What happens when one addiction fades and another quietly takes its place?

In this raw and revealing conversation, Coach Chris sits down with Jesse Carrajat—Marine veteran, health coach, and host of the Running Free podcast—to unpack the less obvious, but equally destructive patterns of digital addiction.

Jesse shares his powerful journey from struggling with alcohol abuse to becoming a voice of recovery and resilience.

Together, Coach Chris and Jesse explore the neuroscience of dopamine, how smartphone addiction mirrors substance abuse, and the invisible impact tech dependency is having on our kids, relationships, and emotional regulation.

If you’ve ever felt overstimulated, disconnected, or like your phone owns more of your life than it should, this episode will speak directly to you.

🔹 Topics include:

• Jesse’s two “seasons” of addiction and his military-driven path to redemption
• Why bringing your struggles into the light creates real accountability
• How smartphone use mimics substance addiction in the brain
• Parenting while managing screen time—for both adults and kids
• Simple, science-backed steps to reclaim your time, focus, and presence

This isn’t just a conversation about recovery—it’s a call to awaken.

Check out Jesse's work with Altum Fitness

Connect with him on LinkedIn or Instagram

We would LOVE to hear from you!! Send a Text Here!!!

Asking for reviews and ratings

Support the show

We really appreciate your support of this small, but mighty podcast, and we would really appreciate a review, and a rating to help us spread the message of mental fitness.

Please consider visiting us at www.cognitivefitnesscoach.com for free resources, and a place to book a free consultation with myself; no strings attached, no cringy sales pitch.

A grounding, heart-centered meditation for trail runners preparing to meet their limits with courage and compassion. This 18-minute guided practice helps calm pre-race anxiety, shift from self-doubt to inner trust, and anchor into the joy of simply showing up.

With breathwork, visualization, and empowering affirmations, you’ll be mentally ready, no matter what the trail brings.

We would LOVE to hear from you!! Send a Text Here!!!

Support the show

We really appreciate your support of this small, but mighty podcast, and we would really appreciate a review, and a rating to help us spread the message of mental fitness.

Please consider visiting us at www.cognitivefitnesscoach.com for free resources, and a place to book a free consultation with myself; no strings attached, no cringy sales pitch.

In this episode, Coach Chris Norris reconnects with longtime friend and former classmate Greg Aidala for an honest, humorous, and heartfelt conversation that spans decades of life experience.

Growing up together in Albany, NY and attending Colonie Central High School, the two reflect on their roots, the simplicity of pre-digital life, and the unexpected paths that led them into careers built around service, performance, and personal growth.

Greg shares stories from his multifaceted journey—from stepping on stage with legends like Jerry Seinfeld and Colin Quinn, to founding Brew Ha-Ha Comedy Showcase, to running as an independent candidate for mayor of Albany in 2021.

Chris opens up about his own parallel path through military service, recovery, and building a coaching practice rooted in resilience and mindfulness.

Together, they explore the power of facing fear, the cost of digital distraction, and the deep rewards of mentoring others. They talk politics, purpose, and the importance of staying true to yourself even when the pressure mounts to conform.

Whether it's stand-up comedy, coaching clients, or civic leadership, Greg and Chris are both guided by a commitment to authenticity, connection, and giving back.

Topics include:

• Growing up in Albany and lessons from a pre-smartphone era
• Launching a comedy career at age 27 and staying grounded in purpose
• Running for office as an independent and what it taught Greg about leadership
• Personal stories of loss, fear, recovery, and the courage to evolve
• Coaching, mentoring, and creating space for others to grow
• Legacy, community, and future visions of impact

A reunion with depth, laughter, and wisdom—this is more than a catch-up. It’s a conversation about the lives we build when we stay true to where we come from and who we want to become.

Find out more about Greg and perhaps book a coaching call: HERE

Follow Greg on IG: HERE

We would LOVE to hear from you!! Send a Text Here!!!

Asking for reviews and ratings

Support the show

We really appreciate your support of this small, but mighty podcast, and we would really appreciate a review, and a rating to help us spread the message of mental fitness.

Please consider visiting us at www.cognitivefitnesscoach.com for free resources, and a place to book a free consultation with myself; no strings attached, no cringy sales pitch.