Best Jonathan Ressler Podcasts (2025)

1
F*ck The Diet Industry - Stop Starting Over, You Drama Queen 28:02

Play Pause

11h ago28:02

28:02

Send us a text Ever found yourself eating one cookie, then throwing in the towel completely because "I'll just start fresh on Monday"? You're stuck in the cycle that keeps millions trapped in weight-loss purgatory. This raw, no-BS episode exposes the toxic lie that's been keeping you from sustainable weight loss: the all-or-nothing mentality. I bre…

1
Is Our Obsession with Efficiency Backfiring? 27:19

1d ago27:19

27:19

We’re constantly told to “do more with less” — but what if that’s the wrong goal altogether? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan challenge the traditional definition of efficiency and unpack why it can be a trap for social impact organizations. From donor pressure to staff burnout, they explore how the pursuit of efficiency often undermines effectiv…

1
Breaking the Water Myth- The Only Thing a Gallon a Day Flushes Is Your Sanity 27:49

6d ago27:49

27:49

Send us a text Ever feel hungry, only to realize you were actually just thirsty? Your brain's not the sharpest when it comes to distinguishing between hunger and dehydration—and this confusion might be sabotaging your weight loss efforts without you even realizing it. In this straight-talking episode, we're cutting through the hydration hype to rev…

1
Your Family Tree Isn’t Fat—Your Family Habits Are 31:14

15d ago31:14

31:14

Send us a text Ever found yourself saying, "I've always been big, it's just in my genes"? That seemingly innocent explanation might be the very thing keeping you stuck in a cycle of weight struggles and failed attempts at change. In this raw, unfiltered episode, we tear down the myth of the "fat gene" and expose the truth that most people don't wan…

1
Storytelling For Complex Missions 23:43

16d ago23:43

23:43

Too many social impact organizations are stuck trying to explain everything they do — and in the process, end up saying nothing that sticks. When your mission is complex, how do you distill it into a clear, compelling story that actually resonates? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dig into the storytelling struggles that come with multifaceted mi…

1
F*ck Your Trainer- Your Lazy Excuses Can Bench More Than You ! 34:49

21d ago34:49

34:49

Send us a text Ever caught yourself staring at your too-tight jeans, thinking "maybe I should hire a personal trainer"? That's exactly the moment when you need this brutally honest wake-up call. The hard truth? Your weight isn't a gym problem—it's a decision problem. Those personal trainers you're considering dropping hundreds or thousands on? They…

1
Do Less. Do It Daily. Shut Up Already. Big results don’t need big drama 38:30

29d ago38:30

38:30

Send us a text Ready to ditch the "all or nothing" approach to weight loss that's been failing you for years? This raw, unfiltered episode cuts through the noise and introduces you to stackable habits—the secret weapon for sustainable weight loss that actually fits into your real, messy life. We've all been there: Monday motivation hits and suddenl…

1
Pros and Cons of Major Donors 34:14

30d ago34:14

34:14

Major donor funding can feel like the holy grail of nonprofit growth — big checks, deep relationships, and potentially game-changing support. But what’s often left out of the conversation? The risk. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan dive into the real tradeoffs of major donor programs — the power dynamics, the mission drift moments, and the long r…

1
Did Ozempic Just Kill Weight Watchers? 26:02

1M ago26:02

26:02

Send us a text The weight loss landscape is experiencing a seismic shift. Weight Watchers—a diet industry giant for decades—has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy while pharmaceutical options like Ozempic soar in popularity. This dramatic reversal reveals something profound about our relationship with weight management. Why pay for weekly weigh-ins an…

1
Healthy, Not Hellish- Eating Smarter Without Hating Life 34:50

1M ago34:50

34:50

Send us a text Ever found yourself starting Monday with green juice only to end Friday face-first in pizza, wondering what went wrong? The problem isn't you—it's the toxic perfection mindset that's sabotaging your results. Welcome to a no-BS conversation about why most healthy eating plans fail and what actually works for real people with real live…

1
Designing Impact Reports That Actually Work 31:28

1M ago31:28

31:28

Annual reports shouldn’t feel like an obligation — they should feel like a gift. But for too many nonprofits, impact reporting is still stuck in the past: flat, uninspired, and quickly forgotten. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack how to rethink your approach to reporting — and turn your annual impact story into one of your organization’s mo…

1
How to Sell a Vision Before It’s Real 33:48

2M ago33:48

33:48

Social impact leaders are visionaries — but getting others to see what you see isn’t easy. When your work hasn’t caught up to your ambitions, how do you win over funders, staff, and partners who need proof before they commit? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan explore what it really takes to sell a bold new vision — even when the work is still taki…

1
You Are Not A Failure - You Are Just Really Good At Quitting 33:04

2M ago33:04

33:04

Send us a text Ever wonder why your weight loss efforts keep starting strong but fizzle out like clockwork? The problem might not be your diet plan, your metabolism, or even your willpower – it could be that you've become exceptionally skilled at quitting. This raw, unfiltered episode cuts through the noise to expose the real reason most people fai…

1
Small Smart Choices = Big Results- AKA How I Outsmarted My Inner Fat Kid 34:19

2M ago34:19

34:19

Send us a text At 61 years old and 140 pounds lighter than I was two years ago, I've discovered something profound about weight loss that most "experts" won't tell you: it's not about dramatic overhauls or punishing yourself thin. After failing at over 100 different diets throughout my life, I finally found success through making small, smart choic…

1
Eric’s 3-Part Content Strategy That Works Every Time 31:41

2M ago31:41

31:41

Nonprofit leaders know storytelling matters — but many are missing a critical opportunity to move hearts, shift narratives, and deepen support. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan pull back the curtain on why so much nonprofit content falls flat — and how a simple three-step framework can radically transform the way you communicate your mission. ➔ W…

1
Eating Your Feelings? Try Feeling Them Instead (Weird, Right?) 28:21

3M ago28:21

28:21

Send us a text That moment when you're staring into the fridge, not actually hungry but somehow convinced food will solve whatever's bothering you? We've all been there. And it's this exact pattern of emotional eating that silently sabotages weight loss journeys more effectively than any late-night cookie ever could. In this raw, no-nonsense explor…

1
Jonathan Ressler Reintroduction – Year Two- Who I Am & How Far I’ve Come 42:03

3M ago42:03

42:03

Send us a text Two years ago, I weighed 411 pounds, avoided mirrors, and convinced myself I wasn't "that big." Then came the wake-up call—a birthday photo with a guy in a pink gorilla suit that showed me a truth I could no longer deny. That moment changed everything. Today, I'm 140 pounds lighter, but what I've gained is far more significant than w…

1
What to Do When Funders Say "No" 27:59

3M ago27:59

27:59

Not all “no’s” are equal—and if you’re in fundraising, you know that firsthand. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack the three types of objections every social impact leader will face: the silent no, the vague no, and the hard no. They explore why each shows up, what it’s really signaling, and how to respond in a way that transforms rejection …

1
10 Weight Loss Truths You Don’t Wanna Hear (But Seriously, Shut Up and Listen) 45:31

3M ago45:31

45:31

Send us a text Let's cut through the bullshit – we all know how to lose weight, but most of us don't want to face the uncomfortable truths that make sustainable weight loss possible. After losing 140+ pounds and keeping it off for nearly two years, I'm laying out ten harsh realities that Instagram influencers and diet gurus won't tell you. The firs…

1
The Sector Is Shifting: Here's How to Lead 25:55

3M ago25:55

25:55

Social impact leaders are scaling back, funding streams are evaporating, and public trust is eroding. In this candid kickoff to Season 4, Eric and Jonathan hold space for what’s really happening in the field—and why this moment demands courageous communication, community resilience, and reimagined leadership. This isn’t a time to shrink. It’s a tim…

1
Why “Eat Less, Move More” Is the Worst Weight Loss Advice Ever 37:34

3M ago37:34

37:34

Send us a text Why is "eat less, move more" such terrible weight loss advice? Because it completely misses what actually drives our eating behaviors and sets us up for failure from the start. The problem isn't that people don't understand how calories work—it's that they don't understand why they overeat in the first place. Food isn't just fuel; it…

1
Stuff We've Messed Up (and Learned From) 37:13

3M ago37:13

37:13

To wrap Season 3, Eric and Jonathan are doing something different — and a little vulnerable. In this raw and unfiltered finale, they look back on the leadership decisions, strategic misfires, hiring blunders, and marketing missteps that didn’t go according to plan. No spin. No gloss. Just two founders owning their hardest lessons out loud. Why end …

1
F*ck Your Meal Plan: Why You Need to Learn How to Eat Like a Normal Person 25:59

4M ago25:59

25:59

Send us a text Tired of jumping from one diet plan to another without sustainable results? This raw, no-holds-barred episode tackles the uncomfortable truth about meal plans and why they're setting you up for failure in your weight loss journey. Drawing from my experience of losing 130 pounds and keeping it off for nearly two years, I expose why th…

1
Jonathan’s Big Problem 32:34

4M ago32:34

32:34

What do you do when your mission is evolving… but your brand, programs, and funding strategy haven’t caught up yet? In this episode, Jonathan brings a live challenge to the table: a bold new vision for the Seymour Center that could reposition it as a hub for climate solutions and STEM leadership — but it comes with branding risks, potential backlas…

1
Fit, Lean, and Clueless—The Truth About Online Fitness Gurus...And A Few That Matter 34:05

4M ago34:05

34:05

Send us a text Tired of fitness influencers selling you overpriced supplements and impossible body standards? This raw, unfiltered episode cuts through the Instagram fitness illusion to reveal what sustainable weight loss really looks like. As someone who lost 140 pounds naturally and has kept it off for nearly two years, I'm calling out the fitnes…

1
How to Build a Sustainable Revenue Stream 43:19

4M ago43:19

43:19

The funding landscape is shifting, and relying on the same revenue strategies that got you here may not be enough to take your organization to the next level. Many nonprofits and social enterprises struggle to generate enough revenue—not just to sustain their work, but to fully fund their missions and reinvest in long-term growth. So how do you bui…

1
Intermittent Fasting: Starving for No Reason (Just Eat, Already!) 31:46

4M ago31:46

31:46

Send us a text From failed diets to sustainable success, this raw and unfiltered episode dives deep into why intermittent fasting isn't the miracle solution it's marketed to be. After trying over 100 different weight loss methods throughout his life, Jonathan shares why intermittent fasting - despite its popularity and initial results - is ultimate…

1
Social Impact in the Era of Misinformation & Media Chaos 28:59

4M ago28:59

28:59

We are living through the biggest shift in media and marketing of our lifetimes. Misinformation spreads faster than ever, trust in institutions is crumbling, and social impact leaders are left navigating a fractured, chaotic digital landscape. So how do you build credibility, mobilize communities, and create real impact when attention is scattered …

1
7 Diet Myths That Are Keeping You Fat 37:24

4M ago37:24

37:24

Send us a text Join us for an eye-opening episode as we tackle the popular diet myths that have long misled many. This week, we strip back layers of confusion to reveal the truth that operates beneath the surface of dieting, health, and weight management. Jonathan dives into the seven most pervasive diet myths, addressing everything from the myth t…

1
Beyond Vanity Metrics: Measuring Real Impact 32:15

4M ago32:15

32:15

Most social impact leaders think they’re measuring their impact — but are they really? Measuring impact is especially difficult when change happens over years or even decades, and when the outcomes are tied to complex, systemic issues. On top of that, the process of evaluation and measurement can feel like extra work — another task on an already fu…

1
Late-Night Munchies Won't Kill You: The Truth About Eating After Dark 30:47

4M ago30:47

30:47

Send us a text Late-night snacking has always been deemed a taboo, but what if the rules have been wrong all along? This episode of Shut Up and Choose confronts the common myths tied to late-night eating habits, shining a light on the reality of how our bodies process food regardless of the clock. Dive in with us as we unravel the psychology behind…

1
The Secret Behind High Growth Nonprofits 29:39

4M ago29:39

29:39

Nonprofit leaders constantly hear that diversifying revenue streams is the key to financial stability. But what if that advice isn't the whole story? Research shows that 90% of high-growth nonprofits rely on a single dominant funding source. Does that mean nonprofits should double down on one funding stream—or is there a smarter way to approach fun…

1
Donuts, Pizza, And Burgers Did Not Make You Fat - Math Did! 27:11

5M ago27:11

27:11

Send us a text Ever wonder if you can shed pounds without bidding farewell to your favorite foods or hitting the gym? On "Shut Up and Choose," I shake up the narrative around weight loss by sharing my own journey of losing over 140 pounds without sacrificing life's culinary pleasures. Discover the grounding truth: it's not about fancy diets or magi…

1
Rethinking Failure in Social Impact 34:53

5M ago34:53

34:53

Failure isn’t just a possibility in social impact work — it’s inevitable. But are we failing constructively? In this episode, Eric and Jonathan break down the difference between constructive failure and harmful failure, and why embracing the right kind of failure is essential for innovation, leadership, and long-term impact. From team dynamics and …

1
BLTs Are Killing You: Your Secret Frenemy in Weight Loss 27:05

5M ago27:05

27:05

Send us a text Ever wonder why your weight loss journey isn't moving as fast as you'd like? Perhaps those innocent nibbles—those subtle bites, licks, and tastes (BLTs)—are silently plotting against your progress. Join me on "Shut Up and Choose" as I recount a college BLT eating contest that hilariously parallels how these unnoticed calories can mes…

1
The Last Messaging Framework You’ll Ever Need 33:24

5M ago33:24

33:24

If you’ve ever felt like your messaging isn’t quite landing — like people don’t get it or aren’t inspired to take action — you’re not alone. We hear it all the time: “We’re struggling to tell our story.” But here’s the thing: your story isn’t the story that matters most. The real question is: How do you craft messaging that actually moves people? I…

1
Like It Or Not - Obesity Is Just Slow Motion Suicide 23:57

5M ago23:57

23:57

Send us a text Obesity is not a body type—it's a choice. Join me as I share my personal journey from weighing 411 pounds and grappling with severe health issues like uncontrolled gout and atrial fibrillation, to realizing the self-inflicted nature of my burden. This episode strips away the myths of the weight loss industry, confronting the idea tha…

1
The Changing Work Culture in Social Impact 37:25

5M ago37:25

37:25

The way we work is changing — fast. Remote work, shifting boundaries, and evolving expectations have reshaped what it means to work in the social impact sector. But are nonprofits keeping up? In this episode, Jonathan and Eric dive into the unique challenges mission-driven organizations face in building a sustainable, healthy work culture. From bal…

1
The Real Heavyweights of Denial: Why Fat Activists Are Pushing a Dangerous, Deadly Agenda 25:25

5M ago25:25

25:25

Send us a text What if society's embrace of body positivity is actually harming our health? Join me, Jonathan Ressler, as I challenge the norms surrounding fat activism and the sweeping calls for a Fat Equality Bill of Rights. This episode unpacks the controversial views that have sparked heated debates around obesity and personal responsibility. I…

1
Why Confident Leaders Build Stronger Organizations 25:01

5M ago25:01

25:01

Confidence: it’s one of the most critical traits for effective leadership, but also one of the trickiest to master. In this episode of Designing Tomorrow, Eric and Jonathan dive into what it truly means to embody confidence as a social impact leader. From personal struggles with self-doubt to lessons on humility, resilience, and overconfidence, thi…

1
The Happiest Place On Earth 29:20

6M ago29:20

29:20

Send us a text Have you ever felt trapped by the weight you're carrying, both physically and emotionally? Join me, Jonathan Ressler, as I share my journey of shedding 140 pounds and unlocking a life filled with newfound freedom and joy. Through personal stories, we'll explore how overcoming challenges like "booth anxiety" and everyday tasks that on…

1
The Right Way to Align Marketing and Fundraising 33:26

6M ago33:26

33:26

Marketing and fundraising are the lifeblood of social impact organizations. But too often, they're working in silos, disconnected, or even at odds with each other. This is a huge problem. Because when these two critical functions aren't aligned, it hurts your ability to build trust with donors, limits your fundraising potential, and ultimately redu…

1
Weight Loss Is A Mental Marathon - Cross The Finish Line in First Place 27:31

6M ago27:31

27:31

Send us a text Imagine shedding over 140 pounds without resorting to extreme diets or punishing workout routines. That's the journey we share in this episode, where we expose the seductive myths of rapid weight loss and explore the lasting freedom that comes from mindful, balanced living. We promise to reveal how small, intentional choices can lead…

1
The Art and Science of Trust Building 39:03

6M ago39:03

39:03

Trust is not a given — it’s earned. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan explore how trust is shifting away from institutions and toward relationships, and why that’s reshaping the way nonprofits and social impact organizations must operate. You’ll gain insights on: The hidden power of impact storytelling and why nonprofits often overlook it. The fiv…

1
Don’t Waste Your Time Or Money Joining The Gym 26:55

6M ago26:55

26:55

Send us a text Discover why most New Year's resolutions, especially those targeting weight loss and fitness, fall apart by Quitter's Day, the second Friday in January. We cut through the noise of the diet industry with a bold claim: lasting change starts from within, not with a gym membership or stringent diet. I, Jonathan Ressler, will guide you t…

1
Why Your Team Is Losing Motivation—and How to Stop It. 35:15

6M ago35:15

35:15

How do you keep your team energized, engaged, and aligned—especially in the demanding world of social impact? Passion and purpose are key, but they’re not enough on their own. In this episode, Eric and Jonathan unpack the essential elements of team motivation, exploring why some teams thrive while others stall, and revealing the missing ingredient …

1
Rewind: When You Should (And Shouldn't) Rebrand 30:32

6M ago30:32

30:32

Rewind: This episode was orginally published in Season 2, Episode 1. New episodes from Season 3 will continue to publish next week. — You probably shouldn’t rebrand your social impact organization. Except, of course, when you really should. (wait, what?) Because when the conditions are right, a rebrand can be one of the most powerful ways to reach …

1
7 Tips To End 2024 On A High Note: Get Into Beast Mode For 2025 17:13

7M ago17:13

17:13

Send us a text The holiday season doesn't have to be a free pass for indulgence. Instead, what if you could seize this time as an opportunity to set the tone for a healthier, more empowered 2025? Join me, Jonathan Ressler, on Shut Up and Choose as we break away from the conventional mindset of waiting for January to kickstart change. I'll guide you…

1
Rewind: How Top Brands Win Your Attention. Every Time. 15:02

7M ago15:02

15:02

REWIND: This episode was originally released in Season 1, Episode 2. New episodes from Season 3 will drop in 2025. — Today, you’ll consume 74GB of information. That’s the equivalent of watching 16 movies. In one day. Our inboxes are overflowing, our social streams are noisy, we doom scroll short form content on apps purpose-built to hijack our atte…

1
Mindset Is Everything: After 100 Failed Diets, Why This Time Was Different 27:13

7M ago27:13

27:13

Send us a text Isn't it frustrating to keep falling into the same weight loss traps, hoping for lasting change but ending up right where you started? Jonathan Ressler knows this cycle all too well, having been crowned the king of failed diets after trying at least 100 different plans. In this episode of "Shut Up and Choose," Jonathan doesn't just l…