The Positively Jacked Podcast

The Positively Jacked Podcast

By Jessica KohlerHealth & Fitness
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The Positively Jacked Podcast episodes

  • 13 // Boundaries – Fences or Bunkers?

    Are your boundaries helping you grow, or just keeping you safe? 

    In this episode, Jes and Nate break down why some boundaries fuel progress while others quietly hold you back. They explore the difference between fences and bunkers: flexible, breathable boundaries that let you evolve versus rigid, isolating ones that lock you in.

    You’ll hear how bunker mentality sneaks into fitness and life, whether it’s obsessing over strict food rules, skipping rest days out of fear, or mistaking disconnection for self-protection. Plus, they share real-life stories of breaking free from their own bunkers and how rebuilding flexible fences unlocked better performance, more freedom, and real growth.

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    Work with us by scheduling an Intro: www.positivelyjacked.com

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    Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked

    33 min
  • 12 // Can You Really Drink and Still Hit Your Fitness Goals?

    Spring break. Weddings. Vacations. Tailgates. The kind of events where the drinks are cold, the pours are heavy, and your fitness goals? Well, they’re suddenly on thin ice.

    In this solo episode, Coach Nate breaks down how alcohol actually impacts your fitness (spoiler: it’s not just about the calories) and why common rules like “only on weekends” or total avoidance often backfire. More importantly, he shares practical strategies to help you drink with intention—so you can stick to your goals without being the person doing burpees on the beach to “earn” your cocktails.

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    Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.positivelyjacked.com

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    Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked

    27 min
  • 11 // We’re Back—And Things Look a Little Different

    It’s been a minute… but we’re back! After a long hiatus, we’re catching you up on everything that’s been going on behind the scenes—why we took a break, what we’ve been up to, and the big moves we’ve made.

    In this episode, we’ll talk about what’s next for Positively Jacked, how we’re approaching training and coaching in this new chapter, and what you can expect from us moving forward. Plus, we’re diving into lessons learned during the time away and how it’s shaping our approach to health, fitness, and content.

    Glad to be back—let’s get after it!

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    Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.positivelyjacked.com

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    Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked

    43 min
  • 10 // When Motivation Ghosts You: How to Stay on Track Anyway

    After you start your fitness journey with a strong ‘why,’ it’s easy to feel unstoppable. But then—life happens. Work gets crazy, the kids have a million activities, urgent things pop up, and suddenly, that initial fire of motivation starts to flicker. In this episode of Positively Jacked, we’re taking a hard look at what happens after that strong start.

    We’ll explore the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and why discipline, habits, and knowing your deeper ‘why’ are far more reliable. Whether you’re driven by health, appearance, or just pushing your limits, we’ll break down how to stay committed long after motivation fades. Tune in for a new way to approach your fitness and wellness journey that keeps you moving forward, long after the initial motivation fades, and even on the toughest days.

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    Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

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    Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked


    38 min
  • 9 // Flex Your Habits When Life Needs to PIVOT!

    As the seasons change, so do our schedules. Whether you’re a parent adjusting to kids going back to school, an adult heading back to the classroom, or just someone experiencing a shift in your routine, it can be challenging to stay on track with your health, nutrition, and fitness goals.

    In this episode of Positively Jacked, we dive into the reality of shifting schedules and offer actionable strategies to help you stay focused on your wellness journey, no matter how hectic life gets. We’ll discuss practical tips you can implement immediately to keep your nutrition on point, stay consistent with your workouts, and prioritize self-care amidst the chaos.

    Plus, we’ll explore how to continue adapting and adjusting your goals over time, so you can maintain a healthy balance as your life evolves. Tune in for some real-time strategies to help you pivot with the seasons and stay positively jacked all year long!


    Books and resources we mentioned: 

    • "Think Again" by Adam Grant – Discussed the psychology of change, psychological flexibility, and a growth mindset.
    • "Atomic Habits" by James Clear – Covered habit formation, including the four elements (cue, craving, response, reward), and concepts like habit stacking, the two-minute rule, and environment design.
    • "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg – Provided insights into the science of habit formation and using habits to adapt to life changes.
    • "Mindset" by Carol Dweck – Explored the concept of a growth mindset and its importance in facing new challenges.
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      Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

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      Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked


      48 min
    • 8 // Objectively, Respectfully: Reflections from the 2024 CrossFit Games

      Welcome back to Positively Jacked with Nate and Jes. In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s both on and off our usual path. While we’ve been eager to discuss the CrossFit Games all year, recent events in the CrossFit community have shifted our focus.

      With the 2024 CrossFit Games behind us, we’re addressing the tragic and untimely passing of Lazar Ðukić during the event—a moment that has left a lasting impact on the sport and its community. We were present for the event, and the weekend. We’ll share our personal experiences, reflect on the emotional and ethical dilemmas, and discuss the broader implications for the future of CrossFit.

      We’re committed to a thoughtful and sensitive conversation, sticking to what we know and avoiding speculation. This episode will explore the need for change and accountability within CrossFit HQ and the sport at large, focusing on safety, clarity, and the future of the sport.

      Please note: This episode may be difficult for some listeners, and we encourage you to prioritize your well-being.

      Tune in for a discussion that’s as challenging as it is necessary, as we look forward to what’s next for CrossFit.

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      Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

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      Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked

      1 hr 6 min
    • 7 // Beyond Positive Thinking

      Is "good vibes only" the recipe for success? This week on Positively Jacked, we challenge the idea that positive thinking is always the answer. We'll explore alternative approaches to tackle problems and help you reach your goals.

      Have you ever felt stuck in a loop of trying to throw positive thinking toward everything that just doesn't seem to work? Maybe you tell yourself "I can totally crush this workout!" but end up feeling discouraged. While optimism is important, sometimes we need a different strategy.

      This episode dives into:

      • The flip side of positive thinking: We'll explore how focusing solely on the positive can sometimes blind us to valuable information and hinder progress.

      • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) in a nutshell: Discover a powerful framework that helps you accept reality and commit to making positive changes, even when things are tough.

      • Breaking free from limiting beliefs: Learn how to challenge your "inner critic" and explore different perspectives that might be holding you back.

      • The surprising benefits of "negative thinking": We'll discuss how anxiety and worry, while uncomfortable, can motivate us and help us identify areas that need attention.

      • Ready to move beyond the limitations of positive thinking and embrace a more nuanced approach? Join us for insightful discussions and practical tools to help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

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        Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

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        Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked


        44 min
      • 6 // Specialists vs. Opportunists

        Positively Jacked is BACK! Nate's returned from his honeymoon, the quarterfinals are in the rearview mirror, and we're bursting with topics to delve into. Join us as we explore Nate's European adventure for his first-time impressions and dive into an intriguing Facebook post that surfaced during his absence. Plus, we'll tackle a common question from our nutrition clients sparked by this discussion.


        44 min
      • 5 // Growth Mindset: Unpacked and Unbuzzed

        This episode of Positively Jacked unpacks the often-used term "growth mindset." We'll delve into its definition – the belief that our abilities are flexible and can continuously improve. We'll then explore its historical roots and how it applies across various domains, from conquering CrossFit challenges to everyday triumphs. Along the way, we'll debunk common myths and equip you with practical tools like the STOP Method. We'll even discuss fostering a growth-producing environment. Join us as we move beyond the label and discover ways to seamlessly connect mindfulness with continuous growth.


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        Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

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        Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked


        43 min
      • 4 // CrossFit Open Stories [UNSCRIPTED]

        Gear up for laughter and feels! This episode takes it off-script as we reminisce about our OG CrossFit Open experiences (we've been at it since 2011, can you believe it?). We’ll look at:

        • Hilarious (and maybe embarrassing) throwback stories
        • Solid advice you can actually use in your next Open
        • How to approach the Open, whether you're aiming for the next stage or just having a blast
        • This episode is for everyone: seasoned athletes, Open newbies, and anyone who loves a good laugh and a dose of CrossFit inspiration. We hope it will help alleviate some nerves and put you in the right headspace to begin the next three weeks.

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          Work with us by scheduling an Intro: ⁠www.crossfitfringe.com⁠

          —

          Follow us on Instagram: @positivelyjacked


          1 hr 3 min

        About The Positively Jacked Podcast

        From the publisher's feed

        The Positively Jacked Podcast follows Nate Bacott, Jessica Kohler, and our friends as we dish real-time strategies on the nutrition, fitness, wellness, and lifestyle trends to prioritize positive…