In today's episode, we dig into the real talk around eating out: how often, how much, and whether it’s sabotaging your goals. We’ll challenge you to stop hiding behind “this is just what we do,” and share personal stories, practical strategies, and the mindset shifts required to strike the balance between real life and real progress. From budgeting and convenience to cravings and connection, this conversation covers the full plate.

If you’ve ever wondered whether dining out is slowing your progress, or how to make it work FOR you instead of against you, this one’s packed with smart swaps, tough love, and supportive tips.

“Plan. Do not wing it. It never ends well.”

- Amy Rudolph

“Frustration happens when expectations and actions don’t align.”

- Iris Deadlifts

“If you’re doing so much outside of your house that you cannot prepare food at home five out of seven days of the week, you’re doing too much.”

- Meri

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

• How Meri enjoys a weekly solo dinner without derailing fat loss
• The hidden calorie costs of eating out, even with “healthy” and “mindful” orders
• Why restaurant food tastes so good (spoiler: butter. So much butter)
• Ways to recreate your favorite takeout meals at home
• The real financial impact of restaurant dining per serving
• Why eating out once a week isn’t “special”
• Smart restaurant strategies like pre-logging, oil estimates, and portion hacks
• Mindset shifts to help you stop using food as the centerpiece of every event

Connect with Us:

• Meri on Instagram
• Iris Deadlifts on Instagram
• Amy Rudolph on Instagram
• Mindful Eating Episode
• Coach John Noel
• Zach Coen

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.

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