Actually Doing Things

Nikki Sharp

Actually Doing Things is a practical podcast about turning intentions into action—inside the gym and out. Host Nikki, a therapist and CrossFit affiliate owner, shares real stories, mindset tools, and simple next steps on fitness, mental health, and community. Less theory, more doing. Hit play, take one step, repeat. 💥

  1. Sep 14

    A Chiropractor's Confession: "80% of Back Pain Goes Away No Matter What I Do"

    Roughly 8 in 10 adults will have a back episode that stops them cold — and almost none of us do anything about it until it happens. Dr. Mike Ross (DC, CSCS, DACRB) has spent 30 years and a stack of research on the question of why. In this episode he breaks down what actually causes back trouble, why "it went away on its own" is a trap and not a win, and the free, public, unsexy research nobody is selling you. Then he's teaching all of it, hands-on, in 90 minutes. 🧨 BOMBPROOF YOUR BACK — LIVE CLINIC 📅 Saturday, September 19, 2026 🕚 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM 📍 Destination CrossFit, 16 E Poplar St, Walla Walla, WA 💵 $45 Open to everyone — members, non-members, athletes, walkers, anyone who has been "managing it" for too long. No fitness level required. Walk-ins welcome, pay at the door. 👉 REGISTER: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bombproof-your-back-tickets-1993473710531 Takeaways: We emphasize that back pain affects nearly everyone and requires proactive daily self care.I explain that the Bomb Proof Back clinic teaches simple, evidence based tests and exercises.We state that eighty percent of back episodes improve in four to six weeks regardless of treatment.I note that recurrence rates are high unless individuals perform preventive strengthening and mobility routines.We teach the Bering Sorensen test and practical GHD holds as validated assessments used in the literature.I emphasize that fit people and unfit people share similar risk for back problems and cannot be profiled.We invite people to attend the September clinic to learn tests, reduce risk, and maintain long term function. 🎓 ABOUT DR. MIKE ROSS Dr. Michael Ross, DC, CSCS, DACRB, is board-certified in exercise rehabilitation with 30 years in practice. Former Seattle firefighter, former CrossFit gym owner, current coach at Destination CrossFit, and author of Fulcrum Lever Sport. 🎧 ACTUALLY DOING THINGS Conversations about training, longevity, and the unglamorous work of staying healthy — hosted by Nikki Sharp, owner and head coach at Destination CrossFit. 🏋️ DESTINATION CROSSFIT Downtown Walla Walla, WA — Get Fit · Live Happy · Keep Going Book a free consultation: https://wwdcf.com/free-consultation/ Instagram: @dcfwallawalla Referenced in this episode: Biering-Sørensen, F. (1984). "Physical measurements as risk indicators for low-back trouble over a one-year period." Spine, 9(2), 106–119. #getfitlivehappykeepgoing #crossfit #downtownwallawallawa #backpain #injuryprevention #longevity #wallawalla

  2. Sep 9

    Nutrition, Honestly — with Coach Genie & Coach Helen

    We state that small, sustainable nutrition habits lead to real and lasting results. We focus on whole foods, simple habit changes, and accountability rather than strict macro counting. We explain that hand portions can be nearly as effective as counting macros and far easier to use in daily life. We recommend prioritizing adequate protein, sleep, movement, and recovery before turning to supplements, noting that creatine can help some but is not necessary. We share favorite whole food proteins like fish, cottage cheese, and egg bites, and offer practical travel advice: enjoy local foods, stay active, and return to your habits. We invite you to join our six‑week nutrition challenge for structure, support, and measurable change. Takeaways: We described why we became nutrition coaches and why a habit-based whole foods approach appeals.I explained that hand portion methods often match the results of macro counting while being much easier to use.We recommended aiming for about one gram of protein per pound of body weight to support recovery and performance.I stated that supplements are optional and that creatine may help but is not essential for success for everyone.We shared practical snack and travel strategies such as frozen fruit, cottage cheese, walking, and enjoying local whole foods when abroad.I invited listeners to join the six-week nutrition challenge because group support fosters lasting habit change and accountability. Companies mentioned in this episode: CrossFitWhole30DoritosStarbucksFairlifeCostco

  3. Aug 29

    From Diagnosis to Dad Mode: Jesus's CrossFit Story

    This podcast episode delves into the transformative journey of an individual who embraced CrossFit as a means to combat health challenges, specifically type 2 diabetes. The discussion elucidates the pivotal moment that prompted this decision, illustrating how a medical diagnosis catalyzed a significant lifestyle change. Throughout our conversation, we explore the multifaceted benefits of CrossFit, which extend beyond physical fitness to encompass enhanced energy levels, improved sleep quality, and a more active engagement with family. As the participant shares personal insights regarding their progress, it becomes evident that such commitment not only fosters personal growth but also inspires those within their community. Ultimately, the episode underscores the importance of taking proactive steps towards one’s health, encouraging listeners to initiate their own journeys without delay. Takeaways: The guest's journey into CrossFit commenced following a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, which served as a pivotal moment for lifestyle change.Since commencing CrossFit, the guest has experienced significant improvements in energy levels and overall health, including reduced medication for diabetes.The supportive community aspect of CrossFit has been instrumental in providing motivation and encouragement for the guest's fitness journey.The guest emphasizes the importance of not delaying the decision to begin exercising, advocating for earlier engagement in physical fitness for optimal health outcomes.Noticing physical changes, the guest has improved strength and endurance, which positively impacts daily activities and interactions with family.The podcast underscores the transformative nature of CrossFit, illustrating how it fosters commitment and encourages participants to set and achieve personal health goals.

  4. Jul 26

    Beyond the Injury: Embracing Change Through Fitness

    Allison's journey into CrossFit represents a profound transformation catalyzed by personal adversity, specifically a severe concussion that altered her ability to engage in previously enjoyed activities. This episode elucidates how a significant injury can lead to the rediscovery of one's identity and the pursuit of resilience through physical fitness. We delve into Allison's initial apprehension toward strength training, her gradual acclimatization to CrossFit, and the myriad challenges she faced in rebuilding her strength and confidence. The discussion further highlights the pivotal role of community support and structured workouts in fostering a sense of belonging and motivation. Ultimately, this narrative underscores the intricate relationship between physical health, emotional well-being, and the importance of perseverance in the face of life's unpredictable challenges. Takeaways: Allison's journey to CrossFit began after suffering a concussion that significantly impacted her ability to engage in previous physical activities.The community aspect of CrossFit played a vital role in Allison's recovery, offering encouragement and motivation during her challenging times.Allison emphasizes the importance of consistency in training, stating that showing up regularly leads to progress and personal growth over time.Throughout her experience, Allison learned to redefine her relationship with fitness, focusing on long-term health and well-being over short-term competitive goals.She highlights the significance of addressing mental health alongside physical training, noting that exercise helped improve her emotional state post-injury.Allison advocates for a balanced approach to fitness that allows for personal growth while also prioritizing family and overall well-being. Companies mentioned in this episode: CrossFitUltimate FrisbeePlanet FitnessDestination CrossFit

  5. Jul 19

    We Watched the CrossFit Games From a Hospital Bed | 2026 Games Preview

    The CrossFit Games kick off July 22 in San Jose — and we've been fangirling since 2012 (we once rigged an Apple TV to a hospital room TV so we wouldn't miss them). ⬇️ Watch with us at DCF — details below.In this episode, Nikki + Erika break down everything you need to know before the 2026 Games: the return of the 2007 Hopper, the Ranch experience, the CrossFit Total, and why nobody — not even the athletes — knows what's coming out of the hopper. Plus: why the Games are really a lesson in training for the season of life you're in.⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 – Welcome (and a texting argument) 01:00 – Fangirling since 2012 + the hospital story 02:50 – First Games memories: neon sledgehammers 05:15 – The pegboard disaster 08:20 – Strict before kipping: how training got smarter 10:08 – The 2026 Games: San Jose + the Ranch 10:40 – The hopper model, explained 12:00 – Announced events: 2007 Hopper, 7,200m trail run, CrossFit Total 15:10 – Where CrossFit and mental health overlap 17:00 – Self-care vs. building a hedge 20:10 – Changing your dose: sauna, Normatec, rest days 22:27 – Training for your season of life 22:45 – How to watch + DCF watch party🔥 WATCH WITH US We're streaming the Games at Destination CrossFit in downtown Walla Walla all week starting Wednesday, July 22 — plus a Saturday night watch party for the biggest events. Come try a scaled 2007 Hopper on our whiteboard.👉 New to CrossFit? First Class is Free at https://wwdcf.com 👍 Like this episode, subscribe, and drop a comment: who's your pick to win?#CrossFitGames #CrossFit #ActuallyDoingThings #getfitlivehappykeepgoing #downtownwallawallawa

About

Actually Doing Things is a practical podcast about turning intentions into action—inside the gym and out. Host Nikki, a therapist and CrossFit affiliate owner, shares real stories, mindset tools, and simple next steps on fitness, mental health, and community. Less theory, more doing. Hit play, take one step, repeat. 💥