#154 Anatomy Trains - Smarter Training Through Fascia
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into Anatomy Trains and talk about how fascia connects the body in ways most people don’t think about. Instead of just looking at muscles in isolation, they break down how the body’s fascial lines influence movement, posture, and even nagging injuries. They share real-world examples from training and rehab to show how you can: Spot movement issues by understanding fascial connections. Adjust your workouts to get more carryover and prevent breakdowns. Use a full-body approach to fix problems instead of chasing symptoms....
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#153 The TikTok AnP Professor - 1 Million Followers Without “Selling Out”
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, we sit down with Tim Reynolds, better known to over 1 million TikTok followers as The AnP Professor. Tim has carved out a unique space as both a highly respected college professor and practicing physical therapist, while simultaneously growing a massive online platform where he makes anatomy and physiology both entertaining and accessible. We dive into Tim’s journey in academia, his passion for teaching, and how his clinical practice shapes the content he creates. He opens up about the challenges and opportunities...
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#152 - Woodchucks Attack, How Much Variety is Too Much, Are Box Squats Safe
Becoming Ronin
The last bags you'll ever need: 🎒Eberlestock 🔗 Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into a mix of storytelling, training wisdom, and real-life lessons. Smitty recounts a vivid story from his childhood on the farm, reflecting on the emotional conflict of taking a woodchuck’s life. Then they recount the unfortunate woodchuck attack on OB's dogs and the chaos that ensued. From there, the conversation shifts into OB's recent injury, emphasizing how injuries can create unexpected challenges but also open opportunities for growth and creativity. The...
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#151 The Hidden Cost of Success
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty unpack the deeper meaning behind the question: "What does it profit a man to gain the world but lose his soul?" They explore how chasing success for the wrong reasons can lead to personal emptiness, and how to ensure your talents are employed with integrity. The discussion weaves in personal stories, reflections on grief and trauma, and the value of defining success on your own terms. Along the way, they address the traps of ego, “shiny object syndrome,” and sacrificing identity for image. Listeners will walk away with...
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#150 - Grief is a Gift with Mike Desanti
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview Join us in this heartfelt conversation as we explore the depths of grief and its role in our lives. Our guest, Michael Desanti, shares insights on how grief can be a powerful teacher, helping us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. Discover how embracing the full spectrum of emotions can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life. Grief is a gift that allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. Embracing both joy and sorrow is essential to being fully alive. The process of grieving can lead to personal growth and...
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#149 - Gamify, Simplify, Intensify - Three Overlooked Programming Techniques
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview As we gear up for the milestone of Episode 150, OB and Smitty take a reflective turn, diving into the often-overlooked role grief plays in personal growth. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how emotional depth can shape physical resilience and how embracing life’s heavier moments can actually fuel the journey forward. From there, the energy shifts to what makes training stick. The guys unpack fresh approaches to programming that make fitness feel more like play - not punishment. They break down why novelty, gamification, and strategic...
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#148 Chris McGowan - “Gym Icks,” Improving Physique, Running a Successful Coaching Business
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty share stories from their time training in commercial gyms—the good, the bad, and the frustrating. From mismatched weights to people sitting on machines scrolling their phones, they vent about common gym pet peeves and how social media has changed the gym environment. The conversation shifts to practical nutrition advice, including the importance of tracking your food and getting enough protein, especially for those serious about results. They also dive into how training methods need to evolve over time, particularly in...
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#147 OB Get’s His Purple Belt, Programming for Challenges, Building Your Glutes
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty dive deep into the worlds of Jiu-Jitsu and strength training, sharing hard-earned lessons and practical insights for coaches and athletes alike. They discuss the significance of earning milestones in martial arts, how training methods have evolved, and why coaching with integrity and intention is more important than ever—especially when it comes to popular challenges like the Murph. The conversation shifts into technical training strategies, with a focus on improving grip strength, dialing in proper push-up...
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#146 Trapped In The Inferno: The Modern Sins Holding You Back
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this introspective and thought-provoking episode, OB and Smitty take listeners on a guided descent through the symbolic layers of Dante’s Inferno—not as passive tourists, but as directors of a modern reimagining that reflects the traps we face in everyday life. Drawing from the powerful allegory of Dante’s journey through hell, they illuminate how subtle sins—like gluttony, greed, wrath, and deceit—can slowly erode your character and pull you further into a personal hell of stagnation, regret, and disconnection. Each circle of...
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#145 Low Back Pain Circuits and How to Choose the Right Exercises
Becoming Ronin
🔗 Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty kick things off by tackling the viral gorilla vs. 100 men challenge — a hypothetical debate lighting up social media. They break down their thoughts on how the fight might play out. From there, the conversation takes a serious turn as OB shares the low back pain circuit he uses with real-life clients, offering a practical, multi-faceted approach to treatment and rehab. The hosts explain why successful recovery isn’t about chasing quick fixes but addressing the underlying patterns...
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Episode Overview
In this compelling episode of Becoming Ronin, we sit down with Jason Lacayo, a former SWAT operator turned mental health outreach officer, to explore the critical intersection of physical preparedness, mental resilience, and spirituality. Jason brings a wealth of experience from his years in law enforcement, where he has not only faced the physical demands of tactical operations but also the unseen battles of trauma and mental health that come with the job.
Jason’s journey from the high-intensity world of SWAT operations to becoming an advocate for mental well-being offers a powerful message for those striving to balance strength—both inside and out. In our discussion, he opens up about the challenges first responders face, the stigma around seeking help, and how adopting a proactive approach to fitness and mental health can be transformative.
Throughout the conversation, Jason emphasizes the importance of functional fitness tailored for first responders, equipping them to perform their duties effectively while mitigating the long-term physical and emotional toll of the job. He also delves into the significance of spirituality and mindset in overcoming adversity, sharing how his faith and influences such as Jordan Peterson, Stephen C. Meyer, and Lee Strobel have helped him navigate life’s challenges.
A key takeaway from this episode is Jason's call for authenticity—whether in training, personal growth, or social media. He stresses the need to be real and relatable in today’s digital age, inspiring others to prioritize their health and well-being with integrity and purpose.
Jason’s message aligns perfectly with the Becoming Ronin philosophy of self-mastery, personal growth, and disciplined development. His experience and insights offer valuable lessons for those seeking to build resilience, overcome obstacles, and lead a life of purpose. Whether you're in law enforcement, fitness, or simply striving to become a stronger version of yourself, this episode provides actionable takeaways that can help you on your journey.
Tune in to hear Jason’s inspiring story and learn how you can take control of your mental and physical well-being, embrace authenticity, and find strength through adversity.
Timestamps
[00:00] Meet Jason Lacayo: From SWAT to Mental Health Advocacy
[03:07] From Tactical Operations to Mental Health Outreach
[05:54] Battling Inner Demons: Jason's Personal Mental Health Struggles
[08:01] First Responders and Trauma: How to Cope and Heal
[13:21] Breaking Barriers: Encouraging First Responders to Seek Help
[16:04] Stronger Body, Stronger Mind: The Role of Fitness in Mental Health
[22:00] Faith and Spirituality: Finding Strength Beyond the Physical
[29:03] Mindset is Everything: Overcoming Life’s Challenges
[35:16] Building Endurance: Fitness Strategies for First Responders
[39:34] Motivating First Responders: How to Inspire a Training Culture
[44:21] Functional Fitness for the Frontlines: Why It Matters
[49:50] Keeping It Real: Authenticity in Social Media
[54:01] Looking Ahead: Jason's Future Projects and Goals
Connect with Jason Lacayo
Stay connected with Jason and follow his journey as he continues to inspire and advocate for mental health awareness, fitness, and resilience among first responders.
- Instagram: @therealjumpmanjay
Whether you're a first responder, fitness enthusiast, or someone looking for inspiration, Jason's content provides valuable insights into mental and physical well-being. Reach out, follow, and be part of his mission to empower others.
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