015 - Choosing Your Hard | Court Administrator Erik Theis on Leadership, Discipline & Getting Strong in Your 50s

On this episode of The GRYND we sit down with Erik Theis — Court Administrator for Jasper County, Missouri, with over 32 years in the criminal justice system, fitness coach, and owner of Anvil Strength and Wellness.

Erik shares:

• What it’s really like running court operations — overseeing juvenile services, treatment courts, pretrial programs, budgets, personnel, and programs that actually help people change their lives

• The deep dive into the criminal justice system — holding people accountable while still showing compassion and giving second chances

• His powerful personal transformation in his mid-50s: quitting drinking, committing to 3:30 AM workouts, whole foods, tracking everything, and rebuilding his body and mindset through pure discipline

• How self-leadership in fitness carries over into being a better husband, father, grandpa, leader, and coach

• The philosophy of “choosing your hard” — because staying the same is hard, but growth is hard too… and worth it

This is a motivating conversation about legacy, personal responsibility, discipline when no one is watching, and refusing to coast in your 50s (or any age).

If you’re in law enforcement, leadership, trying to get back in shape later in life, or just need a reminder that it’s never too late to level up — this episode is for you.

Reach out to Erik for coaching or training:

Anvil Strength and Wellness – anvil2272@gmail.com

Drop a comment: What “hard” are you choosing right now?