Why does discipline feel harder than it used to?
Why does motivation feel inconsistent?
Why do so many people feel scattered, overwhelmed, and quietly ashamed for not being able to “pull it together”?

In this episode, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores a deeper explanation most self-help and wellness conversations completely miss: we’re living in a post-modern world with tools designed for a modern one.

This is Part One of a two-part exploration into the post-modern self — the psychological, philosophical, and nervous-system realities of living in a world without a single story, a single identity, or a shared definition of meaning.

This episode isn’t about fixing anything yet.
It’s about naming the terrain.

By understanding the cultural conditions shaping your inner world, you can stop blaming yourself for struggles that actually make perfect sense.

In This Episode, We Explore

• Why many people feel fragmented, dysregulated, and overwhelmed — even when they’re “doing everything right”
• How post-modern life dismantled the idea of a single, stable identity
• Why your nervous system already knows the world has changed, even if your beliefs haven’t caught up
• The difference between modern and post-modern ways of understanding truth, identity, and meaning
• Why inconsistency is not failure — it’s a response to complexity
• How artists, thinkers, and lived experience often sense cultural shifts long before psychology and self-help name them
• Why post-modernism is powerful at diagnosis but incomplete as a way of living
• The hidden cost of trying to navigate a plural, unstable world with outdated internal rules

Key Themes

• Fragmentation vs. failure
• Complexity vs. chaos
• Awareness vs. leadership
• Identity as a system, not a singular self
• Nervous system responses to cultural instability

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is for you if:

• You feel like the old rules for success, discipline, or self-improvement no longer work
• You struggle with motivation, consistency, or direction and blame yourself for it
• You feel pulled in multiple directions and don’t know which version of yourself to listen to
• You sense that something bigger than “bad habits” is shaping your inner life
• You want language for what you’re experiencing — not another plan to fail at

Important Note

This is Part One of a two-part conversation.

This episode focuses on understanding the problem clearly — the cultural, psychological, and philosophical conditions shaping the modern self.

Part Two explores what comes next:

• how to build a center,
• how to lead a self made of many selves,
• and how to live with integrity inside complexity.

The Panopticon of Self-Help: Seeing the System Without Losing Yourself

Stop being a project and start being a person. This week, we expose the dark side of the self-help world, arguing that modern productivity apps, health trackers, and optimization culture are a "Digital Panopticon"—a system of self-surveillance that traps you in a fear-based performance loop.

Is your pursuit of growth truly liberation or is it just maintenance? Drawing on The Matrix and philosopher Michel Foucault, host Jeb Stuart Johnston breaks down the illusion of "Awareness Without Embodiment" (the Cypher paradox) and reveals the quiet, revolutionary power of Radical Acceptance.

Learn how to reclaim your autonomy, move from fear-based perfection to Value-Based Growth, and find real freedom within the system. This is your red pill moment: wake up without burning out, and begin the Quiet Rebellion of living from intention instead of imitation.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to the Matrix Metaphor

Jeb Stuart Johnston introduces the concept of the Matrix as a metaphor for modern life, exploring how systems intended for safety can become constraints that limit personal freedom and growth.

00:03:00 Personal Reflections on Productivity

Jeb shares personal experiences, reflecting on how productivity and performance can be mistaken for purpose, and how self-development can sometimes turn into self-surveillance.

00:06:00 The Digital Panopticon

The discussion shifts to the digital age, where the Panopticon metaphor is applied to modern technology, illustrating how digital tools can train us to optimize ourselves, often at the cost of personal freedom.

00:09:00 Radical Acceptance and Self-Leadership

Jeb delves into the importance of radical acceptance and self-leadership, emphasizing how these concepts can lead to true freedom and personal growth, beyond the constraints of societal expectations.

00:12:00 Jiu-Jitsu and Real Power

The final chapter explores the lessons of Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting how the practice teaches power through presence and humility, offering a path to real strength and self-awareness.

00:15:00 The Illusion of Control

Jeb discusses the illusion of control in self-development, where the pursuit of growth can become a form of self-imposed surveillance, and how awareness can lead to liberation.

00:18:00 Embracing Radical Acceptance

The conversation turns to embracing radical acceptance as a means to navigate the complexities of modern life, allowing for personal growth without the need for constant validation.

00:21:00 The Role of Technology in Self-Perception

Jeb examines how technology influences self-perception and the importance of using digital tools consciously to enhance rather than hinder personal freedom.

00:24:00 Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to practice self-leadership and radical acceptance in their own lives, fostering a sense of freedom and authenticity.

self help, self improvement, productivity culture, optimization trap, digital panopticon, radical acceptance, mental health, personal growth, self surveillance, The Matrix metaphor, Neo or Cypher, Michel Foucault, Panopticon theory, awareness without embodiment, illusion of control, Quiet Rebellion, Value Based Growth, Awakened Genius, Food on the Mind podcast, Jeb Stuart Johnston, Jiu Jitsu lessons, stop being a project, functional awareness, how to stop optimizing your life, dark side of self-help, wake up without burning out, how to practice radical acceptance, escaping the performance loop, self-improvement vs self-surveillance

Keywords

transformation, success, Sisyphus, personal growth, inner conflict, progress, resilience, self-acceptance, journey, meaning

Summary

In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the myth of success and the pursuit of fulfillment through the lens of personal experience and philosophical insights. He discusses the common belief that achieving goals will lead to happiness, only to reveal the emptiness that often follows. By examining the story of Sisyphus, he highlights the futility of endless striving and contrasts it with the importance of embracing the journey itself. Johnston emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective from seeking external validation to finding meaning in the process of growth and self-acceptance. He advocates for redefining progress as the small, often unnoticed choices that shape our character rather than the pursuit of lofty goals. Ultimately, the conversation encourages listeners to carry their burdens with dignity and to focus on who they are becoming rather than where they are going.

Takeaways

We often believe that achieving our goals will lead to fulfillment.

The myth of success can leave us feeling empty and betrayed.

Sisyphus represents the futility of endless striving without meaning.

Transformation is about the journey, not just the destination.

Rebellion against despair is not enough; we need to integrate our experiences.

Life is more like a spiral staircase than a linear climb.

Every setback is an opportunity for growth and learning.

Progress should be measured by our presence and alignment with values.

The real mountain is the inner conflict we face.

Carrying our burdens with dignity is what truly matters.

Chapters

00:00 The Myth of Arrival

04:56 The Story of Sisyphus

09:58 Rebellion vs. Rhythm

15:11 The Spiral Staircase of Progress

25:35 The Inner Conflict

31:39 Redefining Progress

40:27 Carrying Your Boulder with Dignity

Keywords

fitness, nutrition, self-compassion, body image, perfectionism, coaching, mental health, holistic approach, community, personal growth

Summary

In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Dr. Maryam discuss the intersection of fitness, nutrition, and mental health, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and community in coaching. They explore the challenges faced by fitness professionals regarding body image and perfectionism, and how these issues can impact their clients. The discussion highlights the need for a holistic approach to fitness that prioritizes connection and understanding over strict adherence to traditional fitness narratives.

Takeaways

Coaching is about connection, not just expertise.

Self-compassion can buffer against disordered eating.

Perfectionism in fitness can lead to negative outcomes.

Community support enhances the fitness experience.

Research should inform practice, but not dictate it.

Self-criticism can drive performance but may hinder well-being.

Creative expression is vital for personal growth.

The hero's journey in fitness often overlooks community.

Allowing clients to fail is part of the coaching process.

Self-compassion is essential for high performers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Holistic Fitness Perspectives

02:16 Maryam's Background and Coaching Philosophy

05:11 The Intersection of Research and Real-World Coaching

07:34 Exploring Body Image and Perfectionism in Fitness Professionals

10:21 The Role of Self-Compassion in Fitness and Nutrition

12:51 Challenging the Tough Love Mentality

15:24 Contrasting Self-Compassion Models

18:18 The Importance of Community in Fitness

21:01 The Psychological Impact of Perfectionism

23:30 Navigating Personal Struggles in the Fitness Industry

26:08 The Need for Self-Compassion in High Performers

28:47 The Journey of Personal Growth and Coaching

31:41 Creative Expression and Its Role in Wellness

34:10 The Balance Between Self-Criticism and Self-Compassion

36:52 The Hero's Journey in Fitness

39:45 Conclusion and Future Directions

Find Marayam on IG @marayamymarashi

Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey has become the dominant myth of our time—from Hollywood blockbusters to recovery programs, from self-help seminars to social media transformations. It promises that your struggles have meaning, that your pain has purpose, and that you're destined for something greater.

But what if this powerful framework is quietly feeding something darker?

In this episode of Food on the Mind: Awakened Genius, Jeb Stuart Johnston dives deep into the shadow side of Campbell's monomyth, exploring how the very story that's meant to unite us under shared human experience can actually breed narcissism, self-righteousness, and dangerous division. Johnston examines the "protagonist delusion"—how casting yourself as the hero automatically reduces everyone else to supporting characters in your movie. He unpacks the uncomfortable truth that every villain in history has also seen themselves as the protagonist of their own heroic story.

But this isn't just criticism. Johnston also explores Campbell's original intent, defends his insights against misinterpretation, and most importantly, discovers how to reclaim this archetypal pattern in healthier ways. Instead of hero, what if you approached your journey as a pilgrim? Instead of projecting villains onto others, what if you did the shadow work within yourself? Instead of personal glory, what if transformation was always about service to your community?

Whether you're working on your relationship with food, navigating recovery, or simply trying to make sense of your struggles, this episode will challenge you to question the stories you tell yourself about your life—and offer a more grounded, empathetic way forward.

Because maybe the most heroic thing you can do is stop trying to be the hero at all.

Topics covered:

• The psychological appeal of heroic narratives
• How protagonist thinking kills empathy
• Why villains always see themselves as heroes
• Campbell's original vision vs. modern distortions
• Shadow work as the real journey
• Moving from personal triumph to communal healing
• Practical exercises for reframing your story

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Hero's Journey

00:49 Understanding the Hero's Journey Framework

04:42 Personal Reflections on Transformation

06:35 The Dark Side of the Hero's Journey

08:29 Cultural Implications of Heroic Thinking

10:24 The Protagonist Delusion

12:24 Villains and the Hero's Narrative

14:53 The Dangers of Self-Righteousness

15:58 Binary Thinking and Its Consequences

19:00 The Hero's Journey in Recovery

21:25 Campbell's Intentions and Misinterpretations

24:09 The Importance of Community in the Hero's Journey

27:28 The True Nature of Transformation

29:32 Reframing the Hero's Journey

33:10 Practical Applications of the Hero's Journey

35:29 From Hero to Pilgrim

37:12 Shadow Integration

39:23 Community Contribution

41:54 Living the Hero's Journey Practically

44:10 Reflection and Self-Examination

50:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Keywords

Hero's Journey, Joseph Campbell, Transformation, Personal Growth, Psychology, Community, Recovery, Narcissism, Shadow Work, Pilgrim Consciousness

Summary

In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the intricate relationship between our nervous system and behavior change. He challenges the conventional understanding of willpower, suggesting that it is not merely a moral virtue but a tool that functions best under regulated conditions. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding our internal states and how they influence our choices, advocating for a bottom-up approach to behavior change that prioritizes bodily awareness and regulation. Johnston emphasizes the need for gentle persistence in developing a healthier relationship with our nervous system, ultimately framing transformation as a collaborative process rather than a struggle against oneself.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Food on the Mind

00:36 Understanding Internal Dialogue and Willpower

02:42 The Role of the Nervous System in Behavior

07:23 Reframing Willpower: Tool vs. Muscle

10:12 Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Approaches to Change

14:04 Practical Framework for Regulation

16:54 The Ecological Nature of Regulation

19:58 Gentle Persistence in Regulation

23:01 The Partnership with Our Nervous System

Keywords

food psychology, willpower, nervous system, behavior change, Polyvagal Theory, emotional regulation, personal development, self-awareness, mindfulness, transformation

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Dal discuss her journey as a nutrition coach, exploring the cultural influences on body image, the challenges of yo-yo dieting, and the importance of self-trust and emotional regulation. Dal shares her personal experiences with weight loss, the impact of social media, and her aspirations to help others while maintaining a balance with family life. The discussion emphasizes the significance of connection, tradition, and compassion in the coaching process.

Takeaways

Dal's journey into nutrition coaching began with her own struggles with yo-yo dieting.

Cultural influences significantly shaped Dal's perception of body image and self-worth.

The importance of emotional regulation in maintaining weight loss and overall well-being.

Dal emphasizes the need for self-trust and intrinsic motivation in the weight loss journey.

Social media can have both positive and negative impacts on body image and self-esteem.

Building connections and traditions is vital for emotional health and family dynamics.

Dal's coaching philosophy focuses on compassion and understanding rather than just numbers.

The journey of weight loss is multifaceted and involves more than just calories in and out.

Dal's experience highlights the importance of community support in personal growth.

The conversation underscores the need for coaches to be relatable and compassionate.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dal's Journey

03:45 Cultural Influences on Body Image

11:47 The Struggle with Yo-Yo Dieting

15:01 Managing Fear of Weight Regain

20:49 The Role of Education in Coaching

23:56 The Challenge of Listening as a Coach

26:58 Finding Joy in Client Progress

31:34 Navigating Social Media Influences

38:38 Future Aspirations in Coaching

41:20 The Importance of Family Traditions

43:58 Cultural Connections and Support Systems

45:10 The Role of Compassion in Relationships

IG: @nutritioncoachingbydal

Summary

In this conversation, Jeb Stuart Johnston and Sarah Cunningham discuss the critical role of nutrition in combat sports, particularly boxing. Sarah shares her journey from being a nurse to a sports nutritionist, emphasizing the importance of year-round nutrition for fighters rather than just during training camps. They explore the significance of food quality, stress management, and the mental aspects of training. Sarah also highlights the importance of recovery rituals and the role of supplements in maintaining fighter health. The discussion concludes with insights into the professional standards in sports nutrition and the importance of having a knowledgeable coach.

Takeaways

Sarah Cunningham transitioned from nursing to sports nutrition.

Nutrition is crucial for recovery after fights.

Fighters should focus on year-round nutrition, not just during camps.

Quality of food and timing are essential for performance.

Mindset and stress management are vital in training.

Meditation can help fighters prepare mentally for fights.

Supplements like creatine and hydration are important for fighters.

Understanding the stress of being a fighter helps in coaching.

Professional standards in nutrition are essential for athlete health.

A structured yearly plan can enhance a fighter's performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Combat Sports Nutrition

02:54 Sarah's Journey: From Nursing to Boxing Nutrition

05:39 Shifting the Paradigm: Year-Round Nutrition for Fighters

08:38 The Importance of Food Quality and Timing

11:24 Mindset and Stress Management in Combat Sports

14:22 Rituals and Recovery: Preparing for Fights

17:09 Brain Protection and Supplementation for Fighters

19:47 Professional Credentials and Impact in Boxing Nutrition

23:12 Navigating Risks in Combat Sports

26:38 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship

Keywords

combat sports, nutrition, boxing, athlete health, weight management, stress management, performance, recovery, supplements, sports nutritionist

Summary

In this episode of Food on the Mind Awakened Genius, host Jeb Stuart Johnston welcomes nutrition coach Joe Husky to discuss the intersection of nutrition, coaching, and identity. They explore the importance of in-person coaching experiences, the impact of language on nutrition education, and the significance of focusing on youth athletes. Joe shares his personal journey as a coach and father, emphasizing the need for positive language around food and the role of mentorship in shaping coaching philosophies. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of building a local coaching business and the importance of community engagement in fostering lasting change.

Takeaways

Transformation isn't just about what's on your plate.

The importance of identity in nutrition and fitness.

Nutrition can get in place a little better maybe sooner.

In-person coaching provides invaluable experience.

Emotional responses play a crucial role in coaching.

Focusing on youth athletes can create a positive impact.

The power of language in nutrition education is significant.

Curiosity in coaching leads to deeper understanding.

Clarity in business direction enhances coaching effectiveness.

Engaging with the local community is essential for change.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Food on the Mind Awaken Genius

03:56 The Importance of Identity in Nutrition and Fitness

05:29 In-Person vs. Online Coaching: The Value of Experience

10:49 Focusing on Youth Athletes: A Personal Journey

13:52 The Power of Language in Nutrition Education

18:28 Future-Proofing Through Youth Coaching

19:55 Navigating Online Coaching Challenges

24:00 Shifts in Coaching Philosophy and Personal Growth

28:26 The Importance of Clarity in Coaching

30:19 Building Connections in the Coaching Community

31:44 Utilizing Social Media for Local Engagement

33:34 Making Local Changes for Greater Impact

34:24 The Value of Mentorship in Coaching

Summary

In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the concept of the 'Power Trap,' discussing how individuals often trade their integrity for approval. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey through performance and the hidden costs associated with seeking validation. The conversation delves into the importance of reclaiming one's voice and values, the illusion of success, and the need to write one's own story rather than conforming to external expectations. Johnston emphasizes the significance of self-leadership and authenticity in overcoming the pressures of societal approval, particularly in the fitness and coaching industries.

Takeaways

Transformation isn't just about what's on your plate, it's about what's on your mind.

The chase for approval can lead to losing oneself.

Performance can become a survival strategy that feels hollow.

Success doesn't equate to self-worth or fulfillment.

Reclaiming your voice is essential for true freedom.

Writing your own story is crucial for authenticity.

The fitness space is caught in a battle between influencers and evidence-based professionals.

Self-leadership is about knowing who's driving your actions.

You can practice enoughness before achieving your goals.

Awakening is a lifelong practice of returning to self.

Chapters

00:00 The Power Trap: Chasing Approval

04:23 The Cost of Performance: Losing Yourself

09:06 Reclaiming Your Voice and Values

13:50 The Illusion of Success and Recognition

18:33 Writing Your Own Story

25:58 The Path to Self-Leadership

Keywords

power trap, approval, performance, self-leadership, authenticity, identity, personal growth, coaching, self-worth, transformation

Summary

In this episode of Food on the Mind, Jeb Stuart Johnston explores the intricate relationship between boredom, dopamine, and motivation. He challenges the common misconceptions surrounding dopamine, emphasizing that it is not merely a pleasure chemical but rather a driver of pursuit and anticipation. The conversation delves into the biology of habituation, explaining how the brain adapts to consistent behaviors, leading to feelings of boredom. Johnston provides practical strategies for rewiring the reward system to maintain motivation without relying on constant novelty. He also shares coaching tools to help individuals cultivate a sustainable relationship with their goals, emphasizing the importance of identity over intensity in the journey of transformation.

Keywords

dopamine, motivation, boredom, behavior change, fitness culture, neuroscience, habits, coaching, self-improvement, identity

Takeaways

Dopamine drives pursuit, not just pleasure.

The brain adapts to consistent behavior, leading to habituation.

Boredom is often misinterpreted as a lack of motivation.

Sustainable change requires understanding the brain's natural rhythms.

Rewiring the reward system can help maintain motivation.

Celebrating small wins reinforces consistency.

Coaching should focus on identity-based motivation.

Gamification can make the process engaging.

Reflection prompts help recognize progress.

True transformation often feels boring but is deeply meaningful.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Food on the Mind

01:35 Understanding Boredom and Dopamine

09:47 The Biology of Habituation

18:41 Rewiring the Reward System

26:39 Coaching Tools for Long-Term Change

50:54 Recap and Reflection