The Nick Bare Podcast

In this episode, we dive into the story of Amanda Kimiko—military veteran, cancer survivor, and ultra-endurance athlete.

Amanda’s mantra, Unbreakable, is more than just a word; it’s how she approaches life’s toughest moments. From overcoming cancer to taking on the Leadville 100 Ultra Marathon, she’s proof of what’s possible when you push your limits. Amanda recaps Leadville, shares how ultra running became a path to personal growth, overcame cancer twice, and how it shaped her in ways beyond the physical. Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and the relentless pursuit of one more.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:54 Amanda Kimiko Intro

01:11 Living in Austin?

02:22 The Vibrant Austin Community

03:50 Conquering Leadville 100

04:29 The Emotional Finish Line

07:53 The Challenge of Hope Pass

17:14 The Highs and Lows of Ultra Running

31:00 The Unbreakable Mindset

33:28 The Origin of My Mission

33:56 Facing a Life-Changing Diagnosis

35:04 Defying the Odds

35:49 Finding Light in Darkness

37:39 The Power of Mindset

39:10 Life Before and After Cancer

39:38 The Role of Culture and Family Expectations

56:31 Military Life and Transition

01:03:48 Training for Leadville 100

01:08:24 The Unique Challenges of Ultra Running

01:13:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Today, I take a unique approach with this episode and sit down with my tattoo artist, Andy Pho of Upside Tattoo in Hutto, Texas. We chat through how Andy integrates mindfulness into his art through his 'High Frequency, Low Energy' approach, crafting a serene and customer-focused environment. Learn about his inspiring journey, from family heritage to profound experiences as a monk, and how these shape his unique tattooing philosophy.

Andy shares insights on mastering his craft and the balance of art and communication, including the symbolic 'black shirt versus white shirt' styles in his work. Emphasizing effective communication and listening skills, he reveals how understanding clients' desires and precise questioning enhance the tattooing experience, leading to meaningful, high-quality results and enriching client relations.

Chapters:

00:00 A Surprising Tattoo Shop Experience

01:36 Meet Andy: The Visionary Tattoo Artist

02:05 Creating a Unique Tattoo Experience

03:07 The Importance of Client Connection

04:01 A Calm and Zen Tattoo Environment

05:37 Personal Tattoo Stories and Reflections

09:15 The Philosophy Behind Upside Tattoo

12:08 High Frequency, Low Energy: Explained

14:56 The Power of Solitude and Focus

30:11 Andy’s Journey and Background

47:17 Questioning Life's Purpose

47:59 Seeking Answers as a Monk

49:26 Balancing Life Choices

50:37 Finding Meaning in Helping Others

01:00:07 The Journey to Becoming an Artist

01:16:29 The Importance of Effective Communication

01:31:23 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

In this chapter of Building the Brand, I cover my time from landing in Fort Benning, Georgia in October 2013, to arriving at Fort Hood, Texas in October 2014. I share how my severe eating disorder led me to fall in love with fitness and start Bare Performance Nutrition (BPN). I recount my Army ROTC experiences, graduating college, and the challenges faced during Ranger School.

This chapter reflects on the importance of solitude, resilience, and the life lessons learned, paving the way for BPN's growth and my leadership approach.

Chapters

00:00 Overcoming Personal Struggles

00:10 The Spark of Fitness and Nutrition

00:25 Military Journey Begins

00:50 Starting BPN: The Early Challenges

02:05 Reflecting on Chapter One

05:00 Arriving at Fort Benning

07:56 Lessons from Military Training

18:33 The Importance of Solitude

24:56 Preparing for Ranger School

32:55 Mastering Time Management

34:47 The Ranger School Challenge

39:48 Facing Setbacks and Resilience

50:45 Lessons in Leadership and Character

53:50 New Beginnings at Fort Hood

59:46 Going All In on BPN

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Luke comes back for a round two on the podcast to recap his experience of Ironman Wisconsin, and the crucial role of nutrition and intentional training in achieving athletic success. We discuss the significance of mental resilience, the champion mindset, community support, and transforming passion into performance. Learn how to maximize and optimize your efforts, whether you're preparing for a competition or striving for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Self-Belief

01:20 Introducing Luke Hopkins

01:33 Achievements and Future Goals

02:36 Mindset and Training

04:05 Race Day Challenges

18:36 Emotional Finish Line

21:39 Impact and Inspiration

23:46 Personal Growth and Mental Health

29:34 Authenticity on Social Media

37:13 Pursuing Potential

40:08 Achieving Potential Through Preparation

40:43 The Difference Between Being Good and Being Great

41:52 Focusing on Your Own Journey

43:33 Learning from Legends: Jordan, Kobe, and Jobs

44:32 The Power of Preparation

46:15 Proving Yourself Right

48:14 The Emotional Release of Achievement

58:23 The Importance of Fueling for Performance

01:12:36 Maximizing vs. Optimizing

01:21:05 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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In this episode, I kick off a multi-part podcast series sharing the in-depth stories and lessons learned since starting Bare Performance Nutrition in 2012. I discuss the foundation of BPN, focusing on confidence, curiosity, and courage, recounting pivotal moments like battling an eating disorder as a teenager, discovering a passion for fitness and nutrition, joining the Army ROTC, and finally deciding to launch BPN. This episode covers the early challenges, key milestones, and the initial steps taken to grow the brand.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the series

03:19 The Birth of BPN

05:05 Overcoming Personal Struggles: My Battle with an Eating Disorder

13:26 Discovering Fitness and Nutrition

19:09 College Life and ROTC Journey

27:01 The Confidence Booster: LDAC Experience

34:14 The Genesis of BPN: From Idea to Reality

39:45 Discovering the Golden Ticket

41:00 Creating a Business Plan

42:40 Launching the First Product

43:58 Facing Industry Challenges

45:53 The Power of Naivety

53:26 Early Marketing Struggles

59:55 The Harsh Realities of Business

01:04:08 Doubt and Determination

01:12:44 Graduation and Future Plans

01:14:14 Preparing for the Next Chapter

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