#499 The Story We Tell Ourselves

·51 min·5 clips

Tom J Deters reveals how holding onto negative thoughts is like gripping hot charcoal as he approaches his 500th podcast episode.

In episode 499 of the Pro You Podcast, host Tom J Deters opens by expressing excitement about approaching 500 episodes, feeling mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually strong. He introduces the central theme that the mind is a prediction machine that generates stories, which we can hold onto or let go, comparing negative thoughts to holding hot charcoal. Deters shares his personal journey through shoulder and knee injuries in 2025, which he initially labeled as bad but later saw as catalysts for growth and deeper understanding of mobility. He outlines his 'three' goals: being the best version of himself, doing so for his dog Zen, and excelling as a trainer, particularly with older clients needing functional movement. Deters describes offering free training sessions to neighbors and social media contacts, focusing on helping others without financial expectation. He recounts a specific incident where Zen couldn't move his leg, demonstrating how he observed his panic, recalled past solutions, and avoided catastrophizing. Another example involves a client with vertigo; Deters edited his response to encourage resilience rather than sympathy, and her symptoms resolved quickly. He reflects on a past ankle sprain while carrying Zen, using it to illustrate reframing adversity through immediate action like icing and massage. Deters discusses his transition from traditional weightlifting to functional mobility training, emphasizing whole-body strength for daily activities. He mentions a maintenance routine of six mobility exercises and plans to take a break after episode 500, viewing it as a peaceful pause rather than an end. Throughout, he stresses the importance of self-observation, breath control, and choosing alternative narratives to navigate life's changes. The episode concludes with gratitude to listeners and a guided breathing exercise, highlighting Deters' pride in his decade-long podcasting journey.

As heard by us

A practical check-in on stories, strength, and daily movement.

Pro U Podcast 499 opens by treating the mind as a prediction machine and landing the host's stubborn-story image with a hot-charcoal feel. That setup gives the episode a useful frame, even if the beginning takes a moment to find its footing before the main point settles in.

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Why you'd press play

Press play if you want your inner monologue and your maintenance work in the same room.

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