Michael and Russell are jumping straight into the reality behind modern workaholism and its impact on men’s lives, exploring how the relentless pursuit of success often masks deeper wounds. Michael and Russell break down the difference between a workaholic’s obsession with status and a true warrior’s mission to give, rather than just get. They examine the ways men justify their exhaustion, using “family” and “provision” as rationales for self-sacrifice, while overlooking the cost to their relationships and purpose. The conversation cuts to the core of what drives men toward burnout, asking listeners to confront whether they’re aligned with a mission or simply chasing the next promotion. Michael and Russell challenge men to reconsider their motives, pointing the way to reconnecting with a deeper, more heart-centered path.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 – The Silent Cost of the Money Chase
• 00:01:03 – Welcome to IgKnight the King
• 00:01:08 – Why Workaholics Miss the Real Mission
• 00:01:35 – Facing the Warrior’s Shadow
• 00:02:15 – Is Your Life About Conquest or Contribution?
• 00:05:34 – How Society Programs Men to Burn Out
• 00:09:15 – The Unseen Weight of Providing
• 00:10:04 – Escaping the Corporate Trap
• 00:12:00 – Workaholism: A Costly Addiction
• 00:17:28 – The Boundaries Every Man Needs
• 00:20:45 – The Work-Life Balance Myth
• 00:26:00 – Rediscovering the Mission of the Heart
• 00:27:00 – Final Words and Steps Forward

Links And Resources:

• IgKnight the King
• Book a Call with Dr. Michael Diamond
• IgKnight the King on Facebook
• Dr. Michael Diamond on Instagram
• G. Russell Reynolds on Instagram

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to IgKnight the King? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube to leave us a review!

Michael and Russell talk about the warrior spirit and how embodying this energy can reshape your entire life. Fresh off an intense MDS (Mastro Defense System) training, they explore the critical difference between survival and combat, challenging men to evolve beyond outdated definitions of masculinity. With a focus on personal power, decision-making, and self-defense, they invite men to step up, embrace their inner warrior, and live with purpose. This is an episode about more than just strength—it's about how to navigate the modern world as an awakened man.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 – What Are You Really Willing to Die For?
• 00:01:02 – Meet the Hosts: Dr. Michael Diamond and G. Russell Reynolds
• 00:01:22 – Inside the MDS Training: Lessons from the Frontline
• 00:02:35 – Mastro Defense System: More Than a Martial Art
• 00:03:50 – The Warrior Spirit: It’s About Survival, Not Fighting
• 00:06:34 – Purpose and Values: The Warrior's Code of Living
• 00:10:23 – Training with Fred Mastro: A True Warrior’s Mindset
• 00:14:04 – Family Responsibility: Standing for What Matters
• 00:16:59 – The Slow Erosion of Freedom: When Will You Stand Up?
• 00:18:05 – Fearless: Personal Stories of Facing Down Fear
• 00:21:53 – How to Be Present in Your Relationships
• 00:23:27 – Is Social Media Warping Your Values?
• 00:25:18 – Embrace the Pain: Discipline, Growth, and the Warrior’s Path
• 00:29:35 – Are You Living with Purpose, or Just Existing?
• 00:31:18 – Final Thoughts: Step Into Your Mission and Power

Links And Resources:

• IgKnight the King
• Book a Call with Dr. Michael Diamond
• IgKnight the King on Facebook
• Dr. Michael Diamond on Instagram
• G. Russell Reynolds on Instagram

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to IgKnight the King? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube to leave us a review!

Michael and Russell get into the gritty truth of transformation—why real change doesn’t happen overnight, and why most men quit just when they’re getting started. They talk about the dangers of "Seminar Syndrome," that post-event high where motivation fades, leaving many to backslide into old habits. The real key to success? Commitment, even when the excitement is gone. It’s not about how you feel in the moment—it’s about sticking to the path long after the fire of motivation burns out. Get ready for a gut punch of hard truths, advice, and a reminder to keep pushing forward, no matter what.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 - Step Up: Answering the Call to Greatness
• 00:00:53 - Gut Punch: Welcome to the Warrior’s Journey
• 00:01:31 - Midway Crisis: Are You Losing Focus?
• 00:01:59 - Commitment Over Feelings: The Brutal Truth
• 00:03:30 - Transformation Isn’t Amazon Prime: Patience Required
• 00:04:33 - Disconnected from History: Why Men Are Losing Grit
• 00:09:04 - Approval Junkie: Are You Addicted to Validation?
• 00:16:59 - Relationship Standards: Are You Letting Them Slide?
• 00:18:01 - Stay the Course: Purpose Keeps You Moving
• 00:19:30 - Leadership Isn’t Optional: You’re Always Being Watched
• 00:20:58 - Love and Commitment: Don’t Let It Go Soft
• 00:22:20 - Whose Dreams Are You Building?
• 00:24:06 - Legacy Over Success: What Are You Leaving Behind?
• 00:27:39 - Gratitude and Greatness: The Fuel for the Journey
• 00:31:25 - Decide Now: Commit or Quit
• 00:34:19 - Final Punch: It’s Time to Step the F**k Up

Links And Resources:

• Amber Alert: The Power of Response-Ability | Diana Simone | TEDxWilmingtonWomen
• IgKnight the King
• Book a Call with Dr. Michael Diamond
• IgKnight the King on Facebook
• Dr. Michael Diamond on Instagram
• G. Russell Reynolds on Instagram

Thanks so much for joining us this week. Want to subscribe to IgKnight the King? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube to leave us a review!