Chris is an author, speaker, mindset coach, and Ironman athlete, and he’s also my first repeat guest on the show. While his background spans collegiate and minor league baseball and over a decade in a successful corporate career, this conversation goes far beyond the résumé. We focus on what’s happening internally—the mindset shifts, life transitions, and experiences that actually shape who we become.

A big part of this conversation centers around Chris’s recent surgery and recovery, and what that process has challenged him to confront. We talk about the mental side of slowing down, the identity shifts that come with being temporarily sidelined, and what it looks like to stay grounded and intentional when your normal routines and physical outlets are taken away.

Because of our friendship, this conversation is honest, reflective, and grounded in authenticity. We explore the tension between external success and internal fulfillment, what it really looks like to pivot in life, and how to navigate change in a way that actually aligns with who you are.

If you’re navigating a transition, working through a setback, or redefining what success looks like for you, this episode is for you.

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Lindsey shares how her fitness journey started in college, how she built a career in personal training, and how the pandemic pushed her to pivot into creative work and social media. We talk about the pressure of comparison—especially postpartum—what it’s like to run your own business without maternity leave, and how becoming a mom reshaped her definition of success.

One of the biggest themes in this episode is identity. Lindsey opens up about still seeing herself as an athlete even when her body looks different, learning to focus on habits over outcomes, and redefining health in a way that supports longevity, presence, and joy—not just aesthetics.

We also get into:

• The reality of pregnancy and postpartum (and why no one fully understands it until they’re in it)
• Social media, comparison, and how to curate your algorithm for your mental health
• Process-based goals vs. outcome-based goals
• Building resilience through hard seasons
• Why you don’t need a comeback—you need a step forward
• 
  

This conversation is raw, reflective, and full of perspective on growth, friendship, and embracing new seasons of life. Whether you’re navigating motherhood, a career shift, an injury, or any kind of life transition, I think you’ll walk away feeling seen—and reminded that hard things often shape us into stronger versions of ourselves.

So grateful you’re here. Let’s dive in.

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I sat down with my friend Carter to talk about injury and recovery, but what we really talked about was identity. A single moment on a flag football field led to both of his patellar tendons rupturing at the same time. Weeks in the hospital. Learning how to walk again. And just as he began to feel like himself, a second surgery that sent him back to the beginning.

As an athletic trainer, Carter understood the mechanics of his injury. As a human, he still had to face the fear, frustration, and grief that came with losing trust in his own body.

We talk about the parts of recovery that don’t get posted online — the mental weight, the quiet loneliness, the fear of reinjury, and the question that lingers long after the scars heal: Is going back worth it?

This conversation isn’t about sport. It’s about patience. Community. Faith. And learning how to stay present when progress is slow and the future feels uncertain.

If you’ve ever been sidelined — physically or emotionally — this episode is a reminder that healing isn’t linear, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Stay tuned to follow along Carter's recovery journey alongside mine!

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What started as mild back pain after a workout quickly spiraled into something far more serious. I pushed through pain, ran a 10K I probably shouldn’t have, and tried to convince myself I was fine—until everything came to a complete halt. Within weeks, I went from training and living an extremely active life to being unable to move, sleeping on couches in excruciating pain, and making multiple urgent care and emergency room visits.

This episode walks through the moment everything changed: worsening numbness, a middle-of-the-night ambulance ride, an MRI that revealed a severely herniated L4–L5 disc, and the realization that I needed emergency spinal surgery that same day. I talk about learning that my condition—cauda equina syndrome—was a medical emergency that could have led to permanent nerve damage or paralysis if left untreated.

And somehow, that still wasn’t the end of it. After surgery, I faced unexpected complications, including blood clots in both legs and both lungs, repeated hospital stays, intense chest pain, fainting episodes, and a difficult recovery process that tested me physically and mentally. I share what it felt like to wake up pain-free after surgery, only to be met with new challenges, uncertainty, and fear around my body and my future.

This episode is about more than injury and surgery—it’s about identity, independence, and being forced to slow down when your life has always revolved around movement. I talk about the mental toll of recovery, the exhaustion of starting over, the vulnerability of asking for and receiving help, and the deep gratitude I feel for my family, friends, and medical team who carried me through the hardest weeks.

Season two will be me documenting this recovery in real time—physical therapy, mindset shifts, rebuilding trust in my body, and redefining what strength and success look like moving forward. I’ll also be bringing on guests who are navigating their own difficult seasons, so we can explore what recovery really looks like in all its forms.

If you’re going through something hard, feeling stuck in your body, or wondering how to come back after everything falls apart, this season is for you.

This is Convergence.

This is season two.

And this is the comeback.

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We talk about what it really takes to grow a movement; from taking killer photos and connecting with people daily to building a culture that keeps the right people coming back. Jacob shares his perspective about the balance between discipline and fun, the value of saying what’s on your mind, and why he doesn’t believe in limiting yourself, ever.

This conversation is part story, part mindset shift, and full of ideas on how to create a life (and community) that’s worth showing up for every day.

Instagram: @aiontraining__ @jacobshowers__

Website: aiontraining.co

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Here’s some key points:

  •  Why I’ve always felt like a bit of an outsider and how that’s shaped my need for meaningful connection

  •  How putting yourself in the right rooms changes everything

  •  The importance of being where your desired behavior is the norm

  •  Learning to stop forcing your way into spaces you’re not wanted

  •  Practical tips for making friends as an adult (without pretending to be someone you’re not)

  •  Why sharing your goals out loud can unlock powerful relationships, accountability, and purpose

If you’ve been trying to find your people or wondering how to build real connection, this episode will give you a starting point.

If something in this resonated with you, send it to a friend, share it on socials, or reach out and let me know what you’re working toward. I’d love to cheer you on!!

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This is a concept we all know, but putting it into practice is where the real work begins.

Here’s what I get into:

• Why I chose to do 75 Hard instead of another 30-day challenge
• How starting slow helped me avoid burnout and actually finish
• The power of showing up every single day, even if it’s just for 10 minutes
• How reading just 10 pages a day helped me finish 3+ books I’d put off for a year
• Why aligning your habits with your identity is key to lasting change
• The importance of being in rooms where your ideal behavior is the norm

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of “all in, then burn out,” this episode is for you. I'm sharing what’s worked for me, what I’ve learned, and how I’m thinking about my goals moving forward.

Thanks for listening, and if this resonates, I’d love if you shared it with someone who needs to hear it.

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I talk about what led me to commit to something this intense, especially after a my first winter back in CO that left me feeling drained and out of alignment with the identity I’ve been trying to embody. I was tired, low-energy, getting headaches, and just not feeling like myself. 75 Hard felt like the reset I needed to build habits that truly stick.

Throughout the episode, I reflect on what I’ve learned so far — from building discipline and prioritizing my day, to how powerful it is to shift your mindset from “optional” to “non-negotiable.” I also share my thoughts on the criticism around the program being “unsustainable” and why I believe the discipline it teaches can be a gateway to lasting change.

One of the most unexpected and rewarding parts of this experience has been the sense of community. I originally thought I’d do it quietly, but sharing it publicly has sparked amazing conversations, accountability, and support that have made the process even more meaningful.

I also get into the challenges I’ve faced — mentally, physically, and logistically — and how I’m planning to approach the final stretch of the program. Plus, I talk about what comes after 75 Hard, and how I plan to carry forward the habits and mindset I’ve built.

If you’ve ever considered doing something that pushes you out of your comfort zone or helps you reconnect with your goals, I hope this episode resonates with you.

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I talk about how constantly chasing “what’s next” can steal the joy we could be feeling today, and how important it is to balance having big goals with also being deeply present. I share a favorite reminder that’s been sticking with me: “Don’t steal today’s joy by focusing on what you want tomorrow.”

I also dive into my experience doing 75 Hard, how it’s forced me to say no to things that aren’t aligned, and how simplifying has brought me more clarity, joy, and satisfaction. I wrap up with a challenge for all of us: anytime we catch ourselves living in the future, pull back and remember how far we’ve already come, and be grateful for it.

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In this episode, I dive into the documentary A Clean Slate, which follows Colorado Avalanche captain Gabe Landeskog’s intense, years-long journey through injury, recovery, and resilience. As someone who’s also been on a recovery path, this hit especially close to home. From watching Gabe read his own journal entries to reflecting on the emotional toll of setbacks, this doc brought out a lot of passion for me, so I’m sharing some reflections with you.

We talk about the harsh realities of rehab, the illusion of a smooth recovery, and the mental strength it takes to keep going when everything feels uncertain. I also explore the importance of documenting your story, not just for others, but for yourself. Whether it’s journaling, podcasting, or just opening up to someone, sharing can be healing and empowering and also provides great perspective later on.

I going back through some details of my own journey. My surgery anniversary, the ups and downs of tennis season, and how I’ve seen my own growth through the lens of recovery.

If you’ve ever battled something hard, physically, emotionally, mentally, this one’s for you. Let's talk setbacks, comebacks, and why it’s never a waste to put your story out there.

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I’ve been reflecting a lot on connection and how that looks beyond just liking a post or replying to a story. I’ve been focused on staying grounded, being intentional with my relationships, and figuring out how to balance the constant changes in life while still creating space for consistency. So if you’re feeling a little caught between doing what fuels you and navigating the chaos, you’re not alone.

As always, I’m so grateful for you being here, and I’d love to hear what season of life you’re in right now.

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In this episode, we dive deep into his career transitions, personal growth, and the power of mindset shifts. Get ready to be inspired as Chris shares his perspective on overcoming challenges, embracing discomfort, and using gratitude as a tool for resilience.

We start by exploring Chris’s journey from professional athletics to a thriving sales career and how he eventually took a leap of faith into entrepreneurship and mindset coaching. He shares the challenges of leaving behind stability, the struggle of redefining his purpose, and the rewarding path he’s on today.

Chris also breaks down how to manage nerves, overcome fear, and reframe self-talk in high-pressure situations. He introduces a powerful mindset shift—moving from "you vs. you" to "you WITH you" - that can help create a more compassionate and productive inner dialogue. We also discuss the idea of lowering the bar and raising execution, a strategy that helps prevent over-planning and perfectionism from stopping progress.

We dive into Chris’s endurance sports journey, including Ironman races, and how they’ve reinforced his belief in the power of resilience and mindset. He opens up about a particularly grueling race where he was down with a terrible sickness but pushed through, ultimately discovering the transformative power of gratitude in tough moments. This experience inspired his upcoming book, I Get To, which explores how shifting our mindset from obligation to opportunity can change our daily lives.

Beyond personal growth, we also discuss the importance of building community and making meaningful connections. Chris shares insights on fostering relationships, finding like-minded people, and the value of sharing your story with others. Finally, we explore identity and purpose - how to define yourself beyond external achievements and align your life with your core values.

This episode is packed with insights that will shift your mindset and help you embrace growth with confidence. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did! Be sure to connect with Chris on Instagram (@ChrisCullen_C3) and check out his upcoming book I Get To, and check out his other books too! https://chriscullen.com/

And as always, thank you for being here—I’m endlessly grateful!

See you next time!

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Here’s what I cover in this episode:

• The Why Behind the Steps: How winter’s gloom motivated me to create this challenge, why 8,000 steps felt like the perfect sweet spot, and how you can find yours.
• The Power of Accountability: How posting my daily progress on Instagram kept me going, even on days I otherwise might not have.
• Mindset Shifts: Why framing a goal as “non-negotiable” changes everything and the impact of adopting a “what it takes” mentality.
• Practical Tips for More Movement: From parking further away to taking the stairs (even just down!), I share simple hacks that add up.
• Lessons Learned: How this challenge boosted my awareness of my daily habits and redefined what “staying active” really means.
• What’s Next: My February goals, a subtle step-up to 8,500 steps, and ideas for turning goals into sustainable habits for the long haul.

This challenge was more than just a numbers game—it was a reminder that small, consistent efforts can create massive shifts in mindset and motivation. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, tips to move more, or a new way to tackle your own goals, this episode has something for you. Thanks for joining me, I'm so grateful you're here!

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Jeramy isn’t just an incredible golf instructor; he’s been a huge part of my journey in learning to see golf (and life) in a whole new way. In this episode, we chat about how we first met and bonded over mindset, resilience, and turning challenges into growth. Jeramy shares some amazing insights, like the “Rule of Thirds” (trust me, this will change how you see your progress!) and how visualization can transform not just your golf game, but your outlook on life.

We also laugh about frustrating days on the course, celebrate small wins, and reflect on the importance of staying grounded—whether you’re playing golf, chasing big dreams, or just trying to enjoy where your feet are.

Check out Jeramy's projects: www.puttermagazine.com

@puttermagazine and @jeramycurry_pga on instagram

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I talk about the story in the book, which centers around a construction company’s leadership team facing the challenge of maintaining their strong teamwork culture while hiring new people. The lesson here is about recognizing potential in others, even when they have areas for growth. I stress the importance of self-awareness, understanding how different environments can bring out the best—or worst—in people, and how to help others develop the skills they might be lacking.

Through the lens of leadership and personal growth, I share my own experiences and how these ideas have reshaped my perspective on working with teams, whether in a corporate environment or in other leadership roles. I also touch on the idea that while some people may lack certain qualities, with the right support and resources, they can improve and thrive.

If you’re in any kind of leadership role, or if you’re hoping to be, I think you’ll find the lessons in this book to be incredibly relevant and valuable.

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I’ll be sharing some insights on how to ease back into any routine and offer tips for making that transition smoother. In this episode, I cover:

• Why you need a solid routine to return to (Step 0, if you will!)
• The importance of starting small and avoiding overwhelm
• How to figure out how long it will realistically take to get back in the swing of things
• Using checkboxes and simple steps to keep the momentum going
• Why this could be the perfect time to reevaluate and adjust your routines to make them work better for you

Whether you’re getting back into work, fitness, or just your everyday rhythm, I’ve got some ideas to help make that process feel less daunting and more doable. I also share how I approach the return to my podcast routine, with no pressure to be perfect—just to start somewhere.

I’m so excited to be back on my podcast game and can’t wait to bring on some amazing guests in upcoming episodes. Thanks for tuning in, and remember—you can do it all and be it all!

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I talk about how books like "Atomic Habits" by James Clear and tools from Colin Henderson’s "Grid of Greatness" and Trevor Moawad’s "Alignment Assessment" have shaped my approach. I also introduce my own creation: the "Key Actions Chart", a tool I developed to break big goals into smaller, actionable steps and keep momentum going.

If you’ve ever struggled with turning big dreams into reality, or if you’re gearing up to set New Year’s resolutions, this episode will give you some practical advice on how to build habits without getting stuck in perfectionism. Join me as I share what’s been working for me and how you can take small, daily actions to achieve your bigger goals.

If you'd like the blank template (yes, fo free!), send me a message on instagram and I'll send it to ya! https://www.instagram.com/alexkaminsky222/

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I’ll walk you through why confidence starts with self-awareness, how knowing who you are at your core is key, and why self-talk and small wins matter more than we often realize.

In this episode, I’ll talk about:

• Why real confidence starts with self-acceptance and authenticity.
• How evidence, practice, and small wins build momentum toward greater confidence.
• The importance of self-talk and reframing negative thoughts.
• Why it’s crucial to embrace imperfection and push through discomfort.
• The power of surrounding yourself with people who support and lift you up.

The best part of this episode is when I sit talk through why recording this episode felt so uncomfortable and clunky, and you get to experience my growth in real time.

This episode is a reminder that confidence is built one step at a time, and that real growth happens when we keep going, even when it’s hard.

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In this first episode, I share my story and I’ll dive into how I used to struggle with the idea that I had to pick just one thing and how I now believe that true growth comes from allowing all of who you are to converge—your interests, your passions, your personality. No more “narrowing down” or pretending parts of you don’t belong. The journey to embracing your full self is messy, but it’s worth it.

I also talk about the mission of this podcast: to break free from limiting mindsets and explore self-development in a practical, actionable way. Each episode will feature insights on topics like gratitude, visualization, and personal growth, often pulled from books and real-life experiences. The goal is to make self-improvement less theoretical and more tangible, so you can start making real changes today.

This is a work-in-progress podcast and I’m excited to take you along for the ride. I’m ready to experiment, learn, and share everything that’s been helping me integrate all the best parts of myself into a life that feels whole. If you’ve ever felt like you had to choose between your different interests or personalities, this is the podcast for you.

Thanks so much for tuning in, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes us. Let’s explore how we can let all the best parts of us converge!

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