Ain’t Dead Yet

Ain’t Dead Yet

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Ain’t Dead Yet episodes

  • Running 406 Miles in a Month: My Journey and Challenges #20
    In this special solo episode of the Ain't Dead Yet podcast, I reflect on personal milestones and answer your questions. August was a game-changer—30 days, 406 miles, and a half-marathon daily. It was a challenge that tested me physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’ll share how I tackled it with a solid training plan, faith, and support from my coach, Matt Johnson. We’ll also revisit lessons from past ultras, what drives me to keep pushing, and what’s ahead: the Brazos Bend 100, the Rocky Raccoon 100, and an exciting April challenge in Roanoke to fight addiction stigma. This marks a new chapter in my fitness journey, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
     
     
    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
    00:26 The August Challenge: 406 Miles in a Month
    04:40 The Mental and Physical Struggles of Running
    10:28 The Why Behind the Challenge
    13:46 The Journey to Ultra Marathons
    17:53 Training and Coaching Insights
    23:03 Upcoming Races and Future Plans
    30:14 Conclusion and Listener Engagement
     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    31 min
  • Why Yo-Yo Diets Don’t Work: Nick’s Journey to a Common Sense Diet #19

    In today's episode of the Ain't Dead Yet podcast, I sit down with Nick Geoppo, a weight loss coach who has profoundly transformed his life. Nick opens up about his deeply personal journey from struggling with obesity and self-sabotage to becoming a dedicated weight loss coach. He shares the hardships he faced growing up, the relentless cycles of losing and gaining weight, and the breakthrough moment inspired by David Goggins that changed everything. Nick and I talk about the importance of proper education around weight loss and why maintaining progress is just as crucial. We explore what it takes to overcome internal battles, the power of visualization, and why authenticity and vulnerability are essential for personal growth and relationships. This conversation is packed with powerful lessons on resilience, self-improvement, and the impact of conquering one's inner demons.

     

    0:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
    00:56 Nick Geoppo's Early Life and Struggles with Obesity
    02:28 College Years and Weight Fluctuations
    04:04 Post-College Challenges and Rock Bottom
    05:54 Turning Point and Major Life Changes
    11:41 Discovering Running and Initial Success
    13:52 Health Scare and Reevaluating Lifestyle
    17:03 Social Media Breakthrough and New Mission
    22:45 Reflections on Diet Culture and Personal Growth
    29:33 Running as a Metaphor for Life
    37:22 The Mirror Moment: A Turning Point
    37:59 Daily Struggles and Small Victories
    39:04 The Yo-Yo Mindset and Overeating
    40:33 Reframing the Relationship with Food
    43:01 Body Dysmorphia and Self-Perception
    44:23 The Power of Positive Visualization
    47:52 Turning Negativity into Positive Action
    01:01:56 Embracing Scars as Trophies
    01:10:02 Authenticity and Owning Your Story
    01:12:48 Embracing Vulnerability and Helping Others
    01:13:24 Addressing Childhood Trauma and Divorce
    01:15:18 Breaking the Cycle for Future Generations
    01:16:17 Personal Reflections on Family and Legacy
    01:18:10 The Importance of Visualization and Self-Belief
    01:25:15 The Role of Hardship in Personal Growth
    01:38:57 The Power of Authenticity and Vulnerability
    01:46:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
     

    Connect with Nick

    Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/nickgeoppo/

     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 49 min
  • From Suicidal Thoughts to Saving Lives: Journey of Resilience with Jimmy Wise #18

    In this episode of the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast, I welcome a special guest Jimmy Wise—a passionate mental health advocate, founder and CEO of Uplift Lifestyle, and an officer in the Austin Police Department. Together, we dive deep into Jimmy's multifaceted journey, from his profound struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts in his early teens to his unwavering commitment to helping others through Uplift Lifestyle. We explore the importance of community, the therapeutic power of physical pain, and the unique challenges faced by first responders. Throughout the conversation, we share personal stories and insights on maintaining mental well-being, offering a raw and inspiring dialogue that emphasizes vulnerability, resilience, and the simple yet powerful act of checking in on others. This episode not only sheds light on critical mental health issues but also underscores the significance of human connection and empathy.

     

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
    03:45 Jimmy's Background and Early Life
    05:41 College Years and Mental Health Struggles
    07:24 Transition from Baseball and Finding New Purpose
    18:24 The Impact of 9/11 and First Responder Experiences
    37:31 Stuck in a Relationship
    39:02 The Decision to Walk Away
    40:19 Reflecting on Past Relationships
    42:34 Struggles with Depression and Recovery
    45:28 The Importance of Purpose
    49:58 Mental Health and Support Systems
    57:47 The Power of Reaching Out
    01:11:16 The Hidden Struggles of Mental Health
    01:11:44 The Unique Challenges Faced by Police Officers
    01:12:37 Personal Reflections on Mental Health
    01:13:36 The Importance of Community and Support
    01:15:16 Finding Purpose and Identity Beyond the Badge
    01:19:07 Self-Care and Overcoming Burnout
    01:22:32 The Power of Simple Pleasures and Connections
    01:34:15 Supporting Fellow Officers and Mental Health Resources
    01:44:25 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

     

    Connect with Jimmy

    Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/_jimmywise

     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 46 min
  • The 30 Day Challenge w/ Brett Ender #17
    Today I'm joined by my good friend and Cohost of The Meat Mafia Podcast, Brett Ender. We discuss the 30 day challenge we recently completed and the origins, principles and impact it had in our lives. We also get into discipline, personal growth, healthy eating, finding motivation, gratitude practice, the power of a strong friend circle and much more.
     
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast
    00:03 Introducing the 30-Day Challenge
    00:34 Brett Ender's Journey and Reflections
    01:19 The Eclipse and the Birth of the Challenge
    02:35 The Initial Guidelines and Social Media Impact
    04:04 Personal Transformations and Lessons Learned
    05:09 Struggles and Realizations
    10:53 The Kratom Addiction Story
    17:27 The Feel Free Controversy
    21:39 Principles of the 30-Day Challenge
    43:20 Morning Motivation and Overcoming Fear
    44:09 The Power of Showing Up
    44:35 Embracing Challenges and Growth
    46:28 The Importance of Daily Movement
    48:21 Facing Excuses and Finding Motivation
    56:31 The Role of Suffering in Personal Growth
    01:00:33 The Benefits of Cold Exposure
    01:05:26 Healthy Eating and Avoiding Cheat Meals
    01:11:35 The Impact of No Fap on Life
    01:17:30 Full Transparency and Personal Struggles
    01:18:16 The Importance of Retention
    01:19:46 Researching NoFap and Personal Experiences
    01:21:52 The Christian Component and Relationship Challenges
    01:22:55 The Impact of Porn on Relationships
    01:23:30 Conspiracy Theories and Government Influence
    01:24:03 The Power of Retention and Manhood
    01:25:46 Complimenting Strangers and Giving Hugs
    01:30:15 Calling Family and Friends
    01:40:38 Daily Photo Challenge
    01:44:42 The Importance of a Strong Circle
    01:47:14 Final Thoughts and Merchandise
     

    Connect with Brett

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/MeatMafiaMedia

    Twitter | https://x.com/MeatMafiaBrett

    YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@TheMeatMafia

     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 55 min
  • Fitness, Sobriety, and Authenticity w/ Emily Samuel #16
    Today I'm joined by Emily Samuel, an entrepreneur and celebrity fitness trainer, revealing her transformative journey from addiction to success. Emily shares experiences from her difficult upbringing, struggles with substance abuse, and her path to sobriety, emphasizing the pivotal role of fitness and supportive connections in her life. We talk about recovering addict mentalities, self-critique, and the constant battle with issues like body dysmorphia. We also discuss the significance of vulnerability in both personal and professional realms and critique the unrealistic standards set by social media.
     
    00:00 Welcome to the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast
    00:06 Meet Emily Samuel: Fitness Expert and Celebrity Trainer
    00:31 Connecting Through Social Media and Sobriety
    01:46 Emily's Journey: From Adoption to Addiction
    02:37 Turning Point: Jail and Sobriety
    03:51 Fitness as a Lifeline
    04:33 A New Beginning in Texas
    05:37 Reflecting on Childhood and Family Dynamics
    10:24 High School and the Start of Substance Abuse
    11:36 The Struggle with Xanax and Self-Worth
    13:53 Realizing the Need for Change
    21:23 Fitness as a New Addiction
    37:38 The Power of Environment and Relationships
    43:02 Navigating Friendships with Growth
    43:53 Embracing Fear and Failure
    44:40 The Reality of Success and Trust
    45:56 Coping with Trauma and Adjusting Lifestyle
    47:02 The Importance of Genuine Relationships
    50:13 Balancing Social Life and Personal Space
    58:47 Addiction and Relationships
    01:15:42 Understanding Childhood Influences
    01:16:15 The Impact of a Toxic Relationship
    01:17:08 Navigating New Relationships
    01:18:13 Balancing Personal Time and Relationships
    01:19:51 The Importance of Authenticity
    01:23:08 Defining Masculine and Feminine Roles
    01:25:42 The Role of Authenticity in Fitness
    01:40:35 The Influence of Social Media on Fitness Perception
    01:45:07 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics
     
     
     
    Connect with Emily
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/emilyy_fitness/
     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 51 min
  • From Struggle to Strength w/Olivia Bray #15
    In this episode of the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast, Olivia Bray, a 20-time All-American collegiate swimmer at the University of Texas, shares her candid and inspiring journey through mental health challenges. Olivia, along with the hosts, delves into personal experiences with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and self-harm. They discuss the importance of seeking help, the complexities of antidepressants, the crucial role of therapy, and the impact of social media on mental health. Olivia's story of resilience encompasses her battles with nutrition, outpatient therapy, and the intense pressures of competitive sports, including the Olympic trials. This episode aims to break the stigma around mental health, providing wisdom and inspiration to those on a similar path towards recovery.
     
    00:00 Welcome Back to the Podcast
    01:18 Introducing Olivia Bray
    03:13 Childhood and Early Swimming Journey
    04:54 Commitment to Swimming
    07:13 Recruitment and College Decision
    16:30 Nutritional Challenges and ARFID
    25:10 Therapy and Seeking Help
    51:58 Panic Attacks and Swimming
    01:00:38 Taking a Break from Butterfly
    01:01:27 Facing the Fear of Swimming Again
    01:03:28 Overcoming Panic Attacks
    01:06:16 Struggles with Anxiety and Introversion
    01:09:48 Dealing with Depression and Suicidal Thoughts
    01:14:50 Intensive Outpatient Therapy Experience
    01:19:12 The Role of Antidepressants
    01:24:28 The Comfort of Darkness
    01:38:23 The Decision to Continue Swimming
    01:53:07 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans
     
    Connect with Olivia 
    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/oliviaabray/
     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 56 min
  • The Path to Redemption w/Shawn Livingston #14

    In this episode of the Ain't Dead Yet podcast, I'm joined by Shawn Livingston, who recounts his inspiring journey from addiction and a potential 20-year prison sentence to finding hope and purpose through recovery and running. Sean discusses his challenging upbringing in Youngstown, Ohio, military service, and the crucial moments that led to his transformation. The conversation explores how the recovery community and the discipline of ultra-marathons played key roles in his personal growth. Sean also shares his experience with the documentary '100 Miles to Redemption,' which captures his story of moving from addiction to becoming a source of inspiration for others. Through his narrative, Shawn highlights the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, the structure provided by physical fitness, and the positive impacts of sharing one's journey to aid others in their recovery process. The episode is a testament to resilience, the power of physical activity in sobriety, and finding passion and community beyond addiction.

     

    00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

    02:57 Shawn Livingston's Background and Upbringing

    05:42 Discovering a Passion for Basketball

    08:42 Struggles with Addiction and Early Exposure

    20:19 First Stint in Rehab and Military Service

    34:52 Understanding Prison Mentality

    36:08 Realization and Transformation in Prison

    37:59 Struggles and Reflections Post-Prison

    39:55 Journey Through Treatment and Recovery

    44:03 Discovering Running as a New Path

    46:32 The Importance of Finding a Passion

    50:46 Breaking Free from the Recovery Bubble

    01:00:43 The Power of Community and New Beginnings

    01:06:23 Discovering New Passions in Sobriety

    01:10:48 The Power of Running and Overcoming Doubts

    01:12:53 Building Resilience Through Running

    01:17:52 The Importance of Community in Recovery

    01:24:50 Sharing My Story: From Addiction to Redemption

    01:27:21 The Impact of Vulnerability and Documentary

    01:37:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

     

    Connect with Shawn

    Website | https://iamredemption.com/

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/iam.redemption/

    YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@IAm.Redemption

     

    Connect with Trip

    Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/

    Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1 hr 42 min
  • The Regenerative Power of Agriculture w/ Ryan Griggs ADY # 13

    On this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Ryan Griggs, who shared an emotional and inspiring tale of overcoming adversity. From a challenging childhood in southern Indiana to significant personal losses, including the passing of his brother and mother, Ryan opened up about the severe health issues he faced and the inefficiencies of the healthcare system that left him frustrated.

    Despite these hardships, Ryan found solace and purpose through rigorous self-exploration and risk-taking in various lifestyles, such as veganism, music, and agriculture. His transformative journey eventually led him to launch 'Regenissance,' an apparel brand that merges regenerative agricultural practices with cultural renaissance values.

    (00:00) Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

    (01:03) Reconnecting with Ryan Griggs
    (02:25) Ryan's Early Childhood and Family Dynamics
    (04:15) Struggles with Confidence and Insecurities
    (11:36) Moving to Austin and Career Beginnings
    (21:49) Pandemic and Family Health Challenges
    (45:34) Caretaking and Personal Sacrifices
    (51:19) A Brother's Struggle with Terminal Illness
    (52:49) A Near-Death Experience and Emergency Surgery
    (54:33) The Harsh Realities of Long-Term Care
    (57:28) The Final Days in Hospice
    (01:01:18) Life After Loss: Coping and Escapism
    (01:06:25) A Journey into Regenerative Agriculture
    (01:12:33) Health Scares and the Healthcare System
    (01:18:57) Building a New Life and Business
    (01:34:07) Finding Faith and Purpose
    (01:44:35) Conclusion and Reflections

    Stay connected with Ryan

    Ryan's IG

    The Regenaissance

    Trip's IG

    Ain't Dead Yet IG



    1 hr 51 min
  • Confronting the Fear of Flying: A Personal Journey w/ Brett Ender ADY # 12

    In this episode of the 'Ain't Dead Yet' podcast, the host and repeat guest Brett Ender dive into the host's intense fear of flying. Despite sharing the logical understandings and safety statistics of air travel, the host reveals how this fear has persisted and evolved from childhood experiences to adult anxieties. We explore the concept of creating support groups for anxious flyers, alternative coping mechanisms, and the potential benefits of facing fears with the help of friends.

    The discussion provides a deep, relatable look into confronting and managing irrational fears, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and continuous self-improvement.

    (00:00) Welcome to the Ain't Dead Yet Podcast

    (00:26) Facing the Fear of Flying
    (03:02) Childhood Memories and Early Flights
    (04:10) College Years and the Fear Intensifies
    (07:31) Coping Mechanisms and Rituals
    (09:10) Sober Flying and Building Confidence
    (16:00) Airport Rituals and OCD Tendencies
    (21:38) The Importance of Distraction
    (23:05) Unexpected Connections on Flights
    (23:28) Facing Fear and Finding Faith
    (25:36) The Anxiety of Flying
    (26:03) Seeking Control in the Cockpit
    (28:21) Support Systems for Anxious Flyers
    (36:01) The Role of Media and Perception
    (43:53) Therapy and Coping Mechanisms
    (45:48) Embracing Vulnerability and Progress
    (46:18) Concluding Thoughts and Future Hopes

    49 min
  • Leading with Love, Concern, and Compassion w/ Kallup McCoy II ADY #11

    In this episode of the 'Ain't Dead Yet' podcast, we hear from Kallup, who shares his powerful journey from addiction to recovery. Kallup's story includes experiencing domestic violence, substance abuse, and a transformative turning point following his father's death, which spurred his motivation to change. Despite numerous setbacks, Kallup found strength through faith, recovery programs, and running. This conversation highlights the importance of resilience, community, familial bonds, and emotional awareness. The discussion also touches on initiatives like documentary screenings and a new recovery center in North Carolina, emphasizing support and holistic recovery approaches. Tune in for an inspiring narrative of overcoming adversity and the impactful message Kallup now spreads.


    (00:07) Instant Connection with a Special Guest
    (02:24) Powerful Quotes and Personal Reflections
    (02:49) The Journey Through Suffering and Courage
    (08:00) The Role of Resistance in Growth
    (12:50) Childhood and Family Background
    (23:28) Early Struggles and Addiction
    (28:07) Descent into Darkness
    (39:16) A Father's Belief and Final Moments
    (44:43) Overdose and Turning Point
    (47:36) Spiritual Awakening in Jail
    (52:27) Transforming Through Faith and Self-Improvement
    (52:37) A New Mindset in Cherokee Jail
    (54:33) Marriage and New Beginnings
    (55:14) Discovering David Goggins and Ironman
    (56:21) Remember the Removal Bike Ride
    (57:54) Running to Oklahoma: A Journey of Growth
    (01:00:34) Support and Signs from God
    (01:03:58) Struggles with Relapse and Recovery
    (01:16:13) Building a Recovery Center
    (01:30:51) The Importance of Community and Boundaries
    (01:39:13) Final Reflections and Future Plans

    Stay connected with Kallup

    Kallup's IG

    Rez Hope Recovery Non-Profit

    Trip's IG

    Ain't Dead Yet IG
    1 hr 44 min

About Ain’t Dead Yet

From the publisher's feed

This podcast is to help people that are struggling by sharing vulnerable life experiences, thus ensuring that people struggling know that they are not alone, the stories told on this page aren’t just…