This is Whole Minds Healthy Bodies the podcast. A 360 Health initiative from Aetna exclusively for you...the MTA...where the goal is improving your total health and wellbeing....

In this energizing and practical episode, host James Francis is joined by veteran health and wellness expert Diane Pulleyblank to talk about what it really takes to build healthy habits—starting with Day One. Whether you're looking to move more, eat better, or simply feel stronger and more focused, this conversation is filled with encouragement, realism, and no-pressure tips to help MTA employees take the first step.

Diane shares insights from decades in health club management and leadership training to help listeners get started, stay motivated, and make change sustainable. She emphasizes self-compassion, practical planning, and the mindset shift needed to turn wellness into a daily routine—not a daunting resolution.

Key Takeaways:

Healthy habits start with one decision—your "Day One" is whenever you decide it is.Perfection isn’t the goal—consistency and progress matter more than “doing it right.”Building in small, achievable wins creates momentum and long-term success.Developing a routine that fits your schedule (and lifestyle) helps habits stick.Self-compassion is key: speak to yourself with encouragement, not criticism.Movement, hydration, and sleep are foundational—start with the basics.Checking in with your “why” helps keep you motivated during setbacks.You don’t have to go it alone—support systems make the journey easier and more fun.

Sound Bites:

“You don’t need to wait for Monday. Day One can be today.”“Small wins lead to big change.”“Leap—and the net will appear.”“Speak to yourself like you would to a close friend.”

Meet the Guest:

Diane Pulleyblank has an extensive background in health club management and organizational development, with a focus on leadership training, performance management, and team development. Passionate about helping individuals and teams reach their full potential, Diane brings warmth, insight, and actionable strategies to every conversation. Whether she’s designing a senior management workshop or mentoring someone just beginning their wellness journey, Diane lives by her philosophy: “Leap—the net will appear.”

This episode is made in partnership with Balancing Life’s Issues.

Additional Resources:

Whole Minds Healthy Bodies - https://wholeandhealthy.website

Balancing Life's Issues - https://balancinglifesissues.com/podcast-bli/

Don’t forget! You can visit wholeandhealthy.website for free access to incredible content created by experts. Podcasts, webinars, and reading materials on topics like sleep, inner peace, nutrition, and meditation. Exclusively for you the MTA.