In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel and Johnny Hammans as they dive into an exciting end-of-year wrap-up discussion. Together, they reflect on some of the most memorable moments and milestones of 2024, while also sharing a glimpse of what’s ahead.

JD and Johnny kick things off with updates on Sharp Top CrossFit's impressive new building, set to open in spring 2025, and the community impact this expansion will bring. They then revisit the highlights of the 2024 Hero Games, honoring the legacy of SGT Robert Sanchez and celebrating camaraderie and resilience.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as they discuss the formation of Counter Culture Solutions, its mission, and the journey so far in helping individuals build a culture of safety and preparedness. Finally, they tackle one of the year's quirkiest topics: mysterious drones over New Jersey. Are they aliens, hobbyists, or something else entirely?

Whether you’re here for inspiring reflections or curious insights, this episode offers a perfect mix of substance, storytelling, and a few laughs along the way. Don’t miss it!

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join Joshua Daniel, founder and CEO of Counter Culture Solutions, and Barbara Thompson, Operational Psychologist at Counter Culture Solutions, as they dive into an engaging conversation about the upcoming Violent Encounter Survival Course. Taking place on January 18th, 2025, at SharpTop CrossFit in Bedford, VA, this course is designed to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to navigate dangerous situations.

In this episode, JD and Barb explore the purpose behind the course, the type of participants it’s geared toward, and the core concepts it covers. From developing a resilient mindset and sharpening situational awareness to mastering boundary control, weapon employment, and everyday carry (EDC) strategies, they break down how the course blends instruction with practical exercises to create a transformative learning experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a concerned civilian, this episode will give you valuable insights into how the Violent Encounter Survival Course can prepare you for real-world threats. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the experts and get inspired to take control of your personal safety.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

In this episode of The Catalyst Collective, join 20-year Green Beret and Ranger JD as he breaks down the impact of Hurricane Helene on the Appalachian region.

Drawing from personal experience, JD offers a unique perspective on how both civilians and government responded to the storm. We’ll examine the challenges faced, the actions taken, and the critical lessons we can apply to better prepare for future disasters. Whether you're interested in disaster preparedness, leadership in crisis, or the real-world consequences of natural disasters, this episode delivers invaluable insights on resilience in the face of nature’s fury.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

In this episode, Johnny returns to Co-Host alongside JD for an amazing conversation with Gold Star Mother and Brother, Wendy and Logan Holland. SGT Robert Sanchez was Killed in Action on 01 October, 2009 in Zharay District, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, and his family was honored at this year's Hero Games.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

We've started something new, and we think you're gonna love it!

Are you looking to become a more capable and confident person? Are you interested in learning skills from former Special Operators and successful entrepreneurs that may save your life or your career?

Yah, we figured you would. That's why we started Counter Culture Solutions, our new training and mentoring company geared towards helping you become the best version of yourself.

Enjoy.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Ever feel like it's hard to feel happy? We get it. While the pursuit of happiness is an inalienable right, happiness itself is not inherently available to everyone. Happiness is a spectrum and we all feel it differently.

This impromptu conversation between JD, Willie, and third-time guest, Logan Lewis, dives deep into the pursuit of happiness while living with trauma.

Like always, get ready to shift gears between laughter and serious dialogue.

Enjoy.

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Questions from the PEOPLE!

1. Depression and how I handled it.

2. Our new LLC: Mountain/Youth Survival, Leadership and Culture Consulting, Purpose Finding Treks, and Violent Encounter Prevention and Survival.

3. "What is something you want, but don't have?"

4. 2024 Hero Games

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram

Self-examination from HGC Founder, JD.

This week's topic is changing your perspective to find gratitude everywhere.

Links to articles referenced during episode:

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301826526_Does_gratitude_writing_improve_the_mental_health_of_psychotherapy_clients_Evidence_from_a_randomized_controlled_trial

2. https://positivepsychology.com/neuroscience-of-gratitude/#neuroscience

Support the show

Hero Games Charity Website: https://herogamescharity.com/

HGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herogamescharity/

HGC Fakebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeroGamesCharity/

Support the show

The Catalyst Collective Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Instagram

Counter Culture Solutions Website

Hero Games Charity Instagram

Hero Games Charity Website

Sharp Top CrossFit Instagram

Sharp Top CrossFit Website


Hosts:

JD's Instagram

Johnny's Instagram

Willie's Instagram