Grit and Resilience with Mike Kelly and Alex Ptacek | Stronger Is Better Podcast #5

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In this episode of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, host Nick Delgadillo speaks with Alex Ptacek, Head Coach at Starting Strength Chicago, and his trainee Mike Kelly. Mike shares the gripping and ultimately inspiring story of suffering a catastrophic quad injury—followed by multiple surgeries, setbacks, and an unwavering commitment to recovery. Alex and Mike detail the coaching, rehab, and mindset needed to not only recover but hit PRs after the injury.

This episode is a masterclass in first principles thinking, coaching accountability, and what’s possible when grit meets process. Whether you’re a coach, trainee, or recovering from injury yourself—this one is not to be missed.

00:00 - Intro and guest introductions

01:15 - Alex’s background and entry into coaching

04:55 - Mike’s long training history and CrossFit roots

07:00 - Mike’s first serious injury and how it led to Starting Strength

11:00 - The value of strength and discovering Rip

17:30 - Injury mindset, aging, and training smarter

27:00 - The squat injury and ambulance ride

34:10 - First surgery and complications

42:00 - Training with only one functioning quad

49:00 - Re-injury and second surgery

1:04:50 - Tourniquet bruise, setback, and third surgery

1:14:00 - Training mentality and persistence

1:21:00 - Running again—why movement matters

1:26:00 - Final thoughts: gratitude, recovery, and moving forward

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