Shows
Chasing ExcellenceWhy We Prioritize the 5 FactorsIn many ways, the 5 Factors of Health are as much a hedge against stress as a pursuit of performance and longevity. We unpack how stress manifests itself in the body and why it’s so important we are aware of it. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 How to think about weightlifting as you get older 📍 What you need to recognize as you make progress on losing a lot of weight 📍 Some suggestions for what to do if you find yourself getting sick a lot 📍 How to create balance when working from home 📍 Four...2023-04-0445 minChasing ExcellenceEvery Element of Existence is a GiftWe get philosophical this week, discussing a way to think about the purpose of suffering and the very nature of existence. We also answer your questions about blending CrossFit with yoga and dealing with negativity at work. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 The ideal body fat percentage for long-term health 📍 Why the fear of death is actually an amazing gift 📍 How lucky we are to experience emotion 📍 Why this might be heaven 📍 All about our latest 30-day challenge Learn more about LMNT here. GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Fi...2023-02-0743 min
Chasing ExcellenceIncreasing Our Social Fitness, with Robert WaldingerDr. Robert Waldinger is the head of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and the author of The Good Life. We discuss the importance of connection, being proactive in our relationships, judgment, curiosity, and more. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 How impactful social isolation and loneliness are on our health 📍 Why good relationships are stress regulators 📍 What “secure attachment” is and why it matters 📍 The difference between hedonic and eudemonic happiness 📍 The two things Dr Waldinger thinks we need to live the good life GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors que...2023-01-311h 00
Chasing ExcellenceHow to Build Shared ValuesWe’re talking about how to communicate your values better so you can build them up alongside the people in your life. We’ve also got listener questions about prehab, healthy eating based on your age, massage guns, and more. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 Ben’s go-to protocol for healthy shoulders and hips 📍 Why you’re never too young to benefit from healthy nutrition 📍 The benefits of massage guns 📍 Hanging out with the members of your gym 📍 How the 30 days of kindness challenge went for us GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Fiv...2023-01-2452 min
Chasing ExcellenceWe’re Rewriting the Purpose of the GymWe’re talking about how to know what a “healthy” body looks like in a world of Instagram, PEDs, and photoshop. We’ve also got listener questions about protein intake, getting more sleep, and coaching CrossFit kids, and more! EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 Ben’s thoughts on “self-help” 📍 How to get enough protein in during the day 📍 A few ways to get more sleep, even when super busy 📍 Why we want to start with the end in mind with training 📍 Why performance is correlated to capacity GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Fac...2023-01-1752 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Worst Things Could Become the Best ThingsWe’re talking about when things don’t turn out as we hope, but do turn out for the better. We’re also answering your questions about CrossFit programming, protein intake, hard conversations with in-laws, and citing our sources. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 Whether doing “double strength” before a metcon is a good idea 📍 Best practices for staying healthy while traveling a ton 📍 How to get enough protein in to gain weight 📍 What to do if you keep waking up in the middle of the night 📍 How to set better boundaries with family members GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: 2023-01-1058 min
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: Building a Life of FocusTo start the year off right, we’re revisiting the most popular episode we released in 2022. We’re talking about the levels of focus, how to wrestle with internal distractions, what anxiety feels like, and more. GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors questions! ABOUT US: 📍 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. Find him on Instagram. 📍 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding. Find him on Instagram.
2023-01-031h 01
Chasing ExcellenceBecome Calm in the Many Faces of the MindThis week, we’ve got a conversation Ben had recently with Danny Miranda. They chat about why focus is a more important resource than time, how to distinguish between inner and outer purpose, and hearing the voice in our heads. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 When Ben decided he needed to live a life of impact 📍 How to avoid believing our own B.S. 📍 Why we need to listen, then learn, the help 📍 The spark that got Ben adding breath work to his routine 📍 Why we need to learn how to relax in moments of adversity Get more of the Danny...2022-12-271h 18
Chasing ExcellenceDo What Sets Your Heart on FireWe’re talking about the value and purpose of work, why it’s so important to spend our time doing something we enjoy, and balancing risk and safety. We’re also giving some new podcast, documentary, and book recommendations. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 How to avoid injury when starting CrossFit 📍 Why you have to practice for when stakes get high 📍 What our kids eat for lunch at school 📍 Why it’s hard to pinpoint the specific benefit of a single habit change 📍 Ben’s advice for young folks starting their working lives GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Se...2022-12-201h 08
Chasing ExcellenceHow to Make a Healthier SocietyWe’re talking about what it would look like for more people to have a C+ level of health & fitness, and why that would be a win. Also: your questions about learning from folks we disagree with & starting a strength program. EXPECT TO LEARN:📍 The simple difference between beginner & advanced athletes 📍 What we mean when we say “Chasing Excellence 2.0” 📍 What the Sick-Well-Fit continuum looks like 📍 The importance of nutrient density vs calorie density 📍 The biggest thing standing in the way of a healthy society Learn more about Emily Maki: 📍 Watch video 📍 Donate to her GoFundMe GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEU...2022-12-1355 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe 30 Days of Kindness ChallengeWe’re talking about how to use our time at night better when it’s easy to kill a few hours mindlessly. What should we do if we’re too tired for much else? Tune in to find out, and stick around for our first 30-day challenge. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 Why consistency comes before intensity in our training 📍 How to help a teenage athlete tackle nutrition 📍 The value of using Whoop as a training tool 📍 What it means to “flip the script” on a bad situation 📍 How to deal with disagreeable neighbors GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: 2022-12-0655 min
Chasing ExcellenceDeveloping Critical Power in CrossFit Games AthletesWe’ve got a conversation Ben had recently with Matthew DesRoches of the Oxidative Potential podcast. They geek out about training for the CrossFit Games and the psychology of being an athlete. EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 The difference between first, second, & third wave adaptations 📍 Why CrossFit & MMA are so similar 📍 The timespan of a CrossFit Games athlete 📍 Why young athletes are so dominant in the sport now GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors questions! ABOUT US: 📍 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach...2022-11-291h 48
Chasing ExcellenceF’d, Flow, FocusWe’re talking about how to start journaling, surrounding ourselves with fountains & not drains, Ben’s journey into his daily meditation practice, & more! EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 What makes a shoe “minimalist” & why that matters 📍 Why teenage athletes probably don’t need much supplementation 📍 How Wim Hoff Breathing got Ben into meditation 📍 The number of workouts you need to ease back into full training 📍 Patrick’s five big questions to ask when making life decisions GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors questions! ABOUT US: 📍 Ben Bergeron i...2022-11-2235 min
Chasing ExcellenceKnow Why You’re TrainingWe’re talking about how to balance parenthood and work, how to incentive kids without treats, advice to those in their mid-twenties, & more! EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 The one question to ask to ensure you’re training smart 📍 Why it’s important to focus on never going backward in your fitness 📍 What expectations to have when training in high humidity 📍 How to adjust your sleep on non-training days 📍 How to know when to distance yourself from difficult friends GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors questions! ABOUT US...2022-11-1553 min
Chasing ExcellenceWhat It Means to Chase ExcellenceWe’re talking about how our definition of what it means to chase excellence has changed since we started this show, how to help yo-yo dieters, what we think is wrongly socially unacceptable, & more! EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 How to get a great workout without any equipment 📍 Why you need to get over whatever adversity you’re facing 📍 Whether lots of snacks or fewer meals are “better” 📍 Why we always default to bigger, next, & more 📍 Why it shouldn’t be so weird to sit quietly without a phone GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM with your Five Factors ques...2022-11-0831 min
Chasing ExcellenceVacation is not RecoveryWe’re broadening one of our Five Factors of Health, discussing how to keep cardio up when nursing a lower-body injury, creating a Five Factors scorecard, introducing a brand new format, and more! EXPECT TO LEARN: 📍 How to stop competing during every workout 📍 Whether cold exposure is a useful recovery strategy 📍 What to do about a loved one who’s stuck in their old training ways 📍 Why we’re expanding one of our factors of health from sleep to recovery 📍 How we score ourselves across the five factors of health GET A QUESTION IN THE QUEUE: Send Patrick a DM w...2022-11-0150 min
Chasing ExcellenceMy Current Morning Routine (Rare Sense Rebroadcast)We’re sharing a conversation I had recently with Chris Irwin of the Rare Sense podcast. We get into a lot, including the power of visualizations, adapting the elite athlete mindset to everyday life, and what my morning routine looks like these days. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-10-251h 30
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: 10 Principles of SleepIn this throwback episode from 2018, we’ve got our top 10 ways to improve sleep. We’re talking about why optimizing our sleep is really optimizing our health and how spending money on better sleep is a worthwhile investment. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-10-1834 min
Brand QuestionsCoaching a financial planner to build brand collabsJustin Green of AssistFP joins me for a conversation about barriers to entry, the allure of “scale,” & building collaborative relationships.
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About the Showx
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the clarity of a unique & focused roadmap. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cumm...2022-10-141h 09
Chasing ExcellenceWe Are All Chasing the Same Thing (2:00 #38)Your questions are back! We’re talking about the anxiety that comes with being a hard charger, eliminating gossip from a work culture, my thoughts on whether a coach has to be the fittest person in the room, and more! Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions About: 00:55 - Dealing with the stress of being a hard-charger 12:55 - Taking care of yourself without guilt as a parent 16:04 - Healing a back injury without feeling lazy or undertrained 17:40 - Learning how to deal with comments about weight loss...2022-10-1132 minBrand QuestionsHave we picked our competitors?Some thoughts on enemies, running your own race, & competing on your own terms.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter...2022-10-0606 min
Chasing ExcellenceColin O’Brady on the 12 Hour WalkColin O’Brady is back to talk more specifically about his new book, the 12-Hour Walk. Patrick and I give our own experiences doing the walk, we talk about self-limiting beliefs, identifying your personal Everest, and more. Find out more about Colin’s new book, The 12-Hour Walk, here. Find us on Social: Colin | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-10-0435 minBrand QuestionsWhat’s our key differentiator?Some thoughts on standing out, creating lock-in, & making better decisions.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, writer, & creator...2022-09-2906 min
Chasing ExcellenceColin O’Brady on Crossing Antartica SoloWe’re joined by explorer and author Colin O’Brady. We chat about life as an explorer, the zone of comfortable complacency, his belief that we all have reservoirs of untapped potential, his new book, and much more. Find out more about Colin’s new book, The 12 Hour Walk, here. Find us on Social: Colin | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-09-2732 minBrand QuestionsCoaching a digital fitness brand to define their north starTrevor Deal of Holo Health joins me to get some coaching around operationalizing their values, defining who they want their customers to become, & breaking through a saturated market by leaning into what makes them unique.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity...2022-09-2250 min
Chasing ExcellenceMaking the Games Season Better (HopperTalk #12)We’ve got four questions this round of HopperTalk - discussing ways we think the CrossFit Games season could improve, Eckhart Tolle, noise, misinformation, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 01:00 - What are two ways you would make the CrossFit season better? 06:00 - What’s the one problem you want to be known for helping solve? 08:30 - What are we living in the golden age of? 15:35 - What is the single most liberating thought you’ve ever had? // About Us:...2022-09-2023 minBrand QuestionsWhat would make this remarkable?Some thoughts on running our own race.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, writer, & creator of Functional Branding...2022-09-1506 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Best Teacher is Example (MiFit Rebroadcast)We’re bringing you a conversation I had recently with DJ Hillier of the MiFit podcast. We dive into transformational coaching, how I got into the mental side of competition, balancing passion and obsession, and more. Find us on Social: DJ | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-09-131h 22Brand QuestionsThe power of a good name (from Dollars & Dumbbells)I’m sharing a conversation I had recently on the Dollars & Dumbbells podcast with my friend Justin Green. We talk about the power of a good name, creating constraints, being both the visionary & the integrator, & more!
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & cl...2022-09-0854 min
Chasing ExcellenceThere’s No Such Thing as a Bad Workout (2:00 #37)Your questions are back in the spotlight this week! We’re talking about how to design a non-competitive after-school program, why being clear is kind when running your gym, why CrossFit Games athletes don’t move perfectly, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Question About: 01:00 - Distinguishing between complaining and helping 03:00 - Responding to death in the family 06:10 - Dealing with grandparents and junk food 07:50 - Stretching right after a hard workout 09:30 - Getting strong with limited equipment and time 10:40 - Designing a non-competitive after-school program 12:50 - Blurring the line between movi...2022-09-0621 min
Chasing ExcellenceEat Clean, Eat LightWe’re talking through a simple, actionable nutritional framework this week. We discuss the spectrum of ultra processed to ultra clean, why being hungry sometimes isn’t a bad thing, and why awareness is so important. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick // About Us: 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-08-3049 minBrand QuestionsWhat's the most important problem we’re solving?Some thoughts on digging deeper, going slow to go fast, and looking for leverage.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time...2022-08-2505 min
Chasing ExcellenceTop 10 Takeaways from the 2022 CrossFit GamesI’m giving my thoughts (good and bad) on the 2022 CrossFit Games. We’re talking programming, whether I’m excited about the future of the event, why the Capitol was such an amazing event, and much more. -- Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-08-2342 minBrand QuestionsCoaching a virtual gym to highlight their unique valueMorgan Bungerz of Gym Bungerz joins me to get some coaching around empathy, creating messaging that speaks to barriers of entry, and getting specific about why someone should say yes to him.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique...2022-08-1850 min
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: 10 Principles of ConnectingIn this throwback episode, we’re revisiting our 10 principles of connecting with each other. We’re talking about why small things are big things, gossip, listening sincerely, and leading with tough love. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-08-1623 minBrand QuestionsWhat value do we create that’s beyond other brands?Some thoughts on going farther, anchoring, & redefining what we consider valuable.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, writer...2022-08-1106 min
Chasing ExcellenceHigh Expectations, Low StressWe’re talking this week about how to maintain high expectations without getting overwhelmed by self-induced pressure. We discuss the relationship between disciple and surrender, peak performance, judgment, and learning. -- Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-08-0931 minBrand QuestionsWhat have I accomplished that I’m really proud of?Some thoughts on learning from past success so we can work toward future success.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time...2022-08-0406 min
Chasing ExcellenceBe Aware of Where You Are (Michael Caz Rebroadcast)We’re sharing a conversation I had recently with Michael Caz. We dive into leadership, Unlocking Potential, simplicity, making moments matter, using pain as a gift, and so much more. Find us on Social: Caz | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-08-021h 02Brand QuestionsCould I work 20% less without sacrificing efficacy?Some thoughts on constraints, Parkinson’s Law, & why Jocko is almost right.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, wr...2022-07-2807 min
Chasing ExcellenceWhat We’re Reading #02Patrick & I talk about the last five books we’ve each read, some of our biggest takeaways, my experience with dyslexia, how to strengthen the habit of reading, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Books mentioned: Life Force by Tony Robbins Indistractible by Nir Eyal The Talent War by Sarraille & Randle The Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy Gallwey Insanely Simple by Ken Segall The Minimalist Entrepreneur by Sahil Lavingia Marketing Full Circle by Wayne Mullins Free Time by Jenny Blake Clockwork by Mike Michalowicz The Scout Mindset by Julia Galef 👉🏼 Ben Berg...2022-07-2657 minBrand QuestionsWhat single action does our success hinge upon?Some thoughts on needs, choices, & investing in the right things in the right order.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time...2022-07-2106 min
Chasing ExcellenceBeing Your Spouse’s Biggest Fan, w/ Heather BHeather joins us again, this time to discuss what it looks like to chase excellence in marriage or relationships. We talk about values, bringing intention to hard conversations, not letting ego get in the way, and lots more. Find us on Social: Heather | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-07-1936 minBrand QuestionsWhy are the people who choose another option right?Some thoughts on being wrong for most people, choosing to see abundance, & replacing judgement with curiosity.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is...2022-07-1406 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Voice in Our Heads, w/ Heather B (HopperTalk #11)Find us on Social: Heather | Ben | Patrick Question Answered: 01:40 - What did you finally realize was just a huge waste of time? 17:00 - What skill or life lesson do you wish your parents would’ve taught you? 33:36 - If you had enough money to build your dream house, what’s a strange room or feature you’d include? // About Us: 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-07-1241 min
Chasing ExcellenceVisualizing Failure vs. Success (2:00 Drill #36)Your questions return this week! We’re talking about visualizing failure vs success, talking with kids about hard work, bench presses, knowing when to quit, and a bunch more. To get your question in the cue, send Patrick a DM on IG. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Question About: 01:50 - Making sure our professional ladder is up against the right wall. 07:30 - Knowing if quitting something is the right move. 09:40 - Ensuring fitness is a priority when work is overwhelming. 13:20 - Why CrossFit doesn’t in...2022-07-0542 min
Brand QuestionsWho do we want our customers to become?Some thoughts on transformations vs transactions, being honest with ourselves, & skipping shortcuts.
Get the latest Brand Question delivered straight to your inbox here.
About the Show
Through short essays & coaching calls, the Brand Questions Podcast challenges listeners to act deliberately, think strategically, & build brand muscle. Join me on a future episode.
About Functional Branding
Functional Branding offers unparalleled workshops to wellness brands wanting the confidence & clarity of a unique, authentic, & focused vision. Learn more here.
About Patrick Cummings
Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster...2022-06-3006 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Balanced Champion (Mark Bell Rebroadcast)I recently joined the gentlemen from Mark Bell’s Power Project for a wide-ranging conversation and wanted to share it here. We talk about word choices, why success isn’t binary, the mantra for a happy life, and much more. Find us on Social: Mark | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-06-282h 04
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: 10 Principles of TrainingWe’re revisiting an episode from the archives this week, reminding ourselves of our 10 principles of training. We’re talking about starting with mechanics, understanding relative intensity, weaknesses, thresholds, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-06-2145 min
Chasing ExcellenceMake Big Ag Illegal (HopperTalk #10)In this edition of HopperTalk, we’re talking about the one law we would create if we could, how much money Elon Musk makes every day, why weddings aren't worth the money, Jurassic Park, playing CDs in the car, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Question Answered: 01:10 - What is something that is practically useless but it is treated as a luxury item? 06:30 - What are some things your children will never experience the way you did? 13:50 - If you could create one law for your country what would it be? 24:00...2022-06-1436 min
Chasing ExcellenceIshan Shivanand on King’s Yoga vs Merchant YogaIshan Shivanand is a mindfulness teacher and founder of Yoga of Immortals. He joins us to talk about the 4 aspects of meditation, integrative healing, starting from a place of joy, the responsibility of organizations, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-06-071h 15
Chasing ExcellenceBuilding a Life of FocusWe’re talking about the three levels of focus this week, diving into how to wrestle with the internal distractions that get in our way, what anxiety feels like and where it comes from, gaining traction, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-05-311h 01
Chasing ExcellenceLife Gives Us Exactly What We Need (2:00 Drill #35)Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Question About: 01:30 - Getting a spouse into CrossFit 05:50 - Knowing if it’s too late to be a competitive Games athlete 10:30 - Making the best of a sub-optimal job choice 16:00 - Incorporating spirituality into the think factor 23:20 - Earning trust as a coach 29:00 - Raising children to embrace challenges 34:20 - Learning how to move better in the gym 37:30 - Training athletes who don’t eat meat 41:50 - Thanking new members of your gym // About Us: 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit G...2022-05-2445 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Story About the Old Farmer (CP&W Rebroadcast)I recently chatted with Peter White of Coffee, Pods, & WODS, and wanted to share it here too. We covered a lot, including my ideal CrossFit Games athlete, the three decisions that dictate our future, reading books, and more. Find us on Social: CP&W | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-05-171h 37
Chasing ExcellenceChasing Athletic PerfectionismPerfectionism is a curse amplified by highlight reels on social media. How can we learn to stop judging ourselves, develop hindsight in the present moment, and focus on our character? That’s what we’re unpacking this week. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-05-1035 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Antidote to Anxiety is Action (HopperTalk #09)This round of HopperTalk has us talking through life’s cheat codes, things that are criminally over-priced, lessons from the pandemic, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 01:05 - What are some cheat codes you’ve found in the game of life. 07:25 - What improved your quality of life so much that you wish you did it sooner? 15:20 - What’s criminally over-priced to you? 24:30 - What seems harmless but is actually dangerous? 30:50 - Looking back at COVID, what are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned? 👉🏼 Ben...2022-05-0341 min
Chasing ExcellenceMotivating Kids to Work Out (2:00 Drill #34)We’ve got your questions on tap this week. We’re talking about what a de-load week looks like, how to prioritize health when life is busy, choosing the best kind of bodywork, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 01:55 - Building confidence as a coach 04:15 - Admitting our least productive habits 06:45 - Dealing with long-term challenges 13:00 - Choosing the best kind of bodywork 15:10 - Designing a better physical education fitness test 22:20 - Understanding de-load weeks 26:20 - Motivating kids to workout 28:00 - Prioritizing health when life is busy 34:40 - Getting bett...2022-04-2648 min
Chasing ExcellenceStephen M.R. Covey on Trusting & InspiringStephen MR Covey has made a career of teaching people about trust. He joins us to talk about his new book, the difference between a trust & inspire leader vs. a command & control leader, shifting paradigms, & so much more. Learn more about Trust & Inspire here. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick // About Us: 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-04-191h 02
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: 10 Principles of NutritionWe're talking about our top nutrition principles in this rebroadcast from one of our most popular episodes. We talk about avoiding sugar, eating more veggies, understanding good vs bad fats, and eating mindfully. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-04-1234 min
Chasing ExcellenceAnonymous Leaderboards (2:00 Drill #33)Your questions are back this week! We’re talking about goals versus purpose, whether anonymous leaderboards might work, how to think about Fran, buying a gym, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 02:50 - Working with a challenging employee 06:30 - Focusing on goals or purpose 08:45 - Earning trust with co-worker 11:15 - Taking vitamins & supplements (or not) 12:30 - Training when not sleeping enough 17:20 - Doing Fran for fitness or as a test 21:10 - Getting better at burpees 25:30 - Making leaderboards anonymous 29:50 - Buying a gym 36:00 - Making a Peloton-like version of Cr...2022-04-0548 min
Chasing ExcellenceDr. Nate Zinsser on Winning the First VictoryDr. Nate Zinsser is the author of the book “The Confident Mind.” He joins us to discuss the mental toughness strategies he’s developed over 30 years of working with cadets at West Point and elite athletes at every level. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-03-2955 min
Chasing ExcellenceBe Confident, Earn More, & Increase Impact (3x3 #08)The 3x3 is back! This round, I’m giving some strategies you can use to improve your confidence levels, increase your earning potential, and leave a lasting legacy. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-03-2227 min
Chasing ExcellenceThings Happen For You, Not To You (HopperTalk #08)In this round of HopperTalk, Patrick and I give our thoughts on lies we tell to make other people feel better, why grades shouldn’t be taken so seriously, how to react when something bad happens, and much more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-03-1544 min
Chasing ExcellenceMark England on Moving from Victim to CompetitorMark England and Kimberly Kesting from Enlifted Coaches are back to continue our conversation about the victim mentality, should statements, soft talk, the imposter syndrome, writing down our scary thoughts, and much more. Find us on Social: Enlifted Coaches | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-03-081h 10
Chasing ExcellenceMark England on the Power of Words, Breath, & StoryWe’ve got Mark England and Kimberly Kesting from Enlifted Coaches in town this week to talk about the victim mentality, soft talk, owning your story, pressure language, and much more. Be sure to tune in next week for part two. Find us on Social: Enlifted Coaches | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-03-011h 03
Chasing ExcellenceSeesaws vs Frisbees (2:00 Drill #32)Your questions return this week! We’re talking about how making the most out of training solo, dealing with the challenge of injuries that keep coming back, prioritizing balance, and a whole lot more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-02-221h 04
Chasing ExcellenceCastro’s & Katrin's Exits (Modern Wisdom Rebroadcast)I recently had a chance to chat with Chris at the Modern Wisdom podcast. We talked about a whole bunch, including Castro’s exit from the Games, Katrin's decision to stay in Iceland, risk, flow, leadership, and a bunch more. Find us on Social: Chris | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-02-151h 50
Chasing ExcellenceWhat We’re ReadingPatrick & I pull together the last five books we’ve read, talk about how we picked them, what we’re getting from them, why reading with purpose beats reading at random, making connections, diving deep, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-02-0838 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe 3 Guiding PrinciplesHow do we stack awareness, intention, and action to make the most out of this one life we’ve got? That’s what we’re talking about today in this short episode. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-02-0127 min
Chasing ExcellenceUnconditional Integrity (HopperTalk #07)HopperTalk is back this week! Patrick and I are talking about what we think are scams, why nothing should start before 10 am, integrity, generosity, little things that are signals that a person is good, and a lot more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-01-2559 min
Chasing ExcellenceChasing Long Term vs. Short Term PerformanceWe're talking about the different areas of focus for a CrossFit Games athlete and someone who's chasing health, diving into maximizing your minutes, keeping the frisbee of life in balance, and developing a single-minded focus. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-01-1850 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe 2 Elements of Long-Term Business SuccessWe’re unpacking the two most important things to get right in your business, talking about the marketing hourglass, creating a calm organization, distinguishing between coaching for development vs. performance, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-01-1151 min
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: Mental Toughness Isn't What You ThinkWe're revisiting our most popular episode ever to kick 2022 off right, diving into the 6 steps we need to take to develop more mental toughness, including becoming a learner, expecting adversity, and killing the critic. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2022-01-0457 min
Chasing ExcellenceDefining & Determining Wellness (2:00 #31)Your questions are back this week. We’re talking about what to do between double sessions to recover, dealing with family members who aren’t on the same nutritional page as you, training for a Spartan Beast, and more! Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-12-2848 min
Chasing ExcellenceCole Sager on Running From Our Comfort ZonesMultiple-times Games athlete Cole Sager joins us this week to talk about being a pro athlete, seeking solitude, being grateful, becoming a father, having curiosity, and a whole lot more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-12-211h 07
Chasing ExcellenceA Health RevolutionWe're talking this week about health as an integrated system and about how the 5 Factors are all essential inputs in that system. We dive into the knowledge/doing gap, kicking ass into our 90s, the age of abundance, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-12-1453 min
Chasing ExcellencePersonal Responsibility in Daily ExcellenceIn a (somewhat accidental) follow-up to our conversation about the Fulfillment Framework, we're talking about why pride looks selfish in the short term, making the right kind of difficult choices, why being joyful is brave, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-12-0737 min
Chasing ExcellenceTwo Eyes on the Process (Keep Going Rebroadcast)We're rebroadcasting a conversation I had recently on the Keep Going Podcast. John and I talk about the hierarchy of mindset, why taking massive action matters more than anything else, how to work through bad days, and a bunch more. Grab the new book here. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-11-3046 min
Chasing ExcellenceDr. Amishi Jha on Owning Your AttentionDr. Amishi Jha is a researcher, professor, and author of the new book, Peak Mind. She joins us to talk about the work her lab is doing to uncover the power of mindfulness training on attention, focus, and resilience. Find us on Social: Amishi | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-11-231h 02
Chasing ExcellenceDon't Stop Until You're ProudWe've got my co-writer on Unlocking Potential, Christine Bald, on to talk about the process of writing a book, getting things wrong until you get it right, balancing patience and ambition, and a bunch more. Find us on Social: Christine | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-11-1654 min
Chasing ExcellenceOperating at the Speed of TrustFor the last few years, I've been working on a new book. It's called Unlocking Potential, and it's about leadership, getting a team into group flow, the mistakes I've made, and a bunch more. Get a sneak peek in this episode. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-11-0948 min
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: 10 Habits to Stop HavingIn this throwback to 2018, we're rebroadcasting an episode all about the habits we have that we should finally kill - including hitting the snooze button, yelling at people in traffic, and using your phone while you eat. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-11-0224 min
Chasing ExcellenceRon Friedman on Reverse Engineering SuccessAuthor Ron Friedman joins us this week to discuss his new book, "Decoding Greatness." We talk about the three ways to find success, the "scoreboard principle," and what it looks like to practice in three dimensions. Find us on Social: Ron | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-10-2646 min
Chasing ExcellenceMonster Energy at the CrossFit Games (HopperTalk #06)This week, Patrick and I trade answers about whether CrossFit should have had Monster Energy at the Games, what we want every teenager to know, the big changes we've made that have had the biggest positive impact, and more! Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-10-1954 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe First Question to Ask Before Changing Your DietBefore you decide to go keto or vegan or low carb or high protein, take a listen to this short conversation about the most important question you need to ask and answer, first principles, and starting with the end in mind. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-10-1222 min
Chasing ExcellenceLauren Johnson on Becoming Elite by ChoiceLauren Johnson is a mental performance coach for professional athletes and entrepreneurs. She joins us to talk about the difference between challenges and threats, the power of self-talk, separating facts from feelings, and more. Find us on Social: Lauren | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-10-0557 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe 3 WODs I'd Program for the Olympics (2:00 #30)Your questions are back in the spotlight! This time around, we're talking about how to make sure your ladder is up against the right wall, the pros and cons of an open gym period, lactate threshold training, and a bunch more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-09-2842 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Fulfillment FrameworkWe've talked about making sure our ladders are up against the right walls, but how do you also make sure you're climbing up the ladder? We dive into that here, talking about the system I use to chase fulfillment, from my big goals to my daily tasks. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-09-2156 min
Chasing ExcellenceSergey Young on Thriving at 200 Years OldSergey Young is an author and investor working to radically extend human health and lifespans. He joins us to talk about the definition of aging, the technology of the near future, creating lives worth extending, and more. Find us on Social: Sergey | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-09-1458 min
Chasing ExcellenceCompeting vs ComparingIs comparison the thief of joy? That's the question we pose at the start of this week's episode, talking about intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation, what a true competitor looks like, and how to use our ambition for good. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-09-0748 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Secret Sauce of CrossFit ProgrammingWe're getting into some best practices for delivering effective GPP programming. We're talking about programming for horsepower, why 18-minute WODs shouldn't be considered "long," and why we offer three different programming tracks to our members. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-08-311h 05
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: Simplifying NutritionWe're revisiting one of our most popular conversations from the early days of the podcast, talking about why I prefer to keep my nutritional advice simple, the value of getting blood work done, & why both quality & quantity matter. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-08-2426 min
Chasing ExcellenceLife-Changing Quotes (Hoppertalk #05)HopperTalk is back this week. Patrick and I talk through the adult problems nobody prepared us for, whether Tia is the most dominant athlete in CrossFit Games history, things from the 90s that we miss, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 02:05 - What's a quote that's permanently changed the way you look at things? 11:10 - What is something free on the internet that everyone should take advantage of? 24:00 - What benchmark workout should appear in the CrossFit Games? 28:40 - What is the worst minor injury? 31:50 - What is an "...2021-08-171h 07
Chasing Excellence2021 CrossFit Games DebriefWe're talking through my experience at the 2021 CrossFit Games - from NoBULL's first year as the sponsor, to my thoughts on the programming, CompTrain's overall performance, and the young guns making a run for the podium. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-08-1046 min
Chasing ExcellenceWhen an S.O. Doesn't Care About CrossFit (2:00 #29)The 2:00 Drill is back, featuring your questions on the chasing excellence approach to dating, why we don't program strength-only days at CrossFit New England, choosing whether to go to the gym early or sleep in, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 02:10 - Approaching dating with an attitude of chasing excellence 04:20 - Differentiating one-upping and trying to relate 06:40 - Determining whether to go to workout early or sleep more 08:50 - Spending $65 a week on groceries 10:50 - Giving marketing tips to personal trainers 13:00 - Handling life when your significant other isn't...2021-08-0326 min
Chasing ExcellenceImportant Details, Strong Networks, & Simpler LivesIn this edition of our 3x3, I'm talking through some of the small things that CrossFit New England does well, how I think about building stronger relationships, and ways to make our lives simpler. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-07-2732 min
Chasing ExcellenceBenchmark: Daily DisciplineWe're revisiting one of our most popular conversations from the early days of the podcast, talking about why it's important to determine our level of discipline and then never break the chain of daily success. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-07-2030 min
Chasing ExcellenceThe Protein and Produce Diet for KidsWe talk all the time about the five factors of health, but how do they apply to our kids? We're diving into that question, talking about how I ensure that my kids are eating well, how we set up the house to reduce food conflict, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-07-1340 min
Chasing ExcellenceIf You Want To Run Fast, Run Fast (2:00 #28)Your questions are back in the spotlight. We're answering questions about programming when you have limited time and equipment, why I don't think we need to establish a VO2 Max threshold for Games athletes, dealing with CrossFit skeptics, and more. Find us on Social: Ben | Patrick Questions Answered: 01:45 - Dealing with comparing ourselves to others 04:30 - Increasing coaching skills with limited time 06:40 - Moving from living to thriving 10:40 - Determining VO2 Max for CrossFit athletes 12:00 - Training for physique and health 14:45 - Programming for limited training time 18:30 - Communicating patience for members looking...2021-07-0644 min
Chasing ExcellenceGreg McKeown on the Pursuit of Sustainable ExcellenceGreg McKeown is the author of Essentialism and Effortless. He joins us to discuss why easy things aren't always trivial, having faith that the process will work, working backward from our optimal max, and a whole lot more. Find us on Social: Greg | Ben | Patrick 👉🏼 Ben Bergeron is a best-selling author, coach to 7 CrossFit Games champions, and founder of CompTrain. 👉🏼 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, podcaster, and creator of Functional Branding.
2021-06-291h 06