Podcast
Becoming Ronin
Hosted by Jim Smith, Brian Oberther · EN
The "Becoming Ronin" podcast is a show that delves into topics related to personal development, fitness, and self-improvement. Hosted by fitness professionals, the podcast explores various aspects of the fitness industry, including training methodologies, mindset, business strategies, and lifestyle tips. The show often features guest experts who share their insights and experiences, providing listeners with practical advice and inspiration for achieving their goals.
Recent episodes have covered topics like program reviews, the distinction between online trainers and coaches, and the significance of aerobic development in training. Notable guests, such as Jason Brown, have appeared on the podcast to discuss these subjects in depth.
The podcast aims to guide listeners on their journey to becoming more self-reliant and empowered, drawing on the metaphor of a "Ronin" — a samurai without a master — to symbolize the pursuit of independence and mastery in life.
25episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
#144 Perception Vs. Perspective - Let Yourself Be Happy
Apr 17, 202500:49:59Tap to summarize🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this deeply introspective episode, OB and Smitty dive into the raw and transformative journey of personal awakening. Through candid stories and philosophical reflections, they unpack the subtle yet powerful differences between perception and perspective—and how both shape the way we experience the world. This conversation explores the lies we tell ourselves, the importance of stillness and meditation, and the emotional toll of unacknowledged trauma. They shed light on the impact of early caregivers, the necessity of emotional empathy, and the role of honesty in personal growth. OB and Smitty challenge listeners to confront self-deception, carry their burdens with grace, and lean into life with authenticity and playfulness. Above all, they emphasize that by facing the truth within ourselves, we open the door to genuine transformation and freedom. Timestamps [00:28] Moments of Awakening and Personal Transformation [02:55] Perception vs. Perspective: How We Shape Our Reality [05:18] Caregivers, Trauma, and the Path to Growth [10:28] The Role of Self-Awareness and Emotional Maturity [20:16] Truthfulness and How It Changes Perception [25:34] Facing the Lies We Tell Ourselves [28:53] Stillness, Meditation, and the Inner World [31:48] What Is Reality? Exploring Our Filters and Beliefs [36:02] Waking Up to the Truth Within [39:41] The Weight We Carry: Burdens, Responsibility, and Grace [43:28] Playfulness, Authenticity, and Living Fully Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you’re taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. Hashtags for SEO #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast
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#143 Overcoming Obstacles, Pre-Exhaust, Better Core Training
Apr 12, 202501:11:51Tap to summarize🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty reflect on their experiences with the Ronin Challenge and how structured challenges can reignite motivation and foster community. The conversation transitions into a Q&A format covering diverse training strategies such as ramp-up sets, pre-exhaust techniques, and effective core training. They explore the evolution of core exercises, highlighting the Turkish Get-Up and lessons from RKC certification. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of adaptability, longevity, and mindset in both training and life. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of programming, core functionality, and how to stay motivated through personal and professional challenges. Timestamps [00:25] Ronin Challenge Progress Update [08:21] Listener Q&A [21:01] Pre-Exhaust Techniques in Training [33:20] Real Core Training [39:53] RKC Certification and Application [46:52] Understanding Core Functionality [52:17] Building the "Wedge" [59:30] Overcoming Roadblocks and Lack of Motivation Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you’re taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. Hashtags for SEO #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast
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#142 Strength in Stillness - All Things Isometric Training
Mar 29, 202501:33:44Tap to summarize🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode, OB and Smitty dive deep into the power of isometric training, breaking down its role in strength development, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement. They explore the science behind isometrics, highlighting its benefits for joint stability, muscle activation, and injury recovery. The conversation sheds light on common mistakes people make when implementing isometric exercises and how these errors can lead to suboptimal results. With practical insights, they discuss how to properly integrate isometrics into training programs, whether for breaking through strength plateaus, improving athletic performance, or accelerating recovery from injuries. Beyond technique, OB and Smitty emphasize the importance of setting high standards in training and understanding the psychology behind pain and movement. They challenge common misconceptions about injury management and stress the need for individualized approaches to training and recovery. By the end of the episode, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for isometric training and walk away with actionable strategies to enhance their own fitness journey, whether as athletes, coaches, or fitness enthusiasts. Timestamps [01:10] The Power of Isometrics [04:07] Common Mistakes in Isometric Training [06:56] Understanding Isometric Variations [10:12] The Science Behind Isometrics [13:07] Practical Applications of Isometrics [16:22] Isometrics in Rehabilitation [19:13] Advanced Isometric Techniques [22:17] Integrating Isometrics into Training [25:12] Contrast Training and Isometrics [28:00] The Future of Isometric Training [47:39] Setting Standards in Training [50:54] Understanding Injury and Recovery [57:24] The Power of Isometrics [01:03:01] Implementing Isometrics for Performance [01:11:10] Breaking Down Isometric Techniques [01:20:25] Isometrics in Rehab and Warmups [01:30:22] The Future of Isometric Training Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you’re taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. Hashtags for SEO #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast
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#141 The Ronin Summer Challenge 2025 – Must-Try Fitness Tests
Mar 11, 202501:08:51Tap to summarize🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty unveil the Ronin Summer Challenge 2025—a collection of must-try fitness challenges designed to test strength, endurance, and mental toughness. From raw strength tests and bodyweight circuits to the ultimate conditioning assessments, they break down each challenge and how lifters of all levels can incorporate them into their summer training. They discuss strategies for maintaining strength while embracing outdoor workouts, the role of proper recovery, and how tools like the Echo Bike can be used to gauge stamina. The conversation also dives into the importance of community, the mental side of training, and how to adapt challenges for longevity. Whether you're looking for a new benchmark or just a fun way to push your limits, this episode has something for every lifter. Timestamps [00:00] Anticipating New Summer Challenges [03:35] Maintaining Strength Outdoors [10:33] Introducing the Ronin Summer Challenge 2025 [11:30] Challenge 1: 100 Pull-Ups in 15 Minutes [16:17] Challenge 2: 250 Push-Ups in 25 Minutes [20:53] Challenge 3: Lunges of Death [28:25] Challenge 4: Farmer's Walk for a Mile [34:03] Challenge 5: Three Minute High Plank [34:28] The Importance of Proper Form in Challenges [44:00] Understanding Daily Challenges for Older Lifters [59:55] Evaluating Stamina: The Echo Bike Test Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you’re taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. Hashtags for SEO #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast
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#139 Innovative Training: Mechanical Advantage Drop Sets, Add Sets, Experimenting
Feb 21, 2025Tap to summarize🔗 Subscribe on YouTube Episode Overview In this episode of Becoming Ronin, OB and Smitty dive into the evolution of training, from innovative equipment to adapting workouts for any environment. They discuss the rise of flow training, the benefits of building a home gym, and the impact of unique tools like the WEC Deck and specialized gym timers. The conversation also covers mechanical advantage drop sets, ab roller core training, and the nostalgic fitness influences that shaped their philosophies. Additionally, OB and Smitty break down effective warm-up techniques, the importance of dynamic stretching, and how to modify training for colder weather. They introduce the concept of ‘ad sets’ in circuit training and explore the key differences between bodybuilding and powerlifting. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize creativity, adaptability, and the pursuit of continuous improvement in training. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with actionable takeaways for athletes, coaches, and fitness enthusiasts looking to elevate their approach to training. Timestamps [00:00] Flow Training and Its Evolution [02:59] Building a Home Gym: Equipment Essentials [05:55] Innovative Training Variables and Techniques [09:27] New Equipment Purchases and Their Benefits [12:03] Exploring Unique Training Tools [14:54] Mechanical Advantage Drop Sets and Their Application [17:48] The Importance of Timers in Training [21:08] Core Training: The Ab Roller Experience [23:52] Nostalgia in Fitness: Influences and Inspirations [27:02] Modern Training Techniques and Their Roots [36:31] Training Adaptations in Cold Weather [39:21] Innovative Warm-Up Techniques [42:09] Dynamic Stretching and Strength Training [45:22] Ad Sets: A New Approach to Circuit Training [51:33] Intentional Training: The Bodybuilder vs. Powerlifter Debate [58:04] Strength vs. Athletic Performance: Finding Balance Stay Connected 💡 Join the Ronin community for weekly insights, tips, and motivation! 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @oberther @smittydiesel 🌐 Visit Our Website: www.becomingroninpodcast.com 🛠 Share Your Journey: Tag us with #BecomingRonin100 and let us know how you’re taking control of your fitness and personal growth journey! 👍 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone ready to level up their life! Sponsors 💪 Jocko Fuel Shop now and save with code RONIN10! 🛡 Iron Neck Improve neck strength and save 10%! 💧 LMNT Electrolytes Get FREE LMNT with your first order! ❄️ The Plunge Save $150 on the ultimate cold plunge tank! Support the Show Every like, review, and share helps us inspire more people on their self-mastery journey. Together, we can grow stronger, more disciplined, and live better lives. Hashtags for SEO #BecomingRonin #FitnessJourney #SelfMastery #WorkoutTips #Empowerment #FitnessProgramming #GrowthMindset #Podcast
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