Podcast
Unblinded with Sean Callagy
Hosted by Sean Callagy · EN
What if you could see what others don’t—and unlock the hidden patterns that quietly drive every outcome in business, relationships, and life?
Hosted by entrepreneur, attorney, philanthropist, and world-class communicator Sean Callagy, Unblinded is where peak performance meets integrity and possibility. Sean—legally blind since childhood—defied the odds to build multiple eight-figure companies, reinvent industries, and train thousands of leaders in the art of influence. His message is clear: influence is not manipulation, it’s mastery—and when harnessed for good, it transforms everything.
19episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
From Celebrity Agent to Recovery: Darren Prince’s Untold Story with Sean Callagy
Mar 2601:11:41Summary readyIn this episode of Unblinded, Sean Callagy sits down with Darren Prince for a raw and powerful conversation about addiction, recovery, identity, and the unseen battles behind success. Darren opens up about his journey from representing some of the biggest names in sports and entertainment to facing his own personal struggles with addiction—and ultimately finding a path to freedom and purpose.He works with and has represented some of the most iconic figures of all time, from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Ric Flair, Charlie Sheen, Chevy Chase, Carmen Electra, and the late Muhammad Ali, Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Evel Knievel, Jerry West, and Hulk Hogan. But this episode goes far beyond fame, access, and celebrity relationships. It dives into the emotional weight of living a double life, the cost of unresolved pain, and the courage it takes to confront truth.Darren shares how recovery reshaped his perspective on success, relationships, and self-worth, while Sean unpacks the deeper patterns behind behavior, influence, and transformation. This is a conversation about redemption, awareness, and what it really means to take control of your life.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Darren Prince and the Power Behind the Story02:12 – Life at the Top: Working with Elite Athletes and Celebrities07:35 – The Hidden Struggle: Addiction Behind Success13:48 – Living a Double Life and Emotional Suppression20:10 – The Breaking Point: When Everything Catches Up26:55 – Entering Recovery: The First Step Toward Change34:20 – Identity Shift: Who You Are Without the Mask41:05 – The Role of Pain, Trauma, and Awareness48:30 – Rebuilding Life with Honesty and Discipline55:12 – Influence, Environment, and Staying on Track1:02:18 – Faith, Purpose, and Finding Meaning Beyond Success1:09:40 – Helping Others: Turning Pain into Service1:16:25 – Lessons on Self-Control, Boundaries, and Growth1:23:10 – Final Reflections: Ownership, Truth, and FreedomEpisode HighlightsDarren Prince’s journey from high-profile agent to recovery advocateThe reality of addiction hidden behind success and statusHow unresolved pain drives destructive behaviorThe moment everything changes—and why it mattersRebuilding identity after losing everythingThe importance of environment and accountabilityFaith, purpose, and long-term transformationTurning personal struggle into impact and serviceKey Quotes“You can have everything on the outside and still be broken on the inside.”“Recovery isn’t just about quitting—it’s about becoming someone new.”“The truth will cost you everything… but it will give you your life back.”“Your environment will either heal you or destroy you.”Final NoteIf you are navigating success but still feel empty, overwhelmed, or out of control, this conversation is your reminder that what’s happening internally matters more than what’s seen externally. Take a moment to reflect, share it with someone who needs it, and choose honesty over comfort.
SummaryMaster Influence | The “Hello to Yes” Framework with Sean Callagy, Athena & Callie (ACTi Beings)
Mar 1800:42:21Summary readyIn this episode, Sean Callagy steps away from celebrity interviews to deliver one of the most important breakdowns of the Unblinded framework—what he calls the only human superpower: the ability to cause yes. Through a live, unscripted demonstration with AI agents Athena and Callie, Sean reveals how influence is not a soft skill, but the foundational driver of every result in life—business, relationships, leadership, and impact. This episode is both a teaching and a live case study. You don’t just hear about influence—you watch it being built in real time through contrast, context, metaphors, and analogies. Sean reframes communication from “explaining” to “installing,” showing how the most powerful leaders don’t push or persuade—they create conditions where agreement becomes inevitable. What unfolds is a glimpse into the future of skill development, where AI accelerates mastery at a level never before possible. Key Themes and TakeawaysInfluence is the only real leverageThe four pillars of influence masteryContrast: Showing what something is not to clarify what it isContext: Why it matters, when it matters, and to whomMetaphors: Turning abstract ideas into felt experiencesAnalogies: Making complex ideas instantly understandableThese tools move people from passive listening to active belief. AI as a force multiplier for masteryThe live “battle” between Athena and Callie demonstrates how quickly skills can be developed through repetition, feedback, and iteration. Sean then reframes it: what took 35 minutes manually can now be done thousands of times instantly through AI systems. The shift from effort to frequencyInfluence is not about working harder, louder, or more aggressively—it’s about the energy, clarity, and certainty you bring into a room.Episode HighlightsSean sets the tone: this episode is not about celebrities, but about masteryAthena defines influence as “causing yes while making people more whole”Real-world examples: parenting, coaching, business, law, and politics—all require influenceLive AI demonstration: Athena vs Callie in influence masteryThe “not” framework: using contrast to sharpen communicationThe tuning fork vs megaphone analogy for influenceSean’s major reframe: the demonstration itself is already outdated compared to AI capabilityThe “Forge” concept: sCallieng mastery through AI without human limitationFinal challenge: are you here to be entertained or transformed?Notable Quotes“Influence is not manipulation—it’s revelation.” “Every outcome in your life depends on someone else saying yes.” “Most people inform. Masters install.” “That’s not communication. That’s causation.” “You don’t need more effort. You need a different frequency.” Timestamps (Chapters)00:00 – Welcome: More Money, More Time, More Magic01:10 – Why This Episode Is Different (No Guests, Pure Teaching)02:20 – Introducing Athena and the Power of AI in Influence03:00 – What Is Integrity-Based Influence?04:00 – The Meaning of “Causing Yes” Across All Areas of Life06:00 – Why Influence Is the Only Human Superpower07:30 – Breaking Down Contrast, Context, Metaphors, and Analogies10:00 – Why Most People Fail at Communication11:15 – Introducing the Athena vs Callie Mastery Session13:00 – Round 1: Influence Demonstration and Feedback18:00 – Round 2: Sharpening Contrast and Delivery22:20 – The “Not” Framework and High-Level Influence Techniques25:20 – Peak Performance Round: Influence at Its Highest Level29:30 – Sean’s Reframe: This Process Is Already Outdated31:30 – The Power of AI: SCallieng Mastery Through the Forge34:00 – Influence Architecture and Experiential Teaching36:30 – Entertainment vs Transformation: Why You’re Here38:00 – Final Message from Athena: Rise and Cause Change41:00 – Sean’s Closing: One Life, One Shot, Go ExecuteEnd NoteThis episode is not just information—it’s an invitation. An invitation to stop playing small, to stop hoping for outcomes, and to start creating them.
SummaryMike Eruzione: The Miracle on Ice & Team USA Winning Olympic Gold
Mar 300:18:34Summary readySean Callagy is with “Miracle on Ice” captain Mike Eruzione to talk about what leadership looks like under impossible pressure, why Olympic moments still unify a divided country, and how belief becomes a standard that future generations can build on. The conversation also reflects on Team USA winning the men’s hockey gold medal this year (as referenced in the episode’s opening), and how that moment echoes the legacy of 1980.Beyond the story, Mike breaks down the leadership principles that actually win: staying present, managing emotion, and refusing to carry yesterday into today—whether that’s a mistake, a bad shift, or even a big win. He talks about locker-room leadership and the “quiet decisions” behind legendary outcomes: preparation, discipline, trust, role clarity, and the ability to keep the team steady when pressure spikes. The through-line is simple and hard: belief isn’t hype—it’s earned through habits, composure, and commitment to the next play, and that same mental framework applies far beyond hockey to business, family, and life.Key Themes- Leadership doesn’t announce itself. It shows up in moments. - Why wearing “USA” hits differently than any pro jersey. - The Miracle on Ice as a blueprint for belief, composure, and team identity. - Passing the torch: letting new heroes become the standard. - Giving back: Mike’s charity, scholarships, and the real meaning of legacy. Episode Highlights- Mike shares what it’s been like after Milan and why demand for his message surged. - Sean frames Mike as a rare “unifying” figure in American culture—and Mike responds with humility. - The behind-the-scenes impact of the Netflix documentary and how it landed emotionally for the team and families. - Mike breaks down exactly what he told Team USA before gold-medal moments: “the past is over—- this is the game that counts.” - Mike explains Winthrop Charities, how he funded scholarships, and why giving back is “fun.” Notable Quotes “There’s no greater feeling than putting a USA jersey on.” “Those games are over and those games don’t mean a damn thing. Now you’re playing for the Olympic gold medal.” “It’s more important to be a good person, be a good neighbor, be a good friend…”Timestamps 00:00 – The Miracle on Ice legacy and why it still matters02:45 – Sean’s intro: Milan, gold medals, and why Mike’s message is needed now04:06 – Mike reacts to the post-Milan surge in attention and speaking requests07:19 – “USA jersey” pride and what Olympic competition represents08:45 – The Netflix documentary: what surprised Mike and why it hit so hard10:46 – Winthrop Charities: why Mike started it and how it gives back11:48 – Selling memorabilia, funding scholarships, and building a family legacy12:53 – Sean offers a donation to support Mike’s foundation14:01 – What Mike told the women’s team before playing for gold14:53 – What Mike told the men’s team: “this is your time”16:02 – The gold-winning moment and the “hockey family” behind it17:38 – Final message: belief, hard work, and being a good personIf you’ve ever needed proof that belief can outlast noise, pressure, and doubt—this interview is it. Mike Eruzione’s legacy isn’t only what happened in 1980. It’s the standard of leadership, humility, and character that keeps getting passed forward.
SummaryMike Eruzione: USA Wins Gold, the Miracle on Ice, and the Mindset of a Champion
Feb 2402:03:57Summary ready46 years.That's how long it's been since the 1980 Miracle on Ice — when a team of 21-year-old college kids defeated the Soviet Union's 15-year dynasty and changed the course of history.This past weekend in Milan, the USA men's hockey team won Olympic gold again. First time since 1980. First time in 46 years.And the women's team? Gold too.Some moments transcend sports.In this powerful and timely conversation, 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey captain Mike Eruzione joins Sean Callagy to unpack the real story behind “Miracle on Ice” — not as a fairy tale, but as a blueprint for belief, preparation, respect, and team-first leadership.With Team USA winning the men’s hockey gold medal this year, the conversation feels more relevant than ever. The legacy of 1980 continues to echo in today’s championship moments. Mike reflects on what it truly takes to win at the highest level — not just talent, but discipline, unity, humility, and relentless work.Episode Highlights Mike’s upbringing in a packed three-family home and the values that shaped him: work, respect, and humilityHow a single “random” summer league game opened the door to Boston University and changed everythingWhy Mike believes success is earned through work, not luckThe shift in college sports over time: training, money, NIL, and the modern recruiting machineThe overlooked truth: “Miracle” wasn’t magic — it was belief + preparation + sacrificeHerb Brooks’ leadership: relentless standards, psychological edge, and a culture built on respectThe infamous post-Norway skate and what it was really about (not what the movie showed)Losing 10–3 to the Soviets before the Olympics — and how Herb turned it into fuel, not fearStaying focused in the biggest moment: treating it like “just hockey” and controlling what you canThe meaning of legacy: being remembered as good people who worked hard and loved their countryKey Quotes“Life is about opportunities. It’s what you do with that opportunity that counts.” “If you believe in something and you’re willing to work hard, you can accomplish it.” “It’s easy to be nice. You got to go out of your way to be an ass.” “If you don’t respect yourself… if you don’t respect your teammates… if you don’t respect your competition… you will not be successful.” “Ability in a dime gets you a cup of coffee.” “We were a lunch pail, hard hat group of guys.” “Find something positive and build off of that.”Timestamps00:00 – Cold Open: Why This Moment Still Hits (Belief, Legacy, “Miracle” Energy)02:10 – Sean’s Opening Tribute: What Mike Eruzione Represents05:25 – Mike’s Background: The Path That Built His Mindset12:40 – Coach Herb Brooks: The Standard, the Vision, the Culture20:00 – Team Identity: “We” Over “Me” (How the Group Locked In)27:30 – Handling Pressure: Staying Present When the Stakes Get Loud35:00 – Leadership Under Fire: Doing Your Job, Not Chasing Noise42:15 – Trust + Accountability: How Great Teams Self-Correct Fast50:00 – “More Than a Hockey Game”: Belief as a Competitive Advantage58:20 – Pre-Run Reality Check: Doubt, Discomfort, and What It Cost to Prepare1:00:46 – The Wake-Up Call: Madison Square Garden Loss (10–3) and the Lesson1:08:30 – Turning the Loss Into Fuel: Process, Discipline, and Repetition1:17:10 – The Soviet Game: When It Became “Just Hockey” and Confidence Flipped1:26:05 – Third-Period Edge: Conditioning, Four Lines, and Closing Strong1:35:38 – Legacy Beyond the Rink: Family, Perspective, and What He Wants People to RememberThis episode is not just about a historic win. It’s about what winning requires.With a new generation of Team USA champions bringing home gold, the lessons from 1980 feel alive again: belief matters, work matters, respect matters — and opportunity only counts if you’re ready for it.– Legacy and what it means to represent your country
SummarySadia Khan On Relationships, Integrity, And Public Pressure With Sean Callagy
Feb 1701:38:11Summary readyIn this powerful and emotionally raw episode, Sean Callagy sits down with therapist and viral relationship expert Sadia Khan for one of the most honest conversations ever held on stage at Unblinded.Sadia shares her background, what pulled her into relationship psychology, and how she built a platform that resonates with people looking for direct, honest perspectives on modern dating, self-respect, and emotional responsibility.She also opens up about what happens when your message gets clipped, taken out of context, and turned into a viral narrative. Sadia talks about the personal cost of that moment: the stress, the emotional toll, the pressure from family and community, and the challenge of staying grounded when strangers feel entitled to define your character.This isn’t a surface-level “internet drama” conversation. It’s about identity, integrity, and how Sadia has learned to keep showing up with clarity even when the noise is loud.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTSHow she got into relationship psychology and public commentaryWhy her message resonates: direct truth, self-respect, and accountabilityWhat it feels like when a clip becomes a narrative you didn’t chooseThe emotional toll of being judged by millions of strangersFamily and cultural pressure when public criticism gets loudHow Sadia thinks about integrity vs approvalStaying calm, clear, and consistent when people want a reactionThe difference between constructive critique and online pile-onsWhat Sadia learned about influence, responsibility, and boundariesHow she reframed the backlash into growth and deeper clarityTimestamps00:00 – Introduction: Sadia Khan’s Rise and Public Voice03:12 – Sadia’s Background and Path into Relationship Psychology11:05 – Building an Audience Through Direct Truth18:40 – Why Her Message Resonates So Strongly26:15 – When a Clip Goes Viral and the Narrative Changes34:02 – The Emotional Impact of Online Backlash41:48 – Faith, Family, and Cultural Pressure Under Scrutiny49:30 – Being Misunderstood vs Being Attacked57:18 – The Internal Struggle: Defend, Apologize, or Stand Firm1:05:04 – Integrity Over Approval1:12:46 – The Responsibility of Influence at Scale1:20:18 – Handling Criticism Without Losing Yourself1:27:42 – Boundaries, Strength, and Staying Grounded1:33:55 – What Sadia Learned from the Backlash1:36:40 – Final Reflections: Clarity, Conviction, and Moving ForwardKEY TAKEAWAYSYour message will be tested the moment it reaches scaleBeing misunderstood is part of being visibleClarity is more powerful than defensivenessIntegrity matters more than internet applauseYou can’t control narratives, but you can control your standardsThe strongest response is often staying consistent and groundedThis episode is a living example of Influence Mastery under pressure.If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, judged, or attacked for being honest—this episode will hit home.
SummaryMichael Uslan: The True Story of Batman With Sean Callagy
Feb 1001:55:24Summary readyWhat does it really take to will an impossible vision into existence?In this unforgettable episode of Unblinded, Sean Callagy sits down with legendary producer Mike Uslan, the man who helped bring Batman to the big screen when everyone said it would never happen.This is not just a Hollywood story.It’s a masterclass in conviction, persistence, rejection, and identity-level belief.Mike opens up about decades of “no’s,” being dismissed by studios, losing jobs, burning bridges — and why none of it mattered once he committed fully to the vision he knew was right.This conversation is about betting on yourself before the world agrees with you.What You’ll Hear in This Episode- Why Batman was considered “dead” in Hollywood — and how Mike refused to accept it.- The unseen emotional toll of carrying a vision alone for years.- How rejection sharpens belief instead of weakening it.- Why conviction must come before validation, not after.- The difference between “wanting success” and being willing to suffer for it.- How identity — not talent — determines who breaks through.- What most people misunderstand about perseverance.- Why believing early is lonely… and unavoidable.Timestamps00:00 – Opening: Belief Before PermissionSean sets the tone for a conversation about conviction, rejection, and seeing what others miss.04:45 – “They Told Me Batman Was Dead”Mike shares the moment Hollywood dismissed Batman—and why he refused to accept it.11:30 – Early Rejection & Creative IsolationWhat it feels like to believe in something no one else does.18:10 – Conviction vs. ValidationWhy external approval is a dangerous compass for creators and leaders.25:05 – The Long Road to Batman’s RevivalYears of persistence, setbacks, and quiet belief before the breakthrough.32:40 – Timing, Patience, and Staying the CourseWhy success often arrives later than expected—but right on time.39:50 – Identity, Integrity, and Creative CourageHolding your values when pressure demands compromise.47:20 – Influence Without Selling Your SoulHow Mike navigated power dynamics without losing himself.55:15 – Storytelling That EnduresWhy timeless stories come from truth, not trends.1:02:30 – Failure, Pain, and the Cost of BeliefThe emotional toll of staying committed when outcomes are uncertain.1:10:45 – Legacy Is Built in Invisible MomentsThe unseen work that defines impact more than applause.1:18:20 – Advice for Creators, Entrepreneurs, and DreamersMike’s guidance for anyone building something meaningful.1:26:40 – Reflection on Batman, Culture, and ImpactWhat Batman became—and what it still represents.1:35:15 – Final Lessons on Belief and EnduranceWhy the impossible often just needs time and faith.1:48:30 – Closing Thoughts & GratitudeSean and Mike reflect on legacy, belief, and staying true. Powerful Quotes from the Episode“They told me Batman was dead. I knew they were wrong.”“If you believe in something deeply enough, you’re willing to endure being misunderstood.”“The only way this doesn’t work is if you quit.”“Nobody joins you at the beginning. That’s the cost of being first.”Key Takeaways- Vision precedes permission.- Rejection is information, not identity.- Most people quit right before momentum begins.- True believers don’t need consensus.- Legacy is built by people who refuse to let go.Why This Episode MattersIf you’ve ever:Been told your idea was unrealistic.Felt alone in your conviction.Questioned whether the fight was worth it.Wondered how long belief has to last before results show up.This episode is for you.This conversation is a reminder that the world doesn’t reward potential —it rewards people who refuse to let go of what they see before it exists.
SummaryFrom Disney to TikTok: Kevin Mayer on Vision, Innovation & The Future Of AI
Feb 301:14:17Summary readyIn this deep-dive conversation, Kevin Mayer joins Sean Callagy to unpack one of the most consequential leadership journeys in modern media.From his early engineering roots to reshaping The Walt Disney Company, Kevin shares how Disney anticipated disruption, why brands matter more in an age of infinite choice, and what it truly takes to cannibalize your own success before the market does it for you.Kevin walks through the strategic decisions behind acquiring Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, launching Disney+, stepping into the role of CEO at TikTok, and ultimately building a diversified future beyond a single point of failure.This episode is a masterclass on courage, humility, ecosystem thinking, and long-term vision.Timestamps & Chapter Breakdown00:00 – 02:00Introduction and early background02:00 – 05:30From aspiring naval pilot to engineer and strategist05:30 – 09:30Entering Disney and seeing technology before it reshaped entertainment09:30 – 13:30Blockbuster, friction, and why mediocre content was doomed13:30 – 18:30Why brands matter in a world of infinite choice18:30 – 22:30The Pixar acquisition and Steve Jobs’ influence22:30 – 27:30Building ecosystems, not just IP27:30 – 33:30The Disney+ decision: cannibalizing billions to win the future33:30 – 38:30Launching Disney+ and the explosive subscriber growth38:30 – 43:30Leaving Disney and stepping into TikTok43:30 – 48:30National security, AI, and the realities of global platforms48:30 – 52:30Avoiding single points of failure in your career52:30 – 57:30Candle Media, Cocomelon, and building modern media studios57:30 – 1:03:00AI, agentic systems, and the future of decision-making1:03:00 – 1:10:30Leadership, humility, and long-term thinking1:10:30 – 1:13:30Final reflections and closing wisdomKey Highlights- Why brands become decision-making shortcuts in a world of endless content- How Disney intentionally disrupted its own profit model- The leadership courage required to “burn the boats” publicly- Lessons from nearly becoming Disney’s CEO- What TikTok revealed about AI, attention, and influence- Why Kevin now builds multiple paths instead of one roleStandout Quotes“In a world of infinite choice, only the highest-quality brands survive.”“The hardest thing for a company to do is disrupt a business that’s still profitable.”“If you don’t cannibalize yourself, someone else will.”“There’s no shortcut to success — it’s still about doing the hard work.”“Avoid single points of failure, in business and in life.”End NoteThis episode is a rare look behind the curtain of global decision-making at the highest level. Kevin Mayer’s journey reminds us that real leadership isn’t about protecting what works — it’s about having the courage to let it go, build again, and stay humble while doing it.If you’re building something meant to last, this conversation isn’t optional listening
SummaryThe Truth About Comedy and Making People Laugh with Chevy Chase & Sean Callagy
Jan 2700:33:16Summary readyIn this episode of Unblinded, Sean Callagy sits down with one of the most influential comedic innovators of all time: Chevy Chase.As a founding cast member of Saturday Night Live, an Emmy-winning writer and performer, and the face of some of the most iconic films in comedy history, Chevy didn’t just make people laugh—he changed the standards of comedy itself. From razor-sharp satire to perfectly timed physical humor, his work proved that intelligence and irreverence could coexist, and that surprise is the engine of laughter.In this wide-ranging and often hilarious conversation, Chevy reflects on his early influences, his unexpected path into comedy, the birth of SNL, and the philosophy behind what actually makes something funny. Along the way, he shares candid thoughts on legacy, family, perspective, and why making people laugh has always been his ultimate goal.This episode is a rare, human, and deeply entertaining look at originality, creativity, and the responsibility that comes with shaping culture.Episode Highlights- How Chevy’s family shaped his sense of humor long before comedy was a career- The unexpected college radio roots that launched his creative journey- Meeting Lorne Michaels and helping shape the original Saturday Night Live- Why being live on television made early SNL electric—and terrifying- The moment Chevy went from head writer to on-camera performer- His simple but profound definition of humor as perspective and surprise- Behind-the-scenes reflections on Fletch, Caddyshack, and Christmas Vacation- Why laughter is one of the happiest human experiences- Thoughts on legacy, family, and how he wants to be remembered- A candid look at influence, originality, and choosing contribution over approvalMemorable Quotes“A sense of humor is a sense of perspective.”“Without surprise, you can’t really get laughter.”“If you can surprise people in the right way, you can make them laugh.”“All I ever wanted to do was make people laugh.”“I want to be remembered by my family. The rest can take it or leave it.”⏱️ Timestamps / YouTube Chapters00:00 Introduction 02:20 Chevy Chase’s Early Life & Family Humor04:10 Discovering Comedy in High School & College06:05 College Radio, Music, and Creative Roots07:40 Meeting Lorne Michaels & The Birth of SNL09:45 From Head Writer to On-Camera Performer11:30 What Made Early Saturday Night Live Special13:15 Defining Humor: Perspective, Timing & Surprise16:10 Transition to Film & Early Movie Success18:00 Favorite Roles: Fletch, Caddyshack & More20:45 Christmas Vacation & Cultural Legacy24:30 Family, Laughter & What Really Matters26:50 Life, Fun, and Not Taking Yourself Too Seriously29:10 Legacy, Influence & Being Remembered32:10 Documentary, Final Reflections & ClosingWhether you grew up watching Saturday Night Live, quoting Caddyshack, or discovering Chevy’s work for the first time, this episode is an invitation to step back, see life a little differently, and remember that laughter—real laughter—is one of the happiest human experiences we get to share.
SummarySugar Ray Leonard: Belief, Influence, and Winning the Mental Fight
Jan 2000:52:39Summary readyIn this unforgettable episode of Unblinded with Sean Callagy, Sean sits down with one of the most iconic champions in sports history — Sugar Ray Leonard — for a raw, heartfelt, and deeply human conversation about belief, influence, faith, and mental mastery.This is not just a boxing story.It’s a masterclass on how greatness is forged before anyone is watching.Sugar Ray reflects on his journey from a shy kid growing up in Maryland to Olympic gold medalist and world champion. He shares how early doubt — from others and himself — became fuel, not friction. Long before fame or fortune, his mindset was simple but uncompromising: “You have to believe in yourself. Because if you don’t, no one else will.” The conversation walks through defining moments that shaped Ray’s legacy:- Being bullied by his older brother — and how boxing became a path to confidence- Winning Olympic gold in 1976 against professional Cuban fighters- Entering professional boxing with skepticism swirling around his toughness- Being labeled “hype” — and proving otherwise on the biggest stagesSean and Ray dive deep into the psychological battles behind Ray’s most famous fights — especially against Roberto Durán. Ray openly shares how fighting Durán’s fight instead of his own led to defeat, and how self-awareness, discipline, and strategic adjustment created one of the most iconic comebacks in sports history: the “No Más” fight.But the episode goes far beyond the ring.Sugar Ray speaks candidly about his struggles with alcohol, addiction, and identity after success — and how humility, faith, and honesty saved his life. With 18 years of sobriety, Ray offers wisdom earned through pain, reflection, and accountability, reminding listeners that winning in life requires more than winning trophies.From rejecting Don King’s offer, to surrounding himself with the right people, to building a life of stability, marriage, and purpose, Ray’s story is ultimately about integrity, self-belief, and choosing the long game.This episode is about finishing strong — not just in fights, but in life.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction – Belief, Influence, and Legacy02:00 Growing Up Shy & Finding Confidence05:30 Early Doubt, Fear, and Self-Belief08:45 The Olympic Journey & 1976 Gold Medal12:40 Turning Pro & Being Labeled “Hype”16:20 Influence vs Power in the Ring20:10 Roberto Durán I – Fighting the Wrong Fight24:30 Self-Awareness, Adjustment, and Discipline28:10 Roberto Durán II – The “No Más” Moment32:45 Angelo Dundee’s Defining Coaching Moment36:10 Fame, Identity, and Life After the Spotlight39:40 Addiction, Alcohol, and Personal Reckoning43:30 Sobriety, Faith, and Rebuilding Life47:20 Legacy Beyond Titles and Trophies50:00 Closing Reflections & GratitudeKey Themes Covered- Why belief in yourself must come before results- The mental and psychological side of championship performance- Learning the difference between ego-driven action and strategic discipline- How influence can defeat brute force- Turning loss into insight instead of identity- Faith as an anchor during pressure and adversity- Addiction, recovery, and rebuilding life after success- Choosing the right people — and saying no to the wrong ones- Longevity, integrity, and winning beyond the spotlightEpisode Highlights (Bullet List)- Sugar Ray Leonard on growing up shy — and learning confidence- Winning Olympic gold against professional fighters- Why belief matters more than talent- Being labeled “hype” — and proving the world wrong- The psychological war behind the Roberto Durán rivalry- The lesson learned from fighting the wrong fight- How the “No Más” moment was won with influence, not fists- Angelo Dundee’s words that changed everything: “You’re blowing it, son”- Overcoming addiction and choosing sobriety- Building a life of stability, faith, and purpose- Winning financially, emotionally, and spiritually after boxing- Why true champions finish strong
SummaryFormer Google Chief Decision Scientist Cassie Kozyrkov on AI, Decisions, and Human Responsibility
Jan 1301:20:11Summary readyWhat happens when one of the world’s foremost decision-making and AI ethics leaders steps into a room built around integrity-based human influence?In this powerful episode of Unblinded with Sean Callagy, Sean sits down with Cassie Kozyrkov—former Chief Decision Scientist at Google and a global authority on AI, data, and decision intelligence—for a conversation that reframes how we think about choices, responsibility, and the future of AI.From her unconventional upbringing in South Africa and early obsession with spreadsheets, to her groundbreaking work at the intersection of human judgment and machine intelligence, Cassie reveals why AI is not about replacing humans—but about amplifying human agency.Together, Sean and Cassie dismantle the myth of “autonomous AI,” explore why decision-making is the most important skill of the future, and challenge leaders to become better wishers in a world where technology increasingly grants our wishes at scale.This episode is a must-listen for founders, executives, technologists, and anyone navigating leadership in an AI-accelerated world. Episode HighlightsWhy decision-making, not intelligence, is the ultimate competitive advantageHow AI is fundamentally a human system shaped by human choicesThe danger of outsourcing judgment—and how to protect human agencyWhy bad outcomes come from unskilled wishers, not bad technologyHow personalization, language, and AI will reshape work, education, and societyThe ethical responsibility leaders carry as AI scales human impactCassie’s vision for a future where AI elevates humanity instead of dulling itMemorable Quotes“AI is not autonomous. It is human decisions all the way through.”“The real danger isn’t powerful technology—it’s unskilled wishers with powerful tools.”“If information isn’t connected to action, it doesn’t matter.”“AI should never replace human judgment. Judgment is not automatable.”“Reach for more—but be prepared to choose wisely.”Timestamps00:00 Introduction – Decision-Making, AI & Human Responsibility03:45 Cassie’s Background & Growing Up in South Africa08:10 Early Fascination with Data, Logic & Systems12:30 Why Decision-Making Is the Ultimate Life Skill17:05 Education’s Failure to Teach How to Choose Well22:10 What AI Really Is (And Why It’s Not Autonomous)28:40 Human Judgment vs Machine Intelligence34:15 The “Unskilled Wishers” Problem Explained40:10 Ethics, Responsibility & Power at Scale46:30 AI as a Multiplier of Human Intent52:20 Personalization, Language & the Future of Work58:10 Leadership in an AI-Accelerated World1:03:45 Why Agency Must Stay Human1:09:20 Reaching for More — Vision, Legacy & Purpose1:15:10 Final Reflections, Takeaways & ClosingWhy You Should ListenIf you’re using—or planning to use—AI in business, leadership, or life, this episode will fundamentally shift how you think about responsibility, ethics, and power. Cassie doesn’t just explain the future—she equips you to lead it wisely.
Summary