The Lions Pit Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Joe Phair, co-founder of Godspeed Nutrition Inc., for a conversation that goes far beyond business and fitness.Joe shares the story behind building Godspeed, including the personal challenges that shaped his path, from rebuilding his health and performance to navigating the realities of entrepreneurship. We dive into the discipline, mindset, and purpose required to create something meaningful in the performance space.We also have an honest and powerful discussion about loss, including the experience of tragically losing a father, and how moments like that can shift perspective, priorities, and the way you approach both life and work.This episode is about resilience, identity, and finding clarity through adversity, whether in business, health, or personal life.Tune in now for a conversation on purpose, perseverance, and growth through life’s hardest moments.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Joe Phair:https://www.instagram.com/godspeedisthefuture/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT"Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focus.https://www.getsett.co/thepitGh05t Muay Thai - 10% OFF with code "THEPIT"Muay Thai training gear and apparelhttps://gh05tbrand.comToss Pizza (Local to Austin, TX) - Use promo code "Gomez"Recorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Halfhill—entrepreneur, founder of Nice Kicks, and competitive HYROX athlete—for a conversation that goes far beyond business or fitness alone.Matt shares his powerful journey of transforming his life, from weighing over 300 pounds to becoming a dedicated athlete competing in HYROX events. We talk about the discipline, mindset, and consistency required to make lasting change, and how those same principles translate directly into building a successful business.We also dive into the story behind Nice Kicks, the evolution of sneaker culture, and what it takes to grow a brand that stands the test of time. From entrepreneurship to endurance racing, Matt breaks down how embracing discomfort, staying committed, and reinventing yourself can open doors in every area of life.Whether you’re focused on fitness, business, or personal growth, this episode is a deep look into what’s possible when you commit fully to the process.Tune in now for a conversation on transformation, resilience, and long-term success.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Matt Halfhill:https://www.instagram.com/matthalfhill/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT"Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focus.https://www.getsett.co/thepitGh05t Muay Thai - 10% OFF with code "THEPIT" Muay Thai training gear and apparelhttps://gh05tbrand.comToss Pizza (Local to Austin, TX) - Use promo code "Gomez"Recorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

In this episode, I sit down with Damien Priester, a coach at Korrect Fitness, to talk about his journey into fitness and what it really means to pursue a passion.Damien shares the story of walking away from a stable, successful career to fully commit to coaching—taking a risk to build something more aligned with purpose, growth, and helping others. We dive into the mindset behind that decision, the challenges that come with starting over, and what he’s learned along the way.We also get into his approach to training, building consistency, and helping clients improve strength, movement, and overall health. From coaching philosophy to the mental side of performance, this conversation gives an inside look at what it takes to make a lasting impact in the fitness space.Whether you’re navigating your own career path or looking to level up your fitness, this episode offers real insight into betting on yourself and doing meaningful work.Subscribe for more long-form conversations on performance, mentorship, masculinity, community, and growth.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Damien Priester: https://www.instagram.com/train_with_dame/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT" Nicotine alternative pouches for clean focus. https://www.getsett.co/thepitGh05t Muay Thai - 10% OFF with code "THEPIT"Muay Thai training gear and apparelhttps://gh05tbrand.comToss Pizza (Local to Austin, TX) - Use promo code "Gomez"Recorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

In this episode, I sit down with Austin Heinz, a Texas-based MMA fighter, to dive into his journey through the world of mixed martial arts. We discuss how he first got started in the sport, the discipline and mindset required to compete, and what it’s like preparing for a fight at this stage in his career.Austin also shares insights into his training routine, the challenges of balancing life outside the cage, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We talk about the mental side of fighting, handling pressure, and staying focused while working toward long-term goals in such a demanding sport.Whether you’re a dedicated MMA fan or just interested in the mindset of an up-and-coming athlete, this episode offers an honest and thoughtful look into the life of a fighter on the rise.Tune in now and get to know one of Texas’ emerging talents in MMA.Subscribe for more long-form conversations on performance, mentorship, masculinity, community, and growth.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Austin Heinz:https://www.instagram.com/austinh_mma/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT"Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focus.https://www.getsett.co/thepitGh05t Muay Thai - 10% OFF with code "THEPIT"Muay Thai training gear and apparelhttps://gh05tbrand.comToss Pizza (Local to Austin, TX) - Use promo code "Gomez"Recorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

What does it really mean to keep going when life breaks you?In this episode, I sit down with Alex Bradley to talk about his 2,500-mile walk from Austin to Oregon, a journey built on grief, purpose, and the decision to take the next step no matter how heavy it feels.We get into the deeper layers behind the walk:– navigating loss and mental health– how relationships shape (and shake) us– the role fitness plays beyond just the physical– and what it looks like to rebuild yourself from the ground upThis isn’t just a story about endurance—it’s about honesty, healing, and choosing forward motion when standing still feels easier.If you’ve ever felt stuck, this one’s for you.Subscribe for more long-form conversations on performance, mentorship, masculinity, community, and growth.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Coach Alex Bradley:https://www.instagram.com/walking_with_ab/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT"Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focus.https://www.getsett.co/thepitGh05t Muay Thai - 10% OFF with code "THEPIT"Muay Thai training gear and apparelhttps://gh05tbrand.comToss Pizza (Local to Austin, TX) - Use promo code "Gomez"Recorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

In this episode of The Lion’s Pit Podcast, Nick Gomez sits down with longtime mentor, coach, and former Onnit Fitness Director John Wolf for a powerful conversation about legacy, identity, leadership, and what happens when the brand you helped build no longer exists.From the early days of unconventional training and kettlebell flows…to leading Onnit’s fitness education for nearly a decade…to watching the brand evolve after acquisition…John shares the inside perspective of what it’s like to build something meaningful — and then let it go.This episode covers:The rise of Onnit Gym and its unconventional roots- Building a 1,000+ member community from scratch- The reality of corporate acquisition and brand evolution- Losing identity after a decade in one place- Imposter syndrome at every stage of success- Why community matters more than logos- Mentorship, growth, and stepping into leadership- Reinventing yourself after an “end of an era”- How relationships outlast brandsNick also shares his own story of moving to Texas during COVID, nearly taking another job, teaching 20 classes in one week, and realizing he was exactly where he was meant to be.Subscribe for more long-form conversations on performance, mentorship, masculinity, community, and growth.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST:Follow Coach John Wolf:https://www.instagram.com/coachjohnwolf/PRESENTED BY:Sett - 15% OFF with CODE" THEPIT"Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focus.https://www.getsett.co/thepitRecorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas#Fitness #MensHealth #FitnessMotivation #Discipline

In this deeply personal episode of The Lion’s Pit Podcast, host Nick Gomez sits down with Serena Beatty for an honest conversation about identity, healing, and rebuilding self-trust after years of control, shame, and silence.Serena opens up about growing up in a high-control religious environment, how it shaped her relationship with authority, confidence, and self-expression, and what it took to finally reclaim her voice as an adult. This episode isn’t about shock value — it’s about integration, choice, and learning how to live without fear.We explore what Serena calls her “chrysalis phase” — a period of pulling inward, setting boundaries, and rebuilding from the inside out. From navigating community for the first time without judgment, to using training, movement, and coaching as tools for emotional regulation, this conversation speaks directly to anyone rebuilding after trauma.This episode is for people who feel like they’re “behind” in life — when in reality, they’re just becoming themselves on their own timeline.

In this powerful episode of The Lion’s Pit Podcast, host Nick Gomez sits down with Charlie Crenshaw for one of the most raw, honest, and transformative conversations we’ve ever had.After more than 20 years of severe alcoholism, drinking up to 30 drinks a day, Charlie was told by doctors that he was going to die. His body was shutting down. He was throwing up blood. His liver was failing. There was no medical solution left.Then something unexpected happened.On June 17, 2024, Charlie prayed — not out of habit, not out of religion, but out of complete surrender. What followed was a total, unexplainable transformation. He woke up with zero withdrawal symptoms, zero cravings, and a clarity he had never experienced before. Today, he is 526+ days sober, disciplined, present, and living with purpose.

In Episode 44 of The Lion’s Pit Podcast, host Nick Gomez sits down with Kemoy Anderson — professional grappler, promoter, and founder of Main Character Jiu-Jitsu — for a deep dive into no-gi jiu-jitsu, MMA evolution, and modern fight culture.What separates elite competitors from everyone else? Kemoy shares his experience competing internationally, running MCJJ, and learning from established promotions like Fight To Win — without gatekeeping.They also go deep on UFC fight analysis, discussing the dominance of grappling-heavy champions like Islam Makhachev, the striker-to-champion rise of Alex Pereira, and why high-level wrestling continues to define MMA at the top.If you train jiu-jitsu, no-gi, wrestling, MMA, or follow the UFC closely, this episode is packed with insight on fight IQ, grappling strategy, and the reality of modern combat sports.

Nick Gomez sits down with Eric Bumpus — stay-at-home dad, entrepreneur, athlete, coach, and HYROX competitor — for one of the most raw, inspiring, and story-packed conversations we’ve ever filmed.They break down Austin’s exploding MMA & BJJ scene, the rise of competitive fitness like HYROX, the evolution of martial arts, parenting, mindset, ADHD, and what it really takes to live a disciplined, meaningful, high-performance life.Whether you're into jujitsu, Muay Thai, HYROX, wrestling, fatherhood, mindset, or self-improvement, this episode will hit you where you need it.ABOUT ERIC BUMPUSEric is a stay-at-home dad, online coach, athlete, and competitor known for his authenticity, depth, and ability to inspire men to show up for themselves and their families through fitness, intentional living, and competition.

Nick Gomez sits down with comedian, entrepreneur, fighter, and Bitcoin evangelist Eli Halpern for one of the most uncensored and thought-provoking conversations of the year.They dive into Bitcoin vs fiat money, why volatility is “the price of greatness,” why Texas is the center of American freedom, how COVID lockdowns reshaped major cities, and how Eli built a life around comedy, combat sports, and sovereignty. If you’ve ever wondered what being “orange-pilled” actually means—this is your episode.If you want raw honesty, life philosophy, comedy, Bitcoin insights, and fighter mentality in one conversation—this is it.

From DC politics and human rights work to becoming a mobility-focused strength coach in Austin, Texas, Tim Kurz has lived multiple lives. In this episode of The Lion’s Pit Podcast, host Nick Gomez sits down with Correct Fitness coach Tim Kurz (@timtraineratx) to talk about injury, mobility, community, adoption, and self-discovery.Tim shares how a shoulder injury from CrossFit pushed him deep into mobility, durability, FRC, PRI, Steel Mace, and longevity-focused training. He opens up about leaving a career in nonprofits and Latin American social justice in Washington, DC, moving to Austin without a plan, and rebuilding his life through coaching, movement, and community at KORREKT Fitness (formerly Onnit Gym).They also go deep on Tim’s experience as a Colombian adoptee:growing up in the U.S., returning to Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, meeting his biological mother, navigating international adoption dynamics, and finding identity between cultures.If you’re into mobility, joint health, injury prevention, Austin fitness culture, Colombian identity, or just real human stories, this one is for you.Subscribe for more conversations on training, fighting, mobility, mindset, and real life stories from Austin and beyond.If this episode helped you, hit LIKE, drop a COMMENT about your own injury or adoption story, and SUBSCRIBE so we can keep growing the tribe.🔗 Connect with TimTim KurzInstagram & YouTube: @timtraineratxhttps://www.instagram.com/timtraineratx/📍 Coach at KORRECT Fitness (Austin, TX)Monthly Sunday Service Mobility Class – free mobility session on the first Sunday of each month at KORRECTSponsors & Shout Outs:🟢 Sett – Nicotine-free alternative pouches for clean focusgetsette.coRecorded at Sound Shed Studio – Austin, Texas

Nick Gomez sits down with Anthony Magallon (Glutes by Ant) to recap their unforgettable trip to Rome, Italy, and their latest HYROX race performance. From personal bests and discipline to wine-fueled adventures and mindset growth, this episode dives deep into fitness, lifestyle, and living life to the fullest.Nick and Anthony break down what it takes to perform at your best—even when you’re not fully prepared. Hear about their PRs in HYROX Rome, hilarious travel moments in Florence, Italian food culture, and the lessons learned on healthy masculinity, hard work, and balance.Whether you’re chasing your next HYROX race, transforming your body, or building mental resilience, this episode will remind you that growth happens outside your comfort zone.

In this episode< I sit down with Brian Butz, aka The Mobile Mammoth, to talk about his journey from the mobile business world to building a brand rooted in connection and authenticity. We dive into what it erally means to understand your clients, buil trust, and build something that actually lasts. This one's packed with insight, real talk, and a few laughs along the way.

This week I sit dow with Michael Lombard, better know as online as Lombard Trucking. From serving in the Marines to hitting the open road as a trucker, to transforming his health and launching a movement around wellness in the trucking industry, Michael's story is one of grit, discipline and purpose.If you're interested in health, entrepreneurship, or just a great story of reinvention, you wont want to miss this one.

On episode 37, I sit down with Eric Guerrieri, one of the key minds behind Korrect Life. We dive into the science, vision, and passion that went into creating this groundbreaking supplement, and what it really means to build something that supports both body and brain.

In Episode 36, I'm joined by Ashley Robert, Austin nurse, Hyrox athlete and Boston Marathon qualifier, and Mike Gonzales, the drummer who keeps the heartbeat of Kill Tony alive every week.We dive into what it takes to push limits in both fitness, and music, the discipline behind peak performance and how passion fuels resilience whether you're running marathons or holding down the rhythm on stage.Tune in for a mix of laughs, grit, and inspiration from two people who know what it means to show up at their best.

From Yeti to Onnit to Sett, Justin Allen has built a career on authenticity, leadership and vision. In this episode, we dive into how he's turned his passion into lasting success, and why the constant pursuit of a challenge is one of the keys to his journey. A true example of building not just a business, but people.

Sat dow with Cam Biehle, director of sales at La Caza Tequila and an outdoorsman at heart. From hunting stories to building a brand rooted in tradition, Cam shares how his passion, grit, and love for the wild have shaped his journey.This one's about chasing dreams, creating legacy and staying true to your roots.

From the training floor, to life outside of the gym, John Sandoval knows how to push people towards their full potential. In this episode, we dive into his journey, his coaching philosophy, and the lessons he's learned about discipline, growth, and showing up every single day.Whether you're chasing fitness goals or looking for inspiration to level up in life, this conversation has something for you.

Back for round two, in this episode I sit down once again with former Royal Marines Commando and elite coach Harry Shepherd. From life in the military to building a thriving remote coaching business, Harry shares the mindset shifts, lessons, and discipline it takes to go from surviving to leading.If you're chasing growth, in fitness or in life, this one's for you.

From the CrossFit Games floor to being a leading coach at Korrect Fitness, Brooklin Gaspard has built a coaching philosophy rooted in resilience, community, and deep self awareness.In this episode, we dive into her journey through competitive fitness, how she balances strength with softness, and why empowering women through movement is her mission. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just getting started, Brooklin drops gems you won't want to miss.

Movement, meaning and mental health. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Alex Bradley from Korrect Fitness, movement coach, PTA, and founder of A2B fitness. We dive deep into the connection between physical resilience and emotional healing, his journey from the gym floor to walking 2,500 miles in honor of a friend, and what it means to truly show up for yourself and others.This one's about more than fitness, it's about purpose, presence and the power of moving forward, even when it hurts.

In this episode, I sit down with the one and only Leo Savage, the mastermind behind Steel Mace Flow and a true artist of movement. We talk about his journey from chaos to creativity, what brought him to Korrect Fitness ( formerly Onnit Gym) and how swinging a mace became a tool for healing, expression and purpose.Whether you're into fitness, flow state or just finding your own path, you'll want to hear this.

On this episode, I sit down with Carlisle Price, coach, leader, and walking proof that presence and purpose matter more than hype. We talk about what it really means to be undeniable in your craft, how to lead by example, and why building others up is the mark of true strength.Tap in if you're ready to level up as a coach, an athlete or a human.

From front desk to COO! I sit down with Larry Maloney, the driving force behind the culture at Korrect Fitness (formerly Onnit Gym ATX) and one of the most grounded, hard working leaders I've ever met.We talk about how he went from whipping up smoothies to running operations, the power of showing up consistently, what it takes to build a world class gym and much more.If you've ever felt stuck, this one is for you. Larry's story is a masterclass in humility, grit and purpose.

Sat down with my brother Alex Earle, one of the real ones shaping the energy at Onnit Gym and beyond. We talked about how a space becomes more than just a place to train....how it becomes a tribe. From the early days of Onnit and it's current evolution, to the rise of Black Swan Yoga, Alex has been in the mix, helping build something thats as much about connection as it is about strength.This one is for anyone who knows the power of showing up, not just for your workout, but for your people.

Danielle's been a force in the Austin community for a while now, and having her on the show did not disappoint. We got into what it really means to take radical ownership, in your body, your story, and your relationships.Danielle doesn't hold back, and if you've been feeling stuck or out of alignment, give this one a listen.

In this episode I sit down with two guys from completely different backgrounds, James Arcieri, a strategic lead at Google Cloud and Harry Shepherd, an ex-Royal Marines Commando turned elite fitness coach. What do they have in common? Discipline, intensity, and a relentless drive to push boundaries. This one's for grinders, the thinkers, the ones chasing discomfort on purpose. I appreciate these guys for bringing the heat.

From the Hyrox arena to the daily grind, Gus Manke is someone who doesn't just talk about pushing limits..... he lives it. In this episode, we dive into what drives him, how he stays dialed in during the toughest parts of training, and why discipline beats motivation every single time. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or just trying to level up in life, this one's for you!Tap in now for a raw, no BS convo about resilience, and what it takes to stand out.

Join us for a deep dive into movement, mindset and modern strength with Onnit coach and founder of The Hybrid Human Project, Michael Jay Palser. In this episode, Michael shares his journey from traditional fitness to functional freedom, how primal movement patterns can unlock real performance, and why resilience, both mental and physical, is the future of training.

On episode 21, we sit down with Anthony Magallon, a top personal trainer from Austin, Texas. Anthony shares his journey, expert fitness insights, and the mindset needed to build lasting strength and discipline, both in the gym and in life. Whether you're just starting out or leveling up your fitness game, this is the motivation you need.

In this episode, I sit down with Rocio Cortez - a videographer, media branding specialist, and Jiu Jitsu athlete - to talk about what it means to live creatively and vulnerably. We dive into her journey from behind the camera to becoming a storyteller in her own right, her work in the world of combat sports, and how embracing vulnerability has shaped her both personally and professionally. Whether you're a creative, a fighter, or someone learning to be seen, this conversation will hit home.

In this episode, we sit down with visionary artist Ulysses Gonzales- better known as Ugonzo- to explore the wild ride from underground painter to NFT pioneer. Ugonzo opens up about his roots in Garden Grove, the psychedelic influence that shape his surreal style and how a single post from Joe Rogan changed his career overnight. We dive deep into his explosive NFT project PsychoKitties, the creative process behind blending counter with pop art, and what its like to collaborate with UFC fighters and media personalities. Whether you're an art lover, crypto enthusiast, or just here for the cats, this conversation is a vibrant trip through the intersection of creativity, technology, and self discovery.

From behind the lens to behind the scenes. In this episode, we sit down with Carlos Reyes - videographer for Junior H and other regional stars - as he opens up about how he got his start, the role faith has played in his journey and how he's shaping the visual world of Latin music today.

In this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Samson Odusanya - a breath work facilitator, wellness coach, and soul-centered guide to explore what it means to overcome adversity and to use that experience as a tool to help others.Samson shares his powerful story of transformation, from navigating personal pain and inner disconnection to finding purpose through embodiment, breath, and radical self-acceptance. With vulnerability and strength, he opens up about his journey, the role of presence in healing, and why emotional awareness is the gateway to authentic living.

The one and only Eric "Primal Swoldier" Leija is in the house to tell us all about his journey on the way to becoming one of the most prolific coaches in the fitness industry. From working the Onnit warehouse, to MMA, to being an Adidas athlete, hear it all here!

Functional movement coach and Adidas trainer, Francheska Martinez, is in studio to discuss her fitness journey as well as what it has taken to become the prolific coach that she is today.

Strength and mobility coach Tara LaFerrara is in studio to chat about how she got started in the fitness industry, her background as an athlete and why she is on a mission to empower women. Hear it all here in Episode 14!

Coach, business owner and kettlebell wizard Wes Beans is in studio to talk about his journey not only into fitness but to Texas and how pursuing his dream has lead him to where he is today.

Former Professional Baseball player Austin Briggs stops by to talk about his athletic career, journey towards becoming a professional athlete and what he's doing now. Hear the challenges and obstacles he had to overcome and much more.

Founder of Austin Fitness Community, Josh Job, stops by to discuss what it's taken to build community here in Austin, his experience in college athletics and whats next for the fitness scene in Austin. Listen to it all here in episode 11.

Former professional boxer, Mike Lee, stops by the studio to discuss his career in combat sports, his mentality for big fights as well as his new venture into CBD and THC. Hear his story now in Ep10!

Sports journalist and ringside announcer, Radio Rahim, stops by to chat about the world of combat sports, how he got his start and talks about whats next for him. Hear how his love for boxing started, and about some of the amazing relationships he's made along the way.

Online fitness and business coach, new mom and Ironman athlete Hannah Eden sits down to discuss her journey as an athlete as well as the challenges of becoming a new mother while competing at a high level.

CrossFit athlete and coach, Hannah Black, shares her story on Episode 7. From traditional sports to the CrossFit games and everything in between, tune in to hear her journey and much more!

Businessman, former reality TV star and all around bad ass, Brad Womack sits down to discuss his journey. From where he started , to the oil fields, to living an epic life, Brad shares all of this and much more!

Kill Tony drummer Mike Gonzales discusses his start into music, the community at Onnit Gym, his favorite venues to play and much more in episode 5!

Local Austin artist, Austin "Jiminai" Cashell sits down to discuss how he got started on his journey to becoming a high profile artist as well as his athletic background and how that has contributed to his discipline and work ethic.

Juan Leija, head coach at Onnit Gym, talks about his journey into fitness, the origins of Onnit Gym and much more.