Determined Society with Shawn French | Adversity & Mindset – Details, episodes & analysis

In this profoundly emotional episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Andrew Pollack, father of Meadow Pollack — one of the victims of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida

Andrew shares his journey from unimaginable loss to relentless advocacy, turning grief into a nationwide movement for school safety, accountability, and change. He speaks candidly about the failures that led to the tragedy, the reforms Florida has implemented since, and his ongoing mission to make sure no parent endures what he has.

Through moments of heartbreak and hard truth, Andy’s voice cuts through the politics and noise to remind listeners that parental involvement, training, and accountability save lives. From holding local officials responsible to designing cutting-edge safety technology, Andy’s message is clear: complacency kills — action protects.

The conversation expands beyond headlines into personal conviction, faith, and leadership. Andy shares how Florida became a national model for school safety, why armed guardians and plain-clothes officers matter, and how technology is reshaping emergency response. He also exposes the systemic failures, misguided leniency policies, and lack of courage that cost innocent lives.

This episode is not political — it’s personal. It’s a father’s mission to protect every child in America.

Key Takeaways

-Parents have the power to demand change and protect their children.

-Florida leads the nation in school-safety reforms — accountability matters.

-Complacency kills: “You gotta know better now.”

-Accountability for law enforcement and policy leaders saves lives.

-Technology and training together create real-world safety solutions.

-Victims deserve action, not excuses.

Connect with me :

https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Andrew Pollack

https://www.instagram.com/andrewpollackfl/

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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/

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Patrick Dearborn brings unwavering purpose to every role he leads—whether as a top real estate agent, fire commissioner, or community advocate in Naples, Florida. In this episode of The Determined Society, Patrick and Shawn engage in a powerful conversation about faith, duty, daily disciplines, and the importance of service, unity, and unshakeable grit.

They peel back the layers on his early mornings—starting his day at 4 AM to get the hardest thing done first—and discuss his role in building what he calls “Freedom Town USA,” a community rooted in shared American values rather than division.

This episode covers:
-What's Freedom Town USA and why Naples is the model for unity

-His journey from military service to real estate and firefighting—building a life on discipline and honoring your "call"

-The daily practice of “doing something you don’t want to do” as a determination muscle

-How to fight division in American life by choosing unity, empathy, and connection

-Tales from the fire service and what it means to truly serve—and pay with sacrifice

-Why a relentless morning routine is Patrick’s non-negotiable baseline

-What it truly means to be the GOAT (special shoutout to GOATED GOLF)

What Determination Means to Patrick:
“Waking up at 4 AM, doing the hardest thing first, and serving others before serving myself.”

Connect with me :
https://link.me/theshawnfrench?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaY2s9TipS1cPaEZZ9h692pnV-rlsO-lzvK6LSFGtkKZ53WvtCAYTKY7lmQ_aem_OY08g381oa759QqTr7iPGA

Patrick Dearborn
https://www.instagram.com/patrickdearborn/

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Overview:

In this powerful episode of The Determined Society, host Shawn French sits down with Noel Devine, a former standout football player whose life story transcends the boundaries of the gridiron. Noel's journey is one marked by profound loss, remarkable talent, and an unyielding spirit of determination that has inspired countless people around the world.

In-Depth Show Notes:

• Introduction:

  • Shawn French opens the episode by introducing Noel Devine, a name that resonates with football fans and anyone who has followed inspiring stories of perseverance. Noel's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a football star and now a mentor is a testament to the power of resilience.

• Early Life and Challenges:

  • Noel shares the heart-wrenching story of his early years, growing up in Fort Myers, Florida. He lost both of his parents to HIV/AIDS at a very young age, a tragedy that shaped his life in profound ways. Raised by his grandmother, Noel faced the challenges of navigating a world where stability was scarce, but hope was a constant companion.
  • Despite the odds stacked against him, Noel found solace and purpose in football. He quickly became a local sensation, known for his speed, agility, and vision on the field. His highlights went viral on YouTube, catapulting him into the national spotlight before he even graduated high school.

• Rise to Fame:

  • The conversation delves into Noel's rise to fame, from his viral YouTube clips that showcased his extraordinary talent to his recruitment by the University of West Virginia. Noel reflects on the pressures of being a young athlete in the public eye, the expectations placed upon him, and how he managed to stay grounded amid the hype.

• College Football and Professional Career:

  • At West Virginia University, Noel continued to impress, becoming one of the most electrifying players in college football. He shares anecdotes from his college career, including memorable games and the bonds he formed with teammates and coaches.
  • The discussion transitions to Noel's professional career, including the challenges he faced as he attempted to transition to the NFL. He opens up about the injuries, setbacks, and the mental toll that came with the high stakes of professional sports.

• Life After Football:

  • After stepping away from professional football, Noel found a new calling in mentorship and coaching. He now dedicates his time to mentoring young athletes, sharing his story to inspire them to overcome their own obstacles. He emphasizes the importance of education, mental health, and surrounding oneself with positive influences.
  • Noel talks about the initiatives he has launched to give back to his community, including football camps and outreach programs aimed at helping underprivileged youth. His goal is to provide the guidance and support that he wishes he had received as a young man.

• Key Takeaways:

  • Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Noel's story is a powerful reminder that no matter the challenges we face, we can overcome them with determination and hard work.
  • The Importance of Mentorship: Noel underscores the value of having mentors and role models who can guide young people through difficult times.
  • Life Beyond the Game: For Noel, football was just the beginning. He shares insights on finding purpose beyond one's career and using personal experiences to make a positive impact on others.

• Closing Thoughts:

  • Shawn and Noel wrap up the conversation with a reflection on the importance of never giving up, no matter how insurmountable the obstacles may seem. Noel leaves listeners with a message of hope, encouraging them to keep pushing forward and to use their struggles as fuel for their dreams.

Subscribe to The Determined Society for more inspiring stories from individuals who have overcome incredible odds to achieve success.

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

David Kampfe is a IFBB Classic physique pro and health enthusiast who owns multiple companies in the health and wellness space. He shares his journey from being a high school athlete to working with kids with autism to becoming a bodybuilding pro and business owner. Kampfe emphasizes the importance of setting high standards, embracing resistance, and building a routine for success. He believes that motivation comes after you start doing the work and that discipline and determination are the keys to achieving goals. Kampfe also highlights the significance of leadership and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals.

Key Conversation Points:

• Set high standards for yourself and hold yourself accountable.
• Embrace resistance and see it as an opportunity for growth.
• Success is built on discipline and determination, not just motivation.
• Leadership and setting an example are crucial in inspiring others.
• Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who support and uplift you.

Connect with David:

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

Linktree- https://linktr.ee/dynamicfitness_

Connect with Shawn:

All Links- https://link.me/theshawnfrench

Website- https://thedeterminedsociety.com/

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Highlights:

Join us for a special live episode recorded at The Legacy Pro Sports charity event, where we engage in a powerful conversation about the critical importance of mental health support for former athletes. Our esteemed guests include former NFL stars and mental health advocates who share their personal experiences, challenges, and the urgent need for comprehensive support and treatment for retired athletes.

Featured Guests:

1. Brandon and Pamela Siler: Former NFL linebacker Brandon Siler and his wife Pamela discuss their journey through the mental health challenges faced by athletes post-retirement. They shed light on the gaps in insurance coverage and the physical and mental health issues that retired NFL players often encounter.

2. Ryan Sherry: Professional pickleball player and entrepreneur Ryan Sherry shares his insights on maintaining mental wellness amidst the pressures of competitive sports. Ryan emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and funds to support mental health initiatives for athletes.

3. Paris Todd: Rising star Paris Todd talks about the impact of sports on mental health and the determination required to overcome challenges. Paris highlights the need for a positive mindset and the crucial role of support systems in achieving success.

4. Brandon Bostick: Known for his NFL career, Brandon Bostick opens up about his personal battles with mental health and the significance of open discussions to reduce stigma. Brandon provides valuable advice on seeking help and the importance of community support.

5. Chris Leak: Former University of Florida quarterback and national champion Chris Leak discusses the transition from professional sports to new endeavors and the mental health struggles that can accompany this shift. Chris underscores the need for mentorship and leadership in guiding younger athletes through their journeys.

Key Conversation Points:

• Mental Health Challenges for Retired Athletes: Our guests delve into the mental health issues faced by former NFL players due to a lack of insurance coverage and adequate support. They share personal stories and highlight the physical and psychological toll of professional sports.

• Raising Awareness and Funds: The speakers emphasize the critical need for raising awareness and funds to support mental health treatment for athletes. They discuss the role of charity events like The Legacy Pro Sports in providing resources and support for retired athletes.

• Determination and Mindset: Learn about the importance of determination and a positive mindset in overcoming challenges both on and off the field. Our guests share their strategies for maintaining mental wellness and staying motivated.

• Support Systems: The conversation highlights the significance of support from friends, family, and colleagues in overcoming mental health challenges. Our guests stress the importance of a strong support network in navigating the pressures of sports and life.

• Open Discussions: Discover why open discussions about mental health are essential in reducing stigma and providing necessary support for athletes. Our guests advocate for creating a culture of openness and understanding to promote mental wellness.

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jace Yawnick, a cancer survivor, shares his journey of battling cancer and how he is inspiring others through his platform. He talks about the emotional experience of writing his will with his father and the realization that material possessions don't matter compared to spending time with loved ones. Jace emphasizes the importance of community and the support he receives from family, friends, and strangers. He discusses the power of determination and how surrounding himself with positive energy helps him stay motivated. Jace's story serves as a reminder that everyone has the ability to bring positivity and make a difference in the lives of others.

Key Conversation Points:

• Material possessions pale in comparison to spending time with loved ones.
• The support of family, friends, and a community can make a significant difference in one's journey.
• Surrounding oneself with positive energy and inspiration can fuel determination.
• Everyone has the ability to bring positivity and make a difference in the lives of others.

Connect with Jace:

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

Website- https://www.jacebeatscancer.org

Connect with Shawn:

LinkMe- https://link.me/theshawnfrench

Watch on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@thedeterminedsociety

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Summary

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Chris Mazza, a professional Major League Baseball pitcher, to delve into his remarkable journey of determination and perseverance. Chris Mazza, despite being considered undersized for a professional athlete, defied the odds and pursued his dream of playing in the major leagues. Through sheer resilience, he overcame multiple surgeries and numerous setbacks that could have ended his career. Chris highlights the crucial role of never quitting and consistently pushing through adversity to achieve success. He also shares how his wife’s unwavering support and belief in him played a pivotal role in his journey. Chris Mazza’s story is a powerful testament to the fact that with enough determination and resilience, one can achieve their goals, no matter how challenging the path.

Takeaways

• Pursue Your Dreams: Don’t let doubts, setbacks, or the opinions of others deter you from chasing your dreams. Chris Mazza’s journey to the major leagues exemplifies the power of staying true to your aspirations.
• Embrace Resilience and Determination: Overcoming challenges often requires a strong sense of resilience and determination. Mazza’s story demonstrates how these qualities are essential in navigating the ups and downs of a professional sports career.
• Value Your Support System: Having a solid support system, such as a supportive spouse or family, can provide the motivation and strength needed to push through tough times. Chris Mazza attributes much of his success to the unwavering belief and support from his wife.
• Push Through Difficult Moments: Success is often a result of pushing through the most difficult moments and not giving up, even when faced with significant obstacles. Mazza’s ability to persist through surgeries and setbacks underscores this important lesson.

Connect with Chris:

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/mazzarati10/

Connect with Shawn:

LinkMe- https://link.me/theshawnfrench

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The conversation between Shawn French and ET revolves around the themes of determination, clarity, and personal growth. ET's famous speech on 'How Bad Do You Want It?' is discussed, highlighting the importance of having a strong desire for success. They also touch on the significance of clarity in achieving goals and how it has impacted ET's life. The conversation emphasizes the need to focus on the work rather than the reward, and the importance of consistency and habit-building. ET shares his personal journey of lacking clarity and how determination led him to where he is today. They discuss the mindset shift required to overcome self-doubt and the importance of negotiating with oneself to push through challenges. The conversation concludes with a discussion on turning up the internal thermostat and taking responsibility for personal growth. In this conversation, Shawn French and ET discuss the importance of taking care of one's health and the motivation behind it. They talk about the desire to be there for their families and the impact that their health has on their loved ones. They also discuss the struggle of finding balance in various areas of life and the need to change one's mindset in order to achieve that balance. ET shares his upcoming June challenge, where he will be coaching and guiding participants for 30 days to help them mentally and spiritually. The conversation ends with Shawn expressing his gratitude for ET's impact and their plans to meet in person.

Key Conversation Points

• Having a strong desire for success is crucial in achieving goals.
• Clarity plays a pivotal role in personal growth and success.
• Focus on the work rather than the reward.
• Consistency and habit-building are key to long-term success.
• Negotiate with oneself to push through challenges and overcome self-doubt.
• Take responsibility for personal growth and turn up the internal thermostat. Taking care of one's health is important for the well-being of oneself and their loved ones.
• Finding balance in various areas of life requires a change in mindset.
• Coaching and guidance can help individuals stay motivated and focused on their goals.
• Being present and mentally and spiritually engaged in the moment is crucial for maintaining relationships.
• Changing one's behavior starts with changing one's mindset.

Join ET's Challenge

Click here- https://morein2024etchallenge.com/

Connect with Shawn- https://link.me/theshawnfrench

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Shawn French reflects on the journey of his podcast, The Determined Society, and announces exciting changes and developments for the future. He expresses gratitude to his listeners and shares how the show started as a small hobby and grew into something much bigger. Shawn discusses the evolution of the show's production quality and the impact it has had on listeners. He also reveals that the show will be undergoing a transformation, with new partners, remastered branding, and in-person interviews. Shawn encourages listeners to stay tuned for the upcoming changes and invites them to be part of the determined society.

Key Conversation Points

• The Determined Society podcast started as a small hobby and has grown into something much bigger.
• The show's production quality has improved over time, leading to increased engagement from listeners.
• Exciting changes are coming to The Determined Society, including new partners, remastered branding, and in-person interviews.
• Listeners are invited to be part of the determined society and join the journey of making a positive impact on the world.

Connect with Shawn

LinkMe- https://link.me/theshawnfrench

The Determined Society is hosted by Shawn French — a show for people who refuse to quit. Every episode goes beyond the highlight reel to explore the real stories behind resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of a life built on your own terms.

Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all others.. If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and leave a review. It helps more than you know.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.