Episode 1 — From Rock Bottom to RAW: Redefining Success with Johnny Nicodemus Our first episode of Između features Johnny Nicodemus, owner of RAW Fitness HQ in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Johnny opens up about his journey from feeling like he was “nothing” in his early 20s, working a trade, exhausted, broke and unhappy… to taking a huge leap into the fitness industry, backing himself when he had nothing, and slowly building the life he has now. We talk about why happiness is his definition of success, how he uses training to stay grounded, and the unglamorous, repetitive foundations found in creating a meaningful life. We cover: (00:00) Why happiness—not money—is Johnny’s definition of success (03:30) Hitting rock bottom at 22–23 and feeling left behind (08:20) Choosing fitness, taking a leap and becoming “a sponge” (13:40) Failure as a teacher and why he now invites it (20:15) Observing, reflecting and being a “life learner” (26:00) Kindness, community and the power of saying “hi” and “bye” (32:10) Boundaries in business and protecting gym culture (40:00) Mental health, depression and learning to catch your thoughts (47:30) Training, routine and loving the “boring” basics (55:00) Balancing CrossFit athlete life with running a business (1:02:00) Asking for help and not doing everything alone (1:08:00) “Are you happy?” – the question he still asks himself every day (1:13:00) Johnny’s advice if you feel stuck or behind in life “The small time of suffering is worth it for the longevity you’re going to have in your happiness.” – Johnny Connect with RAW Fitness: Instagram: rawfitnesshq Website: https://www.rawfitness.nz/?utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnk47IBD8kqmt_TekSOkAj6T-ixX7CkdELLJtT9iAKHDYtdb-YCcJOUiGh418_aem_4gD8030mnQbfQz1HbRaLbg Disclaimer:This podcast is a personal, non-monetised project created during the hosts’ travels in New Zealand. It is not connected to any paid work or business activity, and no income is earned from its production.