

The THRIVEONLIFE Podcast aims to help mission based people, brands, and businesses THRIVE on life, love, health, and everything in between. Tune in every THRIVE THURSDAY as CJ Finley, speaks with guests who wish to help other people THRIVE in the areas of health and fitness, business and entrepreneurship, and mindset and mental health. This show will provide answers to questions like: *How do I get more physically, mentally, and spiritually fit? *How business and entrepreneurship can make me a better human being? *How do I start on my entrepreneurial journey? *How do I make more money? *How can I build communities? *How can I produce social media content? *How can I start, scale, and sell a business? *How can I start an online business? *How can I improve my relationship with myself? *What books can I read to improve my life? *Who can I surround myself with to improve my life?
Episodes

Sep 21, 2023
Sep 21, 2023
1 hr 11 min
In this episode, CJ chats with Patrick Lyons, a longtime friend and returning guest.
They discuss Patrick's recent retreat in Hawaii, exploring the inspiration behind hosting the retreat and the steps he took to make it happen.
The conversation highlights the importance of intentionality, building habits & setting priorities to achieve one's ideal life, and dedicating time to thinking bigger and exploring one's imagination to enhance the journey that is life.
Key Topics
[00:00:00] Intentionality and priorities.
[00:04:30] Traveling and creating lifelong memories.
[00:07:01] Oahu as a retreat location.
[00:09:47] Choosing a retreat experience.
[00:15:32] Hosting a successful fitness retreat.
[00:17:06] Travel planning made easy.
[00:19:42] Feeling like a little kid.
[00:23:10] Patrick's editing process for his upcoming book.
[00:27:06] Marketing with special book editions.
[00:29:32] Listening to other authors.
[00:33:29] The best habits to implement.
[00:37:22] Finding operational inefficiencies.
[00:39:15] Prioritizing Habits and Time.
[00:44:06] Purpose-driven relaxation.
[00:47:09] Finding joy in watching shows.
[00:50:11] The power of visualization.
[00:55:30] Catharsis through imaginary emotions.
[00:58:41] Struggling with accepting belonging.
[01:02:13] Giving yourself grace.
[01:06:08] Three daily habits for thriving.
[01:08:32] Booking time for imagination.
Connect with Patrick
Connect with CJ Finley:
THRIVEONLIFE Podcast Instagram

Sep 19, 2023
Sep 19, 2023
52 min
In this episode, Erin and CJ discuss biomarkers, blood work, and how they have optimized their health over a decade+ of time.
They share their personal health journeys, the complications they've faced, and how they've taken control of their own well-being.
The episode dives into CJ's struggles with finding answers to his auto-immune health issues that date back to his childhood, as well as Erin's debilitating eating disorder she suffered through in college.
The ultimate goal of this episode is to encourage EVERYONE to take their health into their own hands by doing regularly bloodwork.
Key Topics
[00:02:07] Stomach disorders and anxiety.
[00:04:25] Mental health and how it impacts physical well-being.
[00:09:23] Eating disorders and suffering with negative views on body image.
[00:16:33] Colonoscopies and preventative health.
[00:21:57] Signs of inflammation and bloating.
[00:28:22] Hormones and fertility.
[00:31:52] Low testosterone and training.
[00:33:28] Low testosterone in women.
[00:40:13] Sleep and tracking it as a couple.
[00:42:01] HRV and sleep patterns.
[00:46:21] Talking about blood work.
[00:50:03] The hope of reaching more people with this information.
Connect with Erin
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram

Sep 14, 2023
Sep 14, 2023
53 min
In this episode, CJ interviews entrepreneur Justin Singer about the concept and experience of Move, Breathe, Restore. The conversation begins with CJ sharing his discomfort with swimming and how he was introduced to Justin through his Move, Breathe, Restore event.
During the conversation Justin explains that there are two parts to Move, Breathe, Restore - the health concepts and the physical experience.
They also discuss the upcoming Move, Breath, Restore experience on October 14th and the impact it can have on personal growth and well-being.
Key Topics
[00:01:34] The concept vs. the experience.
[00:03:27] The connection piece of fitness.
[00:08:48] Takeaways from the Move, Breathe, Restore experience.
[00:10:43] Longevity and high-performance fitness.
[00:14:01] Breath control and self-awareness.
[00:17:43] Managing stress with breath.
[00:22:28] Mental game in the pool.
[00:24:56] Overcoming mental barriers through swimming.
[00:30:06] Maximizing output through nutrition.
[00:32:11] Pre-workout meal recommendations.
[00:37:11] Max performance and nutrition.
[00:41:28] The importance of curated conversations around health.
[00:43:39] Challenging yourself for personal growth.
[00:46:28] Thriving and making progress.
Connect with Justin
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram

Sep 12, 2023
Sep 12, 2023
4 min
In this short episode, CJ explores the concept of success and how everyone can overcome their own limitations to achieve their goals and dreams.
The key to success, CJ explains, is constant learning.
And the fastest way to learn is to be surrounded with people who are more knowledgeable and experienced in the areas you want to improve in.
However, this can be intimidating and may make you feel like a failure before you even begin. CJ encourages you to embrace the fear of being a beginner and to understand that it is a necessary step towards expertise and success.
This episode prompts us to reflect on how often we or others abandon our goals due to fear of failure and lack of action, as well as tips to overcome this.
Key Topics
-What are your limiting beliefs?
-Do you fear judgment from others?
-Learning to embrace the beginner's mindset
-Tips to build momentum towards your goals and dreams
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram

Sep 10, 2023
Sep 10, 2023
50 min
In this episode, the Erin and CJ explore the significance of maintaining a balance between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being in their daily routines.
CJ talks about his practice of habit stacking and learning to compound time, while Erin discusses the challenges of maximizing time to be a leader both at work and at home.
Overall, this discussion sheds light on the challenges of time management, how to build effective routines, and the significance of learning to have empathy and emotional intelligence in fostering a positive life and community around you.
Key Topics
[00:01:37] The importance of being "real" in podcast episodes.
[00:05:30] Why it is important to listen to different viewpoints.
[00:11:14] Effective delegation and time management.
[00:14:49] Life as a series of chapters.
[00:19:44] Living vs being alive.
[00:22:38] Benefits of sauna and ice.
[00:27:44] What new skills does CJ and Erin want to learn.
[00:32:48] The meat industry and the consumption of real foods.
[00:35:09] What Erin is learning as a new mother.
[00:41:22] Erin's future Boston Marathon Qualification.
[00:45:17] Where have CJ and Erin grown the most?
Connect with Erin
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram

Sep 7, 2023
Sep 7, 2023
1 hr 27 min
In this episode CJ welcomes guest Chef James Barry to the show. James shares how he ended up in Austin, thanks to the Austin Fit Fest, where he was a vendor. Recognizing the opportunity to connect with a new audience, James was motivated to make the most of his trip.
During the episode James shares how he approaches relationships, parenting, and business with an open, curious mindset rather than trying to be "right" all the time.
He emphasizes being fully present, whether with family, friends, or work, in order to maximize each moment. James and CJ discuss how to balance priorities amid the busyness of life. And they explore how to show compassion and give grace to others, learning from mistakes and growing continually.
Overall, the episode focuses on living intentionally, savoring each experience, and thriving in all areas of life.
Key Topics
[00:02:18] Organ meat nutrition.
[00:04:58] Real food and nutrient-dense consumption.
[00:08:23] Influences and how it impacts health.
[00:11:57] Food and health connection.
[00:16:27] Eating nutrient-dense on a budget.
[00:20:09] Escaping and embracing freedom.
[00:25:01] Getting people to try new things.
[00:29:32] The motivation behind glyphosate.
[00:31:19] Investing in Our Planet.
[00:35:01] Life and community.
[00:39:06] Honoring your unique path.
[00:46:55] Life's fleeting moments.
[00:51:40] Education reform and systems.
[00:55:34] Thriving through environmental changes.
[00:58:23] Self-care and prioritizing relationships.
[01:02:18] Individualized time in relationships.
[01:09:16] Kids are not a burden.
[01:10:08] Being present with your kids.
[01:18:09] Managing stress and communication.
Connect with Chef James
Connect with CJ Finley:
THRIVEONLIFE Podcast Instagram

Sep 5, 2023
Sep 5, 2023
4 min
In this short episode, CJ shares his past frustrations with the corporate world and being confined to a traditional work schedule. He reflects on his college days when he was able to balance multiple activities and feel a sense of fulfillment.
However, after graduating, he found himself trapped in a desk job with little autonomy over his schedule.
CJ expresses his dissatisfaction with the hierarchical structure of the corporate world and questions the notion of having "higher ups" dictate how work-life should be.
He then discusses how he started to manipulate his schedule to regain control and how other people can potentially do the same.
This episode challenges the idea of being a slave to the hours in a day and encourages listeners to reconsider their relationship with their work.
Key Topics
-Stop giving other people the power to dictate your life
-Delegate and Elevate
-Don't waste your time in pointless meetings
-Focus on documenting your results
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram

Aug 31, 2023
Aug 31, 2023
1 hr 8 min
In this episode, CJ chats with Matt Johnson, a military veteran who has entered into the world of ultra running and recently completed the infamous Leadville 100.
Matt shares his journey of moving from a small town in Iowa, where college wasn't the norm, to joining the military instead.
He discusses the challenges he faced as a young person and how he has built a mindset around not letting the opinions of others deter him from pursuing his own path.
CJ and Matt dive into topics such as fitness, relationships, mindset, and more, all aimed at helping listeners take uncommon action within their own lives.
Key Topics
[00:01:18] Military veteran turned ultra runner.
[00:03:36] Thriving in toxicity.
[00:09:50] Endurance sport and past experiences.
[00:10:00] Endurance athletes and pain.
[00:14:28] Being bullied in high school.
[00:19:37] The problem in Austin.
[00:21:00] Chasing our demons.
[00:24:39] Brotherhood and camaraderie.
[00:28:45] Acai bowl experience.
[00:30:52] What is Leadville 100?
[00:35:38] Overcoming setbacks and resilience.
[00:39:23] The mind of a competitor.
[00:42:40] Finding happiness in the journey.
[00:46:09] Embracing bad days.
[00:49:07] Life's little things and races.
[00:53:07] Lady Bird Lake Ultra.
[00:59:07] No limits, no boundaries.
[01:03:57] Changing a whole family's life.
[01:05:26] Thriving
[01:07:47] Projecting my own mind.
Connect with Matt
Connect with CJ Finley:

Aug 29, 2023
Aug 29, 2023
1 min
In this episode, CJ explores the concept of obligations versus interests in our daily lives. He encourage listeners to reflect on how much of their day is spent doing things out of obligation rather than personal interest.
He then prompts listeners to notice any resistance they have towards their daily activities and to identify the stories they tell themselves about these obligations.
By becoming aware of these stories, listeners can start shifting from obligations to pursuing more of their own interests.
Key Topics
-The invisible resistance you feel towards obligations
-How to realize not all obligations need to be done
-Shifting your life into more of your personal interests
Connect with CJ Finley:

Aug 27, 2023
Aug 27, 2023
48 min
In this episode, CJ and Erin Finley discuss their involvement in HYROX and their upcoming mixed doubles event in Dallas Texas in November.
They dive into the importance of being versatile in their fitness routines and how incorporating strength training alongside running has helped them achieve their goals.
They also touch on the purpose of being strong for longevity, health, and resiliency. Tune in to hear their personal experiences and how they plan to approach the mixed doubles event.
Key Topics
[00:00:11] The importance of being versatile in fitness.
[00:06:59] Taking the leap and learning new ways of moving.
[00:10:35] General fitness and programming.
[00:12:01] HYROX as a versatility race.
[00:16:23] Strategic approach to racing.
[00:21:30] CJ and Erin's racing weaknesses.
[00:24:09] Why walking a sled backwards is important in training.
[00:29:25] Their plan to push through pain.
[00:32:09] Reaching a new level of competition.
[00:35:53] How will they find the time to train.
[00:38:00] Overcoming self-doubt and setting goals.
[00:44:56] Competing as a family.
[00:45:38] Intimacy and relationship growth.
Connect with Erin
Connect with CJ Finley:
ThriveOnLife Podcast Instagram