Comeback Stories
Episodes
Forgiveness, Family & Freedom: Deborah Joy Winans Williams on Letting Go for Joy
11 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Forgiveness sounds simple… until life asks you to practice it with real people and real pain. In this heartfelt solo episode of Choosing Joy, D...
Ryan Michelle Bathé on Marriage, Motherhood & Making Room for Grace
22 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this deeply honest and joy-filled episode of Choosing Joy, host Deborah Joy Winans Williams welcomes actress, producer, and mother Ryan Michelle Ba...
Overcoming Alzheimer's | Deborah Joy Winans & Her Mother on Faith, Family, and Choosing Joy Through Life’s Trials
14 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this intimate and profoundly moving episode of Choosing Joy, host Deborah Joy Winans Williams sits down with her mother, Deborah Kerr Winans, to sh...
Owning Your Worth
28 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Darren and Donny explore self-abandonment's impact on our lives and relationships, discussing familiar behaviors like people-pleasing and conflict avo...
Presence over Presents
21 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Darren and Donny spotlight the essence of the holiday season: prioritizing presence over presents. They advocate for cherishing momen...
Beyond The Snap
14 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Darren and Donny as they sit down with Graham Mertz, the University of Florida's quarterback, in an episode filled with inspiration and resilienc...
Unlocking Purposeful Living
07 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for a profound exploration of self-discovery and empowerment with BC Serna on the newest episode of Comeback Stories Podcast. Darren and Donny...
Empowering Your Recovery Journey
30 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready to embark on an inspiring journey with our special guest, Hilary Phelps, on the Comeback Stories Podcast. Hilary, a respected advocate for a...
Cultivating Hope Through Gratitude
23 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join us on the Comeback Stories Podcast for an episode filled with gratitude, self-discovery, and purpose. Darren Waller and Donnie Starkins offer the...
Transforming Pain into Purpose
16 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Step into the raw and unfiltered world of William "King" Hollis with hosts Darren Waller and Donnie Starkins. From the depths of despair to the height...
An Unbreakable Mindset
09 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Lolo Jones' unwavering determination and resilience are front and center in this episode. Join co-hosts Darren Waller and Donnie Starkins as they expl...
Balancing Act
02 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Tune in to hear the raw, authentic, and powerful testimony of Sylvester McNutt III, a man who faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger than ever. ...
I Want to Live
26 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation as former Major Leaguer turned Mental Health Advocate, Drew Robinson, who makes a triumphant ...
Love Unbroken
19 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Darren Waller and Donny Starkins invite you to join them on an incredible journey of love, resilience, and redemption in the upcoming episode, "Love U...
Unconditional Love and Second Chances
11 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Get ready for a captivating exploration of self-discovery and transformation in this episode of Comeback Stories. Join your hosts, Darren Waller and D...
Protecting Your Joy
05 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Step into a world of personal growth and unwavering faith as hosts Darren and Donny welcome Deborah Joy Winans. In this episode, Deborah brings her ex...
Leading with Purpose
28 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this thought-provoking episode, we embark on a journey into the heart of leadership. Join Darren and Donny as they share their incredible stories o...
Finding Courage
21 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Co-founder of Sacred Sons Aubert Bastiat doesn't hold back when catching up with Darren and Donny. Aubert courageously revisits the night he nearly en...
Release and Rekindle
14 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren and Donny reunite with Trent Shelton, the former NFL player who reshaped his life as a motivational speake...
Anchoring the Present
07 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Darren and Donny for an insightful discussion on the art of being present. In this episode, they explore the significance of using physical remin...
Straight from the Source
31 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter calls the show while driving to the airport — a perfect glimpse into a day in the life of America's foremost f...
Detaching from the Outcome
24 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
New Orleans Saints tight end Foster Moreau reunites with Darren after they both left the Las Vegas Raiders in the offseason. Foster admits why he hasn...
Plant or Pivot
17 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Uncover the untold story of rapper Armani White’s journey from West Philly to the center stage as he shatters misconceptions of instant success with...
Been Here For Years
10 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Co-Founder of Inflection Point Entertainment and esteemed sports journalist Michael Smith takes Darren and Donny on a deeply personal journey, sharing...
Back Like We Never Left
03 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Comeback Stories hosted by New York Giants tight end Darren Waller and mental health and mindfulness coach Donny Starkins is back! And we’re proud t...
Introducing: Comeback Stories
27 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
“Comeback Stories,” hosted by New York Giants tight end Darren Waller and mental health and mindfulness coach Donny Starkins, joins Michael Smith’...
Steven Pressfield's Comeback Story Part 2
27 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by Steven Pressfield, an American author of historical fiction, non-fict...
Steven Pressfield's Comeback Story
20 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Steven Pressfield, an American author of historical fiction, non-fiction, and sc...
Emmanuel Acho's Comeback Story
13 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL linebacker turned analyst for Fox Sports 1. Emmanuel...
Austin Ekeler's Comeback Story
06 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by Austin Ekeler, a top running back in the NFL. In the last two seasons...
CC Sabathia's Comeback Story
30 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined virtually by CC Sabathia, a former MLB pitcher, six-time All-star, Cy Young Award ...
David Nurse's Comeback Story
23 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny welcome David Nurse, a 2x best-selling author, and speaker. David is known for his expertise i...
Napheesa Collier's Comeback Story
16 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny welcome Napheesa Collier, 2x WNBA All-Star & 2019 WNBA Rookie of the Year. Napheesa talks ...
Branden Collinsworth's Comeback Story
09 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny welcome Branden Collinsworth, Nike Master Trainer, yoga instructor, human performance coach &a...
Zac Clark's Comeback Story Pt.2
02 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny catch up once again with Zac Clark, star of ABC's The Bachelorette & founder of Release Re...
Eben Britton's Comeback Story
23 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Eben Britton, a former NFL offensive lineman, health advocate, cannabis activist...
Zion Clark's Comeback Story
16 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Zion Clark, an All-American / world record-holding athlete, actor & musician...
Zay Jones' Comeback Story
09 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Zay Jones, a former teammate of Darren's who now plays for the Jacksonville Jagu...
Michael Vick's Comeback Story
02 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Michael Vick, 4x Pro Bowl Quarterback and the NFL's 2010 Comeback Player of the ...
Neal Brennan's Comeback Story
26 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Neal Brennan, a comedian, writer, producer, director & podcaster. Neal talks...
Mark Groves' Comeback Story Pt.2
19 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined once again by Mark Groves, human connection specialist, host of The Mark Groves Pod...
Mark Groves' Comeback Story Pt.1
12 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Mark Groves, human connection specialist, host of The Mark Groves Podcast & ...
Darren & Donny's New Years Transitions
05 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny reflect on our most impactful guest appearances of 2022, and also turn the page to set some Ne...
Tracy Duhs' Comeback Story
29 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Tracy Duhs, aka "The Hydration Queen", a wellness advocate and scientist special...
Michael Gervais' Comeback Story
22 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Michael Gervais, renowned performance psychologist and founder of Finding Master...
Susan Borchardt's Comeback Story
15 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Susan Borchardt, former Stanford hooper and founder of The Athlete Blueprint. Su...
Jason Redman's Comeback Story
08 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Jason Redman, decorated retired Navy SEAL Lieutenant and best-selling author of ...
Dan Jameson's Comeback Story
01 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Dan Jameson, a close friend of Darren's and Director of Syndicate Sports Perform...
Don Bergeron's Comeback Story
17 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Don Bergeron, a close friend and teacher of Donny's through his own personal hea...
Michael Aidala's Comeback Story
10 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Michael Aidala, a leading performance coach. Michael talks about how he thrived ...
Davidji's Comeback Story Pt.2
04 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, we bring your part two of Darren & Donny's wide-ranging conversation with Davidji, Author & Master of Med...
Davidji's Comeback Story Pt.1
27 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, we bring your part one of Darren & Donny's wide-ranging conversation with Davidji, Author & Master of Med...
Zac Clark's Comeback Story
20 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny head to New York City, where they are joined on stage by Zac Clark, star of ABC's The Bachelor...
Tommy Rosen's Comeback Story
13 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Tommy Rosen, a world-renowned yoga instructor, addiction recovery expert, author...
Jewel's Comeback Story
06 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Jewel, a singer-songwriter, actress & author who has received 4x Grammy Awar...
Brandon Marshall's Comeback Story
29 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Brandon Marshall, fmr All-Pro NFL wide receiver and founder of Project 375. Bran...
Ricky Williams' Comeback Story
22 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Ricky Williams, 1998 Heisman Trophy winner and fmr NFL All-Pro running back. Ric...
Kelsey Plum's Comeback Story
15 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined in studio by Kelsey Plum, All-Star PG for the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces & 2020 Olym...
Steve Smith Sr.'s Comeback Story
25 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Steve Smith Sr., 3x All-Pro & 5x Pro Bowl NFL Wide Receiver. Steve talks abo...
Rich Paul's Comeback Story
18 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Rich Paul, Founder & CEO of Klutch Sports Group & Head of UTA Sports. Ri...
Brad Lea's Comeback Story
11 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined in studio by Brad Lea, Chairman & CEO of LightSpeed VT and host of The Dropping...
Erik Harris' Comeback Story
04 Aug 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Erik Harris, Free Safety for the Atlanta Falcons. Erik describes growing up poor...
David Meltzer's Comeback Story
28 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by David Meltzer, 3x International Best-Selling Author and Host of The Playbook Pod...
Maxx Crosby's Comeback Story
21 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Raiders Pro Bowl DE Maxx Crosby. Maxx starts by describing how he grew up extrem...
Michael Phelps' Comeback Story
11 Jul 2022
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of Comeback Stories, Darren & Donny are joined by Michael Phelps. Michael shares his story of battling depression on his way to wi...
Tony Hoffman’s Comeback Story - One Choice That Can Change Everything
07 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
After overcoming drug addiction that led to homelessness and prison, Tony Hoffman went on to acquire many great accolades. His goal is to motivate his...
Impact of the Lone Wolf
01 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Carl Nassib joins us to do his first interview since coming out publicly in the NFL. His story is a testament for everyone to look deeper and realize ...
Oliver Davis’ Comeback Story - The Daily Discipline Philosophy
30 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Oliver Davis shares the story of how his love for football and the willingness to put in the work every single day eventually became the basis for his...
Laura McKowen’s Comeback Story - Being One of the Luckiest
23 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Laura McKowen shares her story of discovery and pain in struggling with an alcohol addiction, and how nearly losing her daughter brought her back from...
The Four C’s of Mental Toughness
20 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode of “Monday Motivation Raw,” Donny talks about the “Four C’s of Mental Toughness,” and how these four practices/qualities can...
Kelsey Chittick’s Comeback Story - Our Greatest Obstacles Turn Out To Be Our Greatest Gifts
16 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Kelsey Chittick talks about the emotions and pain of losing a partner, and how the process of grieving and allowing herself the space to feel and rele...
The Beginner's Mind and a 29th Birthday
13 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today is Darren's 29th birthday and the start of the season - yet a great day to have that beginner's mind... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit ...
David Meltzer’s Comeback Story - Blending Faith and Money
09 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
David Meltzer shares some of the most powerful lessons he’s learned in the process of losing over $100 million dollars and nearly losing his life an...
Be Impeccable With Your Word
06 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
On this week's episode of "Monday Motivation Raw," Donny taps into the 1st Agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz's "The Four Agreements.” He shares some po...
Ryan Clark’s Comeback Story - Your Comeback Story Is Still Being Written
02 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan Clark shares the lessons he learned from his near death experience and how facing death allowed him to realize how precious life really is. Ryan ...
Acknowledge Yourself
30 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
For this week's Monday Motivation, Darren reflects on the power of self-acknowledgment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
Baron Baptiste’s Comeback Story - Meditation, Yoga, and How To Stay Out Of Your Head
26 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Baron Baptiste, the founder of Baptiste Power Yoga, talks about some of the major realizations and key lessons he’s learned in his life and why the ...
Sylvester McNutt’s Comeback Story - Telling The Full Story
19 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sylvester McNutt III brings some hardwon and deep wisdom to the podcast. From a childhood where he faced death down the barrel of a gun held by the ha...
Sharpening Your Saw
16 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
On this week's episode of “Monday Motivation Raw,” Donny shares the importance of “Sharpening Your Saw” and how this is a daily practice that ...
Aubrey Marcus’ Comeback Story - The Alchemy of Gratitude
12 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Aubrey Marcus, the Founder of Onnit, talks about how some of the lowest points in his life and relationships revealed what he was struggling with inte...
Self-Worth Comes From Within
09 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
For this Monday Motivation, Darren speaks on the inner nature of self-worth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystu...
Ryan Leier's Comeback Story - A Modern Day Yogi With the Heart of a Lion
05 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan Leier joins the podcast this week to talk about his struggle with depression after experiencing one of the greatest losses a parent can go throug...
The Power of Positivity
02 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
On this episode, Donny talks about the power of positive thinking, and the 7 tips to bring more positivity into your life. Learn more about your ad ch...
Carson Daly’s Comeback Story - Bringing Mental Health Out Of The Shadows
29 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Carson Daly, known for his charisma and energy on stage and on the mic, shares how he struggled with anxiety and panic attacks, and how he almost ende...
Your Anointing Is In Your Authenticity
26 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Your Anointing Is In Your Authenticity - words from Darren Waller Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/lis...
Drew Robinson’s Comeback Story - Surviving Suicide and Finding Life on the Other Side
22 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Drew Robinson shares his incredible story of struggling with depression and surviving a suicide attempt, and how the experience of living through it o...
Know Your Values
19 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Donny talks about the importance of knowing your core values, and how they will influence every decision in your life, including your career, relation...
Richard Maraj’s Comeback Story - Finding Gratitude and Love After a Life-Changing Car Accident
15 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Richard Maraj shares his story of how he escaped a downward slide into depression after suffering a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed and una...
Expectations
12 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sure, we want things to go a certain way ... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy i...
Nick Santonastasso’s Comeback Story - The Unshakeable Mindset
08 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Nick Santonastasso delivers some inspiring wisdom learned from 25 years of adversity. Being born with no legs and one arm gave Nick a choice in life. ...
How Free Do You Want To Be?
05 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Happy Fourth of July! In this episode, Donny talks about the power of “Freedom” and the tips and practices to find more freedom in your mind and i...
Anahata Ananda’s Comeback Story - Shamangelic Healing
01 Jul 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Anahata Ananda shares her story of pain, discovery, and transformation. Learn how Anahata found Shamanic healing as a path towards recovery from a chi...
Recognize The Impermanence
28 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Darren Waller talks this week about living life with a greater sense of urgency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omn...
Sarah Blondin’s Comeback Story - Rediscover Your Heart
24 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sarah Blondin shares some incredible heart-centered wisdom and what she learned during the lowest period of her life. Listen to a deep discussion on t...
Why We Need Mindfulness
21 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Donny is back this week with Monday Motivation Raw. In this hot take, he shares his keys to recovery, no matter what you might be recovering from. He ...
Lisa Bilyeu’s Comeback Story - The #1 Mindset Shift That Made Quest Nutrition Possible
17 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Lisa Bilyeu shares the wisdom she has learned in her journey from stay-at-home housewife to millionaire business co-founder alongside her husband, Tom...
Paul Vautrinot’s Comeback Story - Escaping Life In The Tunnels of Las Vegas
10 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Paul Vautrinot tells his incredible story of living as a drug addict in the flood tunnels below Las Vegas and how a “conversation with a cricket” ...
Consistency: Even When You Don’t Feel Like It
07 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Darren Waller shares a few thoughts on consistency - even when the feelings aren't there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoic...
Matthew Berry’s Comeback Story - From Miserable Hollywood Screenwriter to Fantasy Sports Expert
03 Jun 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Matthew Berry explores his journey from being a writer for television and film in Hollywood to the Senior Fantasy Sports Analyst for ESPN and all the ...
Anna David’s Comeback Story - From Cocaine Addict to 6-Figure Entrepreneur
27 May 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Anna David, best-selling author and entrepreneur, shares her story of addiction and depression, and how one word became the turning point for her that...