POPULARITY
In this episode, we mark five years of The ACL Athlete Podcast by doing something I almost let pass entirely: sitting down with no agenda, and saying the things that have never quite been said clearly enough. We open with a message from a listener that stopped me in my tracks, shares what it actually cost me to go through two ACL tears, and then walks through five lessons that apply just as much to your knee as they do to your life. From why consistency in the hard moments is the whole game, to how asking for help is one of the highest leverage decisions you will ever make, to why fear does not need to leave the room before you take action, this episode is a reminder that the ACL process is not just physical. It is mental and emotional. If you are in the middle of it, just finished PT, watching your kid go through it, or a clinician trying to do better work for your athletes, this one was made for you.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Dean Karnazes is a world-renowned ultramarathon runner and best-selling author. Some things Dean has done:- Ran 350 miles (560 km) in 80 hours and 44 minutes without sleep in 2005- Ran a marathon to the South Pole in −13 °F without snow shoes- Ran a marathon in each of the 50 states in 50 consecutive days- Ran 135 miles (217 km) across Death Valley in 120 °F- 148 miles (238 km) in 24 hours on a treadmill- Ran 3,000 miles (4,800 km) from Disneyland to New York City in 75 daysAnd so many other absolutely incredible things. This conversation is a deep dive into his mind, experiences, and life.Find Dean Here: https://www.instagram.com/ultramarathon/My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
These 11 highly vibrational habits will make you instantly magnetic
In this episode, we unpack a big misconception in ACL rehab: the belief that if PT feels hard, it must be working. We break down why sweat, fatigue, and high heart rates don't automatically equal progress, especially when your knee is swollen or stiff the next day. We dive into the difference between capacity and tolerance, explain why excessive plyometric volume can quietly stall recovery, and outline what intentional, criteria-driven rehab actually looks like. If you've ever walked out of a session exhausted but unsure if you're truly moving forward, this episode will help you rethink what “good rehab” really means.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Regret shows up often in parenting, but it doesn't have to keep us stuck. In this episode, I explore how regret can become a tool for growth instead of a weapon we use against ourselves.We'll talk about the difference between regret that leads to learning and regret that keeps us spinning, how to shift from past-focused rumination to future-focused growth, and a simple framework I use to turn regret into clarity, compassion, and forward movement.This episode is an invitation to stop fighting the past, and start using it to become the parent you want to be.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
✨ Become a Better You in Just 7 Days With The Dream Woman 7 Challenge ✨Welcome back, my loves! Today we're diving into the Dream Woman 7 Challenge...a one-week glow-up designed to upgrade your mindset, your habits, your routines, and your entire life.
Do it. Make it real. Get it out of your head, and your heart, and talk to someone about it... in real life. That someone being me. Send me a DM on IG and share with me what is heavy on your mind right now. It doesn't matter how small, how heavy, how simple, or how complicated it is, whatever you are concerned about or stressed about, share it with me in a DM to my Instagram and I promise to read it answer you. We all need an unbiased, trustworthy place to talk and person to talk to, and that is what the Think Bigger Project community is all about. So, send the DM, and let's talk to each other in the real world about real things. - I appreciate you all for listening. Thank you for being a part of the family here.THANK YOU to all of the worldwide THNKRS. Thank you for giving your time and listening and joining the family and community here on the Think Bigger Podcast. Stay in touch in any way you can, the easiest way is on Instagram so feel free to message me there and join the livestreams whenever possible! My IG is: @thebigmike - Thank you. IG: @TheBigMikeThinkBiggerProject.comYouTube.com/BigMikeEdition YouTube.com/CarTalkwithRandB
In this episode, we tackle one of the most frustrating and under-discussed parts of ACL rehab: your quad is still smaller months later, and you're wondering if something is wrong. I break down what the research actually shows about quadriceps muscle mass before surgery, immediately after, and even years down the road. We walk through why atrophy starts earlier than most people realize, why surgery creates a second drop, and why full visual symmetry is not guaranteed within 9–12 months. You'll also hear real-world examples from elite athletes, and why even world-class pros with top-tier resources don't always regain identical quad size quickly. We unpack graft type differences, genetics, programming mistakes, and the biological realities that shape muscle recovery. Most importantly, I explain why muscle size and strength are not a perfect one-to-one match using a simple “cup” analogy. Bigger muscle increases potential capacity, but performance depends on more than just volume. If you've been staring at your leg wondering why it still looks different, this episode gives you clarity, normalization, and practical direction on how to approach hypertrophy the right way.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Expect to learn how changing your environment will change your entire direction in life.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
In this episode we're hearing from Eleanor about her first pregnancy and birth during lockdown. Having learned lots about birth from her midwife sister and planning for a homebirth, her estimated due date came and went with no sign of labour starting. At nearly 42 weeks she accepted an induction and was able to return home to wait for things to begin. When her contractions became regular, Eleanor and her husband went to the midwife-led unit where she laboured in the pool until concerns were raised about meconium in her waters. After an epidural, a period of rest and infection concerns for both mum and baby, a caesarean was recommended. Eleanor shares the challenges their family faced in the weeks that followed, including being separated from her baby after the birth, navigating visiting hours, pumping and breastfeeding in the NICU and Enid's recovery at home on oxygen. This is a fascinating and really valuable episode about navigating the unexpected and staying strong and positive through it all. Eleanor's IG: https://www.instagram.com/elebusing/ My website: www.serenalouth.com My IG: https://www.instagram.com/serenalouth/
7 Magnetic Energy Habits That Will *Instantly* Unlock Your Lucky Girl Era ✨
Every season of growth asks something of us.In this episode, I'm talking about self-doubt, not as a problem to fix, but as a signal that you're stretching into your next level. Whether it's parenting, personal growth, or the work of becoming who you're meant to be, doubt often shows up right before expansion.We'll talk about why growth doesn't feel easy, how self-doubt is part of the process, and what it looks like to keep going anyway, especially when your kids are the ones calling you higher.If you've ever wondered, “Why does this feel so hard if I'm on the right path?” this episode is for you.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
In this episode, we take a deeper, more grounded look at resilience through the lens of Lindsey Vonn's ACL journey. Not as motivation, but as a real, physical, and mental demonstration of what the human body is capable of when given time, intention, and the right environment. From multiple ACL tears and degenerative knee changes to a partial knee replacement and a late-career Olympic push, Lindsey's story challenges rigid narratives around timelines, imaging, and “what should be possible” after injury. This episode unpacks the difference between structure and function, why feeling good doesn't always mean being ready, and how capacity, tolerance, and informed decision-making matter far more than labels. Most importantly, it reframes the ACL journey with a powerful reminder: it's never too late to rebuild, adapt, and return to what matters to you.Links: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUI-ajQDTCc/ https://www.espn.com/olympics/skiing/story/_/id/47776769/vonn-crashes-limps-final-test-run-week-olympics https://www.instagram.com/p/DUTSTCvDdIp/https://www.espn.com/olympics/story/_/id/47816576/vonn-confident-race-olympics-ruptured-acl https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUTcSDGEfPn/Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Expect to learn how you get in your own way by making other people extraordinary.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
This episode isn't about trends, male attention, or becoming someone else. It's about becoming so connected to yourself that you naturally feel like the prettiest woman in the room…because you feel good in your own presence girl!!!!
What if there's no such thing as a hard day?In this episode, I explore how we unknowingly assign meaning to our days, and how that meaning shapes how we feel, how we show up, and who we become. I talk about why discouragement and self-doubt aren't signs that something has gone wrong, but signals that growth is happening.We'll look at how parenting challenges, emotional discomfort, and everyday struggles don't mean you're failing; they're the curriculum. And when we stop using “hard” as evidence that we're not enough, we unlock a new level of capacity, confidence, and connection.If you've ever ended the day thinking, “That was just too much,” this episode is an invitation to tell a different story, one that empowers you instead of shuts you down.You're stronger than you think. And the day was never the problem.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
Have you ever noticed how the Fast Lane is full, but the slow lane is the one with more room and actually moving more quickly? Now think of that instead of on the freeway, but in your life... why do so many people go to the the Fast Lane just to sit behind someone else wishing they could go faster, when there is a faster way right next to them.... From literal to figurative, in this episode we go into this perception and idea and break it down to discuss it as it pertains to our lives. I look forward to you all listening and sharing your thoughts. - I appreciate you all for listening. Thank you for being a part of the family here.THANK YOU to all of the worldwide THNKRS. Thank you for giving your time and listening and joining the family and community here on the Think Bigger Podcast. Stay in touch in any way you can, the easiest way is on Instagram so feel free to message me there and join the livestreams whenever possible! My IG is: @thebigmike - Thank you. IG: @TheBigMikeThinkBiggerProject.comYouTube.com/BigMikeEdition YouTube.com/CarTalkwithRandB
In this episode, we unpack why “feeling good” late in ACL rehab can be one of the most misleading signals an athlete can rely on. Using the ACL-as-a-seatbelt analogy, we break down why the ligament stays quiet during controlled rehab and daily activities, why clinic exams and timelines often provide a false sense of security, and why symptoms disappearing does not equal readiness for sport. This episode reframes ACL recovery away from confidence and calendar time and toward objective evidence, chaos tolerance, and worst-case scenario preparedness, so athletes and clinicians understand what truly reduces reinjury risk.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Expect to learn practical and simple actions that will Unf*ck Your Life.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
When kids go “off track,” it's easy to see the behavior as disrespect, defiance, or a problem that needs fixing.In this episode, I reframe behavior as information, a signal from a dysregulated nervous system, not a character flaw.You'll learn:What off-track behavior is actually telling youWhy punishment and rewards rarely create lasting changeHow to stay calm, connected, and in the lead when things go sidewaysA simple recovery approach that protects the relationship and restores boundariesLearn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
How I Bounce Back & RESET My Life in 48 Hours | IT Girl Glow Up Academy Series Part 4/6Being sick doesn't just drain your body… it throws off your routines, motivation, confidence, and sense of self. If you've been stuck in bed, living in pajamas, scrolling endlessly, and feeling like your life is slipping through your fingers… this episode is for you girl!!In today's episode, I'm sharing my 48-hour post-sick reset. the exact mindset shifts, habits, and that girl coded routines I use to bounce back after being sick and feel like myself again without burning out.
In this episode, we dive into one of the most overlooked and misunderstood aspects of ACL rehab: what to do when your knee just doesn't feel right. You can be doing everything “by the book,” checking every rehab box, yet still feel stuck with stiffness, blocked motion, or regression that doesn't add up. We unpack why blindly pushing through isn't always the answer, how arthrofibrosis and cyclops lesions can quietly derail progress, and why listening to your gut (and advocating for yourself early) can save months of frustration. This episode is about separating normal rehab discomfort from true red flags and empowering ACLers and clinicians to stop wasting time fighting the wrong problem.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Expect to learn the one skill that will completely change the way you approach life.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
"Give it how I live it." The foundation of this podcast and this community to me is authenticity. In this episode we discuss so many of the inner thoughts and outer experiences that we are all having or seeing others have as we go through this life, and I specifically open up and remind that I'm experiencing the same mindset shifts, hardships, and struggles - and that I have to fight to walk the walk live by the same standards that I give to y'all and that we discuss episode after episode. This content is authentic, organic, and real, and I'm right there with all of you working on myself and being a better member of the community and culture, all while giving to the community and culture in and through this pod and in my demeanor and behavior. I look forward to you all listening. Thank you for your time. - I appreciate you all for listening. Thank you for being a part of the family here.THANK YOU to all of the worldwide THNKRS. Thank you for giving your time and listening and joining the family and community here on the Think Bigger Podcast. Stay in touch in any way you can, the easiest way is on Instagram so feel free to message me there and join the livestreams whenever possible! My IG is: @thebigmike - Thank you. IG: @TheBigMikeThinkBiggerProject.comYouTube.com/BigMikeEdition YouTube.com/CarTalkwithRandB
The It-Girl Morning Routine (Science-Backed Wellness Habits)Heyyy self improvement divas!! In this episode, I break down the it-girl morning routine built on science-backed wellness habits, neuroscience, and behavior psychology. These are the habits that help make you feel like that girl without waking up unrealistically early or burning yourself out.
In this episode, we tackle one of the most common (and costly) questions in ACL rehab: when you should bring in an ACL specialist: right away, or “later when it really matters.” Using analogies like hiring an expert consultant or building your dream home, we break down why the early phase isn't just “basic box-checking,” how cookie-cutter rehab quietly creates gaps that show up months later, and why progress early on can falsely convince people their plan is solid. The core message is simple: don't wait until you're stuck. Find a true guide who uses criteria, testing, and individualized progressions so you're not relying on time, luck, or “good enough” to get you back to sport.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Expect to learn the psychological bias holding you back from making true lasting change in your life.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewformLearn about your health: https://bit.ly/45L3fmyGet the best flavored toothpicks: bit.ly/4sBCKtO
We're halfway through January of 2026... and just like that the month will be over and can be a repeat of previous scenarios in which you wanted to make a change, and yet somehow didn't. The reason for that lack of change starts within. What has to happen... to your health, to the country and society around you, to your finances, to anything that matters to you before you say Enough is Enough and do something about it? In this episode, that's what we talk about. - I appreciate you all for listening. Thank you for being a part of the family here.THANK YOU to all of the worldwide THNKRS. Thank you for giving your time and listening and joining the family and community here on the Think Bigger Podcast. Stay in touch in any way you can, the easiest way is on Instagram so feel free to message me there and join the livestreams whenever possible! My IG is: @thebigmike - Thank you. IG: @TheBigMikeThinkBiggerProject.comYouTube.com/BigMikeEdition YouTube.com/CarTalkwithRandB
In today's episode of the Connect Method Parenting Podcast, we're talking about embodying emotions. NOT just noticing them, NOT just allowing them, but fully living inside the emotional experience while simultaneously creating from the end in mind.I'm sharing ten lessons I've learned about emotional embodiment through real, everyday experiences, from almost running out of battery in my Tesla while crossing a mountain range, to completing a 72-hour fast, to sitting with doubt, fear, hunger, uncertainty, and growth without trying to escape or fix any of it.You'll hear how embodying emotions doesn't mean positive thinking, bypassing discomfort, or managing feelings so they go away. It means learning how to be fully present with fear and faith, worry and gratitude, and uncertainty and intention at the same time.In this episode, we explore:What it actually means to embody emotions, not just feel or process themHow to live from the end in mind without abandoning the present momentWhy powerful questions can completely shift your nervous systemHow beliefs quietly create your lived reality, especially in parentingWhy buffering (food, distraction, productivity) blocks emotional growthHow past “failures” can inform growth without defining youWhy presence, not willpower, is the practiceHow emotional embodiment leads to calm, confident parenting even during conflictMost importantly, we talk about how this work shows up in parenting: Staying grounded during tantrums. Holding boundaries without anger. Responding instead of reacting. Teaching your kids that emotions are safe, and that nothing has gone wrong just because feelings are big.You don't need to fast for 72 hours or nearly get stranded on a mountain to practice this. You can start small, with irritation, overwhelm, frustration, or doubt, and learn how to sit in the full human experience while choosing connection, belief, and intention.This is the work. It's simple. It's powerful. And it changes everything.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
Become the Most Organized & Productive Woman in 2026 | IT Girl Glow Up Academy Series Part 2/6In this episode of Get Up and Glow, learn how to become the hottest, healthiest, happiest version of yourself by mastering organization and productivity. This step-by-step guide will help you identify root causes of disorganization, create effective systems and routines, and prioritize meaningful tasks to help you get your life together and STAY together for all of 2026.
In this episode, we kick off the new year with one of the most important conversations in ACL rehab: your mindset. Drawing inspiration from performance coach and author Steve Magness, this episode introduces the 24-Hour Rule: a simple but powerful framework for handling both wins and setbacks during ACL recovery. Whether you're riding the high of a milestone or navigating swelling, frustration, or doubt, this episode reframes how long you let any single moment define you. It's not about controlling outcomes (you can't) but about controlling the return: how you reset, refocus, and show up again. If you're entering a new year (or any phase of rehab) and want something that actually helps your ACL rehab work, this episode is your mental reset.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Most of us struggle with discipline until it becomes our default. My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me 1:1? Apply Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewform
We're kicking off 2026 with a heavy dose of self-reflection, accountability, introspection, and mindset shifting! In this episode we talk about how the one common denominator in our lives is... our SELVES, and how we must start by looking within and making changes to how we see the world, to change how we live in this world and how we act and react to the problems that we have. This one is a jumpstart to the new year and to achieving your goals and resolutions, no matter how small or big! HAPPY NEW YEAR, let's gooooo!- I appreciate you all for listening. Thank you for being a part of the family here.THANK YOU to all of the worldwide THNKRS. Thank you for giving your time and listening and joining the family and community here on the Think Bigger Podcast. Stay in touch in any way you can, the easiest way is on Instagram so feel free to message me there and join the livestreams whenever possible! My IG is: @thebigmike - Thank you. IG: @TheBigMikeThinkBiggerProject.comYouTube.com/BigMikeEdition YouTube.com/CarTalkwithRandB
It's not your mood that creates the life you want.It's your state.Your way of being.Your identity.The assumptions you live and act from every single day.In this episode, we explore why chasing the right mood or the perfect plan doesn't work, and what actually creates lasting change instead. You'll learn the difference between mood and state, why identity comes before evidence, and how choosing a steady state of being can transform your parenting, relationships, work, and daily life.This conversation is about stabilizing who you are BEING!!! NOT fixing yourself, forcing habits, or white-knuckling your way into a better year.Also I'm gonna do a Free Live Workshop to help you dive into this material THIS FRIDAY!!!!If you want to take this work deeper and apply it in real time, I'm hosting a free live workshop to walk through this together.
These 7 habits will rob you of your 2026 GLOW UP (here's how to avoid them)#glowup #glowuptips #2026 #selfimprovement #selfdevelopment #selfgrowth Glow Up Academy Series part 1/6: How To Achieve Your 2026 Goals Welcome to my 2026 Glow Up Academy series! My new 45-day program comprised of six self-improvement lessons designed to help you achieve your 2026 goals and become your hottest, healthiest, and happiest self. In today's episode let's unpack the common mistakes that people make with their new year's resolutions and how to avoid them to achieve all of your goals in 2026.
In this episode, we break down the most common and frustrating path that ACL athletes take as they move through rehab and quietly fall through the cracks. From early progress that masks deeper problems, to reduced PT frequency, insurance visits/denials, and vague “you're cleared, just ease back in” guidance, this episode pulls back the curtain on why so many athletes feel stuck months down the road. We share what we consistently see after working and consulting with thousands of ACL athletes worldwide, why timelines and protocols fail without objective testing, and how this system fuels re-injury rates. The goal of this episode is simple: help you recognize the red flags early, understand what good ACL care should look like, and make sure 2026 (or whenever you're listening) is the year you stop leaving your ACL rehab to chance and blind trust.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
Your life can completely change in a year if you're committed to changing it. In this video I break down 3 Science Backed Steps to make 2026 the best year of your life. My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me 1:1? Apply Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewform
Most parents don't say they feel defeated.They say they're overwhelmed.They say nothing is working.They wonder what's wrong with them.In this episode, I talk about what defeat actually is and why it feels so intense in parenting and marriage.We separate facts from meaning.We stop making defeat personal.And we use it instead of letting it push us toward quitting.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
In this episode, we breaks down one of the most underestimated factors in ACL recovery: what happens before surgery even begins. As the end of the year approaches and more athletes rush into ACL surgery due to holidays, insurance deductibles, and downtime, this episode explores why preparation, not the surgery itself, is often the difference between smooth momentum and months of frustration. Drawing from hundreds of ACL athletes' experiences, we share the exact themes, systems, and mindset shifts that consistently lead to better early outcomes, quieter knees, and faster long-term progress. Whether you're pre-op, early post-op, or a clinician guiding athletes through this process, this episode reframes ACL surgery as a continuation of momentum, not a starting line, and shows why being proactive beats reactive every single time.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
“Weakness simply means your capacity is lower than what the moment requires.”I recorded this episode in the middle of a full, emotional, end-of-year season. The kind where you want to soak up every moment with your kids, make the holidays meaningful, and still somehow hold it all together… while feeling stretched, tired, and not quite like yourself.And that's exactly why I wanted to talk about weakness.Because what we usually call weakness isn't failure. It isn't a character flaw. And it doesn't mean something is wrong with you as a parent or a human. Most of the time, it simply means the demand of the moment exceeds your current capacity.In this episode, I walk you through how I've learned to understand weakness differently and what actually helps when it shows up, especially during high-demand seasons like the holidays.In this episode, I share:Why weakness tends to surface when life gets full, loud, and emotionalThe reframe that changed everything for me: weakness is about capacity, not characterHow shame turns moments of weakness into yelling, spiraling, shutting down, or controlThe four ways I see parents (and myself) respond to weakness:Projecting it onto our kidsAttacking ourselves with “I should be better”Trying to overpower it with willpowerHiding it and calling it “fine”Why self-attack does not create strength and what it actually does to your nervous systemHow truth and honesty stabilize your body and open the door to growthWhat I do now when I realize my capacity is lower than the moment requiresWhy repair matters more than perfection and what really builds resilience in kidsThe shift I'm inviting you into:Instead of asking yourself, What's wrong with me? Try asking, What support do I need right now?Because capacity can be rebuilt. Regulation can return. And when weakness is met with compassion instead of shame, it often becomes the place where connection deepens and growth begins.What I encourage you to practice this week:Stop running from weakness and get honest about what's happeningReplace criticism with curiosityLead with compassion first because safety is what allows changeDecide what actually needs support, not what needs to be fixedLet go of performance and focus on repair and honesty insteadA question to sit with:Where do you notice weakness showing up for you right now? And what might you need to adjust or ask for so you can show up with more kindness instead of more pressure?You don't need to be strong all the time to be a great parent. You just need to stay honest, keep noticing, and be willing to repair.xoxoAndee :) Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
Your 2026 New Year's HABIT Reset Guide (Self Improvement Edition)This is your sign. You were meant to watch this before 2026.27 minutes that will genuinely change your life.
In this episode, we break down the recent wave of high-profile NFL ACL injuries, including Patrick Mahomes and Micah Parsons, and use them as a powerful lens to challenge how we think about why ACL injuries happen. Instead of chasing simple answers or assigning blame, we unpack the reality that ACL injuries are multifactorial, often unpredictable, and not a personal failure, even for athletes with world-class genetics, training, and resources. The conversation shifts from unproductive hindsight to where our energy actually belongs: rebuilding, reducing re-injury risk, and using the ACL journey as an opportunity to come back stronger, more resilient, and more intentional than before.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
I've interviewed hundreds of the worlds most successful people. From A list celebrities, to 9 figure entrepreneurs, Billionaire founders, psychologists, and everything in between. These are some of the most major lessons i've learned.My IG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesbrackiniv/Want to work with me 1:1? Apply Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx1-ILH2euEUchlEmSSj3ccMc0qR464ZpLlN4W74f5_gq_iw/viewform
When emotions hurt, most of us go straight into fix-it mode. We try to shut it down, numb it out, control our kids, or control the moment. But in this episode, Andee shares why the goal isn't to eliminate “negative” emotions. The goal is to move through them so they can actually complete and release.You'll hear a real-life holiday-season story (cruise chaos, kids growing up, and all the tenderness that comes with it), plus practical tools for what to do when your nervous system is activated and you feel the urge to rush, react, or lecture.Because here's the truth: when emotions become emergencies, you parent like an emergency responder. And connection disappears.In this episode, you'll learn:Why emotions are meant to hurt sometimes, and why that's not a problemThe difference between emotions, feelings, and sensations (in a way that actually makes sense)How “pain about the pain” is what multiplies sufferingThe two most common ways we avoid emotions (and how it shows up in parenting)Why “Let it hurt” is often the most powerful first stepHow to stop outsourcing your regulation to your kidsWhat emotional maturity really is, and how it grows over timeHow to stay connected when your nervous system is in fight-or-flightWhy your child benefits more from your emotional ownership than anything you could sayReal-life examples included:The “clean your room” moment where the real trigger wasn't the mess, it was the fear of not being heardA travel story from Berlin where a nervous system takeover turned into an opportunity for repair, regulation, and connectionKey takeaways to remember:Emotions that are allowed get processed. Emotions that are resisted get complicated.Your child's hard feelings aren't proof something is wrong. They're proof they're human.The goal isn't happiness. The goal is being able to stay present for the full 50/50 of life.Unfelt emotions fester. Felt emotions move through.Emotional strength isn't never getting activated. It's knowing what to do when you are.A question to sit with this week:Where are you treating emotions like emergencies in your home? And what might change if you practiced letting them move through instead of trying to make them stop?If this episode helped you, share it with a friend who's trying to stay calm, connected, and choose humanness this holiday season.Correction is out. Connection is in. And you're not alone.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
This week we are diving into a concept that has completely changed the way I move through my life. It is the difference between low quality problems and high quality problems. Once you learn this, you cannot unsee it.Over the last eighteen months I have been in a season packed with transitions. Business shifts, kids returning and launching, midlife changes, perimenopause, parenting big kids and teens, family health, the holidays, snow, all of it. My brain has been shouting problem at every turn. And for a while, I believed it.Then something clicked. I realized the issue was not that I had too many problems. The issue was the type of problems I was choosing. Some problems drained me and made me feel powerless. Other problems actually grew me and helped me become the next version of myself.In this episode I walk you through how to tell the difference and how to shift into high quality problems on purpose.We cover:• Why your brain is designed to look for problems • How low quality problems keep you stuck and small • How high quality problems expand you and put you back in the driver seat • What this looks like in real life with parenting, marriage, work, health, and identity • Why your child is never the problem • How to choose the problems you want your life to be about • How to stop carrying problems that were never yours to begin withI also guide you through five reflection questions that will help you redefine whatever is on your plate right now in a way that brings clarity, calm, and momentum.If life feels full or heavy or chaotic, this conversation will help you breathe again. You will walk away seeing your problems in a completely new light. You will remember that you are the woman for this life and that the quality of the problems you choose changes everything.If this episode helps you, send it to a friend, share it on Instagram, or just hold it close the next time your brain shouts this is too much. You get to decide the kind of problem solver you are becoming.I love you all. Go connect with your kids and have a beautiful rest of your day.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
In this episode, we break down a powerful message from orthopedic surgeon Dr. Howard Luks - a message every ACL athlete needs to hear. After more than 30 years in the operating room, Dr. Luks says something surprising: "surgery is often the least important part of recovery — rehab is what truly shapes your outcome." We unpack this statement, share why even a “perfect surgery” can fail when rehab is inconsistent, and explain how an average procedure paired with great rehab can lead to outstanding results. Through personal experience, athlete stories, and evidence from the broader orthopedic world, this episode reframes ACL rehab as an active, long-game process - one built on consistent work, smart guidance, and a commitment to rebuilding strength, mobility, and confidence over time. It's a grounded, refreshing reminder that the real turning point is what happens after the operating room.Add these two links for Dr. Howard Luks in the shownotes please:Post: https://x.com/hjluks/status/1945430702033650061 Dr. Luks' Website: https://www.howardluksmd.com/about/ Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
In this episode, we break down one of the most underrated, yet most influential parts of ACL rehab: step count. While most athletes focus on rehab, graft types, or protocol milestones, the real day-to-day needle-mover early on is often the simplest: how much time you spend on your feet. I share the exact step-count framework I use with athletes, including how to set realistic baselines, manage swelling, avoid early setbacks, and apply the “dimmer switch” principle to rebuild tolerance week by week. From crutch progressions to real-life examples of how "short walks" and trips can derail an early-phase knee, this episode gives ACLers and clinicians a practical blueprint for keeping the knee quiet, happy, and ready for the bigger work ahead. If you're in the first 6–12 weeks after injury or surgery, this might be the most important episode you listen to.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.
This week, we are exploring what it really means to practice gratituding in the moment you are in. I'll show you how shifting out of “life will feel better when…” into “this moment matters right now” can change your entire emotional experience.Together, we will look at why it doesn't get better than this, not because everything is perfect, but because the present is the only place your brain can regulate, create, and feel steady. This episode is full of practical, science-backed ways to use gratitude to calm your system, expand your capacity, and stop waiting for the future to finally feel okay.Don't miss this foundational conversation. It just might change the way you show up in every moment moving forward.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
This week, I'm talking about one of the most important emotional skills we can build as parents. I call it Uncertainty Tolerance.After a long Thanksgiving trip, a shut-down freeway, a surprise snowstorm, and a mountain of homemade pies, I found myself thinking about how much of parenting happens in the middle. The middle is the space where we have planted seeds and are waiting for results. The space where we want to feel calm and capable, but instead find ourselves worrying, predicting disaster, or questioning everything.In this episode, I explore why our brains resist uncertainty and why we often reach for familiar failure instead of sitting with the possibility that things might turn out well. I share how this shows up with toddlers, tweens, and teens. I walk you through real examples from Target tantrums to bedtime battles to teenage eye rolls and explain how to anchor yourself so that you can stay present and connected instead of reactive.Here is what I cover in this episode:What Uncertainty Tolerance IsThe ability to remain steady in the in-between space between what you want and when the results actually show up, without collapsing or quitting or rushing into negative predictions.Why Our Brains Crave CertaintyA look at how the human brain tries to avoid the unknown by assuming the worst, and how this habit affects the way we interpret our child's behavior.Why You Cannot Rely on Your Child for CertaintyChildren cannot regulate themselves for us. Their moods, reactions, and choices cannot be our source of stability. We learn to create certainty in ourselves.What You Can Be Certain OfYour heart is good. Your love is real. Your intention is strong. Your presence matters. Your influence is greater than you think. And you can learn anything you need to learn.How to Stay Grounded Through Meltdowns and PushbackI share specific examples from everyday parenting moments and show you how to remain steady even when you do not know what comes next.The Identity Shift That Changes EverythingThe grounding thought that can help you stay centered in any hard moment is this: "I am okay even if this does not work right away. My child is okay even if this does not work right away."This is not resignation. It is leadership. It is connection in action. It is the practice of trusting development more than daily behavior.Uncertainty is not a sign that you are doing anything wrong. It is an invitation to grow. You are becoming more emotionally grounded, more connected, and more confident with every messy moment you stay present for. You are doing beautiful work, even when you cannot see the results yet.Thank you for listening and for showing up for your children in ways that no one sees. You matter. Your work matters. And I believe in the direction you are heading.Now go connect your face-off with your kiddos, and I will see you next time.Learn more here --> https://connectmethodparenting.comNext Steps: Leave a review if you've been enjoying the CMP Podcast My Book: https://cmp.works/1xs My IG: https://cmp.works/ista
In this episode, we celebrate another “AnnKNEEversary” of my ACL surgery and use it as a checkpoint to zoom out on life, rehab, and the people who carry us through both. I share stories from my own journey - missing my senior-year UGA game for surgery, navigating a hip resurfacing, running a growing business, and raising a toddler with another baby on the way—while highlighting how none of it would be possible without a village: family, friends, medical providers, my own remote coach, our ACL Athlete team, and you as part of this community. We revisit last year's theme of “little moments,” then shift into this year's focus on your ACL team, why you shouldn't DIY this process, why you don't have to stay stuck with subpar care, and how changing your inner circle (clinically and personally) can completely change your trajectory. If you've ever felt alone, frustrated, or unsure if you're on the right path in ACL rehab, this conversation will remind you that you're not meant to do this by yourself and that the right people around you can make all the difference.Ways we can connect:My IG: www.instagram.com/ravipatel.dptOur website: www.theaclathlete.comEmail: ravi@theaclathlete.com_________________Submit a topic or a question you'd like me to answer.Check out our website and tons of free ACL resourcesSign up for The ACL Athlete - VALUE Newsletter (an exclusive newsletter packed with value - ACL advice, go-to exercises, ACL research reviews, athlete wins, frameworks we use, mindset coaching, blog articles, podcast episodes, and pre-launch access to some exciting projects we have lined up)1-on-1 Remote ACL Coaching - A clear plan. Structured ACL program. Based on your goals. Expert guidance and support with every step. Objective testing from anywhere in the world.Send me a text and share anything about the podcast - an episode that hit home or how the podcast has helped you in your journey.