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Summary

In this episode of the Ginger and Chocolate podcast, hosts Lindsay Hiken and Mike Ergo delve into the themes of self-judgment, guilt, and identity in the context of endurance training. They explore how these feelings can impact performance and the importance of reframing one's relationship with athletic pursuits. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding personal standards, the value of progress over perfection, and the role of community in fostering inspiration rather than comparison. In this conversation, Lindsay Hiken and Mike Ergo explore the emotional landscape of endurance sports, discussing how experiences in ultra running can mirror life's challenges. They delve into the concepts of guilt, growth, and the importance of sharing experiences to break free from self-imposed echo chambers. The discussion emphasizes the power of humor, mindfulness, and journaling as tools for self-reflection and emotional resilience.

Sound Bites

• "This too shall pass."
• "Can we use guilt to help us grow?"
• "We can find joy through this."
• "You win some, you lose some."
• "We swam. We didn't die."
• "What did I show up for today?"
• "I get to be here right now."
• "I'm not owed this moment."

Keywords

self-judgment, guilt, imposter syndrome, endurance training, identity, performance, standards, self-worth, progress, mental health, ultra running, mental health, guilt, growth, echo chamber, self-reflection, humor, gratitude, endurance sports, emotional resilience

Takeaways

• Self-judgment often stems from identity tied to performance.
• Comparison to others can lead to negative self-talk.
• Identifying the source of self-judgment is crucial for growth.
• Reframing performance as a privilege can alleviate guilt.
• Understanding whose standards we are trying to meet is important.
• Progress, not perfection, should be the goal in training.
• Past experiences can inform how we handle current challenges.
• Emotional connection to our experiences is key to overcoming guilt.
• Mindfulness and self-reflection can help manage feelings of inadequacy.
• Community support can inspire rather than discourage. Past experiences can guide us through tough times.
• Guilt can be a catalyst for personal growth.
• Talking about feelings can normalize experiences.
• Humor can help alleviate stress in challenging situations.
• Journaling can provide clarity and insight into emotions.
• Recognizing fleeting emotions can change our relationship with them.
• Sharing experiences with others can reduce feelings of isolation.
• Mindfulness and gratitude can enhance our physical activities.
• Finding joy in the journey is essential for endurance athletes.
• It's important to acknowledge and name our feelings.

Thanks for listening to the Ginger and Chocolate Podcast. Check out our website at gingerandchocolate.com to get in touch with us. Follow us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram @ginger_and_chocolate_podcast; and please subscribe to the show and select automatic downloads on your podcast app.

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Summary

In this episode of the Ginger and Chocolate podcast, host Lindsay Hiken speaks with Jeff McGregor about his transformative journey from alcohol dependency to becoming an ultra runner. Jeff shares how the pandemic heightened his stress and led to increased alcohol consumption, but ultimately, he found solace in running. Through his experiences, he discovered a supportive community of sober runners and learned valuable lessons about mindfulness, resilience, and personal growth. Jeff's story highlights the healing power of running and the importance of finding healthy outlets during challenging times. In this conversation, Jeff MacGregor shares his experiences during ultra marathons, focusing on the importance of pacing, mental resilience, and the emotional journey of endurance sports. He discusses the challenges faced during races, the support from pacers and crew, and the lessons learned that can be applied to life beyond running. The dialogue emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental strength, and how endurance sports can foster a sense of community and personal growth.

Keywords

ultra running, sobriety, mental health, mindfulness, community, personal growth, endurance sports, running journey, addiction recovery, trail running, ultramarathon, pacing, mental resilience, endurance sports, personal journey, emotional health, community support, running, ultra running, race experience

Takeaways

• Jeff moved from Canada to California with his family.
• The pandemic increased Jeff's work stress and alcohol consumption.
• Running became a healthy outlet for Jeff during sobriety.
• He discovered a community of sober runners in ultra running.
• Mindfulness in running helped Jeff cope with life's challenges.
• Jeff's decision to get sober was influenced by his running journey.
• He progressed from running a half marathon to ultra marathons.
• The trail running community provided support and friendship.
• Jeff learned to manage physical and emotional challenges in ultra running.
• Preparation and mental resilience are key to completing ultra marathons. Pacing can significantly impact performance during long races.
• Mental lows are a natural part of endurance sports.
• Community support is crucial in overcoming challenges.
• Recognizing when you're in a low can help you push through.
• Having a positive mindset can change the race experience.
• Preparation and crew support can make a big difference.
• It's important to focus on the journey, not just the finish line.
• Endurance sports can teach valuable life lessons about resilience.
• The experience of running can foster deep connections with others.
• Emotional strength is as important as physical strength in endurance sports.

Sound Bites

• "I found myself drinking more and more."
• "There's a community of sober runners."
• "This too shall pass."
• "I was way ahead of where I should have been."
• "That's a marathon right there."
• "I was in a low at that point."
• "It made the difference."
• "I had a pretty big crew."
• "I was able to recognize that I was in a low."
• "I was severely und

Thanks for listening to the Ginger and Chocolate Podcast. Check out our website at gingerandchocolate.com to get in touch with us. Follow us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram @ginger_and_chocolate_podcast; and please subscribe to the show and select automatic downloads on your podcast app.

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Summary

In this episode of the Ginger and Chocolate podcast, hosts Lindsay Hiken and Mike Ergo welcome Diana Ingalls, owner of Empowered Fitness. Diana shares her journey in the fitness industry, the founding of her gym, and the importance of creating a supportive and engaging environment for all fitness levels. The conversation highlights the transformative stories of members who have experienced significant changes in their lives through fitness, emphasizing the role of community, coaching, and personal growth. Diana discusses the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic and how Empowered Fitness adapted to continue supporting its members. The episode concludes with a focus on encouraging others to embrace fitness and discover their potential. In this conversation, Diana, Lindsay, and Mike discuss the importance of personal choice in fitness, the benefits of strength training, particularly for women, and the empowerment that comes from physical strength. They explore the challenges women face during menopause and the significance of community support in fitness journeys. Additionally, they highlight the importance of mental health and the role of scholarships in supporting local youth, emphasizing the need for community involvement in fitness and wellness.

Keywords

fitness, Empowered Fitness, community, transformation, strength training, health, personal growth, group workouts, coaching, wellness, fitness, strength training, women's health, empowerment, community, menopause, personal choice, mental health, nutrition, scholarships

Takeaways

• Diana's journey in fitness began in college and evolved into owning Empowered Fitness.
• Empowered Fitness aims to create a safe and engaging environment for all fitness levels.
• The gym has grown from 40 to 150 members over the years, showcasing its success.
• Transformations at Empowered Fitness often include improved daily activities and confidence.
• Community support is crucial for motivation and accountability in fitness.
• Diana emphasizes the importance of coaching and personal connection in workouts.
• The gym adapts to challenges, such as COVID, by offering online classes and outdoor workouts.
• Empowered Fitness focuses on functional movements to enhance everyday life activities.
• Members often experience personal growth beyond physical fitness, including career changes.
• Diana encourages everyone to push their limits and discover their potential. People must decide for themselves about fitness and nutrition.
• Strength training is essential for maintaining health, especially for women.
• The program has evolved to focus more on strength training over time.
• Many clients are in menopause, making strength training crucial for hormone stabilization.
• People often have misconceptions about working out and strength training.
• Physical activity can significantly improve mental health and well-being.

Thanks for listening to the Ginger and Chocolate Podcast. Check out our website at gingerandchocolate.com to get in touch with us. Follow us on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram @ginger_and_chocolate_podcast; and please subscribe to the show and select automatic downloads on your podcast app.