138: 5 Traits You'll Find in Exceptional Leaders

In this episode, I unpack how making excuses quietly kills momentum—and how to break that cycle for good. Sparked by a conversation with a friend who’s been stuck in his own way, I share five tactical ways to stop making excuses and start showing up.We get into preparation, owning your time, and leading from the front—plus practical strategies like backward planning and thinking beyond the now. If you’re ready to stop hiding behind reasons and start taking control, this one’s for you.CHAPTERS02:15 Setting the Stage: Personal Reflections and Realizations06:20 The Importance of Time Management08:09 Ironman Prep: Challenges and Strategies11:07 Point #125:52 Point #234:09 Point #342:54 Point #453:53 Point #5ORDER MY BOOK HERE:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

28 Jul 1h 6min

In this episode of the Building the Brand series, we dive into Chapter 7, exploring a tumultuous year and a half characterized by pivotal decisions, personal growth, and business challenges. From stepping down as CEO of BPN in January 2023 to moving back to Texas in May 2024, this chapter covers a ton of the complexities of balancing professional ambitions with my personal life.CHAPTERS06:02 Building a Community08:25 Stepping Down as CEO25:11 Pursuing Private Equity Partnership30:02 Reflections and Realizations45:33 Lessons from Mistakes47:03 Moving to Nashville59:36 Marathon Prep and a Failed Deal01:05:39 Returning to Texas and Reclaiming Leadership01:08:35 Rebuilding the Brand01:16:07 Reflecting on Mistakes and Growth054: Moving Back into CEO Role episode:https://open.spotify.com/episode/1sPjWTR0jyd5agxLxcXacy?si=7xNXEuPBSA6CwEQHtkmnLAORDER MY UPCOMING BOOK HERE:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

21 Jul 1h 22min

Ironman prep is back. This episode is devoted to my Ironman Prep Season 3 for the Ironman Arizona race on November 16, 2025. In it, we'll discuss the physical and mental challenges, training schedule, and how this prep will differ due to my increased responsibilities. It cover fuel strategies, training specifics, and the balance between personal goals and professional commitments.CHAPTERS:01:55 Why Ironman Now?06:58 Rediscovering the Love for Cycling09:30 Balancing Life and Training15:22 The Importance of Setting Goals18:03 Reflecting on Past Ironman Experiences39:13 New Training Strategies and Nutrition53:11 Fueling for Success01:00:38 YouTube Series ComingORDER MY BOOK HERE:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

14 Jul 1h 8min

In this episode, I share these five crucial success principles, inspired by my morning runs, and prepare for a new chapter of relentless training and personal challenge.CHAPTERS:02:18 Introduction11:28 Point #123:10 Point #231:34 Point #345:10 Point #453:03 Point #5Order my NYT Best-Selling Book GO ONE MORE Here:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

7 Jul 1h

Mitch Ammons didn’t just get sober—he rebuilt his life with relentless grit. In this episode, we unpack his journey from addiction and rehab to becoming an ultra-marathoner, successful real estate agent, and living proof of what’s possible with the Go One More mindset. Mitch opens up about the lowest points in his life, the power of the 12-step program, and how fitness and community gave him purpose. This is a story of redemption, discipline, and choosing the hard path forward—every single day.CHAPTERS:01:19 Introducing Mitch Ammons05:05 The Ultra Marathon Experience15:23 The Speed Project Adventure27:34 Post-Ultra Marathon Recovery33:53 Early Signs of Addiction44:20 The Struggle with Opiate Addiction48:02 Rehab and Relapse Cycle59:09 The Turning Point in 201501:01:19 First True Attempt at the 12 Steps01:07:12 Discovering Fitness and Running01:09:42 The Journey to Becoming a Competitive Runner01:16:49 Family Support and Personal Growth01:24:09 Reflecting on the Journey and Future AspirationsCONNECT: Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/member FOLLOW:IG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitnessKeep up with Mitch:IG: @mitchammons

30 Jun 1h 30min

In this episode, I'm covering the significance of daily choices and how they cumulatively shape our success. It emphasizes the power of consistency, self-awareness, and intentionality in achieving long-term goals. I'll also explore the challenges and strategies for maintaining discipline during disruptions, such as travel, and the importance of making proactive decisions that align with one's broader life objectives.CHAPTERS01:00 The Power of Significant Life Choices02:38 A Day in the Life: Travel and Podcast Recording05:17 The Life-Changing Decision of 201410:23 Defining Success and the Role of Consistency34:12 The Importance of Routine and Daily Choices37:22 Travel Observations and Healthy Choices55:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsPRE-ORDER MY UPCOMING BOOK HERE:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

23 Jun 57min

We welcome back Pete Hixson for his third appearance. Together, we explore the complexities of balancing ambition, family, faith, and mentorship. We discuss the pivotal moments that have shaped Pete's life and career and delve into the challenges of being a driven professional while remaining a present and supportive family man. This episode offers a wealth of advice for young fathers, professionals, and anyone navigating the intricate dynamics of career and family life.CHAPTERS:00:56 StoryBrand and Business Growth02:27 Personal Reflections and Mentorship08:49 The Importance of Mentors19:15 Shifting from Success to Significance30:03 The Role of Mission in Life39:05 Being a Noticer in Relationships46:52 Navigating Relationship Changes with Kids54:00 Driven Individuals and Life Balance59:24 Driven vs. Content: A Personal Reflection01:05:37 Parenting and Legacy01:11:24 Raising Daughters with Different Needs01:23:46 The Birth of Beyond Communities01:30:55 Current Progress and Future PlansBecome a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/member FOLLOW:IG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

16 Jun 1h 38min

In this episode, our last episode in our old HQ, we celebrate the monumental success of the Go One More Ultra marathon. This last-man-standing race, held at Bare Ranch, saw 120 runners from 35 states and 6 countries compete in grueling 4.2-mile loops for 56 hours, covering 235 miles. We explore the event's impact on our brand, the meticulous planning that went into it, and how it embodied the Go One More philosophy.CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Setup00:57 Welcome to the Final Episode in the Old Studio02:24 Recap of the Go One More Ultra Event04:34 The Last Man Standing Race Explained06:40 The Race Begins: 120 Runners from 35 States and 6 Countries08:55 The Intensity of the Race: 56 Hours and 235 Miles09:44 A Shared Victory Amidst a Storm14:51 The Storm Hits: Chaos and Decision Making17:53 Reflecting on the Team's Dedication and the Event's Impact24:45 The Aftermath and Cleanup25:37 Inspiration Behind the Race Concept29:30 Failed Event and Lessons Learned31:45 The Lottery and Initial Challenges32:49 Understanding the Audience34:32 Learning from Failure35:36 Preparing for the Next Race36:41 Building the Perfect Course42:05 Race Day Logistics45:55 The Race Begins50:47 The Final Battle56:54 Reflecting on the Experience58:42 Looking AheadPRE-ORDER MY UPCOMING BOOK HERE:https://www.amazon.com/Go-One-More-Intentional-Life-Changing/dp/1637746210FOLLOW:Become a BPN member FOR FREE - Unlock 20% off FOR LIFEhttps://bpn.team/memberIG: instagram.com/nickbarefitness/YT: youtube.com/@nickbarefitness

9 Jun 1h 3min