In this powerful episode of Vulnerability Muscle, I sit down with Olivier Mankondo, a renowned weight loss and wellness coach, speaker, and author. Olivier shares his life-changing journey of losing 77 pounds (35 kg), reversing high blood pressure, chronic pain, and fatigue, and slowing the aging process—all through a plant-based diet and holistic lifestyle changes.

Since adopting plant-based nutrition in 2016, Olivier has not been sick a single day and has helped hundreds of people achieve optimal health and vitality. His approach combines mindset, nutrition, and intermittent fasting to help others lose weight naturally, boost energy, and eliminate chronic diseases.

If you’ve struggled with hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, or low energy, this episode provides scientifically-backed insights and practical strategies to reclaim your health and longevity—without medication.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

📖 Plant-Based Nutrition: How It’s Going to Change Your Life by Olivier Mankondo – Available on Amazon: https://oliviermankondo.com/my-book-funnel-ebook-sales-page [https://146331cf-fc5c-435f-8e69-02547d58b9c8.pipedrive.email/c/qkvjjgmqkp/j4ngep2mrk/n84l5gozk0/1?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Foliviermankondo.com%2Fmy-book-funnel-ebook-sales-page&hash=X2xkMD2o8wCWB4Yf5nLyArWL-rKn18gWj3UP5rnYyoA]



FREE GIFT: Lose Weight Naturally & Improve Your Health!

Olivier Mondo’s Three-Step Weight Loss & Wellness Program:

1️⃣ Adopt a Winning Mindset: Shift from willpower to “why” power—find a meaningful reason to change.
2️⃣ Eat a Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds.
3️⃣ Incorporate Intermittent Fasting: Give your body time to heal and regenerate naturally.

👉 Download Olivier’s 7 Proven Tips for Weight Loss & Wellness: https://oliviermankondo.com/opt-in [https://146331cf-fc5c-435f-8e69-02547d58b9c8.pipedrive.email/c/qkvjjgmqkp/j4ngep2mrk/n84l5gozk0/0?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Foliviermankondo.com%2Fopt-in&hash=ir6BMdq374_qVpTUE57RJ8Eb7Kk5ysjzzXQzl_B3lvY]

Work With Olivier Mankondo & Start Your Health Journey Today

🌍 Website: https://www.oliviermankondo.com/www.oliviermankondo.com [http://www.oliviermankondo.com/]
📞 Book a Free Discovery Call: https://tidycal.com/oliviermankondo/discovery-call [https://146331cf-fc5c-435f-8e69-02547d58b9c8.pipedrive.email/c/qkvjjgmqkp/j4ngep2mrk/n84l5gozk0/2?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ftidycal.com%2Foliviermankondo%2Fdiscovery-call&hash=kOhCa6FqUk6uvoBMFc76NfZhVtlxpo0_4xMdFnxs4YU]

035 - Transform Your Health with a Plant-Based Diet: Olivier Mondo’s Journey to Reversing Chronic Disease & Losing 77 Pounds

What happens when your childhood identity is wrapped in competition, perfection, and performance—and then it all ends? In this powerful episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with entrepreneur, event architect, and TEDx organizer Amanda Banks to unpack the emotional rollercoaster of life after elite athletics, the spiritual depths of entrepreneurship, and the courage it takes to simply start.

Amanda opens up about the vulnerable transition out of competitive gymnastics, how grief and identity loss shaped her teenage years, and how those experiences became fuel for her mission-driven career today. From building TEDxOldHickory into a national gem to helping athletes and entrepreneurs find their voice and stage, Amanda shares hard-earned lessons on resilience, self-worth, and starting before you feel ready.

Together, Amanda and Reggie reflect on the power of community, the fear of being seen, and the sacred value of integrity in a world obsessed with instant results. Whether you’re thinking about launching a business, sharing your truth, or stepping onto your own metaphorical red dot—this is your sign to hit the damn button.

Contact Information:

Email: amanda@createandinnovatesolutions.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-banks/https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-banks-9945502b/

034 - Hit the Damn Button: Taking Bold Action to Create, Innovate, and Inspire

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with the legendary Ron Johnson—a man whose life story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the power of impact over income. From growing up in North Memphis as the fifth of ten boys, to excelling as a college football star, to facing unimaginable loss and incarceration, Ron’s journey is one of struggle, redemption, and purpose.  

Ron shares intimate details about losing his best friend to violence, the tragic murder of his mother, and how these traumas shaped his path. He opens up about channeling his pain into sports, his time playing football at Tennessee State University, and the pivotal moment when he found himself facing a 40-year federal prison sentence. But his story doesn’t end there. Instead of letting his circumstances define him, Ron found faith, education, and a new mission: helping others break free from cycles of trauma and despair.  

Now a speaker, mentor, life coach, and advocate, Ron has dedicated his life to serving others. He talks about the importance of therapy, meditation, and faith in healing from grief—including the recent heartbreaking loss of his daughter. His mantra, “Impact over income,” underscores his belief that true wealth comes from changing lives.  

If you’ve ever struggled with adversity, questioned your purpose, or needed inspiration to rise above your circumstances, this episode is for you. Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation about pain, perseverance, and the undeniable power of transformation.

033 - Impact Over Income: Ron Johnson on Overcoming Trauma, Loss, and Finding Purpose

What happens when a Harlem Globetrotter takes off the jersey and steps fully into his truth? In this deeply moving episode of Vulnerability Muscle, Reggie D. Ford sits down with Herb “Flight Time” Lang—former Globetrotter, three-time Amazing Race competitor, speaker, and kindness advocate—to explore the life behind the highlights.  

Herb opens up about growing up in Brinkley, Arkansas, the powerful role his grandmother played in his life, and the emotional journey of sending her a care package she never received. He shares the pivotal moments that shaped his 18-year Globetrotter career, how travel reshaped his worldview, and the spiritual lessons that came from surviving a traumatic car accident just months before this recording.  

Together, Reggie and Herb unpack themes of vulnerability, masculinity, gratitude, therapy, and the power of manifestation. Whether you're a student, leader, athlete, or anyone seeking hope, this episode is a reminder that kindness is free, vulnerability is strength, and your story matters more than your resume.  

You’ll walk away inspired to embrace your humanity, show up authentically, and carve your own path—one vulnerable step at a time.  

📲 Connect with Herb 

Herb Lang’s Website & Speaking Inquiries: www.iamherblang.com 

Social Media: @iamherblang on Instagram and across platforms 

Book: Projects, Popes & Presidents by Herb Lang 

Merchandise: Kindness Is Free gear via Herb's website 

 📲 Connect with Reggie 

IG - https://instagram.com/reggiedford LI - https://linkedin.com/in/reggiedford Website - https://reggiedford.com Podcast’s IG - https://instagram.com/vulnerabilitymuscle

032 - Herb Lang Talks Therapy, Vulnerability, and Why Kindness is Free

In this raw and uplifting episode of Vulnerability Muscle, Reggie D. Ford sits down with mental health advocate, performer, and Miss Middle Tennessee, Jana Hahn, for a deeply personal conversation about navigating life with OCD. Diagnosed as a child, Jana battled obsessive rituals, contamination fears, and depression—fighting silent monsters that controlled her daily life. But through treatment, exposure therapy, and an unwavering commitment to healing, Jana turned her pain into purpose.

Jana opens up about the emotional toll OCD took on her family dynamics, the struggle of being a twin with different mental health paths, and the internal resistance she had to overcome before embracing support. She also reads a powerful letter she wrote to herself during the darkest moments of her recovery—a letter full of pain, hope, and the will to survive.

From being hospitalized to competing in Miss Tennessee, Jana’s story is one of courage, transformation, and the strength found in sharing our truth. Together, she and Reggie reflect on the importance of storytelling, the power of community, and the slow, sacred process of healing. Whether you're battling OCD, PTSD, or the weight of invisible pain, this conversation reminds you: you are not alone, and your pain has purpose.

031 - OCD, Anxiety & the Miss America Stage: A Mental Health Story You Need to Hear

In this powerful episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with 11-year NFL veteran and Vanderbilt legend Jordan Matthews for a deeply moving conversation on what it means to live with purpose beyond the game. From early memories of his father cheering him on in Little League to his reflections on fatherhood, humility, and faith, Jordan opens up about the highs and lows of professional sports, mental resilience, and becoming a man of impact.

Jordan shares untold stories from his football career—including being the 42nd pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, switching from wide receiver to tight end, and navigating multiple team cuts—all while balancing faith, family, and service. He reflects on the importance of special teams as a metaphor for life, the misconceptions about the NFL, financial literacy, and why vulnerability is the foundation of real relationships.

We also dive into:

 * How to thrive in a competitive, high-pressure environment
 * The role of consistent father figures in building self-worth
 * Breaking free from toxic hustle culture in sports and life
 * The power of spiritual grounding and learning Hebrew
 * The truth about fame, finances, and fulfillment in pro sports

Plus, Jordan talks about the Vanderbilt Legends Charity Softball Game happening July 11 at Hawkins Field, benefitting Eli’s House, a nonprofit supporting women and children affected by poverty and the foster care system.

This conversation is packed with truth, wisdom, and humor—and is not just for athletes. It’s for anyone seeking to build a legacy rooted in love, humility, and vulnerability.

📲 Contact & Event Info:

 * Instagram: @jmatt3x
 * Charity Event:
   Vanderbilt Legends Charity Softball Game
   📍 Hawkins Field, Vanderbilt University
   📅 July 11 – Doors open at 5 PM
   🎗️ Proceeds support Eli’s House: a nonprofit dedicated to keeping families together through housing, therapy, and job readiness programs.

030 - Inside the Mind of Jordan Matthews: NFL, Faith, Family, and Financial Wisdom

In this special episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford sits down with Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell for a heart-centered conversation that goes far beyond politics. From the power of vulnerability in leadership to the importance of authentic community connection, Mayor O’Connell opens up about the emotional weight of public service, the challenges of navigating state and city tensions, and how he stays grounded in the midst of it all.

Reggie and Mayor O’Connell explore what it means to lead with compassion while facing the daily fires of executive decision-making. With reflections on family traditions, childhood memories, and his favorite Nashville gems (shoutout to Big Al’s Deli), this conversation is a reminder that behind every title is a human being with a story, a heart, and a deep desire to serve.

You’ll also hear insights about affordable housing, transit reform, and Nashville’s future—and why slowing down and doing the small things well might be the most radical act of leadership.

Whether you’re a civic leader, a lifelong Nashvillian, or someone who believes in leading with love, this episode is a masterclass in vulnerability and vision.

RESOURCES:

1) Financial Empowerment Center (FEC)

- The Nashville Financial Empowerment Center offers free, one-on-one financial counseling to residents of Davidson County and surrounding areas.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

Website: fec.nashville.gov

Phone: 615-748-3620

Counseling is available in English and Spanish, with translation services for other languages. Sessions are currently conducted remotely.

2) Mental Health Support

- 24-Hour Mental Health Crisis Line: Call 855-274-7471 to connect with trained crisis counselors.

- Mental Health Cooperative: Offers a 24-hour walk-in crisis center at 250 Cumberland Bend.

3) Emergency Financial Assistance

- NeedLink Nashville provides short-term financial assistance to help residents avoid homelessness and utility disconnections.https://givingmatters.civicore.com/needlink?utm_source=chatgpt.com

4) Volunteer and Nonprofit Engagement

- Hands On Nashville: Connects volunteers with local nonprofits across various sectors.

- Center for Nonprofit Excellence: Supports Middle Tennessee nonprofits with resources and training.

029 - Leading with Heart: Mayor Freddie O’Connell on Vulnerability, Grace, and the Soul of Nashville

Thank you for joining us as we concluded the second season of Vulnerability Muscle with an incredible in-person podcast celebration event! This powerful evening was filled with insightful discussions, heartfelt stories, and transformative moments that touched on some of the most important aspects of mental health today.  

🎙️ In this special event, Reggie D. Ford was joined by a dynamic panel of guests, including Johnanthon Davis, Quez Cantrell, Bre'Onna Coleman, Trevor Jones, and Maryam Abdallah. Together, they explored the strength in vulnerability and how it can help us heal and grow. From the challenges of grief and depression to the complexities of co-parenting and overcoming trauma, this event was a deep dive into the realities that many of us face but often shy away from discussing.  

🌟 Throughout the evening, we worked together to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, offering practical strategies, personal experiences, and a community of support to empower each other.  

✨ Whether you were able to attend in person or are catching up now, this event is your chance to connect with a community dedicated to authenticity, resilience, and the power of being real. If you're on your own journey of self-discovery, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your true self and turn vulnerability into your greatest asset.  Don't miss out on the conversation—watch, learn, and grow with us! Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and events.  

___________________  

Connect with Reggie:  

Instagram - https://instagram.com/reggiedford 

Facebook - https://facebook.com/reggiedford 

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/reggiedford 

Twitter - https://twitter.com/reggiedford 

YouTube - https://youtube.com/@reggiedford

Website - https://reggiedford.com 

Book - https://amzn.to/48VsCSQ

Podcast - https://reggiedford.com/vulnerabilitymuscle 

Podcast’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/vulnerabilitymuscle  

___________________  

Connect with panelists:  

Maryam - https://iamwellconsulting.com/  

Trevor - https://www.villagekulture.org/ 

Quez - https://www.quezcan.com/ 

Bonna - https://purposelit.com/ 

Johnathon- https://www.supadata.net/cards/Black_Men_Vent_Too_LLC_Johnathon_Davis_34890.asp

028 - Vulnerability Muscle Live

In this episode, Reggie D. Ford interviews Andrea Torrey Balsara, an award-winning author and illustrator who has transitioned from creating picture books to exploring the depths of energy medicine. Andrea shares her journey of integrating her artistic talents with her newfound passion for Reiki and energy healing, discussing how it has helped her heal from childhood trauma. The conversation delves into her acclaimed book, *The Great & the Small*, and the personal and creative growth that led to its creation. As a volunteer at a donkey sanctuary, Andrea also shares insights into the autobiographical nature of her characters, the healing power of compassion, and the lessons learned from working with donkeys. She emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and offers inspiring advice for sexual assault survivors, exploring the intersection of writing, healing, and the resilience of the human spirit.  

Highlights: 

⭐️ Andrea shares her unique method of grounding herself by standing barefoot in the grass and visualizing roots growing into the earth. 

⭐️ She reflects on vulnerability as embracing her true self and shedding layers of pretense. 

⭐️ Andrea recalls a profound moment on a mountaintop in the Cascades, surrounded by a serene meadow and majestic peaks. 

⭐️ Andrea discusses her experience visiting a concentration camp in Germany as a child and the powerful moment of encountering a priest whose presence illuminated the darkness, instilling hope. 

⭐️ Andrea talks about her book, The Great & the Small, which explores the dualities of human nature through a fictional story of rats, inspired by historical figures and personal insights. 

⭐️ Andrea delves into her healing journey through energy medicine, discussing the trauma from her childhood and how she has been working to reclaim her sense of self. 

⭐️ She reflects on the ongoing process of healing and growth, emphasizing the idea that we all have the tools within us to overcome challenges and find light within the darkness. 

⭐️ Andrea discusses how each character she writes has a piece of her, even the seemingly unlikable ones, emphasizing the complexity of human nature and the importance of everyday choices in shaping our paths. 

⭐️ Andrea shares her touching experiences at a donkey sanctuary, where she learned about resilience, love, and the impact of energy work on animals, highlighting a poignant moment with a donkey named Darwin. 

⭐️ Andrea opens up about her journey of forgiving the person who sexually abused her, understanding their past, and finding peace through compassion, stressing that forgiveness does not require reconciliation. 

⭐️ Andrea offers profound advice to trauma survivors, encouraging them to recognize their intrinsic worth and beauty, and to embark on a patient journey towards self-discovery and healing. 

⭐️ Andrea provides practical tips for aspiring writers, including finding mentor books, taking writing classes, and using creative tools like soundtracks and magazine holders to organize and inspire their writing projects.    

📲 Connect with Reggie 

Instagram - https://instagram.com/reggiedford 

Facebook - https://facebook.com/reggiedford 

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/reggiedford 

Twitter - https://twitter.com/reggiedford 

YouTube - https://youtube.com/@reggiedford

Website - https://reggiedford.com 

Book - https://amzn.to/487OqJD 

Podcast - https://reggiedford.com/vulnerabilitymuscle 

📲 Connect with Andrea 

Website - https://www.torreybalsara.com/ 

The Great & the Small by A.T. Balsaral - https://www.torreybalsara.com/pre-order 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andreatorreybalsara/

027 - The Heart of a Writer: Autobiography in Fiction, the Healing Power of Energy Medicine

In this episode of Vulnerability Muscle, host Reggie D. Ford engages in a profound conversation with nutrition expert Tina Huynh, who shares her journey from battling an eating disorder to becoming a holistic wellness advocate. They discuss the importance of balanced nutrition, mindful eating, and the connection between gut health and mental well-being, while also addressing deeper issues like self-worth and societal pressures. Tina emphasizes the role of community in healing and the power of vulnerability and self-awareness in overcoming isolation and emotional eating, offering listeners practical tips and heartfelt encouragement.  

Highlights: 

⭐️ Tina discusses her work with women who struggle with nutrition, simplifying the overwhelming information available online to help them focus on what's truly important. She emphasizes building habits and consistency for long-term impact, transforming lifestyles rather than quick fixes. 

⭐️ Tina highlights the complexities of navigating nutrition in a world filled with conflicting information. 

⭐️ Drawing on her background in psychology, Tina discusses the intricate relationship between gut health and mental well-being. 

⭐️ Rather than focusing on foods to avoid, Tina advocates for an additive approach, emphasizing the importance of adding nourishing foods to one's diet. 

⭐️ Tina addresses popular misconceptions about seed oils, oatmeal, oat milk, fruit juice, and artificial sweeteners, offering insights into making informed dietary choices. 

⭐️ Tina opens up about her personal struggles with eating disorders, discussing the role of ADHD in women and societal influences on self-worth. 

⭐️ Tina shares words of encouragement for individuals struggling with self-image, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's uniqueness and practicing self-compassion. 

⭐️ Tina offers practical tips for simplifying meal prep and making healthier food choices, encouraging listeners to prioritize convenience and accessibility without guilt. 

⭐️ Reggie and Tina discuss the relationship between actions and fears, acknowledging the tendency to isolate oneself during challenging times. 

⭐️ Tina shares her gratitude for the power of vulnerability and its role in preserving human connection and empathy.  

📲 Connect with Reggie: 

Instagram - https://instagram.com/reggiedford 

Facebook - https://facebook.com/reggiedford 

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/reggiedford 

Twitter - https://twitter.com/reggiedford 

YouTube - https://youtube.com/@reggiedford

Website - https://reggiedford.com 

Book - https://amzn.to/487OqJD 

Podcast - https://reggiedford.com/vulnerabilitymuscle 

Podcast’s Instagram - https://instagram.com/vulnerabilitymuscle  

📲 Connect with Tina: 

Website - https://www.tinasarena.com/

 IG - @tinas_arena_ 

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinakhuynh/  

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: The content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard or read in this content!

026 - Unlocking Holistic Wellness: Conquering Emotional Eating with Tina Huynh

Welcome to "Vulnerability Muscle with Reggie D. Ford," the empowering podcast that challenges societal norms and invites you to explore the transformative power of vulnerability. Hosted by bestselling author and motivational speaker Reggie D. Ford, this show is your guide to finding strength, connection, and personal growth through embracing vulnerability.

In a world that often portrays vulnerability as a sign of weakness, Reggie D. Ford believes it is a source of tremendous strength and authenticity. Through insightful conversations and thought-provoking interviews, "Vulnerability Muscle" aims to redefine vulnerability and help listeners develop a new perspective on their own lives.

Reggie D. Ford, renowned for his bestselling book "Perseverance Through Severe Dysfunction" and his captivating motivational speeches, brings his unique expertise and personal experiences to the forefront. With a deep understanding of the impacts of trauma, the importance of mental health, and the power of vulnerability, Reggie inspires and empowers his audience to embrace their own vulnerabilities as catalysts for growth and change.

Each episode of "Vulnerability Muscle" delves into a variety of topics, such as mental health, social issues, and mindset shifts. Reggie and his guests explore the power of vulnerability in healing, building resilience, and fostering meaningful connections. They provide practical tools and strategies to navigate life's challenges, overcome adversity, and create more inclusive and just environments for all people.

Whether you're seeking personal growth, struggling with your mental health, or looking to create a positive impact in the world, this podcast offers a safe space for deep exploration and transformation. Reggie's compassionate and engaging style invites you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace vulnerability as a path to personal empowerment.

Join Reggie D. Ford and his inspiring guests on "Vulnerability Muscle" as they illuminate the path toward self-discovery, authenticity, and true strength. Prepare to be inspired, uplifted, and equipped with the tools to unlock your full potential through the power of vulnerability.

@reggiedford

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