The Kids Table

Season Johnson pulls up a chair at The Kids Table this week for a conversation that hits home for Gunnar and brings you inside a world most people never see. Working closely with children battling cancer, Season shares what her day-to-day actually looks like, from building trust with kids and families to showing up in moments that carry real weight. It’s not just about care, it’s about presence, consistency, and being someone people can lean on when everything feels uncertain.Along the way the crew gets into the emotional reality of the work, how you learn to communicate with both kids and parents in high-stakes situations, and what it takes to stay grounded while carrying stories that don’t just stay at the hospital. Season also shares her experience caring for Gunnar’s daughter, Monroe, offering a deeply personal look at what that relationship meant on both sides of it and how moments like that shape the way she shows up in her work. She opens up about the lessons these kids have taught her, the perspective that comes from being around that kind of strength, and how it’s changed the way she approaches life outside of work. It’s honest, human, and full of the kind of perspective that sticks with you long after the conversation ends. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. LETS GET SOCIAL:Season Johnson:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/seasonjohnson/)Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/seasonmjohnson/) Website - (https://seasonjohnson.com/) About Season Johnson:Over a decade ago, our family walked through 3.5 years of childhood cancer, and what began as one mother desperately searching for answers has grown into something I never could have dreamed. Today, I have the profound honor of supporting thousands of children and families around the world navigating cancer with the same integrative roadmap that changed our son's story. It is not lost on me for a single day, what a privilege that is.But before any of that I was just a girl who married her hot husband. Twenty-two years later, I'm still convinced I got the better end of that deal. Together we've built a life that has always found itself near something wild and beautiful, whether that's mountains or the ocean. We've called Mexico home, navigated life in a second language (my Spanish is enthusiastically broken, bless everyone who's had to listen), and landed where we are now, soaking up the sunshine of San Diego.We have two teenagers who keep us humble and laughing. Our daughter Selah, whom we had the honor and privilege of adopting at birth, is one of the greatest gifts our family has ever received. Her little brother Kicker rounds out our crew and keeps things wonderfully loud, and we celebrate his healing daily. Our home is full, full of faith, full of yummy healing food, an overly crowded supplement & remedy drawer and full of people we love deeply.This life, every hard and beautiful chapter of it, is what shapes how I show up for every family I work with. I'm not just a practitioner handing you a protocol. I'm a mom who has walked the hardest road and come out the other side with a map. And I want to hand it to you.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪https://www.youtube.com/@TheCastCollective)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Graham Barham pulls up a chair at The Kids Table this week for a conversation that moves from small-town Louisiana to sold-out stages, with a whole lot of real life in between. Graham shares how his career has taken off in Nashville, what it actually looks like behind the scenes of songwriting and touring, and how he’s learning to balance the chaos of the lifestyle with the discipline it takes to keep showing up. From early days figuring it out to navigating success in real time, he brings an honest look at what this phase of life really feels like.Along the way the crew gets into everything from drinking culture and creativity to fitness, performance, and the tension between knowing better and still doing it anyway. There are stories about life on the road, lessons from mentors, and a lot of self-awareness about what it means to grow without losing the edge that got you there in the first place. It’s funny, unfiltered, and full of the kind of perspective that only comes from being right in the middle of itThank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Graham Barham:Instagram - (https://www.instagram.com/grahambarham/)Tiktok - (https://www.tiktok.com/@grahambarham)Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/grahambarhamusic/)Youtube - (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXpe_hp0mJoXDKqMDrAqzIQ)Website - (https://www.grahambarham.com/)About Graham Barham:Graham Barham is a Louisiana native turned Nashville-based country artist who’s quickly building a name for himself with a mix of raw honesty, Southern grit, and a sound that blends country roots with a modern edge. Raised in a small town where music, sports, and long nights with friends all collided, Graham’s storytelling pulls straight from real life. It’s equal parts hard work, bad decisions, and figuring things out as you go.After making the move to Nashville, he leaned fully into songwriting and performing, cutting his teeth in writers’ rooms and on stages across the city. His music reflects where he’s at in real time. Not polished to perfection, but honest, self-aware, and unafraid to show both the discipline it takes to chase something and the chaos that comes with it.With a growing fanbase and momentum behind him, Graham represents a new wave of country artists who aren’t trying to fit a mold. They’re just telling the truth as they live it.Get Your Tickets To See Graham!APR 21 Grand Ole Opry House Nashville, TNAPR 24 Vidalia Onion Festival 2026 Vidalia, GAMAY 1 Rivers Casino Portsmouth, Porthsmouth, VAMAY 2 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival 2026 Winchester, VAMAY 16 Mandalay Beach Las Vegas, NVJUN 13 Rock The South 2026 Decatur, ALJUN 19 Tailgate N' Tallboys 2026 Bloomington, ILJUN 26 Greeley Stampede 2026 Greeley, COJUL 17 Country Jam USA 2026 Eau Claire, WIJUL 25 Union County Fairgrounds Marysville OHAUG 14 Boots On The Bend 2026 South Bend, INProduced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪https://www.youtube.com/@TheCastCollective)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Ivey Childers sits down at The Kids Table this week for a conversation that moves from building a custom cake business in Nashville to launching her own tequila brand. Ivey shares how her journey started with curiosity in the kitchen, teaching herself how to bake through trial and error, and how that same instinct led her into a completely new industry years later. From early days testing recipes at work to scaling a business she eventually sold, her path is anything but traditional.Along the way the crew talks about creativity, risk, and what it looks like to trust your instincts when there’s no clear blueprint. From balancing artistry with business operations to chasing that feeling of building something from scratch, this episode captures the mindset behind starting over and staying connected to what you actually enjoy doing. It’s thoughtful, honest, and full of the kind of perspective that comes from figuring things out as you go. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Ivey Childers:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/iveychilders/)Website - (https://drinksouthbound.com/)About Ivey Childers:Ivey Childers is both a spirited Entrepreneur and esteemed Recipe Developer. Creator of the viral IveyCake, a Nashville-based bakery founded in 2007, Ivey quickly gained impressive media attention and rallying support from the biggest names in Music with over 40 made-from-scratch cake flavor combinations. In addition to features on GAC and Today in Nashville, Ivey has made multiple appearances on The Food Network, and has been featured in several global publications including People Magazine due to her impressive celebrity cake designs. From Carrie Underwood’s Wedding Cake to Katy Perry’s Birthday Cake on American Idol, Ivey quickly became a trusted name for industry legends and for Music Industry celebrations like CMT Awards, CMA Fest and the Grand Ole Opry. Acquired in 2019, the IveyCake legacy continues on as one of Nashville’s favorite sweet spots.Ivey’s journey from cupcakes to cocktails was a natural progression. Bringing her recipe development skills home after long days at the bakery, Ivey created tequila-based cocktails to unwind and entertain. After 15 years of searching for the “perfect sipper and mixer”, Ivey took the journey Southbound to Jalisco, Mexico, where she worked extensively with a Master Distiller to find that unique, premium tequila to mix, sip, and savor. Thus, Southbound was born, beginning a new chapter in the Entrepreneur’s career. As Co-founder & CEO of Southbound, Ivey’s mission is to make the consumer tequila choice smoother in an overwhelming market; inviting beginners & tequila enthusiasts alike to Take the Journey Southbound and Rediscover Tequila with a premium, all-occasion spirit anyone can enjoy.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Robbie Kroger pulls up a chair at The Kids Table this week and quickly turns a conversation about a controversial hunting photo into something much bigger. He shares how he found his way into wildlife conservation, why he’s focused on changing the narrative around hunting, and what people often miss when they react to what they see online. From crocodiles and conservation funding to the role hunters actually play in protecting wildlife, Robbie brings context to a topic that usually gets reduced to headlines.Along the way the crew leans into the gray area, talking through emotional reactions, conflicting beliefs, and how hard it can be to hold two ideas at once. There are stories from the field, moments of real perspective shifts, and a deeper look at what it takes to build something with purpose in a space that invites constant pushback. It’s honest, layered, and exactly the kind of conversation that makes you think a little differently walking away.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Robbie Kroger:Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/robbie.kroger/)Dr. Robbie Kroger, is the executive director and founder of The Origins Foundation, an organization that is conveying the truth around sustainable use of wildlife all over the world. In today's age it's difficult to understand what is right and what is wrong when it comes to wildlife conservation. Who are the good people, who are the bad people? Robbie, is originally from South Africa, has a deep knowledge of conservation systems and wants the best for wildlife at the end of the day. Some may think controversially he promotes hunting as a mechanism for that conservation work - but you will hear directly from him that hunting is not the be all and end all of wildlife conservation - it works very well in certain places, doesn’t work at all in others. Robbie specifically talks to us today about their historic Cheetah Relocation work. Cheetahs are one of the most endangered carnivores in Southern Africa and as such are constantly looking for habitats to expand into. Robbie and his team in Mozambique found an area and they moved 17 cheetahs into that area, the single largest relocation in history. If you listen to this podcast and want to help feel free to reach out to Robbie at [email protected] - they are also always looking for funds to continue their amazing cheetah work and you can donate through this link: (https://give.theoriginsfoundation.org/campaign/707182/donate)Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Comedian Hugh Howser pulls up a chair at The Kids Table this week for a conversation that moves from Nashville comedy clubs to the psychology of making people laugh. Hugh shares how he stumbled into stand-up after years in the event world with the help from Leanne Morgan, why open-mic nights can make or break a comic, and how learning to connect with an audience matters just as much as the jokes themselves.Along the way the crew talks about the craft behind comedy, the strange path most comedians take to find their voice, and why humor can be one of the most powerful ways to deal with life’s harder moments. From stories about early shows and surprise guest comics to conversations about fitness, discipline, and creativity, this episode captures the unpredictable, hilarious energy that happens when a great storyteller joins The Kids Table.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. https://www.yeti.com/TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to https://www.trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Hugh Howser:As one of America’s premiere event planners, Hugh Howser knows how to give the crowd a good time. He’s been keeping his luxury wedding clients in stitches for years, and now he is graciously taking the comedy club stage so you can buy a ticket to share a “Hughlarious” evening with this larger-than-life comedic force. He doesn’t need the money. He’s already rich! You’re welcome for the opportunity to be in his presence.Growing up among the old money scions of Nashville, Tennessee, Hugh offers a wholly original take on what it takes to be a fabulous southern belle in a modern world. He’s going to call it like he sees it in his signature, southern way. Hugh sports a fabulous mane of big red hair outsized only by the big laughs he gets from his audiences.Hugh’s one-of-a-kind perspective has made him a favorite of comedy legend Leanne Morgan, who is a frequent collaborator. Hugh has become a regular onstage at Zanies in Nashville.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪https://www.youtube.com/@TheCastCollective)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Welcome to Season 2 of The Kids Table! We’ve settled into our new space over at Gunnar’s Nashville HQ, and we couldn’t be more excited to bring you our first guest, Craig Susser! Craig pulls up a chair and proves that the restaurant business isn’t about food. It’s about people. From his early days getting humbled behind the bar at his first serving job to building Craig’s into one of the most talked-about rooms in LA and Nashville, Craig shares how relationships, loyalty, and emotional intelligence are what actually fill tables.He walks through the deal that almost happened, the pivot that forced him to start over, and the risky bet that turned into a packed dining room. Along the way, the crew dives into presence, reinvention, reading a room, and why you can’t take a night off when it’s someone else’s big night out. This one is about passion, perspective, and building something that lasts longer than a trend.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. LETS GET SOCIAL:Gunnar:Instagram - (https://www.instagram.com/gunnarfitness)Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/GunnarFitness)Website - www.gunnarpeterson.comJen:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/jenwiderstrom)Facebook - (https://www.facebook.com/JenWiderstrom)Website - www.jenwiderstrom.comYoutube - @ironjennThe Kids Table:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/kidstablepod)TikTok - (https://www.tiktok.com/@kidstablepod)Craig Susser: Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/craigsrestaurants)Tiktok - (https://www.tiktok.com/@craigsla)Website - (https://craigsnash.com/) About Craig Susser:Craig Susser is the founder and owner of Craig’s, the iconic West Hollywood restaurant that has become one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable dining destinations. Known for its classic American menu, warm hospitality, and loyal celebrity following, Craig’s has established itself as a staple of the LA dining scene since opening in 2011.Before launching Craig’s, Susser built decades of experience in the restaurant industry, working in management and operations at some of Los Angeles’ most prominent establishments. His deep understanding of service, consistency, and guest experience shaped Craig’s into more than just a restaurant—it became a cultural hotspot where Hollywood, business leaders, and longtime locals gather.Under Susser’s leadership, Craig’s is known for its elevated comfort food, vibrant atmosphere, and meticulous attention to detail, as well as its strong vegan offerings that have attracted a wide range of high-profile guests. His commitment to hospitality and relationship-building remains central to the restaurant’s enduring success.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Part two with Brett Bartholomew leans into the messy middle of communication, the part that shows up in relationships, leadership, and the everyday moments where things either connect or quietly fall apart. The crew talks about why the idea of being “self-made” doesn’t really hold up, how vulnerability can be a strength for A-type personalities, and why so many conflicts aren’t about what’s being said at all, but about power, control, and the fear of accountability.The conversation moves between practical tools and personal stories, from Brett’s “keys to me” exercise to the marble jar metaphor that reframes how we think about time, priorities, and the people we keep close. There’s also a wider look at optimization culture and heroic standards, and why chasing perfection can pull you further away from being adaptable, grounded, and real. It’s thoughtful, funny, and quietly emotional in moments, the kind of episode that stays with you after the headphones come off and invites you to show up a little differently in the conversations that matter most.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Brett Bartholomew:Brett Bartholomew is a strength and conditioning coach, author, consultant, and Founder of Art of Coaching™. His experience includes working with athletes both in the team environment and private sector along with members of the United States Special Forces and members of Fortune 500 companies.Taken together, Brett has coached a diverse range of athletes from across 23 sports world-wide, at levels ranging from youth athletes to Olympians. He’s supported numerous Super Bowl and World Series Champions, along with several professional fighters in both professional boxing as well as the UFC.As an advisor/entrepreneur, Brett has proudly served as a teammate and supporting partner in the strategic growth of two separate performance companies. He is a highly sought-after consultant and mentor for many world-wide. His work and expertise has been featured in numerous media outlets such as ESPN, FOX Sports, Inc. Magazine and Outside Magazine.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Welcome back to The Kids Table, where the conversation starts with fitness and quickly turns into something much bigger. In part one of this conversation, Brett Bartholomew pulls up a chair to talk about the part of coaching nobody puts on a whiteboard: communication. From locker rooms to living rooms, the crew digs into what it actually means to connect with people, build trust, and show up as a steady presence in a world that feels louder, faster, and more distracted by the day.They explore why great programs fall flat without great relationships, how first-principles thinking can change the way you lead, and why being “right” matters less than being received. Along the way, there are stories about misread body language, awkward feedback, love languages, and the fine line between passion and aggression. It’s part coaching clinic, part human behavior deep dive, and part group chat energy. Expect thoughtful insights, honest self-reflection, and the kind of conversation that sets the table for what’s coming in part two.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.About Brett Bartholomew:Brett Bartholomew is a strength and conditioning coach, author, consultant, and Founder of Art of Coaching™. His experience includes working with athletes both in the team environment and private sector along with members of the United States Special Forces and members of Fortune 500 companies.Taken together, Brett has coached a diverse range of athletes from across 23 sports world-wide, at levels ranging from youth athletes to Olympians. He’s supported numerous Super Bowl and World Series Champions, along with several professional fighters in both professional boxing as well as the UFC.As an advisor/entrepreneur, Brett has proudly served as a teammate and supporting partner in the strategic growth of two separate performance companies. He is a highly sought-after consultant and mentor for many world-wide. His work and expertise has been featured in numerous media outlets such as ESPN, FOX Sports, Inc. Magazine and Outside Magazine.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

To kick off 2026 at The Kids Table, we’ve pulled the moments from 2025 that still make us laugh, pause, and learn along side of. This compilation episode is a highlight reel of The Kids Table at its most unfiltered, pulling together the stories, side tangents, and conversations that stuck with us long after the mics were off.You’ll hear late-night honesty, ridiculous inside jokes, deep reflections on friendship, fatherhood, balance, and why success is usually closer than people think. There are reminders about community, doing the work, and not taking yourself too seriously, mixed with the chaos and chemistry that built this show in the first place. It’s not about one lesson or one takeaway. It’s about the moments that shaped the year and set the tone for what’s next. Welcome to 2026.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to https://www.trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪https://www.youtube.com/@TheCastCollective)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

To send 2025 out right, we grabbed our favorite listener questions of the year and stitched them into one big Kids Table hang. You will hear trainers asking how to turn a side hustle into a real career, new moms wondering how to juggle strength and cardio, and coaches trying to play nicely with high school programs while still doing their job.In between, the three of them unpack sleep, longevity, heavy lifting for women, body composition after forty, and what to do when imposter syndrome starts whispering in your ear. It is equal parts tough love, practical strategy, and the kind of honest perspective you rarely get in a perfectly filtered fitness world.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Garth Bouldin is proof you do not need a massive platform to be a massive presence. He is Gunnar’s next door neighbor, the owner of Gateway Tire, and the kind of guy who makes you believe customer service and character still matter.What starts as a funny story about Gunnar outbidding him for the property next door turns into a real conversation about trust, relationships, and why people come back for the person long after the sets and reps, or the tires and brakes, are handled. Garth breaks down how he thinks about time, follow through, and taking care of people without needing to be asked twice. The crew also gets into purpose, patience, and what happens when your identity is tied to having somewhere to go and something to work toward. It’s funny, grounded, unexpectedly thoughtful, and a reminder that the basics still work: show up, do what you said you would do, and take care of people.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI : Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Garth Bouldin:Personal Instagram - (https://www.instagram.com/garthb12)Gateway Tire Instagram - (https://www.instagram.com/gatewayoffroad)Garth’s Radio Show!High School Power Hour:Airs every Friday Night from 9-11pm on 104.5 the ZoneDirect Link - (https://omny.fm/shows/high-school-power-hour)X - (https://x.com/HSpowerhour)Instagram - (https://www.instagram.com/hspowerhour/)About Garth: By day, Garth Bouldin is a mild-mannered executive, keeping Gateway Tire in Franklin humming with happy customers. But after that, he’s one of the staunchest supporters of high school athletics in Williamson County.Bouldin has combined his work and his passion. Gateway Tire, along with The Trophy House and WAKM-AM (950), sponsors a player of the week award in football and basketball, and follows that up with a player of the year award for county athletes. This will mark the sixth year for the awards.When he moved to Williamson County 24 years, the landscape was different, with far fewer schools and teams. Now the presentation of weekly awards allows Bouldin and his business to continue to recognize the entire county, even though it has grown.Bouldin himself has become a local celebrity of sorts in the process. He appears often on Terry Merrell’s Thursday sports-talk show on WAKM-AM radio during the football and basketball season, and on many Friday nights can be found helping Merrell and color analyst Stormy Mitchell fill up the football half-time periods with insightful observations and thoughts.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Your questions, our hot seat. In this Q& A episode, we break down HIIT fatigue, why most people are under-recovering instead of overtraining, and how to cycle heavy lifts, isometrics, and bodyweight work when life gets busy. We debate the Smith machine, talk through real paths to “success” in the industry, and show how body composition can change at 40 and beyond with basic habits done well. Expect straight answers, training ideas you can steal, and the reminder that consistency and curiosity beat perfection every time.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Whether it’s a post-hunt toast or you just landed another in the boat, go bottoms up with the YETI Shot Glasses. Designed to stack and pack in a portable carrying container, four shot glasses are ready to deploy anytime you need to knock one back. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

This week’s episode starts with fake sick days and somehow ends up in breakups, burnout, and why trainers should stop pretending they have perfect balance. Gunnar, Luke, and Jen talk through the messy, funny, very human moments that actually shape a healthy life. If you have ever faked an illness, questioned a relationship, or wondered why your kid can outsmart you, this feels like the right table to sit at.From travel fatigue to emotional resets to the expectations people place on fitness professionals, nothing is off-limits. The crew also revisits the late-night hangs, family dynamics, and early friendships that built the foundation for this show. Honest, warm, and full of the kind of perspective you only get from real life, this one captures exactly what The Kids Table does best.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

This week, The Kids Table takes a step back into the early days of lockdown: the makeshift gyms, the six-foot sticks, the CPR tests, and the cul-de-sac friendships that kept everyone afloat when the world shut down. Gunnar, Luke, and Jen break down how they trained, coped, and kept people moving with zero equipment, no certainty, and a whole lot of chaos swirling around them. They revisit the strange blend of humor, fear, and unexpected community that shaped that year.They also get honest about the work side: how trainers scrambled when gyms closed, what shifted permanently in fitness culture, and why cheering for your friends carries more weight than cheering for pro athletes. Between stories of masked-up workouts, neighborly antics, and the odd celebrity drop-in, they land on the same truth: people need people. This episode is equal parts nostalgia, humanity, and the reminder that showing up for each other matters long after the world goes back to normal. Oh and it’s also a reminder that you maybe shouldn’t hand the phone to Dolph Lundgren with your drunk dad on the other line.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

This one is for anyone who wants the truth behind transformation. Jen brings on Sarah Gilbert to revisit their season of The Biggest Loser, recap the recent documentary, and talk through what it got right, what was missed, and what the cameras never showed. They unpack how the show worked, where it went wrong, and how a real relationship can protect people inside a machine built for ratings. Sarah talks about losing over 100 pounds, going home without cameras, finding her footing again, and redefining success as a parent and a human. The crew breaks down key claims from the film around aftercare, safety, and the scale, then share tools that last, accountability you can actually keep, and the freedom of not letting a number run your life. This episode is for the Biggest Loser lovers and its skeptics.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

The crew kicks back to answer your questions. Everything from imposter syndrome to cold plunges and creatine. It’s part fitness, part therapy, and part group chat you didn’t know you needed. They get real about motivation dips, burnout, and why sometimes stepping away from your goals is the best way to find them again. With plenty of laughs, stories, and strong opinions along the way, this one feels like catching up with your training partners after a long week.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

If you’ve been told surgery is your only option, Dr. Ethan Kellum is here to challenge that narrative. The Nashville orthopedic surgeon joins Gunnar, Luke, and Jen to break down how regenerative medicine is shifting what’s possible for injured joints, aging athletes, and anyone trying to stay active without constant setbacks. They talk Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) vs stem cells, when to get a second opinion, and how simple changes in food, sleep, and strength can rewind the wear-and-tear clock. The crew also goes there on concussions, peptides, and the messy gap between “standard of care” and what actually works. Smart, hopeful, and packed with tools you can use now. It’s part science class, part coaching session, and full permission to push for better answers about your own body.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Dr. Ethan Kellum:Dr. Ethan Kellum is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, shoulder surgery, and advanced arthroscopic techniques. With a distinguished career caring for elite athletes, he currently serves as a Team Physician for the NFL’s Tennessee Titans and USA Basketball, and he is a former Assistant Team Physician for the NBA’s Boston Celtics, as well as Harvard and Tufts University Athletics.A graduate of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Dr. Kellum completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the Medical College of Georgia, followed by advanced fellowship training in sports medicine at New England Baptist Hospital and Boston Children’s Hospital. He is an elected member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.Widely published and a sought-after speaker, Dr. Kellum has contributed to leading orthopedic journals, book chapters, and national conferences, with a focus on innovative treatments that restore function and optimize recovery. He combines cutting-edge biologic therapies with orthopedic expertise to help patients achieve long-term healing without unnecessary surgery.With a passion for helping patients - from professional athletes to active individuals - Dr. Kellum is committed to providing compassionate, personalized care rooted in the latest advancements in sports medicine and orthopedics.Dr. Kellum recommended Gelatin!(https://www.perfectsupplements.com/Perfect-Bovine-Gelatin-p/ps-gelatin.htm?searchid=0&search_query=Perfect+bovine+gelatin+)Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

The crew takes questions straight from the comments in this listener Q&A episode of The Kids Table. From sleep hacks and heavy lifting to finding your way out of a training rut, Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom get candid about what’s actually working for them right now. They break down why “heavy” isn’t a number, how to train smart over 40, and why sleep is the real flex.You’ll hear stories about late-night training sessions, crash diets, and what happens when you try to wake up at 3:30 a.m. for 30 years. Plus: the truth about machine workouts, travel training, ab myths, and how to build momentum when you’ve lost motivation. Expect plenty of laughs, a few tangents, and enough practical takeaways to reignite your own routine.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Ed Streit drops by (literally out of the pantry) for a birthday surprise and a masterclass on culture. In this episode of The Kids Table, former Lakers strength coach Ed Streit reunites with mentor Gunnar Peterson to relive a whirlwind championship season: the China trip chaos, the shock of Kobe’s passing, the COVID shutdown, and the Zoom-era weight room. Ed shares with Jen and Luke how his “interview” with Gunnar went from ACL protocols to “can we actually hang on the road?”, why culture beats clipboards, and how equipment drops to every player’s house kept the squad moving when facilities were closed. There’s locker-room humor (and a jump-scare reveal), but also the real stuff.From there, the crew zooms out: what it means to chase community after you’ve already stood on the mountaintop, why you can’t recreate lightning without the right people, and how to build environments players (or clients) want to enter. Ed talks about stepping away from the NBA and what’s next for him. Expect inside stories, practical coaching takeaways, and a reminder that the best programs start with culture and end with results.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Ed Streit:After six seasons as Head Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Los Angeles Lakers (10 seasons in the NBA), Ed Streit launched a private performance practice based in Los Angeles, working with elite professional athletes, entertainers, and high-net-worth individuals. His focus is on delivering championship-caliber training in a private, results-driven setting: Designing tailored performance programs for athletes, leading high-touch return-to-play strategies in collaboration with medical teams, agents, and performance staff, supporting entertainers and executives seeking to train at a world-class level, and consulting with collegiate and professional organizations to modernize strength & conditioning and performance systems.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Pirates, eyepatches, and oxygen masks—just another day at The Kids Table. In this solo-meets-call-in episode, Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom riff on camaraderie (old rugby reunions and Biggest Loser catch-ups), the myth of “balance,” and why starting now beats waiting for Monday. There’s a rapid-fire “Don’t Not Do It” segment reacting to gym TikToks, a spirited debate on discipline vs. circumstance, and a reminder that the body stays coachable at any age if you just start.Then the phones light up: Mackenzie Parkes (Training Mate Dallas) asks how to turn training into a career while prepping for Hyrox, cue the crew’s playbook on white-belt curiosity, “industry of poaching”, authenticity, scheduling your own workouts like client appointments, and sharing competition prep without alienating clients. Amanda Casillo (Fit By Amanda) calls in about launching a sold-out Women’s Lift Club without burning out, so the team gets tactical: plan in short cycles, align with your partner, protect home base, and build sustainably. Expect laughs, straight talk, and practical coaching takeaways you can use today.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.Callers: Mackenzie Parkes:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/mackenzieparkes_)Amanda Casillo:Insta - (https://www.instagram.com/fitbyamanda.az)Website - (https://www.fitbyamanda.com)Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

No guest, plenty of honesty. In this solo recap of the Cal Dietz two-parter, Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom unpack the firestorm in their comments and turn it into a real conversation about coaching, curiosity, and manners on the internet. They talk trolls, “post and ghost,” and why disagreement is healthy when it comes with respect. You’ll hear how a missing word in a caption sparked a pile-on, why experiential learning makes Cal’s ideas click, and how community beats clout when it comes to raising the bar in strength and conditioning.They also get honest about ego, accountability, and the courage to be vulnerable in public. From injury-prevention nuance to cancel-culture hot takes, the crew keeps it candid and constructive, inviting coaches and athletes alike to ask better questions, listen harder, and keep showing up. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Stay hydrated with the YETI Rambler + Chug Cap. Ice stays ice, water doesn’t leak, and it’s so light, yet still so durable. It’s the bottle that keeps up. Find it at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

Part two with Cal Dietz takes on a new dynamic as Nashville’s Justin Todd, Houston’s Dose Khan, and MLB strength & conditioning coach Stephanie Mock Grubbs call in with their biggest coaching questions. In this episode of The Kids Table, Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom hand the floor to three fellow coaches dialing in from afar, turning the conversation into a candid Q&A with one of the most innovative minds in strength and conditioning.Cal tackles their questions head-on: how to build collaboration instead of competition among coaches, why addressing weak links like the foot can unlock athletic potential, and how two decades of trial and error shaped his Triphasic approach. The crew also unpacks the tougher realities of the job—navigating online criticism, balancing the explosion of social media trainers, and rethinking injury prevention from ACLs to Achilles tears.It’s equal parts mentorship and roundtable, packed with practical wisdom, plenty of laughs, and the kind of straight answers only Cal Dietz is willing to give.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.About Cal Dietz:Cal Dietz, M.Ed., is the Head Olympic Strength Coach at the University of Minnesota and also serves as the Strength/Performance Coach for the USA Women’s Hockey National/Olympic Team. With over two decades of experience, Cal Dietz has been an Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning coach since 2000. Throughout his career, he has trained athletes who have achieved 540+ All-American honors, trained teams to win 11 NCAA Team National Championships, and coached teams that have won 37 Big Ten/WCHA championships, along with 36 Big Ten/WCHA Conference tournaments. Cal Dietz has been an instrumental figure in guiding teams to 22 NCAA Final Four appearances. Additionally, he has provided his expertise to Olympic and World Champions in various sports, as well as professional athletes in the NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and Professional Boxing.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

When your favorite strength coach sounds brilliant, there’s a good chance they’ve borrowed from Cal Dietz. In this episode of The Kids Table, the longtime University of Minnesota Olympic strength and conditioning coach — and the mind behind the groundbreaking Triphasic Training system — joins Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom for a conversation that’s equal parts nerdy, rowdy, and wildly insightful. With over 25 years coaching elite athletes across every major sport, Cal brings science, curiosity, and eye-opening solutions to the table.They dig into the origins of Triphasic Training, the importance of culture in building buy-in, and how Cal’s obsession with asking “why” reshaped performance coaching worldwide. The crew also explores the fine line between injury prevention and internet criticism, as Cal demonstrates his innovative non-contact ACL solution and the real dynamics behind keeping athletes healthy. Expect candid stories, unexpected laughs, and game-changing takeaways from one of the most influential minds in modern strength and conditioning.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Cal Dietz:Cal Dietz, M.Ed., is the Head Olympic Strength Coach at the University of Minnesota and also serves as the Strength/Performance Coach for the USA Women’s Hockey National/Olympic Team. With over two decades of experience, Cal Dietz has been an Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning coach since 2000. Throughout his career, he has trained athletes who have achieved 540+ All-American honors, trained teams to win 11 NCAA Team National Championships, and coached teams that have won 37 Big Ten/WCHA championships, along with 36 Big Ten/WCHA Conference tournaments. Cal Dietz has been an instrumental figure in guiding teams to 22 NCAA Final Four appearances. Additionally, he has provided his expertise to Olympic and World Champions in various sports, as well as professional athletes in the NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, MMA, and Professional Boxing.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

In this episode of The Kids Table, Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom dive into the wild, winding world of fitness and a few stories they probably weren’t supposed to tell. Between Jen’s upcoming strongman competition, Gunnar’s secret past as “Conrad Black,” and Luke’s theories on the future of group training, this one’s part industry roundtable and part comedy show.They explore the comeback of competitive-style training like Strongman and Hyrox, the power of community in building consistency, and how gyms are quietly becoming the new “college teams” for everyday athletes. You’ll hear candid reflections on overtraining, belonging, and why finding your people might just be the key to finding your purpose. Plus a glimpse at Gunnar’s massive new gym build-out and the gear graveyard lurking outside of it. Expect sharp insights, plenty of laughs, and a reminder that everyone starts somewhere… even if it’s faking an assistant.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.Power Athlete w/ Dr. Robert Clancy: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji78AKM6mgs)Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

What happens when Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom roll into the final day of Summer Strong on less than four hours of sleep and with a giddiness that only comes with being surrounded by the best of the best in Strength and Conditioning? You get conversations that start with testicular health, spiral into microplastics, and land on Lee Haney’s legendary wisdom. In this episode of The Kids Table, the crew recaps their weekend at one of the most iconic gatherings in fitness. It’s equal parts classroom, family reunion, and deadlift party.They cover the highlights of the event, from the inspiration of eight-time Mr. Olympia Lee Haney to unexpected takeaways on tech, training, and community. You’ll hear candid reflections on what makes Summer Strong unlike any other event in the industry, plus the kind of unfiltered banter only this trio can deliver. Expect big laughs, plenty of truth bombs, and a reminder that sometimes just showing up is the most important rep of all.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month – And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

From living in his car to building one of the most respected names in Olympic weightlifting, Sean Waxman knows what it takes to chase passion over paychecks and come out stronger for it. In this episode of The Kids Table, the nationally recognized strength coach, author of Suffer Smarter, and lifelong barbell evangelist sits down with Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom for a conversation that’s equal parts grit, humor, and real talk. Known for his brutal honesty and zero tolerance for shortcuts, Sean shares what decades under the bar have taught him about resilience, culture, and why technique still rules in a world obsessed with quick fixes.They dig into Sean’s unlikely journey from football player to weightlifting coach, his early role in bringing Olympic lifting into the CrossFit boom, and the risks and sacrifices behind starting over more than once. The conversation moves from business lessons to personal philosophy, touching on mentorship, suffering as growth, and what it really means to stick to your “why.” Expect tough love, plenty of laughs, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from a lifetime of lifting more than just weight.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show! YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.About Sean Waxman:Sean Waxman is a renowned Olympic weightlifting coach, author, and speaker whose career has shaped athletes, coaches, and the culture of strength itself. A former competitive lifter, Sean turned his passion for the barbell into a lifelong mission of teaching proper technique, instilling discipline, and building champions without shortcuts.He is also the author of Suffer Smarter, where ​​you'll learn concrete strategies to improve how you handle adversity, discomfort, and stress through the lens of strength training. Sean has trained everyone from aspiring CrossFit athletes to Olympians, helping them master the fundamentals of strength while embracing the resilience that comes from doing hard things. Known for his blunt honesty, sharp humor, and deep knowledge of biomechanics and training, Sean has been a pivotal figure in bringing Olympic lifting into the mainstream and mentoring the next generation of coaches.With decades of experience under the bar, Sean continues to advocate for the values that matter most: authenticity, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in sport, business, and life.Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

From combat zones to conservation work, Rudy Reyes has lived a life most people can’t imagine, and wouldn’t survive. In this episode of The Kids Table, the former Recon Marine, Special Forces operator, actor, and host and Chief Instructor of Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test joins Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom for a conversation that blends fitness, resilience, and the art of showing up at 100%, no matter the mission. From surviving brutal military training to leading conservation projects and building community, Rudy brings grit, discipline, and a surprising dose of humor to the table.They dig into the mindset that comes from years in special operations, the power of preparation, and the lessons that translate from the battlefield to everyday life. The conversation also explores the role of physical culture in mental health, the balance between pushing limits and knowing when to pull back, and the human connection that fuels true leadership. Expect stories that will make you think, moments that will make you laugh, and insights you’ll want to carry long after the episode ends.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. About Rudy Reyes:Rudy enlisted in the USMC as an infantryman, and graduated as the honour grad and iron man of Boot Camp and School of Infantry. Rudy, due to his merit and initiative, was granted an opportunity to try out for Recon. The Reconnaissance Marine Community is 300 strong, between 5 units, making it the most prestigious and difficult group in a Marine Corps of 300,000. A group that no man may sign up to join but must be invited and prove their worthiness to earn the title of a United States Recon Marine.After being a special forces operator for three years, during which Rudy became a “schooled-out“ (paratrooper, combat diver, demolitions expert, scout sniper, closed quarter combatant, and SERE trained) Recon Marine, Rudy was called for his first combat reconnaissance mission in 2001 in Pakistan – a preparation mission for USA's Special Ops insertion to Afghanistan. Once the war officially started, his team ran operations that located and destroyed Al Qaeda within Afghanistan. In 2003, Rudy’s dear friend and senior Recon mentor was killed. Later in combat, his team leader was wounded in a horrendous night-time ambush, which lead to Rudy leading his four man team after cas-evac (casualty evacuation), through Baghdad to the Syrian Border and back. These events are what the HBO series Generation Kill was based on, telling their story of the Invasion of Iraq. His last active combat was in The Battle of Fallujah and Ramadi in Iraq in 2004, where he served as Senior Team Leader of his platoon. It was a brutal fight that took the lives, and limbs, of some of his most beloved comrades. Rudy finished his service as a highly decorated Special Forces operator with experience of leading over 50 patrols behind enemy lines. He served one tour in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and two tours in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) as a Recon Marine Team Leader and Scout Sniper. Rudy's areas of military expertise are in close quarter battle, urban warfare, amphibious raids and reconnaissance, helicopter insertions/extractions, paratrooper and combat diver missions, clandestine sniper missions as well as plain clothes/undercover operations. He’s operated in a multitude of environments, from urban, mountain, and desert.After leaving the military, Rudy spent time in Africa where he trained wildlife preserve rangers in anti-poaching tactics and later went on to found ‘Force Blue’ a Veteran Non Profit which pairs former Special Operators with Marine Scientists to work rebuilding and restoring coral reefs, saving turtles, and working within the conservation community. He also competes and trains people for Adventure Racing and Martial Arts.In 2008, Rudy appeared on the HBO miniseries Generation Kill, a seven-part series based on Rolling Stone reporter Evan Wright’s 2004 book of the same name. Rudy plays himself, depicting his time as a member of the lead combat force that entered both Afghanistan and Iraq.He also has worked on many survival shows, Apocalypse Man and Ultimate Survivor Alaska.He was also one of the main contributors for multiple BAFTA nominated documentary series Once Upon a Time in Iraq which was also nominated for an Emmy.Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)

From slam dunks to steel strings, this guest knows a thing or two about changing the game. In this episode of The Kids Table, former pro basketball player Meyers Leonard joins hosts Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom for a conversation that blends fitness, personal growth, and the art of starting fresh. From growing up with the loss of his father to competing in the NBA and now making his mark in country music, Meyers brings grit, humility, and humor to the table.They dig into the lessons learned from professional sports, the balance between competition and camaraderie, and how the values of hard work and being a good person carry into every chapter of life. The conversation also explores fatherhood, from the joy of welcoming a child to the challenges of raising the next generation, along with the role community plays in building resilience. Whether you’re here for the sports talk, the training insight, or the inspiration to reinvent yourself, this one’s packed with heart, hustle, and plenty of laughs.Thank you to our sponsor for supporting the show!YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack, the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.About Meyers Leonard:Meyers Leonard is a former NBA center whose career spanned nearly a decade with the Portland Trail Blazers and Miami Heat. Drafted 11th overall in 2012, he became known for his rare combination of size and shooting range, helping lead Portland to multiple playoff appearances, including a memorable Western Conference Finals run in 2019. Over the years, he earned a reputation for his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to community impact both on and off the court.After stepping away from professional basketball, Meyers pivoted to a lifelong passion - country music. Rooted in his Midwestern upbringing, his songs blend heartfelt storytelling with a modern edge. Since launching his music career, he has released tracks including Good for Me, Lost in the Lights, and The Man You Deserve, each earning praise for their authenticity and emotional depth. Meyers has performed at celebrated venues like The Listening Room in Nashville and appeared on festival stages alongside rising country talents, while collaborating with respected songwriters in Music City to hone his craft.Today, Meyers continues to build his presence in the music world while growing new ventures as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. Whether performing for a packed crowd, writing in the studio, or giving back through charitable work, he approaches every chapter with the same drive, resilience, and passion that carried him to the NBA.Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – @TheCastCollective‬Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective/)TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@TheCastCollective)

Come for the school of fitness, stay for the trainer banter. Welcome to the very first episode of The Kids Table, where fitness, the business of fitness, and navigating the life decisions that affect it all, get served with a side of unfiltered conversation. Hosted by Gunnar Peterson, Luke Milton, and Jen Widerstrom, this crew brings decades of experience, plenty of laughs, and a no-nonsense approach to what really matters in the fitness world.In this episode, they dig into the importance of authenticity, the evolution of training methods, and why blending strength and cardio is a game-changer, especially for women. You’ll hear candid takes on navigating life as a trainer, creating safe spaces for clients, and building a supportive community. Whether you’re in the industry or just want to level up your own health, it’s a conversation packed with insight, humor, and real talk.Thank you to our sponsors for supporting the show!YETI: Check out YETI’s new Easy Access Ranchero™ Backpack,the Ranchero’s TuffSkin™ Nylon shell and smart internal layout keep your laptop dry, your shoes separate, and your stuff organized. Check it out at YETI.com or hit up a YETI retail store near you.TRAINHEROIC: Trusted by top coaches since 2012. Plans start at just $10/month– And you get your first 14 days free. Head to trainheroic.com/thekidstable to start your free trial now. Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)YouTube – (‪@TheCastCollective‬)Instagram – (@TheCastCollective)Twitter – (@TheCastCollective)

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