Summary
In this episode, host Michael S. Parker interviews fitness veteran Rex Owens, who shares insights from his extensive experience in the fitness industry. The conversation covers the critical role of mobility in healthy aging, misconceptions about flexibility, practical mobility drills, and the importance of sustainability in fitness and nutrition. Rex emphasizes the need for personalized approaches to training, the significance of education for both trainers and clients, and the value of celebrating small wins in the journey towards health and fitness. The discussion also touches on dietary changes with age and the common mistakes people make when starting new fitness plans. They also delve into various aspects of nutrition, fitness, and health, discussing the myths surrounding eating habits, the impact of childhood experiences on adult choices, and the importance of planning and strategy in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They share personal anecdotes about fast food experiences, client transformations, and the significance of movement in enhancing quality of life. The discussion also touches on the obesity epidemic, generational shifts in fitness attitudes, and the role of parents in promoting active lifestyles for their children. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for personal responsibility and proactive measures in health management. 

 Takeaways 

• Mobility is essential for healthy aging and injury prevention.
• Flexibility and mobility are not the same; specificity is key.
• Assessments should guide mobility training for individuals.
• Practical mobility drills can enhance everyday function.
• Training approaches differ for aging populations and athletes.
• Sustainability in fitness and nutrition is crucial for long-term success.
• Building routines that stick requires understanding client motivations.
• Common mistakes include an all-or-nothing mindset in fitness.
• Dietary needs change with age, focusing on fiber and calcium is important.
• Education is vital for both trainers and clients to foster growth. 
• Childhood eating habits can have lasting impacts on health.
• Personal experiences with fast food can lead to significant lifestyle changes.
• Clients often seek to reduce fast food and processed foods.
• Planning and strategy are crucial for successful nutrition management.
• Regular health monitoring is essential for proactive health management.
• Movement is key to maintaining quality of life as we age.
• Facing mortality can motivate healthier lifestyle choices.
• Generational shifts show promise in improving fitness attitudes among youth.
• Gamifying fitness can engage children and promote healthier habits.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

Instagram: @John__bauer (double underscore) 

Lionel University:  global.lionel.edu 

Course:  Lionel University Certified Personal Trainer (CPT).  Normally $999, but use code FORGE for a huge discount to $299 with no certification expiration. 

 Summary 

In this episode, Michael S. Parker interviews John Bauer, a seasoned health and wellness professional with over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry. They discuss the evolution of fitness, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating misinformation in health and wellness. John shares valuable insights on the significance of simplicity and consistency in achieving fitness goals, the role of technology in shaping the future of personal training, and the necessity of mastering the basics for long-term success. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in client retention and the diverse skills required for future fitness professionals. 

 Takeaways 

• Simplicity plus consistency leads to success in fitness.
• Finding mentorship early can accelerate career growth.
• The fitness industry has evolved to include more diverse training methods.
• Wellness is a growing focus in health and fitness.
• Technology is reshaping how fitness professionals operate.
• Clients often struggle with unrealistic expectations from fitness programs.
• Mastering the basics is crucial for long-term health and fitness success.
• Personal relationships with clients enhance retention and success.
• Critical thinking is essential when evaluating fitness information.
• The future of fitness professionals requires a blend of skills beyond exercise.

Chapters
 
00:00Journey Through the Fitness Industry
07:03The Importance of Consistency in Achieving Goals
09:15Shifts in Fitness Culture and Gender Dynamics
13:06The Role of Mentorship in Professional Growth
18:48Navigating Information Overload in Fitness
28:20Evolving Expectations of Fitness Professionals
36:11Leveraging Technology in Fitness Coaching
41:22Mastering the Basics of Health and Fitness
48:58The Role of Technology in Fitness
55:13Debunking Fitness Myths
01:00:13Essential Exercises for Longevity
01:11:01The Importance of Mentorship and Personal Growth
 

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

 Summary 

In this episode of the Forge podcast, Michael S. Parker engages in a deep conversation with Chrissy Zmijewski, a world natural bodybuilding champion. They explore Chrissy's journey from being a competitive athlete to navigating the challenges of aging, injuries, and the mental aspects of fitness. The discussion emphasizes the importance of lifting up one's life through fitness, nutrition, and personal transformation. Chrissy shares her insights on the mental capacity required for competition, the role of humility, and the significance of community in personal growth. They also delve into nutrition, the impact of processed foods, and the importance of intuitive eating. The conversation concludes with a focus on the balance between internal and external awareness, encouraging listeners to take responsibility for their health and well-being. 

 Takeaways 

🏋️‍♂️ Fitness is about lifting up your life, not just aesthetics.
 🧠 Mental capacity is crucial in competitive sports.
 🙏 Humility can be a strength in competition.
 💬 Criticism can be navigated through positive internal dialogue.
 😊 Defining happiness goes beyond physical appearance.
 🤝 Creating a positive community is essential for growth.
 🥦 Nutrition should focus on whole foods, not fads.
 🧘‍♀️ Intuitive eating is key to understanding your body's needs.
 🚫🍟 Processed foods can hinder nutritional goals.
 💪 Strength training is important for women and should not be feared. 

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

 In this episode, Michael S. Parker delves into the complex emotion of shame, particularly as it relates to fitness, nutrition, and personal habits. He discusses the distinction between shame and guilt, the historical context of shame, and how societal pressures can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy. Parker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing shame, transforming it into a motivational force for personal growth. He also highlights the role of mindfulness and emotional awareness in overcoming shame and fostering a healthier relationship with oneself. 

Takeaways

• Exercise is essential for wellbeing and prevents chronic diseases.
• Understanding the benefits of exercise can motivate individuals to prioritize fitness.
• Common excuses for not exercising include lack of time, energy, and motivation.
• Time management is crucial; everyone has 168 hours a week to allocate.
• Micro workouts can be effective for those with limited time.
• Exercise can be enjoyable; finding activities you love is key.
• Setting realistic goals and tracking progress is important for success.
• Self-consciousness should not deter individuals from exercising; focus on personal progress.
• Injuries or health issues should not prevent exercise; modifications can be made.
• Starting today, rather than procrastinating, is vital for making fitness a habit.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

Summary 

In this episode of the Forge Fitness, Nutrition and Habit podcast, host Michael S. Parker discusses the critical importance of exercise for overall wellbeing and addresses common excuses people make for not exercising. He provides practical solutions to overcome these excuses, emphasizing the need to prioritize fitness, manage time effectively, and maintain a positive mindset. The conversation also touches on the accessibility of fitness regardless of age, financial constraints, or physical limitations, encouraging listeners to take immediate action towards their health goals. 

Takeaways 

💪 Exercise is essential for wellbeing and helps prevent chronic diseases.
 🧠 Understanding the benefits of exercise can motivate you to prioritize fitness.
 😩 Common excuses include lack of time, energy, and motivation.
 ⏱️ Time management matters—everyone gets 168 hours a week.
 ⏳ Micro workouts work, even if time is tight.
 🎯 Exercise can be fun—find activities you actually enjoy.
📈 Set realistic goals and track your progress.
🙈 Don’t let self-consciousness stop you—focus on your journey.
🩼 Injuries or health issues? You can always modify and keep moving.
🚀 Start today—not “next week.” Consistency creates habits. 

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

Summary

In this episode, Michael S. Parker and Tate Odell discuss the often-overlooked topic of injury recovery in the fitness industry. They explore the mindset required to navigate injuries, the gaps in fitness education regarding injury prevention, and the importance of understanding the difference between pain and harm. The conversation also delves into the role of nutrition in recovery, the evolution of recovery practices, and the impact of social media on fitness expectations. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of strength training, movement quality, and the need for personalized coaching in overcoming injuries and achieving long-term wellness.

Takeaways

💡 Injury recovery requires a proactive mindset and responsibility.
 📚 Understanding the gap in fitness education is crucial for trainers.
 🚫 Injuries often lead clients to abandon their fitness journey.
 ⚠️ The reasonable reason fallacy can hinder recovery efforts.
 🏋️ Strength training is essential for joint health and injury prevention.
 🥦 Nutrition plays a vital role in recovery from injuries.
 🧠 Movement quality is key to long-term injury prevention.
 🔁 Behavior change is necessary for sustainable nutrition management.
 📱 Social media can distort perceptions of fitness and recovery.
 🧑‍⚕️ Personalized coaching is essential for effective rehabilitation.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

Summary 

In this episode, Michael S. Parker and Milly Nuñez discuss the intersection of functional fitness, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on how personal training can adapt to the needs of individuals facing these challenges. Milly shares her expertise in training special populations, emphasizing the importance of personal experience in coaching. They explore the significance of meeting clients where they are, the need for adaptive training as people age, and the critical role of strength training in maintaining functional living, along with quality nutrition. The conversation also touches on cultural differences in fitness approaches, the impact of nutrition on health and cognition, and the importance of mindset in overcoming dietary restrictions. Michael and Milly provide practical advice for those facing health challenges, highlighting the importance of support networks and the idea that it's never too late to start making positive changes in one's life.

  Takeaways 

• Functional fitness is essential for everyday health.
• Personal experience enhances coaching effectiveness.
• Meeting clients where they are is crucial for success.
• Training should adapt as individuals age.
• Strength training is vital for maintaining functionality.
• Cultural differences influence fitness approaches.
• Nutrition plays a significant role in health and longevity.
• Mindset is key in overcoming dietary restrictions.
• Exercise can slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
• It's never too late to start improving your health.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

 In this episode, Michael S. Parker and Cameron Lemieux, a clinical physiologist and expert in cardiac rehabilitation, discuss the importance of cardiovascular health. The conversation covers various aspects of heart health, including recovery after a heart attack, the importance of exercise, nutrition, stress management, and the mindset necessary for long-term well-being. The conversation highlights the importance of raising awareness about heart disease and the benefits of incorporating daily movement and a balanced diet in maintaining heart health.  

• Exercise is crucial for recovery after a cardiac event.
• Many people neglect their heart health until it's too late.
• Cardiac rehabilitation provides a safe environment for post-heart attack recovery.
• Daily movement is essential for preventing heart disease.
• Nutrition plays a vital role in cardiovascular health.
• Stress management is key to heart health.
• Mindset shifts are necessary after a heart scare.
• Education about heart health can combat misinformation.
• Demanding better food quality can improve public health.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

 Summary 

In this episode, Michael S. Parker and former professional athlete, Samantha Ostarello discuss the journey from being a professional athlete to becoming a sought after wellness coach. They explore the importance of training like an athlete, the transition to a wellness-focused lifestyle, and the significance of mindset and motivation in fitness. The discussion also delves into the differences between athlete nutrition and general population diets, the role of mindful eating, and the impact of social media on fitness perceptions. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the importance of self-responsibility, community, and the continuous journey of health and fitness. 

 Takeaways 

• Training like a pro can benefit everyone, not just athletes.
• Transitioning from athlete to wellness coach involves understanding both worlds.
• Functional training is essential for injury prevention and overall health.
• Mindset and motivation are crucial for achieving fitness goals.
• Nutrition for athletes differs significantly from that of the general population.
• Mind-body connection enhances the eating experience and promotes healthier habits.
• Overcoming mental barriers is key to maintaining a consistent workout routine.
• Social media can distort perceptions of fitness and health.
• Habit stacking is an effective strategy for long-term health changes.
• Eating for performance requires a balance of nutrients and mindful choices.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)

EPISODE 002 - In this episode of the FORGE podcast, host Michael S. Parker engages with Dr. Robb Kelly, a renowned addiction expert, to explore the complexities of food addiction and its roots in childhood trauma. They discuss the societal implications of addiction, the role of social media in reinforcing negative behaviors, and the impact of ultra-processed foods on health. Michael and Dr. Kelly agree on and emphasize the importance of personal responsibility in overcoming trauma and addiction, while also highlighting the neurological similarities between food addiction and other forms of addiction. The conversation encourages listeners to seek joy and take proactive steps towards recovery and wellness. In this conversation, Dr. Robb Kelly and the host discuss the impact of lifestyle choices on longevity, the dangers of instant gratification, and the importance of stepping out of comfort zones. They explore the role of social media in reinforcing negative behaviors and the signs of food addiction. The dialogue emphasizes breaking free from victim mentality, understanding the reality of trauma. Ultimately, the conversation inspires listeners to take control of their lives and make empowering choices.

Takeaways 

• Food addiction is often rooted in childhood trauma.
• The treatment for food addiction is similar to other addictions.
• Social media can amplify feelings of trauma and addiction.
• People need to take responsibility for their healing process.
• Addiction affects the same neurological pathways as drugs and alcohol.
• Ultra-processed foods contribute to addiction and health issues.
• Joy can serve as a baseline for emotional stability.
• Personal choice plays a crucial role in recovery from addiction.
• The food industry often misleads consumers about health.
• Awareness and education are key to overcoming addiction. Most Americans have abandoned their future for short-term gratification.
• Instant gratification is not quick enough for some people.
• Comfort zones can be harmful, even if they feel familiar.
• Social media amplifies negative behaviors and complaints.
• Food addiction can manifest through repetitive, harmful behaviors.
• Childhood trauma can lead to lifelong addiction patterns.
• Gender differences in addiction are becoming more pronounced.
• The first step to recovery is to start a dialogue with someone you trust.
• Secrets can be detrimental to mental health and recovery.
• You can change your life in just a few sessions. Abstinence is key in overcoming addiction.
• Behavior patterns around food and alcohol are crucial.
• Professional support is essential for recovery.
• Instant gratification hinders long-term success.
• Visualization can help in achieving goals.
• Mental health is often misunderstood and misused.
• Victim mentality prevents personal growth.
• Real trauma is often trivialized in society.
• Empowerment comes from within, not externally.
• Community support is vital for accountability.

Support the show

Subscribe and Follow! All socials are the same handle: @forgefitcoach

Follow on Instagram

Follow on Facebook

Follow on YouTube

Follow on X (Twitter)