In this episode I sit down with Jake Prusha — Coast Guard vet, mental health advocate, and someone who’s been through the it. Jake opens up about his battles with depression and anxiety, the reality of military life, and what it’s like trying to find your footing once you’re out.

We talk about how fitness became his way of coping, why vulnerability matters, and why leadership in the mental health space isn’t about pretending you’ve got it all together — it’s about being real.

We get into his 100 Murphs in 100 days challenge, the toll it took, what he learned about accountability and community, and how sharing his story online actually hit him harder than the workouts themselves.

This conversation isn’t just about fitness or mental health — it’s about ego, authenticity, and cutting out the habits that hold you back, looking after yourself and others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jake Prusha and His Journey

02:55 Joining the Coast Guard: Motivations and Experiences

05:48 Facing Mental Health Challenges in the Military

08:42 The 100 Murphs Challenge: Raising Awareness for Mental Health

11:58 The Importance of Vulnerability and Seeking Help

14:57 Understanding Trauma: Big vs. Little

17:50 Catalysts for Seeking Help: Personal Stories and Perspectives

20:52 The Role of Leadership in Mental Health Awareness

22:57 Practical Steps for Checking In on Others

26:04 Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey of Mental Health Awareness

31:32 Understanding Suicidal Ideations

34:27 Coping Mechanisms for Mental Health

37:32 The Importance of Hard Workouts

40:36 Recognizing Patterns in Mental Health

43:17 The Five Pillars of Life

46:43 Sharing the Weight of Life

49:35 Breaking the Cycle of Negative Thoughts

52:35 Resetting Your Baseline

55:34 Establishing Non-Negotiables

58:34 The Murph Challenge: A Personal Journey

01:04:08 The Power of Community Support

01:10:49 Navigating Post-Challenge Emotions

01:16:34 Authenticity in the Age of Social Media

01:22:21 Reflections on the Murph Challenge

01:28:32 Taking Risks and Intentions Behind Actions

01:30:40 Authenticity Over Metrics

01:32:52 The Importance of Taking the First Step

01:35:17 Finding Your Why

01:37:27 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

01:41:12 Rebuilding Self-Discipline

01:44:19 Confronting Self-Hatred

01:48:01 The Cost of Service

01:51:24 What to Add or Take Away

01:53:17 You're Not Alone

Keywords

mental health, suicide prevention, Coast Guard, veterans, resilience, vulnerability, support systems, physical fitness, Murph challenge, mental health awareness, accountability, community support, mental health, social media authenticity, personal growth, life transitions, self-perception, ego, motivation, fitness challenges

Want help implementing these systems? Click here: https://www.combatfitness.co/apply?el=youtubeDownload the free ebook "Crash Course: How To Eat Train & Recover Like a Pro" Here:https://drive.google.com/uc?export=download&id=16Ulv6xWjoSYFulK6eOgh4MkzuUZoornHIf you're new to my channel, welcome! I'm Scott, the Founder and Director of Combat Fitness. We began by creating fitness programs for young guys entering the military and have since evolved into offering our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework to train individuals from all walks of life. Our systems have been used by over 14,000 people, including those preparing for:Navy SEAL BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition / SEAL Training)Ranger SchoolSpecial Forces Assessment and SelectionNavy Dive SchoolClearance Diver Assessment Centre SelectionMARSOC (Marine Forces Special Operations Command)Law Enforcement, ERT/SWATAnd also...Successful EntrepreneursCorporate ExecutivesDoctorsLawyersAnd more.Since anyone can claim anything on the internet, here's a brief rundown of my journey:14-17 years old: Competitive cyclist, ranked top 10 in the country.17 years old: Joined the Canadian Army as a medic, and completed basic training.18 years old: First trip to the Arctic with the Infantry's Arctic Response Company Group.19 years old: Completed Medical Training, Second Arctic trip; started a Psychology degree and an Instagram page called "Combat Medicine."20-22 years old: Full-time with the Army during Operation Lazer, working with Battle Schools and Clinics.22 years old: Completed my first Ironman Triathlon and rebranded "Combat Medicine" to Combat Fitness.23 years old: Transferred to Navy Port Inspection Diver, completed Ship's Diver Course, dropped out of University to run Combat Fitness, and surpassed $1M in revenue.24 years old: Left the Canadian Armed ForcesThe rest is pretty much history.Today, we work one-on-one with individuals aiming to improve their fitness through our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework. Whether you're a busy executive, a veteran with injuries, or a young athlete striving for excellence, our approach works. Put simply, we combine fitness, diet, stress & sleep assessments, and extensive 1-1 support and tracking.This channel new, and is my way of giving back. At Combat Fitness, our goal is that every interaction-be it a YouTube video, Instagram post, strategy call, or months of training-leaves you better off than before.Let's get it,ScottyP.S. If you find these videos helpful and want to learn more, check us out https://www.combatfitness.co/apply?el=youtube

Want help implementing these systems? Click here: https://www.combatfitness.co/slof?el=podcastIf you're new to my channel, welcome! I'm Scott, the Founder and Director of Combat Fitness. We began by creating fitness programs for young guys entering the military and have since evolved into offering our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework to train individuals from all walks of life. Our systems have been used by over 14,000 people, including those preparing for:Navy SEAL BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition / SEAL Training)Ranger SchoolSpecial Forces Assessment and SelectionNavy Dive SchoolClearance Diver Assessment Centre SelectionMARSOC (Marine Forces Special Operations Command)Law Enforcement, ERT/SWATAnd also...Successful EntrepreneursCorporate ExecutivesDoctorsLawyersAnd more.Since anyone can claim anything on the internet, here's a brief rundown of my journey:14-17 years old: Competitive cyclist, ranked top 10 in the country.17 years old: Joined the Canadian Army as a medic, and completed basic training.18 years old: First trip to the Arctic with the Infantry's Arctic Response Company Group.19 years old: Completed Medical Training, Second Arctic trip; started a Psychology degree and an Instagram page called "Combat Medicine."20-22 years old: Full-time with the Army during Operation Lazer, working with Battle Schools and Clinics.22 years old: Completed my first Ironman Triathlon and rebranded "Combat Medicine" to Combat Fitness.23 years old: Transferred to Navy Port Inspection Diver, completed Ship's Diver Course, dropped out of University to run Combat Fitness, and surpassed $1M in revenue.24 years old: Left the Canadian Armed ForcesThe rest is pretty much history.Today, we work one-on-one with individuals aiming to improve their fitness through our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework. Whether you're a busy executive, a veteran with injuries, or a young athlete striving for excellence, our approach works. Put simply, we combine fitness, diet, stress & sleep assessments, and extensive 1-1 support and tracking.This channel new, and is my way of giving back. At Combat Fitness, our goal is that every interaction-be it a YouTube video, Instagram post, strategy call, or months of training-leaves you better off than before.Let's get it,ScottyP.S. If you find these videos helpful and want to learn more, check us out https://www.combatfitness.co/slof?el=youtube

Are you tired of reliving the same day over and over, feeling stuck in a loop that hinders your growth? In Chapter 1 of The Shift series, we delve into the reasons behind this stagnation and introduce actionable steps to break free.

In This Episode:

• Understanding the Cycle: Discover why many individuals find themselves trapped in repetitive routines and how this impacts personal and professional growth.
• Meet Scott: Learn from Scott's journey—from a 17-year-old army medic to a Navy diver, Ironman triathlete, and successful entrepreneur. His experiences offer valuable insights into overcoming life's challenges.
• Combat Fitness Success Stories: Explore how Combat Fitness has empowered over 15,000 individuals, including special forces candidates, corporate executives, and law enforcement officers, to achieve peak performance.

Why Watch?This episode isn't just about fitness; it's about transforming your mindset, habits, and overall approach to life. Whether you're aiming for personal development or professional excellence, the strategies discussed here provide a solid foundation for meaningful change.

Join the Community:

• Subscribe to stay updated on upcoming episodes.
• Share your thoughts: Leave a comment below about your experiences with breaking free from limiting cycles.
• Connect with us: Follow our journey and access additional resources on our social media channels.

Embark on this transformative journey with us and take the first step towards redefining your potential.

What does it really take to go from nothing to great?In this 5-part series, The Shift, we break down the exact steps needed to transform your mindset, habits, and discipline—so you can level up in every area of your life.From the mental quantum leap that sparks change to the disciplined execution that locks in long-term success, this is the blueprint for those who refuse to stay the same.🔥 Episode Breakdown:The Beginning – Who I am, what Combat Fitness is, and why this series matters.The Mental Quantum Leap – The mindset shift that changes everything.Habits – How to build momentum and make success inevitable.Discipline – The key to staying on track when motivation fades.The Shift - The keys to living and sustaining thisThe path is here. The choice is yours.Subscribe now and be ready for Episode 1.

The next evolution of fitness is here.For years, we’ve been refining, testing, and optimizing this system. Now, it’s finally live.Combat Fitness ONE isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a complete transformation of how you train, perform, and build discipline. This is the most complete training system we’ve ever created.Access to every Combat Fitness training program, past and newDirect coaching support—real guidance, not just another PDFBuilt-in tracking, meal plans, and supplement discountsHigh-Performance Strategies for elite resultsExclusive community, accountability, and monthly merch giveawaysThis isn’t just another program. This is the standard.If you’re tired of guessing, plateauing, or going in circles—this is where it ends.Get in now before early access closes.👉 https://www.combatfitness.co/oneTimestamps:00:00 – Why this changes everything01:23 – What makes Combat Fitness ONE different03:45 – What’s inside06:10 – How to get startedWho is this for?Athletes who want a proven, structured systemMilitary, LEO, and high-performers who need real resultsAnyone done with program-hopping and second-guessing progressThose ready to commit, level up, and take control of their fitnessThe best time to start was yesterday. The second best time is now.👉 https://www.combatfitness.co/one

If you're new to my channel, welcome! I'm Scott, the Founder and Director of Combat Fitness.We began by creating fitness programs for young guys entering the military and have since evolved into offering our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework to train individuals from all walks of life. Our systems have been used by over 14,000 people, including those preparing for:Navy SEAL BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition / SEAL Training)Ranger SchoolSpecial Forces Assessment and SelectionNavy Dive SchoolClearance Diver Assessment Centre SelectionMARSOC (Marine Forces Special Operations Command)Law Enforcement, ERT/SWATAnd also...Successful EntrepreneursCorporate ExecutivesDoctorsLawyersAnd more.Since anyone can claim anything on the internet, here's a brief rundown of my journey:14-17 years old: Competitive cyclist, ranked top 10 in the country.17 years old: Joined the Canadian Army as a medic, and completed basic training.18 years old: First trip to the Arctic with the Infantry's Arctic Response Company Group.19 years old: Completed Medical Training, Second Arctic trip; started a Psychology degree and an Instagram page called "Combat Medicine."20-22 years old: Full-time with the Army during Operation Lazer, working with Battle Schools and Clinics.22 years old: Completed my first Ironman Triathlon and rebranded "Combat Medicine" to Combat Fitness.23 years old: Transferred to Navy Port Inspection Diver, completed Ship's Diver Course, dropped out of University to run Combat Fitness, and surpassed $1M in revenue.24 years old: Left the Canadian Armed ForcesThe rest is pretty much history.Today, we work one-on-one with individuals aiming to improve their fitness through our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework. Whether you're a busy executive, a veteran with injuries, or a young athlete striving for excellence, our approach works. Put simply, we combine fitness, diet, stress & sleep assessments, and extensive 1-1 support and tracking.This channel new, and is my way of giving back. At Combat Fitness, our goal is that every interaction-be it a YouTube video, Instagram post, strategy call, or months of training-leaves you better off than before.Let's get it,ScottyP.S. If you find these videos helpful and want to learn more, check us out here: https://www.combatfitness.co/

If you're new to my channel, welcome! I'm Scott, the Founder and Director of Combat Fitness. We began by creating fitness programs for young guys entering the military and have since evolved into offering our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework to train individuals from all walks of life. Our systems have been used by over 14,000 people, including those preparing for: Navy SEAL BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition / SEAL Training) Ranger School Special Forces Assessment and Selection Navy Dive School Clearance Diver Assessment Centre Selection MARSOC (Marine Forces Special Operations Command) Law Enforcement, ERT/SWAT And also... Successful Entrepreneurs Corporate Executives Doctors Lawyers And more. Since anyone can claim anything on the internet, here's a brief rundown of my journey: 14-17 years old: Competitive cyclist, ranked top 10 in the country. 17 years old: Joined the Canadian Army as a medic, and completed basic training. 18 years old: First trip to the Arctic with the Infantry's Arctic Response Company Group. 19 years old: Completed Medical Training, Second Arctic trip; started a Psychology degree and an Instagram page called "Combat Medicine." 20-22 years old: Full-time with the Army during Operation Lazer, working with Battle Schools and Clinics. 22 years old: Completed my first Ironman Triathlon and rebranded "Combat Medicine" to Combat Fitness. 23 years old: Transferred to Navy Port Inspection Diver, completed Ship's Diver Course, dropped out of University to run Combat Fitness, and surpassed $1M in revenue. 24 years old: Left the Canadian Armed Forces The rest is pretty much history. Today, we work one-on-one with individuals aiming to improve their fitness through our "Strategic Lifestyle Optimization" framework. Whether you're a busy executive, a veteran with injuries, or a young athlete striving for excellence, our approach works. Put simply, we combine fitness, diet, stress & sleep assessments, and extensive 1-1 support and tracking. This channel new, and is my way of giving back. At Combat Fitness, our goal is that every interaction-be it a YouTube video, Instagram post, strategy call, or months of training-leaves you better off than before. Let's get it, Scotty P.S. If you find these videos helpful and want to learn more, check us out here: https://www.combatfitness.co/