Live Well and Thrive with Mike Torchia

#12 Chuck Zito | Stunts, Stars, and Success: From Hell's Angels to Hollywood

In a captivating episode of Live Well and Thrive, I had the pleasure of chatting with the legendary Chuck Zito. Known for his accomplishments as a martial artist, actor, veteran stuntman, and former member of Hell's Angels, Zito's journey to fame has been nothing short of extraordinary. 
During our conversation, Zito opened up about his early boxing days, his time with Hell's Angels, and how a pivotal stuntman opportunity presented by Sandy Alexander propelled him into Hollywood. We delved into his experiences with celebrities, his reflections on past cultures versus today's world, and even got a sneak peek into his upcoming documentary, slated for premiere at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.
Zito also shared insights into his martial arts training, achieving a six-degree black belt in Ishiro Karate, and his deep-seated passion for martial arts. Raised in the traditional streets of Brooklyn, he shared how resilience has been a guiding force in his life, transitioning from a fighter in the ring to a seasoned actor known for his role in the television series 'Gravesend'.
On a more personal note, Zito reminisced about his Bronx childhood, his bond with martial artist James Cagney, and his experiences working on iconic shows like Oz and The Sopranos. He also candidly discussed ambiguous TV finales, such as The Sopranos and Sons of Anarchy, offering a unique perspective from someone who has been deeply involved in the industry.
Throughout our conversation, Zito's multifaceted personality shone through - a true fighter, actor, street-smart gentleman, and writer who stays true to his beliefs. Whether you're a fan of Chuck Zito or simply intrigued by remarkable life journeys, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to subscribe and support Live Well and Thrive for more captivating stories from Hollywood.

#11 King Bless | Athlete, Artist, Cryptocurrency Guru

Join host Mike Torchia and multifaceted professional King Bless in an insightful podcast titled 'Live Well and Thrive'. Explore King Bless's intriguing journey from being a college ball player to a military PR officer, model, artist, and cryptocurrency expert. In a candid conversation, King Bless reveals his experiences and life choices that led to his successful ventures across varied fields. This episode not only acts as an inspiration but also elucidates complex concepts of Bitcoin and advocates the significance of education.
Dive deeper into the world of cryptocurrency with King Bless as he simplifies Bitcoin, discusses the potential risks and scams prevalent in the industry, and emphasizes the importance of investor education. Learn from real-life instances of fraud highlighted from Netflix documentaries to avoid falling prey to deceptive tactics. On a lighter note, King Bless offers engaging anecdotes from daily life, ensuring an interesting and enlightening listening experience.
The episode transitions smoothly into the realm of physical health, sharing fitness techniques and personal workout routines. Striking a balance between mental and physical health, the dialogue emphasizes a multimodal approach to wellness. Listen as our hosts relay their rigorous training experiences, inspiring listeners to enhance their own fitness regimen.
Further, gain some valuable insights as King Bless recalls his memorable football journey, the impact of Olympic lifting on his career, and his camaraderie with teammates such as Russell Wilson. The episode also delves into the importance of diet on performance, shedding light on King Bless's personal dietary choices and understanding their contribution to his physical prowess.
This compelling episode not only guides you through the risky territory of cryptocurrency but also unlocks the secrets to achieving holistic physical fitness. Quite an engaging listen for those keen on enhancing their financial and physical wellness.
 
⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/king-bless-65a81094⁠

#10 Johnny Roastbeef | From a Deli Counter to the Red Carpet

In this candid episode of Live Well and Thrive, host Mike Torchia invites actor Johnny "Roastbeef" Williams (Goodfellas, NYPD Blue, The Mask) to share his extraordinary path from a deli counter in East Harlem to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The conversation covers his humble beginnings in a poor neighborhood, his breakout into show business with a little help from a self-help seminar, and his eventual breakthrough into acting.
Johnny gives an in-depth account of the trials and triumphs of his career in acting, his transition from New York to Hollywood, and his memorable experience working with the legendary Robert De Niro in Goodfellas. He also offers a fascinating look into his journey from running a deli to becoming a respected figure in the restaurant industry in New York and Hollywood.
The episode additionally explores Johnny's recent endeavor into writing, his insights on the dynamics of running a restaurant, and his perspective on technological advancements in today's digital world.
Follow with Johnny through the rough streets of Harlem to his remarkable Hollywood success story. This episode holds gripping storytelling, life lessons, and the inspiring tale of a man who turned his life experiences into an exceptional acting career. Tune in for a listening experience as captivating as Johnny's own adventure.
 
https://johnnyroastbeef.com/
www.linktr.ee/miketorchia

#09 Noah Cleckner | Inside the Shadows: Unveiling DC's Political Underworld

Noah Cleckner. Known as 'Cleck' in the American political circles, Noah delves deep into the complexities of the U.S. political system, offering unique insights and firsthand experiences from his time in Washington.
In this episode, discover the hidden realities of American politics, from Congressional scandals to cultural misconceptions about the capital. Cleck highlights his fascinating journey, shedding light on working under multiple administrations. He also talks about the secret sauce to success in the political world, emphasizing the integral role of integrity and hard work.
The discussion further uncovers ethical dilemmas faced by young and ambitious individuals in politics, calling attention to the blurred boundaries between business and personal relationships. Adding to this, you'll gain critical insights into the current political divide, its implications on our political system, and an in-depth analysis around the current U.S. President's mental health.
This episode also features an unfiltered talk about the media's role in forging public opinion, how it affects political image building, and evaluations of Governor Newsom's handling of the COVID-19 crisis. All this intertwined with projections for the potential future political leader.
 
https://www.instagram.com/noahcleckner/

#08 Kyle Cassidy | Ice Pass LA - Social Cold Plunge and Healthy Communities

In this episode of "Live Well and Thrive," I chat with Kyle Cassidy, the founder of Ice Pass LA. Kyle's innovative idea combines socializing and health, creating an environment that fosters deep connections through a shared passion for wellness. What started as a wellness space has transformed into a community that inspires mutual support, wellbeing, and genuine relationships.
Discover the workings of Ice Pass LA, including affordable memberships and an ambassador program that ensures inclusivity for all, regardless of financial status. Learn about unique wellness experiences like contrast therapy, exclusive elixir bars, and their plans for a healthy café. With a community that embraces diverse age groups and backgrounds, Ice Pass LA offers a rich blend of perspectives and countless opportunities for learning and growth.
We discuss Ice Pass LA's unique dating process, which encourages profound relationships over casual acquaintances. Participate in ice baths and hot sauna sessions - settings that lead to remarkable conversations and the development of genuine bonds. These events are about more than just avoiding rejection; they encourage the bravery to embrace vulnerability and its positive outcomes.
Let go of your digital identities and take part in this extraordinary social venture! These sessions offer a space to let your guard down, encouraging you to laugh, play, and journey through life with lightness. Hear my personal story of finding love in a similar setting and discover the impactful transformation these sessions can impart.
@icepass_la
https://icepassla.com/

#07 April Diamond | Vocal Fitness and Compassion

APRIL DIAMOND is a Billboard Charting Recording Artist, who has received the #1 Chart position on the National New Music Radio Charts, and is a Social Media Influencer with her show “LIVE with April Diamond!!!!”. She is also a published vocal coach.
I had the pleasure of speaking with April Diamond, a talented singer, songwriter, and vocal coach. April shared fascinating stories about her music career, delving into the origins and inspirations behind her popular pop-dance music. She also discussed the connection between fitness and music, as well as her upcoming book, which aims to inspire others.
We explored the art of vocal training through April's experiences, debunking common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of proper breathing techniques. April offered valuable advice on improving communication skills, self-confidence, and relationships through voice training. She also explained why we often feel uncomfortable hearing recordings of our own voices.
Our conversation extended beyond music to discuss fitness, where April shared her transformative journey from being an overweight teenager to becoming a fitness guru. She emphasized the role of destiny and following your passion in achieving success.
Additionally, we touched on our shared love for animals, discussing pet adoption and the importance of animal welfare organizations. This episode was a rich blend of music, physical health, and compassion for animals.
Our discussion is just the beginning, as future episodes will dive deeper into topics such as vocal health, the mental benefits of singing, and more. Join us on "Live Well and Thrive" for more engaging conversations with April Diamond.

#06 Ba Minuzzi | Conscious Investing and Purpose-Driven Wealth

Ba Minuzzi, founder & CEO of UMANA, is a self-made entrepreneur who leads conscious investing and wealth management for high-net-worth celebrity clients. With UMANA, Ba is redefining wealth through purpose-driven efforts that will create a legacy for the next generation.
UMANA is pioneer in the concept of purpose-driven family office and is revolutionizing the wealth management industry. At UMANA Family, Ba primarily focus is to create wealth aligned with one’s values. As of today, UMANA's oversees $400M+.
I explore her journey, uncovering how she turned her anger towards societal structures into a driving force for success. Ba provides a detailed look at impact investing, a sector of venture capital focused on financial gains and social and environmental impact. She walks us through the process, from pre-seed stages to Series A investments, revealing the complexities of supporting early-stage companies with a purpose.
I also discuss Humana, Ba's family office, and its impactful work. Here, she combines grounded and regenerative strategies to make a difference in investing. Ba shares her transition from being driven by anger to being motivated by love, emphasizing love, service, and care over criticism.
The conversation goes beyond finance, touching on the role of aesthetics and colors in daily life, from gym routines to restaurant choices. Ba's diverse interests and roles, from investor to speaker and trendsetter, are truly inspiring. Her story sends a powerful message about breaking societal norms and using internal struggles as motivation for success.
The discussion includes personal anecdotes about her organizational skills, love for home-cooked food, and moments with her son. This episode is a must-listen for everyone, especially aspiring women looking to blaze their own trails.

#05 Dr. Carl Rothschild | The Power of Red Light Therapy

Welcome to another episode of "Live Well and Thrive". Your host, Mike Torchia, engages in an enlightening conversation with the Trifecta Red Light Bed's creator, Dr. Carl Rothschild. Gain insights into Dr. Rothschild's transformative journey with light therapy, which revolutionized not only his chiropractic practice but also the wellness industry.
Discover how the innovative Trifecta Red Light Bed became a breakthrough in light therapy, providing life-altering benefits. Dive deep into understanding the underlying mechanism of the therapy - enhancing mitochondrial function leading to improved health and wellness.
Join us as Dr. Rothschild emphasizes the significance of full-body exposure to both red and near-infrared light during the therapy. Learn how this unique method halts the progression of aggressive diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, provides relief to Parkinson's and Dementia symptoms, and boosts overall Men's and Women's health.
In this riveting episode, you'll get a chance to explore the transformative power of red light therapy and how it dramatically improved patients' lives and health. Be intrigued by the remarkable patient experiences and success stories shared during the conversation, demonstrating its power in alleviating conditions such as Parkinson's disease, cataracts, glaucoma, and more.
Our special guest also gives an account of his personal experience with red light therapy. Listen to his journey through spinal compression and persistent medical conditions to witness the dramatic positive changes it brought to his physical and emotional wellness.
Furthermore, delve into the science behind red light therapy as Dr. Rothschild explains its healing process. Understand how magnified sunlight elements stimulate the mitochondria, promoting overall body healing, and contributing to mental wellness.
Also learn about their mission to make this groundbreaking therapy more accessible across the country. Come join us and discover the life-changing potential of Red Light Therapy!

#04 Frank Stallone | Fitness, Fame, Boxing and Whiskey

In this riveting and inspirational episode of Live Well and Thrive, host Mike Torchia and legendary artist, Frank Stallone, delve into Frank's remarkable life journey - from his deeply ingrained love for fitness to his ventures in business. This enriching narrative offers a candid look at Frank's philosophy on living a fulfilled, healthy life, underscored by a rigorous fitness regimen that serves as the backbone for his vibrant existence.
Together, they explore Frank's rise to fame, drawing parallels between his anticipation-filled life in music and his adventures in the fitness world. Frank sheds light on his past experiences, candidly sharing his highs and lows, including his battle with health issues and his commitment to recovery and wellness.
The discussion takes an entrepreneurial turn as Frank unveils his latest ventures in the food and beverage industry - 'Uncle Frank's Meat Rocket' and his signature 'Uncle Frank's Kentucky Bourbon.' Frank's philosophy of integrating a healthy lifestyle with good business sense shines through in this segment as he passionately discusses his plans and ideas for the future.
The episode wraps up with sneak peeks into Stallone's private life where he basks in simple joys and thrilling competitive shooting challenges. This truly compelling episode offers immense inspiration and personal insights packed into a single life-well-lived through resilience, fitness, music, fame, and entrepreneurship. Tune in to meet the man behind the legend; join Frank Stallone on his exhilarating journey of fitness, fame, and fresh ventures.

#03 Ron Perlman | The Screen Actors Strike and the Asyluum Studios Solution

In this episode, acclaimed actor Ron Perlman unveils his vision for revolutionizing the entertainment industry through the lens of his latest venture, Asyluum Studios. Known for his roles in 'Sons of Anarchy' and 'Hellboy', Perlman is now steering his focus to a project centered on restoring power to the artists. Listen to Perlman's passion as he redefines Hollywood.
Understand the broader impacts of changes in entertainment consumption, from theaters to streaming services, as we dissect their effects on both filmmakers and audiences. As advocates for the revival of theaters, we discuss the necessity of catering to genuine cinema lovers, resisting predetermined agendas. We spotlight the insidious control streaming platforms exert on the film community and propose the establishment of a new streaming platform to counteract this imbalance.
In our "Amazon world", where consumers access a massive array of entertainment options without leaving home, we challenge the implications of this dramatic shift, despite its convenience. Join us as we scrutinize the loss of a profound communal experience tied to theatergoing and question the sacrifices made in the name of convenience.
Our dialogue turns to the formidable influence of mega-corporations on small businesses and quality of life. We delve into the growing disillusionment of the elusive American Dream and grapple with the cynicism corroding our faith in democracy. By advocating for a cultural shift away from complacency, we explore the crucial significance of human interaction in an increasingly automated world.
Reflecting on the rise of AI in the movie industry, we assert that robots should enhance rather than replace human creativity. We pledge that Asyluum Studios will remain a fervent champion for humans within the realms of directing, writing, and acting. Tune in to this episode of Live Well and Thrive, as we traverse the intersection of technology, creativity, and humanity in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.

#02 Jamal Weathers | Battling the Fentanyl Crisis with Unk, the Lifesaving Solution

In the latest compelling episode of Live Well and Thrive, host, Mike Torchia, has a riveting discussion with focus on a rapidly escalating drug epidemic. Joining him are special guests, Jamal Weathers and KP, creative minds behind a groundbreaking product, 'Unk', a high potential tool in the fight against the deadly fentanyl menace.
Our guests share the conception of 'Unk', a fentanyl detection tool now available conveniently at affordable prices. As the subject matter veers into grim tales of fentanyl-related overdoses and hazardous drug tampers, the message of 'Unk' and its dire need is starkly highlighted. The end goal remains simple – making 'Unk' as commonly available as a COVID test, hence providing a real defense against this lethal crisis.
The episode takes a sober turn as it Uncovers, through personal anecdotes and insightful discussions, the political factors shaping the drug trade landscape, the significance of safe substance use education, and the tragic personal toll of fentanyl abuse. Joint efforts and possible collaborations with government and law enforcement agencies reflect 'Unk's potential broader societal impact, perhaps becoming a state-mandated antidote to this outbreak.
Our guests' moving depictions of engaging with high-profile individuals and unveiling underground operations prove impactful and thought-provoking. From training bin Laden's family to dealing with Pablo Escobar's son's advocacy against drug abuse, these narratives offer unique perspectives. The relentless endeavors to rally government support, their partnership journey with Walmart, and their plan for a bold, awareness-spreading campaign prove both inspiring and heartening.
In a poignant wrap, we delve into the personal loss of Carl Weathers, a respected artist, mirroring the grim reality that intertwines private lives with professional obligations, particularly in this challenging scenario. An emotional roller coaster of a listen, this episode is a candid look at the underexplored world of the fentanyl crisis and the incredible fight against it. Make sure to tune in!

#01 Dr. Har Hari | The Holistic Health Revolution

In this invigorating episode of Live Well and Thrive, host Mike Torchia takes us on a personal journey of his transformative healing experience under the guidance of renowned holistic practitioner, Dr. Har Hari. He recounts his enlightening experience at Har Hari's advanced healing center in Beverly Hills and how his life was transformed using cutting-edge therapies such as 'Trifecta' – the red light therapy bed.
Mike talks candidly about his battles with chronic shoulder pains due to excessive weight lifting, which alleviated dramatically, much to his therapist's astonishment. From having a rejuvenated pliability to witnessing a reduction in scar tissue and even a renewed sensation in his previously numb right leg, Mike's testimonial speaks volumes about the tangible impact of these alternative healing methods.
The episode takes a deeper dive as Dr. Har Hari, an advocate of using machinery and energy to heal the body, shares his philosophy and insights on groundbreaking biotechnologies. Topics such as grounding, high-powered pulsed electromagnetics, and biophotonic devices are elucidated, laying open the vast world of techno-futuristic healing options for the uninitiated and skeptical.
Not just stopping at his current services, Dr. Har Hari shares plans for introducing stem cell production through shockwave machines and the future rollout of a novel therapy involving cord blood mesenchymal stem cells. He also unveils his vision for self-service therapy booking and expanding his healing center nationwide.
This insightful episode acts as a bridge between traditional healing and futuristic methodologies, demystifying the power of AI therapy and the potential it holds for comprehensive health and wellness. Tune in to the world of advanced alternative healing and embrace a life with reduced pain and increased vitality.