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
Apr 22, 2025 • 1h 5min
How Embracing Regret Can Lead to Growth (with Daniel Pink)
In this episode of On the X, Chris sits down with bestselling author Daniel Pink to unpack one of our most universal — and misunderstood — emotions: regret. Drawing from his World Regret Survey, Daniel reveals the four core types of regret that shape our lives and explains why confronting regret, rather than denying it, can be a powerful catalyst for growth. They explore the science behind regret’s emotional utility, share practical tools for processing setbacks, and discuss why teaching kids to handle regret is key to building resilience.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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 15, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Science, Psychology, and Power of Functional Breathing (with Dr. Belisa Vranich)
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Dr. Belisa Vranich to discuss the fundamentals of breathwork and its impact on physical and mental health. They explore the importance of functional, diaphragmatic breathing and how modern habits have altered natural breathing patterns. Dr. Vranich explains how to assess and improve your breathing mechanics, the role of breath in performance and recovery, and its connection to heart rate variability. The conversation also covers how breath training can support medical conditions and the value of self-assessment tools like the Breathing IQ.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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 8, 2025 • 1h 9min
Why Quiet Defiance Might Just Save You (with Dr. Sunita Sah)
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Dr. Sunita Sah, a professor of management at Cornell University, and the author of Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes. They discuss the role of defiance in everyday life, the effects of social pressure and insinuation anxiety, and the importance of psychological safety. Dr. Sah also shares insights from her book, including the idea of “quiet defiance” and how individuals can make values-based decisions in the face of authority.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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 1, 2025 • 1h 19min
Taya Kyle: Navigating Grief, Trauma, and the Journey to Healing
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Taya Kyle, wife of ‘American Sniper’ Chris Kyle, to discuss her journey after his passing. She shares her experiences with grief, the challenges of raising a family through loss, and the role of mental health in the healing process. They also talk about the work of the Chris Kyle Foundation, which supports military families, and explore therapeutic approaches like EMDR and accelerated resolution therapy. Taya reflects on the connection between the mind and body, the importance of community support, and the impact of identity shifts in times of change.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Practice of Creativity: Mental Health, Play, and The Power of Constraints (with Chase Jarvis)
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Chase Jarvis, award-winning photographer, entrepreneur, and founder of CreativeLive, the world’s largest online learning platform for creatives.Chase and Chris explore the intersection of mental health, creativity, and personal growth. They discuss reimagining mental health as a fitness discipline, the courage to follow your own path, and balancing intuition and rational thinking. They also dive into the significance of time management in achieving personal goals, the role of play and failure in creativity, and how constraints can fuel growth. Finally, they discuss the future of creativity in the age of AI and the potential for collaboration between humans and technology. 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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Mar 18, 2025 • 1h 6min
How Spartan Race Redefined Toughness (with Joe De Sena)
On today’s episode, Chris sits down with Spartan Race founder Joe De Sena to discuss the origins of obstacle course racing, the challenges of building Spartan, and the mindset needed for success. Joe shares how his upbringing, martial arts, and wrestling shaped his resilience, his connection with Richard Branson, and his vision for Spartan’s future—including its potential as an Olympic sport.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 1min
Advancing TBI Treatment and Care for Veterans : A Conversation with Dr. Ross Zafonte
On today's episode, Chris sits down with Dr. Ross Zafonte, a leading expert in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and rehabilitation medicine, to discuss the latest advancements in TBI research and recovery. Formerly the President of Spaulding Rehabilitation Network and Chair of PM&R at Harvard Medical School, he has authored over 300 publications and the definitive textbook Brain Injury Medicine: Principles and Practice.Now the Executive Vice Dean at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, Dr. Zafonte shares insights on cutting-edge treatments, recovery science, and the future of TBI care—especially for veterans and those impacted by brain injuries.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 27min
Why Mental Strength is More Than Just Grit (with Steve Magness)
On today's episode, Chris sits down with performance coach and bestselling author Steve Magness to explore the real science behind resilience and mental strength. Drawing from his latest book, The Internal Game, Steve challenges the common belief that grit alone is the key to success. Instead, he reveals how true toughness is cultivated through self-awareness, smarter strategies, and a deeper understanding of our internal drives. With his extensive experience coaching elite athletes, military leaders, and high performers, Steve provides actionable insights into building sustainable resilience and unlocking peak performance.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Feb 25, 2025 • 1h 22min
Steve Rinella on Hunting, Ethics, and Storytelling
On today's episode, Chris sits down with legendary outdoorsman, author, and MeatEater founder Steve Rinella. They dive into the philosophy of hunting, conservation, and the primal connection between humans and the wild. Rinella shares his insights on ethical hunting, the challenges facing America’s wilderness, and his latest show Hunting History.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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
Feb 18, 2025 • 1h 17min
The Champion’s Mindset: CrossFit Legend Tia-Clair Toomey on What It Takes to Win
In this episode of On the X, Chris sits down with 7-time CrossFit Games champion Tia-Clair Toomey-Orr to uncover the mindset, discipline, and resilience behind her record-breaking success. Tia shares her journey from Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit dominance, the mental strategies that helped her push through pain and setbacks, and how she approaches training, competition, and life beyond the podium. 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/thisisironcladSPONSORS: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
