Weight Management

Motivating yourself to exercise, despite a busy schedule with Kodjo Hounnaké

Motivating yourself to exercise, despite a busy schedule
with Kodjo Hounnaké
Kodjo Hounnaké of KodjoWorkout.com teaches how you can stay in shape right in the comfort of your homes joins the show.
Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & guest Kodjo Hounnaké discuss the following:
How long have you been leading a healthy life?
What is your workout philosophy?
How do you motivate yourself to exercise, despite your busy schedule?
Tell us a bit about your blog and what people can expect to find on it.
Anything you're currently working on?

My name is Kodjo Hounnaké, and I manage the health blog full time, and work at a Hedge Fund as an investment analyst, also full time (life’s short so multi-tasking is what get you to accomplish your goals faster).
My story is a bit a typical. I’m originally from Togo, a nice little French-speaking country off the coasts of West Africa (grew up there most of my life), and decided to come to America years ago, to attend college and broaden my opportunities. So I took it upon myself to learn English (believe it or not by watching the Oprah Winfrey shows, lots of CNN, CSPAN, Cartoon Network, you name it). I bought a ton of English self-learning audio tapes, and through self-discipline and impregnable resilience, conquered the beast, against all odds!!
So with English now part of my arsenal, I came to the United States and started off in Atlanta, Georgia, attending Morehouse College (this is the same school Martin Luther King graduated from years ago). In any event, I studied finance, and later moved to New York City to work as an investment banker. I later migrated into the world of private equities, and now work at a hedge fund trading stocks and helping manage a multi-billion dollar portfolio of assets.
Working so many hours, it is so easy to unearth plenty of excuses to skip a workout for a day (make it a week; Nah, actually just shut it down completely). Being busy would have been an excellent excuse! But I realized soon enough that I was only fooling myself. Because without health, there’s no paycheck, for without health, there’s no work to go to…Sigh!! So I took it upon myself to devise a strategy to keep me motivated to exercise, and eat healthy.
I thought, a gym was a great way to work out in an environment full of other like-minded people, BUT… a gym could give me an excuse to skip workout (especially in the cold winter months). So I decided to learn a few home exercise routines called bodyweight workout, that I can easily perform at home, and that would be challenging enough to yield effective results. Also, these routines had to be done in less than 30-min because of my busy schedule.
So in the course of working on my new goal, I realized that 1) your body is your best and most reliable gym equipment and 2) your mind is your strongest muscle. Armed with this knowledge, I began to design workout routines that would focus on short-burst, super high intensity segments that push the body to its limit.
But it doesn’t stop there; you also have to incorporate healthy eating into your daily life, so I began to learn to understand the healthy, the not-so-healthy, and the downright junk! As a result, I quit eating McDonald’s (cold turkey), several years ago. It only took a documentary called Supersize Me, to give me enough willpower to break my ties with the red & yellow McDo’ clown!
Then I learnt that soda was toxic due to its aspartame content; and I learnt to stay away from white flour, and to drink at least half my body weight in ounce of water (that means at least 75 oz of water daily, since I weigh about 150lbs). I also learnt to walk more, and drive less, and take regular stairs instead of escalators. I learnt to watch less TV and sleep more.
These are just some of the positive things I learnt on my road to wellness, and I am looking forward to taking in as much more knowledge as I can handle. To all of you out there seeking to make positive healthy changes in your life, ask yourself the following question: If not now, then when!? Be healthy for the people that love you, but most importantly, be healthy for YOU! If you were wondering what some of my home workout routines look like, the below video is an example! Stay well and good luck!
VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV70mwQd0ug

Links: kodjoworkout.com

The 80/10/10 Diet with Dr. Douglas Graham

The 80/10/10 Diet with Dr. Douglas Graham
Dr. Douglas Graham, known as one of the fathers of the raw food movement has authored 5 books including the bestseller The 80/10/10 Diet and joins the show.
Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & guest Dr. Douglas Graham discuss the following:
What is The 80/10/10 Diet?
Why the focus on raw food?
What benefits typically accompany a switch to the 80/10/10 diet?
Don't you miss all the foods you were raised on?
Can athletes use this program? Who shouldn't try it?

Dr. Douglas Graham, a lifetime athlete and 30+ year raw vegan, is an advisor to elite athletes and trainers from around the globe. He has worked professionally with top performers from almost every sport and field of entertainment, revitalizing and extending their careers through nutrition, lifestyle, and his unique brand of fitness training.
Recognized as one of the fathers of the modern raw movement, Dr. Graham has shared his strategies for success with audiences at more than 4,000 events and gatherings worldwide. He gives keynote presentations and seminars guaranteed to educate, motivate, and inspire. He has served on the boards of over a dozen international health organizations.
Dr. Graham is the creator of “Simply Delicious” cuisine and director of a Health & Fitness Week & Fasting Retreats, annual events that provide world-class training and nutritional guidance to people of all fitness levels in beautiful settings around the world. He is living proof that eating whole, fresh, ripe, raw, organic food is the nutritional way to vibrant health and vitality.

Also by Dr. Douglas N. Graham
The 80/10/10 Diet
The New High Energy Diet Recipe Guide
Nutrition and Athletic Performance
Grain Damage
The Perpetual Health Calendar
The Cause of Health (audio series)
For information about Dr. Graham’s books, articles, lecture series, Health & Fitness Weeks, and more, visit www.foodnsport.com.

Links: www.foodnsport.com

Increasing your energy, vitality and health

Increasing your energy, vitality and health
with Randi Dukoff
Randi Dukoff, owner of Core and More Health & Fitness and Partner at Vital Advantage Consulting joins the show.
Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & Randi Dukoff discuss the following:
How do you define health?
What are your top 5 recommendations to increase your energy, vitality and health?
Are there any tests you recommend people have run during their annual check-ups?
Do you think Food can really effect a person's health and energy levels?
What are your top 5 foods to increase your health?

About Randi Dukoff
Twelve years ago, my picture was very different.  To begin, I was 30 pounds heavier than today. I suffered from sinus infections at least once a month a long with a prescription for antibiotics. I had horrendous seasonal allergies and would often feel tired.  I was burning the candle at both ends.  I would wake up early with my three young children and then stay up until between 12:00 and 1:00am getting “stuff” done, that never got accomplished during the day.  I convinced myself that I was a night owl.  My second wind would come around 9:00 pm every evening, even though just hours before I could barely keep my eyes open.  My diet was the SAD (Standard American Diet)  I was a huge meat and pasta eater.  My vegetables consisted of iceberg salads with a creamy dressing or Chinese broccoli in brown sauce.  I didn’t drink “coffee” but I did love Frappacinos every afternoon.  The only fish I ever ate was tuna salad, shrimp and smoked salmon.  I enjoyed fast food, did not cook a wide variety of dishes and I had joined at least 7 gyms and exercise programs but would never go to workout.  I would tell myself, I just don’t have enough time.
The thing is I seemed to make time for everything else, except me.  I was the type of person who would say yes to just about anyone who needed help.  At one point I was a PTA President, running a charity tennis tournament, fund-raising chairperson and class mom for 2 of my three children (all at the same time).
Let’s flash forward to today.  My life, health and world is very different.  The changes were not drastic, they were gradual.  Each positive change that resulted in my feeling better and getting results, led to more.  I lost the extra 30 pounds in less than 18 months.  The best part is that the weight has remained off for over 10 years. Now, I can’t wait to get to the gym and workout, but I only have to go 3-4 times/week.  My diet is completely different then it used to be, but I do not have to deprive myself of foods that I love, I just opened up to including more of what I had been missing. I don’t watch what I eat and I don’t count calories.  You won’t have to do those things either. My cardiac profile and blood fat levels also changed for the better.  My energy levels soar (I don’t have to hit the snooze button in the mornings), my stress has decreased and my productivity and time for my family has increased.  Health is about getting connected to your body.  Really listening so you can understand, what it is asking for.
When you take the time to slow down, tune in you naturally begin to make different choices.  Choices that will lead to having a Flatter Belly, less digestive issues, more energy, better body definition, more stamina, a stronger libido, no more weight issues, more mental clarity, less stress, more financial opportunities and the ability to be more present with the people you love.
I received my training from the C.H.E.K Institute and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where I was trained in more than one hundred dietary theories and studied a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods. Drawing on this knowledge, I will help you create a completely personalized “roadmap to health” that suits your unique body, lifestyle, preferences, and goals.
Randi Dukoff of Core and More…Health & Fitness has years of experience in supporting and coaching Corporate Clients and busy professionals/parents how to decrease their stress, increase productivity by having more energy, and lose enough weight to fit into their “favorite, sexiest jeans” again, all without the frustration of dieting or the danger of popping pills. I have developed a network of referral specialists, to use when necessary. I specialize in Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance, getting you back into your “Skinny, Sexy Jeans” , and getting overworked/time-pressed professionals back to the point of less stress, a flatter belly and the mental clarity needed to have even more productivity and even better relationships. My goal is to get you out of “pain” and back into the zone of HEALTH & ENERGY.  I have incorporated everything I teach into my own life with success.  I understand how important support is on the path to health.  I live what I teach and am living proof that is not difficult to achieve your health goals.
I began my career as a personal trainer through NASM and ISSA in 2003. I later became certified as a C.H.E.K. Nutrition and Life Coach in 2004 and a C.H.E.K. Exercise Coach in 2008 and as a Golf Performance Specialist in 2011. Within a short time, I realized that exercise was just part of the equation. What and when people ate, how much sleep they got and how they manage their Stress levels had a bigger impact on health then we realize. When broken down, exercising 3 times per week could not make up for the minimum 28 times a week we eat. This prompted me to return to school to study nutrition, anatomy & physiology and motivation.
Whatever your health goal is, I am here to support you! If you are ready and willing to make a wonderful change in your life, I will motivate, inspire and empower you to reach your goals.

Links: finalstoptohealth.com
Note: The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the show host or it's owners.

Health risks of being overweight with Amy Fischl

Health risks of being overweight with Amy Fischl
Amy Fischl, Certified Diabetes Educator with University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center joins the program to give easy to use tips on how to eat well and make simple adjustments to your lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight and an active lifestyle.
Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & Amy Fischl discuss the following:

What are the health risks of being overweight?
What does a healthy weight loss program include?
How would I or one get started in a weight loss program?
How do I keep the momentum to continue to lose weight?
What are 5 easy eating tips?

» Note: Refer to audio player below to listen to this episode!
Amy Hess-Fischl is an advanced practice dietitian and coordinator for the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center Teen Transition program, a unique diabetes program for adolescents and teens with diabetes.  She speaks internationally on all diabetes topics, especially children and teens with diabetes, insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors.  She is actively involved in the American Diabetes Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators and the American Dietetic Association.  She was named 2009 Diabetes Educator of the Year by the Diabetes Care and Education practice group of the American Dietetic Association and is currently the chair-elect for the Diabetes Care and Education practice group, comprising of over 6,500 registered dietitians across the country.

Links: kovlerdiabetescenter.org

Mind Over Matter, Specializing in In-Home fitness

Mind Over Matter, Specializing in In-Home fitness
with Joshua Margolis
Joshua Margolis, the Founder of Mind Over Matter, New York's finest fitness professionals specializing in In-Home fitness joins the show.
» Note: Refer to audio player below to listen to this episode!
Specializing in In-Home fitness, Mind Over Matter is dedicated to providing fitness programs that will get you looking and feeling your best. Our approach to a healthy lifestyle will help you lose body fat, better your appearance, boost your energy levels and improve your overall health.

 Mind Over Matter invites you to work with New York City's finest fitness professionals. We design fitness plans that meet your individual goals and inspire you through motivation and guidance. By understanding the mindset and obstacles that New Yorkers face daily, our team is prepared to adjust to your schedule and environment.  Mind Over Matter is also featured on Talking Alternative.com in a weekly radio show about all things health and fitness.
Joshua Margolis, founder, is a fitness consultant with a Bachelors Degree in Sports Psychology. He holds certifications from A.C.E., N.A.S.M, and is also prenatal and postpartum certified. Joshua has been working in the health and fitness arena for over 10 years designing personalized fitness programs which incorporate motivational techniques to enhance performance. Joshua is also the fitness model in “THE DUKE DIET”: world renowned health and fitness book. His fitness philosophy: "Your self image and habits go hand in hand; change one and you will automatically change the other." Contact direct joshua@MindOverMatterNYC.com.

Listen to interview with host Eric Michaels & Joshua Margolis discuss:
What is Mind Over Matter/What do you do?
What separates Mind Over Matter from other fitness related services?
Why did you decide to get into fitness/start Mind Over Matter?
What are the advantages of In-Home fitness?
Why don’t New Year’s resolutions stick when it comes to fitness?

Links: www.mindovermatternyc.com

Training Our Brain To Eat Differently

Training Our Brain To Eat Differently
with Holly Stokes
Holly  Stokes, The Brain Trainer joins the show. She has several Certifications including NLP, TPM, Hypnosis, and Coaching.
Listen to Holly Stokes' interview with host Eric Michaels discuss the following:

There are so many diet programs, shakes and pills out there, and yet America continues to gain weight. So, tell us what we don’t know about weight loss?
How are habits wired into the brain?
Changing our habits sounds hard, we’ve all heard the saying it takes 30 days to make a new habit, what advice do you have for us about making the change?
For our listeners out there, what is NLP that you mentioned?
You also have a book out, what will you cover in the book?

About Holly:
I began working with troubled teens in 1994, helping them improve their communication, confidence, and self-awareness. As a wilderness guide and counselor in therapeutic outdoor programs, I gained experience in group dynamics, taught positive communication skills, led group therapy sessions, and gained insight into motivation and behavior while helping teens prepare for a new future.
My work in these programs led me to finish my degree in Psychology. While doing my coursework, I became fascinated by the results achieved with hypnosis in controlling pain, speeding the body's healing, and quickly replacing old habits. I certified as a Hypnotherapist and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner. These tools were so amazing and effective, Why didn't we have them in working with the kids?
I found my own challenges transformed as I applied the science of shifting perspectives to change the problems. Before I found these tools, I would say I had an unstable self-esteem, I felt good about myself when life was up, but I really criticized myself, felt depressed and even self-abusive when life wasn't working how I wanted it to.
Thanks to the tools of applied psychology and namely, NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) I quickly changed negative self - talk, increased my confidence and self-esteem, and found it easier to roll with the ups and downs of life, even enjoying the downs! I used to be afraid about the future, I felt stressed and anxious and found it difficult to make plans or have a long-term vision. Now, I see a bright and positive future that continues to evolve with me as I grow.
If I had one message to share - I would say, "Life can be amazing and the way to your amazing self and future lie in your brain!"
You may have really struggled with challenges, been self-critical, but found old problems and patterns difficult to change. You may have even thought, "I know I shouldn't be thinking this," but you still have the thought or the feeling. These patterns are difficult to change because they are wired into your brain and they run automatically.
For more on Holly Stokes click here...
Links: alighteryousystem.com
Note: The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the show host or it's owners.