Paths We Take

From Rock Bottom to Resilience: Gym Anxiety, Mental Health, Suicide, Identity & Discipline with Connor Tarrant- #81

In today’s episode of Transparently Jordan, I sit down with personal trainer and bodybuilder Connor for one of the most honest, vulnerable, and powerful conversations we’ve had on the show.
Connor opens up about his lived experience with mental health, including some extremely dark periods in his life, and how discovering the gym became his emotional anchor and the space where he rebuilt his self-worth from the ground up.
We explore the realities of gym anxiety, comparison, identity loss after big goals, discipline vs. motivation, and why he chose to become a personal trainer who leads with empathy — not ego. This conversation is raw, grounding, and a reminder that behind every strong body is an even stronger story.
⚠️ Content Warning:This episode includes discussions about mental health and suicide. Please listen with care. Support resources are listed below.
WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE
Connor’s early mental health struggles and what shaped his journey
Gym anxiety and why even trainers experience it
Comparison, pressure, and feeling “watched” in the gym
Motivation fading vs. discipline carrying you
Why he became a personal trainer — and the deeper mission behind it
Bodybuilding, identity, and the emotional crash after big events
Rebuilding confidence through small wins
Feeling lost, finding purpose, and learning to give yourself grace
How fitness can be both healing and confronting
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
If you or someone you know needs support:🇦🇺 Lifeline – 13 11 14🇦🇺 Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636📱 13YARN (for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people) – 13 92 76If outside Australia, please check your local mental health hotline.
CONNECT WITH TRANSPARENTLY JORDAN
Instagram: @transparentlyjordanpodShare the episode with someone who might need it todayLeave a rating or review to help the show reach more people 💛
 
Follow Connor on Instagram @connortarrant_healthcoach
 
Use Code Jordzday 10 at https://tropeaka.com.au/
Use code Jordan10 at https://reyourrun.com.au/
 

The Depression After Hitting a Goal That No One Talks About - #80

In this episode, I open up about the emotional crash that hit me after completing the Melbourne 70.3 Half Ironman. After months of training 12–15 hours a week, I expected to feel proud, fulfilled, and fired up. Instead, the moment I got home after the race, I felt flat… even depressed. This feeling is far more common in endurance sports than people realise. Today, I’m breaking down why post-race blues happen, how I navigated them, and what athletes recreational or professional can do to protect their mental health after a big event.
What We Cover in This Episode
My Melbourne 70.3 experience: from structured training to the emotional crash
Why athletes experience post-race depression or post-event crashout
The psychology behind the “all time high → sudden low” feeling
How losing routine, structure, and identity can impact your mood
The dopamine drop after a major goal
Why finishing a race can feel strange, lonely, or anticlimactic
How to manage emotional fatigue, burnout, and post-race emptiness
Healthy ways to recover mentally and physically
Practical steps to support your mindset after a big event
Why talking about mental health in endurance sport is so important
Key Takeaways
Post-race depression is normal—you’re not broken or ungrateful.
Your brain and body experience a massive hormonal shift after a peak event.
A strict training block gives your life structure; once it’s gone, you feel lost.
You need space to recalibrate before jumping into the next big goal.
Building non-sport identity and routine helps buffer the emotional drop.
Who This Episode Is For
Triathletes, runners, cyclists, HYROX athletes
Anyone training for marathons, half Ironmans, Ironmans
Recreational athletes and first-timers
Coaches, personal trainers, and endurance enthusiasts
Anyone struggling with motivation or mental health post-event
Follow the Show
Instagram: @transparentlyjordanpod
TikTok: @transparentlyjordanpodcast
Website: Radiantvoicesmedia.com if you want to start a Podcast or if you want help with your existing show!

It Didn’t Look Like Abuse Until It Did, Domestic Violence, Coercive Control & Silent Manipulation with Leesa Scanlan - #79

In this powerful and deeply important conversation, Jordan sits down with Leesa to discuss coercive control, emotional abuse, and the quiet forms of domestic violence that often go unnoticed even by the person experiencing them.
Domestic abuse isn’t always physical. Sometimes it looks like love, devotion, and protection until slowly, it becomes control, isolation, confusion, and fear.
Leesa shares her experience of recognising the signs, navigating denial, finding support, and rebuilding her sense of self. This episode shines a light on the subtle patterns of manipulation that can appear in relationships and empowers listeners with knowledge, tools, and hope.
If you're learning about coercive control for the first time, or suspect something feels “off” in a relationship this episode is a must-listen.
What We Cover
What coercive control really looks like
Emotional + psychological abuse signs most people miss
How abuse can begin slowly and feel like love at first
The key moments where Leesa realised something wasn’t right
The role of social support, anonymous messages & online communities
The internal conflict: “He was loving… and also controlling”
Red flags including love-bombing, isolation, jealousy & pattern-based manipulation
What helped Leesa break free and speak publicly
How sharing her story created connection & healing
Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS)
Support systems available in Australia
What to do if you're unsure whether it's abuse
Key Takeaways
💬 Abuse isn’t always loud sometimes it whispers💭 Confusion, self-doubt, and guilt are signs of manipulation❤️ Healthy love never isolates or controls🧠 Naming the behaviour is the first step to healing👭 You are not alone support exists and recovery is possible
Resources & Support
If this episode brings up anything for you, please reach out for support:
Australia:📞 1800 RESPECT — 1800 737 732🌐 1800respect.org.au📍 Domestic Violence Crisis Line (SA): 1800 800 098👮 Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (SA) — check eligibility + info via SA Police🏛️ DV leave & crisis payments info — Services Australia
Emergency:If you are in immediate danger, contact 000.
International:
Canada
📞 ShelterSafe / Assaulted Women’s Helpline — 1-866-863-0511📱 Text #SAFE (#7233) on Rogers, Telus, Bell🌐 sheltersafe.ca📞 Domestic Violence Hotline (Canada-wide) — 1-800-363-9010
United Kingdom
📞 National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247🌐 nationaldahelpline.org.uk💬 Live chat & support options available
New Zealand
📞 Shine Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0508 744 633 (0508 SHINE)📞 Women’s Refuge Crisis Line — 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)🌐 womensrefuge.org.nz
Sponsors
This episode is brought to you by:
💚 Tropeaka premium nutrition for performance & wellbeingUse code jordzday10 at checkout
🕶️ Re: Your Run stylish, durable running sunglassesUse code jordan10
Supporting brands that support the show helps keep these conversations going 💛
Listen, Share & Review
If this conversation resonated with you, please:✔️ Share it with someone who might need it✔️ Leave a rating and review✔️ Tag us on Instagram with your thoughts
Your support helps spread awareness and may truly change or save someone’s life.
Disclaimer
This episode discusses domestic and emotional abuse. It is for education and support purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice.

Building a Fitness App From Scratch with Jordan Checker: Entrepreneurship, Discipline & Turning Vision Into Reality - #78

In this episode of Transparently Jordan, I sit down with Jordan Checker creator of the new health & fitness meal-planning app designed to take the stress out of meal prep and help people fuel their goals with ease.
We dive into the real journey of building a tech startup from zero, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and what it truly takes to bring an idea to life in the health and fitness world.If you've ever dreamed of starting a business, launching a product, or creating something meaningful  this episode will inspire you to take action and stay committed.
🔥 We discuss:
The story behind Jordan’s app & why simplifying nutrition matters
How to go from idea → execution → launch
Mental resilience & staying motivated during tough seasons
The realities of building a startup in the fitness space
Lessons learned through risk-taking, failure, and persistence
Balancing entrepreneurship, health, and self-discipline
Whether you're a fitness lover, future founder, or someone chasing a big dream — this episode gives you real insight into the mindset and work ethic behind success.
🧠 Key Themes
Fitness entrepreneurship
Startup journey & app development
Mindset, discipline & motivation
Meal planning & healthy living
Overcoming doubt & staying consistent
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📲 Connect & Follow
Follow Jordan Checker:Instagram: @jordancheckerApp Instagram: @incheckfit
Listen to Jordan's first episode:Episode #33 🎧 (Recommended before/after this one for full context)
Follow the podcast:Instagram: @transparentlyjordanpod
 
Brought to life by Radiant Voices Media — where powerful stories become unforgettable podcasts.
Join the network: radiantvoicesmedia.com
 
Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional before making changes to your health, fitness, nutrition, or business decisions. You choose to follow any advice at your own discretion.

The Real Reason You Keep Self-Sabotaging, Building Courage, And Healing Within With Cosmina Naum - #77

In this episode, Jordan sits down with Cosmina, a powerful mindset coach who helps people move beyond fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs to create real, lasting change.
Together, they dive deep into what healing actually looks like, how to rebuild self-trust after setbacks, and why failure can often be the turning point for growth. This conversation will challenge the way you think about fear, control, and identity and give you practical tools to start shifting your mindset today.
If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, self-sabotage, or the fear of failure, this episode will help you reconnect with your inner strength and start showing up as your most authentic self.
🔑 Topics Covered
What true healing looks like beyond the surface
How to identify and move through self-doubt
The power of reframing failure as feedback
How to tell the difference between fear and intuition
Building self-trust and emotional resilience
Letting go of control and surrendering to growth
Reprogramming your subconscious mind and shifting identity
💭 Key Takeaway
Fear doesn’t disappear but you can learn to move with it. Healing and growth start when you stop waiting to feel “ready” and start trusting yourself enough to take the next step.
📣 Why You’ll Love This Episode
This isn’t just another motivational chat. It’s a grounded, honest conversation about the real work behind mindset transformation packed with insights, reflection moments, and wisdom you can apply to your own journey.
You can Find Cosmina in instagram https://www.instagram.com/coachcosmina/
 
To stay up to date with the show be sure to follow our instagram! 
https://www.instagram.com/transparentlyjordanpod/ 
Have you ever wanted to start a podcast but don't know how? Or do you already have a podcast but are super inconsistent with uploading because you did not realise how much work editing is? Radiant Voices Media is a podcasting production company by podcasters for podcasters. We take the hard work out of podcasting so you can have fun on the mic and not have to worry about anything else! Visit Radiantvoicesmedia.com to check out our packages and fill out our onboarding form today! 
 
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I’ve been using them for my long runs and races, and honestly, they don’t budge. Stylish, functional, and made for movement 👟
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Fuel your body, naturally 🌿Tropeaka makes clean, plant-based nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and performance perfect for training days or just everyday health.
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional before making changes to your health, fitness, nutrition, or business decisions. You choose to follow any advice at your own discretion.
 
Brought to life by Radiant Voices Media — where powerful stories become unforgettable podcasts.
🔥 Join the network: radiantvoicesmedia.com
 

Why Traditional Rehab Isn’t Working (and What Actually Does) and Why You Need a Coach with Ollie Peake - #76

In this episode, we sit down with Ollie Peake, co-owner of Peake Performance, men’s and women’s strength coach, and movement coach to challenge some of the old-school ideas around exercise, rehab, and fitness coaching.
We dive deep into how modern coaching goes beyond traditional rehab, helping people move better, perform stronger, and actually stay injury-free long term.
Ollie shares his philosophy on sustainable training, how to bridge the gap between rehab and performance, and why having the right coach can actually save you time, money, and frustration.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or everyday gym-goer, this episode breaks down how to train smarter, move better, and take your health to the next level.
🔑 In this episode, we discuss:
Why traditional physiotherapy and rehab methods often miss the mark
The evolution of coaching and what modern training looks like
How movement quality impacts performance and injury prevention
Building habits that stick and a mindset that lasts
Why investing in a coach saves you time, money, and effort
How to transition from pain and restriction to strength and performance
🏋️‍♂️ About Ollie Peake
Ollie is the co-owner of Peake Performance in Glenelg, South Australia where he coaches both men and women through personalised strength and movement programs. With a background in human movement and exercise science, Ollie blends strength training, biomechanics, and rehab principles to help people move well, train hard, and live pain-free.
👉 Follow Ollie on Instagram: @olliepeake👉 Learn more: peakeperformance.com.au
🎧 Listen if you’re interested in:
Strength training & injury prevention
Coaching and performance
Modern rehab and movement science
Sustainable fitness results
Mindset and habit change
Functional training & biomechanic
Use code Jordan10 at Check out at https://reyourrun.com.au/ and score some great quality and seriously clear sunnies! 
Use Code Jordzday10 at https://tropeaka.com.au/ for clean good quality nutrition! 
Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always consult a qualified professional before making changes to your health, fitness, nutrition, or business decisions. You choose to follow any advice at your own discretion.
Brought to life by Radiant Voices Media — where powerful stories become unforgettable podcasts.
🔥 Join the network: radiantvoicesmedia.com

Doing The Work That No One Sees To Become a Professional Athlete With Abbie Gaudry - #75

In this episode of Transparently Jordan, I sit down with Abbie Gaudry, a professional gymnast and trampoline athlete who’s represented Australia on the world stage. Abbie shares her journey from discovering gymnastics as a kid to competing internationally, and what it really takes to perform at an elite level.
We dive deep into the dedication, discipline, and mindset behind professional sport, from early mornings and relentless training to overcoming self-doubt, injuries, and pressure. Abbie opens up about the reality of being a professional athlete, the sacrifices it demands, and the lessons she’s learned along the way that anyone can apply to their own goals.
Whether you’re an athlete, fitness lover, or simply someone chasing success in any area of life, this conversation will inspire you to stay consistent, believe in your vision, and push through the hard days.
🔥 In This Episode, We Talk About:
Abbie’s journey to becoming a professional gymnast and trampoline athlete
What people don’t see about life in elite sport
The mindset and habits that separate good from great
How Abbie handles self-doubt, setbacks, and performance pressure
Finding balance, motivation, and meaning in sport and life
The importance of resilience and consistency in long-term success
💬 Connect with Us:
Follow Abbie Gaudry on Instagram → @_abbiewattsFollow the podcast for updates and behind-the-scenes → @transparentlyjordanpod
💛 Sponsored by Tropeaka
Big thanks to Tropeaka for supporting this episode! Fuel your training and recovery with their plant-based protein and wellness range — and don’t forget to use my code JORDZDAY10 for a discount at checkout.
Check them out at tropeaka.com
📘 My Book — The Courage To Be Seen
If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, identity, or finding your voice, my book The Courage To Be Seen dives deep into embracing who you are and showing up authentically — even when it’s hard.You can grab your copy here → https://au.blurb.com/b/12394801-the-courage-to-be-seen

What Have You Forgiven Yourself For- #74

In this episode of Transparently Jordan, I open up about the power of self-forgiveness and reflection and why it’s such an important part of personal growth. I answer the question: “What is something you’ve forgiven yourself for?” and share my own story about learning to accept who I am, an introverted, quiet person who doesn’t always find it easy to make new friends.
Through honest reflection, I’ve learned that self-acceptance is not about changing who you are  it’s about understanding yourself better and finding peace in your own skin.
I also want to hear from you  what’s something you’ve forgiven yourself for? Send your answers or reflections over on Instagram at @transparentlyjordanpod!
💡 Want to start your own podcast?Head to radiantvoicesmedia.com to pitch your show idea.
🎙️ Already have a podcast but need editing help?Message me on Instagram at @radiantvoicesmedia  we can help bring your podcast to life with professional editing and production.

How to Build Businesses Across Industries with George Rhigas - #73

In this episode of The Transparently Jordan Podcast, I sit down with Adelaide entrepreneur George Rhigas, the man behind several well-known South Australian businesses including 94 West Café, Leeroy’s Cookies, Active Balance Physio, and Axle Co Mechanical.
George shares his journey into entrepreneurship, from his very first business idea to building a diverse portfolio across hospitality, health, and automotive. We dive into the story behind each venture, the ups and downs of business ownership, and the behind-the-scenes challenges that most people never hear about.
You’ll hear about:
How George started his very first business and what inspired him to become an entrepreneur.
The story of 94 West Café and what it takes to build a successful hospitality brand.
How Leeroy’s Cookies turned a fun, nostalgic concept into a thriving Adelaide favourite.
The unique challenges of running a service-based business like Active Balance Physio.
Why he decided to branch out into automotive with Axle Co Mechanical.
The most challenging moments in business and how he worked through them.
The philosophy and mindset that keeps him motivated across different industries.
This episode is packed with business insights, entrepreneurial lessons, and personal stories that will inspire anyone who’s interested in starting a business, scaling multiple ventures, or just understanding the realities of entrepreneurship in Adelaide and beyond.
👉 Follow me on Instagram to stay up to date with new episodes: @transparentlyjordanpod
Connect with George & his businesses:
Café: @94west_adl
Cookies: @leeroys.cookies
Physio: @activebalancephysio
Mechanics: @axle.co.mechanical
George: @Rhigas
✨ Fuel your day the Tropeaka way! Whether it’s for training, recovery, or just a healthy boost, Tropeaka has you covered. And the best part? You can save while you stock up! Use my code Jordzday10 at checkout for 10% off your order.

How to Start And Grow A Podcast - #72

Have you been thinking about starting a podcast but don’t know where to begin? Or maybe you’ve already launched and you’re wondering how to actually grow your audience? In this episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know to launch with confidence and build a show that lasts.
We’ll cover:
The why behind starting your podcast and how to find your niche
What equipment and tools you actually need (without overspending)
How to create a consistent format that works for you
Practical strategies to promote your show and grow your audience
The most common mistakes new podcasters make (and how to avoid them)
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your podcast to the next level, this episode will give you the clarity and motivation you need to hit record and share your voice.
👉 Follow me on Instagram: @transparentlyjordanpod👉 Need help starting your podcast? Reach out at radiantvoicesmedia.com