Becoming Ronin

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In Episode 157, Smitty and OB kick back for a laid back AMA special filled with your funniest and most random questions. This one feels like hanging out in the gym after hours… no agenda, no script, just unfiltered stories, laughs, and a surprising amount of fitness wisdom sprinkled in between. We dive into everything from: Our favorite pieces of gym equipment Ridiculous gym stories from the trenches Ultimate road trip snack rankings Training challenges we've done… and a few we should probably never do again Coaching moments that aged us 10 years …and the hilarious questions you threw at us throughout the week It's a fun, fast-paced episode that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at life in the gym, on the road, and inside the Becoming Ronin world. Whether you're driving to work, training, or crushing some weekend chores, Episode 157 will keep you laughing and nodding along like you're right there with us. 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingronin.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In Episode 156 of Becoming Ronin, Smitty and OB dive deep into the real engine behind discipline, not motivation, not willpower, but your priorities. Through a series of powerful clips and candid conversation, they break down why discipline isn't something you "have"… it's something you reveal. Every choice you make shines a light on what truly matters to you. Smitty and OB explore how defining your values makes decision making dramatically easier. When you know what you stand for, you don't debate with yourself. You don't negotiate with your excuses. You act in alignment with the identity you're building. The guys unpack practical strategies for clarifying your priorities, filtering distractions, and making discipline a natural byproduct of who you are instead of a battle you fight. This episode is a blueprint for strengthening your internal compass, minimizing friction, and stepping into the kind of self-directed life that Becoming Ronin is all about. Timestamps [0:00] Is Mindset Physical or Mental [10:52] How Do You Perceive Yourself in the World [17:00] Having Faith in Your Next Step [19:06] Regret is Mindless [21:00] Next Indicated Step [24:20] Jocko's Simple Life Advice 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this week's episode, we dive deep into the art and science of smarter training: from refining your squat pattern to rethinking how often you should actually hit the gym. We kick things off with a Q&A that covers everything from movement blocks to the value of sprinting (yes, even if you're "too old for that" spoiler: you're not). You'll hear our take on reverse programming, how to train for both strength and longevity, and why simple tweaks like front squat positioning or plank variations can change the way your body performs. We also get into some underappreciated old-school bodybuilding gems, key strategies for hamstring resilience, and how hip flexor strength might be the missing link in your squat. Whether you're a coach, lifter, or weekend warrior, this episode is packed with practical insights, performance hacks, and a few laughs along the way. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction and Q&A Overview [01:06] Understanding Movement Patterns and Workout Blocks [05:22] Returning to Sprinting Safely for Older Adults [13:16] Using Reverse Programming to Structure Workouts [21:32] How Training Frequency Affects Muscle Growth [27:14] Front Squat Techniques and Coaching Tips [30:55] Innovative Squat Variations to Improve Posture [32:13] Strategies for Preventing Hamstring Injuries [35:48] Effective Hamstring Training Methods [38:52] Why Plank Variations Are Valuable for Core Strength [44:07] Shoulder Raise Techniques to Target the Delts [48:05] Underrated Old-School Bodybuilding Exercises [51:02] Strengthening Hip Flexors for Better Squat Performance [56:10] Mobility and Stretching Techniques to Boost Performance 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into Anatomy Trains and talk about how fascia connects the body in ways most people don't think about. Instead of just looking at muscles in isolation, they break down how the body's fascial lines influence movement, posture, and even nagging injuries. They share real-world examples from training and rehab to show how you can: Spot movement issues by understanding fascial connections. Adjust your workouts to get more carryover and prevent breakdowns. Use a full-body approach to fix problems instead of chasing symptoms. By the end, you'll see how reorganizing your training around these lines can help you move better, stay healthier, and boost performance. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Anatomy Trains [02:35] Understanding Movement vs. Isolation [05:18] The Role of Fascia in Movement [08:23] Force and Adaptation in Training [10:59] Case Study: The Injured Pitcher [14:04] Integrating Isolation and Movement [16:51] Exploring the Superficial Back Line [19:25] The Superficial Front Line and Its Implications [32:32] Understanding the Superficial Front Line [36:25] Exploring the Lateral Line [39:58] The Spiral Line and Its Importance [47:00] The Deep Front Line and Breathing Mechanics [53:41] Functional Lines and Movement Patterns [01:00:45] Anatomy Trains Assessment and Integration 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

In this engaging conversation, Tim Reynolds, known as The AnP Professor, shares his dual role as a college professor and practicing physical therapist. He discusses how classroom experiences shape his TikTok content, the importance of authenticity in influencer culture, and strategies for maintaining professional integrity while growing his platform. Tim emphasizes the value of teaching deeper concepts through relatable metaphors and outlines common gym mistakes alongside essential corrective exercises, making anatomy accessible and engaging for all.

The last bags you'll ever need: 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive into a mix of storytelling, training wisdom, and real-life lessons. Smitty recounts a vivid story from his childhood on the farm, reflecting on the emotional conflict of taking a woodchuck's life. Then they recount the unfortunate woodchuck attack on OB's dogs and the chaos that ensued. From there, the conversation shifts into OB's recent injury, emphasizing how injuries can create unexpected challenges but also open opportunities for growth and creativity. The guys debate the effectiveness of CrossFit compared to traditional strength training, stressing the value of recovery, bracing techniques, and the role of strength as a skill. They explore box squats, Olympic lifting, endurance versus strength, and how proper technique and enjoyment are essential for long-term engagement in fitness. Timestamps [00:00] Smitty's Farming Story [12:12] The Woodchuck Incident: A Battle for Survival [18:12] Injury and Recovery: Lessons Learned [24:00] CrossFit vs. Traditional Training: A Discussion on Effectiveness [24:59] The Importance of Full Recovery in Training [28:12] Strength Training as a Complement to Athletic Performance [34:44] Bracing Techniques for Safe Lifting [43:57] The Role of Base Support in Power Potential [50:57] Training Modalities and Coaching Perspectives 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 🎒Eberlestock https://eberlestock.com/RONIN 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty unpack the deeper meaning behind the question: "What does it profit a man to gain the world but lose his soul?" They explore how chasing success for the wrong reasons can lead to personal emptiness, and how to ensure your talents are employed with integrity. The discussion weaves in personal stories, reflections on grief and trauma, and the value of defining success on your own terms. Along the way, they address the traps of ego, "shiny object syndrome," and sacrificing identity for image. Listeners will walk away with actionable steps to clarify their values, write a personal mission statement, and surround themselves with the right people to keep their compass aligned. Timestamps [00:00] Navigating grief and trauma as a foundation for personal growth [02:25] How adversity shapes perspective and reveals what really matters [05:26] Defining success to avoid sacrificing your soul [08:04] How relationships influence identity and personal development [10:42] The journey of self-discovery and choosing who you want to be [13:41] Why vision is essential to avoid drifting into the wrong path [16:15] Recognizing and avoiding shiny object syndrome [27:41] How cultural fit impacts life and business decisions [28:29] Chasing image vs. building identity [31:33] Comfort vs. happiness — the hidden cost of convenience [34:06] Understanding the opportunity cost of every decision [36:18] Identifying core values to guide your actions [41:41] Creating a personal statement to keep your life aligned [46:05] The power of accountability and the right peer group [53:32] Final reflections on community, purpose, and fulfillment 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview Join us in this heartfelt conversation as we explore the depths of grief and its role in our lives. Our guest, Michael Desanti, shares insights on how grief can be a powerful teacher, helping us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. Discover how embracing the full spectrum of emotions can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life. Grief is a gift that allows us to connect with others on a deeper level. Embracing both joy and sorrow is essential to being fully alive. The process of grieving can lead to personal growth and greater empathy. Building strong relationships and community is crucial for healing. #GriefJourney #Healing #EmotionalGrowth Timestamps [00:00] The Gift of Existence and Suffering [02:45] Understanding Grief as Love [05:21] The Purpose of Grief [08:18] Navigating the Waves of Grief [11:12] The Duality of Grief: Strength and Vulnerability [13:13] Making Meaning of Loss [16:02] The Transformative Power of Grief [18:37] Grief in the Context of Trauma [21:18] Living with Grief: A Continuous Journey [23:58] The Variations of Grief [32:33] Embracing Personal Development Through Grief [34:17] Preparing for Grief: The Importance of Presence [36:04] Understanding Grief: A Personal Responsibility [41:30] Confronting Suppressed Grief: The Body's Signals [44:54] Strengthening Relationships in Times of Grief [50:51] Catharsis: Processing Trauma and Energy [52:31] Grieving Beyond Loss: Seasons of Life [57:27] Faith, Grace, and the Unknown in Grief Find Mike: www.michaeldesanti.com 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview As we gear up for the milestone of Episode 150, OB and Smitty take a reflective turn, diving into the often-overlooked role grief plays in personal growth. This conversation pulls back the curtain on how emotional depth can shape physical resilience and how embracing life's heavier moments can actually fuel the journey forward. From there, the energy shifts to what makes training stick. The guys unpack fresh approaches to programming that make fitness feel more like play - not punishment. They break down why novelty, gamification, and strategic intensity are key to keeping clients engaged and progressing. Topics include the timeless effectiveness of the five by five method, the underrated power of isometrics, and how ad sets can push adaptation without wrecking recovery. Throughout the episode, OB and Smitty underline one constant: evolution. Whether it's emotional intelligence or smarter programming, the Becoming Ronin philosophy is always about leveling up and staying one step ahead. Timestamps [00:00] Introduction and Anticipation for Upcoming Episode [02:44] Exploring Grief: A Deep Dive [05:25] Innovative Training Methods: Making Fitness Fun [08:30] The Importance of Novelty in Training [11:20] Understanding the Five by Five Training Method [13:57] The Evolution of Training Philosophy [16:50] The Role of Mental Toughness in Training [19:21] The Science Behind Compound Lifts [21:59] Practical Application of Training Techniques [29:46] High-Intensity Training Techniques [34:46] The Simplicity of Five by Five Training [39:05] Active Rest and Fillers in Training [43:02] Innovative Training Phases and Techniques [56:02] Building Work Capacity and Recovery Strategies Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast

🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty share stories from their time training in commercial gyms—the good, the bad, and the frustrating. From mismatched weights to people sitting on machines scrolling their phones, they vent about common gym pet peeves and how social media has changed the gym environment. The conversation shifts to practical nutrition advice, including the importance of tracking your food and getting enough protein, especially for those serious about results. They also dive into how training methods need to evolve over time, particularly in bodybuilding—balancing strength with size and learning how to adapt as you age. Later in the episode, OB and Smitty get into what it really means to be a good coach. They talk about building trust, creating a supportive environment, and helping clients focus on more than just the physical side of training. It's about being real, staying positive, and helping people grow both in and out of the gym. This one's full of honest takes and hard-earned lessons from two guys who've been in the game for a long time. Timestamps [00:00] Strongman Training in Commercial Gyms [10:41] The Role of Social Media in Fitness [18:11] Nutrition Tips and Misconceptions [26:03] The Importance of Open-Mindedness in Fitness [31:08] Judgment in Gym Culture [40:11] The Importance of Tracking Progress [46:41] Strength vs. Size in Bodybuilding [52:32] Nutrition: The Key to Bodybuilding Success [01:02:05] Coaching Challenges and Business Insights [01:09:07] Authenticity in Coaching [01:15:41] The Journey of Self-Discovery [01:22:51] Building Connections Through Positivity [01:30:49] The Importance of Personal Growth [01:39:01] Setting Realistic Expectations Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin and let us know how you're taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast