The Witnesses Podcast Appearance
Success isn't just about what we achieve—it's about who we become in the process.
In a world filled with challenges, some people rise above their struggles and use their experiences to help others find their way.
One such inspiring individual is Mykal Olson, founder of The Life Forge.
Through his own battles with addiction and his transformative journey, he now guides others toward healing and self-discovery.
In this exclusive interview, Amb. Elisha sits down with Mykal to discuss his journey, the lessons he's learned, and how he helps fathers conquer addiction and reclaim their strength.
The Power of Investing in Yourself
Elisha opens the conversation with an important message: investing in yourself is the key to transformation.
He shares an insightful analogy of a mango tree—once barren and unremarkable, but after a season of growth, it flourished with vibrant leaves and delicious fruit.
This mirrors Mykal's journey. He, too, invested time and effort into his personal growth, leading him to a new chapter of life where he now impacts others.
A Journey Through Hardship
Mykal's story isn't just about success; it's about overcoming struggles. From a promising career as an international business consultant to battling addictions that led to imprisonment, he experienced the depths of despair.
Despite trying 12-step programs and counseling, nothing seemed to work. It wasn't until he had a breakthrough moment—realizing that true change must come from within—that his transformation began.
The Turning Point
The realization that changed everything for Mykal was understanding that he alone was responsible for his actions and choices.
"Nothing external caused my addictions. It was all within me. And because I was the problem, I also had the power to change."
This mindset shift gave him control over his recovery. Instead of blaming external circumstances, he took full responsibility and began forging a new identity—one that reflected strength, purpose, and resilience.
The Birth of The Life Forge
Mykal's transformation led to the creation of The Life Forge, a philosophy that compares personal growth to a blacksmith’s forge. Just as metal is shaped by fire and hammering, people, too, must go through a process of refinement to become their best selves.
Key Lessons from Mykal’s Struggles
1. Environment Matters – The people around you can either uplift you or drag you down. After prison, Mykal chose homelessness over staying in a halfway house surrounded by addicts, knowing that environment would hinder his progress.
2. Vulnerability is Strength – Many men, especially fathers, struggle in silence. But true strength comes from acknowledging struggles and seeking help.
3. You Can Rebuild Your Identity – Who you are today is not who you have to be tomorrow. You can forge a new version of yourself based on who you aspire to become.
Helping Fathers Overcome Addiction
Many fathers struggle with addiction and personal battles in silence, fearing that showing vulnerability makes them weak. Mykal believes the opposite is true—speaking out and seeking help is what truly makes a man strong.
Through coaching, speaking engagements, and mentorship, he helps fathers:
Acknowledge their struggles without shame
Find inner strength through self-reflection and accountability
Break destructive cycles and forge a new path forward
Life Beyond Speaking and Coaching
When he's not speaking or coaching, Mykal enjoys unwinding with his lifelong best friend of 50 years.
Whether playing games like Dungeons & Dragons or planning his dream of sailing around the world, he believes in balancing hard work with lighthearted fun.
His dream? To collect stories and myths from around the world and write about them—a testament to his love for wisdom and storytelling.
Final Takeaways
Mykal’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter how broken life seems, transformation is always possible. His journey from addiction and imprisonment to becoming a mentor and guide proves that when we take ownership of our lives, we unlock the power to shape our future.
If you're struggling or looking for inspiration, remember: your past doesn’t define you—your decisions do. Take control, embrace the process, and start forging the life you were meant to live.
Ready to Begin Your Transformation?
Join Mykal Olson at The Life Forge and discover how to forge a stronger, more fulfilled version of yourself.