

On the X
IRONCLAD
The Official Podcast of the Navy SEAL Foundation and an IRONCLAD Original. Hosted by Chris Irwin, a retired SEAL and the Foundation’s Communications Director, On the X explores the latest expertise in mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, relationships, education, business, and more. Every week, Chris speaks with a thought leader at the forefront of their respective field, including renowned scientists, world-class practitioners, bestselling authors, and elite athletes. This is first-hand knowledge at the very center of topics that can change your life. This is On the X.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 5min
Exploring the Emotional Challenges Men Face—and How to Address Them (with Connor Beaton)
On today’s episode of On the X, Chris Irwin sits down with Connor Beaton—founder of ManTalks, men’s work leader, and author of Men’s Work: A Practical Guide to Face Your Darkness, End Self-Sabotage, and Find Freedom. Together, they delve into the emotional challenges many men face but rarely talk about.
From unprocessed childhood trauma to the ways society teaches men to suppress anger and fear, Connor offers a roadmap for how to confront the shadow self, build emotional resilience, and lead a life rooted in purpose and connection.
Learn more about Connor’s work at www.connorbeaton.com and follow him on Instagram @mantalks.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 21min
Surrounded by Idiots in the Workplace? Thomas Erikson on Matching Personality with Role
On today's episode, Chris sits down with behavioral expert and bestselling author Thomas Erikson to explore the DISC personality model and its practical impact on communication, leadership, and relationships. Erikson shares the origins of the model, explains how his book Surrounded by Idiots became a global phenomenon, and unpacks how color-coded personality types can shape team dynamics, job fit, and personal growth. The conversation also dives into the nature vs. nurture debate, the emotional toll of burnout, and why understanding both yourself and others is key to meaningful connection and transformation.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Other Significant Others: Rethinking Friendship, Love, and Modern Relationships (with Rhaina Cohen)
On this episode of On the X, Chris sits down with journalist and author Rhaina Cohen to explore the often-overlooked power of friendship and its role in shaping meaningful, fulfilling lives. Drawing from her book The Other Significant Others, Rhaina challenges traditional ideas about romance, marriage, and emotional support. Together, they unpack the cultural and historical expectations placed on romantic partnerships, the gendered differences in how friendships are experienced, and the societal blind spots around adult emotional connection. From the impact of technology to the pressures of monogamy, this conversation invites listeners to rethink what it means to build a deeply connected life—and why friendship may be the most undervalued relationship of all.
To purchase Rhaina's book The Other Significant Others, visit: https://www.amazon.com/Other-Significant-Others-Reimagining-Friendship/dp/1250280915
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 16min
The All Blacks Rugby Ethos: How the World’s Top Team Builds Leaders, Not Egos (with James Kerr)
On today’s episode, Chris Irwin speaks with James Kerr, author of Legacy, about the leadership principles behind the New Zealand All Blacks rugby team. They discuss the role of character, humility, and service in building a strong team culture, the integration of Maori values, and how cultural heritage shapes leadership. The conversation also explores how teams identify and manage negative influences, the importance of adaptation in a changing world, and how true leadership is defined by the legacy left behind.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Extreme You and the Future of Work: Navigating Burnout and Culture Shifts (with Sarah Robb O'Hagan)
On today's episode, Chris talks with Sarah Robb O’Hagan—former CEO of EXOS and author of Extreme You—about leadership, resilience, and reinvention. They discuss her experience leading major brands like Gatorade, Nike, and Equinox, as well as lessons from setbacks, including the fall of Flywheel Sports. The conversation covers team dynamics, brand turnarounds, evolving workplace culture, and the role of vulnerability in leadership.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 27, 2025 • 1h 24min
From P90X to Power Nation: Tony Horton’s Evolving Fitness Philosophy
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Tony Horton, the creator of P90X, to talk about what comes after his breakthrough program. Tony shares how he’s moved beyond the P90X legacy to develop new approaches focused on longevity, recovery, and holistic fitness.
They discuss the evolution of his philosophy, the role of mindfulness and nutrition, and the importance of adapting fitness as we age. This conversation offers a clear look at Tony’s journey from building a fitness empire to redefining what it means to stay strong and healthy over time.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
To learn more about Power Nation, visit: https://powernationfitness.org/
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 20, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Power of Generalists in a Specialized World (with David Epstein)
On this episode of On the X, David Epstein, bestselling author of Range, joins Chris to unpack why specialization isn’t always the key to success. He challenges the myth of the 10,000-hour rule, explores the science behind talent and learning, and explains how diverse experiences lead to better performance in unpredictable environments.
Epstein discusses what separates athletes like Tiger Woods and Roger Federer, the role of play in early development, and how generalists thrive in complex fields — from sports to business to medicine. He also shares insights on innovation, the value of interdisciplinary thinking, and why quitting strategically can sometimes be the smartest move.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 13, 2025 • 1h 2min
Self-Reliance, Personal Branding, and the Power of Initiative (with Maha Abouelenein)
On today's episode, communications strategist and entrepreneur Maha Abouelenein unpacks the mindset of self-reliance in today’s fast-moving world. From building a personal brand rooted in authenticity to balancing a full-time career with side hustles, Maha shares hard-earned lessons from her journey. She explores the value of proactive networking, the role of reputation in the trust economy, and why taking initiative is key to long-term success.
To Learn more about Maha visit:
Maha's Website: https://www.mahaabouelenein.com/
7 Rules of Self-Reliance Amazon Order Link: Amazon
Maha's Podcast Savvy Talk: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/savvy-talk/id1446628829
Instagram
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LinkedIn
TikTok
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans, and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 6, 2025 • 47min
What Works and Why: The Language of Getting What You Want (with Jonah Berger)
In this episode of On the X, Chris Irwin sits down with bestselling author and behavioral science expert Jonah Berger to unpack the insights behind his latest book, Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way. Berger reveals how subtle shifts in language can drastically influence behavior, build trust, deepen connection, and drive action. From leadership and sales to relationships and personal growth, this conversation explores the science behind the words that move people—and how to use them with intention.
Learn more about Jonah Berger and his work:
Order Magic Words: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063204932?tag=harpercollinsus-20
https://jonahberger.com/resources/
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation: https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 9min
Conquering Crisis with Clarity, Character, and Courage (with Admiral William McRaven)
On today's episode, Chris sits down with Admiral William McRaven to discuss leadership under fire, the anatomy of crisis, and the lessons forged in both war and peace.
As a former Navy SEAL commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, McRaven reflects on his 37-year military career—including his role in the mission to eliminate Osama bin Laden—and how those experiences shaped his worldview. He also discusses his transition to public service and authorship, offering insights from his latest book, Conquering Crisis.
On the X is an IRONCLAD Original.
More about The Navy SEAL Foundation:
https://www.navysealfoundation.org/
Text ONTHEX to 60104 to sign up to receive updates from the Navy SEAL Foundation (NSF). By participating, you agree to our Mobile Terms and Conditions (60104-info.com) for recurring autodialed donation messages from NSF to the phone number you provide. Text STOP to end. Msg & data rates may apply.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/navysealfoundation/
https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad
SPONSORS:
On the X is presented by Mechanix Wear: https://www.mechanix.com/
Mechanix Wear is proud to offer an exclusive 15% discount through the ID.me program to military, veterans and first responders. Click on the ID.me button in your shopping cart and follow the steps to verify your eligibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


