27 Homeless Veterans, One Gym, and a Marine Who Wouldn't Look Away — CrossFit Kokomo's Story

Marine Corps veteran Kevin Jewell shares how he went from CrossFit Kokomo member to co-owner, and how the gym evolved from a fitness competition space into a true community hub serving grandparents, first responders, and manufacturing shift workers alike. He also opens up about the gym's 24-hour fundraiser for Jackson Street Commons, a local homeless veteran shelter, which has raised over $126,000 in seven years by giving veterans not just what they need, but what they want.

00:00 – What CrossFit Really Looks Like

00:43 – Welcome to Season 3 of the Spotlight Podcast

01:16 – Meet Kevin Jewell: Marine to Gym Owner

03:39 – Discovering CrossFit in the Marine Corps & Afghanistan

04:56 – The Unexpected Offer to Buy the Gym

08:29 – Sponsor Spotlight: Community First Bank of Indiana

09:53 – How Kevin's View of CrossFit Has Changed

13:31 – Why Community Matters More Than the Workout (Covid Story)

18:11 – Why Giving Back to Veterans Became Personal

20:56 – The First 24-Hour Fundraiser for Jackson Street Commons

22:52 – Needs vs. Wants: Rethinking How to Help Veterans

28:36 – Building a Coaching Staff With the Right Values

39:25 – The Senior Class: Keeping Members Independent for Life

47:23 – Scheduling Around Shift Workers & First Responders

50:21 – Childcare, Community Support & the Biggest CrossFit Myth

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Visit: https://crossfit-kokomo.com/

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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the guests and do not reflect our official policy. Content is based on guest opinions and is not intended to offend or harm any group or individual. Always seek professional advice for legal, financial, or business matters.