In this episode of the Mindful Muscle Podcast, hosts Gio Marin and Jodi Dolo delve into the topic of encouraging teens to start and maintain fitness routines. Jodi shares personal experiences about her son’s budding interest in working out, the challenges of navigating fitness and nutrition advice prevalent on social media, and ensuring a healthy relationship with food. The hosts additionally discuss holiday gift ideas for fitness enthusiasts, including gift cards, massage certificates, and outside-the-box ideas for the fitness enthusiasts in our lives. Tune in for valuable insights and practical advice on guiding the younger generation towards sustainable health and wellness, as well as some thoughtful holiday gift recommendations for the fitness-minded.

00:00 Welcome to the Mindful Muscle Podcast

00:35 Jodi's Son's Fitness Journey

02:06 Navigating Nutrition and Social Media

03:47 Fitness Goals and Progress

05:47 Parenting and Fitness

07:56 Holiday Eating and Moderation

17:30 Gift Ideas for Fitness Enthusiasts

28:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

At 52 and closer to 53, Gio is chasing the rim again — literally. 🏀 In this episode of the Mindful Muscle Podcast, Gio and Jodi open up about real-life struggles, smart goals, and what it means to keep showing up for your health, no matter your age or circumstances.

Jodi shares the powerful story of her husband’s recovery after a horrific drunk driving accident, the emotional and financial toll it took on their family, and the one lesson she wants everyone to act on today: check your insurance coverage. From emergency funds to living below your means, this conversation goes deep into stewardship, resilience, and preparation.

From there, Gio talks about moving three times in eight months, the stress of adjusting to country life on four acres, and how that impacted his routines, mental health, and fitness. Then the two dive into:

• 🧠 How to turn any fitness dream into a SMART goal

• 🏀 Gio’s new challenge: regaining his vertical jump to grab the rim by age 53

• 💪 Why strength, VO₂ max, and low body fat matter more as we age

• 🧡 Jodi’s work at the YMCA and with Special Olympics Unified Fitness

• 🎁 A book giveaway for loyal listeners (“Rebuilding Milo” & “Built From Broken”)

• 🏋️‍♂️ Sneak peek: Gio’s upcoming home gym build (750–900 sq ft project)

• 👦 Future episode: helping Jodi’s 14-year-old son navigate fitness and nutrition questions in a healthy way

⏱ Episode Highlights

00:00 – Welcome + 145 lb combined weight loss

01:00 – Jodi’s husband’s accident & underinsured driver reality

05:00 – Gio’s 3 moves in 8 months & life stress on four acres

09:00 – Playing basketball at 5:30 AM with guys half his age

11:00 – Can a 52-year-old regain his vertical jump?

13:00 – Breaking down Gio’s SMART goal to grab the rim

18:00 – VO₂ max, body fat, and longevity

23:00 – Why goals matter even if you’re already disciplined

24:00 – Podcast update, book giveaway, and gym build teaser

👇 Join the Conversation

What’s your current SMART goal — fitness or otherwise?

Drop it in the comments using S-M-A-R-T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) and we might feature it in a future episode.

👍 Like this episode

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🔔 Hit the bell so you don’t miss the gym build and Jodi’s episode on teen nutrition

Until next time, remember: if you don’t take care of yourself… who will?

In this episode of the Mindful Muscle Podcast, hosts Gio Marin and Jodi Dolo welcome Alan Welch, host of the Busy Pro Fast Wellness podcast, for an inspiring conversation. Alan shares his journey from being a semi-professional musician to becoming a wellness advocate, detailing how he lost 145 pounds and overcame a long struggle with alcohol. The episode delves deep into the importance of sustainable health changes, the power of small steps, and how music and fitness can transform lives. Alan offers valuable insights on maintaining mental and physical health, resilience, and how even the busiest professionals can integrate wellness into their daily routines. Don't miss out on this inspiring and educational conversation! Be sure to subscribe and hit the like button.

00:00 Welcome to the Mindful Muscle Podcast

00:43 Introducing Our Guest: Alan Welch

02:25 Alan's Musical Journey

04:15 Transition to Fitness and Running

09:56 Struggles with Alcohol and Overcoming Addiction

13:25 The Power of Small Steps and Sustainable Change

22:51 Small Steps for Busy Professionals

26:19 Incorporating Music and Movement

30:49 Global Perspectives on Health

38:37 The Power of Small Steps

43:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts