167: Inside My Mind in March 2026

This is a potentially new ongoing series I wanted to try. I'm calling it, "Inside My Mind." The goal is to have more open and honest reflection into some of my personal thoughts and developments and have the podcast be the driver of that. Today, I'm opening up about what I’m building, what I’m processing, and what life feels like in this season. I share what we’re working on at BPN and how this chapter has me thinking differently about growth, leadership, and where my energy is going.I also talk about how becoming a husband and father continues to change the way I see my work, my purpose, and the kind of man I want to be. This episode touches on the tension between what I say matters and how I actually live, learning to lead through example, enjoying training without a finish line in front of me, and trying to hold life with a little more gratitude and a little less seriousness. It’s a conversation about growth, patience, perspective, and who I’m becoming along the way.CHAPTERS:00:00 'The Why' Behind This Episode03:12 Whey Isolate Launch05:45 Strength Line Reboot09:35 New Product Tease15:56 Upcoming Events19:22 Pittsburgh Marathon Plans23:59 YouTube Season Shift33:29 Learning Manhood Values39:29 Closing Value Action Gap44:27 Embracing Household Chaos47:07 Training Without Prep53:51 Half Marathon Run Plan54:35 Cooking Season Returns01:00:39 Bring This 90s Resturant Experience Back01:06:39 Stop Taking Life So Serious01:09:54 Becoming Over Achieving01:13:33 Waiting For New Challenge01:16:09 Closing ThoughtsORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)

In this episode, Stef and I sit down for a real conversation about our family, faith, routine, and the season we’re currently in right now. We reflect on the chaos and gift of parenting, why we’ve chosen to disconnect from social media on weekends, and how that decision is reshaping our presence, priorities, and creativity. It’s as honest of a look that we can give at what we’re building behind the scenes and the values guiding where we go next.CHAPTERS:00:00 Intro01:00 The Catch Up02:06 Weekend Social Media Fast07:42 Creativity and AI Fears15:20 Homeschooling and Time Back22:54 Morning Routine Overview25:03 Night Before Prep30:32 Early Wake and Workouts37:24 Baby Three?45:36 Fitness Reset54:11 Our Current Faith/Life Direction01:03:42 Vision for Stef's Studio01:16:36 Parenting Season ReflectionsORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)

Protein isn’t just about building muscle. In this episode, I break down why protein plays a critical role in performance, recovery, body composition, and long-term health. It helps repair tissue, support hormones and enzymes, strengthen your immune system, and even protect bone health.At the end of the day, if you want to perform better, recover stronger, and build a body that lasts, you have to start by getting the fundamentals right.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome02:40 Key Protein Takeaways06:16 Protein Beyond Muscle10:53 What Protein Is13:49 No Protein Storage16:01 Digestion and Excretion22:25 Thermic Effect25:54 Satiety and Body Composition31:03 Common Protein Myths36:46 Whey Protein Basics50:40 Daily Protein Targets57:40 Low Protein and Vegan Risks01:02:34 Final RecapORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)

Ken Rideout returns to the podcast to talk about his new book, Everything You Want Is on the Other Side of Hard, and the life experiences that shaped it. We discuss his rise from addiction and adversity to sobriety, business success, and a 2:28 marathon, plus his recent Austin Half Marathon win at 54. This conversation explores discipline, faith, identity, risk, and what it takes to build a meaningful life on the other side of hard.CHAPTERS:00:00 Intro01:30 The Other Side of Hard02:58 Winning the Austin Half at 5405:49 From Addiction to Endurance07:46 Leaving Wall Street, Starting Over12:04 The Marathon Breakthrough15:41 Loving the Process, Not Just PRs18:54 Family, Roots, and Perspective23:38 Breaking Out of Your Environment27:06 Insecurity, Recovery, and Growth29:24 Marriage, Fatherhood, and Real Life31:56 Cancer Scare and Perspective Shift36:28 Faith, Weakness, and Identity43:41 You Are More Than Performance53:26 Build the Life You WantORDER KEN'S BOOK HERE: https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Want-Other-Side-Hard/dp/1668087057ORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)

In this episode, I covering all things carbohydrates and why they have are one of the most important tools in your training, recovery, and performance. For me, it always comes back to this: train hard, recover well, and choose what’s sustainable.CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome 01:04 Personal Carb Philosophy04:04 How Carbs Fuel You05:15 Insulin and Blood Sugar09:04 Insulin Resistance Explained12:12 Low Carb Era and Atkins18:41 Keto Rise and Origins27:04 Ketosis and Why Keto Works32:17 How Many Carbs You Need41:35 Carbs for Endurance vs Strength48:00 Carbs for Hypertrophy Pump53:44 Best Carb Sources to Choose58:09 Final Takeaways and ExperimentORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessThis podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal [health or profession] advice. Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN) is not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional medical advice.This podcast may not be republished without the written consent of Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN)

In this episode, I’m answering your Instagram Q&As. I talk leadership, hiring with the three Cs, fitness tips for new dads, and setting boundaries with tech. I lastly address racing after The Last Dance.CHAPTERS:00:00 Why This Q&A Episode Exists10:17 Q1: The Mentor Who Shaped Me (Captain Angove)17:51 Q2: Hiring Red & Green Flags — The 3 C’s + ‘Energy Vampires’27:07 Q3: Fitness Advice for New Fathers (Routine vs Responsibility)34:54 Q4: Leadership Lessons From the Last Year46:20 Q5: How BPN Operations Evolved: Vision, Focus, Systems, and ‘Unpurposeful Activity’52:42 Q6: Phone & Tech Boundaries: Social Media Fasts and App Blocking01:00:52 Final Q: Are Races/Preps Over? The ‘Last Dance’ Mindset + Wrap-UpORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

Over the last five years, I’ve learned five lessons that changed how I lead, train, and live. In this episode, inspired by Pastor Craig Groeschel, I break down purpose, leadership “altitude,” selflessness, pride, and the cost of a rushed life through the lens of building BPN. We’ll hit the difference between complex vs. complicated problems, the dopamine drive, and how to build a culture that empowers people. I also share personal reflections, what I’m working on next, and how these lessons translate into real decisions at work and at home.CHAPTERS00:00 Intro01:40 Purpose18:52 Rise/Dive30:38 Selflessness37:53 Pride45:13 Hurried life58:14 Final thoughtsORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

I sit down with Colonel Edward Arntson III, who has 24 years of military service, to unpack what leadership really demands when it counts. We start with self-leadership: how you show up, how you carry yourself, and why humility isn’t optional. We get into competence, intellectual curiosity, and the overlooked power of energy and tone. What you tolerate becomes the standard. Colonel Arntson shares hard-earned lessons from leading in garrison and in combat, including moments that tested his decision-making, confidence, and character. If you’re building a team, leading a family, or trying to lead yourself better, this episode delivers practical takeaways you can apply immediately.More about Colonel Ed Arntson:Ed Arntson, from Buffalo Grove, Illinois, graduated from Concordia College (2002) and commissioned as a Distinguished Military Graduate infantry officer through NDSU. He led rifle and company units in Alaska, Afghanistan, and Iraq, was wounded in combat, and later served with The Old Guard, including a landmark deployment to Taji, Iraq. After CGSC and SAMS, he held planning and operations roles with 1st Cavalry Division, deployed to Korea and Baghdad, and served on the Joint Staff. He commanded 3-187 Infantry and 3rd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. His education includes Ranger and airborne schools. He’s married with two children.Tone Range Fan: https://fromthegreennotebook.com/2025/09/08/the-tone-range-fan-a-tool-for-leaders-at-all-levels/CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction05:07 The Importance of Leadership Development15:31 The Role of Feedback in Leadership27:22 The Power of Tone in Leadership41:59 The Power of Tone in Communication48:25 Building Effective Teams Through Peer Leadership52:37 The Importance of Humility and Tone in Leadership01:06:04 Early Military Career and Deployment Experiences01:21:01 Dedication and Commitment in the Military01:39:26 The Impact of 9/11 on ROTC and Military Careers01:45:54 The Importance of Physical and Mental Readiness01:52:27 A Formula for Effective Leadership02:00:06 Final Thoughts on Leadership and InspirationBecome a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionFOLLOW:IG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

This episode is all around laying out my 2026 diet + training philosophies. I’m in a caloric surplus, training hard with intention, and choosing food quality over empty volume. We get into running and eating with purpose, and why the goal isn’t a finish line—it’s building a lifestyle you can sustain.I also break down the practical plays to take ownership of your diet: simple meal prep, portion control, 1g protein per pound, and a plan for late-night cravings. If you want to get stronger, leaner, and more consistent this year—try this framework.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction03:35 Taking Ownership of Your Diet05:09 Meal Prep and Food Prep Tips08:59 Appropriate Meal Portions14:37 Making Protein a Priority16:30 Late Night Snacking Strategies20:22 Caloric Surplus Explained31:18 Training Hard for Strength and Growth36:00 Avoiding the Easy Run Mindset in the Gym38:50 Balancing Strength Training and Recovery44:11 Prioritizing Food Quality Over Quantity01:02:45 Running with Purpose, Not for Numbers01:06:13 Maintaining a Healthy Relationship with Food01:14:44 Training for the Love of the LifestyleORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 25% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://www.bareperformancenutrition.com/collections/performance-nutritionIG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

I sit down with Michael Chernow to talk discipline that protects what matters: faith, family, fitness, and business. We unpack his non-negotiable morning routine, recovery and sobriety, hard boundaries with technology, and why leaders control the temperature at home. Simple isn’t easy. Apply it every day, starting now.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:47 Morning Routine Insights12:49 The Power of Prayer and Sobriety29:04 Faith and Spiritual Journey37:49 Transformative Power of Faith44:28 Overcoming Addiction and Finding Purpose48:39 Setting Boundaries with Technology54:47 Balancing Work and Family Life01:05:50 The Power of Discipline and Commitment01:21:12 Entrepreneurial Journey and Curiosity01:32:41 Hitting Rock Bottom01:38:53 The Turning Point01:42:45 Rebuilding Through Wellness01:49:03 Kreatures of Habit and Future Goals01:56:29 The Power of Habits01:58:50 Final ReflectionsORDER MY BOOK HERE: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFE ⁠https://bpn.team/member⁠IG: ⁠instagram.com/nickbarefitness/⁠YT: ⁠youtube.com/@nickbarefitness