The Official Podcast of the Navy SEAL Foundation and an IRONCLAD Original. Hosted by Chris Irwin, a retired SEAL and the Foundation’s Communications Director, On the X explores the latest expertise in mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, relationships, education, business, and more. Every week, Chris speaks with a thought leader at the forefront of their respective field, including renowned scientists, world-class practitioners, bestselling authors, and elite athletes. This is first-hand knowledge at the very center of topics that can change your life. This is On the X.
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The Official Podcast of the Navy SEAL Foundation and an IRONCLAD Original. Hosted by Chris Irwin, a retired SEAL and the Foundation’s Communications Director, On the X explores the latest expertise in mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, relationships, education, business, and more. Every week, Chris speaks with a thought leader at the forefront of their respective field, including renowned scientists, world-class practitioners, bestselling authors, and elite athletes. This is first-hand knowledge at the very center of topics that can change your life. This is On the X.
On today's episode, Chris sits down with neuroscientist and Ohio State professor Dr. Angus Fletcher to explore how the human brain actually works when facing uncertainty, pressure, and complexity. Drawing from his research and his book Primal Intelligence: You Are Smarter Than You Know, Fletcher explains how intuition, imagination, emotion, and common sense form the foundation of human decision-making.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
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On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Joshua Macin, former Jiu Jitsu World and Pan American champion and founder of Detox Dudes. Joshua shares his journey from peak athletic health to a four-year battle with severe illness, panic attacks, and chronic fatigue, and how he rebuilt his mind and body through detox, gut health, and holistic healing. Today, he helps others reclaim their health through experience-driven wellness practices.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
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On today's episode, Chris sits down with actor, producer, and author Zachary Levi, known for Chuck and Shazam! franchise. They discuss his latest project, Not Without Hope, a true story of survival against the odds, and explore Zachary’s work in mental health advocacy through his books Radical Love and Go Love Yourself. He also shares his vision for Wildwood Studios, his production company focused on creating authentic, human-centered stories.
Watch the trailer for Zachary's new film Not Without Hope in theaters now!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzDAcL3rOcU
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today's episode, Chris sits down with psychiatrist and brain health expert Dr. Daniel Amen to explore the critical connection between brain health and mental well-being. They dive into how trauma affects the brain, the science behind innovative tools like SPECT scans, and the effectiveness of treatments such as EMDR. The conversation also examines the potential benefits and risks of psychedelics, the role of environmental factors, and the importance of building brain reserve. Dr. Amen shares insights on why a paradigm shift toward brain-centered mental health is essential for lasting wellness.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris sits down with filmmaker Ken Burns to discuss the making of his latest series on the American Revolution.
The conversation also examines the challenges and decisions faced during the war, the experiences of ordinary soldiers, enslaved people, and Native nations, and how these stories were brought to the screen. Ken shares insights into how music and storytelling help convey the human dimensions of this period in history.
Watch The American Revolution on PBS: https://www.pbs.org/kenburns/the-american-revolution/
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
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On today's episode of Mind Matters, Chris and Jeff discuss life transitions, sharing their experiences leaving active duty, exploring new career paths, and reassessing purpose and identity.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Dr. Tracey Marks, psychiatrist, educator, and author of Why Am I So Anxious? They discuss anxiety, mental health, and the mind-brain connection, breaking down why anxiety happens and what you can do about it.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today's episode, Chris talks with former Navy SEAL and Honor Foundation CEO Matt Stevens about his 26-year military career, the challenges of transition, and how his organization helps special operations veterans find purpose and new careers after service.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today's episode of Mind Matters, Chris and Jeff Wiedenhofer explore the role of self-awareness in mental fitness. They discuss how recognizing your thoughts and emotions can lead to better emotional regulation, stronger relationships, and overall mental well-being.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris talks with San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle about his journey from the University of Iowa to the NFL. They discuss his record-setting 2018 season, what drives his passion for football, and how he remains grounded through the highs and lows of professional sports. George also shares his passion for golf, shooting, and supporting veterans and mental health initiatives off the field.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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On today's episode, Chris sits down with Dave Berke, a retired Marine Corps pilot and renowned leadership instructor. Dave shares his military journey, from flying combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan to becoming the first Marine to fly the F-22 Raptor.
The conversation covers his experiences at Top Gun, and his transition from military service to training leaders in business and life. Dave also discusses lessons from his upcoming book, The Need to Lead, offering insights into leadership, humility, and the importance of preparing for the future.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On this compilation episode of On the X, health and performance experts share their top insights on nutrition, movement, and overall wellness. Cheryl Zonkowski, dietitian and founder of Catalyzt Nutrition, covers three common nutrition mistakes and how to avoid them. Rob Wilson, Human Performance Specialist, offers practical ways to incorporate activity into daily life. Tony Horton, creator of P90X and Power Nation, explores how environment, behavior, and genetics shape health and longevity.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris sits down with David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass, to explore how a personal family story sparked a global movement in education. Inspired by his grandmother, a Holocaust survivor, David set out to make world-class expertise accessible to everyone. From tennis legend Serena Williams to acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese, MasterClass combines storytelling and cinematic production to transform how people learn.
David shares the journey of launching MasterClass in 2015, the platform’s impact on millions of learners worldwide, and its latest venture: a certificate program in partnership with the Navy SEAL Foundation.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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In this episode of Mind Matters, a mental health-focused series within On the X, Chris welcomes back readjustment counselor Jeff Widenhofer to explore the importance of emotional connection and communication in our relationships. They dive into the barriers that prevent people from sharing their feelings, the value of support systems, and the role vulnerability plays in fostering meaningful connections.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris sits down with former Navy SEAL officer Sean Glass to trace his journey from combat deployments to civilian leadership. Sean reflects on his service from 2008 to 2020, including operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Eastern Africa, with a focus on village stability missions and the counter-ISIS offensive in Mosul.
He shares the challenges of balancing life in the SEAL Teams with family responsibilities, as well as the lessons he carried into his civilian career as a startup executive, co-founder of Primal Beef Company, and now a leadership instructor with Echelon Front. At the core of his perspective is the belief that being relational and building trust are the most important aspects of leadership, whether in combat, business, or everyday life.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-x/id1759222083
Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3itWUNECnae8hkJKG7NMvV?si=0cfb5d256c1144cc
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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This special compilation episode features Chris in conversation with entrepreneurs who have built businesses, teams, and ideas from the ground up. Dan Martell explains his Buy Back Loop and how it helps entrepreneurs reclaim time and grow more effectively. Jack Daly and Randy Hetrick walk through their experience buying TRX out of bankruptcy and the first steps they took to revive the brand. Bear Handlon, CEO and co-founder of Born Primitive, discusses how he founded his company while on active duty and the importance of charitable partnerships in its growth. James Kerr, author of Legacy, closes by sharing lessons from the All Blacks rugby team on leadership, culture, and building organizations that last.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
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On today’s episode, Chris Irwin talks with Pat Flynn about how losing his job as an architect became a turning point in his career. Pat explains how the experience pushed him to focus on Lean Learning, a method for learning the right skills at the right time. He discusses the steps he took to build new ventures, the role of mentorship and community in his growth, and how adapting quickly helped him succeed. Pat also shares examples from his experiences, including building a YouTube channel, creating Smart Passive Income, and applying Lean Learning to different areas of his work.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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On this episode, Chris talks with Marcus and Amber Capone about their journey from military service to advocating for psychedelic therapies in veteran care. Marcus, a former Navy SEAL with multiple combat deployments, shares the emotional struggles he faced after leaving the military and why traditional treatments fell short. Amber, co-founder of VETS (Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions), explains how their nonprofit helps veterans access therapies like Ibogaine and the importance of community support and medical oversight. Together, they discuss the risks, challenges, and promising future of psychedelics in addressing PTSD, depression, and trauma.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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In this episode of Mind Matters, a mental health-focused series within On the X, Chris welcomes back readjustment counselor Jeff Widenhofer for a candid conversation about PTSD.
They examine the DSM-5 criteria for diagnosis, the ways trauma manifests, whether experienced directly or indirectly, and how overwhelming emotional states can disrupt daily life and relationships. The conversation highlights the instinctual human drive to avoid pain, the challenges of connection and communication, and the importance of normalizing PTSD to reduce stigma.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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In this special compilation, Chris revisits conversations with guests who each experienced a pivotal mindset shift that changed their path.
Mat Fraser, five-time CrossFit Games champion, shares how a tough loss reshaped his perspective and introduced gratitude into his approach to competition.
Tia-Clair Toomey-Orr, six-time CrossFit Games champion and Olympian, reflects on the mental resilience that carried her when her body reached its limits.
Joshua Fields Millburn, author and co-founder of The Minimalists, explains how letting go of excess created space for what mattered most.
Remi Adeleke, former Navy SEAL, actor, and author, describes how being dropped from SEAL training became the starting point for rebuilding himself from the ground up. Together, these stories illustrate how perspective can drive lasting change.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
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Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Official Podcast of the Navy SEAL Foundation and an IRONCLAD Original. Hosted by Chris Irwin, a retired SEAL and the Foundation’s Communications Director, On the X explores the latest expertise in mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, relationships, education, business, and more. Every week, Chris speaks with a thought leader at the forefront of their respective field, including renowned scientists, world-class practitioners, bestselling authors, and elite athletes. This is first-hand knowledge at the very center of topics that can change your life. This is On the X.