The Fit Bottomed Girls Podcast

Let's be honest: most of us have tried to eat more vegetables—only to watch them slowly wilt in the back of the fridge. Or we associate veggies with bland, boring "diet food" and force ourselves to eat them when we're feeling guilty, not because we actually enjoy them. In this episode, Alison chats with cookbook author Jess Smith, whose brilliant approach to vegetables reclaims them from diet culture and places them at the center of meals that are actually satisfying, flexible, and delicious. Jess's cookbook Start With a Vegetable flips the script on meal planning. Instead of figuring out how to "squeeze in" veggies as a sad side dish, she shows you how to start with what you've got in the fridge and build meals that are full of flavor, fiber, and joy. From systemizing grocery trips and smart storage strategies to go-to sauces and mix-and-match bowls, this episode is packed with practical ways to make veggies an easy, craveable part of your everyday routine—without adding stress, guilt, or rules that don't work for your life. If you've ever stared into your fridge at a sad, soggy bag of spinach wondering where it all went wrong … this episode is for you. Here's Why We're Obsessed with This Episode: 🔹 It takes veggies out of the "diet food" box and makes them delicious again. 🔹 Jess gives real-world solutions for reducing waste without meal-planning your entire life. 🔹 The grocery store tips alone are worth the listen—no more forgotten produce in the crisper! 🔹 You'll walk away with ideas you can use this week (even if you hate meal planning). 🔹The vibe is realistic and anti-perfectionist for those of us who are busy and don't love to cook. Don't Miss This Episode If… ✅ You keep buying vegetables… and then throwing them away. ✅ You're trying to eat healthier but refuse to live off boiled broccoli. ✅ You grew up on overcooked veggies and still have trauma. ✅ You want to eat more plant-based meals but don't want to live in the kitchen. ✅ You're juggling family, work, and life and just need a damn shortcut. What You'll Learn in This Episode: 🎯 Why traditional meal planning might not work—and what to try instead. 🎯 The simplest veggie prep system to reduce waste and boost flavor. 🎯 Jess's favorite no-fuss sauces that transform any veggie from "meh" to amazing. 🎯 How to organize your fridge so your veggies don't die a slow death. 🎯 Ways to use one ingredient in multiple meals without getting bored. 🎯 Tips for incorporating more plant-based protein into your meals (no soaking dry beans required). 🎯 How to make cooking once and eating twice your new superpower. About Jess Smith Jess Smith is the writer and photographer behind the Inquiring Chef food blog. In addition to running the site which reaches over 8 million home cooks every year, she spent nearly a decade as chief recipe developer for the award-winning meal planning app Cook Smarts. She runs a popular cooking camp for kids every summer called Inquiring Chef Academyand in January she released a best-selling cookbook called Start with a Vegetable. Jess's recipes have been featured in popular publications like Parade, Hallmark, Raddish Kids, Livestrong, Self, Yahoo, NBC, HuffPost, and She Knows. 🔗 Resources & Links: 📖 Grab Jess's cookbook Start With a Vegetable 📲 Follow Jess on Instagram for insights and updates 👩🏻‍💻 Check out Jess's website for more recipes for real life Sponsor Shoutout This episode was brought to you by Miles to Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here. Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode filled with insightful conversations. And don't forget to leave us a review—it helps more people discover the show! --Alison

We often associate poor body image and body dissatisfaction with teens and adult women. But the reality that the roots of negative body image take hold much earlier than that. In this week's episode, we dive deep into the science behind body image with Drs. Janet Boseovski and Ashleigh Gallagher, co-authors of Beyond Body Positive: A Mother's Science-Based Guide for Helping Girls Build a Healthy Body Image. This conversation is a must-listen for moms, caregivers, and anyone looking to foster a healthier relationship with their body and break the cycle of toxic diet culture. From early childhood messaging to the impact of media, peer groups, and parental influence, our guests provide powerful insights into how body image is shaped across a woman's lifetime. They shed light on why body dissatisfaction isn't just something that appears in adulthood—it's cultivated from childhood and continues to be reinforced through various societal pressures. Janet and Ashleigh also explore the difference between "body positivity" as it's commonly used today and what science actually tells us about fostering a positive body image. They challenge the mainstream conversation and offer practical, research-backed strategies for helping young girls (and their moms) develop a healthier, more resilient relationship with their bodies. If you've ever struggled with body image or worried about the messages your child is receiving about their appearance, this episode is packed with actionable advice, insightful research, and hope for change. Let's move beyond just "feeling good in our bodies" and work towards a culture where women and girls can focus on who they are, not just how they look. Here's Why We're Obsessed with This Episode: ✅ It's not just another body image conversation—it's science-backed and deeply insightful. ✅ The authors bust myths around body positivity and introduce a healthier, more effective approach. ✅ Real-life, practical tools to help moms and daughters shift their perspectives on food, fitness, and self-worth. ✅ A deep dive into the lifelong impact of body image—from childhood through adulthood. ✅ Encouragement for women to step into their agency and redefine how they engage with their bodies. Don't Miss This Episode If… 🚫 You've ever struggled with body image yourself and want to break the cycle for the next generation. 🚫 You're a mom, aunt, teacher, or mentor who wants to help young girls develop a healthier self-concept. 🚫 You're tired of diet culture and the constant emphasis on weight, beauty, and appearance. 🚫 You've wondered why body dissatisfaction is so persistent and what actually works to change it. 🚫 You want a fresh, empowering perspective on self-worth that isn't about just looking in the mirror and "loving what you see." What You'll Learn in This Episode: 📖 The surprising science behind how body image develops from early childhood. 👩‍👧 How moms are the ultimate influencers of their daughters' body image—for better or worse. 🔬 Why positive body image isn't the same as body positivity—and why that distinction matters. 💡 The 3 biggest contributors to body dissatisfaction (and how to counteract them). 🍽️ The sneaky ways diet culture and fat talk show up in everyday parenting—and how to shift the narrative. 🏋️‍♀️ How physical literacy and movement impact body image (and why sports can be a double-edged sword). 💬 How to have real conversations with girls about body changes, confidence, and self-respect. 🚀 Practical, science-backed strategies for raising confident, resilient girls who see their bodies as powerful, not problems to fix. About Janet and Ashleigh Janet Boseovski, PhD is a professor and head of the Department of Psychology at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is Co-Director of the DUCK Lab, a child development lab at UNCG and she has studied social and cognitive development in early to late childhood for over 20 years. Janet serves on the Board of Directors of the Greensboro Science Center and the Jean Piaget Society for the Study of Knowledge and Development. She enjoys speaking to the public, and writing about, child development and well-being. Ashleigh Gallagher, PhD is a senior lecturer in psychology at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Her research and teaching interests are in the areas of social cognition and gender, and she enjoys applying psychology beyond academic contexts. She enjoys applying psychology outside academia and has co-authored a book on the opportunities available to researchers who would like to do so as well (The Portable PhD: Taking Your Psychology Career Beyond Academia, American Psychological Association, 2020). 🔗 Resources & Links: 🎧 Beyond Body Positive - Grab your copy here (use code FLYER15 for 15% off) or here. 📖 Psychology Today Blog: Head Start for Healthy Body Image 📲 Follow Janet & Ashleigh on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn here and here Sponsor Shoutout This episode was brought to you by Miles to Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here. Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode filled with insightful conversations. And don't forget to leave us a review—it helps more people discover the show! --Alison

What if the key to thriving in motherhood isn't "bouncing back" to some old version of you—but moving forward into new postpartum potential and opportunities? In this empowering episode, I sat down with coach and former elite CrossFit athlete Marlene Andersson to dive into the pressures women face around "snapping back" after pregnancy. Together, we unpack the cultural myths that keep high-achieving women stuck in unrealistic expectations and explore a mindset shift that prioritizes self-compassion, growth, and sustainable health over outdated body ideals. Marlene shares her deeply personal journey—from being an elite competitor at the top of her game to navigating the identity shift that comes with motherhood. With refreshing honesty, she describes the struggle of balancing a driven, perfectionist mindset with the unpredictable nature of raising a child. She also walks us through her Mighty Mom Blueprint, a four-step strategy designed to help mothers build strength—mentally and physically—without burning out or sacrificing precious time with their families. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to "get your body back" or struggled to balance your ambitions with the realities of motherhood, this episode will shift your perspective in powerful ways. Get ready to rethink what it means to be strong, healthy, and successful as a mother—and as a woman. Here's Why We're Obsessed with This Episode 🔥 Marlene's raw and honest take on why bouncing back is a myth that sets women up for failure. 💪 A relatable, no-nonsense discussion about why women are expected to evolve in every area—except when it comes to their bodies. 🧠 The deep dive into how high-achievers struggle with perfectionism and adjusting expectations in the postpartum period. Don't Miss This Episode If… ✅ You've ever felt pressure to "get your pre-baby body back" (and maybe even guilt that you haven't). ✅ You're a high-achieving woman struggling to adjust to the unpredictability of motherhood. ✅ You find yourself overwhelmed by the expectations of doing it all—parenting, fitness, work, and more. ✅ You want practical, sustainable strategies for staying healthy and strong without punishing yourself. ✅ You've ever battled perfectionism and the fear of "not doing enough." What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why the concept of "bouncing back" is a damaging illusion—and what to focus on instead. How to shift your mindset from self-criticism to self-compassion while pursuing your goals. The Mighty Mom Blueprint—Marlene's four-step strategy for building a strong, healthy body and mind in motherhood. How to set goals that actually stick (hint: it's not just about SMART goals). Why sustainable habits—no matter how small—lead to long-term success. The key to trusting your body, listening to its needs, and ditching diet culture for good. The biggest mistakes women make when trying to "fix" their bodies after pregnancy—and what to do instead. About Marlene Andersson As a former CrossFit Games athlete and busy toddler mom, Marlene brings the lessons from her athletic career into her postpartum coaching. Inspired by her own challenges balancing self-care, family, and career, she developed the Mighty Mom Blueprint—a 4-step strategy that blends the athlete's mindset with the realities of motherhood, helping moms move beyond the pressure to 'bounce back' and embrace their strongest, healthiest selves. Connect with Marlene & The Mighty Moms Community Join Marlene's Mighty Moms Community Follow Marlene on Instagram Sponsor Shoutout This episode was brought to you by Miles to Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here. Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode filled with insightful conversations. And don't forget to leave us a review—it helps more people discover the show! --Alison

For many Gen X and Millennial women, fitness was introduced through the lens of diet culture—workouts were about burning calories and getting smaller. But as we've grown older, we're realizing that those outdated messages aren't serving us anymore. In this episode of the podcast, we explore a powerful shift: moving away from exercise as a means to shrink ourselves and instead embracing fitness as a way to enhance our quality of life and longevity. This week, I sat down with strength coach Niki Sims of Barbell Logic to dive into the world of barbell training and why women should be lifting weights for strength, not just for weight loss. We discuss the misconceptions around fitness, why building muscle is the best investment for long-term health, and how strength training can be seen as a "401k for your quality of life." The conversation also touches on our personal journeys—from struggling with body image and punishing exercise habits to fully embracing sustainable strength training as a source of empowerment. We unpack the barriers women face in strength training, including mobility challenges and myths about what it takes to be "successful" in the weight room. In addition, we explore the balance between training and life, the importance of prioritizing recovery, and how learning to manage stress can help women thrive in midlife and beyond. This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on what it truly means to train for longevity. If you're ready to rethink your approach to fitness, this conversation is for you! Here's Why We're Obsessed with This Episode 🔥 Strength is for Every Woman – Niki and Alison break down why strength training isn't just for athletes or bodybuilders but is crucial for every woman at any stage of life. 💪 Muscle is an Investment – The discussion highlights how lifting weights isn't about aesthetics but about autonomy, longevity, and quality of life. 🚫 Say Goodbye to Diet Culture – They unpack the damaging cultural messages that have kept women away from the weight room and how shifting the focus from weight loss to strength gain is a game changer. 🏋️‍♀️ Lifting is Empowering – Whether it's adding more plates to the bar or simply feeling more capable in daily life, the benefits of barbell training extend far beyond the gym. Don't Miss This Episode If… ✅ You've ever felt intimidated by the weight room. ✅ You're curious about barbell training but don't know where to start. ✅ You're in midlife or post-menopause and want to maintain strength and independence. ✅ You're tired of fitness being solely about shrinking your body and want to focus on gaining something meaningful. ✅ You want to future-proof your health and avoid the pitfalls of aging without strength training. What You'll Learn in This Episode: The difference between training for weight loss vs. training for strength and longevity. Why muscle is your best insurance policy for health, mobility, and independence as you age. How lifting weights helps with blood sugar regulation, metabolism, and overall energy levels. Why recovery is just as important as training (and how to do it right). How strength training changes the way you see your body—moving from dissatisfaction to deep appreciation. The surprising connection between strength training and mental resilience. How Barbell Logic's online coaching can help you start strength training at any level, from beginner to advanced. About Niki Sims Niki Sims is a passionate advocate for helping others realize their physical potential. With over a decade of experience in barbell coaching, she specializes in creating personalized programs, refining technique, and offering unwavering support. Her journey has been marked by a personal transformation from struggling with body image to embracing a healthy relationship with training, nutrition, and agency, highlighting her deep understanding of the importance of building muscle for longevity and strength. Niki is also the host of the Beast Over Burden Podcast & former host of the Barbell Logic Podcast, a Top 200 Fitness Podcast in the US, Canada, and Australia. Connect with Niki & Barbell Logic 🔗 50% Off First Month of Coaching – barbell-logic.com/fitbottomedgirls and with coupon code: fitbottomedgirls 📌 Find Barbell Logic Online – Barbell Logic Website 📸 Follow Niki on Instagram – @niki.in.the.gym Sponsor Shoutout This episode was brought to you by Miles to Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here. Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode filled with insightful conversations. And don't forget to leave us a review—it helps more people discover the show! This episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tips to help you embrace strength training as a lifelong practice. Tune in, get motivated, and start lifting! --Alison

We hear so much about cortisol, the "stress hormone," on social media these days. Cortisol has become a buzz word in the health and fitness industry—part of a cautionary tale used to warn women away from intense bouts of exercise they age. From fear-mongering posts about how it's ruining your health to questionable advice from "hormone coaches" selling pricey supplements and restrictive diets—it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. That's why we brought in the expert, Dr. Carla DiGirolamo—a Board Certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Reproductive Endocrinologist, Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, and fitness enthusiast (not to mention a CrossFit trainer and certified nutrition coach). She's spent her career helping active women—from puberty to menopause—optimize their mental and physical performance. Yep, she's basically a rockstar when it comes to understanding hormones and coaching high-performing women. This week's episode of The Fit Bottomed Girls Podcast is all about cortisol—the misunderstood "stress hormone" everyone loves to hate. We're cutting through the noise, debunking myths, and exploring how cortisol plays a critical role in your health, fitness, and overall resilience. Together, Dr. Carla and I tackle the conversation we all need to hear about cortisol, women's health, and the truth behind those viral hormone claims. Seriously, this week's episode is one for the books. Here's why we're obsessed with this episode: Dr. Carla's analogy of cortisol as the trombone in a much larger orchestra will completely change the way you think about hormones, stress, and health. (Spoiler alert: it's not all about cortisol!) She also dives into practical ways to dial down stress, recover better, and stay strong as you age. Real Talk: Recovery Matters Recovery isn't just a checkbox after a workout—it's where improvement actually happens. Whether it's dialing in your nutrition, prioritizing sleep, or finally learning to love your cool-down routine, recovery helps you stay resilient and ready for your next challenge. Don't skip this one if… ✅ You've been freaked out by cortisol content on social media. ✅ You want to know how to be stronger (and healthier) as you age. ✅ You're curious about how hormones impact your stress and performance. Tune in now to hear Dr. Carla's incredible insights and practical advice! 👉 Listen to the Full Episode Here 👉 Watch the episode on YouTube What You'll Learn in This Episode: Cortisol isn't the villain—it's essential for life and fitness. It's the hormone that helps you tackle challenges, whether that's a tough workout or life stress. However, it's all about returning your stress response system to baseline after activation. Stop worrying about "spiking your cortisol." You need cortisol to be responsive to outside stressors in order to survive. Instead, start focusing on returning your stress response system to baseline regularly through proven down-regulation strategies like meditation, leisure walks, gentle or relaxing yoga. Burnout isn't caused by cortisol—it's caused by chronic stress. Dr. Carla shares how to address what's triggering your elevated stress rather than blaming cortisol itself. Why aging changes the game. Recovery gets trickier as women age due to changes in resilience and hormonal shifts, but proper recovery strategies can keep you thriving. Strength training, nutrition, and mindful recovery are more important than ever. The limits of hormone testing. Single snapshots from blood tests can be misleading! Dr. Carla explains why you need to focus on the bigger picture of your health. Under-fueling = underperforming. Under-eating can actually be a big cause of persistent internal stress and elevated cortisol levels. Nutrition fuels your body for workouts and recovery. About Dr. Carla DiGirolamo Dr. Carla DiGirolamo is a double Board-Certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist and Reproductive Endocrinologist specializing in caring for active and high-performing women from puberty through menopause. Dr. Carla completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Brown University Medical School/Women and Infants' Hospital and Reproductive Endocrinology fellowship training at the Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Carla has 20 years of experience as a fertility specialist and more recently as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is also an endocrine consultant for Wild Health and Eternal Life. She has been featured in Boston Magazine's Top Doctors in the Boston area for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Dr. Carla has been featured in multiple podcasts and speakerships at various events discussing the physiology of the hormonal changes of menopause, hormone therapy, and optimizing physical performance in elite and avid recreational female athletes. Dr Carla is also the author of multiple courses including the "Menopause Fitness Specialist" course with MedFit Classroom, and the "Strong" and" Navigate Menopause" courses with Feisty Media. Dr. Carla has been in the fitness industry her entire life as a recreational athlete and for more than a decade as a fitness professional with credentials as a CrossFit Level 1 Trainer and Certified Nutrition Coach. As a pioneer in Women's Performance Endocrinology, she specializes in optimizing mental and physical performance in women in high-performance professions and female athletes of all ages. Dr. Carla has a blog through Substack called "Athletic Aging". https://www.athleticaging.blog/ and her second publication "Performance Edge" https://www.performanceedge.blog/ launched in February 2023 Follow Dr. Carla Website: https://www.drcarlad.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carla.digirolamo.14 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_carla_d/ Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-digirolamo-0109b8103/ Sponsor Shoutout This episode was brought to you by Miles to Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here. Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an episode filled with insightful conversations. And don't forget to leave us a review—it helps more people discover the show!

Body image plays a critical role in shaping how we perceive ourselves, engage with others, and make lifestyle choices. But reaching a place of acceptance—or even joy—with our bodies is no small feat in today's world of social media, constantly-changing beauty standards, and rapidly evolving trends. On this week's episode of the podcast, I sat down with Dr. Charlotte Markey, a psychologist, research scientist, and expert on body image at Rutgers University who brings nearly three decades of academic and practical experience to the table. This episode goes beyond the usual shallow platitudes of "just love yourself" to provide evidence-based, actionable advice for improving how you see—and feel about—your body. Dr. Markey's insights are empowering, practical, and grounded in research. In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Markey dives into the nuances of body image, the difference between body positivity and body neutrality, and actionable strategies for improving how we feel in our own skin. Together, we discuss modern influences on body image, debunk the myths surrounding body positivity, and explore the cultural messages that have shaped our perceptions of self-worth. Whether you're someone striving to feel more comfortable in your own body, a coach seeking evidence-based insights for clients, or simply curious about the psychology of body image, this episode has something for you. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What "body image" really means and why it matters The difference between body neutrality and body positivity Why "just love yourself" can feel unhelpful — and what to aim for instead How focusing on your body's functionality fosters a healthier mindset The powerful role family, culture, and societal pressures play in shaping body image Practical tips for reducing body surveillance and improving self-acceptance How the rise of weight loss drugs is impacting body image About Dr. Charlotte Markey: Charlotte Markey, Ph.D., is a body image scientist, who has studied body image and eating behaviors for nearly three decades. She is passionate about understanding how to help people have a healthy relationship with their bodies and food. Charlotte is a psychology professor at Rutgers University and a research scientist who has published over 100 scholarly articles and chapters about health issues. Dr. Markey is also a book author, having most recently published The Body Image Book series (The Body Image Book for Girls in 2020; The Body Image Book for Boys in 2022, and Adultish: The Body Image Book for Life in 2024). She also recently co-edited the 3-volume Encyclopedia of Mental Health (2023). She writes regularly for news outlets such as Psychology Today and is often interviewed for TV, news articles, and podcasts including the NY Times, Washington Post, and NBC. To learn more about Dr. Markey or her books, visit www.CharlotteMarkey.com or www.TheBodyImageBook.com. Follow Dr. Markey on social media: Instagram: @char_markey Facebook: Dr. Charlotte Markey TikTok: @charmarkey Threads: @char_markey Substack: BODY TALK Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Markey's Body Image series (For Girls, For Boys, For Life): www.TheBodyImageBook.com Substack article about the difference between body positivity and body neutrality Liked This Episode? Don't Forget to Subscribe! Enjoying the podcast? Make sure to hit that Subscribe button so you never miss an insightful conversation. Don't forget to leave us a review—it makes a big difference! ___ Sponsor Shoutout This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, HALF of all adults age 50 and older - some 54 million Americans - have low bone mineral density, placing them at increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture which can significantly negatively impact their quality of life. Are you one of them? On this week's episode of the podcast, I sit down with Karin Weinstein, a personal trainer and yoga teacher who specializes in bone health, to discuss the critical topic of osteoporosis prevention and bone health, especially for women. Too many women are waiting until it's too late and they've got osteopenia (a precursor to osteoporosis) to take the necessary steps to preserve their bone health. We know that early lifestyle interventions - like progressive strength training, accessible impact training, and proper nutrition - are so crucial and quite effective in maintaining bone density. We also explore the misconceptions about bone health, the significant impact of proper nutrition, and the actionable strategies women can take to protect their bones as they age. This conversation dives deep into evidence-based ways you can significantly reduce your risk of osteoporosis and improve your quality of life. If you've been wondering what more you can do to support your long-term physical independence and strength, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice tailored for you. Takeaways Investing in bone health is crucial for women, especially before menopause. Early prevention is key to maintaining bone density. Nutrition and gut health play a significant role in bone health. Strength training and impact training are essential for bone health. Many women are unaware of their bone health status until it's too late. Not all exercises are effective for bone health; variety is important. Osteopenia is a warning sign for osteoporosis. Finding the right support is vital for managing bone health. Mechanical load and progressive overloading in exercise is necessary for bone strength and bone health. Quality of life is tied to physical independence. Impact training is important for bone density. Women should focus on heavier strength training. Resources From This Episode Karin's Website and Instagram ➡️ Check out her FREE Osteoporosis Webinar ➡️ Get info about her 1:1 Strength for Osteoporosis Coaching This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

In the week's podcast episode, I chat with Trisha Durham. With over two decades of experience in ashtanga vinyasa yoga, Trisha has transitioned from a traditional yoga teacher to a multifaceted movement trainer. Her journey began when she was faced burnout and physical pain, realizing that relying solely on yoga for all her movement needs was not enough and the rigid emphasis on flexibility and alignment did not align with the inclusive and sustainable practice she envisioned. It wasn't until she started strength training in her 40s, specifically barbell training, that she experienced lasting relief from her debilitating back pain that had persisted in spite of decades of practicing yoga. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of movement variety and specifically strength training for women's they age—a population that has historically been deterred from or not exposed to lifting heavy weights. We also highlight the misconceptions around flexibility, discuss the benefits of barbell training, and encourages listeners to consider strength training as a modality to enhance longevity, improve mobility, and aid in injury prevention. It's never too late to start strength training! Takeaways When it comes to managing pain, helping people move is more important than perfecting poses. Functional movement is key to resilience and pain-free living. Flexibility alone is not a cure-all for physical issues. Strength training can alleviate chronic pain and improve mobility. Barbell training is accessible and beneficial for everyone. Integrating different movement modalities enhances overall fitness. Yoga can complement strength training rather than replace it. It's never too late to start strength training. Strength training is now encouraged for everyone. Variety in movement is crucial for longevity in activity and life. Mobility is essential for functional movement, not just flexibility. Progressive strength training can prevent injuries in daily life. Unlearning outdated fitness beliefs can lead to better health outcomes. Resources From This Episode Trisha's Website and Instagram ➡️ Take a class in her online studio Calm + Strong ➡️ Check out her CHART Movement Mastery Workbook for Yoga Teachers This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

In this conversation, Alison and Kim discuss the challenges women over 40 face regarding fitness and nutrition and the impact those factors have on body composition and health. They discuss the importance of movement, strength training, and nutrition for women, particularly those over 40. They debunk common myths about exercise, emphasizing that it should not solely be viewed as a means to burn calories. Instead, they advocate for a holistic approach to health that includes understanding one's body, addressing menopause symptoms, and making informed choices about nutrition and exercise. The discussion highlights the empowerment that comes from strength training and the importance of seeking support during midlife transitions. Takeaways Many women over 40 have misconceptions about their nutritional needs. Diet culture has led to a misunderstanding of food and fitness. Weight loss strategies should focus on sustainable habits, not quick fixes. Understanding basic nutrition is crucial. Women often underestimate their caloric needs as they age. Protein intake is essential for maintaining muscle mass. Mindset plays a significant role in achieving health goals. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to meal patterns. Education and behavior change are necessary for lasting results. Start with a baseline of your current movement. Exercise should enhance quality of life, not just burn calories. Strength training is crucial for long-term health and confidence. Women often underestimate their strength and capabilities. Menopause symptoms can be managed with proper support. It's important to track both movement and nutrition for awareness. Variety in exercise can enhance overall fitness and enjoyment. Don't accept age-related changes as unchangeable facts. Advocating for oneself in healthcare is essential. Resources From This Episode Kim's Website and Instagram ➡️ Free 5 Day Fat Loss Crash Course ➡️ Check out her next Fitter After Forty Program This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

Summary Sage Rountree is a pioneer and internationally recognized authority in yoga for athletes. Her focus is on yoga as a recovery modality for active people. She emphasizes the importance of developing comfort with comfort and slowing down. Yoga for athletes is not about intense physical practice, but about mental benefits and tuning into the body. Recovery is essential for performance and longevity in sports. It is important to listen to the body's signs and take rest when needed. Recovery practices recharge the body and mind, enhance clarity, and improve problem-solving abilities. Recovery can be measured through performance improvements and tracking resting heart rate. Enhancing recovery involves doing activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as spa treatments, reading, walking, or taking a nap. It is important to avoid adding physical stress to the body during recovery. Gym-goers can choose yoga classes that are appropriately paced and focused on recovery. In this conversation, Sage Rountree and Alison discuss the importance of recovery for athletes and active individuals. They explore various aspects of recovery, including the role of yoga, designing a personalized yoga practice at home, and the need for rest and relaxation. They emphasize the importance of listening to your body and prioritizing recovery to prevent burnout and injury. Sage also shares tips for creating space and time for recovery in a busy schedule. Overall, the conversation highlights the significance of recovery in maintaining overall well-being and performance. Takeaways Yoga for athletes focuses on recovery and developing comfort with comfort. Recovery is essential for performance and longevity in sports. Listen to the body's signs and take rest when needed. Recovery practices recharge the body and mind, enhance clarity, and improve problem-solving abilities. Resting heart rate can be used to measure recovery. Enhancing recovery involves doing activities that bring joy and relaxation. Choose yoga classes at the gym that are appropriately paced and focused on recovery. Recovery is essential for athletes and active individuals to prevent burnout and injury. Yoga can be a valuable tool for recovery, but it's important to choose the right practice and modify it based on your training needs. Designing a personalized yoga practice at home can be a convenient and effective way to complement your training and activities. Creating space and time for recovery in a busy schedule is crucial. Prioritize self-care and listen to your body's needs. Recovery should be enjoyable and bring joy. Find activities and practices that make you feel good and help you relax. Resources From This Episode Sage Rountree's Website, Books, and Instagram ➡️ Claim your FREE two-day at-home mini retreat This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

Summary In this conversation, the new owner and Editor-in-Chief of FBG, Alison Heilig shares her journey from a corporate legal career to becoming a passionate coach and advocate for women's health, particularly focusing on the challenges of perimenopause and ageism in fitness. She emphasizes the importance of empowering women to embrace aging and dismantle harmful societal messages. The discussion also highlights the future direction of Fit Bottomed Girls, aiming to create a supportive community for women navigating these changes. Takeaways Alison's transition from a corporate legal career to coaching and FBG contributor. Perimenopause brought Alison unexpected challenges like anxiety and depression. Women are often told to limit their activities as they age, which is harmful. Education on menopause and women's fitness is crucial. Alison aims to empower women to embrace aging positively. The Fit Bottomed Girls community is evolving to support women over 35. Open conversations about women's health are necessary and valuable. The legacy of Fit Bottomed Girls will continue to grow and adapt. This episode was sponsored by our parent company, Miles To Go Athletics. Take our app-based training community for a two-week no obligation test drive here.

Podcast Episode 136: Lisa Canning (HGTV star, lifestyle expert & mother of 8!) They say if you want something done, ask a busy person to do it. Well, the FBGs can't think of anyone busier than interior designer and lifestyle expert Lisa Canning (she's a friend of the Property Brothers--woot!) who also happens to be the other of eight kids. (Actually it was seven at the time of the interview. Like we said, she likes to be busy!) Lisa talks about her book "The Possibility Mom: How to be a Great Mom and Pursue Your Dream at the Same Time" with her best advice for how to reclaim more "me time" and achieve your goals while remaining sane. Who couldn't use that advice? Connect with Lisa Canning on social media on Twitter @Lisa_Canning & on Instagram @LisaCanning Fit Bottomed Girls www.fitbottomedgirls.com Fit Bottomed Mamas www.fitbottomedmamas.com Fit Bottomed Zen www.fitbottomedzen.com Fit Bottomed Eats: www.fitbottomedeats.com Twitter: @FitBottomedGirl @FitBottomedZen @FitBottomedMama @FitBottomedEats Email us at podcast@fitbottomedgirls.com Read more at http://fitbottomedgirls.com/category/resources/podcast-episodes/ Subscribe: http://fitbottomedgirls.com/podcast/

Podcast Episode 134: Erica Ziel "The Core Expert" The FBGs are thrilled to bring you this interview with one of the top core experts in the fitness world--Erica Ziel. In the past, we spoke to her best advice for strengthening your core postpartum and beyond and her 10 Tips For a Fit Pregnancy. Here we talk about her Core Rehab program, her tips for fascial training (you can change the structure of your fascia!), why working your core means more than aiming for six-pack abs, advice for moms of multiples, her go-to pelvic floor move and more (for your core!) Connect with Erica Ziel on social media on Twitter @EricaZiel, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube Fit Bottomed Girls www.fitbottomedgirls.com Fit Bottomed Mamas www.fitbottomedmamas.com Fit Bottomed Zen www.fitbottomedzen.com Fit Bottomed Eats: www.fitbottomedeats.com Twitter: @FitBottomedGirl @FitBottomedZen @FitBottomedMama @FitBottomedEats Email us at podcast@fitbottomedgirls.com Read more at http://fitbottomedgirls.com/category/resources/podcast-episodes/ Subscribe: http://fitbottomedgirls.com/podcast/ Want to sponsor the show? Yay! Drop us a note at advertising@fitbottomedgirls.com and let's make the world a healthier place together!