Better Than Fine

Ever wondered how some people manage to stay afloat—or even thrive—when life throws its hardest punches?

In this deeply personal and practical episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall pulls back the curtain on her own year of loss, upheaval, and unexpected insight. You’ll discover the surprising ways her family’s small-town traditions—and positive psychology research—offer a roadmap to real resilience.

Drawing from her experience as a wellness coach, Darlene shares stories of family, grief, and the simple practices that quietly fortify us: from community service and creative outlets to the power of fun, spiritual practice, and “throwing the kitchen sink” at life’s challenges. Learn the science behind why fun and connection aren’t just nice-to-haves, but essential for undoing the damage of stress, and how even in the darkest times, thriving is about adaptation—not perfection.

Curious what really gets you through a storm? Want actionable, evidence-based tools you can actually put to use today? Tune in for tangible practices, myth-busting truths, and Darlene’s honest advice on building your “resilience toolkit.”

Whether you’re struggling right now or just want to future-proof your well-being, this episode will leave you with hope—and a checklist—for thriving through adversity.

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Ready to cut through the noise and confusion of today’s health and wellness world?

This candid episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast dives deep into the myths, misinformation, and magic bullets flooding your social media feeds—and how you can actually take charge of your health in ways that really work.

Join host Darlene Marshall (it’s her birthday!) and returning favorite guest, Rich Fahmy, Senior Content Development Manager at NASM, as they share personal stories, expert insights, and a dose of good humor about owning your health while dodging wellness grifters and fads. Discover why being a lifelong fitness professional doesn’t mean you’re immune to aches, pains, and real-life health challenges, and how even evidence-based pros wrestle with changing science and internet hype.Curious about the rise of dangerously persuasive supplement marketing, the truth about “biohacking,” or why even doctors—and their advice—aren’t always perfect?

Wondering where intuition, scientific consensus, and real self-care intersect? This conversation unpacks it all, offering practical tips to develop critical consumerism, trust real expertise, and sidestep costly mistakes.

Whether you’re a wellness pro, fitness junkie, or just trying to make sense of it all, you’ll leave empowered, entertained, and prepared to navigate your health journey with confidence—no sketchy crypto-bought supplements required.

Hit play for honest, evidence-based, and surprisingly uplifting insights on living better than fine. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave that five-star review—after all, it’s Darlene’s birthday!

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Are you tired of holiday hustle leaving you feeling frazzled and disconnected? You’re not alone—so many of us race from event to event, only to realize we didn’t truly enjoy any of it.

In this must-listen encore presentation of “Better Than Fine,” host, wellness coach and positive psychology practitioner, Darlene Marshall reveals the simplest, most powerful strategy for finding joy, connection, and well-being during the busiest time of year: savoring.

In this episode, you’ll learn what savoring actually means in “real-life” terms, why it’s backed by science, and the five evidence-based ways to use it to transform your holidays (and life!). Whether you’re dreading awkward family dynamics, overwhelmed by diet “tips,” or struggling to feel present in a sea of notifications, Darlene shares actionable wisdom—from sensory sharpening, the magic of sharing good news, and deepening relationships through shared reminiscence, to overcoming toxic willpower games and savoring those indulgent holiday treats with zero guilt.

Curious how savoring can counteract stress, boost happiness, and even improve your relationships? Want simple, free, and effective practices to finally make your holidays feel “better than fine”? Tune in for a relatable mix of personal stories, practical guidance, and authentic encouragement.

Whether you’re a holiday-lover or a self-proclaimed Eeyore, this episode is packed with real tips to help you slow down, soak up every joyful moment, and create memories worth savoring.Listen now—your holiday season will never be the same!

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Ready to unlock the secret link between moving your body and finding deeper purpose in life? 

In this thought-provoking episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall into one of her favorite studies ever—a groundbreaking piece of research revealing how exercise isn’t just good for your health, it might actually help you discover and strengthen your sense of purpose.

Tune in as Darlene explores why traditional reasons for exercise like appearance, health, and performance aren’t the full story. What if your daily movement routine could spark a powerful feedback loop—fueling your motivation, enriching your emotional wellbeing, and adding years to your life? She breaks down the science behind the bidirectional relationship between movement and purpose, using real data from over 18,000 participants.

Whether you’re a fitness professional, wellness coach, or just someone looking to feel more fulfilled, this episode delivers actionable insights, relatable stories, and practical takeaways you can use today. Discover how even small increases in physical activity can lead to measurable boosts in life satisfaction—and vice versa.

Plus, Darlene shares expert tips for making movement meaningful, motivational hacks for overcoming exercise resistance, and real-life coaching success stories. If you’ve ever wondered how to find your “why” or create sustainable healthy habits, don’t miss this revealing encore presentation.

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Trouble falling asleep? You’re not alone—and you might be missing a critical piece of the puzzle.

In this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall sits down with featured guest, renowned FBI sleep expert, Dr. Leah Kaylor, to go beyond the usual talk of blue light and supplements. Prepare for a deep dive into the psychological factors that sabotage your sleep and discover powerful strategies you probably haven’t heard before.

Wonder why even the most disciplined first responders and military pros struggle with rest? Dr. Kaylor reveals how trauma, anxiety, and stress shape sleep for everyone—and shares cutting-edge mental techniques, like EMDR and brain spotting, that could fundamentally change how you approach your nights. Whether you’re battling a racing mind or just curious why “falling face first into bed” isn’t working, this episode blends science, relatable stories, and actionable tips.

Is scrolling your phone the enemy? Are “quick fixes” making things worse? And what if sleep was so valuable, you couldn’t afford to buy it as a pill? Explore the real-life consequences of sleep deprivation—from cognitive performance to emotional well-being—and learn why a news or device detox might be the thing your brain has been begging for.Join us to rethink your wind down routine, discover your own sleep motivators, and finally get the rest you deserve—straight from the source trusted by the FBI. Listen now for a transformative look at sleep you won’t find anywhere else!

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Struggling with low moods, especially as the days get darker? Wondering if moving your body could actually improve your mental health more than medication?

In this encore episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall —personal trainer, wellness coach, and positive psychology practitioner—dives headfirst into the science connecting physical activity to depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. You’ll hear the surprising truth behind recent headlines claiming, “exercise is 1.5x more effective than meds” and learn what a meta-analysis really says about movement and mental health.

Is daily exercise really necessary, or is there a “sweet spot” for mental health benefits? Are all movement modalities equally effective—or do resistance training and yoga offer unique boosts for your mood and mind? Darlene Marshall unpacks massive new research covering over 128,000 adults, distilling complex science into practical, relatable takeaways you can use—whether you’re a fitness professional, therapist, or just trying to feel better through winter.

Plus: discover why therapists may hesitate to recommend exercise, what gaps exist between mental health and fitness fields, and how YOU can be part of making wellbeing more holistic, accessible, and stigma-free. If you want actionable strategies, honest personal insight, and a myth-busting approach to exercise and emotional resilience.

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Struggling to find joy in movement or exercise? You’re not alone—and this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast is about to change how you see fitness, motivation, and wellness!

Host Darlene Marshall sits down with featured guest, Nutritious Movement founder Katy Bowman, whose innovative, science-backed approach is transforming what “movement” really means. Discover why decades of shame, guilt, and “discipline” haven’t gotten us moving, and how we can finally break free from rigid fitness rules.

In this episode, you’ll learn the empowering secrets behind Bowman’s latest book, “I Know I Should Exercise, But: 44 Reasons We Don’t Move and How to Get Over Them.” Unpack why “move more” is actually BAD advice, how to redefine what “counts” as exercise, and why your core values matter more than a perfect workout plan. Hear about the revolutionary concept of fitness psychology, and how reframing our approach can help anyone—whether you love movement or absolutely hate it—find sustainable wellness.

Plus, discover the unexpected link between grief, movement, and healing, with real-life stories and practical tips to help you process life’s toughest moments through motion. Katy Bowman and Darlene Marshall bust myths, share vulnerable insights, and offer simple strategies to help you get moving—no matter your background or limitations.

Ready to ditch shame and discover movement that fits YOUR life? Hit play, subscribe, and join a new movement revolution!

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Are you living your Mondays like you mean it—or are you sleepwalking through life’s most precious moments?

In this deeply engaging episode of “Better Than Fine,” Darlene Marshall sits down with Jodi Wellman, founder of 4000 Mondays and one of the internet’s favorite “weirdos for well-being.” Together, they tackle the surprisingly revitalizing topic of death, memento mori, and the question we all avoid: How many Mondays do you have left?

From the roots of the ancient Roman “memento mori” motif to the practical power of counting your Mondays, Jody explains why contemplating your mortality isn’t morbid—it’s a secret superpower for living a wider and deeper life. With insights from existential psychology, Jody and Andre invite listeners to diagnose their “dead zones,” share hilarious failures, and explore how simple pleasures (like killer brownies or watching owls online) can spark meaningful joy, even when life feels constrained.

This special encore presentation is perfect for anyone seeking to escape the rut of routines and reignite their sense of aliveness, no matter their resources. You’ll come away with actionable advice for overcoming regret, prioritizing what matters most, and infusing every day with intentionality.

Searching for ways to “hack” life, avoid regret, and thrive—even in tough times? Tune in and discover why reflecting on death could be your best tool for truly coming alive. Don’t just count your Mondays—make them count.

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Ready to break free from imposter syndrome and revolutionize your self-care journey?

In this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall shares her deeply personal story—including a daunting diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos syndrome—and the hard-earned lessons that shaped her career as a wellness coach and educator.

Dive into Darlene’s “10 Things I Wish I Knew” guide, filled with actionable advice for anyone navigating the fitness world with chronic illness, or simply struggling with self-doubt. From why sustainable change always outperforms quick fixes, to the ways perfectionism can sabotage your progress, she unpacks mental, physical, and practical strategies to help you thrive.

You’ll discover the power of going slow, investing in quality expertise, focusing on behaviors over aesthetics, embracing vulnerability, and learning how your body truly works. If you’ve ever wondered how top athletes sidestep imposter syndrome, what to do when life throws curveballs, or how to get strong—in body and mind—this episode delivers research-backed insight and relatable stories.

Perfect for coaches, trainers, and anyone seeking real results, this episode sparks curiosity around modern wellness culture, self-acceptance, and resilience. Hit play, join the conversation, and fuel your journey with wisdom designed for lifelong wellbeing.

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Feeling lonely or disconnected lately?

You’re not alone—and this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, “Combating Loneliness,” is here to help. Host Darlene Marshall dives deep into the epidemic of loneliness sweeping across all age groups, armed with powerful statistics, personal stories, and science-backed strategies to help you reconnect.

Discover why loneliness impacts our health as seriously as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, how the aftermath of the pandemic continues to shape our social lives, and why meaningful relationships are key to a happier, more fulfilled life.

Darlene shares her own journey from the bustling crowds of New York City to a rural town with more cows than people, revealing how loneliness can creep in—even when surrounded by others. Learn actionable tips, from scheduling small activities to reaching out to old friends and sharing good news, that can make a real difference in your well-being. Plus, you’ll find creative ways to build new social circles and strengthen existing ones, even if starting from scratch feels daunting.

Whether you’re looking to overcome social anxiety, searching for practical advice on reconnecting, or interested in the science behind meaningful connection, this heartfelt encore presentation has something for you. Don’t let loneliness linger.

Tune in, take notes, and reignite your social life with proven steps for deeper connection and lasting happiness. If combating loneliness is important to you or someone you love, this episode could change everything. Listen now and start building your “better than fine” life!

If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!

The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.

Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm