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Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Iris, Meri, & Amy
139 episodes
4 days ago
On this show, we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy. Because, here’s the deal: Life shouldn’t suck. And a lot of diet and exercise shenanigans y’all get up to is making it suck. Your relationship with food and your body is making it suck. We’re here to help you change all that. So grab a coffee, go for a walk in the sun or get your lift on, and let’s get into it.
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Fitness
Health & Fitness,
Nutrition,
Mental Health
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All content for Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck is the property of Iris, Meri, & Amy and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
On this show, we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy. Because, here’s the deal: Life shouldn’t suck. And a lot of diet and exercise shenanigans y’all get up to is making it suck. Your relationship with food and your body is making it suck. We’re here to help you change all that. So grab a coffee, go for a walk in the sun or get your lift on, and let’s get into it.
Show more...
Fitness
Health & Fitness,
Nutrition,
Mental Health
Episodes (20/139)
Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Q&A: Weight Loss Plateaus, "Ideal" Week of Workouts, Is Bulking Necessary for Muscle Building?
In today’s episode, we answer listener questions!We have a candid conversation about whether bulking is necessary for muscle gain or if it can be achieved while in maintenance, discussing the pros and cons of a bulk, and the importance of intentional training. We discuss what constitutes a true “plateau” and how to measure progress beyond just the scale, the importance of consistency, and why it's crucial to redefine or clearly define success in your fitness journey. We also chat about an “ideal week” of workouts and the importance of setting realistic goals based on individual needs and circumstances, rather than striving for a one-size-fits-all "ideal.""Celebrate your progress in all areas of your life, not just what the scale shows. Success is more than a number."- Amy Rudolph"The great irony of a weight loss endeavor is that the less you focus on the weight loss, the more consistent you can actually be, and then the more weight loss you actually see."- Iris Deadlifts"We don't live in a 100% ideal world, so focus on what you can do consistently right now."- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* The definition and purpose of “bulking” to build muscle* Why maintenance might be a better long-term strategy for most people in muscle building* The role of a coach in guiding through bulking and maintenance phases* Understanding what a true plateau is* The importance of consistency and how to evaluate it honestly* The psychological impact of focusing solely on the scale and how to overcome it* What an an “ideal week” of workouts might look likeConnect with Iris, Meri, and Amy:* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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5 days ago
50 minutes 18 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Fact Check: Creatine for Brain Health, Weighted Vests, & More with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, a muscle physiology researcher, science communicator, and co-owner of MASS Research Review. She's one of the experts actually doing the research, and she’s here to break down the fitness noise and help you make sense of it.We get into cycle syncing myths, creatine hype for brain health, collagen for skin, hair, and nails, inflammation, and the weighted vest walking trend that seems to be everywhere. Lauren helps us understand what the science really says, and how much of what’s sold to women online is just marketing dressed up with big words.This conversation will clear the air and remind you that the basics still win. We talk about the frustration and confusion women face in the fitness space, how marketing distorts research, and why consistency (not complexity) is the foundation of results.“If it sounds too good to be true, it is… so we need to think critically about the messages that we come across online.”- Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple“There are a whole lot of red flags when you see a program that is constantly encouraging you to change how you're exercising.”- Dr. Lauren Colenso-SempleThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why researchers historically avoided studying women, and how that’s changing* The truth about hormones, strength training, and menstrual cycles* The cycle syncing myth and why it’s not backed by meaningful science* Collagen for joints, skin, and hair, and what the data actually shows* Creatine: useful tool or overhyped brain-booster?* What inflammation really is, and what it isn’t* Weighted vest walking: scientifically interesting, or practically irrelevant?* How supplement use can become a false sense of accomplishment (and why it matters)Connect with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple:* Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drlaurencs1/)* Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple Website (https://www.drlaurencs.com)* Front Page Fitness Podcast on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2fRLWTWDU6AQKZ5XJrJLGu?si=eeacb919b71d4c5e)* Front Page Fitness Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/il/podcast/front-page-fitness/id1809853430)* Front Page Fitness Podcast on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@fpfpodcast)* MASS Research Review (https://massresearchreview.com)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/),
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1 week ago
50 minutes 3 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Concerns or Problems? How the Stoic Philosophy Influences Us...
In today's episode, we dive deep into Stoic philosophy: what it really means, how it’s been misunderstood, and why it’s so valuable in the messy realities of everyday life.We talk about building emotional resilience, separating concerns from problems, and making intentional choices instead of letting life’s curveballs derail you. We share how Stoic principles show up in real-world situations like holiday meals, unexpected setbacks, and even those little moments when intrusive thoughts whisper, “buy a cake and eat it in the car.”We unpack wisdom, courage, justice, temperance, and the simple-but-not-easy pause that can change the outcome of any situation. If you’ve struggled with reactive decisions, perfectionism, or attaching your self-worth to external validation, this conversation is for you."Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same thing.”- Amy Rudolph“Very few problems are made worse with a walk.”- Iris Deadlifts“It’s not inevitable that you’re gonna enter the Thanksgiving dinner and just eat half a pie by yourself. You have a choice.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why “follow your heart” is terrible advice without bringing your brain along* How to pause before reacting and make a rational decision* The difference between a concern and a problem (and why we often confuse them)* Stoic strategies for navigating family gatherings without fear or over-restriction* How to focus on what you can control instead of catastrophizing* Why treating yourself fairly isn’t the same as giving yourself “grace” to self-sabotage* The four cardinal virtues and how to practice them inwardly as well as outwardly* How to stop chasing external validation and build inner self-worth that lasts Connect with Us:* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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2 weeks ago
1 hour 20 minutes 27 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Refuse To Be Weak with Robert Linkul
In this powerful and inspiring episode, we sit down with Robert Linkul, founder of Training the Older Adult (TOA), to talk about what it really means to age strong. With a background rooted in personal experience, injury recovery, and coaching, Robert shares his inspiring journey from aspiring strength coach for youth to building a movement dedicated to helping older adults reclaim their strength, independence, and health.He shares the deeply moving story of his father, whose transformation from near-death and wheelchair-bound to squatting below parallel and living independently in his late 70s is nothing short of miraculous. We explore the importance of resistance training for longevity, how strength gives people permission to live without fear, and why constructive discomfort is essential for growth at any age. Robert lays out a clear, research-backed case for resistance training at any age. Whether you’re in your 30s or 70s, this conversation will reframe what’s possible for your future self, and the people you love.If you or someone you love wants to age well, live in your own home and wipe your own butt until you die, if you’ve ever questioned if it’s “too late,” this episode is your reminder: it’s never too late to get strong.“We're all going to pass at sometime, but how you live and how you die - there are two very different stories to be told there.”- Robert Linkul“When the moment comes where you have to act, and your body fails you… that’s the real cost of not getting strong.”- Robert LinkulThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Robert’s personal story of health challenges that gave him empathy and expertise in training older adults* The incredible transformation of Robert’s dad, from 330 lbs and dialysis to strong, mobile, and joyful in the gym* What “constructive discomfort” is and how it builds confidence* How muscle mass and bone density can improve even post-menopause* What the research shows about sarcopenia and its impact on retirement years* Why “just walking the dog” isn’t enough, and what to do instead* How just 90 minutes of resistance training a week can improve bone density, muscle mass, and independence* The truth about recovery after surgery when you’ve been strength training* Real stories of clients reversing chronic pain, avoiding surgery, and defying aging stereotypes* How strength training combats fear, frailty, and the myth that “I’m just old”Connect with Robert Linkul and Training the Older Adult:* Robert Linkul on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbxyI6N6lQ5zMPife-pd8ug)* Robert Linkul on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/robertlinkul/?hl=en)* Training the Older Adult Website (https://www.trainingtheolderadult.com)* Training the Older Adult Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/toa_trainingtheolderadult/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985)
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3 weeks ago
1 hour 12 minutes 10 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
How to Make Trigger Foods Less Triggering
In today's episode, we unpack the loaded topic of “trigger foods” and how to navigate permission-based eating without shame or guilt. We explore what true moderation looks like, why portion sizes aren’t one-size-fits-all, and how your environment and mindset shape your relationship with food more than the food itself.We share our own personal journeys of once feeling out of control around certain foods, and how granting ourselves permission to include those foods, intentionally and mindfully, led to more peace, less overeating, and lasting change.We dive into the psychology of overconsumption, the role of boundaries without extremes, and how planning and practice lead to lasting food freedom. If you’ve ever felt like you can’t trust yourself around sweets, salty snacks, or that food you just can’t keep in the house, this episode is for you.“You're not weak and it's not a character flaw if you need to remove foods from your home for a bit.”- Amy Rudolph“Permission scares people. But the truth is, restriction hasn’t worked either..”- Iris Deadlifts“You're not a bad person for liking those things, or even liking them so much you can’t stop eating them. That just means you have something to learn.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why removing trigger foods isn’t a character flaw, but a temporary boundary that can build trust* The surprising truth about portion sizes—and how to find your portion* Why slowing down helps you realize what you truly enjoy* How the Candy Challenge helps dismantle food obsession* Practical environment hacks to reduce food noise and improve focus* The power of planning treats into your day to boost overall adherence* Why structure and flexibility aren’t oppositesConnect with Us:* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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1 month ago
55 minutes 21 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Uncomplicate Your Meals & Enjoy Them More with Carmen Hayward
In today’s episode, Coach Carmen Hayward joins us! She’s a nutrition coach, personal trainer, and proud menopausal woman, who shares her story of breaking free from decades of dieting and finally creating lasting change. From her first Weight Watchers diet at age 10 to owning a salon for nearly 20 years before switching careers, Carmen’s journey is all about reclaiming and embracing food freedom through education and self-trust.We dive into why tracking your food isn’t automatically disordered - it’s actually the exact opposite. Carmen opens up about the myths she used to believe, the guilt she shed around eating carbs, and the common roadblocks holding many of you back. We share personal stories and practical strategies to help you keep it simple without sacrificing results. As Carmen says, not every meal needs to be a masterpiece… just a balanced plate that supports your goals.If you’ve ever felt like you were doing everything “right” and still not getting anywhere, this one’s for you. It’s raw, real, and deeply empowering.“There’s no rules anymore. There’s no scarcity. I look at food for what it is.”- Carmen Hayward“Not every meal needs to be a party. Just relax, eat the basics, and learn the skill.”- Carmen HaywardThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* How dieting from childhood shaped Carmen’s early beliefs about food* The hormonal “fix” that promised magic, and what actually worked instead* Why tracking food gave her freedom, not obsession* Simple but critical food tracking mistakes so many people make* How front-loading calories can reduce cravings and food noise* How to make progress without overhauling your whole life overnight* The difference between “being bored” and resisting changeConnect with Carmen Hayward:* Coach Carmen Hayward on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/coachcarmenhayward/)* Coach Carmen Hayward Website (https://www.carmenhayward.com)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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1 month ago
59 minutes 34 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
The Problem with Copy-Paste Culture
In today's episode, we’re diving into a big conversation around one of the most common traps we see in nutrition and fitness: copy-paste culture.You know the drill: asking for someone else’s calories, macros, or exact plan hoping...
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1 month ago
1 hour 53 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Satisfaction Is a Strategy with Dal Sekhon
In today’s episode, Dal Sekhon joins us to unpack the decades-long journey she’s taken from yo-yo dieting and extreme restriction to sustainable fat loss, cultural food freedom, strength training, and self-trust. Dal shares how losing 120 pounds was just one part of the transformation, and how much more meaningful the internal shifts were.A major shift came when she gave herself permission to include her cultural Indian food in a way that supported both satisfaction and her goals. In this episode, she opens up about how she let go of timelines, made peace with food, and redefined success far beyond the number on the scale. We dive into the mindset work, the cultural expectations, the diet myths she had to unlearn, and how she finally reclaimed her own voice and agency in the process.We talk about the guilt, the pressure, the milestones missed due to obsession with the scale, and how she's redefined what success actually looks like.“So many of my memories aren’t of the event… I just remember the number on the scale. That’s not how life should be.”- Dal Sekhon“Work within the parameters of your life.”- Dal SekhonThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* How Dal transitioned from Weight Watchers and extreme restriction to a more sustainable, nutrient-rich way of eating* Why “satisfaction is a strategy” became a game-changing mindset shift—and what that looks like in daily life* The meaning behind the mantra: “Work within the parameters of your life”* The emotional and physical costs of following diet rules that ignore cultural food preferences and personal satisfaction* How Dal dealt with intense cultural pressure around body image, food, and the infamous “what will people think?”* Why true behavior change means letting go of timelines and learning how to be patient with yourself* How learning to say “no” at family gatherings was actually a form of deep self-respect and progress* The real power of doing it for you—not your kids, not the scale, not external validationConnect with Dal Sekhon, Nutrition Coaching by Dal:* Nutrition Coaching by Dal on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/nutritioncoachingbydal/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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1 month ago
59 minutes 54 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Q&A: Spotting Diet Fatigue, Is Fasted Training Harmful? & More
In today's episode, we’re answering more listener questions! We tackle your biggest questions about plant-based protein, pre-workout fueling, and easy, realistic lunches that don’t involve planning every last bite. Whether you're a vegetarian trying to build muscle or someone wondering if you HAVE TO eat before exercise, this conversation is full of judgment-free, real-life strategies.Whether you’re early in your fat loss journey or deep into the trenches, this episode is a must-listen. As always, the conversation covers more than just macros - it dives into the mindset shifts that create sustainable change. No guilt. No shame. Just real talk about what your body is trying to tell you."You were in maintenance… but with a deficit mindset. That’s a whole different ballgame.”- Amy Rudolph“Fasting is fine physiologically. It's just a way to control calories like anything else. What it can do to the mental side is where it really screws people up.”- Iris Deadlifts“If your partner is complaining that you never want to have sex anymore, that might be a clue that you’ve been dieting too long.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why staying in a deficit too long can impact your mental health and quality of life, even if your metabolism is fine* Signs of diet fatigue* How vegetarian and plant-based clients can hit protein goals* Why the “bare minimum” for protein is personal* Why aiming for better, not barely, matters more* Protein-first meal building makes hitting macros more manageable for all dietary patterns* Is fasted training harmful to women?* The real issue with skipping food: what happens mentally and behaviorally* How to simplify lunch* “Better living through frozen food and chemicals”Connect with Us:* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)* Maintenance Masterclass Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/141991652/maintenance-101-what-why-how-when/)* Plant Based Eating with Samara (https://blubrry.com/1471014/132545190/enhancing-your-diet-with-plant-based-proteins-and-mindful-eating-with-samara-toby/)* Protein & Fiber Masterclass Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/141513337/protein-fiber-the-magic-macronutrients/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!
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2 months ago
1 hour 3 minutes 1 second

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Boring, Basic, & Willing to Try with Amy McCall Carlin
In today’s episode, we’re joined by longtime listener Amy McCall Carlin! She’s an introverted music teacher, podcast host, and self-guided fitness enthusiast, who shares her refreshingly honest journey toward food freedom, strength, and sustainable habits.Amy never had a formal coach, yet through listening, learning, and trying things out bit by bit, she completely transformed her approach to nutrition, movement, and mindset. Her story proves that you don’t need perfection or a personal trainer to make a meaningful, long-lasting change.Amy walks us through her early experiences with cardio and fad fitness DVDs, her gradual shift toward evidence-based nutrition and strength training, and the game-changing mindset shifts that helped her break free from diet culture. From recovering smarter after an ankle injury to navigating teacher life with prepped meals and kid’s meals at Chipotle, Amy embodies the idea that consistency, curiosity, and compassion are the keys to real progress.“Getting away from the deadline has been huge for me. Establishing the habit until it becomes something you don’t even think about anymore has been very freeing.”- Amy McCall Carlin“I used to eat until I couldn’t breathe. And it was miserable. But I’m not tempted to do that anymore because I’ve changed how I eat during the day.”- Amy McCall CarlinThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why Amy chose to start strength training, and how it helped her avoid another broken ankle* The difference between cardio burnout and functional strength* How skipping breakfast can fuel a late-night pantry raid (and what to do instead)* Amy’s simple but powerful strategy for building habits that stick* Why eating “boring” meals can actually be a secret to success* How she made the shift from a night owl to a morning exerciser without hating it* The power of being willing to try and giving up the "all-or-nothing" approach* What it could look like to balance eating out frequently while honoring your goalsConnect with Amy McCall Carlin:* Amy McCall Carlin on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mccallgirl)* Just an Introvert Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-an-introvert/id1733792886)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and
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2 months ago
1 hour 2 minutes 53 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
How to Make Eating Out Work FOR You & Your Goals
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.”- MeriThis 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 (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)* Mindful Eating Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/133562191/qa-mindful-eating-serving-sizes-building-muscle-with-bodyweight-exercises/)* Coach John Noel (https://www.instagram.com/coachjohnnoel/)* Zach Coen (https://www.instagram.com/zachcoen/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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2 months ago
1 hour 10 minutes 45 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Prehab, Rehab, Aging, & Real Talk With Susan Niebergall
In today’s episode, we welcome back Susan Niebergall - someone who has deeply shaped our journeys and brought us all together in the first place! In this raw and wide-ranging conversation, Susan shares what it’s been like to transform her life in her fifties and sixties, how strength training prepared her for a wildly successful hip replacement recovery, and the mindset shifts that come with aging. From fad diets and Jenny Craig trays to postmenopausal HRT and machine-based workouts, we cover the full spectrum of what it means to show up for yourself—no matter your age.You’ll hear how Susan dismantled decades of diet culture, built confidence through lifting, and discovered how "doing less" in the gym could still mean making huge progress.Whether you're navigating perimenopause, post-menopause, or just trying to get up off the couch and move, Susan’s lived experience offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. She’s not just preaching it - she’s walking the walk, lifting the weight, and paving the way for women who want to feel powerful in their 40s, 50s, 60s and beyond.“I’m worth having a good life where I’m not in pain, where I can sleep, where I feel good.”- Susan Niebergall“If I can do this, then other women can too. It’s not too late to do it, which most women think it is.”- Susan NiebergallThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* How Susan lost ~30 pounds in her 50s without obsessing over weight* Why prehab (before surgery) can be a total game-changer* The mindset shift from “how much weight can I lift?” to “how well can I move?”* What it’s like to start HRT at 65—and the hoops women face to get there* Why joint pain and fatigue might not be “just aging” after all* Letting go of pressure, perfection, and back squats (yes, even if you could)* Why "just walk for five minutes" is revolutionary (yes, really)* The emotional shift from “all or nothing” to “I can do something today”* Why strength training is still the most functional thing you can doConnect with Susan Niebergall:* Susan Niebergall Fitness on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/susanniebergallfitness/)* Susan Niebergall Fitness Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzMgJLbITYjJnd3Q6buGGmw)* Join Syatt Fitness Inner Circle (https://www.syattfitness.com/join-my-inner-circle/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/),
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2 months ago
1 hour 16 minutes 29 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Q&A: Reverse Dieting, When to Adjust a Calorie Deficit, & More!
In today’s episode, we’re breaking down one of the most overcomplicated - and misunderstood - ideas in nutrition and fitness: reverse dieting and the transition to maintenance. If you’ve ever wondered when to raise your calories, how to navigate the fear of weight gain, or whether you need to track during maintenance, this episode clears the confusion with real talk and real strategies.We explain why eating more doesn’t mean automatic fat gain, and give you a blueprint for approaching maintenance and muscle-building with confidence. From learning to trust your hunger to lifting heavier with purpose, we’re helping you drop the rules and start building the skill set that keeps you consistent, flexible, and thriving."Tracking is merely data and awareness. Look at what you're consuming, how is it working for you, and what if any tweaks do you need to make.”- Amy Rudolph“Our track involves not tracking sometimes... being okay with a messy day where things don't go to plan and we're just pivoting all over the place.”- Iris Deadlifts“If you’ve never done maintenance before, tracking it can be the most powerful thing you do - to finally understand what enough actually looks like.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why traditional reverse dieting is unnecessary (and kind of torturous)* The real reason people fear maintenance - and how to face it* Why you might feel hungrier in maintenance, and what to do about it* How tracking calories during maintenance can un-traumatize your food relationship* When to tweak your calorie deficit (hint: it’s probably not yet)* The simplest way to calculate your fat loss calories without overthinking it* Why “muscle confusion” is a myth and progressive overload wins every time* How to tell if it’s time to change your workout plan - or just your mindset Connect with Us:* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)* Maintenance Masterclass Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/141991652/maintenance-101-what-why-how-when/)* Simplify Calorie Tracking Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/134763313/how-to-simplify-calorie-tracking/)* Together We Are Stronger Community: Group Support and Training with Team BFF (https://join.bethferacofitness.com/together-we-are-stronger)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO) |
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2 months ago
53 minutes 5 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Why Misinformation Wins and What to Do About It with Dr. Allan Bacon
In today’s episode, Dr. Allan Bacon joins us for an unfiltered and evidence-based dive into the confusing (and very often manipulative) world of health and fitness content on major podcasts and social media.We get real about why misinformation spreads so easily, how podcast hosts become accomplices to pseudoscience, and the responsibility we all have to demand better sources and explanations.We also unpack hot-button issues around menopause, cortisol, and hormone replacement therapy - with an emphasis on autonomy, nuance, and critical thinking. Dr. Bacon calls out and corrects the fear-mongering tactics used to prey on women, especially around menopause and midlife changes, and shares what the actual research says.If you’ve ever felt confused, discouraged, or duped by conflicting health advice—this conversation is for you.“Being duped is not a character flaw. It just means you were trying to take care of yourself with the best information you had at the time.”- Dr. Allan Bacon“You are part of the problem - and that’s good news. Because it means you’re also part of the solution.”- Dr. Allan BaconThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Viral podcast content often thrives on sensationalism, not accuracy* How algorithms reward controversy* Hosts of large podcasts have a responsibility to vet and challenge misinformation, not just give it a platform* It's OK to change your mind as science evolves; that’s how credible professionals grow* Why the SWAN study is important, empowering, and widely misrepresented* The facts about cortisol and its role in the human body* How misleading "cycle syncing" advice rob women of autonomy, training consistency, and progress* Why women don't need separate training rules* Empathy and accountability aren’t mutually exclusive, you can validate someone’s struggle and hold them to a higher standard* Why anti-man rhetoric in the menopause space harms women, shuts out allies and stifles productive, evidence-based dialogueConnect with Dr. Allan Bacon:* Dr. Allan Bacon on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drallanbacon)* https://mauiathletics.com (https://mauiathletics.com)* Maui Athletics Blog (https://mauiathletics.com/blog/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and
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3 months ago
1 hour 37 minutes 30 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Fat Loss Basics, and Dealing with Hunger
In today's episode, we dive into the fundamentals of fat loss. We explain the difference between fat loss and weight loss, we break down why fad diets “work,” explain what research has shown to be necessary for fat loss, and teach you how to find the ballpark estimation of your calorie deficit, protein, and fiber goals. We discuss what it means to “eat more and lose weight,” and debunk a few weight loss myths floating around the internet.We share some practical methods to manage hunger while in a fat loss phase / calorie deficit, and discuss how to pick a goal weight.Tune in to hear practical advise and insights (professional and personal) that will help you navigate the Wild West of diets, and achieve your fat loss goals sustainably, and, dare we say, enjoyably.“Stop freaking out over a couple of weeks or even a month, you just have to stick to your guns and trust that what you're doing is where you need to be, and stop second guessing yourself.”- Amy Rudolph“For all of the tips and tricks we have, a lot of the time the decision is just gonna be: I’m not gonna eat something. You can't really get around that.”- Iris Deadlifts“‘No’ has become a bad word, and it’s not.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Understanding the difference between fat loss and weight loss* What is essential for fat loss, regardless of dietary approach* Why many fad diets “work” (until they don’t)* The importance of viewing the long term trends instead of daily fluctuations* Some practical methods to manage hunger in a calorie deficit* How to choose a goal weight* How can you “eat more and lose weight?”Connect with Iris, Meri, and Amy:* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO) | GooglePlay (https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5ibHVicnJ5LmNvbS9mZWVkcy8xNDcxMDE0LnhtbA) | iHeartRadio (https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-tater-talks-two-bitches-ta-106185864/)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/),
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3 months ago
1 hour 1 minute 8 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
How to Anchor Yourself in Hard Seasons with Kim Schlag
In today’s episode, coach and friend Kim Schlag joins us for a raw, relatable, and inspiring conversation about midlife, motherhood, and making space for yourself. Kim shares her journey from struggling with obesity in her thirties to becoming a strength coach who helps women in midlife feel strong and confident in their skin. We talk about what it really means to practice self-care - not just when life is smooth, but especially when it’s not.From perimenopause and divorce to building a business and rediscovering identity after motherhood, Kim walks us through her personal evolution and the actionable tools she now uses with clients every day. You’ll hear how Kim created her “Minimum Standard of Care” to stay grounded during the most challenging chapters of her life and why confidence isn’t about never having negative thoughts - it’s about knowing how to keep showing up anyway.This episode is full of tangible mindset shifts, actionable takeaways, and a reminder that you don’t have to be perfect to be powerful. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep going when everything feels hard, this one’s for you.If you’ve ever felt like you were failing just because you’re not perfect, this episode is for you.“You can see things I don’t like and still move on with your day - and not let it dictate how you eat, move, or live.”- Kim Schlag“Our kids need to see us taking care of our self and putting ourselves at the top of our priority list.”- Kim SchlagThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Kim’s unexpected path from theater kid to midlife fitness coach* The truth about body image - even at “peak” strength or fitness* How to create your own Minimum Standard of Care for tough seasons* Why behavior change is about practice, not perfection* The real meaning of self-efficacy (and how to build it)* Reclaiming identity after kids leave home or relationships end* How to drop the guilt and start prioritizing yourself without apology* Ways to add joy, fun, or coziness into your workouts and food choicesConnect with Kim Schlag:* Kim Schlag Fitness on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/kimschlagfitness/)* www.kimschlagfitness.com (https://www.kimschlagfitness.com)* Fitness Simplified Podcast (https://www.kimschlagfitness.com/podcasts/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)
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3 months ago
57 minutes 21 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
What Does A Healthy Relationship with Food Look Like?
In today's episode, we’re diving into one of the most misunderstood concepts in the health and fitness world: what it really means to have a healthy relationship with food. This isn’t just about ditching the “good food vs. bad food” mindset - it’s about what happens when real life hits: travel, birthdays, brunches, and baseball games. If you’ve ever spiraled into a shame-fueled overindulgence after a cupcake or felt like every meal out needed to be “worth it,” or even felt like you can’t enjoy food in unexpected situations where you can’t really track it… this episode is for you.We’re unpacking how your background shapes your current habits, why food freedom doesn’t mean food free-for-all, and how to start making choices that actually support your goals and your peace of mind. From the clean plate club to the “special occasion” myth to tracking without losing your mind, this is the real, messy, totally doable work of food freedom."What’s not being managed is going to repeat itself.”- Amy Rudolph“Food freedom is not just doing whatever and hoping for the best - it’s making the smartest choice for you in the moment that aligns with how you want to feel.”- Iris Deadlifts“If you want a peaceful relationship with food, it will cost you something - but it’s worth every second.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why most "special occasions" are just normal life (and why that matters)* What food freedom actually looks like in action* How scarcity mindset leads to overeating (and what to do instead)* Why “getting back on track tomorrow” might be the red flag you’re missing* The difference between restriction and restraint (and why one is essential)* How tracking can help or hurt your mindfulness around food* Learning to recognize fullness cues—and what to do when you blow past them* Why this work is hard at first, but so, so worth it if you stick with it Connect with Us:* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)* Mindful Eating Episode (https://blubrry.com/1471014/133562191/qa-mindful-eating-serving-sizes-building-muscle-with-bodyweight-exercises/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/),
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3 months ago
51 minutes 25 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
The Truth About Blood Sugar, Food Addiction, & Behavior Change with Chris McMahon
In today’s episode, Chris McMahon joins us! He shares his journey from being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 10 to coaching hundreds of clients through sustainable behavior change - while raising a family and working toward becoming a registered dietitian.This conversation digs into the truth about blood sugar, why no one is actually addicted to cookies, and how to stop chasing extremes and start building the messy, human middle. We also unpack the emotional side of food, the limits of macros alone, and how to finally build consistency by making space for being a real, imperfect person.What’s really behind that “I know what to do, I’m just not doing it” feeling? What if you’re not broken—just stuck in old coping patterns? What stories are you still carrying about your body? What if you stopped trying to be a robot—and let yourself be a human? And what if the real win is showing up when it’s not convenient?If you’ve ever felt like you were failing just because you’re not perfect, this episode is for you.“You never are the finished product. You're a work in progress the entire time until your last breath here on Earth. The only way you fuck any of this up is if you just quit.”- Chris McMahon“You are the one who gets to choose what you do.You just have to look and actually schedule it.”- Chris McMahonThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Chris’s personal journey with type 1 diabetes and how it shaped his coaching philosophy* Why insulin spikes are normal - and not something to fear or obsess over* How stress, not just sugar, can cause blood sugar to rise* What real food addiction looks like (and why it’s not about cookies)* The emotional layer behind bingeing, overeating, and numbing through food* Why mindset, values, and emotional safety matter more than perfect calorie tracking* Why not every coach is good at every thing (and why it should be that way)* The one piece of homework Chris assigns to almost every client - and why it worksConnect with Chris McMahon:* Chris McMahon on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/coach.chrismcmahon/)* Chris McMahon Website - Lose Fat. Get Strong. Drink Coffee. (https://chris-mcmahon.com)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and
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4 months ago
1 hour 10 minutes 12 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
How to Stay On Track During Summer & The Best Yes
In today's episode, we chat all about navigating the busy summer season filled with vacations, grad parties, and spontaneous weekends away while keeping our goals on track. We share our insights on how to stay focused and resilient, even when life gets a bit chaotic. We walk you through a flexible mindset and a few go-to plans for eating events, parties, vacations, and those unexpected curveballs that summer often throws our way, as well as a “Vacation Re-Entry Plan” into your fitness and nutrition routine.We discuss planning for those tricky moments when our usual routines are disrupted and how to be proactive rather than reactive with our nutrition. We challenge you to rethink your relationship with summer, discuss how you might lessen some food noise, and explain how “best yeses” can help you remain aligned with your goals during busy, food-heavy times of year.Tune in and get ready to tackle summer with confidence and clarity, ensuring you enjoy every moment without losing sight of your goals!“It's easy to stay on track when everything is going smoothly. But it's the tough days where preparation really counts.”- Amy Rudolph"Confidence comes from doing something you think is uncomfortable over and over again and realizing it wasn't that bad in the first place."- Iris Deadlifts"Your vacation is not the five days leading up to it and the five days after.”- MeriThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* How to develop Plans A, B, and C for life’s curveballs* What are “best yeses” and how to embrace flexibility* How a Vacation Re-Entry Plan can help you get back on track with food and exercise* How to navigate social events and stay on track* How to give yourself a break and enjoy life without guilt* 3 actions strategies to avoid floundering during summer chaosConnect with Iris, Meri, and Amy:* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and
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4 months ago
51 minutes 1 second

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
Raise Your Standard with Carmie Hawkins
In today’s episode, we sit down with coach, mom, and cycle-breaker Carmie Hawkins to talk about what it really means and takes to raise your standards - whether you’re navigating parenthood, cultural expectations, or your own self-sabotaging patterns.Carmie shares her raw, honest journey to reclaiming her life and rewriting the blueprint she’s passing on to her daughters. This is a conversation about agency, boundaries, and the power of small, consistent actions, especially when you and no one else believes in you yet.We also explore what happens when you stop asking for permission and start asking better questions. How do I want to feel five years from now? What do I want my kids to remember about me? Am I actually too busy - or just unwilling to change?If you’re tired of starting over, waiting for the “perfect” moment, or measuring your worth in misery, Carmie offers the truth bombs you didn’t know you needed. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or like you should have figured it out by now, this episode is your permission slip to begin again—with intention.“Being a sacrificial lamb for your family is not a flex.”- Carmie Hawkins“You are allowed to want more—and you are worthy of doing the work to get it.”- Carmie HawkinsThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Why chasing thinness led Carmie to rock bottom - and how she climbed out* The lies moms are sold about selflessness, sacrifice, and what it means to be “good”* How boundaries with family helped Carmie parent differently and break generational cycles* What “delayed gratification” really looks like in health, fitness, and life* Why data tracking - not dieting - is the starting point for real change* The power of manipulating your schedule like a science experiment* How to spot the difference between an excuse and a priority mismatch* Why “boring basics” still move the needle the mostConnect with Carmie Hawkins:* Carmie Hawk on Instagram (@carmhawk_getsfit) (https://www.instagram.com/carmhawk_getsfit/)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 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/), Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/), and Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/).
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4 months ago
55 minutes 42 seconds

Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck
On this show, we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy. Because, here’s the deal: Life shouldn’t suck. And a lot of diet and exercise shenanigans y’all get up to is making it suck. Your relationship with food and your body is making it suck. We’re here to help you change all that. So grab a coffee, go for a walk in the sun or get your lift on, and let’s get into it.