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Mighty Marty
All right, here’s my report for today…
You know Marty Goldman? The 55-year-old grandfather and small business owner from Waukegan, Illinois, who’s featured in our first TTV video series? Well, I went to see him early last week, and when I walked in the door, I did not even recognize him! I’ve seen a lot (thousands and thousands and thousands) of transformations over the last decade, and I’ll tell you what, Marty’s is right up there with the best I’ve ever seen. Take a look…
See what I mean? The change is stunning, isn’t it? Marty Goldman is a new man!
Flash back to the beginning of this year, January 1, when Marty received a phone call -- it was the worst news any parent could ever hear -- his son Tom, an Iraq War hero (recipient of the Purple Heart and Silver Star), had died. It was the lowest point of Marty’s life. The pain and agony of losing his son was compounded by the realization that if Marty didn’t change his own life, he might be next. And with the added responsibility of caring for his three grandkids (Tom’s sons), as well as helping his wife and other children through this challenging time, he had to make a decision. No longer could he wait for “someday” to turn his life around. It was now… or never.
Marty posted a note on the Transformation site. I read his message and knew immediately, this guy was in it for real. I made arrangements to fly to Illinois to meet Marty, to find out how he was doing, and to emphasize that I believed he could succeed at this, and it was important to me that he did. That first meeting is documented in Marty’s Intro Story video which, if you haven’t already, you can watch right here on our TTV section of the site.
One of the reasons that I was so confident in Marty is that he was really clear on why he needed to make a transformation. Over the years, I’ve discovered that the better your reasons, the better your results. And this success story absolutely validates that.
After I left Illinois, Marty got to work. Everything he had been putting off or avoiding, he began to confront and work through. One of those was his sedentary lifestyle. Like millions of Americans, Marty had slowly but surely become addicted to apathy. He ended that the first day he headed down to his local YMCA and did his first workout. He confronted his unhealthy way of eating too. He just made a complete 180 and turned it around the other direction. He began to work through limiting beliefs and feelings that he didn’t deserve to be in great shape; that he didn’t deserve to feel good; that he didn’t deserve to be successful. With every pound of bodyfat he lost, he also let go of regrets, resentments, and anger. With each deep breath he took in during his aerobic exercise, he became more filled with forgiveness. And with each healthy meal, he began to nourish himself with positive, uplifting thoughts.
As a part of his whole transformation, Marty also re-established his spiritual connection through a strict daily routine of prayer and meditation which, over the years, had also been put by the wayside. And, Marty started having fun again. He worked out with new friends, started playing basketball and baseball for the first time in decades. He also set a goal to laugh and smile each day, and held the intention of bringing his sense of humor back to life.
Fast forward to now: the results you see in his after photos -- those changes are an outward manifestation of the extraordinary transformation that happened on the inside. Marty has achieved his goal of complete transformation -- the physical, emotional, and spiritual. He‘s back on track and moving full steam in the right direction.
The Tale of the Tape
Through 12 weeks, Marty had dropped 47 lbs of unhealthy bodyfat and for that achievement he was selected as one of the new Transformation Champions. Six weeks later, he achieved his ultimate body weight goal: 192 lbs. That’s a total of 71 lbs of unhealthy fat gone. He went from 263 to 192 lbs in just 18 weeks. It has been 30 years since he’d really been that physically fit.
At 6’1” and 192 lbs Marty is becoming quite an athlete. As a result of his four months of training and eating right, he increased his upper body strength by 50% while his endurance increased tenfold; when he started he could only run eight-tenths of a mile and now he can run eight miles without stopping. Marty and I are going to team up and run the Denver Marathon on October 19.
Marty's helpers: Alyn (hair and beard), Coach Stoney (accountability partner), Dana (wardrobe), Marty (all done up), Cathleen (skin care) and me.
It’s actually stunning, even to me, that Marty was able to make up for 30 years of health and fitness neglect in just four months. His doctor reports that his blood pressure is now 120/70 and when he started it was 165/110. He’s also transformed from having very low energy, barely enough to make it through the day, to having so much energy that he shares his surplus with others -- helping them get started with their own transformation programs. He no longer has to take medicine for indigestion and acid reflux. He sleeps well and is no longer suffering symptoms of depression.
Marty’s Monetary Rewards
As a part of Marty’s overall Championship, he won $10,000 for himself and $10,000 to give to a cause, organization, or charity that he holds close to his heart. Last week in Waukegan, I joined Marty as he donated his $10,000 to the Christ Episcopal Church, which he is an active member of, and where the remains of his son Tom rest. The Church’s pastor, Eileen, was overwhelmed by Marty’s contribution, and extremely grateful. And already, 20 members of the church have been inspired by Marty to begin their own transformation.
Transformation TV
You can see more about Marty’s story, including the celebration at the church that night, in an upcoming TTV video, which premiers right here, at 7:00 p.m. (PST), on Monday, June 23. And Marty’s complete story will also be included in the one-hour Transformation Special which will air on national TV this October.
How Did You Do That?
Okay, so right about now, if I were you, I’d be asking just exactly how Marty put it all together and achieved his extraordinary results. Well, now you can ask him. Just post a question on his site or send him an email and he'll get back with you directly or through his blog. Remember, you can ask Marty anything -- you can ask about his exercise and nutrition routine; how he incorporates prayer and meditation into his daily schedule; how he stays focused and motivated; what the most challenging aspect was for him; what the most rewarding aspect of his transformation has been so far; what advice he has for somebody just beginning, and so on. Like a true Champion, Marty is open, willing and eager to help others however he can.
If you’re considering accepting the June 21 “Be the Change” Transformation Challenge, Marty’s example and insight could be a big help to you. Remember, earlier this year, Marty really had no true understanding of how much potential he had. He spent 30 years underestimating himself, falsely believing that he wasn’t meant to be healthier, happier, and more successful. Perhaps each one of us should consider what Marty has learned, and ask ourselves some important questions: Is it possible that you’ve underestimated how fulfilling your life can truly be? Is there a chance you have yet to discover how great you truly are? And have you maybe overlooked how much your individual decisions and actions can serve as an inspiring example to others?
While you contemplate the answers to those very important questions, let me share this -- it’s the same thing I discussed with Marty when I met him the first time: Part of our purpose is to make a difference in the lives of others. We can truly only do that when we exercise our God-given ability to transform ourselves. And what better time is there to start making healthy changes than NOW? The consequences of continuing on in the direction we’re going, individually and collectively, are worse than most people ever dare think. And the upside -- the rewards of transforming -- are brighter, better and richer than most people have ever imagined. And then I emphasized to Marty that I didn't just think he can do it, I knew he could. He just had to commit to doing the work.
Clearly, Marty did the work. He gave his all to this transformation, and then he reached inside and somehow, he found a way to give even more. He has every right to be proud of himself. And I don't know about you, but I am very, very proud of him, and incredibly happy for him. Marty, you knocked this one out of the park. Way to go buddy!!
Until next time...
Bill
Way to go Marty! You are a true Champion and inspiration. I know Tom is so proud of you and he'll be the first to tell you when you get to the other side. God bless and keep you.
Marty, My sincerest congratulations to you! You are truly deserving. You are an inspiration!!
Great Marty!!! I am very proud of you!! You are a true champion... Teresa.
Marty, remarkable transformation. Thanks for allowing me to witness the making of a champion. You are, and will remain, an inspiration to many. Congratulations.
Congrats Marty - You did it!!!. You story has inspired me to get going and stop wasting time. Thanks. Stay healthy and God bless.
I can't even begin to tell you how inspired I am from your story. You have helped me realize that the time is now and not "next Monday" like I've been saying for 5 years!
Marty, overcoming the tragic loss of your son is true transformation. The rest is just gravy. Way to go, you are an inspiration to us all! ~ Joe
Marty, You are an inspiration to all
Wow, Marty. Congratulations. Well deserved, Champ!! You were the first person to welcome me to this community, so thank you. Bill, you certainly know how to pick 'em. My switch is on and I feel like I finally "get it" after 8 years of trying to do this my way. I guess some of us are slow learners, huh? But, just watch me now. I'm planning for good things to come in the next 12 wks. Thanks again for providing me with all the knowledge needed to transform my life.
Marty... YOU ARE AWESOME! Stay strong dear one! We have all been blessed with you, your story and your success. I am taking this next challenge and running with it. Thank you Marty for your inspiration and your humble heart. God Bless, Glenda
WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! GO MARTY!!!!!!! Rusty
Just when I was wallowing in thoughts of "poor me. I'm getting old...my body is so fat and I can't get control of my weight or my life," I read your story. Awesome achievement. Through your tragedy and your triumph you are inspiring many of us to stop the "pity party" and take responsibilty for our bodies and our lives. Thank you.
Highest Victor- Though one defeats a million men in battle, one who overcomes the self alone is in fact the highest victor. Great to see Marty live with compassion, work with compassion, mediate with compassion, enjoy with compassion, experience problems with compassion. I am so glad to see you overcoming the older mentality. Whatever joy there is in this world all comes from desiring others to be happy. Marty you fell into the right hands! ~Kathy
Marty ~ Let me be among the crowd to say "congratulations, Marty". Just an awesome accomplishment through such challenging circumstances. You look wonderful - but more importantly you ARE wonderful. God does open a window when a door closes - I know you've done your son proud! Blessings! LindaP
Awesome, just plain awesome!
Way to go Marty!! You deserve this honor--you have worked hard and YOU ARE THE CHANGE!! You are a true champion and inspiration for me. Mary
Man, Marty has meant a lot to me over the last couple of weeks…and Bill forgot to mention that Marty is maybe the most down to earth cool guys ever. If you’re nervous about reaching out to him…don’t be, he’s a class act. Marty, tell us all how your true self came through in those videos? Most of us would be nervous, and how did you keep your transformation so fun as well as productive.
You look fantastic! Thank you for the inspiration:)
TRULY fantastic work, mighty one!!! Congratulations on your incredible success! :)
Congratulations Marty, you should be so proud of your transformation! :)
Marty - you look INCREDIBLE!!!!! I love how Bill describes your INNER transformation. What a beautiful story! Way to GOOOOOOOOOOO! Jill
HahahaHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!! MAN!! Such JOY in this story. WHAT a heart. WHAT A HEART!! A man among men. A beautiful story. A beautiful individual. MARTY, put your seatbelt on, my friend. Thank YOU, and awaaaay we goooooooooo... ~Kevin, Springfield
Awesome transformation Marty! You really changed your life and are going to inspire many to do the same. You give me hope that I can transform as well. Enjoy the new champion you have become, Paul
Way to go Marty! You look great and also....much younger without the beard! ;) Very sharp! I am mostly intrigued by your inward transformation and look forward to watching your path through TTV. Thank you for sharing your life and motivating many.....including me! I think this Transformation site is just what I have been needing for the past few years. Thanks to all!
It is time for us all to stand and cheer for Marty, the achiever — the one who recognizes the challenge and does something about it. Stay With The Program Samy
Congratulations Marty! You look incredible. Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to all. YOU ROCK!!!
Marty, what an inspiring story. I have been on many diets only to lose and gain all the weight, and yes, more back. I just can't do this anymore. I have never made the internal changes necessary to keep the weight off and this is where I have failed. My energy levels over the past several months have plummeted drastically and this is my main driving force. I am tired of being tired. I am a 42-year old mother, wife, and believe it or not, grandmother of three. I should have all the energy in the world and I am tired all day long. I hate it. I have tried many diets and can't do it anymore. I am tired of failing. I am going to do the transformation challenge starting on the 21st and this time I will succeed thanks to inspiring stories such as yours. Thanks, and you look GREAT!!
Congratulations Marty! What an inspiration you are! A fit body is the home of a fit spirit. you will inspire not only your children and grandchildren to live FULL OUT, but anyone who has watched you transform or will meet up with you and your fabulous energized self today and tomorrow. Way to BE THE CHANGE! :+) Weeeee Haaaaaa! Rena Reese
Outstanding Marty! As I mentioned in my Week 1 video, if you can do it, I can do it! Thanks for inspiring so many of us to achieve so much. You ARE the Change! Brian
Marty, I'm amazed my friend!!! Speechless i guess you could say! Not only have you changed your LIFE, but you are going to change the lives of so many people that come across your path, AWESOME! God has and will continue to Bless You Buddy! IN HIM, Brad
Firstly, thank you for showing the rest of us how to turn such a painful blow into positive energy. Your son's passing will have a positive ripple effect on all of us as a result of your transformation!
From the ashes rises a Phoenix.....
Wow ! You did it. Go Marty go! Count me in for the challenge. Marty will inspire us all as we take our personal journey. Keep it up Marty! Jmarie
When I tell my family and friends about my desire to transform my life, they scratch their heads and go on about their business. THIS story is the one I will tell them now! Wonderful.
What an amazing example you are in the world. I commend you on your willingness and ability to show up for yourself. I trust you will continue to do so. Thanks for inspiring me Marty. You Rock!
Marty, what an encouragement and example you are to the rest of us. Great job.
MARTY! my friend...just TODAY am I SURE the comment I made before was REALLY YOU! You are incredible ...I am again PROUD to be your friend and remeber that day you came to the old board and said those words..I am so PROUD of you and your achievments! I GET TO loose 90 more lbs (I gave away 10 already) and with your inspiration *^* & Jonnaes lessons *^* I am SO EXCITED to get this party started! The heat wave has past & Iam READY to kick butt as you my dear HANDSOME & HEALTHY friend! Hugs,Laura *^*
Marty that is FANTASTIC!!!!! Talk about an inspiration! It makes me more and more ready to take my BFL transformation process to the next level.
Marty, I'm so proud of you! What a blessing you are to ALL of us. Certainly, the inspiration and hope you give all of those who've lost a child is only one of the specialties about you. You have traveled this road before me and I will graciously follow your lead. I LOVE you to pieces and pray for abudant blessings to continue to flow your way. In His Amazing Love, Denise
Wow! Just Wow! Felt like having a pizza tonight. Don't anymore! What a marvelous feeling you must wake up with every morning Marty. A feeling that not many people in this world seem to have. I was going to say you're very lucky, but then of course, luck has absolutely nothing to do with it. "Making do" seems to epidemic in this world. "I'm fine" is the stock answer to "how are you?" and it's just lunacy- one life that was "fine". I don't think so It's such a delight to see you and the people on this sight not subscribing to this regret forming way of life. A huge horrah for you!
Hey, Marty, congratulations! Good to see you smiling. You are such a total inspiration; to turn such a tragic loss into such a wonderful gain. Wow! ~ John
Marty, I'm just getting ready to start has been something I've said for too many years. Your story is similar to mine in so many ways and I share your pain.I'm starting NOW.
Wow! Congratulations Marty! Amazing Transformation!!!
How awesome Marty!! What an incredible inspiration and motivator you are!! Congrats!!
Hi Marty! May you be blessed with all things good. May your joys, like the stars at night, Be to numerous to count. May your victories by more abundant than all The grains of sand on all the beaches On all the oceans in the world. May lack and struggle only serve to Make you stronger, and may beauty, Order, and abundance be your constant companions...
Marty, my friend....you ROCK! And that is putting it ever so lightly. I am happy to see you being that example you have always felt and known now shining outwardly and helping others. It is BRIGHT! And it is beautiufl to see. You ARE a living walking role model! I know you are to me. =) And to so so many others...clearly! God bless you and your beautiful family. Amy
Fantastic! Your spirit really shines in that new healthy body
Marty, it's guys like you that keep me going. Way to go, and I'll see you at the Denver Marathon.
Congratulations Marty! That is a total transformation, you look like a new person. I am sure that is not just because of the pounds you lost but mainly because of your new mindset. You are glowing! Great work! (I think you have a lot to teach us!)
Amazing! Just amazing Marty!! You inspire me. I'm currently on my 8th week of my own challenge and you definitely have motivated me to stay on track.
Marty looks amazingly MUCH YOUNGER!!! Great job. Lori
Marty, you're nuts ... I can't believe this. Great job man!!
Marty! awesome, awesome, awesome! You truly gave this challenge 110%. You are an inspiration. Bob
dang marty! i'm proud of you. you inspire me and encourage me to continue to make the right choices :-) al
Marty following your progress and reading your story has shown so many of us what the power of prayer, hope, faith, and a love to want to be better and do more can do. You desever more than a big " atta boy" but that's all I've got. I don't know you personally but I do know personal tragedy and I am so darn proud of you. Great job. Thanks for so much inpiration.
psssst, Marty! Don't you ever grow back that beard and cover up that beautiful smile again! You should be showing off that handsome face with confidence! You've got the looks, the body, the spirit, and the kindness....You are what it's all about! The total package! Congratulations on an amazing transformation! I'm so happy for you. Now, what does the Mrs. make of this new man? :-)
That is awesome Marty!
Marty! You look fabulous dahling! In in - beginning June 21 I will "be the change."
Marty's transformation just blows me away!!! Marty is a true champion in so many ways!!
Now that's what I call another" MIRACLE " ! WOW !! F A N T A S T I C !!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marty, You have a heart the size of Texas and I love working with you! You amaze me with your attitude and as much as I piled on you, it was like ok next?? LOL I hope your getting the hair issue under control, don't make me have to come and help Norma!! LOL ~Stone
Marty, you have not only transformed yourself from the inside out but you have healed yourself! You have healed your heart, your mind, your body, and your spirit. Strength and happiness shine from your eyes like you have come to life for the first time! AMAZING! I am proud to know even a glimpse of your journey. Thank you for sharing with us!
Wow!! I stand amazed Marty...You look awesome. The best part is that you are as beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside. I am inspired. Keep up the great LIFE!!
I am in complete awe. Awesome transformation. I am waiting with all the patience I can muster to see this "Be the Change" challenge is all about. Way to go Marty.
Marty is a wonderful man and his transformation is truely inspiring. You look great Marty. I am proud of you. ~Holly
MARTY, YOU LOOK LIKE A MILLION BUCKS. But most of all, pulling from a faith so deep in you to conquer the walls that death puts up. You are incredibly brave and strong.
I totally LOVE this man! Everything about him, everything he stands for! He completely touches my heart. Thank you for bringing him closer to us Bill. A true champion.
Marty you blew the "teens" out of the water!!! Look at you! You are so inspiring. Can't wait for my transformation challenge! ~ Kristin
I am so happy for Marty. He has worked very hard and has achieved great result. He is a top notch person. Way to go Marty!! You deserve it my friend. Richard
Bill, Count me in for your challenge. Marty's story is inspiring and evidence that we all have the power to change, no matter our circumstances. Murph
Marty sure has been an excellent competitor and inspiration to me. He and I have had many talks and he has always been uplifting and supportive and honest. He has my sincere admiration and respect. The question I would like to ask Marty is how he channeled the desire to transform to action. I know that he lost his last 10 pounds in a matter of days. Clear intent provided results. How to duplicate that in our Transformations.
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