On the latest episode of Fiery Embers, the focus shifts from the grind of paces and mileage to something more refreshing: laughter, food and having fun outside of endurance sports. Host Jason Bahamundi brings in John Grey, founder of Pretty Neat Performance Energy Balls, for a lively conversation that’s full of laughs, unexpected questions, and some absurd answers that will leave endurance athletes entertained and energized.
A Spirited Sports Debate to Kick Things Off
Right from the start, Jason and John dive into a light-hearted but passionate discussion about their favorite sports teams. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh fans will feel right at home with the banter about rivalries, but it’s all in good fun as the conversation quickly moves on to another hot topic—sports movies and those epic walk-up songs that get everyone fired up.
For endurance athletes looking for something to smile about during their toughest workouts, this episode offers more than just motivational tips—it provides pure entertainment.
Bagels, Pizza, and Chocolate: Fuel for the Soul
What’s an endurance sports chat without some food talk? Jason and John debate one of the greatest rivalries of all time: New York bagels vs. New York pizza. If you’ve ever fueled a long run with a bagel or treated yourself to a post-race pizza, this part of the conversation will feel like home.
John also shares the behind-the-scenes story of creating his Performance Energy Balls, starting with the first flavor—chocolate. His entrepreneurial journey resonates with anyone who’s ever taken on a big challenge, whether it’s starting a business or tackling a triathlon. From overcoming hurdles to perfecting the product, it’s a motivational tale wrapped in humor and deliciousness.
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Guilty Pleasures and Real Estate Reality TV
As the conversation turns personal, we get a peek into John’s guilty pleasures, and surprisingly, real estate reality TV takes center stage! It’s not all about work and training—sometimes, you just need a guilty pleasure to unwind. Whether it’s indulging in reality TV or enjoying red velvet cake (which Jason and John debate with hilarity), this episode reminds us that it’s okay to relax and enjoy the ride, even outside of our endurance sports journeys.
Conclusion: Laughter as the Ultimate Recovery
Jason and John wrap up the episode with laughs, relatable moments, and a reminder that sometimes, stepping outside the seriousness of training can be the perfect way to re-energize. Whether you’re pushing through the last few miles of a tough run or taking a rest day, this episode of Fiery Embers offers the perfect balance of humor, food, and motivation.
Tune in and enjoy some well-deserved laughter, food discussion and fun—it’s just the fuel you need to keep going!
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