Sustainable Growth—in the Gym and in Business

In this episode, Masterlete founder Jon Pearce sits down with healthcare entrepreneur, strength athlete, and lifelong “do hard things” advocate Thompson Aderinkomi for a wide-ranging conversation on strength, aging, entrepreneurship, and the mindset required to sustain all three over decades.

Thompson shares his approach to lifting heavy well into midlife—from prioritizing compound movements and lower-body strength to why leg day never gets skipped. He opens up about chasing ambitious powerlifting goals, the injury that forced him to slow down, and how recovery, mobility, and rest have become non-negotiables as he ages.

Beyond the gym, the conversation dives deep into parallels between strength training and building companies in healthcare. Thompson reflects on ego, fear, and unrealistic growth expectations—both under a barbell and in venture-backed startups. He explains how injuries and setbacks have sharpened his discipline, reshaped his relationship with rest, and reinforced the importance of long-term durability over short-term wins.

This is an honest, grounded discussion about aging strong, adapting without quitting, and learning to play the long game—whether you’re lifting 400 pounds or building a company that lasts.