
Chasing Excellence
Looking to build more than just physical fitness? Join Ben Bergeron and Patrick Cummings as they explore how daily practices create the foundation for lasting peace of mind. Through practical frameworks and honest conversations, discover how deep health unlocks the freedom to chase what truly matters. Learn the five essential factors - training, eating, thinking, sleeping, and connecting - that transform fleeting moments of clarity into a life of sustained fulfillment. If you're ready to move beyond quick fixes and build context-independent peace of mind, this is your guide.
Latest episodes

7 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 35min
[ ❤️🔥 ] Nutritional Guilt, Zone 2 Training, The Value of Napping, & More
Listener questions dive into the complexities of nutritional guilt and the emotional impact of food choices. The hosts dissect the nuances of zone two training versus VO2 max, shedding light on workout intensity. They explore the essential roles of hydration and sleep in overall wellness. Napping is highlighted as a vital recovery tool, alongside the importance of consistent nighttime sleep. Plus, innovative strategies for enhancing the CrossFit class experience are discussed, focusing on community building and effective coaching.

9 snips
Nov 22, 2024 • 37min
[ 🗣️ ] HopperTalk: Bravery, Compassion, & Infinite Happiness
Discover the transformative power of bravery and compassion in relationships, emphasizing emotional vulnerability and support. Explore the delicate balance between toughness and empathy in parenting, and how resilience plays a key role. Rethink happiness by shifting focus from what you lack to appreciating what you have, battling societal pressures and negativity. Lastly, learn how cultivating gratitude can significantly influence your well-being, leading to a more fulfilling life. Engage in meaningful conversations to foster deeper connections.

19 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 20min
[ 💭 ] Balancing Peace of Mind & Ambition
Discover the delicate balance between ambition and inner fulfillment as the hosts explore personal identity shifts. They emphasize redefining goals to seek deeper happiness beyond material success. The conversation also highlights the importance of metabolic health and hydration. Dive into how true excellence encompasses peace of mind, allowing ambition and contentment to coexist. Finally, examine the evolution of ambition from external validation to an intrinsic drive, prioritizing personal fulfillment over societal approval.

Nov 15, 2024 • 42min
[ 🍽️ ] The Simplest Nutrition Strategy: Eat Clean & Eat Light
Discover the fundamentals of clean eating by understanding nutrient density and making simpler dietary choices. Learn to navigate the clean eating spectrum, distinguishing between ultra-processed and whole foods. The importance of sourcing high-quality ingredients is emphasized, along with tips for transitioning to healthier options. Explore meal planning strategies that promote self-awareness and maintain mindful caloric intake. Additionally, find out how small commitments, like staying hydrated, can lead to big changes in your overall well-being.

5 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 43min
[ 🏃🏽♂️ ] The 9 Essential Components of a Complete Training Program
Explore the nine essential components of a training program, including strength, conditioning, and functional range of motion. Discover how personal challenges like hiking can build resilience through the concept of 'micro-misogi.' Learn about the critical role of conditioning in health, with comparisons to quitting smoking. Dive into a holistic approach to fitness, moving beyond traditional metrics like VO2 max and incorporating diverse exercises. Embrace a well-rounded regimen to enhance overall quality of life and maintain independence.

Nov 8, 2024 • 23min
[ 🎒 ] AMQAP20: Balancing Yoga & Strength, Sleeping with a Snorer, Office Snacks, & More
Explore the balance between maintaining strength and embracing yoga, as personal stories provide practical insights. Discover effective sleep tips for managing snoring partners, adding humor to the conversation. Dive into the challenges of workplace wellness and strategies for healthy snacking. Tackle social pressure and healthy habits with personal standards at the forefront. Finally, learn about the benefits of barefoot shoes in enhancing foot strength and body alignment, along with surprising insights about children's adaptability.

Nov 5, 2024 • 33min
[ ❤️🔥 ] Mindset During Tough Times, Book Clubs for Kids, Training 6x a Week, & More
Discover strategies for enhancing mindset during tough times and the importance of self-compassion paired with accountability. Explore engaging book recommendations aimed at enriching middle school book clubs. Learn how to balance workout intensity with necessary rest, emphasizing the need for self-awareness in your fitness journey. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional maturity and mindset in personal development, blending physical training principles with mental resilience for a well-rounded approach to excellence.

Nov 1, 2024 • 23min
[ 💪🏼 ] Why You Shouldn’t Shield Your Kids from Adversity
Discover the crucial role of adversity in developing resilience in children. The discussion highlights the balance between protection and allowing kids to face challenges. It explores how past experiences shape responses and why overprotection can hinder growth. Practical strategies, such as positive framing and gradual exposure to challenges, are suggested to cultivate coping skills. Additionally, the importance of inclusive communication within the family is emphasized, enhancing connections and empowerment.

Oct 29, 2024 • 30min
[ 💪🏼 ] The Parasympathetic Sigh, Health Through Lifespan, Dealing with Negativity, & More
Discover powerful breathing techniques like the parasympathetic sigh that help manage stress and maintain mental balance. Delve into the long-term health impacts of choices made during youth, emphasizing the importance of intentional fitness from an early age. The podcast also tackles strategies for achieving ambitious health goals and the challenges of introducing new gym equipment. Plus, gain insights on dealing with negativity in business, focusing on integrity and proactivity in conflict resolution.

Oct 25, 2024 • 31min
[ 🗣️ ] HopperTalk: Self-Worth & the Skill of Friendship
Delve into the profound impact of cultural beliefs on our self-worth and how childhood experiences shape our perceptions. Discover the essential role of social connections in finding happiness and enhancing well-being. Explore the complexities of modern friendships amid growing loneliness, and learn how genuine connections can transform lives. Uncover friendship as not just a gift but a skill that requires intentionality and effort, encouraging deeper bonds over superficial engagements.