Podcasts about Mental toughness

In this insightful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with Robb Wolf—former research biochemist, 2x New York Times best-selling author (The Paleo Solution, Wired to Eat), co-founder of LMNT, and leading voice in ancestral health and metabolic performance. Robb shares his journey from powerlifting records and early CrossFit affiliates to pioneering electrolyte science with LMNT, while unpacking why modern life (screens, distractions, constant stimulation) is crashing central nervous systems and fueling numbness, complacency, anxiety, and burnout in men. He discusses the power of sunlight, real food (wild game, simple meals), community, dragons to slay, breathwork/meditation for present-moment mastery, and reclaiming an analog life amid AI/tech overload. A must-listen for hunters, entrepreneurs, dads, and anyone feeling overloaded—Robb reveals how ancestral principles + intentional unplugging can restore energy, joy, and purpose in a high-stress world.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

This week, we welcome back Rachel Farrell (@rachel_farrell20 on Instagram) to the podcast after being a previous guest all the way back on episode 26, where she talked to Eric about appearances at the Ironman World Championships. Since then, she has transitioned to the world of Hyrox. Rachel discusses her role as co-founder of Hybrid Series Ireland, its accessibility, and her impressive accomplishments in the sport.14:00 Welcoming Rachel Farrell to the Podcast16:57 Hyrox vs. CrossFit19:45 The Pain Cave: Embracing the Challenge22:51 Training Adaptations: From Triathlon to Hyrox25:50 Mental Toughness in Hybrid Racing28:58 World Championships in Nice in TWO different sports31:49 Organising Events: Building the Community34:35 Making Hybrid Training Accessible for Everyone40:07 Creating an Inclusive Fitness Community42:00 Overcoming Daunting First Steps43:55 Innovative Event Formats and Equipment Rental46:32 Engaging Local Communities and Fundraising48:21 Passion and Growth in Event Management49:00 Competing at the World Championship Level51:43 Balancing Training and Event Organisation53:28 Recognising Potential in New Participants55:18 Upcoming Events and how you can race alongside Eric at the next HSI eventYou can follow us on Instagram:@anygivenrundaypodcastShop ultrapurelabs.ie to shop the muscle recovery range and get 10% off by buying the Muscle Recovery Kit You can now get 20% off all Perform Nutrition products, including their new Electrolytes+, using the code 'AGR' at checkoutPerformNutrition.com

When pro ultrarunner Hayden Hawks faces challenging conditions on the trails, he doesn't just endure them—he transforms them into opportunities for growth, proving that sometimes the hardest moments forge the strongest athletes.Hayden Hawks has been a professional ultra runner for 10 years competing at and winning some of the biggest races in the world. He is sponsored by HOKA, AG1, Precision Fuel and Hydration, as well as many other sponsors. He has also been a huge advocate for helping and building youth group initiatives and inspiring the younger generation around the world, most notably the Trail Fam. Hayden is also a coach with Hawks Running and Centurion Running. He is a father of 2, husband to Ashley Hawks, and loves traveling with his family and being outside as much as possible. Jon chats with Hayden about:balancing competition with being a good person and giving backgradual training progression instead of extreme volume jumpsfueling runs over 90 minutes for better performancemental toughness through embracing uncomfortable mountain conditionsconsistency over time creates sustainable athletic careersStay Connected:Follow Hayden:https://www.instagram.com/hawks_hayden/“Hayden Hawks” on Stravahttps://trailfam.com/https://www.hawksrunning.com/This episode is supported by:Precision Dial your fueling in this year. Use code “LONGRUN26” for 15% off your first order at www.precisionhydration.comBoulderthon: Our favorite Colorado race event with a variety of distances. Use code FTLR2026 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon when you register at www.boulderthon.org.AmazFit Check out the T-Rex 3 and a selection of GPS watches at https://us.amazfit.com/discount/FTLR2026 and use code “FTLR2026” for 10% offVacation Races Run where you play and chase the extraordinary. Use code “FTLR” for 15% off their half marathons, ultras, and trail fests at vacationraces.com through the end of 2026

This special archive episode takes us back to summer 2020, when Steve Mellor interviewed Alison Hadden for his Women Changing the World series. What he only learned afterward was that Alison had found out just one day earlier that her cancer had returned and was terminal. She never mentioned it during the conversation. Instead, she spoke with clarity, strength, and intention about leadership, resilience, and living like there is no time to waste.Alison passed away in January 2022, but her message continues to inspire anyone seeking to live with more purpose, courage, and gratitude.About the Guest: Alison Hadden was a sales and marketing leader, athlete, and founder of the No Time to Waste Project. She built her career at high-growth companies including Active, Glassdoor, and Mindbody, and became known for her energy, leadership, and purpose-driven approach to life. After facing cancer, she turned her experience into a mission to help others live with greater gratitude, joy, and urgency.About the EpisodeSteve revisits a conversation first released when the podcast was still called Career Competitor. Part of the Women Changing the World series, this interview stands out for Alison's remarkable presence and perspective in the face of devastating news.Rather than focusing on her diagnosis, Alison shared a message that still resonates: live with intention, lead with courage, and don't waste time on what doesn't matter.Key Takeaways:Leadership through adversityThe athlete mindset in business and lifeGrit, resilience, and perspectiveCancer, identity, and transformationGratitude, joy, and human connectionLiving with urgency and intentionLinks and ResourcesNo Time to Waste Projectnotimetowasteproject.comSend a textSupport the showConnect with Steve Mellor Stay connected and keep growing with Steve: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mellor-cc/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coachstevemellor Book Steve to speak at your next event → www.stevemellorspeaks.com Support the GrowthReady Podcast by leaving a 5-star rating → Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/growthready-podcast/id1406082163 Connect with GrowthReady Join the community and keep your growth journey going: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearegrowthready/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/growthreadypodcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growthreadywithcoachstevemellor Official Website - https://growthready.com/ ---- This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

In this episode of Trail Runner Nation's Aging as an Athlete series, along with Krissy Moehl, we welcome elite ultrarunner and therapist Darcy Piceu for a thoughtful conversation about longevity in endurance sports. Drawing on more than two decades of racing at the highest level, Darcy explains that there is no "magic pill" for staying in the sport long term, emphasizing instead the importance of self-care, strength work, listening to the body, and adapting training as athletes age. The discussion explores the mental side of endurance, including acceptance of changing performance, learning to manage negative thoughts during long races, and developing the wisdom that comes from decades of experience. Darcy also shares how mindfulness and time in nature play a powerful role in both mental health and athletic performance, something she incorporates into her therapy practice. We reflect on the evolving identity of an athlete over time, balancing competitiveness with enjoyment, family life, and other pursuits beyond running. We highlight that staying in the sport for decades is less about chasing podiums and more about cultivating resilience, perspective, and a lasting love for the trail. Check out Darcy's Therapy practice, "Therapy in Action" or get in touch with her darcypq@gmail.com.  If you're in Bellingham, WA in March and want to help out at Chuckanut 50k, click here to volunteer. Episode Sponsor: Tifosi Optics - CLARITY ON THE TRAIL: Post your Golden Nugget on Instagram, tag @TifosiOptics, @TrailRunnerNation, and use the hashtag #ClarityOnTheTrail. If we use yours on a weekly episode, you get a pair of the new Sanctum SL glasses! Episode Topics & Timestamps 1:00 – Darcy's Background: Elite Runner and Therapist 3:30 – What Creates Longevity in the Sport? 6:00 – The Mental Side of Aging as an Athlete 9:00 – Mindfulness, Stress, and Mental Training 12:45 – Mental Toughness in Ultrarunning 17:30 – The Power of Nature and Trail Therapy 23:00 – Managing Focus During Long Races 29:00 – Racing for the Podium vs Racing for the Experience 31:30 – How Darcy Found Ultrarunning 35:30 – Hardrock, Motherhood, and Career Balance 38:30 – Training Philosophy for Longevity 41:00 – The Wednesday Women's Run in Boulder 44:00 – Identity Beyond Running 48:00 – What Makes a Race Truly Successful? 52:30 – Advice to Younger and Older Versions of Yourself 56:30 – The Mental vs Physical Performance Question 1:00:15 – Therapy in Action and Closing Thoughts

"I never try to come back the same player as the year before, I'm always looking to change something." Trent Williams Often the world sees professional athletes as invincible superheroes but what people don't see are the silent battles fought away from the field that can forever change someone. In this powerful episode of The Pivot Podcast, the guys sit down with All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams for a raw and reflective conversation about his remarkable 17-year NFL journey and what kept him focused and grounded during dark times. With recent NFL rumors swirling around Trent's future and the 49ers salary hit, the guys get right into his off-season mentality and what the road ahead looks like. From his early days establishing himself as one of the league's most dominant linemen to becoming a cornerstone of the San Francisco 49ers, Trent opens up about the evolution of his game, the mindset required to protect quarterbacks at the highest level, and what it truly takes to sustain excellence in the trenches for nearly two decades. He also shares the deeply personal story of his cancer diagnosis — a life-altering moment that reshaped his perspective on football, family, and faith. Trent speaks candidly about fear, resilience, and how surviving that battle strengthened him both as a man and as a leader in the locker room. The conversation dives into what it's like blocking for dynamic playmaker Christian McCaffrey, the art of creating space for one of the NFL's most versatile weapons, and how the 49ers' offensive system maximizes talent. Trent gives rare insight into the brilliance of head coach Kyle Shanahan, breaking down why Shanahan's scheme is so difficult to defend and what makes him one of the true offensive geniuses in the game today. The guys also talk about Trent's Super Bowl experience and how he went into a dark place after losing the big game to the Chiefs. From Pro Bowl dominance to personal adversity, leadership, legacy, and what the future holds, this episode is a masterclass in perseverance and greatness from one of the best to ever do it. Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Raising resilient kids requires more than just protection from discomfort. It requires teaching them how to move through it with confidence and strength. In this episode, Spartan founder Joe De Sena and clinical psychologist Dr. Lara Pence share the core principles from their book 10 Rules for Resilience for Families and challenge many modern parenting norms. We talk about boundaries, consistency, discipline, movement, nutrition, screen time, and why overparenting can unintentionally create anxiety and insecurity in children. This conversation may stretch you, spark reflection, and encourage meaningful shifts in how you show up as a parent. Take what resonates, leave what does not, and trust yourself as you raise capable, grounded humans. Topics Covered In This Episode: Teaching resilience in children Why boundaries create security Overparenting and anxious kids Building grit and mental toughness Raising capable, independent adults Show Notes: Find a Spartan Race near you  Follow @realjoedesena on Instagram Follow @drlarapence on Instagram Read 10 Rules for Resilience Mental Toughness for Families  Click here to learn more about Dr. Elana Roumell's Doctor Mom Membership, a membership designed for moms who want to be their child's number one health advocate! Click here to learn more about Steph Greunke, RD's  online nutrition program and community, Postpartum Reset, an intimate private community and online roadmap for any mama (or mama-to-be) who feels stuck, alone, and depleted and wants to learn how to thrive in motherhood. Listen to today's episode on our website Joe De Sena is the founder and CEO of Spartan and the Death Race, the world's leading endurance sports and wellness brand with a community over 10 million strong. He is the New York Times bestselling author of three books, Spartan Up!, Spartan Fit, and The Spartan Way. De Sena also hosts the Spartan Up! Podcast, which features weekly interviews with some of the world's greatest minds in business, sports and leadership. His mission—transforming 100 million people through the Spartan lifestyle. More at: www.joedesena.com Dr. Lara Pence is a clinical psychologist and Chief Mind Doc at Spartan. With a career spanning more than 20 years, Dr. Pence is one of the most sought-after therapists in the community, having served on the Board of Directors for Embody Love Movement and The Elisa Project. In 2018, Dr. Pence founded LIGHFBOX, a company that helps individuals build self-mastery and mental resilience through daily exercises and challenges. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, the BBC, Glamour, Vogue, WebMD, Psychology Today, and The Huffington Post. More at: www.drlarapence.co INTRODUCE YOURSELF to Steph and Dr. Elana on Instagram. They can't wait to meet you! @stephgreunke @drelanaroumell Please remember that the views and ideas presented on this podcast are for informational purposes only.  All information presented on this podcast is for informational purposes and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a healthcare provider. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any diet, supplement regimen, or to determine the appropriateness of the information shared on this podcast, or if you have any questions regarding your treatment plan.

This is the final episode of our special 3-part series on the business of health & wellness coaching. Info re earning your health & wellness coaching certification, annual Rocky Mountain Coaching Retreat & Symposium & more via https://www.catalystcoachinginstitute.com/ Best-in-class coaching for Employers, EAPs & wellness providers https://catalystcoaching360.com/ Tap into the home of the (freely available) Not Done Yet! articles on unlocking life's 2nd half here. YouTube Coaching Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/CoachingChannel Contact us: Results@CatalystCoaching360.comTwitter: @Catalyst2ThriveWebsite: CatalystCoaching360.comIf you are a current or future health & wellness coach, please check out our Health & Wellness Coaching Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/278207545599218. This is a wonderful group if you are looking for encouragement, ideas, resources and more.

What would you do if you lost your job, faced a massive lawsuit, and risked losing everything you built?In this solo episode of Common Denominator, I open up about one of the hardest moments of my life — being hit with a major judgment right after I started making money again. It could have set us back emotionally for a decade. Instead, my wife and I made a decision: we would pay it… and move on.Because here's the truth — the only control you ever really have is your reaction.I share what 15 years of Jiu-Jitsu, the philosophy of the samurai, Bruce Lee, and Viktor Frankl have taught me about emotional discipline, fear, and resilience. Fear is almost always false evidence appearing real. Less than 1% of what we fear actually happens — if we don't give up.In this episode, I talk about:- Why choosing a life partner is the biggest (and riskiest) decision you'll ever make- How to handle financial setbacks without letting them define your future- The power of breathing before reacting- Training your nervous system to stay calm in chaos- Why most people stay stuck — and how to break the cycle- The mental block that keeps you from writing down your biggest goals- Why underdogs win- Burning the boats and creating “no choice” situationsWe're all changing. Your partner is changing. Your business will rise and fall. The world will distract you. The question is: can you regulate yourself when it matters most?When everything feels insane — breathe. Take one step. Then another.That's the training. That's the work. That's the common denominator.If this episode resonates, subscribe and share it with someone who needs the reminder: you are stronger than your fear.Like this episode? Leave a review here:https://ratethispodcast.com/commondenominator

In this eye-opening MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with world-renowned high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais—performance coach to Olympic athletes, Super Bowl champions (Seattle Seahawks), elite military units, and host of Finding Mastery podcast. Dr. Gervais dives deep into why fear of people's opinions (FOPO) is the #1 constrictor of potential for men today, blocking generational impact, chain-breaking purpose, and world-changing pursuits. Drawing from The First Rule of Mastery and real-time Olympic examples (Mikaela Shiffrin's gold-medal mindset shift), he unpacks training the mind to master thoughts/emotions, escape performance traps, build post-traumatic growth, and thrive under pressure—while addressing rising male numbness, complacency, anxiety, depression, and the critical need for community, present-moment focus, meditation, and fundamental commitment to being your best. A must-listen for hunters, dads, entrepreneurs, and men ready to break free from fear and live dangerously aligned.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

Kurt Belding is the host of Western Obsessions TV, where he takes viewers along on his outdoor hunting adventures. He's grown up in the outdoors and dedicated himself to being a successful hunter and video producer. We talked with him about his upbringing, filming and editing hunts, how to build mental toughness and stay in shape for the season, and much more!More from Kurt: https://www.westernobsessionstv.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100039384646786 https://www.instagram.com/western_obsessions_tv/ https://www.youtube.com/@WesternObsessionsTVRidge Hunter Products and Merchandise:Ridgehunteroutdoors.comDiscount Code: RHOPOD for 10% off everything in your orderSupport our Partners:For any info on real estate available through Midwest Farm and Land, or anything that RG Outdoors has, contact Rodney Hawkins 618-925-3153.Check out Raks Big Game Supplements for all your mineral and protein needs! Go to Raksbiggame.com and see everything they have to offer.Submit questions or comments to: Ridgehunteroutdoors@gmail.comFind us on Social:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC50IZ_HE2pnMBjRyPpmgvMg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RidgeHunterOutdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgehunteroutdoors/

Michael Ball was raised in northern Virginia — a three-sport athlete and economics graduate from Radford University, where he also played varsity tennis. He began in banking, became a financial advisor in 1983, opened the Manassas office for Scott & Stringfellow, and advanced into senior leadership roles through its evolution into BB&T and Truist Wealth. His proudest leadership work? Building elite advisors through the “Topgun” development program — treating his team like clients. He now leads Ball Consulting, helping advisors and firms grow with clarity and discipline.  3:15  Injury, Adversity & Comeback Mindset 5:38 Mentorship & Career Breakthrough 7:00 Culture, Leadership & Client-First Success 11:18 Black Swan Events & Market Resilience 13:50 Elite Advisors & Process-Driven Performance 15:25 Reading Habits of High Performers 19:38 Reflection of Your Mental State 23:54 Strategic Growth & Long-Term Success 29:42 Saving, Investing & Wealth Discipline 34:23 “Eating The Seed Corn” & Short-Term Thinking 38:00 What Should I Not Be Doing? Don't forget you can also follow Dr. Rob Bell on Twitter or Instagram! Follow At: X @drrobbell Instagram @drrobbell Download Your Daily Focus Map! https://drrobbell.com/ If you enjoyed this episode on Mental Toughness, please subscribe and leave a review! Dr. Rob Bell

Unfit, Fat, Lazy Adults…What Hope DO Our Kids Have? Respect, Discipline, and Mental Toughness... who teaches it? How will our future adults know how to be leaders, successful, healthy, fit, and strong, and how to love their life if we don't?

#250: Tod Brown is the head baseball coach at the University of New Mexico, bringing more than two decades of Division I coaching experience and a reputation for steady program building. A former left-handed pitcher at the University of Arizona, Brown first made his mark as the longtime head coach at North Dakota State, where he transformed the Bison into a Summit League contender and led them to NCAA Tournament appearances. Since taking over the Lobos program in 2021, he has emphasized player development, accountability, and raising the competitive standard of the program. His journey reflects a coach who values consistency and is committed to building a foundation that can sustain success year after year.

In this profound MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with former U.S. Army Ranger Jeff Struecker—Battle of Mogadishu survivor (Black Hawk Down), Ranger Hall of Fame inductee, 23-year veteran, Army chaplain, best-selling author, international speaker, and now church planter/pastor. Jeff opens up about coming home from Somalia forever changed, the emptiness after winning Best Ranger despite years of brutal preparation, the spiritual awakening that shifted his identity from warrior to servant, and his calling to reach America's warriors at the soul level. He shares raw insights on masculinity in crisis, the growing gap between exceptional military men and a struggling civilian population, post-traumatic growth vs. PTSD, community as iron sharpening iron, chasing God's will over worldly idols, forgiveness, purpose after service, and why spiritual toughness completes the triad of physical + mental strength. A must-listen for veterans, hunters, dads, and men seeking deeper meaning, resilience, and Always Ready faith.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

The Atlantic CEO Nicholas Thompson ran all his life but became an ultramarathoner in his 40s. Recommitting to the sport helped him break records and even get faster as he aged. The discipline he built also helped transform his approach to nearly every aspect of his life. His latest book, The Running Ground, focuses on his own personal journey with running, a sport that helped him cope with a cancer diagnosis in his 30s and later process his relationship with his complicated father. In this special conversation, Nick shares what running can teach leaders about the healthy habits that underpin success, pacing for the long game, and breaking through the mental barriers that derail progress. He details some of the strategies that help this father of 3 make time for what matters most including setting 'non-goals' to manage energy and not just time. As the leader driving digital transformation at a 169-year-old publication, he also reflects on navigating historic disruption and what he's learned from The Most Interesting Thing in Tech, the daily videos he posts exploring the most compelling tech trends of our time. About this episode:  Transcript: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/nicholas-thompson-focus-running-ground Youtube: https://youtu.be/Xh9PLsyptgA About this guest: https://www.nickthompson.com/ The Most Interesting Thing in Tech: https://www.tiktok.com/@nxthompson Related Annual Meeting 2026 sessions: Next Phase of Intelligence: https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2026/sessions/next-phase-of-intelligence/ Regulating at the speed of code: https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2026/sessions/regulating-at-the-speed-of-code/ Internet up for grabs https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2026/sessions/internet-up-for-grabs/   Related podcasts:  Meet the Leader - Adam Grant: Future leaders won't succeed without this key trait https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buVVIpttzUA Meet The Leader -  'I'll show you a real leader' - Platon, the photographer of power, on finding humanity in all of us https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIUGFUza2ec&t=117s

Coach Donavin Britt on Building Las Vegas Combat Academy, Mental Toughness, and Protecting Gym Culture   Host Pete Deeley interviews Coach Donavin Britt on The Jiu Jitsu Mindset, discussing Britt's path from apprenticing under instructor Roger Donofrio into becoming a Krav Maga and self-defense-first gym owner who later added jiu-jitsu and MMA. He describes earning high-level training under figures including Sgt. Major Nir Maman (as the first American certified instructor), Darren Levine, and John Whitman, and discusses the importance of standards, mental toughness, and having a purpose bigger than oneself. Britt addresses misconceptions and quality-control issues in Krav Maga, his motivation to compete in jiu-jitsu (including winning at NAGA while representing Krav Maga on his rashguard), and how sparring and competition serve as stress tests while differing from real self-defense. He recounts a memorable fight from the 1990s loss-prevention work in Oakland involving a drug-impaired suspect who required a rear-naked choke to stop, using it to emphasize the need for a varied skill set. Britt also strongly condemns misconduct in martial arts settings, details removing a student with a troubling history involving women to protect members, and argues men and coaches must "guard the mat" and enforce clear consequences to keep women safe. He shares a transformative student story about a teenager, Angel, who was assaulted and regained confidence through training and sparring, connecting it to mentorship, accountability, and coaching built on consistent care and firm parameters. The episode ends with Deeley inviting Britt to return for further discussion.   00:00 Welcome Back + Coffee & Kids Program Plug 00:33 Meet Coach Donavin Britt 01:36 Life Without Martial Arts? From Student to Instructor via Apprenticeship 02:29 How Krav Maga Instructors Are Really Made (Not a Weekend Cert) 03:53 2008 Crash, Failed Smoothie Franchise, and Betting the Last $500 on a Gym 06:26 Building Las Vegas Combat Academy: Growth, Identity, and the 'Krav Guy' Label 08:38 Crossing Into Jiu-Jitsu: Competing at NAGA and Repping Krav on the Gi 13:36 Iron Will & Legacy: Training for Something Bigger Than Yourself 14:21 Work Ethic Roots: Poverty, Family Pressure, and Grandfather's Alaska Story 19:22 How Martial Arts Learning Differs: Physicality, Emotion, and Self-Defense Intent 22:44 Calling Out Toxic Gym Culture: Protecting Women and 'Guarding the Mat' 27:49 Gym Dating Drama: Standards, Respect, and Zero Tolerance for Fights 29:06 Most Memorable Fight: Loss Prevention Brawls in 90s Oakland 33:53 Competition vs Real Violence: Why Sparring Matters (and Its Limits) 37:58 "It's Just Pain": Teaching Kids Hurt vs Injured & Fighting vs Self-Defense 40:21 Cross-Training and Combat Sports Programming That Improves Self-Defense 42:48 Student Transformation Story: Angel's Sparring Breakthrough 49:52 Coaching, Accountability, and the "Rules of the Tribe" (Maximum Effort) 53:48 Final Thoughts: Self-Help Through Martial Arts & Closing the Conversation

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Success at the highest level often hides a harder truth: discipline, sacrifice, and relentless pressure can coexist with loneliness, self doubt, and burnout. When winning becomes routine and falling is inevitable, mental toughness is no longer optional, it is survival. We dive deeper into this in the Habits & Hustle with Lindsey Vonn. We also chat about building resilience through failure, the real cost of elite performance, and redefining identity after retirement. Lindsey Vonn is an American former World Cup alpine ski racer on the US Ski Team. She won four World Cup overall championships and ranks third among female skiers behind Annemarie Moser Proll and Mikaela Shiffrin, with three consecutive titles in 2008, 2009, and 2010, plus another in 2012. What's Discussed (05:48) Talent, work ethic, and the role of family in building drive (12:22) Early elite training and the mental toughness it demands (26:03) Career ending injuries and mental health after retirement (29:59) A pro athlete's daily training balance of endurance, strength, and recovery (39:31) Entrepreneurship and social media's mental toll (47:24) Red light therapy, recovery tools, and what actually helps injuries (53:45) Daily routines that support long term health (1:02:09) Building resilience and confidence through the Lindsey Vonn Foundation Thank you to our sponsors: Rho Nutrition: Try Rho Nutrition today and experience the difference of Liposomal Technology. Use code JEN20for 20% OFF everything at https://rhonutrition.com/discount/jen20. Prolon: Get 30% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program! Just visit https://prolonlife.com/JENNIFERCOHEN and use code JENNIFERCOHEN to claim your discount and your bonus gift. Therasage: Head over to therasage.com and use code Be Bold for 15% off  Air Doctor: Go to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code HUSTLE40 for up to $300 off and a 3-year warranty on air purifiers. Magic Mind: Head over to www.magicmind.com/jen and use code Jen at checkout. Momentous: Shop this link and use code Jen for 20% off  Manna Vitality: Visit mannavitality.com and use code JENNIFER20 for 20% off your order  Amp fit is the perfect balance of tech and training, designed for people who do it all and still want to feel strong doing it. Check it out at joinamp.com/jen  Find more from Jen:  Website: https://jennifercohen.com Instagram: @therealjencohen Books: https://jennifercohen.com/books Speaking: https://jennifercohen.com/speaking-engagement Find more from Lindsey Vonn: Website: https://lindseyvonn.com Instagram: @lindseyvonn Youtube: @LindseyVonn TikTok: @lindseyvonn Lindsey Vonn Foundation: https://lindseyvonnfoundation.org

In this episode (part 3) of Demystifying Mental Toughness, David Charlton continues his solo series exploring the 4Cs of Mental Toughness through the coach–athlete relationship lens. The focus this week is Commitment, specifically Goal Orientation, and a common challenge in sport: the mismatch between a highly goal-oriented coach and an athlete who feels overwhelmed, anxious or uncomfortable when targets are discussed. While goal-driven coaches bring structure, clarity and high standards, some athletes experience goals as pressure rather than motivation. Fear of judgement, developing brains, and low confidence can lead to avoidance, distraction or even self-sabotage. Drawing on research from Professor Sophia Jowett and the 4Cs model of Mental Toughness, this episode explores how coaches can create shared ownership of goals, strengthen the relationship, and build confidence through simple, process-focused targets. Listeners will learn practical ways to support athletes by improving self-awareness, simplifying goal setting, and creating a learning environment that prioritises progress over pressure. When goals are built together rather than imposed, athletes feel more confident, more in control, and more committed to their development. >> Key Takeaways ·         Process goals increase confidence by focusing attention on controllable behaviours ·         Shared ownership of goals strengthens trust, motivation and commitment ·         Intrinsic motivation supports long-term development, enjoyment and wellbeing If you enjoyed this episode, check out the other parts of this mini-series and our previous podcasts on the coach–athlete relationship: Ep305 – Emotional Control: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently Ep304 – David Charlton - Life Control: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently  Ep303: Doug Strycharczyk - Why You Think the Way You Do Under Pressure Ep302: Doug Strycharczyk - Why You React the Way You Do Under Pressure Ep293: Stuart Barnes - High Challenge, High Support: Mental Toughness in Cricket Connect with David Charlton ·         Sign Up To The Mental Edge ·         Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub ·         LinkedIn

What separates the athletes who push through from the ones who fold when it gets hard? It's not talent. It's not genetics. It's mental toughness - and the good news is, you can train it.In this episode, Head Coach Kieran Richardson breaks down exactly what mental toughness looks like in the real world of endurance sport - stripping away the clichés and getting into the practical tools you can actually use. If you've ever hit a wall mid-race and wondered why your mind gave up before your body did - this one's for you.Become an Omnia Athlete here

Kristen Santos-Griswold is one of Team USA's top short-track speed skaters, known for her speed, strategy, and determination on the ice. After coming up just short of the podium in Beijing, she considered walking away from the sport before returning stronger, winning the 2025 overall Crystal Globe and proving she can contend in every distance. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, Santos-Griswold opens up about resilience, mindset, and finding joy in her Olympic journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Amber Glenn has been skating since she was four years old, rising through the U.S. figure skating ranks to become a national champion and one of the sport's most distinctive voices. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, Glenn opens up about mental health, self-belief, and why this chapter of her career feels more meaningful than ever. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Isabeau Levito is one of Team USA's brightest figure skating stars, who emerged as a world-class competitor before a serious injury disrupted one of the most successful stretches of her career. Levito made a strong return to the ice, finishing fourth at the World Championships and keeping her Olympic ambitions firmly in focus. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, Levito opens up about perseverance, pushing through mistakes, and why competing in Milan means so much to her. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send a textIn this solo episode of Spartan Leadership, Josh breaks down what the Bears' new direction reveals about culture, conviction, discipline, and making the hard call when it matters most.This isn't about football.It's about leadership.If you're building a team, developing talent, or trying to turn something around, this conversation will challenge how you think about hiring, culture, and conviction under pressure.Ready to lead at a higher level?Apply for the Bridge Builder Mastermind here:

In this raw MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer catches up with legendary hunter, former Kifaru designer, and now core team member at Born Primitive Outdoor, Aron Snyder. Aron opens up about his massive 2025 transition: leaving Kifaru after 15 years amid unexpected drama, joining Born Primitive to innovate packs, boots, and gear for mountain hunters, and a profound spiritual awakening that's lowered cortisol, brought forgiveness, joy, and peace. He shares insights on identity shifts, necessary endings, managing stress as a high-intensity dad/business owner, cutting negative people, building better habits (diet, fitness, church), and leveraging decades of field experience into game-changing products. A powerful conversation on mental toughness, faith, forgiveness, work-life balance, and staying dangerous—perfect for hunters, entrepreneurs, and men rebuilding stronger.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Butler, a serving UK firefighter who has quietly built a life around choosing difficult things on purpose. Scott shares the pivotal moment in 2006 when joining the fire service forced him to grow fast, take responsibility, and stop making excuses. That turning point shaped not just his career, but his identity, and set him on a path where challenge became a way of understanding himself rather than something to avoid.Our conversation goes far beyond adventure headlines. We talk about ultra-distance challenges, rowing the Atlantic, desert races, long lonely days where quitting would make complete sense, and the mindset required to keep moving anyway. Along the way, we explore fear, ageing, doubt, discipline, charity, and why firefighters often feel most at home in uncomfortable places. There is also a surprisingly important discussion about bum butter, because it turns out the right anti-chafing cream can overcome all kinds of horrific challenges. This is a grounded, honest, and funny conversation about resilience, agency, and backing yourself without needing applause.Find Scott HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE our partners supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Most people don't stall because they lack discipline.They stall because they refuse to confront their own faults.In this episode of Warrior Mindset, we break down lessons from The Hagakure, not as ancient history, but as a practical framework for self-honesty, correction, and daily discipline.This is not motivation.It's not mindset hype.It's about removing self-deception so progress becomes unavoidable.You'll learn:Why knowing your faults matters more than knowing your strengthsHow resisting discomfort creates unnecessary sufferingWhy correcting mistakes immediately is a form of strengthThe difference between defeating others and defeating yourselfWhy real discipline has no finish lineIf you're tired of repeating the same mistakes and calling it “growth,” this episode is for you.Listen carefully. The lesson is uncomfortable on purpose.Send a text

The Barkley Marathons is designed to sit right on the edge of possible. Sixty hours. Five loops. Nearly all off trail. No GPS. No course markings. Books hidden in the woods. A cigarette lights the start.In 2021, I stepped onto the course and heard Taps play when my race ended. In 2026, I'm lining up again.In this episode, I break down what Barkley actually is, how it started under at Brushy Mountain, why it keeps getting harder, and what makes it different from every other 100 miler on the planet. We talk navigation, the fun run, the infamous virgin sacrifice, the conch shell, the secretive entry process, and why even legends like John Kelly can get stopped at three loops.But more than that, this is about why anyone would go back.Barkley is not about speed. It is not about splits. It is about finding your limit in a world where almost nothing forces you to.And in 2026, I'm going to try again.Chapters00:00 The Origins of the Barkley Marathons02:51 The Challenge and Difficulty of the Race05:47 The Unique Entry Process and Race Structure08:50 Navigating the Course: Skills and Strategies12:09 Mental Toughness and the Experience of Running15:04 The Community and Culture of the Barkley Marathons18:11 Inspiration and the Future of the Barkley MarathonsSupport our Sponsors: Sawyer: https://sawyerdirect.net/Janji (code: Freeoutside): https://snp.link/a0bfb726CS Coffee: CSinstant.coffeeGarage Grown Gear: https://snp.link/db1ba8abSubscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.comSupport this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutsideBuy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSFEmail me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.comWatch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outsideWebsite: www.Freeoutside.comInstagram: thefreeoutsidefacebook: www.facebook.com/freeoutside#Trailrunning #Runningnews #Outdoors #Outdooradventure

Christi Dee is an author and endurance athlete behind This Blonde Runs. She has completed over 42 marathons and 17 ultramarathons.  She shares powerful insights on resilience and mental toughness drawn from years of pushing physical and mental limits.  Christi explores how discipline, perseverance, and mindset fuel growth in sport and in life. 1:12 Christi's background: 42+ marathons, 17 ultras, and children's books 3:58 Early running lessons: patience, consistency, and identity 6:44 Coaching philosophy: sustainability over shortcuts 10:22 Mental toughness when training gets monotonous 15:08 Prairie on Fire expectations vs reality 21:18 Early physical breakdown and real-time problem solving 27:32 Making the call to stop: strength, not weakness 33:48 Separating self-worth from race outcomes 38:56 Redefining success after disappointment 44:02 Carrying lessons forward: resilience, perspective, and return mindset Don't forget you can also follow Dr. Rob Bell on Twitter or Instagram! Follow At: X @drrobbell Instagram @drrobbell Download Your Daily Focus Map! https://drrobbell.com/ If you enjoyed this episode on Mental Toughness, please subscribe and leave a review! Dr. Rob Bell

Get AudioBooks for FreeBest Self-improvement MotivationBuilding Mental Toughness | Joe De Sena & Jim KwikBuild unstoppable mental toughness with Joe De Sena and Jim Kwik. Discover powerful mindset, resilience, and performance strategies to overcome any challenge.Get AudioBooks for Free⁠We Need Your Love & Support ❤️https://buymeacoffee.com/myinspiration#Motivational_Speech#motivation #inspirational_quotes #motivationalspeech Get AudioBooks for Free Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get AudioBooks for FreeBest Self-improvement MotivationBuilding Mental Toughness | Miesha Tate & Jim KwikLearn elite mental toughness from Miesha Tate and Jim Kwik. Discover powerful resilience, focus, and performance strategies to push past limits and succeed.Get AudioBooks for Free⁠We Need Your Love & Support ❤️https://buymeacoffee.com/myinspiration#Motivational_Speech#motivation #inspirational_quotes #motivationalspeech Get AudioBooks for Free Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Super Bowl was the distraction. The real story is much bigger.Immigration deaths, justice failures, and why accountability is collapsing in America.In this episode of Daves Head Podcast, Dave reflects on the Super Bowl, cultural backlash, and the deeper social tensions surrounding immigration, ICE enforcement, and the justice system.He explores the lack of accountability in todays political climate and what it means for marginalized communities. Then, shifting gears, he dives into failure and resilience explaining how setbacks shape growth, why emotional regulation matters, and how focusing on what you can control builds long-term strength.Through football lessons, psychology insights, and personal reflection, this episode connects current events with personal development in a way thats timely, relevant, and honest.Failure is part of the story of success.

In this episode of Demystifying Mental Toughness, David Charlton continues in part two of his solo series exploring the 4Cs of Mental Toughness through the coach–athlete relationship lens. The focus this week is Emotional Control and a common but misunderstood dynamic in sport: the emotionally reactive coach and the calm, composed athlete. While passion and intensity are often seen as leadership qualities, strong emotional reactions, sarcasm or outcome-focused language can unintentionally create a fear-based environment.  When athletes feel judged or humiliated, the brain's threat system activates, reducing attention, decision-making and learning. At the same time, athletes who regulate their emotions well are often misunderstood.  Calm behaviour can be interpreted as a lack of care or motivation, leading to unnecessary conflict. Drawing on research around the coach–athlete relationship and youth brain development, this episode explains how emotional climate shapes confidence, creativity and long-term engagement in sport. Listeners will also learn a simple framework for understanding emotional intensity and regulation, along with practical strategies for improving communication and psychological safety. >> Key Takeaways Fear and public criticism trigger threat responses that reduce learning and decision-making Calm athletes often care deeply, emotional control is a coping style, not disengagement Performance improves when coaches combine passion with emotional regulation and relational awareness If you enjoyed this episode, check out part one of my mini-series and our previous podcasts on all things mental toughness: Ep304 – David Charlton - Life Control: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently     Ep303: Doug Strycharczyk - Why You Think the Way You Do Under Pressure Ep302: Doug Strycharczyk - Why You React the Way You Do Under Pressure Ep293: Stuart Barnes - High Challenge, High Support: Mental Toughness in Cricket Ep249: Edward Hall - Workplace Collaboration in Team Sports Coaching Environments Connect with David Charlton ·         Sign Up To The Mental Edge ·         Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub ·         LinkedIn

Kristen Santos-Griswold is one of Team USA's top short-track speed skaters, known for her speed, strategy, and determination on the ice. After coming up just short of the podium in Beijing, she considered walking away from the sport before returning stronger, winning the 2025 overall Crystal Globe and proving she can contend in every distance. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, Santos-Griswold opens up about resilience, mindset, and finding joy in her Olympic journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emily Fischnaller is an Olympic luger and active-duty U.S. Army Soldier whose pursuit of the Games has always run alongside a life of service. After overcoming a devastating crash at the 2018 Winter Olympics, Fischnaller continued to compete at the highest level, carrying the discipline, purpose, and perspective shaped by both her sport and her military career. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, she opens up about service, mental toughness, love, and why choosing to keep going has defined who she is both on and off the track. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pressure reveals the truth. It shows what you trained and what you avoided. In this episode, strength coach, strongman gym owner, mental conditioning coach, and licensed therapist Brian Alsruhe talks with Joe De Sena about why discipline fails before strength and how missed decisions under stress lead to quitting. They break down using physical hardship to train the mind, stacking small wins daily, and choosing discomfort to build resilience. The listener gains simple rules to perform under pressure, own outcomes, and stop making excuses.   Things You Will Learn How pressure exposes weak discipline How to build mental toughness through daily discomfort How small decisions decide long-term performance Tools & Frameworks Covered Stacked Wins: build discipline through daily action Pressure Training: sharpen decision-making under stress Discomfort Practice: strengthen resilience before it's required   If this episode moved you, don't just listen. Do something about it. Sign up. Show up. Do the work. Spartan.com. No more excuses.   Guest Bio: Brian Alsruhe is a strength coach, strongman athlete, and founder of NEVERsate Athletics, a global community built around resilience, discipline, and personal accountability. His background in counter terrorism and his work toward a graduate degree in clinical mental health shaped his approach to physical and emotional endurance under real pressure. Brian's life represents three core themes: overcoming adversity through discomfort, using strength as a tool for transformation, and teaching people to become harder to kill in both body and mindset.   Connect to Brian: Website: https://www.neversate.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neversate  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8Rt7E2JVz4fPmC8AhjDoaA    

Kristen Santos-Griswold is one of Team USA's top short-track speed skaters, known for her speed, strategy, and determination on the ice. After coming up just short of the podium in Beijing, she considered walking away from the sport before returning stronger, winning the 2025 overall Crystal Globe and proving she can contend in every distance. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, Santos-Griswold opens up about resilience, mindset, and finding joy in her Olympic journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emily Fischnaller is an Olympic luger and active-duty U.S. Army Soldier whose pursuit of the Games has always run alongside a life of service. After overcoming a devastating crash at the 2018 Winter Olympics, Fischnaller continued to compete at the highest level, carrying the discipline, purpose, and perspective shaped by both her sport and her military career. In this conversation with NBC News correspondent Stephanie Gosk, she opens up about service, mental toughness, love, and why choosing to keep going has defined who she is both on and off the track. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if the only thing standing between you and your breakthrough is your decision to say: “No matter what, I will not quit”In this inspirational and motivational speech, Reginald D delivers a powerful message on mental toughness, faith, resilience, self-improvement, and execution. This episode is for anyone feeling stuck, discouraged, overwhelmed, or close to giving up on their dreams.If you've been battling doubt, fear, exhaustion, or emotional setbacks, this motivational speech will challenge you to adopt a “No Matter What” mindset—a mindset rooted in faith, discipline, action, and unbreakable belief. Through real talk, spiritual encouragement, and self-improvement principles, Reginald D reminds you that success, purpose, and transformation come when you refuse to quit—no matter what.This episode blends faith-based motivation, mental resilience, and life execution strategies to help you rise again, stay focused, and move forward—even in your darkest moments.If you've been overthinking instead of executing… If life has knocked you down and you're questioning your strength… If you feel stuck, delayed, or disconnected from your purpose…This episode speaks directly to you.Reginald D breaks down how your reaction to adversity—not the adversity itself—determines your outcome. You'll learn how faith, mental toughness, and decisive action work together to shift your mindset, silence excuses, and ignite momentum. This motivational speech is designed to help you stop waiting, stop doubting, and start moving toward the life you know you're called to live.What You'll Gain:Renewed mental toughness and emotional resilience to push forward despite setbacksA clearer understanding of how faith fuels confidence, execution, and self-beliefPractical motivation to stop overthinking, take action, and commit to your goals no matter whatPress play now and let this motivational speech reset your mindset, strengthen your faith, and reignite the fire you need to keep going—no matter what.Send a textSupport the showFor daily motivation and inspiration, subscribe and follow Real Talk With Reginald D on social media:Instagram: realtalkwithreginaldd TikTok: @realtalkregd Youtube: @realtalkwithreginald Facebook: realtalkwithreginaldd Twitter Real Talk With Reginald D (@realtalkRegD) / TwitterWebsite: Real Talk With Reginald D https://www.realtalkwithreginaldd.com Real Talk With Reginald D - Merchandise

Feeling nervous before games? Here's a simple one-word reframe that changes everything: Instead of saying "I'm nervous," say "I'm excited." Your body literally can't tell the difference.

In this engaging episode of the Matthews Mentality Podcast, host Kyle Matthews sits down with UFC Hall of Famer and former Light Heavyweight Champion Forrest Griffin. They discuss Griffin's storied career, including his time on the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter, his legendary fight against Stephan Bonnar, and his championship victory over Rampage Jackson. Griffin shares insights into his transition from fighter to Vice President of Athlete Development at the UFC Performance Institute, where he now helps shape the next generation of fighters. This candid conversation also touches on the challenges of making weight, dealing with injuries, and the psychological aspects of fighting, providing a comprehensive look at the life of a professional MMA fighter.00:00 Pushing Limits and Greed00:45 Introducing UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin00:57 Inside the UFC Performance Institute01:27 Forrest Griffin's Role in Athlete Development02:38 Expanding UFC's Global Reach05:06 Challenges and Strategies in Training10:40 Forrest Griffin's Early Life and Career18:40 Transition from Football to Fighting34:12 Joining the Ultimate Fighter40:21 The Legendary Fight with Stephan Bonner41:36 Randy Couture and the Bonner Fight41:57 Mental Toughness in the Ring43:04 The Keith Judian Fight and Lessons Learned45:06 Winning the UFC Contract47:56 Becoming a UFC Champion55:06 The Challenges of Defending the Title01:01:52 The Evolution of MMA and Training01:07:56 Life After Fighting01:10:54 Forrest Griffin's Legacy and Reflections

We talk about mental toughness. We talk about people who seek out excuses (excuse Finders). We talk about people who don't see excuses (excuse ignorers). We talk about getting better every day (no excuses).

In this powerful MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with filmmaker, actor, writer, and producer Steven Grayhm to unpack his 14-year journey creating Sheepdog—a human drama about a decorated U.S. Army combat veteran confronting the long aftermath of war and finding post-traumatic growth through community, faith, and purpose. Steven shares the raw origin story sparked by a tow-truck driver's confession, nationwide road trips collecting veterans' testimonials, heartbreaking losses to suicide, Hollywood resistance, and the relentless mission to get the film right. He discusses the film's focus on healing over PTSD, the importance of brotherhood, Gold Star families, mental health professionals, and civilian understanding—plus firsthand testimonials proving the film is already saving lives. A must-watch conversation on resilience, obedience to calling, spiritual warfare, and why Sheepdog could be one of Hollywood's greatest success stories if it saves even one veteran. Out now!Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

Send us a textThe Sniper Adventure Challenge is not just a match—it's a multi-day test of shooting skill, land navigation, decision-making, and mental endurance under extreme fatigue.Daniel reached out looking for advice and preparation insight for his first Sniper Adventure Challenge. Instead of keeping it to private messages, the conversation was brought to the Precision Rifle Podcast—and Dave was invited to join as well. Between the three of us, decades have been spent competing in, supporting, and running 36- and 48-hour endurance competitions where sleep is optional and mistakes compound fast.This episode breaks down what actually matters if you want to be competitive:How to prepare for land navigation under stressShooting performance when sleep-deprived and smokedMental traps that crush teams earlyCommon mistakes first-time competitors makeWhat separates teams that survive from teams that placeNo hype. No shortcuts. No comfort.If competing in the most demanding precision rifle competition in the nation is on the radar, this episode provides real-world insight from people who've lived it.

Nutrition Nugget! Bite-sized bonus episodes offer tips, tricks and approachable science. This week, Jenn is talking about the C-C-C, which stands for Catch, Challenge, Change. Do your negative thoughts secretly sabotage your health goals? When that inner voice says "you're too busy," "you have no willpower," or "you've failed again," is it telling the truth or just repeating old patterns that hold you back? Jenn introduces a practical mental tool to interrupt the defeating thought loops we all experience on our wellness journeys. But here's the real question: are you actually too tired for that workout, or is something else going on? Could the "evidence" of failure actually be hiding signs of progress you're refusing to see? Jenn breaks down how to catch these negative thoughts in action, challenge the beliefs behind them, and ultimately transform your inner dialogue. But the approach might surprise you. Is it really about being "1% better every day," or is there a more realistic way to build mental toughness without the pressure? Like what you're hearing? Be sure to check out the full-length episodes of new releases every Wednesday. Have an idea for a nutrition nugget? Submit it here: https://asaladwithasideoffries.com/index.php/contact/ RESOURCES:Become a Happy Healthy Hub MemberJenn's Free Menu PlanA Salad With a Side of FriesA Salad With A Side Of Fries MerchA Salad With a Side of Fries InstagramKEYWORDS: Jenn Trepeck, Nutrition Nugget, Salad With A Side Of Fries, Health Tips, Wellness Tips, Negative Self-Talk. Catch, Challenge, Change, Mental Framework, Thought Patterns, Old Habits, Inner Dialogue, Limiting Beliefs, Self-Talk, Wellness Mindset, Weight Loss Mindset, Positive Thinking, Mental Toughness, Cognitive Reframing, Healthy Mindset, Behavior Change, Self-Sabotage, Motivation Strategies, Willpower Myths, Progress Tracking, Mindset Shift, Personal Growth, Mental Health Tools, Habit Building, Wellness Journey, Diet Culture, Fitness Goals, Self-Compassion, Negative Thoughts, Brain Patterns, Thought Management, Success Mindset, Health Goals, Mental Strength, Lifestyle Change, Wellness Tips, Healthy Habits, Self-Improvement, Goal Setting, Mindful Eating, Weight Management, Personal Development, How To Challenge Negative Thoughts About Dieting, Overcoming Limiting Beliefs In Weight Loss

EP 676 Heart Rate, VO2 Max, and Hunt Readiness with MTNtough What’s up! This week on the Rich Outdoors Podcast, I’m sitting down with Jason and Nick from MTN Tough Fitness to talk about something we’ve been geeking out on for a while—health metrics, performance tracking, and what “hunt readiness” actually means for backcountry hunters. As we’re building the Bridger Watch (yeah, the smartwatch for hunters), we’ve been having deep conversations with the MTN Tough crew about what metrics actually matter when you’re training for elk season. Because here’s the thing: most fitness wearables are built for runners, cyclists, and gym rats—not for hunters humping 60 pounds on their back through deadfall at 9,000 feet. Nick is a MTN Tough coach and physical therapist who programs their daily workouts, and Jason is one of their athletes who’s joining the Bridger team. These guys know what it takes to train for the mountains, and more importantly, they understand the difference between sustained Zone 2 cardio and getting absolutely crushed by a 42-minute Mountain Tough workout that leaves you laying on the floor. We dive into what a “hunt readiness score” could look like, how to measure work capacity beyond just heart rate, why rucking strain is completely different than cardiovascular strain, and how we can use wearables to help hunters stay in that 80-90% efficiency zone all day long. We also talk about the mental side of fitness—how to make better decisions under fatigue, why discipline in the gym translates to discipline in the mountains, and what happens when you’re on day two of a hunt with frozen boots and a broken water filter. This episode is part fitness science, part backcountry hunting strategy, and part startup talk about building products that actually solve problems hunters face. Whether you’re training for September or just trying to figure out how to not get your butt kicked on your next western hunt, there’s a lot of good stuff in here. Let’s get into it. Tricer Tripods – They make gear that’s fast, light, and simple, from amazing tripods to bino mounts, panhead truck mounts, and now even bipods. Tricer makes gear that’s fast, light, and simple. I love their gear, and if you’re looking for a new system for better glassing, check out Tricer. Head over to the website tricer.com. They make great products and it’s just a great company. Awesome dudes. Been using the heck out of the bipod—killed a lot of critters with it. Use the code TRO and you’ll save yourself 10% at checkout. Stone Glacier – I’ve packed out a lot of animals with my Stone Glacier pack this year. The Sky Archer 6400 has been with me to Alaska, British Columbia, Wyoming, Montana, and I love the thing. Whether it’s a 10-day backpack hunt or you’re day hunting from the side-by-side, that’s what I love about Stone Glacier—it’s minimalist, it’s lightweight. You can use it day hunting or for an alpine backpack hunt. Stone Glacier makes an entire suite of hardcore mountain hunting gear. If you’re in the market, head over to stoneglacier.com. Use the code TRO and you’ll save yourself a discount and get some great gear. Chapter Timestamps 0:00 – Intro: Fresh Off a MTN Tough Workout 3:15 – Meet Nick: MTN Tough Coach & Physical Therapist 6:30 – Jason Joins Bridger: Startup Life with a Kid on the Way 9:00 – Why We’re Talking About Health Metrics for Hunters 12:45 – The Backcountry Boondoggle: Testing Fitness in the Field 16:30 – How Many Miles? Average Archery Season Days 19:45 – Have You Ever Bonked on a Hunt? 23:15 – The Hunt Readiness Score: What Would It Look Like? 27:30 – Heart Rate Efficiency & Staying in the 80-90% Zone 31:00 – VO2 Max vs. Work Capacity: What Really Matters? 35:15 – The Rucking Problem: Muscular + Neurological Strain 38:45 – Measuring Strength Load vs. Cardio Load 41:30 – Subjective Scores & Mental Toughness Training 44:15 – Decision Making Under Fatigue 47:00 – Discipline in the Gym = Discipline in the Mountains 50:30 – Baby #2, Hunt Plans & Balancing Family Life Three Key Takeaways Heart Rate Monitoring Can Keep You in Your Efficiency Zone All Day – Most hunters blow themselves out on day one by pushing too hard when camp isn’t where they thought, or the trail is longer than expected. A wearable that monitors your heart rate and keeps you in an 80-90% efficiency zone (based on your current fitness level) could be the difference between being smoked for three days versus being able to hunt hard every single day. It’s not about going slow—it’s about understanding what pace your body can sustain without bonking. Rucking Strain is Completely Different Than Cardiovascular Strain – Carrying 60-70 pounds on your back for 8 hours isn’t primarily a cardio challenge—it’s muscular, skeletal, and neurological strain. Most fitness wearables only measure cardiovascular load based on sustained heart rate, but they can’t quantify what it feels like to have weight on your frame all day. Building a “hunt readiness score” means figuring out how to measure both the cardio AND the strength components of backcountry hunting, which is why Mountain Tough’s blend of strength and conditioning is so effective. Mental Toughness is Trainable Through Exposure to Hard Situations – The more you put yourself in challenging situations—whether that’s finishing brutal workouts when you want to quit, or waking up to frozen boots and pushing through anyway—the more you build the self-awareness and discipline to make good decisions under fatigue. It’s not about never wanting to quit; it’s about recognizing that thought, acknowledging it’s normal, and then choosing to push through. The fitness side removes one major stressor, so when other factors pop up (weather, wind, gear failure), you’re not also dealing with being physically smoked.

No one is born mentally strong; it is an education and a practice. Kris Krohn breaks down the three categories of "unhappy beliefs" about yourself, others, and the world that produce mental weakness and victimhood. Drawing on the resilience of Viktor Frankl, learn how to consciously re-engineer your paradigm so you can remain a firm, immovable mountain regardless of the challenges life throws your way.

In a world that pushes for comfort, the path to true strength is paved with self-imposed hardship. Navy SEAL instructor and survival expert John Barklow joins Robert Sikes on the Savage Perspective Podcast to reveal the secrets to building unbreakable mental toughness and the life lessons learned from hunting adventures. In episode 856, discover the mindset required to not just survive, but thrive in the wild and in life. Learn about tactical survival systems, the gear that actually matters, and why every man must seek challenges to forge resilience and become harder to kill.Ready to build a body as resilient as your mind? Join Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass and start your journey to becoming stronger and more capable in every aspect of life. Sign up here: https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Follow John on IG: https://www.instagram.com/jbarklowGet Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 - Why Modern Men Need to Hunt 0:39 - John Barklow's Mission to Make You Harder to Kill 1:18 - The Philosophy of Becoming Harder to Kill 1:42 - How a Navy Diver Became a SEAL Team Instructor 3:02 - How Special Operations Survival Systems Are Built 4:34 - What is a Survival System? 5:21 - The "Sharks in the Water" Mentality of Elite Teams 5:52 - How to Build Discipline with Daily Hardships 8:02 - Is "Societal Cancer" Making People Weak? 9:30 - The 9-Month Cold Shower Challenge for Mental Toughness 12:53 - Why Every Man Needs to Experience The Hardship of a Hunt 14:46 - The Biggest Mistake Young Men Make Today 15:43 - The Real Reason for Doing Hard Things (It's Not About Suffering) 17:38 - Why "Maintenance" is a Myth: You're Either Growing or Decaying 18:40 - Leading by Example: How to Set the Standard 21:35 - A Beginner's Guide to Tactical Survival 22:32 - Tree Stand vs. Spot and Stalk: Which is a Better Hunt? 26:00 - The 3 Ways Your Body Loses Heat (And How to Stop It) 29:55 - The #1 Mistake People Make That Ends a Hunt Early 32:30 - The Perfect Pack Weight for a Backcountry Hunt 39:05 - The 3 Non-Negotiable Pieces of Gear for Any Environment 43:23 - What is a "Possibles Pouch" and Why You Need One 46:17 - The 7 Critical Capabilities of a Survival Kit 50:06 - The Truth About Modern Hunting Gear "Systems" 52:00 - How to Build a Complete 8-Piece Cold Weather System 59:07 - Why John Barklow Joined Sitka Gear 1:04:28 - Is Hunting Becoming More or Less Popular? 1:10:59 - Why Hunting is a Critical Family Heritage 1:13:01 - How Hunting Connects You to The Food You Eat 1:16:31 - Why Even Vegans Should Experience a Hunt 1:18:29 - The Real Off-Season: Why Elite Hunters Never Stop Training 1:20:02 - Where to Find John Barklow

The Bowhunter Chronicles Podcast - Episode 387: He Shot my Buck Out From Under Me : Aaron Olsen Next Step Outdoors In this episode of the Bowhunter Chronicles podcast, Adam sits down to talk with Aaron Olsen of Next Step Outdoors to break down the real-world challenges of public land hunting, covering strategy, mindset, and decision-making from start to finish of a hard-fought hunt. The discussion explores balancing family life and hunting season, managing expectations, and adapting when conditions and pressure don't go as planned. A pivotal moment in the hunt sparks the core debate of the episode: while glassing a buck, another hunter spotted the same deer, slipped in, and ultimately shot it out from in front of them. What followed became a race to the buck—and a larger conversation about ethics, unwritten rules, and fair play on public land. Was the other hunter in the wrong, or was it simply part of hunting ground that belongs to everyone? Beyond that moment, the episode dives into missed opportunities, mid-hunt adjustments, weather challenges, deer movement, and spot-and-stalk versus ground hunting tactics. Mental toughness and patience are tested as pressure increases from other hunters, leading to honest reflections on luck vs skill, scouting, preparation, and lessons learned for future hunts. Topics Covered: Public land hunting strategy Hunting ethics and shared ground Deer movement and scouting Spot-and-stalk vs ground hunting Decision-making under pressure