Episode Summary

In this episode, we're joined by licensed therapist, speaker, and coach Jason VanRuler for a powerful conversation on what it really means to be mentally fit—and how mental and physical fitness can (and should) work together.

We talk about:

• What mental fitness is and why it's trainable

• How physical and mental strength influence each other

• The role of mindset in parenting, marriage, and business

• Why recovery isn't weakness—it's part of the process

• The mental reps Jason uses to stay grounded and strong as a husband, father, and leader

Whether you're a beginner, an achiever, or somewhere in between—this episode will challenge you to look at fitness differently and build a life that's strong from the inside out.

Topics Covered

1. What Is Mental Fitness?

Jason breaks down what it means to train your mind like a muscle—and how his view of mental strength has evolved over time.

2. Mental vs. Physical: What's the Difference?

We dig into how these two forms of strength differ, where they overlap, and what people often get wrong about each.

3. The Power of Transferability

Can working out help your mental health? Can mindset shifts accelerate your fitness? The answer is yes—and we share why.

4. Mindset in Marriage, Business & Parenting

Jason shares how mental fitness tools impact all areas of life—from communication in marriage to leadership in business and showing up as a dad.

5. Reps & Recovery

Just like muscles need rest, so does your mind. Learn the signs of when to push vs. when to pause.

6. Jason's Mental Fitness Journey

We hear what has tested Jason the most in recent years—and what tools helped him grow through it.

7. Final Takeaways

Jason shares his best advice for couples who want to build real strength—physically, mentally, and relationally.

Favorite Quotes "Mental fitness is just like physical fitness. If you don't train it, it gets weak." – Jason VanRuler

"Most people think rest is quitting. It's actually preparing." – Chris Mello

"Being Marriage Fit means we're choosing to stay strong together—even when it's hard." – Annie Mello

Connect with Jason

Website: https://www.jasonvr.com/

Instagram: @jason.vanruler

Challenge of the Week

Pick one way to train your mental fitness this week.

• Take a walk without your phone

• Practice a tech-free dinner

• Share something vulnerable with your spouse

• Journal one thing you're avoiding — and take action

Subscribe & Review

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