Elite Coaching Cast

Justin Mihaly
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Feb 1, 2026 • 15min

452: Why Most Fitness Coaches Never Attract High-Ticket Clients

Most coaches don’t have a marketing problem — they have a positioning problem. This video shows how to attract high-ticket clients without discounts or chasing leads.In this episode, Justin breaks down why most coaches stay stuck competing on price and exactly how to reposition yourself to attract high-ticket, premium clients without chasing leads, discounting, or posting generic fitness content.You’ll learn how elite coaches sell outcomes, performance, and systems — not workouts and macros — and how to structure your content, offer, and sales pipeline to convert executives and high performers who value results over price.If you’re tired of commodity coaching and want to build a category-of-one coaching business, this video lays out the framework step by step.🔥 What you’ll learn:• Why premium clients buy context, not transformations• The content strategy that attracts executives and high performers• How to escape price competition with offer differentiation• A 4-stage sales pipeline designed for high-ticket conversions• How to price with confidence and use scarcity correctly📈 Perfect for:Online fitness coaches, personal trainers, high-ticket coaches, and creators building premium offers.👇 Comment “ECA” if you want the full Elite Coaching Academy framework.00:00 – Why most fitness coaches never reach high-ticket clients01:10 – The real reason coaches get stuck competing on price01:49 – Why premium clients don’t buy “fitness transformations”02:38 – How executives actually think about health & performance03:53 – The content strategy that attracts high-level clients04:48 – Why generic fitness content repels premium buyers05:40 – Commodity coaching vs category-of-one positioning06:42 – What your offer must include to justify premium pricing07:47 – The high-ticket sales pipeline built for executives08:04 – Stage 1: Value-first entry (audits & fast wins)08:29 – Stage 2: Insight-driven consultation09:03 – Stage 3: Custom solution presentation09:34 – Stage 4: Invitation-based close (not selling)10:42 – Why premium clients want exclusivity, not availability11:53 – Pricing congruence: matching price to transformation12:05 – Using waitlists and scarcity the right way13:15 – Why this model compounds instead of burning you out14:20 – Final takeaway + how to learn the full ECA framework
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Jan 23, 2026 • 23min

451: Blood Work Is the New Fitness Trend — And It’s Being Misused

Blood work is trending — but most people are reading it wrong.“Normal” labs don’t mean optimal, and context is what everyone is missing.In this episode, we break down why blood work has become a trend instead of a tool, how people are misinterpreting their labs, and why “normal” results often create false confidence instead of real clarity. Everyone wants answers from a single panel, but very few understand how to read blood markers in context.Joined by Lindsay Perry, the conversation dives into what blood work can and cannot tell you, why markers like insulin, glucose, and A1C must be viewed together, and why relying on isolated numbers leads to poor decisions. We also discuss the limitations of cortisol testing, why blood work alone doesn’t capture nervous system stress, and where additional tools like genetics and functional testing actually fit.This episode isn’t anti–blood work — it’s anti-misuse.You’ll hear a grounded, coaching-driven perspective on:Why blood work became popular — and how it’s being misunderstoodThe danger of reading labs without lifestyle, behavior, and symptom contextInsulin as a missing piece in most standard blood panelsWhy cortisol is difficult to assess accurately through blood work aloneHow genetics, gut health, and deeper testing inform smarter decisionsWhy data without interpretation creates confusion, not solutionsLindsay Perry brings real-world coaching insight into how health data should guide action, not anxiety, and why context matters more than any single number on a report.If you’ve ever been told your labs are “normal” but still don’t feel right — this conversation explains why.00:00 – Why Blood Work Is Trending Right NowBlood work has become the latest health trend and why everyone wants answers from labs.01:18 – Everyone Wants to Be a Blood Work ExpertHow access to data without education creates confusion and false authority.03:05 – Why “Normal” Blood Work Can Be MisleadingUnderstanding reference ranges vs optimal health and why people feel stuck.05:12 – The Missing Marker: InsulinWhy insulin is often ignored, how it connects to glucose and A1C, and why it matters.08:04 – Looking at Markers Together, Not in IsolationWhy single lab values don’t tell the full story.10:36 – Cortisol and the Limits of Blood TestingWhy cortisol is difficult to assess through blood work alone.13:02 – Stress, the Nervous System, and What Labs MissWhy lifestyle and nervous system regulation don’t show up clearly on labs.15:48 – Genetics as a Coaching ToolHow genetic testing is used to guide smarter decisions, not labels.18:22 – Detox, Methylation, and Mitochondrial Pathways ExplainedBreaking down common genetic categories and what they influence.21:10 – Gut Health, Sensitivities, and Deeper TestingWhen blood work isn’t enough and additional testing becomes relevant.24:05 – Why Context Matters More Than Any NumberHow symptoms, behavior, and lifestyle complete the picture.26:42 – Coaching vs Data ObsessionWhy data should guide action, not anxiety.29:30 – Using Blood Work the Right WayHow to treat labs as a tool, not a diagnosis.32:10 – Final Thoughts: Blood Work Isn’t the EnemyWhy blood work is valuable when used correctly and responsibly.⚠️ DisclaimerThis content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health and lab results.
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Jan 23, 2026 • 36min

450: Why Your Body Isn’t Healing: Gut, Liver & the Nervous System Explained

Why do so many people struggle with fatigue, stubborn weight gain, hormone issues, and burnout — even when they’re eating “clean” and training hard? In this episode, we break down the real reason your body isn’t healing and why most health advice fails to address the root cause.Joined by Lindsay Perry, this conversation dives deep into a systems-based approach to health, exploring how the gut, liver, hormones, nervous system, sleep, and stress all work together to control energy, metabolism, and long-term results.Rather than focusing on symptoms, trends, or extreme diets, this episode explains what’s happening under the hood — from ATP production and mitochondrial function to cortisol regulation, nervous system balance, and metabolic flexibility. You’ll learn why pushing harder often backfires and how chronic stress quietly sabotages recovery, fat loss, and hormone health.We cover:Why gut and liver health are foundational for hormones and energyHow stress and nervous system dysregulation block healing and fat lossThe role of sleep and circadian rhythm in metabolism and recoveryWhy detoxification and elimination are biological processes — not fadsHow to fuel properly based on stress, activity, and current health stateLindsay Perry brings real-world coaching insight throughout the episode, helping connect science with practical application for people who feel stuck despite doing “everything right.”If you’re tired of surface-level health advice and want a clear, root-cause explanation of how the body actually heals, this episode will change how you think about health, fitness, and recovery.00:00 – Introduction & Why Most People Aren’t Healing00:41 – The “March Method” & Root-Cause Health Explained01:02 – ATP, Mitochondria & Cellular Energy Basics01:19 – Hormones, Cycles & Why Balance Matters02:44 – Detox, Elimination & Why the Body Gets Stuck04:14 – Cold Exposure, Stress Adaptation & Recovery05:50 – Stress Load, Burnout & Early Cortisol Discussion07:55 – Fueling the Body: Fat vs Carbs Explained10:57 – Sleep, Circadian Rhythm & Metabolic Health12:12 – Gut Health: The Foundation of Healing15:48 – Liver Function, Detox Pathways & Hormones18:35 – Inflammation, Energy Deficits & Fatigue21:30 – Nervous System Regulation & Chronic Stress24:35 – Cortisol, Survival Mode & Weight Loss Resistance28:10 – Why Pushing Harder Makes Things Worse32:24 – Metabolic Flexibility & Long-Term Healing34:27 – Nervous System Reset & Final Takeaways35:57 – Closing ThoughtsDisclaimer:The information discussed in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. This content is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or guidance. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or health practices.
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Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 10min

449: Shawn Wells on Nutrition, Performance, and Longevity (No Hype, Just Fundamentals)

In this in-depth conversation, Shawn Wells breaks down the fundamentals of human health, performance, and longevity through a practical, no-nonsense lens grounded in real-world experience and scientific understanding.Rather than chasing trends or quick fixes, Shawn explores how nutrition, lifestyle habits, and foundational biology work together to influence energy levels, cognitive function, recovery, and long-term health outcomes. This episode emphasizes critical thinking, personal accountability, and understanding why the body responds the way it does—helping listeners make smarter, more informed decisions about their health.Throughout the discussion, Shawn Wells dives into:The role of nutrition in supporting physical and mental performanceWhy consistency and fundamentals outperform extreme protocolsHow lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and environment impact recoveryCommon misunderstandings in modern health and wellness cultureThe importance of individualized approaches over one-size-fits-all adviceHow to evaluate health information without falling for hype or misinformationThis episode is ideal for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how to optimize daily performance and long-term well-being without relying on sensational claims or fad-based strategies. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, coach, or someone simply trying to improve your quality of life, this conversation provides grounded insights you can actually apply.00:00 – Health, Performance & Longevity ExplainedWhat this episode covers and why fundamentals matter more than trends.02:12 – Shawn Wells on Nutrition, Performance & Health PhilosophyBackground, experience, and the mindset behind Shawn’s approach.05:38 – Why Most Health Advice Fails PeopleCommon mistakes in modern wellness and why shortcuts don’t work.09:06 – Nutrition Fundamentals vs Popular Diet TrendsBreaking down what actually matters in nutrition and why fads fall short.13:41 – Consistency: The Missing Key to Real ResultsWhy long-term habits outperform extreme protocols every time.18:26 – Energy, Focus & Daily Performance OptimizationHow lifestyle and nutrition affect mental clarity and productivity.23:17 – Stress, Recovery & Lifestyle Factors Most People IgnoreThe hidden variables impacting health, recovery, and resilience.28:05 – Biohacking Myths vs Practical OptimizationSeparating useful tools from overhyped wellness claims.33:01 – Personalized Health vs One-Size-Fits-All AdviceWhy individual biology matters more than universal rules.37:56 – How to Evaluate Health Information OnlineCritical thinking, misinformation, and avoiding wellness hype.43:10 – Longevity Mindset: Thinking in Decades, Not WeeksShifting from short-term results to sustainable health.48:34 – Practical Health Takeaways You Can Apply TodaySimple, realistic changes without extreme lifestyle overhauls.54:06 – Personal Responsibility in Health & PerformanceWhy awareness and accountability drive lasting results.58:26 – Final Thoughts & Episode Wrap-UpKey lessons, closing insights, and reflections.Shawn Wells is a nutrition expert and industry professional with extensive experience in health, wellness, and human performance. He has worked across product development, education, and formulation, focusing on evidence-based approaches to nutrition and long-term performance. Shawn is known for emphasizing foundational health principles, critical thinking, and sustainability over short-term trends.⚠️ Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personal health decisions.
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Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 1min

448: Why Most Coaches Stay Stuck (Systems & Execution)

Why do so many coaches, creators, and entrepreneurs work hard—but still stay stuck?In this episode, Riley Quigley breaks down the real reasons most people fail to build momentum, and what elite operators do differently when it comes to content, consistency, systems, and execution. This is an unfiltered conversation about moving from chaos to clarity, effort to leverage, and motivation to structure.Riley Quigley shares insight from years of experience building high-performance systems, working with coaches and entrepreneurs, and helping people move from inconsistent effort to disciplined execution. If you’ve ever felt like you’re “doing everything right” but not seeing results, this episode will challenge how you think about growth.We dive deep into why repetition matters more than perfection, why most content fails before it ever has a chance to work, and how elite performers build confidence through reps—not inspiration. This isn’t surface-level motivation; it’s a practical breakdown of how high performers actually operate behind the scenes.🧠 IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL DISCOVER:Why most coaches and creators stay inconsistentThe hidden cost of running a business without systemsWhy content doesn’t work when structure is missingHow repetition builds confidence, clarity, and authorityThe difference between motion and real executionHow Riley Quigley approaches long-term thinking over short-term wins🎯 WHO THIS VIDEO IS FORThis episode is for:Coaches trying to scale without burning outCreators struggling with consistency or confidenceEntrepreneurs tired of relying on motivationAnyone focused on long-term growth and executionIf you’re serious about personal development, entrepreneurship, content creation, and building systems that last, this conversation with Riley Quigley is for you.
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Jan 22, 2026 • 59min

447: Seed Oils, Raw Milk & Whole Foods — What Fitness Coaches Get Wrong

The fitness industry is loud, confusing, and full of half-truths — especially when it comes to seed oils, raw milk, supplements, and what actually drives real results. In this long-form conversation, Sam Rodriguez, an Elite Coaching Academy mentee, sits down to break through the noise and talk honestly about nutrition, training, recovery, and the realities of building a coaching business. From whole foods versus supplements, to why consistency and reps matter more than perfect plans, to how lead magnets, booking calls, and AI prompts are reshaping the way coaches and creators operate, this episode connects fitness, business, and mindset into one grounded, no-nonsense discussion for people who are serious about progress.We dive into:The seed oil debate and why people are so dividedRaw milk, whole foods, and supplements — what actually mattersWhy reps, consistency, and time beat overthinking every planThe truth about coaching progress, recovery, and injury managementLead magnets, booking calls, and offer clarity for coachesHow AI prompts and 30-day game plans are changing how creators workWhy most people stay stuck — and how to break out of itChapters:0:01 Intro — Sam Rodriguez, comfort zone & starting the conversation5:02 Whole foods vs supplements (protein powders, “open-sourcing” info)10:02 Physiology + recovery: vascular/immune system, cholesterol/brain15:05 Raw milk & seed oils start showing up heavily20:02 Seed oils deep dive: fats, liver/inflammation-style talk25:02 Training reality: reps, time, making progress30:00 Business tools: lead magnets + “grinding reps” in marketing35:01 Offer clarity + booking calls (fixing the right problems)40:02 Knee pain / mobility: rec fem, foam rolling, rehab process45:02 Coaching mindset + finding the right “angle” for clients50:01 Competing/credentials talk (Olympia / pro cards referenced)55:01 AI prompts + 30-day game plans + AI course mentionDisclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health decisions.#fitness #nutrition #onlinecoaching #leadgeneration #ai
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Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 18min

446: AI Won’t Save Your Content And That’s the Problem

Everyone thinks AI is the shortcut to better content.More posts.Better hooks.Faster growth.But if AI actually worked the way people think it does… everyone would be winning.In this episode of the Elite Coaching Cast, we’re joined by Jelani Abdus-Salaam (@jelanifuel) founder of @bestofaidaily and @scriptkitai — to break down the real relationship between AI, content creation, and execution.Jelani works at the intersection of AI, media, and systems, helping creators and businesses understand how to use AI tools without losing their voice, discipline, or edge. And in this conversation, we cut straight through the hype.AI doesn’t replace reps.AI doesn’t replace discipline.AI doesn’t replace clarity, voice, or execution.What it does do is expose the gaps.If you don’t know how to show up consistently… AI won’t fix that.If you don’t know how to communicate clearly… AI won’t fix that.If you’re avoiding the work… AI just makes that more obvious.This episode isn’t about chasing trends or “prompt hacks.”It’s about using AI the right way — as a multiplier, not a crutch.🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why AI won’t save bad contentThe biggest mistake creators make when relying on AIHow elite creators think about reps vs. toolsWhy consistency beats talent (and software)How to use AI without killing authenticityThe difference between automation and abdicationHow Jelani approaches AI systems that support execution instead of replacing it🚀 Who This Episode Is For:Coaches relying too heavily on AICreators stuck waiting to feel “ready”Entrepreneurs over-optimizing and under-executingAnyone frustrated that AI hasn’t magically fixed their content🧠 Key Takeaway:AI accelerates what already exists.If there’s no system, no discipline, no reps —AI just makes the lack of them more visible.📲 Stay Connected:👉 Subscribe for weekly conversations on:Content systemsCoaching business growthDiscipline, execution, and consistencyUsing AI without losing your edge👉 Follow the guest: @jelanithebuilder  ​ @BestOfAIDaily  👉 Share this episode with someone who thinks AI is the answer — but hasn’t taken enough reps yet.⏱️ Full Episode Timestamps (1:18:00)00:00 – IntroWhy AI isn’t the content shortcut people think it is02:45 – Meet the Guest: Jelani Abdus-SalaamFounder of @bestofaidaily and @scriptkitai05:30 – The AI Hype ProblemWhy everyone expected AI to “fix” content overnight08:50 – Tools vs SkillWhy AI can’t replace reps, discipline, or clarity12:40 – Why Most AI Content Still SucksThe real reason output hasn’t improved16:10 – Reps Are the Real AdvantageWhy volume beats perfection every time19:35 – Consistency Over TalentWhy the best creators aren’t the most gifted23:20 – Waiting to Be Ready Is the TrapHow AI increases procrastination instead of progress27:05 – Automation vs AbdicationThe line most creators cross without realizing it30:50 – How Jelani Actually Uses AIPractical systems that support execution34:40 – Authenticity in the AI EraWhy voice matters more now than ever38:15 – The Fear of Posting Bad ContentWhy AI doesn’t solve confidence issues42:00 – Why Playing the Game MattersYou can’t win if you don’t publish45:35 – Overthinking Strategy vs Taking ActionWhy most people hide behind planning49:10 – Content as Skill DevelopmentWhy bad content is part of the process52:55 – Scaling Output Without Losing QualityWhere AI actually helps56:30 – The Long Game of ContentWhy consistency compounds over time59:45 – Advice for Coaches Using AIWhat to focus on first before tools1:03:10 – The Biggest AI MisconceptionWhy AI exposes gaps instead of filling them1:06:40 – Execution Is the DifferentiatorWhy effort still wins in an automated world1:10:05 – Final Takeaways from JelaniHow to think about AI moving forward1:14:30 – Closing ThoughtsAI won’t save your content — reps will1:18:00 – End
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Jan 21, 2026 • 1h 1min

445: Why Most Online Fitness Businesses Fail (And It’s Not Marketing)

Most fitness businesses don’t fail because of effort.They fail because the system was never designed to scale.If you’re still:• “Trying harder”• Tweaking ads without structure• Relying on motivation instead of infrastructure…this video will expose exactly why that approach breaks.Inside this breakdown, we dismantle the biggest lie in the fitness industry:👉 Marketing is not your bottleneck.The real constraint is business architecture.In this video, you’ll learn:• Why most coaches confuse activity with progress• How elite operators engineer predictable growth• The difference between tactics and systems• Why ads fail when the backend isn’t built to convert• How ECA clients scale without burnout or chaosThis is the Elite Coaching Academy Method in action:A systems-driven approach that replaces guesswork with execution.We don’t teach motivation.We don’t sell hacks.We build operators.⚠️ Fair warning:If you’re looking for quick tips or surface-level advice, this isn’t for you.But if you’re ready to stop operating like a technicianand start thinking like an architect…You’re in the right place.🔑 Who This Is For✔ Online fitness coaches✔ Gym owners & operators✔ Performance professionals scaling beyond $10k–$30k/month✔ Entrepreneurs who want leverage, not burnout🚀 About Elite Coaching Academy (ECA)Elite Coaching Academy helps fitness entrepreneurs:• Build scalable systems• Eliminate operational chaos• Compress the timeline between action and resultsWe don’t just teach.We execute alongside you.💬 Join the ConversationMost people aren’t ready for this shift.Are you?Comment “SYSTEMS” if this changed how you see your business.🔔 Subscribe for MoreWeekly breakdowns on:• Fitness business scaling systems• Physiological optimization• Elite performance frameworks• Industry myths dismantled00:00 Cold open + “move fast, break things” energy02:00 Speed vs control: operator pace, execution, and urgency04:00 ECA-origin theme: business strategy + physiology = unfair advantage06:00 Why uncertainty kills operators (and how community proof fixes it)08:00 Early wins, “secret sauce,” and why proof creates momentum10:00 Mentorship lineage + credibility: learning from top operators12:00 Conviction sells: why belief changes outcomes (and content)14:00 Evidence-based authority: humility vs signaling competence16:00 The 4-year content grind: building a real following18:00 Trust-building content + podcast leverage (long-form advantage)20:00 Viral moments, distribution, and learning from big creators22:00 Cross-platform lead gen: X/Threads + posting strategy24:00 What actually goes “crazy”: wins, honesty, and resonance26:00 The fake expert problem: teaching without coaching reps28:00 Volume coaching vs real expertise (credibility standards)30:00 Offer evolution: access tiers, launches, and value stacking32:00 Community-powered marketing: FOMO, leverage, and momentum loops34:00 Mentorship done right: continuous improvement and real guidance36:00 Progression ladders: how programs retain and advance people38:00 Daily habits + standards: aligning health with business performance40:00 Systems Biology shift: thyroid conversion + micronutrient leverage42:00 Heat vs cold: recovery tradeoffs and performance outcomes44:00 B1 / methylation talk: brain energy and supplement priorities46:00 Gut health effects: fast feedback loops and what “works” quickly48:00 Protein quality + amino profiles: what most people get wrong50:00 Carb quality + digestion: fruit, rice choices, and performance52:00 Stomach acid & absorption: digestion as a growth bottleneck54:00 Operator conviction (again): why certainty changes results56:00 Business truth: marketing can’t save bad coaching58:00 Sales as value transfer: energetic framing + closing principles1:00:00 Wrap-up: final takeaways + “start a f*ing podcast”**
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Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 10min

444: Navigating The X's and O's In Your Life With Zack Zillner

In this episode, we break down how to strategically navigate the chaos, opportunities, and pressures of modern life by treating your decisions like a playbook. Instead of reacting to life’s circumstances, you’ll learn how to design your own offensive and defensive strategies — helping you move with clarity, confidence, and purpose.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step… this framework will shift everything.⭐ WHAT YOU’LL LEARNHow to identify the “field of play” in your own lifeThe difference between reactive and strategic decision-makingWhen to be on offense vs. when to be on defenseHow to anticipate setbacks before they arriveThe mindset patterns separating clarity from chaosHow to build your own Life Playbook step-by-step00:00 — Intro: Understanding Life’s X’s and O’s 01:45 — Why most people live reactively instead of strategically 04:20 — Clarifying your “field of play”: goals, values, constraints 07:10 — Offensive strategy: how to create proactive momentum 10:05 — Defensive strategy: managing adversity & pressure 13:30 — The art of timing: when to push vs. when to protect 16:15 — Real-life examples of strategic decision-making 19:50 — The hidden mistakes keeping people stuck in confusion 22:30 — Building your personal playbook: practical framework 25:00 — Mindset traps sabotaging long-term success 27:45 — Final message: Commit to intentional livingWhat part of your life needs a new offensive or defensive strategy right now?#lifestrategy #mindsetcoach #selfimprovement #intentionalgrowth #lifepurpose #motivationpodcast #mindsetshift #growthmindset
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Nov 25, 2025 • 56min

443: Selling & Coaching — The Road to $50K/ Month

Elite Coaching Academy presents:“OPERATORS OF EXCELLENCE — Inside the Minds of Matthew & Erika McCutcheon”In this episode, we sit down with two of ECA’s top operators — Matthew and Erika McCutcheon — to dismantle the myths of fitness entrepreneurship and reveal the systems, psychology, and execution frameworks behind their meteoric rise.This is not another “success story.”This is an audit of what elite actually looks like inside the ECA ecosystem.Inside the episode:• The operational disciplines that separate top performers from average coaches• How Matthew & Erika scaled results, revenue, and retention using the ECA Systems Architecture• The mindset recalibration required to sustain elite output• The behind-the-scenes reality of what it takes to win in today’s fitness business landscape• Tactical implementation frameworks you can apply immediatelyIf you’ve ever wondered why some coaches accelerate while others stall — this episode is the blueprint.🔥 Subscribe for more ECA-level strategy, transformation science, and real operator case studies.📍 Powered by Elite Coaching Academy — where performance becomes predictable.FOLLOW MATT AND ERIKAhttps://www.instagram.com/thecoachmccutcheon?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==https://www.instagram.com/erikaendurecoaching?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

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