Weight Loss and Nutrition for Men Over 40: Driven For Health

Coach Brian Parana

Driven For Health is a podcast for career-driven men in their 40s and 50s who feel stuck with weight gain, low energy, and declining health despite working hard in every other area of life. Hosted by Coach Brian Parana, each episode breaks down simple, science-backed strategies for fat loss, strength, metabolism, nutrition, stress, and lifestyle habits that actually fit a busy schedule. Just clear guidance to help you lose weight, rebuild strength, & take control of your health without sacrificing your family or success. Expect tips, insights, and motivational stories to inspire you.

  1. 21H AGO

    66: Neil Was ‘Only’ 20 Pounds Overweight… and Diabetic (8.3 a1c) Sound Familiar?

    In this Driven For Health episode, we’re talking to the man who is still performing at a high level, but knows his body is starting to push back. You’re carrying extra weight. You hit that afternoon crash. Your focus fades. Your workouts feel “good enough.” And in the background, there’s a quiet worry about your bloodwork, your A1c, and where this is headed. You’ll hear the story of Neal, a 45-year-old sales director, husband, and father of two. He thought he was doing fine until he checked his labs mid-workday and saw an A1c of 8.3. That moment forced him to face what a lot of driven men avoid: this was no longer a “later” problem. We break down what most doctors do, what most men try, and why it usually turns into “manage it” instead of fixing it. We talk about metformin, lifestyle change, and the real levers that move blood sugar and bodyweight in the right direction. Not in theory. In a way a busy man can actually execute while running a team, traveling, and leading a family. This episode connects the dots between men’s health, fat loss, energy, mental clarity, and business performance, and it gives you a clear plan for how to train, how to eat, and how to track the right things so you stop guessing. If you’ve been told you’re diabetic or prediabetic, or you suspect you’re heading that way, this one is for you. In this episode, we cover: The moment Neal realized “good enough” was costing him his health Why blood sugar problems show up as brain fog, crashes, and low drive What structured exercise actually looks like for busy men A simple nutrition framework that works with travel, client dinners, and family meals How to build a health scoreboard like you run your business Want a system and accountability built for driven men?The Call To Rise is my 100-day transformation experience for men who want to drop 20–30 pounds, rebuild energy, and improve their bloodwork.Go to www.thecalltorise.com DiRECT Trial (Type 2 diabetes remission via weight management in primary care) – The Lancet (2018)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29221645/ DiRECT durability / follow-up (remission outcomes over time) – The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology (2019)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30852132/ Exercise training and HbA1c (structured exercise improving glycemic control) – JAMA (2010)https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/186960 Physical activity advice vs structured exercise training (effects on HbA1c) – JAMA (2011)https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/899553 Diabetes remission overview and criteria discussion – Diabetes Care (2022)https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/45/1/28/139162/Weighing-in-on-Type-2-Diabetes-Remission Diabetes UK research summary on remissionhttps://www.diabetes.org.uk/our-research/about-our-research/our-impact/putting-type-2-diabetes-into-remission Science-backed studies mentioned / supporting research

    38 min
  2. 1D AGO

    65: Follower Q&A: Bad Food Relationship, Staying Accountable, Progressive Overload & More

    Most men’s struggle with weight loss isn’t just about counting calories.  It’s about creating habits that last a lifetime. Coach Brian Parana uncovers the hidden reason why so many people lose weight only to gain it back and shares the proven strategies to make your progress stick for good. In this eye-opening episode, Brian reveals why long-term success hinges less on restrictive programs and more on building an environment and mindset that support lasting change.  From avoiding the pitfalls of “cruise mode” to mastering internal and external accountability, you’ll learn how to stay on track even during life's chaos.  Discover practical tactics like systemizing your routines, using guardrails to prevent backsliding, and tracking key metrics that keep you in control. You'll hear Brian share real success stories of men who shredded dozens of pounds by shifting their focus from short-term fixes to sustainable habits. Plus, get his straightforward advice on managing plateaus, breaking destructive food patterns, and progressing in strength eiyh essential tips for busy individuals who want results without burnout. If you’re tired of yo-yo dieting, feeling stuck in a cycle of restriction and rebound, this episode is your blueprint to finally making health a permanent part of your life.  Whether you're a busy professional, a father trying to keep up, or simply serious about transforming your relationship with food and fitness, this conversation will reshape your approach for good. Unlock the mindset and systems that lead to lasting health. Hit play now and take the first step toward a stronger, more resilient you. The Call To Rise is a 100-day Fat Loss Transformation Experience designed for driven men ready to get back to a healthy body, boost their energy, and lead as a powerful man.  If you are struggling with some form of chronic illness such as high blood pressure, cholesterol or even Type 2 Diabetes - this program is designed for you too.  Through a proven system of strength training, personalized nutrition, and radical accountability, you’ll drop 20–30 pounds and rebuild confidence from the inside out and even improve chronic illness issues.  It’s more than a fitness program, it’s an body transformation experience with a Brotherhood of like-minded men committed to showing up, leveling up, and leading in a body they are excited about.  This is your wake-up call to rise.  www.thecalltorise.com

    27 min
  3. 2D AGO

    64: Why You Can't Stop Eating at 9 PM (And How to Fix It)

    Most guys sabotage their progress every night without even realizing it. Coach Brian Parana exposes the hidden cycles that keep you stuck in emotional eating, weight gain, and frustration, and shares exactly how to break free.   If you're over 40 and tired of feeling out of control around food, this episode is your blueprint to rewire your habits, rebuild your confidence, and finally get back in shape without restrictive diets or impossible rules. You'll discover the moment when food stops being fuel and becomes your go-to coping tool, and how your brain unwittingly learned this behavior through a four-step emotional loop.  Coach Brian breaks down how triggers like stress or boredom ignite cravings, the cycle of immediate relief, and the guilt that drags you right back into overeating.  More importantly, he shares a simple, proven reset plan with 3 powerful strategies:  Mastering your triggers, Building quick-pattern interrupts, and Creating foolproof default routines that fit into real life. This episode reveals how to identify your specific emotional triggers such as stressful nights, work pressures, or social setbacks and turn them into opportunities for control instead of chaos.  You’ll learn the powerful 10-minute interruption routine that shatters the cycle of emotional drinking or snacking, replacing impulsive cravings with mindful habits that restore your energy and self-respect.  With clear, actionable steps, you can stop chasing perfect and start building consistency, because lasting change comes from small, sustainable shifts, not all-or-nothing diets. Whether you're battling late-night cravings, feelings of inadequacy, or just want to feel confident in your own skin again, this episode is your critical edge. If you're ready to ditch emotional eating and build a resilient, balanced approach to health that sticks, this is your turning point.  Perfect for guys in their 40s and 50s who crave real results, not quick fixes, this episode unlocks the mindset and systems you need for a healthier, more energized life. Coach Brian Parana is a health strategist who specializes in helping busy men recondition their relationship with food and fitness, so they can lead with confidence and vitality. His no-nonsense approach and practical frameworks have transformed hundreds of lives now it’s your turn to break free from the cycle and step into your best second half. Don’t let emotional eating rob you of your health and happiness. Tune in now and learn how to reset your habits, reclaim your energy, and finally feel in control again. The Call To Rise is a 100-day Fat Loss Transformation Experience designed for driven men ready to get back to a healthy body, boost their energy, and lead as a powerful man.  If you are struggling with some form of chronic illness such as high blood pressure, cholesterol or even Type 2 Diabetes - this program is designed for you too.  Through a proven system of strength training, personalized nutrition, and radical accountability, you’ll drop 20–30 pounds and rebuild confidence from the inside out and even improve chronic illness issues.  It’s more than a fitness program, it’s an body transformation experience with a Brotherhood of like-minded men committed to showing up, leveling up, and leading in a body they are excited about.  This is your wake-up call to rise.  www.thecalltorise.com

    45 min
  4. 3D AGO

    63: Live Coaching Call: The Connection Men Are Missing in Their 40s

    Most guys underestimate the profound impact their mindset, habits, and community have on health and transformation.  What if the key to breaking through your own barriers is just one conversation away? In this episode of Driven for Health, Coach Brian Parana pulls back the curtain on real, raw coaching sessions with men just like you tackling everything from weight loss and discipline to life's biggest challenges.  You'll discover how small shifts, like meal prep hacks, mindset resets, or focusing on one goal at a time can create massive results.  Coach shares powerful frameworks like the "Bingo Card of Success" and the science behind intermittent fasting and macro mastery, all tailored for busy lives. We break down: The radical power of intentionality and how to map out a year of winsThe common pitfalls that sabotage progress (and how to avoid them in just minutes a day)Practical hacks for meal prep, managing hunger, and leveraging small habits for big gainsThe importance of brotherhood and community in sustaining transformationWhy focusing on one or two high-impact goals makes success inevitable and burnout impossible This isn’t just about dropping pounds—it’s about rewriting your story, reclaiming control, and stepping into your best self. Whether you're stuck in a cycle of effort without results or craving clarity in chaos, this episode delivers the mindset shifts and tactical tools to make 2024 your breakthrough year. This episode is perfect for action-takers ready to stop overthinking and start transforming because the biggest change begins with a single conversation. Are you ready to rise? Join the men who are turning small wins into lifelong habits and see what's possible when you get intentional. Let’s go. The Call To Rise is a 100-day Fat Loss Transformation Experience designed for driven men ready to get back to a healthy body, boost their energy, and lead as a powerful man.  If you are struggling with some form of chronic illness such as high blood pressure, cholesterol or even Type 2 Diabetes - this program is designed for you too.  Through a proven system of strength training, personalized nutrition, and radical accountability, you’ll drop 20–30 pounds and rebuild confidence from the inside out and even improve chronic illness issues.  It’s more than a fitness program, it’s an body transformation experience with a Brotherhood of like-minded men committed to showing up, leveling up, and leading in a body they are excited about.  This is your wake-up call to rise.  www.thecalltorise.com

    1h 12m
  5. 4D AGO

    62: Fatherhood, Health, and Why Men Over 40 Fall Apart

    Most men in their 40s are living with a quiet struggle, clinging to their athletic identity while their bodies start to betray them.  Coach Brian Parana reveals the counterintuitive mindset shifts and practical steps that help men reclaim their strength, confidence, and health before it’s too late. If you’re tired of feeling stuck, tired of watching life pass you by, this episode is your blueprint to real transformation. Discover how a 23-year career helping Olympic athletes and everyday men alike has shaped Brian’s proven framework for change. We break down the five pillars of transformative health: identity, movement, fuel, mindset, and brotherhood.  Brian shares concrete tactics like time chunking, creating powerful peer groups, and shifting your self-image, techniques that lead to lasting results. Whether you’re battling stress, loneliness, or the slow decline of aging, this episode will give you the tools to turn things around and start living with purpose and resilience. You’ll hear inspiring stories of clients who went from overwhelmed to empowered, losing hundreds of pounds, overcoming chronic illnesses, and redefining what’s possible in their lives.  Brian’s no-nonsense approach emphasizes small, strategic changes, like choosing one next best step today, that compound into lifelong wellness. This isn’t just about weight loss; it’s about rebirth, rediscovering your strength, passion, and leadership at any age. Topics Covered: Transformative health pillars: identity, movement, fuel, mindset, and brotherhoodTime chunking and creating powerful peer groupsShifting self-image for lasting resultsOvercoming stress, loneliness, and agingInspiring client success storiesStrategic changes for lifelong wellness Ignoring these insights costs you more than just health; it costs your time, your relationships, your sense of self. But the opportunity is enormous: transform your identity, reconnect with your purpose, and become the version of yourself that truly deserves to thrive.  Perfect for men over 40 feeling the weight of aging or anyone ready to break free from mediocrity, this episode will leave you motivated to take action now. Coach Brian Parana is a men's health expert with two decades of experience working with elite athletes and everyday men. His mission: help you craft a powerful new identity that aligns with your goals, so you can lead your family, succeed in your career, and live without regret. Follow George on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/roguedadpodcast/?hl=en1 The Rogue Dad Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cOBUVUA7XffRbgy3Frnxz?si=8ac26f6938ff47f8

    1h 9m
  6. FEB 5

    61: Beating Decision Fatigue When It Comes To What To Eat Without Thinking

    It’s the end of a long day. Work was hard, your brain is still on running through the days events, and the kitchen is where you finally slow down. That’s when most men make the food choices that keep them stuck. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or driven man who makes decisions all day, this episode is for you. You can handle pressure at work and you can show up for your family, but your nutrition keeps slipping at night. Snacking after dinner, grabbing whatever is easiest, and waking up frustrated that your fat loss is not moving. In this episode of Driven For Health, we talk about decision fatigue and why it affects men’s health, body weight, energy, focus, productivity, and work-life balance. When your mental bandwidth is low, you stop planning and you start reacting. That is where stress management matters, because stress changes how you eat. This episode gives you a simple way to reduce the number of food decisions you make so your nutrition stays consistent even when business is busy and life is full. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why the end of the day is when most nutrition mistakes happen Why eating after 8 PM is not the issue, but the choices you make when you’re tired are How to plan meals ahead so you stop relying on willpower at night Meal prep options that work for busy men, travel, and long workdays How to build repeatable meals that support fat loss and steady energy If you want better fitness, better nutrition, more energy, and a system that supports your health while you run a business and lead at home, this episode will help. Learn more about coaching and The Call To Rise at thecalltorise.com.

    33 min
  7. FEB 4

    60: 98 Pounds Lost in 100 Days: The Simple System 3 Busy Men Used

    In Episode 60 of Driven For Health, Coach Brian breaks down how 3 busy men inside The Call To Rise 100 Day Fat Loss Challenge lost a combined 98 pounds in 100 days, without perfect weeks or a complete lifestyle overhaul. This episode is for business owners, entrepreneurs, and driven men who are trying to lead at work and at home, but feel their health slipping while the schedule stays packed. If your energy is inconsistent, your focus fades by the afternoon, your productivity drops when stress is high, and you keep telling yourself you will get serious when things slow down, this conversation will hit home. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: The real story arc of Mike, Lucas, and Andy, and what made them successful when life stayed busyHow Mike started around 340 pounds, hated how the shot made him feel, and needed a plan he could follow under stressHow Lucas was stuck at a desk 50–60 hours a week, saw high cholesterol show up early, and built structure that finally workedHow Andy traveled constantly, lived on fast food, watched blood sugar climb toward diabetes, and still dropped 38 poundsThe behind-the-scenes framework inside The Call To Rise, built on five pillars: The Call, The Forge, The Fuel, The Code, and The BrotherhoodWhy identity and self-leadership matter for men who keep starting overHow fitness and strength training fit into real work-life balance, even with travel and long work weeksHow to simplify nutrition so fat loss works in real life, not just on a perfect planHow mindset, structure, and stress management keep you consistent when motivation fadesWhy men get better results when they stop trying to do it alone and build real community and accountability If you are a busy man trying to improve men’s health, lose body fat, rebuild energy and focus, and stay productive without burning out your business or your family life, this episode lays out what works when your schedule is the problem. Want to learn more about The Call To Rise and apply for the next 100-day challenge?Go to www.thecalltorise.com

    37 min
  8. FEB 3

    59: Coach Brian Gets Coached: The Real Reason I Do This

    Episode 59 is for the business owner, entrepreneur, or driven man who can handle hard work all day, but feels like his health and home life keep getting the leftovers. Coach Brian brings back returning guest Coach Jon Sheldon for a live coaching conversation that goes way deeper than workouts. They walk through a simple framework Jon uses with leaders to build clarity and make better decisions under pressure. You’ll hear Brian talk honestly about purpose, vision, what’s actually motivating him right now, and what’s draining him. If you’re trying to lose fat, get your energy back, stay focused at work, and stop feeling like your business is stealing your best from your wife and kids, this episode will hit. A big theme is this: driven men get stuck when they are doing everything, thinking about everything, and still feel behind. You might be doing the fitness and nutrition basics, but stress management, attention, and decision-making are the real bottlenecks. If your phone, your calendar, and your work-life balance feel out of control, your results in men’s health, fat loss, and productivity will keep feeling harder than they should. In this episode, you’ll hear: How to define your purpose so you have a filter when life gets chaotic A 3-year vision exercise that helps entrepreneurs focus on what actually matters What environment supports your best habits with fitness, nutrition, and consistency Why “being busy” is not a plan, and how it silently crushes energy and focus The real cost of always being “on” for your business, but disconnected at home Why marketing and online business pressure can drain you even when you love coaching It’s a real conversation about men’s health, leadership, business performance, and how to build a life where your energy, your body, and your relationships are not always paying the price for success. If you want to take control of your health without tanking your productivity, and you’re ready to lead better at work and at home, press play. Now, Coach Jon works with individuals and teams to build performance systems that scale sustainably, without losing what matters most. His coaching is grounded in Stoic calm, radical honesty, and a belief that real growth starts with owning the truth. Social links:Instagram: @Belleauwood_coachingLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-sheldon-82760a51/⁠ Jonathan’s coaching practice: Belleauwood Coaching Visit https://www.belleauwood.coach/ for his free PDFs: Authentic Blueprint and Battle Plan frameworks. The Call To Rise is a 100-day fat loss transformation experience designed for driven men ready to get back to a healthy body, boost their energy, and lead as a powerful man.  Through a proven system of strength training, personalized nutrition, and radical accountability, you’ll drop 20–30 pounds and rebuild confidence from the inside out. It’s more than a fitness program, it’s an body transformation experience with a Brotherhood of like-minded men committed to showing up, leveling up, and leading in a body they are excited about. This is your wake-up call to rise.www.thecalltorise.com

    53 min
5
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Driven For Health is a podcast for career-driven men in their 40s and 50s who feel stuck with weight gain, low energy, and declining health despite working hard in every other area of life. Hosted by Coach Brian Parana, each episode breaks down simple, science-backed strategies for fat loss, strength, metabolism, nutrition, stress, and lifestyle habits that actually fit a busy schedule. Just clear guidance to help you lose weight, rebuild strength, & take control of your health without sacrificing your family or success. Expect tips, insights, and motivational stories to inspire you.