Listen "From Struggle to Slingshots: How Dr. Andrew Cislo Turned Recovery Into a Family Business"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of The Ultimate Men’s Movement, Dr. Jack Rocco and Neil Haley sit down with Dr. Andrew (Andy) Cislo, sociologist, adoptee, and founder of Fork + Band Slingshot Gallery in Bristol, Connecticut — the first of its kind in the United States. Andy’s story is one of transformation: from battling mental and physical health challenges and addiction to rediscovering purpose through focus, mindfulness, and entrepreneurship.What began as a personal recovery tool using a simple slingshot became a powerful mindfulness practice, a connection point for families, and now a thriving business helping others rediscover discipline, focus, and joy — one shot at a time.Andy’s early life as an adoptee, struggles with identity, and trauma from the closed-adoption era.How his near-death experiences and hospitalizations led to deep self-reflection and recovery.The story of pulling an old slingshot from the closet and finding mindfulness, focus, and strength through repetitive, meditative practice.How it became both physical therapy and spiritual practice — “Zen archery with rubber bands.”Andy’s academic roots: a PhD in sociology focused on stress, health, and resilience.Why his current work aligns perfectly with his research on trauma recovery and community connection.Turning a backyard hobby into a 3,100-square-foot indoor shooting gallery in Bristol, CT.A family-friendly, alcohol-free environment focused on safety, precision, and fun for all ages.Why it’s not just a “rage room” — it’s a safe, structured, and mindful activity for families, kids, and adults alike.Helping young men and boys rediscover focus and confidence in a positive, supervised space.Restoring the lost art of simple, tactile skill-building in a world dominated by screens.Encouraging father-son bonding, stress relief, and mindfulness through real-life action — not virtual rewards.The surprising history: from David and Goliath to modern precision latex technology.International competitions and the rebirth of slingshot shooting as a precision sport.The importance of technique, discipline, and tuning for accuracy and flow.“It started as rehab, but it became a way to rebuild my focus, my strength, and my peace.” – Dr. Andrew Cislo“Fathers — bring your sons, bring your daughters. It’s a way to reconnect through real movement and real focus.” – Dr. Jack RoccoMindful Movement Heals: Physical focus helps mental recovery — whether it’s archery, golf, or slingshots.Entrepreneurial Therapy: Your recovery can inspire your career.Family Focus: Activities like this teach patience, coordination, and connection for all ages.Reclaim Boyhood Skills: Precision, concentration, and healthy competition still matter.Website: ForkPlusBandSlingshot.comSocial Media: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok @ForkPlusBandSlingshotLocation: Downtown Bristol, ConnecticutWebsite: TheUltimateMensClinic.comSocial: @UltimateMensClinicLocation: New Bedford, Massachusetts (virtual consults available)Key Topics Covered1) A Shot at Redemption2) Discovering the Power of the Slingshot3) From Sociology to Small Business4) Launching Fork + Band Slingshot Gallery5) The Bigger Mission6) The Science and Sport Behind ItQuotes to RememberPractical TakeawaysConnect with Fork + Band Slingshot GalleryConnect with Dr. Jack Rocco / The Ultimate Men’s Clinic
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