The CrossFit Podcast

Dr. Chris Palmer — Harvard psychiatrist, researcher, and author of “Brain Energy” — joins Denise Thomas to explore the connection between metabolic and mental health. He shares how his mother’s tragic mental illness shaped his path, why current treatments often fail, and how lifestyle interventions like CrossFit can be life-saving tools for people suffering from conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Together, they discuss the science behind epigenetics, mitochondria, and lifestyle medicine — and why people aren’t lazy, they’re hopeless. Palmer outlines how nutrition, sleep, exercise, and human connection can reprogram the brain, and challenges the CrossFit community to widen its doors to people battling mental illness.

Topics Included:

• The root cause of mental illness as metabolic dysfunction
• Palmer’s personal and professional motivation to reform psychiatry
• The role of lifestyle interventions, including CrossFit, in mental health recovery
• Hopelessness vs. laziness and how to meet people where they are
• The limitations of conventional medicine and the promise of functional approaches
• How the CrossFit community can better support people with mental illness

Resources Mentioned:

• Book: “Brain Energy” by Dr. Chris Palmer
• brainenergy.com – newsletter, case studies, and lifestyle tips: https://www.brainenergy.com 
• chrispalmermd.com – academic publications and medical research
• Nonprofit: The Phoenix – fitness-based recovery for people overcoming addiction: https://thephoenix.org 
• Theoretical Hierarchy of the Development of an Athlete (CrossFit)
• World-Class Fitness in 100 Words (CrossFit foundational nutrition philosophy)

Community Highlight:

David Guedin is a longtime physiotherapist in France who has dedicated his career to working with children who have motor function disabilities. After discovering CrossFit and experiencing its benefits firsthand, David was determined to bring the methodology to his patients. When his center required more evidence before adopting the approach, David took it upon himself to conduct a research study on high-intensity strength training for children with cerebral palsy. Today, he runs CrossFit Metamorphose, a program specifically designed to train children with disabilities using CrossFit principles. David is passionate about expanding access and encourages more coaches to step into this space, offering his support to anyone ready to get started.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ 

Share Your Thoughts: 

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=011 

Former Marine Brian “Tosh” Chontosh joins Denise Thomas for a clear-eyed conversation about struggle, comparison, and leadership. Tosh explains why morning routines are overrated, what it really means to be kind — to others and yourself — and how most people are chasing the wrong things. 

In this episode, Tosh and Denise dig into the mind’s mind, the lie of perfection, and why effort matters more than outcome. From his time in combat to ultra-endurance events and founding Crooked Butterfly Ranch, Tosh breaks down how to stop performing and start leading. 

Topics Included:

• Morning routines, self-kindness, and mindset
• Struggle with self-doubt, expectations, and comparison
• Crooked Butterfly Ranch and Diesel Day philosophy
• “Mind’s mind” and the left-hand check-in framework
• Leadership, effort, and growth through challenge and adversity

Resources Mentioned:

• “Chop Wood Carry Water” by Joshua Medcalf
• “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
• The “mind’s mind” and “left-hand check-in” frameworks (developed by Tosh)
• Crooked Butterfly Ranch
• Diesel Day
• Tosh’s podcast: The Crooked Butterfly Podcast
  

Community Highlight:

This week, we’re highlighting Louise Goodman, a coach at CrossFit Bytown in Ottawa, Canada, and the founder of Unbroken Recovery, a nonprofit offering CrossFit classes for people in recovery. The idea started seven years ago when Louise and a sober friend attended a Friday CrossFit night class that reminded them of an AA meeting. That spark led to the creation of a dedicated recovery class, which has since grown to 160 members and now operates out of multiple gyms. Louise hopes to one day open her own nonprofit CrossFit affiliate. 

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ 

Share Your Thoughts: 

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=010 

In this episode, Denise Thomas talks with Dr. Tom McCoy, co-founder of the CrossFit Medical Society, about the potential for a healthcare model that doesn’t profit on disease, the role of CrossFit in preventing and reversing chronic disease, and how coaches can contribute to improving the health and longevity of their members. Dr. McCoy also shares practical insights on integrating healthcare with CrossFit and the importance of community in driving health outcomes.

They discuss how CrossFit can serve as a critical tool for preventive healthcare. Dr. McCoy explains how affiliates function as “health homes,” supporting not just fitness but also long-term health outcomes.

Topics Included:

• Dr. McCoy’s shift from emergency medicine to family and precision medicine.
• How social connection impacts health outcomes.
• The role of CrossFit in preventing and managing chronic diseases.
• The concept of CrossFit affiliates as health homes.
• Challenges with the current healthcare system and how the CrossFit Medical Society aims to create solutions.
• Practical advice for coaches and affiliate owners to support members’ health beyond fitness.

Resources Mentioned:

• CrossFit Medical Society: www.crossfitmedicalsociety.com
• McCoy Medical: www.mccoymedical.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalhumandoc
• Community Care: A new approach to healthcare funding and support through the CrossFit Medical Society: https://www.crossfitmedicalsociety.com/communitycare-1  
• Surgeon General’s Report on Loneliness (2023): https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf 

Community Highlight:

This week’s Community Highlight features Jose Soto, owner of Backyard CrossFit in East Los Angeles. Jose’s mission is to make CrossFit more accessible to the Hispanic community. His affiliate partners with the nonprofit Freedom and Fashion, which supports survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and inner-city youth. During the recent Los Angeles wildfires, Jose and his team stepped up to raise funds for affected communities.

Follow Jose and Backyard CrossFit: https://www.instagram.com/backyardcrossfit

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ 

Share Your Thoughts: Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=009

Helen Taylor, CrossFit Level 2 Trainer and fourth degree black belt, is the founder of Core City CrossFit Kids, a nonprofit organization in Detroit, Michigan, dedicated to transforming the lives of underprivileged youth through fitness, mentorship, and community.In this episode, Helen talks with Denise Thomas about the realities of running a nonprofit in an under-resourced community, the challenges of earning trust, and what it takes to keep kids engaged both inside and outside the gym. She also shares how Core City CrossFit Kids has become more than just a fitness program — it’s a space where kids find consistency, support, and leadership opportunities they don’t get anywhere else.

Topics Included:

• Helen’s background in martial arts and transition to CrossFit
• The origins of Core City CrossFit Kids and the challenges of starting a nonprofit
• The role of fitness in addressing mental health, depression, and food insecurity
• Building trust with youth in underprivileged communities
• Collaborating with local schools, law enforcement, and community leaders

Resources Mentioned:

• Core City CrossFit Kids: https://www.instagram.com/corecitycrossfitkids
• Core City Documentary: find it at @corecityfilm or here; special thanks to Shadow Creek Films and Corban Aspegren for a great film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVyG_QdW0CY 
• Contact Helen: For donations, volunteering, or inquiries, email [email protected]

Community Highlight:

This week, we’re highlighting Jessie Dudley, a former elementary school teacher who now runs Organización de Amigos, a nonprofit breaking down financial barriers to sports and fitness for kids and teens. Jessie has opened two CrossFit affiliates in schools with another in the works, aiming to expand across Washington County, Oregon. She’s currently looking for CrossFit coaches for paid roles.

Learn more at www.organizaciondeamigos.com or follow @organizaciondeamigos.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ

Share Your Thoughts: 

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here: https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=008

In this episode, CrossFit CEO Don Faul shares how he handles the pressures of decision-making at CrossFit HQ and why he’s still chasing improvement every year. Along the way, Don reflects on the energy of the community, where the company is heading, and his years of CrossFit before becoming the CEO. Don opens up on topics that matter to the CrossFit community — like the future of CrossFit. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at his personal life — from being a dad and a CEO to trash talk at his 6 a.m. CrossFit class.

Topics Covered:

• The 2025 CrossFit Open 
• Decision-making as the CEO of CrossFit and managing community feedback
• Personal stories from his family life and military days
• The sale of CrossFit and state of the CrossFit brand

Resources Mentioned:

• Don’s appearance on The Jocko Podcast → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15Tw-jBFodc 
• Don’s competition dashboard → https://games.crossfit.com/athlete/767005 
• Kicking and Screaming, Will Ferrell as a soccer dad → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgLlssX0gBQ 
• March 2025 Affiliate Town Hall Recap (Affiliate Toolkit –  login required) → https://affiliate.crossfit.com/tools/home 

Community Highlight:

Brian Boucher and his wife, Gabby, opened MidState CrossFit in 2014 in Merced, California, with a goal to create a community so solid that it exists for decades to come. One of the ways Brian is making a lasting impact is through MidState CrossFit’s adaptive athlete program, which provides training for athletes with both mental and physical disabilities. His commitment to his members goes far beyond the norm — he’s known for handwriting birthday letters to all of his members. Brian’s leadership is rooted in connection, proving that CrossFit is about more than just fitness — it’s about creating a community where people build self-efficacy and find belonging.

Visit MidState CrossFit → https://www.midstatecrossfit.com/

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ

Share Your Thoughts: Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=007

Myles Lewis is a father, husband, longtime CrossFit affiliate owner, coach, and member of CrossFit’s Seminar Staff. Since opening CrossFit Avalanche in 2008, he’s navigated the challenges of running a business in a competitive, high-cost environment while staying true to the fundamentals of CrossFit.

In this episode, Myles joins Denise Thomas to discuss his journey — from professional snowboarding to discovering CrossFit and becoming a coach. He shares lessons learned over 16 years of affiliate ownership, including how he adapted his business during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of taking risks, and why simplicity and consistency are key to building a strong community.

Topics Included:

• Myles’ passion for snowboarding and how it shaped his mindset
• The story behind opening CrossFit Avalanche in 2008
• Navigating affiliate ownership during the COVID-19 pandemic
• How Myles brought some perspective to CrossFit’s executive team

Resources Mentioned:

• CrossFit Avalanche → https://www.instagram.com/crossfitavalanche
• The Tahoe Throwdown: A look back at classic CrossFit events → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kB0QEKJ9od4 
• Influx Mini-Series: Showcasing how fitness translates beyond the gym → https://journal.crossfit.com/article/influx-bonus-content-heli-safety 

Community Highlight:

This week, we’re highlighting Ashley Cullen, the owner of Big Gratitude CrossFit in Richmond, Virginia. A mother of six and wife to a military veteran, Ashley founded her affiliate in July 2024 with a mission rooted in service. Not only does she run a thriving CrossFit gym, but 100% of its profits go directly to support a nonprofit she created for disadvantaged youth and military veterans.

Want to follow Ashley’s journey? Check out @biggratitudecrossfit to see how she’s using CrossFit to make a meaningful impact in her community → https://www.instagram.com/biggratitudecrossfit

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ

Share Your Thoughts:

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/The-CrossFit-Podcast—Feedback-Survey/tt-lf9Gf?ep=006

CrossFit legend Scott Panchik joins the show to discuss his journey as a Games athlete and a gym owner, breaking down the role of competition at all levels of CrossFit. From pushing his limits on the competition floor to helping everyday athletes redefine success at CrossFit Mentality, Scott shares invaluable insights on training, coaching, and mindset. 

Scott and host Denise Thomas dive into the evolution of competition, the fine line between healthy and unhealthy motivation, and how tracking progress in the gym can drive both physical and personal growth. 

Topics Covered: 

• Redefining Competition – How Scott’s perspective on competition has evolved from elite CrossFit athlete to coach and affiliate owner.
• Coaching for Long-Term Success – The role of mentorship, tracking progress, and fostering a culture of growth inside the affiliate.
• Embracing Failure as Growth – Why setbacks are essential in training and how to maintain a healthy, sustainable mindset in CrossFit.

Resources Mentioned: 

• CrossFit Mentality – Scott Panchik’s affiliate
• Scott as a Coach and Meeting Henry
• Henry’s Story Continues
• The CrossFit Open and Games

Community Highlight:

Andrew Rape is the owner of CrossFit Trussville in Alabama, where he has built a strong, resilient community. In May of last year, Andrew faced an unexpected challenge when a fire destroyed his gym. Rather than shutting down or pausing operations, he quickly found a temporary space at a local church and ensured that his members didn’t miss a single class. 

Andrew credits his ability to rebuild to the unwavering support of his gym community, his wife Candice, and his team. His leadership in the face of adversity exemplifies the spirit of CrossFit — perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to helping others stay on track with their fitness.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here!

Share Your Thoughts: 

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here.

In this episode, Denise Thomas sits down with Dr. Julie Foucher, a board-certified family physician, and former CrossFit Games athlete, to explore the intersection of medicine, fitness, and health — physical, mental, and emotional. Foucher discusses the limitations of conventional healthcare, the role of lifestyle in chronic disease prevention, and how CrossFit affiliates can serve as health hubs in their communities. She also shares insights on mindset, stress management, and practical steps for taking ownership of your health.

Topics Covered:

• The limitations of conventional healthcare and why the system isn’t designed for prevention.
• The role of lifestyle in preventing and reversing chronic disease.
• The connection between metabolic health, mental health, and stress resilience.
• Practical strategies for building a proactive, patient-centered approach to healthcare.
• The importance of community in long-term health and well-being.

Resources & Media Mentioned:

• What Is Fitness? (2002) – The foundational article defining CrossFit’s approach to fitness
• Pursuing Health Podcast – Hosted by Dr. Julie Foucher
• Biomarker Panels – CrossFit Medical Society
• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – Featuring the “Morning Pages” journaling method
• The Work by Byron Katie – A framework for challenging negative thought patterns
• Enlifted Method by Mark England – Mindset and language tools for personal growth and coaching
• The Roseto Effect

Community Highlight:

This week, we’re featuring Heather Peters and Maggie Birdsell from Ashe CrossFit in North Carolina. As a nurse and a dietitian, respectively, they built a primary care facility inside their CrossFit gym, providing a model for integrating fitness and healthcare. After their gym was devastated by Hurricane Helene, they prioritized supporting their community — offering medical care and mobilizing members to assist in relief efforts.

To support Ashe CrossFit, visit their Instagram at @ashecrossfit.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here!

Share Your Thoughts: 

Let us know what you think about the podcast and how we can improve here.

In this episode, Denise Thomas sits down with Dave Castro to discuss the evolution of CrossFit from its early days to its current global impact. Dave shares stories from his 20-year journey, including:

• Early Beginnings: How he got involved in CrossFit around 2005 at the original HQ at CrossFit Santa Cruz, and his role in developing and scaling the early seminars into a global training business alongside Nicole Carroll.
• Standardizing Education: The process of shaping and standardizing CrossFit curriculum and training through seminars — detailing his experiences organizing, staffing, and refining the lecture format.
• Seminar Staff Development: Personal anecdotes on recruiting and mentoring Seminar Staff, the role of Flowmasters, and how consistent learning creates a lasting impact.
• The CrossFit Games and Open: Insights into the origins of the CrossFit Games and the evolution of the CrossFit Open.
• Personal Reflections: Understanding Dave as a leader in CrossFit, a media personality, and a husband/father.

Resources Mentioned:

• Register for the CrossFit Open: games.crossfit.com
• CrossFit Training Courses (Level 1 and Level 2)
• The First CrossFit Games (2007)

Community Highlight

This week’s community highlight features Rob Matthews, owner of CrossFit Pottstown in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Rob has been involved in CrossFit since 2003 and runs his gym as a nonprofit in an old National Guard armory. His rare business model — charging members on a sliding scale and funding programs through insurance and grants — supports recovery, at-risk youth, adaptive athletes, and military personnel.
Visit Pottstown Athletic Club for more information.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here!

Chuck Carswell has been part of CrossFit for nearly two decades, making an impact as a coach, mentor, and longtime member of CrossFit’s Seminar Staff. He’s one of the most experienced trainers in the world, having taught thousands of athletes and coaches through the CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate Courses.

In this episode, Chuck sits down with Denise Thomas to share his journey — from playing in the NFL to discovering CrossFit and dedicating his career to coaching and education. He reflects on the evolution of CrossFit’s training methodology, the lessons he’s learned from coaching at every level, and his philosophy of “Big Team, Little Me.”

Topics Covered:

Chuck’s early athletic career and time with the Miami Dolphins
His introduction to CrossFit and first experience with the workout Helen
The evolution of CrossFit’s trainer seminars and credentialing 
The impact CrossFit has had on the fitness industry 

Media & Resources Mentioned:

CrossFit Training and Certifications – Learn more about the Level 1 and Level 2 Courses: CrossFit Training
CrossFit Open Registration – Sign up and test your fitness: games.crossfit.com
What Is Fitness? (2002) – The foundational CrossFit Journal article defining CrossFit’s approach to fitness.
Chuck as a Dawg – Watch the play Denise references

Community Spotlight:

This week, we’re highlighting the team at RISE, a platform dedicated to supporting women in the CrossFit community. RISE provides mentorship, resources, and opportunities for female athletes, coaches, and gym owners, helping them thrive in both fitness and leadership roles.
Learn more about RISE and how to get involved at riseathletes.org or follow them on social @rise_athletes_org.

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here!

In this episode of The CrossFit Podcast, Nicole Carroll sits down with Denise Thomas to reflect on her 20-year journey — from how she discovered CrossFit in 2004 and the lessons she’s learned over two decades, to why she believes CrossFit is more relevant now than ever. Topics Covered:Nicole’s fitness journey and introduction to CrossFitThe evolution of her role within CrossFitThe importance of preserving CrossFit's foundational principlesThe relevance of CrossFit today Resources and Media Mentioned:CrossFit Level 1 Certificate CourseCrossFit for Health Summit – Own Your HealthNicole’s Jedi Knight SpeechMagic of CrossFit - Content and Resources for Affiliates Community Highlight:This week, we recognize Keefa Hawkins of CrossFit Iconz in Lilburn, Georgia, for her work with Next Steps Fitness and Rehabilitation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting disabled veterans. Next Steps provides free CrossFit classes, nutrition guidance, and social support to help veterans rediscover their strength, resilience, and sense of community. To learn more and support Next Steps, visit vetsteps.org Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here!

Welcome to the CrossFit Podcast, hosted by CrossFit Seminar Staff veteran Denise Thomas. Each episode features a conversation with a leader or legend within the CrossFit community sharing their experiences as practitioners of the CrossFit methodology, and first-hand witnesses to the power of CrossFit to create health and change lives in lasting and profound ways. We’ll also sit down with guests from outside the community whose work in the academic or clinical space adds a valuable perspective to our discussions and collective understanding. Along the way, we’ll unpack core elements of CrossFit’s identity that set us apart in our industry. The CrossFit Podcast offers you the opportunity to listen to conversations between subject matter experts, long-standing affiliate owners, coaches and athletes, and pioneers in the charitable space. We’ll cover a variety of topics, including: Lifestyle intervention and chronic disease Accountability and agency The role of the CrossFit coach Mental health and CrossFit The value of doing hard things Paying it forward and the spirit of service Subscribe to gain regular insights from the most thoughtful and experienced voices on health and fitness in the CrossFit community and beyond.