Be the Frog, Not the Dinosaur: Episode 1 with Jason Clark

Written By Nate Palin

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Overview

In this episode of the Any Given Day podcast, Nate Palin and Jason Clark engage in a deep conversation about parenting, military experiences, personal growth, and the importance of mindset. They explore the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the significance of embracing discomfort, and the power of truth in shaping one's identity. Jason shares his journey from an overweight kid to a dedicated Marine, and how those experiences have influenced his approach to coaching and fitness. The discussion emphasizes the need for continuous evolution and the importance of being present in life.

About Jason Clark

Jason was born and raised in Northern, VA.  In July of 2001 he began his time in the Marine Corps at Parris Island, SC.  He spent the next nine years serving in billets such as Combat Engineer, Marine Corps Martial Arts Instructor Trainer , and Drill Instructor back home where it all started on Parris Island.  From this point with absolutely no plan he left the Marine Corps and became a partner in a local gym in Beaufort, SC.  The gym grew to multiple locations until the next calling came which he accepted to go back to work for the United States Marine Corps except this time as a civilian working with the Strength and Conditioning program known at the time as HITT.  During this time he served as the program director for MCAS Beaufort and MCRD Parris Island as well as the advisory board for human performance HeadQuarters Marine Corps.  The next door that came open was into Industry at a national level.  He accepted a role at BeaverFit Key North America.  This is still where he still resides as the Director of Training and Education as well as a voice in support of  the areas of leadership, strategy, and performance.   

His personal awards include being the best husband he can be to Christi and the best Dad he can be to Karma, TJ, Halen, Layla, Braxton, and Joshua.  While serving in the United States Marine Corps he received a purple heart, combat action, navy achievement medal with multiple awards, and navy commendation with a “V”. Today his passion is opening minds on what is possible and never forgetting that it doesn't come from teaching people what to think but how.

Episode Takeaways

  • Be present and real in parenting.

  • Embrace the process, not just the outcome.

  • Military experiences shape personal growth.

  • Transitioning to civilian life requires adaptation.

  • Mindset is key to continuous improvement.

  • Touching the flame means embracing challenges.

  • Truth can be uncomfortable but necessary.

  • Labels can limit personal identity.

  • Fitness should not come at the expense of family.

  • Life is about evolving and not finding a peak.

Episode Chapters

  1. 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections

  2. 02:53 Parenting Insights and Life Lessons

  3. 05:58 Military Experience and Transformation

  4. 12:08 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Coaching

  5. 17:59 Mindset and Continuous Growth

  6. 24:15 Touching the Flame: Embracing Challenges

  7. 29:51 The Importance of Truth and Perspective

  8. 36:06 Overcoming Labels and Defining Identity

  9. 41:55 Fitness Philosophy and Life Balance

  10. 57:57 Closing Thoughts and Final Reflections

Nate Palin