“Comfort is the enemy of greatness. Complacency is the enemy of your best self.”

Complacency kills momentum—and momentum, once lost, is brutally hard to get back. Greatness begins where comfort ends, and the longer you stay in your comfort zone, the more your dreams slip into a slow death. Resistance, as Steven Pressfield calls it, is that sneaky force that convinces you to stay put, to play small, to opt out. The only way through it is action. Cold water. Movement. Connection. Anything that shakes you out of the fog of “I’ll do it later.”

This one’s a call to arms. If you’re coasting on yesterday’s wins, it’s time to shake things up. The advice is simple and physical: plunge into something cold, get your body moving, and talk to another human. That’s how momentum gets reignited—not through thinking or planning, but doing. The excuses have to die before the dream does.

It’s hard either way. Discipline is hard, but so is regret. The discomfort of action is nothing compared to the pain of watching potential waste away. Choose your hard.

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

EP663: TL Nuggets #194 - Get Un-Complacent!

“A man without a purpose is just spending time.” - A. Justin Sterling

Today we’re talking about masculinity, brotherhood, and the kind of personal growth that actually holds up in the real world. At the center of it all is the late Justin Sterling, founder of the Sterling Institute of Relationship, who passed away recently. His work changed a lot of men’s lives.

Justin Sterling launched the Institute out of Oakland, California in 1979. His core idea was this: men and women are not the same. Not biologically or emotionally. He believed that by understanding and respecting these differences, people could create better relationships.

His biggest contribution was the Sterling Men’s Weekend. Two and a half days, stripped of fluff, where men get a chance to confront themselves—who they are, what they’ve settled for, and what kind of life they really want to build. It’s not therapy. It’s not a motivational seminar. It’s a crucible and it works.

In remembrance of Justin Sterling we've searched our episode archives for guests who’ve attended the Sterling Men’s Weekend. Our host, Nicky Billou, himself a graduate of the program.

Episode Highlights:

1. Masculinity is Simpler Than You Think

Guest: Huub van Maris

2. The Importance of Brotherhood in Modern Masculinity

Guest: Geoff Tomlinson

3. Creating Personal Context and Taking Ownership

Guest: Steve Richmond

4. The Role of Brotherhood in Personal Transformation

Guest: Rob Arpa

Learn more:

• Sterling Institute of Relationship [https://sterling-institute.com/]

• What Really Works with Men by A. Justin Sterling [https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/authorpage/a.-justin-sterling.html]

You’re invited to come to a Sovereign Circle meeting to experience it for yourself. To learn more, go to https://www.sovereignman.ca/. While you’re there, check out the Battle Ready program and check out the store for Sovereign Man t-shirts, hats, and books.

EP189: Rediscovering Masculinity – The Legacy Of Justin Sterling

“There are basically only two reasons you face a challenge. You’re being guided… or you’re aware you need to change direction, but you’re kicking and screaming, not wanting to go.”

Success often stalls not because of a lack of effort, but because of misalignment between your conscious goals and subconscious beliefs. When internal narratives contradict what you’re trying to achieve—like the fear that success means being alone or hurting others—you hit invisible limits. This episode unpacks how those hidden patterns form and what it takes to shift out of them, so your energy stops working against you and starts moving things forward.

Dr. Lise Janelle shares how she helps high performers remove unconscious blocks that quietly sabotage growth. Her Heart Freedom Method reveals where old stories are creating resistance, and clears them without years of analysis. Whether you’re plateaued at a certain income, feeling burnt out, or constantly second-guessing yourself, her process brings clarity and restores momentum. With practical examples from Olympic athletes and entrepreneurs, she explains how alignment leads to breakthroughs—personally and financially.

Dr. Lise Janelle is a success coach, former chiropractor, and creator of the Heart Freedom Method. She’s the author of Conversations with the Heart and co-author of the upcoming book Unstuck with Jack Canfield. Her mission is to help people achieve their full potential by aligning their mind, heart, and subconscious so they can experience lasting success and fulfillment.

Expert action steps:

1. Use challenges as fuel. When obstacles show up, pause and ask how they can serve your growth instead of questioning your worth.

2. Be your own biggest supporter. Treat yourself with the same encouragement and compassion you’d offer a best friend, especially when things get tough.

3. Get clear on who you are and what you want. Even if it’s scary, defining your purpose and direction will inspire action and move you forward with confidence.

Learn more & connect:

1. Conversations with the Heart [https://a.co/d/6xtm2xf] by Dr. Lise Janelle https://a.co/d/6xtm2xf

2. Unstuck (upcoming book by Dr. Lise Janelle and Jack Canfield)

3. The Success Principles [https://a.co/d/g4f9FAM] by Jack Canfield https://a.co/d/g4f9FAM

🔗 Links Mentioned:

1. Dr. Lise Janelle’s Website:

https://www.drlisejanelle.com [https://www.drlisejanelle.com/]

2. Best Friend Journal (Free 30-Day Challenge):

https://www.bestfriendjournal.com [https://www.bestfriendjournal.com/]

3. Heart Freedom Method [https://heartfreedomcoach.com/] https://heartfreedomcoach.com/

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

EP662: Dr. Lise Janelle - How To Get Unstuck & Make Your First Million 

“You can’t fix what you’re not willing to talk about.”

Integrity isn’t just a virtue—it’s the backbone of any successful business. In a world where cutting corners can be tempting and truth can feel like a liability, standing firm on your values sets you apart. Leadership isn’t about doing what’s easy; it’s about doing what’s right, even when it costs you. The greatest entrepreneurs, like the greatest leaders, build legacies not on deception, but on a foundation of trust, accountability, and unwavering truth. Because in business, as in life, reputation is everything.

Peter Forcelli knows the cost of telling the truth. As a former ATF special agent and federal investigator, he found himself at the center of one of the U.S. government’s most controversial scandals. When he saw wrongdoing, he spoke up—at great personal and professional risk. In this episode, he shares what it means to uphold integrity under pressure, why honesty is a non-negotiable in leadership, and how staying true to your principles can define your legacy.

Peter Forcelli is a retired law enforcement professional, whistleblower, and author of The Deadly Path. With over two decades in federal service, he fought corruption from the inside, exposing unethical practices that endangered lives. Today, he speaks on leadership, ethics, and the power of truth, helping business leaders apply the same principles of integrity in their own pursuits.

Expert action steps:

 1. Protect your reputation at all costs.
 2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
 3. Take care of yourself first.

Learn more & connect:

Website: https://www.peterjforcelli.com/

Book: “The Deadly Path” by Peter Forcelli [https://www.peterjforcelli.com/product-page/the-deadly-path-signed-hardcover]

https://www.peterjforcelli.com/product-page/the-deadly-path-signed-hardcover

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

EP661: Peter Forcelli - Confessions Of The Operation Fast & Furious Whistleblower

“Forces that are destructive to the family. And I do look at them with a critical eye and a lot of those things need to be reformed. But I also think in parallel with that, there’s a growing recognition of the individual within.”

For many men, the second half of life brings an unexpected reckoning. Divorce, career changes, or personal loss force a decision: stay stuck in old patterns or take charge of a new future. Reinvention isn’t about reclaiming the past—it’s about stepping into your fullest potential. Thriving in this next chapter requires resilience, self-examination, and the right brotherhood to push you forward.

Michael Osterling has guided countless men through life’s toughest transitions. With decades of experience as a therapist and coach, he helps men rebuild their identity by strengthening their body, mind, and emotional resilience. He believes in the power of masculine-only spaces where men can challenge each other and grow.

With nearly 30 years as a therapist and 25 years as a coach, Michael has worked with elite military leaders and now co-runs Resilience Optimized, helping men reclaim their strength and purpose.

Resilience Optimized: https://www.resilienceoptimized.com/

Movenet: https://www.movnat.com/

SealFit: https://sealfit.com/

Also mentioned:

John Taylor Gatto

Fudōshin

Fudōshin is a state of equanimity or imperturbability. It is a philosophical or mental dimension to Japanese martial arts which contributes to the effectiveness of the advanced practitioner. Fudō Myōō is found in Shingon Buddhism as a guardian deity, who is portrayed as carrying a sword in his right hand and a rope in his left.

You’re invited to come to a Sovereign Circle meeting to experience it for yourself. To learn more, go to https://www.sovereignman.ca/. While you’re there, check out the Battle Ready program and check out the store for Sovereign Man t-shirts, hats, and books.

EP188: Michael Ostrolenk - How To Create A Second Chance In The Second Half Of Your Life

“You can only become a hundredaire, a thousandaire, a millionaire by serving other people. That’s a wonderful thing.”

Financial freedom isn’t about luck—it’s about applying proven strategies that have stood the test of time. The key to doubling your income in a year isn’t a secret; it’s a formula. Prioritize high-value activities, refine your skills, and leverage the power of compounding efforts. Whether it’s making twice the sales calls, optimizing your offer, or improving efficiency by just 2% each month, the results add up fast. Success isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter, focusing on the right actions, and continuously improving.

Brian Tracy, a legend in personal development and business success, shares his battle-tested methods for wealth-building. He reveals how small, intentional changes—like setting crystal-clear goals, developing high-income skills, and outpacing the competition—can transform your financial trajectory. He also dives into the psychology of success, demonstrating how making a firm decision to become a millionaire sets off a chain reaction of growth, action, and opportunities.

Brian Tracy is a world-renowned speaker, entrepreneur, and author of over 96 books, including Goals: How to Get Everything You Want—Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible. With decades of experience in sales, leadership, and success training, he has helped millions of entrepreneurs and professionals unlock their full potential. His insights on goal-setting, productivity, and financial mastery continue to shape the success of top performers worldwide.

Learn more & connect:

Brian’s Website (includes free resources for writing and publishing a book)

https://www.briantracy.com [https://www.briantracy.com/]

Goals: How to Get Everything You Want—Faster Than You Ever Thought Possible – by Brian Tracy

https://www.amazon.com/Goals-Get-Everything-Want-Faster/dp/1605094110

The Art of Closing the Sale: The Key to Making More Money Faster in the World of Professional Selling – by Brian Tracy

https://www.amazon.com/Art-Closing-Sale-Making-Professional/dp/1400201110

Expert action steps:

Ask yourself...

1. “If I could achieve any one goal in life, which one goal would have the greatest positive impact on my life? What one goal would it be?”

2. “What one skill, if I was absolutely excellent at it, would help me to achieve my most important goal?”

3. “Who are the most important people in my life and what can I do to spend more time with them?”

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

TTLR EP660: Brian Tracy - How To Double Your Income In 1 Year or Less

“That which you believe and infuse your belief with emotion and repeat daily will become real in your life.”

Most people are running their lives on autopilot, using only a fraction of their true potential. Success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about reprogramming the subconscious to operate in alignment with your goals. The vast majority of thoughts and actions happen unconsciously, meaning real change starts with taking control of that process. By implementing a system that deliberately shapes daily habits and beliefs, you can break free from plateaus and unlock the success you’re truly capable of achieving.

John Mitchell, author of The Missing Secret of the Legendary Book Think and Grow Rich, uncovered what Napoleon Hill left out: the key to turning belief into reality. He discovered that 95% of a person’s thoughts and actions are unconscious, and if left unchecked, they keep people stuck in mediocrity. His 12-minute-a-day system is designed to rewire the mind for success by programming the subconscious to work in your favour.

John Mitchell is a seasoned entrepreneur who spent decades making six figures before realizing he was barely scratching the surface of his potential. At 50, facing a personal crisis, he dove into Think and Grow Rich and identified the missing piece that took him to seven figures. Now, he teaches others how to apply this principle to transform their businesses, relationships, and personal growth.

You can find The Missing Secret of the Legendary Book Think and Grow Rich on Amazon.

https://a.co/d/1kzZWLG

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

EP659: TL Nugget #193 - You're Only Tapping 5% Of Your Success Potential! Let's Help YOU Change That!

“I think any man out there that’s living out there that might be younger than the age of 30, I don’t think they’ve really felt the brutality of what it takes to survive in the world, right? And the world is not a nice place, as much as we all like to tell each other.”

Mental toughness isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build, brick by brutal brick. It’s about embracing discomfort, pushing past self-imposed limits, and refusing to be the guy who folds under pressure. The difference between success and failure? Discipline, resilience, and a willingness to go all in when others tap out. Whether it’s in business, fitness, or life, the men who win are the ones who don’t just endure hardship—they seek it out, because they know that steel is forged in fire.

Rob Arpa and Nicky Billou dive into the importance of fortifying the mind through physical challenge, discipline, and the right social circles. They discuss the teachings of elite athletes like David Goggins, the necessity of surrounding yourself with high-achievers, and why most men settle for mediocrity when they should be striving for dominance. Their message is clear: if you’re not actively strengthening your body and mind, you’re getting weaker.

Rob Arpa is a seasoned entrepreneur. With a background in business and a relentless drive for self-improvement, he’s built a seven-figure company while continually pushing his own limits. His insights into mindset, resilience, and success come from firsthand experience, making him a voice men should listen to—if they’re serious about stepping up their game.

Also in this episode:

“Never Finished” by David Goggins

https://davidgoggins.com/book/

“Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins

https://a.co/d/cQ4CDRX

“Finish Line Thinking: How to Think and Win Like a Champion” by Nicky Billou

https://a.co/d/hjA2G5S

“Extreme Ownership” by Jocko Willink

https://a.co/d/iVVdqWh

“Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill

https://a.co/d/gR1VwTK

“The Missing Secret” by Joe Vitale

https://a.co/d/8TiuQ9J

You’re invited to come to a Sovereign Circle meeting to experience it for yourself. To learn more, go to https://www.sovereignman.ca/. While you’re there, check out the Battle Ready program and check out the store for Sovereign Man t-shirts, hats, and books.

EP187: Arpa & Billou - Forging A Bulletproof Mindset

“I worked at Levi’s for 23 years, worked my way all the way up the ladder from entry-level marketing assistant to brand president.”

“I needed to build a factory. And I didn’t have two nickels to rub together or a bucket to piss in but I did have a singleness of purpose to course-correct this thing.”

“We were very different when we first came out and all the other brands looked exactly the same.”

Entrepreneurs don’t just start businesses; they start revolutions. Founders are driven by a deep sense of purpose, an almost reckless determination to build something that doesn’t yet exist. Unlike traditional CEOs who inherit an established structure, founders have to make every decision, carry every risk, and fight through uncertainty with nothing but conviction. The difference? Founders break the rules to create new ones, while CEOs operate within the system to maximize efficiency.

Today’s guests prove that true leadership requires courage. From launching brands that challenge industry norms to rebuilding domestic manufacturing from the ground up, these founders have faced rejection, controversy, and even financial ruin to stay true to their mission. They share stories of taking radical risks, navigating cancel culture, and making decisions that CEOs in corporate boardrooms would never dare to make. The lesson? Bravery in business isn’t optional—it’s the cost of true innovation.

Jen Sey: Former Levi’s President turned founder of XX-XY Athletics, a brand challenging cultural norms and championing women’s sports.

Pete Roberts: Founder of Origin USA, a company reviving American manufacturing through relentless grit and self-funded growth.

Michelle Watson: Founder of MICHI, redefining activewear for women over 40 by prioritizing longevity, strength, and purpose-driven design.

Visit https://www.eCircleAcademy.com [https://www.ecircleacademy.com/] and book a success call with Nicky to take your practice to the next level.

EP658: Thought Leader Genius Panel - Pete Roberts, Jen Sey & Michelle Watson - Why Founders Are Braver Than CEOs!

“You can be anything to a woman, but you can’t be boring.”

The hard truth? Attraction dies when a man trades his edge for comfort, his decisiveness for “whatever you want, babe,” and his self-respect for a never-ending to-do list. Women don’t fall for a guy because he’s nice; they fall for a guy who makes their heart race, who leads with confidence, and who—let’s be honest—knows how to keep things interesting. Lose that, and you’re not in a relationship—you’re in a slow-moving hostage situation.

Our guest breaks down why so many men go from exciting to invisible in their own relationships. He shares war stories, laugh-out-loud failures, and the hard-earned lessons that turned it all around. The secret sauce? Stop asking permission, start leading, and remember: attraction isn’t a faucet you turn on when you’re in the mood—it’s a dynamic you maintain every single day.

Paul Bauer is a men’s coach, author, and podcast host who learned the rules of attraction the hard way—by breaking every single one of them. After years of trial, error, and some truly questionable dating decisions, he dedicated himself to understanding what makes relationships work. Now, he helps men reclaim their confidence, maintain their edge, and, most importantly, avoid becoming the human equivalent of background noise in their own love lives.

Learn more & connect:

Come on, Man podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ComeOnManPodcast

Books:

 1. The Rational Male by Rollo Tomassi
    https://www.amazon.com/Rational-Male-Rollo-Tomassi/dp/1492777862
 2. No More Mr. Nice Guy by Dr. Robert Glover
    https://www.amazon.com/No-More-Mr-Nice-Guy/dp/0762415339
 3. The Player’s Handbook by Rollo Tomassi
    https://www.amazon.com/Players-Handbook-Rational-Male/dp/1801440402
 4. Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
    https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331
 5. Atomic Attraction by Christopher Canwell
    https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Attraction-Psychology-Mastery-Dating/dp/1953616012
 6. Married Man Sex Life Primer 2011 by Athol Kay
    https://www.amazon.com/Married-Man-Life-Primer-2011/dp/1460981731
 7. The Essential Skills of a Masculine Presence Psychology Paradigm
    https://a.co/d/4D1djp0

You’re invited to come to a Sovereign Circle meeting to experience it for yourself. To learn more, go to https://www.sovereignman.ca/. While you’re there, check out the Battle Ready program and check out the store for Sovereign Man t-shirts, hats, and books.

EP186: Paul Bauer - Attraction Dynamics

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE YOU WERE BORN TO MAKE The Business of Thought Leadership podcast is about building your thought leadership around your expertise, your brand and your name. To become well known and highly regarded in the market place for the results you are able to produce for your clients. Our guests are top thought leaders who have done it. They’ve become widely known for their expertise and results they’re able to deliver for their clients. They all love what they do and get paid very well for doing it. You’ll meet entrepreneurs that have leveraged thought leadership in driving business revenue, coaches that were unknown and barely making ends who later became celebrities and took their income into the 7 figures, consultants that transformed into best-selling authors and built multi-million dollar firms and senior executives who followed their passion, left their day jobs and are changing the world. We’ve had interviews with notables such as New Times Best-Selling Author Seth Godin, success and investment coaching icon, Raymond Aaron, a personal coach to billionaires, Alex Charfen & Tony Robbins’ Director of Coaching, Marc Von Musser. Steve Jobs once said “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” Are you crazy enough to join us in making the difference you were born to make. We want you to 10x your impact, your income and your influence every 12 months. Financially successful people with purpose and passion are changing the world and we want to inspire you to be one of them.

The Thought Leader Revolution Podcast

“A real man is sovereign over his own life. He takes full responsibility for becoming a better man, and owns his own successes and failures. But he also understands the value of being a part of a band of brothers, the kind that have his back, and he can call at 3 AM if he’s stuck in a jail cell, because they’ll come and get him. He understands that just like a wolf pack, the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” — Nicky Billou Welcome to the Sovereign Man Podcast where we have the conversations that matter to you as a man, and inspire you to become the best version of yourself. You’ll learn from the best business, career, financial, relationship, and mans skills experts from around the world. The Sovereign Man Podcast is for motivated men like you who want to win in today’s world. We equip you to become better in every area of your life from establishing mastery over yourself, to defining your purpose, strengthening your family and your relationships, becoming a better leader, and learning man skills. Each week I have real, unscripted conversations with real men, successful men, and men who give a darn.

Nicky Billou

Shows