true inspiration.

Festus and Alicia have their love for basketball in common but also their faith in God and tireless drive to continue to grow. Diving into more personal topics both open about previous mental health struggles and finding themselves. Alicia also shares how she dealt with losing her brother in an accident, why she is waiting for mister right and how to stand tall everyday, in every way.

Follow Alicia on Instagram, read her blog or watch her YouTube channel.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#7 - Marreese (Mo) Speights: Trailblazing, Injuries & Success

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today Festus talks to his former Golden State Warrior teammate Mo Speights. This conversation amongst friends takes you into the world of professional basketball. Mo shares what it was like growing up in St. Petersburg, Florida, with his dad being in and out of prison and against all odds making it to the NBA. Both Festus & Mo had to deal with tough injuries and finding new paths but they both persevered and together they won the 2015 NBA championship.

Follow Mo on Instagram or Twitter

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Follow us on Instagram for daily inspirational stories!
Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#6 - Lauren Sesselmann: Depression, World Cups & Heart to Hearts

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Trigger warning: Suicidal thoughts

In this emotional episode of Rebuilding the Beast, professional soccer player Lauren Sesselmann shares her story. From competing in the Olympics and the World Cup, to her battle with depression and long-term concussion effects, Lauren has a heart to heart with Festus.

Highlighting the mental pressures athletes are under, Festus also talks about his own struggles and the feeling of being in a dark hole after his surgery.

Determined to create equal rights for women in professional sports, Lauren is an advocate for change, creates awareness for mental health and wants to inspire the next generation of athletes.

Follow Lauren on Instagram or watch her host The Ball Out. For mentorship & advice take a look at Ultrain Pro Soccer Players.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#5 - Steve Kerr: NBA Legends, Life Lessons & Losses

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0700

Today’s episode is incredibly inspiring not just for basketball enthusiasts!

Festus talks with Steve Kerr, his former coach with the Golden State Warriors. The conversation is jam packed with life lessons from dealing with negative thoughts and self-doubt to dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Steve opens up about his childhood, the terrorist attack that claimed the life of his father in Beirut and his transition from player to coach.

Sharing personal anecdotes from their “Welcome to the NBA Moment” to Steve’s epic Championship celebration – you can also expect a lot of fun and entertaining moments.

Steve Kerr is an eight time NBA Champion, having won five titles as a player as well as three with the Warriors as a head coach.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#4 - Jenna Free: Undieting, Body Image & Healthy Relationships

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0800

On this episode Festus has a conversation with Jenna of the Body Love Society.

Jenna teaches intuitive eating and opens up about her past struggles with constant dieting, binge eating and body image issues.

Speaking candidly Festus, on the other hand, talks about how he went from being a chubby kid with a craving for ice cream to a pro-athlete that continues to learn about how to best fuel his body.

It’s all about a healthier relationship with food and your body to embrace that happiness truly comes from inside you.

Follow Jenna and the Body Love Society on Instagram.
You can also find out more by watching their documentary on Youtube or listening to the “How to Love Your Body” Podcast.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Want to connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#3 - Nicole Buchanan: Sacrifices, Highs & Lows and Insulin

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0800

We’ve all heard of diabetes before. But if you’re not diagnosed with it yourself or have someone in your close circle then how much do you actually know about what it’s like living with diabetes? As Festus admits he didn’t know much about all the challenges, the sacrifices and costs linked to diabetes prior to the conversation with Nicole.

Nicole was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age and her journey hasn’t been an easy one. With the condition being incurable she had to make adjustments and sacrifices, going as far as not being able to get officially married. Tune in and find out why!

450 million people have diabetes – so let’s talk about it.

Follow Nicole & check out her illustrations here.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Follow us on Instagram for daily inspirational stories!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Wanna connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#2 - Festus Ezeli: NBA Championships, Wheelchairs & Silver Linings

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0800

Picking up where we left in Episode 1, it’s about to get real: Festus is drafted to the Golden State Warriors. Hear about the second – more personal – encounter with Kobe Bryant, told so vividly you’ll join them on the court in your head. Feel the excitement of winning the 2015 NBA Championship but also the devastation of facing a severe knee injury. Festus gets personal about ending up in a wheelchair and trying to find his way out of a dark place. Finally, learn how Rebuilding the Beast was born, what it means to Festus and what you can expect from this podcast.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Wanna connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#1 - Festus Ezeli: Coming To America

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800

On the first episode of Rebuilding the Beast our host Festus Ezeli takes you on his own journey. Telling the story of his humble beginnings struggling to learn basketball, facing challenges and overcoming the odds. Filled with personal anecdotes, a fateful encounter with none other than Kobe Bryant and a premonition of his uncle – this is not your average coming of age story.

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Wanna connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram

#0 - Festus Ezeli: Rebuilding the Beast

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0800

What does Rebuilding the Beast stand for?

What can you expect from this podcast?

What does it actually mean to be strong?

What if life throws you a curveball or knocks you down?

The intro episode answers these questions and introduces you to our host Festus Ezeli.

Get a glimpse into the journey that led to creating the podcast and the mindset behind it.

Tune in every Wednesday for personal stories, great advice and complementary light hearted fun.

What you can expect:

An array of inspiring guests and honest conversations about the ups and downs of life. From injuries, mental health issues, diseases, addiction, too strokes of fate and more, learn about overcoming adversity.

Rebuilding the Beast gives a platform to others to tell their story in hopes of inspiring, spreading positivity and guiding through challenges.

Let’s talk about the hard times and let’s be vulnerable, because your story can be someone else’s survival guide!

Let’s Rebuild YOUR Beast!

Be sure to rate & review the show on Apple Podcasts! It will really help us grow & reach more people!

Or check out our YouTube & website!

Wanna connect with Festus directly? Hit him up on Instagram