The Dapper Barbarian Show
Welcome to The Dapper Barbarian Show, the podcast cutting through the noise of today’s self-help culture. Hosted by Julian Diaz, this is your antidote to the selfish, “me-first” mentality flooding the self-improvement world. Here, we’re reclaiming growth as a shared journey—one that strengthens families, enriches communities and preserves the relationships that truly matter. In a world consumed by individualism, climbing to the top means little if there’s no one to share the victory with. The Dapper Barbarian Show challenges the woke agenda dominating the self-help market, offering a bold, honest, and accountable approach to personal growth. Through thought-provoking solo episodes and powerful guest interviews, Julian helps you balance grit with grace, success with connection, and progress with purpose. What You’ll Gain from the Show: Practical strategies for self-improvement that prioritize family and community values Unfiltered conversations on the tough choices that define authentic growth A rejection of selfish success in favor of meaningful, accountable progress Insights into building a legacy of shared victories and enduring relationships At The Dapper Barbarian Show, we’re asking the fundamental questions: What’s the point of winning if you leave those you care about behind? Let’s navigate life’s challenges together, blending strength, accountability, and purpose in every step. Join us as we decide whether today calls for black ties, high heels, or the trusty battle axe to carve a better path forward. New episodes drop weekly—subscribe now and grow with intention!
Episodes
4 hours ago
4 hours ago
Start your year with purpose and power! On this episode of The Dapper Barbarian Show, we tackle the foundations of discipline and self-improvement—two essential pillars for crushing your New Year’s resolutions.
Joining me is Cole Graves, a 23-year-old Marine Corps Reserve veteran turned corporate sales professional and father of two, who embodies the balance between personal ambition and family values. Together, we unpack the systems and habits that drive success in fitness, finances, and life—without sacrificing what truly matters: your family and community.
We dig into the challenges that often derail us, from information overload to the allure of comfort, and how to overcome them by staying laser-focused on your “why.” You’ll hear actionable strategies for goal setting, building momentum, and fostering a circle of high performers who keep you accountable.
From battling vices and engineering your own adversity to embracing self-analysis and avoiding the victim mentality, this episode is packed with insights to help you level up. Whether you're looking to dominate your personal goals or create a ripple effect in your community, this conversation will inspire and empower you to take action.
Key Topics Covered:
How systems and habits create lasting success.
The story of the two wolves: choosing discipline over distraction.
Breaking free from analysis paralysis and taking meaningful steps forward.
The role of financial freedom, engineered adversity, and finding purpose.
Building habits that align with your goals and values.
It’s time to trade comfort for progress and step into your potential. Join us for this inspiring conversation and take the first step toward your best year yet.
00:00 Welcome to the Dapper Barbarian Show
00:20 Introducing Cole Graves and the Topic of Discipline
01:18 The Importance of Systems and Community
01:40 Cole's Background and Family Life
02:14 Navigating Information Overload and Setting Disciplines
04:55 The Two Wolves: A Story of Duality
06:40 Understanding and Overcoming Vices
12:34 Setting Goals and Avoiding Analysis Paralysis
13:41 Building Habits and Achieving Goals
18:10 The Role of Money and Financial Freedom
23:50 Engineered Adversity and Victim Mindset
26:51 The Trap of Victim Mentality
27:37 Finding a Higher Purpose
28:44 Setting and Achieving Goals
29:11 The Importance of Systems
30:11 Surrounding Yourself with High Performers
32:21 Taking Action and Avoiding Comfort
34:33 The Role of Self-Analysis
41:55 Overcoming Environmental Friction
48:49 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement
6 days ago
6 days ago
In this engaging episode, Detective Riss Williams shares her experiences and challenges as a dedicated police officer specializing in financial crimes and white collar fraud. With a remarkable career in law enforcement, Riss discusses the complexities of gathering evidence, working with district attorneys, and overcoming barriers when companies don't cooperate with warrants. Beyond her professional life, Riss talks about her strong Christian faith, the importance of community, and how she balances her role as a detective, wife, and mother. She offers invaluable advice for aspiring detectives and young women navigating male-dominated fields, emphasizing integrity, character, and the importance of developing a secure identity. Recognized internationally for her exemplary work, including receiving the IACP 40 Under 40 Award, Riss's story is an inspiring testament to leadership, commitment, and the strength found in faith and family.
00:00 Challenges in Law Enforcement
01:08 Working in Financial Crimes
03:46 International Recognition
07:13 Balancing Career and Family
14:01 Advice for Aspiring Detectives
31:36 Maintaining Identity in Male-Dominated Fields
37:45 Finding Hope and Community
6 days ago
6 days ago
Join us in this episode of the Dapper Barbarian Show as we have an inspiring conversation with Riss Williams, a detective known for her exceptional work in counter-fraud.
With 13 years of experience at the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, Riss shares her journey from working in detention facilities to becoming a financial crimes detective. She discusses how her faith influences her approach to law enforcement, the reality versus the Hollywood version of policing, and the importance of community and teamwork. Riss also talks about balancing her challenging career with her responsibilities as a mother and wife, providing valuable insights for young women aspiring to follow in her footsteps. Don't miss this captivating episode where Riss Williams exemplifies strength, dedication, and family values.
00:00 Introduction to the Dapper Barbarian Show
00:08 Meet Detective Riss Williams
01:11 Starting in Detention: The First Steps
02:53 Challenges and Success in the Jail
04:06 Transition to Patrol Duty
09:14 The Importance of Community in Law Enforcement
23:09 Faith and Ethics in Policing
29:14 Preparing for a Career in Investigations
35:26 Improving Job Efficiency
36:58 Real-Life vs. Hollywood Investigations
38:35 Challenges in Law Enforcement
6 days ago
6 days ago
Welcome to the Dapper Barbarian Show! In this episode, host Julian Diaz sits down with long-time friend and community stalwart, Steve Williams.
With 14 years of law enforcement experience, including a focus on counter-human trafficking, Steve delves into his journey of self-improvement, the importance of family, and the power of having a strong moral compass.
Discover his heartfelt commitment to his wife and daughter, his views on fatherhood, and how he balances his responsibilities as a law enforcement officer and a dedicated family man. Steve shares valuable lessons applicable to everyday life, from overcoming life's frictions to the significance of perspectives and community. Tune in for a down-to-earth discussion that moves away from societal coddling and focuses on real, impactful growth and resilience. Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation filled with actionable takeaways.
00:00 The Reason You Get Up Every Morning
01:39 Introduction to the Dapper Barbarian Show
03:47 Steve Williams' Background and Family Life
06:00 Career Journey and Life Lessons
08:04 Overcoming Friction and Building Discipline
09:38 The Importance of Perspective and Self-Awareness
17:07 Fatherhood and Family Priorities
19:59 The Role of Faith and Wisdom in Life
31:19 Planning and Achieving Life Goals
34:07 Practical Ways to Let Kids Grow
35:02 Building Confidence and Character in Children
40:57 The Importance of a Moral Compass
47:13 Challenges and Rewards in Law Enforcement
48:29 Combating Human Trafficking
51:13 The Southern Border Crisis
01:07:32 Partnering with NGOs for Effective Solutions
01:11:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement