#118: Today’s episode is from our most recent virtual retreat panel conversation titled, "Wellness Trailblazers & Trends in 2022". We are joined by Bridget Connelly from @lunabaybooch, Dean Stattmann of @STATmediaPR & Sorina Fredholm (@sorinafresholm) from @121tribe.

#117: On today’s episode we are joined by Ryan Van Voorhis and Seth Bradley of Nude Dude Food. Seth and Ryan are fast becoming Chicago's most sought after private dining and catering service, specializing in the art of eating well and feeling sexy. They do this through incorporating and substituting menus and ingredients for a wide variety of anti inflammatory diets, including FODMAP and AIP. Learn more about Nude Dude Food online here     

#116: On today’s episode we are joined by Chervin Jafarieh, founder of Cymbiotika, an innovative wellness brand inspiring everyday people to reclaim control of their life by achieving optimal health. Chervin has committed his life to seeking knowledge and truth while advocating for keen discernment in all areas of life. This recording is part two out of two full episodes with Chervin. Check out podcast #107 for the first episode.

#115: Today’s episode is the final episode of a 4-part podcast series with Live Better co-founder, Bret Gornik. Over the course of 4 episodes Bret speaks to his life and journey from the start to where he is now. Tune in to learn about Bret's journey, the ups and downs to starting Live Better and life lessons he's learned along the way.

#114: Today’s episode is part 3 of a 4-part podcast series with Live Better co-founder, Bret Gornik. Over the course of 4 episodes Bret speaks to his life and journey from the start to where he is now. Tune in to learn about Bret's journey, the ups and downs to starting Live Better and life lessons he's learned along the way.  

#113: Today’s episode is part 2/4 of a podcast series with Live Better co-founder, Bret Gornik. Over the course of 4 episodes Bret speaks to his life and journey from the start to where he is now. Tune in to learn about Bret's journey, the ups and downs to starting Live Better and life lessons he's learned along the way.

#112: Today’s episode kicks off a 4-part podcast series with Live Better co-founder, Bret Gornik. Over the course of 4 episodes Bret speaks to his life and journey from the start to where he is now. Tune in to learn about Bret's journey, the ups and downs to starting Live Better and life lessons he's learned along the way.  

#111: On today’s episode Live Better co-founders, Bret Gornik and Jason Loebig recap 2021 and dive into 2022 intentions, goals and plans for the year. 

#110: On today’s episode we are joined by retreat leader Ryland Hormel, Chief of Staff Paige Powell along with Bret & Jason to talk all things - Live Better Retreat experience. Inquire for a Live Better retreat before 12/31/21 and get 10% OFF Live Better Retreats in 2022. Use the following link to inquire: https://livebetterco.org/retreats-form

On today’s episode we are joined by wellness expert, CEO and founder of Talent Hack, Alexandra Bonetti as she shares his mission to re-architect the $4.3T wellness space by empowering the next generation of fitness and wellness trailblazers.

On today’s episode we are joined by fashion designer and creative director, Josh Kercher as he shares his mission to creating beautiful things with incredible stories; whether it's a bespoke suit, a handmade pair of boots, a leather jacket with a perfect patina developed over time or a vintage tee worn and faded in all the right places.  Shop the Kercher collection online or to reserve a private fitting at our studio in Chicago.  

#107: On today’s episode we are joined by Chervin Jafarieh, founder of Cymbiotika, an innovative wellness brand inspiring everyday people to reclaim control of their life by achieving optimal health. Chervin has committed his life to seeking knowledge and truth while advocating for keen discernment in all areas of life. This recording is part one out of two full episodes with Chervin.

#106: On today’s episode we are bringing it back to a previous Live Better episode on ways to practice gratitude and post Live Better retreat vibes. We have so much to be thankful for always, and specifically around this time of year.  If you are interested in coming on our next Live Better Retreat March 14-19th, 2022 - fill out an inquiry form here: https://livebetterco.org/retreats-form

#105: On today’s episode we are joined by one and only, Aubre Winters! Aubre is the creator of Sweat Sessions - a virtual fitness studio and app offering sculpt, dance, and strength classes and programs. From her fitness tour to manifesting the brand of her dreams, Aubre shares an inside look into her everyday life and how she balances it all.  

#104: On today’s episode we are joined by founder and CEO of Ice Barrel, Wyatt Ewing. From coming out of poverty to landing a high-stress job in the aviation industry to getting burnt out - Wyatt hit the reset button on his life walking away from it all to rebuild a balanced life from scratch. Today, Wyatt is on a mission to share the power of cold therapy with anyone who needs to hit the reset button.

#103: On today’s episode we are joined by founder of Luna Bay Booch, Bridget Connelly. Luna Bay was born out of a desire to make a change in the alcohol industry – to brew something better for ourselves, our minds, our planet. Bridget leads the first and only female founded, female run hard kombucha company in the United States.   

#102: On today’s episode we are joined by Emily Griffith. Emily is the founder of Lil Bucks, a gluten-free, granola alternative made from sprouted buckwheat seeds. Lil Bucks aims to promote diversity in American crops and in the American diet. Emily is on a mission to share the love of sprouted buckwheat with other health-conscious cool cats, all-the-while promoting sustainable farming in the U.S.    

#101: On today’s episode we are joined by Blue Benadum. Blue is the co-founder of Guru Running, a system of training and community that guides people into becoming super athletes capable of physiological versatility and psychological mastery. With 60+ marathons under his belt, Blue and the Guru Running team are on a mission to redefine how athletes approach health and fitness through an evolved system of training.

#100: On today’s episode we are joined by Logan Aldridge. He is the Director of Training at Adaptive Training, a CrossFit Games competitor and the fittest one-armed man on earth. Logan Aldridge is driven by human potential and is on a mission to educate and help other adaptive athletes achieve new fitness goals.

#99: On today’s episode we are joined by Mike "C-Roc" Ciorrocco. He is the co-founder of Blooprinted, best-selling Author of ROCKET FUEL Convert Setbacks. Become Unstoppable.   Mike is driven to inspire others and measures his success on how he is able to help others achieve greatness.

#98: On today’s episode we are joined by the founder of ENERGYBits, Catharine Arnston. Catharine started ENERGYbits after her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and advised by an oncologist that an alkaline diet would help her heal. Catharine took action to help her sister research alkaline foods and in the process discovered algae. Through her work over the years, Catharine has become one of the world's leading experts on algae.

#97: On today’s episode we are joined by Sean Swarner. Sean is the first cancer survivor to climb Mount Everest. He has climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro over 20 times bringing along other survivors for charity. Having already beaten two terminal cancers, Sean accomplishes these great feats with one lung. He attributes his success to finding the right purpose behind everything you do.

#96: On today’s episode we are joined by Sorina Fredholm, Co-Founder of 121 Tribe, Wellness Entrepreneur, Health Coach and Yoga Teacher. 121tribe.com gives you access to unique people that are passionate health advocates, influencers, athletes, bloggers and incredible wellness warriors who have collectively inspired millions of people to transform their lifestyle. 

#95: On today’s episode we are joined by athlete engineer, Kofi Hughes of Kofi Hughes Training. Kofi Hughes is an ordained minister, abstract expressionist, high school football coach, trainer and co-owner of "The Factory", an athletic training facility in Naperville, IL.  Kofi played 4 years of Big10 football at Indiana University and spent time in the NFL with the Texans, Redskins, and Bears as a wide receiver (WR).

#94: On today’s episode we are joined by high performer, Brian Mazza. Brian Mazza is an entrepreneur based out of New York. With over 15 years of Hospitality and Fashion experience, he has co-created some of NYC’s strongest brands. HPLT, Brian’s latest venture, specializes in providing experiences focusing on bringing out the best in every individual. 

#93: The Live Better Podcast is back with a new look! On today’s episode we are joined by Erica Marie. Erica is a personal trainer and nutritionist in Chicago, Illinois. With over 10 years of experience, she works with professional athletes, student athletes, and client’s in efforts to provide necessary means and knowledge to exceed their respective personal wellness and performance goals.  Connect with Erica HERE Connect with Bret HERE Connect with Jason HERE This episode is brought to you by Live Better. Live Better is the experiential health brand that reaches thousands of women and men trying to live their best lives by sharing health, wellness, business, & lifestyle tips. 

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Dr. Michael Tal Risher, a Sports Performance doctor in Chicago that specializes in rehabilitation and soft tissue techniques. He works primarily with NFL athletes and has been traveling around the country to help players rehab from injury this season. Some of his most notable work athletes like David Montogomery, Demetrius Harris, Joe Mixon and Josh Norman have been mentioned in the Daily Herald as well as NBC Sports.   In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Identifying a muscle or joint injury and the different ways that it can affect recovery and performance Learning to train various parts of your body to increase performance, and recognizing if there is a need to train underused areas Why certain muscles must work harder than others, and using that information to help increase performance    Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Michael about the process he goes through when evaluating his patients, and the different types of injuries he works with. Learn more about the holistic way that Dr. Michael treats his patients through a variety of expertise in chiropractic, personal training, and physical therapy.    Connect With Michael Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.michael.tal.risher/ Email Michael: rehablabchicago@gmail.com Learn more about the Rehab Lab: https://www.rehablabchicago.com/   Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105  

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Nick Pags. Nick is a motivational speaker and thought leader, mindset and emotional intelligence coach, consultant, personal trainer at the exclusive Performix House in NYC, Founding Theragun Master Trainer, and a lululemon Ambassador. Nick’s online mindset coaching business has serviced groups and individuals all over the world, having coached hundreds of entrepreneurs in building successful businesses over the last 2 years.    In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Connecting with your purpose, and combining your passions with your career so that you can fulfill your greatest potential The process of checking in with yourself and finding what drives the purpose behind what you are doing so that it is in alignment with your values  Conditioning yourself to make your own decisions, and living purposefully through the actions you take every day   Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Nick about his experience in pivoting into mindset coaching and the process he went through to follow his passions. Nick believes you must be present each and every day so that you can pursue what fills you with happiness and fulfillment. Learn more about his coaching process and journey by listening to this episode!    Connect With Nick Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickpagsfit/ Email Nick: nickpagsfit@gmail.com Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Keith Rabois, investor and entrepreneur. Keith is a general partner at Founders Fund. Throughout his venture career he has led investments in DoorDash, Affirm, Forward Health, Faire, Thoughtspot, and Stripe. He also founded Opendoor, which transforms the process of buying and selling a home. Keith has a unique and unparalleled track record as an entrepreneur, executive and investor. Over the last decade, he has forged several of the most important new social and commerce platforms. Keith began his career in the industry as a senior executive at PayPal and subsequently served in influential roles at LinkedIn and as chief operating officer of Square. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Investing in high growth startups, and what qualities to look for in an early stage company Filtering your time so that you can divide it in a way that prioritizes what is important to you  What goes into scaling a company, and strategies to creating a successful outcome through gaining a competitive advantage within the startup industry Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Keith about his journey in becoming a venture capitalist, helping start many high growth startups and the top strategies he uses to transform industries. Connect With Keith Online: Twitter: https://twitter.com/rabois?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105  

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret is here this week with Patrick Mckeown, world-renowned and best-selling author of “The Oxygen Advantage” and breathing practitioner. Patrick’s mission is to empower people to take control of their own health, well-being and fitness using simple breathing exercises proven to improve body oxygenation.   From a young age, Patrick suffered from asthma and relied on an array of medicines and inhalers. After 20 years of suffering, Patrick was able to cure himself from asthma by applying the principles of the Buteyko Breathing Method from the Buteyko Clinic, Moscow, Russia.  In a career spanning 15 years, Patrick has since also become a bestselling author and expert on the topic of optimal breathing for improved health, well being and fitness. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Calculating your bolt score to see how functional your breathing is, and how that can translate to breathing during exercise Exercises to improve your breathing for increased performance and decreased inflammation through the nose The benefits of nasal breathing in order to strengthen the muscles that help you breathe, and reduce breathlessness during physical exercise   Listen in as Bret discusses with Patrick about the different types of breathing and ways to identify how you can improve your breathing patterns. This can ultimately help with recovery and the strength of your lungs.    Connect With Patrick Online: Website: https://oxygenadvantage.com/patrick-mckeown-m-a-tcd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buteykoclinic/?hl=en   Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105  

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Brian Johnson also known as BJ the Dreamer. Brian Johnson is an Amazon Best Selling Author, motivational speaker, and inspirational life coach. He has been a part of several Emmy winning television shows, as well as hosting his own show, The Daily Inspiration. Brian is on a mission to utilize his platform to inspire the world.    In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Creating the foundation and mindset to go out and accomplish your dreams, despite any setbacks that may arise Taking risks in order to purposefully put yourself in a place of self-growth and continued learning Finding who you truly are so that you can align your goals with what will fill you up with the most happiness    Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Brian about his mission to uplift and motivate others to go out and achieve their dreams, as well as his journey in finding himself and taking risks to achieve his goals.   Connect With Brian Online: Website: http://liveyourdreamsoutloud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bjthedreamer/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BJTheDreamer Twitter: https://twitter.com/BJTheDreamer   Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret is here this week with Erinne Brown. Erinne is a Chicago-based Well-Being Coach who started her healing journey in an intense management consulting career, in which she experienced unprecedented stress, fatigue, and poor physical health. The overachiever in her decided to channel her energy into nourishing herself unconditionally, and earned health and life coaching certifications so that she could help other high achieving women do the same. Through her one-on-one and group coaching programs, she helps her clients design a lifestyle of abundant well-being without sacrificing the parts of their lives that matter most.    In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Daily practices that can help create a space to gain clarity, and be more in-tune with yourself Recognizing the signs of being burnt out and ways to make changes towards living the life you want to live Aligning yourself with your values so that you can fill the space with things that bring you energy and joy   Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Erinne about her personal experiences with being burnt out, and ways she guides her clients to find more balance and fulfillment in their lives.    Connect With Erinne Online: Website: https://www.livewellwitherinne.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livewellwitherinne/ Erin’s Live Well by Design Coaching Program: https://www.livewellwitherinne.com/lwbd Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Tieko Nejon, an educator and corporate trainer who focuses on the advancement of human behavior and the dynamics within social constructs. Despite her upbringing and growing up in a neighborhood with gun-violence, drugs, addicts and single family homes (she speaks to this during the episode), Tieko created her own path to entrepreneurship, rewriting her story. Tieko’s work has spanned a broad spectrum of industries, from designing curriculum for a medical school to detailing cultural strategy for big-box beauty brands. Her mission is simple – “Build better people”. Tieko partners with corporate teams, executive leaders, and management to push people toward excellence. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Understanding where you came from and how it makes you unique  Learning how to gravitate or deviate from what you currently know  Creating a better life for yourselves and others through better communication Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Tieko how she deviated from her dysfunctional norm, found the core of emotional intelligence, and leads a life of helping others live better.  Connect With Tieko Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiekonejon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiekonejon/ Company Website: https://www.tiekonejon.com   Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105 

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Darin Olien! Darin Olien is co-host with Zac Efron on the widely popular Netflix docu-series called “Down to Earth with Zac Efron” and host of the #1 Health & Wellness podcast "The Darin Olien Show." Darin is also a highly recognized exotic superfoods hunter, supplement formulator, and author of the New York Times bestselling book, “SuperLife: The five fixes that will keep you healthy, fit and eternally awesome." He has traveled the planet discovering new and underutilized exotic foods and medicinal plants. In early 2020 Darin launched 121 Tribe, a health APP created to help people live an optimal and sustainable life. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Healthful Living: Replenishing your body with sleep, fuel (plants!), water, everyday mindful practice and movement Being an advocate for a greater vision of yourself through sustainability and eliminating exposure through industrialized toxins Taking on the responsibility of your life through introspection, mindful action and the use of power rather than the force of victimization Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Darin how he first connected with Zac Efron in the beginning stages of Down to Earth, his own personal journey of healthful living and how the death of all of his belongings from a forest fire ignited a light inside of him to deepen his commitment of a better way of live moving forward. Connect With Darin Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_darinolien/?hl=en Darin’s Website: https://darinolien.com/ Contact Darin: info@darinolien.com Watch Down to Earth with Darin Olien and Zac Efron: https://downtoearthzacefron.com/ Check out his 3 day free trial of his new health APP 121tribe.com Read Darin’s Book SuperLife Rate our podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-better-podcast/id1123804105

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Luke Tyburski. Luke is living proof that by training your mind, what anyone can accomplish is near limitless. The Ultra-Endurance Athlete & Mental Performance Coach works with individuals, companies, and teams across the globe to help them create the same Performance Mindset he has used to run across the Sahara Desert, down Mt Everest, and complete a world first 2000km in 12 day Ultimate Triathlon from Morocco to Monaco.       The award winning documentary of the Ultimate Triathlon shows his performance Mindset principles, techniques, and frameworks in action, and how we all can strengthen our mind to optimize performance in any area of our life.          In this episode we breakdown the secrets to:     Navigating the mental challenges that come along with setbacks in accomplishing your goals      -Resetting your mind in order to train at your highest level, and ways to integrate meditation into your day     -Going back to the fundamentals of your training to apply to anything else you do in life          Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Luke about how he overcame his depression and turned to endurance sports to fuel his passion for adventure and risk-taking.          Connect With Luke Online     Instagram   Chasing Extreme Book            Rate our podcast for a chance to win a spot in our mindset course! 

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik of the Almost 30 Podcast. Almost 30 is an Apple Podcasts "Top 50" podcast and a global brand and community. Known for their relatable conversations about wellness, entrepreneurship, spirituality, and self-development, Krista and Lindsey take pride in creating inspiring, raw, and hilarious moments during their weekly interviews with fascinating guests. The Chalkboard Mag raves that the content  "isn’t preachy or contrived — it's 100% relatable with a pinch of sass.” Each episode provides listeners with actionable “aha!” moments and inspirational stories.   In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Pursuing what you want to do, and taking those steps towards continued action Navigating the entrepreneurial role, and ways to problem solve when things don’t go as planned Creating a business that is true to its message and values, and ways to check-in to evaluate the course of action   Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Krista and Lindsey about their journey in starting the Almost 30 Podcast, and techniques they’ve used to build both of their businesses from the ground up.    Connect With Krista and Lindsey Online: Almost 30 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/almost-30/id1148183612 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almost30podcast/ Website: https://almost30.com/   Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with JT Barnett, Former Professional Hockey Player of 6 years playing in the US, Canada, Russia, and Europe. JT is the founder of Triple Deke Media and RESET, a pop up festival that highlights the newest and hottest brands in wellness. He lives to promote wellness, helps others take control of their own wellbeing and health, and teaches individuals to upgrade their lifestyle. Amid the Coronavirus pandemic, JT has connected a group of 8 wellness experts in a house called the HoneyHouse. They have gathered in the Hollywood Hills to create a circle of people focused on motivation, fitness, and wellness. They have utilized TikTok to create content that inspires people to stay fit, take care of their mental health, and live the best life possible. JT aspires to always be the best person in the room, and he does so creatively by encouraging others to keep moving forward.   In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: The importance of relationships and surrounding yourself with good people  Connecting people and brands to create a community that promotes a better lifestyle Understanding and working on your own wellbeing, and using it to help others  Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with JT how he uses his energy to push people, how he communicates with others, and beneficial ways that help him make people feel better.   Connect With JT Barnett Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtbarnett/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtbarnett/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJB4Cx1u/ LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/Jtbarnett Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Ryan Lockee. As a former elementary teacher, and recent father and author, Ryan believes that changing one's mindset will determine the shape and future of your life. Personal development, which includes emotional intelligence, mindfulness, meditation, and developing a growth mindset, something that's not typically taught in schools, is the focus of his book, Wisdom Beyond the Classroom. Simple tools, lessons, and stories are shared in the book, which are easy to apply, and much needed in today's world.    In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: The importance of teaching children meditation and mindfulness practices early on so they have the tools to stay centered and focused Ways to get started on meditation practices and making it a part of your routine The benefits of meditation and how those skills can prepare you for everyday life situations Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Ryan about his background in teaching meditation and mindfulness within the classroom, and the transformation his students had when they were able to control their thoughts, and focus on their breathing.    Connect With Ryan Lockee Online: Website: Wisdombeyondtheclassroom.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryan.lockee/ Facebook: facebook.com/ryan.lockee Email: support@wisdombeyondtheclassroom.com    Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Case Kenny. Case hosts a podcast called New Mindset, Who Dis. Twice a week he releases short episodes dedicated to no BS self development and mindfulness advice. In 2014, Case started working at an ad agency that made him realize he wanted to start writing again so he began writing for a men’s lifestyle blog. His passion for writing quickly evolved into a mindfulness email called PRSUIT. Since then, Case has never missed a day of writing. In 2018, Case challenged himself to do more than just write. Enter his podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis. Complementing what he preaches in early 2020 Case created a mindset journal that contains 10-minute journal prompts and 60 days of questions to shatter limiting beliefs & help you gain clarity on who you really are. Case focuses on consistency and listens to himself when approaching his practical mindfulness techniques and preparing his podcast. Listen in to hear more about Case’s journey. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: The importance of finding your why and truth. Your truth is always pushing yourself to search for what lights you up inside — people, places, interests and passions. Defining what mindfulness means to you  Breaking free of your assumptions you have in order to pursue your full potential Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Case how he lives out the power of choice, and helps others find their practical mindset for their best day ever.  Connect With Case Kenny on Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/case.kenny/ Website: https://newmindsetwhodis.com LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/casekenny Get his journal: https://newmindsetwhodis.com Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Jennifer Cassetta. Jennifer is a health and empowerment coach with the mission of helping people feel strong, safe and confident from the streets to the boardroom. Jenn has spoken around the country on topics that include women's empowerment, wellness and self defense. She's been on The Today Show, The Doctors, The Real and was a wellness coach on ABC TV's My Diet is Better Than Yours.  In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Being resilient during challenging times, and getting back on track when life throws you a curveball Understanding the importance of learning self defense techniques to feel empowered and safe  Creating a long term healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition and wellness techniques so that you can perform at your best Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Jennifer about her background in martial arts, and how she uses these physical and mental techniques to advocate for women’s safety and self defense. Connect With Jennifer Cassetta Online: Website: https://jennifercassetta.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenncassetta/ Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Bryan Jackson, head of performance training at Ascend Performance Global. Bryan is a Nike Master Trainer, Jordan Brand Master Trainer, and performance specialist based out of Chicago, IL. He is known as one of the most sought after performance coaches in Chicago, with over 10 years of experience in the industry. He played three sports in high school (football, baseball, and track & field) and continued his skill in Division 1 football at Bowling Green State University and Indiana State University. After an injury during his football career, Bryan decided to transition into the fitness industry. He eventually developed a training program concept for youth athletes that has evolved into training initiatives used in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Toronto.  In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Putting in the work and always being willing to learn  Helping people realize their full potential and understand that commitment is key to reaching your personal best  Making people feel comfortable and take life into their own hands  Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Bryan how he trains people to live a higher quality of life, never skip steps, and stick to the process to get your desired outcome.  Connect With Bryan Jackson on Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsbjack/  Website: https://www.ascendperformanceglobal.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ItsBJack Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Sarah Russo, holistic certified chef and owner of Love Your Fat Personal Chefs here in Chicago. Sarah, a former vegan, now specializes in therapeutic foods and healing foods that are functional and delicious. Her favorite cuisine is the farm-to-table approach, seasonal-plentiful-relatable. Sarah added animal protein back into her diet in 2015, as she discovered mindful ways to source the "good stuff" in the Chicago area. For the past 5 years, Sarah has been working as a personal chef, recipe developer, speaker, educator, blog contributor. Sarah is also the founder of organic ice pop company, ITSAPOP and her newest venture, an organic weekly subscription service in Chicago called Salad Club. When Sarah is not cooking or scheming a new concept to launch… you can find probably find her at the nearest farmer’s market, working out (her favs: strength training, spinning, and yoga) or spending time with her family. If this was senior year of high school, Sarah’s yearbook quotes would probably be: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” -Winston Churchill and “When you have the best sourced ingredients you can cook very simply and the food will be extraordinary because it tastes like what it is.” -Sarah Russo In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Getting curious with food and learning its benefits  Testing to determine your diet and what works best for you  Creating an entrepreneurial lifestyle as a private chef Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Sarah about her mission to help others follow their food journey and discover their ‘perfect menu’.  Connect With Sarah Russo Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefsarahrusso/ Website: https://www.loveyourfat.com Salad Club: www.saladclub.co Blog: https://www.loveyourfat.com/blog Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast P.S. - Use coupon code BESTDAYEVER for $10 off your first order from Salad Club! 

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Dr. Alex Orton & Dr. Kolby Ourada, Naturopathic doctors. After graduating valedictorian and salutatorian from the National University of Health Sciences, Alex and Kolby started Haven: a holistic Health Center in Chicago. Haven creates individualized health programs for people to be educated and empowered to know exactly how to optimize their health and heal from chronic illness. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Identifying the causes of toxicity within your life and how to work towards making positive changes within your daily routine Innovative ways that Naturopathic medicine can heal aliments and health issues through understanding the body fully Creating an environment that will allow the body to function at its highest levels Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Alex and Kolby about their mission to help others take control of their health, and create positive habits to allow the body to heal. Connect With Haven on Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/havenchicago/ Website: https://www.havenholistichealth.com/ Email: hello@havenholistichealth.com Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Dr. Alex Orton & Dr. Kolby Ourada, Naturopathic doctors. After graduating valedictorian and salutatorian from the National University of Health Sciences, Alex and Kolby started Haven: a holistic Health Center in Chicago. Haven creates individualized health programs for people to be educated and empowered to know exactly how to optimize their health and heal from chronic illness. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Identifying the causes of toxicity within your life and how to work towards making positive changes within your daily routine Innovative ways that Naturopathic medicine can heal aliments and health issues through understanding the body fully Creating an environment that will allow the body to function at its highest levels Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Alex and Kolby about their mission to help others take control of their health, and create positive habits to allow the body to heal. Connect With Haven on Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/havenchicago/ Website: https://www.havenholistichealth.com/ Email: hello@havenholistichealth.com Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Carmen DelMastro, Sports Performance Specialist and Certified Functional Strength Coach. Carmen found his dedication to fitness and health as a Division I baseball player at Temple University, leading to a short stint as a professional player. Now, Carmen dedicates his time to educating clients and athletes alike on the proper techniques and training methods. Carmen trains clients privately online and at On Your Mark studios in Chicago. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Staying motivated and keeping yourself on track  Having patience in training and learning to start with the basics Continuing growth and education Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Carmen how he turned his athletic experience into a lifestyle by becoming a top trainer in Chicago.  Connect with Carmen DelMastro on Instagram and train with him today:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nooch_13/?hl=en  Train with Carson: https://www.trainerize.me/profile/theacademy/Carmen.DelMastro  Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Tyler Ray, CEO and Head Coach of Project Pure Athlete. Tyler is a vertical jump expert, strength coach and former professional dunker and Team Canada track athlete with a 48” vertical jump. Tyler coaches athletes of all levels all over the globe to jump higher and be better athletes. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: The journey of dunking a basketball and how to jump higher The mental side of pushing your mind and body beyond boundaries  Combining passion and business to living a life worth living Being fearless: Putting the fear of failure aside in order to succeed   Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Tyler his journey on combining his love for education and athleticism. Tyler has made it his life’s purpose to help others jump higher, be a better athlete. Connect with Tyler and PPA on Instagram and sign up for a jump program: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectpureathlete Any questions for Tyler? Email projectpureathlete@gmail.com Check out his jump programs here: https://projectpureathlete.com/shop/ FREE 10-page jumper guide: https://go.projectpureathlete.com/optinpath Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with James Silvas, Speaker and Performance Coach. James is a Mindset Specialist with over 13,000 hours of training experience working with high performing teams at Nike, Caesars, MGM & ADT. He is the founder of the Be That 1% movement, a movement, and brand that inspires others to be the one that lives life on their terms, overcome obstacles and do what 99% won’t. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Getting to where you want to go in life, and taking those first steps towards that vision Understanding your purpose and aligning your values to become the best version of yourself Creating a growth mindset to take action in your life to pursue your goals  Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with James about his mission to help others find their passion and break through their fears, and how his upbringing got him to where he is now.  Connect With James Silvas on Online: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/james_silvas/ Website: https://www.jamessilvas.com/homepage#home Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bethatonepercentshop Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Emily Hutchins, Owner, On Your Mark - Performance enhancement specialist, Corrective enhancement specialist, Nike Master Trainer and Nike Run Club Coach. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Getting your foot in the door in the fitness industry Hustling for the right reasons  Trying new things and redefining your purpose  Training clients based on what THEY need  Leading a positive, team-effort culture in business Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Emily Hutchins her journey from a three-sport athlete to becoming a performance enhancement specialist, Nike Master Trainer and Nike+ Run Coach and her philosophy on training hard, but smart. Connect with Emily Hutchins on Instagram and take a class at On Your Mark: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/em.hutchins/ Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/insidethehuddleoym/ On Your Mark: http://oymtraining.com/ Recommended Products: Hyperice ; Vertimax Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Emily Hutchins, Owner, On Your Mark - Performance enhancement specialist, Corrective enhancement specialist, Nike Master Trainer and Nike Run Club Coach. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Getting your foot in the door in the fitness industry Hustling for the right reasons  Trying new things and redefining your purpose  Training clients based on what THEY need  Leading a positive, team-effort culture in business Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Emily Hutchins her journey from a three-sport athlete to becoming a performance enhancement specialist, Nike Master Trainer and Nike+ Run Coach and her philosophy on training hard, but smart. Connect with Emily Hutchins on Instagram and take a class at On Your Mark: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/em.hutchins/ Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/insidethehuddleoym/ On Your Mark: http://oymtraining.com/ Recommended Products: Hyperice ; Vertimax Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week speaking about the ability to adapt during unprecedented times, businesses challenges, and feelings experienced during quarantine. In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Promoting optimism and a strong mindset Making an impact during a crisis.   Pivoting a business or career by adapting to current times  Reflecting and working on your business instead of in it  If you've lost focus and want to recenter your intention, listen in. What other good can you refocus on? To help yourself? To help others? How can you actively use your current standing to help others you may be in a different situation than you are?  Join us in helping empower our youth and inner city kids at Chicago Public schools by making a donation.  Re-focus and find your intention with our 5 day kickstart program and download our FREE week of meditation.  Donate: www.livebetterco.org/donate 5 Day Kickstart Program: www.livebetterco.org/5daykickstart FREE Week of Meditation: livebetterco.org/meditate Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Cynthia Kane, certified meditation and mindfulness instructor, Founder of the Kane Intentional Communication Institute and best selling  author of How To Meditate Like a Buddhist,  How To Communicate Like A Buddhist and Talk To Yourself Like A Buddhist In this episode we breakdown the secrets to: Purposeful, helpful and concise communication  Speaking to others in an honest, kind and helpful way Changing your communication to lead a more empowered life What your own meditation practice says about you Listening and reflecting on the way you interact with others Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Cynthia Kane how she made it her life’s purpose to help you change how you communicate with yourself, others, and your environment to enhance the quality of your relationships – your life. Connect with Cynthia Kane on Instagram and by taking her FREE online masterclass: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cykane1/?hl=en Website: cynthiakane.com Masterclass: https://intentionalcommunicationcertification.mykajabi.com/intentional-communication-challenge Get her books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/ideas/amzn1.account.AFJPPOYAQH56R5PQ44CB2YKZJZUA/2QBGMMQ8Z62MQ?type=explore&ref=idea_cp_vl_ov_d Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Ben Patrick (“Knees Over Toes Guy”), coach and founder of the “Athletic Truth Group” a gym and online training service.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Ben Patrick how he made it his life’s purpose to figure out how to bulletproof his body against pain and injury after 10 years of chronic knee pain. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ In this episode we breakdown the secrets to:⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 1. Going from a 19” to a 40” vertical⁣⁣ 2. Playing basketball pain free after 10 years of chronic knee pain⁣⁣ 3. Why training your knees over your toes with perfect form will lead you to stronger knees and the ability jump higher   ⁣⁣ 4. Making everyday better than the day before (the best day ever!)⁣⁣ 5. Fixing the root of any problem and finding success through consistency ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Connect with Ben Patrick on Instagram and his website:⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekneesovertoesguy/⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ATG: Athletic Truth Group Coaching: https://atgonlinecoaching.com⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Rate our podcast: www.livebetterco/rateourpodcast

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Sam Tooley, Online Endurance & Mindset Coach and Owner of Alpha Fit Club. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Sam Tooley his journey becoming a successful gym owner, online endurance and mindset coach, the Alpha Mindset and how he empowers others through his personal transformation. For resources and more information on Sam and Alpha Fit Club, check out his instagram at @coach.samtooley This podcast episode is brought to you by Vital Proteins, grass-fed collagen peptides. Vital Proteins helps people feel better and live fuller lives through sustainably-sourced nutrition products, promoting health, fitness and natural beauty. Try our favorite products at Vital Proteins today.

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with David Reavy Founder of React PT! David Reavy, PT, CEO and Founder of React Physical Therapy and creator of the Reavy Method. He's been featured in Sports Illustrated, Men's Health, O The Oprah Magazine and more. Reavy  is Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopedic Physical Therapy. He gets the opportunity to work with members of our Chicago community as well as top athletes such as Alshon Jeffery during his latest Super Bowl appearance.) Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with David Reavy his journey in becoming a physical therapist, the Reavy method and his experience working with top athletes. For resources and more information on David and React Physical Therapy, check out our website, instagram, facebook and our youtube page.

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Liquid I.V. CEO and Founder, Brandin Cohen! Liquid I.V. has been Brandin’s entire life since he started the company in 2012 when he was 24 years old. Today, Liquid I.V. has sold over 100 million servings of their breakthrough Hydration Multiplier product, donated over 2 million servings to people in need around the world, and built an incredible team dedicated to their mission of Changing The World and helping people everywhere live better lives. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Brandin the importance of hydration, Brandin’s entrepreneurial journey, the mission of Liquid I.V. and their current COVID response initiative putting Liquid I.V. sticks into the hands of those who need it the most. Learn more about Brandin Cohen on Instagram @brandin_cohen, his YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/brandincohen  and head to Liquid I.V. to grab a multiplier pack: https://liquid-iv.com/collections/featured

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Tiffany Louise, Life + Relationships Coach and Author of THIS YEAR I WILL. Tiffany Louise, LCSW, is a professional coach and speaker specializing in cognitive and behavioral change. She is the author of This Year I Will…: A 52- Week Guided Journal to Achieve Your Goals. She is a contributor to various publications including SHAPE, Women’s Health, The Huffington Post, and Fox News. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Tiffany the importance of creating healthy relationships (with yourself and others) and why it is the key to unlocking your own happiness and well-being. Learn more about Tiffany Louise on Instagram @tiffany.louise, her website https://www.tiffanylouise.com/  and head to Amazon to  grab a copy of This Year I  Will...:  https://amzn.to/2XyDROK

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Peter Dunn aka Pete The Planner, CEO and Founder of Your Money Line and Hey Money. Peter Dunn a.k.a. Pete the Planner® is an award-winning comedian and an award-winning financial mind. He’s a USA TODAY columnist and the author of ten books, six of which were featured in a nationwide launch at Barnes & Nobles stores in January of 2015. He is the host of the popular radio show and podcast The Pete the Planner Show. Pete has appeared regularly on CNN Headline News, Fox News, Fox Business as well as numerous nationally syndicated radio programs. In addition to his work educating the public, Pete is also the CEO and Founder of Your Money Line and Hey Money. Your Money Line is a corporate financial wellness solution connecting employees to confidential, unbiased financial guidance. Hey Money is a direct-to-consumer monthly subscription that connects people to friendly financial experts. Pete lives in Carmel, Indiana with his wife and two young children. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Peter the importance of financial well being, making sure your values match your actions, building a stability plan, reducing unnecessary expenses and the financial impact of COVID-19. Show notes: [01:30-10:00] - Welcome Peter Dunn! [11:45-16:45] - Abundance philosophy vs. scarcity philosophy  [17:00-19:00] - The importance of mindset, doing what you love and the economic reality of doing what you love [20:00-23:15] - People who have been greatly financially impacted by the COVID-19 shutdown, people who haven’t been affected yet but could be soon, and people who currently have stability during the pandemic [23:30-30:00] - Reducing expenses, the “ideal” household budget and spending percentages (what you value versus what you tell your friends)    [32:00-33:00] - The minimalism culture and putting your money towards thing you value without compromising your stability (the value based judgement)  [33:00-37:30] - Building a stability plan around starting a family and buying a home [38:00-40:00] - The old mentality of renting and why renting is not a bad thing! [40:00-45:00] - The realities of financial education + why you shouldn’t be a victim of predatory lending  [47:00-50:00] - Best practices and tips for teaching our youth the importance of saving money [58:00-1:00:00] - Resources from Pete: Your Money Line + Hey Money [1:01:00-1:02:00]: Pete’s Best Day Ever (involving physical activity, helping people with their financial problems, fishing, watch crappy TV shows and drinking wine!) [1:03:00-End] - Learn more about Peter Dunn at his website at https://petetheplanner.com/

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Andy Lederman Founder + CEO of Bucket Listers.  Fueled by a passion for adventure and frustrated by the void of a reliable source to find great things to do, Andy started Chicago Bucket List to keep track of the best experiences in the city to share with family and friends. Shortly thereafter, friends of friends began to follow and soon the community was in the tens of thousands. Recognizing the mega-trend of discovery moving to social, Bucket Listers seized the opportunity to expand and has become the trusted source for experienced hungry millennials looking for new and unique things to do around the world. Today Bucket Listers curated guides reach millions of explorers and inspire adventures-big and small-every day. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with Andy Lederman how he turned his side hustle into a reality and became a strong business leader by always keeping an eye on the North Star. Show notes: [01:30-8:00] - Welcome Andy Lederman! [8:00-13:45] - Bucket Listers core values - we believe experiences shape who you are [14:00-16:00] - Starting on Instagram, growing through TikTok and Facebook and never sacrificing on quality  [16:00-17:00] - Sales vs. Content - what it means to be “Bucket List” worthy  [19:00-20:00] - The challenges of running and growing a business, people and hiring [23:00-25:00] - The maturation period of loyalty  [26:00-28:00] - Andy’s bucket list, treating everyday like an adventure   [29:00-31:00] - Life comes in waves, taking advantage of being in flow state and ebbs and flows in energies  [35:00-38:00] - Finding your purpose, trying new things, being inspired by role models and leaving a legacy  [40:00-44:00] - Growing on TikTok, thinking about what’s next and testing new strategies [44:00-45:00] - Andy’s Best Day Ever, tropical destinations, surfing and workshopping your dreams   [45:40-End] - Learn more about Andy Lederman and Bucket Listers on Instagram at @leder_man and @bucketlisters and their website at bucketlisters.com

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with David Carson. David Carson is a Nike Master Trainer, Jordan Band trainer, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and EXOS Performance Specialist. He is also the CEO of 24Life Sport and Performance Training. As a former professional basketball player, David has over 10 years of experience in the field, working with clients extending from professional athletes, including NBA and MLS, to the veteran weekend warrior looking for an edge.  Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with David Carson what it means to show up every single day - for yourself and for others - and what it means to give 110%. David goes into his story of becoming a coach and how his upbringing shaped the coach who he is today. Show notes: [01:30-8:00] - Welcome David Carson! [8:00-15:55] - David’s story and overcoming adversity  [16:00-19:00] - Life altering injuries + taking away the ego  [19:00-20:00] - Mental versus physical change  [20:00-21:10] - Training NBA players, for the love of basketball and using your gift to help others.  [21:10-24:40] - David and his Mom - making everyone in a room feel special and the importance of continuous improvement and lifelong learning  [24:40-30:00] - Buying into 100% of what you are doing  [30:00-32:00] - Playing hard and giving everything you have - without leaving anything in the tank. The locked in mentality and loving what you do. [32:00-34:00] - Finding your WHY [34:42-36:00] - Going for it, The Alchemist, and pouring your ALL into everything  [36:00-46:00] - Pushing people to the limits of potential and improving the healthcare continuum especially in the black community  [47:00-48:00] - Showing kids their true limits and full potential (both physically and mentally) through coaching  [49:00-52:00] - What it means to be a coach, and the responsibility of a coach [52:00-55:00] - Giving back to our youth! They are limitless, and molds of clay and the impact a coach can have in the youth is like no other.  [55:00-57:00] - David's Best Day Ever: Training and teaching kids who have never trained before, training sessions with CEOs and founders, speaking and sharing his story, constantly growing and challenging himself to be a better person [57:45-End] - Learn more about David on Instagram at @24lifedc, at On Your Mark through Game Changers Kids Training Program and his website DavidCarson24life.com   

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about rituals. Last episode of the series we chatted about morning and evening rituals and today’s focus is going to be on mid day or daytime rituals.  Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss their own mid day or daytime rituals, what they are working on implementing (like meditation + working out!) and how these rituals have up-leveled their day to-day clarity and productivity while also decreasing stress and anxiety. Show notes: [01:30-2:15] - Mid day rituals (vs. routines)  [2:24-10:30] - Meditation + longevity (Bret’s daytime ritual) [10:30-13:00] - Taking care of your oral health + pain tracing  [13:00-14:00] - Creating space for yourself through meditation  [14:00-16:00] - Being proactive with daily routine to improve longevity   [16:15-16:35] - Decreasing chronic stress + decision making  [16:45-18:00] - Becoming a beginner at your own meditation practice  [19:00-21:45] - Sleep cycle + restorative rest (Jason’s daytime ritual) [21:55-24:30] - The power of the nap + prioritizing a shut-down break [26:00-27:30] - Your circadian rhythm and the importance (necessity) of taking a break [28:00-29:00] - Creating your own boundaries and respecting others schedules  [30:00-31:00] - Instead of stress, let’s remind ourselves to take a break and get back to being in charge of how we feel and handling stress [31:00-32:30] - Eat lunch outside, take a break, go for a walk, eat lunch with a friend, listen to a podcast, listen to music, do a midday workout - take that break!

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast with Kate Lemere, the founder of her blog The Four Percent, where she provides educational and inspirational content, tips and tools helping those on the pursuit of a life better lived - in and out of the gym. Kate helps people understand the basics of fitness, nutrition and strength training so they can find a process they love without restriction. Kate is a founding trainer at Barry's Chicago and in addition to training at both Chicago studios she is a member of the corporate marketing team and contributes to the brand strategy and marketing best practices of the team as Barry’s expands.  Listen in as Bret, Jason and Kate discuss Kate’s experience in both marketing/advertising and fitness, how she fell in love with the evidence based fitness practice, her journey of letting go self-doubt, insecurities and stepping into her own power of “owning” it and being proud of what she’s worked for. Kate talks in detail on her own postpartum fitness experience, research and education in regards to exercising throughout pregnancy, both before and after. Catch the latest on Kate’s motherhood experience, self-reflection, where she was at, what she’s overcome and the importance of finding joy and presence in the everyday. Show notes: [01:00-3:00] - Welcome + About Kate Lemere / The Four Percent [03:00-6:00] - Kate’s journey in her marketing/advertising profession and how fitness became apart of the story [08:45-12:15] - Putting business focused decisions in the forefront of Barry’s curriculum + Barry’s giveback program and donations in workout challenges + Barry’s community and family value  [12:30-17:00] - Falling in love with the evidence based practice,  the lifecycle of a diet (growing muscle and how the two grow together) + letting go of the aesthetic  [17:00-21:00] - Prioritizing other things than just the aesthetic like self-worth, self-love and purpose + moments of self-doubt and insecurities  [23:00-25:00] - Feeling victim to the feeling of “less than” and knowing your value and what you are willing to accept and stand behind [25:00-27:00] - Fitness is holistic, how do you feel about yourself when you look in the mirror? [27:00-30:00] - Drawing the line in digital relationships and creating a safe space and community online [31:00-35:00] - Researching and finding the answers to postpartum healing and sharing experiences with others who  may be going through the same thing  [35:00-40:00] - Exercising during pregnancy and navigating postpartum and the levels of re-entry in fitness   [40:00-45:00] - Kate’s motherhood experience, depression and being open to journaling, meditation, and the tools to overcome anxiety, sadness and going through the motions  [45:00-49:00] -  The ability to locate a feeling, letting go (finding freedom) and addressing life holistically [50:00-53:00] - Putting things into practice, do less better   [53:00-56:30] -  Finding your tribe, your community over   [56:30-58:00] -  Kate’s Best Day Ever, spending time with her family, being together and finding happiness in the present moment [58:00-End] -  Where to find Kate! Barry's Chicago, @katelemere + The Four Percent

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast with Rae Reichlin, the founder of Ladies Who Lift, an all-female strength training workshop and class aimed to educate, empower, and inspire women of all shapes, sizes, fitness, and lifting backgrounds. Offered at two different levels, Ladies Who Lift provides the opportunity to both learn the basics and then perfect these skills all while guaranteeing a badass workout using barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, prowlers, and more.   Listen in as Bret, Jason and Rae discuss Rae’s journey to entrepreneurship, the importance of holding space, breaking down strength training, the benefits of mindfulness, doing the workout for your mind, body and soul and Rae’s approach to helping women find confidence and strength through lifting.    Show notes: [01:00-3:00] - Welcome + About Rae Reichlin / Ladies Who Lift  [03:00-6:30] - Breakdown of Ladies Who Lift Level One / creating a space where women feel comfortable and confident [07:00-11:30] - The importance of holding space / Rae’s lifting journey  [12:30-17:00] - Transitioning from being a dancer to learning how to lift to becoming a professional fitness trainer [22:45 - 26:00 ] - Focus from the aesthetic part of fitness to progress in movement and goals inside and outside of the gym, being strong and confident. Do it for your mind, body and soul! [28:00 - 29:45] - When Rae met Live Better X the impact of Rae’s message [30:00 - 31:45] - Rae’s mindfulness practices  [32:10 - 33:00] - Rae’s gym routine + goals [33:30 - 37:45] - Who Rae is impressed by in the fitness industry (Cody King, Carmen Del Mastro, Megan Young, Bret Contreras) + trainers who are geared towards progress over just motivation  [43:30 - 48:00] - Rae training beginners and patience/meeting clients where they are at. Your body is your body, my body is my body. [48:00 - 50:30] - Rae’s Best Day Ever! (in Hawaii - Kauai! Working out, making breakfast, hanging out in the sun, live music, living life, dancing the nice away)  [50:30 - End] - Connect with Rae on Instagram + head to her website to learn more about Ladies Who Lift and her offerings! Check out Ladies Who Lift upcoming workshop and events here

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast with Dawn Jackson Blatner (aka DJ Blatner), a registered dietitian nutritionist & certified specialist in sports dietetics. She is the author of two books: The Flexitarian Diet, ranked a top plant-based diet by US News & World Report and her newest book, The Superfood Swap. She recently starred in (and won!) the hit primetime reality TV show on ABC called, My Diet Is Better Than Yours and she was the dietitian for the Chicago Cubs for 10 years (and yes, she has a Worlds Series ring.) Listen in as Bret, Jason and Dawn discuss diet, benefits of cleansing your body, how to fast and fuel on a high-performance workout schedule, making a mindset shift in what you eat and more. Show notes: [0:00-1:28] - Meet Dawn (DJ) Blatner  [1:30-5:08] - The benefits of a cleanse, periodically taking care of your body, transitioning from the SAD (standard American diet) to a first cleanse [5:15-6:20] - Time restriction eating (a type if intermittent fasting) [6:20 - 11:23] - How to fast and fuel on a high-performance workout schedule, Bret’s nutrition journey, being a curious caretaker of your human body and testing out what works for  you  [11:25-13:00] - DJ is the creator of the Flexitarian Diet (read her book today!). The science of plant-based eating with the flexibility of adding in quality proteins. [13:00-14:33] - The mindset shift in eating what you want. Dawn’s second book, Superfood Swap, came out  of the frustration of eating what you want but why not make it with superfoods and better for you ingredients 14:35-15:40] - Eat this not that, this is kinda what you want, but here is a better option. You can completely trick your brain. Taste is subjective, you can’t base your nutrition off of taste, and that isn’t the way the body responds to the food, it’s the way the mind responds to the food (i.e. Thanksgiving dinner) [17:45 - 20:16] - Table, plate, chair concept,, when people see a meal on a plate while sitting at a table on a chair, teaching you what you are addicting to  (i.e. gummy bears versus lounging in front of the TV), decoupling food with activities [20:16 - 24:00] - The Game Changers and the research on nutrition, testing on yourself first before clients. Dawn’s research strategy and how most food research has one commonality whether talking about being vegan, paleo, keto etc. that everyone is talking about REAL FOOD. Some diets may have more or a little less and that’s the only truth we can all be sure of [28:30- 31:10] - The food guide pyramid of Brazil,  food is the emotion of what you are eating and should be shared with the community. Looking at how other cultures view food, and the value travel brings to awareness of other cultures' food practices. [33:45 - 39:24] - Food, mental health and cognitive decline (like Alzheimer’s) and the connection to processed food. Prevention is just as important as management. Food is magic.  [39:24 - 43:00] - Working with professional athletes, the trends and hardships [43:00 - 44:45]: How much turmeric, ginger and tart cherry you should be eating, and your body response [44:45 - 48:00] Sleep hygiene. Human bodies are regulated by light. 5, 6, 7, 8 breathing practice [48:30 -  57:45]: What to focus on from a nutrition perspective to build more muscle, get stronger, to perform well. Basics of sports nutrition, symptoms management training, human testing, electrolytes, adaptogens, nootropics, DNA testing and metabolic testing.  [57:45 - 59:00]: People aren’t living that much longer. Looking at older civilizations practices and mushrooms (David Wolfe). Ancient old brand new.  [59:00 - 1:01:45]: ABC’s my diet is better than yours. Do, simple, better (cc: Joe Maddon). [1:04:00 - 1:07:00]: Dawn’s Best Day Ever! Living by the water, mornings are magic, and working out. [48:00 - 48:48] Connect with Dawn on Instagram + head to her website for all sorts of goodies! www.dawnjacksonblatner.com Sign up for a Live Better  Wellness retreat today!

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast with Megan Young , who is in her 2nd year as High Performance Director of the Chicago Red Stars. With formal education in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Adult Education, and Information Systems-Data Science and coaching from UNCW, Baylor University and Auburn University, Megan remains a life learner across new disciplines and continues to innovate within her field. Listen in as Bret, Jason and Megan discuss movement, mobility, rate and force development, emotional management in athletes (and more!) and Megan’s innovative approach in her field. Try incorporating Beam CBD into your routine using code 'LIVE BETTER' Show notes: [04:00-5:10] - About Megan Young [5:15-8:00] - Serving each individual athlete + fitness testing  [8:30-10:15] - Force plate testing/profile + the importance of collecting data  [10:15-11:00] - Taking care of your feet, David Goggins + “running a marathon and  everything is broken” [11:30 - 12:15 ] - Rate of force development, jumping and landing  [12:45 - 13:15] - Force velocity curve, training different profiles [13:15 - 17:05] - For the everyday individual, what is the most important data to track? [17:05 - 18:30] - Sleep + nutrition, Jocko Willink vs. person who needs 8 hours of sleep, high performing individuals on the world [19:00 - 23:00] - Emotional management in athletes, the perfect plan you never follow is useless [24:00 - 25:00] - To get to that next level, they have to stop saying YES to the easy thing, and accepting hard things thrown at you in life [25:00 - 26:45] - Seeking out discomfort that works - with pattern recognition  [27:12 - 31:00] - Megan’s morning routine [32:26 - 33:30]  Megan’s cancer journey and the importance of systematic support  [33:30 - 36:00] Pain - cancer treatment, car wreck, emotional trauma + creating a space specifically for pain [37:30 - 40:00] Jason’s pain tracker + chronic migraines  [44:15 - 44:30] Do something different, get a different input, get a different output to make a change to be who you want to be [45:40 - 47:45] Megan’s Best Day Ever! Purpose, water, training, surfing, sunlight, taking mornings slow! [48:00 - 48:48] Connect with Megan on Instagram (coach_megastrong) + Email and  listen to more of her story here [49:00] - Learn more about Beam here, THC-CBD to elevate your everyday

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week with Maggie Michalczyk (@onceuponapumpkin), a registered dietitian and recipe developer specializing in millennial nutrition. Listen in as Maggie goes into detail sharing her entrepreneurial journey becoming a registered dietitian, her philosophy around nutrition and ever-evolving relationship with food. Maggie talks about her mission, going back to the basics and simplifying nutrition, helping others implement sustained and constant nutrition into their everyday lives, giving them the knowledge on why food is important for their body.     Maggie’s love of food and nutrition is showcased on her blog, as well as her desire to communicate health messages in a simple way that any one can utilize in their everyday lives. Maggie often contributes to many wellness outlets including Women’s Health, Shape, mindbodygreen and well + good. She is a frequent guest on The Jam, WGN News, and FOX TV in Chicago.  When she’s not cooking something with pumpkin, she’s doing different workout classes around Chicago and going out to eat with her boyfriend, Rob. Oh, and her dog’s name is Pumpkin too!    Try Vital Proteins: Collagen Creamer, Matcha Collagen, + Original Collagen    Show notes: [02:00-4:40] - Introducing Maggie Michalczyk, RDN (@onceuponapumpkin) [4:45-5:45] - Lifestyle X nutrition choices [6:00-6:15] - Pumpkin is available year round! [6:30-7:30] - Maggie’s journey prior to @onceuponapumpkin + working in PR with food brands  [7:40-8:30] - First pumpkin personal business project in the Fall with Simple Mills [8:30-10:00] - How Maggie met Bret Gornik + Jason Loebig  [11:00-12:40] - Maggie’s projects (Instagram, Recipe Books, TV Appearances, Nutrition Courses/Philosophy, Dietitians Connecting with Brands) [12:40-13:50] - Pushing nutritional message beyond pumpkin X Maggie’s nutritional philosophy [14:37-15:33] - Misconceptions on nutrition, people are quick to eliminate food groups (i.e. gluten and dairy free) + eating for longevity [16:30-17:20] - What is the food industry moving towards? That you are moving away from? Food brands attaching to supplements and integrating with products [17:30-18:15] -Plant based brands + products + education behind it and how others can adopt it in their lives  [19:00-20:45] - Thought of what you are eating, how and why you are eating it and your relationship with food  [20:50-22:45] - Toxic relationship with food + learning about your nutrition, relationship with food is evolving, stop associating good and bad foods, bring back to basics and have fun with it!   [26:00-28:30] - Research journals, credible information on food, Mind Body Green [29:30-30:30] - Foods for starting point for others looking to  try a new healthy recipe, healthy grain bowl and adding greens with whatever you are eating   [35:30-38:15]: Maggie’s Live Better Retreat reflection and her “Best Day Ever” mindset 39:00]: For more information on Maggie, visit onceuponapumpkinrd.com and @onceuponapumpkin on Instagram Learn more about Vital and their products here.

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about rituals. Last episode we chatted about morning rituals and today’s focus is going to be on evening rituals.  Whether that is before work, before play, before a weekend, before an event or whatever that may be for you, these rituals can be very regimented or sporadic. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss their own evening rituals, what they are working on implementing and taking away to create more meaningful time in the evening to windown, relax, reflect and sleep. Try incorporating Beam CBD into your evening routine using code 'LIVE BETTER' Show notes: [03:30-4:55] - Evening rituals  [5:00-9:00] - Jason’s evening ritual intention  [9:00-10:30] - Is a “night-cap” a real thing? [10:39-11:00] - Matt Walker (Sleep is your superpower) [13:27] - Sleep cycle talk, get out of bed when you snap awake, don’t go back to sleep [15:06-16:35] - The battle of winding down and importance of a evening routine, best preparing yourself for sleep  [16:54-19:00] - Bret’s evening routine  [20:00-21:20] - Acupuncture mat benefit [21:31-24:00] - Bret’s evening routine continued [24:25] - Separating your environments (i.e. don’t watch TV before bed, it doesn’t help you sleep, same with the night cap)  [27:26] - How do you feel? How much do you have on your mind?  [30:22] - Natural light waking you up, waking up with no light, environment is informing you that it’s still time to sleep [31:00] - One thing that has helped evening routines (Beam CBD), aid to fall asleep but not a necessity to go to sleep [34:18] - Finding a breathing pattern that helps you relax [36:00] - Journaling to wind down, One Line a Day Journal [43:12]- Learn more about Beam here, THC-CBD to elevate your everyday

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about rituals. Last episode we chatted about what a ritual is, versus a routine and the difference between the two and benefits of both. Today’s focus is going to be on morning rituals. Whether that is before work, before play, before a weekend, before an event or whatever that may be for you, these rituals can be very regimented or sporadic. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss their own morning rituals, what they are working on implementing and taking away to create more meaningful time in the morning to think, create and to just be. Inquire and learn more about a Live Better wellness retreat. Show notes: [02:28-9:00] - Jason’s morning routine, starting slower, and making it meaningful [9:15] - Idea of routine + getting SHIT done [13:00] - RIP Kobe. Tragedy is often a catalyst for others to make a change in their life [13:30] - Live Better Mission, giving back to the next generations + serving other people [18:35] - Gratitude practice [24:25] - Checking in with others via text and email + staying in touch with friends  [26:00] - The benefit of connecting and networking with others in person [30:00] - Creating space to think vs. regimented routine [31:00] - Managing your schedule and creating morning rituals that support that  [33:00] - Control group vs. experimentation, everything takes time [34:00] - What works for you in the morning? Thinking ahead of the game and prepping for the seasons and changes in our lives that come and go. [36:00]- Learn more about  a Live Better wellness retreat here, for access to the best in nutrition, wellness, movement, yoga and a driven community alongside you the whole time.

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about rituals. The two will touch on why rituals are important, creating time for yourself and the impact of doing things consistently. It’s important to take the time to really methodically think about what your rituals are and why you are doing them. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss their own rituals, why they think they are important and how you can start to ponder your own. This episode is the beginning of a mini series on rituals and over the next couple of weeks will talk more specifically about morning, workday and evening rituals.  For a discount on Beam CBD use code ‘LIVEBETTER’ for a discount (follow link). Show notes: [04:24] - What is a ritual and why is it important [5:12] - Difference between ritual and routine [8:23] - Ritual = rite of passage, ceremonial experiences [10:43] - Starting your day doing everything with intentions and the benefits [11:40] - What is a way you can turn your routine into more of a ritual? [14:37] - When you are focused on a task in high gear your sensory input is down (i.e. texting when walking across the street) [16:00] - Float tank analogy  [16:15] - Jason’s rituals he is adding in for 2020 [16:40] - Starting evening rituals earlier [16:58] - Improvement on sleep score (using WHOOP band) [17:19] - Take Beam earlier, make team, consumer magnesium with dinner [17:51] - Shutting down faster, baking in more excess free time at end of evening  [20:03] - Bret’s morning routine and evening ritual to decompress  [27:40] - Don’t stop doing, but slow down and take your time, consistency trumps intensity every single time  [30:00] - The magic of a matcha tea ceremony, thoughtfulness behind a routine, daily task or anything you do [33:10] - Reflect on your own rituals, spend time for desired results + sharing your own [34:00] - For a discount on Beam CBD use code ‘LIVEBETTER’ for a discount (follow link). @beam

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about rituals. The two will touch on why rituals are important, creating time for yourself and the impact of doing things consistently. It’s important to take the time to really methodically think about what your rituals are and why you are doing them. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss their own rituals, why they think they are important and how you can start to ponder your own. This episode is the beginning of a mini series on rituals and over the next couple of weeks will talk more specifically about morning, workday and evening rituals.  For a discount on Beam CBD use code ‘LIVEBETTER’ for a discount (follow link). Show notes: [04:24] - What is a ritual and why is it important [5:12] - Difference between ritual and routine [8:23] - Ritual = rite of passage, ceremonial experiences [10:43] - Starting your day doing everything with intentions and the benefits [11:40] - What is a way you can turn your routine into more of a ritual? [14:37] - When you are focused on a task in high gear your sensory input is down (i.e. texting when walking across the street) [16:00] - Float tank analogy  [16:15] - Jason’s rituals he is adding in for 2020 [16:40] - Starting evening rituals earlier [16:58] - Improvement on sleep score (using WHOOP band) [17:19] - Take Beam earlier, make team, consumer magnesium with dinner [17:51] - Shutting down faster, baking in more excess free time at end of evening  [20:03] - Bret’s morning routine and evening ritual to decompress  [27:40] - Don’t stop doing, but slow down and take your time, consistency trumps intensity every single time  [30:00] - The magic of a matcha tea ceremony, thoughtfulness behind a routine, daily task or anything you do [33:10] - Reflect on your own rituals, spend time for desired results + sharing your own [34:00] - For a discount on Beam CBD use code ‘LIVEBETTER’ for a discount (follow link). @beam

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast talking about building and growing a business in the health and wellness (& organic food) industry that is committed to creating a healthier world with Zach, Founder + Meghan Adelman, Co-Founder/Wellness Director of Navitas Organics.  Navitas Organics makes super-simple, super-nutritious superfood products that give you the energy you need to live each day to the fullest. They uphold their promise of sourcing the best organic superfoods the world has to offer & living life positively as they do just that! Listen in as Zach and Meghan discuss with Live Better their journey founding Navitas, from the spark of where it all began to building a company culture and growing a b-corp that is committed to creating a healthier world through regenerative organic farming and plant-focused lifestyles. For 30% off Navitas products use code ‘LIVEBETTER’ for a discount (follow link): navitasorganics.com/discount/LIVEBETTER Valid until 4/30/2020 Show notes: [02:28] - Introducing: Zach + Meg Adelman, Founder and Co-Founder/Wellness Director of Navitas Organics.[05:14] - Early adopters of plant-based movement [06:50] - Lifestyle ingrained in what you do at work [10:20] - Maintaining integrity of business, organic system in the U.S., relentless to quality control standard [14:09] - Conscious consumers, expanding regenerative organic farming + combating climate change [16:37] - Adopting an organic diet, supporting brands that have a positive impact, lose all nutrient benefits if farmed or processed incorrectly, highest level of efficiencies, helping consumers make the right choice [22:09] - Culture, working together (as husband and wife), empowerment of organization, don’t take everyone too seriously, would do any job in the company again  [25:00] - Healthcare system, Navitas wellness program, self-directed + sustainable wellness journey  [40:45] - Making healthy choices on limited income, how to start building  your pantry with organic products [42:21] - #1 selling product cocoa powder + other newer innovation products [53:00]  - Sustainable + biodegradable packaging, improving environmental impact (recycling, compost program) [55:00] - Navitas Organics social mission [1:02:35]  - Engaging in wellness, no matter your budget, empowering others to  seek it out [1:06:21] - Navitas Founders “Best Day Ever” [1:11:00] - https://navitasorganics.com/, @navitasorganics    

Live from the Live Better recording studio! Bret and Jason are here this week on the Live Better podcast (last podcast of the year!) reflecting on 2019, both personally and from a business standpoint. As much as it is important to look ahead to a New Year, it's just as crucial to reflect on the past year. Many people look to the New Year as a fresh start, but reflection on the past provides more value than expected to succeed that next year, in a way that you want to.   Looking back at everything you did in 365 days is something you should be proud of! Some goals are accomplished and others maybe didn't go as planned and that is ok. Think to yourself, what do you want to do next year? What you did do this year that you want to continue? What you not accomplish that you want to this new year? What did you think you were going to do? Why did you do it? Why didn't you? Sometimes you just need a second to reflect on the past year before diving head first into a fresh decade. Try not to set a New Years resolution just to set it, think about the strategy behind it and WHY you are choosing to do so.

Instead of setting resolutions (i.e. New Years resolutions), Live Better is setting an overarching direction for 2020 and setting goals and conversations underneath that direction. We are starting the conversation early so that we already have momentum and can hit the ground running on January 1st.   During this episode, Bret and Jason are talking about both personal and business goals including (but also not limited to) the following: learning to play an instrument, exploring more calligraphy and creative writing, creating process around business and personal routines, participating in a variety of races (rather than just focusing on one big race like the marathon). If you struggle with creating and following through with goals or you are already looking ahead to where you want to go in 2020, this episode is for you! Learn more about Live Better co-founders at www.livebetterco.org and their mission to help others pursue their purpose in life. If you'd like to receive new episodes as they're published, please subscribe to The Live Better Podcast in Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review in Apple Podcasts. It really helps others find the show and spread the message.

On today's podcast, we’re talking about GRATITUDE! We are practicing our own gratitude and sending our biggest thanks to our Live Better community. We have so much to be thankful for always, and specifically around this time of year.  During this episode we'll not only be showing our gratitude for our Live Better community, family and friends but also talking about actionable ways in which you can show gratitude to yourself and others on a regular basis. Whether it be helping someone get through something, or showing excitement, you name it, gratitude comes in more ways than just one. Be present. Show gratitude. Have the best day ever!

Bret and Jason are coming to you LIVE on the Live Better Podcast this week in El Salvador!  The culmination of Bret and Jason's work…their purpose (AND passion)…is to help upgrade the lives of our community through health and wellness. This led them to create Live Better retreats. Groups of people come together from all over the world in a beautiful destination for a week of self-reflection, discipline, fun, and sun. Without the distraction of home life (job, chores, social FOMO, errands, and cold weather…), you’re free to focus on exactly what you want to be doing. You (actually) have time to sit down and read, journal some thoughts on a new side hustle or reflect on a difficult time in your past, exercise every day, learn about yoga and mindfulness in an actionable way that helps you be better at [insert job description]. If this sounds like something you've been looking for, come join us. You’ll come away from a Live Better Retreat being able to answer the following questions: Do I find purpose in what I do for work/in life? Do I enjoy what I do for work? Do I like the people I spend time with at work/in life? What impact am I making on the world? Listen in to this episode as the two talk about Live Better retreats, purpose and the way in which they both help others find their purpose through self-care.

On today's podcast, we’re going to borrow a concept from the world of psychedelics, specifically the way psychedelic drugs interact with the user. It is called “Set and Setting.”  Taken from Ido Hartogsohn, “The concept, which was first proposed by Timothy Leary and his group at Harvard, claimed that the character of a psychedelic experience is determined first and foremost by the user’s character, expectations and intentions (Set), as well as by the social and physical surrounding in which the drug experience takes place (Setting)."  Let’s suppose for a minute that in this hypothesis we swap “psychedelic experience/drugs” for “life” - it would read like this: “The character of [life] is determined first and foremost by the user’s character, expectations and intentions (Set), as well as by the social and physical surrounding in which [life] takes place (Setting).” From a wellness perspective, the combination of set and setting is very important. In this episode, we talk about ways to change your mindset (set) and how can we set up more environments (settings) to facilitate a better mindset for you being able to improve in some way (i.e. setting up your office to feel more creative). In this episode, we talk about being in charge of your life. Your life is determined by YOUR actions, YOUR expectations and the way you want to be treated and how you want to it, and by the intention (effort and focus) you put behind it. If you are looking to up-level your life, and need some advice on how to get there, this episode is for you.

Welcome to the new and improved, Live Better Podcast! To kick off the new season, this episode is centered around the "Best Day Ever" mindset. If you don't already know, the phrase "Best Day Ever" is used by co-founders Bret Gornik and Jason Loebig day in, day out. It's a mantra of how they live their lives and teach others to follow in their footsteps. Listen in as Bret and Jason discuss with one another what the "Best Day Ever" mindset means with the steps to get there, how they apply it to their everyday lives, and the different tools and tactics they use to talk about and act upon it.  If you want to develop a way in which you approach life stronger, with more resiliency, Bret and Jason believe you must practice the way in which you make decisions, act, and evaluate your behavior. Your body is capable of doing great things; your mind is the power (or brakes) to the train. This is what we call, the "Best Day Ever" mindset.

Our podcast is getting a makeover! After starting our podcast in 2016, we decided it was time for an upgrade. Welcome to the new and improved, Live Better Podcast.  Live Better is the experiential health brand that reaches thousands of women and men trying to live their best lives by sharing health, wellness, business, & lifestyle tips. Whether you want to learn more about wellness, are navigating the process of following your dreams, or have already found your purpose in life, this is the podcast for you. In each episode, Nike Trainers and Performance Coaches, Bret Gornik and Jason Loebig share helpful tips, strategies and stories with guests that you can apply to your own life to pursue your purpose. The dynamic co-founders interview guests (athletes, entrepreneurs, experts, coaches, best-selling authors, & thought leaders) who are making an impact on the world, using wellness to fuel whatever they want to do in life, better. New episodes every Tuesday. Have the best day ever.

"I finished 32 seconds under (my goal of) 3 hours. There's no way I could have finished 1 second faster" - Bret Gornik On this episode of the Live Better Podcast: Marathon Series, Bret and Jason are here post marathon to talk about their individual experiences going into detail on the physical and mental hurdles they experienced while running their first marathon.    

“You have to find these little mind games and these little tricks of getting over the monotony of simply running long distance, and often." - Jason Loebig On this episode of the Live Better Podcast: Marathon Series, Bret and Jason go into additional detail on their preparation for the Chicago Marathon. They speak specifically on the mental side of racing - knowing the horizon is so long for marathon training. Listen in to hear more details on Bret + Jason’s marathon journey and cheer them on this Sunday if you are in Chicago! If you are running the marathon, striving towards any goal, looking to push yourself past mental limits, take a listen!

"You have to trust the process. That's all a successful race is. An appropriate amount of recovery relative to the amount of work you did." - Robyn LaLonde, Owner of EDGE Athlete Lounge, Nike Running Central Head Coach On this episode of the Live Better Podcast: Marathon Series, Bret, Jason and Robyn discuss the physical and mental journey of running a marathon. Listen in to hear Robyn's journey as an athlete, a coach and for more information on EDGE Athlete Lounge. If you are running the marathon, or any race, and are looking for last minute tips to perform your best, this episode is for you!

"It's magical. This is one of the biggest races in the world, the Chicago Marathon." - Mike Thomson, Founder of Fast & Fit Coaching On this episode of the Live Better Show: Marathon Series, Bret, Jason and Mike discuss how to run your best marathon. Listen in to hear Mike's inspiring journey as an athlete and a coach and learn about Fast & Fit Coaching philosophies. If you are running the marathon, or any race, and are looking to perform your best, this episode is for you!

Live Better co-founders Bret + Jason talk about their experience training for their first marathon - with a goal to run the 26.2 miles in under 3 hours. The two go into detail on why they chose to the run the marathon and how they've hit their goals along the way. 

Matt and Kevin both played professional sports as well as participated and trained for Ironman and Marathons. Two entrepreneurs who have dedicated their business to finding a natural way to reduce stress on the body through CBD. They both tried CBD years ago and after finding amazing results their goal was to create the best product that was safe for athletes. That's where Beam was born. We discuss why Matt and Kevin do what they do, the life of a professional athlete, the benefits and how to consume CBD, and what it takes to have the best day ever. Beam is organically-grown, pharmaceutical-grade 100% THC-free CBD. Their full-spectrum formula includes a high concentration of CBD, minor cannabinoids, 30+ terpenes, flavonoids, antioxidants and fatty acids that work together to synergistically create the most effective THC-free formula available. Use code LIVEBETTER at check our for a discount.

We met Paul as he came on one of our Live Better Retreats in El Salvador. He is similar to us in the fact he left his steady paying corporate job to pursuer is purpose in wellness. He now coaches one-on-one clients, is a founding Barry's instructor in Seattle, runs Down Dog Athletics, and is always living his truth. He blends yoga and lifting to find the synergy between both worlds and in the body. You cannot find a human being with a bigger heart.

D'juan shares his whole story. This is a truly special episode. D'juan opens up about his injuries, his recovery both physically and mentally, his struggles after ending his NFL career short, and how he turned it all around to be one of the best coaches out there. He co-founded the Ultimate Athlete Bootcamp. He continues to push everyone though social media and online coaching. During this show we really learn about how mindset and overcome anything that is thrown your way. D'juan has a super powerful way of delivering information. This is the best ever.

Remy is truly a professional. In this episode we dive into actionable ways she stays organized, prioritizes tasks, schedules meetings, runs multiple businesses, and always has time for golden hour to shoot photos. She shares her story about being sober, quitting her job, and becoming a vegan. This is a special show geared around upgrades, movings forward, and respecting the body as the vessel to put good into the world. Enjoy.

We met Betina years ago through the Nike network and she has just crushed it ever since! She recently started the Dance with Mweyne Foundation which aids special needs in developing nations. She is a Nike Master trainer and runs women's wellness programs out of her home gym in California. She is a musician, "surfer", athlete, and incredible human being. Please enjoy.

Ryan has tested everything he preaches on himself first. His first book, Fuck Your Feelings, is a neuroscientist-based exploration of why some people succeed and others do not. His podcast, The Better Human Project, explores how people crush life. This episode is incredible and we can't wait to hear what you think!

Darren was the first to dive into the true business behind sports. He opened the world's eyes to the behind the scenes. He uses dedication and hard work to create his best life. He has to marathon under his belt while being a father and husband. He reports all the biggest sporting events all over the globe. During this episode, we share his story, how he keeps his systems running, his deep dive into all the stories he uncovers, and his persona strategies to live an amazing life.

Marcus believes in creating rhythm in one's life through movement, mindfulness, and positivity. He complete in crossfire, started his own very successful gym, creating the idea around Functional Body Building, and continuing to improve daily. He combines strength, mobility, and energy to optimize results. This episodes focuses on how the ideas of his method translate in the gym and in the rest of life. You can meet him in person in San Rafael, Cali or online with his amazing workout and nutrition program.

Jacquelyn has always loved to move her body. She found her calling through coaching and dance. She led groups through dance and other types of movement. With a goal of reaching more people, she took her skills online and created actionable programs to improve posture, gain mobility, practice more yoga, and feel better. Jacquelyn chats through her career progression, her life story, and her outlook on the best day ever.

Eric is swole to say the least! This guy is the end all be all for kettlebell exercises. Check out his Instagram for the best kettlebell and animal flow exercises and routines in the world. He put all his work into an online course which is everything you need from the basics to the most advanced moves in kettlebells. This dude is an all out type of guy in all aspects of life as we get into what got him into training and how he continues to be creative with his flows. Find Eric coming to your city to teach his next course or when you are on your next trip to Austin at the Onnit Gym. 

Sam is the perfect mix between positive, knowledgable, and functional. His story starting as a gym manger to now being high up at Onnit, Jake Arrieta's trainer, and founder of Fitness Break Room and Be Less Fat shows how the grind pays off. Sam currently travels the country growing the Onnit brand while recoding podcasts with trainers on how they are where they are, today. Listen in to learn about where wellness is going and why getting just a little bit better each day is the key to success.  

Bobby breaks down how just showing up is 99% of the battle.  Get into a place the will help you succeed and you will succeed. Bobby's new book is about using mental and physical training to maximize your potential. After a career in the UCF, Bobby has dealt with defeat and triumphs to build himself up and those around him.  We talk about the importance of self talk and actionable workshops you can do to increase your performance. 

Andy was involved in a serious car accident which would have put most people's life on hold and he used that experience to drive him to create the best line of skin care products out there. After his accident, he used the highest quality ingredients from the earth to create products that helped heal his skin and build up his life force. Then he created a business around these products which is booming. He is a true bio-hacker and incredible athlete. He preaches building up your skin from the inside out and you'll learn just how he does that in this episode. This is so much more that beauty products, this dude is crushing it.

Jason and Bret lay out the Live Better Retreat.  This immersive week will light you up, build you up, and make you rethink why you do things. This episode goes into wellness travel, how to optimize your time on a trip, and why to focus on your well-being while you are on the road. If you are thinking about attending a Live Better Retreat, take a listen.

JJ Thomas mastered the art of snowboarding as a professional and Olympic medalist in half pipe and then brought his love and passion to the sport as a coach. As Shaun White's personal snowboarding coach he created the path for him to conquer Olympic gold in the 2018 games! This guy has the most positive outlook on life, competition, and love for others. Please enjoy.

Alex demonstrates how to make an impact on the world through action.  She trains clients, coaches group workouts, writes books, travels the world, and leads by example.  Her personality lights up a room! She has dealt with depression and is always willing to lend a hand for anyone who needs help.  Using health and wellness to fuel herself, she turned that into an amazing career.  This story is one for the books. 

Eric lives his life through health and wellness.  He schedules his days for unlimited success.  A two time Kona Ironman athlete, founder of business from insurance to a fast casual restaurant, this guy does it all.  He breaks down the idea of adding value to the world on a super high level while making sure to take care of yourself as a priority.  

F3 — our three Fs stand for Fitness, Fellowship and Faith — traces its roots to a men's free, participant-led boot camp workout held outside. OBT & Dredd dive into the mission and credo of F3, how to get involved, and why they do what they do.  This workout is about creating a community through working out.