The Exercise Mechanic Podcast

The Exercise Mechanic

The Exercise Mechanic Podcast is an educational initiative that is committed to elevating the standard of care in the fitness industry. The Exercise Mechanic believes that the personal training industry is a health care powerhouse, and thus deserves better education. TEM is committed to helping personal trainers become more effective coaches and create profitable careers. Website: www.theexercisemechanic.com Instagram: @theexercisemechanic

  1. FEB 24

    The Power of Behavioral Sciences, Self-Reflection & Self-Compassion with Jeb Stuart Johnston

    In this episode, we explore the deep connection between self-awareness, emotional regulation, and effective coaching. Jeb Stuart Johnston shares his journey through addiction, the power of internal family systems, and practical strategies rooted in behavioural science to help clients and coaches thrive. Key Topics: Jeb's personal story of overcoming addiction and how it shapes his coaching approach The role of mental frameworks such as internal family systems and polyvagal theory Systematizing soft skills in coaching without losing the individual context The importance of vulnerability, curiosity, and creating safety in difficult conversations How to practice emotional sobriety and self-reflection as a coach and person The impact of moral absolutism and critical thinking in navigating divisive topics Strategies for mentors to foster trust and curiosity in clients and colleagues The significance of consistent effort over quick wins in building a successful practice Using humility and self-awareness to remain effective in a polarized world Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 01:21 - Jeb’s background: Addiction, challenges, and lessons learned 06:33 - Recognizing symptoms versus root causes in client struggles 08:14 - Systematizing behavioral skills using dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) 11:25 - The "inner conflict" model: understanding protective parts 12:45 - Internal family systems and the concept of the "genius" in our demons 14:09 - Polyvagal theory and nervous system regulation 16:03 - Self-trust, vulnerability, and authenticity in coaching 20:24 - The importance of dialectics: holding paradoxes and multiple truths 24:21 - Managing nervous system energy and emotional sobriety 29:09 - Building rapport and safety to foster honest communication 33:57 - Challenges faced by coaches and how to overcome self-trust barriers 37:48 - The role of confidence, trust, and simplicity in advice 39:34 - Helping clients with drowning mentalities — even at small skill levels 45:48 - Handling shame and self-hatred in behavior change 55:05 - Navigating divisive social and political views consciously 61:06 - Critical thinking and recognizing manipulative narratives 66:14 - Approaching difficult conversations with calm and curiosity 68:23 - The importance of collaboration and problem-solving orientation 74:31 - The truth about consistent effort and inevitable long-term results 77:23 - How to connect with Jeb for mentorship or coaching

    1h 18m

  2. JAN 23

    Knee Biomechanics deep dive on The Exercise Mechanic Podcast

    In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic, hosts Ryan Taylor and Etienne Asselin delve into the complexities of knee biomechanics, focusing on the functional anatomy and biomechanical properties of the knee joint. They discuss common misconceptions surrounding knee injuries, particularly the fear associated with exercises like leg extensions and deep squats. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the kinematic and kinetic properties of the knee, including the roles of the patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joints, and how these structures interact during movement. They also explore and debunk training myths that often lead to fear-based training & rehabilitation decisions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Knee Biomechanics 05:21 Understanding the Knee Complex 13:00 Kinematic Properties of the Tibiofemoral Joint 27:27 Exploring the Patellofemoral Joint 36:45 Debunking Myths: Deep Knee Flexion and ACL Injuries 01:00:37 The Role of Shear Forces in Joint Function 01:09:10 Conclusion: Embracing the Resilience of the Human Body

    1h 5m

  3. 12/26/2025

    12 Days of “Mythmas”: 12 Training Myths on the Naughty List

    In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast, we explore the “12 Days of Mythmas”, debunking common fitness and nutrition myths. We discuss topics ranging from the mechanics of walking and running to the effectiveness of organic foods, the role of GLP-1 medications, and the misconceptions surrounding metabolism and rehabilitation. Each myth is examined in detail, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the truths behind these popular beliefs in the fitness community. Here’s a list of the training myths that we covered: Walking / running is a frontal plane movementExercise optimization is a waste of time, just keep it simpleOrganic foods are healthier than non-organicPeterson step downs train your VMO and a weak VMO is the driver of knee valgusGlp-1’s aren’t necessary, just use discipline.Anyone is capable of record-breaking achievements in any sport they choose.You must press in the scapular plane to minimize injury risk at the shoulder (ex. Avoid excessive “hyper extension of the shoulder)The carnivore diet is the best dietYou must use different rep ranges for different goals & muscle types (low reps for bulk, high reps for "tone”, and fast movements for fast twitch fibers)Rehabilitation is fixing / altering of mechanical characteristics of the bodyAnabolics do the work for you / make muscle gain easier.Slow metabolisms are the reason why you’re not losing weight

    1h 10m

  4. 12/23/2025

    Online training 2: "Electric Boogaloo"

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the intricacies of structuring online and hybrid training programs. They explore how to define service offerings, understand client needs, and the importance of experience in coaching. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility in training packages, effective communication with clients, and the significance of a thorough intake process. Additionally, they touch on pricing strategies, the balance between client care and business needs, and the challenges of navigating social media as a coach. The episode concludes with insights on how to manage time effectively as an online coach and the importance of referring clients to other professionals when necessary. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Online Training Structure 02:29 Defining Your Service Offering 05:28 Understanding Client Needs and Niching Down 07:58 The Importance of Experience in Coaching 11:07 Iterating Your Service Model 13:53 Creating Flexible Training Packages 16:35 Balancing Client Care and Business Needs 19:15 Effective Communication with Online Clients 22:15 Intake and Assessment Process for Online Coaching 24:59 Referring Clients to Other Professionals 27:35 Pricing Strategies for Online Coaching 30:10 Structuring Your Day as an Online Coach 33:15 Navigating Social Media and Content Creation 35:53 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

    1 hr

  5. 12/17/2025

    Online Training - Fitness fad, or here to stay?

    In this episode, the hosts discuss the evolution and future of online training in the fitness industry, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. They explore the scalability of online coaching, the challenges of communication with clients, and the importance of collaboration with medical practitioners. The conversation also touches on the balance between workload and client care, and the potential benefits of hybrid coaching models that combine in-person and online training. Chapters 00:00 The Rise of Online Training 05:05 Scalability and Client Relationships 09:26 Communication Challenges in Online Coaching 13:32 Navigating Client Needs and Expectations 20:26 Collaboration with Medical Practitioners 27:02 Balancing Workload and Client Care 35:15 Hybrid Models in Coaching

    41 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    BS or FACTS?: Movement Prerequisites, Performance & Pain

    The conversation delves into the importance of personalized training approaches in fitness, emphasizing that training should be tailored to individual goals rather than adhering strictly to external standards. The discussion highlights the concept of 'N of one' in personal training, advocating for a more individualized perspective in fitness methodologies. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Movement Prerequisites for Performance 00:41 The Importance of Client Communication in Training

    1h 1m

  7. 12/02/2025

    Does Biomechanics matter - Q&A with The Exercise Mechanic

    In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic podcast, hosts Etienne Asselin, Ryan Taylor, and Brett Patterson engage in a Q&A session covering various topics related to exercise mechanics, muscle building, and training strategies. They discuss the importance of biomechanics in muscle development, the choice between machines and free weights, and share personal influences in their training careers. The conversation also delves into peaking strategies for bodybuilding and endurance sports, emphasizing the significance of preparation and consistency leading up to events. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Q&A Session 01:08 The Role of Biomechanics in Muscle Building 10:15 Choosing Between Machines and Free Weights 19:23 Influences and Role Models in Training 30:42 Peaking Strategies in Sports 33:13 Common Mistakes in Peaking 38:34 Bodybuilding vs. Endurance Peaking 48:07 Enhanced vs. Non-Enhanced Athletes in Peaking 54:32 Psychological Aspects of Performance

    1h 2m

  8. 11/04/2025

    Rage-Proof Fitness: Training Without Tribalism

    In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast, we delve into the concept of dogma within the fitness industry, exploring its origins, implications, and the challenges it presents to critical thinking and scientific inquiry. We discuss the dichotomy between science-based and anti-optimal approaches, the importance of education in fostering nuanced understanding, and the impact of social media on belief systems. We also highlight the need for fitness professionals to navigate these complexities thoughtfully and to prioritize personal growth over rigid adherence to dogmatic beliefs. Chapters00:00 Understanding Dogma in the Fitness Industry 19:29 The Science vs. Anti-Optimal Debate 25:32 Defining Science and Its Misinterpretations 30:56 The Importance of Education in Fitness 34:42 Finding Utility in Diverse Training Methods 36:44 Creating Personal Systems for Utility 38:09 Meal Prep and Consistency in Nutrition 40:10 The Role of Rigid Systems in Learning 42:05 The Responsibility of Educators in Communication 43:33 Navigating Nuance in Professional Development 45:19 The Ethics of Language in Education 47:13 The Pressure of Authority and Financial Stability 49:02 The Impact of Social Media on Perception 50:53 Values and Integrity in Professional Practice 52:37 The Conflict of Values in Content Creation 54:31 The Importance of Authentic Relationships 56:20 Conscious Consumption of Content 58:06 Curating Your Online Environment 01:00:06 Dopamine Detoxing and Emotional Well-being 01:03:08 Choosing Growth Over Being Right

    49 min
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About

The Exercise Mechanic Podcast is an educational initiative that is committed to elevating the standard of care in the fitness industry. The Exercise Mechanic believes that the personal training industry is a health care powerhouse, and thus deserves better education. TEM is committed to helping personal trainers become more effective coaches and create profitable careers. Website: www.theexercisemechanic.com Instagram: @theexercisemechanic

Information

  • Creator
    The Exercise Mechanic
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    81
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Exercise Mechanic
  • Show Website
    The Exercise Mechanic Podcast