Ain’t Dead Yet

Trip Ison

This podcast is to help people that are struggling by sharing vulnerable life experiences, thus ensuring that people struggling know that they are not alone, the stories told on this page aren’t just the dark times, but the comeback story, and the process individuals took on to change their lives positively.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Matt Johnson on Ironman Training, Obsession, Friendship & Sobriety #60

    In this episode of the Ain’t Dead Yet podcast, I’m back with Matthew Johnson for round three to dive into how much our lives have shifted since we first met at Rocky Raccoon. We get real about the growing pains of success specifically the challenge of maintaining deep friendships while you’re evolving at a rapid pace. Matt breaks down the methodical mindset behind his biggest endurance goals, why signing up for Ironman Texas was the spark he needed to break a "Groundhog Day" training cycle, and why he’s showing up to the start line with zero expectations other than to have fun and empty the tank. Beyond the miles, we discuss the difference between building a true community versus just chasing followers, the impact of hitting his first million, and his vision for an Austin-based wellness retreat to support veterans through Valor Fit. This is a raw conversation about sobriety, faith, and the daily discipline of staying balanced when life starts moving fast. 00:00 Introduction 00:44 Friendship and Growth Over Time 02:11 Ironman Spark and Methodical Mindset 07:31 Breaking the Groundhog Day Cycle 09:02 Purpose Driven 1 Percent Goals 11:11 Supportive Relationships and Love Language 14:37 Friendships Cultivation and Time Management 20:35 Obsession Tribe and Letting Go 29:15 Buying Mom a Car and Full Circle Joy 31:39 Building a Retreat Property in Austin 34:22 Living Day to Day and Faith Led Success 40:14 Do It Your Way and Being Yourself 41:53 Be Yourself Online 42:13 Not Everyone Can Create 43:10 Story And Skillset 44:03 Followers Versus Community 46:11 Brand Deals And Value 49:42 Do Stuff Differently 51:25 Ads Without Overkill 54:03 Sober Journey And NA 59:08 Why Stay Sober 01:03:04 Peptides And Recovery 01:06:19 Commitments And Seasons 01:10:28 Ironman And New Season 01:11:35 Living What You Built 01:15:24 Conclusion Connect with Matt Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/mattjohnson__/   Connect with Trip Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1hr 17min
  2. 18 FEB

    Ain’t Dead Yet Returns: Discipline, Faith, and Fighting Through a Blown Knee #59

    The Ain’t Dead Yet podcast is back from a three-month break with a new plan to release one deep-dive episode per month while I finish my book. In this kickoff, Brett Ender and I talk about "Moments vs. Tomorrow," which is the discipline of making choices today based on how you want to feel tomorrow rather than chasing instant comfort. We also discuss the "seasons" of friendship, why it's okay to go quiet while you're locked in on big goals, and the importance of detaching yourself from other people's results when you're trying to help them. Brett also shares the story of dislocating his knee during a jiu-jitsu match and his decision to continue the fight to honor the story he wants to tell his future sons. He explains why he is delaying surgery until after his July MMA fight and how he uses setbacks as fuel rather than excuses. We close with a candid talk on the pressures of marriage, business, and self-doubt, focusing on building an identity rooted in faith rather than just achievements.   00:00 Introduction 01:22 Brett’s Back: Friendship Seasons & Staying Aligned 04:23 Cutting the Noise: Shedding, Focus, and Faith vs Ambition 07:22 Youth Mentorship & Why Change Gets Harder 11:04 Coaching, Accountability, and Detaching From Other People’s Outcomes 14:55 Athlete Mindset: Consistency, Routine, and Leading by Example 20:08 Moments vs Tomorrow 24:09 Compartmentalizing & Mental Control: Lessons From Djokovic 28:42 The Knee Injury Story 35:10 No ACL, No Excuses 41:09 From Ultras to MMA: 46:57 Training With a Coach Who Can ‘Kill You' 53:37 Why He Won’t Do Another Ironman: Identity, Ego & Going Backwards 59:11 Being a Man of God, Not a ‘Runner’ 01:06:23 What He’s Struggling With Now: Marriage, Money Pressure & Inner Demons 01:13:07 Conclusion   Connect with Brett Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiabrett https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiamedia X | / https://x.com/MeatMafiaBrett   Connect with Trip Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1hr 18min
  3. 04/11/2025

    A Mother’s Love and My Road to Redemption #58

    In this heartfelt episode of The Ain't Dead Yet podcast, I sit down with my mom, Lisa, to share a deeply personal journey of struggle, growth, and triumph. We delve into childhood memories, the impact of my father's absence, and the highs and lows of my battle with addiction and recovery. From heart-wrenching lows, like multiple arrests and financial turmoil, to the uplifting moments of sobriety and newfound purpose, we cover it all. My mom's unwavering support and tough love are the backbone of this story, offering invaluable insights for both those struggling and their loved ones. Join us for an honest and raw conversation about how love, faith, and perseverance can turn life around.   0:00 Introduction and Sponsors 00:29 Introducing Today's Special Guest: My Mom 02:04 Childhood Memories and Moving Around 03:49 Sports and Concussions: Growing Up Active 04:44 Family Dynamics and Challenges 10:43 Transition to Adolescence: Drinking and Social Changes 19:06 High School Years: Work, Sports, and Partying 32:24 Varsity Football Beginnings 32:56 College Application Struggles 33:31 Anxiety and Mental Health Challenges 34:55 Kent State Opportunity 38:26 College Life and Partying 43:02 Father's Legal Troubles 46:45 Post-College Life and Arrests 48:11 Florida and Escalating Partying 50:19 Career Growth Amidst Chaos 57:25 Atlanta and the Turning Point 01:04:30 The Decision to Get Sober 01:08:56 A Wake-Up Call: The Turning Point 01:09:53 Embracing Change: Therapy and Self-Improvement 01:11:35 Commitment to Sobriety: A New Beginning 01:12:06 A Mother's Perspective: Skepticism to Belief 01:13:28 The Big Move: A Fresh Start in Austin 01:17:37 Overcoming Adversity: Health and Career Challenges 01:18:42 Family and Faith: The Ironman Event 01:28:09 The Impact of Loss: Dealing with a Parent's Death 01:36:27 Sharing the Story: Breaking the Silence 01:39:23 Reflections and Gratitude: A Mother's Support 01:48:07 Conclusion   Sponsors: Get 15% off Noble Grass Fed Beef Protein by using the code ADY at checkout     Connect with Trip Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1hr 49min
  4. 23/09/2025

    Navigating the Chaos: Reflections on the Charlie Kirk Assassination #57

    In this episode of The Ain't Dead Yet podcast, I reflect into the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk and the broader societal implications. The discussion addresses media narratives, political polarization, and the personal tragedies that have resulted from such events. Additionally, the episode covers personal actions taken towards positive community impact and explores the role of government and systemic failures in perpetuating division and violence. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsors 01:04 Introduction to Today's Episode 01:50 Reflecting on the Charlie Kirk Assassination 02:32 Neutrality and Political Stance 07:07 The Importance of Service and Neutrality 17:07 Addressing the Political System's Flaws 21:12 Taking Action and Making a Difference 27:40 Taking Responsibility and Making a Difference 28:20 Hypocrisy and Personal Accountability 29:22 The Illusion of Social Media 30:37 Questioning the Narrative 32:51 The Gun Debate and Second Amendment 35:30 The Reality of Violence and Society's Response 38:52 Government and Pharmaceutical Corruption 43:46 Political Division and Moral Integrity 45:50 The Importance of Standing by Your Beliefs 51:40 Conclusion   Sponsors: Get 15% off Noble Grass Fed Beef Protein by using the code ADY at checkout     Connect with Trip Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    54 min
  5. 09/09/2025

    Finding Purpose: Embracing Pain, Growth & God with Brett Ender #56

    In this special episode of The Ain’t Dead Yet Podcast, I sat down with Brett from The Meat Mafia. Together, we dive into the transformative power of faith, discipline, and relentless self-improvement. From grueling Ironmans and ultra-marathons to the quiet battles fought in difficult seasons, we share how challenge and sacrifice can become catalysts for growth. Drawing wisdom from personal experiences and figures like Nick Bare and David Goggins, we explore what it truly means to serve others and live with purpose. 00:00 Introduction and Sponsors 01:04 Special Collaboration with Meat Mafia 01:31 Reflecting on Personal Transformations 04:24 The Power of Faith and Sobriety 10:12 The Importance of Daily Decisions 12:45 Balancing Relationships and Personal Growth 19:44 The Role of a Supportive Partner 33:55 Trusting God's Plan 39:33 Realizing Who Truly Cares 40:06 Selective Process of Relationships 42:23 The Importance of Self-Investment 43:46 Jesus's Model and Its Impact 45:20 The Parable of the Talents 46:56 Endurance Sports and Personal Growth 49:37 The Mental and Emotional Toll of Ultra Marathons 51:18 Transition to Weightlifting and Nutrition 51:54 The Power of Discipline and Consistency 01:05:51 Competing with Yourself 01:15:32 Acknowledging Imperfections and Growth 01:16:03 Pursuing New Challenges 01:16:45 Finding Limits and Pushing Boundaries 01:18:30 The Importance of Effort and Hustle 01:19:38 Vulnerability and Brotherhood 01:23:17 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 01:31:52 The Power of Sacrifice and Faith 01:35:43 Continuous Growth and Setting Goals 01:39:52 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Plans 01:45:03 Conclusions Sponsors: Get 15% off Noble Grass Fed Beef Protein by using the code ADY at checkout   Connect with Brett Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiabrett https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiamedia X | / https://x.com/MeatMafiaBrett   Connect with Trip Instagram | / https://www.instagram.com/tripison_/ Ain't Dead Yet Podcast IG | / https://www.instagram.com/adyatx/

    1hr 46min

About

This podcast is to help people that are struggling by sharing vulnerable life experiences, thus ensuring that people struggling know that they are not alone, the stories told on this page aren’t just the dark times, but the comeback story, and the process individuals took on to change their lives positively.