LIMITLESS Podcast

Before Sara Blakely built Spanx into a billion-dollar brand, she was selling fax machines door to door in Florida. At 26, after failed attempts at law school and other career paths, she pulled her car to the side of the road and had a realization: she was in the wrong movie.

She didn’t know exactly what the right direction was yet. She just knew this wasn’t it.

That moment is at the heart of this episode.

A back azimuth is a navigation tool used to reverse direction, regain your bearings, and figure out where you actually are. In this episode of LIMITLESS, Rod and Kerry use that idea to explore a question most of us eventually face: how do you know when to keep pushing, when to pause, and when changing direction is actually the smarter move?

From Shackleton’s Turnback Glacier and Kerry’s turnaround on Glacier Peak to Vera Wang, Scott O’Grady, career changes, recovery, failure, values, and the people who help keep us oriented, this conversation is about how to get off course without losing yourself. 

In this episode:

•  Why turning around is not always the same as quitting 
•  How Sara Blakely learned to separate failure from identity 
•  Why your worth should not rise and fall with your performance 
•  Switchbacks, false summits, and nonlinear progress 
•  How values and your deeper “why” can serve as landmarks 
•  Why recovery is part of performance 
•  How to tell whether you need to push through or change course 
•  The role trusted people can play as anchors and waypoints 
•  Why teams need to reorient before rushing to solutions 

The goal is not to never get off course. The goal is to recognize it, get your bearings, and choose your next direction with intention.

Sometimes the turnaround is part of the route.

LIMITLESS is hosted by Rod Price and Kerry McCarter, co-authors of From Stuck to Unstoppable: The LEAP Method to Living a Peak Performing Life.

Learn more at PeakPerformingLife.com

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your own needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988. If you need emergency medical attention, call 911.

In this inspiring episode of The Limitless Podcast, Rod and Kerry sit down with three remarkable mountaineers and lifelong adventurers: Jim, Eileen, and Faye. Together, they share stories from decades of climbing, exploring, failing, returning, laughing, suffering, and finding meaning in the mountains. 

Faye, who has climbed thousands of peaks and completed major Washington mountain lists, reflects on a life shaped by perseverance, curiosity, and the simple drive to keep going. Jim and Eileen add their own powerful perspective on trust, partnership, planning, risk, humor, and the kind of friendship that is forged through shared challenge. 

This conversation is about much more than climbing. It is about resilience, aging with purpose, adapting when life changes, building relationships you can trust, and discovering that adventure does not end just because the route looks different. Whether you are a climber, hiker, outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking for motivation to keep moving forward, this episode is a reminder that we are capable of more than we think, and we do not have to climb alone. 

In this episode, we sit down with Tommy Boyer-Kendrick, one of the most respected and impactful coaches in the Spokane community, for a powerful conversation about leadership, coaching, and what it truly means to serve others.

Tommy’s journey didn’t start with spotlight or status. He began cleaning locker rooms and bathrooms, working for free, and learning by observation. Over time, he went on to coach elite professional athletes at the highest levels — and then made the deliberate decision to walk away from that world to choose family, purpose, and deeper impact.

This conversation goes far beyond athletics. It’s about identity, character, and human development.

We talk about:

• Why consistency, discipline, and habits matter more than intensity
• What great coaching really is, and where the word “coach” actually comes from
• Leading through service, not authority
• Building belief in people who don’t yet believe in themselves
• Coaching character, not just performance
• Process over outcomes, especially in seasons of failure and loss
• Helping young people perform under pressure, defeat, and disappointment
• Why community, belonging, and relationships matter more than wins
• Choosing purpose over ego, fame, and prestige

Tommy shares deeply personal stories about his upbringing, his mother’s example of grit and humility, his time at West Point, his years coaching professional athletes, and the moment he chose to come home and build something meaningful from the ground up.

This episode is for coaches, parents, leaders, mentors, and anyone who believes that real growth is built through consistency, service, and showing up — even when the scoreboard says otherwise.

Listener note: This episode includes discussion of real-life challenges, pressure, failure, and emotional experiences. If you or someone you know is struggling and needs immediate help, please contact 988 in the U.S. or your local emergency services.

Why do the hard moments change us the most?

In this episode, Rod and Kerry dive into the reality of “embracing the suck”—the uncomfortable, painful, discouraging moments that test your resolve and shape your character. Drawing from their experiences in the Marine Corps, mountaineering, marathons, business leadership, and personal growth, they break down:

• Why discomfort is a necessary part of growth
• The military roots of “embrace the suck”
• What mountaineering teaches you about mindset and perseverance
• How the LEAP framework applies when everything feels hard
• Why people underestimate their own capacity
• What science says about pushing past perceived limits
• Real tools for staying in the fight when you want to quit

Whether you’re in a season of progress or a season of pain, this episode will push you, encourage you, and remind you that the reservoir inside you is bigger than you think.

Mental Health Disclaimer:
This conversation includes references to stress, physical challenge, military experiences, and personal adversity. If you’re struggling, overwhelmed, or in crisis, please reach out for help.
For immediate support, call 988 (Veterans press 1), or dial 911 in an emergency. You are not alone — real help is available right now. 

In this powerful episode of LIMITLESS, Rod and Kerry sit down with Marine veteran, trauma survivor, and EMDR consultant Chris Brown, LICSW for one of the most raw and meaningful conversations we’ve ever had on the show. 

Chris takes us inside his journey—from the intensity of combat to the blast that changed everything, to waking up years later with the weight of PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and survivor’s guilt. But this isn’t just a story about trauma. It’s a story about rebuilding a life, rediscovering purpose, and turning pain into mission. 

We talk about:
 • The combat deployment that left a permanent mark on his mind and body
 • What it’s really like to come home when part of you is still on the battlefield
 • PTSD, flashbacks, and the fight for normalcy
 • How EMDR therapy helps the brain heal
 • Why performance and trauma recovery are deeply connected
 • The nonprofit he founded to help veterans and first responders reclaim their purpose
 • The mindset shifts required to lead yourself out of darkness
 • And what real resilience actually looks like in the wild 

This episode will challenge you, encourage you, and maybe even change the way you understand trauma and recovery. Chris’s story is one of transformation, courage, and the long walk home after war. 

If you’ve ever struggled, or you love someone who has, this is an episode you won’t forget. 

WARNING

 This episode includes discussions of trauma, combat experiences, PTSD, and other emotionally challenging topics. If you feel overwhelmed at any time, please pause and take care of yourself. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or 911 for immediate emergency assistance. This podcast does not provide therapy and is not a substitute for professional mental health support. 

In this episode of the LIMITLESS Podcast, Rod and Kerry dig deep into why failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s the process that creates it.

Anchored in the ACT stage of the LEAP framework, they explore how taking action inevitably brings setbacks, and how reframing those moments as teachers can transform your growth journey.

Through mountaineering close-calls, marathon lessons, and stories of both professional and personal failures, Rod and Kerry share candidly about what they’ve learned: humility, resilience, grit, and the power of the comeback. Alongside their own experiences, they weave in research from Carol Dweck (Mindset), Angela Duckworth (Grit), Jim Murphy (Inner Excellence), and Jim Whittaker (A Life on the Edge).

The conversation also touches on legendary climbs like Meru, strongman competition setbacks, and why the mountain will always be there tomorrow. The episode closes with a guided mindfulness exercise, helping listeners reflect on their own “mountain” and find meaning in the climb.

If you’ve ever turned back short of your goal, felt the sting of missing a target by seconds, or wrestled with the fear of trying at all, this conversation will challenge, comfort, and inspire you to keep climbing.

Resources & Mentions

• Carol Dweck, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success
• Angela Duckworth, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
• Jim Murphy, Inner Excellence
• Jim Whittaker, A Life on the Edge
• Michael Easter, The Comfort Crisis
• Documentary: Meru (Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, Renan Ozturk)

Peak Performing Life™ (PPL) programs, content, materials, and this podcast are intended for educational and life-enhancement purposes only. They do not provide, nor are they a substitute for, professional therapy, medical advice, nutritional counseling, or wilderness training. PPL does not offer mental health therapy, medical care, nutrition guidance, or climbing and mountaineering instruction.

Participants and listeners are encouraged to seek professional advice and training from qualified providers for their specific needs. Engaging in outdoor activities carries inherent risks; ensure you have the appropriate training, experience, and safety measures in place.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your personal needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, and for medical emergencies, dial 911.

In this episode, Rod Price and Kerry McCarter delve into the OODA loop, a decision-making framework that stands for Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act. They discuss its origins in military strategy and its applications in everyday life and leadership. The conversation explores the importance of quick decision-making, overcoming fear, and the role of community support in personal growth. They emphasize the need for accountability and aligning decisions with personal values, while also highlighting the significance of practice in mastering decision-making skills. The episode concludes with a challenge for listeners to apply the OODA loop in their own lives.

Peak Performing Life™ (PPL) programs, content, materials, and this podcast are intended for educational and life-enhancement purposes only. They do not provide, nor are they a substitute for, professional therapy, medical advice, nutritional counseling, or wilderness training. PPL does not offer mental health therapy, medical care, nutrition guidance, or climbing and mountaineering instruction.

Participants and listeners are encouraged to seek professional advice and training from qualified providers for their specific needs. Engaging in outdoor activities carries inherent risks; ensure you have the appropriate training, experience, and safety measures in place.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your personal needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, and for medical emergencies, dial 911.

In this episode, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Brooke and James, two extraordinary adventurers who have built not only a life together but a thriving business born from a shared love of travel, grit, and growth.

From solo expeditions across the world's most rugged landscapes to transforming a passion project into a business, Brooke and James share their candid journey of pushing past limits, embracing failure, and living life without compromise. Their stories from the peaks of Mont Blanc and Aconcagua to their deep reflections on resilience, partnership, and personal evolution will challenge you to rethink what’s possible in your own life.

Get ready to be inspired by their courage, authenticity, and relentless pursuit of a life without limits.

Peak Performing Life™ (PPL) programs, content, materials, and this podcast are intended for educational and life-enhancement purposes only. They do not provide, nor are they a substitute for, professional therapy, medical advice, nutritional counseling, or wilderness training. PPL does not offer mental health therapy, medical care, nutrition guidance, or climbing and mountaineering instruction.

Participants and listeners are encouraged to seek professional advice and training from qualified providers for their specific needs. Engaging in outdoor activities carries inherent risks; ensure you have the appropriate training, experience, and safety measures in place.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your personal needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, and for medical emergencies, dial 911.

In this episode of Limitless, Rod Price and Kerry McCarter explore the journey of self-actualization, the impact of personal values on decision-making, and the power of goal setting. They break down Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, redefine SMART goals with a fresh perspective, and tackle the fear of failure that holds many people back.

Using real-life stories and mountaineering as a metaphor, Rod and Kerry discuss how to develop resilience, track habits effectively, and cultivate a growth mindset to push past challenges.

🔥 Key Takeaways:
✅ Self-Actualization & Growth Mindset – Unlocking your full potential is a lifelong process.
✅ Values & Decision-Making – Your core values drive your goals and actions.
✅ Redefining SMART Goals – Introducing a new framework for meaningful, aligned, and trackable goals.
✅ Fear of Failure – Reframe failure as a stepping stone to success.
✅ Resilience & Adaptability – Overcoming setbacks and learning from them.
✅ Habit Tracking for Success – The importance of small, consistent actions.
✅ Leadership & Goal Execution – How to take inventory of skills and navigate career growth.

🚀 Featured Concepts:
🔹 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs & how it applies to everyday life.
🔹 The Johari Window & how self-awareness can accelerate growth.
🔹 Practical strategies for overcoming procrastination & limiting beliefs.
🔹 The role of habit tracking in creating lasting change.

Peak Performing Life™ (PPL) programs, content, and materials are intended for educational and life enhancement purposes only. They are not a substitute for professional therapy, medical advice, nutritional guidance, or wilderness training. PPL does not provide mental health therapy, medical advice, nutrition counseling, or climbing and mountaineering guidance. Participants are encouraged to seek professional advice and training from qualified providers for their specific needs. Engaging in outdoor activities carries inherent risks; ensure you have the appropriate training, experience, and safety measures in place.

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your own needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis text or call 988, and if you need medical attention, dial 911 from your phone.

🎙 Hosted by Rod Price & Kerry McCarter

Episode Overview

In this episode of the LIMITLESS Podcast, hosts Kerry McCarter & Rod Price sit down with Jim and Eileen Brisbine, a couple who embody the spirit of adventure and peak performance. They share their unique perspectives on climbing, writing, and documenting outdoor experiences, emphasizing the power of resilience, teamwork, and storytelling.

The conversation explores the concept of the explorer gene, the impact of nature on mental well-being, and how relationships are strengthened through shared challenges in the mountains. From thrilling climbing adventures to lessons learned from setbacks, Jim and Eileen’s journey offers inspiration for adventurers and couples alike.

Key Takeaways

✅ Different Writing Styles – Eileen focuses on storytelling and entertainment, while Jim’s approach is technical and informative.
✅ Passion for the Outdoors – Both share a deep love for climbing and outdoor adventures.
✅ The Power of Photography – Capturing moments in nature helps preserve memories and tell their story.
✅ The ‘Explorer Gene’ – A shared drive for adventure fuels their climbing experiences.
✅ Relationships & Adventure – Outdoor experiences can strengthen bonds and deepen relationships.
✅ Tent Life Stories – Unforgettable moments and challenges arise while living in a tent during expeditions.
✅ Nature’s Impact on Well-being – The calming effect of the outdoors supports mental clarity and resilience.
✅ Communication is Key – Essential for both climbing partnerships and successful relationships.
✅ Climbing as a Journey – Breaking challenges into manageable pieces helps navigate both the mountains and life.
✅ Lessons from Setbacks – Every climbing experience, whether successful or not, is a learning opportunity.
✅ Self-Reliance & Teamwork – Balancing independence with trusting your partner is crucial.
✅ Inspiring Others – Sharing their journey online encourages others to embrace outdoor adventures.

Peak Performing Life™ (PPL) programs, content, materials, and this podcast are intended for educational and life-enhancement purposes only. They do not provide, nor are they a substitute for, professional therapy, medical advice, nutritional counseling, or wilderness training. PPL does not offer mental health therapy, medical care, nutrition guidance, or climbing and mountaineering instruction.

Participants and listeners are encouraged to seek professional advice and training from qualified providers for their specific needs. Engaging in outdoor activities carries inherent risks; ensure you have the appropriate training, experience, and safety measures in place.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any mental health or medical condition. Always consult a licensed healthcare or mental health professional for your personal needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988, and for medical emergencies, dial 911.