Help Me Understand - podcast cover

Help Me Understand

Help Me Understand is a podcast that explores the context behind the things that we experience from day to day. With topics ranging from personal development, to parenting, to health and fitness, and more; join JK McLeod as he shares his thoughts and hosts conversations that are meant to encourage you to say "Help me understand" in an effort to add perspective to the things we experience in everyday life.
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Episodes

182. Use the B.U.D.D.Y.Y system to be a great workout partner

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK discusses how to be the best workout accountability partner using the 'B.U.D.D.Y. System.' He shares insights from his perspective as a personal trainer with 9+ years of experience, and outlines a framework (B.U.D.D.Y.Y.) to enhance workout partnerships. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being punctual, utilizing resources, maintaining focus during workouts, documenting progress, and fostering personal accountability. JK enco...

Jan 10, 202530 minEp. 182

181. Weight Loss vs. Muscle Building: What Should You Prioritize?

In this #FitnessTopicTuesday episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses the common fitness dilemma of whether to focus on losing weight or building muscle first. He shares insights from his personal fitness journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual goals and the psychological aspects of weight loss. The conversation explores the concept of body composition and the benefits of a balanced approach to fitness that includes strength training, nutrition, and mindset...

Jan 08, 202538 minEp. 181

180. Easy to commit, hard to cancel

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses the nuances of commitment and cancellation, drawing from his personal experience with subscription services. He emphasizes the ease of making commitments compared to the often complicated process of cancellation, urging listeners to reflect on their own commitments and the reasons behind them. The conversation highlights the importance of making the cancellation process more deliberate, encouraging self-reflection before making deci...

Jan 06, 202521 minEp. 180

179. The most important expense you MUST review in your 2025 budget

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses the importance of managing mental energy in relation to budgeting and personal relationships. He emphasizes the need to assess where mental energy is being spent, similar to financial budgeting, and encourages listeners to make conscious decisions about their energy expenditures. The conversation highlights the significance of protecting one's peace and mental well-being, especially in challenging interactions and relationships. ---...

Jan 01, 202517 minEp. 179

178. Thank you

A message of thanks to you. ---- Connect with JK on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @coachjkmcleod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email JK: jk@themusclefeed.com Subscribe on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CoachJKMcLeod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join JK's weekly email list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ subscribe here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out Feed Your Habits* apparel ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ here ⁠...

Jan 01, 20255 minEp. 178

177. Change the way you interpret "signs"

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses the importance of mindset and perception in interpreting signs and obstacles on the path to achieving goals. He shares personal anecdotes and insights from his experiences with clients, emphasizing the need to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to give up. The conversation encourages listeners to develop a resilient mindset that allows them to navigate difficulties while remaining focused on their object...

Dec 30, 202418 minEp. 177

176. A simple language shift to improve your output

On today's episode of Help Me Understand, JK shares a simple tip to use when goal-setting. By implementing this language shift, you can increase your output, while ensuring you maintain a solid foundation with your habits.

Dec 28, 202415 minEp. 176

175. Are you strong enough?

In this episode, JK explores the concept of strength, particularly focusing on benchmarks for individuals over 40. He discusses various strength benchmarks, including deadlifts, pull-ups, and cardio, and emphasizes the importance of applying these benchmarks to everyday life activities. The conversation highlights the balance between performance-based fitness and functional strength needed for daily tasks, encouraging listeners to assess their strength in both contexts. --- 00:00 Introduction an...

Dec 27, 202437 minEp. 175

174. 3 fitness & health questions nobody asked me

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses three questions that nobody asked him, focusing on themes of health, fitness, and the societal pressures surrounding body image. He emphasizes the importance of shifting the conversation from aesthetics to health, debates the appropriateness of gender-specific training, and navigates the sensitive topic of discussing weight with loved ones. - How do we shift from a focus on aesthetics to a focus on health? - Do you think its weird w...

Dec 26, 202434 minEp. 174

173. How to complete 75 Hard (my perspective)

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses his perspective on the 75 Hard program, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness and providing a detailed breakdown of the five tasks involved. He shares personal experiences, insights, and tips for successfully completing the program, while addressing common controversies and debates associated with each task. The episode serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone considering or currently undertaking the 75 Hard program. --- ...

Dec 25, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 173

172. What if you don't enjoy exercising?

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK explores the question of whether enjoyment is necessary for consistency in exercise. He discusses various client perspectives, emphasizing the importance of enjoyment in maintaining a long-term fitness routine. JK also shares a contrasting viewpoint from a consistent gym-goer who, despite hating exercise, remains committed due to awareness of the consequences of inactivity. The episode concludes with actionable tips for staying consisten...

Dec 17, 202428 minEp. 172

171. Exploring my top 5 podcasts of 2024 (Spotify Wrapped)

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses his Spotify Wrapped top five podcasts of 2024, highlighting their themes and personal significance. JK reflects on the growth of his podcast based on Spotify Wrapped insights, sharing some key statistics around areas of both decline and improvement, along with revealing the most listened-to episode of 2024. 1. Higher Learning 2. Mind Over Macros 3. GM Shuffle 4. NFL: Move The Sticks 5. Social Proof Link to What Next TBD: Spotify Tra...

Dec 14, 202444 minEp. 171

170. Building, maintaining, & improving habits with the 4A framework

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK discusses the upcoming 9-Week R(ese)t group coaching program! He shares insights into its origin, the importance of sustainable systems in fitness, sleep, and nutrition, and the 4A framework (Assessment, Awareness, Action, Alignment) that will guide participants through their journey. The program aims to help individuals build a solid foundation in their health habits, focusing on nutrition, sleep, and exercise, while also emphasizing the imp...

Dec 04, 202438 minEp. 170

169. Say it like you mean it...the power of intentional language

In this episode, JK reflects on the impact of using intentional, commitment-focused language versus noncommittal phrases like "I hope to" or "I want to." Drawing on personal experiences and observations, JK shares how making definitive statements helps to align decisions and actions with set priorities. The episode also touches on the struggles of overloading to-do lists and the importance of finding a sustainable "messy middle" between extremes. If you've ever felt stuck in a cycle of overcommi...

Dec 03, 202420 minEp. 169

168. Maintaining your workout schedule over the holidays (POP replay)

In this episode, JK shares a replay of a recent recording that was previously only available to POP (Peak Optimization Performance) clients. He shares tips to address some of the main struggles that prevent people from maintaining their workouts over the holidays...including less time to workout and irregular schedules. ---- 00:00 Introduction to Holiday Training Consistency 05:11 Identifying Common Struggles During Holidays 09:01 Tips for Scheduling Workouts 13:51 Adjusting Workout Plans for Ti...

Nov 27, 202423 minEp. 168

167. Should kids lift weights?

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK puts on his coaching hat to discuss the safety and benefits of strength training for kids. He addresses common myths, shares research findings, and provides insights into what a proper strength training program for children should look like. JK emphasizes the importance of supervision, proper technique, and the long-term benefits of strength training beyond just athletic performance. ---- 00:00 Introduction and Context 06:44 Research and Bene...

Nov 21, 202445 minEp. 167

166. "Is this enough?": Understanding client needs in fitness

In this episode of Help Me Understand, JK discusses the common question clients ask about their workout routines: "Is this enough?" He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context behind this question, exploring the quality of workouts versus the quantity, and setting realistic expectations for training frequency and results. JK shares insights from his experience as a personal trainer, highlighting the need for effective communication with clients to ensure they achieve their fitness ...

Nov 20, 202421 minEp. 166

165. Working through gym (weight room) intimidation

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK shares tips and advice on the topic of gym (weight room) . Listen in as he explores the common fears and challenges faced by individuals when entering a gym environment. He shares personal experiences and practical tips to help listeners work with feelings of intimidation, emphasizing the importance of preparation, being focused on yourself, and asking for help. Discussion points: Gym intimidation is a common experience for many individuals. ...

Nov 16, 202449 minEp. 165

164. Mookie Betts put on a masterclass on handling disrespect

In this episode of the Help Me Understand Podcast, host JK discusses the incident involving Mookie Betts during game four of the 2024 World Series, where Betts faced disrespect from fans. JK highlights Betts' composed response to the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and composure in the face of disrespect. He draws parallels to his experiences in retail management, discussing how to navigate disrespectful interactions and the significance of allowing time for processing...

Nov 06, 202430 minEp. 164

163. Advocacy requires action.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK discusses the importance of advocacy, especially in the context of the upcoming elections. He emphasizes that true advocacy goes beyond mere words and social media posts; it requires action, particularly in the form of voting. Drawing on a quote from Martin Luther King Jr., JK challenges listeners to reflect on their beliefs and the actions they take to support them. He encourages everyone to be proactive in advocating for what they beli...

Nov 03, 202414 minEp. 163

162. Ready for Resilience w/Greg Rogers of Get Ready Fitness

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK engages in conversation with Greg Rogers, a personal trainer and youth football coach with a compelling story. They discuss Greg's journey to becoming a successful high-level athlete and coach, highlighting the importance of mentorship, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Greg shares his experiences with sports, the impact of his coaches, and the challenges he faced, including a medical condition known as Blount's disease. Greg's ...

Nov 01, 20241 hr 29 minEp. 162

161. "Everything in moderation" is incomplete advice

In this episode, JK shares his perspective on moderation in nutrition and fitness, emphasizing that the phrase 'everything in moderation' alone, is often incomplete advice. He explores how individual factors, cultural influences, and external factors like portion sizes affect what moderation means for different people. The conversation encourages listeners to find their own balance and understand their unique needs when it comes to health and wellness. ---- 07:51 Understanding Incomplete Advice ...

Oct 30, 202424 minEp. 161

160. Maggie's perspective: Do's & don'ts when someone you know has cancer.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK has a conversation with Maggie to share her perspective of the do's and don'ts when talking to someone who has cancer. The original Instagram post that inspired this conversation is available ⁠ here ⁠ They discuss the challenges of supporting acquaintances, friends, and loved ones with cancer, emphasizing the importance of validating feelings, avoiding assumptions, and respecting individual beliefs. Maggie shares her personal journey wit...

Oct 22, 20241 hr 36 minEp. 160

159. Navigating self-doubt

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK shares his perspective on self-doubt, particularly in the context of goal achievement and habit development. He outlines three distinct phases of self-doubt that individuals often encounter on their journey: the initial phase before starting, the middle phase during the process, and the phase after achieving a goal. JK emphasizes that self-doubt is a natural part of the process and offers insights on how to navigate these feelings effect...

Oct 19, 202441 minEp. 159

158. Play offense all week: A mindset shift.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK emphasizes the importance of maintaining a proactive mindset throughout the week. He discusses the tendency to feel more motivated at the beginning of the week and challenges listeners to carry that momentum into the latter half. By planning intentionally and treating each day with purpose, listeners can set themselves up for success not just for the current week, but for the weeks to come. JK also shares insights on the significance of ...

Oct 07, 20249 minEp. 158

157. Taylor's story of re-engaging her authentic self, pursuing multiple fitness categories, and shifting her relationship with alcohol.

JK hosts an insightful conversation with health & fitness coach and podcaster Taylor Lakin Hansen. In this episode, Taylor discusses her journey of personal growth, competitive fitness, and her evolving relationship with alcohol. Taylor reflects on her experiences over the past few years, including her return to competitive bodybuilding, the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and the importance of being an example for her clients. The conversation also delves into the significanc...

Oct 04, 20241 hr 20 minEp. 157

156. Two misconceptions about gratitude.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK discusses common misunderstandings about gratitude. He emphasizes that practicing gratitude does not equate to always having a positive mindset or disregarding negative feelings. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how gratitude can coexist with acknowledging difficult emotions, and he encourages listeners to find value in their experiences, regardless of their emotional state. --- Connect with JK on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Sep 27, 202424 minEp. 156

155. Solo: Learning more from the process than the outcome.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, host JK shares personal updates on his fitness journey and discusses the importance of maintaining standards and foundations, especially when things are going well. He emphasizes that one of the most challenging times to improve is when individuals are experiencing success. Through various examples, including college football, JK illustrates how focusing on the process rather than just the outcome can lead to greater learning and growth. He conc...

Sep 24, 202428 minEp. 155

154. Solo: When progress feels like treading water.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK dives into a Friday Four format where he shares thoughts on maintaining momentum when progress feels slow. He reflects on how small, consistent efforts often don’t feel like immediate progress but can lead to meaningful results over time. JK also highlights the importance of tracking and reflecting on personal data, such as energy levels and mood, to appreciate ongoing progress. ---- Connect with JK on Instagram: ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠...

Sep 06, 202418 minEp. 154

153. Convo w/Betsy Foster: Getting strong is simple, not easy.

In this episode of the Help Me Understand podcast, JK sits down with Betsy Foster (MS, CSCS), owner of Foster Strength, to talk about her journey from high level dancer, to personal training and coaching. Betsy is the owner of Foster Strength, an online platform with a specific focus on helping women build muscle by uncomplicating training and nutrition simple. Along with being a coach and trainer with over 14 years of professional training experience, Betsy is a married mother of two young girl...

Sep 04, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 153
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