Eric Carmody - From CrossFit Games to Christ

In this episode, Brett sits down with Eric Carmody, a CrossFit Games athlete, husband, father, and Christian, to unpack his journey through elite sport, injury, faith, and transformation. Eric’s story takes us from football fields to CrossFit gyms across the globe, through devastating injury and unexpected detours, and ultimately to a new life built on truth in Christ.Key Topics & HighlightsThe Injury That Changed EverythingEric tore his rotator cuff (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor) and ligament in a freak accident on the rings before the CrossFit Open.Surgery left him sidelined for 9+ months, forcing him to rethink identity, fitness, and recovery.CrossFit JourneyFormer defensive lineman at Jacksonville University → lost 80+ lbs through P90X and running → discovered CrossFit on a trip to Costa Rica.Progressed from early competitions to qualifying for the CrossFit Games (Asia Regional champ, Invictus athlete in San Diego).Reflections on CrossFit’s growth: from ESPN broadcasts to transforming mainstream gym culture (reviving barbell and free weight training).Life Abroad: Korea YearsMoved to Seoul, South Korea to coach at Reebok CrossFit Sentinel during its explosive boom.Experienced rapid gym expansion, investor culture, and eventually the collapse of the franchise.Shares wild stories about expat life, drinking culture, and gym politics, including immigration challenges and shady business dealings.Competition & Training InsightsTraining twice a day, 5 days a week: “There’s no secret—just suffering consistently.”The truth about zone 2 training vs. hard intervals in elite CrossFit prep.Known for freak strength numbers, including a 255 lb strict press (well above most elite athletes).Faith JourneyCame to San Diego in 2017, still not a believer.A relationship with a pastor led him into Scripture (Book of John).Conviction about lifestyle led to repentance and leaving sin behind.A pivotal sermon on the Prodigal Son & the 99/1 sheep in Luke broke through: realizing he was the “one” Jesus sought.Shares the cost of obedience, breaking off a relationship, and rebuilding life with God at the center.Legacy & TruthEric’s story is about resilience through pain, the emptiness of chasing performance, and the greater calling found in faith.He emphasizes discipline, honesty, and perseverance as the foundation for both fitness and faith.