
The Macro And The Mindset
Welcome to The Macro & The Mindset, a podcast focused on coaching mastery in fitness & nutrition. Hosted by two veterans of the industry, Mike Doehla & Jeb Stuart Johnston come with a combined 25 years of experience working with 10s of thousands of people to help them realize their goals.
Mike is the founder of Stronger U & was acquired by Self-Esteem Brands in 2021. Jeb is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach who specializes in emotional eating & the founder of Food on the Mind
Latest episodes

Apr 25, 2025 • 60min
Insights from the Real Coaches Summit
SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Mike Doehla discuss their experiences at the Real Coaches Summit, reflecting on the importance of connection and community in coaching. They delve into the challenges of pricing strategies for new coaches, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and the value of experience. The discussion also touches on ethical sales tactics in the coaching industry and the evolving nature of celebrity culture in the age of social media. In this engaging conversation, Mike Doehla and Jeb Stuart Johnston explore the complexities of online personas, the challenges of public speaking, and the importance of genuine connections in the fitness industry. They discuss the impact of social media on personal interactions, the pressures of being in the public eye, and effective business strategies for coaches. The conversation culminates in reflections on personal growth and the evolving landscape of the fitness community.TakeawaysThe importance of community and connection in coaching.New coaches should focus on building experience over immediate profit.Pricing strategies should consider long-term growth and client relationships.Sales tactics in coaching should prioritize ethics and client well-being.Celebrity culture has shifted with the rise of social media.Experience in coaching leads to better client interactions and outcomes.Marketers often dictate pricing conversations in the coaching industry.Coaches should view their initial pricing as a marketing strategy.The value of a coach is not solely determined by their price.Fame and celebrity are more accessible but less meaningful today. Some people become dicks when they gain fame.Online personas can differ from real-life behavior.COVID has changed how we interact socially.Genuine connections are vital in the fitness industry.Public speaking can be a stressful experience.It's important to make newcomers feel welcome.Onboarding clients effectively is crucial for retention.Being nice costs nothing and can improve relationships.The fitness industry is evolving with more diverse representations.Personal growth often comes from challenging experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates01:57 Reflections on the Real Coaches Summit04:11 Coaching Conversations and Sharing Experiences05:46 Pricing Strategies for Coaches09:59 The Importance of Experience in Coaching12:09 The Polarizing Discussion on Pricing15:08 Sales Tactics and Ethical Considerations20:04 Burnout in High-Stress Professions23:12 The Thrill of Adventure and Risk25:41 Nostalgia for Classic Movies27:11 The Evolution of Celebrity Culture30:59 The Impact of Social Media on Fame33:29 Authenticity in the Age of Influence36:22 Building Connections in the Fitness Community40:26 Balancing Responsibilities and Personal Growth41:18 Understanding Heart Rate Variability and Stress Management43:58 The Impact of Events on Mental and Physical Health47:53 Onboarding and Client Retention Strategies56:03 The Evolution of Fitness Standards and Body Image

Apr 21, 2025 • 55min
Navigating the New Fitness Landscape
SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Mike Doehla discuss the evolving landscape of fitness, particularly the impact of weight loss drugs on traditional fitness paradigms. They explore the emotional and social aspects of food, the importance of acceptance in health goals, and the influence of social media on mental health. The discussion also touches on the economics of weight loss solutions, the dangers of misinformation, and the connection between health, happiness, and financial stability. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the need for self-awareness and the acceptance of personal health journeys.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Vegas Plans02:02 The Impact of Weight Loss Drugs06:03 The Role of Hard Work and Genetics in Fitness08:49 The Emotional Aspects of Weight Loss11:58 Self-Awareness and Judgment in Fitness14:55 The Economics of Weight Loss Drugs18:03 Acceptance and Intentionality in Fitness Goals22:00 Happiness, Health, and Societal Pressures25:58 Emotional Regulation and Decision Making29:01 Cultural Reflections in Media30:03 Cultural Reflections and Media Critique33:01 Filmmaking Insights and Industry Trends36:06 The Impact of Social Media on Youth42:03 Navigating Modern Relationships and Expectations47:56 The Dangers of Information Overload51:55 Life, Aging, and the Pursuit of HappinessTakeawaysWeight loss drugs are changing the fitness landscape.Fitness professionals may feel threatened by the rise of weight loss drugs.Hard work and genetics play significant roles in fitness success.Emotional connections to food can impact weight loss efforts.Judgment from others can hinder personal health journeys.Insurance companies may not prioritize long-term health benefits of weight loss drugs.Acceptance of personal health goals is crucial for success.Happiness is often linked to health and financial stability.Social media can negatively impact mental health and self-perception.Information overload can lead to confusion and misinformation.

Mar 24, 2025 • 58min
The Evolution of Coaching in the Digital Age
In this conversation, Mike Doehla and Jeb Stuart Johnston explore the significance of leisure activities, the importance of personal connection in coaching, and the evolving landscape of information consumption in the fitness industry. They discuss the balance between maintaining boundaries and fostering connection with clients, the role of social media in shaping knowledge, and the impact of frustration as a learning tool. The dialogue also touches on the influence of prominent figures in society and the perception of control in modern life. In this engaging conversation, Mike Doehla and Jeb Stuart Johnston explore the complexities of ambition, human nature, and the coaching industry. They discuss the origins of ambition and power, the scarcity mindset prevalent in competition, and the importance of collaboration among coaches. The dialogue shifts to the evolution of coaching, emphasizing mentorship and the need for quality over quantity in client relationships. They also tackle nutrition myths, particularly around protein needs, and share humorous anecdotes that highlight the lighter side of serious topics in the fitness world.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Leisure and Connection03:03 Personalization in Coaching06:02 Boundaries vs. Connection in Coaching08:58 The Evolution of Coaching and Information11:59 The Impact of Social Media on Knowledge14:54 Frustration as a Learning Tool18:06 The Influence of Consumption on Identity20:46 Control and Perception in Modern Life24:00 The Role of Influential Figures in Society30:20 The Origins of Ambition and Power31:52 Human Nature: Conquest and Scarcity Mindset34:41 Coaching Dynamics: Competition vs. Collaboration36:59 The Evolution of Coaching: Mentorship and Growth39:53 Consulting Coaches: Improving Products and Services43:34 The Importance of Quality Over Quantity in Coaching48:34 Nutrition Myths: Protein Needs and Misconceptions54:36 Humor in Nutrition: The Light Side of Serious Topicspickleball, coaching, connection, personalization, boundaries, social media, learning, consumption, control, influential figures, ambition, power, human nature, coaching, mentorship, consulting, nutrition, protein, competition, collaboration

Mar 7, 2025 • 50min
Nutritional Values: The Key to Effective Coaching
SummaryIn this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Mike Doehla explore the concept of nutritional values and their importance in coaching and personal health. They discuss the significance of having a clear food philosophy, the science behind energy balance, and the common misconceptions surrounding low-calorie diets. The duo emphasizes the role of coaches in guiding clients through their nutritional journeys, the psychological aspects of eating, and the impact of social media on nutrition beliefs. They also touch on the importance of establishing core values as a coach and finding the right fit with clients to ensure successful outcomes.TakeawaysNutritional values are essential for coaches and clients.Energy balance is a fundamental principle in weight management.Many clients struggle with understanding their actual calorie intake.Low-calorie diets are often misunderstood and misapplied.Whole foods play a crucial role in satiety and nutrition.Psychological factors significantly influence eating behaviors.Movement and activity levels are critical for weight management.Intermittent fasting has its pros and cons, depending on the individual.Misinformation in nutrition can lead to confusion and poor choices.Establishing core values helps coaches maintain focus and integrity.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nutritional Values03:25 Understanding Energy Balance07:44 The Misconceptions of Low-Calorie Diets10:10 The Science of Weight Loss12:08 Client Truths vs. Reality14:04 The Impact of Snacking on Caloric Intake16:51 The Dangers of Restrictive Eating18:59 Contextual Eating Strategies21:31 The Evolution of Eating Habits23:24 Balancing Life and Nutrition25:40 The Influence of Video Games on Lifestyle28:44 The Role of VR in Health and Fitness29:49 Establishing Core Values in Coaching30:47 Aligning Coaching Principles with Client Expectations32:51 Navigating Client Relationships and Expectations34:29 The Challenges of Online Communities36:35 Debating Nutrition Myths and Misinformation39:41 Establishing Nutritional Values and Common Sense41:19 The Intersection of Wellness and Misinformation43:45 The Business of Fitness and Real Estate Scams

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 2min
10 Years of Talkin Food...
In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Mike Doehla reflect on a decade of experience in the nutrition coaching industry, discussing the evolution of nutrition trends, the importance of managing food environments, and the psychology behind eating habits. They emphasize the need for mindful eating practices, the role of technology in coaching, and the significance of personal connection in the coaching process. The discussion also touches on the future of nutrition coaching and the importance of community in supporting clients' journeys.TakeawaysReflecting on ten years of Stronger You reveals significant changes in the nutrition landscape.Nutrition trends have evolved, with a shift from strict diets to more flexible approaches.Managing food environments is crucial for long-term success in nutrition.Mindful eating practices can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food.Personal experiences with food and health can inform coaching strategies.Alcohol and lifestyle choices play a significant role in overall health and nutrition.Enjoyment of food should not be sacrificed for health; balance is key.Technology can enhance coaching but should not replace the human element.Intuitive eating allows individuals to make empowered food choices.Community support is essential for successful nutrition coaching.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview01:44 Reflections on a Decade of Stronger You03:12 The Evolution of Nutrition Trends05:44 Managing Food Environments08:53 The Complexity of Food Choices10:54 Personal Health and Dietary Adjustments11:32 The Impact of Alcohol and Optimization Culture13:54 The Reality of Aging and Physical Activity15:19 Mindful Eating vs. Mindless Eating20:55 The Importance of Eating Environments25:04 Understanding Intuitive Eating28:14 The Balance of Nutrition and Satisfaction29:09 The Illusion of Perfection in Tracking31:37 The Reality of Caloric Intake33:24 The Role of Movement in Weight Management36:08 The Impact of Technology on Fitness41:53 The Intersection of Tech and Personal Health45:29 The Duality of Invention and Happiness47:18 Struggles with Behavior and Mental Health48:54 The Importance of Quality Coaching50:33 The Basics of Nutrition Coaching52:45 The Evolution of Financial Markets54:35 The Future of Work and Technology56:39 Building Community in Coaching01:00:22 Setting Expectations in CoachingKeywordsnutrition, coaching, mindful eating, food psychology, technology in nutrition, intuitive eating, health trends, community, personal connection, lifestyle choices

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 8min
Becoming A Real Coach W/ Aram Grigorian
SummaryIn this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston, Mike Doehla, and Aram discuss the Real Coaches Summit, its purpose, and the importance of authenticity in the coaching industry. They explore the challenges faced by coaches, the need for genuine connections, and the balance between empathy and accountability in coaching. The discussion also touches on the optimization culture in fitness and the significance of living life fully beyond just health metrics. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of investing in oneself as a coach, emphasizing personal responsibility, accountability, and the passion required to make a real impact in clients' lives. They highlight the significance of building genuine relationships over transactional interactions and the value of in-person connections at events. The discussion also touches on simplifying coaching practices and the need for continuous personal and professional development.TakeawaysThe fitness and nutrition industry lacks integrity and authenticity.Real Coaches Summit aims to provide practical education and networking opportunities.Creating a fun and engaging event experience is crucial for connection.Genuine human interaction is essential in the coaching community.Networking should be about building friendships, not just business connections.The coaching industry faces challenges with status-seeking behavior.Coaching is more about understanding individuals than just applying science.Empathy in coaching must be balanced with accountability.Life is about balance, not just optimization for longevity.Authenticity and transparency are key to building trust in coaching. Investing in yourself is crucial for growth.Personal responsibility leads to accountability in coaching.Passion is essential for attracting clients.Coaches must recognize their impact on clients' lives.Building relationships is more valuable than transactions.Continuous education is necessary in the evolving coaching industry.In-person connections foster deeper relationships.Simplifying coaching practices can enhance effectiveness.Real coaching is about changing lives, not just counting reps.Pride in your work leads to personal satisfaction.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Real Coaches Summit and Its Purpose02:23 The Vision Behind Real Coaches Summit05:18 Creating a Community of Coaches08:46 Networking vs. Genuine Connections11:03 The Importance of Authenticity in Coaching14:29 Challenges in the Fitness Industry18:00 The Role of Science and Experience in Coaching21:09 Balancing Empathy and Accountability in Coaching25:11 Diverse Coaching Styles and Personalities27:36 The Unique Challenges of Female Coaches29:38 Honesty in Coaching: Breaking the Mold30:43 The Social Dynamics of Alcohol in Fitness32:53 The Optimization Culture in Fitness35:05 The Importance of Personal Responsibility39:11 Learning from Life Experiences42:11 The Impact of Passionate Coaching44:57 Investing in Personal Growth51:00 Authenticity in Coaching and Business51:36 Streamlining Business Practices52:44 The Importance of Client Relationships53:54 Delivering Exceptional Customer Service54:49 Passion in Work and Life55:52 The Real Coaches Summit Experience57:11 Understanding Pickleball58:24 Networking and Socializing at Events01:00:10 The Value of Staying On-Site01:01:25 Building Lifelong Connections01:04:21 The Essence of Good CoachingKeywordsReal Coaches Summit, coaching, fitness industry, authenticity, networking, event experience, personal growth, coaching challenges, empathy, life balance, coaching, personal development, accountability, passion, relationships, client impact, business coaching, professional growth, events, networking

Feb 5, 2025 • 51min
Bullying Culture in Fitness
Summary
In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Mike Doehla explore the complexities of the fitness and nutrition industry, particularly focusing on the bullying culture prevalent on social media. They discuss the impact of influencer dynamics, the importance of empathy in online interactions, and the moral dilemmas faced by professionals in the industry. The conversation also delves into branding, marketing strategies, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity while navigating personal beliefs and professional relationships. Ultimately, they reflect on the balance between profit and integrity, the role of mental health in professional life, and the journey of personal growth through parenthood.
Takeaways
The fitness and nutrition industry often mirrors bullying culture found in schools.
Empathy is crucial in online interactions, as everyone has feelings.
Follower count does not equate to expertise or quality in coaching.
People often sell on emotion rather than factual information.
Authenticity is key to building a sustainable online presence.
Moral dilemmas in business can lead to complex decisions.
Branding and marketing strategies significantly influence consumer behavior.
Mental health plays a vital role in professional success and personal life.
It's important to maintain perspective when evaluating others' actions.
Parenthood can lead to significant personal growth and reflection.
Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Online Bullying in Fitness
02:49 The Dangers of Takedown Culture
06:01 The Role of Influencers and Emotional Marketing
08:58 Navigating Personal Beliefs and Professional Relationships
12:06 The Complexity of Human Decision-Making
15:00 The Influence of Branding and Marketing Strategies
18:04 The Ethics of Social Media and Advertising
21:01 The Unpredictability of Online Platforms
28:22 Financial Moral Dilemmas
30:08 The Value of Money and Credit
32:03 The Nature of Digital Currency
34:04 ADHD and Productivity
35:47 Moral Dilemmas in Selling Supplements
38:07 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
40:18 Fasting and Spiritual Practices
42:14 Parenting Challenges and Insights
44:09 Media Consumption and Cultural Reflections
45:27 Jealousy and Social Media Dynamics
47:24 Work-Life Balance and Personal Fulfillment
Keywords
fitness, nutrition, social media, influencers, empathy, branding, marketing, authenticity, mental health, business ethics

9 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 59min
The Struggles of Call-Out Culture
Summary
In this episode, Jeb and Mike discuss their return to podcasting after a hiatus, emphasizing the importance of consistency and personal growth. They delve into the impact of social media, particularly the phenomenon of call-out culture, and its implications for personal and professional relationships. The conversation also touches on the significance of discipline, the misconceptions surrounding exercise, and the joy of hobbies. They explore the role of rituals in daily life and the challenges of maintaining connections in a digital world, concluding with a reflection on morality in the age of social media.
Takeaways
Consistency is key to personal growth and improvement.
Social media can be both a tool for connection and a source of frustration.
Call-out culture often serves more for clout than for genuine critique.
The impact of TikTok raises questions about digital privacy and engagement.
Discipline can lead to a more fulfilling and organized life.
Exercise doesn't have to mean lifting weights; movement is key.
Finding joy in hobbies can enhance overall well-being.
Creating rituals can help structure daily life and reduce anxiety.
Maintaining relationships in a digital world requires intentionality.
Morality in social media is complex and often hypocritical.
Chapters
00:00 Reconnecting and Personal Growth
08:50 Navigating Social Media and Call Out Culture
17:56 The Pursuit of Happiness and Discipline
26:55 Exercise, Fitness, and Lifestyle Choices
31:13 Navigating the CEO Journey
32:30 The Power of Time Blocking
34:12 Leaving Room for Desire
36:35 Building Rituals for Success
39:09 Creating Structure in Daily Life
41:14 The Chaos of Parenting
43:10 The Real Estate and Social Media Landscape
46:59 The Shift Back to Analog Connections
50:31 Exploring Morality in Business

Nov 6, 2024 • 59min
The Impact of Social Media on Health Advice
Summary
In this conversation, Jeb, Jen, and Mike discuss the challenges and dynamics of nutrition coaching in the context of societal trends, social media influences, and personal experiences. They explore the impact of insecurity on coaching styles, the role of social media in promoting narcissistic behaviors, and the importance of understanding client struggles. The discussion emphasizes the need for coaches to engage in personal development to better support their clients and highlights the significance of consistency and basic principles in achieving health goals.
Takeaways
Unsubscribing from negative influences can be empowering.
Insecurity often drives aggressive coaching styles.
Social media rewards extreme behaviors, not effective coaching.
Understanding client struggles is crucial for success.
The inner bully can be transformed into a tool for awareness.
Cultural differences significantly impact health behaviors.
Simplicity in nutrition is often overlooked but essential.
The pendulum of health behaviors swings between extremes.
Coaches must engage in personal work to help clients effectively.
Consistency in basic health practices leads to better outcomes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:56 Unsubscribing from Angry Men on the internet
03:03 The Rise of Anti-Science Movements
06:14 Insecurity and Nutrition Coaching
09:05 The Narcissism of Social Media in Health
12:03 The Disconnect Between Guidelines and Reality
15:01 The Role of Coaches in Client Success
18:06 Understanding Client Behavior and Inner Voices
21:00 Modeling Behavior for Clients
23:57 Cultural Perspectives on Health and Nutrition
26:56 The Importance of Community in Health
30:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
32:45 The Impact of Food Choices on Health
35:51 Cultural Differences in Food Availability
39:50 Understanding the Balance of Nutrition
42:45 The Importance of Consistency in Health
46:44 The Psychology Behind Food Choices
52:38 Finding Balance in Life and Nutrition
Jen Broxterman
IG: @prosper_nc
www.prospernutritioncoaching.com/freebies
Jeb Stuart Johnston
IG: @jebstuartjohnston
Coaching inquiries: www.foodonthemind.com
Mike Doehla
IG: @mikedoehla

Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 16min
One on one with Jen Broxterman, RD CEO Prosper Nutrition
Jen Broxterman, a registered dietitian and CEO of Prosper Nutrition, shares innovative methods like the 'hot air balloon game' for tracking quality meals without calorie counting. Highlighting the importance of mindset, she discusses how curiosity can drive sustainable changes and emphasizes removing guilt from eating habits. Jen’s personal journey overcoming stage three ovarian cancer informs her compassionate coaching style. She also stresses the need for a supportive environment and personalized coaching approaches to foster healthier relationships with food.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.