Episode SummaryYou cannot debunk a client out of a fad diet. And every time you try, you lose. In this solo episode, we get into the conversation every coach handles badly: what to do when a client shows up excited about the latest fad diet. The instinct is to correct them. That instinct is what costs you the client. We cover why fad diets win (it is not about the food), what the research actually says about diet method versus adherence, why being right backfires, and a 5-step framework with exact client scripts you can use on Monday. For coaches, personal trainers, and gym owners who are tired of being right and want to be trusted instead. WHAT WE YOU WILL LEARN The 4 emotional jobs a fad diet is actually hired to doWhy the evidence does not say what most evidence-based coaches think it saysHow psychological reactance turns your good advice into the thing pushing clients awayA 5-step framework for navigating any fad diet conversationExact word-for-word scripts for 5 common client scenariosWhy calm is a business strategy and trust is the real product KEY RESEARCH REFERENCED Mann, T., et al. (2007). Diets Are Not the Answer. American Psychologist, 62(3), 220-233.Dansinger, M. L., et al. (2005). Comparison of Atkins, Ornish, Weight Watchers, and Zone Diets. JAMA, 293(1), 43-53.Gardner, C. D., et al. (2018). The DIETFITS Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 319(7), 667-679.Brehm, J. W. (1966). A Theory of Psychological Reactance. DISCLAIMERThis podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, fitness, or professional advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare and fitness professionals before making changes to your training, supplementation, nutrition, or health practices. Individual results may vary. The host and producers are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any information, suggestions, or procedures discussed in this podcast. Subscribe & Review: If this episode added value to your training knowledge, please subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Your feedback helps us reach more fitness enthusiasts, coaches, lifters, athletes or anyone who can benefit from quality training information. About Brandon Smitley Instagram: @bsmitley @team.thirst Subscribe On YouTube! Website: THIRSTgym.com My FREE Newsletter — training insights, programming education & no-fluff content delivered straight to your inbox Free 3-Minute Performance Audit — find out what's actually limiting your results (and what to do about it) Brandon Smitley is a world renowned strength coach and athlete for over a decade. He and his wife, Adrian, own Terre Haute Intensity Resistance and Sports Training (THIRST) where they work with youth athletes and personal training clients of all ages. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in Health and Fitness, and his Master’s degree from Indiana State University in Physical Education and Coaching. Brandon has been awarded Personal Trainer of the Year Awards from Purdue University and Indiana State University as well is the 2020 Reader's Choice for Best Personal Trainer in Terre Haute, IN and the Wabash Valley. Brandon is a sponsored athlete with Elitefts and NutraBio where as a competitive powerlifter he currently holds the all-time world record squat in the 132 pound weight class, with a 567 pound squat. He also holds a 330 pound bench press, and 510 pound deadlift in that weight class, totaling 1377 pounds, ranking 4th all-time. He provides online coaching and programming around the world, and has personally worked with over 200 athletes in the US, UK, France, Italy, Mexico, Canada, and other countries. Brandon’s been published at Elitefts, Muscle and Performance, and Muscle and Fitness magazine. He holds his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Level One Sports Performance (USAW), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certifications, and is educated in PRI for Fitness and Performance.
