From Patrol to Podiums: Duty, Discipline, and Distance with Jonathan Bouchard

In this episode, I'm hanging out with Jonathan Bouchard, a committed father of four, full-time police officer, and downright relentless endurance athlete who's tackled everything from Spartan OCR events to full marathons. Jonathan opens up about juggling shift work with a pretty intense training schedule that helped him complete 14 Spartan Races in 2024 (grabbing a podium finish 8 times!) and nail a Boston Marathon qualifying time with a second-place finish at the Georgina Spring Fling Marathon.

We also dive into the nuts and bolts of his training: why he believes consistency, volume, and specificity make all the difference, and how that mindset keeps him showing up day after day.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of consistent, specific, and high-volume training.
• Balancing family life, a demanding career, and athletic ambitions.
• How enduring the toughest race-day challenges can fuel personal growth.
• Why podium finishers and everyday athletes share the same pain - it's all about who can push through.

Whether you're chasing your own racing goals, balancing a busy family life, or just need a little extra motivation, Jonathan's story will push you to reimagine what's possible on - and off - the racecourse. Get ready to be inspired!

Connect with Jonathan:

• Strava: @JonathanBouchard
• YouTube: @jonathanbouchard12426
• Instagram: @jonathan.bouchard.12426

Thanks for tuning in to the podcast!
If you're looking for more resources, training tips, or just want to learn more about what we do, head over to www.truenorthtacticalfitness.ca.
We appreciate your support - keep pushing those limits, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

Ever feel like you need the newest gadget or a fancy program to finally make progress?
I used to think the sameâ until I realized just how much real change can happen through small, daily habits that cost nothing but the decision to do them. As a paramedic and personal trainer, Iâ ve seen firsthand how these bite-sized routines can create a massive impact over time.

In this short, impactful episode, Iâ m sharing three quick wins that can help you cultivate a more balanced, fulfilling lifeâ starting right now. Discover why reading just 10 pages a day fuels both mind and motivation, how a daily gratitude practice transforms your perspective, and how habit-stacking makes sticking to new routines easier than ever. If youâ re looking for practical, zero-cost ways to level up your lifeâ without breaking the bankâ this episode is for you.

Tune in, try these quick wins for yourself, and let me know how it goes! Then be sure to subscribe for more no-nonsense tips and real-world insights on building a better life, one day at a time.

ð Mentioned in This Episode: True North Tactical Fitness
truenorthtacticalfitness.com
Your go-to source for training advice, workout programs, and fitness tips to stay on track.

Thanks for tuning in to the podcast!
If you're looking for more resources, training tips, or just want to learn more about what we do, head over to www.truenorthtacticalfitness.ca.
We appreciate your support - keep pushing those limits, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

Episode 3: Balancing Life, Fitness, and Love with Good Communication

In this special episode, Iâ m joined by my wife and cohost, Marisa, for an honest conversation on what it really takes to cultivate strong, lifelong communicationâ whether weâ re connecting as spouses, training partners, or in a coach-athlete relationship. Drawing on personal anecdotes and lessons learned, we explore the challenges and rewards of wearing multiple hats in our everyday life.

We dive into the strategies weâ ve developed for staying on the same page: from setting clear boundaries and checking in regularly, to supporting each other through setbacks and celebrating wins. Youâ ll hear what we had to learn about ourselves, and about each other in order to ensure we were actually communicating the right way. We also talk about the importance of â maintenanceâ â the conscious, ongoing effort needed to ensure both our relationship and our shared goals continue to thrive over the long haul.

No matter your current season of life, this conversation offers some practical tips on how to foster meaningful dialogue, nurture each otherâ s growth, and keep the spark alive in any partnership + some unsolicited advice from me (Coach Chris). If youâ re looking to strengthen your bondâ whether in the gym, on the field, or at homeâ then tune in and discover how focusing on healthy communication can be the catalyst for achieving balance in life, fitness, and love. Enjoy the show!

Thanks for tuning in to the podcast!
If you're looking for more resources, training tips, or just want to learn more about what we do, head over to www.truenorthtacticalfitness.ca.
We appreciate your support - keep pushing those limits, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

BEYOND THE FINISH LINE: WITH DEKA WORLD CHAMPION

In this episode of Endure & Evolve, I sit down with Deka World Champion Amber Tait—an elite athlete and founder of Pure Impact Athletics. Amber shares her incredible journey, from the challenges that shaped her resilience to the mindset that helped her rise to the top of the fitness world.

We explore key endurance and transformation moments in her life, practical strategies for overcoming obstacles, and actionable tips on building resilience and mental toughness. Whether you're an athlete, a professional, or someone seeking personal growth, Amber’s insights will inspire you to endure challenges and evolve into your best self.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Amber’s personal story and the path to becoming a world champion
• Defining endurance and evolution through fitness and mindset
• Building resilience through challenging experiences
• Practical strategies for mental toughness and personal growth
• How Amber’s work at Pure Impact Athletics is empowering others

Resources and Mentions:

• Pure Impact Athletics: https://pureimpactathletics.ca
• Amber’s Instagram: @ambertait
• Connect with me: @thatchrissguy
• TNT Fitness: www.truenorthtacticalfitness.ca

Chapter Markers:

• 00:00 - Introduction
• 02:20 - Amber’s journey to becoming a Deka World Champion
• 10:00 - Overcoming challenges in life and competition
• 18:45 - Building resilience and finding your “why”
• 25:30 - Practical tips for mental toughness
• 33:15 - The mission behind Pure Impact Athletics
• 35:40 - Closing reflections and takeaways

Welcome to the very first episode of Endure & Evolve!

Hey, my name is Chris, and Im the host of E&E.
This podcast is my way of diving into the tough, messy, and transformative parts of life— and all the moments that challenge us to endure and push us to evolve.

In this short intro, I’ll share a little about my journey as a paramedic, coach, and athlete, and how those experiences inspired me to create this space. This isn’t just about my story though—it’s about giving you tools, stories, and conversations that help you navigate the hard times and come out stronger.

I’ll also let you know what to expect from future episodes, whether it’s solo deep dives, guest conversations, or co-hosted episodes.

So let’s kick things off and start this journey together!