The Anthony Amen Show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Andrew to hear the real story behind building a martial arts studio that has survived for 31 years. We talk about the setbacks that shaped him first, from pursuing criminal justice and trying multiple times to become a police officer, to finally reaching a breaking point where he had to ask himself: What do I actually control, and what do I do next?That question changed everything.We dive into how Andrew built his business from the ground up, how his first student walked through the door, and how referrals, community relationships, and consistency helped grow the dojo over time. We also get honest about the difficult parts of entrepreneurship: rising rent, unexpected damage, insurance costs, emergencies, and the pressure that comes with trying to keep a business alive.One of the biggest conversations in this episode is about pricing and why so many business owners struggle to charge what they’re worth. We talk about burnout, resentment, helping people long-term, and why undercharging can actually hurt both the business owner and the people they serve.We also touch on leadership, parenting, bullying prevention, accountability, empathy versus sympathy, and the lessons COVID taught business owners about emergency funds, systems, and adapting under pressure.If you’re interested in martial arts, entrepreneurship, leadership, fitness, or building something that lasts, this conversation has a lot of value in it.Subscribe for more real conversations like this, and let me know in the comments: what’s one area of your life you’re ready to take accountability for next?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk about how you can learn more about leadership from one tough question than from a hundred motivational quotes: would you keep this employee, or fire them?I put myself on the spot with ten rapid scenarios that every manager eventually faces, from “I’m late again” to missed deadlines, sloppy follow through, blame shifting, and even walking out early because the day’s tasks are done. My answers are direct, sometimes ruthless, but always anchored in one core belief: responsibility shows up before the problem does.We dive into why communication is the first real performance metric. If someone flags traffic, workload, or a looming deadline risk early, the team can solve it together. But when they wait until after the damage is done, trust erodes fast. I also break down one of the toughest gray areas, personal issues, and share my approach of empathy over sympathy, making space for real life without allowing it to turn into ongoing underperformance.Along the way, I talk about SOPs, training, and building a culture of ownership, when it is on the leader to clarify instructions, when repeated mistakes become a pattern, and why “I thought it was someone else’s job” can slowly destroy a team from within.We close with high stakes accountability around sales goals and urgency, because if revenue does not move, the business does not either.Listen, then share this with a manager or founder who needs a clearer standard and leave a review if it helps you lead with more confidence.Where do you draw your line on keep vs fire?#Leverage #Entrepreneurship #PeopleManagement #Mindset #Business #Accountability Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailYaw and I break down the reality of entrepreneurship and the loneliness that can come with it. Even when you’re surrounded by people and things look like they’re working, it can still feel like you’re carrying everything on your own.We talk about building the right team, understanding that not everyone will care the way you do, and how to find the right people around you who actually challenge you and hold you accountable. We also get into how your perspective starts to shift as you grow, in business and in life.If you’ve ever felt that weight or questioned who’s really in your corner, this conversation will hit.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailTwo brothers working under the same roof sounds simple… until you hear what actually powers it. On this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, Anthony talks with guests Devin and Tyler about the shared family code that shaped who they are today—built on hard work, consistency, and refusing to quit on yourself.Anthony dives into the defining moments that influenced them, from watching their dad come home exhausted and still show up for his kids, to how that example became the standard they now carry into personal training, coaching, and everyday life. If you care about mindset, discipline, leadership, and building confidence through effort, this conversation hits fast.He also gets into the tough conversations people usually avoid. Is being “selfish” always a bad thing, or can it be the responsible choice when protecting your family and setting priorities? Who really comes first when you’re balancing a spouse, kids, siblings, and parents—and how does that shift over time? The conversation also explores competition and happiness, what it means to hate losing, why the process matters more than the outcome, and how to raise kids in sports without teaching them to fear failure or chase empty validation.Bringing it back to gym culture and coaching quality, Anthony Amen breaks down what “client first” actually means in fitness, why education will always beat trendy workouts, and how great teams are built by protecting standards before chasing growth. Whether you’re a trainer, athlete, or just trying to get stronger without wasting time, you’ll hear what truly separates quality from noise.If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review.What’s one value you learned from your family that still drives how you work today?Support the showLearn more at: www.Redefine-Fitness.comSupport the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailI’ve been thinking a lot about how the college question was never really about education—it’s about outcomes. Growing up, I constantly heard, “What school are you going to?” like there wasn’t even another path. Now I’m starting to challenge that script by actually looking at real numbers, real stories, and what a degree really gets you in 2026.On one hand, I can see what college does build. It’s not just academics—it’s communication, structure, and discipline. I remember hearing Anthony talk about the moment discipline finally clicked for him: waking up at 5 AM just to chase extra credit so he could hit the grade he needed. That kind of consistency matters, and college can force you into it.But then I have to ask myself the uncomfortable question—could I build those same skills faster somewhere else? Like through real-life consequences, work experience, or even starting something on my own? Because when I really think about it, some parts of college feel like pure filler: padded requirements, random classes, and this weird pressure to pick a major that doesn’t clearly connect to a career.Then there’s the financial side, which is hard to ignore. Student debt, tuition, and especially the interest—it’s something most people don’t fully calculate until it’s too late. When I compare that to alternatives like trade school or apprenticeships, it really makes me pause. In those paths, I could get paid to learn, build real skills, and start earning without putting myself in a financial hole.And now with AI changing everything, I can’t help but think about which careers are actually future-proof. A lot of high-paying, paperwork-heavy jobs seem more exposed to automation, while roles built around human connection still feel more secure.At the end of the day, I’m not sure there’s a one-size-fits-all answer. I just know the conversation is shifting, and I’m trying to think more critically about what path actually makes sense—not just for me, but for the next generation too.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailCredit card debt feels normal… until you run the numbers.In this episode, we break down the “money math” that determines whether you build wealth or stay stuck paying interest. From 22% APR and compounding debt to balance transfers, HELOCs, and paying off high-interest debt first, this is a practical conversation about how money actually works.We also touch on assets vs liabilities, investing, and how understanding your numbers changes everything.If you’ve ever felt lost when it comes to money, this one will hit.Subscribe, share, and let me know your biggest takeaway.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we break down what happiness really is and whether it’s something you can actually build.We get into depression, bullying, and the moments where people feel like they don’t matter. This is a real conversation about mental health, self-worth, and why relying on others alone isn’t enough. True happiness comes from building it within yourself.We also talk about practical ways to shift your mindset, from how you think daily to the environment you put yourself in.If you’ve been feeling stuck or lost, this one will hit.Subscribe, share it, and let me know your biggest takeaway.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Ulysses to talk about what it really takes to chase filmmaking.From growing up with a single mother who immigrated from Mexico to building his own path in film, his story is about sacrifice, pressure, and purpose. We get into the realities of the industry, why most people quit, and what it takes to keep going when it gets hard.If you’re chasing something big, this one will hit.Subscribe, share, and let me know what stood out.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with George to talk about how loss can either harden you or shape you.He shares what it was like losing his mom to cancer during his senior year and how that pushed him to understand health, pain, and how people cope. We also get into identity, going from football to feeling lost, and what changed when he stepped into training at Redefined Fitness.This is a real conversation about grief, growth, and becoming stronger through what you go through.If this resonates, subscribe, share it, and let me know your biggest takeaway.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThe wedding doesn’t magically upgrade your relationship. The real upgrade or the real collapse usually starts when the pressure hits: kids, sleep loss, money stress, business risk, and the moment you realize the help stops showing up.Anthony Amon from Redefined Fitness and Yao get honest about what marriage looks like when you’re building a business and raising a family at the same time. Anthony tells the story of being the guy who took a great woman for granted, hit a “what am I doing with my life” moment, and rebuilt himself through responsibility, discipline, and opening his first gym. That journey exposes painful lessons about friendships, boundaries, and how fast your circle changes when you stop living the old life.We also go deep on divorce prevention mindset, including the “burn the boats” approach to commitment, why taking your partner for granted kills long-term love, and how to “fall in love again” on purpose after conflict. Then we debate a question that makes most couples pause: who should come first in a family, your kids or your spouse, and what does a unified front actually look like in real parenting decisions?If you’re navigating entrepreneurship, marriage advice that isn’t fluffy, communication problems, or the emotional whiplash of building a life under pressure, this conversation will give you language and tools you can use today. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the biggest takeaway you’re trying to apply.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailA single bad fall can change everything, especially when the “standard” plan is pills and bed rest and you keep getting worse. That’s where Dr. Jeff Block’s story starts, and it quickly turns into a bigger conversation about what chiropractic care really looks like when it’s built around athletes, movement, and consistent problem solving for back pain and neck pain. We talk about the moment he realized he wanted a career where people get better and the clinician actually enjoys the work, not just survives it.From there, we get honest about entrepreneurship and small business growth. Jeff walks us through opening a practice with barely any patients, then building momentum the old-school way: walking into local businesses, meeting gym owners, offering something useful first, and earning trust over time. We also hit the professional stigma chiropractic used to carry, how that reputation has shifted, and why personal trainers, physical therapists, and chiropractors do better when they stop competing and start understanding each role in the rehab and fitness pipeline.The second half goes deep on mindset and decision-making. Jeff shares the “car theory” of focus, how written goals change what you notice, and a Rolex story that proves preparation can turn a random moment into a real win. We also dig into AI in healthcare, practice management, HIPAA constraints, and what leaders need to learn from younger clinicians and new technology. Finally, we talk patient compliance, behavior change, and the hardest lesson of all: you can’t care more about someone’s health than they do, but you can coach them toward ownership.If you got value from this conversation, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review. What part of Jeff’s approach are you going to try this week?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, Yaw steps into the spotlight to answer the question everyone keeps asking: who is he, and how did he get here so fast?Yaw shares his full story, from growing up in New York with Ghanaian immigrant parents and facing real financial struggles, to chasing a safe path in medicine while quietly feeling unfulfilled. He opens up about discipline, hunger, and the pressure to succeed, and how a $400 camera became the turning point that changed everything.The conversation dives into the early struggles of filmmaking, learning skills the hard way, dealing with rejection, and building confidence without external validation. Yaw also shares a major failure that cost him a client, and how taking ownership led to a second chance that changed his trajectory.From there, the journey expands into international storytelling, filming in the Dominican Republic and Nigeria, and using content to create real impact. This episode is about risk, growth, and choosing your own path even when it goes against expectations.If you feel stuck or unsure about your next move, this conversation will push you to think differently.Subscribe for more conversations on business, mindset, and real growth.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailMost job advice is polite. This one is practical, a little ruthless, and built from the employer side of the table. We walk through what actually separates the candidate who gets a call back from the pile of “easy apply” submissions. If you’re trying to get hired in fitness, sales, marketing, or any role where your attitude and effort show up fast, you’ll hear exactly what hiring managers notice first: attention to detail, real curiosity, and proof you’ll take work off their plate. We talk about the non-negotiables that quietly disqualify people every day: sloppy resumes, skipped screening questions, and answers that look like they were pasted from AI. Then we get into the moves almost nobody makes like showing up in person, learning the culture, talking with staff, and doing your research so you can walk into an interview sounding like you already belong there. We also debate the “is that too much?” moments, from bringing a small thoughtful gesture to using creative outreach that gets your name remembered. The biggest takeaway is a simple mindset shift: don’t ask to be trained, show how you’ll create ROI. We break down how to answer the killer question “What do your first 30 days look like?” with a plan that shows initiative, self-learning, and solutions. We even close with a blueprint for asking for a raise or promotion without sounding entitled. If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s stuck, and leave a review with the one tip you’re going to use next.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailSix years to break even sounds like failure on paper, but it can also be the moment your business finally tells the truth. We dig into one of the hardest questions in gym ownership and entrepreneurship: when is it worth staying in the fight, and when is it time to change course? We talk candidly about money goals versus mission goals, how burnout creeps in, and why ego is often the real reason a fitness business stalls.From there, we get practical about leadership and growth. If you love the craft but hate the job of running the company, you might not need to quit, you might need to change seats. We unpack the idea of hiring the right operator so the founder can focus on what they do best, plus why investing in education, mentorship, and high-level workshops can compress years of trial-and-error into a few focused hours. Your business can change vehicles, but the skills you build as a leader do not disappear.We also break down hiring through a simple skill vs will framework that helps gym owners protect culture and performance. You will hear why high-skill low-will team members can quietly drain clients and morale, how to develop high-will low-skill people into stars, and when it is best to make a clean cut. Finally, we tackle a classic pricing problem: a competitor opens across the street and undercuts you. We explain why price wars destroy margins and how brand, value, and positioning help you win long-term in the local fitness market.If you got value from this, subscribe, share it with a gym owner friend, and leave a quick review. What would you do in these scenarios?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan Mail“Entrepreneurship gives you freedom” is the line everyone loves to repeat, but we put it on trial and the verdict gets complicated fast. We talk about the kind of freedom business ownership can actually buy: control of your time, control of your schedule, and the ability to choose what you’re building your life around. Then we get honest about the part nobody posts online, the mental load of always thinking, fixing, improving, and carrying responsibility even when you’re not at work.From there, we zoom out into purpose and mental health. We compare entrepreneurs who “make it” and still feel empty with retirees who lose structure after decades of a 9-to-5. The takeaway is blunt: humans need meaning, and comfort without a mission can lead to boredom, depression, and bad decisions. Freedom isn’t escaping work, it’s choosing a purpose you’re willing to sacrifice for and getting to decide how you spend your effort.We also break down entrepreneurship myths that hit founders in the face: managing employees is harder than expected, systems matter more than willpower, and scaling forces you to upgrade the skills on your team. We call out social media entrepreneurship and the “online coach” fantasy, explain why the first dollars are the hardest, and why multitasking is a trap that kills output. If you’re building a startup, buying a small business, or just curious about the real founder mindset, this one will sharpen your expectations. Subscribe, share this with a friend who wants to start a business, and leave a review. What does “freedom” mean to you?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailMotivation sounds great until it disappears on a random Tuesday. We kick off a rapid-fire game that quickly turns into a real, practical debate about discipline vs motivation, consistency vs skill, and why “starting” is often the only hack that matters. If you care about habits, personal growth, and building an entrepreneurial mindset that survives bad moods, you’ll get a lot out of this one.We go back and forth on speed vs precision with a lesson every founder and creator needs: execution beats perfection when you’re testing the market, which is why tech teams obsess over the minimal viable product (MVP). From there, we hit the money questions too, revenue vs reputation, fortune vs fame, and why chasing comfort can quietly kill your edge. Expect strong opinions, a few disagreements, and the kind of examples you can actually use at work tomorrow.The second half gets more “CEO brain”: leverage vs hustle, avoiding burnout, and how sleep and self-care affect decision-making when you’re under pressure. We also dig into delegation vs control, keeping your hands on the highest-leverage moves while handing off the work that drains you. We close with risk vs security, a blunt look at how the school system can punish unorthodox thinking, and why social media and AI are changing the opportunity map for anyone willing to bet on themselves. If this hit home, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review with the question you want us to rapid-fire next.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailEver look at a medical bill and wonder who actually gets paid—and why the numbers make no sense? We sat down with Dr. Christopher Eamon, interventional pain physician, and Tim Groth, CEO of Groth Pain & Spine, to map the full journey from exam room to reimbursement, and the hidden incentives shaping your care. From CPT and ICD-10 codes to clearinghouses and payer edits, we break down the back-end machinery that turns a note into a claim, and a claim into money… or a denial.We get candid about audits and takebacks—how Medicare can pay without prior review, then claw funds back years later—forcing practices to repay money already used to run clinics and pay doctors. That risk pushes small practices to the brink while large health systems negotiate two to five times Medicare rates and pass higher coinsurance onto patients. The price gap explains why your deductible hits harder at a hospital than at an independent office, and why many clinicians feel trapped between quality and volume.Then we tackle approvals and gatekeeping: why evidence-based procedures like spinal cord stimulation stall under shifting rules, how “peer-to-peer” often means a non-specialist reading policy instead of the literature, and how hours spent appealing denials come straight out of patient time. We share real examples of arbitrary criteria, odd denials, and the emotional toll of telling a patient the best option won’t be covered.So how do independent practices survive? By rethinking workflows with scribes and extended intakes, building multidisciplinary teams, and cross-subsidizing essential but underpaid services. We explore concierge care as a lifeline for time and access, the rise of MSOs to pool admin costs, and the hard truth that rate-setting often bears little relation to clinical complexity. Along the way, we confront the broken math of premiums, deductibles, and end-of-life spending—and ask what smarter tradeoffs could look like if we valued healthier years over bureaucratic churn.If you’ve ever felt lost in prior auths, frustrated by surprise bills, or curious why a surgeon might earn less than a device rep in the same case, this conversation will connect the dots and give you language to ask better questions. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s wrestling with the system, and leave a review with your biggest insurance or billing mystery—we’ll tackle it in a future show.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailSupport the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, Anthony sits down with Amanda Leal, COO and fitness specialist for Redefine Fitness, to talk about leadership, resilience, and the reality of growing through adversity while balancing motherhood, fitness, and business.Amanda opens up about becoming a young mom, navigating challenges early in her career, and how those experiences shaped her mindset as she stepped into leadership. She shares her journey through bodybuilding, earning her IFBB Pro card, and transitioning into an operations role focused on building systems, supporting a team, and helping clients transform beyond the physical.This conversation goes deeper than fitness. Anthony and Amanda talk about discipline, adaptability, personal growth, and what it takes to keep moving forward when life does not go as planned. If you are building something while raising a family or pushing through difficult seasons, this episode offers honest perspective and encouragement.Subscribe to The Anthony Amen Show for more real conversations on leadership, fitness, and personal growth.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailMenopause can feel like your body changed the rules without telling you. In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, Anthony sits down with Dr. Vanessa Soviero, an OB GYN and certified menopause specialist, to cut through the confusion around hormones, weight gain, energy loss, and what actually works for women navigating menopause today. They discuss symptoms many people do not immediately connect to hormones such as joint pain, brain fog, skin changes, and stubborn belly fat, and why being told it will pass often leaves women struggling longer than necessary. Dr. Soviero breaks down common misconceptions from the WHI study, explains when hormone therapy may be appropriate, and explores evidence based nonhormonal options for women looking for real relief. The conversation also gets practical. Anthony and Dr. Soviero talk about strength training for bone density and metabolism, nutrition shifts that help manage cravings when sleep and hormones are disrupted, and how visceral fat and insulin resistance can change during midlife. You will also hear about creatine monohydrate, sleep strategies that can make a real difference, and why an individualized realistic plan matters more than chasing quick fixes.Beyond the science, they discuss real world challenges women face including limited time with providers, overwhelming supplement advice, and navigating health information online. If you have felt dismissed, confused, or unsure where to start, this episode offers a grounded honest conversation designed to help you move forward with clarity.Subscribe to The Anthony Amen Show for more conversations on fitness, health, and real world lifestyle change, and share this episode with someone who needs it.This episode is for women going through menopause and anyone who wants to better understand hormones, health, and how to support women during this stage of life.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a “lifer” job meets a restless mind and a real shot at purpose? We sit down with John friend, accountability partner, and newly minted real estate pro to trace the unglamorous path from corporate security to building a business with skin in the game. No highlight reels here: you’ll hear about the fear that almost won, the detours that created unfair advantages, and the moments where debt and deadlines forced a higher gear.John opens up about the comfort and dread of a well-paid role at a defense contractor, the chance encounter that made time feel dangerously fast, and the years it took to finally jump. We dig into why motivation fails and why disciplined action—tiny, consistent, sometimes uncomfortable steps stacks into confidence. You’ll hear how a construction apprenticeship with his father-in-law turned into a secret weapon for buyers and sellers: reading floor plans, spotting oil leaks, estimating fixes, and translating stress into options. That hands-on knowledge set him apart in a crowded real estate field.Then we talk commitment. Two weeks into his new path, John took out a 0% APR line and poured nearly ten thousand dollars into Facebook and Zillow ads before he had a single closing. Smart or reckless? You decide—but the urgency was real. We compare notes on burning the boats, redirecting early wins back into growth, and saying no to “wait until” thinking. Focus becomes the hinge: one path, relentless reps, and a lifestyle that swaps passive leisure for energizing work—open houses over outings, private showings over pointless distractions.We close on purpose and legacy. Anthony argues that purpose is the only reliable engine of happiness and urges reverse-engineering from the end you want. John centers the present: living fully now and becoming a story his kids are proud to tell. If you’re hovering at the edge of your own jump, this conversation gives you a clear map: act before you feel ready, pick one thing, fund it like you mean it, turn detours into edges, and keep your purpose close enough to power today’s work.If this resonated, follow, share with a friend who needs the push, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. What leap are you taking next?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailMost people think massage is either a fluffy spa day or brutal pain disguised as “progress.” Neither actually works.Anthony sits down with Sophia, founder of In Body Massage and Wellness, to break down what massage looks like when it’s treated as healthcare. This episode covers how targeted, intentional bodywork can reduce pain, improve range of motion, regulate the nervous system, and support better sleep without bruising or guesswork.Sophia explains how she builds personalized sessions for common problem areas like the neck, shoulders, and upper back, especially for people who train hard, work long hours, or live with chronic stress. The real driver of results isn’t pressure. It’s clear goals, thoughtful technique, and a frequency that matches the problem.They also cover how to choose the right therapist, what to ask before booking, how to know if sessions are actually working, and why improved function matters more than momentary relaxation.The conversation then shifts to building a sustainable wellness business. Sophia shares how underpricing early on stalled growth and attracted the wrong clients, while Anthony adds insight on pricing based on outcomes, tracking progress, and building systems that support long term success.This episode is for anyone who wants smarter recovery and a stronger foundation in service based business.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailEver been told “you’re fine” while your body says otherwise? In this episode, we trace a real journey from unresolved sleep apnea and chronic fatigue to the root causes hiding in hormones, gut health, and systemic inflammation.Randy, a functional medicine physician assistant, breaks down how testosterone, growth hormone, melatonin, and the gut are deeply connected and how SIBO, leaky gut, and inflammation can quietly destroy sleep, recovery, and focus. We also dive into GLP-1 medications, why they can backfire when used blindly, and how microdosing, strength training, protein intake, and hydration help protect muscle and metabolic health.We cover peptides, hormone replacement therapy, and why insurance driven care often misses the full picture.If you’re chasing real energy, deeper sleep, and sustainable fat loss, this episode shows where to look.Like, subscribe, and comment with the questions you want us to tackle next.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if the “safe” healthcare career isn’t actually the smarter financial move?In this episode, we break down the real numbers behind becoming a physical therapist versus a personal trainer. Tuition costs, certification timelines, starting salaries, raises, student loan interest, income caps, and long term take home pay.We compare a $250,000 Doctor of Physical Therapy path (with 6.8% interest and $3,000 monthly loan payments) against a $1,500 personal training certification, and examine what happens over a ten year window when one career starts earning immediately and the other spends seven years in school.This isn’t about bashing physical therapy. If you’re called to clinical rehab inside the healthcare system, PT can be the right choice. But if you care about speed to income, lower debt risk, transferable skills, and scalable opportunity, personal training deserves a serious look.We also unpack:• how raises actually work (not just on paper)• why early income compounds harder than higher starting salaries• realistic salary caps in both careers• ownership, management, and online coaching paths• the myth that personal training “isn’t a real career”If this breakdown helped clarify your path, subscribe, share it with someone weighing these careers, and drop a comment telling us which route you’re choosing, and why.Welcome to The Anthony Amen Show, where fitness, health, and mindset come together to help you become the strongest version of yourself. Hosted by Anthony Amen, founder of Redefine Fitness, the show features real conversations with experts, athletes, doctors, and everyday people overcoming adversity.Each episode covers evidence-based fitness, nutrition, injury prevention, strength training, mental resilience, and lifestyle habits that support long-term change. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just real education, honest discussion, and practical insights to help you take control of your health.This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not provide medical or physical therapy advice. Any exercises or techniques discussed are general examples and not a substitute for care from a licensed professional. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health or fitness routine.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailYou can’t scale chaos.In this episode, Anthony breaks down the uncomfortable decisions that saved Redefine Fitness. From cutting 45 offers down to 3, embracing radical transparency, & learning why systems beat hustle every time.If you’re building a service business, this is the episode that will challenge how you think about money, leadership, & growth.👇 Full breakdown below.You can’t scale chaos, & most founders don’t realize they’re building it.We talk honestly about money, leadership, & survival. From Epidemic shutdowns & lost revenue to rebuilding through systems, documentation, & staying visible when everything stopped. Anthony shares why frontline staff often need to out earn the owner early on, how to think about smart debt vs. bad debt, & why perfectionism kills momentum.If you’re building a service business & feel stuck in the grind, this episode delivers a practical playbook: niche down, respect the math, document everything, & keep shipping… especially when it’s not glamorous.👉 Subscribe, share, & comment the one belief about business you’re unlearning this year.🎥 New episode is live nowSupport the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailRFK’s shift on U.S. dietary guidelines sparks a hard reset on low fat dogma and the war on red meat. We connect the dots between chronic disease, ultra processed foods, and a return to real, satisfying meals built on protein and natural fats.• Why flipping the food pyramid challenges low fat norms• The scale of chronic illness and obesity in the U.S.•The case for saturated fat and red meat in a balanced diet• The role of sugar and ultra processed foods in weight gain• Why older studies fell short and how industry swayed views• Practical targets for protein, fat, and real food choices• Simple swaps like butter and whole milk for better satietyNutrition just got a plot twist: the old low fat playbook is out, and real food is back in the spotlight. We dig into RFK’s move to flip the food pyramid logic and explore what it means for anyone tired of chasing conflicting diet rules while feeling worse year after year. With chronic conditions rising and obesity entrenched, we ask a simple question what if the default guidance has been steering us away from the foods that keep us strong and satisfied?We break down why saturated fat and red meat deserve a fair hearing, not a blanket ban, and how shaky, industry influenced research helped sugar and ultra processed foods skate by for decades. You’ll hear a frank look at study quality, confounders, and why observational headlines rarely translate into smart decisions at the dinner table. Then we get practical: how to center meals on protein, include natural fats, and use fruits and vegetables to round out a plate that actually keeps you full. From butter over margarine to whole milk instead of skim, we show why simple swaps can change your energy, cravings, and mood.By the end, you’ll have a clear blueprint to cut the noise: eat real food, prioritize protein, hit your fat targets, and choose carbs that match your activity. No moralizing, no macros obsession just a balanced approach that respects how the body works and fits real life. If this conversation helps you rethink your plate and your pantry, share it with a friend who’s still stuck in the low-fat maze, subscribe for future segments, and leave a quick review to tell us what you want unpacked next.If you love this and you want more, reach out, happy to do it.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat most people don’t realize is that the same skills required to build a sustainable business are the exact skills required to build a sustainable body—and a stable life.In this episode, Anthony Amen is interviewed about the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and long-term health. We break down the shift from being a passionate coach to becoming a true operator: learning systems, respecting numbers, managing emotions, and thinking in decades instead of weeks. This isn’t about hustle culture or shortcuts—it’s about designing a life that can actually hold success.Anthony shares the frameworks he uses to make high-stakes decisions: when to stay in a 9–5 while building, when asymmetric upside justifies risk, and how the “work-back” method clarifies a 10–20 year future. We also talk about proximity and influence, losing friendships along the way, and how personal growth often requires uncomfortable separation.The conversation gets personal. Anthony opens up about rebuilding his relationship at home, learning emotional regulation under pressure, and realizing that physical training is meaningless if the nervous system, habits, and relationships are broken. The throughline is ownership—of health, reactions, finances, leadership, and legacy.This episode is for driven adults who want more than aesthetics. If you’re trying to build a body that supports your career, a business that doesn’t cost you your family, and habits that actually compound over time, this conversation will give you the mental models to do it right.This is the philosophy behind Redefine Fitness: train for life capacity, not just the mirror.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThis episode of The Anthony Amen Show breaks down why most people fail before the New Year even begins — and how to fix it for good.Anthony explains why traditional New Year’s resolutions don’t work, and why motivation-based goal setting almost always leads to burnout, frustration, and quitting. Instead of vague promises like “lose weight” or “make more money,” he walks through a practical, numbers-based framework that turns big goals into realistic, achievable actions.The conversation dives into SMART goals, prioritization, and why breaking goals down by month, week, and even hour removes overwhelm and decision paralysis. Using real-world business and fitness examples, Anthony shows how massive goals — like building a million-dollar business — become attainable when you focus on systems, vehicles, and consistent execution instead of hype.This episode also challenges how people approach New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, explaining why starting exhausted, hungover, and unfocused sets you up for failure — and how changing that single habit can shift the entire year ahead.This episode is for:• Anyone tired of failing New Year’s resolutions• Entrepreneurs who want clarity instead of chaos• Fitness professionals and business owners who want real growth• People who want structure, not motivationIf you want to start the year with clarity, discipline, and a plan that actually compounds, this episode will change how you approach the next 12 months.Subscribe to The Anthony Amen Show for grounded conversations on fitness, business, leadership, and life.Share this episode with someone serious about making this year different.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThis episode of The Anthony Amen Show is different — Anthony is the one in the hot seat.In a raw, unfiltered interview, Anthony breaks down what it actually takes to move from coach to entrepreneur, and why most fitness professionals never make the jump. We talk about the unglamorous realities behind building a real business: learning to love numbers and systems, deciding whether you’re an operator or a hobbyist, and using long-term thinking to design a life that doesn’t collapse under success.Anthony shares how his passion for coaching evolved into building scalable machines that help more people — and how that shift demanded emotional regulation, better habits, and uncomfortable risk. The conversation covers season-of-life decisions, including when to keep a 9–5 while building at night, when asymmetric upside justifies going all-in, and how to apply “gym logic” to business growth.It gets personal. Anthony opens up about losing friendships, rebuilding his relationship with the woman who became his wife, and learning how proximity, environment, and ownership shape outcomes — in business and in life.This episode is for:Fitness professionals who want more than trading hours for dollarsEntrepreneurs balancing ambition with relationshipsAnyone building something meaningful who feels the weight of responsibilityIf you’re trying to scale without burning out — or wondering what the real cost of growth looks like — this conversation gives you frameworks, not fluff.Subscribe to The Anthony Amen Show for grounded conversations on fitness, business, leadership, and life. Share this episode with someone building their next chapter.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThrowback Episode | The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined)What if the hardest part of fitness isn’t the workout—but choosing the long game when no one’s watching?In this throwback episode of The Anthony Amen Show, formerly known as Health & Fitness Redefined, Anthony sits down with Jordan Syatt to break down what actually drives long-term health, fat loss, and strength. From starting as an eight-year-old wrestler to becoming a science-driven coach, Jordan shares how consistency—not intensity—built his career, his online business, and his three-year run coaching Gary Vaynerchuk every single day with no breaks.This conversation goes deeper than workouts. We unpack the psychology of behavior change, why all-or-nothing thinking sabotages progress, and how food guilt turns small setbacks into spirals. Jordan explains how simple anchors—adequate protein, fiber, sleep, and just two strength training sessions per week—create momentum that actually lasts.As the founder of Redefine Fitness, Anthony connects these lessons directly to what he sees daily in a high-end personal training environment. We discuss why health outcomes continue to decline despite more gyms, more apps, and more information than ever—and how ultra-convenience, isolation, and hyper-palatable foods work against us. The solution isn’t extremes; it’s building systems, structure, and habits that make the healthy choice the easy choice.This episode reflects the core philosophy behind Redefine Fitness and The Anthony Amen Show: train smarter, build strength for life, and prioritize habits that improve physical and mental health long after the workout ends.If you’re looking for a realistic, science-backed approach to strength training, fat loss, sustainable fitness, and long-term health, this episode delivers a clear blueprint.Subscribe to The Anthony Amen Show for expert conversations on fitness, nutrition, performance, and behavior change. Share this episode with someone who needs a reset—and leave a review to help others discover the show.What’s the one habit you’re committing to this week?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThrowback Episode: The future you doesn’t have to be fragile. We unpack a practical blueprint for getting stronger, steadier, and more independent after 50—without chasing extremes or living in the gym. With Graham from Renewed After 50, we break down why resistance training is the most reliable lever for better bones, better balance, and a better mood, and how a few power-focused movements translate directly into real life: lifting grandkids, loading groceries, and catching yourself before a fall.We go deeper than the usual “move more, eat better” advice. You’ll hear how to structure a week around full-body strength, safe power work at 70–85% of your max, cardio that supports heart and brain health, and short daily blocks for mobility and balance. On nutrition, we keep it simple and honest: choose mostly unprocessed foods, prioritize quality protein, read labels like a pro, and use an 80–20 approach so health and joy can coexist. We call out hidden trans fats, discuss plant-forward patterns and lean game meats, and share easy pantry swaps that cut inflammation without cutting flavor.Motivation often starts with a wake-up call—osteopenia on a scan, a stumble on the stairs, a warning about type 2 diabetes. We offer a stronger story: treat fitness like a retirement fund and start “banking” strength, mobility, and metabolic health today. The payoff is a “square” life curve—years of high function, then a short decline—rather than a long slope into dependence.If you want simple steps to feel capable again, this conversation hands you the plan and the why behind it.Subscribe for more practical training strategies, share this with someone who needs a nudge, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. What’s the first habit you’ll start this week?Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if your recovery plan and daily health choices mattered more than any diagnosis code ever could? In this powerful episode, Dr. Karen Shanks joins us to break down why true healing starts long before medications—and why movement, nutrition, sleep, trauma awareness, and agency are the real drivers of recovery.Dr. Karen shares her journey from conventional internal medicine into a prevention-focused practice built on systems biology, root-cause thinking, and actually listening to patients. We talk about why chronic fatigue, post-op pain, and slow recoveries often remain unsolved—not because people are “broken,” but because the system is.You’ll learn why graded movement accelerates surgical healing, how gentle loading reduces pain, why lymphatic flow matters, and how immobilization delays progress. We explore evidence-to-practice delays, flawed incentives in healthcare, and outdated measurements like BMI and low-fat dogma still taught today.Most importantly, we dig into agency: you are hiring your clinician, not giving up control. We discuss the mind–muscle connection, epigenetics, neuroplasticity, and how everyday choices—protein intake, strength work, sleep, stress, connection—reshape your biology from the inside out.Whether you’re recovering from injury, navigating chronic symptoms, or simply want better health, this episode gives you clear tools to start today. Share it with someone who needs direction, and comment with the one action you’re taking this week.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailThe wellness world is louder than ever—trends, shortcuts, and conflicting advice everywhere you turn. On this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I sit down with author and health coach Jen Trepik to cut through the noise and get back to what actually works. At Redefine Fitness, we always say fitness is medicine, and this conversation gives you the blueprint for building a body that performs the way you want it to—long term.We kick things off with a simple question: What does “worked” mean to you? If your goals are better energy, deeper sleep, pain-free movement, or strength that carries you through life, then the method matters as much as the outcome. That’s where most people get stuck. Short-term tactics look impressive, but long-term systems actually transform you.Together, we break down the biggest myths that keep people spinning:Calories aren’t equal when your biology is running the show.Protein’s thermic effect changes metabolism more than people think.Fiber and the gut-brain connection shift cravings without relying on “discipline.”Quick fixes like GLP-1s come with real trade-offs people rarely talk about.Eating out vs. cooking isn’t just about calories—it’s about control and consistency.Variety still matters for micronutrients, resilience, and recovery.Jen lays out a biostack—nutrition, movement, hydration, stress management, sleep, and connection—that mirrors the exact foundation we use at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai. When these six pillars work together, every small habit you love finally has leverage.We also dig into the identity side of change. Community shapes who you become. Surround yourself with people who normalize the habits you want, and progress accelerates. Build simple plates around protein, produce, and quality fats. Anchor your mornings. Protect your sleep window. Stack repeatable wins even on chaotic days.If you feel stuck between fatigue and fads, this episode is your permission to ignore the noise, choose your trade-offs intentionally, and let your body’s feedback drive your next step. That’s how lasting health is built—inside the gym and outside it.Grab Jen’s book Uncomplicating Wellness, listen to her podcast Salad with a Side of Fries, and then come join us on the journey. If this resonated, follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a quick review telling us the one habit you’re starting this week.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailA new name, a wider lens, and a promise to cut through the noise — welcome to The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), the official podcast supporting the mission behind Redefine Fitness, our high-end personal training studios in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, NY. We open the new chapter by tackling one of the biggest problems in health: people chase the scale instead of the signals that actually change their bodies, their energy, and their long-term health.Our guest, Jason, cofounder of Elite HRV and the camera-based body composition platform Spren, shows how better metrics and smarter tools turn effort into results you can finally understand. We trace his path from building analytics in the oil industry to democratizing HRV, and now to turning your phone into a near-DEXA body composition scanner. The goal? Clarity. Instead of obsessing over BMI or weight alone, we shift the focus to body fat percentage, lean mass, and fat distribution — because these are the markers that drive performance, aesthetics, metabolism, and longevity.Jason breaks down visceral fat and the android:gynoid ratio as practical proxies for real health risk. We go deep on why lean mass is one of the leading indicators of aging well, metabolic resilience, and long-term independence. We also tackle modern dilemmas we see every day at Redefine Fitness: “skinny fat” bodies that look fine but hide internal risk, and GLP-1 users losing as much muscle as fat — and how resistance training and protein protect what truly matters.Then we get tactical. Your Basal Metabolic Rate is a starting point, not destiny. NEAT, genetics, behavior, and identity shifts shape your real maintenance needs. Small wins compound. Resistance training pays interest daily by improving sleep, mood, movement, and the ability to do hard things without burnout. We look ahead to how AI will support future health coaching — letting software handle the spreadsheets while coaches and community bring empathy, context, accountability, and the human touch that actually drives change.This episode is about simplicity, not surveillance. Track the few metrics that change outcomes. Let your data guide the next right step. And let strength carry the rest.Want to understand what your body is really doing? Explore Spren at spren.com or in the app store and start tracking the markers that matter. If this conversation shifted how you see progress, follow the show, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the nudge. Your review helps more people discover why fitness is medicine — and how Redefine Fitness helps people change their lives every day.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if peace isn’t something you find by accident but something you build—one habit, one decision, one identity shift at a time? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I sit down with Devon, our Fitness Manager at Redefine Fitness, to walk through his journey from numbness and depression to becoming one of the strongest leaders in our Stony Brook and Mount Sinai studios. His story is proof that who you become is the result of the traits you put into practice every day.Devon opens up about the early years—overtraining, overlearning, and grinding through session-based pay—before moving into a salaried leadership role built on service, reliability, and standards. He breaks down the system he used to rebuild himself: choosing identity traits like hardworking, kind, and dependable, and then hitting those marks through small, repeatable wins. We talk about the neuroscience of motivation, why it peaks right before achievement, and why momentum comes from ten push-ups, a made bed, or any action that proves to your brain: I’m moving.He also shares why he avoids alcohol and most over-the-counter meds due to a family history of addiction, and how that fear pushed him toward whole foods, honest tradeoffs, and a coaching style rooted in transparency. That mindset now shapes how he leads the team at Redefine Fitness—standards first, shortcuts never.We pull back the curtain on premium coaching, too. Real assessments. Deeper accountability. Long-term progress that outlasts trends. When clients invest more, they get more: better programming, better communication, and professionals who have the time and skill to solve real problems—like chronic back pain—through deliberate evaluation and tailored one-on-one training. This is exactly why Redefine Fitness has become the go-to studio for people who want results, not fads.Devon’s long-term vision is simple and bold: build the most educated, dependable coaching team in the market, raise standards so high that it becomes harder to get in, and scale impact by developing coaches who multiply excellence across both locations.If you’re ready to build yourself instead of waiting to be “found,” this conversation gives you the framework and the first step. Subscribe, share with someone who needs a push, and leave a review with the one habit you’ll start this week.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if the moment everything collapsed was actually the moment your real life began? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I sit down with Rick, one of our coaches at Redefine Fitness, to talk through a story that starts with state titles and Friday night lights—and turns into a sudden crash of torn shoulders, a damaged spine, and the heartbreaking discovery of his father’s early dementia. At twenty-two, Rick became the caregiver, the mediator, and the anchor of his entire family. The pressure wasn’t just physical; it was emotional, spiritual, and suffocating. When he finally broke down and begged for a way forward, the path started with a familiar doorway: the gym.We unpack how returning to movement did more than rebuild strength. Rick brought his dad to train, and he watched something rare—coordination, stability, and cognition improve through consistent rehab and personal training. That experience reshaped his philosophy and aligned perfectly with what we preach at Redefine Fitness: fitness is medicine. The gym isn’t vanity—it’s healthcare, resilience, and emotional survival.Rick opens up about concussions, migraines, and the mental spiral that comes from chasing perfection. Instead of swinging between extremes, he talks about learning an approach built on fundamentals: progressive overload with patience, technique as injury prevention, and restoring the body through movement instead of maxing out for ego. His coaching includes one of his favorite success stories—guiding a cautious, self-doubting lifter from the smallest dumbbells to confident, heavy reps through tiny, consistent steps and unwavering belief.Life didn’t stop outside the gym, either. Rick found love, stepped into fatherhood, and brought those values straight into his coaching. He treats clients like brothers and sisters, and when injuries flare up, he doesn’t hide it—he shows the rebuild openly. Rehab plans, setbacks, slow days, and the daily choice to keep going. That vulnerability builds trust and reminds clients that starting over isn’t failure; it’s strength.We explore the future of training and why the bridge between fitness and healthcare matters more than ever—for mental health, pain management, aging, and long-term resilience. Rick’s story is a blueprint for anyone who feels stuck or ashamed of a setback. Expect to fall. Learn to rebuild. Let adversity shape your purpose.If this conversation hits home, tap follow, share it with someone who needs hope, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway. Your support helps more people discover that personal training in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai can be a lifeline—and that rebuilding your life starts with a single step back into movement.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailMost lab reports end with a shrug: “You’re fine.” At Redefine Fitness and on The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), we believe you deserve better than “fine.” In this episode, Brent from Sage Healthspan joins us to break down how to read your blood work with confidence, track trends over time, and turn numbers into clear, doable action steps that actually move your health forward.We unpack why “normal” lab ranges aren’t the gold standard—especially in a population where metabolic dysfunction is common. Brent explains how Sage uses a closed-data AI system to protect your privacy while translating raw biomarkers into insights you can understand. We explore the overlooked markers that genuinely change prevention plans: • ApoB for cardiovascular risk (far more predictive than total cholesterol) • Lp(a) for spotting hidden genetic risk • PSA as an early, frictionless lifesaver for men • Full female hormone panels that reveal what piecemeal testing often missesWe also dig into composite markers, key ratios, and biological age—not as verdicts, but as guideposts that help you choose your next right step.Then we connect labs to real life. Sleep, training load, sunlight, season, fasting, stress, and even your environment all shape your numbers. Wearables like Oura help you decide when to push or pull back. Vitamin D fluctuates with the weather. Testosterone changes with fasting and sleep. Context matters as much as the score itself.Brent walks through how Sage Healthspan centralizes historical labs, normalizes units, explains biomarkers in plain English, and even generates a smart question list you can email directly to your doctor so every appointment is productive. The goal is simple: reduce friction, increase clarity, and build health literacy that compounds over time.If you’re ready to go from “okay” to optimal—and want a framework that aligns with the Redefine Fitness philosophy that fitness is medicine—this episode will show you how to take ownership of your data, fill the gaps in your panels affordably, and make better daily decisions backed by evidence.Subscribe, share with a friend who’s ready to take control of their health, and leave a review to help more listeners discover the show and understand their biology with confidence.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailA brutal chest tear, a fast recovery, and a bigger question: what happens when fitness, nutrition, and medicine actually work together? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), Anthony breaks down his own post-op journey—how early movement, protein, creatine, collagen, and fish oil dramatically reduced pain and accelerated healing. Then we zoom out with Dr. Anderson, a family physician who believes the best care blends evidence-based medicine with lifestyle habits that actually stick.We get candid about the realities of modern healthcare. Many clinics still default to statins; insurance restrictions rush appointments; and most doctors receive almost no training in nutrition or movement. Dr. Anderson explains what a real partnership looks like—where “no” isn’t the end of a visit but the beginning of a plan. We map out supplement strategies that actually move the needle—from omega-3s to collagen to protein intake for women 40+—and why movement, not bedrest, is the engine of recovery.Then we tackle the surge in GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Where can they help? When do they fall short? It often comes down to habits. These meds can flip hunger cues, but long-term success still relies on protein-forward eating, resistance training, and sleep—the same foundational principles we coach every day at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, NY. We challenge outdated measures like BMI, discuss better metrics for real health, and highlight new research showing how training the non-injured limb can speed healing on the injured side through neurological cross-education.We also shine a light on the divide between rural care deserts and urban abundance, why healthcare needs more lifestyle medicine now, and how clients can get better outcomes when doctors and coaches work with each other instead of in silos. If you’re tired of extremes—pill-only fixes or wellness-only promises—this conversation shows the productive middle where real success lives.Hit play to learn how to partner with your doctor, choose supplements wisely, train through setbacks, and protect your long-term health with strategies that last. If this resonated, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review. Your support helps more people discover why fitness is medicine—and how Redefine Fitness helps people recover smarter and live stronger every day.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat if demolition is the point—the chaos before the craft? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I sit down with one of our coaches at Redefine Fitness whose path went from pizza ovens to construction sites to the gym floor. What looked like a messy résumé turned out to be the foundation of his purpose. Carpentry taught him a lesson that now shapes his coaching: swing the hammer, clear the debris, then slow down and get precise. That arc mirrors real transformation—move first, then measure, then refine until the finishing touches feel like art.The shift wasn’t sparked by a certification; it was sparked by a moment of faith. After a family health scare and a prayer that felt like a first, he found faith not as a rulebook but as a source—energy you give that returns stronger. That grounding turned coaching into service, especially with special needs athletes. We talk about the moments that still stop us in our tracks: nonverbal clients spelling joy after conquering hurdles, adults discovering confidence to try new things, families saying they’re seeing a different person at home. The method isn’t complicated, but it’s demanding: radical patience, real respect, and no baby talk. Meet people at eye level. Assume competence. Let your steadiness become their safety.From there we get practical about grit, time, and developing an owner mindset—the same mindset we expect inside Redefine Fitness. We dig into push–pull motivation (fear behind you, vision ahead), how role models transfer resilience, and why loving your day job compounds into better energy for your family and your mission. We talk about buying back time without buzzwords, training your perception to see opportunities instead of problems, regulating emotions when tension rises, and choosing accountability before pointing fingers.If you’ve ever wondered how to turn struggle into service—and why fitness is medicine extends far beyond muscles—this conversation gives you the blueprint. The first steps are messy. The finishing work is worth it.If this resonated, hit subscribe, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review with one habit you’ll practice with patience this week. Your support helps more people find Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, and helps spread the message that real change—inside the gym and outside of it—starts with showing up.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailA rough childhood, relentless bullying, and a quiet kid who found her voice under stage lights—that’s Olivia. In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I sit down with one of our own trainers at Redefine Fitness to trace how color guard and dance opened the door to lifting, and how the weight room shifted from an escape to an identity. We walk through everything from the first signs of muscle to the discipline of competition prep, the mental fog of low calories, and the confidence that comes from stepping into heels, bracing your core, and smiling while an entire room watches your every move.We get honest and technical about bodybuilding—how categories like bikini, wellness, and figure actually differ, what true off-season growth looks like, and why reverse dieting is essential instead of optional. Olivia walks through how show day really unfolds beyond the polished 30 seconds on stage. We also talk openly about performance-enhancing drugs: what athletes gain, what they risk, and the long-term health costs people rarely mention. Olivia shares why she chooses to stay natural, the patience it requires, and why health should last decades—not just a show season.If you’ve ever been told lifting will make women “bulky,” this conversation resets the narrative. We break down the physiology and the myths while highlighting the real benefits of strength training for women: stronger bones, steadier hormones, better mental health, improved body composition, and confidence that shows up in every part of life. At Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, this is the foundation of our approach—strength first, because fitness is medicine.On the coaching side, Olivia explains why training is equal parts mechanics and therapy. An hour in the gym becomes a private space to talk honestly while you push a sled or grind through a final set. Her style blends playful energy with meticulous programming, turning dread into momentum you actually feel the next morning.By the end, one message stands out: happiness rises as you move toward a goal, then dips when you hit it—so keep your goals evolving. Whether you’re chasing your first pull-up, building a stronger off-season, or simply finding more peace in your day, strength is a practice you choose.If this conversation helped you rethink what’s possible, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review with the next goal you’re chasing. Your support helps more people discover that personal training on Long Island can be life-changing when it’s built on education, compassion, and real coaching.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailConfused by weight-loss advice that contradicts itself every ten minutes? You’re not alone—and in this episode of The Anthony Amen Show, I strip it down to the fundamentals so you can finally understand how your body actually burns calories. No trends. No gimmicks. Just biology you can use.Most people don’t realize their body burns hundreds of calories a day simply keeping them alive. That’s your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)—the starting point for every weight-loss strategy that actually works. Add muscle to the equation, and the picture gets even better: every pound of muscle you build burns an extra 7–10 calories per day at rest. This is the backbone of how we coach clients at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai: build muscle, build your metabolism, build long-term results.I walk step-by-step through the math so you can calculate exactly how many calories your body needs. You’ll learn why a moderately active 200-pound person needs around 3,000 calories a day to maintain weight—and how a simple 500-calorie deficit creates steady, sustainable fat loss without starvation, stress, or the rebound effect that sabotages so many diets.We also break down macronutrients and why protein is the star of the show. Your body burns 20–30% of protein’s calories through digestion alone, and research shows protein is far harder to store as body fat compared to carbs or dietary fats. This is a huge reason high-protein diets feel easier and deliver better results for clients across both Redefine locations.If you enjoy social drinking, we have a real conversation about the numbers behind alcohol. One margarita can hit 500 calories, which adds up to a pound of fat per week if it becomes a daily habit. When you understand the math, you gain control—not restriction.This episode gives you the framework most people never learn: • Know your BMR • Calculate your calorie needs • Prioritize protein • Choose foods you enjoy • Build a metabolism that works for you, not against youIf you’re tired of being confused, overwhelmed, or stuck, this is your roadmap. Fitness is medicine, and understanding your caloric needs is the prescription most people are missing.Subscribe and share this episode with someone who feels lost in their weight-loss journey. The right knowledge is freedom—and it starts here.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailEver wonder why Americans are spending more on supplements than ever, yet somehow getting sicker? That paradox sets the stage for this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), where I sit down with Jared St. Clair, host of Vitality Radio and a third-generation supplement store owner with 31 years of hands-on experience separating supplement science from supplement scams.Jared pulls back the curtain on an industry most people trust blindly. He explains why the majority of multivitamins “literally belong in the garbage,” how certain forms of calcium may increase heart disease risk by up to 25%, and why magnesium form matters more than magnesium dose. We dig into how low-quality brands exploit consumer confusion, how counterfeit supplements infiltrate online marketplaces, and why some of the cheapest options on Amazon may come from unregulated factories outside FDA oversight.The conversation hits its stride when Jared breaks down his “Vital Five” — the foundational supplements most adults should consider daily. His explanations are clear, practical, and often surprising. We explore why creatine is no longer just a bodybuilding supplement, but a cognitive health tool for anyone over 35. We also take on one of the biggest myths in wellness: sunscreen. Jared shares why our obsession with SPF may be creating new issues by blocking essential sunlight exposure and altering natural vitamin D production.If you’re overwhelmed by supplements, drained by conflicting advice, or staring at a cabinet full of bottles you barely understand, this conversation will change how you think about your health. You’ll walk away knowing how to identify quality products, understand what your body truly needs, and reclaim your authority instead of outsourcing your decisions to marketing claims and misinformation.At Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, NY, our philosophy is simple: fitness is medicine, and supplementation should support — not replace — smart training, nutrition, and lifestyle choices.Subscribe to the show, share this episode with someone who needs clarity, and leave a quick review to help more people discover trustworthy information that supports long-term health.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when your entire world flips upside down in an instant? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), martial artist and author DK Kang shares the story that forced him to rebuild his life from the inside out. After 34 years of martial arts discipline, nothing prepared him for the moment his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer — followed shortly by losing his job after requesting the flexibility needed to care for her.Most people would collapse under that weight. But DK and his wife made a radical choice: instead of asking “Why us?” they asked, “Why not us?” That mindset shift became their anchor during ten months without income, mounting medical bills, and the emotional whiplash of cancer treatments. What emerged is a blueprint for mental resilience that aligns deeply with the philosophy we live every day at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, NY — that strength is built long before you need it.The conversation takes a powerful turn when Anthony connects DK’s reframing to a biblical principle: do not conform to the patterns of this world. Why be “average” when the average American is overweight, unhappy, and stuck in a job they don’t enjoy? Intentional health choices, identity-based habits, and a refusal to settle become central themes as we explore what it means to design a life instead of defaulting into one.DK shares practical, actionable tools like habit stacking — adding small, positive habits onto routines you’re already doing. His daily push-ups while the morning coffee brews show how tiny, repeatable actions compound into real change without overwhelming your lifestyle. We also confront the stark financial reality of illness: a single chemotherapy treatment costing $80,000. Preventative health isn’t just physical — it’s economic, emotional, and essential.This episode is for anyone facing a crisis, anyone rebuilding, and anyone ready to take control of their mental and physical trajectory. It’s a reminder that you only get one mind and one body — and the choices you make now determine what they can carry tomorrow.Subscribe, share this with someone who needs strength today, and leave a review to help more people discover why fitness truly is medicine for both the body and the mind.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens to a woman’s body after pregnancy goes far beyond what most fitness professionals understand. In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), I sit down with Dr. Carly, a sports chiropractor who specializes in postpartum care, to reveal the hidden complexities of recovery after childbirth — and why “bouncing back” is one of the most misleading ideas in women’s health.“You’re not the same person anymore,” Dr. Carly explains. After delivery, she performs full re-evaluations on every patient because the body you had before pregnancy is not the one you have now. That truth sets the stage for a deep, evidence-based conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and empowers women with real guidance — something we value deeply at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, NY.We break down the postpartum realities most people never hear about. Diastasis recti affects nearly all pregnant women, but it’s not something to fear. Dr. Carly explains how safe, intentional rehabilitation can start within days of delivery, not just after the six-week checkup. We also dig into relaxin, the hormone that loosens joints for childbirth — and why it stays in your system until you finish breastfeeding, leading to instability that can last a year or longer. This affects posture, strength, pain, and performance in ways most trainers completely overlook.Then the conversation takes a powerful turn. Dr. Carly shares her company motto: “Every mom is an athlete.” From deadlifting a toddler to carrying car seats, nursing posture, and daily rotational demands, motherhood requires athletic strength, posterior chain stability, and smart programming. We explore why strengthening glutes, hamstrings, and back muscles becomes essential to preventing injury and restoring confidence postpartum.Whether you're a fitness professional, a pregnant woman preparing for birth, or someone supporting a new mother, this episode delivers clarity, compassion, and immediately usable tools. At Redefine Fitness, our philosophy is simple: fitness is medicine, and postpartum recovery deserves the same intelligence, respect, and individualized care as injury rehab.Subscribe now, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more women access the information they were never taught. We’re building a community dedicated to redefining health and fitness through evidence-based, holistic approaches — one powerful conversation at a time.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailRunning isn’t a punishment — it’s an opportunity to discover what you’re truly capable of. In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), Anthony — a self-proclaimed running hater — sits down with veteran running coach Jason Fitzgerald, founder of Strength Running and one of the most respected voices in endurance training.Jason shares his own surprising origin story: he wasn’t a prodigy, and he didn’t even like running at first. “When I started, I wasn’t very good at it — and I hated it too,” he laughs, giving hope to anyone who currently dreads lacing up. Over 15 years of coaching, he’s helped countless runners go from complete beginners to confident, capable athletes through smart programming, strength training, and a mindset built around growth.We break down the fundamentals most people never learn. Jason explains the key difference between aerobic and anaerobic running, how training shifts between short and long distances, and why strength training is essential for every runner — not just competitive athletes. His simple but powerful framework of “sandwich runs” (dynamic warm-up → run → post-run strength work) lays out a clear blueprint for performance gains and injury prevention. It’s the same principle we use at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, where blending strength and conditioning creates long-term resilience.But the heart of this episode is running’s psychological power. Unlike lifting, which requires intense focus in short bursts, running tests your focus and grit minute after minute, mile after mile. “Mental toughness is the ability to solve problems constructively without panicking,” Jason explains — a skill that transfers to work, relationships, fitness, and every challenge life throws your way. Running teaches you how to stay calm under pressure, break through plateaus, and push beyond limits you thought were fixed.Whether you’re already a runner or someone who’s avoided running for years, this episode offers a fresh perspective. As Jason puts it, “Running isn’t as hard as you think it is. If you give it time and approach it strategically, you can become a much better runner than you think you can be.”Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs a mindset reset, and leave a review to help more people discover why fitness is medicine — and how running can be one of the most transformative tools for both body and mind.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailCould your child’s future success depend on mental skills you’ve never thought to teach them? In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), I sit down with Dr. Christine Silverstein, a peak performance coach with 29 years of experience, to explore the transformative power of what she calls mindful toughness — mental training techniques that strengthen resilience, confidence, and emotional regulation in both kids and adults.Dr. Christine blends her background as a registered nurse with decades of coaching athletes, executives, and individuals through some of life’s hardest battles. She shares her personal story of using self-hypnosis to navigate multiple pregnancy losses and how a near-drowning incident in 2021 pushed her to document her techniques in her book, Wrestling Through Adversity. Her approach is grounded, practical, and deeply human.We confront a growing crisis exposed by the pandemic: a generation of kids (and adults) struggling with anxiety, fear, and emotional fragility. Dr. Christine believes this stems not from weakness, but from a lack of resilience skillsets—tools that were never taught. Her mindful toughness system includes: • Strategic breathing techniques to calm the nervous system • Progressive muscle relaxation for anxiety and pain • Visualization to build confidence and reduce fear • Mental rehearsal to prepare the mind for successShe shares powerful real-world examples, including how these techniques helped turn a struggling high school wrestler into an undefeated champion, and how they helped a college athlete overcome debilitating postoperative pain from knee surgery. These stories highlight a core theme we live every day at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai: the mind and body are inseparable — and fitness is medicine.One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation is Dr. Christine’s take on modern parenting. In an effort to protect children, many parents unintentionally prevent them from developing coping skills. Resilience comes from exposure, not avoidance. When kids learn to navigate discomfort in healthy ways, they build mental strength that lasts a lifetime.“You move in the direction of your dominant thoughts,” Dr. Christine says — a reminder that our mental habits shape our outcomes. Whether you’re an athlete pursuing peak performance, a parent looking to help your child become mentally strong, or someone facing adversity yourself, these accessible techniques offer a pathway to real transformation.Listen now to discover how simple mental tools can change your life — and why mental resilience is one of the greatest gifts you can pass on to the next generation. Subscribe, share with someone who needs this message, and leave a review to help more people understand the true power of the mind.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when traditional medicine fails to heal the invisible wounds of war? In this gripping episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), former Army Ranger Mike Leal shares his journey from the battlefields of Afghanistan to a groundbreaking treatment that restored his brain, his emotions, and his purpose after years of devastation.Mike’s story opens with an unexpected confession: before becoming an elite special operations soldier, he was a college dropout addicted to heroin. Seeking escape, he joined the military… and soon found himself drawn into the U.S. Army Rangers — one of the most demanding assault forces on the planet. After six deployments and countless firefights, the weight of what he witnessed finally caught up with him. “I would get out of work and just start crying in my truck,” he recalls, describing the crushing PTSD and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that medication couldn’t touch.The VA’s answer? More pills. More labels. More emotional numbness. After surviving a suicide attempt and realizing that the system designed to help veterans was fundamentally broken, Mike found a radically different path — one that would change everything. His experience undergoing Ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT treatment in Mexico is nothing short of astonishing. “I could feel the clicking start in both parts of my brain… like someone was plugging pieces of my brain back in and turning them on,” he says. The transformation was immediate — mental clarity, emotional connection, and a sense of purpose returned almost overnight.The most powerful part of this episode is Mike’s new mission: launching a nonprofit to help other veterans access the therapy that saved his life. With approximately 40 veterans dying by suicide every single day, his urgency is unmistakable. “I don’t want them to struggle like I did for 10 years,” he says — a statement that lands with the force of someone who’s truly been to the edge and made it back.Whether you’re a veteran searching for healing, someone navigating trauma, or simply curious about cutting-edge approaches to PTSD and TBI, this conversation offers real hope where traditional methods have failed. At Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai, we believe deeply in the principle that fitness is medicine — and stories like Mike’s remind us that healing must address both the body and the mind.Subscribe, share this with someone who needs to hear it, and leave a review to help more people discover that recovery is possible — even from the deepest wounds.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan MailSkyrocketing in popularity over the last five years, intermittent fasting has positioned itself as the diet trend du jour. But beyond the simple concept of timing your meals within specific windows, does this approach deliver on its promises?This deep dive explores what research actually tells us about intermittent fasting versus traditional calorie restriction. Spoiler alert: when calories are equal, the results are identical. We tackle common misconceptions about metabolism slowing, optimal protein timing, and who should think twice before jumping on the fasting bandwagon.The protein puzzle proves particularly interesting – your body can only use about 30-40 grams of protein for muscle synthesis at once, no matter how much you consume in a sitting. This creates a fundamental conflict with many fasting protocols that limit eating windows. For those seeking muscle gain or retention (which should be everyone looking for sustainable weight management), spreading protein intake across 3-4 daily meals provides significantly better results than cramming it all into one or two meals.Women face unique challenges with intermittent fasting, as it can wreak havoc on hormonal balance, especially during menopause. Meanwhile, those with eating disorder histories might find fasting provides a socially acceptable mask for unhealthy behaviors. But it's not all negative – people struggling with insulin resistance or lacking structure around nighttime eating might benefit from strategic meal timing.Whether you're currently fasting, considering it, or skeptical about the whole concept, this evidence-based breakdown helps you make informed decisions about your nutrition approach. Share this episode with friends contemplating intermittent fasting – because fitness truly is medicine, but only when applied correctly.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com

Send us Fan Mail“Life gave me so much more than it ever took from me.” These words belong to John Carter, and they hit even harder once you hear the story behind them. In this episode of The Anthony Amen Show (formerly Health & Fitness Redefined), John takes us from a life surrounded by the mafia, to being shot in the back of the head, to surviving a three-month coma, to sinking into addiction while wheelchair-bound — and ultimately rising into a life of service, strength, and purpose.John’s recollection of his coma is haunting and beautiful: a continuous dream of competitive swimming where the winner gets to go home. But waking up wasn’t the end of the battle — it was the beginning. Weighing over 300 pounds, addicted, and dealing drugs from his wheelchair, John experienced what he calls “the best moment of my life” when police raided his apartment. His arrest became the intervention he desperately needed.The turning point came behind bars. Three inmates who knew his father decided they were going to rebuild him — literally. They took him to the prison gym every day with one goal: get him out of the wheelchair. Through consistent training, John grew stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally. Fitness became the catalyst for a complete identity shift, aligning perfectly with the philosophy we live every day at Redefine Fitness in Stony Brook and Mount Sinai — that fitness is medicine, especially when life hits hardest.After his release, John faced rejection after rejection because of his speech impediment and limp — until someone finally took a chance on him. From that moment, he built his career one rep, one client, one day at a time. Today, he owns his own gym, maintains long-term clients, and volunteers by providing service dogs to people with mobility challenges. His life is defined not by what happened to him, but by what he chose to do with it.Perhaps the most remarkable part of John’s journey is his perspective. When asked if he would change anything — the coma, the wheelchair, the addiction, the prison sentence — his answer is immediate: “No.” Every challenge brought him to a life of meaning, service, and deep gratitude.If you’re ready to rethink your own limitations, confront your excuses, or find strength in your struggle, this conversation will shift something inside you. Listen now, share with someone who needs hope, and leave a review to help more people discover stories that prove transformation is always possible.Support the showLearn More at: www.Redefine-Fitness.com