Join me on this unique episode of Midlife Male as I step into the private world of Don Saladino at his barn in Long Island. Explore firsthand how he maintains his peak performance as a husband, father, and personal trainer to Hollywood’s elite. With decades of experience in the fitness industry, Don has witnessed trends come and go, offering us the unvarnished truth about what it truly takes to stay on top. While Don’s unparalleled work ethic may not be for everyone, our conversation sheds light on invaluable lessons applicable to all. Learn why taking shortcuts isn’t the path to lasting wellness and why prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish, but rather essential for showing up in life as the best version of yourself.
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In This Episode, We Cover:
(02:19) An inside look at Don Saladino’s career trajectory from his private barn
(05:35) How Don raised $5 million and the early days of his first
(07:22) The impact of the 2008 recession on Don’s business
(12:00) Why Don’s app Driven didn’t end up working out
(14:15) Don’s reasons for working out
(17:25) How Don kept afloat during the 2020 shutdown
(21:46) Why Don advised a coach to reduce his fee by over 60%
(23:00) The value of doing things for free (24:46) Determining when to turn down opportunities
(28:22) How to decline gracefully
(30:15) Why Don doesn’t like being called a celebrity trainer
(32:05) The story behind getting Hugh Jackman as a client and the celebrities that followed
(35:30) How experience and age add value and perspective
(38:01) Why Don feels better at 46 than he did at 42
(38:44) How Don lost his best friend and the dangers of taking testosterone
(44:00) Why you should always get a second opinion
(44:25) The importance of transparency
(49:10) Don’s balanced perspective on success
(52:40) Why Don focuses on the present
(55:31) Why it’s never too late to work towards better
(57:50) The importance of planning
(1:01:14) Why Don prioritizes his workouts to prioritize his family
(1:04:20) How to lead by example
(1:05:40) Don’s philosophy on money
(1:08:09) When and how Don tracks his meals
(1:09:24) How fashion and self-care boost confidence
(1:11:12) Don’s morning routine, and why he “breaks the rules”
(1:13:00) The extras and the non-negotiables of feeling good
(1:13:42) Don’s favorite ways to have fun —
Where to find Don Saladino: Website: https://donsaladino.com/ Instagram:
/ donsaladino X: 
/ donsaladino YouTube: 
/ donsaladino
