Podcast
REAL ONES with Jon Bernthal
Hosted by Jon Bernthal · EN
Real Ones is a weekly podcast with Jon Bernthal that gives the microphone to some of the most interesting, authentic people living on the front lines of the big issues of our time. From cops to gang members, soldiers and doctors, activists and first responders, you’re going to hear from people who aren’t pushing any agenda other than honest, open dialogue. What transpires is informative, funny, and at times heartbreaking – delivered by people you’ll feel an immediate connection to.
Produced by: Dennis Stratton, Gareth Schweitzer, Jon Bernthal
Directed & Edited by: Elan Sobel
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Sir Byron Rodgers: 'A Warrior Without a War is Soulless'
Dec 3, 202402:11:11Tap to summarizeFormer Marine and elite protection specialist Sir Byron Rodgers joins Jon to discuss his remarkable journey from surviving multiple IED explosions in Iraq to becoming one of the most respected figures in executive protection. Byron shares the near-death experience that transformed his life, his battle with PTSD, and how he found purpose in protection work. Their conversation covers the true meaning of being a warrior in modern times, raising resilient children, and why physical discipline builds character. Byron offers hard-earned wisdom about channeling warrior energy into service and the critical difference between having strength and having power.
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Agent Zero: Gilbert Arenas
Nov 6, 202402:16:08Tap to summarizeNBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas sits down with Jon for an honest conversation about his journey from second-round pick to NBA superstar. Arenas shares stories about his father's influence, the mental toughness that drove his success, and his unique perspective on leadership in sports. Now focused on youth basketball development, he offers insights on the current state of amateur athletics and raising the next generation of players. Check out Gil's Arena on YouTube. Support Real Ones and join the community on Patreon. Shop Real Ones apparel.
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Ashley Stock: Navigating the Loss of Her Daughter and Parenting Through Grief
Oct 15, 202402:08:09Tap to summarizeAshley Stock shares her family's journey after her daughter Stevie passed away from brain cancer. She talks about the decision to bring Stevie home for end-of-life care, how she and her husband told their sons, and the impact of grief on their marriage. Ashley and Jon discuss helping children process loss, facing public judgment while sharing their story online, and the role of youth sports as an emotional outlet. They explore how tragedy reshaped their views on parenting, relationships, and life, highlighting the importance of honest conversations about grief. Support Real Ones and join the community on Patreon. Visit the website for Real Ones apparel.
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Jamie Lee Curtis: Unfiltered on Hollywood, Healing, and Finding Perspective
Oct 1, 202401:23:58Tap to summarizeJamie Lee Curtis joins Jon Bernthal for a conversation that begins with Jamie discussing her role in the film "Borderlands," touching on the unusual character trait of objectum sexuality. The discussion then shifts to Jamie's personal journey with addiction and recovery. She candidly shares her experience of realizing she had a problem with opioids and her decision to get sober. Jamie details the pivotal moments that led to this decision, and she explores the impact of recovery on her life, discussing how it has changed her perspective and helped her understand herself and her family better. They discuss her family history, talking about her parents' experiences in Hollywood and how fame affected them, leading to a broader conversation about the challenges of expressing genuine emotions, especially given her upbringing in the entertainment industry. The conversation touches on aging in Hollywood, with Jamie sharing her thoughts on potential retirement and her approach to her career as she gets older. She discusses the rejecting nature of the industry and how she's learned to handle it, and shares an impactful anecdote about meeting a pediatric burn unit nurse, using this to highlight the importance of maintaining perspective in life and in the entertainment industry. Throughout the interview, Jamie emphasizes the power of honesty, vulnerability, and changing one's perspective. She particularly stresses the importance of replacing the phrase "have to" with "get to" when approaching life's challenges and opportunities. This powerful episode covers themes of fame, family dynamics, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and the process of personal growth and self-discovery. Jamie's candid and reflective responses provide insight into her experiences as an actress, a person in recovery, and a human navigating complex personal and professional landscapes. Support Real Ones and join the community on Patreon where episodes are released early, uncensored, and ad-free-- https://www.patreon.com/realones
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From Rookie Cop to 9/11 Hero: Will Jimeno's Incredible Journey | Real Ones
Sep 17, 202402:20:59Tap to summarizeJon Bernthal speaks with Will Jimeno, a former Port Authority police officer who survived being trapped for 13 hours under the World Trade Center rubble on September 11, 2001. Jimeno shares his extraordinary story of survival, his challenging journey of physical and emotional recovery, and how he found purpose in the aftermath of tragedy. Key topics include: Will's experience as a rookie cop on 9/11 The collapse of the towers and 13 hours trapped underground The rescue operation and Will's last radio call Battling PTSD and the long road to recovery Finding meaning and helping others after trauma Lessons on resilience, hope, and the human spirit This episode contains discussions of traumatic events which some listeners may find distressing. Support Real Ones and join the community on Patreon-- https://www.patreon.com/realones
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Dr. Nick Bernthal Returns | REAL ONES
Sep 3, 202402:15:17Tap to summarizeDr. Nick Bernthal, Jon's brother and orthopedic oncologist, returns to REAL ONES. This episode covers: Challenges of treating cancer patients and delivering difficult news How personal loss influences life and medical practice Current state of cancer research and drug discovery Balancing a high-pressure career with family life Issues of diversity and access in healthcare and education Recent experiences with crime and community support in Southern California The brothers discuss these topics, offering insights into modern medicine, personal growth, and current social issues. Note: This episode contains discussions of cancer, loss, and medical procedures that some listeners may find sensitive. Support the Real Ones community on Patreon to receive episodes early, ad-free and uncensored. Follow Real Ones: TikTok Instagram YouTube For apparel check out the Real Ones Store.
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ECHOES: A Navy SEAL's 22 Year Journey
Aug 20, 202400:31:58Tap to summarizeKevin Vance interviews Karl "Gus" Gustavson, a retired Navy SEAL with 22 years of service. Gustavson candidly discusses military brotherhood, sacrifice, and the transition to civilian life. This conversation offers unique insights into long-term military service and its lasting impact, and is the first in a new series with Kevin Vance profiling individuals living inspiring lives dedicated to service. Subscribe to Kevin’s Substack to stay updated and follow Kevin on his ECHOES journey. Follow Kevin and Gus on Instagram— Kevin - @kevinlvance Gus - @kgus245 For episodes of Real Ones early and ad free and to get a first look at sneak peaks like "Echoes" join the Real Ones community on Patreon.
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Deborah Ann Woll on Keeping it Real in Hollywood
Aug 6, 202401:27:18Tap to summarizeDeborah Ann Woll talks candidly with Jon Bernthal about her journey in Hollywood. She discusses childhood bullying, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and maintaining authenticity as an actor. Woll opens up about self-doubt, the impact of parenthood, and her passion for Dungeons & Dragons. This conversation offers an honest look at the realities of life in the spotlight and the personal growth that comes with it. Support Real Ones on Patreon Check out Real Ones merch on the web site
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Primo Paulie's Raw Journey of Redemption
Jul 30, 202401:26:13Tap to summarizeIn this gripping episode of Real Ones, guest host Richard Cabral sits down with "Primo" Paulie for an unfiltered conversation about life on the streets of East LA, battling generational addiction, and finding redemption. From harrowing prison tales to the transformative power of fatherhood, this episode is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. Discover how cultural roots and unexpected moments of clarity can pave the way to a life of purpose. To support Real Ones and listen to episodes early and ad-free, join Real Ones on Patreon. Connect with us: Instagram: @realones_podcast | @jonnybernthal TikTok: @realonesjonbernthal Website YouTube Don't miss Richard Cabral's new podcast, The Resilience Podcast, here on Spotify. Follow Richard on Instagram @richardcabralofficial
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From Gangs to Growth: Father Greg Boyle on Healing and Hope in a first look of RESILIENCE with Richard Cabral
Jul 23, 202400:59:11Tap to summarizeJoin Richard Cabral as he sits down with Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries, in this inspiring episode of RESILIENCE. Explore the transformative journey from gang life to community leadership, and discover how healing-centered approaches are changing lives. Father Greg shares profound insights from his decades of work, offering hope and practical wisdom for anyone interested in social justice and personal transformation. Follow the new podcast "Resilience with Richard Cabral". Key moments: 00:05:00 - The origins of Homeboy Industries 00:15:14 - Shift from job-centric to healing-centric approach 00:30:00 - Challenges of drug addiction and mental health in the community 00:39:37 - The power of relational wholeness 00:47:13 - Finding one's true self through love and community 00:54:00 - Balancing targeted help with community inclusivity
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