Deep Thoughts from 35,000 Feet: the Marine Corps, Speaking, & the Highs & Lows of Life | Ep. 438

I’m coming at you mid-flight after one of the wildest weeks of my speaking career — and today, I’m giving you a look behind the curtain of what the keynote life really looks like. From missed flights and sleeping on airport benches… to one of the greatest honors of my speaking career: speaking to the United States Marine Corps. This episode is raw. Real. And straight from 35,000 feet. It’s a story of extreme lows and unbelievable highs. It’s a reminder that leadership, energy, and purpose aren’t just for the stage — they’re for the trenches. And I’m sharing it all — because chances are, you have probably felt and experienced those same extremes in your life too. In this episode, I specifically unpack: The real truth about keynote speaking — and why it’s not always glamorous. The travel disaster that forced me to sleep in an airport (hello, humility!) My time with Supplement King and 75 rockstar franchise owners in Canada The powerful honor of speaking to 60+ Sergeant Majors in the U.S. Marine Corps My message to the Marines on mindset, leadership, standards, and energy The impact of attending the legendary “8th & I Parade” at the Marine Corps Barracks in Washington, D.C. The deep sense of pride, purpose, and presence that came from it all. Listen in as I take you on the road with me — through fatigue, faith, and full-circle moments that remind us why we do what we do. This isn’t just an episode. It’s a reminder and testament to the power of ‘Keep showing up,’ no matter what. Life isn’t just about the stage moments or highlight reels. It’s about who you are when your back’s against the wall. It’s about how you lead when the mission’s tough, the energy’s low...or your flight’s massively delayed or canceled. This week reminded me of something we all need to hear: The standard is the standard. And your energy is your legacy. So wherever you are — in the air, on the ground, or deep in the grind — keep showing up. Keep leading. And keep making IMPACT. If you like this episode and it resonates, please be sure to share it with someone who needs to hear this. Also, please share it on your Instagram story and tag me so I can repost. I love seeing all the Todd Durkin IMPACT Show Podcast listeners around the world: IG: @ToddDurkin  #IMPACTShow #Podcast #Ep438 #IMPACTAirlines #From35,000Feet #MarineCorps #IMPACT     Become a Certified ‘GET YOUR MIND RIGHT’ Mindset Coach TODAY!!! If you’re a coach, parent, or mentor who wants to raise confident, focused, resilient athletes — this is the course you’ve been waiting for. The “Get Your Mind Right Mindset Coaching Certification” is NOW LIVE. Built by myself and Andrew Simpson — and powered by TeamBuildr — this certification gives you elite tools to coach the mental game like never before. We cover topics such as: Mental toughness & reset frameworks Real scripts & strategies for confidence and composure Visualization, journaling & breathwork systems Tools you can use TODAY — on the field, in the gym, or in life Plus 2 months FREE in our private Mindset Coach Community This is how you build athletes for life. This is how you create lasting impact through sport. Get certified now at: www.gymrcoaching.com     Ready to breathe in some Mountain Fresh Air? Want to go deeper on business, leadership and life and create even more success and significance? Ready to IGNITE your passion, purpose, and IMPACT? If so, then join me for our 2025 Annual Mountain Retreat in Whitefish, Montana November 13–16, 2025 This 2.5-day retreat is for ALL purpose-driven leaders, high-performers,  fitness enthusiasts/professionals, and visionaries who are ready to dream big, expand their legacy, step into their next chapter with clarity and power…and be ready to be IGNITED with more passion, purpose, and IMPACT!! Save your spot NOW at: www.ToddDurkin.com/mountainretreat2025