Down and Dirty with Nathaniel Ernst

Today on the Down and Dirty podcast, we welcome back Jacqueline Civitarese, a wonderful and inspiring guest who we last heard from in Episode 5, where she spoke about her weight loss journey and the importance of aligning your inside with your outside. Since then, Jacqueline has continued with her transformational journey, hitting those crucial milestones, and today we hear about all the changes she's seen along the way. Join the conversation as Jacqueline shares her latest milestone, how the meaning of exercise has evolved, and some of the most memorable challenges she’s encountered along the way. We also explore why she took motivation out of her equation, how her identity has shifted through her experience, and what she means when she says she has “lobstered!” Tune in to hear all this and much more, including Jacqueline’s advice for anyone who’s ready to start their journey to improved health. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Jacqueline Civitarese on LinkedIn Jacqueline Civitarese Email Jacqueline Civitarese on X E5: A Weight Loss Journey: Aligning Your Inside With Your Outside with Jacqueline Civitarese David Goggins Tony Robbins: 'What is priming? How can I use priming psychology?' Tony Robbins: Priming Excercise Bird Box Jay Shetty Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

There is something incredibly satisfying and rewarding about eating an animal that you caught, processed, carried, and cooked yourself. Today’s guest is an amazing hunter who recently killed a massive moose. Louis Brown joins us to share the incredible story of his most recent (monumentous) moose hunt! Tuning in, you’ll hear all about what a hunt looks like, why he selected a male moose for this particular hunt, why scouting is important, what a hunting opportunity is, how to call a moose, and more! Louis goes on to explain his moose sighting, shooting the beast, processing him all alone while he waited for his hunting community to help, and how they carried 500 pounds of meat out of the woods. Finally, our guest tells us what he loves most about hunting. To hear all this and more, press play now! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Louis Brown on LinkedIn Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Wake surfing is gaining popularity at a remarkable pace. Mastering the challenging feat requires skill and determination, but once you’re up and riding, that endless wave can bring pure joy! We are thrilled to have as a guest today World Champion Wake Surfer, Bailey Rush. We get down and dirty about all things wake surfing. From how to get into wake surfing, what it's all about, the different boards and tricks, and the impressive story of how Bailey went from just trying it out to becoming a world champ in just a few short years. Be sure to tune in now to hear all this and more! Thanks for listening. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Bailey Rush on Instagram Bailey Rush on TikTok Water Ski and Wake Alberta Competitive Wake Surf Association World Wake Surf Championships Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Curious about how the condition of your oral health might offer insights into your overall health? Then this episode is for you! Today’s guest is Dr. David Xu, a dedicated and accomplished dentist with an educational background of note. He studied at the New York University College of Dentistry and currently resides in Calgary, Alberta, and works out of Beddington Dental Clinic. Join the conversation as we get right into the down-and-dirty of oral health as Dr. Xu shares valuable insights and goes over the Dos and Don’ts of how to take care of your pearly whites. He is passionate about oral education, including good oral hygiene habits, because in the end prevention is key! Tune in to hear many valuable insights, including how genetics plays a role in oral health, the best flossing techniques, the difference between a stain and plaque, what foods to avoid, the main purpose of fluoride, and much more! Thanks for listening. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Dr. David Xu on LinkedIn Beddington Dental Clinic Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

In today's captivating discussion, we sit down with a true expert in the field of mental health and psychology, Rameen Kargger. Rameen is a registered psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists, boasting an impressive track record of over 12 years helping individuals triumph over life's myriad of challenges. He is also the Founder of Grit Psychology, a counselling agency providing a multidisciplinary approach and high-quality counselling to individuals, couples and families. In our conversation, we dive headfirst into the deep waters of mental health and uncover insightful perspectives on depression and anxiety. Discover the essence of self-awareness in mental health and gain insights into clinical depression and its root causes. Rameen also dissects relationship dynamics, proactive versus reactive mental health approaches, and the insidious nature of resentment. We also explore the various resources available for people seeking to improve their mental health, the nuances of cognitive behaviour therapy, how fitness plays into mental health, and much more! Join us for this enlightening episode as we navigate the intricate terrain of mental health and psychology, guided by the expertise and compassion of Rameen Kargger. Tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Rameen Kargger on Linkedin Rameen Kargger Email Grit Psychology The College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) Feeling Good Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Alpinism is the art of scaling mountain summits and climbing rock walls in high-altitude environments. It involves a variety of physical and technical skills, but as today’s guest demonstrates, it also requires an enormous amount of patience, camaraderie, and risk calculation, plus a whole lot of passion! Tuning in, you’ll hear from Arc'teryx athlete, Jon Walsh, who is known as one of Canada's great alpine climbers. Jon has completed various first ascents around the globe including Patagonia, The Karakoram, The Bugaboos, and the highest point in the Canadian Rockies, the Emperor Face of Mount Robson. In this Down and Dirty conversation, we dive into some of his epic adventures and the obstacles he has encountered along the way. Jon offers some insight into the technicalities of alpinism, the equipment and research necessary to complete a climb like this, and what it feels like to complete a first ascent. As they say, what goes up must come down, and Jon also sheds some light on the process of descending a mountain after summiting it and shares some cautionary tales and close calls from his uniquely impressive alpine resume. For an in-depth look at what it takes to master the mountains, don’t miss today’s episode with alpine legend, Jon Walsh! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Jon Walsh Arc'teryx Jon Walsh on Instagram The Alpinist Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

In this inspiring episode, we welcome James Moran, a dedicated husband and loving father of two who shares his remarkable transformation from a staggering 450 pounds to a healthier, happier life. Join us as we delve into James' everyday struggles, including the career that drained his energy and left him with no time for self-care or his health. Discover how James took control of his life, shedding over 200 pounds and uncovering his true calling as an advocate for mental health. In our conversation, we discuss the emotional and mental hurdles of his weight loss journey, how he pushed through his hesitation and fear of going to the gym, leveraging his guilt as a motivator for change, how he keeps inspired, and much more. Join us for an uplifting and enlightening conversation as James shares his powerful story of reclaiming his life, inspiring listeners to take charge of their health and mental wellness, and a reminder that change is possible for everyone. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: James Moran on Instagram DripFit CrossFit Nutrabolics Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Most people are familiar with Joe Keery from his breakout role as Steve Harrington on Stranger Things, a role that has given him worldwide fame and recognition. But as Nathaniel found out working with Joe over the last six months, he is a really humble and down to Earth guy, with a great attitude towards his work, health, and enjoying life. Joe sits down for this episode to talk about his work shooting in Calgary, some of his fitness goals over the last few months, and his upcoming projects for the rest of the year. We also get to hear about his favourite spots in Calgary and his passion for food! Not content with merely acting, Joe is also a recording and touring musician, and he shares why this provides a nice contrast to his time on film sets, and how he maintains a healthy balance between these two parts of his creative life. Make sure to tune in and catch it all, with the one and only Joe Keery! Key Points From This Episode: Stranger Things Links Mentioned: Joe Keery on IMDB Joe Keery on Twitter Stranger Things Inn from the Cold Fargo Jon Hamm Galaxie Diner Nupo Shokunin The Last of Us Rollings Stones Led Zeppelin Indiana Jones House of Cards Juno Temple Safari Meats Loose Moose Theatre Missy's Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Today is an exciting episode as we try something a little different, with guest host Tyler Morgan. Tyler, a dear friend of Nathaniel, will be taking over the microphone to interview your favourite host, Nathaniel Ernst. You won't want to miss this opportunity to delve into Nathaniel's past and discover what ignited his passion for fitness. Tyler and Nathaniel discuss his professional journey, including the many jobs he worked along the way, and how he ultimately found his true calling in the fitness industry. Hear about how working on the rigs impacted him physically and mentally, why he chose not to pursue bodybuilding, his reasons for starting NATEFIT, what he has planned for the future, and much more. Tune in to this captivating conversation and learn more about your favourite host Nathaniel Ernst! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram Muscle & Fitness University of Lethbridge Alberta Kinesiology Association Mount Royal University World Health Calgary on LinkedIn Ascension Fitness GoodLife Fitness Joel Goullet on LinkedIn Tyler Morgan on LinkedIn

Today we have the privilege of speaking to Chris Cederstrand, a man who has overcome incredible odds to become a true champion of the human spirit. A former aspiring hockey player, Chris's life was forever altered when he lost his leg in a devastating construction accident. But rather than giving into despair, he chose to forge a new path; one of inspiration and hope. As North America's first above-the-knee amputee firefighter, Chris has shown that true bravery is not the absence of fear but the willingness to face it head-on. Through his work with the Cederstrand Foundation, Chris has helped to empower countless individuals to overcome adversity and reach their full potential. In our conversation, he shares how he lost his hockey career due to concussions, the impact post-concussion syndrome had on his physical and mental health, and details about the accident that changed his life forever. Chris also tells us about how his approach to life changed, how his original prosthetic limb initially limited him, his struggle with medication, and the impactful role that sports played in his recovery. Hear about how he fulfilled a childhood dream despite his amputation, the biggest barrier to getting a prosthetic, the other people he drew inspiration from, the importance of mindset, and a takeaway message he has for listeners. Tune in to hear why the only limits in life are the ones you place on yourself with inspiration, Chris Cederstrand! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Chris Cederstrand Chris Cederstrand on Instagram Chris Cederstrand on LinkedIn Chris Cederstrand on Facebook KidSport Calgary Cederstrand Foundation National Hockey League Red Deer Rebels Tyler McGregor Billy Bridges C.T. Fletcher Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Welcome back to the show and today we are doing something a little bit special! Corey Kristianson sits down with Nathaniel to go through a bunch of questions and answers about the basics of his workout and nutrition plans. This is the perfect opportunity to explore all the fundamental aspects that Nathaniel utilizes, and underline the most important details of this kind of coaching. The conversation covers common questions about getting lean while building muscle, balancing different constraints, diet and caloric intake, tracking, and much more. Nathaniel also spends some time talking about the dangers of muscle and tissue compensation, and the different routes we can take toward building more muscle in our bodies. One of the biggest general ideas here is to find the methods that work for you and stick to them; too much switching is never a good thing! So to hear it all in this great episode with Nathaniel and Corey, tune in today. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: MyFitnessPal Huberman Lab ‘Work Volume and Strength Training Responses to Resistive Exercise Improve with Periodic Heat Extraction from the Palm’ ‘Stanford researchers’ cooling glove ‘better than steroids’ - and helps solve physiological mystery, too’ Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Are you looking for ways to measurably reverse your biological clock, so you can look, feel, and perform at your best now and into the future? Well, today’s guest, Lisa Krzyzewski is on the very same mission with her new company, Aeon Future Health. A first of its kind in Canada, Aeon specializes in longevity and health optimization by using advanced technology, pharmaceuticals, and hormone replacement therapy. Lisa tells us of her background and what led her to found Aeon, her struggles with chronic migraines and her journey of finding a solution, how a change in diet has significantly decreased her asthma attacks, and the various treatments she’s used for pain. As we dig deeper into Aeon, we gain insight into the treatments and technologies that they use, how they help clients with hormonal and lifestyle discrepancies, why the CAROL bike and the ARX machine are incredible innovations for the health industry, and the difference between concentric contractions and eccentric motions. We end by discussing the importance of adequate rest and recovery, NuCalm and other recovery tools that Aeon use, the emerging space of red light therapy, and the ins and outs of vitamin IV bags and NAD treatments. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Lisa Krzyzewski on LinkedIn Lisa Krzyzewski on Twitter Lisa Krzyzewski on Instagram Aeon Future Health Aeon Future Health on Instagram Aeon Future Health on Facebook Dr. Rhonda Patrick on LinkedIn Sauna | Found My Fitness Centre for Sleep CAROL Bike NuCalm Muse Hyperice (NormaTec) Lifespan Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT Calgary Exposed 5K NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

In Canada, the need for adequate housing almost doubles with each passing year. And especially after COVID, this trend is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. But there are some non-cape-wearing heroes who are looking to provide care and support to families who are in need. Joining us today is Nathaniel Miller, the Director of Programmes at Inn from the Cold, a Calgary-based charity that helps desperate families regain their independence through adequate and affordable housing. We learn about Nathaniel’s role in the company and what the organization does, and then we take a look at the incredible impact that the charity has had on its community. You’ll learn why dignity, kindness, and compassion are core values for Nathaniel and his team, how they end up providing parental advice, why the housing crisis is more nuanced than what appears at first glance, and the stigmas we need to let go of about people who are facing a housing crisis. Then, we take a closer look at the programmes Inn from the Cold offers, their financial breakdown and how they distribute funds, the magnitude of their influence in numbers, and what they do when they reach capacity at their facilities. Inn from the Cold’s every endeavour is to provide hope when all else seems lost and you’ll learn how you can get involved in their cause. They will again be our main charity recipient at the upcoming NATEFIT Calgary Exposed 5K race. Be sure to tune in for more details! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Nathaniel Miller on LinkedIn Nathaniel Miller on Twitter Inn from the Cold Calgary Homeless Foundation HomeSpace Dr. Michael Ungar Dr. Gabor Maté Trellis Society Zeffy Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT Calgary Exposed 5K NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Are you a thrill-seeker, trail runner enthusiast, or lover of mountain hiking? Our guest today is a mountain athlete/ trail runner who specializes in ultra sports, or ultramarathons, which is any race longer than the standard 42km/ 26-mile race. We welcome Adam Campbell, whose passion lies in exploring the Alpine, whether it's running, skiing, or climbing. He is a former professional triathlete, narrowly missing the Olympics, who now spends his time in the mountains with multiple podiums and many prestigious ultra races, and breaking Guinness World Records. In our interview today, Adam shares where his interest in different sports originated and how he switched from a triathlete to a mountain athlete. He talks about his first 100-miler race, how he prepares, and the different effects elevation has on his training and races. We then hear about his grisly climbing accident that left him with broken bones and other injuries. He shares with us his journey, both physical and mental, as he trained and ran his first race post-injury, and what it was like to accept his new physical capacity. To hear more about his amazing journey, don’t miss out on this episode of the Down and Dirty, Integrating Health & Fitness with Nate Ernst podcast. Tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Adam Campbell on Instagram Adam Campbell on Twitter Muddy Socks inReach Arc’teryx Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

With the advent of social media and the rise of access to information, an increasing number of people are incorporating aesthetic injections like Botox and fillers into their anti-aging routine. While public perception of these types of procedures has started to shift, there are still plenty of misconceptions when it comes to what exactly these practices entail. Especially when we’re typically bombarded with images of people who have had extreme procedures done, rather than more subtle modifications. Joining us today to shed some much-needed light on this topic is Alana Vollrath, a medical aesthetic injectionist with ten years of experience as a nurse, and owner of The Aesthetic Room YYC. We hear from Alana about how she made the transition from nursing to medical aesthetics, and why having a comprehensive knowledge of anatomy is so important in this field. She goes on to provide a detailed overview of the types of treatments she offers, including Botox and dermal fillers, (and the risks involved) before describing the significant psychological and physical benefits that clients experience after these procedures. We also discuss the medical applications of Botox, how to dissolve dermal fillers and how to find the right practitioner for you. If you’re curious about these types of procedures but are unsure of where to begin, then be sure to tune in for this informative conversation! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: The Aesthetic Room YYC The Aesthetic Room YYC on Instagram Alana Vollrath on LinkedIn Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Because of the large proportion of time we spend sitting, our lack of understanding of what our core really is, and advice that many doctors give to rest for unnecessarily long periods, we are losing our ability to move our bodies optimally. In today’s episode, Dr. Chelsey Fricker, a chiropractor operating from Optimum Wellness in Toronto, joins us to share her approach to treating her patients, which involves teaching them the art of movement! You’ll also learn about some of the most common causes of the injuries that Chelsey sees in her practice, symptoms that require immediate attention, analogies that she provides to her patients to get them to do their homework, why we should all be visiting a chiropractor once a month, and lots more! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Optimum Wellness Dr. Chelsey Fricker Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

A collaborative approach to physiotherapy, or patient care, not only gives the patient a much better plan of care and outcome, but is mutually beneficial for the communication and referral network between the therapist, doctor, and other health practitioners involved in the rehab journey. Our guest on the Down and Dirty podcast today is Cody Gramlich, clinic director, and physiotherapist at Peak Health & Performance, Elbow location. Join the conversation today as we hear from Cody about what piqued his interest in physiotherapy and his journey from being a kinesiologist to becoming a physiotherapist at Peak Health & Performance. He dives into his beliefs and approach to patient care, how they structure and facilitate patient-centered care at Peak Health, and the importance of educating your clients throughout their treatment journey. Our discussion also leads to the multifactorial sensation of pain, common shoulder injuries, and how to prevent and rehab them. For all this, and much more, tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Cody Gramlich Peak Health & Performance Caleo Health Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Obesity and its associated health problems are a major concern around the world. The mix of convenience and busy lifestyles often lead people down an unhealthy lifestyle path, often to weight gain and the onset of obesity. Although exercise and diet can help with obesity, a more holistic approach incorporating mental health and lifestyle is needed to lose weight. In this episode, we speak to Dr. Jordan Vollrath, a family physician, Chief Marketing Officer of Cherry Health, and the Medical Director at The Aesthetic Room YYC. In our conversation, we talk about Dr. Vollrath’s role at the Alberta Obesity Centre, the different ways to treat obesity, and some strategies to help you with your weight loss journey. We start by learning more about his work and how mental health contributes to obesity. We then delve into the topic as Dr. Vollrath explains the clinic’s approach to treating obesity, food as a coping mechanism, the role of medications in treating obesity, and the concept of mindful eating. We also discuss the various surgical interventions available, the differences between intense and non-intensive exercise, how much you should be eating in a day, what foods should be avoided, why tracking calories is vital, and much more. Tune in to hear how you can begin your weight loss journey and why a multidisciplinary approach works, with Dr. Jordan Vollrath! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Dr. Jordan Vollrath on LinkedIn Cherry Health The Aesthetic Room YYC Alberta Obesity Centre MyFitnessPal WeightWatchers Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Have you ever convinced yourself that you would ‘love to start running but don’t know how’? While this may be true, most people just admittedly don’t want to build discipline, practice patience, and work through potential boredom. Charles Miron, an endurance athlete and coach, uses his experience and expertise to break down the different components of running, why it is so important to use proper techniques, and how to use them to improve. You don’t have to hit the ground running! In fact, Charles explains that the first step on your running journey is actually walking. Everyone may have different running goals, but the steps you take end up being one and the same. Whether you’re just a beginner or a long-time runner, this episode is filled with valuable information you don’t want to miss! Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Solo Sport Systems Episode 3: It’s All Mental with Charles Miron Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram

Please note, this episode covers topics regarding miscarriage that some listeners may find upsetting. Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting times of a person’s life; however, the journey is not the same for everyone and is full of unexpected twists and turns. In this episode, we speak to Dr. Alisha Rai, a Family Physician with a keen interest in women’s health and preventative medicine. She is also the co-founder of Hope for Cerebral Palsy, an organization dedicated to providing resources for early intervention therapy sessions for children with cerebral palsy. In our raw and emotional conversation, Dr. Rai shares her journey to motherhood and raising a child with special needs. We discuss the miscarriages, embryo adoption, and birth trauma. We also talk about the emotional and psychological toll it had on her and her husband, how they overcame it, how the overall experience changed their perspectives, and what motivated them to start Hope for Cerebral Palsy. We also learn about the work other organizations are doing, the amazing progress her son is making, and what listeners can do to help. Tune in to hear a story of hope as Dr. Rai opens up and makes herself vulnerable to help other parents going through something similar in this very raw and honest conversation. Key Points From This Episode: Links Mentioned: Dr. Alisha Rai on LinkedIn Hope for Cerebral Palsy Hope for Cerebral Palsy on Instagram Hope for Cerebral Palsy on Facebook SMILE Therapy Nathaniel Ernst Nathaniel Ernst on LinkedIn NATEFIT NATEFIT on Facebook NATEFIT on Instagram