In this sharp, high-energy episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with the iconic Kelly Killoren Bensimon — model, author, Real Housewives of New York alum, and powerhouse luxury real-estate broker — for a raw conversation about mental toughness, authenticity, and legacy. Kelly opens up about the lessons learned after fame, how she rebuilt her identity beyond reality TV, and why music and curiosity still fuel her every move. From embracing “minnow vs shark” mindset shifts to navigating public perception, Kelly shares what it really takes to evolve in the spotlight while staying grounded in family and purpose. The two dive into double standards, resilience, and the underrated power of healthy coping mechanisms — from horses and polo to parenting and purpose. Kelly reveals how she transformed criticism into clarity, leveraged her Midwest roots for grit, and turned chaos into creativity through focus, curiosity, and real work. By the end, you’ll see that behind the headlines and the high-rises is a woman defined not by fame, but by fearless reinvention. Key Takeaways: -Music fuels mindset — every success story starts with a rhythm. -Minnows can become sharks through curiosity and work ethic. -Public perception ≠ personal truth — redefine yourself through action. -Mental toughness and self-awareness outlast hype. -Curiosity is the secret weapon in business and life. -Authenticity wins — people feel what’s real. -Family and legacy matter more than fame or followers. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Kelly Bensimon https://www.instagram.com/kellybensimon/

We present a deeply moving conversation with host Shawn French as he sits down with John O’Leary — bestselling author, motivational speaker, and the real-life inspiration behind the new William H. Macy film Soul on Fire. At just nine years old, John survived an explosion that left him with burns over 100% of his body and a 0% chance to live. What followed was nothing short of miraculous — a story not of one man’s toughness, but of an entire community showing up when it mattered most. John and Shawn dive into the transformative power of love, faith, and community, exploring how the people around us can literally bring us back to life. John shares how his parents’ fierce love, Jack Buck’s unwavering mentorship, and his wife Beth’s quiet strength helped shape a life of purpose. He opens up about the fine line between victimhood and victory, and how choosing to serve others became the ultimate path to healing. The two also reflect on Soul on Fire, the film that immortalizes John’s journey — including personal touches like his wife’s actual wedding dress and his late father’s powerful final scene on set. Together, they reveal how acts of kindness, no matter how small, can create ripples that outlive us all. This isn’t a story about survival. It’s a masterclass in what it means to live — fully, vulnerably, and for others. Key Takeaways: -You can be a victim or a victor — the choice is always yours. -Community is the most powerful medicine for healing. -Tough love isn’t cruelty; it’s the pathway to freedom. -Mentorship and service are legacy multipliers — they outlive us. -True love sees beyond scars, ego, and circumstance. -Every act of kindness has a ripple effect far beyond what you’ll ever see. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA John O'Leary https://www.instagram.com/johnoleary.inspires/

In this episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with viral creator Daniel Mac, the mind behind the iconic street interviews asking strangers in luxury cars, “What do you do for a living?” Daniel takes us inside his journey from a finance job in Dallas to one of the most recognizable creators on the planet. He opens up about the fear and rejection that came with pioneering a new format, getting banned from filming locations, and the relentless grind that turned a spontaneous COVID experiment into a full-blown global brand. They dive deep into the mechanics of virality—authenticity, timing, algorithms, and creative evolution—and explore how understanding people is just as important as understanding platforms. Daniel also reveals behind-the-scenes stories from celebrity encounters with Mark Zuckerberg, Travis Scott, and Jay Leno, showing that even the world’s biggest names are just people at the end of the day. This episode is a masterclass in creative determination, self-belief, and staying grounded while the internet tries to turn you into a caricature. Whether you’re a content creator, entrepreneur, or someone searching for the courage to take your first leap—this one will hit home. Key Takeaways -Rejection is fuel—Daniel’s early failures became his foundation. -Authenticity outperforms gimmicks. Viewers can sense real connection. -Social media algorithms reward consistency and platform fluency. -Timing matters—post when people care most. -Celebrities are human too—approach them with curiosity, not worship. -Passion and persistence trump perfection. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Daniel Mac https://www.instagram.com/itsdanielmac/

Nick Del Negro, General Manager of Lamborghini Naples, joins Shawn French on The Determined Society to talk about what it really means to live at full throttle. From a humble start in Worcester, Massachusetts, to leading one of the most prestigious dealerships in the world, Nick’s story is pure drive — a masterclass in grit, gratitude, and relentless focus. We talk about: -Turning hard work into a luxury lifestyle -How Lamborghini culture builds community, not ego -Growing up blue-collar and never losing his edge -The art of staying grounded while chasing greatness This episode is more than horsepower — it’s heart, hustle, and heritage. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Nick Del Negro https://www.instagram.com/lamborghini_nick/

Global icon Kathy Ireland joins The Determined Society for a deeply personal and empowering conversation about reinvention, resilience, and faith. From her rise to fame as a supermodel to building a billion-dollar global brand, Kathy opens up about the defining moments that shaped her journey — from rejection and anxiety to advocacy and entrepreneurship. This is a story of grit, grace, and grounded leadership from one of the most influential women in business and philanthropy today. She and Shawn French discuss how she turned lessons from the runway into a blueprint for business — one rooted in service, integrity, and a fierce commitment to family. Kathy’s reflections on mental health, parenting, and purpose reveal the same authenticity that has made her brand a household name. This episode is more than an interview — it’s a roadmap for turning faith and determination into action. We explore: -How Kathy Ireland transformed rejection into billion-dollar reinvention -Lessons in leadership, transparency, and brand trust -Faith as the foundation for resilience and creativity -The reality of anxiety and the importance of mental health advocacy -Building family-first businesses with empathy and excellence -What women entrepreneurs need to hear right now -Why serving others is the ultimate key to sustainable success This conversation is a masterclass in determination — and proof that success built on faith, service, and courage never goes out of style. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Kathy Ireland https://www.instagram.com/kathyireland/

Academy Award nominee William H. Macy joins Shawn French on The Determined Society for a powerful conversation about his latest film, Soul on Fire — the true story of John O’Leary, a boy who defied the odds after a devastating fire and grew into a beacon of hope. In this wide-ranging discussion, Macy reflects on the film’s deeper message — that determination, compassion, and connection can pull us through even the darkest moments. From portraying legendary sportscaster Jack Buck to exploring the healing power of music, Macy brings humility and depth to every insight. He opens up about the creative process behind Soul on Fire, the challenge of balancing authenticity and artistry, and what drew him personally to the story. The episode also dives into Macy’s views on parenting, resilience, and defining success on your own terms — all anchored in the belief that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when fueled by purpose. This episode is an invitation to rediscover your own spark — and to believe, no matter what, that you can rise again. Key Topics: -Behind the making of Soul on Fire and the story of John O’Leary -Portraying Jack Buck and honoring his real-life legacy -The emotional power of music and Macy’s lifelong connection to it -Why community support and human empathy matter more than ever -Defining determination as the art of finding a way forward -Life lessons on parenting, common sense, and success Whether you know him as Frank Gallagher, Jerry Lundegaard, or one of the many unforgettable characters he’s brought to life, you’ll leave this episode with a new perspective on William H. Macy—the man behind the roles, and the fire that still drives him. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA William H. Macy https://www.instagram.com/williamhmacy/ SOUL ON FIRE MOVIE https://www.instagram.com/soulonfiremovie/

When chasing success costs you your health, it’s time to biohack your way back to balance. Joseph Rivera—founder of the MoreLife Biohacking Summit—joins Shawn French on The Determined Society to talk about redefining success through wellness, mindset, and faith. What started as a personal search for health and meaning has evolved into one of the nation’s fastest-growing health and performance events, featuring names like Gary Brecka, Tito Ortiz, and Lara Trump. In this episode, Joseph and Shawn dive deep into: -Why true wealth begins with health -How chasing success can cost your soul if you’re not careful -The movement behind the MoreLife Biohacking Summit -The power of community, accountability, and faith-based recovery -The daily practices that rewire focus, energy, and purpose Joseph opens up about losing himself in the pursuit of achievement—and the moment he realized transformation starts on the inside. This conversation hits on discipline, identity, and the courage to reclaim control of your mind, body, and spirit. The MoreLife Biohacking Summit takes place October 11–12 at Sea Table Convention Center, Florida—featuring 50 vendors, immersive health tech, and an all-star speaker lineup. Connect with me : https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA Joseph Rivera https://www.instagram.com/josephriverax/