Best Harvard Innovation Labs Podcasts (2024)

1
F45's Revival: Inside Tom Dowd's Successful Turnaround of a Fitness Brand 36:44

2d ago36:44

36:44

In this episode, fitness mogul Tom Dowd reveals how he went from working long hours in his family's supermarket business to partnering with Mark Wahlberg and saving struggling franchise F45. Growing up instilled a strong work ethic in Dowd, but his biggest test came when he took over F45 in crisis. Through strategic partnerships, focusing on cultur…

1
Make Profit in Tropical Paradise: Investing in Zanzibar with Kalojan Georgiev 22:30

9d ago22:30

22:30

In this episode, Joe De Sena, chats with his friend Kalojan Georgiev, currently residing in Zanzibar. Kalojan provides an engaging insight into the untapped potential of Zanzibar as a prime investment destination and a wonderful place to live. Kalojan highlights the significant return on investment in Zanzibar, which can reach up to 15-20%, far exc…

1
Fit at 98: Lala LaLanne’s Longevity Secrets 29:55

16d ago29:55

29:55

Meet the world's toughest inspiration - 98-year-old Lala LaLanne! In this episode, Joe De Sena sits down with the fitness legend to uncover her secrets to breaking records, crushing workouts, and staying motivated well into her 90s. Listen as Elaine shares incredible stories of her and her late husband Jack's accomplishments over the decades. She'l…

1
It's Never Too Late to Test Your Limits with Gwendolyn Bounds 30:22

23d ago30:22

30:22

Tired of feeling stuck in a rut? Discover how taking on new challenges can make you feel alive again at any age. In this empowering episode, Gwendolyn Bounds shares how she conquered self-doubt and found her inner athlete later in life. She discusses her transformation from a sedentary to a competitive obstacle course racer through grit and communi…

1
Too Much Comfort Kills | Joe de Sena and Zackary Paben 31:51

30d ago31:51

31:51

Joe and Zackary delve into the powerful symbolism behind carrying a couch through Spartan Races, a tribute to those struggling with addiction and a call to leave comfort for the community. Zach shares his personal story of overcoming addiction and physical challenges, emphasizing the importance of helping others, especially adaptive athletes, to co…

1
How to Turn Challeges Into Triumph with Kristin Smedley 28:06

1M ago28:06

28:06

When Kristin Smedley's young son was diagnosed as blind, she was devastated. But rather than accepting limits, she became fiercely determined to give him every opportunity. Tapping into creative problem-solving skills from her own athletic past, Kristin empowered her son to navigate life fearlessly. Through using all available tools and relentless …

1
Take Back Control of Your Life Now: Hal Elrod and How to Beat the Odds 25:54

1M ago25:54

25:54

Tired of just getting by each day without making progress toward your goals? Learn how one man used an unconventional morning routine to overcome a near-death experience, beat cancer against all odds, and write a bestselling book impacting millions. Hal Elrod shares his strategies for developing resilience in the face of adversity, finding peace wi…

1
Spartan Mindset in Modern Business | Joe de Sena and Kevin Kaiser 28:41

2M ago28:41

28:41

Kevin Kaiser has an unconventional approach to business that was shaped by his roots growing up on a farm in Canada. As a professor at Wharton, one of the top business schools in the world, Kaiser is challenging the status quo. In this fascinating podcast episode, Kaiser shares the philosophies that have made him an outlier - treating companies lik…

1
The Shocking Truth About Fitness That Will Change Your Life 33:30

2M ago33:30

33:30

Dr. John Jaquish discovered a revolutionary way to build strong bones that goes against everything you've been told. In this insightful conversation with Joe De Sena, Dr, John reveals how he cured his own mother's osteoporosis and created a $100 million business - all by ignoring conventional wisdom. He will also open your eyes to why workouts like…

1
33. Deb Eschmeyer, Original Strategies 30:45

2M ago30:45

30:45

A food systems policy expert and social impact entrepreneur, Deb Eschmeyer has dedicated her career to the betterment of society. From co-founding the national nonprofit Food Corps, to serving as Executive Director of Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” initiative, and driving change in the food industry, her efforts have permanently influenced the way …

1
Lessons on Continuous Learning and Pushing Yourself with Peter Frintzilas 18:00

2M ago18:00

18:00

In this episode, Joe se Sena is having an insightful conversation with TeamSnap CEO Pete Frintzilas. Pete shares how facing challenges as a child of immigrants built his resilience and success. He discusses lessons learned on instilling a strong work ethic in kids without spoiling them. Joe and Pete also discuss how continuous learning and seeking …

1
32. Olivia Thomas, Boston Medical Center and Rewire Health 34:25

2M ago34:25

34:25

Olivia Thomas is a registered dietitian, entrepreneur, and the co-founder of “Rewire Health”, a culinary medicine platform that simplifies healthy home cooking and expands access to teaching kitchens. In this episode, Olivia shares her experiences building a culinary medicine startup, including how active listening and a multidisciplinary approach …

1
The Sales Engineer: Victor Antonio's Winning Strategies 28:30

2M ago28:30

28:30

Victor Antonio knows what it's like to struggle. Growing up in poverty-stricken Chicago housing projects, he faced an uphill battle. But through grit and determination, he climbed his way to the top. In this fascinating episode, Victor pulls back the curtain on his amazing success story. From food stamps as a child to writing bestsellers, he shares…

1
31. Jack Bobo, University of Nottingham Food Systems Institute 34:13

3M ago34:13

34:13

Jack Bobo is the Director of the University of Nottingham’s Food Systems Institute which brings together transdisciplinary researchers to address some of the most pressing food systems challenges. He is also the author of the 2021 book “Why smart people make bad food choices.” In this episode, Jack shares how breaking down silos can foster collabor…

1
Building Reebok: Finding the Right Space at the Right Time | Joe Foster 22:43

3M ago22:43

22:43

In this episode of The Hard Way podcast, Joe De Sena interviews Paul Foster, the founder of the iconic fitness brand Reebok. Tune in as Foster recounts growing up in a family shoe business plagued by infighting, and his risky decision to break out on his own with his brother. Listen how this small startup found its big break by pivoting to capitali…

1
30. Salaam Bhatti, Food Research and Action Center 33:36

3M ago33:36

33:36

Salaam Bhatti is the SNAP Director at the Food Research and Action Center, a 501(c)(3) that uses advocacy and strategic partnerships to improve the health and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States. Tune in to learn how to bring together diverse perspectives, challenge established norms, and seek innovat…

1
Joe De Sena and Shawn Nelson Debate: Do we really need a couch? 26:25

3M ago26:25

26:25

The Lovesac founder Shawn Nelson started with a silly college project - giant beanbags. Now he leads the top-selling couch brand in America. How did he go from dorm room side hustle to building a business worth billions? Tune in as Shawn shares his wild journey of overcoming failures, bankruptcy and naysayers. Plus, hear Shawn and Joe discussing th…

1
Overcoming Obstacles Together: Tools for Elite Performers' Marriages | Amy Wine 24:16

3M ago24:16

24:16

When does pursuing your goals mean neglecting your relationships? For high-performing couples, maintaining intimacy may become hard and require intentionality. In this episode, Amy Wine shares her strategies for helping elite athletes, entrepreneurs and busy professionals prioritize connection - even when life gets hectic. Learn a system for design…

1
Why Most People Don't Succeed (And How to Beat the Odds) | Dre Baldwin 20:20

3M ago20:20

20:20

While most would have quit after repeatedly getting cut from teams, Dre Baldwin refused to give up on his basketball dreams. This episode shares his incredible journey from benchwarmer to going pro, despite the countless setbacks along the way. You'll learn how he maintained an unstoppable motivation to improve day after day through strategies like…

1
29. Christopher Gardner, Stanford School of Medicine 34:55

4M ago34:55

34:55

Dr. Christopher Gardner is a nutrition scientist focused on what foods to eat and what foods to avoid for optimal health, as well as the forces that can successfully motivate people to improve their food and beverage behaviors. His recent research interests include: “stealth nutrition,” which focuses on shifting diets through the integration of non…

1
Truth About Sugar, Fat, and Reversing Insulin Resistance | Robby Barbaro 29:22

4M ago29:22

29:22

Tired of conflicting advice on diabetes? This episode sets the record straight. Dr. Robbie Barbero, who reversed his own Type 1 diabetes with a plant-based diet, unpacks the science on what really causes insulin resistance.ro You'll be shocked to learn it's NOT sugar as you've been told. Dr. Barbero reveals new research proving dietary fat - not su…

1
28. Wendy Lopez and Jessica Jones, Diabetes Digital 29:03

4M ago29:03

29:03

Wendy Lopez and Jessica Jones are nationally recognized Registered Dietitians and Certified Diabetes Educators. They are the founders of Food Heaven – a multimedia platform originally founded for women and communities of color experiencing barriers to food, healthcare and nutrition education - and the newly launched Diabetes Digital - a trusted sou…

1
Parenting Tips for the Digital Age | Parenting Coach Andy Goldstrom 25:04

4M ago25:04

25:04

This episode follows the transformation of successful entrepreneur Andy Goldstrom from a results-driven corporate executive to a compassionate parenting coach. Faced with his own daughter's mental health struggles, Andy realized the tough love approach that worked in business failed his family. Through difficult lessons and parent coaching certific…

1
27. Clancy Cash Harrison, Food Dignity Movement 32:00

4M ago32:00

32:00

Clancy Cash Harrison is a food equity advocate, registered dietitian, TEDx speaker, and international thought leader who challenges the way food insecurity is approached and discussed. Her mission to demolish the stigma around food access places her on the cutting edge of advocacy. Clancy is the founder of the Food Dignity® Movement, a strategic pr…

1
Finding Your Sweet Spot: Leveraging Strengths, Interests, and Values for Success | James King 22:35

4M ago22:35

22:35

Tired of being average? Want to take your game to the next level and become unstoppable? This episode will show you how to maximize your innate strengths, tap into your deepest interests, and unleash an unstoppable drive to win. Former military strategist James King shares his science-backed approach to identifying your "sweet spot" and aligning yo…

1
Marketing Mastermind: Seth Godin on Viral Growth and Community Building 24:47

4M ago24:47

24:47

In this episode, marketing pioneer Seth Godin shares his proven strategies for building viral movements and brands. He and the Spartan founder Joe De Sena talk about the power of cultivating small, passionate communities over mass appeal. Godin draws from his experience helping top brands connect through stories and building a community. He explain…

1
26. Walter Willett, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health 34:04

5M ago34:04

34:04

Dr. Walter Willett is a physician and Professor of Epidemiology and Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. He also co-chairs the EAT-Lancet Commission, a group of 37 world-leading scientists working to determine how to provide a healthy diet for a future population of 10 billion people while respecting planetary boundaries. Dr.…

1
Beyond Stereotypes: Redefining Masculinity Through Authenticity 23:06

5M ago23:06

23:06

In this episode, Joe De Sena interviews Michael Holt from Savage and Saint on redefining masculinity through integrity, authenticity and inner strength. They discuss growing up tough and how it shapes character, plus the importance of discipline and relaxation in achieving goals and relationships. Michael shares his daily wellness routine of medita…

1
25. Sara Burnett, Burnett Strategy and Communications 31:03

5M ago31:03

31:03

Sara Burnett has more than 18 years experience developing brand-building strategies and campaigns. As Vice President of Food Beliefs, Sustainability & Public Relations at Panera Bread, Sara was responsible for the company’s policies on food issues ranging from sustainability to food additives. She also provided menu labeling and education to inform…

1
24. Ravi Dhar, Yale School of Management 29:53

5M ago29:53

29:53

Ravi Dhar is the George Rogers Clark Professor of Management and Marketing and director of the Center for Customer Insights at the Yale School of Management. He is an expert in behavior and branding who brings psychological insights to the study of consumer decision-making. Ravi’s research investigates fundamental aspects about the formation of our…

1
23. Janet Ranganathan, World Resources Institute 30:52

5M ago30:52

30:52

Janet Ranganathan is the Managing Director and Executive Vice President for Strategy, Learning and Results at World Resources Institute (WRI), a global research organization that addresses the urgent sustainability challenges related to food, forests, water, climate, energy, cities and the ocean. She leads the development and execution of WRI’s fiv…

1
Never Quit: Craig Levinson's Story of Pivoting from Failure to Success 23:46

5M ago23:46

23:46

Craig Levinson has overcome countless obstacles on his journey from South Africa to Silicon Valley. After immigrating as a teen, he chased his basketball dreams in the US only to have a devastating injury end his career. But he refused to quit, pivoting to build supplement brands and manage inspirational clients. Through it all, 3 principles have g…

1
Getting Kids Moving: Solutions to the Physical Inactivity Crisis | Amy Bantham 15:46

6M ago15:46

15:46

Tired of kids glued to screens when they should be running around outside? Frustrated with the lack of PE and recess in schools? Dr. Amy Bantham has had enough - and she's starting a revolution to get our youth active again. As the founder of Move to Live More, Amy is trying to empower families and schools in a fight against physical inactivity. In…

1
From the Brink of Death to the Forefront of Healthcare Innovation | Jacob Peters 36:17

6M ago36:17

36:17

Jacob Peters almost died after a COVID-19 vaccine left him hospitalized. Instead of accepting defeat, he was driven to help others avoid similar struggles. His new company Superpower aims to put people in charge of their health data and connect them to innovative care. This episode follows Jacob's incredible journey—from building Legos into a six-f…

1
Challenging the Status Quo: Disrupting the $2 Trillion Alcohol Industry | Ruari Fairbairns 23:41

6M ago23:41

23:41

Tired of the same old drinking culture? In this unconventional podcast episode, Spartan CEO Joe De Sena joins forces with wellness entrepreneur Ruari Fairbairns to drop bombshell strategies for helping people take back control over their lives from Big Alcohol. From waking guests at dawn with burpees to proposing "water-only" bars, these disruptors…

1
From Lab to Market: Navigating the Obstacles of Medical Innovation | Dr Jeff Karp 19:54

6M ago19:54

19:54

In this fascinating discussion, Dr. Jeff Karp, a top biomedical innovator pulls back the curtain on the difficult journey medical breakthroughs must take to actually help patients. From navigating financial hurdles and clinical trial complexities to manufacturing challenges, hear the surprising barriers promising cures often face on their journey t…

1
A Special Message from Michiel Bakker 1:52

7M ago1:52

1:52

Michiel Bakker: “Over the course of this season, we’ve explored why we need to shift diets, the many ways of doing that, and identified some of the things that need to happen on a systems level to make these changes sustainable and inclusive. This time of year is often one of reflection and gratitude. As I reflect on all the incredible conversation…

1
Starve Yourself of Synthetic Pleasures: Find Authentic Challenges | Seth Goldstein 13:43

7M ago13:43

13:43

Tired of synthetic pleasures leaving you unfulfilled? Former financier and entrepreneur Seth Goldstein knows how easy it is to fall for fake dopamine hits. But he firmly believes that through discipline and authentic challenges like the Spartan Race, people can find genuine happiness and fulfillment. In this episode, Seth shares his journey of crea…

1
22. Ann Cooper, Chef Ann Foundation 33:51

7M ago33:51

33:51

Chef Ann Cooper is a celebrated author, educator, and enduring advocate for better food for all children. She has been a relentless champion of school food reform for improved child nutrition. Known as the “Renegade Lunch Lady,“ Chef Ann founded the Chef Ann Foundation in 2009, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping schools take action so th…

1
90% Indoors: How Disconnecting from Nature is Hurting our Health | Mason Kuhr 14:51

7M ago14:51

14:51

Tired of feeling drained? Struggling with inflammation or other health issues? Mason Kuhr shares his holistic approach to tapping into your inner strength. Through simple daily rituals like cold exposure, meditation, and burpees, Mason has optimized his energy levels, productivity, and recovery. He'll reveal how reconnecting with nature can bo…

1
Achieving Your Dreams: The Power of Your Circle and Consistent Action | Dominic Schlueter 23:09

7M ago23:09

23:09

Dominic Schlueter was a regular kid who loved running. Through consistency, the right influences, and taking action on his dreams, he's built a thriving podcast and brand at just 18 years old. In this episode, Dominic recounts how from a young age he found joy in challenging himself on the track. That drive soon led him to seek out greater obstacle…

1
SquidHaus's Secret Weapon: How to Dominate the Fitness World | Lukas Pakter 26:45

7M ago26:45

26:45

Joe De Sena sits down with a young entrepreneur Lukas Pakter, the founder of the SquidHaus fitness apparel company, to discuss sensitive global issues with nuance, as well as Lucas' unconventional path to building his booming athletic apparel brand. Lucas shares his viral strategy of leveraging an "influential army" of top fitness creators to take …

1
Forging Anti-Fragility: Build Strength Through Challenge | Brian Johnson 36:21

8M ago36:21

36:21

In this powerful episode, Spartan founder Joe De Sena sits down for an in-depth conversation with the amazing Brian Johnson, also known as the Heroic Philosopher CEO. They discuss Brian's strategies for building anti-fragile confidence through consistent action. Brian shares how we can close the gap between who we are and who we want to be by doing…

1
Time to Escape the Comfort Zone | Michael Easter 34:37

8M ago34:37

34:37

In this hard-hitting episode, bestselling author Michael Easter joins Joe De Sena to discuss the dangers of our addiction to comfort in the modern world. They explore how technologies like social media and junk food use the same psychological tricks as slot machines to hijack our brains. Easter reveals the "scarcity loop" that makes these activitie…

1
21. Joseph Yoon, Brooklyn Bugs 31:55

8M ago31:55

31:55

Chef Joseph Yoon is an Edible Insect Ambassador, a world renowned thought leader in entomophagy, the practice of eating insects. He founded Brooklyn Bugs in 2017 to normalize edible insects through delicious, creative, and educational programming. From kitchens and classrooms to stages around the world, Chef Yoon shares the incredible potential of …

1
Re-Invent Yourself to Find Your True Self | Craig Siegel 24:09

8M ago24:09

24:09

Joe De Sena interviews Craig Siegel who is an author and motivational speaker. While having a successful business on Wall St Craig felt unfulfilled. He re-invented himself and constantly pushed himself into discomfort until he found a passion that would get him out of bed in the morning. He now helps others find their true potential and calling.…

1
20. Bernhard Kowatsch, UN World Food Programme 33:33

8M ago33:33

33:33

Bernhard Kowatsch is founder and head of the Innovation Accelerator at the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world's largest social impact incubator dedicated to ending hunger worldwide. The Innovation Accelerator offers 15 annual programs to the broader ecosystem on multiple social impact and sustainability issues, such as hunger, cli…

1
The Plant Based Truth Exposed? | Kameron Waters 51:46

8M ago51:46

51:46

Joe De Sena sits down with Co-Director of Christspiracy, Kameron Waters who talks about his upcoming film which he and his co-director bought back from Netflix making it the first of its kind to do so. This is the sequel to the popular Seaspiracy, What the Health and Cowspiracy which explores The Spirituality Secret kept hidden for thousands of yea…

1
19. Eve Turow-Paul, Food for Climate League 35:35

8M ago35:35

35:35

Eve Turow-Paul is an author, globally-recognized thought leader, and the founder and Executive Director of Food for Climate League (FCL). FCL is a nonprofit that is on a mission to democratize sustainable eating and empower action towards climate-smart eating through campaigns, toolkits and behavioral design interventions. By facilitating a deeper …

1
18. Bonus Episode: Wadhwani AI 24:32

9M ago24:32

24:32

Wadhwani Institute for Artificial Intelligence (Wadhwani AI) has been actively building and deploying AI solutions for underserved populations in developing countries since 2021. As a Google.org recipient, they are using AI to bring the world’s agricultural expertise to every farmer, protecting critical crops and mitigating the threat of hunger for…

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