The Strength Connection

Michael Kurkowski

Exploring Strength: Body, Mind and Spirit.

The Strength Connection goes beyond the gym to uncover the lessons, stories, and wisdom that build resilience and purpose in every area of life.

Join host Michael Kurkowski as he connects with world-class coaches, athletes, and leaders to reveal what true strength really means.

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21 episodes
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Avg 51 min
English

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Monday · 55 min
From Highland Games to Hardstyle Strength training w/ Mark Valenti
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Mark Valenti is a StrongFirst Senior Instructor and the owner and head trainer at Blind Dog Gym in Vermilion, Ohio. He is a former nationally ranked professional Highland games athlete, five times national highlands game qualifier, former world record holder in the 25-pound sheaf toss, and a member of the 2008 World Team Champions. He is also a three times national strongman championship qualifier. In this episode, Mark shares his journey from strength training as a kid to competing in Highland Games, and how his experiences shaped his approach to training, community, and mastery. Discover insights on traditional training principles, the importance of technique, auxiliary lifts, and the power of community in strength development. Check out more from Mark at: Articles on Strongfirst: https://www.strongfirst.com/author/mark-valenti/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/mvalenti100/?hl=en
August 17 · 52 min
How HYROX Became a Global Fitness Movement w/ Andrew Sugerman
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Andrew Sugerman is the CEO of Centr, a global performance fitness brand and the Official Competition Equipment Partner for HYROX, the fastest-growing fitness sport in the world. In this episode, Andrew shares his journey from Disney to leading Center, exploring lessons in branding, community, and resilience, and delves into the rapid growth of High Rocks and the power of community in fitness. Learn more about the Centr x HYROX ecosystem: IG: https://www.instagram.com/centrfit/?hl=en Website: https://centr.com/ For gym owners and operators interested in Centr x HYROX commercial opportunities: https://shop.centr.com/pages/commercial?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=TheStrengthConnection&utm_campaign=Podcast Try the Centr App (includes the only HYROX-certified digital training programs): https://centr.com/p/hyrox/all-programs?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=TheStrengthConnection&utm_campaign=Podcast
August 10 · 52 min
Bridging Body and Mind: The Occupational Therapist's Approach to Strength w/ Mallory Reilly
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Mallory Reilly is an Occupational Therapist and Strength Coach at Reload Physical Therapy and Fitness in New York City, blending the worlds of OT and PT together for the past 8 years. She earned her M.S in Occupational Therapy from Stony Brook University, and is a StrongFirst Level 1, RKC level 2, RMP level 2, FMS level 2, Yoga Alliance certified, Adaptive Special Needs certified, and Sensory Fitness for Autism certified instructor. In this episode, Mallory shares her unique perspective on integrating body and mind, the importance of holistic health, and how her diverse background enhances her approach to therapy and fitness. Check out more from Mallory: https://www.reloadpt.com/mallory-reilly IG: https://www.instagram.com/malloryreilly_ot/?hl=en Substack: https://substack.com/@malloryreilly
June 22 · 49 min
Unlocking the Power of Your Unconscious Mind W/ Dr. Heidi Heron
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Dr. Heidi Heron brings a rare blend of clinical psychology, coaching, neuroscience, and consciousness studies to conversations about how people change, grow, and create meaningful lives. A clinical psychologist, author, master coach, and internationally recognised trainer in Neuro-Linguistic Programming for more than 25 years, Heidi has been helping people understand how the mind works and how to change the patterns that shape their thoughts, emotions, and behaviour. She has trained thousands of coaches, therapists, and leaders around the world to create meaningful and lasting change in their own lives and in the lives of others. In this interview, Dr. Heidi shares her 25+ years of expertise in NLP and psychology, focusing on helping people find their authentic selves and overcome subconscious patterns. Discover how the mind works, the power of language, and practical tools to create lasting change. Check out more from Heidi at: https://www.heidiheron.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.heidiheron/ https://www.facebook.com/DrHeidiHeron Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Heidi Heron and NLP 01:49 The Journey to Authenticity and Wholeness 05:18 Understanding Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) 08:02 The Language of the Subconscious Mind 10:33 Patterns of Self-Perception and Identity 12:31 The Autopilot of the Unconscious Mind 18:26 Fear of Success vs. Fear of Failure 20:47 Recognizing and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs 27:30 Understanding Patterns and Emotional Responses 30:53 Cultural Perspectives on Hustle and Success 33:34 The Importance of Patience and Long-Term Thinking 36:21 The Role of Fear and Love in Motivation 48:36 Integrating Mind and Body for Holistic Growth
June 15 · 52 min
12 Months to Complete Transformation w/ Angie Lynsgo
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Angie Lyngso the co-founder of Lyngso Fitness Academy, working with 1,000’s of women to not just drastically change their body image, but also change and level up their lives. In this episode, Angie shares her journey from athlete to coach, emphasizing the importance of identity, connection, and a community-driven approach to health and strength. Discover how her innovative methods help women build confidence, resilience, and lasting results by focusing on systemic change and inner alignment. Check out more from Angie at: https://lyngsofit.com/ https://www.instagram.com/angie.lyngso/ Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women Through Coaching 02:56 Angie's Journey to Coaching 05:47 The Importance of Connection in Coaching 08:51 Discovering Special Gifts 11:55 Building Confidence Through Community 14:46 The Shift to Strength Training 17:42 Creating a Competitive Environment 20:50 Raising the Vibration of Fitness 23:54 Aligning with Purpose and Community 26:51 Filling Your Cup: The Importance of Self-Care 30:35 Overcoming the Martyr Mentality: Women and Self-Nurturing 32:26 Identifying Gaps: The Challenge of Consistency 35:54 The Power of Elimination: Simplifying Workouts 39:37 Building a Strong Mind Through Physical Strength 44:10 Exploring Identity: Beyond Roles and Attributes 46:54 The Ongoing Journey: Embracing Evolution in Identity
June 1 · 48 min
The House of Rise: Building Emotional Intelligence in Youth w/ Dr. Carla Caturia
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Dr. Carla Caturia is an Elite Peak Performance Coach and creator of the RISE Model, helping high-achieving families move beyond the Success Without Self Cycle. Her work combines emotional intelligence, identity-based confidence, and practical tools that help teens perform at their peak without burning out or losing themselves in the process. In this insightful interview, Dr. Carla shares her journey from school administration to coaching kids and families, emphasizing the importance of resilience, emotional intelligence, and identity in youth development. Discover practical strategies to help young people thrive emotionally and mentally in today's social media-driven world. Check out more of Dr. Carla at: https://www.instagram.com/drcarlacaturia/ Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Empowering Youth 02:48 Understanding Thriving vs. Surviving 05:53 The Pressure of High Achievement 08:53 Navigating Relationships Across Ages 11:43 The Role of Parents in Youth Development 15:03 Emotional States and Effective Communication 24:51 Validating Emotions in Teen Communication 27:04 Exploring Identity and Self-Awareness in Teens 30:23 The Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health 35:01 Building Resilience in Today's Youth 40:37 Developing Emotional Intelligence for Life Success
May 25 · 52 min
How to Breakthrough Autopilot Self Criticism w/ Dr. Gregory Obert
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Dr. Gregory T. Obert is a clinical psychologist and the founder of the Royal Oasis Psychotherapy Institute. For more than 15 years he has worked with thousands of clients, helping people regain control of their attention, emotions, and decision making using evidence based psychotherapy and practical mental performance tools. He currently serves as a staff psychologist supporting trauma and mental health treatment in high pressure environments. He is also the host of the long running podcast Meditations by Gregory T. Obert, where he translates psychological insight into practical techniques people can apply in everyday life. In this episode, Dr. Greg explores the power of mindfulness, emotional regulation, and how to break autopilot habits to improve mental wellness and overall life effectiveness. Discover practical strategies to enhance your emotional intelligence and live more intentionally. Check out more of Dr. Obert at: https://www.royaloasispi.com/autopilotinterruptprotocol IG: https://www.instagram.com/drgtobert/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness and Mental Health 02:47 Defining Mindfulness: Beyond the Buzzword 05:41 The Challenge of Non-Judgmental Awareness 08:38 Impact of Social Media on Mental Health 11:42 Comparing Ourselves: Past vs. Present 14:35 Understanding Autopilot Behavior 17:47 Breaking Free from Autopilot 20:41 Mindfulness in Daily Activities 23:32 Challenges in Practicing Mindfulness 25:47 Mindfulness: A Practical Approach 31:40 Measuring Progress in Mindfulness Practices 39:33 The Role of Therapy in Emotional Growth 43:18 Understanding Emotional Tolerance 50:40 Integrating Mindfulness into Holistic Health
May 18 · 52 min
Unlock your Breath training w/ Jason Campbell
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Jason Campbell is a 7th degree black belt and co-founder of Zen Wellness, teaching meditation, eastern medicine, tai chi, qigong, sword and enlightenment at their 400 acre ranch in the mountains of Arizona. He has worked as the director of music for GeniusX Virtual Reality and created the first breathing course in virtual reality. His music is also found on performance based apps such as ChilliSleep, Focus at Will, Fig Tree, The Breath Source, Gravystack, composed the sleep and meditation music for professional sports teams, the Vatican NFT launch and others. His signature program is breath mastery for entrepreneurs. As co-owner and Sheriff of the town of Cleator, Arizona, he is combining western culture with eastern wisdom to create a community committed to the uplifting of the human spirit. In this episode, Jason shares profound wisdom on meditation, breathwork, and the nature of consciousness. Discover practical techniques to enhance your mental clarity, emotional regulation, and spiritual awareness through simple yet powerful practices. Follow Jason at: https://www.zenpiano.com/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jason Campbell 02:36 The Journey into Music and Meditation 05:27 Understanding the Mind and the Observer 08:31 The Concept of Mindfulness vs. Awareness 11:26 The Balance of Opposites in Life 14:39 The Role of Sound and Vibration 17:18 The Nature of Perception and Reality 20:20 Breath as a Tool for Meditation 27:29 The Nature of Thought and Mastery 28:41 Understanding Matter, Energy, and Consciousness 30:06 Meditation and the Breath Connection 31:58 The Importance of Breath in Physical Training 33:40 Emotional Regulation and Inner Circuitry 35:56 The Balance of Masculine and Feminine Energy 37:09 Practical Breath Training Techniques 39:39 Mastery of Breath and Emotional Cleansing 42:33 Depositing Energy for Wellness 44:50 The Role of Breath in Overall Wellness 46:48 Measuring Progress in Breath Work 48:58 The Journey of Presence and Mindfulness
May 11 · 43 min
Redefining "Natural" Health from Home w/ Marcus Fernandez
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Marcus Fernandez has been at the forefront of homeopathic education for over three decades. As Principal of The Centre for Homeopathic Education (CHE), he’s trained thousands of practitioners through a curriculum that balances classical knowledge with modern application. His work is rooted in a belief that natural medicine should be practical, empowering, and accessible - not mystified or gatekept. Check out more from Marcus at: https://marcus-fernandez.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/marcusfndez/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009253627766&sk
May 4 · 1 hr 1 min
A Trainer for Life w/ Lee Boyce
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Lee Boyce is a coach, speaker, author and internationally published writer with over 1200 publications in health and fitness from Toronto. In this episode, Lee shares his 19-year journey in fitness, coaching, and writing. Discover how early influences, overcoming injury, and staying true to his authentic voice have shaped his approach to training, coaching, and lifelong learning. Check out more from Lee at: https://www.leeboyce.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/coachleeboyce/?hl=en Book: Strength Training For All Body Types: https://us.humankinetics.com/products/strength-training-for-all-body-types Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Lee Boyce's Fitness Origins 07:52 The Power of Writing in Fitness 14:06 Overcoming Challenges: The Impact of Injury 20:13 Shifting Perspectives: Redefining Strength and Training 28:56 Holistic Training: Listening to Your Body 31:23 Adapting Training Approaches 32:24 In-Person vs Online Coaching Dynamics 36:29 The Pride of Personal Training 37:56 The Importance of In-Person Coaching 44:25 The Value of Experience in Coaching 46:28 Evolving Coaching Perspectives 51:10 Balancing Client Needs and Wants 53:51 Navigating Challenging Times 59:25 Going the Extra Mile for Dedicated Clients
April 20 · 48 min
Strength for All Body Types w/ Melody Schoenfeld
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Melody Schoenfeld, MA, CSCS, has well over 28 years of personal training experience and was 2019's NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year. Melody holds a master's degree in Health Psychology. In this episode, Melody shares her 30-year journey in strength training, coaching, and her unique insights into body types, strength modalities, and the evolution of her coaching approach. Discover how her diverse experiences inspire a personalized approach to fitness and strength. Check out more from Melody: Strength Training For All Body Types: https://us.humankinetics.com/products/strength-training-for-all-body-types Diet Lies And Weight Loss Truths: https://us.humankinetics.com/products/diet-lies-and-weight-loss-truths Pleasure Not Meating You: https://www.amazon.com/Pleasure-Not-Meating-You-Science-Based/dp/151362895X us.humankinetics.com Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Coaching 02:46 From Imposter to Impact: Early Coaching Experiences 05:44 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy 08:29 Discovering Strength: The Appeal of Powerlifting and Strongman 11:29 Overcoming Self-Doubt: The Role of Competition 14:36 The Art of Bending: A Unique Strength Challenge 17:22 The Importance of Competition in Training 20:26 Common Challenges in Modern Coaching 25:03 The Sedentary Lifestyle and Motivation to Move 25:56 The Power of Strength Training 27:23 Transformative Moments in Fitness 28:14 The Evolution of Goal Setting 30:11 Defining Strength and Fitness Goals 32:29 Body Types and Strength Training 35:50 Adapting Movements for Different Body Types 38:52 The Dynamics of Online Coaching 41:46 The Challenges of Online Coaching
April 13 · 45 min
Reinforcement over Punishment is the KEY w/ Huggy McNiff
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Huggy McNiff is Performance & Nutrition Coach with Trevor Kashey Nutrition, and one of the most impactful people I’ve ever worked with in my life. In this episode, Huggy shares insights on behavior change, mastery, and sustainable success in fitness and life. Discover how deep knowledge, precise language, and effective reinforcement strategies can transform your approach to health and personal growth. Check out more from Huggy at: IG: https://www.instagram.com/coach_huggybear5326?igsh=MWJzaTI3emRpeDIyMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr 50 % off TKN Summer Shred program: https://go.trevorkasheynutrition.com/kickstart-your-summer---podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Impact 05:26 The Journey of Coaching and Personal Growth 09:53 Behavior Modification and Coaching Principles 16:27 The Role of Integrity in Mental Toughness 20:38 Approach to Client Success and Long-Term Change 21:41 Behavior Change Through Observation 24:19 The Role of Coaches in Modeling Behavior 25:16 Misconceptions in Nutrition: The 80-20 Rule 28:15 The Importance of Precision in Nutrition 29:41 Integration vs. Balance in Life 31:51 Intuitive Eating: A Skill to Master 36:39 Efficacy vs. Confidence in Coaching 37:59 Developing Autonomy in Clients 43:09 The Importance of Social Support
April 6 · 46 min
Unlock Your Inner Coach w/ Tom Mitchell
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Tom Mitchell, Ph.D. is a Performance Coach and founder of Winning Spirit Coach, helping business leaders, athletes, and high-level performers discover their greatness within. As the former sport psychologist for the NBA's Golden State Warriors and co-author of an Amazon #1 Best Seller with NFL legend Joe Montana. In this insightful interview, Tom shares his journey from a basketball player to a renowned sports psychologist working with NBA teams like the Warriors. Discover his unique practices, including visualization and asking powerful questions, and learn how mindset and inner coaching drive peak performance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Sports Psychology 02:55 Transition from Player to Coach 05:57 The Influence of Mentorship 08:55 The Journey to the Golden State Warriors 11:49 Visualization Techniques and Index Cards 14:42 Role of a Sports Psychologist in Professional Sports 24:21 The Role of Sports Psychology in Player Development 32:34 The Power of Questions in Coaching 35:49 Lessons from Coaching Legends 39:34 The Obsession of Champions 45:10 Reflections on Coaching and Life
March 30 · 48 min
5 Elements of Anti-Aging w/ Carlos Cintron
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Carlos Cintron is the Founder/CEO of RVRSBL, a science-driven brand reversing biological age and extending lifespan. In this episode, Carlos shares his comprehensive approach to longevity and anti-aging, emphasizing the importance of spirituality, mindset, movement, nutrition, and functional medicine. Discover practical strategies, the role of peptides, and how to age gracefully with vitality. Check out more from Carlos at: Book: https://us.amazon.com/Aging-Inevitable-Getting-Old-Choice-ebook/dp/B0G21SJ3QR/ref=sr_1_9 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cintron11/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-cintron-8b57b828/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Longevity and Anti-Aging 01:57 The Five Elements of Life 09:59 Mindset and Spirituality in Aging 19:42 Conformity and Individuality in Health 25:28 The Journey of Self-Discovery 27:27 Aging by the Decades: Understanding Biological Changes 28:32 Peptides: The Buzz in Health and Wellness 30:39 Navigating the World of Peptides 32:56 Finding the Right Approach to Peptides 35:34 Mitochondrial Health: The Key to Vitality 39:20 Common Questions in Functional Medicine 42:26 Integrating Spirituality and Mindset in Health 45:04 The Framework for a Healthier Life
March 23 · 47 min
The Iron Council part III w/ Brett Jones, DJ Wittekind, and Mark Subias
Welcome to the Strength Connection! The Iron Council part III. I am rejoined by Brett Jones, DJ Wittekind, and Mark Subias in this roundtable talk on minimalism, strength as a way to build character, and more. In this conversation, we explore the concepts of minimal effective dose, building character through strength training, and the booming recovery industry. We discuss how to train smarter, avoid gimmicks, and focus on meaningful progress and resilience. Follow Brett, DJ, and Mark at: Brett: https://www.instagram.com/brettjonessfg/?hl=en DJ: https://www.instagram.com/queencitykettlebell/ Mark: https://www.instagram.com/subiasm/?hl=en Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weather Mood 01:18 The Misinterpretation of Minimal Effective Dose 03:23 Biohacking and Its Limits 05:04 Fundamentals of Recovery: Sleep, Nutrition, Stress 07:34 The Dangers of Gimmicks in Recovery 08:50 Efficiency vs. Effectiveness in Training 10:46 Balancing More and Less in Training 11:49 Approach to Training with Time Constraints 14:55 The Role of Goals and Process 16:14 The Importance of Setting Goals 20:28 The Boom of the Recovery Industry 22:43 Building Character in the Gym 24:22 Training Reveals Character 26:43 The Value of Hard Training and Character 31:47 Hard Training Builds Resilience 34:01 The Power of Competition 39:25 Training and Resilience in Life 44:59 Staying the Course in Training 46:26 Exploring Ideas and Continuous Learning
March 16 · 51 min
Training for Peace and Clarity over Validation w/ Paul Lynsgo
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Paul Lynsgo is a seasoned mentor and author, known for his work in redefining fitness and success beyond traditional metrics. His insights come from over 15 years of coaching men to live intentionally, with clarity and purpose. Most of us chase goals that aren’t truly ours, until we hit pause and ask, "What do I really want?" Paul reveals how ditching the hustle for clarity and enjoyment can massively accelerate your growth and fulfillment.In this episode, Paul shares his transformative journey from relentless goal-chasing to cultivating a life and training approach rooted in joy and authenticity. Check out more from Paul at: https://www.instagram.com/paul.lyngso/ https://lyngsopaul.com/ His book: https://us.amazon.com/Metaphysique-Perspective-Fitness-Nutrition-Beyond-ebook/dp/B0F19FSRPS/ref=sr_1_3?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.TlKWkFj_CNjBqM3S8ZsjLAWlI4e-QUqSTT17UxukNPjGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.St_4Nl1GfkCcRb-QtMWapa-PFi8cIotzU4v-7sFg_T0&dib_tag=se&qid=1773500374&refinements=p_27%3APaul++Lyngs%C3%B8&s=digital-text&sr=1-3
March 9 · 43 min
The Formula of Champions w/ Alberto Uncini Manganelli
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Alberto Uncini Manganelli is a former VP of Adidas and author of the book The Formula of Formulas, where he interviewed 22 world champions, asking 11 questions about the keys to success at the highest level. In this insightful interview, Alberto Uncini Manganelli shares his journey from sports to business, revealing the mindset and habits that define champions. Discover how top athletes think about winning, resilience, and continuous improvement, and learn practical strategies to elevate your performance. Check out more from Alberto at: Instagram Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Alberto Uncini Manganelli 02:58 The Journey from Sports to Business 05:54 Decoding the Champion's Mindset 08:51 The Importance of Wanting to Win 12:03 The Role of Long-Term Goals 14:58 Insights from Top Athletes 17:45 The Skill of Resilience and Resetting 20:42 The Margins of Success 23:16 Raising Standards Through Incremental Gains 28:53 The Power of Rituals and Mindset in Performance 34:21 Individualization in Training Methods 40:12 Expectations vs. Standards in Achieving Success
March 2 · 53 min
Jess Mather: Live Rehabited
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Jess Mather is an internationally-recognized strength and rehab professional who helps others be in their bodies with less limitation, pain, fear or insecurity. With over 13 years of experience supporting thousands of individuals from 9 to over 99, she has repeatedly witnessed the body's incredible ability to adapt, strengthen and heal regardless of circumstance. Jess has spent the last 10 years in her telehealth practice helping clients across over a dozen countries through private coaching, courses and group programs. In addition, Jess is an accredited educational provider to teach doctors, therapists, and other health professionals how to effectively work with complex chronic pain, trauma, and stress. She is the founder and lead instructor with the Chronic Pain & Trauma Curriculum. Check out more from Jess at: https://www.facebook.com/jess.mather.75 Instagram Feminine Strength Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 01:07 Jess Mather's Journey into Fitness and Therapy 03:06 Early Movement as Therapy and Self-Discovery 05:21 Transformative Experiences with Physical Therapy and Nutrition 10:07 Shift in Women's Fitness and Lifting Culture 11:58 Physical and Mental Benefits of Strength Training 14:57 Strength as a Source of Empowerment and Grounding 19:32 Path from Strength Practitioner to Coach 27:09 Working with Trauma and Chronic Pain 33:47 Understanding Trauma-Informed Care in Physical Training 41:38 Nervous System Regulation and Trauma Healing Techniques 44:03 Strength Training for Nervous System Regulation 46:38 External Orientation and Body Awareness Practices 50:03 Simple Mindfulness and Body Scanning Exercises 51:40 Practical Approaches to Technique and Self-Listening 52:41 Closing Remarks and Follow-up Resources
February 16 · 50 min
Redefining STRENGTH w/ Cori Lefkowith
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Cori Lefkowith is the founder of Redefining Strength, beginning as a brick and mortar gym in Costa Mesa, California, that has grown into a global online coaching program… helping thousands of women reclaim their confidence and strength. In this conversation, Cori discusses her journey from tennis to becoming a fitness coach and the founder of Redefining Strength. We explore the importance of community, mindset, and the act-as-if framework in achieving personal growth and success. Cori shares her experiences with identity shifts, the evolution of coaching, and the significance of feedback in the learning process. The discussion emphasizes the need for action, the value of small steps, and the importance of seeking support in one's fitness journey. Check out more from Cori at: https://redefiningstrength.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/redefiningstrength/?hl=en Chapters 00:00 Cori Lefkowith's Journey into Fitness 02:44 The Evolution of Redefining Strength 06:01 Acting As If: A Framework for Success 08:52 The Importance of Customer Service in Fitness 11:47 Building a Community and Online Presence 14:34 Identity Shifts and Goal Setting 17:33 Mindset and Habit Formation 23:33 The Journey of Habits and Transformation 27:07 Embracing Discomfort and the All-or-Nothing Mentality 30:25 The Emotional Weight of Failure 32:58 The Power of Daily Wins and Positive Feedback 37:03 The Importance of Coaching and Community 39:23 Evolving Coaching Approaches and Mindset 43:53 From Tactics to Holistic Coaching
February 2 · 1 hr 7 min
Strive for M.O.R.E w/ Jan Raeder
Welcome to the Strength Connection! Jan Raeder, known to many as the SelfCare Sensei, brings a rare depth to the conversation around strength, wellbeing, and what it really means to live with purpose. Jan is an internationally recognized wellbeing educator, keynote speaker, and author of Strive for M.O.R.E., where MORE stands for Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, and Engagement — a framework she’s developed through decades of lived experience and evidence-based practice. In this conversation, she shares insights from her background in martial arts and how it has shaped her approach to personal development. Check out more from Jan at: MIT talk: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=71TfPUyLEWY website: https://selfcaresensei.com/ Amazon link to book: amzn.to/49YmdGq Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Self Care Sensei 06:36 Defining Wellness and Well-Being 12:14 The Role of Martial Arts in Personal Development 20:26 The Importance of Practice and Consistency 29:20 Setting Goals vs. Finding Meaning 36:49 The MORE Framework: Meaning, Optimism, Relationships, Engagement 44:20 Transcending Challenges and Finding Gratitude 51:22 Self-Awareness and Personal Growth

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