In recovery—and in life—it’s tempting to let the voices of critics define our worth. Whether it’s outsiders who don’t understand the journey, or internal voices fueled by shame and doubt, critics will always have something to say. But as Theodore Roosevelt once reminded us, it’s not the critic who counts—it’s the one in the arena.

In this episode of Progress Over Perfection, Brandon Couch delivers a gritty reminder that your job is not to please the critics, but to keep showing up with courage and honesty. The opinions of those who tear down from the sidelines have no authority over your healing. What matters is your willingness to fight for your future, one imperfect step at a time.