CrossFit, Gangs, and Grace: The Mission Behind Underground PDX (EP.016)

Scott and Gwenna Bradley are the heart and backbone of Underground PDX, a nonprofit CrossFit affiliate that serves kids and families in one of Oregon’s most high-risk communities. In this episode, they open up about trauma, healing, and the power of love and consistency.  Scott shares his personal story — from addiction and incarceration to ministry and coaching. Gwenna reflects on how structure, emotional regulation, and compassion allow them to reach kids dealing with poverty, violence, and instability. This isn’t just about workouts. It’s about showing up, building trust, and helping young people believe they matter. Topics Included How Underground PDX began — and why Gwenna lets the kids choose their mentors. What Scott’s personal journey through addiction, abuse, and recovery taught him about serving youth. How Gwenna balances structure with compassion to reach kids labeled “too difficult.” The emotional cost of building trust — and why a hug might matter more than a PR. Why they’re now training the next generation of coaches from within their own block. Resources Mentioned Underground PDX (https://undergroundpdx.org) Hope Center PDX CrossFit Grit 346 Steve’s Club (now FYR) Community Highlight:  Erin Rees has owned an affiliate before. But this one — CrossFit Comeback — is different. After hiding her own struggles with alcohol during her first run as a gym owner, Erin eventually hit a breaking point. With the support of her family and a treatment program, she got sober. And when she found her way back to CrossFit in 2022, it became part of her healing. Now, she’s giving that same lifeline to others. At CrossFit Comeback in Clinton, Mississippi, Erin and her husband run a free class specifically for individuals in recovery. They train for 30 minutes — then sit together and talk about recovery. Nine of those 25 participants have become full members. As Erin puts it: “It’s never too late for a comeback.” Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here Share Your Thoughts:  Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here