Chris Medellin, a top mortgage leader and self-described “work in progress,” opens up in this powerful conversation about quitting alcohol at 47 and how it reshaped every corner of his life—from his marriage to his mindset to his leadership style. What began as a lifestyle change turned into a full emotional, physical, and professional transformation.

Chris shares the emotional challenges of sobriety in a booze-heavy industry, the anxiety hacks that got him through it, and the deep inner work that followed. He also reflects on fatherhood, health, heartbreak in leadership, and what it means to be truly there for others.

If you're chasing clarity, leadership without ego, or proof that reinvention is possible at any age—this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Intro: “Work in progress” and the decision that changed everything

(01:52) - Giving up alcohol at 47—and how it unraveled his identity

(03:01) - Learning how to feel again: Marriage, discomfort, and self-worth

(06:30) - The social pressure to drink—and how other sober leaders inspired him

(08:30) - Anxiety hacks: How he made events bearable without alcohol

(13:25) - “Not anti-drinking, just pro-accountability”

(16:18) - Sobriety as a business edge during the toughest year in mortgage

(17:25) - Leadership check: If your team only sees your content, you’re failing

(20:09) - The glamor vs. grind of being a “public leader”

(22:06) - Accessibility = retention: Why your people are your customers

(23:01) - Regret and growth as a father + stepfather

(26:56) - Why his lifestyle is his power: energy, clarity, performance

(29:21) - Health habits = stress insurance for entrepreneurs

(31:08) - How to handle heartbreak in leadership when people leave

(34:27) - Vulnerability in business: what happens when you show the struggle

(36:31) - Growing up poor, chasing success—and never feeling worthy of it

(39:50) - The worthiness trap and breaking generational limitations

(45:36) - “He was there”: The one word he wants remembered at his funeral

(46:22) - LFG Energy = your past as rocket fuel for the future

Connect with Chris Medellin:

▶️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechrismedellin/

▶️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismedellin

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

In this electric episode of the LFG Energy Podcast, I sit down with Craig Siegel—entrepreneur, bestselling author, and founder of Cultivate Lasting Symphony (CLS)—to unpack what it really takes to reinvent yourself. From leaving behind a lucrative Wall Street career to building a global personal brand, Craig shares the real story behind his rise, the failures that shaped him, and the spiritual shift that made everything possible.

We dive deep into his mindset, mission, and personal philosophy—from battling doubt and financial strain to discovering higher purpose, building a magnetic brand, and redefining success through service. If you're stuck at a crossroads, feeling called to something bigger, or ready to reclaim control of your narrative, this episode is your wake-up call.

Timestamps:

(00:05) - A Reunion of Friends

(01:32) - Craig's reinvention: From Wall Street to purpose-driven work

(04:20) - Money, giving energy, and creating from alignment

(07:00) - Reinvention requires risk, but the cost of inaction is worse

(10:55) - Why you must build a personal brand in 2025

(13:28) - Conviction over validation: Go all in before you're ready

(16:44) - The right mentors, the right people, and real authenticity

(20:21) - The Reinvention Formula: Why his book actually works

(24:13) - Why failure is proof you’re growing

(27:00) - Craig’s dad, cancer, and the legacy of resilience

(33:45) - What Craig’s mission looks like over the next 10 years

(38:00) - Craig’s definition of LFG energy

Connect with Craig Siegel:

▶️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craigsiegel_cls/?hl=en

▶️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-landon-siegel

▶️ Website: https://www.cultivatelastingsymphony.com/

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

In this compelling episode of the LFG Energy Podcast, I sit down with former U.S. Navy Special Operations veteran and resilience coach, Sean Bautista, to unpack the powerful journey of post-traumatic growth. Sean opens up about his transition from elite military service to civilian life, shedding light on the invisible battles many veterans face and the importance of identity beyond the uniform.

We explore his near-fatal injuries, the mental and emotional toll of service, and how he turned pain into purpose by helping others redefine strength and healing. From redefining masculinity and vulnerability to navigating trauma, self-awareness, and transformation, Sean’s insights are as raw as they are inspiring. Whether you're a veteran, athlete, entrepreneur, or simply someone striving to reclaim control of your life, this episode will move you to reflect, reset, and rise.

Timestamps:

(00:05) - A Reunion of Friends

(07:20) - Transitioning from Employment to Real Estate

(11:08) - The Power of Personal Branding and Confidence in Real Estate

(21:14) - Elevating to Luxury Sales: Strategies for Success

(28:23) - The Importance of Discipline and Fitness in Business

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

Connect with Sean Bautista:

▶️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sean_m_bautista/

In the debut interview episode of the LFG Energy podcast, I welcome Reza Hariri, a jack of many trades with an impressive sports coaching and entrepreneurship background. Reza, with his 20 years of media executive experience, shares insightful stories about the demanding transition from a secure career to a volatile startup ecosystem. Our conversation dives deep into three key areas: the synergy between sports and business, considering entrepreneurship as a career move, and debunking the myths about the glamorous portrayal of entrepreneurship. Reza's experiences highlight the importance of betting on oneself, dealing with self-doubt, and having a plan or a solid network to navigate the business world. Whether it’s advice for young entrepreneurs and athletes or emphasizing the significance of networking, this episode is packed with valuable lessons on resilience and the undying spirit of LFG Energy. Tune in to grasp the reality of entrepreneurship and the unwavering mindset required to succeed.

Timestamps:

Chapters:

(00:25) - Introduction to Reza Hariro

(01:11) - The Synergy of Sports and Business

(01:39) - The Reality of Entrepreneurship

(03:28) - Overcoming Doubts in Entrepreneurship

(06:10 - The All-In Mindset

(18:36) - Networking and Building Relationships

(12:39) - Advice for Young Athletes

(22:53) - Conclusion and Future Ventures

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:▶️ ⁠LinkedIn ⁠| ⁠Instagram ⁠| ⁠Website⁠

Follow the show:▶️⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ | ⁠YouTube⁠

In this episode, I bring you behind the scenes of a keynote I gave to the U.S. National Taekwondo Team—lessons not just for athletes, but for anyone chasing greatness. I reflect on the power of incremental growth, the urgency of embracing finality, and how high performers tap into both their “why” and “who” to fuel their mission. Whether you're building a business, training for a goal, or navigating a season of change, this episode is packed with real, emotional, and actionable insights. The journey to transformation starts here—and it starts with LFG energy.

Timestamps:

(00:11) – The Journey to the National Taekwondo Team

(03:10) – Embracing Opportunities: The Importance of Incremental Progress

(04:37) – Embracing Finality and Seizing the Moment

(07:14) – Understanding the Difference Between 'Why' and 'Who'

(09:38) – Finding Your True Motivation

(10:36) – The Journey of Transformation in Sports and Life

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

In this episode, I share something deeply personal—my 5-part life creed. These aren’t just ideas; they’re guiding principles that have shaped how I lead, love, and live. Each one was forged through life lessons, mentorship, and moments that challenged me to level up as a human being. I talk about what it means to show up when no one’s watching, how to shift your mindset around “wasted time,” and why being in service to others is the ultimate life hack. From a quiet handshake to a simple “hi,” I unpack how seemingly small moments can unlock massive opportunities. If you’ve ever wanted a framework for living with more intention, clarity, and LFG energy—this is it.

Timestamps:

(00:01) – Personal Creed: Life Lessons and Insights

(01:57) – Recognizing the Value of Every Moment

(03:54) – The Importance of Being in Service to Others

(07:37) – The Power of Connection

(10:24) – The Power of Saying Hi

(11:18) – Creating Your Personal Creed

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

This week, I'm pulling back the curtain and sharing the wild and totally unplanned story behind the creation of LFG Energy. It all started with a scratched-out idea on a piece of paper and turned into a defining moment in my career—thanks to a bold move at a Vegas conference and a last-minute pivot that saved a massive event with Ryan Serhant. This episode is all about going all in, trusting your gut, and taking your shot even when it’s scary. Whether you're stuck at a crossroads or just need a nudge to leap, this one’s for you. Let’s fucking go!

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(00:25) - Be All In

(01:40) - LFG idea begins

(02:56) - Vegas event setup

(04:00) - The Ryan Serhant mission

(05:36) - Backstage bold move

(07:00) - Event confirmed

(08:36) - Major contract issue

(10:28) - LFG Energy is born

(11:46) - Logo, launch, and legacy

(12:26) - Final message: Take your shot

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube

In this eye-opening episode of the LFG Energy podcast, I dive into the concept of the “Window of Opportunity”—those rare, pivotal moments where decisive action can change everything. Drawing from my own journey, I share personal stories of how recognizing and acting on these opportunities has been critical to my growth and success. From overcoming setbacks to making bold, life-altering choices, I reveal why waiting for the perfect moment is a trap and why true progress only happens when you seize the moment despite the fear or doubt.

I also break down practical strategies for identifying your own windows of opportunity and making the most of them before they close. If you've been feeling stuck or hesitant to take the next step in your life or career, this episode is for you. It’s a powerful reminder that your time is now.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(03:20) - What is a Window of Opportunity?

(06:45) - Why Waiting Is Your Biggest Enemy

(10:05) - Personal Story: When I Chose To Act

(12:30) - Practical Strategies for Seizing Opportunities

(16:15) - Breaking Free From Perfectionism

(18:45) - Recognizing and Embracing Uncertainty

(21:30) - Your Call to Action: Stop Waiting, Start Living

Welcome to the LFG Energy podcast! Your host, Arjun Dhingra, is a two-time Taekwondo world champion and the former Team USA co-head coach. He is a 23-year mortgage veteran of the industry who loves influencing change in people.

This podcast is about the stories and lessons of those who have had their backs against the wall and have ultimately overcome. Former Olympians, coaches, entrepreneurs, and incredible human beings will share their experiences of resilience and beating the odds in spite of adversity so that you too can learn to start doing the same in your life.

Connect with Arjun:

▶️ LinkedIn | Instagram | Website

Follow the show:

▶️Spotify | Apple | YouTube