Do Cool Shit Podcast

Meryl Binder⏐Wicked Iron Strength
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  • HEALTH & FITNESS

The Do Cool Shit Podcast exists to amplify the stories of people who boldly embrace the process of building their strongest body and mind. We get real about what growth actually looks like - the setbacks, the breakthroughs, and everything in between. Through raw conversations about change, challenges, and what it takes to show up for yourself, we prove that cool shit happens when you stop holding back and start living from a place of strength, integrity, and empowerment. This isn't about perfection - it's about the messy, powerful process of becoming unstoppable.

  1. Working Within the Parameters of Your Life w/ Guest: Dal Sekhon

    3D AGO

    Working Within the Parameters of Your Life w/ Guest: Dal Sekhon

    In this episode of the Do Cool Shit podcast, host Meryl Binder speaks with nutrition coach Dal about her transformative journey of losing 120 pounds and the challenges she faced along the way. They discuss the importance of self-compassion, the impact of diet culture, and the role of community and accountability in achieving personal growth. Dal shares her insights on emotional eating, the significance of small wins, and the necessity of inner work for lasting change. The conversation also touches on navigating social media, building confidence, and the power of supportive relationships in the journey of self-discovery. Takeaways - Body image issues often start early and can be influenced by culture. - Nutrition education is crucial for sustainable weight loss. -Self-compassion is key in the weight loss journey. -Small wins are essential for building confidence and motivation. -Community and accountability play a significant role in success. -Facing the unknown is necessary for personal growth. -Comparison culture can hinder progress and self-acceptance. -Confidence comes from taking action and doing the inner work. Connect with Dal www.instagram.com/nutritioncoachingbydal Connect with Meryl ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    1h 8m
  2. Bending vs. Breaking: The Strength of Flexibility

    FEB 4

    Bending vs. Breaking: The Strength of Flexibility

    This episode explores the concept of cognitive flexibility, emphasizing its importance in personal growth and resilience. Through personal anecdotes and client examples, Meryl illustrates how adapting to change rather than resisting it can lead to significant transformations. The episode goes over the importance and value of embracing flexibility as a strength, highlighting that true progress comes from navigating life's challenges with an open mind and a willingness to bend without breaking. Takeaways Cognitive flexibility is essential for lasting change.Bending, rather than breaking, is a sign of strength.Rigid thinking can lead to self-sabotage and chaos.Small adaptations can lead to significant progress over time.Self-trust is crucial for overcoming challenges.Flexibility allows for better emotional regulation.Growth often requires discomfort and effort.Real transformation happens in the messy navigation of life.Embracing the gray areas can lead to better outcomes.Flexibility is a superpower in achieving personal goals. Let's Connect ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    20 min
  3. Understanding Stress & Building Capacity (Part 2)

    JAN 28

    Understanding Stress & Building Capacity (Part 2)

    In Part 1 of this series, we talked about why stress isn’t actually the problem—and why capacity is. In this episode, we get into the “now what?” Knowing you’re stressed doesn’t automatically mean you know how to regulate it. And being told you should manage stress doesn’t give much direction—especially when life is full. In this episode, I break down what nervous system regulation actually means, why “self-care” often misses the mark, and how building capacity is the real lead domino for your health, energy, hormones, digestion, and overall wellbeing. I also share a personal story from a period in my life where I thought I was “doing everything right,” but was actually living in a chronically stressed state—underfueling, overtraining, not recovering, and ignoring my emotions—until my body finally tapped out. Why awareness of stress is important—but not the whole skill What it actually means to regulate your nervous system The difference between being calm vs. being regulated How chronic stress shows up in the body (hormones, digestion, immunity, recovery) Why capacity isn’t fixed—and how it’s built over time The “cup” metaphor for understanding stress and overload How sleep, nutrition, recovery, emotions, and boundaries all build capacity A redefinition of resilience (hint: it’s not white-knuckling) Practical ways to start regulating stress without overhauling your life Stress isn’t the enemy. Your life isn’t wrong. And you’re not broken. You don’t need a calmer life—you need a system that can hold the life you already have. Grab the free “Building Capacity: The Cup” worksheet HERE If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear about it. Send me a message on Instagram or an email and tell me what stood out, what clicked, or how you’re applying this. As always, cool shit is on the other side of doing. Let's connect ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    29 min

  4. JAN 14

    Understanding Stress & Building Capacity - Part 1

    In this episode of the Do Cool Shit podcast, Meryl delves into the complexities of stress, emphasizing that stress itself is not the enemy but rather a response of the nervous system to various demands. She discusses the difference between acute and chronic stress, highlighting how chronic stress can lead to a range of health issues. Meryl introduces the concept of capacity, explaining how many people operate at or beyond their capacity without realizing it. The conversation aims to shift the focus from eliminating stress to understanding it and building capacity to manage it effectively. Part 2 will provide practical strategies for building capacity and regulating the nervous system. Takeaways - Stress is not inherently bad; it's a response to demand. - The real issue with stress is often our capacity to handle it. - Chronic stress is normalized and can be invisible. - Your nervous system communicates with your entire body. - Cortisol, a stress hormone, is not inherently harmful. - Awareness of stress and its effects is crucial. - Building capacity is essential for managing stress. - Stress management involves both reducing inputs and increasing capacity. - Your body prioritizes survival over optimal functioning under stress. - Understanding your nervous system can lead to better health outcomes. Keywords stress, capacity, nervous system, chronic stress, acute stress, mental health, well-being, self-care, emotional regulation, productivity Let's Connect ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    23 min

  5. JAN 7

    The Problem With Fitness Transformations (And How to Do It Differently)

    Transformation in the fitness industry is often sold as a before-and-after photo, a timeline, or a checklist of "habits"—and that’s one of the biggest reasons people feel stuck, broken, or like they can’t stick to anything. In this episode, Meryl breaks down the truth about transformation in health and fitness and exposes the systems and marketing messages that keep people dependent on quick fixes, strict compliance-dependent programs, and unrealistic expectations. This is not an anti-transformation episode.It’s a redefinition of what real, sustainable transformation actually is. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why before-and-after photos are incomplete without context How fitness transformation marketing creates shame and dependence The difference between physical change and real transformation Why discipline alone doesn’t lead to lasting results The emotional, nervous system, behavioral, and identity challenges of change Why quitting is often a misinterpretation of feedback—not failure How curiosity, experimentation, and self-trust support long-term progress The difference between performative transformation and lived transformation Meryl also uses the caterpillar-to-butterfly transformation metaphor to explain why discomfort, resistance, and breakdown are normal—and necessary—parts of meaningful change. If you’ve ever felt like: You keep starting over with fitness or nutrition You’re failing at transformation You should be “further along” Or you’re burned out by diet culture and quick-fix programs This episode will help you understand transformation in a way that builds confidence, capacity, and alignment, not shame. Transformation isn’t something you complete. It’s something you live. Let's Connect: ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    20 min
  6. Reflection Without Performance: A Different Way to Enter 2026

    12/31/2025

    Reflection Without Performance: A Different Way to Enter 2026

    The final episode of 2025 takes a different approach to year-end reflection. Let's ditch the performance review mentality and the "good year vs. bad year" binary that erases our actual growth. I share the phone photo method for reflection that puts you back in real moments instead of forcing manufactured lists, explain how reflection builds nervous system regulation (not just feelings), and break down why most people sabotage their own goals before they start. Learn how to set specific, behavioral intentions tied to your values, why starting smaller than you think creates sustainable success, and how to use the Fresh Start Effect strategically without burning out. Includes real client case studies on practicing failure responses and knowing when adjusting isn't quitting. If you're tired of the "new year, new me" cycle that dies by February, this episode offers a more compassionate and informed approach to entering 2026 equipped to actually create change. Let's Connect ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠ Support the Show If this episode resonated with you: Leave a reviewShare it with someone who needs to hear this messageFollow the show so you never miss an episodeTell your friends when they ask for podcast recommendationsThank you for making 2025 the year this podcast came to life. See you in 2026!

    40 min
  7. Awakened Genius w/ Jeb Stuart Johnston

    12/24/2025

    Awakened Genius w/ Jeb Stuart Johnston

    In this engaging conversation, Meryl and Jeb Stuart Johnston explore various themes related to coaching, personal growth, and cultural insights gleaned from Jeb's experiences. They discuss the importance of community, the role of environment in health, and the shift from traditional nutrition coaching to a more holistic life coaching approach. Jeb shares his journey into coaching, emphasizing the significance of curiosity, authenticity, and the need for deeper connections in relationships. The conversation also touches on behavioral change methodologies, the concept of 'floor and ceiling' in personal expectations, and the value of play in coaching. In this engaging conversation, we explore the importance of genuine connections, the dynamics of introversion, and the role of community in personal growth. They discuss the impact of food on emotional well-being, the significance of understanding values, and the challenges of motivation in coaching. Jeb shares insights on the benefits of Jiu-Jitsu, the misconceptions surrounding AI in personal development, and the essence of living authentically. The dialogue emphasizes the need for self-awareness and emotional regulation, while also celebrating the joy found in everyday moments. Takeaways - Traveling can provide unique cultural insights that influence personal growth. - The environment plays a crucial role in health and wellness. - Curiosity can lead to personal transformation and deeper understanding. - Community and relationships are essential for well-being. - Understanding the 'floor and ceiling' concept can help manage expectations. - Life coaching can encompass more than just nutrition and fitness. - Behavioral change requires a holistic approach to coaching. - Authenticity in relationships fosters genuine connections. - Play and practice are vital in the coaching process. - Curiosity can help overcome judgment and foster growth. Genuine connections enrich our lives beyond achievements. - Introverts thrive on deep connections rather than surface interactions. - Community and support are vital for personal growth. - Understanding one's values is crucial for authentic living. - Food can serve as a coping mechanism for emotional challenges. - GLP-1s can impact behaviors related to food and addiction. - Coaching requires building relationships, not just assigning macros. - AI can assist but lacks the human touch in coaching. - Self-awareness is a skill that requires practice and intention. - Living authentically means engaging in activities that resonate with your true self. Connect with Jeb www.foodonthemind.com jeb@foodonthemind.com Food on the Mind: Awakened Genius Podcast IG: @jebstuartjohnston Connect with Meryl ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠

    1h 33m
  8. Life Lessons from a Psychotherapist (who's also my mom)

    12/17/2025

    Life Lessons from a Psychotherapist (who's also my mom)

    In this special episode, I sit down with my mom, Marcia, a psychotherapist with decades of experience working in hospitals, private practice, and various clinical settings. This deeply personal conversation explores the intersection of therapy and coaching, the journey from reaction to response, and the lifelong practice of building resilience. Marcia shares insights on yielding versus pushing through, the importance of asking for help, and how to navigate difficult emotions and conversations. They discuss practical tools for stress management and prioritization, the power of internal awareness, and how their relationship evolved from teenage tension to mutual respect. The conversation also touches on Marcia's strength training journey in her 70s and what "doing cool shit" means at every stage of life. Oh ya.... you'll also laugh and hear some fun mother-daughter dynamics. Key Takeaways: Yielding isn't weakness - There's strength in yielding rather than constantly pushing through. Learning to distinguish between productive perseverance and survival mode is crucial for growth.Not asking for help isn't a flex - Seeking help doesn't mean you're incompetent; it means you're wise enough to recognize when support would be beneficial. This applies to coaching, therapy, and everyday life.Reaction vs. response requires practice - Building awareness of your internal reactions creates space to choose your response. This doesn't happen automatically and requires ongoing maintenance throughout life.Prioritization is stress management - Use the ABC method: assign priorities (A = most important, C = least important) and tackle high-priority tasks first, rather than checking off easy items to feel productive.Set up conversations for success - Before difficult conversations, acknowledge your fears about how the other person might react. Use "I" statements instead of "you" statements, and clarify whether you want help or just need to vent.People only change when the need is greater than the fear - Everyone wants to grow, but no one wants to change. Real transformation happens when staying the same becomes more painful than the discomfort of change.Mind-body connection is a closed loop - Tuning into where you physically experience stress or emotions in your body helps you respond more effectively and manage your nervous system.Investing in yourself now saves later - Whether it's strength training, therapy, or other forms of self-care, spending resources on yourself now prevents bigger problems (and expenses) down the road.Connection is a basic human need - We're built for communication and sharing. Isolation (as seen in solitary confinement or COVID) shows how essential human connection is to our wellbeing.Doing cool shit is alignment - Living in alignment with your values, whether that's making soup, lifting weights, or having deep connections with people, is what makes life meaningful at any age. Connect with Meryl: ⁠www.wickedironstrength.com⁠ Email: ⁠meryl@wickedironstrength.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/merylcbc⁠ & ⁠www.instagram.com/wickedironstrength⁠ Email list: ⁠https://go.wickedironstrength.com/newsletter⁠ Connect with Marcia: www.instagram.com/margaritamarcia

    1h 17m
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About

The Do Cool Shit Podcast exists to amplify the stories of people who boldly embrace the process of building their strongest body and mind. We get real about what growth actually looks like - the setbacks, the breakthroughs, and everything in between. Through raw conversations about change, challenges, and what it takes to show up for yourself, we prove that cool shit happens when you stop holding back and start living from a place of strength, integrity, and empowerment. This isn't about perfection - it's about the messy, powerful process of becoming unstoppable.

Information

  • Creator
    Meryl Binder⏐Wicked Iron Strength
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Meryl Binder⏐Wicked Iron Strength
  • Show Website
    Do Cool Shit Podcast