Rock Bottom Has a Basement: From Breakdown to Breakthrough with Kevin Palmieri

Text Brian & Shawna (Fan Mail)

What happens when you seemingly have it all—money, a dream relationship, fitness goals achieved—yet feel completely empty inside?

In this episode of New Horizons, we’re joined by Kevin Palmieri, founder and host of the Next Level University podcast. Kevin opens up about the moment he discovered that rock bottom has a basement, how he faced suicidal thoughts in a lonely hotel room, and what ultimately pulled him out of the darkest chapter of his life.

Kevin, now a successful podcaster with over 2,000 episodes under his belt, shares the real story behind the scenes—the self-doubt, the toxic internal record playing on repeat, and the life-changing moment when a friend’s belief became the lifeline he didn’t know he needed.

We dive deep into:

• The illusion of success and why achievement doesn’t always equal fulfillment
• The importance of re-writing your internal narrative and “changing the record”
• The state-proof-self-assign method to rebuild self-worth
• What it means to define your own version of success
• The power of vulnerability, community, and authentic connection
• Why fulfillment may burn slower than happiness—but lasts longer

Whether you’re feeling stuck, on the edge of burnout, or just searching for deeper purpose, Kevin’s story will remind you that healing, growth, and meaningful success are not only possible—they’re within reach.

Powerful Quote from Kevin:

“The pain you’re experiencing right now will eventually become a superpower that no one can take away from you.”

Links Mentioned: (affiliate links used when possible)

• Kevin Palmieri’s Podcast: Next Level University
• Book: The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
• Podmatch platform
• Quest 3 Mixed Reality Headset

Need Help?

If you’re struggling with dark thoughts or emotional pain, please don’t go through it alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional. You can also visit:

• 988lifeline.org or call/text 988 for free, confidential support.

Support the show

Ways to Join Us LIVE 👇
Live shows are on Thursdays at 8pm EST (unless it's a holiday or fifth Thursday of the month)

• Join us LIVE on your mobile phone
• Buy your own VR headset & earn some reward points from Meta!
• Apply to be a guest
• Join us on Instagram

Affiliate links are used when possible to help support this podcast.

• Get Your Own Podcast on BuzzSprout