The EMPWR Podcast

3 months out from my wedding and smack in the middle of Ironman training so yeah, this era is a LOT. In this solo episode I'm pulling back the curtain on everything I'm doing right now to feel my best walking down that aisle: the workouts, the nutrition, the recovery stack, the skincare treatments, and how I'm protecting my mental space through all of it. What we cover: 00:00 Introduction 02:18 Wedding planning updates: why I hired a wedding planner, what's been worth outsourcing, and how planning is going so far 05:40 My bridal era: embracing more feminine energy and approaching this season with intention 07:43 How I'm preparing physically for my wedding while training for an Ironman, including my current training routine and fitness goals 22:05 My nutrition and recovery routine right now: high-protein, high-carb eating, recovery priorities, and the habits helping me stay consistent 32:44 How I'm hydrating during training and what I'm focusing on to support performance and recovery 37:25 My beauty and skincare routine right now: every treatment I've done this year plus my current AM and PM skincare routine 46:08 Bridal fashion updates: dress shopping, reception dress plans, and finding the right look for each event 47:16 Protecting my mental health during a busy season: setting boundaries, creating mental space, and balancing it all Thank you to our sponsors: Branch Basics - Cleaning products: https://www.target.com/ The Magnesium Breakthrough by BIOoptimizers: https://bioptimizers.com/samcfit Code: SAMCFIT for 15% off Remi - Night mouth guards: https://shopremi.com/samcfit Code: SAMCFIT for up to 50% off Paleovalley - Bone Broth Protein: https://paleovalley.com/samcfit Code: SAMCFIT for 15% off AquaTru - Water purifier: https://aquatru.com/ Code: SAM for 20% off Sam's LINKS: ⁠https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit⁠ EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial* ⁠https://www.empwrbysam.com/⁠ My Macro Guide: ⁠https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only⁠ Running Programs: ⁠https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs⁠ Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine Products & Resources Mentioned: Loombox Red Light Therapy https://thelumebox.com/ ClearStem Bright Me Up Toner https://clearstem.com/products/brightmeup INN Beauty Extreme Cream (face + under eye) -https://www.innbeautyproject.com/products/extreme-cream Rhode Glazing Milk https://www.rhodeskin.com/ Complexions Golden Hour (gentle retinol) https://complexionnashville.com/products/golden-hour Pro-Mix Whey Protein & Collagen https://promixnutrition.com/ Hydro Jug (40oz) https://www.thehydrojug.com/collections/traveler-40oz Redmond's Real Salt https://redmond.life/collections/real-salt Electrolytes: Pro-Mix, Bloom Hydration, Cure, LMNT https://promixnutrition.com/ https://bloomnu.com/ https://www.curehydration.com/ https://drinklmnt.com/collections/salt Bridal fashion inspo: Revolve + Meshki https://www.revolve.com/ https://meshki.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This one's for the military families, the military spouses, and anyone who has ever wondered what it actually takes to become, and stay, a Navy SEAL. In honor of Memorial Day, Ian is in the hot seat. Sam kicks things off sharing her own mini Navy SEAL experience at a PLT summit in Montauk -45- degree water, burpees in the sand, and a whole new level of respect for the man she's marrying. Then Ian takes over, and the conversation goes deep. They get into why Ian became a SEAL in the first place (hint: it wasn't for the reasons you'd expect), what it felt like to watch 220 men enter BUD/S training and finish with only 36, and how much of making it as a SEAL is truly mental versus physical. Ian opens up about the emotional disconnect that comes with returning home from deployment, the toll it took on his marriage, and why deployment often felt more like an escape than a hardship. He also talks about the identity crisis that hits when you leave the teams, why no civilian job can fill that void and what it means to repurpose yourself after the most elite career in the world. They also get into raising kids with military values, what Ian wants to pass down and what he doesn't, and the jaw-dropping story of how Ian and Sam's dad unknowingly crossed paths on a mission in Africa years before Ian and Sam ever met. If you've ever wanted to get inside the mind of a SEAL, this is the episode. _____ Sam's LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Thank you to our sponsors! Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code SAM to get UP TO $300 off today! Sign up for your one dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/samcfitStart your new morning ritual & getup to 43% off your @MUDWTR with code SAMCFIT at mudwtr.com/SAMCFIT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the thing you've been dealing with for years could be fixed in 12 weeks? In this Q&A episode, Ian and I are back answering your questions with zero prep and zero filter. I'm sharing my full update on the 12-week gut healing protocol I did with practitioner Amy Williams, what we found in my bloodwork, and what it actually felt like to cut caffeine, strip back to whole foods, and rebuild from the inside out. I lost 4 to 5 pounds of pure inflammation, my painful bloating episodes are completely gone, and I genuinely feel like a different person. We also get into managing food noise and cravings, my current macros, how to stay lean while lifting heavy without bulking, and the blood work markers every woman should be checking if she's always tired and running on empty. Ian and I talk about how we balance training with kids, how we make it work as a couple who spends every waking hour together, and what I'd tell anyone feeling defeated in their relationship right now. Plus our full running shoe breakdown, top home gym equipment picks, and yes, a full wedding update. We saw the venue, survived the catering tasting, and we are four months out. It's all coming together. If you've been wanting a real, unfiltered episode that covers everything from your gut to your gains to your relationship, this one's for you. _____ Sam's LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Sam's Favorite Running Shoes: https://liketk.it/5m3PV Try Rythm Bloodwork rythm.health/samc Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Thank you to our sponsors! Use code EMPWR for 20% off at curehydration.com — or find it on Amazon. Head to AquaTru.com now and get 20% off your purifier using promocode SAM Head to cozyearth.com and use my code SAMCFIT for an exclusive 20% off Use code EMPWR for 15% off the Premium Starter Kit at BranchBasics.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the thing you thought was keeping you clean was actually making you sick? In this episode, I sit down with Kristina Velkova and Sara Douglas, the co-founders of Vitaclean, a revolutionary vitamin C filtered shower head company that's changing the way we think about water, skin health, and wellness. Their story starts with a shocking discovery: sludge in their London shower that was wreaking havoc on their skin and hair. What began as a personal problem turned into a mission to help people experience cleaner, healthier water without spending thousands on full house filtration systems. We dive into the difference between hard water and soft water, how chlorine, minerals, and sediment in your shower water could be causing your dry scalp, eczema, acne, brittle hair, and skin irritation, and why filtering your shower is just as important as filtering your drinking water. Christina and Sarah share the science behind vitamin C filtration, how their triple filtered technology works, and why their innovation is different from every other shower filter on the market. This conversation gets real about the wellness routines that actually matter, from hair syncing your workouts to jaw release massages, red light therapy, breath work, and why showering should feel like a spa experience every single time. We also talk about stretching out wash days, protecting color treated hair, and the simple daily rituals that keep your skin glowing and your hair thriving. If you've ever dealt with unexplained skin issues, hair breakage, or felt like your expensive products weren't working, this episode will change the way you think about your water. Your shower should be restoring you, not depleting you. Let's make that happen. About Vitaclean:Vitaclean is a female founded wellness company specializing in vitamin C filtered shower heads that remove chlorine, sediment, and impurities while infusing water with skin and hair nourishing vitamins. Founded by Kristina Velkova and Sara Douglas after discovering sludge in their London shower, Vitaclean has helped thousands achieve healthier skin, hair, and scalp through clean, filtered water. Find Vitaclean:Website: https://vitaclean.coInstagram: @vitaclean_officialTikTok: @vitacleanUse code SAMCFIT for 20% off their Starter Kits at https://vitaclean.co _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Thank you to our sponsors! Treat yourself to the flavor and nutrition your body craves. Go to kachava.com and use code SAMCFIT for 15% off your first order. Visit Carawayhome.com/EMPWR to take an additional 10% off your next purchase or use code EMPWR at checkout. Head topaleovalley.com/samcfit (https://paleovalley.com/promos/empwr-multi-product-page) for 15% off your first purchase. Use our exclusive link to save 20% off Honeylove at honeylove.com/SAMCFIT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if optimism is not about pretending everything is fine, but about learning how to stay strong when life gets hard? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Deepika Chopra, also known as The Optimism Doctor, to talk about what real optimism actually is and why it matters so much for our mental health, relationships, parenting, and everyday lives. We unpack the difference between optimism and toxic positivity, how to regulate your emotions in hard seasons, and why resilience is a skill you can build. This conversation hit home for me because it is not just about mindset. It is about how we move through grief, fear, uncertainty, motherhood, health struggles, and personal growth without losing ourselves in the process. We also talk about manifestation, affirmations, purpose, visualization, and the small daily rituals that can help us feel safer, stronger, and more grounded. If you have ever felt stuck in negative thought loops, overwhelmed by life, or unsure how to keep going through hard things, this episode is for you. Dr. Deepika Chopra is a clinical health psychologist, behavioral scientist, visual imagery expert, and author of The Power of Real Optimism. Known as The Optimism Doctor, she helps people build resilience, emotional strength, and hope through science-based tools and practical mindset work. Follow Dr. Deepika Chopra Instagram: @drdeepikachopra Website: Dr. Deepika Chopra official site Book: The Power of Real Optimism Podcast: Looking Up with Dr. Deepika Chopra _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Thank you to our Sponsors! Go to https://AquaTru.com now for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code SAM Get 15% off Branch Basics with the code EMPWR at https://branchbasics.com/EMPWR #branchbasicspod Go to https://CLEARSTEM.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off your first order. Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code samcfit for up to 20% off. Use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 20% off starter kits at https://vitaclean.co. Miraval Resorts - Book a stay and start your journey toward Life in Balance at Miraval Resorts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I used to think being smaller meant being better. That if I could just control my body, I would finally feel confident, happy, and enough. But the truth is, that mindset kept me stuck. In this episode, I sit down with Senada Greca to talk about what actually changed everything. From growing up in Albania with limited resources, to moving to the US and facing bullying, to struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, and body dysmorphia, her story is powerful and deeply relatable. What makes this conversation different is that it is not about quick fixes or extreme routines. It is about shifting your mindset, healing your relationship with your body, and building real strength from the inside out. We break down why so many women feel stuck in cycles of restriction, overtraining, and frustration, and what it actually takes to create lasting change. If you have ever felt like you are doing everything right but still not seeing results, this episode will change the way you approach fitness, nutrition, and self-worth. _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ PaleoValley Head to https://paleovalley.com/samcfit for 15% off your first purchase. Fond Bone Broth Go to https://fondregenerative.com/samcfit code SAMCFIT for 10% off your first order Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code SAMCFIT for 15% off your first order. Just ThriveSave 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/SAMCFIT with code SAMCFIT Vitaclean Use code SAMCFIT at checkout FOR 20% OFF STARTER KITS at https://vitaclean.co Miraval Book a stay and start your journey toward Life in Balance at Miraval Resorts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Choi: content creator, endurance athlete, and one of the most inspiring voices in the running community. Matt's journey is anything but linear. From playing college football to losing his job during the pandemic, he found running as a form of therapy and self discovery. What started as a casual four mile run turned into marathons, ultramarathons, and a thriving online community built around pushing limits and doing hard things. We dive deep into running for beginners, fueling your body, strength training for runners, and recovery. Matt breaks down how to start running if you've never done it before, the walk jog method that actually works, how to choose the right shoes, and why you don't need to have it all figured out to just start. We talk about fueling during long runs, the importance of electrolytes, carb loading before races, and why eating enough is non negotiable if you want to avoid injury. We also get into the mental side of running: why it's more about mindset than mileage, how running became therapy for both of us, and what it takes to show up even when it's hard. Matt opens up about the New York City Marathon controversy, how he handled the backlash, and what he learned from taking accountability in a very public way. We also talk about his next challenge: transitioning into triathlons and taking on a 70.3 Ironman. This conversation is raw, real, and packed with practical advice for anyone who's ever thought about lacing up their shoes and just going. Whether you're training for your first 5k or your tenth marathon, this episode will remind you that you don't need permission to start, you just need to show up. _____ About Matt Choi: Matt Choi is a content creator, endurance athlete, and former college football player known for his authentic approach to running and fitness. After losing his job during the pandemic, Matt discovered running as a form of therapy and self challenge. He's completed over 40 marathons, multiple ultramarathons including the Leadville 100, and has built a loyal community by sharing his journey of pushing limits and doing hard things. Matt is currently training for triathlons and continues to inspire thousands to start running and chase their goals. Find Matt: Instagram: @matchchoi_6 TikTok: @matchchoi_6 YouTube: Matthew Choi _____ Sam's LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7 day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Caraway visit https://Carawayhome.com/EMPWR you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase Remi Go to https://shopremi.com/SAMCFIT and use CODE SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off at checkout Cozy Earth Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code samcfit for up to 20% off Just Thrive Save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/SAMCFIT with code SAMCFIT Air Doctor Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code SAM to get UP TO $300 off today! Dream Recovery Head to https://dreamrecovery.io code SAM15 Topics discussed: 00:00:00 From College Football to Running: Matt's Origin Story 00:04:57 The Murph Challenge & First Intro to Distance Running 00:10:38 First Marathon Attempt & Learning Through Failure 00:15:33 Getting a Coach & Breaking Sub-3 Hours 00:22:36 Shoe Guide: What Runners Need to Know 00:31:59 Fueling for Runners: Gels, Timing & Race Day Nutrition 00:40:37 Strength Training for Runners 00:47:48 Recovery Essentials: Sleep, Massage & Staying Ahead of Injuries 00:52:24 Leadville 100 & The NYC Marathon Controversy 00:54:25 The NYC Marathon Ban: What Happened & Moving Forward 01:04:21 Next Challenge and Goals 01:11:20 What Empowerment Means & Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the fear of not being enough, the pressure to do it all perfectly, were the exact things keeping you from stepping into the version of yourself you're meant to become? In this episode, I sit down with Olivia Adriance: content creator, recipe developer, soon to be cookbook author, and founder of an upcoming beauty brand built on skin nourishing ingredients. Olivia's journey is anything but linear. From working in corporate accounting to quitting her job during the pandemic to pursue content creation full time, she's built a thriving community around effortless, gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free recipes that actually taste good and don't take hours to make. We dive deep into her story, her philosophy on food, and what it really takes to build a brand rooted in passion. Olivia opens up about how she healed her cystic acne through diet, why she started sharing recipes on Instagram, and what it was like to post into the void for 18 months before anything took off. We talk about going viral, navigating imposter syndrome, working with your spouse, and why healthy eating isn't the end goal but the catalyst to unlock your life. We also get into the behind the scenes of her upcoming physical cookbook with 100 brand new recipes, how she's been developing a clean beauty line for the past eight months, and why she's only pouring her energy into projects she's truly passionate about. From recipe development to working with management, this episode is packed with real talk for anyone building something from scratch. If you've ever felt stuck between who you are and what you do, or you're trying to balance motherhood, career, and showing up as your best self, this episode is for you. Olivia is proof that you don't need to have it all figured out to keep moving forward. You just need passion, persistence, and the courage to share your story. _____ About Olivia Adriance: Olivia Adriance is a content creator, recipe developer, and founder known for her gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free recipes that make healthy eating effortless and delicious. With a background in corporate accounting, Olivia left her career to pursue content creation full time, growing her community to over 1 million followers. She's currently working on her first physical cookbook and launching a clean beauty brand focused on skin supportive color cosmetics. Find Olivia: Instagram: @oliviaadriance Website: oliviaadriance.com _____ Sam's LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Clearstem Go to https://clearstem.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off your first order. Just Thrive save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/SAMCFIT, code SAMCFIT. Remi Go to https://shopremi.com/SAMCFIT code SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off at checkout. Kion Visit https://getkion.com/samantha for 20% off. Wild Grain Visit https://wildgrain.com/SAMCFIT. Dream Recovery Visit https://dreamrecovery.io code SAM15. Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Welcome & The Power of Healthy Eating 00:01:47 From Corporate Accounting to Content Creator 00:05:35 Overcoming Fear & Embarrassment: The Early Days of Posting 00:08:21 18 Months of Grinding: The Road to Going Viral 00:13:38 Viral Recipes & Hitting 100K Followers in a Month 00:28:00 Healing Acne Through Food: The Gluten, Dairy & Sugar-Free Journey 00:32:55 Simple, Flavorful & Healthy: The Recipe Philosophy 00:46:17 Motherhood, Identity Crisis & Postpartum Survival 01:08:50 Launching a Beauty Brand: Skin-Supportive Color Cosmetics 01:21:08 Empowerment & Unlocking the Best Version of Yourself Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the products you're using to clean your home, wash your clothes, and freshen the air are the very things quietly disrupting your hormones, draining your energy, and keeping you from feeling your best? In this episode, I sit down with one of the co-founders of Branch Basics, a non-toxic cleaning company that's helping families across the country ditch harmful chemicals and create healthier homes. This conversation is eye-opening, practical, and full of simple swaps you can make today that will actually change how you feel. We dive into the real story behind Branch Basics: how a college friend's debilitating pain, PCOS, and thousands of ovarian cysts led to the discovery that what we spray, wash, and breathe in our homes matters more than we think. From fragrance and cleaning products to laundry detergent and pesticides, we break down the hidden chemicals lurking in everyday products and how they're affecting our hormones, our fertility, our skin, our sleep, and even our kids. If you've ever felt like something was off but couldn't figure out why, or you've been wanting to make the switch to cleaner products but didn't know where to start, this episode is for you. Your home should be your safe haven. The place where your body restores, repairs, and thrives. Let's make that happen. _____ About Branch Basics: Branch Basics is a non-toxic cleaning company co-founded by three women passionate about helping people live healthier lives. Their mission is simple: remove harmful chemicals from your home with safe, effective, and easy-to-use products. Their hero product is a plant-based concentrate that replaces dozens of conventional cleaners, making the switch to non-toxic living simple and affordable. Find Branch Basics: Website: https://branchbasics.com Instagram: @branchbasics Head to https://branchbasics.com/EMPWR20 for 20% off Starter Kits on BranchBasics.com Code EMPWR20 _____ Sam's LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Paleovalley Head to https://paleovalley.com/samcfit for 15% off your first purchase. Just Thrive save 20% on your first order at https://justthrivehealth.com/SAMCFIT with code SAMCFIT Lagoon Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT for 15% off your first purchase. Vitaclean Head to https://vitaclean.co and use code SAMCFIT for 20% off their Starter Kits. Dream Recovery Shop https://dreamrecovery.io and use code SAM15 for 15% off _____ Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Welcome & Kelly's Journey to Non-Toxic Living 00:09:00 Marley's Story: From Kidney Disease to Food as Medicine 00:11:40 The Hidden Box That Changed Everything 00:13:30 Allison's PCOS Reversal & The Summer That Started It All 00:16:30 Why Cleaning Products Are More Toxic Than You Think 00:19:35 The Branch Basics Concentrate: One Product for Everything 00:24:00 Fragrance-Free Living & The Laundry Detergent Wake-Up Call 00:26:25 Natural Deodorant, Body Odor & The Detox Effect 00:33:55 Stain Removal Secrets & Oxygen Boost Magic 00:36:16 Natural Pest Control & Canceling Your Exterminator 00:38:50 The 90/10 Lifestyle: Botox, Balance & Not Living in Fear 00:42:59 Hormone Disruptors, PCOS & The Pottenger's Cats Study 00:44:55 You Don't Know How Good You Could Feel 00:49:56 The Challenge: Get Toxic Products Out of Your House Today 00:50:42 Where to Find Branch Basics & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the bloating, fatigue, skin issues, and brain fog you've been dealing with aren't separate problems at all, but symptoms of one root cause you've been overlooking? In this episode, I sit down with Tina Anderson, attorney-turned-entrepreneur and co-founder of Just Thrive, a research-based gut health company that's completely disrupting the probiotic industry. Tina spent years in the pharmaceutical world before realizing that Western medicine was focused on treating symptoms, not preventing disease or addressing root causes. We dive deep into why gut health is more compromised now than ever before: From glyphosate in our food supply to antibiotics, stress, and antimicrobial overload. Tina breaks down what's really happening in your gut when you experience bloating, irregular digestion, skin issues, mood swings, and low energy. She explains leaky gut, how probiotics actually work and why most don't. This conversation is honest, educational, and empowering. We talk about why your gut is the foundation for everything—from your immune system and hormones to your mental health and energy levels. Tina also shares why every person should be on a spore-based probiotic, how to support your kids' gut health, the role of digestive bitters, and what it really takes to heal your gut in a world that's constantly working against it. If you've ever felt like something was "off" but couldn't figure out why, or you've tried everything and still aren't seeing results, this episode will give you answers. Your gut isn't just part of your health. It is your health. _____ About Tina Anderson:Tina Anderson is an attorney, former pharmaceutical executive, and co-founder of Just Thrive, a research-based gut health company specializing in spore-based probiotics. After years in the pharmaceutical industry, Tina saw the need for a more preventative, root-cause approach to health—and built a company focused on empowering people to take control of their wellness through gut health. Just Thrive is known for its clinically studied products, transparency, and commitment to real results. Find Just Thrive:Website: https://justthrivehealth.com (\"https://justthrivehealth.com\")Use code SAMCFIT for $20 off your order _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit (\"https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit\") EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ (\"https://www.empwrbysam.com/\") My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only (\"https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only\") Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs (\"https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs\") Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine (\"https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine\") _____ Cure HydrationGet 20% off your first order at curehydration.com/EMPWR with code EMPWR. RemiGo to shopremi.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off your nightguard at checkout. CarawayVisit https://carawayhome.com/samcfit for an additional 10% off your next purchase with code EMPWR. ClearstemClearstem.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off your first order.Dream Recoveryhttps://dreamrecovery.io/ Code: SAM15 _____ Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Welcome & The Gut-Brain Connection 00:00:34 From Pharma to Gut Health: Tina's Origin Story 00:03:03 Why Gut Health Is More Compromised Than Ever 00:05:36 Glyphosate, Pesticides & The Food Supply 00:07:19 The Gut-Brain Axis & Mental Health 00:08:23 Antibiotics: The Atomic Bomb on Your Gut 00:17:49 Healing Your Gut: Practical Tips & Lifestyle Changes 00:23:27 Spore-Based Probiotics: What Makes Them Different 00:31:54 Probiotic Myths: CFUs, Refrigeration & Rotation 00:36:27 Leaky Gut: The Silent Epidemic 00:49:59 Bloating Is Not Normal: Digestive Issues Explained 00:45:52 Probiotics for Kids & Pregnancy 00:48:43 How Long Until You See Results & Final Advice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the fear of not being enough, the pressure to have it all figured out, and the weight of past trauma were actually the very things keeping you from becoming who you're meant to be? In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Shields: content creator, founder of Dibs Beauty, wife, mom, and one of the most real, grounded voices in the wellness and beauty space. Courtney's journey is anything but linear. From blogging for three years without making a dollar to co-founding a brand now sold in every Ulta across the country, she's built her career on authenticity, grit, and a willingness to evolve. But this conversation goes so much deeper than business. We talk about the loss of her father, navigating divorce as a mom, unhealthy dating patterns, finding her soulmate on Hinge, and what it's really like to build a life rooted in faith, gratitude, and self-work. Courtney opens up about her current pregnancy, the fear and healing that came with miscarriages, and how she's learning to let go of control and lean into prayer. We also dive into relationships: the green flags that matter, what it means to find your best friend and your person, and why the inner work you do on yourself is the foundation for everything else. From beauty and confidence to boundaries, energy, and empowerment, this episode is honest, vulnerable, and so inspiring. Courtney is proof that you don't have to have it all together to keep moving forward. You just have to be willing to do the work, show up as yourself, and trust that the right things will find you when you're ready. _____ About Courtney Shields:Courtney Shields is a content creator, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Dibs Beauty, a makeup brand built on empowerment, simplicity, and putting yourself first. Known for her relatable approach to beauty, lifestyle, and motherhood, Courtney has built a loyal community by sharing the real, messy, beautiful parts of life. She's a wife, mom, and believer in doing the inner work — even when it's hard. Find Courtney:Instagram: @courtney_shieldsDibs Beauty: Available at Ulta and online at dibsbeauty.com _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Lagoon Use the code SAMCFIT for 15% off your first purchase at LagoonSleep.com/SAMCFIT. RemiGo to shopremi.com/SAMCFIT and use CODE SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off your nightguard at checkout. Cure Hydration Get 20% off your first order at curehydration.com/EMPWR with code EMPWR. Dream Recovery dreamrecovery.io use code SAM15 for 15% off your purchase. Kane Footwear Check them out at kanefootwear.com, no code needed. Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Welcome & The Power of Inner Work 00:01:40 From Beauty Blogger to Boss Babe: Courtney's Origin Story 00:07:39 The College Degree She Didn't Know She Missed 00:12:30 Building Community Through Authenticity 00:17:41 Grief, Loss & Moving Forward: Losing Her Dad 00:33:34 From Dibs Idea to Ulta Shelves: Building a Beauty Empire 00:36:05 Must-Have Dibs Products & Beauty Philosophy 00:21:32 Meeting Her Soulmate on Hinge & Knowing Immediately 00:48:45 Pregnancy at 38: Hematomas, Sciatica & Gratitude 00:55:03 Green Flags in Relationships & Doing the Inner Work 01:16:27 Empowerment Through Boundaries & Saying No Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to serve your country, compete in pageants, build a business, and stay true to yourself — all at the same time?In this episode, I sit down with Kellie Sbrocchi — a Naval Academy graduate, active duty HR officer, pageant competitor, speaker, podcaster, and content creator. Kelly is redefining what it means to balance a demanding career while unapologetically chasing your passions. From competing in Miss California USA and Miss Ohio USA to building a platform that empowers women to embrace their multi-passionate identities, she's proving that you don't have to choose between who you are and what you do. We dive deep into her journey — from being told to stop wearing makeup at the Naval Academy to becoming a top recruiter through social media, competing in pageants while climbing the ranks, and navigating the criticism that comes with being unapologetically feminine in a male-dominated field. Kellie opens up about the pressure of being a woman in the military, the boundaries she's set to protect her marriage and mental health, and how she's learned to bloom wherever she's planted — even when life throws constant change her way. This conversation is raw, honest, and so inspiring. We talk about finding your person, setting boundaries with social media, giving yourself grace when you can't do it all, and why sometimes doing both is better than trying to balance everything. If you've ever felt torn between your career and your passions, your identity and expectations, or your dreams and your demands — this episode is for you. Kellie is proof that you can honor both. _____ About Kellie Sbrocchi:Kellie Sbrocchi is a Naval Academy graduate, active duty HR officer, model, speaker, podcaster, and content creator. She's competed in pageants including Miss California USA and Miss Ohio USA, hosted women's events, and has become known for empowering women to embrace their multi-passionate identities. Through her podcast Why Not Do Both, Kellie shares stories of people balancing dreams and demands — proving that you don't have to choose between who you are and what you do. Find Kellie:Instagram: @kellie.sbrocchiPodcast: Why Not #DoBoth Podcast (@doboth.podcast on Instagram) _____ Sam's LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial*https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide:https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs:https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs/ Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ CLEARSTEMUse code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off at https://CLEARSTEM.com LagoonHead to https://lagoonsleep.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT for 15% off your first pillow. Kion AminosHead to https://getkion.com/samantha to get 20% off and try Kion Aminos for yourself. RemiGo to https://shopremi.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off your night guard at checkout. KachavaRe-wild your nutrition at https://kachava.com and use code SAMCFIT. New customers get $20 off an order of two bags or more. ______ Topics discussed: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:48 Meeting on the Beach: A Divine Connection 00:05:40 From Track Star to Naval Academy: An Unexpected Path 00:10:06 Challenges of Being a Woman in the Military 00:12:12 The Makeup Controversy & Staying True to Yourself 00:20:56 From Pageant Dreams to Miss Ohio USA 00:28:06 Competing in Pageants While Serving: The Backlash 00:35:20 Social Media, Navy Recruiting & Going Viral 00:33:33 Pressure is a Privilege: Reframing Criticism 00:50:17 Meeting Austin: Finding Your Safe Place 00:40:53 Balancing Both: The Four Things in the Car 00:45:56 Setting Boundaries & The 90 Percent Solution 00:58:19 Why Not Do Both Podcast & Empowering Others 01:01:57 What's Next & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices