Steve Keesal: Fitness as a Spiritual Practice

Ginger and Chocolate

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Summary

In this episode of the Ginger and Chocolate podcast, host Lindsay Hiken speaks with Steve Keesal, a military veteran and financial advisor. Steve shares his journey from being an airborne ranger to navigating life after the military, including his struggles with alcohol and the lessons he learned about accountability, personal growth, and perspective. The conversation delves into the rigorous training of the military, the importance of sobriety, and how experiences shape one's approach to life and decision-making. In this conversation, Lindsay Hiken and Steve Keesal explore the significance of having a supportive network, the value of community service, and the importance of physical fitness in maintaining spiritual health. They discuss how helping others can lead to personal growth and accountability, and they share insights on creating a better generation through mentorship and involvement in community organizations. The conversation also touches on embracing new challenges, such as learning to handle firearms responsibly, and the transformative power of perspective in addressing life's difficulties.

Takeaways

• Steve Keesal served as an airborne ranger and is a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.
• Military training instilled a sense of accountability and resilience in Steve.
• Sobriety has been a significant part of Steve's personal growth journey.
• The amends process in sobriety fosters humility and accountability.
• Perspective is crucial in navigating life's challenges and decisions.
• Steve emphasizes the importance of being present and mindful in daily life.
• The military's rigorous training prepared Steve for the challenges of life.
• Steve believes that personal experiences, even painful ones, contribute to strength.
• Effective decision-making involves a process of fantasy, vision, and execution.
• Connecting with a higher power can provide strength and guidance. Having a sounding board is crucial for personal growth.
• It's important to have people in your life to bounce ideas off of.
• Learning from others is one of the best parts of life.
• Helping others can remind us of our true values.
• Community service is a way to create a better generation.
• Physical fitness contributes to spiritual health.
• Urban hiking can be a fun way to stay active.
• Understanding the power we wield is essential for accountability.
• Letting go of preconceived notions can lead to new experiences.
• Engaging in community organizations can be fulfilling.

Keywords

military, sobriety, personal growth, accountability, perspective, decision-making, financial advisor, mental health, spiritual health, resilience, sounding boards, community service, mentorship, physical fitness, personal growth, spiritual health, veterans support, accountability, life lessons, personal development

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