Transforming Obstacles into Opportunities for Growth
From Navy Service to Motivational Leadership
Founded by Navy veteran Eric Friend, You Have To Go Through It™ began as a personal realization: adversity is not the end but the beginning of purpose. Eric’s mission is to inspire hope, ignite resilience, and build community through authentic storytelling, empowering apparel, and impactful outreach. We stand for courage, persistence, empathy, and growth.


Together, We Turn Challenges into Strength
Join Eric and the Movement
Become part of a community that uplifts and empowers. Discover speaking events, wear apparel that tells your story, and share in the collective strength. Together, we go through it to get through it™.


