Age of Lions Episode 026 - Frank Schwartz

In this episode of Age of Lions, Mark Clement sits down with Frank Schwartz—President of F3 Nation (known in the group as “Dark Helmet”)—to talk about the surprising thing happening in parks before sunrise all over the world: men gathering for free, outdoor workouts… and walking away with far more than fitness.

If you’ve never heard of F3, don’t worry—Frank breaks it down simply: Fitness, Fellowship, and Faith. What starts as “just a workout” quickly becomes a proving ground for discipline, brotherhood, and purpose. Frank explains F3’s countercultural principles—always free, open to all men, outdoors rain or shine, leadership that rotates, and ending every workout in a “Circle of Trust”—a moment where men share burdens, encourage one another, and remember they’re not meant to do life alone.

While F3 is a men-only organization, the conversation goes far beyond men’s fitness. The principles Frank and Mark unpack—shared struggle, community, service, faith, and living with purpose—apply just as powerfully to women and men alike, especially for anyone navigating the second half of life with intention.

From there, the conversation turns to what this show is really about: aging with intention. Mark shares how his own involvement in F3 has been a major catalyst in his personal transformation—nearly 30 pounds down since July, stronger, more energized, and more confident—and why physical strength isn’t vanity, it’s stewardship for the life God is calling you to live. Frank opens up about his wake-up call near 40, the mindset shift that changed everything, and how purpose in the second half of life isn’t something you invent—it’s something you uncover.

Whether you’re 25, 55, or somewhere in between, this episode is a challenge to stop “camping” at the false summit—and start walking toward the next mountain with purpose, community, and courage.