Advertise on podcast: Becoming Ronin

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube     Episode Overview   In this episode of Becoming Ronin, we sit down with Adrian, a former paramedic whose life was forever altered during a hiking trip when he was struck by lightning. Against staggering odds, a series of extraordinary and near-impossible circumstances: aligned timing, location, rescue, and medical intervention, allowing him to survive an event that is almost certainly fatal.   Adrian walks us through the moments leading up to the strike, the chaos that followed, and the long road to recovery that began when he woke up in a hospital bed. But survival was only the beginning. During the time he was unconscious, Adrian describes experiencing a profound darkness, an awareness without form or time that felt like crossing into another dimension altogether. It was not fear, not peace, but something entirely unfamiliar that challenged his understanding of consciousness and life itself.   Drawing on his background in emergency medicine, Adrian reflects on compassion, humility, and the strange irony of becoming the patient rather than the provider. He speaks candidly about the physical and emotional aftermath, the role of family and medical teams in his recovery, and the internal battle that followed: whether to retreat from the experience or rise because of it.   This conversation explores resilience, the power of choice in the face of suffering, and how surviving the unthinkable reshaped Adrian's view of purpose, identity, and what it truly means to be alive.       Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to Adrian's Story [01:46] Adrian's Background & Path to Paramedicine [04:32] Compassion in Emergency Services [07:06] A Call That Changed Everything [14:40] Road to Becoming a Physician Assistant [22:03] Road Trip Begins [28:26] The Climb: Hiking Torrey's Peak [35:23] The Decision to Call for Help [39:49] The Lightning Strike [40:13] Panic, Confusion, and Uncertainty [43:18] Rescue: A Race Against Time [47:16] Consciousness in the Dark [55:09] Waking Up [01:06:23] Life After Trauma: A New Perspective [01:15:35] Choosing to Rise       💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com     🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube     Episode Overview   In this episode, we zoom out on what real transformation in training actually looks like and why it's never just about the program on paper. We kick things off by talking about what separates "doing workouts" from committing to a process that actually changes you. From there, we dig into why variability matters, how to earn client buy-in, and what it really means to meet people where they're at whether they're brand new or highly experienced.   We get into the nuance of hyper-mobility, why "more range" isn't always better, and how that shows up in the real world with cranky knees and low backs. A big chunk of the conversation centers on knee pain: how to assess it, how hip extension plays a role, and why understanding joint mechanics beats chasing symptoms.   Along the way, we break down practical stuff, hip thrusts and low back irritation, safer ways to floor press, and the pros and cons of high vs. low handles on the trap bar. We wrap by talking about auto-regulating rest periods and how listening to the body doesn't mean training soft: it means training smart.   It's a wide-ranging, grounded conversation about building durable humans.       Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction to Transformation and Training Programs [02:46] The Importance of Variability in Training [05:45] Understanding Client Buy-In and Effort [08:32] Programming for Different Experience Levels [11:10] The Nuances of Hyper-Mobility in Training [14:02] Assessing and Addressing Knee Pain [16:52] The Role of Hip Extension in Knee Health [28:49] Understanding Joint Mechanics and Knee Pain [33:26] Exploring Hip Thrusts and Low Back Pain [37:04] Techniques for Safe Floor Pressing [41:55] The Trap Bar Deadlift: High Handles vs. Low Handles [50:18] Auto-Regulating Rest Periods in Training           💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com     🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

  🔗 Subscribe on YouTube     Episode Overview   In this episode, we kick things off with the new brutal pyramid sets that have been absolutely wrecking everyone brave enough to try them. We break down how they work, why they hit so hard, and more importantly, how to actually apply them without just redlining yourself into the ground. Whether you're training for performance, grit, or just want a new way to suffer productively, this is one you'll want to steal.   From there, we shift gears into knee health for runners. We talk through practical knee-prevention exercises that actually hold up under mileage what matters, what doesn't, and where most runners get it wrong when trying to "bulletproof" their knees.   We wrap up with a deeper conversation on knee rehab and coming back from knee surgery. Specifically, the assessments we like to use to determine readiness, what to look for, what to test, and why guessing your way back into training is usually what gets people hurt again. If you're post-surgery, rehabbing, or coaching someone through it, this part is gold.   Train hard. Think clearly. Don't skip the basics.     Timestamps: [00:00] Holidays, health check-ins, and what we've been noticing lately [02:45] Training methods we're using right now and lessons learned the hard way [05:27] Isolation work, turning muscles on, and why it actually matters [08:21] Why runners keep getting hurt and what's usually being missed [11:05] Knee-friendly corrective work that actually transfers to running [21:43] Breaking down knee pain (what's really causing it vs. what people blame) [29:14] Coming back after meniscus surgery: what needs to be checked first [41:03] Staying ahead of injuries instead of constantly reacting to them [43:51] Honest self-assessment and why guessing gets people hurt     💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com     🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview Most people don't fail at training because they lack motivation. They fail because they're waiting for perfect conditions. In this episode, we break down why "perfect" is often the enemy of good, especially when it comes to fitness. Missed workouts don't happen because people don't care; they happen because time, energy, and life get in the way. And that's exactly where most training advice falls apart. So instead of chasing ideal programs, hour-long sessions, or complicated plans, we lay out 7 expert pillars for building your own quick, effective, and safe workout (one that actually fits real life).       💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com     🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

  🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In Episode 157, Smitty and OB kick back for a laid back AMA special filled with your funniest and most random questions. This one feels like hanging out in the gym after hours… no agenda, no script, just unfiltered stories, laughs, and a surprising amount of fitness wisdom sprinkled in between. We dive into everything from: Our favorite pieces of gym equipment Ridiculous gym stories from the trenches Ultimate road trip snack rankings Training challenges we've done… and a few we should probably never do again Coaching moments that aged us 10 years …and the hilarious questions you threw at us throughout the week   It's a fun, fast-paced episode that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at life in the gym, on the road, and inside the Becoming Ronin world. Whether you're driving to work, training, or crushing some weekend chores, Episode 157 will keep you laughing and nodding along like you're right there with us.       💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

  🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In Episode 156 of Becoming Ronin, Smitty and OB dive deep into the real engine behind discipline, not motivation, not willpower, but your priorities. Through a series of powerful clips and candid conversation, they break down why discipline isn't something you "have"… it's something you reveal. Every choice you make shines a light on what truly matters to you.   Smitty and OB explore how defining your values makes decision making dramatically easier. When you know what you stand for, you don't debate with yourself. You don't negotiate with your excuses. You act in alignment with the identity you're building. The guys unpack practical strategies for clarifying your priorities, filtering distractions, and making discipline a natural byproduct of who you are instead of a battle you fight.   This episode is a blueprint for strengthening your internal compass, minimizing friction, and stepping into the kind of self-directed life that Becoming Ronin is all about.       Timestamps [0:00] Is Mindset Physical or Mental [10:52] How Do You Perceive Yourself in the World [17:00] Having Faith in Your Next Step [19:06] Regret is Mindless [21:00] Next Indicated Step [24:20] Jocko's Simple Life Advice         💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this week's episode, we dive deep into the art and science of smarter training:  from refining your squat pattern to rethinking how often you should actually hit the gym. We kick things off with a Q&A that covers everything from movement blocks to the value of sprinting (yes, even if you're "too old for that" spoiler: you're not). You'll hear our take on reverse programming, how to train for both strength and longevity, and why simple tweaks like front squat positioning or plank variations can change the way your body performs. We also get into some underappreciated old-school bodybuilding gems, key strategies for hamstring resilience, and how hip flexor strength might be the missing link in your squat. Whether you're a coach, lifter, or weekend warrior, this episode is packed with practical insights, performance hacks, and a few laughs along the way.         Timestamps [00:00] Introduction and Q&A Overview [01:06] Understanding Movement Patterns and Workout Blocks [05:22] Returning to Sprinting Safely for Older Adults [13:16] Using Reverse Programming to Structure Workouts [21:32] How Training Frequency Affects Muscle Growth [27:14] Front Squat Techniques and Coaching Tips [30:55] Innovative Squat Variations to Improve Posture [32:13] Strategies for Preventing Hamstring Injuries [35:48] Effective Hamstring Training Methods [38:52] Why Plank Variations Are Valuable for Core Strength [44:07] Shoulder Raise Techniques to Target the Delts [48:05] Underrated Old-School Bodybuilding Exercises [51:02] Strengthening Hip Flexors for Better Squat Performance [56:10] Mobility and Stretching Techniques to Boost Performance         💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into Anatomy Trains and talk about how fascia connects the body in ways most people don't think about. Instead of just looking at muscles in isolation, they break down how the body's fascial lines influence movement, posture, and even nagging injuries. They share real-world examples from training and rehab to show how you can: Spot movement issues by understanding fascial connections. Adjust your workouts to get more carryover and prevent breakdowns. Use a full-body approach to fix problems instead of chasing symptoms. By the end, you'll see how reorganizing your training around these lines can help you move better, stay healthier, and boost performance.     Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Anatomy Trains [02:35] Understanding Movement vs. Isolation [05:18] The Role of Fascia in Movement [08:23] Force and Adaptation in Training [10:59] Case Study: The Injured Pitcher [14:04] Integrating Isolation and Movement [16:51] Exploring the Superficial Back Line [19:25] The Superficial Front Line and Its Implications [32:32] Understanding the Superficial Front Line [36:25] Exploring the Lateral Line [39:58] The Spiral Line and Its Importance [47:00] The Deep Front Line and Breathing Mechanics [53:41] Functional Lines and Movement Patterns [01:00:45] Anatomy Trains Assessment and Integration     💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

  🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, we sit down with Tim Reynolds, better known to over 1 million TikTok followers as The AnP Professor. Tim has carved out a unique space as both a highly respected college professor and practicing physical therapist, while simultaneously growing a massive online platform where he makes anatomy and physiology both entertaining and accessible. We dive into Tim's journey in academia, his passion for teaching, and how his clinical practice shapes the content he creates. He opens up about the challenges and opportunities that come with being a health and education influencer—especially how he's navigated growth without "selling out." Tim shares insights into balancing authenticity, professional integrity, and personal life while building an online community that trusts his expertise. Whether you're a coach, trainer, student, or someone curious about the future of education and social media, this conversation will leave you inspired to pursue your craft with purpose and originality.   Timestamps [00:00] OB's Recent MRI Story [05:34] How staying consistent in training ties into time spent outdoors [09:03] The crossover between building a social media platform and teaching in the classroom [18:41] What years of teaching have taught us about communicating expertise [27:41] The connection between discipline, freedom, and making authentic content [34:08] Handling paid partnerships without losing your audience's trust [36:39] Finding creative ways to expand your content and teaching style [38:56] Why coaches must always explain the "why" behind the work [42:02] Building real trust and rapport with clients and students alike [45:30] Knowing when someone is actually ready to change [49:49] The most common mistakes people make when they walk into a gym [53:14] Why following a solid program beats winging it every time [56:18] Go-to corrective exercises for the everyday population   Connect with Tim Reynolds Stay up to date with Tim's content, teaching, and insights: 📲 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@anp_professor?lang=en 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anatomy_professor/?hl=en       💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

The last bags you'll ever need: 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN     🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into a mix of storytelling, training wisdom, and real-life lessons. Smitty recounts a vivid story from his childhood on the farm, reflecting on the emotional conflict of taking a woodchuck's life. Then they recount the unfortunate woodchuck attack on OB's dogs and the chaos that ensued. From there, the conversation shifts into OB's recent injury, emphasizing how injuries can create unexpected challenges but also open opportunities for growth and creativity. The guys debate the effectiveness of CrossFit compared to traditional strength training, stressing the value of recovery, bracing techniques, and the role of strength as a skill. They explore box squats, Olympic lifting, endurance versus strength, and how proper technique and enjoyment are essential for long-term engagement in fitness.     Timestamps [00:00] Smitty's Farming Story [12:12] The Woodchuck Incident: A Battle for Survival [18:12] Injury and Recovery: Lessons Learned [24:00] CrossFit vs. Traditional Training: A Discussion on Effectiveness [24:59] The Importance of Full Recovery in Training [28:12] Strength Training as a Complement to Athletic Performance [34:44] Bracing Techniques for Safe Lifting [43:57] The Role of Base Support in Power Potential [50:57] Training Modalities and Coaching Perspectives         💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order!     Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

  🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty unpack the deeper meaning behind the question: "What does it profit a man to gain the world but lose his soul?" They explore how chasing success for the wrong reasons can lead to personal emptiness, and how to ensure your talents are employed with integrity. The discussion weaves in personal stories, reflections on grief and trauma, and the value of defining success on your own terms. Along the way, they address the traps of ego, "shiny object syndrome," and sacrificing identity for image. Listeners will walk away with actionable steps to clarify their values, write a personal mission statement, and surround themselves with the right people to keep their compass aligned.   Timestamps [00:00] Navigating grief and trauma as a foundation for personal growth [02:25] How adversity shapes perspective and reveals what really matters [05:26] Defining success to avoid sacrificing your soul [08:04] How relationships influence identity and personal development [10:42] The journey of self-discovery and choosing who you want to be [13:41] Why vision is essential to avoid drifting into the wrong path [16:15] Recognizing and avoiding shiny object syndrome [27:41] How cultural fit impacts life and business decisions [28:29] Chasing image vs. building identity [31:33] Comfort vs. happiness — the hidden cost of convenience [34:06] Understanding the opportunity cost of every decision [36:18] Identifying core values to guide your actions [41:41] Creating a personal statement to keep your life aligned [46:05] The power of accountability and the right peer group [53:32] Final reflections on community, purpose, and fulfillment     💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank!   Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.   #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

    🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview Join us in this heartfelt conversation as we explore the depths of grief and its role in our lives. Our guest, Michael Desanti, shares insights on how grief can be a powerful teacher, helping us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. Discover how embracing the full spectrum of emotions can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.   Grief is a gift that allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. Embracing both joy and sorrow is essential to being fully alive. The process of grieving can lead to personal growth and greater empathy. Building strong relationships and community is crucial for healing.   #GriefJourney #Healing #EmotionalGrowth   Timestamps [00:00] The Gift of Existence and Suffering [02:45] Understanding Grief as Love [05:21] The Purpose of Grief [08:18] Navigating the Waves of Grief [11:12] The Duality of Grief: Strength and Vulnerability [13:13] Making Meaning of Loss [16:02] The Transformative Power of Grief [18:37] Grief in the Context of Trauma [21:18] Living with Grief: A Continuous Journey [23:58] The Variations of Grief [32:33] Embracing Personal Development Through Grief [34:17] Preparing for Grief: The Importance of Presence [36:04] Understanding Grief: A Personal Responsibility [41:30] Confronting Suppressed Grief: The Body's Signals [44:54] Strengthening Relationships in Times of Grief [50:51] Catharsis: Processing Trauma and Energy [52:31] Grieving Beyond Loss: Seasons of Life [57:27] Faith, Grace, and the Unknown in Grief   Find Mike: www.michaeldesanti.com   💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank!   Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview As we gear up for the milestone of Episode 150, OB and Smitty take a reflective turn, diving into the often-overlooked role grief plays in personal growth. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how emotional depth can shape physical resilience and how embracing life's heavier moments can actually fuel the journey forward.   From there, the energy shifts to what makes training stick. The guys unpack fresh approaches to programming that make fitness feel more like play - not punishment. They break down why novelty, gamification, and strategic intensity are key to keeping clients engaged and progressing. Topics include the timeless effectiveness of the five by five method, the underrated power of isometrics, and how ad sets can push adaptation without wrecking recovery.   Throughout the episode, OB and Smitty underline one constant: evolution. Whether it's emotional intelligence or smarter programming, the Becoming Ronin philosophy is always about leveling up and staying one step ahead.       Timestamps [00:00] Introduction and Anticipation for Upcoming Episode [02:44] Exploring Grief: A Deep Dive [05:25] Innovative Training Methods: Making Fitness Fun [08:30] The Importance of Novelty in Training [11:20] Understanding the Five by Five Training Method [13:57] The Evolution of Training Philosophy [16:50] The Role of Mental Toughness in Training [19:21] The Science Behind Compound Lifts [21:59] Practical Application of Training Techniques [29:46] High-Intensity Training Techniques [34:46] The Simplicity of Five by Five Training [39:05] Active Rest and Fillers in Training [43:02] Innovative Training Phases and Techniques [56:02] Building Work Capacity and Recovery Strategies   Stay Connected   💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank!   Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.   #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty share stories from their time training in commercial gyms—the good, the bad, and the frustrating. From mismatched weights to people sitting on machines scrolling their phones, they vent about common gym pet peeves and how social media has changed the gym environment. The conversation shifts to practical nutrition advice, including the importance of tracking your food and getting enough protein, especially for those serious about results. They also dive into how training methods need to evolve over time, particularly in bodybuilding—balancing strength with size and learning how to adapt as you age. Later in the episode, OB and Smitty get into what it really means to be a good coach. They talk about building trust, creating a supportive environment, and helping clients focus on more than just the physical side of training. It's about being real, staying positive, and helping people grow both in and out of the gym. This one's full of honest takes and hard-earned lessons from two guys who've been in the game for a long time.       Timestamps [00:00] Strongman Training in Commercial Gyms [10:41] The Role of Social Media in Fitness [18:11] Nutrition Tips and Misconceptions [26:03] The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Fitness [31:08] Judgment in Gym Culture [40:11] The Importance of Tracking Progress [46:41] Strength vs. Size in Bodybuilding [52:32] Nutrition: The Key to Bodybuilding Success [01:02:05] Coaching Challenges and Business Insights [01:09:07] Authenticity in Coaching [01:15:41] The Journey of Self-Discovery [01:22:51] Building Connections Through Positivity [01:30:49] The Importance of Personal Growth [01:39:01] Setting Realistic Expectations     Stay Connected   💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank!   Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast                              

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube   Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty dive deep into the worlds of Jiu-Jitsu and strength training, sharing hard-earned lessons and practical insights for coaches and athletes alike. They discuss the significance of earning milestones in martial arts, how training methods have evolved, and why coaching with integrity and intention is more important than ever—especially when it comes to popular challenges like the Murph. The conversation shifts into technical training strategies, with a focus on improving grip strength, dialing in proper push-up form, and understanding the nuances of deadlift technique—especially how to identify and fix hip shifts to prevent injury. OB and Smitty break down how to get more out of your Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs), how to choose the right footwear as a coach who's on their feet all day, and how to address and correct strength imbalances by programming for your weaker side. Whether you're on the mat or under the barbell, this episode delivers powerful tools to refine your craft and lead with purpose.       Timestamps [00:00] OB Gets His Purple Belt [05:50] The Current Status of Jiu-Jitsu [12:01] Programming Techniques for Challenges [18:13] Correcting Push-Up Form for Better Results [25:50] How to Feel Your Glutes With RDLs [32:57] Innovative Techniques for RDLs [41:28] Addressing Imbalances in Strength Training   Stay Connected   💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel   🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com   🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life!   Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank!   Support the Show  Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives.     #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast