Best Jeb Stuart Johnston Podcasts (2025)

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The Shadow of the Hero's Journey 56:02

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9d ago56:02

56:02

Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey has become the dominant myth of our time—from Hollywood blockbusters to recovery programs, from self-help seminars to social media transformations. It promises that your struggles have meaning, that your pain has purpose, and that you're destined for something greater. But what if this powerful framework is quietly …

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From Fit Set Pass to Ninja Gyms & Turf Business | Catching Up with Tim Gourlay 54:45

11d ago54:45

54:45

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I reconnect with longtime friend and returning guest Tim Gourlay, who last joined me back in 2018. A lot has changed since then—both for Tim and for the businesses he’s built. We talk about the transition from Fit Set Pass to Fit Set Ninja, the growth of ninja obstacle sports across Canada, and the surprisi…

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From Business to Bisping: Canadian Filmmaker Shane Fennessey on Storytelling, Mental Health & Making Docs 58:53

20d ago58:53

58:53

🎙️ Chasing Common Ground with Shane Fennessey: A Deep Dive into Storytelling, Mental Resilience & Documentary Filmmaking in Canada In this episode, Chris Liddle chats with Canadian filmmaker and documentary producer Shane Fennessey about the power of storytelling, navigating mental health, and building a creative career through persistence, purpose…

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State Before Story – Why Willpower Isn’t Enough 29:44

26d ago29:44

29:44

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the intricate relationship between our nervous system and behavior change. He challenges the conventional understanding of willpower, suggesting that it is not merely a moral virtue but a tool that functions best under regulated conditions. The conversation delves into the im…

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Sustainable Fat Loss, Confidence Without Rules & Coaching with Purpose ft. Nolan Vannata 55:13

29d ago55:13

55:13

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I’m joined by coach Nolan Vannata, who’s on a mission to simplify sustainable fat loss—and show the internet that you can enjoy ice cream and lose weight. We talk about his journey into coaching, what he learned from the Real Coaches Summit, and his takeaways from running an unconventional “Ben & Jerry’s + …

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Reinventing Longevity & Leadership in Fitness Coaching with Zach Pello 49:26

1M ago49:26

49:26

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, Chris Liddle sits down with longtime coach and family man Zach Pello to unpack two decades of insight in fitness, mental health, personal growth—and how redefining success in midlife reshapes the way you coach. We talk about: * Getting unstuck professionally and personally * Mental health challenges as a co…

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Dal Sekhon: Living Proof in Coaching 48:07

1M ago48:07

48:07

Summary In this engaging conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Dal discuss her journey as a nutrition coach, exploring the cultural influences on body image, the challenges of yo-yo dieting, and the importance of self-trust and emotional regulation. Dal shares her personal experiences with weight loss, the impact of social media, and her aspiration…

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Sarah Cunningham aka MF Nuts 28:09

1M ago28:09

28:09

Summary In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Sarah Cunningham discuss the critical role of nutrition in combat sports, particularly boxing. Sarah shares her journey from being a nurse to a sports nutritionist, emphasizing the importance of year-round nutrition for fighters rather than just during training camps. They explore the significan…

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Coach Spotlight: Joe Huskey 35:06

2M ago35:06

35:06

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind Awakened Genius, host Jeb Stuart Johnston welcomes nutrition coach Joe Husky to discuss the intersection of nutrition, coaching, and identity. They explore the importance of in-person coaching experiences, the impact of language on nutrition education, and the significance of focusing on youth athletes. J…

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Jeb Stuart Johnston on Time, Relationships & Living a Life of Service 1:04:07

2M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

This week on Chasing Common Ground, I’m joined by strength coach and nutritionist Jeb Stuart Johnston to explore how our perception of time, our relationships, and the ability to embrace discomfort shape the lives we live. We discuss: * How viewing time differently changes your choices * Building relationships that last decades in fitness & busines…

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The Power Trap: Why We Trade Integrity for Approval 29:44

2M ago29:44

29:44

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of the 'Power Trap,' discussing how individuals often trade their integrity for approval. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey through performance and the hidden costs associated with seeking validation. The conversation delves into the importance of rec…

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From Gym Life to Classroom Wisdom: Dean Guedo on Teaching, Parenting, and Purposeful Fitness 56:00

2M ago56:00

56:00

Dean Guedo returns for his fifth appearance—his first since the show’s rebrand. This time, the mic is flipped toward life lessons, shifting priorities, and the quiet power of showing up when it’s not glamorous. Dean talks candidly about returning to teaching, evolving as a dad, coaching high school football, and why he’s doubling down on movement t…

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Selling Longevity & Finding Purpose After 50 with Jay Croft 53:22

2M ago53:22

53:22

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Jay Croft — a journalist-turned-fitness content strategist helping gyms serve adults over 50. We talk about his new book Selling Longevity, why older clients are the future of fitness, and how life pivots can lead to deeper purpose. We cover:✅ Why gyms struggle to serve adults 50+✅ The turni…

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Burn the Boats: What It Really Means to Commit 12:57

2M ago12:57

12:57

In this solo reflection, I explore one of the most repeated motivational phrases—burn the boats. But what does it actually mean when those boats are your comfort, identity, or backup plan? I walk through the moments where I truly committed, the times I hesitated, and how it shaped my growth—personally and professionally. From quitting my job to pur…

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Your Brain on Boredom: The Dopamine Dilemma. 55:13

2M ago55:13

55:13

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the intricate relationship between boredom, dopamine, and motivation. He challenges the common misconceptions surrounding dopamine, emphasizing that it is not merely a pleasure chemical but rather a driver of pursuit and anticipation. The conversation delves into the biology …

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Unplug to Reconnect: Lessons on Aging, Purpose, and Choosing What Matters with Mark Zarate 1:01:31

3M ago1:01:31

1:01:31

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, Chris reconnects with long-time friend and fellow coach Mark Zarate. They reflect on the past two years of life, growth, aging, and all the messy middle parts that come with being in your 30s and 40s. From the therapeutic power of trees to navigating burnout, digital overstimulation, and learning how to act…

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The Boredom Trap: Understanding Emotional Disconnection 40:13

3M ago40:13

40:13

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of boredom in the context of personal transformation and coaching. He discusses how boredom is often misinterpreted as a lack of motivation, when in fact it signifies emotional disconnection from one's goals and identity. Through a case study, he illustrates the p…

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Steve Lutz on Losing 170 lbs, Quitting Alcohol, and Rebuilding Purpose from the Ground Up 51:52

3M ago51:52

51:52

Today’s episode is one of the most powerful I’ve recorded—because it’s so real. Meet Steve Lutz—first-time podcast guest, fitness coach, and someone who’s walked through fire. At one point, Steve was 381 pounds, drinking heavily every day, and living abroad in deep isolation during the pandemic. Now? He’s a coach helping others change their lives—a…

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Building Life Momentum: Lessons from Minecraft 49:00

3M ago49:00

49:00

🧱 What can a pixelated video game about punching trees teach us about fitness, mindset, and life momentum? In this solo episode, I break down surprising parallels between Minecraft and the real-life pursuit of meaningful goals—especially in fitness, health, and career. Whether you’ve never played the game or you’re an everyday adventurer, this epis…

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Debunking Misconceptions in Hormone Health with Dr. Ashley Dwyer 52:19

4M ago52:19

52:19

In this episode, I reconnect with Dr. Ashley Dwyer to dive into hormone health and its common misconceptions. Dr. Dwyer breaks down the importance of lifestyle choices over quick fixes and provides actionable advice for managing hormones like cortisol and insulin. The conversation also touches on the importance of authenticity and integrity in the …

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Permission to pivot: what to do when the plan isn't working 21:23

4M ago21:23

21:23

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the importance of adaptability in personal transformation, emphasizing that the pressure to adhere strictly to plans can lead to feelings of failure. He discusses the psychological aspects of pivoting, the dangers of perfectionism, and the significance of self-awareness in na…

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Building Better Health with Science and Support with Dr. Allan Bacon 1:05:37

5M ago1:05:37

1:05:37

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Dr. Allan Bacon, fitness coach, industry educator, and founder of Maui Athletics. Known for his calm, no-BS approach to health, Dr. Bacon unpacks the often overwhelming world of fitness advice—and how to navigate it without burning out. From breaking down creatine myths to managing stress an…

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Bend, Don’t Break: Building Emotional Resilience Without Food 34:15

5M ago34:15

34:15

Summary In this episode, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of emotional resilience, emphasizing the importance of understanding cravings as signals rather than obstacles. He introduces the three pillars of emotional resilience: capacity building, emotional tolerance, and inner leadership. Through practical tools and insights, listeners are g…

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Chasing Change: Overcoming Fitness and Life Plateaus with Alex McBrairty 1:01:00

5M ago1:01:00

1:01:00

In this special episode, Chris reconnects with longtime friend and fitness coach Alex McBrairty. Over the past four to five years, Chris and Alex have shared numerous conversations, making Alex a vital part of the show's community. Today, they dive deep into the challenges and barriers to change, motivation, and the importance of context in progres…

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Unpacking Burnout and Transformation with Coach Jayme Shiarla What It Takes to Rebuild Your Life 1:05:10

5M ago1:05:10

1:05:10

In this episode I'm talking to Jayme Shiarla, a coach dedicated to helping high achievers escape burnout and realign their success with genuine happiness. I connected with her at the Real Coaches Summit I attended a few weeks ago and she had a great down-to-earth energy that really resonated with me. Jayme shares her own journey, emphasizing the im…

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Beyond Agreement: The Heart of Human Connection 27:11

5M ago27:11

27:11

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the critical question of whether it's possible to understand someone you disagree with. Through a personal story from 2010 about my 'Free Hugs' initiative in Edmonton, I share my experiences regarding the importance of human connection, community, and empathy. This episode reflects on the experiences of bridging …

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The Hunger for More: What Are You Really Craving? 24:07

6M ago24:07

24:07

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the complex nature of cravings, emphasizing that they often signal deeper emotional needs rather than mere physical hunger. He discusses the importance of understanding these cravings as valuable information that can guide individuals toward greater self-awareness and emotion…

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Awakening Your Inner Genius 1:02:50

6M ago1:02:50

1:02:50

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of inner demons and self-sabotage, emphasizing that these parts of ourselves are not enemies but rather protective mechanisms trying to keep us safe. He discusses the importance of understanding and reframing our relationship with these inner conflicts, advocating…

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The Myth of Food Morality 42:25

7M ago42:25

42:25

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the complex relationship we have with food, challenging the myths of food morality and the influence of diet culture. He discusses the psychological aspects of emotional eating, the impact of upbringing, and the societal pressures that contribute to unhealthy food relationshi…

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The Art of Starting Over 31:25

7M ago31:25

31:25

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of starting over in the context of food, emotional eating, and personal growth. He discusses the illusion of fresh starts, the dangers of an all or nothing mindset, and introduces the pivot vs. punish framework as a way to foster continuous growth. Jeb emphasizes …

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Elevating Experiences with Mike Howard 49:11

7M ago49:11

49:11

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Mike Howard, a fitness professional, author, and retreat organizer, to explore the power of human connection, travel, and personal growth. Mike has been leading fitness retreats for years, creating life-changing experiences for participants by combining movement, mindfulness, and adventure i…

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The Truth About Self Sabotage 51:34

7M ago51:34

51:34

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the complex relationship between self-sabotage and personal growth. He emphasizes that self-sabotage is often a form of self-protection, rooted in fear of change and discomfort. By understanding the psychological mechanisms behind these behaviors, listeners can learn to creat…

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Awakening From Survival Mode 37:56

8M ago37:56

37:56

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of survival mode, discussing how many people find themselves merely existing rather than truly living. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing when one is stuck in this mode and offers practical steps to break free from it. The conversation highlights the sign…

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Chasing Growth: From Doubts to Dreams 18:15

8M ago18:15

18:15

In this special solo episode of Chasing Common Ground, I’m celebrating my 33rd birthday by taking a deep dive into my life experiences and answering some thought-provoking questions. I reflect on how my mindset has evolved from my 20s to now, including the shifts in my beliefs about career paths and the limitations I once placed on myself. I share …

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Developing Rock Solid Resilience An Insightful Conversation with Dean Somerset 38:36

8M ago38:36

38:36

In this episode I get to reconnect with someone local to me, known internationally, the one and only Dean Somerset. Dean reflects on his journey since his last appearance on the podcast, noting significant changes driven by the global pandemic—shifting his focus to in-person training and the development of an AI personal training resources. Dean al…

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Emotional Eating Everything 56:36

8M ago56:36

56:36

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston delves into the complexities of emotional eating, emphasizing that it is not merely a food problem but a coping mechanism rooted in emotional dysregulation. He discusses the misconceptions surrounding emotional eating, the role of the nervous system in triggering these behaviors, and …

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Say Yes To Life With Kyle Folk 38:41

8M ago38:41

38:41

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I introduce you to my friend Kyle Folk, a man with many many skills and talents. He's a project manager in the air compressor industry with an additional and seemingly unlimited diverse range of interests and experiences. From managing large-scale industrial equipment to coaching swimming and scuba diving, …

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Why Macros Fail 39:23

8M ago39:23

39:23

Summary In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the limitations of macro tracking for fat loss and the emotional disconnect that often accompanies it. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the deeper reasons behind food struggles and advocates for a more holistic approach that includes awareness, rituals, and self-…

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Listeners' Journey Q&A on Fitness, Travel & Personal Growth 1:02:42

8M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

Welcome back to the Chasing Common Ground podcast! In this special episode, we celebrate our loyal fan, Joan, on her birthday by addressing her questions. We delve deep into topics like choosing the right gym, the effectiveness of landmine set up and using something like a Smith machine for squatting and pressing and deadlifting, the value of stati…

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Allow me to reintroduce myself... 50:18

9M ago50:18

50:18

In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston introduces the podcast's mission to help individuals navigate their relationship with food, emotional eating, and personal growth. He shares his transformative journey back to podcasting, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, connection, and spirituality in healing. Jeb discusses his exper…

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Persistence and Adaptability: Building a Coaching Business and Jiu Jitsu Practice 58:06

9M ago58:06

58:06

In this episode of the 'Chasing Common Ground' podcast, I welcome industry friend and all around good human, Dustin Lebel, a long-time friend of the show and a dedicated listener. We discuss Dustin's journey through the fitness industry, the ups and downs of building his training business, and his experiences as a jiu-jitsu practitioner. Dustin sha…

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Reflecting on Two Years Alcohol-Free: Milestones and Insights 11:47

9M ago11:47

11:47

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I share some spontaneous reflections on 2024 while walking on a treadmill. The discussion includes personal achievements, the benefits of living alcohol-free for two years, and an overview of the milestones accomplished. I emphasize the importance of setting clear goals and introduce the concept…

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The Year of the Snake and Rabbit: A Tale of Legacy and Innovation with Wilson Wong 59:13

9M ago59:13

59:13

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground Podcast, I sit down with entrepreneur and friend, Wilson Wong, co-owner of Boa and Hare, to discuss his journey in the worlds of business, real estate, and community revitalization. Wilson shares insights into his background, experiences with opening businesses in Edmonton's Chinatown, and the importance…

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Real Talk Fitness Insights with Bryan Fitzsimmons 48:07

10M ago48:07

48:07

The Intersection of Fitness, Gratitude, and Coaching: A Conversation with Brian Fitzsimmons In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I welcome a fellow online coach Bryan Fitzsimmons. Bryan, who specializes in helping women over 40 achieve their fitness goals, shares insights about his career journey and how he ended up working with hi…

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Talking on an Echo Bike: Mental Health, Social Issues, and Fitness Insights for Miles 14:10

10M ago14:10

14:10

Join me for this unique episode of Chasing Common Ground as we explore mental health, social issues, and personal growth while I ride an Echo bike for four and a half miles. Discover strategies for maintaining well-being, the importance of social activism, the impact of technology on our lives, and insights into personal development and productivit…

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Investing in Yourself: A Path to Success with Aram Grigorian 55:23

10M ago55:23

55:23

Join me as I sit down with return guest, Aram Grigorian to dive into what it truly means to invest in yourself, foster real connections in the fitness industry, and take your personal and professional growth to the next level. In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I catch up with Aram—a fitness coach and event organizer—about the game-changing …

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Navigating Stress and Success with Justin Jones 59:25

10M ago59:25

59:25

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I’m joined by Justin Jones, owner of Assemble Performance. We talk about the concept of hybrid athletes—individuals training for both strength and endurance—and make it relatable for people who may be tuning in learning about the term for the first time. Justin shares insights from his diverse c…

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Unyielding Drive: Tyler Argento on Powerlifting, Coaching, and Transformation 1:15:29

10M ago1:15:29

1:15:29

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I’m having a conversation with my good friend Tyler Argento who is a personal trainer and yoga instructor with a wealth of life and industry experience. We discuss the significance of setting goals and starting, regardless of the scale of those goals. Tyler shares her experience in powerlifting …

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Strength Through Struggle: Fitness Lessons from Justin McClintock 1:01:58

10M ago1:01:58

1:01:58

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground podcast, I get to know Justin McClintock from Feel Strong Fitness. We discuss the impact of sharing personal experiences in encouraging others to seek help, Justin's journey from CrossFit enthusiast to personalized fitness coach, and the transformational stories of his clients. Our conversation delves in…

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Revolutionizing Team Sports Training with Ryan Patrick 44:50

11M ago44:50

44:50

In this episode of the Chasing Common Ground Podcast, I welcome Coach Ryan Patrick, a seasoned professional in the fitness industry, to discuss his journey and expertise in training athletes. Ryan shares insights into his personal training business, his focus on speed training, and the importance of accessible and inclusive fitness education. The c…