Writing my first ever podcast review! Been a podcast connoisseur since 2015 and picked up this one in 2019. There are many great podcasts I toggle through but this is the only one where I simply cannot miss an episode, and have even gone back and listened to many episodes that are years old. I passionately share the values discussed on this podcast that extend far beyond fitness. The 5 factors have given me a tangible framework for which to intentionally live my life and add value in all of my roles. It seems counterintuitive for someone who is not directly part of the CrossFit community (I choose Brazilian jiu jitsu training over training at a box) to religiously listen to a “CrossFit podcast” but there is so much more value in Chasing Excellence than improving your Fran time. I wrote into the podcast last year about struggling to find like-minded people in my family/friend group and received invaluable advice that has helped me reframe this challenge. I hope this podcast continues on indefinitely and I can continue to soak up the wisdom shared. We are chasing what truly matters!

Ben and Patrick, I love starting my day with listening to Chasing Excellence. It helps me get in a good mindset, calm me, and helps me focus on my intention for the day. I did a member video for our CrossFit gym on morning routines and shared Chasing Excellence as a highlight. I've listened to every episode at least twice. Thank you for the impactful and valuable content and the connection you make available. Although you don’t know me, I feel like I start my day with two supportive friends. I am better because of the ideas you spark in my personal reflections and conversations with friends. Sincere thanks, Angie

This podcast, it’s content and the shared wisdom of Ben & Patrick have been changing my life since I started listening in 2017, which is also when I found CrossFit. You have helped me figure out how to move, think, connect, eat and recover my way to the absolute best version of myself. THANK YOU!

Long-time listener—- I have found a lot of value in the frameworks outlined on the show. Thank you for providing this content.

I moved home from Boston to rural Vermont during 2020 and went out on my own as a personal trainer. Your podcast helped me keep a positive, healthy mindset through the hardest transition of my life. I achieved my original definition of what success would be in my small town in the first year. In the pursuit of chasing excellent, naturally the goals have changed and supersede the original. The wisdom, perspective, and general guidance you give extends beyond fitness and I can’t thank you enough for helping me change my life for the better.

Ads in the middle are killing me guys. Talk about an immediate halt to momentum…ads in the beginning maybe?

Ben and Patrick, I have been listening to your podcast every week for four years. I listen to each episode as soon as it’s released. There really are no adequate words to express how grateful I am for the change that your Podcast has brought to my life. I’m currently reading the book, The Art Of Living, and in it, he talks about the belief that we live on forever through the impact that we’ve had on others lives. Your impact is generational. I have three children and know that the life that I’m living today is better not only for me, but for them as well and will shape their lives just as much as it shaped mine. I’m a better person because of the inspiration and tools that you’ve given me, thank you for the time that you put into the content that you create and for the genuine heart that’s behind it. You guys are absolutely incredible. I’m forever grateful.

Love you guys so I hate to say something critical. A lot of what you say is from The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer give him some credit and also everyone should read that book. Thanks

I started listening to this podcast looking for information about health and fitness, and it has easily delivered that but also so much more than I ever expected. The conversations that happen every week open new doors to improving mental resilience, relationships, work, building businesses and living a fuller life. The structure of the show was always very good but the new format has taken something that was already great and made it even better. I look forward to every episode, frequently recommend them to friends, family and colleagues. I am truly grateful that this exists, that I was lucky enough to find it and that Ben and Patrick are continuing to strive to make it even better.

I have been listening to this podcast for at least 4 years. I have gotten some of the best book recommendations from this podcast. I have gotten some of the best life advice from this podcast. I have gotten nutrition, sleep and training tips. It’s also a great Buisness primer for affiliate owners and entrepreneurs. I discovered CrossFit after I turned 48 as much as a occasionally wish I had something like this to inspire and guide me in my 20’s. I am grateful for what I have learned. Keep growing and changing. I love the new format it’s like every show is a greatest hits. 😁

This is a wonderful podcast for any listener to consider how they can improve in any foundational aspect of life. It’s on my schedule to listen to every week. And I love the new format! It’s refreshing, and it shows both of you are open to evolving and growth. Thank you, Ben and Patrick, for taking the time each week to share with your insights and knowledge!

I’ve been listening to this podcast for years. It has guided me through many tough situations including my recent sobriety. As a parent, masters athlete and first responder the content discussed is so beneficial. Thank you for encouraging us to be better and not settle for less. As Ben recently said, the dragonfly doesn’t know it only has 24 hours on this earth.

I’ve been listening to these podcasts for the last two ish years. I’m not in the Crossfit community at all. But the mindset, habit forming and growth themes to the episodes have been some of the best tools I’ve come across to assist me during a career change (throw in COVID), and developing my outlook towards becoming a better version of myself. I like to save certain ones that speak to me and revisit them. I feel as if I learn something new everytime. Highly recommended, thank you for sharing your outlook and knowledge!

I look forward to every episode that comes out each week. Best podcast hands down for anyone interested in mindset, crossfit, nutrition, and so much more. I’ve been a big fan of Ben for years and this podcast never disappoints.

I started listening because I was after Ben’s advice/insight into nutrition and health; I’ve continued listening because of the leadership and self-improvement lessons that I’ve gained through the years. I enjoy the relationship between Ben and Patrick and think they do a great job of being honest and authentic.

This is only the second episode I have listened to from this podcast but I LOVE it. Today was my first Hopper Talk and I really truly enjoyed the Q&A type conversation! Definitely something I needed today and this week. 😎💚

This podcast is extremely white - and at times extremely ignorant and problematic. Their business and leadership content is fire. Commentary on other content could use some work.

This podcast is absolutely life changing. Ben’s view on not only fitness but mental health has made me a happier and healthier person. I’ve finding myself repeating the lessons I’ve learned to my classes as a coach, to my employees as a boss, and to my kids as a father. Thank you for putting out such amazing content.

The last episode with Cole Sager was exactly what I needed to hear today. Thanks for sharing, encouragement for me as I walk through tough times…

Ben, host of the Chasing Excellence podcast, highlights all aspects of fitness, wellness and more in this can’t miss podcast! The host and expert guests offer insightful advice and information that is helpful to anyone that listens!

I have felt that this is a good podcast, however I feel that there of been a few shows where Ben has attempted to inform and educate about matters that are outside his scope of practice. I am a psychiatrist and I feel that it is important to work within my specialty and not work outside my scope of practice. I feel that Ben should be more careful about what he teaches (specifically medically related topics) so that he is not teaching a principle for which he has had very little training. You have had great guests on the show to talk about different aspects in different fields and I have found these to be valuable. I wish that The psychological aspects that are shared on this podcast were also taught by professionals.

Been listening to this podcast for a while now and was super bummed at the most recent talk w Peter Rahal from RX bar. His blatant and offensive analogy about “homosexuals” was welcomed and even acknowledged by Ben as a “good analogy.” General rule of thumb- If you have to start a statement by saying “this might come across as....but I don’t really care,” it’s probably a sign that you should zip it. Yes, it was offensive- and if you are unsure why and actually want to learn and grow as a human, then do the homework— there are plenty of resources available. That was not a chasing excellence moment and I doubt I will return to the podcast.

Had a recent round trip stressful 10 hour drive , son is fine , but was in auto accident. His car out of service..had to go get him. .. all that life coming at ya. This podcast kept my mind off things, big thank you. Loved it. I’m a new Crossfit coach , at age 56, a bit of a mid life crisis 😜... so love all info health, nutrition, mindset, coaching. You gentleman ROCK. Thank you. 🤩👊🤑

Always interesting and I appreciate learning about the various ways to optimize life. I really learn about when Ben shares resources like books.

This is an amazing podcast! It contains tons of insight on proper health, fitness, nutrition, and life. The podcast comes to topics from a CrossFit angle but it applies to many different areas of life. Ben Bergeron is a wealth of knowledge and speaks like someone who walks the talk. Without a doubt one of the best podcasts out there! Thank you

What can I say, this podcast has lead me on a journey to self mastery and to really understand how to live a fulfilled life. I have learn countless lessons on this podcast which have altered my life and the people around me. Thank you Ben and Patrick! Keep up the great work. A much appreciated listener!

I WANT MY TWO DOLLARS

If you’re obsessed with bettering yourself and finding fulfillment, this podcast is literal CRACK

No one else can do what these two do. I love how They start with a clear statement about what they’ll be discussing; there is little side talk and I love that; I learn more from these two than I do from any other podcast for real. There isn’t a time when I say “I was listening to this podcast, and I learned...” that I am not talking about Chasing Excellence. Love Patrick. Love Ben. Love the show.

Love the show. It always goes somewhere I’m not expecting yet I can always apply it to my fitness, my business, my family so, although I’m not a cross fitter, I get so much out of the wisdom in which you share so thank you!!

I teach high school math and I have been working most of what you said into my classroom on a daily basis for the last decade! Love every second of this one!

Love this podcast. I listen on another platform but wanted to show my support! Thanks for helping coaches coach better!

Early episodes were amazing fitness and lifestyle content. Unfortunately Ben’s interests seem to have shifted to wokeness and virtue signaling, so I had to unsubscribe.

When you start a sentence with “I’m not a nutritionist... BUT” Stay in your lane with programming. A great deal of your nutrition advice is fear mongering and disordered.

It’s unbelievable that this is free content! I love the format with Patrick teeing up the questions. It’s always useful information. Ben is incredibly authentic and you can tell he is an expert who is passionate about helping people improve their health and fitness!

You are such a stand up guy that I respect and love to listen to. Each time I walk away with more knowledge. Thanks for all that you do.

Really enjoy the podcast! Love the new logo!

I tried CrossFit for 3 months but it wasn’t for me and I lift on my own. That being said, I am a huge fan of Ben and watching the CrossFit games every year. Ben has taught me so much about mental toughness through this podcast. Something anyone can apply to their exercise practice.

The content is so applicable to daily life, both in and outside the gym! However, it is a struggle to understand everything because they talk so fast sometimes.

I am about two years in to my CrossFit journey and have two boxes that I call my home. I turned to this podcast when faced with the identity crisis of whether or not to associate with the CrossFit brand after becoming aware of Glassman’s racist and sexist words/actions. One of my boxes disaffiliated, which, while very sad, I supported and the other had not made up their mind quite yet. This podcast really helped me solidify where I stood in support of the true CrossFit values rather than the brand name, which I am thankful for. And since then, I’ve gotten hooked going through older episodes and learning as much as I can about every aspect of the sport!

Your comment “we don’t know what we stand for” really rang true during that last podcast. Considering you made your entire living off what Glassman built but you’re willing to break ties the moment things get tough really shows that you don’t practice what you preach. I’ve recommended your book and podcast for years but unfortunately not any more. Way to kowtow to the PC mob, I agree with the suggestion to change your name to Chasing Liberalism.

It pains me, since Bergeron’s de-affiliation, that, the motto of “chasing excellence” rings quite hollow. Benji’s found virtue-signaling social justice warriorism. For Bergeron to deaffiliate in the midst of the emotional fervor around Floyd, the police, racism; to act on emotion - that contradicts his proselytizing of stoicism. Rename the show to “Chasing Liberalism,” not excellence.

One of the best podcasts around until Ben invited someone on to give a criminal justice lecture critiquing “Broken Window” policing. Stick with what you know Ben! Didn’t think you’d jump on a bandwagon before considering all sides of the issue. Broken window policing turned big city crime around in the 90’s.

Ben, the answer you gave 20 minutes in to the last episode about how to position yourself vis a vis current events was one of the most unexpectedly honest things I’ve ever heard from a “public figure.” That was vulnerable and awesome and I loved it. You got my like and subscribe. The only one I’ve ever given out. Keep it up man.

I had a friend not listen to an episode I sent her because #crossfit. Then she was traveling in my car and I had one on. She was like wow...this is applicable! Yes! Ben and Pat know what the world needs to hear and delivers! I’ve lived every episode especially the quarantine ones! Imperfect conditions and their reactions just puts on display that they truly are practitioners of what they preach!

I started listening to Ben’s podcast really wanting to dive into the CrossFit side of everything. What I got out of it was so much more than I could have every wanted or expected. It has changed my entire outlook on life and really moved the needle for me in my health, fitness, mindset and relationships with others.

Incredible information for LIFE! My attitude has had a direct change by putting into practice the suggestions of this podcast. I am grateful for the instruction in not only athleticism but also in business. And the the suggested books on this podcast are Not to be dismissed! Life changing! Thank you!!

Lots of wisdom shared in this podcast. As a gym owner, I’ve found lots helpful advice for running our business. As a person, I’ve enjoyed all of the discussions: from coaching to parenting to training to character development and more. I’ve bought many books as a result of listening to this and am inspired every time I listen! Thank you for such great content and for sharing your knowledge!

I tend to disagree with Crossfit avoiding periodization. Why? There is so much research that periodization works.

A friend recommended this podcast to me awhile ago, and I've listened to a bunch of episodes. I regularly find myself jotting down ideas that are shared. I appreciate the clear concepts and integrity presented in the podcasts, along with the role modeling of chasing excellence. I've learned a lot that I can apply to my small business, as well as to my health and well-being. Thanks for the inspiration and specific tactics to improve!