keywords

Army, Special Forces, resilience, training, mindset, leadership, community, survival, selection, fitness

summary

In this episode, Coach Kenny Markwardt interviews a close friend who shares his remarkable journey through the ranks of the Army Special Forces and his experiences as a combat medic. The conversation delves into the rigorous training and selection process, the importance of resilience, mindset, and community support, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures. The guest emphasizes the significance of sticking to the basics and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of challenges, ultimately reflecting on the honor of serving and protecting freedom.

takeaways

• The journey to becoming special forces is challenging but rewarding.
• Resilience is key to overcoming obstacles in training and life.
• Mindset plays a crucial role in achieving goals and pushing through difficulties.
• Community support can significantly impact personal growth and success.
• The importance of consistency in training cannot be overstated.
• Basic skills and fundamentals are essential for success in high-pressure situations.
• Leadership can emerge from anyone, regardless of their official title.
• Failures are opportunities for growth and learning.
• Every individual has the potential to improve with dedication and effort.
• Serving in the military is an honor that comes with great responsibility.

titles

• From Ordinary to Extraordinary: A Special Forces Journey
• Resilience and Mindset: Keys to Success in Special Forces

Sound Bites

• "You have to take the first step."
• "You can do a lot with a little."
• "Flush it and just keep at it."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to the Journey

05:18

The Call to Serve: Joining the Army

08:00

Selection Process: The Road to Special Forces

10:47

Land Navigation: The Test of Endurance

13:40

Team Dynamics: Leadership and Motivation

17:05

The Trek: Final Challenge of Selection

19:57

Physical vs. Psychological Assessment

22:54

Life Lessons from the Military Experience

41:40

Introduction to Delta Training and EMS Basics

44:36

Advanced Medical Training and Real-World Application

47:28

The Role of Special Forces Medical Sergeants

50:45

Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Training

53:39

Small Unit Tactics and Team Dynamics

56:34

The Culmination of Training: Robin Sage and Graduation

59:30

Resiliency and Mindset in Everyday Life

01:08:51

The Power of Consistency in Fitness

01:11:46

Embracing Failures and Showing Up

01:14:41

Tracking Progress and Setting Goals

01:17:39

Training for Life, Not Just Numbers

01:21:33

Avoiding Shortcuts in Training

01:25:01

The Importance of Mindset and Community

01:27:57

Youth Programs and the Value of Failure

01:30:50

Resilience and the Journey of Improvement

01:35:09

Pride in Service and Standing Up for Freedom

01:36:46

The Journey of Resilience

01:37:13

The Power of Perseverance

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, hosts Kenny Markwardt and Jennie Cooper explore their backgrounds in fitness, military service, and education. They discuss the importance of language in coaching, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and the complexities of pain management in muscle activity. The conversation also touches on the value of lifelong learning and personal growth, highlighting the hosts' unique journeys and insights into the fitness industry. In this engaging conversation, Kenny Markwardt and Jennie Cooper explore the themes of personal growth, the importance of embracing discomfort, and the supportive environment of fitness communities. They discuss the value of a beginner's mindset, the raw honesty found in fitness, and the passion that drives trainers to make a difference. The conversation also touches on dreams beyond fitness, the balance of risk and preparedness, and the enriching experiences that come from stepping outside one's comfort zone.

takeaways

• Swearing can be a colorful part of language.
• First impressions can lead to strong connections.
• Military experience shapes coaching styles.
• Education can be a journey of self-discovery.
• PhD programs may not always provide practical knowledge.
• Muscles that experience pain may resist movement even after pain subsides.
• Long-term rehabilitation requires relearning muscle patterns.
• Lifelong learning is essential for personal growth.
• Language learning can be a fun and enriching experience.
• Coaching can be adapted to different languages and cultures. Embrace the beginner mindset to foster growth.
• Learning new skills can be fun, even if challenging.
• Discomfort is essential for personal development.
• Creating a supportive environment helps individuals thrive.
• Fitness is a raw and honest experience.
• Passion for fitness can lead to meaningful change.
• Motivation can stem from adversity and personal challenges.
• Dreams and aspirations can extend beyond fitness.
• Balancing risk with preparedness is crucial for safety.
• Life experiences enrich our stories and perspectives.

titles

• From Military to Coaching: A Unique Journey
• The Role of Language in Fitness Coaching
• Pain Management and Muscle Activity Insights
• Education and Career Transitions in Fitness
• Lifelong Learning: Embracing New Challenges

Sound Bites

• "I absolutely love to learn."
• "The language just sounds really cool."
• "It's fun to learn."
• "Embrace that beginner mindset."
• "Nobody's making fun of you."
• "The bonding through doses of misery."
• "We're making the world a better place."
• "You think you're too good for me?"
• "I want to do that for my dad."
• "You might die, but that's okay."

keywords

law enforcement, fitness, mental health, personal growth, conflict resolution, community, resilience, ego, meditation, stress management, fitness, gym community, functional fitness, dietary changes, carnivore diet, food addiction, psychological eating, mobility, aging, wildlife

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Markwardt engages in a deep conversation with Ryan Stonebreaker, affectionately known as Stony. They explore Stony's diverse background, including his upbringing in a multi-religious family, his extensive career in law enforcement, and his transition into fitness. The discussion highlights the importance of mental health, the role of physical fitness in managing stress, and the communal aspect of working out. Stony shares insights from his experiences, emphasizing the need for healthy outlets and the impact of personal growth on overall well-being. In this conversation, Kenny Markwardt shares his journey through fitness, dietary changes, and the importance of community in gyms. He discusses the evolution of functional fitness, the impact of food addiction, and his experiences with the carnivore diet. The dialogue also touches on the psychological aspects of eating, mobility as one ages, and the connection between wildlife and community living.

takeaways

• Stony's diverse religious background shaped his perspective on ego and humility.
• Experiences in law enforcement provided Stony with insights into conflict resolution.
• Physical fitness serves as a crucial outlet for managing stress and mental health.
• Community and camaraderie in fitness environments enhance personal growth.
• Transitioning from a high-stress career to fitness requires finding new purpose.
• Stony emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical health post-retirement.
• Meditation can take many forms, including physical activities like CrossFit and Jiu-Jitsu.
• Healthy outlets are essential for coping with trauma and stress.
• Stony's journey reflects the importance of resilience and adaptability.
• The conversation underscores the value of sharing experiences to foster understanding. Finding a gym that feels like home is crucial.
• Community and support in fitness are essential for growth.
• Functional fitness has evolved to be more inclusive.
• Personal growth is often more inspiring than competition.
• Dietary changes can lead to significant personal transformation.
• The carnivore diet has unique benefits and challenges.
• Food addiction is a serious issue that often goes unaddressed.
• Understanding the psychology of eating can aid in healthier choices.
• Mobility is key to maintaining health as we age.
• Wildlife conservation is important and often misunderstood.

titles

• From Law Enforcement to Fitness: Stony's Journey
• The Power of Community in Fitness
• Ego, Humility, and Personal Growth
• Finding Purpose After Retirement
• Stress Management Through Physical Fitness

Sound Bites

• "I was exposed to all this."
• "I could write a book just on that."
• "It's a physical form of meditation."
• "I think it's so beneficial."
• "I love that centering of it though."
• "More of that for the world somehow."
• "I like the kind of roughness of it."
• "It's a rarity in the gym world."
• "The competition is the couch."
• "I think there's a lot of dogma."
• "I feel better than I did 10 years ago."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background of Stony

07:12

Stony's Law Enforcement Career

20:51

Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Fitness

28:56

The Importance of Physical and Mental Health

29:52

Finding the Right Gym Community

32:42

Evolution of Functional Fitness

35:35

Dietary Changes and Personal Growth

39:59

The Carnivore Diet Experience

43:52

The Impact of Food Addiction

48:37

Psychological Aspects of Eating

52:29

Mobility and Aging

57:33

Wildlife and Community Living

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, Kenny Markwardt shares insights from a recent workshop he attended with leading strength and conditioning coaches. The discussion revolves around the concepts of lifespan and healthspan, emphasizing the importance of strength training and conditioning for longevity and quality of life. Kenny explains how strength training can enhance healthspan by improving resilience and independence, while cardiovascular fitness, particularly VO2 max, is crucial for extending lifespan. He also addresses common misconceptions in fitness, particularly regarding women's training, and concludes with actionable takeaways for listeners to improve their health and fitness.

takeaways

• Lifespan is how long you live; healthspan is how well you live.
• Strength training is essential for maintaining healthspan.
• Investing in strength training early can yield long-term benefits.
• A hip fracture can significantly reduce survival rates in older adults.
• VO2 max is a key indicator of longevity and health.
• Building an aerobic base is crucial for improving VO2 max.
• Women benefit greatly from zone two training for aerobic fitness.
• Intensity in training should be balanced with aerobic conditioning.
• Aim for 150 minutes of zone two exercise weekly for optimal health.
• Strength training should be combined with conditioning for overall fitness.

keywords

fitness, CrossFit, gym, personal journey, January joiners, scaling workouts, moderation, pacing, enjoyment, health, physical limits, sustainable habits, passion, saying no, social invitations, compassion, emotional responses, conflict resolution, perspectives, self-interest, gym culture, anxiety, meditation, community, growth, vulnerability, hunting, personal development

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, Coach Kenny Markport and Josh Barclay discuss the journey of fitness, particularly focusing on the experiences of January joiners, the challenges of personal fitness journeys, and the realities of CrossFit. They explore the importance of scaling workouts, the impact of ego in fitness, and the significance of moderation and pacing for sustainable practices. The conversation emphasizes finding joy in fitness and the importance of personal limits over competition. In this conversation, Kenny and Josh explore various themes related to physical performance, sustainable habits, the importance of passion in activities, and the challenges of social interactions. They discuss the physiological limits of exercise, the significance of maintaining a balanced approach to new habits, and the emotional complexities of saying no to invitations. The dialogue emphasizes compassion in relationships, understanding emotional responses, and the value of debriefing after conflicts to foster better communication and growth. In this conversation, Kenny Markwardt and Josh explore various themes surrounding personal perspectives, the importance of community, and the experiences that shape our interactions in spaces like the gym. They discuss the balance between optimism and caution, the therapeutic nature of physical activity, and the growth that comes from overcoming anxiety in new environments. The dialogue emphasizes the value of vulnerability and connection in personal development, particularly in communal settings.

takeaways

• Joining a gym in January is often met with stigma, but it's a valid choice.
• Maintaining attendance during the holiday season is challenging but crucial.
• Personal fitness journeys often stem from moments of realization about health.
• CrossFit can be polarizing, with both positive and negative perceptions.
• Scaling workouts is essential for personal safety and effectiveness.
• Ego can hinder progress; acceptance of personal limits is vital.
• Moderation in fitness leads to better long-term results.
• Pacing oneself in workouts can enhance performance and enjoyment.
• Finding joy in familiar routines can improve overall fitness experience.
• It's important to prioritize fun and enjoyment in fitness activities. Understanding your physical limits is crucial for performance.
• Sustainable habits are more important than immediate results.
• Finding passion in activities helps maintain consistency.
• Saying no is essential for managing expectations and commitments.
• Social invitations can create pressure; it's okay to decline.
• Compassion towards others' experiences fosters better relationships.
• Emotional responses can be influenced by past experiences.
• Debriefing after conflicts can lead to better understanding and resolution.
• It's important to give yourself grace in handling situations.
• Most people are doing the best they can in their circumstances. Most people are doing the best they can.
• A glass half full perspective can foster optimism.
• Finding balance is crucial for mental health.
• Decompression activities, like going to the gym, are essential.
• Hunting can serve as a form of meditation.
• Community in the gym helps overcome intimidation.
• Growth is visible in the development of younger members.
• Embracing vulnerability leads to deeper connections.
• Learning new skills in a safe environment is empowering.
• Laughter and shared experiences create bonds in the gym.

titles

• The January Joiner Phenomenon: Embracing New Beginnings
• Personal Fitness Journeys: Overcoming Challenges
• CrossFit: Myths, Realities, and Personal Experiences
• Scaling Workouts: RX vs. Personal Limits
• Ego in Fitness: Acceptance and Growth

Sound Bites

• "I was feeling that push towards 40."
• "CrossFit is very polarizing."
• "RX doesn't make it sound like that."
• "Don't feel shame about saying no."
• "You have to be careful."
• "The gym is my Disneyland."
• "It's a weird form of meditation."
• "People love a slower partner."
• "Laughing with you, not at you."
• "Even I do this. I'm an idiot."

Chapters

00:00

The January Joiner Phenomenon

05:13

Understanding CrossFit: Myths and Realities

10:34

Ego and Acceptance in Fitness

12:31

Moderation and Sustainable Fitness Practices

14:20

Pacing and Enjoyment in Workouts

16:15

Finding Joy in Repetition and Consistency

16:51

Understanding Physical Limits and Performance

19:37

The Importance of Sustainable Habits

21:01

Finding Interest and Passion in Activities

23:12

The Challenge of Saying No

25:10

Navigating Social Invitations and Expectations

27:03

Compassion and Understanding in Relationships

29:27

Responding to Emotions and Reactions

31:51

Debriefing and Learning from Conflicts

33:43

Understanding Perspectives: The Glass Half Full vs. Empty

35:51

Finding Balance: The Importance of Decompression

37:44

The Solitude of Nature: Hunting as Meditation

39:55

Growth Through Community: The Gym Experience

42:44

Navigating Anxiety: Overcoming Intimidation in New Spaces

45:58

Embracing Vulnerability: The Joy of Learning Together

keywords

fitness, CrossFit, Spartan race, personal growth, resilience, self-talk, competition, coaching, mental health, family, self-improvement, mental health, masculinity, fitness, gratitude, emotional support, aging, personal growth, vulnerability, resilience

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Markwardt interviews Rick Evans, co-owner of Evans Brothers Coffee and a long-time member of the gym. They discuss Rick's journey in fitness, starting from his early days in CrossFit to his transition into obstacle racing and Spartan races. The conversation delves into the mental challenges of competition, the importance of self-talk, and personal growth through sports. Rick shares his experiences of overcoming insecurities, the evolution of his self-perception, and how he learned to appreciate his journey and resilience. In this conversation, Kenny Markwardt discusses the importance of self-reflection, gratitude, and positive self-talk in personal growth. He emphasizes the need for support and vulnerability, particularly in redefining masculinity and emotional expression. The discussion also touches on fitness, aging, and the pursuit of longevity, highlighting the joy found in the journey rather than just the end goals.

takeaways

• Rick's journey in fitness began with CrossFit, influenced by his sister.
• He found a competitive spirit in CrossFit, which motivated him to improve.
• Rick's first competition was a novice event where he excelled unexpectedly.
• Family involvement in fitness, especially with his sister, has been significant.
• Transitioning to Spartan races allowed Rick to focus on endurance and running.
• He learned the importance of balancing high-intensity training with recovery.
• Mental resilience has been a key theme in Rick's athletic journey.
• Rick emphasizes the importance of self-talk and overcoming negative thoughts.
• Joining a men's group helped Rick in his personal growth and self-acceptance.
• Rick's experiences highlight the connection between fitness and mental health. Chasing external goals can lead to dissatisfaction.
• Self-talk should be compassionate, not critical.
• Practicing gratitude can shift your outlook on life.
• Support systems are crucial for mental health.
• Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
• Redefining masculinity includes emotional expression.
• Doing hard things builds resilience and character.
• Fitness should focus on longevity and enjoyment.
• It's important to listen to your body as you age.
• Paying attention to long-term health can lead to better outcomes.

titles

• From CrossFit to Spartan: Rick Evans' Fitness Journey
• Overcoming Insecurities: The Mental Game of Fitness
• Family, Fitness, and Competition: A Personal Story
• The Evolution of Self-Perception in Athletics

Sound Bites

• "I love just diving in."
• "I was always doing it to win."
• "I was super insecure kid."
• "I was so hard on myself."
• "I could still fight for myself."
• "You're never going to catch it."
• "We all need help in some way."
• "It's okay to show emotion."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Rick Evans and His Journey

02:51

Rick's Early Fitness Journey and CrossFit Experience

06:11

Competing in CrossFit and Family Involvement

08:58

Transitioning to Obstacle Racing and Spartan Races

12:09

The Mental Game: Overcoming Challenges and Self-Talk

15:05

Personal Growth Through Competition and Resilience

17:53

The Evolution of Self-Perception and Coaching Yourself

22:55

Chasing Goals and Self-Reflection

26:31

Practicing Gratitude and Positive Self-Talk

29:13

The Importance of Support and Vulnerability

32:27

Redefining Masculinity and Emotional Expression

35:17

Fitness, Aging, and Longevity

40:35

Finding Joy in the Journey of Fitness

keywords

fitness, CrossFit, personal growth, coaching, health, injury recovery, career change, empowerment, chronic ailments, healthcare challenges, proactive healthcare, health data, self-advocacy, commitment, recovery, movement, nutrition, protein

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Markwardt interviews Trina Kennedy, who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming significant challenges related to a traumatic brain injury and her subsequent transformation through fitness. Trina discusses her initial struggles with movement and confidence, her experiences at the gym, and how coaching played a pivotal role in her recovery. The conversation also delves into Trina's career transition from nursing to coaching, highlighting the empowerment and growth she experienced along the way. In this conversation, Kenny Markwardt discusses the challenges of managing chronic ailments within the healthcare system, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to health. He highlights the importance of understanding health through data, self-advocacy, and commitment over motivation. The discussion also covers the significance of consistent movement, nutrition awareness, and the accessibility of health solutions for individuals seeking to improve their well-being.

takeaways

• Trina's journey began with a traumatic brain injury that affected her movement and confidence.
• Coaching and support from Kenny were crucial in Trina's recovery process.
• Trina learned to embrace her limitations and focus on what she could do.
• The gym became a safe space for Trina to experiment and grow.
• Asking for help was a significant hurdle for Trina, but she learned its importance.
• Trina's experiences at the gym empowered her to make a career change.
• The transition from nursing to coaching was driven by a desire to be proactive in helping others.
• Trina's story illustrates the power of belief and support in personal growth.
• The importance of community and encouragement in a fitness environment.
• Trina's confidence has grown significantly since her initial struggles. Chronic ailments are often poorly managed in traditional healthcare.
• Proactive healthcare is simpler than it appears.
• Understanding health data is crucial for personal health management.
• Self-advocacy is key to taking control of one's health.
• Commitment to health is more important than motivation.
• Recovery requires patience and realistic expectations.
• Consistency in movement is vital for overall health.
• Accessible health solutions can empower individuals.
• Nutrition, particularly protein intake, is often overlooked.
• Emotional connections to food can hinder health progress.

titles

• Navigating Chronic Ailments in Healthcare
• The Shift from Reactive to Proactive Health
• Harnessing Data for Better Health Management
• Bridging the Gap Between Medicine and Wellness
• Empowering Self-Advocacy in Health

Sound Bites

• "I can't do that. I can't do this."
• "I was at the stage and in my recovery then."
• "I was doing box jumps. fine."
• "I just want to feel better."
• "I can do hard things."
• "I was excited but I was terrified."
• "You have so much to share."
• "It's about commitment, not showing up."
• "Bridging that gap will help make real change."
• "Motivation's bullshit. You can't wait for it."
• "It's really simple, we make it difficult."

Chapters

00:00

Journey to Fitness: Overcoming Challenges

21:52

Empowering Change: Career Transition and Growth

29:01

Chronic Ailments and Healthcare Challenges

30:47

Proactive vs. Reactive Healthcare

32:14

Understanding Health Through Data

34:10

Bridging the Gap in Healthcare

35:08

The Importance of Self-Advocacy

36:33

Commitment Over Motivation

39:00

Navigating Recovery and Expectations

40:51

The Role of Consistency in Health

43:48

The Importance of Movement

51:52

Accessible Health Solutions

55:43

Nutrition and Protein Awareness

keywords

Brandon Casey, athletic training, mobility, strength, recovery, youth sports, multi-sport participation, parental influence, work ethic, motivation, resilience, college sports, parental guidance, professional opportunities, academics, training discipline, coaching, self-discovery, recruitment, growth mindset

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Markwardt interviews Brandon Casey, a former athlete with impressive accolades, about his journey in sports and training. They discuss the importance of mobility and strength training, the role of recovery in athletic performance, the value of participating in multiple sports, and the impact of parental influence on youth sports. Brandon shares insights on work ethic and personal motivation, emphasizing the significance of enjoying the process and learning from mistakes. In this conversation, Kenny Markwardt shares his insights on the challenges and growth opportunities in sports, particularly during the transition to college athletics. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, the role of parental guidance, and the necessity of balancing academics with sports. Kenny discusses the preparation for professional opportunities, the qualities of effective coaching, and the significance of self-discovery through competition. He also provides valuable advice for aspiring athletes on recruitment and overcoming fear to embrace growth.

takeaways

• Brandon started training at a young age, influenced by his father's involvement in CrossFit.
• Mobility and strength training are crucial for preventing injuries and enhancing performance.
• Recovery methods like sleep and hydration are foundational for athletes.
• Participating in multiple sports helps develop well-rounded athletes and prevents burnout.
• Parental pressure can negatively impact a child's enjoyment and performance in sports.
• A strong work ethic, often modeled by parents, can lead to success in athletics.
• Enjoying the training process makes it less of a chore and more rewarding.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process in sports; fear of mistakes can hinder performance.
• Brandon's journey highlights the importance of starting with good habits in training.
• Athletes should focus on foundational training before exploring advanced recovery methods. Resilience is crucial for improvement in sports.
• Transitioning to college sports can be humbling.
• Parental guidance plays a significant role in athlete development.
• Good grades open more opportunities for recruitment.
• Summer camps are essential for exposure and competition.
• Self-discovery is a key part of the athletic journey.
• Effective coaching involves pushing athletes while showing care.
• Building relationships is vital in coaching and sports.
• Facing competition helps athletes gauge their abilities.
• Overcoming fear is necessary for personal growth.

titles

• Resilience in Sports: The Key to Improvement
• Navigating College Sports: A Freshman's Journey
• The Impact of Parental Guidance on Athletes
• Preparing for Professional Sports: A Roadmap

Sound Bites

• "You're kind of an anomaly."
• "I started fresh and I started right."
• "The most important cover is sleep."
• "Kids have to play sports."
• "It teaches you how to be part of the team."
• "It's not so much of a chore."
• "The harder I worked, the better I did."
• "You have to make mistakes and don't provide."
• "You have to have good grades to get recruited."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Brandon Casey's Journey

02:49

The Importance of Mobility and Strength Training

05:48

Recovery and Its Role in Athletic Performance

09:11

The Value of Multi-Sport Participation

12:02

The Impact of Parental Influence on Youth Sports

14:54

Work Ethic and Personal Motivation

23:05

The Importance of Resilience in Sports

24:59

Navigating the Transition to College Sports

26:56

The Role of Parental Guidance in Athletic Development

28:51

Preparing for Professional Opportunities

30:17

Balancing Academics and Athletics

32:45

The Discipline of Training and Study

34:40

Setting Goals for Athletic Success

36:37

The Qualities of a Great Coach

38:34

Building Relationships in Coaching

40:59

The Journey of Self-Discovery in Sports

42:28

Recruitment Insights for Aspiring Athletes

44:55

Overcoming Fear and Embracing Growth

keywords

fitness, CrossFit, mental resilience, community, hunting, gender dynamics, health, strength training, personal growth, adventure, adventure, wilderness, mindset, challenges, community, parenting, resilience, hunting, personal development, CrossFit, parenting, intentionality, family dynamics, growth, discomfort, community, joy, waste elimination, archery, challenges

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Markway and guest Matt Burrows discuss Matt's 12-year journey in fitness, particularly through CrossFit, and how it has shaped his mental resilience and physical capabilities. They explore the dynamics of gender in fitness, the importance of community, and share thrilling stories from Matt's recent doll sheep hunt in Alaska, highlighting the challenges faced and the lessons learned in both fitness and wilderness adventures. In this conversation, Kenny shares his harrowing yet transformative experience climbing a knife ridge with his brother, highlighting the physical and mental challenges they faced. He reflects on the importance of mindset, community support, and the lessons learned in parenting and resilience. The discussion emphasizes how overcoming challenges, whether in the wilderness or in life, contributes to personal growth and development. In this conversation, Kenny and Matt explore the complexities of parenting, the importance of intentionality in family dynamics, and the value of embracing discomfort for personal growth. They discuss how to eliminate waste in daily life to foster joy and the significance of building a supportive community that encourages growth and resilience. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they highlight the challenges and rewards of parenting and the transformative power of shared experiences.

takeaways

• Fitness is not just physical; it's also mental.
• CrossFit can significantly improve mental resilience.
• Community support is crucial in fitness journeys.
• Gender dynamics play a role in fitness participation.
• Getting to the gym can be a major victory.
• The energy of group workouts boosts motivation.
• Hunting requires both physical and mental preparation.
• Compartmentalizing stress is essential in challenging situations.
• Adventures in nature can teach valuable life lessons.
• Celebrating small victories is important for long-term success. The wilderness can present unexpected challenges that test our limits.
• Mindset plays a crucial role in overcoming fears and obstacles.
• Community support is essential for personal growth and resilience.
• Parenting requires understanding and adapting to each child's unique personality.
• Overcoming challenges can lead to deeper bonds with loved ones.
• Physical fitness can prepare us for unexpected situations in life.
• Prayer and faith can provide comfort and guidance in difficult times.
• It's important to break down overwhelming tasks into manageable steps.
• Learning from our children can enhance our parenting skills.
• Embracing challenges can lead to personal development and fulfillment. Parenting requires humility and transparency.
• Intentionality in family time is crucial for building relationships.
• Discomfort can lead to significant personal growth.
• Eliminating waste in daily life can enhance joy.
• Building a supportive community is essential for growth.
• Teaching children about responsibility can start at home.
• Experiencing hardship in small doses prepares kids for life.
• The journey of parenting involves backtracking and learning.
• Creating core memories with children is a priority.
• Engaging in physical activities fosters confidence in youth.

titles

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Fitness Journeys

06:11

Gender Dynamics in Fitness

12:00

Adventures in Alaska: The Doll Sheep Hunt

18:07

The Knife Ridge Adventure

24:49

The Importance of Mindset

30:10

Lessons in Parenting and Resilience

36:47

Navigating Parenting Challenges

42:37

Eliminating Waste for Joyful Living

50:30

Building a Supportive Community

keywords

CrossFit, fitness journey, motivation, community, resilience, aging, family, health, personal growth, commitment

summary

In this episode of the Stronger Together podcast, host Kenny Marquardt interviews long-time member Anita Rotary about her fitness journey, starting with her introduction to CrossFit at age 62. Anita shares her motivations for staying active, the importance of community support, and how she has overcome challenges, including injuries. She emphasizes the significance of setting realistic expectations and the joy of inspiring her family through her commitment to fitness. The conversation highlights the power of perseverance and the positive impact of maintaining an active lifestyle as one ages.

takeaways

• Anita started her fitness journey at age 62 with CrossFit.
• She committed to trying CrossFit for three months, which led to a long-term dedication.
• Family motivation plays a crucial role in staying active.
• Setting realistic expectations is key to maintaining fitness as you age.
• Community support in the gym fosters encouragement and motivation.
• Anita's achievements include personal records in weightlifting and overcoming injuries.
• She emphasizes the importance of showing up, regardless of performance.
• Inspiring her grandchildren is a significant motivation for Anita.
• Fitness is a lifelong journey that requires adaptability and resilience.
• Anita believes in the power of small, consistent efforts to achieve long-term goals.

titles

• Inspiring Fitness Journey: Anita's Story
• Commitment to Health: Anita's CrossFit Experience

Sound Bites

• "I just keep coming and I enjoy the people."
• "Just show up and just take it easy."
• "You can work your way up to whatever."
• "It's not a downhill slide into the grave."
• "I want you to tape me doing my back squat."

Chapters

00:00

Anita's Journey Begins: Discovering CrossFit

02:46

Commitment to Fitness: Overcoming Challenges

06:02

Family and Fitness: The Motivation to Stay Active

08:52

Inspiration and Legacy: Setting an Example for Future Generations

11:59

Resilience in Recovery: Bouncing Back from Injury

15:06

The Power of Community: Support in the Gym

17:57

Achievements and Milestones: Celebrating Progress

21:09

Advice for Newcomers: Starting Small and Staying Committed

24:02

Looking Ahead: Goals for the Next Decade