Welcome to EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, hosted by Zander Sprague, bestselling author and acclaimed motivational speaker. If you're looking to kickstart the EPIC chapters in your life, you've come to the right place! Here, you will find inspiring stories, practical resources, and transformative insights to guide you on your journey. Whether you're an entrepreneur scaling your business, a leader fostering a better workplace culture, an author penning your next bestseller, an athlete prepping for the big game, or simply someone striving to maximize their potential—this podcast is for you. Learn how to plan, achieve, and enjoy the journey towards achieving your EPIC goals. Each episode showcases interviews with individuals who have conquered challenges to achieve something truly EPIC. You can do the same! With the proper guidance, timing, and skills that you'll find here—your next step can be meaningful and impactful. The man behind the mic is Zander Sprague, an award-winning author and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). He's penned three popular books, including the one that inspired this podcast, EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward: How to Plan, Achieve, and Enjoy the Journey. Get to know him better at www.epicbegins.com . By blending his formal education, professional journey, and personal growth, Zander is dedicated to steering listeners like you towards unlocking their fullest potential and kickstarting an epic life. His infectious enthusiasm has even earned him the moniker "God of Enthusiasm." Each episode dives deep into interviews with real people who overcame their self-doubts and fears to realize the scale of their ambitions. Gain insights into the strategies they deployed, the hurdles they cleared, and the support that fueled their momentum. Tune in for candid discussions about the highs and lows of their personal and professional quests. Despite setbacks and obstacles, these individuals never wavered in their resilience and determination. If a laundry list of unrealized dreams is weighing on your career or psyche, this is your wake-up call. Maybe you're paralyzed by fear of failure or trapped by harsh self-criticism, but the key to making your dreams a reality is courage. You must be brave, confront the risks, and make the jump. Allow the inspirational narratives and wisdom shared on this podcast to embolden you to unlock your dormant potential and bring your epic ideas to life. All it takes is the resolve to stand up, muster your confidence, and take action. Remember, no goal is too lofty, no idea too wild, and no promise too good to be questioned. Don't let anyone or your own self-doubts hold you back. To make your next move count, you'll get the essential trifecta of right guidance, timing, and skills right here on this show. Only by consciously taking steps toward your ambitions can you truly live life to its fullest. So push past your limits and refuse to settle for mediocrity in any area of your life. With Zander and his remarkable guests as your steadfast guides, you'll find the courage you need to evolve into an extraordinary person leading an equally extraordinary life. If you've been searching for a catalyst to commence the major endeavors in your life, your search ends here. Soak in the motivating stories, invaluable advice, and plethora of resources to finally achieve your most cherished goal—and then aim even higher. Don't wait; take that crucial first step today! EPIC Choices, EPIC Life. Don't miss out on the next episode! Listen on your preferred podcast platform or right here.
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur, author, and business strategist Adam Strong , whose journey began with an unlikely business—collecting and selling lost golf balls at just 11 years old. Despite growing up with financial hardship, bullying, alopecia, and asthma, Adam developed the resilience that later helped him compete alongside elite athletes, including future Olympic champion Mo Farah. Today, he helps founders scale their businesses and increase company value while preparing for successful exits. Together, they explore why self-discipline matters more than motivation, how failure becomes your greatest teacher, and why every entrepreneur must embrace continuous learning and growth. This episode is a powerful reminder that extraordinary success is built one intentional choice, one lesson, and one step at a time. https://epicbegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #ScaleUpAndExit, #EntrepreneurialMindset, #Accountability
In this heartfelt episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur, author, and speaker Kim Sorrelle to discuss resilience, love, and finding purpose after unimaginable loss. After building multiple successful businesses, Kim faced an unexpected battle with breast cancer. Just four months later, her husband was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away only six weeks later. Together, they explore the realities of grief, why healing doesn’t mean “getting over” a loss, and how serving others became one of Kim’s greatest sources of hope. Kim also shares the inspiration behind her book Love Is, written after dedicating a year to discovering the true meaning of love. This moving conversation reminds us that joy and grief can coexist—and that love continues long after loss. https://epicbegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Resilience, #HealingFromGrief, #BusinessLessons
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with entrepreneur, author, and EndoDNA co-founder Len May to explore a remarkable journey of resilience, innovation, and purpose. After immigrating to the United States as a child, being diagnosed with ADD, and finding himself homeless at 18, Len refused to let adversity define his future. His unconventional path led him through multiple industries before ultimately pioneering advances in precision medicine and personalized healthcare. Len shares how genetics, biomarkers, and artificial intelligence are helping doctors move beyond symptom management to identify root causes and create individualized treatment plans. He also discusses why neurodivergence can be a strength rather than a limitation. This episode is a powerful reminder that our greatest challenges can become the foundation for extraordinary impact. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #PrecisionMedicine, #Neurodivergence, #Genetics
In this thought-provoking episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Greg Obert for an engaging conversation about mental health, leadership stress, trauma, and the evolving role of therapy in today’s world. Drawing from more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Greg shares insights into anxiety, emotional regulation, executive stress, and the importance of finding the right support when life becomes overwhelming. Together, they explore the challenges facing the mental health profession, why quality therapy is often misunderstood, and how therapists help people uncover the patterns driving their thoughts and behaviors. The discussion also highlights the value of curiosity, self-awareness, and personal growth. This episode offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking greater emotional health, resilience, and clarity in their journey forward. EpicBegins.com Free Ebook — https://dl.booktunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1 Step Forward, #ZanderSprague, #ValueofPsychotherapy, #MentalHealth, #ExecutiveStress
It’s possible to reconstruct your entire life even when you’ve reached absolute rock bottom, and Overcoming Deep Addiction is the first decisive step. Host Zander Sprague sits down with social media creator and recovery advocate Bryan Blackmon to unpack his journey from homelessness to long-term sobriety. He describes how a single, powerful moment in front of a bathroom mirror shifted his mindset from self-destruction to realizing his true value. You’ll learn how he built the Crab Crew Life community and why resilience and adaptability are essential to navigating recovery. We talk about shifting your daily perspective, focusing on the small wins, and creating a strong foundation to move forward. It’s time to stop letting past habits dictate your future and start choosing your own epic path today. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #OvercomingAddiction #CrabCrewLife #MentalResilience
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with chronic illness coach Jeffrey Bone to explore resilience, identity, and what happens when life takes an unexpected turn. After exposure to black mold triggered a cascade of debilitating symptoms, Jeffrey spent years searching for answers before being diagnosed with Common Variable Immune Deficiency (CVID), a rare immune disorder. He shares the emotional toll of losing his health, the grief of letting go of an old identity, and the challenges of navigating a medical system that didn’t initially have answers. Together, they discuss creativity as a healing tool, the importance of curiosity, and how we can continue growing even when life changes dramatically. This conversation is a moving reminder that we are always more than our circumstances. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #CVID, #ChronicIllnessSupport, #ImmuneDeficiency
In this creative and insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with T. Christian Helms , founder of Austin-based creative agency Helms Workshop , to explore the intersection of branding, curiosity, and innovation. Christian shares his winding path from journalism student to award-winning creative director, revealing how some of the best ideas emerge when you stop forcing them and allow curiosity to lead the way. Together, they discuss the psychology of branding, why people buy based on emotion rather than logic, and the importance of embracing mistakes as part of the creative process. Christian also shares the story behind the legendary 99-pack of beer that generated international media attention. This episode is packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone looking to bring bold ideas to life. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Branding, #99PackBeer, #CreativeStrategy
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with voice and communication coach Wolfe Lanier , whose journey from child actor to public speaking expert led him to explore one powerful question: Why are people so afraid to use their voice? Wolfe shares his experiences navigating stage fright, rejection, identity, and vulnerability while pursuing a career in acting and performance. Together, they unpack the psychological connection between communication and self-worth, the “voices” we use in different relationships, and why so many people struggle to separate what they do from who they are. From first dates to public speaking to difficult conversations, this episode dives deep into confidence, authenticity, and emotional awareness—offering powerful insight into how finding your voice can change your life. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #VoiceCoach #PublicSpeaking #Communication
In this deeply inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with performance expert, author, and leadership pioneer Dr. Jack Groppel , who talks about the beauty of conquering yourself through resilience, reinvention, and purpose. From a painful childhood and relentless drive for achievement to becoming a nationally recognized tennis coach, sports scientist, entrepreneur, and speaker, Jack shares the powerful story behind his memoir Mountains Within . Together, they discuss failure, perseverance, identity, and the danger of tying self-worth solely to achievement. Jack also reflects on summiting Mount Kilimanjaro with his adopted son after multiple knee replacements—and the realization that the real mountain wasn’t external, but internal. This conversation is a moving reminder that epic journeys are less about conquering the world and more about becoming who you were meant to be. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #MountKilimanjaro, #SportsScience, #SelfWorth
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with entrepreneur and humanitarian Kurt Avery, founder of Sawyer Products , whose innovations are transforming access to clean water around the globe. What began with outdoor products and water filtration evolved into a mission that has already impacted more than 40 million people in 80 countries. Kurt shares how Sawyer’s affordable filtration systems are helping eliminate waterborne illnesses like cholera and dysentery, while also supporting groundbreaking malaria prevention efforts for children. From disaster relief in Haiti and hurricane zones to remote villages in Africa and Central America, Kurt explains how simple, scalable solutions can save lives on a massive scale. This inspiring conversation is a reminder that epic impact often starts with solving one practical problem exceptionally well. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #CleanWater #MalariaPrevention #DisasterRelief
In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with men’s coach Stefanos Koutsoubis , who helps men break free from burnout, depression, and the illusion of success. Stefanos shares his personal journey—from achieving academic and professional milestones, including a PhD and corporate career, to realizing that external success didn’t create internal happiness. Together, they explore why so many men chase goals that leave them feeling empty, the importance of understanding emotions, and how mindfulness and coaching can transform the way we experience life. Stefanos reveals that true fulfillment comes not from reaching the finish line, but from how we show up every day. This episode is a powerful reminder to stop chasing “someday” happiness and start creating it right now. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #SelfReflection #External SuccessVsHappiness #InternalHappiness
In this energizing episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with keynote speaker, author, and performer Greg Bennick , whose career began with a simple mistake that turned into a life-changing path. What started as a missed coin-collecting class led Greg to discover juggling—and ultimately a lifelong passion for engaging audiences around the world. Greg shares insights from his book Reclaim the Moment , diving into why meaning matters, how fear of success can quietly hold us back, and why taking that first step is everything. Blending humor, storytelling, and powerful perspective, this conversation challenges you to rethink how you approach your goals and your time. It’s a reminder that epic journeys often begin with unexpected moments—and grow through consistent, intentional action. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #FearOfSuccess #ConsistencyIsKey #ReclaimTheMoment
In this raw and powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander sits down with creative strategist and podcast expert Nick McGowan for a deeply honest conversation about identity, purpose, and transformation. Nick shares his journey from childhood struggles and emotional disconnect to building a successful career that ultimately left him feeling empty and lost. After hitting rock bottom and facing moments of severe depression, he began the difficult work of reconnecting with his true self—creativity. Together, they explore mental health, breaking free from societal expectations, and the courage it takes to choose a path that aligns with who you really are. This episode is a reminder that your lowest moments can become the foundation for your most meaningful life. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #Transformation #Purpose #Identity
In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with endurance athlete and author Jeffrey Weiss , whose journey proves it’s never too late to rewrite your story. Starting with his first 10K at age 48, Jeffrey went on to complete marathons, ultra races—including a brutal 72-mile run—and multiple Ironman competitions in his late 50s and early 60s. He shares how setting bold, “big, hairy, audacious goals” transformed not just his fitness, but his mindset and identity. Together, they explore the power of structure, the reality of failure, and why the journey matters more than the finish line. This episode is a powerful reminder that your limits are often self-imposed—and your next step could change everything. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Marathon, #Ironman, #RacingAgainstTime
In this high-impact episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with former fighter pilot Christian “Boo” Boucousis , who now helps leaders navigate overwhelm and thrive in the AI-driven world. Boo shares how the fighter pilot mindset—built on clarity, discipline, and constant reflection—translates directly into business and life. From operating at high speed in the cockpit to leading in today’s fast-moving digital landscape, he explains why comfort can limit growth and how small, intentional actions create massive results over time. Together, they explore decision-making under pressure, the power of “not yet,” and why leaders must learn to think differently to stay relevant. This episode is a powerful reminder that epic lives are built one focused step at a time—especially in uncertain environments. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #FighterPilot, #AIDisruption, #OvercomingBurnout
In this powerful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with author and speaker Debbie Weiss , whose life was shaped by over four decades of caregiving. From supporting her father after a devastating stroke at age 17, to raising a son with special needs, to caring for her terminally ill husband, Debbie shares the emotional toll—and resilience—behind her journey. At 50, burned out and overwhelmed, she experienced a life-changing shift that led her to reclaim her health, lose 90 pounds, and rediscover purpose. Debbie opens up about mindset, small steps, and breaking free from a lifetime of putting herself last. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story and start living fully. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #TerminalIllness #Resilience #SmallSteps
In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Eric Robinson , a recently retired FBI agent whose career path is anything but ordinary. Eric shares how he went from serving as a Baptist pastor to spending 24 years in federal law enforcement. He discusses the surprising reasons behind his career shift, the reality of life inside the FBI, and the lessons learned from working cases involving gangs, organized crime, white-collar crime, and crimes against children. Eric also reflects on the intense camaraderie among agents, the adrenaline of high-risk operations, and the deeper purpose that guided his work. This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the FBI while exploring courage, service, and the unexpected paths that can shape an epic life. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #ChristianMinistry #CareerPivot #LawEnforcement
In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with career strategist Sam Alvita, founder of Work Rewritten , to unpack the rapidly evolving world of modern employment. From shrinking skill lifespans to AI-driven disruption, Sam explains why traditional career advice no longer works—and what to do instead. They discuss layoffs, the emotional toll of job loss, and the impersonal realities behind corporate decisions. Sam shares how to reframe rejection, build agency, and create a flexible strategy in a workforce where stability looks very different from what it did decades ago. Whether you’re entering the job market, pivoting mid-career, or adapting to AI’s impact, this episode offers practical insight and an empowering perspective for navigating change with clarity and confidence. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #CareerPivot, #SkillLifespans, #AIDrivenDisruption
In this breathtaking episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with former schoolteacher and author Alison Gieschen , who sold everything with her husband and moved aboard a 43-foot sailboat to circumnavigate the globe. Eight years, 49 countries, four continents—and countless epic unexpecteds—later, Alison shares stories of 20-foot waves, ripped sails, Chinese fishing fleets, mechanical failures, and even a tsunami warning after landfall. From crossing the Atlantic in blissful trade winds to hand-steering 650 miles in brutal Pacific seas, this conversation dives deep into resilience, perspective, simplicity, and freedom. Alison also reflects on how life at sea reshaped her identity, creativity, and priorities. If you’ve ever dreamed of walking away from “normal” to chase something extraordinary, this episode will expand your horizon. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #OceanCrossing #Circumnavigation #TsunamiWarning
In this extraordinary episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with retired emergency physician, author, and living kidney donor Dr. Matt Harmody , whose story redefines what it means to live with purpose. Matt shares how he became part of a five-person team that set a Guinness World Record by summiting the highest point in all 50 U.S. states in record time – after donating a kidney to a stranger. From Denali to Mount Washington, Matt reflects on endurance, teamwork, adaptability, and the mindset required to overcome unexpected obstacles. The conversation also dives deep into the life-saving impact of living kidney donation, dispelling myths and highlighting how ordinary people can do extraordinary things. This episode is a powerful reminder that one bold decision, taken one step at a time, can save lives and inspire millions. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #KidneyDonor #WorldRecord #MountainClimbing
