Men Talking Mindfulness

Jon's Fitness Journey - July Check-in

In this honest conversation, Jon and Will break down what it really takes to transform, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.

Jon opens up about his journey over the past six months: the hard-earned muscle, the silent progress of visceral fat loss, and the surprising data from his latest DEXA scan. But this episode isn’t about hitting numbers. It’s about what those numbers reveal — and what they hide.

Topics include:

• Why Jon’s “heavier” now… but healthier

• The critical difference between weight loss and fat loss

• How body composition scans changed Jon’s approach to fitness

• The role of discipline, identity, and emotional honesty in real transformation

• Why fitness goals should be about freedom, not punishment

Whether you’re trying to get lean, get healthy, or just get back in the fight — this episode is a reminder that the real journey starts when you stop chasing quick fixes… and start owning your story.

🎧 Hit play and come walk the long road with us.

Timestamps:

00:00 Jon's Fitness Journey Introduction

03:00 Challenges with Diet and Discipline

06:01 Understanding Carbohydrate Needs

09:03 DEXA Scan Results and Body Composition

11:45 Visceral Fat and Health Metrics

14:50 Understanding Visceral Fat and Health Metrics

18:12 The Impact of Weight Loss on Sleep Quality

21:27 Exploring Supplements and Their Effects

25:22 The Importance of Sleep and Recovery

26:57 Tracking Progress and Dietary Adjustments

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Former Navy SEAL, NFL player, and entrepreneur Clint Bruce opens up about the war most men never talk about—the battle to stay real in a world that rewards performance.

From the ball field to the battlefield to the boardroom, Clint reveals how chasing an image nearly broke him, and why authenticity is the hardest - and most important—fight of all.

Throughout this raw conversation, we explore purpose, transition, the power of curiosity, and what it really means to define your own high ground.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching will get you off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions.

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ 

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
02:19 - From Football MVP to Leadership Advocate
03:24 - Grounding Practices and Personal Reflections
04:40 - Finding and Maintaining Your High Ground
06:36 - Navigating Life's Maps: Lessons from the Field
12:08 - Lessons from Battlefields to Boardrooms
15:16 - Understanding the Human Performance Systems
17:33 - Navigating Identity and Purpose in Business
19:12 - From High-Speed Feedback to Uncertainty
23:33 - The Importance of Curiosity and Asking for Help
26:54 - Embracing Hardship and Overcoming Quit Mentality
30:19 - The Achievement Equation: Angles, Allies, and Advantages
33:21 - Forging Camaraderie Through Suffering and Curiosity
46:13 - Self-Awareness and Intentionality in Personal Choices
47:21 - Intentionalism and Self-Awareness in Running
01:33:04 -  A Journey of Remembrance and Celebration
01:38:19 - Choosing Sadness: The Power of Authenticity and Connection
01:46:49 - Awkward Lunch and Draft Dilemmas
01:47:16 - Overcoming Doubt: A Football Player's Journey
01:48:05 - Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Men Talking Mindfulness aims to empower men's personal and emotional growth through mindfulness. We offer engaging content and practical tools in a supportive community, guiding men toward a balanced, mindful, and fulfilling life.

Here's the link to the full show: https://pod.fo/e/2a17ed

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What do you do when your mind is no longer your own?

Jon and Will sit down with Daniel Carcillo -  former NHL enforcer turned mental health advocate -  to explore the transformative potential of psilocybin therapy (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms). Daniel shares his deeply personal healing journey from trauma, concussions, and identity loss to clarity, mindfulness, and purpose through the use of psychedelic mushrooms. Together, they unpack the science, stigma, and spirituality behind psilocybin, the role of community in recovery, and how finding presence can unlock emotional breakthroughs. This is a vulnerable, data-informed conversation on healing, letting go, and building a future where natural medicine is accessible to all.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions.

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ 

Timestamps:
00:00 – The Healing Power of Mushrooms
03:08 – Journey of a Stanley Cup Champion
06:02 – Concussions and Their Impact
08:52 – Finding Hope in Psilocybin
12:05 – The Wisdom of Plant Medicine
15:00 – Letting Go of Identity

17:48 – The Present Moment and Mindfulness
21:05 – Building Community and Purpose
23:54 – The Role of Breath and Nutrition
41:13 – Detaching from Ego and Embracing Trust
44:31 – The Experience Onward Center: A New Approach to Healing
50:55 – Addressing Stigma Around Psychedelics
58:24 – Understanding Dosage and Strain
01:10:18 – Creating a Personal Relationship with Psychedelics
01:15:58 – Expanding Access to Psilocybin Treatment

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Resharing an episode from YouTube Channel Leadership Sound Bites with Host Michelle Smith. (Thank you for this opportunity, Michelle!!)

Here, we dive deep into the wisdom of Dostoevsky and discuss the trap of overthinking and the transformational power of direct experience. We explore why the world needs more compassionate “fools”—people who take risks, show up imperfectly, and lead with heart, not ego.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching and how it can help you get off the hamster wheel and start making better decisions.

• (00:00) - Chapter 1

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What happens when a warrior returns home but can’t find peace?

Jon sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Varpas de Sa Pereira explores the psychological challenges faced by combat veterans, with a particular focus on "Warrior Withdrawal Syndrome" - a condition distinct from but often coexisting with PTSD. Dr. de Sa Pereira delves into the complexities of transitioning from military to civilian life, highlighting how military culture shapes identity and mental health. He emphasizes the importance of purpose, the overwhelming anxiety of limitless choices in civilian life, and the need for mindfulness, self-care, and sleep. The discussion also addresses common misconceptions about veteran mental health, the essential role of family and community support, and the wide array of resources available to veterans. Throughout, Dr. de Sa Pereira offers practical strategies for healing and underscores that veterans must take an active role in their own recovery.

Get Dr. Varpas de Sa Pereira’s book here - https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Withdrawal-When-Longer-Means/dp/196220250X

Try NEURISH - Personalized nutrition for your mental health. Get 15% off with Promo Code MTM. Visit https://tinyurl.com/57e68ett to learn more about this incredible daily supplement.

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
04:17 - Masculinity Without a Father
07:58 - Success Through Small Wins
08:43 - Athletics and Confidence
14:35 - Gender Dynamics at Work and School
16:35 - Views Across Socioeconomic Lines
18:38 - Men, Mindfulness, and Society
23:00 - The Psychology of Masculinity
27:45 - Authentic Conversations
34:51 - Injury and Mindful Detachment
36:40 - The Fragility of Manhood
46:37 - Teaching Critical Thinking to Daughters
52:47 - Reading Romantic Cues
58:19 - Emotions, Relationships, and Boys
01:01:33 - Building Emotional Safety at Home
01:03:15 - Emotional Miscommunication with Kids
01:19:01 - Choosing Your Circle and Autonomy

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

If you enjoyed this clip, then you will love the full MTM episode with John.

Here is the Podcast Link: https://pod.fo/e/2c78d9

Or maybe you would like to watch this on YouTube instead: https://youtu.be/l9oEDU__fYQ?si=26wvFG82eslsA1l1

Feeling stuck?

If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching and how it can help you break free from the hamster wheel. 

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

What does it take to return to combat after losing a leg and come back stronger than ever?

When you think of overcoming adversity, few stories rival the sheer grit and strength shown by Nick Lavery. This episode dives headfirst into overcoming adversity as Nick shares how he pushed past unimaginable limits to return to combat after an insider attack cost him his leg. If you’ve ever wondered what it really means to be relentless, overcoming adversity is the heartbeat of Nick’s journey.

Jon & Will get real about the mental discipline, the emotional toughness, and the strategies men need to conquer fear and face impossible odds. Nick reveals how building a powerful mindset isn’t about motivation—it’s about daily discipline, intentional failure, and embracing the grind.

What gets a man back in the fight? Nick drops stories packed with raw emotion, humility, and the unwavering support that helped him overcome every barrier.

Discover how competition, self-leadership, and a never-quit attitude transform adversity into growth. You'll hear firsthand how support systems—both at home and in the brotherhood—fuel progress and how anyone can leverage adversity to build resilience, sharpen focus, and inspire others. If you’ve ever wanted straight answers about redefining your limits, sharpening your competitive edge, and leading from the front, this emotionally charged episode delivers.

Buy Nick’s book and find out more here - https://teammchn.com/store

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. 

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:48 - The Attack That Changed Everything
10:04 - Rebuilding a Life After Loss
20:14 - Why Mindset Beats Motivation
29:47 - Returning to War with One Leg
39:56 - Humility Is a Superpower
41:46 - Why Failing on Purpose Works
44:57 - The People Who Got Me Through
50:43 - Finding Purpose After the Pain
56:02 - Discipline Means Sacrifice
01:00:00 - Leading Through Pain and Purpose
01:03:39 - What Comes After the Mission

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Tim Kennedy describes the effort and grit it takes to go after your greatness.

Listen to his full Podcast "Mental Toughness Unleashed: Insights from Tim Kennedy" here: https://pod.fo/e/2b3e7f

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get out of the fog of distress and into better decision-making.

Head to MenTalkingMindfulness.com to learn more about what we're up to.

MTM Spartan Team Race October 19th in Dallas - JOIN US!! Learn more here: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/spartan-race-2025

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

BRING FNT TO YOUR TEAM:

1.  focusnowtraining.com/contact

Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/

Brain injury recovery
What if the root cause of anxiety, memory loss, or chronic fatigue after a brain injury isn’t psychological, but hormonal?

Dive into brain injury recovery as Will and Jon go deep with Dr. Mark Gordon, a true pioneer in the science of hormones and healing after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

This episode breaks open the myths and reveals how brain injury recovery is often a hidden battle with hormones and inflammation, not just lingering psychology. Dr. Gordon demystifies how imbalance can lead to anxiety, memory loss, or chronic fatigue—symptoms men may struggle with for years, leaving them feeling hopeless about brain injury recovery.

Dr. Gordon explains why a 28-point biomarker panel can help identify silent hormonal imbalances affecting brain function—especially for veterans—and how hormone therapy offers a path to reclaiming mental clarity and energy. Discover the role of gut health in neuroendocrine health, learn what every man should watch for after a head injury, and get actionable strategies for building resilience, optimizing hormone health, and fighting off chronic inflammation. If you’re seeking answers about post-TBI symptoms, how to tackle the root causes, and what real recovery looks like for men, this episode delivers raw truth, hope, and an expert roadmap to true healing.

Find out more about Dr. Mark Gordon here - https://tbihelpnow.org/ or here: https://millenniumhealthstore.com/

Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help. Head to willnotfear.comto learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel and into better decision-making.

More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
02:47 - Neuroendocrinology’s Role in Brain and Mood
09:16 - CTE and Hormonal Disruption Explained
12:03 - Hormonal Feedback Loops and Brain Function
13:20 - Hormones, Inflammation, and Brain Health
17:00 - Neuroinflammation and Cognitive Impact
20:46 - Head Trauma and Long-Term Brain Decline
26:29 - Inflammation’s Lasting Effects on Healing
28:50 - Subconcussive Hits, Gut Health, and the Brain
33:31 - Boosting Brain Resilience: Military Lessons
37:09 - Blast Exposure and Neurological Damage
41:32 - Rethinking TBI and PTSD Treatment Options
47:17 - Veteran Brain Health: Science Meets Policy
50:18 - Ibogaine Therapy: Success in Alternative Care
52:18 - Revisiting Testosterone’s Role in Vitality
55:28 - NSAIDs, Testosterone, and Better Alternatives
58:58 - Nutrition, Selenium, and Hormone Support
01:01:42 - NSAIDs, Pregnancy, and Endocrine Disruption
01:07:35 - Libido Boosting with Testosterone and PT-141
01:11:30 - New Approaches to Testosterone Therapy
01:14:18 - Detox and Hormone Optimization
01:15:57 - Clomiphene vs. Injectables: What Works?
01:17:01 - TRT: Dosing Strategies and Side Effects
01:19:02 - Balancing Testosterone and Estradiol
01:22:42 - Why Hormone Balance Matters
01:28:26 - Biomarker Testing for Brain Injury Recovery

Check out our Awareness-to-action Self Mastery COURSE & COMMUNITY:

12 modules on attention, presence & performance. Work at your own pace plus a community built for Inspiration and connection.

1.  www.focusnowtraining.com/a2a-Course

JOIN US IN PERSON — Future Events and Retreats.

1.  Live in-person event: Warrior Defined.
We will be in Charlotte, NC, September 25, 2026 more info HERE: 

Or mentalkingmindfulness.com

GET MORE FROM MTM:

Text MTM to 33777 — free weekly newsletter

1.  Subscribe: mentalkingmindfulness.com

2.  FNT: focusnowtraining.com

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Produced by Robert Lopez | https://www.cratesaudio.com/