Grit and Resilience with Mike Kelly and Alex Ptacek | Stronger Is Better Podcast #5

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Stronger Is Better Podcast, host Nick Delgadillo speaks with Alex Ptacek, Head Coach at Starting Strength Chicago, and his trainee Mike Kelly. Mike shares the gripping and ultimately inspiring story of suffering a catastrophic quad injury—followed by multiple surgeries, setbacks, and an unwavering commitment to recovery. Alex and Mike detail the coaching, rehab, and mindset needed to not only recover but hit PRs after the injury.This episode is a masterclass in first principles thinking, coaching accountability, and what’s possible when grit meets process. Whether you’re a coach, trainee, or recovering from injury yourself—this one is not to be missed.00:00 - Intro and guest introductions01:15 - Alex’s background and entry into coaching04:55 - Mike’s long training history and CrossFit roots07:00 - Mike’s first serious injury and how it led to Starting Strength11:00 - The value of strength and discovering Rip17:30 - Injury mindset, aging, and training smarter27:00 - The squat injury and ambulance ride34:10 - First surgery and complications42:00 - Training with only one functioning quad49:00 - Re-injury and second surgery1:04:50 - Tourniquet bruise, setback, and third surgery1:14:00 - Training mentality and persistence1:21:00 - Running again—why movement matters1:26:00 - Final thoughts: gratitude, recovery, and moving forward⸻🔗 Brought to you by https://www.startingstrengthgyms.com🎧 New episodes every other week on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify📩 Send feedback or questions to: [email protected]