Real Talk with Rebel Fitness

In a very RELEVANT episode, Carissa and Shemar discuss how health and fitness fit into life when it seems like everything around us is on fire. With all of our current events, it's a tough time to be informed or to be an empath, let along keep up with a fitness routine...so here is our take on how to stay grounded, how to keep your health and nutrition as a priority and most importantly to validate what you may be feeling in these tough times - YOU ARE NOT ALONE! :) Support the show

On this episode, the Rebel Fitness GM, Reuben, stops by the pod for the second time to jam with Shemar on all the things that grind our gears as fitness professionals in this space. Support the show

This episode is an educational look at the InBody Scanner and why we use it at Rebel Fitness. We break down why we ditched the scale and started using the InBody only at the gym, how it works, why we love it, challenges we've encountered while using it and also what trends it has helped us see over time! Support the show

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In this episode, Carissa and Shemar talk about the unbelievable cost of health in today's world. And how much the marketing and messaging are convincing us that we need the latest of every health thing under the sun (most of which doesn't actually contribute to health or wellness at all). Superbowl commercials are on the chopping block, detoxes and maybe even your favorite new hydronating water bottle ;) Most of us need the absolute basics when it comes to health and fitness..,but we are getting duped into the expensive side of fitness. This episode will address the elevating prices in the fitness space, while also reminding you that there truly is no cost to being healthy when you break it down! Being your best self doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag - we promise!Support the show

We love this episode! Carissa and Shemar dive into how the gym world turns competitive instead of community driven and how that leads to toxicity in a space that is meant for health! Rebel found it's niche in community not competition and we want other health and fitness providers to follow our lead! There's love for the winter olympians, hate for super bowl commercials (yes again), and other current events...ya'll know it always stays relevant! Support the show

We are treating this episode like the FAQ section! We go into the most often asked questions of Rebel; from programming, to weight neutral, to weight loss challenges and more...this is one of our favorite episodes so far! We also get fiesty about the olympics and super bowl commercials...again lol! Don't miss it! Support the show

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On this exciting episode of Real Talk, Shemar sits down with Parker Byrd, a local ECU baseball player that experienced a tragedy that led to the loss of his leg before his Freshman year of college. Shemar and Parker discuss how fitness and health look different for both of them since their lives changed. This episode is powerful, inspirational and you do not want to miss it! As always, check us out at: www. rebelfitnessnc.com Want to support the podcast? Click here and become a one time or continuous donor...we appreciate the support more than you know! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2507079/supportSupport the show

On this episode, Carissa and Shemar share their favorite "hot takes" in the health and fitness industry. The list consists of SLOWING TF DOWN, building habits first, working on your mental health before getting serious about a fitness program, focusing on macros instead of calories, paying attention to the journey NOT the result...and more! Everything is health and fitness is guilty until proven innocent - PERIOD! www.rebelfitnessnc.com Support the show

It's SEASON TWO BAYBEEEEE! Welcome back ya'll! We took a little break after season one, and now we're back! In this episode, Carissa and Shemar dive into the barriers to health and fitness, some examples, how to intentionally plan for them, and how to move through them. In the world we live in, it's tough to just enjoy the journey without being caught up in how to get from point A to point B all the time, and it keeps us stuck in a cycle of quitting and beginning again...this episode will help shine some light on that cycle and how to change your mindset to break it for good! For the last few minutes, Carissa thanks everyone for tuning in on season one and helping to make the podcast a success it's first season! Real Talk with Rebel Fitness hit a bunch of goals (1000+ downloads, was a top show on Spotify wrapped, recorded and published 25 episodes, just to name and few) and we could not have done it without our listeners! Thank you!www.rebelfitnessnc.comSupport the show

On the final episode of this series AND season, Carissa and Shemar get into how to keep rolling on your resolutions, goals and/or intentions for the long term. Sustainability is the most important (and usually the most lacking part) of resolutions and it's gotta change! Listen up and let's make our new game plans for 2026 stick! CHEERS TO A NEW YEAR and thank you so much for an amazing first season! Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Ya'll asked for it, and here it is! Carissa finally gets into some of the nitty gritty details on her history with health, fitness and weight loss and how it ultimately led to her starting one of (if not the only) openly weight neutral and anti-diet culture gyms in the country. Starting her first diet at 13 years old, Carissa goes through in detail what that was like, and looking back, some things that may have caused it. Then fast forwarding through college years as a D1 athlete and what that did to her body image and disordered tendencies, up through motherhood, to now. It's a roller coaster, but it's raw and real. Give it a listen and let us know what you resonate with! Support the show

We're back with Part 2 of New Year New Game Plan! In the first episode we talked a lot about why New Years resolutions don't work and how to change your mindset around setting them. In this episode we dive into why these goals should not be rooted in vanity or societal standards, and how to make them actionable and sustainable! Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

In this episode, Carissa and Shemar chat with local therapist Rachel Schwager about her history with an eating disorder and how she uses her lived experience to help others and their mental health journey now. This episode dives into how to recognize disorder, what therapy and healing in this space looks and feels like, how to navigate things like social media, your support system, & boundaries. Rachel also gives some incredible tactical advice on redefining health to help clarify your values - and ensuring those things line up! As always, if you are someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, please reach out for help. If you are local, please feel free to reach out to Rachel for support or to schedule and appointment: Rachel Schwager, MSW, LCWA, LCASA(252) [email protected] more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

On this episode of Real Talk, Carissa and Shemar dive into the disorder of New Years Resolutions, why they keep failing you (and everyone else) and how to start adjusting your mindset to create more powerful, more impactful and more sustainable resolutions. Part one gets into the psychology of New Years; how we've been trained to think about it, how gyms are trained to market it, and how to recognize the crazy in our past attempts at health and fitness and set a new path for true health. Support the show

Carissa and Shemar discuss the importance of non-scale victories (NSV) or ways to measure health and fitness success that do not include using a scale and weight. Using NSV's increases success rates, quality of life, and ability to stick to a goal or plan! And for fitness professionals and gym owners it's a game changer for retainment and actually helping people hit goals! So what are they and how do we shift our mindset toward them? Listen to the pod and get all the details!Support the show

From dealing with family dynamics and setting realistic goals to managing holiday stress and food cravings, this episode offers practical advice for enjoying the festive months of October, November, and December. The conversation covers acknowledging the upcoming busy season, setting boundaries, maintaining a healthy mindset, and fostering joy, fellowship, and community. Tune in for tips on balancing indulgence with wellness, overcoming the social pressures of diet culture, and making the most of holiday gatherings without guilt.Support the show

Carissa and Shemar are joined by special guest Courtney, a registered dietitian and professor at ECU, to discuss weight neutrality and the harmful effects of diet culture. The conversation reveals the long-term impact of dieting, the rise of eating disorders, and the importance of creating a supportive, inclusive fitness environment. Courtney talks about intuitive eating, her work with the Carolina Resource Center for Eating Disorders, and the necessity of rethinking health behaviors beyond weight loss. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on how to foster a healthier relationship with food and exercise.www.crcfored.comSupport the show

Carissa is joined by her friend Cat to dive deep into the journey of exposing diet culture, healing from it, and rebuilding true health. They share personal stories and experiences, discuss the steps they've taken to heal, and emphasize the importance of modifying goals and creating a supportive environment. Kat also highlights the importance of protein, the triggers associated with diet culture, and the empowering process of setting boundaries. If you're looking to break free from the chains of diet culture and embark on a true journey to health, this episode is for you. Don't miss out! Like, subscribe, and share with anyone who needs to hear this message.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Ghosts and ghouls, welcome to a super spooky special edition of 'A Real Talk with Rebel'! Join our hosts, Shamar and Carissa, as they dive into the eerie world of fitness trends and myths. From the harmless apple cider vinegar shots to the downright terrifying black market tapeworms, we categorize and debunk popular fitness trends. Discover the truth behind juice cleanses, fat burners, waist trainers, and more. Plus, get ready for some bone-chilling jump scares as we reveal some of the scariest diet and fitness practices around. Whether you're into spooky spirits or ghastly gym trends, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate the fitness world safely. Gather 'round, put on your costumes, and let's dive into this Halloween special!Support the show

Carissa and Shemar delve into the poignant yet inspiring story of Shemar's battle with childhood cancer. Recorded at the end of September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, this episode aims to raise awareness and share firsthand experiences. Shemar reflects on his diagnosis, treatment, and how fitness became the cornerstone of his recovery. They also discuss the importance of a supportive community and the role of empathy and kindness in fitness coaching. Join them as they celebrate three months of successful podcasting and share valuable life lessons on perseverance, gratitude, and the power of movement. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation packed with emotions, resilience, and motivation. If you wish to contribute, please consider donating to Riley's Army, a Greenville nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer. Link belowhttps://rileysarmy.com/# Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

We are going to challenge the traditional ideas of what's 'good' and 'bad' in the fitness and health world. Join us as we debunk common fitness myths, discuss the flaws in diet culture, and offer actionable advice on how to find balance and sustainability in your health journey. From evaluating your workout frequency to understanding the true impact of cheat meals, we emphasize the importance of moderation and a personalized approach. Tune in for a refreshing perspective on fitness that's rooted in realism and genuine well-being.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Initially planned as a Q&A session, the episode takes a profound turn as they address pressing questions from listeners about diet culture's impact and the path to recovery. Carissa shares her personal journey of identifying and recovering from diet culture, offering actionable advice for listeners struggling in similar ways. The conversation covers recognizing diet culture in everyday life, the messy but necessary process of healing, and strategies for building true health beyond superficial solutions. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion aimed at reclaiming autonomy and fostering genuine well-being.Support the show

We tackle the big question: what supplements are truly necessary for a successful health and fitness journey? Spoiler alert: the answer might surprise you. We discuss why supplements should not be considered essential, focusing on the importance of good nutrition, exercise, and sleep instead. However, supplements can still give you that extra edge, so we break down our top favorites, including creatine, protein, and fiber supplements, while also cautioning against the pitfalls of fat burners and detoxes. We also touch upon the emerging trend of weight loss injections and how to approach them responsibly. Tune in for an episode packed with honest insights, research-backed advice, and practical tips to help navigate the overwhelming supplement market.Support the show

🔥 Welcome back to Real Talk with Rebel! In this episode, Shemar and Carissa dive deep into the age-old debate: Cardio vs. Weightlifting. Should you pick one, or do you need both? Spoiler: It’s not an “either/or”—it’s an “and”!We break down: • The unique benefits of cardio (heart health, mental health, weight management, and more) • Why weightlifting is crucial for strength, bone density, and long-term independence • How to find the right balance for your goals, lifestyle, and enjoyment • Common fitness myths and trends (and why you shouldn’t believe everything you see online) • The truth about “toning,” gender roles in fitness, and starting at any age • Tips for building sustainable habits and making fitness funWhether you’re a cardio lover, a weight room regular, or just getting started, this episode will help you create a routine that works for YOU.👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! 🔔 Hit the bell so you never miss an episode. 📲 Follow us on Instagram and YouTube for more content, product reviews, and behind-the-scenes. 💪 Want extra content and community? Check out our skool (like Patreon) for exclusive access!#rebelfitness #rebelmentality #252 #podcast #FitnessPodcast #RealTalkWithRebelSupport the show

In this episode, we explore the dial method. A mindset shift away from extreme dieting and workouts to a sustainable, balanced approach to health and fitness. Joined by Brenna, we discuss her journey through fad diets and yo-yo fitness, and how adopting this new mindset has positively transformed her life. Discover how to build lasting, healthy habits and the importance of flexibility and consistency in fitness.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Come along with us as we delve deep into the world of nutrition, emphasizing the importance of staying within professional scopes. We discuss how gyms and fitness professionals often overstep their boundaries, offering advice that should be reserved for registered dietitians or nutritionists. The conversation moves towards the consultative approach at Rebel Fitness, prioritizing personalized programming based on individual goals, schedules, and budgets. Misconceptions about protein, fiber, and water intake are debunked, while emphasizing the dangers of extreme dieting and weight cycling. We highlight the importance of understanding one's relationship with food and discuss actionable steps towards healthier eating habits. With our own personal stories and industry insights, this episode aims to educate and empower listeners to make informed nutrition choices without falling prey to diet culture fads.Support the show

Carissa and Shemar welcome special guest Kate Phillips. Kate shares her journey of fitness, faith, and finding her 'why' as she prepares to head off to college. With over a year and a half of training at Rebel, Kate opens up about overcoming societal pressures, the importance of a deeper purpose, and how her faith in Jesus Christ has anchored her through various challenges. This episode delves into the complexities of diet culture, fitness expectations, and the significant transformation that comes from understanding one's true motivation. Don't miss Kate's powerful insights and heartfelt advice for young women navigating their wellness journey.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Carissa and Shemar dive into the concept of running a weight-neutral gym, Rebel Fitness. They discuss the importance of focusing on health and fitness without the primary goal of weight loss, aiming instead to help clients build muscle, improve metabolism, and achieve functional fitness. The duo also addresses the toxic elements of diet culture, the pitfalls of conventional gym advertisements, and the necessity of a more holistic and realistic approach to health and wellness. Tune in to learn how Rebel Fitness offers individualized programming, consultations, and educational support to build a more sustainable and healthier fitness journey.Support the show

Alberto shares his inspiring story of how he met his personal trainer, the changes he has experienced in his confidence, energy levels, and the impact of consistent habits on his overall life. From overcoming injuries to building a supportive community, Alberto's testimonial highlights the unique and positive environment at Rebel Gym. Don't miss out on hearing his tips and advice for anyone considering joining the Rebel family!Support the show

Shemar and Carissa discuss the importance of focusing on a healthy metabolism rather than just weight loss, advocating for body recomposition and strength. The episode emphasizes a protein-first nutrition strategy and the significance of strength for longevity. They also debunk common fitness myths, highlight the nuances in health and fitness, and introduce the 'Dial Theory' for maintaining balanced and realistic fitness routines. This episode is packed with insights for those looking to adopt sustainable health and fitness habits while rejecting harmful diet culture.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

The team behind the dream. In this episode of 'Real Talk with Rebel,' we sit down with Reuben Mills, the General Manager of Rebel Fitness. Reuben shares his journey into the fitness industry, from starting out in middle school to becoming a GM. He discusses the challenges and rewards of managing a gym, the importance of finding a fitness routine that you enjoy, and the misconceptions about fitness. Reuben also delves into his personal fitness goals and hobbies outside the gym, providing a comprehensive view of his life and career. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and advice.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

In this heartfelt episode, Carissa and her longtime friend Cat dive deep into the personal and emotional journey of health and fitness. From their beginnings in the gym to the struggles with perfectionism, eating disorders, and the pressures of diet culture, they share raw and vulnerable stories. Cat opens up about her past with sports, her disordered eating habits, and the impact of programs like 75 Hard on her mental health. The conversation also highlights the importance of community, the transformation at Rebel gym, and the ongoing process of healing. This episode is a powerful reminder of the challenges many face in the pursuit of health and the necessity of a supportive environment in overcoming them.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

In the second episode of Real Talk with Rebel Fitness, hosts Carissa and Shemar introduce the core values, or 'Pillars,' that guide their weight-neutral gym, Rebel Fitness. They discuss the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment, focusing on gratitude, love, courage, passion, authenticity, perseverance, and service. The episode delves into the challenges of running a gym counter to diet culture and emphasizes the significance of genuine connections and community involvement. They also touch on the impact of these pillars on their business practices, programming, and member interactions, providing insights for both potential gym-goers and fitness professionals.Want more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Real Talk with Rebel: Our Journey from Franchise to True HealthWelcome to the first episode of Real Talk with Rebel! In this debut episode, Carissa and Shemar dive deep into the story behind Rebel Fitness. They discuss the journey of transitioning from a traditional franchise gym model focused on weight loss to creating a community centered on true health and wellness. They share personal experiences, challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how they redefined their gym's mission to prioritize genuine health over quick fixes. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories and learn what sets Rebel Fitness apart in the industry.00:00 Introduction to Real Talk with Rebel00:33 The Birth of Rebel Fitness02:05 Challenges and Realizations08:48 COVID-19 and the Pivot11:38 Rebranding and New Philosophy20:06 The Unexpected Motivation from Trolls20:44 The Struggles and Evolution of Our Fitness Program21:39 Integrity Over Profit: Our Stand Against Six-Week Challenges22:47 The Importance of True Health and Member Support23:42 Rethinking the Business Model for Sustainable Fitness26:25 Building a Community of Like-Minded Individuals31:59 Shemar's Inspiring Journey and Philosophy on Fitness36:52 Introducing the Rebel Fitness PodcastWant more info on Rebel Fitness? Visit our website: www.rebelfitnessnc.com and check us out on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: @rebelfitnessncSupport the show

Welcome to "Real Talk with Rebel Fitness," your source for honest, no-nonsense health and fitness advice. We tell the truth, always.Support the show