The Bare Performance Podcast

The Bare Performance Podcast is a weekly show focusing on topics around fitness, nutrition, peak performance, and more. Hosted by Nick Bare, Founder and CEO of Bare Performance Nutrition, it is our goal and mission to give you information on how to optimize your health, performance, business and life as a whole with the Go One More mentality. To stay updated follow us on social media: Instagram: @thebareperformancepodcast Twitter: @BarePerformPodcast Website: www.bpnsupps.com

#110 - Jeff Cunningham: The 5 Pillars of Distance Training 03/07/2022

#109 - Sal Di Stefano: Is Strength Training Best For Fat Loss? 02/28/2022

#108 - Rocky Raccoon Ultramarathon Race Recap 02/21/2022

#107 - Dr. Paul Saladino: The Dangers Of Seed Oils, Are They Destroying Your Metabolism? 02/14/2022

#106 - Jim DeCicco: From College Dorm Room To $500 Million Business 02/07/2022

#105 - Nick Bare: What I Learned In My 20's That Led To Success In My 30's 01/31/2022

#104 - Matt Vincent: 1612 Weeks To Accomplish Everything You Want In Life 01/24/2022

#103 - Sean Buck Rogers: A Green Beret's Journey Of Rising Above Trauma 01/17/2022

#102 - Q/A With The BPN Team: The Future Of The Business 01/08/2022

#101 - A Behind The Scenes Interview About What You Don't See With Stefany Bare 12/27/2021

#101 - A Behind The Scenes Interview About What You Don't See With Stefany Bare Nick and his wife Stefany have some big news to unveil on this episode of The Bare Performance Podcast: They’re expecting a baby! With lots of exciting change and recalibration on the horizon, the couple pause to reflect on how they got here and where they’re heading. The one thing they know for sure about parenthood is that it will require sacrifice, consistency and passion – the cornerstones to achieving any dream worth having. Fortunately, this is a drill Stef and Nick have come to know well. Over the course of their relationship and the evolution of BPN, they’ve acquired some valuable tools that they’re here to share. Enjoy the reality check! Social media often throws up a veneer that obscures all the struggle required to make a remarkable life. Stef is joining Nick to talk about the reality behind those rose-colored Insta posts and FB updates; and that truth is ugly at least some of the time, no matter who you are or what your circumstances appear to be. This conversation highlights the inevitability of bumps in the road – whether in the context of starting an entrepreneurial venture like BPN or launching a new marriage, as the couple did in 2020. The first year (or years!) of pursuing a goal can be destabilizing, exhausting, frustrating and scary. But Nick and Stef are here to reassure you: It’s all okay. There is no blueprint. But wisdom and appreciation are on the other side of that path through the messiness, so long as you’re willing to show up and ride it out. This candid conversation is about more than preparing for the inevitable “mud” associated with pursuing our dreams. It’s about actually embracing the messiness, knowing that it’s from adversity that the most impactful lessons and greatest depth of understanding emerge. You’ll enjoy the personal anecdotes Stef and Nick share – experiences from both their marital and professional journeys as well as some of the communication skills they have deployed to cope with stresses like infertility, obsessive marathon training, entrepreneurial challenges, differing morning rituals and expectations. They explain (and exemplify) why it’s better to be consistently good than occasionally great – a formula that has driven Nick’s business success. Stef meanwhile brings to the mix patience and insight. Above all, they both know what it means to sacrifice and are sharing thoughts about exactly what it takes. You’ll come away from this episode understanding what makes this indomitable couple tick. And stay tuned around July 4th, 2022 – when Baby Bare is scheduled to join the team. It’ll be a whole new journey whose peaks and valleys Nick will undoubtedly share along the way. Click to listen to/rate/review previous episodes of The Bare Performance Podcast. You can also find out more about Nick’s performance nutrition and health supplements . (01:09): It’s official! Nick and Stefany share details about how and when they found out they were expecting a baby. (02:50): Nick and Stefany open their conversation with thoughts on the unseen scaffolding – the private, quiet, daily choices – that support the achievement of a dream. (04:00): What actually goes into making dreams happen, including all the mess (and stress). Nick and Stefany want to help us set realistic expectations. (06:45): You can go really fast alone, but you can go farther together. Going together, however, means understanding that there are consequences – ancillary impacts with every decision you make. (07:42): Nick shares thoughts on three things that most commonly prevent people from reaching their goals or realizing their dreams: (1) An unwillingness to make the sacrifices. (09:35): The second element most often missing among those who fail to achieve their dreams: (2) Consistency. It’s more important to be consistently good than occasionally great. As Stef attests, Nick excels at showing up and executing, day after day. (11:57): The third (and most important) factor that prevents people from fully realizing their goals? (3) A lack of passion. You have to want it badly enough – not for someone else, but for yourself. (15:30): Why Stefany wanted to co-host this podcast and lift the veil on all the dynamics at play behind the social media veneer – the Instagram posts or FB updates. She and Nick want to get real and help others to set realistic expectations about what it looks like to pursue a dream (whether it’s personal, professional, athletic or otherwise). (18:38): Nick’s primary message: You don’t deserve anything. Everything is earned. (19:51): When he launched BPN, he had no idea what would be required of him or the time it would take (five years) to see that first million dollars in revenue. That year, 2017, was also the first year Nick was able to write himself a modest paycheck. (22:50): BPN’s success is the result not of strokes of brilliance, but Nick’s and his team’s commitment to trudge through the mud and keep going. And they’re still not home free. (23:51): Stefany brings up the concept of a toolkit – skills and perspectives that can help us navigate any journey. Including those times when sacrifice might seem overwhelming, especially from a spouse’s point of view. (27:05): Important Note: You can’t just keep adding things. At some point you have to recognize that you’re taking away from something else. Nick’s decision to pursue Iron Man training makes a great example of the trade-offs and impacts on his relationship. (30:34): Stefany shares thoughts on how marriages can suffer (and resentment build) when sacrifices and expectations aren’t clearly established. There has to be an “informed confrontation,” i.e. communication around choices being made. (32:43): When it comes to the passionate pursuit of a goal, there is no way of avoiding the tradeoffs: Sacrifices aren’t made in a vacuum. (36:00): Stefany recalls arguments that she and Nick had about his running schedule and how it impacted what she needed/wanted in their marriage. In the end, she figured out how to shift her prism and accept sacrifice as part of a mutual commitment to their life together as a whole. (38:25): About prioritizing: Knowing what’s most important goes hand-in-hand with sacrifice. Once that’s established, you can figure out how to eliminate the extraneous and focus on what’s truly most crucial. Non-negotiable: You must learn how to say no. (43:40): Nick explains how he defines good great and remarkable, shaped in part by by Seth Godin. (45:43): About the word “balance,” which can mean different things to different people, and what it means specifically within the context of Stef’s and Nick’s life. (48:16): Nick shares a story about a total failure of balance – and how he and Stef learned to maneuver through some of his somewhat obsessive training (which were sometimes at odds with her own goals and needs). This kind of negotiation will happen again, but they’re committed to understanding each other in order to evolve and grow. (53:37): Slow and steady wins the race! Stefany talks about the role of patience and a willingness to delay gratification. Nick has had to train himself to understand that long-term results require some measure of day-to-day patience. (57:10): Maturity and growth take time. Even though he wanted BPN to hit immediately, Nick now sees the wisdom and appreciation he has cultivated over the long haul. He muses on how the same principles will apply to his marriage and parenthood over time. (59:00): Stefany shares that patience played a role in how she managed through the year it took before she got pregnant – and how sweet it feels and how thankful she is now that the moment has arrived. (1:01:00): Comparison is “a thief of joy.” Nick and Stef reflect on over-sharing and the poisonous impacts of constant exposure to everyone else’s shallow reflections. It’s a distraction that prevents us from thinking deeply. (1:04:00): About awareness: Why Stef and Nick believe that intentionality is so powerful, right down to choosing with whom to have beers. Is the conversation negative, complaining or tearing others down? Or is it energizing, uplifting and full of ideas? (1:06:40): Stef shares insights she garnered dealing with situations where working with difficult or toxic people was unavoidable. She learned how to minimize those negative interactions and hold her boundaries. (1:08:55): Therapy proved helpful for Stef and Nick when they were at a point not so much of looking back as looking down – from a 10,000-foot perspective – to understand more deeply the dynamics impacting their relationship. It’s an approach that is equally applicable to building a business or pursuing any life goal. (1:16:33): Stef shares the impact a quote from Matthew McConaughey in his book has had on how she does her job in social media as well as how she interacts with people and within her marriage: “Sometimes you don’t need advice. You just need to know that you’re not alone.” Communicating that message was at the heart of this episode. Nick and Stef are sending out best wishes (and some practical experience from the trenches) for everyone pursuing a dream in the year ahead. Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: Stef's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21610091

#100 - The Sub 3 Hour Marathon Formula With Coach Jeff Cunningham 12/16/2021

#100 - The Sub 3 Hour Marathon Formula With Coach Jeff Cunningham If you feel like achieving a sub-3-mile marathon pace is beyond your reach, this episode of The Bare Performance Podcast will inspire you to expand your horizons. Nick invites Jeff Cunningham, an elite marathon trainer, to share the formula and mindset that consistently lifts runners who compete around the country to excel beyond what might seem possible. An attorney by day, Jeff has developed a hybrid coaching program that keys to training volume, speed work, adaptations and nutrition. Hard data and metrics factor in, but at the end of the day it all boils down to the one non-negotiable component: Passion. Not just passion for running a marathon or even for running itself; it’s got to be a passion for doing the work. Jeff took Nick on and believed he was capable of a sub-3-mile race pace goal based on a few key biographical elements. With those baseline ingredients, Jeff believes, anyone is capable of hitting a sub-3 marathon goal. And he has proved himself right, time and again, as his runners reach their goals and blow beyond them. No one can explain what it feels like to be ready to go on race day. Knowing how to manage exhaustion is the essence of marathon running – and something that cannot be achieved without exacting, consistent intentional preparation towards a specific outcome. Jeff explains how he builds confidence in his runners, brick by brick. His formula has certainly worked for Nick, who now knows the difference between running a race and racing a race. It’s an incomparable, indescribable feeling. The episode features lots of practical advice and reveals Nick’s plans to turn his goal of running a sub-2:50 time at the this spring into an opportunity to share resources, training programs and tools with other aspirational runners. The ultimate goal? To inspire 10,000 personal records in the coming year! You can follow or reach out to Jeff about coaching . Click to listen to/rate/review previous episodes of The Bare Performance Podcast. You can also find out more about Nick’s performance nutrition and health supplements . Key Takeaways: (02:30): How Nick met Jeff and started working with his team – and got on the path to his first sub-3-hour marathon. (04:45): Jeff shares the roots of his passion for running, which stretch back to his childhood in the early 1980s. He continued to run competitively through high school, college and law school. From there he stumbled into coaching, which is his big love. (7:30): Jeff, who brings a hugely competitive mindset, is all about his runners’ success. When they set a goal and he helps him achieve it, that’s his ultimate satisfaction. (09:30): Why the sub-3-hour marathon has such an allure. In the larger context, they’re monumental but relatable. They can be completed by athletes at all levels of fitness, but there is a line of demarcation when your time starts with a “2.” (13:07): Running is a rare sport in which the barrier to entry is low and the possibilities for any given individual limitless (within reason). It’s all about training and mindset. (17:45): Jeff shares his initial thoughts when Nick came to him with his sub-3 marathon goal and some of the amazing athletic feats that have defied even his own expectations. This is how he came to discern the difference between realism and pessimism. (19:45): In determining whether Nick’s goal was realistic, Jeff noted some key factors in the plus column: US Army experience Respect for rigor and discipline. Tolerance for monotony. His ability to run a five-minute mile. (21:13): What Jeff wants everyone to know about Nick’s sub-3-hour marathon performance: It was a “transcendent” performance based on the harsh conditions. (24:11): Nick recounts some of his feelings, mile by mile, and how Jeff helped him get across the finish line, mentally and physically (in spite of the cramps). It’s all about controlling what you can control (which doesn’t include weather conditions). (28:03): Starting Out: What Jeff looks for when he takes on athletes. No. 1: What’s the level of passion? Not just about the idea of funning a sub-3 marathon but whether they have a passion to do what it takes to achieve that goal. (29:39): Once a baseline commitment is established, the focus shifts to empiric data: Literal track record as far as training and stats in recent history. Have you ever run a mile in under 5:40? Have you ever run a 10k at a 6:20 or 6:30 pace? What are the raw materials available? Natural ability, stick-to-itiveness, commitment to process. (35:36): About the formula. What Jeff prioritizes in building out his program: Volume – How much do you run daily? What’s the longest run in the last month? And also pace. (39:34): Jeff shares thoughts on Coach Renato Canova’s training methodology and the role of speed work (which by his definition is relative to the race you’re running and the goal pace). He explains the physiological impacts of anaerobic and neuro-muscular training. (45:57): Training comes in two basic forms: lactate threshold and critical velocity. It’s all about getting the greatest aerobic adaptations with the least amount of strain on fascia and connective tissue as well as quick recovery times. (49:00): The power of consistency reveals itself like plate tectonics, slowly creeping in and elevating performance. It’s better to be consistently good than intermittently great. (49:50): The beautiful feeling that is tapering prior to a marathon. It’s an experience that can’t be understood unless you’ve personally taken the journey. (52:24): The runner’s confidence is built brick by brick by following a formula that sets them up to manage exhaustion and even enjoy the stresses of race day. It’s a mental state that’s available only if you’ve done the weeks and weeks of training and are fully ready in the moment. (55:35): The runner’s world is constantly changing and, because it’s not static, Jeff sees his job as helping people figure out where their Red Line is – and how to move it. (58:00): What it means to use a fartlek (“speed play” in Swedish) training model and how Jeff deploys tempo running with critical velocity workouts. A couple of months out from race day, he alternates fast-paced sets into daily mileage. (1:03:35): Nick introduces the important role of nutrition (and recovery) in training. Hydration as well as the right quality and quantity of calories is critical to keeping the tank full enough. Nick and Jeff agree: If you stay on top of your nutrition you can stay on top of your training. (1:06:58): Jeff explains his taper plan, which generally starts about three weeks out. He gradually at first and then more aggressively two weeks prior. The week of the marathon he has his runners doing no more than 50-60% of their mileage and, far from reducing fitness, many runners hit 10k personal bests without even trying. (1:10:27): A window into Nick’s upcoming preparation for the Buffalo Marathon in May, which includes the goal of a roughly 6:27 race pace: Moving Nick’s marathon Red Line, which means looking at volume but focusing especially on training paces in a way that doesn’t overwhelm but rather cultivates physiological adaptations. Defining the total aerobic load and stimulus to pinpoint the right amount of conditioning to maximize performance and build on capacities already in place Establishing mileage not as a goal but a means to an end. (1:15:50): Nick’s Buffalo Marathon journey is going to be documented, including training programs and other tools and resources that interested viewers can follow in their quest for personal bests. His ultimate goal is to help lift 10,000 runners towards a PR in the coming year. (1:17:00): Jeff draws an important distinction between “all-consumed” and “all-in” pursuits. The former is generally unbalanced and unhealthy while the latter adds dimensionality to all aspects of life. (1:18:14): Nick shares an anecdote about an old Army buddy’s visit to the BPN warehouse in early days. “Is this it? Have you reached your goal?” his friend asked. That was the moment when Nick gave himself permission to have a vision far bigger than anything currently before him. (1:19:30): Jeff extolls the importance of believing in ourselves. We are capable of much more than we think – so long as we ask the questions and keep the faith. (1:20:40): Don’t bother pretending. As Nick illustrates with an anecdote from his days in the military, there’s no upside to faking it or trying to go out on your own when help is available. Let the ego go. (1:22:30): Take something that you think is unbelievable and make it believable. It’s a joyous process open to anyone! “It’s more important to be consistently good than occasionally great.” Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21500891

#99 - Winning The World's Toughest Ultra With Sally McRae (Badwater 135) 12/07/2021

#99 - Winning The World's Toughest Ultra With Sally McRae (Badwater 135) People run for all kinds of reasons – in many cases as a means of escape. That could have been the story for Sally McRae, Nick’s guest on this episode of The Bare Performance Podcast. Instead, this year’s winner of the Badwater 135 has used her life filled with challenges and losses to fuel her. At 42, she has built a phenomenal running career, competing in ultras around the globe while also building a family. But more than anything, she has taken from early life challenges wisdom that has sweetened her journey and inspired everyone who comes into her orbit. This compelling conversation touches on fundamental ultra-training, strategy, nutrition, and lessons learned through various race experiences. But it’s the eloquent philosophical insights that will linger long after the podcast sign-off. With remarkable grace, Sally has found meaning in the inexplicable: a childhood marred by a chronically abusive father, a mother taken way too early by cancer, and what seemed like the loss of her dreams of competing as a professional athlete. Sally shares reflections on the upsides – as well as downsides – of strong survival skills. The protective walls that helped her endure a tough childhood might have suffocated her adulthood but because of her curious mind, open heart, and hunger to push herself to the limit, Sally came to understand some fundamental truths. For one, we are strongest at the broken places – and everyone has broken places. For another, feelings are our allies, even the toughest feelings in the midst of the most grueling race. Sally shares insights into how her training has shifted from emphasizing physical mechanics to developing psychological self-awareness and a positive mindset adaptable to all kinds of challenges (including diarrhea 14 miles into Badwater 135, known as “the world’s toughest ultra-race”). Sally’s life story will leave everyone ready to work harder towards goals while understanding, deeply, that (to quote the songwriter Harry Chapin), “It’s got to be the going – not the getting there – that’s good.” In addition to an amazing amount of wisdom, you’ll also get the scoop on how Sally trains, nourishes herself, beats back heat, and trains for every outcome. It’s no surprise that she has prevailed in life as she did in the 135-mile Badwater Ultramarathon in 2021. Click to listen to/rate/review previous episodes of The Bare Performance Podcast. You can also find out more about Nick’s performance nutrition and health supplements . Key Takeaways: (3:54): All about how Sally acquired her childhood nickname, “Sunshine.” It was given to her as a child by her mother, who proclaimed her as bright and shiny as the sun. Hence, Yellow Runner. (5:10): Nick and Sally share a central pain in the loss of their mothers to cancer, a grief that has driven them forward with urgency and a desire to do their best in life. (7:10): About the impactful role, Sally’s mother played, demonstrating grace and wisdom that provided a huge cushion. But Sally, the middle among five children, was the least liked by her physically and verbally abusive father. This set in motion many years during which Sally sought her father’s, unattainable love. She strived relentlessly, excelling at sports, holding down two jobs as a teenager, being a leader in all ways at school. (10:55): Sally’s mother left a deep imprint with her message that her children could do anything so long as they worked hard and went for big dreams. (12:50): At 15, under threat from her angry father, Sally realized that she could empower herself to stand up to him and defend her mother, who was at that time dying. It was a moment of reckoning. (15:47): Shortly before her death, Sally’s mother came out to watch her daughter compete in a soccer game. It didn’t matter that she was in extreme physical pain – an example of resiliency and toughness that has remained indelible throughout Sally’s life. (19:16): About Sally’s estrangement from her father (whom she’s seen twice in 20 years), necessary protection from ongoing resentment about the pain he inflicted upon her. She has long since forgiven him, but attempts to reconnect were only toxic, so she had to step away in order to move towards making a healthy family of her own. (23:56): We don’t have to be or inhabit the bad choices or toxicity of those around us; a lesson it took Sally time to learn and that she has to remind herself of even now, whenever she feels demons rear up out of fear or residual anger. (24:42): Nick shares a poignant story about his mother in the final stage of her fight with cancer; one that demonstrated to the end her selflessness and care for others. (27:19): How Sally chose “Yellow Runner” as her name and identity as it relates to the loss of her mother and the promises she made to carry on beyond her death. Running ultimately became a way to excel, push herself and do something beautiful and natural. Sally’s entire perspective towards running does not recognize pain and suffering (by choice) but rather the opportunity to shine – and inspire a similar radiance and purpose in others. (35:11): Following her mother’s death, when soccer was still her primary sport, Sally went through a period of disaffection. What was the point of sports? It took time for her to transition beyond grief and more family strife. (37:02): A personal nadir. Not yet out of high school, Sally’s mom was dead, two younger sisters were in foster care, her abusive father – despite their complicated relationship – had required support through a brain tumor diagnosis. It felt like everything had been taken from her. (42:17): The man who would become Sally’s husband broke through to her in an important way once he understood the degree to which she had developed harsh survival mechanisms that would likely only alienate her from the possibility of love. He gave her permission to feel for the first time and let down some of the toughness that had previously enabled her to survive and thrive. (45:56): College was a time of questioning and working through a lot of tough questions about justice and God’s will for Sally, who felt bereft and bitter. But signing up for a humanitarian volunteer trip to a Ukrainian orphanage transformed her perspective on just how bad deprivation can actually be. She finally fully felt and understood the gift she had received in being seen, known, and loved so fully by her mom. (49:20): Soccer as a universal language. In her early travels, Sally found joy in the revelation that through her sport she could connect and communicate with people from diverse cultures all around the world. (49:28): Sally shares the moving story of her 2001 humanitarian trip to South Africa, where she became both a novelty and symbol as the lone woman playing on an American men’s team. Women fans shared heartbreaking stories that contributed to her worldview and understanding of the true scale of human suffering. (52:50): By the time she graduated college Sally had come to realize that her life was not about loss or deprivation; that she was not isolated or different. Rather, she was part of a huge human mosaic full of broken pieces, the sum of which is tremendous beauty. Sally experienced a shift in her understanding of survival – and love – when she came to fully recognize that no one is an island. (59:08): What is it that fuels Sally’s commitment to running? For her it’s not so much a certain pace or mileage goal. She experiences it as a source of peace and serenity from which she continues to evolve and get stronger. The view from Mt. Baldy (her favorite mountain for training) is a constant gift of freedom. (1:03): All about running in China, where endurance training prompted her to start entering marathons. Over the years, after the birth of her son, Sally conducted boot camp training, and then … one day she came across an article about ultra-races. (1:05:45): What it is about ultra-running that fascinates Sally, not least physical demands on the human body to reach its maximum capacity. In 2010, with two toddlers at home, she did her first ultra and was hooked! Three years later, she was seriously competing. (1:09:20): Nick shares a little about what running means in his life – how it clears distraction, fuels energy and creative thoughts. (1:10:54): Sally believes that running -- really any meditative practice or exercise – invites us to be completely honest with ourselves and set a meaningful agenda. There are many ways to do it, achieve that moment of peace, if you make it a discipline. Go and be quiet, suggests Sally. (1:16:17): Sally’s true secret sauce? She stopped caring what everyone else is thinking and started down her own path, claiming running as her personal journey. (1:19:05): Sunrise runs. Nick’s and Sally’s happy place and apex of peace. Caveat Advice: It’s important for everyone to find the time of day that works for them. (1:21:06): It was in 2015 that Sally’s dream of seeing the world through her running started coming to fruition with as many as eight ultra invitations a year. She chose races for where they were and the cultures she wanted to explore. (1:22:58): All about Badwater 135 – What about it first attracted and mystified Sally? She was humbled by the 2018 race and challenged beyond measure, though she was at her fittest. Despite wounded pride, Sally saw that setback as an opportunity to learn and grow. Which she did – returning again in 2021 with a completely different approach. (1:29:44): Getting specific about why Badwater 135 is her favorite. Sally details the course, the conditions, the climbing, the terrains – all extreme. She considers it the toughest race. (1:31:32): A look at what Sally changed in her training routine that prepared her to dominate at Badwater 135. She dove into researching what her body was doing in the tremendous heat and how to nourish it. There wasn’t a lot of science on which to rely, so she experimented with running in different temps, different nutrition, gear, and shoes. (1:41:24): Nick explains his love of the nutrition aspect of endurance sports and the art of fueling. He can enjoy endless training so long as he has the right calories and sodium. (1:43:18): Sally gets real about diarrhea she suffered starting at mile 14 of Badwater in 2021. She was miserable physically, but in such a strong space mentally that she was prepared. In training, she had created a positive mindset that she tested regularly like a muscle, strengthening her inner dialogue incrementally. Her plan for when everything falls apart? She would set small goals to be the best at whatever she could be best at any given moment – including having diarrhea in the midst of an ultra! (1:50:20): By integrating an entirely different psychological approach, Sally was able to make Badwater 135 an opportunity – to experience pain, feel all the feelings. You can be weak and courageous at the same time. (1:51:45): What it means to Sally to move forward and how it’s a huge part of who she is today. She accepts frailty, hurt, broken parts in herself (and others). This is what makes us strong, and brave. She is someone always willing to keep going. (1:54:22): Crossing the finish line – whether at the Badwater 135 or in a chapter of life – can give a sense of relief and validate hard choices and accountability. But what Sally embraces most in her victories is the hard work itself, the pursuit of the dream. (1:59:08): Nick wraps up with a reflection on “Yellow Runner” – a name he doesn’t believe Sally chose so much as received as a guide through a life whose heartache and struggles built in her the grit to keep on going. She has gotten what she earned. “Courage is still moving forward despite what you know is ahead of you. When you know that what’s ahead of you sucks, when it hurts, when it’s going to be a challenge. A courageous person still goes, despite all. But you can be weak and courageous at the same time.” Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: Sally's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21413144

#98 - Work Stress Induced Hemorrhoids & The Downfall Of Many Entrepreneurs 11/22/2021

#98 - Work Stress Induced Hemorrhoids & The Downfall Of Many Entrepreneurs This episode of the Bare Performance Podcast takes us behind the scenes as Host Nick Bare and his team gear up for a turbo-charged season of growth. Bare Performance Nutrition is on the precipice of great new things and ready to soar – an exciting lift-off that wouldn’t be possible without years of trial, error, planning and perseverance! When he founded BPN just about 10 years ago, Nick could only glimpse the many lessons he would learn throughout the ensuing journey. In this episode, he shares thoughts on where the company has been, big plans for the future and his evolving definition of success. The team is just coming off an action-packed period in which they’ve hit a lot of big goals: Participation and filming at the Leadville 100 Ultramarathon. Release of a well-received documentary based on the Leadville experience. A big premiere celebration of “More Than Miles” in downtown Austin. An all-out celebration weekend for BPN Ambassadors from around the country. Primary sponsorship at in Round Rock, TX, featuring topnotch CrossFit athletes, including some from the BPN team. A hugely successful early Black Friday roll-out that netted 25,000 orders in just a few days’ time. With all these milestones in the rearview mirror, BPN is focused on a huge shift planned for 2022. Going forward the company will have a wholesale/retail orientation that has required intensive planning, expansion of HQ square footage and many exciting changes, including bringing business functions in-house and hiring talented new staff to join the team. Nick’s Q4 update also includes important reflections on success (which Nick measures completely differently today than he did a decade ago) as well as the importance of failure. He offers a powerful lesson drawn from hard-won BPN experience. Hint for would-be serial entrepreneurs: New ideas and opportunities are going to arise. Don’t let them take your focus off the core business! BPN’s high-stress, high-stakes early Black Friday operation exceeded all expectations. The orders flowed smoothly, broke records and set the tone for a great holiday season (one BPN employees will share with family, thanks to their clever Black Friday pre-launch). As a friendly little public service, Nick wraps up the podcast by getting real on the topic of hemorrhoids, an affliction he first encountered in college. You’ll appreciate his candor, humor -- and the colorful information he provides! Click to learn more about the book by Tim S. Grover that has contributed to Nick’s development as an entrepreneur. To view “More Than Miles,” the new documentary just released by BPN chronicling the 2021 Leadville 100 Ultramarathon experience, click . (0:07) Intro snapshot of the pod: Marketing activity and growth that have occurred in the last quarter of the year – as well as a glimpse of what lies ahead for 2022. (2:20) BPN is at a pivotal moment, making the shift from primarily (85-90%) direct-to-consumer sales to a wholesale and retail business model with lines of big-box. (3:20) You can keep an eye out (and start asking) for BPN products at outlets such as GNC, The Vitamin Shoppe HEB grocery stores and Army & Airforce Exchange Stores (AAFES or PXs). (2:38) Accelerated community engagement just since August has included: Leadville 100 Ultramarathon Production of Leadville 100 documentary – which the team put together in an intensive, intentional six-week period followed by a premiere in downtown Austin at the Violet Crown Theatre. Hosted an all-out celebration weekend for BPN Ambassadors, who enjoyed all kinds of fun activities in and around Austin. Primary sponsorship at in Round Rock, TX, featuring topnotch CrossFit athletes, including some from BPN’s own team. Early Black Friday launch – a win-win-win for hardworking BPN staffers who were able to go all-out with their holiday shopping season push but also get ahead of the game, freeing them up for some quality time with family/friends over Thanksgiving Weekend. (PS: It was BPN’s smoothest Black Friday to date and netted 25,000 orders, including more than 100,000 units.) (14:25) If something goes wrong and the system breaks down on Black Friday, the opportunity and reputational costs are enormous and impossible to recoup. Nick shares just HOW stressful this reality is for him each year. (18:43) All About Hemorrhoids: Nick gets real about his history (including his first golf ball-sized experience at an inopportune time in college). (27:16) What’s on tap for 2022 – a big-growth year ahead: Bringing all business functions in-house, including marketing and communications campaigns. Honing in like a laser on BPN’s core business. Working with 20,000 square feet of new space, in addition to the 25,000 square-foot facility already in place. Shifting to a wholesale/retail sales orientation. (30:42) Nick explains companywide impacts when moving to wholesale/retail. Direct-to consumer is a relatively clean transaction: Upfront payment for product. Straightforward cash conversion cycles and inventory planning. Wholesale/Retail includes a different set of variables: Merchants offer different sets of terms, not always favorable. Negotiation is required to ensure that the deal is fair. Factors to be considered include pricing, profit margins, discounts, volume, terms of payment. There is an art to managing cash flow around POs (production orders). (31:53) Bringing a new CFO (chief financial officer) onboard at BPN has been among the most significant recent tactical moves, especially with regard to scaling the business and forecasting complicated cash conversion cycles. (34:10) Nick and his brother complement of each other. Where Nick is a natural with marketing, sales and mission, Preston’s strengths and interests lie in tracking, managing and optimizing operations. (37:30) You can only do so much by yourself. You’ve got to attract and bring onboard talented people who truly “get” the mission. Do that and “you can delegate responsibility and see teams just grow – just destroy it!” (38:43) There are no successes without failure. Nick shares thoughts about one in particular of his own! Confidence compounds, but at every stage requires more and more personal sacrifice and investment. As the cycle continues, often accelerating, it’s easy to start over-committing and saying “yes” to any opportunity. It’s a way to learn in the beginning, but as your business starts to grow the goal is to stay focused and on task, even amidst increasing, often tempting distractions. (41:27) 2017-2018 – Flush with new success and hitting seven-figure sales, Nick saw an opportunity to start a new company and become a “serial entrepreneur.” He went all-in on Lost Supply Apparel (you can hear the whole story ) but the systems, foundations and infrastructures just weren’t there. Nick and his team were spread too thin and everything (especially BPN’s core business) suffered. (47:20) The good news on failure? It’s the best – maybe the only – way to grow. Nick really enjoys being able to share lessons learned, hopefully to save other new entrepreneurs from making the same mistakes. (49:22) Too often success is measured monetarily. What does your bank account say? What are your revenue figures? What you wear, drive, do. But that path often leads to a real sense of loneliness. True fulfillment is found in authentic purpose and a close crew who support you in that pursuit. (50:00) Compounding consistency: That pinch-me moment when BPN is up there with national brands at Dell Diamond stadium is a manifestation of the company-wide willingness to “go one more” – and ongoing one-foot-in-front-of-the-other effort required to get there. Failures are investments in future entrepreneurial success! “The one thing that makes an entrepreneur an entrepreneur being willing and able to take massive action on things. You’re also willing to take massive action on things that come with risk.” Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21243857

#97 - How You Manage Time, Energy & Distractions Will Make or Break You 11/18/2021

#97 - How You Manage Time, Energy & Distractions Will Make or Break You This episode of The Bare Performance Podcast features Nick Bare, who is sharing insights gleaned over the course of his entrepreneurial journey. His venture, a labor of love and all-out commitment, has reached an inflection point that surprises no one who knows Nick and his indomitable spirit. Guest Host Wyatt Knight digs deep and mines all kinds of gems about Nick’s path – from college and his first (faltering) start-up efforts through military service to his “all-in” years making BPN the success that it is. Unsurprisingly, persistence, faith and focus have been essential every step of the way. Learn about the stumbling blocks that torpedo so many would-be dreams – in business pursuits as well as life. Nick shares in vivid detail his best advice about the three ingredients that are foundational to making goals happen, even against great odds. Time, Energy and Distractions are the enemy and this episode of The Bare Performance Podcast spells out exactly why, as well as offering strategies for beating back forces that conspire to keep us down. Whether it’s susceptibility to peer pressure or too many hours invested in our favorite spectator sport, Nick challenges us to look critically at what we listen to and consume. Among the topics covered: The value in morning routines and the consistency required; what it means to “Go One More;” intentionality in all things, especially as relates to positive energy; and how “Flintstoning” your way through adversity is a show of respect for your own goals and dreams. Enjoy lightning rounds of “Quick Hits” that give us a window into Nick’s mind and world view as well as the powerful work ethic that drives him from the minute he awakens in the pre-dawn hours until he lays his head down at night to sleep. (04:10) Intro to this special episode, which highlights the “all-in” focus Nick has brought to each element of the platform he has developed. (04:57) On the eve of Black Friday, Nick is feeling a charge of momentum that reflects multiple channels of energy and purpose flowing together as one. The gas pedal is all the way down! (6:44) Nick had the vision, which was a start, but recognizing and deflecting distractions over the course of 10 years has been key to realizing BPN’s goals. (9:44) QUICK HITS: Wyatt has Nick give flash responses to big concepts: Austin, Texas: Inviting. That place where you can be whoever you want to be. America: Freedom, where you can achieve the American dream, military, power. Freedom: Something that can be lost and we have to fight to maintain. Purpose: Fulfillment. Passion: Necessary. Growth: A choice. 2590 Oakmont Drive: BPN’s first warehouse, which was a stretch financially! Signing that lease in 2017 was the start of an incredible, passionate journey. (12:45) All about Plan B. In short: There was none. Nick was “all-in” from the start and at all points throughout his endeavor. (13:36) Nick had a degree in nutrition and some vague ideas about jobs he could pursue once out of the Army, but he was already onto another path. (17:27) BPN developed in some ways out of ignorance – and a blind commitment to making the business work. No self-imposed limitations. No retreat from failure. Learning by doing. (18:30) Entrepreneurship is a buzzword these days, something that sounds sexy and fun. But the reality, as Nick has learned year over year, is entirely different. It’s grueling! (20:48) BPN’s turning point came when Nick finally shut out all the noise, disregarded peer judgment and the self-consciousness that come with curated social media (YouTube, Insta). From that point on he disregarded haters. There was no going back to 2012, when he let judgment and fear knock him off his mission. (23:30) Through the course of his military training, Nick acquired a new sense of competence and confidence that sharpened his focus. He learned that eliminating distraction was key to prevailing, whatever the task. He spent all the money he had on a new camera and that was it: His course was set. (25:09) Whenever he wasn’t on task for the Army, Nick was filming vlogs in his neon yellow tights: exercise, nutrition, recipes, workouts. And the platform started growing. (28:28) When people in his military unit finally got onto his YouTube channel and saw what he was doing, Nick was apprehensive. But – surprise! People had too much stuff of their own going on to sit around hating on his videos. (33:44) About light and dark: Nick explains his philosophy about pursuing the beacon, the positive, either being or following leaders with values, scruples, vision. (37:23) Nick reflects on the concept of balance and the ongoing challenge to bring intentionality to priorities and sacrifices. There are sprints and it’s up to you to communicate with loved ones and resist the temptation to overcommit. (40:40) Deep Work: Nick is a huge advocate of putting the blinders on and turning off everything: chit chat, texting, emails, social media. Eliminating distraction ensures maximum productivity. (44:00) Going deep is what was required for Nick to build his brand. He couldn’t have done it – and created all the media buzz and product – without shutting out unnecessary distractions. (48:05) MORE QUICK HITS: Morning Runs: Nick’s absolute favorite! Saturday Morning Runs: Long, and even more of a favorite! Consistency: The most powerful thing Nick has ever learned to master. Motivation: Short-term, short-lived. Perseverance: Essential to getting where you want to be. Culture: It will make or break you. The Bare Standard: A product that came to life based on all the things Nick believes in. The “Go One More” Mindset: The entire year of 2017 was about “Go One More” as Nick broke through revenue targets to $1.7 million but had no cash flow and was constantly juggling to keep the bills on his wholly owned company paid. (55:06) Nick shares thoughts about the currency that is time – and how intentionality is key to generating the results you desire. Small talk is a wasted opportunity. (58:00) There’s being busy and there’s being productive. It’s all specific to individuals and their purposes – and being deliberate and setting expectations in all things. (1:01:38) There is tremendous power in having a consistent morning routine. Nick offers his best tips and tricks for creating a platform that sets the stage for the rest of his day: Starts with coffee, and thoughts are already percolating. Listens to an audiobook, just to further generate sparks. Out running: The train of thought starts to flow immediately and Nick finds himself coming up with ideas for everything from go-to-market strategy to disruptive tactics designed to drive the business forward. Nick’s #1 Action Item for jumpstarting your morning: Write your day backwards, laying out the milestones at every juncture mapping to your first hour of the day. (1:11:13) For Nick, morning is sacred because it’s what establishes and protects his routine – and that consistency is what undergirds everything going forward the rest of the day. (1:13:20) ONE MORE ROUND OF QUICK HITS: Responsibility: Everybody has it. Commitment: Not many people have it. Ketchup: Goes on everything! Eye contact: Lacking in this world. Doing hard things: Doing them every day! Failure: Expected. Army Ranger School: Training and experience that were pivotal to Nick’s life. Entrepreneurship: Nick’s biggest passion. (1:14:15) All about energy, which comes down to the entire mix and the atmosphere around you. Nick brings discernment to every scenario, looking at all the elements and choosing whether to invest his time there. It’s time you can’t get back. (1:17:00) The BPN ethic exudes positivity, energy and a self-reinforcing source of fuel that drives the whole team forward and towards new heights day after day. Nick searches out people and environments that fortify with optimism and avoids those that are an energy suck. (1:20:42) NICK RECOMMENDS THREE IMMEDIATE ACTION ITEMS: Be consistent. Being disciplined doesn’t just mean making your bed or going to the gym. It means fulfilling your goals day after day after day. Be responsible. Own that you have the choice as to what you do with your time. Take stock of the people surrounding you. Are they making the kind of impact you want? Do they share your sense of intentionality? (1:23:30) WRAPPING UP: What does it really mean to “Go One More” and how does Nick embody it? It’s not just going one more mile or doing an extra rep at the gym or doing one more project. It’s an ethic that transfuses everything you do at every moment of your day, inspiring you to exceed whatever it is you think you can do. “Keep pushing the needle forward. Nothing stops me. Nothing is going to hold me back. There may be some speed bumps, but I’m going to find a way to get over, under, around or through any of those speed bumps or obstacles. That’s the mindset you have to have going into it.” Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21203510

#96 - Deeper Into The Pain Cave Through Ultra Running With Courtney Dauwalter 11/12/2021

#96 - Deeper Into The Pain Cave Through Ultra Running With Courtney Dauwalter This episode of The Bare Performance Podcast features a woman who defines the spirit of ultra running. She does her own thing, listens to her body, intuits her course and revels in everyone else out there around her, driving on mile after mile. Growing up Courtney Dauwalter never gave a thought to the possibility of being a professional athlete, but her family did embrace an “all in” work ethic that has meshed perfectly with her talent for running. In this chat with Nick she reflects on her journey from school teacher to record-setting ultra competitor. She shares fascinating stories from out on the courses of the Moab 240 (perhaps her favorite race ever) as well as Bigs Backyard and Barkley Marathons (quirky and mysterious, respectively). Learn how Courtney stays on track even when the weather is pounding her or lack of sleep delivers hallucinations. It’s all about pushing herself to discover the limits of her mental and physical capability. With her long shorts and taste for beer and Mexican food, Courtney exemplifies what it is to trust in – and fully embrace – your most authentic self, even when it means chiseling further into the “Pain Cave.” Enjoy this inspiring conversation about what Nick and his guest have found in the ultra community. The camaraderie, sense of accomplishment and memories go well beyond the fitness challenge! You can find Nick’s documentary, “More Than the Miles,” about the Leadville 100 Ultramarathon . And Gary Robbins’ “Where Dreams Go to Die” is available . Click to listen to/rate/review previous episodes of The Bare Performance Podcast. You can also find out more about Nick’s performance nutrition and health supplements . Courtney and Nick get right into it, deconstructing the difference in training between ultras and marathons. How Courtney stumbled into the ultra world – and how it unleashed her appetite for repeatedly testing limits, both emotionally and physically. “All in” was the ethic with which Courtney’s was raised in Minnesota. It lent itself to the pursuit of ultra performance. About the transition from full-time teacher to full-time professional athlete, from extra after-school and weekend training hours to making the leap. Trail and road running are completely different, requiring different mental focus and skill. Quick Tip: Anti-chafe in combination with toe socks = no blisters and fewer toenails lost! The turning point? Courtney and her husband Kevin agreed that she had to pursue ultra running 100% so there could be no regrets when looking back years from now. With her laser-like focus on running, doors opened and the running felt like freedom and something she loves – not at all like work. There is a point at which running reaches an almost spiritual plane, with a meditative quality that clears the mind and body. The challenge is getting to that point of ease! The ultra community is totally unique. There is a special camaraderie unlike anything Nick has experienced even among Iron Man, CrossFit or Triathlon athletes. When the negative self-talk starts: Courtney’s first 100-miler ended in self-doubt and rookie mistakes in terms of nutrition and strategy. She dropped out, but it was full of lessons learned! Chiseling Out the Pain Cave: With each race, Courtney goes in with the intention of making her Pain Cave larger. She enters at the same point, then tunnels in different directions, creating more room for the next time, whatever the course or circumstance. When the mindset is that there is NO quitting, it’s a gamechanger. Courtney might have cried the last 10 miles, but her brain was fully on board and propelling her forward. Counterintuitively, sleeping and eating don’t always come naturally post-racing. The body often needs a few days to settle down. Among ultra professionals: It’s a balance between pushing each other and supporting one another, pulling each other out of lows and sharing energy back and forth. All about diet: Courtney eats for pleasure. She doesn’t eliminate any specific food groups, enjoys snacks and tunes into herself. She believes this intuitive approach helps keep her in touch with what her body needs. (Nick takes a similar approach with lifting.) Courtney studies up on specific terrains when she’s heading out on a course, but her basic structure and approach to running remains the same. The most memorable, fun race Courtney has ever run? She’d have to go with the Moab 240 because of the huge vistas and expanded horizons she experienced. Mastering the Sleep Game: Nick shares his experience with short naps when he was an Army Ranger, but sometimes pushing through is better than taking a break. For Courtney it has been hit and miss. She’s looking for more groupthink on this topic! Hallucinations are “pretty much guaranteed” during nighttime runs and Courtney has also experienced vivid episodes during the day. A little bit about the format and camaraderie at Bigs Backyard Ultra. (More info available about this and other concept races staged by the same organizer .) Did Courtney go after ultras or did ultras come after Courtney? She didn’t know this kind of racing was out there, or that being a professional athlete was within her realm of possibility. Nick finds fitness an exciting way to engage and be competitive with himself. About the , which is one of the most unique courses and ultra experiences out there. The transition from physical to mental: It’s not necessarily predictable for Courtney. She experiences it as a toggling back and forth between them as they ebb and flow. She advises: Stay in the moment. Stay present. Don’t judge! Choosing the Hard Things: Courtney and Nick share a strong desire to tap into every ounce of their individual potential. Ultras offer a great opportunity to push limits. A Fun Way to Spend a Week: Courtney hasn’t yet completed a 500-mile ultra, but she’ll be out there again without a doubt! No matter who you are, there’s something to be taken from being part of the ultra experience. Whether you decide to run or serve as crew, you’re going to be infected with the community’s spirit and energy – and cherish the memories you create! “My whole purpose of doing these ultras is to find that Pain Cave and make it bigger. I know that it’s happening, but often it’s such a world of hurt that everything else is kind of a blur. It’s just about staying laser-focused on moving forward and burrowing as far back as I can to keep my legs going.” Further Contacts/Resources: Bare Performance Nutrition: BPN's Instagram: Nick Bare: Nick's Instagram: Courtney's Instagram: /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21143804

#95 - Raising Capital, Funding Your Business, Preparing To Sell With Josh Holley 11/03/2021

#95 - Raising Capital, Funding Your Business, Preparing To Sell With Josh Holley In today’s episode, Nick sits down with friend and Bryker and Co founder, Josh Holley to discuss raising capital and selling your business. The episode begins with Nick and Josh discussing how they met. They were training for a marathon together and Nick says that he learned a lot from training with Josh. A big part of Josh’s training was about learning restraint in his workouts and that was a big takeaway for Nick. When they started training together, Nick says Josh taught him a lot about business as well. Josh began his role in finance in the beginning of the recession in a restructuring firm. He thought he’d only be in the role for a couple years before transitioning back to a traditional finance role, however he stayed for seven years. He credits this time with accelerating learning and leading him to his current work of building finance and accounting into businesses. Even before you get into raising money Josh says you need to understand the cash needs of your business. Nick agrees, citing a personal story of his own business needs as an example. More than fifty percent of the time, even in well established businesses, leaders are looking at the bank account as the measure of health and success when financial statements tell a different story. Josh stresses the importance of accrual accounting, whether you’re trying to better understand the business, raise capital, or sell the business. Nick and Josh both agree that there are a lot of parallels between marathon running and business building because both require pacing and endurance. In the early days of growing your business, you may have small bank loans, but a large part of your revenue will come from friends and family. For these types of investments, Josh recommends a Safe Agreement. This will allow those close to you to invest in your business now and not discuss valuation until you get more traditional investors. Later, when you feel like your back is against the wall, this isn’t the time to raise equity, Josh says you should be looking to get creative and work with vendors and others to save money. Nick agrees, and adds that this is why relationship building is important to him and his business. For business owners, Nick and Josh recommend an accountant as one of your first hires. This will allow you to move to building the business not being stuck in the business. As you prepare to sell your business, there are a few things that will help you seem more desirable to buyers. This will be things like practicing accrual accounting, tracking sales tax and one time expenses, as well as implementing a board. If you don’t have these things in place there may be doubt in investors or buyers minds. Having all this in place can help you avoid earn out at closing. These things are an expense, certainly, but Nick and Josh say you’ll earn it back with investment or buy out. As the episode ends, Josh reminds listeners that when selling your business you have to keep the buyer in mind, and Nick stresses the importance of looking to the future rather than getting bogged down in the present. Timestamps: 0:00- Nick introduces the episode and today’s guest, Josh Holley. 3:14 - How Nick and Josh met. 8:11- Josh shares how he came to investment banking. 13:47 - Common business problems Josh sees in his work. 22:08 - Josh discusses how to better understand your business. 36:56 - Safe Agreement 48:34 - The importance of accounting 1:03:14 - How to get ready to sell your business. Links: Follow . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21037772

#94 - "All Is Well" After A Car Accident Left Hannah Hutzley Paralyzed 11/01/2021

#94 - "All Is Well" After A Car Accident Left Hannah Hutzley Paralyzed In today’s episode, Nick sits down with BPN Ambassador Hannah Hutzley. On October 27, 2017, Hannah's life changed forever when she got into a car accident which left her paralyzed. As much as her physical life changed, her outlook and perspective never weaned. Prior to her accident, Hannah never experienced a truly difficult situation which required resilience and perseverance. She recalls the day of the accident and the events which led up to the moment which completely changed her life. She was ejected from the car window and landed on her back on a barbed wire fence, paralyzing her instantly. Instantaneously with the impact, all she remembers was seeing all black, then opening her eyes and feeling as if she was floating in the clouds amongst colors she had never seen before. Throughout her whole body, she felt a voice repeatedly telling her “All is well.” Two days later, she woke up in a hospital and was told she would never walk again, but Hannah felt so peaceful at that moment that she hardly cared at all. She later learned that being ejected from the vehicle is what ultimately saved her life and gives all credit to God for his intervention. Hannah spent about 2 months in inpatient rehabilitation. Her biggest concern was to prove to her friends and family that she was still the same Hannah and always would be, regardless of the circumstance. She felt truly grateful and appreciative to be alive during a time when most people would feel that their life was over for good. Hannah explains how she approaches people who, despite being able-bodied, are unhappy and unfulfilled. She herself is living proof that we can do all of the things we want to do. The more we tell ourselves things are good, the more we will begin to believe it. Hannah has learned to put aside the things she can’t change and focus on the things she can instead. There is always going to be someone out there who can’t do the things you may take for granted, so be thankful for all you do have. Through therapy, she highlights the person who has spoken life into her and encouraged her through thick and thin. Without this challenge, she believes she never would have become a BPN ambassador. She explains how her perspective in terms of hardships has shifted and the silliness of many peoples complaints. Then, Hannah marvels at the energy of the BPN team and recalls her feelings of belonging there during the ambassador program. Nick explains that they are super selective in terms of who they bring on in the ambassador team. As a person who believes in investing in the right people, he knows it’s never a mistake to bring the right people on and together. The BPN ambassadors are not a group who talk about themselves, but instead talk about what they can do to lift up other people. Community is everything. In order to build a really solid community, you have to first take stock of the people already around you. Focusing on people who bring you energy and fuel you will always make you better. To do this, you’ll have to be prepared to have hard conversations. Anything in life can be taken away at a moment's notice and there’s no going back. To Hannah, to go one more means going above and beyond, because the day will come when you won’t be able to. Timestamps: 0:00- Nick introduces the episode and today’s guest, Hannah Hutzley 2:20 - Hannah describes her life prior to the accident. 6:53 - Hannah recalls the day of her accident. 15:30 - Hannah’s initial reaction to learning she will never walk again. 18:36 - How does Hannah approach people who are negative and unhappy but still able bodied? 27:55 - The importance of treating others with kindness. 34:27 - Hannah’s biggest role model and her positive mindset. 36:44 - Hannah’s newfound perspective of what is difficult now. 50:47 - The BPN ambassador program and the importance of a solid community. 1:00:52 - The significance of the kind of people we let into our lives. 1:07:25 - What does go one more mean to Hannah? Links: Follow . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/21006179

#93 - Resilient Is A Choice In The Face Of Adversity With Omar "Crispy" Avila 10/26/2021

#93 - Resilient Is A Choice In The Face Of Adversity With Omar "Crispy" Avila In today’s episode, Nick speaks with Omar Crispy Avila, who joined the U.S. Army in 2004 as an Infantryman and deployed to Iraq in 2006. 11 months later, his vehicle was struck with a 200 pound IED, resulting in burns to 75% of his body and an amputation of his right leg. Over the past few years, he has made huge transformations and discovered his fulfilling life purpose to help other people through his stories. Through his social media presence, Crispy portrays himself as a true, all American patriot. He expresses his love for America as a whole and the freedoms and opportunities the nation offers to so many. In this country, he is able to live his wildest dreams. Crispy came to America when he was just 7 years old and was granted citizenship during high school. In his home country of Mexico, citizens are not allowed to voice their opinions or own firearms to protect themselves. Crispy recounts his experience watching the attacks of 9/11 live in school just after he became a U.S. citizen. This marked a defining moment of Crispy’s life when he knew he wanted to serve his country. He turned down a football scholarship to join the Army one month after graduation and was deployed to Iraq very soon after. Crispy recounts a few attacks he experiences there, specifically the one of May 14th. Though he remembers feeling angry with God for letting his friends be killed, he was making his peace with him at this moment. Something inside of him told him to get up, that he wasn't going to die here today. With broken legs, third degree burns and partial blindness, Crispy was taken out of the area of attack. He was in an induced coma for 3 months and woke up in Houston to the news that his friend had died. To date, Crispy has had a total of 105 surgeries. His doctors discovered cancer in his foot and brought in a specialist to take a look at it. Though they were able to remove it all, Crispy couldn't walk on his feet anymore. He pleaded with the doctor to have his leg amputated. Crispy has not always been in the place he is today, and spent much of this aftermath in a very dark place. It was the loving people he surrounded himself with who made him the man he is today. He shares the story of connecting with Chris Kyle. Discussing vulnerabilities, Nick points out that opening up is the best way to instantaneously connect with others on a meaningful level. Crispy believes he is a better person today because he was finally able to put his pride aside and find the courage to ask for help. Then, Crispy recounts the opportunity which led him to meeting and connecting with kids who also suffered from severe burns like his own. The organization Sons of the Flag helped him find his own calling in helping others. Sometimes people don’t need to hear advice, but just want to know that they aren’t alone. Crispy feels he gets more out of giving advice than anything he may get out of it. Crispy shares that while many people search for resilience, few really have it. Until you’re put in a situation, you’ll never know how you would react to it. In closing, Crispy shares his experience undergoing stem cell therapy and the miraculous ways it has changed his life by relieving chronic pain. Sharing vulnerabilities is really what the world needs right now and Crispy is living proof of it. Timestamps: 0:00 - Nick introduces the episode and today’s guest, Omar Crispy Avila. 2:10 - What does patriotism mean to Crispy? 7:35 - Crispy’s desire to serve his country. 15:12 - Crispy recountis the attack of May 14th. 33:24 - Crispy’s first thoughts awakening from a 3 month coma. 36:08 - Crispy’s leg amputation. 38:50 - How was Crispy able to cope with all of this? 43:15 - Crispy meeting American sniper. 45:56 - Discussing vulnerabilities, connecting with others and the power of asking for help. 48:43 - Crispy’s desire to help others. 54:35 - The advice Crispy gives to kids who reach out to him. 58:32 - Resilience. 1:01:20 - Crispy’s experience with stem cell therapy. 1:13:04 - Closing words. Links: Follow . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20934713

#92 - Before You Lead, Listen First With Jeramiah Solven 10/22/2021

#92 - Before You Lead, Listen First With Jeramiah Solven In today’s episode, Nick speaks with founder of Conquer Academy, Jeramiah Solven. Conquer Academy’s mission is to bring more good into the world while helping others achieve their very best. Today’s episode is all about leadership and Jeramiah’s 15 years in the U.S. Army. We’ll dive into what makes a leader, how to refine and build your leadership skills and some action items you can take now to build your leadership capabilities. As the conversation gets underway, Jeramiah discusses what the word conquer means to him. During his adolescence, he found solace from the chaos of his family life by regularly going to the gym. He was inspired by the story of Arnold Schwarzenegger, who inspired him to take action in his life every single day. Nick and Jeramiah discuss the importance of consistency and the advantages of not being the smartest guy in the room. Then, the conversation shifts to discussing Jeramiah’s time serving in the military up until January 1st, 2020. He began by running his coaching business on the weekends part time, and decided ultimately to pursue Conquer Academy full time. He joined the military at a desperate time in his life, when he was unsure of which direction to go. Jeramiah walks us through his timeline of his being in the military and shares the transformation which he underwent as a result. He had the realization that all along he had been chasing significance, which he initially found in the military. Exiting the military was one of the hardest decisions he has made. Jeramiah believes leaders are made in the same way diamonds are, with constant pressure while ensuring they don’t break. Nick explains the importance of earnestly listening to pushback in any leadership position. There is power in truly listening and speaking up. Among many other things, listening well gives you the ability to speak what you mean. Jeramiah learned lots about leadership, both good and bad, from his leaders in the military. They discuss the reaction without action which is so evident now in the age of social media. There is a huge difference between selfless leaders and selfish ones. Selfish leaders will fizzle out and be replaced. But when you act selflessly, you are focused on commitment rather than success. High performing teams won’t follow a selfish leader. Knowing the balance between selfish and selfless goals is key. Everybody wants to be the greatest, but few are willing to pay the price. It all comes down to the investments you make each day. You can cultivate this drive over time, it just takes practice. You have to sacrifice things to get to where you want to be. At Conquer Academy, the first step Jeramiah takes with clients is informing them on the importance of increasing vulnerability and having tough conversations with integrity. If you aren’t able to stand up for yourself, you won’t be able to do it for a team. Learn from experience how to end these tough conversations on a positive note. If you’re going to make it to the top, you have to build your life on integrity, leadership and tough conversations. As you begin having more tough conversations, they will begin to get easier each time. Timestamps: 0:00- Nick introduces the episode and today’s guest, Jeramiah Solven. 4:30 - Discussing the idea behind conquer. 7:20 - Jeramiah’s overall experience in the military and his decision to leave. 16:35 - Jeramiah’s entrance in the military and moving up in ranks. 22:42 - Before you lead, listen first. 27:56 - Jeramiah’s drive to start Conquer Academy. 36:18 - Reaction without action or solutions. 50:29 - Following your gut instinct. 01:14:44 - Selfish leaders vs. selfless leaders. 1:22:31 - How do you get started on a leadership journey? 1:31:20 - Closing words. Links: Follow . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20895617

#91 - Eating An Animal Based Diet With Dr. Paul Saladino 10/19/2021

#91 - Eating An Animal Based Diet With Dr. Paul Saladino In this episode, Nick welcomes on guest Dr. Paul Saladino, leading expert on the science and application of the carnivore diet—or the animal-based approach. Don’t miss this conversation as Paul offers great insight on this diet approach, why he prescribes it, and how it has benefitted numerous patients with autoimmune illnesses. With this unique perspective and amazing information, they dive into the discussion! Paul gets the conversation rolling as he recounts his own journey, recognition, and need for a new food framework. He shares about moving towards an animal based-diet due to his own struggle with eczema. Providing more information on some autoimmune struggles and chronic illness, Paul asserts that many people are thinking about food incorrectly. Food is a huge performance enhancer, but it has to be utilized correctly. Learn about the Paleolithic diet and where Paul believes this approach gets it wrong. Nick asks Paul about how his medical community responded to his shift full swing into a carnivore diet. With a desire to be able to affect the medical paradigm, and not just help people with symptoms, Paul did not truly blossom until after his residency. As the conversation continues, Paul shares his next steps in this journey and what impacts he faced from this massive shift. Learn about the challenges with long-term keto, and how his approach changed about 2 years into it. As Paul was humbled continued to grow in personal knowledge and reevaluating his approach, he shifted to version 2.0 with considering the value of carbohydrates in the human diet. Are some parts of plants more favored than others? What are the benefits of honey? Learn about sugar in a whole-food-matrix, not in isolation. Paul touches on the differences between physiological vs. pathological insulin-resistance. From issues of long-term ketosis, to gas, and the ins and outs of glucose, insulin, and fruit sources, Paul dives into countless details. Moving back in his story, Nick asks Paul about the beginning of his health journey when he was raw vegan. Learn about the issues of excessive gas and why Paul believes this is not the route humans should take. He shares where he is at now with honey and fruit added back in to his diet, along with the issues with bile salts that people experience when removing fiber from their diets. Listen as Paul talks about the spectrum of approaches and the possible usefulness of different stages, depending on your body and issues. Diving deep into the depths of countless details concerning topics from what a fruit is, to why humans need meat fat, Paul debunks many perceptions that aren’t true. Listen to what a typical diet for Paul looks like on a daily basis—meat, organs, fruit, and honey. He shares more about organ meat and why it is so powerful. They take a look at an animal like a multivitamin and why we should not divorce some parts from others—unique micronutrients that are otherwise missed. Learn why food quality is so much more important than tracking macros, and what nutritional ‘dark matter’ is. They touch on gut health, vegetables, detoxification methods, and plant based. There is a hierarchy of foods for thriving. Butyrate and short chain fatty acids are uncovered in their conversation. Is there a linear equation that more fiber equals more health? Why eat meat fat? Nick understands the desire for flavor, but Paul fills listeners in on the importance of tallow and suet fats. Fat does not make people fat, metabolic dysfunction does. Paul answers it all! As an MD, Paul shares what issues he has seen patients come in with and how diet can improve them. While no dietary discussions should be made without your physician, it’s important to have a nutrition savvy doctor to guide you! There is no one diet that is perfect for everyone, some individuals have conditions that can prohibit certain levels of proteins or carbs, calling for adjustments. Continuing the discussion, Nick and Paul touch on Paul’s take on game-changers, correlations vs. causation, and the role of evolution. Why not just stick to observational studies? Paul addresses problems with certain studies and how these often prove to be an issue of motivation for pitching something, rather than truly testing a hypothesis with interventional studies. Take a look at evolution and man’s desire for meat—Paul argues that eating meat made us human. Nick shifts the conversation to ask Paul about the first steps he takes with new patients to bring them from 0 to 100. How do you make a gradual shift from a diet that harms you, to one that helps? Learn more about linoleic acid and the differences in meat sources. How does Paul go out to eat? Does he ever go off the diet? Listen as he talks about the importance of discipline and how he chooses to make choices with a long term horizon, rather than focusing on possible short term benefits. They briefly chat about regenerative ranching, Roam Ranch, and soil regeneration. Wrapping up, Nick recalls his own take-aways from this podcast and reminds listeners not to forget to check out places like White Oak, Belcampo, Circle-C, and other farms for great places to get access to organ meat. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 0:00 - Nick introduces the topic and today’s guest, Dr. Paul Saladino 1:28 - Nick introduces the podcast and its pillars 2:10 - Paul is welcomed on and he recounts his need for a new food framework 11:45 - Full swing with the carnivore diet and how other responded 13:44 - The impact from such a massive shift and challenges with long-term keto 17:05 - A shift in approach and considering the value of carbohydrates in the human diet 25:07 - Issues of long-term ketosis, gas, glucose, insulin, and fruit 31:27 - The beginning of his health journey and going raw vegan 32:56 - Where Paul is at now with honey and fruit added back in; the spectrum or approaches and the usefulness of different stages 36:49 - What is a fruit? 37:32 - Paul’s typical daily diet 45:15 - Organ meat, why it is so powerful, and the micronutrients it has 57:55 - Food quality, tracking macros, and nutritional ‘dark matter’. 59:30 - Gut health, vegetables snd plant based diets. 1:08:52 - Butyrate, short chain fatty acids, and fiber 1:12:03 - It’s more than bacon, steak, and eggs 1:17:23 - Why eat meat fat? 1:28:25 - Issues Paul has seen patients come in with and how diet can improve them 1:33:40 - Paul’s take on game-changers, correlations vs. causation, and the role of evolution 1:47:49 - The first steps Paul takes with new patients 1:50:18 - Linoleic acid and what type of meat Paul eats 1:55:10 - How does Paul go out to eat? 2:01:46 - Roam Ranch and soil regeneration 2:03:29 - Take aways from this podcast episode 2:08:28 - Thank you for listening! Links: Learn more about and his Check out . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20867492

#90 - Show Up As A Leader To Fulfill Your Obligations With Christian Huff 10/13/2021

#90 - Show Up As A Leader To Fulfill Your Obligations With Christian Huff In today’s episode, Nick speaks with husband and father, Christian Huff. Listen as they cover the topics of business, faith, leadership, and accountability. The episode begins with Christian answering some fun questions on music and sports. He shares some of his favorite songs along with his history of playing baseball, specifically in how his own priorities with sports changed as his faith grew. He made the decision to not make baseball his idol but to instead pursue other areas of serving the Lord. This led to a conversation about Christian’s faith and how it has influenced his life. He shares his testimony and how he has grown in his faith and in understanding that Christianity is not simply a statement, but a lifestyle of following the Lord and having a relationship with Him. Christian points out how this has changed his life and priorities. Nick moves the conversation onto the topic of leadership. They begin to discuss what it truly means and looks like to be a leader in our society today. Nick makes the point that being a leader is about more than being an influencer, but taking the opportunities you have in your life to lead those around you in positive ways. Because of this, everyone has the opportunity to be a positive leader to those in their lives. Christian adds to this by sharing how a good leader is someone who can influence others for good by pointing them to the Lord. They both discuss some of the people who have been the biggest leaders in their own lives and how it has inspired them to do the same to others. Going along with what it means to be a good leader, Christian dives into the importance of filling and surrounding yourself with good leaders who will influence you in positive ways. This means giving your time and energy to things that will influence you for good and push you to grow. A common struggle for our society today is be tossed and pulled around by the many voices and opinions being put in front of us. Christian shares how the way to stand firm and hold fast to your convictions is through being firmly rooted in your faith and the leadership of Christ. He shares how this has been evident in his own life and how it has taught him perseverance through hard times. Another important aspect of being a good leader is the practice of accountability. Nick defines accountability as knowing how and when to call people out in a professional way. He shares some stories of how this was lived out in his job as an infantry officer. Christian also shares a story of when he was able to hold some young teenage boys accountable for their actions and influence their lives. Not only is it important to be able to hold others accountable, but Christian also points out the importance of being able to have an attitude of humility that allows us to receive accountability from others. Nick and Christian both point out how their wives are the ones who help hold them accountable and how it has benefited their lives for good. The episode concludes as Christian and Nick talk about marriage and how it has refined them and grown them over the years. Christian also shares about becoming a father and all that it has taught him. This leads into both men discussing their morning and workout routines and how these help keep them accountable and energized. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 0:00- Nick introduces todays guest, Christian Huff 3:56- Nick asks Christian some fun questions on sports and music before diving into the episode 11:30- Christian shares about his journey with his faith and how it influenced his life 15:48- They talk about leadership and what it looks like/means to be a leader 35:32- They branch off to focus on leadership specifically in business and going through trials 44:55- They talk about accountability 52:20- They share about how marriage and children have refined them and helped them grow 1:11:10- Christian shares about his workout routine as a new dad Links: Follow Christian Huff of Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20806037

#89 - From Pharmaceutical Sales To Baseball President With Chris Almendarez 10/07/2021

#89 - From Pharmaceutical Sales To Baseball President With Chris Almendarez In today’s episode, Nick speaks with Chris Almendarez, President of the Round Rock Express. Listen as Nick and Chris discuss some of their similar life experiences, the rewards they have found in sharing vulnerabilities, baseball, the importance of building relationships and more. As the conversation gets underway, Chris recalls his background and the path which led him to where he is today. At 7 years old, Chris had a strong admiration for the biggest athlete of the time, Nolan Ryan. He regards baseball as a huge factor which led him to attend college at the University of Houston. It was during this time that he met his first wife, Jana, on the same night his father was killed in a car accident. The tragedy helped him realize how important it was for him to have a united family of his own, unlike the one he was raised in. Only a few weeks later, he asked Jana to marry him. Soon after, he married, had his first child and took a job as a pharmaceutical salesman. From early on, Chris has a clear understanding of how important relationship building is. During his time in sales, Chris operated under the goal of following through with his promises. People often get so caught up in degrees, certifications and connections that they forget the value of being a good person and building relationships with others. Making connections with others and truly listening to what they have to say is a key component of success in any sales position. The motto of Chris and his family is to love God, love others, and the rest will follow suit. Then, Chris discusses his transition back to baseball from the pharmaceutical industry. Chris coached both of his son’s baseball teams, and grew close with many families of his players. When his pharmaceutical company wanted to transfer him out of state, Chris left the company and found a new job with a Spalding sports salesman. Soon after, he joined Round Rock as the Senior Account Executive. He has held several different positions within the organization, including his current position as Team President. Both Nick and Chris agree that baseball is the one sport which has retained its family feel. The comradery felt on a baseball team is really unmatched. Chris’s favorite part of his job is spring training and meeting the new season players. He recalls the support he and his sons received from the baseball community after Jana’s death. The game of baseball requires much strength and isn’t for the faint of heart. Next, they discuss the impact Covid had on Round Rock Express. Amidst the uncertainty of the beginning stages of the pandemic, Chris was notified that around 40% of the Round Rock staff would have to be let go. This marked the toughest day of his professional career. As a business that relies on people coming into their stadium, it’s been an extremely tough time which could take years to fully recover from. The remaining 60% of the Round Rock staff really came together during this time. Then, Chris and Nick open up and share their own experiences feeling helpless in the past. If nothing else, hopelessness serves as a reminder of how to respond to difficult situations for which there is no solution. Finally, Chris shares his biggest reasons for going one more every day. First and most important is his faith. He shares that there have been times that he was angry with God. However, he recognizes the blessings God has given his family throughout his life. Recognizing his “why” early on in life, to be the best father, husband and Godly man he could be, has played a huge role in his life. Rather than being focused on the end goal, Chris shares his mindset of appreciating the silver linings which pop up every day along the way. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 0:00- Nick introduces the episode and today’s guest, Chris Almendarez. 4:00 - How Nick and Chris first connected. 10:00 - Chris’s background, family and career steps. 20:24 - The impact of building relationships and being a good person. 24:10 - Chris shares his admiration for his two sons, Chase and Luke. 28:35 - Chris’s transition out of the pharmaceutical industry back to baseball. 36:00 - Discussing the close knit baseball community. 46:15 - The impact of the pandemic. 56:45 - Opening up about the feeling of helplessness. 1:03:10 - Chris’s drive to keep moving forward every day. Links: Follow . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20742578

#88 - Traveling The World & Saving The Amazon With Pedro Andrade 09/20/2021

#88 - Traveling The World & Saving The Amazon With Pedro Andrade In this episode, Nick has a conversation with Brazilian journalist Pedro Andrade about Pedro’s career experiences, places he’s visited, stories from his travels, and his recent work on Unknown Amazon. Pedro has no shortage of fascinating stories. He originally started his career as a model, using modeling as a means to travel to New York City. He evolved in his career, becoming a television host and later a journalist, and making his way to over sixty-five countries. Through his travels, Pedro has gained a lot of perspective about the world, people, and living well. Most recently, Pedro traveled with CNN Brazil for CNN Latin America to work on a new project on the West Coast. From van lifers to people working with drugs, Pedro had the chance to sit down with diverse populations of people, and to do the thing that he loves most in all of his work - humanize the headlines by putting a face and voice to different experiences. One thing Nick wonders about Pedro’s broad experience with people and places is whether or not he’s noticed a desensitizing influence of technology. While Pedro can see the answer to that question being both yes and no, he explains his belief that we’re learning to evolve with technology. As experiences such as a time he spent in Myanmar testify, lack of technology that has for people in America become ubiquitous does shift priorities, but this is not necessarily a good or bad reality. Cultures are by nature different, and one of the most fascinating phenomena Pedro has observed is that of cultural collisions. In places like Okinawa, Japan, where an army base brought American influence into an Asian culture, a new, unique culture is able to arise out of the collision. Pedro’s work requires him to be a close observer of his surroundings, but he has learned to try to bring enjoyment and observation together in all parts of life. He doesn’t want one to exist without the other either on or off the clock, but wants to consistently engage on a thoughtful and present level with the people and places around him. In light of this, it comes as no surprise that Pedro has no intention to fully “retire” from the sort of work he does. There are certain places he doesn’t want to revisit, so as to avoid diluting the special experiences he’s already had there, but he would love to continue exploring and feeling everyday life in lots of different places. As a caveat, though, he clarifies for listeners that all forms of travel are valid, and one doesn’t have to pursue the same kind of full immersion he does in order to be shaped by a place. The one thing to avoid in evaluating a place though, is a conflation of politics and place. Before the conversation wraps up, Nick wants to take a closer look at how Pedro got into journalism. Pedro roots his career in the influence of his grandmother, whose love of travel was contagious and prompted him to accept a modeling job, study journalism, and ultimately take the steps to becoming who he now is. He and Nick then talk about the necessity of different people and roles, and , the value of escapism, and Pedro’s work on Unknown Amazon. This project aims to humanize the startling headlines coming from the Amazon as it faces deforestation and other environmental problems, and testifies to the central lesson Pedro hopes all this work reveals: we’re much more similar than we know. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 00:00 - Today’s episode will feature an interview with Pedro Andrade. 05:06 - Pedro and Nick talk about passion in work and effects of technology. 20:51 - What will “retirement” look like for Pedro? 26:42 - Nick wants to know about how Pedro’s journey first began. 45:12 - The conversation shifts to Unknown Amazon. 58:50 - Finally, Nick asks what one thing people can do to make a difference. Links: Learn more about and connect with him on and . Learn more about . Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20533580

#87 - Ultra Running & Destroying The Colorado Crush On A Plant Based Diet With Robbie Balenger 09/17/2021

#87 - Ultra Running & Destroying The Colorado Crush On A Plant Based Diet With Robbie Balenger In today’s episode, Nick talks with ultra-endurance athlete Robbie Balenger about his accomplishments, recovery techniques, diet, and running career. While he has admired Robbie for some time, Nick met Robbie for the first time in Leadville when the two ran the Leadville 100. Robbie had formerly completed the 2019 Transcontinental run, and his competition of the Leadville 100 was part of what he dubbed the ‘Colorado Crush” - a multi-month undertaking consisting of the Leadville trail series, the Colorado trail, and all fifty-eight Colorado peaks. By way of background, Robbie shares that he spent a number of years in Austin before moving to his current city of Denver, CO. He moved to Austin for family, but stayed for the fun, getting into the food and bar scene and spending a lot of time partying. Eventually, though, Robbie started falling in love with running and endurance training, and he found that it provided a healthy form of the same elation he pursued through partying. Seeing that partying didn’t help him be his best for his work, and finding in running a substitute for the physical boost partying gave, Robbie found himself more and more invested in the sport. His races quickly evolved -a half marathon led to a marathon, and then to an eighty-mile race. About two and a half years after his first fifty-miler, Robbie was running the Transcontinental. His move to Denver only deepened his drive to run, and transitioning to a plant-based diet aided his performance as an athlete. Robbie’s aim in changing his diet was primarily to enhance his performance, but it also had a secondary grounding in concern for environmental health. While Robbie is a committed advocate of plant-based eating, he also explains how people can care for environmental needs even without adopting his plant-based diet; for one thing, they can pay close attention to sourcing when purchasing and consuming meat. Even with rigorous training and a plant-based whole food diet, Robbie’s body was seriously challenged by the Transcontinental. He dealt with hallucinations and paranoia, shin splints, tendonitis, and more. But after the first month of running, his body adapted and the work became somewhat easier. As he settled in and ran, he was able to do a lot of thinking; ultimately, Robbie feels that he came away from the race with a deepened sense of self-confidence, growth in trust of/reliance on others, and a clearer sense of how to define himself as a man. Shifting gears a bit, Nick asks Robbie to share about NuCalm, one of Robbie’s sponsors and a company Nick and his team are interested in exploring. NuCalm offers a unique concept for recovery centered on the fact that recovery at base is rest. It’s difficult during races to get good sleep, so Robbie decided to use NuCalm’s three-part system to enhance his sleep quality and foster cellular recovery during the Leadville 100. He tried the system throughout the Colorado Crush, and continues to use it as part of his regular routine. His results have been profound, and offer great possibilities for runners looking to boost recovery both during and after races. Finally, Robbie shares about how cycling fits into his workout regimen, the way in which running makes him feel whole, his pursuit of the unattainable concept of perpetual motion, and his desire to keep taking running opportunities that will enable him to grow and inspire. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 00:00 - Today’s episode will feature an interview with Robbie Balenger. 05:07 - Taking a step back, Nick and Robbie turn to Robbie’s background. 15:55 - What was Robbie’s pivotal moment, and how did his diet fit in? 25:23 - Robbie and Nick get into the details of the Transcontinental race. 37:47 - Nick asks about NuCalm. 45:14 - Robbie explains the Colorado Crush. 53:10 - How does cycling fit into Robbie’s regimen? 57:19 - Where does Robbie want to go from here? Links: Learn more about and follow him on . Learn more about and use code Robbie50 for a discount! Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20512670

#86 - BPN Updates & 5 Things You Can Do Right Now To Become A Stronger Leader 09/08/2021

#86 - BPN Updates & 5 Things You Can Do Right Now To Become A Stronger Leader In today’s episode, Nick shares some updates on the things he has been working on at BPN over the last few months. Then, he will share five things you can do right now to become a better leader. Diving into the updates at BPN, Nick shares about the progress on the new podcast studio. The new space will be a great opportunity to bring in more guests and film podcasts for YouTube and other platforms. A large focus at BPN this year is how to level up everything they do - video, the team, products, HQ, and more. Nick stresses that progress happens little by little over a stretch of time. You will more than likely not have everything you need when you are just getting started, but it’s getting started that counts. Then, Nick gives us a look at BPN's newest product releases including a new vanilla vegan protein powder, electrolyte powder, sleep aid, collagen, meal replacement and fish oil soft gels. He explains the difference between the upcoming electrolyte powder and the G.1.M. Sport and the importance of electrolytes in a healthy lifestyle. Nick started BPN because he wanted to create products which he personally wanted to use and, as the team grew, began developing products they wanted too. He shares his goal for BPN to shift their business model to retail. With this goal and the introduction of new products, BPN recently signed a lease for an additional space to accommodate the expansion. Additionally, he gives a look into BPN’s 10 year plan. Shifting gears a bit, we get a look into the book Nick is currently reading, The Power of Moments. He summarizes the book’s message by stating that life is composed of moments both good and bad, but it’s the really good moments we truly remember. The book addresses how we can intentionally create these kinds of powerful moments. BPN wants to create powerful moments which will impact people for a lifetime, in how they think, feel and interact with others. He relates this to the upcoming Go One More marathon hosted by BPN in support of veterans. Next, Nick dives into what it means to be a leader. The term leader is not just given, but is something one has to earn. While some people are born natural leaders, many of the skills it requires comes from various life influences. The first of the five tips Nick has for being a better leader is to remove emotions from decision making. To do this, you must remove yourself from situations in order to make a deliberate decision rather than an emotional one. Second, you should always hold yourself and those around you accountable. Third, and one of Nick’s favorites, is to be the guide, not the hero. Fourth, always invest in people in order to build their trust. In line with this, Nick explains the hiring process at BPN and the importance of hiring the right person for the job. One you find the right people, it’s important to take care of them, because you don’t want to lose them. Finally and most importantly, is to lead by example and hold the standard. The action of your business will come from the top down. As the episode draws to a close, Nick reiterates the importance of taking control of your life and actions. The five tips he shared with us today apply not only to leading a business but to all areas of life, including relationships with family and friends. Thanks for tuning in and please remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 1:35 - Introduction for today’s episode 3:30 - Updates on the new podcast studio 7:25 - The newest and upcoming BPN products 18:30 - BPN expansion and 10 year plan 24:10 - What Nick is currently reading and how its message applies to BPN 29:25 - Discussing the Go One More marathon 34:25 - What makes a leader? 38:05 - Five things you can do to be a better leader 52:50 - Bringing solutions with problems /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20406593

#85 - Leadville 100 Ultramarathon Race Recap 08/29/2021

#85 - Leadville 100 Ultramarathon Race Recap In today’s episode, Nick provides a recap from the recent Leadville 100 Ultramarathon, a race that was about “more than the miles” and required the contributions of the BPN team. On August 21 and 22, Nick raced a distance of 100 miles through the Rocky Mountains, joining only about half of the participants in meeting the 30-hour time limit for completion. With the help of the BPN team, Nick finished the race in 27 hours, 53 minutes, and 5 seconds, having faced 15,600 feet in elevation ascent and descent, high altitudes, and overall both a great and challenging race. Now, he wants to share with listeners about the details of the race - talking about everything from checkpoints to nutrition strategy, ups and downs, and the role his teammates played in the competition. Nick’s training began in the spring after he was chosen by lottery to be allowed entry in the race. This training included not just preparation for mountain terrain, but training for elevation shifts. The Monday before the race, he and several other BPN workers arrived confident in Leadville ready for more altitude training and trail reconnaissance (for both Nick and his team members who would be shooting film for a documentary expected out in October!). Nick and his team built out a plan for the race, with each member having a specific role outlined. Nick’s main role, himself, was to embrace the suck that would come with enduring the race. On the day of the race, Nick was up at 2:30 am for breakfast, which consisted of a bagel and some BPN products - G1M and electrolytes; his ultimate goal was to build up his sodium and carbs. He prepared himself mentally, got dressed in carefully chosen clothes, and loaded up about 100fl oz of water in his pockets. The race had an exhilarating start at 4am, and Nick explains his steps crossing checkpoints, maintaining nutrition levels, making connections with his crew, and beginning to knock out the many miles of the course. The course had 13 checkpoints over its 50 miles (traveled twice), and Nick had 7 drop bags placed at checkpoints where he would possibly if not certainly be unable to see his crew. He shares with listeners about the meals he chose to maximize helpful calories and keep his fluid and electrolyte levels high, the short time windows he allotted for stops, and about his plans to handle GI issues and prevent issues with injury or weariness. Nick also explains how he felt at different points in the race, and how he paced himself. Listeners will hear about Nick’s fall and bloodied hands, decision to refill water at a mountain stream, and shock at finding crew members at a mountain summit checkpoint. They will also hear about the toll the high altitude took as the end of the race drew near; Nick found himself - with fresh shoes, a pacer, and only 38 miles to go - struggling to breathe. He started to really feel the previous miles, and knew he just needed to get to the end. He just needed to go one more. And one more. And one more. Through a temperature drop, a bout of uncontrollable shaking, a transition to a new pacer, and the mental gymnastics of feeling excited to finish and utterly exhausted all at once, Nick approached the finish. As he crested the final hill, Nick could see the finish line and hear the crowd. His crew members came to join him, and they all ran the finish together. There have been bumps in the road as Nick has recovered from the race (most notably his brother eating his burrito!), but he has been working toward an efficient and effective recovery. The power of human bodies to exert themselves and recover is remarkable, but, as Nick concludes, even more remarkable to him was the role of his team in the race. It was for them about more than the miles, but about accomplishing the feat together. Thanks for tuning in and please remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 1:04 - This episode will recap the Leadville 100 Ultramarathon. 9:32 - Nick took a lot of the BPN team. 15:02 - “More than the miles” 17:28 - The day of the race and the start of the competition 29:25 - Some say the real race starts at mile marker 37.9. 34:49 - The second Hope Pass climb - Nick sees crew, completes the worst climbs 39:10 - Running with a pacer and struggling to breathe 44:30 - Last 12.6 miles to an awesome finish with the BPN team 47:50 - Nick gets into the burrito saga 50:27 - Final thoughts on recovery and the rewarding personal/team experience Links: Learn more about and connect with him on , , . Learn more about . Learn more about the Leadville , including the 100 Ultramarathon. Learn about the brands Nick mentioned: , , /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20293250

#84 - Matthew McConaughey | Nothing Is Unbelievable 08/23/2021

#84 - Matthew McConaughey | Nothing Is Unbelievable Nick kicks off the conversation with a brief introduction of Matthew and his tendency to be “as cool as the other side of the pillow”—acting quickly on the next practical step while maintaining calmness. Asking Matthew to share about his book, Green Lights, Nick appreciates Matthew’s ability to be present in the moment. Learn how this aspect of Matthew’s life has evolved over the course of his various achievements as he has learned the importance of putting his head down to work hard, rather than worrying about the minute-to-minute results. Listen to the importance of having “joy in the doing” and why you should stop anticipating the ending of things. Matthew shares how perspective and experience build maturity and wisdom, and how he fights against the addiction for immediate results and chasing false summits. The conversation shifts as Nick asks Matthew to share about false peaks and points in his own career—times when he felt like he couldn’t continue moving forward. Matthew shares about the importance of a balanced understanding of gratitude, and how complacency can lead to people living off the ‘glory days’ and looking in the rear view mirror for too long. Looking at a story Matthew shares in Green Lights, Nick asks him to chat about what roots him as a man with so much success. Listen in on having a value based life and taking a look at the history of time to see how nothing matters—and everything matters—all at the same time! Through belief, trust, and faith, Matthew works to perform his very best at the one shot he gets in this life! Having faith in yourself is important, but some level of doubt also proves helpful. Matthew tells us about moments where he doubted himself and why he works to process an understanding of why something succeeded or failed. Nick and Matthew both enjoy movement and running to freely process. Turning the conversation towards Hollywood, Nick asks Matthew about his view on expectations. Matthew’s surprising perspective of compartmentalization and going into everything with high expectations has helped him to trick himself to successfully stay in the chase. Why does Matthew dislike the term “unbelievable”? Diving deeper into this word, Matthew says we ought to give more credit to both the good and the bad when they occur—extending the bandwidth of what is believable and giving credit where it’s due. People have more capacity and internal power to self-determine than we give the credit for. In considering risk, Matthew says that the crucial denominator of going all in, and the importance of over-committing. Learn about the largest career risk he ever took and how he worked to challenge the vitality of his own life by un-branding. Nick asks about the most challenging role Matthew has held and how his need to be obsessed with every role he plays has impacted his family. They discuss the challenges of different genres and how he battles to keep integrity in his roles. As this episode draws to a close, listeners hear about Matthew’s ‘Less impressed, more involved’ motto and the unique community in Austin, Texas. Learn about the persona that Austin has and how they work to be trailblazers, marked by optimism and hospitality. Growth and change are happening, but the basic value systems are not changing. You can be who you want to be in Austin, TX! Thanks for tuning in and please remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 1:01 - Podcast introduction 1:43 - Matthew McConaughey welcomed on 4:15 - Talking about his book, Green Lights, and being present in the moment 12:30 - False peaks and points in his own career 14:57 - A value based life and the history of time 20:32 - Having faith in yourself and doubting 27:43 - Running to freely think 28:43 - Hollywood and building high expectations 33:43 - The term “unbelievable” 37:38 - More capacity than we give credit for 38:32 - Risk and the largest career risk Matthew ever took 44:34 - The career transition 47:15 - The most challenging role Matthew has held 52:12 - ‘Less impressed, more involved’ motto and the Austin community 1:00:00 - Thank you Links: Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. about Matthew McConaughey Check out Matthew’s book, /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20211845

#83 - Overcoming Adversity In Business, Infertility & Losing Your Home With Brian Mazza 08/16/2021

#83 - Overcoming Adversity In Business, Infertility & Losing Your Home With Brian Mazza Brian Mazza has been an entrepreneur for the majority of his life. In the last decade, he built a series of very successful restaurants before transitioning out of the hospitality industry and into the fitness space. He recently completed a 50 mile ultramarathon to raise money for IVF treatments In today’s episode, we’ll hear all about the things Brian has overcome in the recent years, throughout his life and what has contributed to his success. From a young age, Brian has always been a competitive athlete. As the episode begins, he discusses his experience playing soccer on a scholarship at the University of Rhode Island. He began to lose passion for the sport as time went on, leading him to quit his senior year. Then, Brian tells the story of how he became involved in the hospitality industry, beginning working as a guest bartender for Tiger Woods’ mistress in the Hamptons. He began to realize that if he could make a name for himself, he had the potential to be very successful in the nightlife industry. At 21 years old, his philosophy was to work hard and never say no to an opportunity. This experience led him to open multiple businesses alongside the owner of the nightclub. Brian stresses that if you go into a business thinking you know everything, you’re setting yourself up for failure. However, failure isn’t always a bad thing as there is often a lesson to be learned from it. Ego is one of the worst companions to business. Brian found owning restaurants wasn’t the best fit for him. Next, Brian discusses his entrance into the fitness industry. Boutique fitness really started to take off in New York, which brought Brian back to his competitive college soccer days. An opportunity led him to appear on the cover on Men’s Health. He was drawn to the fitness world and saw it the perfect exit out of hospitality. He made a promise to himself to quit drinking, and hasn’t looked back since. He explains just a few of the ways this decision made a positive impact on his life. Lifestyle choices are top down, which is why it’s so important to surround yourself with people who share your goals and mindset. Last year, Brian ran an ultramarathon to raise money for people who can’t afford infertility options such as IVF. This is a subject close to home for Brian, since he and his wife went through fertility issues. Brian points out the stigma in regards to men speaking with their friends about these types of issues like women do. Now, he speaks openly about the experience and the success they had with it - ultimately having two beautiful children. Brian raised $81,000 for infertility during his 50-mile ultramarathon fundraiser. The idea came to him during the pandemic. After seeing so many businesses being shut down and hearing that many couples were unable to carry on with IVF procedures, he saw an opportunity to make a difference. With the money raised, Brian and his wife were able to pay for three separate families to undergo IVF. Right before the pandemic, Brian’s family’s house burned down. As he tells the story, he stresses that life is precious and anything could happen. Through the adversity, you have to keep going and get back to normalcy. Getting back to a routine is the best step to move forward. Finally, they discuss Brian’s lifestyle training business HPLT. Brian believes everyone is a high performer, but not everyone knows they have that in them. The mission behind HPLT is to light that spark within by putting people in situations and communities which help them realize their potential. In closing, Brian states that winning is about your mindset, body and soul - and is something only you can accomplish. Timestamps: 00:01 - Nick introduces today’s episode with Brian Mazza. 01:38 - Introduction to The Bare Performance Podcast. 5:05 - Brian’s experience playing D1 collegiate soccer. 13:15 - How Brian became involved in hospitality. 22:40 - The problem with ego in business. 27:25 - How Brian evolved out of hospitality and into the fitness space. 32:48 - Brian’s decision to quit drinking. 38:13 - Destigmatizing infertility. 45:05 - Brian’s ultramarathon fundraiser. 50:10 - The story of Brian’s family’s house fire. 1:00:00 - The mission behind Brian’s business, HPLT. 1:04:48 - Closing words. Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Links: Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. about Brian Mazza. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20122505

#82 - Real Stories Of Building BPN: Cash Flow Issues & Taking Massive Risks To Maintain Full Equity 08/11/2021

#82 - Real Stories Of Building BPN: Cash Flow Issues & Taking Massive Risks To Maintain Full Equity This episode of the podcast flows out of Nick’s desire to share what building a business really looks like, as well as his conviction that one of the best ways to share this is through story. Rather than spending the episode interviewing a guest, he spends it giving listeners narrative snapshots of his experience as an entrepreneur. These snapshots depict the growth of a company, building of an infrastructure within the business, getting the company off the ground, navigating cash flow issues, and more. One of the biggest takeaways Nick hopes to impress on listeners is that the best way to get started...is to just get started! Nick first shared about establishing the infrastructure behind BPN. In 2012, Nick decided as a college student to start the brand. He began with a $20,000 loan, and what he lacked in experience he made up for in passion; he simply decided to start, and he learned as he went. Just recently, Nick was reminded of these early days when he found a series of short videos on his computer. These are awkward clips he made as the company was starting, and they show not only how far he’s come, but how important it was to get started. Nick shared the clips in an Instagram video; this video and the response to it actually provided the impetus for this episode! But while Nick’s recent Instagram content has resonated with others, another story highlights just how unpleasant his initial days trying to build his business online were! Soon after starting BPN, Nick joined the bodybuilding.com forum and was surprised when his first post received only hate! He had a similar experience when he later posted his first YouTube video. While both experiences were tough, they ultimately taught him that he had to put himself out there, and that holding back out of fear of negativity was unsustainable and unproductive. Rather than holding back, he needed to go all in on BPN. A few years later, the company had grown, but as all product-based companies do, it required a steady influx of cash to continue running and growing. Nick and his brother, Preston, held and continue to hold 100% equity in the company; so, the business has required profound commitment from them financially. Nick put nearly all the money he made in the military into the business, and one day, he even liquidated his entire Roth IRA in order to provide the business with a needed cash injection. In doing so, he was declaring yet again that he was all in on BPN. Preston made similar commitments. Before he transitioned out of the military and while he was stationed in South Korea, Nick asked Preston to leave a good job and move to Texas to help with BPN. Nick couldn’t pay Preston, but could only offer housing and a vehicle. Preston didn’t hesitate, but immediately moved. Later, when the business needed another cash injection, Preston again didn’t hesitate when the business needed the $30,000 his dad saved for him. Such sacrifices were necessary because cash flow was, for a number of years, a major area of difficulty. Since they knew they had the tools, drive, and patience to make it, Nick and Preston sunk all their money back into the company, slowly making disciplined progress. They never wanted BPN to be a discount brand, so they had to find other creative ways to get money for periodic cash injections. They turned to flash sales and direct phone conversations with customers, and Nick came to deeply appreciate that there are other sources of value than money. Nick also shares about expanding the space of BPN. His mindset regarding space is to move into space that will force growth. He and Preston - while a bit naive in their first commercial lease signing - leased their first HQ with an aim to grow into it by creating a revenue-earning gym in part of the space. They quickly grew, and as they’ve continued to go all in, they’ve seen massive returns. They outgrew spaces a number of times, and now have a 25,000 square foot footprint. Finally, Nick offers thoughts on what has been one of the hardest and most fulfilling things about running BPN: growing the team. Nick used to wear too many hats and see hiring as an expense. However, he’s come to understand that hiring the right people for the right jobs isn’t an expense, but an investment - and one that comes with tremendous returns! Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Timestamps: 00:01 - Today’s episode will show what building a business looks like. 02:06 - Nick will tell stories, and he first turns to the founding of the BPN brand. 06:29 - Social media has been a positive thing, but also provided tough lessons. 12:34 - Putting yourself out there can be tough, but you have to just get started. 15:01 - Nick transitions to a story about investing money for business scaling. 21:24 - The next story demonstrates Preston’s commitment to BPN. 27:46 - BPN slowly dug out of the cash flow crisis, and avoided being a discount brand. 35:57 - Nick shares his CFO’s take on BPN’s disciplined approach to early growth. 37:06 - The next story is about the company’s expanding physical footprint. 44:32 - Nick embraces a forced-growth mindset. 47:06 - One of the hardest and most fulfilling things for him has been hiring. Links: Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20092808

#81 - Ryan Hall: The Journey To The American Half Marathon Record (59:43) 08/09/2021

#81 - Ryan Hall: The Journey To The American Half Marathon Record (59:43) Ryan Hall is a retired American long distance runner who holds a U.S. record in the half marathon with a time of 59 minutes and 43 seconds. Ryan was and still is an elite athlete, but was forced to retire after years of running due to chronic fatigue, low testosterone and overtraining. Running took him to Stanford University at collegiate level, then professionally after that. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss the difference between focusing on performance vs. health, and if you must sacrifice one or the other to achieve elite status. Ryan grew up in Big Bear Lake in Southern California, where he fell in love with running. His very first run was at the age of thirteen and was 15 miles around the lake, which he clarifies wasn’t an effortless or enjoyable feat. He didn’t even begin to really enjoy running until he had been training consistently for at least a month, though he was already in shape prior to that. He speaks of the religious transcendental nature of running, which he understands as his gift from God. Running became his mission, cultivating his talent and seeing how far he could take it. Ryan is the middle of 5 kids in his family who had little extra money. He knew that if he wanted to attend a D1 School, he would have to earn his way there, and running was this ticket. On a visit to Stanford, he fell in love with the coach and atmosphere of the school. While attending, he struggled considerably with academics. He recalls the culture of being on the cross country team and the determinants of his teammates. Ryan led his team to achieve an NCAA title. Ryan thought he could improve his mental health by changing his external situation, so he dropped out of Stanford. However, he felt even more depressed after returning home, and his pastor encouraged him to return to Stanford. He realized soon after his return that the grass isn’t always greener. If you’re going into workouts trying to prove yourself due to an underlying insecurity, you won’t achieve the same results as you would if you were going into it with confidence. The secret to improvement is consistency over a long period of time achieved by commitment over motivation. Referring to the recent attention to mental health amongst athletes, Ryan believes the common denominator to be the internal pressure put on themselves. He knows the feeling of believing your sport to be your best and only asset. You have to know how to unload this pressure and cultivate a mindset of loving you for who you are rather than what you’re capable of. The key to performing well at a high level is to find enjoyment in the act and show up as your true self. As soon as he began training for longer distances, he felt things click. The following winter, he set the American record for a half marathon. He spent the next 10 years trying to get back to that point, but never managed to. He hopes to pass on all of the lessons he’s learned to the next generation, so his ceiling can serve as their floor. Finally, Ryan discusses how his nutrition affected his performance and induced several health concerns which eventually forced him to retire. In trying to get as light as possible, his body suffered. Then, Nick asks if Ryan believes an athlete can achieve an elite status without sacrificing part of their health. Ryan doubts you can be a world class athlete and maintain optimal health. Finally, they discuss the benefits of incorporating weight training in your routine. Timestamps: 00:01 - Nick introduces today’s episode with Ryan Hall. 01:28 - Introduction to The Bare Performance Podcast. 8:13 - Ryan’s first run and how the experience set the path for his future. 14:25 - Ryan’s family background and time at Stanford. 17:56 - Dropping out of Stanford. 19:07 - Ryan’s philosophy for working out. 21:40 - Mental health issues among elite athletes. 26:40 - How Ryan turned his mindset around. 32:33 - Going professional and setting a half marathon record. 44:35 - How nutrition affected Ryan’s performance. 50:40 - Is it possible to achieve elite status without sacrificing health? 53:48 - Benefits of strength training. 01:05:29 - Closing words Thanks for tuning in and remember to leave a review and share with a friend! Links: Learn more about Nick Bare on his . Connect with Nick Bare on , , . about Bare Performance Nutrition. Learn more about . /episode/index/show/bareperformancepodcast/id/20059985

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