Self Care in a Caregiver Role with Justin Barnes

In today’s episode, we sit down with our friend Justin Barnes, a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, traumatic brain injury survivor, and co-worker on Beth Feraco’s Team BFF. Justin brings a unique blend of no-nonsense education and deep empathy, offering insight into navigating health, fitness, and life’s toughest challenges. From supporting his wife through a chronic autoimmune condition to reshaping his own approach to wellness and health in the role of the main caregiver, Justin shares his journey with honesty, grit, and a lot of wisdom.

We explore how mindset shifts, prioritization, and self-care play crucial roles in overcoming obstacles—whether that’s dealing with misinformation in the fitness industry, managing caregiving responsibilities, or breaking through self-imposed limitations. This episode is packed with actionable insights, tough love, and practical strategies to help you take charge of your health and stop standing in your own way.

"You are more capable than you think you are, but nobody can believe that for you.”

- Justin Barnes

“If you're in a caregiver role, you have to find time for yourself to go get rid of some of that stress because you can't wear it forever.”

- Justin Barnes

This week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:

• Why the basics always matter, no matter your health conditions, injuries, diagnosis, or past experiences
• The power of showing up — especially when motivation is low
• How caregiving shapes resilience and why self-care is non-negotiable
• The importance of prioritization over the concept of “balance”
• Breaking free from the diet culture cycle and leading by example
• How to communicate with loved ones about your health and fitness goals
• Rethinking the role of alcohol and developing healthier coping mechanisms
• The life-changing impact of stepping outside—literally and figuratively

Connect with Justin Barnes:

• Country Strength (Justin Barnes) on Instagram

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!

Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram, Meri on Instagram, and Amy Rudolph on Instagram.