Advertise on podcast: Better Than Fine With Darlene Marshall

Are you tired of "good vibes only" culture? Have you ever felt dismissed by well-meaning advice to "just stay positive" when you're struggling? In this episode of “Better Than Fine,” holistic wellness coach Darlene Marshall breaks down the harmful effects of toxic positivity and explains why embracing the full spectrum of human emotions is essential for real wellbeing. ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ·      What exactly is toxic positivity and why is it such a big problem in fitness, wellness, and positive psychology? ·      The hidden dangers of ignoring or invalidating negative emotions ·      Real-life stories that reveal how positivity can go wrong—and how to do better ·      Powerful, actionable tools to replace toxic positivity with validation, self-compassion, and pragmatic optimism ·      How to support yourself and others through tough times—without fake smiles or forced gratitudeWhether you're a fitness professional, coach, or simply on a quest for genuine self-growth, this episode will help you break free from the pressure to always be “on” and discover healthier ways to process the full human experience. 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/464tK4b

Welcome to “Better Than Fine,” the award-winning podcast hosted by wellbeing expert and wellness coach Darlene Marshall! In this inspiring episode, Darlene dives deep into NASA’s Artemis II mission and unpacks the powerful human response known as the Overview Effect—the profound sense of awe experienced by astronauts when seeing Earth from space. Episode Highlights: ·      Journey of Artemis II: Relive the record-breaking 252,756-mile lunar orbit with Commander Reed Wiseman, Victor Glover Jr., Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen. ·      What is the Overview Effect? Discover how this mind-bending phenomenon rewires our sense of self, connects us to humanity, and sparks a desire to protect our “lifeboat” Earth. ·      Science of Awe & Positive Psychology: Learn how awe changes our mental models, triggers self-transcendence, and enhances meaning, purpose, and connection. ·      Collective Awe—Why It Matters: Explore how sharing awe-inspiring experiences strengthens community, reduces loneliness, and fuels hope—especially in challenging times. ·      From Inspiration to Action: Uncover research-backed ways to channel awe into positive action, forward motion, and pragmatic optimism. ·      Listener Takeaways: Practical tips for bringing more awe and connection into your everyday life. Why Watch? ⭐️ Get Inspired: Feel the chills as real astronaut quotes reveal how space travel transforms our understanding of life and purpose. ⭐️ Level Up Your Mindset: Darlene shares powerful evidence-based tools to recalibrate your thinking and boost resilience. ⭐️ Strengthen Your Wellbeing: Find out how to harness the science of awe for greater happiness, deeper connection, and meaningful action. Show References: Keltner, D. & Haidt, J. (2003). Approaching awe, a moral, spiritual, and aesthetic emotion. Cognition and Emotion, 17, 297–314. The foundational paper that defined awe scientifically — introducing the two core features of vastness and need for accommodation that underpin all subsequent awe research.https://doi.org/10.1080/02699930302297  Rudd, M., Vohs, K.D., & Aaker, J. (2012). Awe expands people's perception of time, alters decision making, and enhances well-being. Psychological Science, 23, 1130–1136. Demonstrated that awe — unlike happiness — makes people feel they have more time available, reduces impatience, and increases life satisfaction.https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797612438731  Yaden, D.B., Iwry, J., Slack, K.J., Eichstaedt, J.C., Zhao, Y., Vaillant, G.E., & Newberg, A.B. (2016). The overview effect: Awe and self-transcendent experience in space flight. Psychology of Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Practice, 3(1), 1–11.The primary academic framework for the Overview Effect — identifying awe, self-transcendence, and schema changes as the three psychological mechanisms behind what astronauts experience viewing Earth from space.https://doi.org/10.1037/cns0000086  Bai, Y., Maruskin, L.A., Chen, S., Gordon, A.M., Stellar, J.E., McNeil, G.D., Piff, P.K., & Keltner, D. (2017). Awe, the diminished self, and collective engagement: Universality and cultural variation in the small self. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 113(2), 185–209.Found that awe reliably shrinks self-referential thinking across cultures — people literally drew themselves smaller after experiencing awe — and increases feelings of connection to something larger.https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000087  Piff, P.K., Dietze, P., Feinberg, M., Stancato, D.M., & Keltner, D. (2015). Awe, the small self, and prosocial behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108(6), 883–899.Showed that awe reliably increases prosocial behavior — generosity, ethical decision-making, and concern for others — by reducing preoccupation with the individual self.https://doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000018  White, F. (2021). The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution (4th ed.). Multiverse Publishing.The original book that named and documented the Overview Effect through interviews with astronauts — still the definitive primary source on the phenomenon.https://www.amazon.com/Overview-Effect-Exploration-Human-Evolution/dp/1951480007 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b

Welcome to a powerful encore presentation of the “Better Than Fine” podcast. Hosted by wellness expert Darlene Marshall, this episode dives deep into self-compassion and the transformative tools you need to improve your mental health, resilience, and overall well-being.Are you your own worst critic? Do you struggle with negative self-talk and find it hard to treat yourself with kindness? In this special episode, you'll discover Kristin Neff’s three-point model of self-compassion, backed by science and practical wisdom to help you break free from self-judgment and thrive—even in life’s toughest moments. 🎧 In This Episode: ·      Speaker A shares her personal journey of overcoming self-criticism and how major life events can trigger negative self-talk. ·      Learn how to recognize when you’re being hard on yourself and actionable steps to shift to self-kindness. ·      Explore the three pillars of self-compassion: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. ·      Practical exercises and mindset shifts to boost your self-awareness and develop lasting emotional resilience. ·      Real-world strategies for coaches, fitness professionals, and anyone aspiring to LIVE BETTER, not just feel better. Why Watch/Listen? Whether you’re a fitness pro, coach, or simply looking for tools to get through tough times, this episode provides practical solutions and heart-driven insights for anyone ready to stop beating themselves up and start thriving. It’s time for a mindset reset—let’s get better than fine, together!  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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/464tK4b

Are you tired of fitness routines focused only on aesthetics and performance? Ready to make your workouts actually serve your mental health and lifelong happiness? In this episode of the Better Than Fine Podcast, host and well-being expert Darlene Marshall dives deep into science-backed strategies for designing an exercise program with well-being as the ultimate fitness goal. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ·      Why traditional fitness advice often misses the mark for supporting well-being ·      The latest research on how specific exercise intensity, duration, and type impact mood, resilience, and happiness ·      Why low- to moderate-intensity movement (even a walk!) can give you a massive well-being boost ·      How to overcome toxic gym culture and find empowering, enjoyable movement spaces—even outdoors! ·      The crucial roles of autonomy, choice, and environment in sticking to your movement practice long-term ·      Real client stories and practical steps to start a movement routine that supports your mental and emotional health 🎧 Whether you’re a fitness pro, someone with chronic illness, or simply want to feel better in your body—this episode is your go-to resource for blending positive psychology and movement! Resources Mentioned: ·      Systematic Review: “Exercise Prescriptions for Young People's Emotional Well Being” (April 2025) ·      Article: “Green Exercise as an Opportunity to Promote Equity...” (March 2024) ·      Motivation 101 Guide: Better Than Fine Substack 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/464tK4b

Are you ready to break down the myths about body size, health, and fitness culture? In this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall dives deep with OG friend of the pod, Rich Fahmy—public health PhD candidate and content manager at NASM—to explore fat bias, weight stigma, and their impact on public health. ✔️ What Is Fat Bias? ✔️ How Does Weight Stigma Affect Everyone—NOT just those in larger bodies? ✔️ Why are fitness professionals, doctors, and policymakers still relying on outdated, flawed BMI metrics? ✔️ What does the evidence actually say about health at different body sizes? ✔️ The “Obesity Paradox”: Are heavier bodies sometimes more resilient in illness and older age? You’ll get: ·      Definitions and real-world examples of fatphobia and bias in healthcare. ·      Jaw-dropping evidence about how medical professionals’ bias leads to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis—and even worsens health outcomes for everyone. ·      Eye-opening facts about metabolically healthy adults in larger bodies. ·      Insights into why shaming, weight cycling, and groupthink cause more harm than good. ·      A fresh perspective on why embracing a weight-neutral, evidence-based approach in fitness and wellness is the future. If you’re a coach, trainer, wellness pro—or just want to understand public health and body acceptance—this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew. ✨ Featuring actionable tips, honest stories, and resources to help you support ALL clients, regardless of size. 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, hosted by award-winning wellbeing expert Darlene Marshall! This week, we dive deep into the evolving conversation around the body positivity movement in the age of GLP-1 medications—popularly known as weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ·      The origins and evolution of the body positivity movement ·      How GLP-1 weight loss medications are reshaping perceptions about body image and wellness ·      Insights from thought leaders like Gabriella Lescano, Virgie Tovar, and Aubrey Gordon ·      The difference between self-acceptance and collective social change in body positivity ·      Why BMI is an unreliable indicator of health and what you should be focusing on instead ·      The new role of exercise beyond aesthetics—how well-being and mental health are taking the spotlight ·      Practical guidance for fitness and wellness professionals on adapting to these cultural shifts Highlights & Key Topics: ·      Are weight-loss drugs and body positivity at odds, or can they co-exist?·      The nuanced roles of influencers versus activists in shaping public opinion ·      How to foster self-love, authentic self-care, and inclusive health practices—regardless of body size ·      Actionable strategies for supporting clients (or yourself!) in prioritizing health and wellness without shame Who Should Listen: ·      Fitness pros & wellness coaches ready to adapt in a changing industry ·      Anyone interested in body positivity, health at every size, and mental well-being ·      Listeners seeking science-backed, compassionate insights on fitness, weight, and personal growth Resources Mentioned: ·      Previous Better Than Fine episodes unpacking the science of BMI, weight bias, and health outcomes ·      Forbes and New York Times features on body positivity and weight loss drugs ·      Darlene’s book recommendations and scientific studies on long-term health and well-being  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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Are you ready to finally start lifting, but don’t know where to begin? Confused by all the information about strength and resistance training? This episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast is your perfect starting point! Join host Darlene Marshall and special guest Dr. Rick Richey —personal trainer, gym owner, author, and host of the “NASM-CPT Podcast”—as they break down everything you need to know about beginning your resistance training journey. Whether your goals are better health, more confidence, or just picking up heavy things without feeling lost, Rick brings decades of experience and practical advice to help you succeed. What you’ll learn in this episode: ·      The difference between resistance training and strength training—and why it matters ·      How to get started if you’re an absolute beginner (no gym experience needed) ·      Advice for choosing the right exercises and routines for YOU ·      How to overcome the intimidation and anxiety many beginners feel in the gym ·      Tips for finding affordable, trustworthy trainers (and spotting “charlatans”) ·      The benefits of movement beyond just muscle: mood, mental health, confidence, and even life purpose! ·      How to use bodyweight, bands, machines, and more—no fancy equipment required ·      Why consistency, enjoyment, and play are more important than perfection Whether you’re considering your first gym membership or just want easy, actionable steps to build strength at home, this episode will boost your confidence and get you moving, for 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Are toxic trainers and body shaming pushing people away from fitness? In this powerful episode of the "Better Than Fine" podcast, wellness expert and coach Darlene Marshall dives deep into the real, ongoing problem of bullying within fitness culture—and why it's time to say "enough." 🎙️ What You'll Learn in This Episode: The damaging impact of bullying and body shaming in gyms and on social media Real stories of clients being blamed, shamed, and lied to by fitness professionals Why outdated, abusive approaches to coaching are not just wrong—they’re ineffective The psychological science behind shame, motivation, and genuine behavior change How the fitness industry can create truly inclusive, supportive spaces for ALL bodies Actionable steps for clients and professionals to end toxic fitness culture You’ve ever felt judged or shamed on your fitness journey You want to understand what HEALTHY coaching looks like You’re a fitness pro ready to champion positive change From her own journey (yes, The Biggest Loser gets called out!) to the crucial mistakes many trainers repeat, Darlene Marshall combines honest storytelling and research-backed advice so you can protect your well-being and thrive in fitness—no matter your shape or size.Time to ditch the bullies and reclaim fitness for everyone.  Whether you’re a coach, personal trainer, or someone just trying to feel better in your body, this episode is for you. 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Welcome to the “Better Than Fine” podcast, hosted by Darlene Marshall – well-being expert, wellness coach, and your trusted source for evidence-based health insights! In this highly requested episode, we're revisiting the January 2025 deep-dive into the gut microbiome and its powerful connection to mental health.You’ve seen influencers claim that certain foods and supplements will “heal your mind,” but what does the research actually show? Darlene breaks down the gut-brain axis, debunks viral myths, and shares actionable advice grounded in science – not hype. 👇 In this episode, you’ll learn: ·      What the gut-brain axis (GBA) REALLY is ·      How your gut microbiome influences mood, cognition, and well-being ·      The role of neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, GABA) produced in your gut ·      Why processed foods trigger inflammation and hurt mental health ·      The science behind prebiotics, probiotics, and what foods genuinely support your mental health ·      Why “one size fits all” nutrition advice is bogus (even twins have different microbiomes!) ·      Practical tips for feeding the “good army” in your gut and boosting well-being ·      How to tell fact from influencer fiction in the nutrition space ·      How chronic stress impacts digestion and creates feedback loops that affect mind and body ·      Why movement + nutrition are foundational to lasting mental wellness Whether you’re a wellness professional, mental health practitioner, or just curious about nutrition, this episode gives you clear, actionable insights—without gimmicks or hype. Want to ask Darlene your questions or join her new digital community? Learn how to connect with The Well-Being Revolution and get ongoing support! 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Welcome to another episode of the Better Than Fine podcast with your host, Darlene Marshall! This week’s episode is your essential guide to getting things DONE, especially when motivation runs dry and willpower isn’t enough. 🌟In honor of the show’s 6th birthday, Darlene dives deep into the science and real-life application of GRIT — that special blend of passion and perseverance for long-term goals. Discover why grit outshines intelligence and talent when it comes to achieving lifelong dreams, as popularized by Dr. Angela Duckworth’s viral TED Talk (17+ million views!). Darlene, who learned directly from Dr. Duckworth, breaks down how grit, growth mindset, and resilience can transform your life. But this episode isn’t just about theory. You’ll get hands-on strategies like: ·      Shaping your environment to make good habits the easy choice (and bad habits harder) ·      Lowering friction for the behaviors you want — and raising it for the ones you don’t ·      Mental rehearsal and anticipatory savoring to boost motivation, resilience, and follow-through ·      Setting fewer, better goals rooted in your core values and identity for lasting success ·      The truth about willpower (hint: it fails us all!) and what actually works instead Plus, Darlene shares her own candid story about breaking tough habits, the psychology of habit change, and recent research you NEED to know if you want to level up in 2026. This episode is perfect for you if: ·      You want actionable techniques to crush your goals this year ·      You’re tired of relying on willpower alone ·      You’re curious about the latest evidence-based methods in personal growth, wellness, and behavior change ·      You value honest, relatable advice from a proven coach and educator✨ Grab your notebook, hit play, and learn how to outsmart your obstacles and become the person you aspire to be — starting TODAY. #Grit #GoalSetting #Willpower #HabitChange #PersonalDevelopment #BetterThanFinePodcast #SelfImprovement #Wellness #GrowthMindset #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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

 Is your quest to "optimize" everything making you miserable? In this eye-opening episode of the Better Than Fine podcast, host and well-being expert Darlene Marshall reveals why the drive for constant optimization can actually sabotage your happiness, health, and satisfaction in life. Join Darlene as she unpacks the science behind decision fatigue, perfectionism, and the hidden dangers of the self-improvement hustle culture. Drawing from Dr. Barry Schwartz’s groundbreaking research on the "Paradox of Choice," Darlene explains why more options and relentless striving rarely lead to a happier, more fulfilled life—and what to do instead! 🎯 In this episode, you’ll discover: ·      Why “optimize” has become a toxic buzzword in wellness and self-development ·      The surprising downside of endless choice and customization ·      How influencer advice and hustle culture fuel overwhelm and burnout ·      The key difference between optimization and genuine satisfaction ·      Practical strategies to design a “good enough” life that’s aligned with what matters most ·      How you can let go, enjoy the present, and actually feel satisfied day to day Whether you’re an overachiever, perfectionist, or just feeling overwhelmed by wellness advice, this episode is your permission slip to step off the optimization treadmill and reclaim your life. 🌱 Interested in real-life transformation? Join Darlene’s upcoming Root to Rise Weekend Well-Being Retreat (June 13–15, Round Top, NY). Connect, recharge, and re-align with what truly matters—learn more here: darlene.coach/retreat If you’re ready to ditch burnout and discover what satisfaction REALLY feels like, don’t miss this episode! 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Welcome to this week’s transformative episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, hosted by wellness coach and well-being educator, Darlene Marshall! 🎙️Are you ready to not just “look for the helpers” but become the helpers? In these turbulent times, personal well-being is deeply intertwined with community care and support. Darlene shares her powerful reaction to our rapidly changing world, tackling everything from stress, anxiety, and social change to the science-backed benefits of volunteering and helping others. 🔑 What You'll Discover in This Episode: ·      Why “becoming the helpers” is vital in 2026 and beyond ·      The impact of social and economic stressors on mental health ·      How helping others directly boosts your own well-being, happiness, and resilience ·      Simple, actionable ways to get involved in your local community (food pantries, visiting shut-ins, volunteering at charities, and more) ·      Powerful research insights from positive psychology about the helper’s high ·      Inspiration from Mr. Rogers – and why it’s time to evolve his iconic advice, Darlene’s flu-season “smoky voice” brings even more raw honesty and warmth to this solo episode. If you want to feel inspired, learn practical wellness tips, and discover how service can make you feel better than fine, this is the episode for you! ✊ Get Involved: From food pantries to charitable organizations like Angel’s Angels of America and the Travis Manion Foundation, Darlene shares how you can start helping TODAY… no matter your time, skills, or financial situation. 👫 Join the Conversation: How will you show up as a helper in your neighborhood? Drop your thoughts, ideas, and feedback in the comments below. Subscribe for more weekly episodes to upgrade your well-being, optimism, and social impact! ✨ Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, & SHARE if you enjoyed this episode. Your support helps more people find their way to feeling better than fine! #Wellness #BetterThanFine #MentalHealth #CommunityCare #Helpers #MrRogers #PositivePsychology #Volunteering #Resilience #Podcast #2026 #SocialImpact #SelfCare 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Are you confused about whether protein powder is actually healthy—or is it just another ultra processed food in disguise? In this episode of the Better Than Fine podcast, wellness coach and wellbeing expert Darlene Marshall dives deep into one of the hottest nutrition debates of 2025: protein powder and ultra processed foods. ✨ What You'll Learn in This Episode: ·      The REAL definition of “ultra processed food” and how it’s different from simply “processed” ·      Why most protein powders are considered ultra processed—and what that means for your health ·      How influencer marketing cycles drive diet trends and supplement fads ·      The sneaky ways supplement companies leverage guilt, fear, and “clean eating” messages to sell products ·      Why Americans are falling short on fiber and the potential health risks you need to know ·      Actionable tips to improve your nutrition without falling for the latest trends 💡 Darlene also gets honest about her own protein supplement use, discusses the critical difference between facts and values, and reveals why YOU get to decide what matters most in your health and wellness journey. 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.  The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more.  https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl

Welcome to the “Better Than Fine Podcast!”In this highly informative episode, host Darlene Marshall dives deep into the real story behind **ultra processed foods**, breaking down the latest research from top scientific journals—including a brand-new series from The Lancet. **What You'll Learn:** - The *four categories* of the NOVA food scale and why not all “processed” foods are created equal - How ultra processed foods drive **obesity**, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and even depression - The shocking influence of *food industry lobbying and marketing*—and why your cravings might not be about “willpower” at all - Simple, actionable ways to cut ultra processed foods from your diet, support local farmers, and reclaim control over your health—even when access is limited **Why Listen/Watch?** If you care about your **well-being**, **mental health**, or want science-based answers to what’s REALLY making our society sick, this episode is for you. [John Jewett](/speakers/A) doesn’t just react to headlines—he reviews breakthrough studies, responds to common criticisms, and offers empowering solutions. 👇 **Like, Comment, and Subscribe!**  Got questions or want to share your own food transformation story? Drop a comment below or connect with Darlene on Instagram (@DarleneCoach), LinkedIn, or via email at [email protected]. **Don’t forget to share and tag #BetterThanFinePodcast to join our community of listeners making positive change!****WATCH NOW to discover how ultra processed foods impact your health—and what you can do today to take back control.** 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

Curious about what’s really lurking in the foods you eat every day? This eye-opening episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall pulls back the curtain on “ultra processed foods” and reveals hidden truths that the food industry doesn’t want you to know. She delivers a powerful encore presentation about the NOVA Food Scale—a simple but revolutionary way to understand what’s in your pantry, your snacks, and your health. Discover why 60% of the average American diet comes from ultra processed foods, and how these ingredients aren’t just about added sugar—they’re packed with unpronounceable additives like emulsifiers, anti-caking agents, artificial sweeteners, and nanoparticles. Learn how these hidden chemicals could be impacting your gut health, metabolism, and even your risk for inflammatory diseases. Darlene doesn’t just research the science—she shares her candid, personal journey of confronting these foods in her own life, the surprising results she saw, and how she guides her clients through making healthier choices. Whether you consider yourself a clean eater or you’re just beginning to question what “healthy” even means on a food label, this episode will challenge how you think about “junk food,” nutrition, and wellness trends. Don’t miss this in-depth episode to rethink your grocery cart, decode food labels, and protect your long-term health.Hit play, share your thoughts, and get ready for next week’s deep dive into the future of nutrition! 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