Don Saladino is someone I’ve come to know and genuinely respect. He’s one of those special guys I used to admire from afar and now am lucky enough to call a friend. That’s how much I value who he is and what he stands for.
We were introduced by our mutual friend, Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, and the last time I was heading to Long Island, Don invited me out to his barn to train. Not just me—he welcomed a couple of guys from the Midlife Male Inner Circle, too.
Who does that?
I’ll tell you who: men who are secure. Who are confident. Who give generously. Who respect their friends—and their friends’ friends. Who value connection over competition, who value collaboration over control, and who simply want to serve, be of service, and add value.
And this isn’t about giving your time away for free. Don doesn’t do that.
He’s one of the most in-demand trainers on the planet, working with elite performers like Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, and Sebastian Stan. But he brings the same passion and purpose to the 55-year-old man who wants to lose 60 pounds and get his life back.
Don’s a husband. A father. And everything he does—every post, every program—shows his dedication, humility, and humanity.
He’s relatable. He’s credible. He’s aspirational.
I love his basics-over-biohacking philosophy. He keeps things simple. He doesn’t try to impress with how much he knows—he focuses on helping others improve. He gives so much away that when it’s time to support his work—whether it’s a subscription or a training app—it feels like the easiest “yes” in the world. Because his work actually helps you look, feel, and live better.
That’s why I wanted to share this wisdom from Don Saladino.
Because it’s one of our best.
And because he’s one of the best.
Don also has a new podcast coming out- Stronger with Saladino. Keep posted here. Also, check out his app and workout programs here.
In Health,
Greg
How Don Saladino Sees It
Hollywood’s Go-To Trainer on Relationships Over Rewards, Defining Success, Midlife Clarity, Rejecting Shortcuts and more…
On True Strength
“Fitness isn’t about lifting heavier—it’s walking out feeling better than when you walked in. That’s the strength that lasts.”
On Transparency as Power
“When the 2008 crisis hit, we told clients, ‘We’re struggling.’ Honesty built trust and kept our gym alive.”
On Family as Purpose
“I train at odd times, even on vacation, so I can lead by example. My kids don’t need rules—they need to see me live well.”
On Resilience Through Pain
“Every injury, every missed payroll taught me: you don’t break, you adapt. Setbacks make you stronger if you let them.”
On Defining Success
“Success is peace—loving my wife, kids, and work. A million bucks with stress isn’t worth more than 200 grand with joy.”
On Relationships Over Rewards
“I gave away countless free sessions, not for payback, but to build bonds. That’s how you create something real.”
On Staying True to Yourself
“Our app failed because I chased tech, not coaching. Know your lane—it’s where your wisdom shines.”
On Midlife Clarity
“At 46, I’m better than 42—no drugs, just experience. Midlife is knowing what works for your body and life.”
On Rejecting Shortcuts
“My friend’s death from PEDs showed me: quick fixes kill. Fix your sleep, food, and training before you touch TRT.”
On the Barn as Sanctuary
“This barn, built through COVID, isn’t just a gym—it’s where I reclaim my mind and purpose after years of chaos.”
On Trust in Hollywood
“Training stars like Hugh or Ryan means being their rock, not chasing fame. Protect their privacy, and trust follows.”
On Saying No with Grace
“Saying no feels heavy, but I keep it kind: ‘I’m stretched, but I’m grateful.’ It preserves your integrity.”
On Learning from Failure
“Fifteen years of stress—power cuts, debt—taught me creativity under pressure. You figure it out or you fold.”
On Presence Over Plans
“I never planned five years ahead at Equinox. Staying present opened doors I couldn’t have predicted.”
On Legacy Through Impact
“If I’m remembered for helping men feel stronger, live longer, and own their lives, that’s a life well-lived.”
On Gratitude as Wisdom
“Driving to hockey at 6:30 a.m., coffee in hand, saying ‘Thank you’—that’s when I know I’ve built a life I love.”
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Greg Scheinman
Founder, Midlife Male
52. Husband. Father. Entrepreneur. Coach
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