In this inspiring episode of Eat Meat Sparingly: A Word of Wisdom Podcast, Ali Essig opens up about her first triathlon experience — from not knowing how to swim to crossing the finish line with confidence.

She shares what it really takes to push past fear, self-doubt, and the sneaky ways we self-sabotage when chasing big goals. Through personal stories and faith-based reflection, Ali explores how adopting a growth mindset and leaning on others for help can transform your progress — in fitness, health, and life.

You’ll also learn about powerful therapeutic tools like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) — and how they can help you reframe your inner dialogue, overcome mental roadblocks, and finally get out of your own way.

Whether you’re training for something big or just trying to stick with a new habit, this episode will remind you: you’re capable of more than you think.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:14 The Triathlon Journey Begins

01:11 Training and Challenges

02:59 Learning to Swim

05:11 The Importance of a Coach

11:45 The Triathlon Day

14:36 Overcoming Negative Voices

15:35 Faith-Based vs. Fear-Based Thoughts

16:08 Overcoming Dichotomous Thinking

16:42 Embracing a Growth Mindset

17:44 The Power of Identity: Being a Learner

20:33 Therapeutic Tools for Positive Change

21:01 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Explained

23:30 Acceptance Commitment Therapy

25:26 Internal Family Systems Therapy

27:30 The Journey of Continuous Learning

30:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement