In this inspiring episode of Simple Healthy Life, Ryan and MJ sit down with 14-year-old rising Jiu-Jitsu phenom Owen Leal, a standout competitor already making waves in the world of submission grappling. Together, they dive into what it truly takes to pursue greatness in a high-performance sport, touching on mindset, jiu-jitsu IQ, training intensity, goal setting, visualization, and recovery.

Owen shares how he balances elite-level training with school, how he studies world-class athletes like Tye Ruotolo and Mica Galvão, and why being obsessed with the game is more important than simply showing up. The conversation also explores the psychology of becoming elite, the importance of working on your weaknesses, and how a resilient mindset, combined with effort and intention can separate future champions from the rest.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, parent, or simply someone looking to level up your performance and mindset, this conversation offers real insight into what drives greatness, both on and off the mat.

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In this episode of the Simple Healthy Life podcast, Ryan and MJ explore the timeless wisdom of The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz—a transformative book rooted in Toltec teachings that offers a simple yet profound framework for personal growth and mental clarity. They break down each agreement—be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best—and reflect on how applying these principles has changed their lives and relationships.

Through honest stories and thoughtful reflection, they share how letting go of negative self-talk, reducing assumptions, and detaching from outcomes can lead to a more fulfilling life. Whether you're on a journey toward emotional health, seeking mindset shifts, or simply want to stop taking everything so personally, this episode will give you practical tools for building integrity, self-awareness, and resilience. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their well-being and live with intention.

Welcome to Simple Healthy Life, the podcast where we dive into real, insightful conversations about mindfulness, personal growth, and living a more present, meaningful life. In this episode, your hosts Ryan Gebo, a registered dietitian and co-owner of Nurtured Nutrition, and Mike James, founder of Simple Healthy Life and Rlabs, explore the surprising power of noticing novelty — and how this simple shift in awareness can boost happiness, reduce stress, and transform everyday routines into fulfilling experiences.

We unpack key research from psychologist Ellen Langer, discuss nature foraging as a tool for mindfulness, and reflect on how practicing present-moment awareness can elevate relationships, workdays, and even dinner with the family.

From emotional intelligence to sensory exploration, we cover practical ways to bring mindfulness into your daily life — no meditation cushion required.

If you're on a journey toward better mental health, more joy, and a deeper connection with yourself and others, this episode is for you.

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Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favorite platform. Want to share your perspective or be a guest on the show? Reach out — we’d love to connect and grow this community together.

Life is full of challenges—whether it’s navigating motherhood, setting (and actually reaching) goals, or even raising backyard chickens. Beyond Barriers with Courtney Beadling—ISSA Trainer, PN1 Nutrition Coach, and Pre & Postnatal Trainer—dives into the mindset shifts and real-life strategies that help you push past obstacles and build the life you want. From pre and postnatal health to personal growth, resilience, and a little farm life wisdom, this podcast is all about making progress in a way that feels authentic, attainable, and fun.

Do you often find yourself caught in a spiral of negative self-talk? In this episode of Simple Healthy Life, we explore the surprising ways negative self-talk might sometimes serve a purpose—and when it becomes harmful. Join us as we unpack effective techniques and actionable strategies to transform your inner critic into a powerful tool for personal growth and self-improvement. Tune in to shift your perspective, gain clarity, and foster a healthier mindset.

Ever wondered why so many athletes, biohackers, and wellness enthusiasts swear by saunas and ice baths? In this episode of Simple Healthy Life, MJ and Ryan break down the real science behind contrast therapy—alternating between heat and cold—and why it’s gaining so much attention.

They discuss:
✔️ How heat and cold impact the body on a physiological level
✔️ The benefits for recovery, inflammation, stress, and longevity
✔️ Practical ways to integrate contrast therapy into your routine

Plus, MJ introduces R Labs, his new contrast therapy spa designed to make this practice more accessible. Whether you’re new to ice baths or already a sauna regular, this conversation is packed with useful takeaways.

Tune in to learn why temperature extremes might be the key to feeling and performing better.

Have you ever wondered why certain eating habits feel impossible to break or what truly influences your food choices? In this insightful episode of the Simple Healthy Life Podcast, we sit down with Registered Dietitian Alysha Gebo to explore the psychology behind our eating patterns. Alysha sheds light on how our minds shape food behaviors, uncovering practical strategies to develop optimal eating patterns that support both physical health and emotional well-being.

Together, we will explore intuitive eating, examine the powerful mind-body connection related to nutrition, and unravel myths fueled by diet culture. We will discover how understanding your psychology can empower lasting, positive change in your relationship with food.

Tune in to transform the way you think about eating—and unlock a healthier, happier life.

Are we truly seeing reality, or are we trapped in an illusion? In this episode, we dive deep into Plato’s Cave Allegory, one of the most powerful philosophical metaphors about perception, truth, and enlightenment.

📜 Plato’s allegory describes prisoners in a cave who only see shadows on a wall, mistaking them for reality—until one escapes and sees the true world. But does this concept still apply today? And are we still stuck in our own modern "caves"?

🎯 What You’ll Learn:

What Plato’s Cave Allegory really means

How it applies to modern society, media, and personal growth

Why stepping out of comfort zones is the key to truth

The role of knowledge, education, and critical thinking in breaking free

Are you ready to escape the cave? Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on truth vs. illusion!

🔔 Follow the podcast for more deep dives into philosophy, psychology, and personal growth!