Do Hard Things Today

In a world filled with distractions and challenges, the simple act of showing up can be a game-changer. Today's podcast delves into the insights shared in a thought-provoking podcast, exploring what it truly means to show up in both our personal and professional lives. Showing up is more than just being physically present; it's about engaging wholeheartedly with the task at hand. Elite individuals have a habit of showing up when the pressure is on. This idea is vividly illustrated by sports legends like Michael Jordan, who famously played through illness and injury, demonstrating remarkable resilience and commitment. The podcast emphasizes that by simply showing up and taking action, individuals can often turn situations in their favor. Fear, particularly the fear of failure and imposter syndrome, often holds people back from fully engaging in their lives. The podcast poses a crucial question: Are you characterized by things always happening to you, or do you wake up and happen to things? This proactive mindset is crucial for success. Drawing on Stephen Covey's classic "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," the discussion highlights that being proactive—acting first rather than reacting—is key to overcoming obstacles. Who is in charge of you? The answer is you. Understanding that you are responsible for your reactions and decisions empowers you to take control of your life. This theme resonates throughout the podcast, as it challenges listeners to stop blaming external factors and instead focus on their responses to those factors. Exceptional people don't let circumstances determine their outcomes. The podcast shares the story of a Little League baseball game where the losing team maintained an optimistic attitude, exemplifying resilience. This segment encourages listeners to adopt a similar mindset: regardless of the challenges faced, keep pushing forward and striving for improvement. Sports metaphors abound, illustrating the journey of overcoming obstacles and the importance of getting back up after each fall. One of the more striking points discussed is the concept of "decision paralysis." When faced with overwhelming challenges, individuals can become frozen, unable to move forward. The podcast illustrates this through relatable scenarios, encouraging listeners to take action rather than succumb to fear. The key takeaway here is to act decisively, even in the face of uncertainty. A recurring theme in the podcast is the detrimental nature of excuses. Listeners are reminded that excuses are often a crutch that prevents growth. By reframing failures as opportunities for learning, individuals can cultivate a winning mindset. The speakers emphasize that moving forward requires honest self-reflection and a commitment to personal accountability. The podcast serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of showing up in our lives. By overcoming fear, taking control of our actions, and maintaining resilience in the face of adversity, we can unlock our potential. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards of consistently showing up are immense. Remember, today is the day to take action, embrace challenges, and simply show up. Tags:

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past. However, the Do Hard Things Today podcast emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present moment. In this blog post, we'll explore how taking control of our present reality can profoundly impact our lives moving forward. Understanding the Power of Now The podcast kicks off with a reminder that the present moment is where our lives truly unfold. As Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell discuss, every minute that passes quickly turns into an hour, then a day, a week, and ultimately, years. They challenge listeners to assess their current situation and ask critical questions about their lives. Are you balanced in the four crucial areas of life: fitness, family, finances, and faith? Identifying where you may be out of balance is the first step toward taking control of your life. The Dangers of Worrying and Projection One of the key points raised is how worrying about the future can paralyze us. When we project negative outcomes in our minds, we create a self-fulfilling prophecy that can hinder our progress. The hosts illustrate this with the metaphor of a movie, where the eerie music hints at impending doom. They emphasize that worrying not only consumes our time but also negatively impacts our health. Jed references a song by Robert Earl Keen, expressing how worrying robs us of precious time. This serves as a poignant reminder to focus on the now rather than the what-ifs that cloud our minds. Embracing Change and Taking Action The podcast urges listeners to recognize that change is possible, but it requires action. Kevin quotes Theo Vonn, stating, "Nothing changes if nothing changes." This mantra drives home the point that to achieve different results in life, we must be willing to make different choices. The hosts encourage listeners to think about what they need to start doing or stop doing immediately. It's this willingness to embrace change that can lead to personal growth. Lessons from Exceptional People Kevin and Jed share insights into how exceptional individuals achieve greatness through consistent practice of the basics. They highlight stories of renowned athletes who dedicate themselves to mastering foundational skills. Bruce Lee's famous quote, "A master does not practice 10,000 kicks; a master practices one kick 10,000 times," encapsulates the essence of mastery. The hosts remind us that mastering our lives requires the same dedication and discipline. Determining Your Path The podcast concludes with an empowering message about the importance of identifying where you are now and where you want to go. Kevin emphasizes that making small choices in the present can lead to significant changes over time. He challenges listeners to take immediate action after the podcast ends, reminding them that every moment counts. By doing hard things today, tomorrow will indeed take care of itself. Conclusion and Key Takeaways: In summary, the Do Hard Things Today podcast provides valuable insights into the power of the present moment. Key takeaways include: 1. Assess your current reality in fitness, family, finances, and faith. 2. Recognize the dangers of worrying and projecting negative outcomes. 3. Embrace change by taking meaningful action. 4. Understand that mastery comes from consistent practice of the basics. 5. Determine your path by identifying your current position and future goals. By focusing on these principles, you can transform your life and ensure that you are making the most of every minute.

Welcome back to the Do Hard Things Today podcast, where we delve into the exhilarating experiences of the 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Join us as we share personal stories of triumph, challenges, and the magic of running at Disney, providing insights that can inspire every runner, whether you're a novice or a veteran. The 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend was nothing short of magical. Fresh from the excitement, we gathered to discuss our experiences, highlighting the camaraderie among runners and the unique atmosphere that Disney provides. From the enthusiastic crowds cheering you on to the whimsical characters along the course, running at Disney offers a blend of challenge and joy that's hard to replicate elsewhere. As we prepared for the races, nerves ran high—especially for Bonnie Blackwell, who was gearing up for her first half marathon. The anticipation was palpable as we navigated through the pre-race expo at the Wide World of Sports Complex. From collecting our bibs to browsing through the myriad of running gear and Disney merchandise, the expo serves as an essential part of the marathon experience. We shared our tips on how to tackle the expo efficiently, including our strategies for avoiding long lines and maximizing our time. Our 5K experience was filled with highs and lows. Jed Blackwell recounted his journey of running the first mile at an impressive pace, only to hit a wall shortly after as he faced the congestion of fellow runners and walkers. The importance of corral placement became evident as it created challenges on the course, with faster runners navigating around slower participants. Despite the obstacles, the joy of running through the World Showcase, with its stunning early morning scenery, made it all worthwhile. Bonnie's journey to completing her first half marathon was a testament to perseverance. Despite the disappointment of a lightning delay that altered her plans in a previous race, she successfully finished the race this time and shared her emotions about crossing the finish line. Her story highlights the unpredictable nature of race day and the resilience required to adapt and succeed. Kevin Harrison completed his 13th straight Dopey Challenge - finishing the 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon on consecutive days - to remain one of just more than 300 "Perfect Dopey" participants. Kevin's challenges included a fast half marathon, and a tough day in the full race. One of the standout aspects of the Disney Marathon experience is the sense of community among runners. As we navigated the challenges of race day, the support from fellow participants helped to lift our spirits. We discussed how sharing our stories and supporting one another can significantly enhance the marathon experience, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique journeys. The 2026 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend was more than just a series of races; it was a celebration of hard work, determination, and community. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting your marathon journey, the magic of Disney combined with the joy of running creates an unforgettable experience. Key takeaways include the importance of preparation, camaraderie, and resilience in the face of challenges.

In this episode of the Do Hard Things Today podcast, hosts Kevin Harrison and Jed Blackwell discuss the phenomenon of Quitters Day, which falls on the second Friday of January, marking the day when most people abandon their New Year's resolutions. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic goals and the need to reflect on one's current situation before making resolutions. Kevin shares insights on how to create a framework for success by focusing on manageable, attainable goals over a 90-day period, rather than overwhelming oneself with drastic changes. The conversation highlights the significance of small victories and maintaining momentum to achieve long-term transformation in various areas of life, including fitness, family, finances, and faith. Takeaways Throw away unrealistic resolutions. Focus on where you are and where you want to go. Set manageable goals over 90 days. Get on the scoreboard with small victories. Momentum is key to achieving long-term goals.

In the world of college football, few names resonate as powerfully as Nick Saban. Renowned for his unmatched success with the Alabama Crimson Tide, Saban's coaching philosophy extends beyond the football field, offering invaluable lessons on focus, discipline, and the power of process. Today's podcasts explores key insights about Saban's methodology and how we can apply these principles to our everyday lives. The Seven Second Battle The podcast opens with an intriguing reflection on a pivotal moment in Saban's career—his legendary upset victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes in 1998. The focus here is on the idea of winning in short bursts, specifically the seven seconds that define a single football play. Saban encourages his players to channel their energy into these fleeting moments, emphasizing that success hinges on winning these "seven-second battles." This approach fosters a mindset where immediate focus trumps overwhelming concerns about long-term outcomes. By concentrating on the task at hand, players can collectively contribute to a larger victory. The Importance of Process Over Outcome A striking takeaway from the discussion is Saban's aversion to fixating on winning. Contrary to typical expectations, he prioritizes the process over the score. This philosophy highlights that the journey—how players execute their roles during each play—holds more weight than the final tally on the scoreboard. As one speaker explains, Saban's intensity on the sidelines is rooted in a desire for players to adhere to the process. If a player fails to win their battle but follows the prescribed strategy, Saban remains supportive, illustrating that discipline and adherence to process are paramount. Building Discipline and Accountability The conversation also delves into Saban's approach to discipline. Unlike punishment, which focuses on consequences, Saban emphasizes instilling discipline that prepares players for success. He believes in redirecting behavior rather than simply penalizing mistakes. This philosophy extends to the broader context of leadership; effective leaders must provide the resources and hold their teams accountable to cultivate a culture of success. Saban's method encourages players to develop resilience and discipline, which translates to performance under pressure. Relentless Execution of Ordinary Tasks Finally, the podcast underscores a critical point: extraordinary success often stems from the relentless execution of ordinary tasks. Saban exemplifies this philosophy by practicing hard every day, ensuring his players are consistently honing their skills. The discussion highlights that successful individuals aren't necessarily geniuses; instead, they excel at doing the ordinary exceptionally well. This principle applies beyond sports, encouraging listeners to adopt a similar mindset in their personal and professional lives. Key Takeaways Nick Saban's coaching philosophy extends far beyond football, offering valuable lessons in focus, discipline, and the importance of the process. By concentrating on winning the immediate moments, adhering to a structured process, and executing ordinary tasks with relentless commitment, individuals can achieve extraordinary outcomes. The principles discussed in this podcast serve as a reminder that success isn't solely about the end goal but rather about how we navigate the journey to get there.

The Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World is no ordinary running event; it's a thrilling test of endurance and spirit. For first-time participants, the excitement can be overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can conquer this unique multi-race experience. In this episode, we'll explore the essential tips and tricks to help you navigate the Dopey Challenge successfully, ensuring you enjoy every moment of the magic. The Dopey Challenge consists of four races over four days: a 5K on Thursday, a 10K on Friday, a half marathon on Saturday, and culminating in a full marathon on Sunday. This demanding schedule requires not only physical training but also a solid mental strategy to keep you focused and motivated throughout the event.On race days, take it one race at a time. The marathon, especially, can feel overwhelming after completing the shorter races. A useful tip shared in the podcast is to break down the marathon into manageable segments: "Take it one mile at a time." This mindset helps reduce anxiety and allows you to focus on completing each mile, making the entire marathon feel less daunting. One of the unique aspects of running at Disney is the opportunity to meet beloved characters along the course. If you're participating for fun rather than competition, take advantage of these stops. As mentioned in the podcast, "Nobody cares about your half marathon time." Enjoy the experience by taking photos with characters and soaking in the atmosphere. This approach not only makes the race enjoyable but also helps break up the distance. Completing the Dopey Challenge is an incredible achievement that requires both physical and mental preparation. By taking it one race at a time, prioritizing nutrition and hydration, and allowing yourself to enjoy the magical experience of running through Disney, you can conquer this challenge and create unforgettable memories. Remember, whether you're pushing for a personal record or simply enjoying the magic of Disney, the most important thing is to have fun! Key Takeaways: - Prepare for early mornings and prioritize rest. - Break down the marathon into manageable segments. - Maintain proper nutrition and hydration throughout the event. - Enjoy character stops and the overall Disney experience. - Focus on recovery after each race to be ready for the next.

Welcome to an exciting journey through the Dopey Challenge at the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend! In this episode, we will explore the ins and outs of this grueling yet rewarding event, designed for those who dare to push their limits. Whether you are a seasoned marathoner or a first-time participant, our insights and strategies will help you navigate this unique challenge with confidence and joy. Understanding the Dopey Challenge: The Dopey Challenge is an extraordinary test of endurance that takes place during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, typically in the second week of January. Participants tackle four races in four consecutive days: a 5K on Thursday, a 10K on Friday, a half marathon on Saturday, and a full marathon on Sunday. This ambitious challenge not only requires physical stamina but also mental resilience. Since its inception in 2014, the Dopey Challenge has attracted runners from across the globe. Prior to the Dopey Challenge, the Goofy Challenge was introduced, which involved completing a half marathon followed by a full marathon. However, the Dopey Challenge raised the stakes by adding a 5K and a 10K, making it a true test of endurance. Kevin Harrison, a veteran of the Dopey Challenge, humorously refers to it as "the dumbest thing" he does each year, yet his dedication and passion shine through. Preparing for the Challenge Preparation is crucial for success in the Dopey Challenge. According to Kevin, consistency in training makes the challenge manageable, though not easy. He emphasizes the importance of mental preparation, advising participants to visualize their training days and maintain a positive mindset. Training should include a balanced mix of long runs, recovery, and tapering to ensure you're physically ready. The Mental Game As you stand at the starting line of the marathon after three days of racing, it's natural to feel apprehensive. Kevin suggests focusing on the journey rather than the distance ahead. Techniques like visualizing successful training runs and breaking the marathon into manageable segments can help. He encourages runners to tackle the race mile by mile, reminding them that if they want to quit, they should wait until they reach the next mile marker. The Race Day Experience Race day begins early, with the starting gun firing at 4:30 AM. The challenge lies in maintaining energy and motivation as you navigate through the parks. The first few miles can be mentally challenging, especially in the darkness before dawn. However, passing landmarks like the Magic Kingdom can provide a much-needed boost. As you leave one park and head to another, the excitement builds, pushing you closer to the finish line. Tips for Race Day 1. Stay Hydrated: Keep your body fueled and hydrated throughout the weekend. 2. Embrace the Experience: Enjoy the atmosphere of running through Disney parks, interacting with fellow participants, and soaking in the magic. 3. Listen to Your Body: Recognize when to push through and when to take a break. It's okay to adjust your pace if necessary. 4. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge each milestone, whether it's running the first mile or crossing the halfway point. Completing the Dopey Challenge is not just about crossing the finish line; it's about the journey, the friendships made, and the triumphs over adversity. As participants reflect on their experiences, they learn valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the power of doing hard things. So lace up your running shoes, embrace the challenge, and remember: every mile is a step toward achieving your goals.

Today's Do Hard Things Today podcast provides a look at the key characteristics that enable individuals to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. By establishing standards, minimizing distractions, embracing lifelong learning, welcoming adversity, and maintaining consistency, anyone can cultivate the mindset and habits of successful people. 1. Establishing Standards The key is setting high personal standards and refusing to compromise, even when it is difficult. Jed Blackwell shares his experience as a journalist, where he established strict journalistic standards early in his career and was unwilling to deviate from them, even when it meant walking away from a job. Successful people apply this principle across all areas of their lives - physical, professional, spiritual, and personal. 2. Quieting the Noise The podcast discusses the challenge of managing the constant distractions and "noise" that modern life presents, such as emails, social media, and other digital stimuli. Successful people are able to minimize these distractions and focus on what is truly important. This may involve setting boundaries, such as closing the door to avoid interruptions, and limiting time spent on non-essential activities. 3. Being a Lifelong Learner The hosts emphasize the importance of being a lifelong learner, constantly seeking to expand one's knowledge and skills. Successful people are humble enough to learn from others, even those in different fields, recognizing that there is always room for growth and improvement. The podcast cites statistics showing that the average millionaire reads significantly more non-fiction books than the general population. 4. Welcoming Adversity The podcast argues that successful people view adversity as an opportunity for growth and development, rather than something to be feared. They understand that overcoming challenges is essential for reaching one's full potential. The hosts use examples from sports, such as Kobe Bryant's response to his Achilles injury, to illustrate this mindset. 5. Consistency The hosts conclude that the "secret sauce" of success is consistency - the disciplined execution of fundamental tasks and routines day in and day out. They contrast this with the misconception that successful people achieve extraordinary feats, emphasizing that it is the consistent application of the basics that truly drives success.

Keith Troutman is a former professional baseball player who spent eight years in the minor leagues after playing collegiately at Spartanburg Methodist College. He joins us on the Do Hard Things Today podcast to talk with Coach Katie and Jed about his journey in baseball - and in his faith.

Are you headed for the Dopey Challenge or the RunDisney Marathon? There are some BIG changes in store! On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, join Perfect Dopey Kevin Harrison as he takes you through the course, breaking down the changes that might be causing runners some anxiety. What's good, what's bad, and most of all what's new on the course, on today's episode.

How many times have you heard it? "I'm just so stressed out." On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, we'll take a look at what causes stress in your day-to-day life, and some ways to help you deal with it.

On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, join Kevin and Coach Katie as they talk to Kamilla Whitney, franchise owner of Lean Kitchen in Spartanburg and Boiling Springs. She'll tell you about the importance of meal planning and the availability of nutritious, balanced, ready-to-eat products for athletes, people getting into fitness, and much more. Lean Kitchen offers 25-30 options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and even allows customers to build their own eal packages. And Kamilla isn't just a business owner, she's an athlete, having completed the Alcatraz Triathlon.

Whether you're stuck in your progress or just branching out to try something new, growth is the key to success. On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, Coach Katie will give you a quick look at five ways to grow in our Five for Friday series.

On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, join Kevin, Coach Katie, and Dr. Stephanie Machacek, Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and Certified Nutrition Specialist, as they discuss the importance of nutrition. Dr. Stephanie discusses her background and her approach to nutrition and nutritional training, including specific needs for female athletes, needs for teams, inflammation, gut health, and how everything ties in together. You can learn more about Dr. Stephanie - and schedule a free 20-minute consultation - at foodfactornutrition.com, and you can find her on Instagram and Facebook at foodfactornutrition.

Want to feel more confident? On today's Do Hard Things Today Podcast, we'll tell you five ways to boost your confidence, including the way you walk, the friends you keep, the rest you get, and even how you talk to yourself. Join Kevin and Coach Katie as they tell you how to increase your confidence today!

On today's Do Hard Things Today podcast, we continue our conversation with Dr. Stephanie Morgan. Today, she'll talk to us about her career and particularly her specialization in pelvic health - what it is, and why it's important.

Today on the Do Hard Things Today podcast, Kevin Harrison and Coach Katie Malone discuss how to get faster as you train for longer runs. From finding fast friends to other speedwork strategies, today is all about FAST!

With just more than three months to go until the Run Disney Dopey Challenge, Perfect Dopey Kevin Harrison takes you through popular race strategies so you can decide which one is right for your races. Plus, training tips on how to go fastert and more, on today's episode of the Do Hard Things Podcast!

Today on the Do Hard Things Today podcast, we're joined by Stephanie Morgan, a former accomplished high school and collegeiate runner and all-around athlete. Post-partum, Morgan decided to get back into running, and shares with us her journey from that decision to qualifying for and competing in the Boston Marathon. Now, she's an aspiring triathlete. This week, we'll hear about her back ground. In the coming weeks, we'll talk about how Morgan is helping others.

Bicycle Safety is a serious issue for fitness riders, made even more so by recent accidents. Today, join Kevin Harrison, Coach Katie Malone, and special guest Michael Forrester as they discuss best practices, the importance of proper gear, and many other aspects of bicycle safety for your training rides.

How do you break a bad habit? From making better plans to making better decisions, our Five For Friday with Kevin Harrison gives you a quick start on how to break those bad habits - and how to build good ones.

Listen to our interview with "Perfect Dopey" Kevin Harrison as he shares tips and encourages you on your journey. Race strategy, calming anxieties, and the magnitude of a Run Disney event are all topics of today's conversation.

Set a goal. Smash it. Repeat. There's a lot more to it than that. But you should still celebrate your training successes. Join Katie, Kevin, and guest Abby Russell as they talk all things training on today's episode.

Join Katie and Kevin today as they explore SwimRun, a unique, two-person event that relies on teamwork as much as athleticism. They're joined by Herbert Krabel of SwimRun NC, and Katie's race partner Abby Russell to cover all aspects of the SwimRun experience!

Join us as we talk with Carolina Paredes Cox, who shares real-life inspiration, life advice, and wisdom.