In this episode of Training Age, hosts Heather Adams and Valerie Lusvardi sit down with Brad Jensen (@thesoberbodybuilder) for an insightful and candid conversation about his journey through addiction, fitness, and personal growth. Kicking things off with lighthearted banter about skiing in Utah and everyday adulting moments, the conversation quickly shifts to Brad’s milestone of turning 40—complete with humorous reflections on aging and its inevitable aches and pains.

Brad shares his powerful story of struggling with substance abuse despite growing up in a supportive family. He opens up about how fitness became a transformative outlet at age 15, helping him overcome childhood bullying and weight challenges. Through raw and honest storytelling, he walks listeners through the rock-bottom moment that led to his recovery and the profound realization that choosing the hard path often leads to lasting growth and fulfillment.

Heather, Val, and Brad explore the parallels between addiction recovery and fitness, emphasizing the importance of a firm resolution for change. They discuss the delicate balance of supporting loved ones through struggles while allowing them to find their own way. The conversation also delves into the role of empathy in coaching, where Brad’s personal experiences with addiction and weight struggles have shaped his approach to helping others. He shares practical wellness strategies, including breath work for stress management and how fitness and nutrition tools impact decision-making.

As the episode wraps up, the discussion takes a fun turn, tackling fitness myths, the role of resistance bands and rucking, and a playful debate on the pros and cons of eating kiwi skin. This conversation is filled with honesty, humor, and valuable takeaways on resilience, self-improvement, and the mindset shifts necessary for meaningful transformation.