How Spartan Race Founder Joe Desena found his PURPOSE | Daily EDGE: Emotional intelligence Podcast

This week, it was my honor and privilege to have Joe Desana, the founder of the Spartan Race, as my first guest on the Raul Villacis Experience, a long-form companion podcast to The Daily Edge. Joe has been a best-selling author, a key note speaker, and of course the founder and organizer of the Spartan Race.

Joe grew up on what many of us would call “the wrong side of the tracks.” He essentially grew up as a background actor in a real-life mob movie. But his mother made sure he wouldn’t follow that path, and set him up for later success in life. Several times in life, he became successful, then risked everything he had to start over and pursue greatness. His interest in physical fitness and his desire to test his own toughness lead him to create the Spartan Death Race. In this interview, Joe tells me how and why he chose the life he has now.

Show Notes:

0:40 Intro

1:14 What is Joe’s story? / Origin story

6:15 Joe met a guy at Cornell…

8:32 Joe takes a big risk by taking a new job

11:2 2 Many of Joe’s friends ended up in jail, but Joe stayed straight

14:12 “Was I tough enough?”

10:06 When was the threshold?

21:27 Bird discussion

22:48 Joe talks about the transition from wall street to organizing races.

25:32 You can find your purpose. You can also find a new purpose as you grow

28:57 The tunnel

31:15 Money can fuel purpose until your purpose is profitable

32:34 You better figure it out…

34:42 Married bliss

36:54 What attitudes are necessary to succeed?

38:38 What is the next step?

Joe shows off his kettle bells and home gym

43:20 Joe promotes his favorite tea

44:44 When is the next race?

47:00 end

CONNECT WITH ME

We’d love to hear your feedback, join my text community by sending a message to: (203) 405 – 9199

Releated Post

Tyson VS. Jones: 5 Lessons men can learn from Mike Tyson’s comeback

On November 28, Mike Tyson stepped into the ring for the first time in fifteen years to face Roy Jones, Jr. in an exhibition match. Although he had suffered a humiliating defeat against journeyman fighter Kevin McBride in his last match, Tyson’s biggest opponent was himself. For years, his biggest fear was letting the dark warrior within him take over. He intentionally sedated himself and gained weight. He refused to even pick up the gloves to train in the gym. But at some point in the last few years, he faced his pain.

Read More »

How to be a good parent, a good partner, and a good communicator

On this episode of God, Money & Purpose, we begin with a story of Alejandro, Raul and Vivian’s son, and the frustration Vivian felt when Alejandro waited until the last minute to finish a homework assignment. The situation offers insight into the relationship between masculine and feminine energy, as well as between parents and children. 

Read More »

Valentine’s Day/ Super Bowl Aftermath

In the latest GMS podcast episode, Raul and Vivian Villacis explore the importance of continuous appreciation and innovation in relationships. They share personal stories and insights on how to keep the spark alive, not just on special occasions but every day. The discussion then shifts into listening, fulfilling your partner’s needs, and the balance of masculine and feminine energies, offering a fresh perspective on gender roles and leadership. Key takeaways include the importance of celebrating your partner regularly, understanding each other’s desires, and the role of leadership in nurturing a relationship. This episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to deepen their connection and navigate the complexities of love and companionship with intention and creativity.

Read More »