The CrossFit Pittsburgh Podcast
We have been a CrossFit Affiliate since 2006. We are one of the originals. My wife and I opened our doors when I was home between deployments to Iraq. It's been an amazing adventure spanning thousands of miles between us over the course of 12 years deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. We formed amazing bonds. Lost good friends. And learned a lot about ourselves and our community. Throughout the course of this Podcast we will discuss all of that and more. We will talk about the people we have encountered along the way and the lessons we learned.
Episodes
44 episodes
Finding Your Way in CrossFit: Embracing Positivity and Community
This episode critiques the oversimplification of CrossFit by fitness influencers while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in personal training and the unique journeys within the fitness community. We discuss how to discern quality fitne...
•
3:27
Community, Gratitude, and Giving Back with Born Primitive and CrossFit Pittsburgh
Have you ever wondered how a family business could transform the fitness/tactical/outdoor apparel world and make a $10 million impact on veterans' lives? This Thanksgiving morning, we celebrate the power of community and collaboration, highligh...
•
8:30
Giving Thanks: Celebrating Family, Community, and the Spirit of CrossFit
What if Thanksgiving was more than just turkey and pie, but a chance to truly connect with the people who matter most in your life? Today, I invite you to share in a heartfelt message of gratitude that spans generations and celebrates both fami...
•
4:35
#34: Supporting Our Veterans: Born Primitive's Mission and Personal Stories of Service
Listen to Born Primitive's remarkable initiative, where they pledge 100% of their online profits to alleviate $5 million in veteran's medical debt. As someone with firsthand experience in the Navy and Government service, I share a personal stor...
•
6:35
#33: Two childhood friends and the Evolution of Evolution Jiu-Jitsu, Pittsburgh
Ever wondered how a lifelong journey in martial arts begins with a simple need for self-defense? Join us as we explore this question through our personal stories, starting from the wrestling mats at Central Catholic with my childhood friend, Ro...
•
56:06
Reflecting on Gaza: Tragedy, Teamwork, and Legacy
What if a single change in orders led to a tragedy that altered the course of your life? Join me as I recount the harrowing events in the Gaza Strip and reflect on the profound sense of loss that followed the devastating attack on Bravo Team, m...
•
12:42
Honoring the Navy: Celebrating 249 Years of Legacy and Service
Celebrating the 249th birthday of the United States Navy invites us to journey through its rich history, starting from its inception on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Navy was established by the Second Continental Congress. Experience t...
•
3:48
You Are Never Too Old to Start Something New
As a CrossFit affiliate owner and jiu-jitsu practitioner, I highlight the seamless transition and draw parallels between these disciplines, reminding you that age is just a number. With a mindset geared towards lifelong learning and fitness, I ...
•
8:30
Pushing Limits: Hero Workouts and Challenging Your Mental Toughness
Can you push your limits and conquer both physical and mental barriers? This episode is about overcoming extraordinary challenges through our special focus on hero workouts this September. We're paying tribute to the courageous military service...
•
5:48
The Power of CrossFit: Building Resilience and Empathy
Ever wondered how unexpected places can spark deep, meaningful connections? Meet Kelsey Elder, a standout athlete from CrossFit Pittsburgh, as he takes us on his incredible journey through the CrossFit landscape from Richmond to Pittsburgh. Kel...
•
1:13:30
Everyday Carry Essentials: Practical Insights, Personal Stories, and Mastery
How well do you know your everyday carry (EDC) gear? In this episode, we challenge you to rethink your familiarity with the tools you carry daily. From reliable folding knives to durable sunglasses, we break down the essentials that ensure you’...
•
25:51
Creating the Perfect CrossFit Home Gym: Equipment, Stories, and Family Fitness
Ready to revolutionize your home workout space? Discover the ultimate guide to creating a functional and inspiring home gym that fits your CrossFit needs. We cover everything from the essentials like customized rigs and adjustable dumbbells to ...
•
57:52
Systemic Failures and Their Role in Tragedy
What if the response to a life-threatening situation wasn't just inadequate but downright alarming? Join me as I dissect the unsettling social media reactions to the recent attempt on President Donald Trump's life, exposing deeper societal issu...
•
16:56
Honoring the Brave: Stories of American Patriots
What if the true cost of our freedom was hidden in the harrowing sacrifices of those who dared to dream of independence? This Independence Day, we uncover the compelling and often tragic stories of the signers of the Declaration of Independence...
•
4:45
Coach Profile: Rachel Mitlo
Rachel Mitlow's journey from a non-athlete to finding strength and confidence through CrossFit is nothing short of inspiring. Encouraged by her husband Jay after the birth of their third child, Rachel's story transforms from initial intimidation t...
•
1:13:07
Coach Profile: Blake Schaub, Part 3
What does it take to become an extraordinary CrossFit athlete? Join us as Blake Schaub and I share nearly 40 years of CrossFit wisdom, reminiscing about the rich histories of CrossFit Pittsburgh and CrossFit Iron City. Blake recounts an inspiri...
•
52:57
Coach Profile: Blake Schaub, Part 2
What happens when passion meets perseverance? Join us for an inspiring episode as we reconnect with our first-ever coach, Blake Schaub. We dive into heartfelt conversations about our sons' fitness journeys, from the challenges of CrossFit to th...
•
52:07
Coach Profile: Blake Schaub, Part 1
Today we talk with our first Coach, (other than my wife Jennifer and myself) Blake Schaub. Join us as we reminisce about our humble beginnings, transforming an old automotive garage into Verona's first CrossFit gym. From our first grueling "300...
•
52:26
Coach Profile: Byron Nash
Imagine discovering how a self-taught musician mastered the ropes of CrossFit coaching and brought his unique flair to the gym. We kick off our Coaches Profile series by featuring Byron Nash, who's been a pillar of the CrossFit Pittsburgh commu...
•
1:47:23
Tel Aviv, Part 5: Gaza
"Echo" Frayne joins us on a journey that is anything but ordinary. Today, we peer into the shadowed world of diplomatic security in conflict zones, starting with a tale of an anti-tank mine at Erez Crossing laid by Hamas. The tension couldn't b...
•
1:16:55
Tel Aviv, Part 4: Gaza
Navigating the unpredictable currents of private security, Franye and I share firsthand accounts that illuminate the high stakes of government contracts and the critical importance of team dynamics. We peel back the curtain on the costly conseq...
•
57:51
Tel Aviv, Part 3: Gaza
When the chaos of Gaza City's front lines collides with the unseen battles of diplomatic security, it's not just about surviving—it's about understanding the price of protection. This account, as raw as the wounds of war, pulls back the curtain...
•
1:09:55
Episode 4b: Tel Aviv, Echoes of Conflict Experiencing Israel Through a Contractor's Eyes
Embark with us on a gripping sojourn into the heart of Israel's diplomatic security landscape, as I chronicle my experiences alongside Duke, a seasoned Diplomatic Security Service agent. Our mission: to navigate the treacherous terrain of Gaza,...
•
1:07:52