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★★★★★

4.9

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Welcome to EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward, hosted by Zander Sprague, bestselling author and acclaimed motivational speaker. If you're looking to kickstart the EPIC chapters in your life, you've come to the right place! Here, you will find inspiring stories, practical resources, and transformative insights to guide you on your journey. Whether you're an entrepreneur scaling your business, a leader fostering a better workplace culture, an author penning your next bestseller, an athlete prepping for the big game, or simply someone striving to maximize their potential—this podcast is for you. Learn how to plan, achieve, and enjoy the journey towards achieving your EPIC goals. Each episode showcases interviews with individuals who have conquered challenges to achieve something truly EPIC. You can do the same! With the proper guidance, timing, and skills that you'll find here—your next step can be meaningful and impactful. The man behind the mic is Zander Sprague, an award-winning author and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). He's penned three popular books, including the one that inspired this podcast, EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward: How to Plan, Achieve, and Enjoy the Journey. Get to know him better at www.epicbegins.com. By blending his formal education, professional journey, and personal growth, Zander is dedicated to steering listeners like you towards unlocking their fullest potential and kickstarting an epic life. His infectious enthusiasm has even earned him the moniker "God of Enthusiasm." Each episode dives deep into interviews with real people who overcame their self-doubts and fears to realize the scale of their ambitions. Gain insights into the strategies they deployed, the hurdles they cleared, and the support that fueled their momentum. Tune in for candid discussions about the highs and lows of their personal and professional quests. Despite setbacks and obstacles, these individuals never wavered in their resilience and determination. If a laundry list of unrealized dreams is weighing on your career or psyche, this is your wake-up call. Maybe you're paralyzed by fear of failure or trapped by harsh self-criticism, but the key to making your dreams a reality is courage. You must be brave, confront the risks, and make the jump. Allow the inspirational narratives and wisdom shared on this podcast to embolden you to unlock your dormant potential and bring your epic ideas to life. All it takes is the resolve to stand up, muster your confidence, and take action. Remember, no goal is too lofty, no idea too wild, and no promise too good to be questioned. Don't let anyone or your own self-doubts hold you back. To make your next move count, you'll get the essential trifecta of right guidance, timing, and skills right here on this show. Only by consciously taking steps toward your ambitions can you truly live life to its fullest. So push past your limits and refuse to settle for mediocrity in any area of your life. With Zander and his remarkable guests as your steadfast guides, you'll find the courage you need to evolve into an extraordinary person leading an equally extraordinary life. If you've been searching for a catalyst to commence the major endeavors in your life, your search ends here. Soak in the motivating stories, invaluable advice, and plethora of resources to finally achieve your most cherished goal—and then aim even higher. Don't wait; take that crucial first step today! EPIC Choices, EPIC Life. Don't miss out on the next episode! Listen on your preferred podcast platform or right here.

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Check latest episodes from EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward podcast

Volun-Vacation? Globe Aware’s Kimberly Haley-Coleman On Adventure With Purpose

2026/02/02

In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with Kimberly Haley-Coleman, founder of Globe Aware, an organization offering short-term adventure with purpose through “adventure in service” trips in 26 countries. Kimberly explains how their one-week, fully coordinated experiences combine meaningful hands-on service—like building homes, installing concrete floors for single moms, or assembling wheelchairs for landmine victims—with cultural immersion and unforgettable travel highlights. Together, they explore why showing up in person matters more than simply writing a check, how service transforms both the giver and the recipient, and what ethical volunteer travel should truly look like. From Costa Rica to Kenya to Zimbabwe wildlife counts under the full moon, this conversation will challenge you to rethink travel—and inspire you to make your next trip EPIC and impactful. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #VolunteerTravel #EthicalVolunteering #CulturalImmersionTravel

From CNN To Healing Words: John DeDakis On Grief, Writing, And Resilience

2026/01/26

In this moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague is joined by John DeDakis, former CNN editor for Wolf Blitzer, longtime journalist, novelist, writing coach, and motivational speaker. Together, they talk about grief, purpose, and healing. John shares the heartbreaking losses of his sister to suicide and his son to a heroin overdose, and reflects on how those experiences shaped him as a man, a father, and a storyteller. They also explore the often-overlooked reality of sibling grief, the truth that pain does not disappear when you ignore it, and how writing can be a tool for healing and growth. Find out how to manage your relationship with grief and why moving toward the pain may be the bravest step forward. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #GriefJourney #SiblingGrief #WritingProcess

Every Mile Matters: Ironman, Cancer, And The Fight You Never See Coming With Dr. Jeff Reynolds

2026/01/19

In this powerful and deeply human episode, Zander Sprague sits down with Dr. Jeff Reynolds, nonprofit CEO, endurance athlete, author, and two-time cancer survivor. Jeff shares how training for Ironman Florida unknowingly prepared him for the hardest races of his life: prostate cancer and stage 3B colorectal cancer. From finding out he had cancer via text message to enduring surgery, chemo, radiation, and relentless recovery, Jeff reveals how an endurance mindset, gratitude, and community carried him through. They explore the lessons hidden in mile 18, the difference between being sore and being hurt, and why early screening saves lives. Jeff’s story is raw, hopeful, and motivating – a reminder that life’s biggest challenges aren’t chosen, but how we respond to them defines everything. EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague #EnduranceAthlete #CancerSurvivor #RoutinePhysical

Lazy Leadership, Hard Truths, And The Power Of Intentional Growth With Corinne Gavlinski

2026/01/12

In this insightful episode of Epic Begins With 1 Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with executive coach and former corporate leader Corinne Gavlinski for a candid conversation about leadership, identity, and reinvention. Corinne shares her journey through multiple career pivots, unexpected layoffs, and the identity jolts that come from tying self-worth too tightly to professional titles. Together, they unpack the concept of “lazy leadership,” why high performers often struggle as leaders, and how intentional focus—not harder work—creates real impact. Corinne also introduces her approach to helping executives define the legacy they want to leave by lifting others, not just themselves. This episode challenges leaders to rethink success, embrace self-awareness, and ask a powerful question: How do I want to be remembered when this chapter ends? EpicBegins.com Free E-book – https://dl.bookfunnel.com/afk096okro Apply to be a Guest on My TV show – https://www.epicchoicemedia.com #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #LazyLeadership, #IntentionalGrowth, #LeadershipLegacy

Running Into The Unknown: Teresa Bowser On Mindset, Mountains & Massive Miles

2026/01/05

In this electrifying episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with ultra-runner and adventure coach Teresa Bowser, a woman who says “yes” to the kind of challenges most people sprint away from. Teresa shares how she transformed her life—from heavy partying to heavy mileage—by discovering Spartan Races, then trail running, and ultimately tackling her self-designed Project Untamed: 103.74 brutal miles with 26,000 feet of climbing. They dive into mental toughness, why the unknown excites her, the healing power of movement, and the wild hallucinations that accompany 36 hours with no sleep. Teresa explains how running helps her—and the women she coaches—shed old identities and step boldly into who they’re meant to become. This conversation is pure grit, growth, and epic inspiration. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #UltraRunner, #TrailRunning, #MentalToughness

Lights, Camera, Bookings: The New Rules Of Speaking Success With Cam Beaudoin

2025/12/29

In this high-energy episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with video marketing expert Cam Beaudoin, whose mission is simple: help speakers get booked by mastering the power of video. Cam shares how he discovered a massive gap in the speaking industry—experts want more stages, but few are willing to watch their own footage or create compelling reels. So he built a business to solve exactly that. From long-form interviews to curated demo reels for top TED speakers, Cam explains how video creates credibility, clarity, and inbound opportunities. Together, he and Zander explore confidence, craft, the grind of entrepreneurship, and why content consistency beats perfection every time. If you want more stages, this episode shows you the step-by-step path to get there. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #VideoMarketing, #ProfessionalSpeaker, #Entrepreneurship

Move To Heal: Lisa Manca On The Power Of Dance Therapy

2025/12/22

In this fascinating episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander reconnects with fellow LPCC Lisa Manca, a board-certified Dance/Movement Therapist helping clients heal through the wisdom of the body. Lisa breaks down what dance therapy really is—no, it’s not interpretive dance with your therapist—and explains how movement, mirroring, and somatic awareness unlock emotions that words often can’t reach. She shares stories from her wide-ranging career, from group work in psychiatric prison settings to the intimate breakthroughs that happen in one-on-one sessions. Together, they explore attachment, trauma healing, and why the body reveals what the mind tries to hide. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from yourself—or curious about creative approaches to therapy—this episode will move you in every sense of the word. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #DanceTherapy #MovementPsychotherapy #BodyWisdom

From Therapy To Toughness: Lessons From Navy SEAL Training With Michael Ostrolenk

2025/12/15

In this powerful and insightful episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander sits down with Michael Ostrolenk, a psychotherapist-turned-human optimization coach whose 30-year career spans transpersonal psychology, somatic therapy, and elite Navy SEAL training programs. Michael shares lessons from decades of studying self-mastery, martial arts, and mental toughness—revealing how true strength begins with discipline, compassion, and character. Together, they explore emotional resilience, why grit is fading in modern culture, and the keys to thriving relationships through communication and appreciation. From the battlefield of the mind to the art of self-awareness, Michael’s journey offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking to elevate their performance and purpose. This episode is a deep dive into what it really means to live an EPIC, optimized life. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #NavySEALtraining #MentalToughness #HumanOptimization

Dressing For Success—Powered By AI And Epic Determination With Anya Cheng

2025/12/08

In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander chats with Anya Cheng, founder and CEO of Taelor—a groundbreaking fashion-tech company using artificial intelligence to style busy professionals. From her beginnings as a reporter in Taiwan to her work at McDonald’s, Target, and Meta, Anya’s journey is one of relentless persistence, bold pivots, and saying yes to opportunity. She shares how Taelor AI uses data, human insight, and machine learning to revolutionize the way men dress—no more shopping or laundry, just confidence delivered. Along the way, Anya reveals lessons on entrepreneurship, adaptability, and defining your true value proposition. Her story proves that success doesn’t come overnight—it’s built one small, intentional step at a time. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #Taelor #AIPoweredFashion #EntrepreneurshipAndAI

From Soldier To Survivor: Naomi Reynolds’ Epic Journey Of Resilience

2025/12/01

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander speaks with Naomi Reynolds—Army veteran, author, and advocate—for an unfiltered conversation about courage, trauma, and triumph. Naomi shares her extraordinary life story, from serving proudly in the military to facing the devastating realities of sexual assault and homelessness, and ultimately finding purpose through advocacy and healing. Her book, Battle Scars to Benefits, chronicles that journey while shining light on the ongoing challenges veterans face with the VA system, mental health, and recovery. Naomi also opens up about therapy, coping with PTSD, and her mission to fight for women veterans’ rights. Her honesty and resilience remind us that every epic comeback begins with a single brave step forward. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward #ZanderSprague #WomenVeteransAdvocacy #VeteranResilienceJourney #VASystemNavigation

Six Lives, One Spirit: How Cyndee Beat The Odds Again And Again

2025/11/17

In this profoundly moving episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague welcomes poet and survivor Cyndee Dhalai, whose life story redefines resilience. From growing up in Trinidad and Tobago, challenging cultural expectations, and facing ostracism for speaking her truth, to flatlining five times and living allergic to all medication, Cyndee’s journey is nothing short of miraculous. She shares how faith, self-conversation, and sheer determination helped her move from a wheelchair to walking again—without medical treatment. Together, they explore the power of mindset, commitment, and gratitude in overcoming impossible odds. Cyndee’s wisdom—born from pain, patience, and persistence—reminds us that healing begins within. Her story proves that every day truly is a second chance at life EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #Resilience, #Mindset, #Healing

Parenting, Publishing, And Performing: Troy Horne’s Not-Yet Dreams

2025/11/10

In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague sits down with Troy Horne—musician, Broadway actor, author, and dedicated dad—to explore a life built on bold decisions. From driving to Los Angeles with $1,500 and no plan, to signing a record deal, touring with legends, and starring in Rent on Broadway, Troy’s story proves the power of simply saying “yes” to your dreams. He shares behind-the-scenes insights from NBC’s The Sing-Off and his bestselling book Mental Toughness for Young Athletes, written with his son to help kids build resilience in sports and life. Now, with new projects like Middle Management, Troy reflects on parenting, reinvention, and the courage to chase your “not yet” dreams. https://EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #NotYetDreams, #MentalToughness, #Musician

Effort Over Results: Rethinking Success With Quinn Magnuson

2025/11/03

In this inspiring episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague is joined by former CFL athlete, teacher, and executive coach Quinn Magnuson to explore a game-changing philosophy: Effort Over Results. Drawing from his professional sports background, coaching experience, and leadership training, Quinn reveals why focusing solely on wins and losses sets us up for burnout, while recognizing effort builds resilience, growth, and long-term success. Together, they unpack how celebrating small wins, embracing a growth mindset, and creating psychological safety can transform not only sports and education but also business and family life. From marathon finish lines to classroom struggles, Quinn shows that progress—not perfection—is what truly defines achievement. This conversation will inspire you to value the journey as much as the destination. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #EffortOverResults, #GrowthMindset, #RethinkingSuccess

Episode 100 Special: Turning Goals Into Reality With Danny Lehr

2025/10/27

For the 100th episode of Epic Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague celebrates this epic milestone with Danny Lehr—author, coach, and master of making extraordinary achievement accessible to everyone. Danny shares how he went from a PE teacher to building businesses, training alongside Olympians, and even transforming a used beach cruiser into a bike capable of conquering 72 miles around Lake Tahoe. Drawing from his book, Win Your Next Hour, Danny breaks down his blueprint for success: Words, Invest, Note Your Wins. Together, they discuss what billionaires, athletes, and everyday achievers have in common—and how anyone can apply these principles to their own life. This inspiring conversation proves that greatness isn’t reserved for the elite; it starts with your next choice. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #WinYourNextHour, #SuccessBlueprint, #HighAchievers

Belief, Grit, And Focus: The Real Game-Changers In Sports And Life With Sandy Cohan

2025/10/20

In this motivating episode of EPIC Begins With One Step Forward, Zander Sprague talks with Coach Sandy Cohan, a former hockey player turned mindset development coach and author. After years of coaching elite athletes – from Olympians to college players – Sandy discovered that skill alone does not separate the good from the great. The real difference? Mindset. Together, they explore the power of belief, grit, emotional control, and focus as the true foundations of performance. Sandy shares insights from his bestselling books 99 Rules Every Athlete Needs to Know and 99 Rules Every Sports Parent Needs to Know, while also tackling the myths around confidence, failure, and growth. Whether you are an athlete, a parent, or just someone looking to level up in life, this conversation is packed with epic, actionable wisdom. EpicBegins.com Free E-book Apply to be a Guest on My TV show #EPICBeginswith1StepForward, #ZanderSprague, #MentalPerformance, #SelfAffirmation, #ShowingUp

Podcast reviews

Read EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward podcast reviews

4.9 out of 5

66 reviews

★★★★★

Azmaureen 2025/09/17

Epic Interview!

I just had a “Epic” conversation with Zander! It was a wonderful conversation/interview with a lot of great information. Can’t wait for it to be relea...

★★★★★

AdrenaJen 2025/08/05

EPIC

Epic Begins with 1 Step Forward is a must-listen! Zander is an incredible host—thoughtful, engaging, and full of insight. Loved the conversation and t...

★★★★★

esstar321 2025/05/12

Jam-packed with value!

These episodes pack so much goodness into 30 mins (20 if you listen on 1.5 speed like I do)! I learn something in each interview that helps me be epic...

★★★★★

Gina Econ 2025/03/27

Outstanding

Zander is a wonderful insightful host. We had great conversation that was inspiring and flowed I truly enjoyed n grateful to be on his show.

★★★★★

MVM502 2025/03/12

Fantastic Podcast

Zander has a great personality. I loved how thoughtful and inquisitive his questions were throughout the show. He was very relatable, and we were ab...

★★★★★

GoodMoodMatt 2024/08/21

Love this show!

Zander is an incredible host. This podcast is a ton of fun, and it offers ways to live an Epic life. Really great show.

★★★★★

Steve Gamlin 2024/08/15

Effortlessly EPIC...On Purpose, With Purpose!

It took all of 5 minutes for me to see & hear what makes Zander's podcast amazing: He walks his talk and engages the world is such a way that we can a...

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