Podcast
Better Than Fine With Darlene Marshall
Hosted by Darlene Marshall · EN
Work or school, family , social pressure and stress can strain our pursuit of a fulfilling life. Better Than Fine explores fitness, wellness, and well-being with a mix of Positive Psychology, wellness coaching, fitness, nutrition, and more to find what it means to thrive in the intensity of today's world.
Host Darlene Marshall is an expert in wellness and well-being. A wellness coach with a decade of experience coaching and facilitating workshops, guiding clients and students to build fulfilling lives that work for their unique needs and live better than fine. On the NASM Podcasting Network.
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Encore Presentation: Jordyn Feingold – Choose Growth
6d ago00:44:58Tap to summarizeWelcome to the “Better Than Fine” podcast! In this powerful encore episode from March 2023, host Darlene Marshall sits down with Dr. Jordyn Feingold—psychiatry resident, well-being expert, and co-author of "Choose Growth"—to explore how trauma can unlock unexpected strength, meaning, and purpose through post-traumatic growth. 🎧 Listen as we reveal: What post-traumatic growth really means (and why it's different than PTSD) The science-backed process for transforming pain into purpose How trauma impacts the mind, body, and even your DNA Practical strategies for growth, not just recovery—straight from "Choose Growth" Tips for finding authentic, ethical support on your healing journey 🔑 Who should watch this episode? Anyone who has experienced adversity, loss, or trauma Coaches, therapists, and wellness professionals seeking evidence-based insights Listeners curious about the science of resilience and psychological growth The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Hope as a Tool in Your Wellness Journey
2w ago00:25:21Tap to summarizeAre you struggling to find hope in difficult times? In this empowering episode of “Better Than Fine,” award-winning wellbeing expert Darlene Marshall dives deep into hope as a process, not just a feeling. Drawing from lived experience, grief, and the science of positive psychology, Darlene Marshall shares practical, evidence-based tools to help you thrive—even when life feels overwhelming. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: · Why “toxic positivity” can be harmful, and how real hope is different · Powerful frameworks like Snyder’s Hope Theory and the science of “regoaling” after loss · How to use hope as an active, actionable practice in your daily life · Simple strategies to move forward—no matter how small the steps · The importance of community and support in building resilience and hope Darlene opens up about personal grief, loss, and the anniversary of a loved one’s passing, connecting these experiences to global feelings of despair many are feeling right now. Through honest storytelling and research-backed insights, you’ll discover how moments of pain can fuel a “bloody-knuckled hope”—the kind that moves you forward, even on your hardest days. If you’re tired of empty platitudes and want tools for authentic hope, this episode is for you. Whether you’re facing grief, loss, life transitions, or simply seeking a new approach to wellbeing, she offers strategies you can use today. The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Encore Presentation: Finding Reliable Wellness Information
3w ago00:27:29Tap to summarizeTired of misinformation in the wellness space? This episode from Better Than Fine dives deep into how to find reliable wellness information and avoid falling for myths, fads, and influencer hype. Host Darlene Marshall shares insider tips for fitness professionals, coaches, and anyone seeking trustworthy advice on fitness, nutrition, mental health, and self-care. 🎙️ What You'll Learn: · Why evidence-based wellness practices matter for your results and safety · The difference between anecdotal evidence and scientific research · How to spot credible wellness practitioners and red flags to watch for · What certifications and qualifications REALLY mean · How to evaluate sources, citations, and practitioner expertise· The ethical importance of only sharing what works · How influencers and “experts” might be motivated by sales or bias · How to protect yourself from wellness scams and unreliable advice 🔍 Key Topics Covered: · Finding expert-backed wellness strategies · The role of certifications in the wellness industry · Spotting science vs. self-help trends · Practical steps for researching wellness trends · Maintaining an evidence-based approach to coaching and practice · Admitting when science changes and staying open-minded The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Does Sugar Really Make ADHD Worse? The Science Unpacked
4w ago00:23:23Tap to summarizeIs sugar really to blame for ADHD symptoms getting worse? Or is it just another myth? In this eye-opening episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, award-winning well-being expert Darlene Marshall cuts through decades of misconceptions to reveal what science actually says about the sugar-ADHD connection. 👉 Highlights: · Introduction & episode background · Personal stories of ADHD across generations · How ADHD really works in the brain · The dopamine reward system and cravings explained · What studies reveal about sugar and ADHD symptoms ([2020 Meta-Analysis Review]) · Why sugar-sweetened beverages, not just sugar, matter most · Debunking myths: sugar doesn’t cause ADHD · The power of self-observation and harm reduction for ADHD management What You'll Learn: · The difference between correlation and causation in ADHD research · Why sugar-sweetened drinks might make ADHD symptoms worse—but it’s not the whole story · What this means for your daily choices and well-being · How compassion, curiosity, and harm reduction can help you (or someone you love) manage ADHD Perfect for: Anyone living with ADHD, parents, teachers, wellness enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how diet, sugar, and lifestyle factors impact brain health and behavior. The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Encore Presentation: Toxic Positivity
Apr 2300:21:33Tap to summarizeAre you tired of "good vibes only" culture? Have you ever felt dismissed by well-meaning advice to "just stay positive" when you're struggling? In this episode of “Better Than Fine,” holistic wellness coach Darlene Marshall breaks down the harmful effects of toxic positivity and explains why embracing the full spectrum of human emotions is essential for real wellbeing. ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: · What exactly is toxic positivity and why is it such a big problem in fitness, wellness, and positive psychology? · The hidden dangers of ignoring or invalidating negative emotions · Real-life stories that reveal how positivity can go wrong—and how to do better · Powerful, actionable tools to replace toxic positivity with validation, self-compassion, and pragmatic optimism · How to support yourself and others through tough times—without fake smiles or forced gratitudeWhether you're a fitness professional, coach, or simply on a quest for genuine self-growth, this episode will help you break free from the pressure to always be “on” and discover healthier ways to process the full human experience. The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →The Overview Effect: Awe & Connection from Outer Space
Apr 1600:22:12Tap to summarizeWelcome to “Better Than Fine,” the award-winning podcast hosted by wellbeing expert and wellness coach Darlene Marshall! In this inspiring episode, Darlene dives deep into NASA’s Artemis II mission and unpacks the powerful human response known as the Overview Effect—the profound sense of awe experienced by astronauts when seeing Earth from space. Episode Highlights: · Journey of Artemis II: Relive the record-breaking 252,756-mile lunar orbit with Commander Reed Wiseman, Victor Glover Jr., Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen. · What is the Overview Effect? Discover how this mind-bending phenomenon rewires our sense of self, connects us to humanity, and sparks a desire to protect our “lifeboat” Earth. · Science of Awe & Positive Psychology: Learn how awe changes our mental models, triggers self-transcendence, and enhances meaning, purpose, and connection. · Collective Awe—Why It Matters: Explore how sharing awe-inspiring experiences strengthens community, reduces loneliness, and fuels hope—especially in challenging times. · From Inspiration to Action: Uncover research-backed ways to channel awe into positive action, forward motion, and pragmatic optimism. · Listener Takeaways: Practical tips for bringing more awe and connection into your everyday life. Why Watch? ⭐️ Get Inspired: Feel the chills as real astronaut quotes reveal how space travel transforms our understanding of life and purpose. ⭐️ Level Up Your Mindset: Darlene shares powerful evidence-based tools to recalibrate your thinking and boost resilience. ⭐️ Strengthen Your Wellbeing: Find out how to harness the science of awe for greater happiness, deeper connection, and meaningful action. Show References: Keltner, D. & Haidt, J. (2003). Approaching awe, a moral, spiritual, and aesthetic emotion. Cognition and Emotion, 17, 297–314. The foundational paper that defined awe scientifically — introducing the two core features of vastness and need for accommodation that underpin all subsequent awe research.https://doi.org/10.1080/02699930302297 Rudd, M., Vohs, K.D., & Aaker, J. (2012). Awe expands people's perception of time, alters decision making, and enhances well-being. Psychological Science, 23, 1130–1136. Demonstrated that awe — unlike happiness — makes people feel they have more time available, reduces impatience, and increases life satisfaction.https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797612438731 Yaden, D.B., Iwry, J., Slack, K.J., Eichstaedt, J.C., Zhao, Y., Vaillant, G.E., & Newberg, A.B. (2016). The overview effect: Awe and self-transcendent experience in space flight. Psychology of Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Practice, 3(1), 1–11.The primary academic framework for the Overview Effect — identifying awe, self-transcendence, and schema changes as the three psychological mechanisms behind what astronauts experience viewing Earth from space.https://doi.org/10.1037/cns0000086 Bai, Y., Maruskin, L.A., Chen, S., Gordon, A.M., Stellar, J.E., McNeil, G.D., Piff, P.K., & Keltner, D. (2017). Awe, the diminished self, and collective engagement: Universality and cultural variation in the small self. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 113(2), 185–209.Found that awe reliably shrinks self-referential thinking across cultures — people literally drew themselves smaller after experiencing awe — and increases feelings of connection to something larger.https://doi.org/10.1037/pspa0000087 Piff, P.K., Dietze, P., Feinberg, M., Stancato, D.M., & Keltner, D. (2015). Awe, the small self, and prosocial behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108(6), 883–899.Showed that awe reliably increases prosocial behavior — generosity, ethical decision-making, and concern for others — by reducing preoccupation with the individual self.https://doi.org/10.1037/pspi0000018 White, F. (2021). The Overview Effect: Space Exploration and Human Evolution (4th ed.). Multiverse Publishing.The original book that named and documented the Overview Effect through interviews with astronauts — still the definitive primary source on the phenomenon.https://www.amazon.com/Overview-Effect-Exploration-Human-Evolution/dp/1951480007 The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Encore Presentation: Self-Compassion – Give Yourself a Break
Apr 900:28:25Tap to summarizeWelcome to a powerful encore presentation of the “Better Than Fine” podcast. Hosted by wellness expert Darlene Marshall, this episode dives deep into self-compassion and the transformative tools you need to improve your mental health, resilience, and overall well-being.Are you your own worst critic? Do you struggle with negative self-talk and find it hard to treat yourself with kindness? In this special episode, you'll discover Kristin Neff’s three-point model of self-compassion, backed by science and practical wisdom to help you break free from self-judgment and thrive—even in life’s toughest moments. 🎧 In This Episode: · Speaker A shares her personal journey of overcoming self-criticism and how major life events can trigger negative self-talk. · Learn how to recognize when you’re being hard on yourself and actionable steps to shift to self-kindness. · Explore the three pillars of self-compassion: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. · Practical exercises and mindset shifts to boost your self-awareness and develop lasting emotional resilience. · Real-world strategies for coaches, fitness professionals, and anyone aspiring to LIVE BETTER, not just feel better. Why Watch/Listen? Whether you’re a fitness pro, coach, or simply looking for tools to get through tough times, this episode provides practical solutions and heart-driven insights for anyone ready to stop beating themselves up and start thriving. It’s time for a mindset reset—let’s get better than fine, together! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →What if Fitness Was About Feeling Good, Not Just Looking Good?
Apr 200:35:54Tap to summarizeAre you tired of fitness routines focused only on aesthetics and performance? Ready to make your workouts actually serve your mental health and lifelong happiness? In this episode of the Better Than Fine Podcast, host and well-being expert Darlene Marshall dives deep into science-backed strategies for designing an exercise program with well-being as the ultimate fitness goal. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: · Why traditional fitness advice often misses the mark for supporting well-being · The latest research on how specific exercise intensity, duration, and type impact mood, resilience, and happiness · Why low- to moderate-intensity movement (even a walk!) can give you a massive well-being boost · How to overcome toxic gym culture and find empowering, enjoyable movement spaces—even outdoors! · The crucial roles of autonomy, choice, and environment in sticking to your movement practice long-term · Real client stories and practical steps to start a movement routine that supports your mental and emotional health 🎧 Whether you’re a fitness pro, someone with chronic illness, or simply want to feel better in your body—this episode is your go-to resource for blending positive psychology and movement! Resources Mentioned: · Systematic Review: “Exercise Prescriptions for Young People's Emotional Well Being” (April 2025) · Article: “Green Exercise as an Opportunity to Promote Equity...” (March 2024) · Motivation 101 Guide: Better Than Fine Substack If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/464tK4b
Transcribe →Encore Presentation: Fat Bias & Public Health
Mar 2600:39:48Tap to summarizeAre you ready to break down the myths about body size, health, and fitness culture? In this episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, host Darlene Marshall dives deep with OG friend of the pod, Rich Fahmy—public health PhD candidate and content manager at NASM—to explore fat bias, weight stigma, and their impact on public health. ✔️ What Is Fat Bias? ✔️ How Does Weight Stigma Affect Everyone—NOT just those in larger bodies? ✔️ Why are fitness professionals, doctors, and policymakers still relying on outdated, flawed BMI metrics? ✔️ What does the evidence actually say about health at different body sizes? ✔️ The “Obesity Paradox”: Are heavier bodies sometimes more resilient in illness and older age? You’ll get: · Definitions and real-world examples of fatphobia and bias in healthcare. · Jaw-dropping evidence about how medical professionals’ bias leads to misdiagnosis, underdiagnosis—and even worsens health outcomes for everyone. · Eye-opening facts about metabolically healthy adults in larger bodies. · Insights into why shaming, weight cycling, and groupthink cause more harm than good. · A fresh perspective on why embracing a weight-neutral, evidence-based approach in fitness and wellness is the future. If you’re a coach, trainer, wellness pro—or just want to understand public health and body acceptance—this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew. ✨ Featuring actionable tips, honest stories, and resources to help you support ALL clients, regardless of size. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl
Transcribe →GLP-1s: The End—or Evolution—of Body Positivity?
Mar 1800:22:44Tap to summarizeWelcome to another thought-provoking episode of the “Better Than Fine” podcast, hosted by award-winning wellbeing expert Darlene Marshall! This week, we dive deep into the evolving conversation around the body positivity movement in the age of GLP-1 medications—popularly known as weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: · The origins and evolution of the body positivity movement · How GLP-1 weight loss medications are reshaping perceptions about body image and wellness · Insights from thought leaders like Gabriella Lescano, Virgie Tovar, and Aubrey Gordon · The difference between self-acceptance and collective social change in body positivity · Why BMI is an unreliable indicator of health and what you should be focusing on instead · The new role of exercise beyond aesthetics—how well-being and mental health are taking the spotlight · Practical guidance for fitness and wellness professionals on adapting to these cultural shifts Highlights & Key Topics: · Are weight-loss drugs and body positivity at odds, or can they co-exist?· The nuanced roles of influencers versus activists in shaping public opinion · How to foster self-love, authentic self-care, and inclusive health practices—regardless of body size · Actionable strategies for supporting clients (or yourself!) in prioritizing health and wellness without shame Who Should Listen: · Fitness pros & wellness coaches ready to adapt in a changing industry · Anyone interested in body positivity, health at every size, and mental well-being · Listeners seeking science-backed, compassionate insights on fitness, weight, and personal growth Resources Mentioned: · Previous Better Than Fine episodes unpacking the science of BMI, weight bias, and health outcomes · Forbes and New York Times features on body positivity and weight loss drugs · Darlene’s book recommendations and scientific studies on long-term health and well-being If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. The most trusted name in fitness is now expanding into the wellness world. Become an NASM Certified Wellness Coach and you’ll be able to guide and motivate clients to make lasting changes through mental and emotional well-being, recovery, and more. https://bit.ly/3rdqEfl
Transcribe →