Shows
Excellence Above Talent PodcastOwning The Truth About AbuseSend us a textThe hardest part isn’t admitting what happened; it’s admitting why. We open up about how abuse forms long before it turns physical, in the quiet moments where insecurity, fear, and ego go unchallenged and entitlement takes the wheel. You’ll hear why reactions are still choices, how the victim mindset keeps men stuck, and why “she made me mad” is a lie that blocks growth. We talk frankly about the early signals we ignore, especially with boys learning to posture instead of communicate, and how schools and families can teach emoti...
2025-11-2114 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastThe Shadow Warriors: When Grinding Feels InvisibleSend us a textAaron Thomas shares his powerful journey from contemplating suicide ten years ago to finding purpose in speaking openly about men's mental health. Breaking the silence surrounding men's struggles, he emphasizes how isolation breeds dangerous thoughts and how authentic conversations can save lives.• The dangers of chasing money without finding meaning or making an impact• How men's silence about mental health struggles reinforces isolation• The frustration of putting in authentic work while watching others gain recognition• Learning to value the people who already see you versus chasing public validation• Fi...
2025-08-2316 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastChoose Your Battles: Fighting for Growth vs. Fighting to ImpressSend us a textHave you ever felt trapped between the person you've been and the person you're meant to become? That uncomfortable space of transformation is exactly where Aaron Thomas finds himself.Aaron opens his heart about the mental struggle he's been experiencing while trying to deepen his relationship with God. He describes the intense pressure that comes from trying to let go of an old identity while simultaneously resisting the birth of something new. "The old has gone, the new is here," he quotes from 2 Corinthians 5:17, but acknowledges that the space between old...
2025-06-1320 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastDangerous Through Growth: Embracing Who You Really AreSend us a textAaron Thomas dives deep into three transformative quotes that have become guideposts in his journey toward authentic manhood. With refreshing honesty, he explores the struggle many men face—wanting to succeed independently while knowing deep down that meaningful achievement requires connection and vulnerability."Your ability to partner with others will largely determine your potential." Aaron unpacks how this truth challenges the lone wolf mentality prevalent among men. Through personal stories of building a mentorship program and facing his own resistance to asking for help, he illuminates the power of collaboration over is...
2025-05-2327 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastThe 10 Walls Between Men and GreatnessSend us a textAaron Thomas explores ten barriers preventing men from reaching their full potential as open, vulnerable individuals who inspire those around them.• Societal expectations around traditional masculinity discourage emotional expression• Workplace stress puts pressure on men to prioritize work over family and personal wellbeing• Relationship issues stem from difficulty expressing emotions and needs• Financial pressure ties economic stability to self-worth causing unnecessary stress• Health concerns go unaddressed as men delay seeking medical help• Substance abuse serves as unhealthy coping mechanisms for emotional pain• Loneliness and isolation result from li...
2025-05-0235 min
Excellence Above Talent PodcastMen Need Safe Places Too: A Wife's Perspective on Male Mental HealthSend us a textAaron Thomas explores the evolving definition of masculinity with his wife Yanni, examining how men can find purpose beyond societal expectations and create healthier relationships through emotional intelligence.• Men today have more opportunity to be themselves beyond traditional provider roles• Creating safe spaces where men can remove their masks and express vulnerability• The energy a man brings home shapes the entire household• Emotional intelligence is often excluded from discussions about manhood due to tradition• Healthy male friendships provide accountability and encourage personal growth• Supporting mentors means ensuring the...
2025-04-2539 min
Excellence Above Talent PodcastWiping Your Feet at the Door: How Small Actions Shape Big CharacterSend us a textJustin Granado joins Aaron Thomas to explore the evolving landscape of modern masculinity, from defining purpose and embracing vulnerability to building meaningful friendships and leaving a positive legacy.• Defining manhood as consistently showing up for others in whatever capacity they need you• Finding purpose through difficult moments and using personal setbacks as catalysts for growth• Why vulnerability is essential to true masculinity and deep connections• The importance of being comfortable alone and taking time to decompress• Creating healthy male friendships by having tough conversations and pushing each other to g...
2025-03-2855 min
Excellence Above Talent PodcastWhat We Don't Say Is Killing Us: Men's Journey Through VulnerabilitySend us a textAaron Thomas and Pastor Cliff have a profound conversation about modern masculinity, challenging traditional norms while exploring emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and purposeful living. They examine how society often contradicts itself by telling men to suppress natural instincts while celebrating these same qualities in women.• Manhood today requires awareness and confidence despite societal pressures to conform• Finding purpose beyond wealth and status means connecting with our deeper calling• Vulnerability is crucial but must be practiced in safe relationships with trusted individuals • Many men struggle with emotional intelligence because they were neve...
2025-03-211h 20Excellence Above Talent PodcastThe State of Manhood: Identity, Purpose, and LegacySend us a textAaron Thomas launches a new podcast series exploring the state of manhood through conversations with men from diverse backgrounds about identity, purpose, emotions, relationships, and masculinity in society. He shares his own perspective while inviting others to contribute their experiences to help men navigate life's challenges.• Modern men must adapt beyond traditional provider/protector roles to inspire and motivate those around them• Finding purpose doesn't require status or wealth—making a positive impact on others creates meaningful ripples• Vulnerability is not weakness but a fundamental building block of true masculin...
2025-03-1434 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastEmbracing Kingdom Culture: Moving Beyond Ethnicity Debates to Foster Unity and UnderstandingSend us a textAaron Thomas confronts racial misconceptions and emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and unity. He advocates for open dialogue about identity and encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves while challenging societal stereotypes. • Misconceptions about Black identity and humanity • Personal struggles with proving worth in a racially charged society • The need for deeper conversations around race and humanity • Critical insights on DEI and systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities • Encouragement to live authentically and embrace one’s identity • The role of confrontation in fostering understanding and growth • A message of hope, resi...
2025-02-1316 min
The Powell Perspective with Thomas J. PowellMastering Business Foundations and Staying “Unshackled” with Aaron Young & Jacqueline Kuiper (EP006)In this insightful episode of The Powell Perspective, host Thomas J. Powell welcomes two industry experts: Aaron Young, Chairman of Laughlin Associates and author of Unshackled, and Jacqueline Kuiper, attorney and general counsel, known for her expertise in complex legal structuring and her yoga teachings in Bali. Together, they explore essential business foundations—from starting a business with a lasting mindset to managing asset protection and winding down enterprises responsibly.
Key Topics Covered:
Why Business Longevity Matters
Thomas and Aaron discuss the common misconception that businesses, once started, continue indefinitely without issue. Aaron shares th...
2024-10-3123 minThe Powell Perspective with Thomas J. PowellMastering Business Foundations and Staying ”Unshackled” with Aaron Young & Jacqueline Kuiper (EP006)In this insightful episode of The Powell Perspective, host Thomas J. Powell welcomes two industry experts: Aaron Young, Chairman of Laughlin Associates and author of Unshackled, and Jacqueline Kuiper, attorney and general counsel, known for her expertise in complex legal structuring and her yoga teachings in Bali. Together, they explore essential business foundations—from starting a business with a lasting mindset to managing asset protection and winding down enterprises responsibly.
Key Topics Covered:
Why Business Longevity Matters
Thomas and Aaron discuss the common misconception that businesses, once started, continue indefinitely without issue. Aaron shares th...
2024-10-3123 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastGuiding the Next Generation with Emotional AwarenessSend us a textHave you ever felt lost in the whirlwind of life’s challenges, searching for a steadfast anchor? Join me, Aaron Thomas, as I return to podcasting after a significant break, sharing my journey of rediscovering purpose and stability. Through candid reflection, I open up about my personal struggles and the fear that has held me back from embracing a deeper spiritual connection with God. My mission is to surpass the expectations set by previous generations, embracing authenticity and vulnerability in my quest to become the best version of myself. As I take on ne...
2024-10-1419 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastFaith, Vulnerability, and Personal TransformationSend us a textImagine transforming your life by embracing change and uncovering your true potential. Join me, Aaron Thomas, on this soul-searching episode of Excellence Above Talent as I recount my personal journey of confronting mental barriers and negative perceptions about wealth. From childhood misconceptions that led to self-sabotage, to utilizing faith-based affirmations to reshape my mindset, we delve into the broader implications of change. This episode reveals the crucial role of emotional, spiritual, and mental maturity in attaining the blessings we aspire to in life.We also tackle the importance of vulnerability in...
2024-06-1418 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastSurviving Combat and the Battle Within: Aaron Thomas on PTSD, Mental Health, and Support Systems for VeteransSend us a textWhat happens when a soldier returns home but finds no support to help them cope with the shadows of war? On this impactful episode of Excellence Above Talent, I, Aaron Thomas, share my deeply personal journey from the battlefields of Iraq to the daunting reality of civilian life. You'll hear about the harrowing encounters with IEDs, the tragic loss of comrades, and the ever-looming threat of death that haunted each mission. As I transitioned back home, the absence of a robust support network led me down a dark path of unhealthy coping mechanisms...
2024-06-0721 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastAaron Thomas's Tale of Overcoming Cyber Seduction and Reclaiming LifeSend us a textStruggling with an addiction that lurks behind screens and clicks, I, Aaron Thomas, have fought a personal war against the grip of pornography. Today, I invite you into my world, not as a passive observer, but as a companion on a path paved with resilience and determination. Witness the profound impact this battle has had on my life, carving deep into the fabric of my first marriage and the valleys of my soul. It's been a year and a half of relentless pursuit towards recovery, where technology isn't just a gateway to temptation but...
2024-05-2422 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastA Teacher's Mission: Transforming Lives and Mentoring the Next Generation of LeadersSend us a textWhen I stepped into the classroom at Nimitz Middle School, I wasn't just teaching math; I was embarking on a mission to transform lives. In today's episode, I, Aaron Thomas, open up about the powerful lessons learned from both my students and influential community figures like Colin Sewell. I share the emotional journey from being a spectator in life's arena to an active combatant for positive change, informed by the ups and downs of personal loss and the drive to mentor our youth. This narrative isn't just mine; it's a reflection of the collective...
2024-05-1727 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastMen in the Making Understanding and Reversing Harmful PatternsSend us a textWhen I stepped into my 7th grade math classroom, I didn't expect to confront the harsh reality of how young boys treat their female teachers. But there it was, a microcosm of the disrespect and intimidation that can seed future abusive behaviors. In my latest podcast episode, I, Aaron Thomas, take you through a journey that is both harrowing and hopeful. I invite courageous men, who once walked a troubled path, to share their stories of transformation and the conversations they wish they'd had earlier. This is a deep look into the origins...
2024-05-1018 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastThe New Brave Embracing Emotional Openness in ManhoodSend us a textCaught in a silent struggle, many of us grapple with the heavy weight of what it means to be a man in today's society. I'm Aaron Thomas, and on our latest podcast, I bear my soul in a candid conversation about the internal wars we're too often fighting alone. We delve into the consequences of toxic masculinity, the impact of societal expectations on our mental health, and the transformative journey towards understanding our spirituality and purpose. Through my own experiences and those I’ve witnessed as a junior high math teacher, I reveal th...
2024-05-0325 min
First Comes Love Then Comes Marriage"It's Cheaper to Keep Her?" with Atty. Aaron Thomas | First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage S5E8🎙️ Step right up, lovebirds and skeptics alike! It's time for another exhilarating episode of "First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage"! Brace yourselves as we delve deep into the age-old saying: "It's cheaper to keep her." 💰💔 But wait, there's more! We're thrilled to welcome a very special guest to our cozy podcast nook: the one and only Attorney Aaron Thomas, @Prenupguy founder of Prenups.com and a true maestro in the realm of divorce law.With Aaron's wealth of experience as our guide, we're embarking on a riveting exploration of the financial and emotional landscape surrounding marriage and divorce. Get ready for a r...
2024-03-2234 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastEmbracing the Challenges of Male Leadership DevelopmentSend us a textHave you ever stood at the crossroads of self-improvement, feeling both daunted and determined? Join me, Aaron Thomas, on Excellence Above Talent, as we traverse the rocky terrain of personal growth and male leadership. This year's journey has been a profound one, wrestling with the ego and learning to let faith lead the way. It's been a battle against the lure of destructive habits and the quest to find value beyond our missteps. Through candid discussions, I delve into the power of our surroundings, the role of intentional living, and the courage to...
2023-12-2922 min
Finding the Guardian of Your SoulSpecial Guest, Divorce Attorney Aaron Thomas!What You'll Hear In This Episode:- About Aaron’s areas of expertise, including divorce, custody, child support, and pre- and postnuptial agreements- The importance of setting clear financial terms during engagement reduces marital issues- Fairer prenups lead to happier marriages- Discussing what couples want to achieve with the agreement instead of using the term "prenup"- Addressing the negative connotations and stereotypes associated with prenuptial agreements- Meeting legal requirements such as signing the prenup at least a week ahead and having an op...
2023-10-2453 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastChoosing the Path of Self-Challenge: A Personal JourneySend us a textEver wondered why we so often wait for life to throw us curveballs instead of stepping up and challenging ourselves? This is the fundamental question that we tackle head-on in our new episode of Excellence Above Talent. I'm Aaron Thomas, and I pull back the curtains on my personal journey, sharing how the philosophy of 'embracing the suck' has helped me adopt a healthier lifestyle and smash my personal and financial goals. I walk you through how voluntarily choosing to challenge yourself can bring long-term benefits like improved health and financial stability.
2023-07-2823 minExcellence Above Talent PodcastEmbracing Disruption and Accountability: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation with Aaron ThomasSend us a textReady for an unfiltered journey of self-discovery and personal transformation? My name is Aaron Thomas, and I'm inviting you to join me on a raw and emotional exploration through my life, insights, and experiences. From my early struggles to define my manhood to my current commitment to living an authentic life on my terms, this episode is a candid share about my journey of disruption and accountability.I have learned to find power in disruptive thinking, using it as a force to advocate for positive change and to challenge societal norms that...
2023-07-2129 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 6 : 2023 Grannies Gravel Grinder & Heywood RecapGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads!
We're a little 'off the back', but we're still working hard. On today's episode Devon & Aaron recap TWO gravel races - the fantastic Granny's Gravel Grinder and the Heywood! Both were excellent MN gravel rides and Aaron even finished first?? (which is different than winning, btw). There's talk about Le Tour (of course) and a plug for TWO amazing State Championship events happening in just a few weeks -
The MN State Championship Road Race - July 29th!
The MN State C...
2023-07-1750 min
Excellence Above Talent PodcastReshaping Grief: Counselor Bryn's Journey from Sorrow to ServiceSend us a textHave you ever wondered what kind of strength it takes to turn a personal tragedy into a purpose? Join me, Aaron Thomas, for an intimate conversation with the inspiring Bryn, a professional counselor, who has navigated this very journey following the heartbreaking loss of her son. Bryn opens up about the harsh realities of grief, and how her faith became a beacon of light during the darkest times. We delve into the invincibility mindset of 18-year-old boys, their skewed prioritization of social life, and the grave consequences of ill-thought-out decisions. Bryn e...
2023-06-3029 min
Excellence Above Talent PodcastEvolving Masculinity: Building a Society of Accountable, Authentic MenSend us a textWhat does it truly mean to be a man in today's society, and how can we take responsibility for bettering the state of manhood? Join us, Aaron Thomas, Patrick Mackie, and Kenzie Clifton, as we embark on an eye-opening journey to redefine manhood and explore the responsibilities of men in society, from the impact of absent fathers to the importance of self-respect and confidence.Throughout this episode, we discuss the urgent need for men to hold each other accountable and engage in honest, straightforward conversations. We delve into the shocking statistics surrounding...
2023-06-091h 23
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 5 : 2023 Miesville 56 RecapGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads!
On today's episode Devon, Aaron & Erik Lunde recap their experience at the recent Miesville 56 Gravel Race! We go over everything, clothing options for a Minnesota Spring (Wind, Rain, Snow - why not all three??), tire options & food (or the lack of!!). It was a super fun event and I think it comes through in today's episode.
Erik has an unpronounceable last name.
This is Devon's *favorite* episode.
This is Aaron's least favorite episode b...
2023-05-0938 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 4 : MYSTERY GUEST Brandon Krawczyk!! Oh... wait.Good morning Dads & Friends of Dads!
Today's guest is the one, the only Brandon Krawczyk!! After being the brunt of many a joke on our previous episodes, he's FINALLY crossed the threshold and become a father. A very *sincere* father - which Devon and Aaron do their absolute best to inform him that the cute thing he's taking care of right now will eventually take over.
Brandon reminisces about how Devon berated him into a loving friendship and how Aaron is a lovable goofball.
D...
2023-04-1248 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 3 : Erik Lunde - Finally, Someone NEWGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads!
Today's guest is Erik Lunde! Erik is a local Dad and Cyclist who found cycling a little later in life, but is fully on board with the Cycling Dads lifestyle! He's also putting up some major numbers dad-wise, so needless to say Devon and Aaron are a little impressed (and concerned).
Erik talks about his transition from non-cyclist, to cyclist who rides alone to cyclist who maybe will ride with people (and how this podcast helped with that???) Wild.
2023-03-2439 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 2 : Imant Lisovskis Epic RideGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads!
Today's guest is Imant Lisovskis! Imant joined us for S1 Ep. 24 where he talked us through how he found cycling and S2 Ep. 1 where his love of building up beautiful cycling machines was further expanded on.
Imant goes into the details of dreaming, planning & executing a huge multi-day bikepacking ride from MPLS to Grand Marais. You can see the final leg on Stava here - https://www.strava.com/activities/7872832914
Devon is mostly cosplaying as batman in this one.
Aaron is mostly recovered.
We...
2023-03-0239 min
The Game Is The Game PodcastChanging How Couples Approach Marriages With Prenups With Aaron Thomas of Prenups.comAaron Thomas is the Founder and Attorney of Prenups.com, a law firm that helps couples avoid predictable money problems with thoughtful, fair, and loving pre and postnups. He is a 2002 graduate of Harvard Law School and a three-time winner of Atlanta’s Best Divorce Attorney. Recognized by peers as one of the fastest-growing family law firms in Georgia from 2015-2022, Aaron is also the Founder of Aaron Thomas Law. He has represented clients with family law matters, including divorce, custody, child support, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, ranging from NBA stars and Superbowl winners to Grammy award-winning artists....
2023-02-1051 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 3 - Episode 1 : Not the V-Day Episode You Were ExpectingIt's been a MINUTE
We're BACK with our first episode of Season 3! What's new for this season? Well, we're going to try and actually do episodes for one thing!
It's February and that can only mean one thing - it's V-Day time. But not the V-Day you'd think. Aaron gets pretty real and walks you through his experience getting a vasectomy. This is not an episode for the faint of heart (or probably for your kids).
Devon berates Aaron for taking so long to post a new episode.
That's really about i...
2023-02-0738 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 2 - Episode 7 : Rich Sherman - TdF RecapGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads! We're BACK with our third episode of TdF content featuring none other than Rich Sherman. You may remember Rich from Season 1 : Episode 6 and he's here today to tell us all about his Cervelo sponsored trip to le Tour.
Rich fosters an excellent discussion about the state of road cycling and why "Road Is Dead" may be more due to the focus of the community vs. the state of racing.
Devon really wants a nice new Cervelo. Real bad.
Aaron has bike tragedy befall him - twice!
2022-08-151h 06
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 2 - Episode 6 : Jacob Beissel - Live at the TdFGood afternoon Dads & Friends of Dads! Two episodes in one month - it's gotta be Le Tour! Jacob Beissel, Expert Dad, Painter & State Champion is BACK from the top of the world in beautiful France! He and his crew have made their way over with none other than Jessie Rients (Episode 2 Interview) to watch Le Tour and report back.
Jake gives us his best update over the phone and tells us about his Alpe d'Huez PR's!
Devon is FINE thank you for asking!
Aaron gets really into his Zwift Weeknight Race Recap.
2022-07-2239 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 2 - Episode 5 : A Midsummer UpdateGood morning Dads & Friends of Dads! It's been a minute, but we're back with some more of your favorite Dad Talk. Le Tour has begun and honestly, we have no idea what's going on but a few of our favorite Dads are over in Europe and will be sure to correct our horrible ramblings.
Devon tells us all about his families trip to the happiest place on earth - Duluth!
Aaron finally wins. You'll have to listen to see in what specifically he has won, but he most certainly has won.
Please subscribe a...
2022-07-0841 min
The Cycling Dads PodcastSeason 2 - Episode 4 : Matthew Finnesgard - SAHD Update!Today's guest is Matt Finnesgard! You may remember Matt from Ep. 15 - Matt was a BRAND NEW DAD (BND) the last time he joined us and has been making his way through the world of the Stay At Home Dad (SAHD) all the while. We're excited to hear about his journey and get back into it! We also have a big update on how our Miesville 56 event went (spoiler alert - there was a bit of wind).
Matt gives us insight into the hard work of being a full-time parent. You'd think taking work out the equation...
2022-06-061h 14