We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Manderino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you?
“The Obstacle is the Way,” written by Ryan Holiday, left a profound impact on me as both an athlete and an entrepreneur. This book beautifully encapsulates the philosophy of turning challenges into opportunities, a mindset that I’ve carried with me throughout my journey.

As an athlete, I understood firsthand the importance of perseverance and resilience. “The Obstacle is the Way” reinforced this notion by highlighting historical examples of individuals who embraced adversity as a stepping stone to success. The book’s central message, inspired by Stoic philosophy, resonated deeply with me. It taught me that setbacks and obstacles are not roadblocks, but rather invitations to innovate, grow, and ultimately excel. This perspective became a driving force in my athletic pursuits, propelling me to overcome setbacks and push beyond my limits.

Transitioning into the world of entrepreneurship, the book’s teachings remained incredibly relevant. The challenges of building a business can be daunting, and “The Obstacle is the Way” became a guiding light during times of uncertainty. It encouraged me to view setbacks as opportunities to pivot, learn, and refine my approach. By reframing obstacles as a path to success, I found myself approaching problems with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and determination.

This book had a profound impact on my mindset and decision-making. It taught me that the most successful individuals don’t shy away from obstacles; they embrace them, learn from them, and turn them to their advantage. Whether in sports or business, the lessons from “The Obstacle is the Way” became a cornerstone of my approach, reminding me that challenges are not impediments, but rather the very means by which I could forge my own path forward.

What should our readers know about your business?
LyfeFuel isn’t just a brand; it’s a manifestation of a deep-seated commitment to sustainability and well-being. What sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to making a positive impact, not only through our products but also through our actions. What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built around LyfeFuel. Our clients, followers, and advocates are more than just customers – they are like-minded individuals who share our values. This sense of community has been a driving force in our growth, as we collectively strive for a more sustainable world.

Getting to where we are today was far from easy. The path was filled with challenges – financial constraints, operational hurdles, and the ever-changing landscape of the industry. But each obstacle became an opportunity for growth. We embraced a mindset of adaptability and resilience. When faced with setbacks, we innovated and evolved, constantly learning and improving.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the power of perseverance. There were moments when giving up seemed tempting, but our commitment to our mission kept us going. Another crucial lesson was the value of listening to our community.

Feedback from our clients helped us refine our products and services to better align with their needs and values.
Our brand and story reflect the idea that small actions can create significant change. LyfeFuel is not just about selling products; it’s about fostering a movement toward sustainability and conscious living. Our journey is a testament to the belief that business can be a force for good, and that even in a competitive landscape, principles and purpose can drive success.

I want the world to know that LyfeFuel is more than a transactional business. We are a collective of individuals who believe in the power of choice and responsibility. Every purchase from LyfeFuel is a vote for sustainability, for supporting ethical practices, and for making a tangible difference in the world. Our story is about turning obstacles into opportunities, embracing challenges with open arms, and continuously striving to create a brighter, greener future for generations to come.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
if my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable time exploring the best that the area has to offer. Here’s a fun-filled itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Vibes

Morning: Welcome them with a delicious breakfast at the Beachcomber – a local beachside cafe.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon lounging on the sandy shores of Newport Beach, soaking in the sun and playing games while enjoying the cool ocean breeze.
Evening: Enjoy waterfront dining the Cannery- a local hotspot and seafood restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day.

Day 2: Duffy Boat Adventure

Morning: Start the day with a group fitness workout at Double Ops followed by a LyfeFuel-powered smoothie at Fuel Bar – one of our local partner vendors.
Afternoon: Head out in Newport Beach for a Duffy Boat ride. Cruise along the calm waters, taking in the stunning coastal views while stopping off at a few of the local spots on the waterfront of the harbor.
Evening: Take a stroll around Lido Village and stop in for happy hour at Zinque Cafe.

Day 3: Laguna Beach and Hiking

Morning: Drive down to Laguna Beach for a morning hike in the beautiful trails of the area.
Afternoon: After the hike, head over to Rye Bakery for croissants & coffee before exploring the art galleries and charming shops in downtown Laguna.
Evening: Have drinks at the deck, a local restaurant with an outdoor patio overlooking the ocean, enjoying a meal while surrounded by the coastal ambiance.

Day 4: Day Trip to Catalina Island

Morning: Catch an early ferry to Catalina Island.
Daytime: Spend the day exploring the island – hiking, snorkeling, and visiting the picturesque town of Avalon.
Evening: Return to the mainland and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Bear Flag.

Day 5: Beach Cruisers

Morning: Start the day with a few games of pickleball followed by a hearty breakfast at Gracias Madre.
Afternoon: Explore the city by bike, cruising along the boardwalk and heading over to charming Balboa Island.
Evening: Enjoy a night out on the town, trying out a trendy restaurant with live music.

Day 6: Outdoor Adventure

Morning: Hit up the farmer’s market for breakfast and local items for our picnic later in the day.
Afternoon: Try an outdoor adventure like kayaking or paddleboarding in the nearby bay followed by a picnic in the park.
Evening: Do some shopping at Fashion Island followed by dinner at Joey Newport Beach.

Day 7: Farewell

Morning: Head out to Pelican Hill for a round of golf.
Afternoon: Indulge in a farewell lunch at the Coliseum Pool, reminiscing about the incredible week.
Evening: As a perfect ending, have a cozy dinner at Javier’s, watching the sunset and reflecting on the amazing memories made.

This itinerary would allow my best friend to experience the beauty of the outdoors, the charm of the coastal towns, and the vibrant energy of the area. From Duffy boat rides to hiking adventures and beachside relaxation, it’s a mix of fun, relaxation, and exploration that captures the essence of the region.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In the incredible journey I’ve embarked on as both an athlete and an entrepreneur, there are several individuals who have played profound roles in shaping the person I am today. To my parents, Paul & Vicki Manderino, whose unwavering support and belief in me have been my rock – their encouragement has fueled my determination and resilience, showing me that with dedication, any obstacle can be overcome. Your love and guidance have been the foundation of my success, and I’m endlessly grateful for everything they’ve done.

To my coaches, Coach Jeff Brinkley, Coach Jeff Tedford, and Coach Ron Gould, who not only honed my skills but also instilled in me the values of discipline, hard work, and perseverance – their mentorship has been instrumental in my growth. Their belief in my potential and relentless dedication to my development have been a driving force in my achievements, both on the field and in the world of entrepreneurship.

And to my incredible wife and partner, Daniela Manderino, whose unwavering support, love, and understanding have been a cornerstone in my journey. Her belief in me, even during the toughest times, has been a constant source of strength and motivation. Her sacrifices and unwavering encouragement have lifted me up in ways I can never fully express.

This shoutout is a heartfelt acknowledgment that my journey’s successes are a result of the collective efforts, support, mentorship, love, and encouragement of those around me. From my parents and coaches to my wife, their impact on my life goes beyond words. As I continue to forge ahead, their influence remains a guiding light, reminding me of the strength that comes from a network of incredible individuals who’ve been by my side and who have helped shaped the person I am today.

Website: https://lyfefuel.com

Instagram: @lyfefuel

Other: https://chrismanderino.com

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