Muscle Science for Women

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how to transition from a cut to "maintenance" and all the mistakes and misconceptions that come from this process; they talk about training during recovery from a herniated disc; they discuss the concept that cold beverages may be inherently less good for you; and much more. 

If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for Muscle Science for Women, email it to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Sign up for the new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Thank you to our sponsor Purity Coffee! Quality coffee can be health promoting and help fight inflammation. Purity Coffee is certified organic and lab tested for pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. They use a proprietary roasting protocol that results (when tested) in up to 65% more antioxidants on average vs other organic coffees. It truly is the best of the best - and it tastes great, with a number of options for you to choose from - even a decaf and a 1/3 caffeinated option! Use our link or the discount code MSW25 to get a full 25% off your first order of the best coffee out there: https://puritycoffee.com/discount/MSW25

The term "aging," to many, is a bad word, associated with negative changes and a general decline in health. But many of the negative aspects we associate with aging aren't inevitable. In this episode re-release, Ashleigh speaks with New York Times bestselling author, weight-loss and natural anti-aging expert Dr. Kellyann Petrucci.She is a concierge doctor for celebrities in New York City and Los Angeles, a board-certified naturopathic physician and a certified nutrition consultant. She is a massive proponent of using food to encourage robust health and beauty, and challenging what we think about “natural aging.”

In this episode Dr. Kellyann and Ashleigh discuss eating for beauty; addressing gut health as a means of overall health but also anti-aging; how to slow down brain aging; and ways we can switch our perspective from thinking of aging as an inevitable decline, to thinking of it as an opportunity for growth, improvement, and continued vitality. Aging well doesn’t happen by accident, and there’s so much we can do to feel, look, and perform well as move through life. Learn more about her work at drkellyann.com.

Let us know your thoughts, or pose more questions or topic ideas to Rachel and Ashleigh at musclescience4women@gmail.com

Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

In this episode the ladies answer questions from listeners including one about how to lower LDL cholesterol on a high protein diet: what might be causing the high LDL reading; what other factors other than diet may be contributing; and their advice for some lifestyle factors and further research to address the potential issue.

They also discuss how much is too much protein powder: what percentage of your daily protein amount ideally should come from whole foods, and how much is ok to get from supplements like protein powder? How can you best meal prep or plan when you have a job that keeps you on the road and yet doesn't allow much downtime for eating?

Finally, Ashleigh dives into yet another social media trend that grinds her gears: the polarizing discussion online about "healthy versions of classic desserts." One side says we should avoid dessert unless we make it ourselves, while the other side says that these healthy versions are just an expression of orthorexia. What do you think?

Let us know your thoughts, or pose more questions or topic ideas to Rachel and Ashleigh at musclescience4women@gmail.com

Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

If you've always wanted to test some things out and try a CGM, Muscle Science for Women is partnering with NutriSense to help you!  Nutrisense combines cutting-edge technology and human expertise so you can see how your body responds to different food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. By pairing a CGM with their app and expert nutritionist guidance, you can help understand which foods impact your glucose levels and how you respond to foods, stress, exercise, and sleep changes. You simply pair a continuous glucose monitor with their Nutrisense app, where you can keep all your data around food, exercise and so on, and their subscription plan also includes a month of free nutritionist support. 

Go to Nutrisenseio.com/MSW or use the code MSW at checkout to receive a $30 discount off your first month which includes 2 CGM sensors, free shipping, and a month of professional Nutritionist support.  

In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh answer listener questions about the efficacy of BCAA's for muscle building and recovery, the concept of "macro thresholds" ie, how much wiggle room do you have with your macros if you're trying to lose fat, and whether or not you should really be doing a coffee detox. 

If you want more information on BCAA's and EAA's, check out episode 59 of the podcast.

If you have any questions or topic ideas for the ladies, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Get on the waiting list for their NEW Strong & Sculpted Shoulders Workshop waitlist: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Thank you to our sponsor Purity Coffee! Quality coffee can be health promoting and help fight inflammation. Purity Coffee is certified organic and lab tested for pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. They use a proprietary roasting protocol that results (when tested) in up to 65% more antioxidants on average vs other organic coffees. It truly is the best of the best - and it tastes great, with a number of options for you to choose from - even a decaf and a 1/3 caffeinated option! Use our link or the discount code MSW25 to get a full 25% off your first order of the best coffee out there: https://puritycoffee.com/discount/MSW25

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about how to enjoy vacation without guilt, vegan protein powders, and Ashleigh's nutritional deficiency test results. They discuss how to balance "vacation mentality" with enough discipline that provides a sense of control while still allowing you to enjoy time off, new experiences, and a break from your regular life. They also talk about protein powders and their thoughts on vegan protein. Ashleigh discusses the results of her Genova Metabolomix+ nutritional deficiency test, including whether her meat-forward diet is giving her enough variety, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. You'll have to listen to hear what she learns!

Send us your thoughts about today's episode or any questions you have to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Sign up for our NEW workshop, Strong & Sculpted Shoulders: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Have you been thinking about getting some health testing done, without the hassle of getting a doctor's appointment? Genova Diagnostics is a direct-to-consumer testing company that allows you to order specific testing online that you can do easily at home and receive personalized recommendations based on the results.

Testing options include a GI Effects gut health test that provides insight into digestive function and intestinal inflammation; Metabolomix+ nutritional testing that can identify individual needs for certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids; a hormonal health test that measures sex and adrenal hormones for men and women, and more.

Genova provides educational resources to help you understand results, and you can also work with your own healthcare provider to help further interpret and make use of your findings. Genova makes the testing process easier, so you can do your own research, advocate for yourself, and empower yourself to find the answers you’re looking for to improve your health. Learn more about the options at https://connect.gdx.net/ and use our code, MSW10 for 10% off any of the tests.

And shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality collagen peptide powder and beef protein powder in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. The chocolate flavor literally tastes like chocolate milk - it's a great way to get a collagen boost in your daily diet.

Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

This is a fun one! In today's episode, Rachel and Ashleigh discuss the concept of body types: (you've probably heard of these, ectomorph, endomorph, and mesomorph). They talk about:

They also talk about specific strength training for sports, gestational diabetes management, and they tease their brand new program launching in April: Strong & Sculpted Shoulders! Sign up to learn more here: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders

If you've always wanted to test some things out and try a CGM, Muscle Science for Women is partnering with NutriSense to help you!  Nutrisense combines cutting-edge technology and human expertise so you can see how your body responds to different food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. By pairing a CGM with their app and expert nutritionist guidance, you can help understand which foods impact your glucose levels and how you respond to foods, stress, exercise, and sleep changes. You simply pair a continuous glucose monitor with their Nutrisense app, where you can keep all your data around food, exercise and so on, and their subscription plan also includes a month of free nutritionist support. 

Go to Nutrisenseio.com/MSW or use the code MSW at checkout to receive a $30 discount off your first month which includes 2 CGM sensors, free shipping, and a month of professional Nutritionist support.  

If you have questions or topic ideas, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Leearn more about the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

Ashleigh and Rachel are VERY excited to answer questions from some younger listeners! They answer questions from a high school listener about weight gain and birth control, training plans for weight loss, training around injury, and optimal nutrition for younger people. 

They also dive into pesticides in your coffee (and how to avoid them); why they don't give out free workouts to help sell their programs, and more.

Any more teens have fitness questions? Looking for advice? Do you have questions about how to talk to your teens about fitness or encourage them? Send us your thoughts about today's episode or any questions you have to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Get on the waiting list for their NEW Strong & Sculpted Shoulders Workshop waitlist: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Thank you to our sponsor Purity Coffee! Quality coffee can be health promoting and help fight inflammation. Purity Coffee is certified organic and lab tested for pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. They use a proprietary roasting protocol that results (when tested) in up to 65% more antioxidants on average vs other organic coffees. It truly is the best of the best - and it tastes great, with a number of options for you to choose from - even a decaf and a 1/3 caffeinated option! Use our link or the discount code MSW25 to get a full 25% off your first order of the best coffee out there: https://puritycoffee.com/discount/MSW25

In this episode Ashleigh asks the CEO and co-founder of Kion, Angelo Keely, to do a deep dive on essential amino acids. As a life-long meat eater, Ashleigh is skeptical about EAA supplements, so they talk about:

All that and more - if you enjoyed this specific deep dive with a subject matter expert let us know and we can do more like this. Email musclescience4women@gmail.com with your questions, feedback, and topic ideas.

If you want to try Kion's Essential Amino Acids products (which Ashleigh is currently using, as well as their creatine) you can get up to 20% off here: getkion.com/musclescience

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode Ashleigh shares her struggles with burnout, comparing her current self to her former self, and struggling with balancing her current goals and responsibilities with her training plan. She and Rachel dive into concepts like identity and fitness, the importance of training in an organized and progressive way, and how to move past boredom and even burnout.

They also answer questions about training with lower back pain, including which exercises may help and setting expectations around recovery time, and Rachel talks about her own struggles with back injury. 

Finally, Ashleigh talks about a nutritional assessment test she's taking through Genova Diagnostics.

Send us your thoughts about today's episode or any questions you have to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Genova Diagnostics is a direct-to-consumer testing company that allows you to order specific testing online that you can do easily at home and receive personalized recommendations based on the results.

Testing options include a GI Effects gut health test that provides insight into digestive function and intestinal inflammation; Metabolomix+ nutritional testing that can identify individual needs for certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids; a hormonal health test that measures sex and adrenal hormones for men and women, and more.

Genova provides educational resources to help you understand results, and you can also work with your own healthcare provider to help further interpret and make use of your findings. Genova makes the testing process easier, so you can do your own research, advocate for yourself, and empower yourself to find the answers you’re looking for to improve your health. Learn more about the options at https://connect.gdx.net/ and use our code, MSW10 for 10% off any of the tests.

Thank you to our sponsor Purity Coffee! Quality coffee can be health promoting and help fight inflammation. Purity Coffee is certified organic and lab tested for pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. They use a proprietary roasting protocol that results (when tested) in up to 65% more antioxidants on average vs other organic coffees. It truly is the best of the best - and it tastes great, with a number of options for you to choose from - even a decaf and a 1/3 caffeinated option! Use our link or the discount code MSW25 to get a full 25% off your first order of the best coffee out there: https://puritycoffee.com/discount/MSW25

In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh and Rachel dive into a case study of a woman looking to start over again in her fitness and strength journey, after kids and taking time away from the gym. They provide practical tips on how to overcome obstacles and mental hurdles, identify small wins and how they add up to big change over time, and how much time and effort a busy person really HAS to dedicate to their workout program to see results. They also chat about Rachel's new part time job and a work trip Ashleigh is excited about!

If you've always wanted to test some things out and try a CGM, Muscle Science for Women is partnering with NutriSense to help you!  Nutrisense combines cutting-edge technology and human expertise so you can see how your body responds to different food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. By pairing a CGM with their app and expert nutritionist guidance, you can help understand which foods impact your glucose levels and how you respond to foods, stress, exercise, and sleep changes. You simply pair a continuous glucose monitor with their Nutrisense app, where you can keep all your data around food, exercise and so on, and their subscription plan also includes a month of free nutritionist support. 

Go to Nutrisenseio.com/MSW or use the code MSW at checkout to receive a $30 discount off your first month which includes 2 CGM sensors, free shipping, and a month of professional Nutritionist support.  

If you have questions or topic ideas, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about some of the ways their beliefs and behaviors around fitness and nutrition have changed over the past ten years; they discuss what may be missing from your plan if you seem to be doing everything right but just aren't seeing progress; and what the margin of error is when trying to determine your optimal macro ratio. 

If you have any questions you want answered, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

We're excited about our new show sponsor: Genova Diagnostics is a direct-to-consumer testing company that allows you to order specific testing online that you can do easily at home and receive personalized recommendations based on the results.

Testing options include a GI Effects gut health test that provides insight into digestive function and intestinal inflammation; Metabolomix+ nutritional testing that can identify individual needs for certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids; a hormonal health test that measures sex and adrenal hormones for men and women, and more.

Genova provides educational resources to help you understand results, and you can also work with your own healthcare provider to help further interpret and make use of your findings. Genova makes the testing process easier, so you can do your own research, advocate for yourself, and empower yourself to find the answers you’re looking for to improve your health. Learn more about the options at https://connect.gdx.net/ and use our code, MSW10 for 10% off any of the tests.

And shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality collagen peptide powder in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. The chocolate flavor literally tastes like chocolate milk - it's a great way to get a collagen boost in your daily diet.

Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel discuss whether or not you can effectively grow your legs and glutes with a limited home gym (and give plenty of advice on how you can maximize your workouts no matter where you are or what equipment you have). They both recently invested in some of the trendy new walking office treadmills and talk about whether they think they're worth it; how their meal prepping has changed over time; the best way to prep for pregnancy; and they have their favorite "lifting straps vs. no lifting straps" debate, AGAIN. This one is a fun episode, and full of practical takeaways.

Here's a link to the Versa Gripps product Rachel loves.

Here's a link for a similar product in Canada.

If you have questions, comments, or topic ideas for us, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our brand new Sponsor Purity Coffee! Quality coffee can be health promoting and help fight inflammation. Purity Coffee is certified organic and lab tested for pesticides, mold, and heavy metals. They use a proprietary roasting protocol that results (when tested) in up to 65% more antioxidants on average vs other organic coffees. It truly is the best of the best - and it tastes great, with a number of options for you to choose from - even a decaf and a 1/3 caffeinated option! Use our link or the discount code MSW25 to get a full 25% off your first order of the best coffee out there: https://puritycoffee.com/discount/MSW25

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel dive into a variety of topics around nutrition, including understanding the difference between a food "sensitivity" and an actual allergy; they talk about whether foods that are widely touted as unhealthy (like gluten) should be avoided even if you don't seem to be sensitive to them; and they discuss their own recent experiments with continuous blood glucose monitors - including what raised their blood sugar and what didn't, how stress and exercise impacted their results, and some other surprising findings. 

If you've always wanted to test some things out and try a CGM, Muscle Science for Women is partnering with NutriSense to help you!  Nutrisense combines cutting-edge technology and human expertise so you can see how your body responds to different food, exercise, stress, and sleep in real time. By pairing a CGM with their app and expert nutritionist guidance, you can help understand which foods impact your glucose levels and how you respond to foods, stress, exercise, and sleep changes. You simply pair a continuous glucose monitor with their Nutrisense app, where you can keep all your data around food, exercise and so on, and their subscription plan also includes a month of free nutritionist support. 

Go to Nutrisenseio.com/MSW or use the code MSW at checkout to receive a $30 discount off your first month which includes 2 CGM sensors, free shipping, and a month of professional Nutritionist support.  

If you have questions or topic ideas, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

Some other links discussed in today's show:

US-based:

In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh discuss mindset and the do's and don'ts of staying healthy while traveling. Rachel has just come back from an epic three-week trip to Thailand, and Ashleigh is about to embark on an all-inclusive family vacation, so they chat about stuff like: 

All this and more in this episode - if you have any questions or comments, please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 

We're excited to introduce a new show sponsor in this episode: Genova Diagnostics is a direct-to-consumer testing company that allows you to order specific testing online that you can do easily at home and receive personalized recommendations based on the results.

Testing options include a GI Effects gut health test that provides insight into digestive function and intestinal inflammation; Metabolomix+ nutritional testing that can identify individual needs for certain vitamins, minerals, and amino acids; a hormonal health test that measures sex and adrenal hormones for men and women, and more.

Genova provides educational resources to help you understand results, and you can also work with your own healthcare provider to help further interpret and make use of your findings. Genova makes the testing process easier, so you can do your own research, advocate for yourself, and empower yourself to find the answers you’re looking for to improve your health. Learn more about the options at https://connect.gdx.net/ and use our code, MSW10 for 10% off any of the tests.

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about:

The ladies get personal in this one, we hope you enjoy it and learn something that helps you! If you have any thoughts, comments, or feedback, please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality collagen protein in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

In this episode, Ashleigh sits down with Halie Schoff, functional wellness and nutrition expert and coach who specializes in gut and hormonal health, to talk about how to best support digestive health during different phases of life. They also discuss certain controversial health practices (coffee enema, anyone?) and whether or not someone who practices a healthy lifestyle really "needs" additional detoxifying.

They discuss:

And a lot more! If you have any feedback, questions, or other topics ideas send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our show sponsor, the Primal Health Coach Institute, an online health and fitness coaching certification school founded by Mark Sisson with a mission to develop highly skilled coaches who are proficient in guiding their clients toward lasting behavior change and excellent health outcomes. Ashleigh was one of the first 50 coaches certified through the program, and she has since developed her own Strength Training for Women Coaching Certification program for coaches through the PHCI. Head to  https://www.primalhealthcoach.com/msw/

Use the code MSW25 at checkout to get 25% off the price of either the Strength Training for Women course or the flagship Primal Health Coach course. 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In the LAST episode of 2023, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about goals and answer listener questions about:

All that and more! Email your comments, feedback, topic suggestions and questions to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Get fit with us in 2024 - sign up for the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

or our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality collagen protein in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Erin Power, the coaching and curriculum director at the Primal Health Coach Institute about the complex and layered relationship between a health/fitness/nutrition coach and their client. They dive into topics like:

And a lot more! This is like a brief mastermind into how coaching works, a behind-the-scenes look at the human beings who work to improve the lives and health of their clients - because we have failures and worries about it too.

Thank you to our show sponsor, the Primal Health Coach Institute, an online health and fitness coaching certification school founded by Mark Sisson with a mission to develop highly skilled coaches who are proficient in guiding their clients toward lasting behavior change and excellent health outcomes. Ashleigh was one of the first 50 coaches certified through the program, and she has since developed her own Strength Training for Women Coaching Certification program for coaches through the PHCI. Head to  https://www.primalhealthcoach.com/msw/

Use the code MSW25 at checkout to get 25% off the price of either the Strength Training for Women course or the flagship Primal Health Coach course. 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer more listener questions, like:

And much more! Remember, if you're a first responder, medical professionl or military member you get a special discount on all Muscle Science for Women programs. Email us a musclescience4women@gmail.com for the discount or to send in a question or topic for the podcast.

Thank you to our new show sponsor, CanadianProtein.com, where you can find everything you need to help you reach your fitness goals: creatine monohydrate, whey protein in every flavor you can think of, vegan protein (if you're into that), greens powder, all high quality and incredibly affordable prices. Get free shipping in Canada when you spend more than $99 and free shipping to the U.S. on orders over $149. Check out our favorite creatine product here:  https://canadianprotein.com/products/creatine-monohydrate?sca_ref=4752819.iCBCZXTM7A

Or you can try the new flavored collagen peptides from Active Stacks - same amazing ingredients and delicious chocolate and vanilla flavors, with 22 grams of collagen per serving to support gut health and strong skin, hair, and nails. Mixes easily and easy to digest for folks who have trouble with whey protein! Visit activestacks.com and use the code MSW10 to save.

 Check out our lower body specialist program, Grow Your Glutes: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Find more info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Today Ashleigh dives into your most frequently asked hormone questions with Esther Blum, an Integrative Dietitian and Menopause Expert. In the past 27 years she has helped thousands of women master menopause through nutrition, hormones and self-advocacy.  Esther is the bestselling author of See ya later, Ovulator and Cavewomen Don’t Get Fat, among others. Learn more about Esther here: estherblum.com    They discuss topics including:   ●        How can women go through menopause like a rock star? ●        What are the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause? ●        What tests do women need to have done to know their hormonal baseline? ●        Are supplements necessary? What ones actually work? ●        What are the best types of hormone replacement therapy? ●        Why do MDs often dismiss HRT? ●        Is HRT safe for long-term use? ●        What are the best exercises menopausal women can do to feel energized and happy?   All that and more! If you have any feedback, questions, or other topics ideas send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our show sponsor, the Primal Health Coach Institute, an online health and fitness coaching certification school founded by Mark Sisson with a mission to develop highly skilled coaches who are proficient in guiding their clients toward lasting behavior change and excellent health outcomes. Ashleigh was one of the first 50 coaches certified through the program, and she has since developed her own Strength Training for Women Coaching Certification program for coaches through the PHCI. Head to  https://www.primalhealthcoach.com/msw/

Use the code MSW25 at checkout to get 25% off the price of either the Strength Training for Women course or the flagship Primal Health Coach course. 

Check out our specialized program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel catch up on their lives, answer listener questions, and get pretty fired up over:

All that and more! Email your questions, feedback, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our new show sponsor, CanadianProtein.com, where you can find everything you need to help you reach your fitness goals: creatine monohydrate, whey protein in every flavor you can think of, vegan protein (if you're into that), greens powder, all high quality and incredibly affordable prices. Get free shipping in Canada when you spend more than $99 and free shipping to the U.S. on orders over $149. Check out our favorite creatine product here:  https://canadianprotein.com/products/creatine-monohydrate?sca_ref=4752819.iCBCZXTM7A

 Check out our lower body specialist program, Grow Your Glutes: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Find more info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this week's episode, Ashleigh speaks with Dr. Stephanie Estima, a doctor of chiropractic and a health expert focusing on improving lifespan, health span, body composition, and optimal performance. They dive into topics like:

Learn more about Stephanie and her book, The Betty Body, here: https://hellobetty.club/ and check out her podcast, Better with Dr. Stephanie.

Thank you to our show sponsor, the Primal Health Coach Institute, an online health and fitness coaching certification school founded by Mark Sisson with a mission to develop highly skilled coaches who are proficient in guiding their clients toward lasting behavior change and excellent health outcomes. Ashleigh was one of the first 50 coaches certified through the program, and she has since developed her own Strength Training for Women Coaching Certification program for coaches through the PHCI. Head to  https://www.primalhealthcoach.com/msw/

Use the code MSW25 at checkout to get 25% off the price of either the Strength Training for Women course or the flagship Primal Health Coach course. 

Check out our newest program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh answer questions about:

All this and more! If you have any feedback, questions, or topic ideas please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com

 Check out our newest program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

And thank you to sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen, coffee, powdered MCT and hydration products on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to veteran-supporting charity. 

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

In this episode, Ashleigh talks about the stress of sending her toddler to pre-school and her fitness plans for the rest of 2023; Rachel gives an update on her "mini cut" and they answer questions about how to eat out while on a diet. They also dive into the concept of a "weight set point": what it is, can you change it, and how your understanding of it may help or hinder your body composition goals or progress.

If you have any other questions you want to ask, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thanks to our sponsor, Goodr! These super cute, polarized, quality sunglasses are incredibly well-priced, and some with a one year warranty. These comfortable sunnies come in a ton of styles, colors, shapes, and sport-specific styles - all with incredible names (one of our favorites is the "Sells House, Buys Avocados" style.) Head to goodr.com/MSW and use the code MSW for free shipping!

Check out our newest program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Dr. Bill Schindler, an archaeologist, primitive technologist, chef, and author of the book, Eat Like a Human.

They cover:

His journey from having an unhealthy approach to food and body image in his younger years, to learning how to enjoy a more nourishing and less punishing relationship with food;

The ONE food humans are actually perfectly designed to eat, and why human beings are actually not very efficient eaters;

His experience on a survival-based reality show called The Great Human Race;

His food trips to places like Ireland, Sardinia, and beyond, and how he shares these adventures with his family;

Why fermentation is such a crucial food preparation tool - and how to ferment foods you never imagined could be fermented!

You might want to take notes for this one! Learn more about Bill at eatlikeahuman.com and @drbillschindler.

Thank you to our show sponsor, the Primal Health Coach Institute, an online health and fitness coaching certification school founded by Mark Sisson with a mission to develop highly skilled coaches who are proficient in guiding their clients toward lasting behavior change and excellent health outcomes. Ashleigh was one of the first 50 coaches certified through the program, and she has since developed her own Strength Training for Women Coaching Certification program for coaches through the PHCI. Head to  https://www.primalhealthcoach.com/msw/

Use the code MSW25 at checkout to get 25% off the price of either the Strength Training for Women course or the flagship Primal Health Coach course. 

Check out our newest program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

In this episode Rachel tells us about her "mini cut" for an upcoming vacation, which leads to a discussion on pool party fashion; Ashleigh has a wellness industry rant about "girl dinner;" they talk about their favorite (and most embarrassing) music to listen to while working out, and they get into the business and branding side of Muscle Science for Women. This one is a real mixed bag of fitness and funny - submit your questions and topic ideas to the ladies at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thanks to our new sponsor, Goodr! These super cute, polarized, quality sunglasses are incredibly well-priced, and some with a one year warranty. These comfortable sunnies come in a ton of styles, colors, shapes, and sport-specific styles - all with incredible names (one of our favorites is the "Sells House, Buys Avocados" style.) Head to goodr.com/MSW and use the code MSW for free shipping!

Check out our newest program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com

Ashleigh and Rachel get real womanly in this episode, covering everything about periods including:

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Here's Ashleigh's ebook, Fuel for Pregnancy and Postpartum: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/collections/my-book/products/ebook-fuel-for-pregnancy-and-pospartum

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: https://www.rgfit.com/msw

Info on our Grow your Glutes workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes 

Here is the Amazon link for Rachel's workout top: https://amzn.to/3r73Eyz 

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! Go to bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order of coffee, collagen, grass-fed butter-based creamer, MCT powder and more with the code MSW20 when you visit https://www.bubsnaturals.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at active stacks.com and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase.

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat about the new American Gladiators documentary, what type of testing is best to determine hormone levels and overall health, and how to optimize unilateral --single limb--training: why it's important, what exercises are most impactful, and how to rest properly for maximum output.

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: musclescienceforwomen.com

Info on our Grow your Glutes workshop: rgfit.com/glutes

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! Go to bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order of coffee, collagen, grass-fed butter-based creamer, MCT powder and more with the code MSW20.

They are also doing an awesome giveaway for the month of August - win a coffee bundle and a pair of Ashleigh's custom-designed solid gold barbell earrings by entering here: https://www.bubsnaturals.com/MSW

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at active stacks.com and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase.

In this Q&A episode, Ashleigh and Rachel dive into the 75 hard challenge, they talk about safe sun exposure, caffeine consumption, and they revisit their old debate on using wrist straps when lifting...this is a fun one, don't miss it! 

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: musclescienceforwomen.com

Info on our Grow your Glutes workshop: rgfit.com/glutes

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! Go to bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order of coffee, collagen, grass-fed butter-based creamer, MCT powder and more with the code MSW20.

They are also doing an awesome giveaway for the month of August - win a coffee bundle and a pair of Ashleigh's custom-designed solid gold barbell earrings by entering here: https://www.bubsnaturals.com/MSW

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at active stacks.com and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

In this fun episode Ashleigh and Rachel show off some summer fashion (follow us on YouTube to watch the episodes!) and answer listener questions including:

And more! 

Thanks to our BRAND NEW sponsor, Goodr! These super cute, polarized, quality sunglasses are incredibly well-priced, and some with a one year warranty. These comfortable sunnies come in a ton of styles, colors, shapes, and sport-specific styles - all with incredible names (one of our favorites is the "Sells House, Buys Avocados" style.) Head to goodr.com/MSW and use the code MSW for free shipping!

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

In this episode with Ashleigh and her special guest, postpartum fitness and kettlebell expert Melissa Paris, the two moms discuss the importance of the postpartum period for long-term health and healing, the kinds of breathwork that help improve core stability, the best way to support and strengthen core and pelvic health both before and after birth, how to navigate fitness "as a mom" while juggling all the new responsibilities and distractions, and the number one thing women should do in the weeks after birth...you'll have to listen to find out what it is!

Follow Melissa on Instagram @melissaparisfitness

If you want to learn more about my thoughts on pregnancy and postpartum nutrition, check out my ebook.

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more here and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh dive deeper into the topic of hormone replacement therapy for women, attempting to clear up some misconceptions and provide information for listeners to better inform their own further research. (As a reminder, this episode does not contain medical advice and is meant for general information and entertainment purposes only.)

The ladies cover topics including:

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more here and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Further reading and resources:

Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming, MD (a breast oncologist) and Carol Tavris, PhD. They dive deep into this topic, debunking the estrogen myth, and cite over 400 references in their book.

Happy Healthy Hormones by Dr. Daved Rosensweet, MD. A deep dive into hormones, menopause, BHRT (bioidentical HRT), and much more.

Clark JH. A critique of Women's Health Initiative Studies (2002-2006). Nucl Recept Signal. 2006 Oct 30;4:e023. doi: 10.1621/nrs.04023. PMID: 17088939; PMCID: PMC1630688.

Writing Group for the Women's Health Initiative Investigators. Risks and Benefits of Estrogen Plus Progestin in Healthy Postmenopausal Women: Principal Results From the Women's Health Initiative Randomized Controlled Trial. JAMA. 2002;288(3):321–333. doi:10.1001/jama.288.3.321

Cagnacci, Angelo, and Martina Venier. 2019. "The Controversial History of Hormone Replacement Therapy" Medicina 55, no. 9: 602. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55090602

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel try (and fail) to do a rapid-fire Q&A, but they still cover a lot of ground: they chat about the latest fat-loss drug, Ozempic; the new social media food trend of making everything out of cottage cheese; and answer other questions about gut health, whether there's value in core-specific workouts, and how often you should "go to failure" in your workouts. All that and more!

If you have topic ideas or questions for the hosts, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Interested in pre and post-natal nutrition? Check out Ashleigh's Fuel for Pregnancy and Postpartum ebook.

Check out our new program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more here and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh catch up on what's going on in their lives after a brief break and chat about:

And that's just the tip of the iceberg! If you have more questions for Ashleigh and Rachel, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Check out our new program, the Grow Your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more here and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

In this re-released episode, Ashleigh discusses what she's seen/experienced as the issues in the coaching industry today, and what we can all do to improve it.

As a professional in the health and fitness industry for more than a decade, Ashleigh has worked as a coach and has experience as a client; she’s also worked with, observed, interviewed, and learned from some of the top coaches in the industry. When a coaching experience doesn’t go well, it’s easy to chalk it up to an unmotivated client, or a crappy coach - sometimes this is true, but more often it boils down to miscommunication and unclear goals. A coach/client relationship requires understanding, open-mindedness, respect, and communication (just like every relationship) but often we don’t focus on this; instead we focus on how much money we’re spending, how fit the coach looks, and how long this “getting healthy” process will take. In this episode, Ashleigh breaks down what she sees as the biggest “failures” of both coaches and clients, and how she thinks we can improve the culture and understanding and approach to coaching to improve outcomes and create healthier, happier people. 

Have more questions or topic ideas for us? Email them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - use code MM20 to save on anything you buy: grassfed collagen, MCT, and their new amazing coffee!

In this re-released episode, Ashleigh welcomes back her friend Dr. Elly Michelle Lieppman, a licensed naturopathic doctor who specializes in individualized women’s medicine, optimizing hormones, digestion, and energy. Learn more at drellymichelle.com.

Dr. Elly and Ashleigh tackle the complex and spicy topic of sexual health and libido - discussing topics like:

Have more questions or topic ideas for us? Email them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - use code MM20 to save on anything you buy: grassfed collagen, MCT, and their new amazing coffee!

In this Q&A episode, Ashleigh and Rachel are asked about their body fat percentages, our favorite lifts, what to do with rest day restlessness, and more chats about optimizing training around your monthly cycle. 

Have more questions or topic ideas for us? Email them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our new program, the Grow your Glutes Workshop.

More info on our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more here and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Since May is a busy month for the Muscle Science for Women ladies, please enjoy the re-release of one of the most popular podcast episodes Ashleigh ever recorded: her interview with Dr. Andrew Huberman, a neuroscientist and a professor in the department of neurobiology at the Stanford University School of Medicine. If you haven't heard this episode before, it's full of usable, accessible tools to understand and manage your stress response - and if you have heard it before, we really think this one is worth listening to again!

Dr. Huberman studies brain development, brain plasticity, neural regeneration as well as things like controlling your brain state, tangible ways to manage fear, stress and anxiety, and at his lab he also works on strategies for halting and reversing vision loss ad how visual perceptions and autonomic arousal states impact behavioral responses. In this episode we dive into practical ways to immediately control brain state and help mitigate acute stressors, rewiring your brain for positivity, we talk about neurotransmitters, breath work, and even how your vision impacts your stress response.

Questions, comments, feedback? Send us a note at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Check out our flagship training and education program, Muscle Science for Women.

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - stock up on the best quality grassfed collagen, delicious, high-quality coffee, and MCT powder at bubsnaturals.com and use the code MM20 for a discount!

This week is all about reverse dieting: Ashleigh and Rachel discuss what a reverse diet is, and why you should do it after spending time in a caloric deficit. They also talk about what many people get wrong about reverse dieting; how changing your body size changes your nutritional and metabolic needs; and how to find your new "maintenance" calories after you've changed your body composition. This is an important episode for anyone who's lost weight or changed their body composition, hit their goal, and thought, "now what do I do?"

You'll also want to listen to this episode to find out why Rachel has a black eye...

AND the Muscle Science for Women: Grow your Glutes Workshop is now open! Sign up here: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Email your questions, comments, topic ideas and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com

We are so excited to announce a new show sponsor: BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

In today's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk all things High Intensity Interval Training:

The ladies also discuss their new offering, the Grow Your Glutes workshop, and introduce a potential new intro theme song, hope you love it!

Learn more or sign up for the Grow your Glutes workshop here: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Sign up for the Muscle Science for Women course here: http://musclescienceforwomen.com 

Email your hosts any feedback, funny stories, questions or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com

 Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

 And thank you to show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at https://bubsnaturals.com  and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about cutting and bulking in tandem with the seasons; whether or not you can/should try to change your body composition without losing or gaining weight; how to know when it's time to move on from a current goal and start a new challenge; and of course, they talk about healthy protein treats for those of us who are trying to chaise gains but who also need ice cream.

Here's a link for how to make the BEST protein ice cream:  https://www.rgfit.com/blog/ninja-creami-protein-ice-cream-low-calorie

Here's the link to get on our Grow Your Glutes workshop waitlist: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

Want to share your funny fitness stories, suggest topic ideas or guests, or give feedback? Email musclescience4women@gmail.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Shoutout to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans. They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.rgfit.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

"A healthy body is a responsive body."

Have you ever found yourself frustrated with a body composition or fat loss goal - you feel like you're doing everything right but not seeing the results you want? It could be that you're missing some of the foundational health principles that will help encourage body composition changes. Many of the most important factors for fat loss or muscle gain - things like proper nutrition, recovery, rest, hormonal health, stress management, and more - are ignored in favor of sexier things like new workout plans, but the fact remains: a healthy, well-fed and recovered body will respond better to new challenges than an undernourished, overworked one.

This is what Ashleigh and Rachel chat about in today's episode as Ashleigh talks about the final week of prep before her photoshoot; they discuss what went well, what didn't, how she feels, and what comes next.

Rachel also talks about some injury recovery, how to manage back pain, and the two coaches share some painfully hilarious fitness-related stories. 

Send in your feedback and podcast questions or comments to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Add your name to the waitlist for their new Grow your Glutes workshop, coming soon: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes

 Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Thank you to our sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at https://www.bubsnaturals.com/ and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.rgfit.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh gives an update on her short but intense photo shoot prep and fat loss plan, revealing the challenges she's having (they're not what you think!) and they talk about the importance of motivation in goal setting - as well as what to do when motivation fails.

They dig into the role cardio can play in fat loss, and how to implement it in a strategic, sustainable, and healthy way.

Email us with your thoughts, comments, topic suggestion to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Learn more about the Muscle Science for Women flagship program at http://musclescienceforwomen.com 

Thanks to our show sponsor, BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans. They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans and creamer, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

Join the Build Your Glutes Workshop interest list HERE!

This week, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about training around your cycle; Rachel shares details about her business rebranding; and the two ladies announce their first new workshop product since Muscle Science for Women was born...hint, it's all about the glutes :) Learn more about the new course and how you can sign up for a bigger, stronger backside.

Reach out with any questions, comments, or topic ideas by emailing musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Learn more about the Muscle Science for Women flagship program at musclescienceforwomen.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode, hosts Rachel and Ashleigh answer your questions, including whether their feelings about themselves or about beauty in general have changed as their "online careers" have grown. They also offer their own tips or advice for how to cultivate contentment, compassion, and self-love in an online world that can be increasingly judgemental and negative.

Ashleigh also gives an update on her photoshoot prep, and they discuss how to manage your goals when unexpected stresses are thrown at you.

If you have questions, comments, feedback, or podcast topic ideas, email them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

In this episode, the girls nerd out about the benefits and uses of creatine and collagen; they discuss the nuances of nutrition timing when in a deficit; Ashleigh talks about her experience with Rachel’s Training program so far, and more.

If you have any questions, topic ideas, comments or feedback, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

Even coaches need coaching - Ashleigh is working on a short but intense "prep" for an upcoming photoshoot, and she discusses her plan and goals with her surprise coach - including things she does and doesn't like about having a coach, the difficulties of a prep after having a child, her changing values, the non-negotiables required when looking to make body composition changes, and ultimately, the TRUE value of a coach...it's not always what we think it is!

What do you want to learn from or know about Ashleigh's photoshoot prep? Send your questions to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thank you to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans in dark and medium roast options, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this short solo episode, Ashleigh answers listener questions about whether fasting for women is a good idea; when you know you've reached a goal and when it's time to take a break/maintain, and her thoughts on the current state of fitness coaching and accreditation. 

Learn more on her episode with women's fasting expert Cynthia Thurlow here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hmsWBTLSmU&t=276s

Listen to Ashleigh's episode about "what's wrong with the coaching industry and how we can fix it" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAyfP4kGpDs

Learn about Ashleigh's Strength Training for Women Specialist Certification through the Primal Health Coach Institute here: https://nm356.isrefer.com/go/STW/themusclemaven/

If you have any questions, feedback, or topic ideas, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Thanks to our new show sponsor: BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans. They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

One of the questions most frequently asked of the Muscle Science for Women podcast hosts is around optimizing hormonal health as we age, so we can maximize muscle, minimize stress, and live vibrant, healthy lives. It's a complex topic, though, and one that requires more than one podcast episode to dive into!

This week, Ashleigh chats with Dr. Halie Schoff, a licensed and practicing Functional Chiropractor, Integrative Health Practitioner, and Podcaster with a Master's in Applied Clinical Nutrition. She is a former collegiate athlete who has a passion for teaching people how to bridge the gap between fitness and holistic health. With a focus on women's hormones and gut health, Dr. Halie has worked with thousands of people all over the world to regain their health through lifestyle, optimal diet, movement, and functional practices. Learn more on her podcast, Podcast-Alpha Health + Wellness Radio, her instagram @drhalieschoff @alphahealthwellness, and her website, drhalieschoff.com

They dive into topics like:

- How to be healthy in our cortisol driven society; - How to optimize hormones for overall health; -The important hormones we're not paying attention to; -Adrenal health

and more! If you have more questions or topic ideas for us, email musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Thanks to our show sponsors:

Active Stacks makes high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

 BUBS Naturals offers the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans. They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

Ashleigh and Rachel answer some of the most commonly asked questions they get about:

If you have questions you'd like the hosts to answer or discuss, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

Shoutout to our show sponsor Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh catch up after the holidays and talk about their new year’s challenges and resolutions and some things they’re working on.

Rachel talks about improving gut health and Ashleigh discusses a new exercise goal she's scared to try. They also answer a very unique listener question about spot REDUCING muscle, rather than spot reducing fat: can you do it, and if so, how? Why might you want to spot reduce muscle in the first place?

This is a fun one - please email your feedback and any questions you want answered on the show to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

We are so excited to announce a new show sponsor: BUBS Naturals! They offer the best quality collagen and powdered MCT on the market, and they give 10% of their earnings to charity-supporting veterans.

They've also recently launched some new products, including their Origin Blend coffee beans, so now they're a one-stop shop for your boosted caffeine needs :) Try their new brews and related products at bubsnaturals.com and get a full 20% off your order with the code MSW20.

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with health and fitness coach Laura Ruspis (@coachlaura.fit) and mom of four about her fitness and motherhood journey, and together they answer your questions about prenatal vitamins, training in the postpartum period while breastfeeding, postpartum food prep, how partners can support postpartum women, how to look at fitness post-birth, and so much more. If you'd like more info about fueling for pregnancy and postpartum, you can download Ashleigh's ebook on the topic here: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/products/ebook-fuel-for-pregnancy-and-pospartum

If you have any questions, comments, or feedback for us, send us a message at musclescience4women@gmail.com

Thank you to our show sponsor, Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of intra-workout fuel (I.e., eating something during a workout). We dive into the details of why it might help performance, what intra-workout fuel is best, and how it could promote unhealthy attitudes toward food if you're unaware of how you're using it. They also answer questions about rehabbing injuries, and the two hosts have some differing opinions on what does and does NOT count as dessert.

If you have questions you'd like the hosts to answer or discuss, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

We're excited to introduce our podcast partner, Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at https://www.metflexlife.com/ and on IG at https://www.instagram.com/rachelgregory.cns/

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and on IG https://www.instagram.com/themusclemaven/ 

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat with Functional Bodybuilding Master Coach Bri Lamb about her journey from college athlete to CrossFitter to training for health and aesthetics.

She talks about her struggles with overtraining and how she's worked to find balance while still chasing goals and, of course, wanting to look good naked...and how she applies her experiences and training to help her clients do the same. Connect with Bri on Instagram @briannalamb

But first, the ladies dive into some current events, weighing in on the "Liver King controversy" and also a discussion on whether the rise in cosmetic procedures in women is part of women's empowerment or just another way for women to feel like they aren't good enough without some kind of outside intervention. We'd love to hear your thoughts on these topics! Please send your feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com and we may read your comments on the show!

Thanks to our show sponsor Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

In this fun - and overdue - episode, you can get to know your hosts Rachel and Ashleigh as they answer your rapid-fire personal questions about how they met, what it's like being an entrepreneur in the fitness industry, how they spend their "rest days", whether they were into sports and fitness as kids, their favorite junk food, and more. They also answer some health questions around recovery and hot/cold therapy.

Rachel's Book List: https://www.amazon.com/shop/rachelgregory 

If you have questions you'd like the hosts to answer or discuss, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

We're excited to introduce our new podcast partner, Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at https://activestacks.com/discount/MSW10 and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Email your questions, comments, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions about:

-the importance (or lack therof) of dynamic warm-ups for strength training;

-why some coaches program "ego" workouts and whether they're helpful or a waste of time;

-whether sweating, exhaustion, and soreness is an accurate indicator of a good workout;

-what crossfit gets wrong about strength training

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Email your questions, comments, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In their second live webinar/podcast episode, Ashleigh, Rachel, and their guests discuss the fears, misconceptions, and tactics around eating during the holidays. They cover topics including:

The hosts also decode some of their dreams and ask the question: is it ever ok to approach strangers in the gym?

If you have questions, topic ideas, or suggestions you'd like the hosts to answer or discuss, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

We're excited to introduce our new podcast partner, Active Stacks! They make high-quality beef protein isolate in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. They're made with cocoa and vanilla paste, not that unexplained "natural flavoring" you see listed everywhere, so it tastes better and mixes well into your protein shakes or baking. Beef protein is often easier to digest than whey protein for many people, and it's high in glycine, an amino acid that is the main building block for collagen and can help improve sleep and muscle building. Learn more at activestacks.com and use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase!

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

This episode marks the first time that Rachel and Ashleigh recorded a “live” podcast, allowing listeners to attend the zoom call and participate, asking questions and giving input. It was super fun, so watch out for more of these in the future! This week, they discuss overcoming body composition plateaus, focusing on challenges with fat loss. They cover:

We also gave away the biggest discount EVER on our Muscle Science for Women program…so make sure you sign up for our next live podcast/workshop so you don’t miss special discounts and offers. Sign up here: https://www.metflexlife.com/registration-page

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

If you want to sign up for the MSW program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Email your questions, comments, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

Rachel and Ashleigh are answering your questions today on topics like the importance of veggies when building muscle, how to add carbs intelligently to support training and muscle building, and more - but first Rachel talks about her new healthy treat obsession and Ashleigh tells a story about the strangeness of online coaching, which leads her to an idea for a "reverse Only Fans"...you have to listen to this one to hear what she's talking about! This episode is a little adult, a little funny, and educational too.

Thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore  

For Rachel's ice cream recipes, head here: https://www.metflexlife.com/blog/ninja-creami-protein-ice-cream-low-calorie 

If you want to sign up for the program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: musclescienceforwomen.com

Email your questions, comments, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

This one is spicy! In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh start out by discussing workout and exercise order selection, but then dive deep into a fun, but respectful, debate about whether or not you should “pre-exhaust” your muscles before doing your big lifts, or whether you should keep it simple and do the big, challenging lifts first and exhaust your muscles at the end.

They also get into whether more people could benefit from machine-assisted movements or if we should prioritize old-school compound lifts with barbells. Wherever you fall in this debate, it’s a good lesson that there is never a one-size-fits-all approach to fitness and that the best approach is the one that works for you.

The ladies also decide to come up with a Spotify workout playlist – if you want to send in your suggestions, email your fave songs to musclescience4women@gmail.com

If you want to sign up for the program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore 

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this solo episode, Ashleigh talks about some of the key elements largely missing from the strength and fitness coaching industry, especially regarding coaching women - the biggest challenge being the lack of women's focused research, study, and resources to better inform coaches programming and support. The industry as a whole needs more resources, formal scientific study, and compassionate listening in order to best understand, support, and guide our clients to their reaching their goals and finding their healthiest selves.

Ashleigh also briefly discusses her new coaching resource, the Strength Training for Women Specialist Certification offered through the Primal Health Coach Institute, designed for all coaches who work with female clients. For more information or to sign up, head here: https://nm356.isrefer.com/go/STW/themusclemaven/

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore 

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh answer listener questions about carbs (carbs aren't bad, it's how we use-or abuse-them), talk about some upcoming trips and exciting life plans, and discuss the latest launch of their Muscle Science for Women training program!

If you want to sign up for the program and have Ashleigh and Rachel as your personal coaches, along with a comprehensive 12-week training plan and hours of high-level content on nutrition, training, recovery, and much more, you can sign up now by going to this link: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore 

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh chat about how Rachel is prepping for her latest photoshoot - they talk nutrition and caloric deficits, how much cardio you really need to do to change your body composition, how to achieve aesthetic goals without driving yourself crazy, and lots more! If you have any fitness or wellness topics you want us to cover, reach out!

Please sign up for the Muscle Science for Women e-mail list to be the first to know about our program, new launches, and more: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore 

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode, Ashleigh chats with Dr. Stacy Sims, an exercise physiologist and leading voice in women’s performance.

She has directed research programs at Stanford, AUT University, and the University of Waikato, focusing on female athlete health and performance and pushing to improve research on all women.

She’s written two books, Roar and Next Level, and is well known for her ted talk women are not small men – her goal, similar to Rachel and Ashleigh's, is to educate everyone about the unique challenges and needs of women who are looking to improve health and performance.

Please sign up for the Muscle Science for Women e-mail list to be the first to know about our program, new launches, and more: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/optimalcarnivore 

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss Kim Kardashian's new job as "chief taste consultant" for Beyond Meat, and also talk about Rachel's experience with a doctor giving her bad nutrition advice. We dive into advocacy, misleading marketing, and why understanding and listening to your own body is so important.

Please sign up for the Muscle Science for Women e-mail list to be the first to know about our program, new launches, and more: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: amazon.com/optimalcarnivore

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

Today's podcast is a big one, and comes with an announcement: Ashleigh is officially changing the Muscle Maven Radio podcast to the Muscle Science for Women podcast!

First: please sign up for the Muscle Science for Women e-mail list to be the first to know about our program, new launches, and more: https://www.metflexlife.com/msw

Moving forward, Ashleigh and her co-host Rachel Gregory, the creators of the Muscle Science for Women program, will answer listener questions and address key elements of wellness and fitness including nutrition, training, recovery, hormonal health, and more - all with a focus on women's unique physiology, goals, and challenges. We encourage EVERYONE, male and female, to continue to listen, engage, and learn, because the more we all know about strength and fitness, the better!

Reach out to us with questions and comments at musclescience4women@gmail.com.

And thank you to our show sponsor, Optimal Carnivore, the makers of high-quality, nutrient-dense whole food supplements. We love their grass-fed organ complex, and you'll get 10% off your first order with the discount code MUSCLESCI on their Amazon Store: amazon.com/optimalcarnivore

Follow and learn more about Rachel at metflexlife.com and on IG at @rachelgregory.cns

Follow and learn more about Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com and on IG @themusclemaven

In this episode Ashleigh takes a deep dive on fitness culture with Erin Power, Coaching & Curriculum Director at the Primal Health Coach Institute about the current state of fitness culture, it's impact on women specifically, and whether or not leaders in the fitness and wellness industry can hope to change or dismantle the harmful aspects of fitness culture in an increasingly digital, instant-gratification world. 

Ashleigh also reveals that she is developing a course for Primal Health Coach Institute for coaches aimed at creating a deeper understanding around strength training for women: the physiological, psychological, hormonal, and cultural aspects as well as practical knowledge that is sorely lacking in generic strength training programs. It will cover practical aspects around recovery, hormonal health, physical changes throughout a woman's lifecycle, as well as nutritional requirements, physiological differences and the impacts on training programming, and how coaches can better inform themselves about these topics to provide better support to strength-training women. 

Erin and Ashleigh cover the following topics:

For more information about the courses offered by Primal Health Coach Institute, visit: https://www.primalhealthcoach.com

To follow Erin, head to @eat.simple.erin on Instagram

And stay tuned for more information about Ashleigh's course, launching soon!

Muscle Maven Radio is sponsored by BiOptimizers, makers of Ashleigh's favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. After using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and noticing a significant improvement in digestion especially during times of stress, Ashleigh has not looked back and recommends thee product to everyone (their Magnesium supplement is excellent as well). Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

Dr. Will Cole is a leading functional medicine expert who consults people around the world via webcam, having started one of the first functional medicine telehealth centers in the world. Named one of the top 50 functional and integrative doctors in the nation, Cole specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors of chronic disease and customizing a functional medicine approach for thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders, and brain problems.

He is also the bestselling author of Ketotarian, The Inflammation Spectrum, and the New York Times bestseller Intuitive Fasting. In this episode, Will and Ashleigh cover the following topics:

Learn more about Dr. Will Cole, his work, podcast, and books at www.drwillcole.com

Please check out our show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make Ashleigh's favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

Ashleigh chats with functional podiatrist and movement specialist Dr. Emily Splichal today about mobility and strength work we can all do to improve our foot function and health. She talks about her functional approach to foot health and pain and how strongly connected the feet are to the rest of our bodies, including our hips, pelvic floor, and even jaw. She also offers suggestions for how we can encourage proper mechanics with our young kids as they learn to walk and run. 

Learn more about Dr. Splichal at www.dremilysplichal.com and her company Naboso and its proprioceptive products at www.naboso.com

Muscle Maven Radio is sponsored by BiOptimizers, makers of Ashleigh's favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. After using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and noticing a significant improvement in digestion especially during times of stress, Ashleigh has not looked back and recommends thee product to everyone (their Magnesium supplement is excellent as well). Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

This episode is an excerpt from a talk Ashleigh did recently for Robb Wolf's private community health and fitness platform called The Healthy Rebellion. She spoke to the community about the origins of her organ meat cookbook It Takes Guts, the importance of incorporating organ meats into your diet, and then a breakdown about one specific cut: heart. She discusses how to source, prep, and cook heart, the health benefits, and why it may be a tasty and relatively easy addition to your meal planning!

To learn more about The Healthy Rebellion: https://join.thehealthyrebellion.com/

Please check out our show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

This week Ashleigh chats with chef James Berry, founder of Pluck, which is an organ-meat based seasoning blend. James is also a former private chef for celebrities including Tom Cruise and George Clooney! Ashleigh and James chat about how subtle dietary changes can reap big rewards, and James offers tips to make meal planning and cooking at home easier and less of a chore. He also shares some pretty crazy stories of his time making meals for some of the world's biggest celebrities! 

If you'd like to try Pluck organ meat seasoning, head to eatpluck.com and use the code MAVEN10 to save money on your first order. 

Muscle Maven Radio is sponsored by BiOptimizers, makers of Ashleigh's favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. After using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and noticing a significant improvement in digestion especially during times of stress, Ashleigh has not looked back and recommends thee product to everyone (their Magnesium supplement is excellent as well). Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

Ashleigh is back with her Muscle Science for Women co-creator Rachel Gregory! This time they're tackling the topic of Intuitive Eating: what is it? Is it possible to eat intuitively in a food culture where everything is hyperpalatable? Can you eat intuitively and still lose body fat? Do you need to track calories to lose weight? They cover all of this and more, don't miss this episode if you're looking to remove some of the stress and rules around your daily eating habits.

Muscle Maven Radio is sponsored by BiOptimizers, makers of Ashleigh's favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. After using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and noticing a significant improvement in digestion especially during times of stress, Ashleigh has not looked back and recommends thee product to everyone (their Magnesium supplement is excellent as well). Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

In the last episode of 2021, Ashleigh talks about her pregnancy and birth story:  her experiences being pregnant; including how she adjusted her diet and workout regimen; her actual birth experience, which involved an unmedicated birth at a birth center with a midwife and doula (and a couple surprises); and how she approached recovery, health, and life in the fourth trimester, aka the first few months after birth.

While this episode is not meant to be formal advice to any potential or new mom, it is a deeply personal story where Ashleigh shares her thoughts, feelings, experiences, and some suggestions or things to think about when you're going through this incredible journey - questions to ask yourself, and areas you may want to research more, learn about, or ask your care provider about. This episode is for moms-to-be and also their support people, spouses, and family.

If you'd like to know more specifics about Ashleigh's birth preparation, recovery, fitness plan, products used, and so on, send her a message through her website: ashleighvanhouten.com

Ashleigh is back with another episode co-hosted by her friend and Muscle Science for Women co-creator Rachel Gregory! In this episode the two podcast hosts and health coaches answer questions from listeners about the differences between muscle building and strength building; how to get back into the gym after injury; how to start working out in your 40's and 50s, and they talk about the next round of their Muscle Science for Women course starting again in January 2022.

If you want to learn more and sign up for this 12-week course all about the theory and application of strength and muscle building, sign up here to be notified when spaces open up.

If you want to learn more about Kabuki Education Week and register to listen to our lecture, you can do that here. 

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - stock up on the best quality grassfed collagen and MCT powder at here (www.bubsnaturals.com) and use the code MM20 for a massive 20% discount!

Jill Coleman is a veteran of the fitness industry, with a history in figure competitions, fitness magazine cover modeling, personal training, and more - now, she has her own range of programs and certifications and offers business coaching for people looking to grow and level up in the health and fitness industry. Ashleigh worked with Jill personally on a fitness business consultation, and they got together recently to talk all things efficiency, work/life balance, the importance of daily commitments to your health and your business, how to approach investing in yourself, and so much more. 

In this episode Ashleigh and Jill chat about: 

Learn more about Jill and her programs at jillfit.com, her #moderation365 course, and check out her business podcast Fit Biz U.

Please check out our show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make Ashleigh's new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

Dr. Carrie Jones is a Naturopathic Physician who is board certified in Naturopathic Endocrinology (FABNE) with a Master's in Public Health (MPH) and over 15 years in the field of functional and integrative medicine. She lectures all over the world on the topic of hormones and helps "hormonally challenged people feel less crazy." Ashleigh brought her on the show to explore the complexity of our hormonal cycles and what we can do to optimize them so we feel and perform our best.

In this episode Ashleigh  and Dr. Jones discuss:

Speaking of reducing toxins, shoutout to show sponsor Primally Pure, my favorite skincare company - they use a few natural ingredients like beef tallow, shea butter, and essential oils, and their products are beautiful and luxurious like high-end skincare without the pricetag or the sketchy ingredients. The natural deodorant and body butter are lifechanging! Head to primallypure.com and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

If you want to learn more about hormonal health, check out the three day workshop I did with women's naturopathic doctor Dr. Elly Michelle. This workshop consists of three in-depth lectures and discussions around key aspects of female hormonal health, and additional reading material and resources for you to keep. This intimate and thorough workshop allows you inside access to a naturopathic doctor who specializes in hormonal, sexual, and fertility issues, as well as an experienced health and wellness coach.

Cassy Joy Garcia is the bestselling author of Cook Once Dinner Fix, Cook Once Eat All Week, and Fed and Fit as well as the creative force behind the popular food blog Fed + Fit, which she started in 2011 and has grown exponentially. Eager to share her healthy living secrets with the world, she started Fed + Fit in 2011. She is a holistic nutrition consultant and mom, and wrote her new book to address the challenges that many people have with creating healthy meals for their families that are inexpensive, easy, and delicious. 

In this episode Ashleigh and Cassy chat about: 

Please check out our show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

The question, "can you build muscle and lose fat at the same time?" may be one of the most pervasive in the fitness industry, and the answer, as usual, is more complex than many of us would like. But it's not all bad - there is plenty to be learned about our bodies and how they work while we explore the most efficient and healthy ways to achieve these two separate (but often combined) goals.

In this episode Ashleigh covers:

If you'd like to dive even deeper into this topic, sign up for the Muscle Science for Women program - our second run will begin in January 2022 and tickets are limited! Add your name to the "first to know" list here: https://www.metflexlife.com/muscle-science-women  

Try the Precision Nutrition calorie/macro calculator: https://www.precisionnutrition.com/nutrition-calculator

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - stock up on the best quality grassfed collagen and MCT powder at here (www.bubsnaturals.com) and use the code MM20 for a massive 20%  discount!

Stan Efferding is an IFBB Professional bodybuilder and World Record Holding Powerlifter. He is one of only 10 men in the world to ever total over 2,300 pounds raw in competition. Stan holds the title as the World's Strongest Bodybuilder. 

He conducts seminars all over the country for various sports and nutrition and training techniques, and he coined the Vertical Diet - his book, The Vertical Diet, just came out and in this episode Ashleigh and Stan talk all things diet, muscle building, and what we can all take from the regimens of elite athletes. 

In this episode:

Please check out our show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

In this episode Ashleigh and Bethany, the founder of natural skincare brand Primally Pure, discuss specific animal-based skincare ingredients: how they’re processed and used, their benefits, how they’ve been used historically, and much more.   Bethany McDaniel started Primally Pure by personally rendering tallow from the animals at her family’s organic lifestock farm in Southern California, and has grown the brand exponentially to offer high-quality, luxurious natural skincare without any harmful ingredients - and specifically highlighting healthy animal ingredients. Just like with food, “animal-based” ingredients don’t have the same healthy reputation as plant-based, but humans have been using ingredients like tallow to address skin issues for generations.   In this episode:

Core and pelvic health is a hugely important, and deeply under-respected aspect of health - but especially women’s health, and especially for post-partum women who have undergone drastic changes during pregnancy and childbirth. While pelvic physical therapy SHOULD be a standard of care for women who have given birth, more often we’re just told that women who have had babies will “pee a little” when they sneeze or exercise, and to deal with it; while this is common, it’s not normal and doesn’t have to be a life sentence.   In today’s episode with pelvic health physiotherapist Anita Lambert, Ashleigh asks her about:

Autumn Smith is the co-founder of Paleovalley, a certified eating psychology coach, former fitness trainer, professional dancer, yogi and all around wellness warrior! Five years ago, she healed her IBS and anxiety with high quality FOOD and strategic lifestyle shifts. Ashleigh chats with Autumn about all this and more:

Dr. Steven Lin is a board-accredited dentist, author of The Dental Diet, and TEDx speaker. He coined the term functional dentist and is doing incredibly innovative work in this emerging area to prevent dental disease and overall health issues that are related to jaw and facial structure, improper breathing, gut and digestive health, and so much more. As we learn in this episode, oral health is about so much more than flossing and eating less sugar.   In today’s episode with functional dentist Dr. Lin, he and Ashleigh discuss:

You may not be aware that many of our culinary herbs and spices started out as medicine. I asked chemist and plant expert (and product developer for Medicine Man Plant Co) to do a deep dive on a spice everyone knows, but many may not know the benefits of: black pepper. Yes, it tastes great with salt on french fries, but it also works with other healthy compounds to enable them to work better: things like turmeric and cayenne pepper, for example, by helping your body absorb more of those healthy compounds. Find out more about how black pepper works in this episode, and check out the previous episode with Mark all about another common pantry item: sage.

Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D. grew up in the wilds of Minnesota where his parents and grandparents utilized the amazing wild foods and medicinal plants found in local woods, fields, and lakes. He received a BS in professional chemistry from South Dakota State University followed by a MS in medicinal chemistry and a PH.D. in physical organic chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the oldest technical university in the US.

After graduation a strange twist of fate set him traveling the world as a petroleum chemist rather than in pharmaceuticals. However, his knowledge of natural products blessed him with the ability to tap natural compounds to replace traditionally hazardous oilfield chemicals. During this career he earned fourteen chemical patents that made the petroleum industry safer for all. After 20 years of that he moved on to the position of R&D Manager for a consumer chemical product company. Here Dr. Vorderbruggen reinvented their line of construction chemical products, safely and effectively replacing the dangerous compounds the industry had been using. He also spearheaded the company’s R&D efforts for a whole new line of personal care products designed to protect people from the toxins they encounter daily. Mark wrote Idiot’s Guide Foraging and The Medicinal Plants of Texas (to be published 2022).

To learn more about Medicine Man Plant Co’s products and the ingredients they use, click here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a 20% discount on anything you purchase. Please check out our newest show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn’t cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy! Learn more about Ashleigh, suggest an idea for the podcast, or sign up for one of her health coaching programs at ashleighvanhouten.com

In this short episode Ashleigh offers up practical, tangible, and experience and science-backed tips for improving your sleep. Sleep is often the toughest and most under-appreciated aspect of the health puzzle, and considering Ashleigh has struggled with this element the most, she’s done her research and is sharing with you her own struggles as well as what’s worked for her. She covers key elements of sleep hygiene and sleep science around:

Let’s talk about sex! Today Ashleigh welcomes back her friend Dr. Elly Michelle Lieppman, a licensed naturopathic doctor who specializes in individualized women’s medicine, optimizing hormones, digestion, and energy.   In this short episode, Dr. Elly and Ashleigh tackle the complex and spicy topic of sexual health and libido - discussing topics like:

This week Ashleigh sits down with functional medicine practitioner and co-author of the book Hangry, Dr. Brooke Kalanick, to talk about hormonal health, managing stress, and why muscle is the gift that keeps on giving. They cover practical tips on how to not let your health take the back burner no matter how busy you are; learning how to listen to your body and make adjustments without guilt or fear; and how the past year has made people more proactive about their health. They also touch on the challenges of peri-menopause and how to combat them, and Dr. Brooke backs up Ashleigh’s most common tips on the importance of eating protein and lifting weights. These aren’t fads, people!

A licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and functional medicine practitioner, Dr. Brooke attended Seattle, Washington’s Bastyr University, where she earned a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine and Masters in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine. Her areas of expertise include female health, hypothyroidism and autoimmunity with specialties in PCOS, Hashimoto’s, menopause and weight loss. Learn more and work with Dr. Brooke - check out her website Betterbydrbrooke.com

Please check out our newest show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn’t cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

Learn more about Ashleigh, suggest an idea for the podcast, or sign up for one of her health coaching programs at ashleighvanhouten.com

We often hear that fasting doesn’t work as well for women - but we rarely get the details as to WHY it may be more complicated, or how we could be doing it differently to reap the myriad benefits of fasting. If you’re a woman looking to improve health and body composition, or you’re a coach or someone who works with women on their health, this podcast is for you.   Ashleigh speaks with Cynthia Thurlow, an intermittent fasting expert, nutrition educator, and nurse practitioner about fasting, covering many topics like:

Robb Wolf is a 2 x New York Times best selling author of The Paleo Solution and Wired to Eat, co-authored Sacred Cow with Diana Rodgers, is a former research biochemist and one of the world’s leading experts in Paleolithic nutrition. Wolf has transformed the lives of tens of thousands of people around the world via his top ranked iTunes podcast and wildly popular seminar series as well as his The Healthy Rebellion online community.

Robb is also one of the first people Ashleigh listened to and learned from when she began her health writing, podcasting, and coaching career, and this episode is a meta-conversation: talking about the state of the health community while being a part of it. This episode is less about a Q&A with Robb about ideal food and exercise and more about a high-level (and at times provocative) conversation about the current environment and culture around ancestral health.

We cover it all: politics, the pandemic, the changing nature of communication and teaching (and why Robb briefly considered giving up his work), cancel culture and community, how subtle messaging can be more insidious than aggressive anti-meat marketing, how to make a positive impact in such an emotionally-charged industry, veganism for pregnant women and children, and so much more. You’ll want to listen to this one all the way to the end!

TIME STAMPS:

0:00 - Intro message

5:59 - What’s going on in Robb’s life

21:40 - How COVID-19 changed the way Robb works + implications of the online world

37:23 - Is there any point in coming to a middle ground with people online?

48:40 - Censorship and when personal opinions, emotion, and misinformation matter more than cold hard facts

1:02:00 - Common theme of anti-meat / veganism continued; how to get your opinion across when cancel culture triumphs

1:19:33 - The misconception of meats in regards to women; normalizing styles of eating as “healthy eating”

1:32:33 - Outro message

Please check out our newest show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make my new favorite healthy snacks, 100% grassfed and fermented beef sticks and Superfood bars made with bone broth protein and packed with plant-based superfoods (while still managing to taste like a delicious, chocolatey treat). This company doesn’t cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - learn more at paleovalley.com and use the code MMR to save 15% on anything you buy!

Please connect with Ashleigh and learn more about her new projects, recipes, programs and more at ashleighvanhouten.com

Did you hear the one about the plant-based coach and the meat-based coach who sat down together for a podcast? Well, the punchline is, they have an open conversation about making informed dietary choices, eating disorders, getting enough protein on a plant-based diet, how to adjust your body back to animal protein after years of vegan eating, how to know when someone is using dietary protocols to “excuse” disordered eating, and identity issues around diet, among other topics.

Ashleigh chats with Tiana Pollari, a Holistic Nutritionist and Certified Personal Trainer who specializes in the integration of functional strength training and holistic living. She believes that food should nourish and fuel you and is always in the kitchen creating nutritious and delicious meals to satisfy any skeptic. When she isn’t in the kitchen creating recipes she is also coaching women on how to build sustainable habits and feel confident and sexy in their bodies through her online programs. You can find more information at www.tianapollari.com including access to her workouts, meal plans, and coaching.

A big thank you to our show sponsor, Medicine Man Plant Co, maker of uniquely formulated herbal supplements to support optimal health and immune function. Their products are rigorously third party tested and contain ingredients like elderberry, vitamin c, echinacea, and cordyceps - incredible natural ingredients that humans have used for generations to support their health. Learn more at https://medicinemanplantco.com/ and use the discount code MUSCLEMAVEN for 20% off!

And don’t forget to check out The Muscle Maven’s brand new, interactive online coaching resource! Get one-on-one access to Ashleigh and her expertise, as well as daily info on her favorite health and wellness resources - no micromanaging, just a support system for the enthusiastic health nerd looking to optimize their wellness.

You may not be aware that many of our culinary herbs and spices started out as medicine. Ashleigh asks chemist and plant expert (and product developer for Medicine Man Plant Co) to do a quick but deep dive on a specific herb: sage. You may be only familiar with sage as a tasty seasoning for chicken or turkey, but turns out it has a long list of incredible benefits around brain health and focus, antibacterial benefits, digestive support, hormonal balance, and even more. Find out why you might want to start adding more sage to your recipes!

Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Ph.D. grew up in the wilds of Minnesota where his parents and grandparents utilized the wild foods and medicinal plants found in local woods, fields, and lakes. He received a BS in professional chemistry from South Dakota State University followed by a MS in medicinal chemistry and a PH.D. in physical organic chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the oldest technical university in the US.

After graduation a strange twist of fate set him traveling the world as a petroleum chemist rather than in pharmaceuticals. However, his knowledge of natural products blessed him with the ability to tap natural compounds to replace traditionally hazardous oilfield chemicals. During this career he earned fourteen chemical patents that made the petroleum industry safer for all. After 20 years of that he moved on to the position of R&D Manager for a consumer chemical product company. Here Dr. Vorderbruggen reinvented their line of construction chemical products, safely and effectively replacing the dangerous compounds the industry had been using. He also spearheaded the company’s R&D efforts for a whole new line of personal care products designed to protect people from the toxins they encounter daily. Mark wrote Idiot’s Guide Foraging and The Medicinal Plants of Texas (to be published 2022).

To learn more about Medicine Man Plant Co’s products and the ingredients they use, head to medicinemanplantco.com and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a 20% discount on anything you purchase.

Thanks to show sponsor BiOptimizers - level up your gut health game with the makers of my favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. I’ve been using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and have noticed a significant improvement in my digestion especially during times of stress. Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

And don’t forget to check out The Muscle Maven’s brand new, interactive online coaching resource!

In this solo episode, Ashleigh breaks down her key tips for healthy, beautiful, resilient skin - for both men and women - from a nutritional lifestyle perspective, as well as her key topical skincare tips. She breaks down some skincare ingredients you should avoid and some you may want to try, ways to think about sun exposure, and much more. (Please note that Ashleigh is not a dermatologist and this is not medical advice; please use your own discretion when trying new products or nutrition protocols).

Some resources that may help you:

Cosdna.com

https://primallypure.com/pages/find-your-skin-state

https://philmaffetone.com/sun-and-brain/

Speaking of skincare, one Ashleigh’s favorite companies and partners is Primally Pure - they use a few natural ingredients like beef tallow, shea butter, and essential oils, and their products are beautiful and luxurious like high-end skincare without the pricetag or the sketchy ingredients. The natural deodorant and body butter are lifechanging! Head to primallypure.com and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

Steve Liberati is the Founder of Steve’s, a healthy snack food company, and the non-profit organization Steve’s Club Camden. Steve’s is a small, family-owned business that Steve started in 2007 when he saw an opportunity to help make a real and positive impact in his community. Ashleigh has been a fan of Steve’s products and company ethos of fitness, wellness, and giving back to the community for a long time, so she asked Steve on to talk about the origin and growth of his business, how to manage the business side of a company that is founded on non-profit and philanthropic principles, and why it’s so important and rewarding to teach and encourage kids and teenagers about healthy living and eating.

Steve’s Club provides fitness, nutritional guidance and personal development to at-risk youth. Since that day, Steve’s has devoted themselves to creating zero-sugar jerky and other paleo and Keto friendly snacks using the proceeds to fund Steve’s Cub Camden. Learn more at https://stevespaleogoods.com/

A big thank you to our show sponsor, Medicine Man Plant Co, maker of uniquely formulated herbal supplements to support optimal health and immune function. Their products are rigorously third party tested and contain ingredients like elderberry, vitamin c, echinachea, and corcyceps - incredible natural ingredient that humans have used for generations to support their health. Learn more at https://medicinemanplantco.com/ and use the discount code MUSCLEMAVEN for 20% off!

And don’t forget to check out The Muscle Maven’s brand new, interactive online coaching resource!

Dr. Kellyann Petrucci is a New York Times bestselling author, weight-loss and natural anti-aging expert, and a concierge doctor for celebrities in New York City and Los Angeles. She is a board-certified naturopathic physician and a certified nutrition consultant. She is a massive proponent of using food to encourage robust health and beauty, and challenging what we think about “natural aging.”

In this episode Dr. Kellyann and Ashleigh discuss eating for beauty; addressing gut health as a means of overall health but also anti-aging; how to slow down brain aging; and ways we can switch our perspective from thinking of aging as an inevitable declone, to thinking of it as an opportunity for growth, improvement, and continued vitality. Aging well doesn’t happen by accident, and there’s so much we can do to feel, look, and perform well as move through life. Learn more about her work at drkellyann.com.

Speaking of looking great, shoutout to show sponsor Primally Pure, Ashleigh’s favorite skincare company - they use a few natural ingredients like beef tallow, shea butter, and essential oils, and their products are beautiful and luxurious like high-end skincare without the pricetag or the sketchy ingredients. The natural deodorant and body butter are lifechanging! Head to primallypure.com and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

And don’t forget to check out The Muscle Maven’s brand new, interactive online coaching resource!

In this episode Ashleigh and Kristin, a former lawyer turned nutritional therapy practitioner and coach, talk about stomach acid deficiency; stress management among type A athletes and professionals; how to massively increase your muscle-building potential with less time in the gym; when “biohacking tools” can actually be really effective; and what she means by “nutrition frequency” (spoiler alert - it’s more about the energy and mindfulness you bring to eating rather than actual meal timing)

Kristin Rowell is a former business litigator turned Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and the founder of Energetically Efficient. She consults for companies and organizations around the country on a variety of nutrition, lifestyle and wellness topics as well as works with individual clients one-on-one.

During Kristin’s 16 years as a business litigator, she ran 24 marathons, became an IPE Natural Professional Bodybuilder, became 2018 Ms. Natural Minnesota (Figure) by the National Amateur Natural Bodybuilding Federation, successfully litigated numerous complex business cases to conclusion and, in 2019, was identified by Super Lawyers on the list of Minnesota’s Top 50 Women Attorneys. Now, her passion is helping people get fit, healthy and to finally take control of their lives. Learn more at https://energeticallyefficient.com/

Level up your gut health game with BiOptimizers, makers of my favorite probiotic, digestive enzymes, and other gut health promoting products. I’ve been using their P30M and MassZymes product for the past year and have noticed a significant improvement in my digestion especially during times of stress. Even those of us with optimal diets can use some help now and then - check out their products here and use the code MUSCLEMAVEN for a discount.

Check out The Muscle Maven’s brand new, interactive online coaching resource!

Dr. Marc Bubbs is a Naturopathic Doctor, Performance Nutrition Lead for Canada Basketball, and Performance Nutrition Consultant for a portfolio of professional and Olympic athletes. Marc is the author of the best-selling book Peak: The new science of athletic performance that is revolutionizing sports - An integrated and personalized approach to health, nutrition, training, recovery and mindset. His new book, Peak40 is all about building a leaner, stronger body and sharper mind in mid-life - and you can check it out here: https://drbubbs.com/peak40

In this episode Ashleigh and Marc talk about the differences, and similarities, in training - both from a mental and physical standpoint - between general population and high level athletes; how crucial the fundamentals are, and how the less time you have to do them, the greater the indication that you SHOULD be doing them; and why happiness and fitness tends to bottom out for people in their 40s, and what we can do about it.

A big thank you to our new show sponsor, Medicine Man Plant Co, maker of uniquely formulated herbal supplements to support optimal health and immune function. Their products are rigorously third party tested and contain ingredients like elderberry, vitamin c, echinachea, and corcyceps - incredible natural ingredient that humans have used for generations to support their health. Learn more at https://medicinemanplantco.com/ and use the discount code MUSCLEMAVEN for 20% off!

In this solo episode, Ashleigh answers questions from former vegans and vegetarians who are looking to incorporate more, or healthier animal-based food sources into their diets. She covers:

“If you can work your way into poor posture, you can work your way out of it.” - Words of hope from today’s guest, Annette Verpillot, the founder of Posturepro, a health company specialized in restoring the brain-body connection through some of the world’s most advanced rehabilitation and injury prevention techniques. She has created the Posturepro Method which has gained global recognition for eliminating chronic pain, optimizing children’s development, and improving sports proficiency. Additionally, Annette actively works with children, clients, professional athletes, trainers, practitioners, and researchers to develop solutions to tackle global health issues.

You may already know that the way you move, sit, and your footwear can contribute to posture issues and pain, but this episode will open your mind to how much more is involved in proper movement patterns - from your eyes, to your jaw and “tongue” posture,” to your breathing patterns, and so much more. Nearly all of us are misaligned in some way, contributing either to daily chronic pain or suboptimal movement patterns, sports related injury, and other issues, but the good news is there is SO much you can do in your daily life to start making improvements.

Check out Annette’s work, her website, and her Ted Talk here.

Thanks to our show sponsor BUBS Naturals - stock up on the best quality grassfed collagen and MCT powder at here and use the code MM20 for a massive 20% discount!

Check out my brand new website here!

Nutritionist, coach, podcast host and honorary co-host of Muscle Maven Radio Rachel Gregory joins Ashleigh again to answer listener questions about nutrition! They cover topics like eating for healthy hormones; how sleep and food cravings are connected; “keto” sweeteners; tips for snacking, why moderation sounds great but rarely works, and a lot more.

Learn more about Ashleigh’s brand-new habit coaching service - where she provides you with all of her healthy habit routines and resources, and you have direct access to her to get all of your nutrition, training, and lifestyle questions answered.

And a big welcome to our new show sponsor, Medicine Man Plant Co, maker of uniquely formulated herbal supplements to support optimal health and immune function. Their products are rigorously third party tested and contain ingredients like elderberry, vitamin c, echinachea, and corcyceps - incredible natural ingredient that humans have used for generations to support their health. Learn more at https://medicinemanplantco.com/ and use the discount code MUSCLEMAVEN for 20% off!