Interviewed the day after celebrating his 58th birthday, in this episode Darren Moore, a National Board Certified Health Coach and Certified Personal Trainer working in the San Francisco Bay Area, shares his journey toward a healthy, active lifestyle and how he helps others achieve the same through his business, Between the Ears personal training and coaching.

Darren discusses the importance of finding activities you love, the challenge of overcoming societal norms, and the significance of focusing on body composition rather than weight. He also opens up about his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and how it has shaped his approach to fitness and life. The conversation emphasizes the power of intrinsic motivation, the benefits of a supportive community, and the importance of a skilled coach. Darren's story serves as a source of inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:57 Darren's Background and Mission
02:06 The Origin of “Between the Ears”
04:49 Early Life and Double Dutch
08:10 Struggles with Weight and Love of Aerobics
18:31 The Importance of Muscle Mass
25:28 Journey into Tennis
31:59 Tennis and Social Connections
33:08 Pickleball vs. Tennis
35:50 Creating a Personal Toolbox for Health
37:00 Dealing with Health Setbacks
39:48 Living with Multiple Sclerosis
49:57 Becoming a Personal Trainer and Coach
56:43 Success Stories and Client Relationships
01:01:04 Handling Resistance and Client Expectations
01:05:18 How Darren Works with Clients
01:06:37 Conclusion and Action Portraits

Portrait Galleries
https://portraitsinfitness.com/podcast/darren/

Darren's Website
Between the Ears Coaching

Darren's Social Media
Instagram
Facebook

Gratitude Nature Walks
For locals, and those able to make it to the East Bay of the SF Bay Area, Darren also hosts monthly Gratitude Walks on the first Saturday of each month. Search Eventbrite for "Gratitude in Motion" to register for the next walk!

Mics used:
David - Røde NT1 5th Gen.
Darren - Neat Worker Bee (OG)

Portraits in Fitness is a multimedia venture featuring podcasts and portraits in collaboration with San Francisco Bay Area photographer David J. Toman. Originally launched in late 2022 as the Fit Over 50 Podcast, it has been renamed to better reflect its unique nature as a podcast sandwiched by photo shoots, in studio and on location.

If you are middle-aged or older, live an active lifestyle in which a physical pursuit is integral to your life, and would like to participate in the project as a subject, you are invited to learn more and apply at the project website. Please check the site for updated portrait galleries of our guests, and spread the word and invite someone you know!

https://portraitsinfitness.com/podcast/

Application Form:
https://forms.gle/8pWYTN9zLMg5B3YX8

In this brief solo episode, David J. Toman, a portrait, headshot, and sports photographer based in the San Francisco Bay area, introduces his podcast's new home and name, Portraits in Fitness. Originally named the Fit Over 50 Podcast, this project started from David’s portrait project aimed at capturing fit individuals over 50. The podcast aspires to share the inspiring stories of these individuals, emphasizing their motivation and lifestyle rather than discussing fitness routines, tips, or gear.

David explains his personal connection to the project, including his journey of overcoming a persistent back injury, losing weight, and gaining strength through regular training. The podcast is not just about physical fitness but an exploration of what keeps people motivated and active. David hopes to inspire listeners through the stories shared on his podcast, now hosted on www.portraitsinfitness.com, where audiences can find galleries of past guests and audio episodes.

There is also a video version of this episode on YouTube.

Mic Used:
Electro-Voice EV664 (circa 1960-64)

Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to the New Home of Portraits in Fitness
00:17 The Evolution of the Podcast: From Fit Over 50 to Portraits in Fitness
02:30 Behind the Scenes: The Portrait Project and Podcast Process
02:56 Why Black and White? The Artistic Choice in Photography
03:43 The Essence of the Podcast: Beyond Fitness How-Tos
04:09 Renaming and Refocusing: The Journey to Portraits in Fitness
06:07 Personal Transformation: A Host's Journey to Fitness
09:47 Strength Training: A New Chapter in Fitness
11:41 Inspiration and Progress: Closing Thoughts

Portraits in Fitness is a multimedia venture featuring podcasts and portraits in collaboration with San Francisco Bay Area photographer David J. Toman. Originally launched in late 2022 as the Fit Over 50 Podcast, it has been renamed to better reflect its unique nature as a podcast sandwiched by photo shoots, in studio and on location.

If you are middle-aged or older, live an active lifestyle in which a physical pursuit is integral to your life, and would like to participate in the project as a subject, you are invited to learn more and apply at the project website. Please check the site for updated portrait galleries of our guests, and spread the word and invite someone you know!

https://portraitsinfitness.com/podcast/

Application Form:
https://forms.gle/8pWYTN9zLMg5B3YX8

In this episode, Bette Vargas, founder of Vargas Fitness Enterprises and host of the Crazy Sexy Menopause YouTube channel, shares her journey from a naturally active child in Chicago to a seasoned athlete and menopause wellness advocate. Following our studio portrait session, Bette sits down with host David to discuss her evolution in the world of fitness, her discovery and passion for racewalking, and her transition into a healthier lifestyle focusing on a plant-based vegan diet.

Delving into the intricacies of menopause, she highlights the objectives behind her initiative, Crazy Sexy Menopause, aimed at empowering women to live vibrantly through the transition. The discussion further explores the importance of Mindset, Meals, and Movement in aging gracefully, emphasizing personal well-being and the instrumental role of hydration, holistic health practices, and an active lifestyle in maintaining overall health. Bette's narrative encapsulates the essence of embracing life's transitions positively and the significance of self-care at any age.

Photo Gallery

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
01:26 Getting to Know Bette Vargas
02:03 Bette's Journey into Fitness and Health
04:08 Bette's Childhood and Early Interest in Fitness
07:00 Bette's Introduction to Racewalking
11:00 The Technicalities of Racewalking
13:05 Bette's Children’s Involvement in Sports
19:09 Bette's Transition to a Healthier Diet
33:24 Bette's Journey into Bodybuilding
43:39 Introduction to Menopause
44:27 Personal Experiences with Aging
47:34 Post-2020 Changes to Lifestyle
48:15 Racewalking and Fitness
50:50 Understanding Menopause
01:08:31 Building a Community for Menopausal Women
01:23:41 The Importance of Mindset, Meals, and Movement
01:28:40 Conclusion: Live Life Well

Mics used:
David - Røde Podmic USB
Bette - Neat Worker Bee II

Portraits in Fitness is a multimedia venture featuring podcasts and portraits in collaboration with San Francisco Bay Area photographer David J. Toman. Originally launched in late 2022 as the Fit Over 50 Podcast, it has been renamed to better reflect its unique nature as a podcast sandwiched by photo shoots, in studio and on location.

If you are middle-aged or older, live an active lifestyle in which a physical pursuit is integral to your life, and would like to participate in the project as a subject, you are invited to learn more and apply at the project website. Please check the site for updated portrait galleries of our guests, and spread the word and invite someone you know!

https://portraitsinfitness.com/podcast/

Application Form:
https://forms.gle/8pWYTN9zLMg5B3YX8