Muscle Maven Radio

This week is another episode of the Healthy Aging Series, and this time Ashleigh and Beth are diving into motherhood, a deeply personal and lifechanging event. They discuss the ways motherhood changed them (and the ways they have stayed the same), the experience of being "older" mothers, the balance of caring for children and aging parents, managing your kids' hormonal shifts at the same time as their own, and much more. See timestamps below. And listeners learned about the NEW program from Muscle Science for Women: The Fit Pregnancy Specialization program! There has been a slight delay in launch, but if you want to be the first to gain access to the program (and our early bird discount) you can email and let us know at musclescience4women@gmail.com  The whole Healthy Aging Series can be found on Ashleigh's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@musclemaven  If you're interested in listening to Ashleigh's episode all about her first pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience, you can listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4FHQRW8LMDEXt2lLUgpLVz?si=eb5dab46d9ba4e6b If you have comments, feedback, or questions please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Support for this podcast comes from Kion. Use code MUSCLEMAVEN at this link to save on high-quality protein powder, creatine, the tastiest EAA's (I recommend watermelon!) and other tested supplements to support your goals.  Learn more about the hosts at rgfit.com and ashleighvanhouten.com Timestamps: 7:00: Things that have changed about us since motherhood, if anything 18:00: Our experiences being “older” mothers 27:00: Our decision-making process to have kids (and how many to have) 36:00: Differences in parenting expectations with different generations 40:30: Managing your own hormonal changes as well as your children's 45:00: How we talk about our bodies and hormones, and how that impacts the way women feel about themselves 47:45: Parenting while also helping aging parents 53:00: The sometimes fraught relationship between mothers and daughters 1:01:00: Balancing how to love your kids equally but engage with them differently according to their personalities 1:05: How the parenting dynamic shifts as both you and kids age 1:09: Combatting losing your sense of self in motherhood  

In this episode, Ashleigh answers listener questions about: -how to work around "limiting factors" like grip strength and weaker muscles when trying to challenge the lower body -can you heal and "tighten" fascia in your stomach and get rid of "mommy pooch" after multiple pregnancies -how to avoid being "skinny fat" when you're looking to lose fat and change body composition -advice for people looking to become a professional health coach And more! Check timestamps below. And listeners learned about the NEW program from Muscle Science for Women: The Fit Pregnancy Specialization program! There has been a slight delay in launch, but if you want to be the first to gain access to the program (and our early bird discount) you can email and let us know at musclescience4women@gmail.com If you have comments, feedback, or questions please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Support for this podcast comes from Kion. Use code MUSCLEMAVEN at this link to save on high-quality protein powder, creatine, the tastiest EAA's (I recommend watermelon!) and other tested supplements to support your goals.  Learn more about the hosts at rgfit.com and ashleighvanhouten.com Timestamps: 2:00: how to work around limiting factors like grip and upper body strength 7:45: can you tighten stomach fascia after pregnancy? 13:00: how to reverse the "skinny fat" look after years of sedentary living 22:30 advice for folks who want to get into the health coaching business

In this vulnerable episode, Ashleigh shares her pregnancy and birth story from the recent birth of her daughter. She covers topics including: Her symptoms and overall experience during pregnancy, and how it differed from her first How she managed severe pubic symphysis pain, and her experience with pelvic floor physiotherapy All the details of her unmedicated water birth and the immediate postpartum period Information on her exercise and nutrition The ups and downs of being a parent of two, and how this is impacting her fitness and overall health And much more! And listeners learned about the NEW program from Muscle Science for Women: The Fit Pregnancy Specialization program! There has been a slight delay in launch, but if you want to be the first to gain access to the program (and our early bird discount) you can email and let us know at musclescience4women@gmail.com  If you're interested in listening to Ashleigh's episode all about her first pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience, you can listen to it here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4FHQRW8LMDEXt2lLUgpLVz?si=eb5dab46d9ba4e6b If you have comments, feedback, or questions please send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Support for this podcast comes from Kion. Use code MUSCLEMAVEN at this link to save on high-quality protein powder, creatine, the tastiest EAA's (I recommend watermelon!) and other tested supplements to support your goals.  Learn more about the hosts at rgfit.com and ashleighvanhouten.com

In this exclusive sneak peek, Ashleigh shares the first full episode of a new series on Healthy Aging she has developed with friend, Carnivore-ish co-author, wellness writer, and chef Beth Lipton. Over the course of seven episodes they dive deep on topics like beauty, motherhood and pregnancy, relationships, nutrition, mental health, and more, all through the lens of healthy aging for women: what does it mean to age in a healthy way? How do we balance our desire to remain youthful with the inevitability of getting older? Can we find more peace and joy in the way our bodies and priorities shift through life?  The series is honest, real, vulnerable, and created in an effort to create community and share with other women who are no doubt juggling the same questions and uncertainties. There are questions, answers, personal stories, and laughs as they learn. These are just a few of the questions the women dive into, starting with this first episode on fitness, which covers the ladies' thoughts on: what they learned about wellness and fitness from their own mothers; whether or not fitness HAS to change as we age, and if so, how; their own personal journies through various forms of fitness, and more. The full Healthy Aging Series will be published on Ashleigh's YouTube channel, which you can find and subscribe to here: https://www.youtube.com/@musclemaven  If you have any feedback, questions or comments, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Beth at bethlipton.com and Ashleigh at ashleighvanhouten.com Support for this podcast comes from Kion. Use code MUSCLEMAVEN at this link to save on high-quality protein powder, creatine, the tastiest EAA's (I recommend watermelon!) and other tested supplements to support your goals.   

In this episode Ashleigh talks about a reel of hers that went viral; shows the ladies are binging; advice for a teenager just starting her muscle-building journey; how much organ meat you should be eating to get the benefits; and if it's "normal" to have some net weight gain after a cycle of bulking and cutting. See timestamps added below. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. And if you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and https://www.rgfit.com/  Time Stamps: ·       02:01 – 03:30 | Ashleigh talks about going viral on Instagram ·       09:01 – 10:30 | Is Protein Trending? Why is it suddenly such a big deal? ·       13:31 – 15:00 | Teenagers and Building Muscle ·       15:01 – 17:00 | How to Tell If You're Eating Enough ·       17:01 – 18:30 | Training vs. Rest Day Calories ·       20:01 – 21:00 | Do you need a variety of protein sources to maximize benefits? ·       22:31 – 24:00 | How Much Liver is Too Much? ·       26:01 – 27:30 | Should you expect net weight gain after a cycle of bulking and cutting? ·       34:01 – 36:00 | Reflection time: What Have You Changed Your Mind About?

In this week's episode Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions from listeners about: How to best train for symmetry, regarding both strength and esthetics: how do you minimize asymetry and strengthen weak muscles/limbs? Are kettlebells a good tool for strength and hypertrophy? If yes, what exercises do they recommend and if no, why not? Answer questions about progress when training naturally, or drug-free, vs. enhanced And much more! If you have questions, comments, or topic ideas for an upcoming show, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Our show sponsor, Cozy Earth—has a HUGE Mother's Day BOGO deal for you!  The ladies have personally tested their Bamboo Sheet Set and Bamboo Pajamas and are huge fans - and it's risk-free: Take 100 nights to decide with their sleep trial. AND every Cozy Earth bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty! Visit CozyEarth.com and use the exclusive code MSW for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. And if you use the code MSWBOGO from May 2-4, when you purchase one set of bamboo pajamas you'll get a second set FREE! Treat yourself and a special mom in your life. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. And if you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and https://www.rgfit.com/ 

Today is the 100th episode of Muscle Science for Women! We've had a blast learning and sharing our knowledge with each other, and with our listeners, and we appreciate each and every one of you who tune in and spend time with us. On our 100th episode milestone, we're asking you to help us make it to 200 episodes: please, take five minutes today to make sure you're subscribed to the podcast on whatever platform you listen, and if you haven't yet rated, reviewed, or turned on notifications for the podcast, please do so. Bonus points if you share the pod on social media and tag us. This is how the algorithms learn that our podcast is good, so we can continue to grow and help new listeners on their fitness journey. On today's podcast: Rachel and Ashleigh discuss at-home body fat scales, the benefits (or lack thereof) of knee wraps, the best ways to track body composition progress, and whether it's true that weight loss is easy and effortless during breastfeeding (and if it's not, what to do about it). We have a fun new sponsor, Cozy Earth—Because Great Days Start with Better Nights. The ladies have personally tested their Bamboo Sheet Set and Bamboo Pajamas and are huge fans - and it's risk-free: Take 100 nights to decide with their sleep trial. AND every Cozy Earth bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty! Visit CozyEarth.com and use the exclusive code MSW for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. Better Sleep Starts at Cozy Earth. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. And if you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/ and https://www.rgfit.com/ 

While we wait for Ashleigh to recover from her second birth, we decided to re-release an episode from before the rebranding of the podcast. Back in 2021, when the podcast was called Muscle Maven Radio, Ashleigh did a long deep dive about her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience with her son Magnus. If you're pregnant, looking to become pregnant, know someone going through this, or simply love hearing these kinds of stories, this one is for you.  She covers a lot of her decision-making processes around how she decided to eat, workout, her birth plan and birth team, her mindset, how she specifically "prepared" for birth, her recovery journey, and so much more. Hopefully this episode helps you get more clarity on making your own decisions around your birth story. Thanks for listening and please send your feedback, questions, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com 

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions about fasted cardio and their thoughts on male coaches who focus on female clients looking to grow their glutes (there are a lot of them!)  Is there evidence that fasted cardio first thing in the morning burns more fat than fed cardio? What's the balance with cardio that optimizes fat loss without adding negatively to your overall stress load, increasing hunger, etc? And the ladies do their best to convince listeners that more/harder cardio is NOT necessarily a faster and more effective way to burn fat. We have a fun new sponsor, Cozy Earth - Cozy Earth products are designed to transform your 5-9 (the time that matters most) into the coziest sanctuary. The ladies have personally tested their Bamboo Sheet Set and Bamboo Pajamas and are huge fans - and it's risk-free: Take 100 nights to decide with their sleep trial. AND every Cozy Earth bedding product comes with a 10-year warranty! Luxury shouldn't be out of reach. Visit CozyEarth.com and use the exclusive code MSW for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more. And if you get a post-purchase survey, let them know you heard about Cozy Earth right here to support the show. Sanctuary Awaits at Cozy Earth. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. And if you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com   

Today is another re-release of a popular episode from a while back you may have missed: in this one, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss the nuances between training for strength and training for muscle growth (hypertrophy). These goals can be achieved together, but don't necessarily have to; you can get bigger without getting much stronger, and you can get stronger without your muscles getting much bigger. They talk about training differences and approaches to make sure you get the most out of your workouts. Make sure you're subscribed to the podcast, leave a rating or review, and sign up for notifications so you know when a new episode is available! Send your feedback, questions, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com 

Today is a re-release of a popular episode you may have missed with Rachel and Ashleigh all about the idea of "intuitive eating" - what does that term mean, exactly? Is it possible to eat intuitively in a food landscape where hyper-palatable, low-nutrient food is so easily available? How can you listen to your body and still achieve body composition goals? All that and more in today's episode. Send your feedback, questions, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com 

Today the ladies answer questions around the optimal time to work out, how to make the best of a poor workout schedule, and they provide a lot of actionable tips on how to approach binge eating at night and consistent sugar cravings.  That and more - make sure you're subscribed, leave a rating or review, and sign up for notifications so you know when a new episode is available! Send your feedback, questions, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com 

Today Ashleigh and Rachel talk about the "anabolic window" - what it is, how important is it really, and how you can optimally fuel before and after your workouts to maximize your recovery and your gains. They also dive into the fraught and touchy subject of dieting for a wedding - how to do it safely and healthily, and when is it "too much"? That and more - make sure you're subscribed, leave a rating or review, and sign up for notifications so you know when a new episode is available! Send your feedback, questions, or topic ideas to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Our show sponsor is BiOptimizers! Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. For an exclusive offer, go to bioptimizers.com/science and use the code Science during checkout to save 10% - and if you subscribe, you'll get amazing discounts, free gifts, and make sure your monthly supply is guaranteed. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Learn more about Ashleigh and Rachel at their websites: ashleighvanhouten.com and rgfit.com   

In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh answer a listener question about how they met, and they reminisce about their "origin story" and talk about how they work now as cross-continental business partners. They also dive into some brand new goals they have for themselves for 2025 and how they plan to accomplish those goals, and how listeners can better communicate their goals to their coaches in order to really get the results they want. We also talk about the nuance of working out while sick: when it's fine to power through and when you should take a break and rest instead. Finally, they give some recommendations for healthier/more natural skincare and makeup companies. Our show sponsor is BiOptimizers! Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. For an exclusive offer, go to bioptimizers.com/science and use the code Science during checkout to save 10% - and if you subscribe, you'll get amazing discounts, free gifts, and make sure your monthly supply is guaranteed. If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com    

In this important episode, Rachel and Ashleigh walk listeners through how they can have the "menopause" conversation with their doctor: the information you should have and bring to them, including about symptoms and family history (and how to track said symptoms); and why it's important to have more specific goals to discuss than simply "I want to feel better." The ladies also talk about how to find a provider who specializes in, or at least is knowledgeable about, menopause.  This is a very helpful one for any women who is currently experiencing symptoms and wondering about next steps - please share it with anyone you know who could benefit! Our show sponsor is BiOptimizers! Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. For an exclusive offer, go to bioptimizers.com/science and use the code Science during checkout to save 10% - and if you subscribe, you'll get amazing discounts, free gifts, and make sure your monthly supply is guaranteed. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.    

In this episode, Rachel talks about a camping adventure; the two ladies discuss whether or not there are "ideal rep ranges" for building strength and muscle; they dive into one listener's question about how to train for a marathon without impacting fertility; and, because you can never understand your body TOO well, they talk again about training around your period: should you train differently at different times of the month, and if so--how and why? Our show sponsor is BiOptimizers! Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. For an exclusive offer, go to bioptimizers.com/science and use the code Science during checkout to save 10% - and if you subscribe, you'll get amazing discounts, free gifts, and make sure your monthly supply is guaranteed. Don't forget, we offer program discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   If you have any questions for the pod, comments or funny stories, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com.

In the final episode of 2024, Rachel and Ashleigh answer a question about weight loss from a male listener, highlighting some of the differences and similarities men and women face in their struggles to change body composition. The women discuss the accuracy of various body-fat measurement tools, and they also dive into a slightly different take on the age-old question, "how can I train for endurance but also build muscle," from a serious endurance hiker. Lastly, Ashleigh has a pro-tip for how to make your homemade, high-protein ice cream EXTRA tasty. Thank you to everyone who has listened and supported the show by subsribing, rating, reviewing, and sharing the podcast - and if you haven't yet there's still time! Also, please send any questions, topic ideas, embarassing fitness stories, or gym etiquette nightmares to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Check out our programs below, and if you're a member of the military, first responder team, or medical industry, send us a message for a discount on our programs. MSW Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  MSW Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  And our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

Today Ashleigh asks an expert all the questions about red light therapy: Having dealt with health challenges in childhood and early adulthood, Scott Chaverri has always been passionate about all things health and wellness. After earning a BA in Psychology from Cornell University and a MBA in Finance from the Simon School of Business, Scott worked for several Fortune 500 companies, in the business services, medical device, financial services and ecommerce industries before founding his company, Mito Red Light, that delivers a range of red light and infrared products (at a very competitive price point) delivering science-backed and specific wavelengths and red light therapies to help improve skin health, recovery, sleep, and more.  We cover topics including: what is the difference between red light and infrared light? What is the difference between near and far infrared? What are some of the studies backing the actual efficacy of these products? How can a consumer tell they are getting a good red light product? Some red flags to pay attention to How often can/should you use red light panels - can you overdo it? How can red light therapy help with things like acne, fine lines, muscle or injury recovery, hormonal health, and sleep? Dive into some of the science between wavelengths and how the different types penetrate skin For those of us unable/unwilling to buy red light therapy, what are some lifestyle things we can be doing to improve our red:blue light ratios? To learn more about Mito Red Light Therapy and purchase your own, click here. http://www.MitoRedLight.com/discount/MUSCLEMAVEN?redirect=%2F%3Fafmc%3DMUSCLEMAVEN  Send your feedback, topic ideas, questions, and funny gym stories to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Don't forget, we offer discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel for all of our programs. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com    

Proper gym etiquette (ie, manners and common sense) is so important, but often overlooked - Rachel and Ashleigh get fired up over some of the most egregious issues we see in the gym. They also talk about Mukbang videos (what are they? Why do people like them? What are the health implications)? We talk about whether it's possible (or healthy) to get multiple days' worth of calories in a single meal, and how to boost your nutrition if you just can't eat liver (although Ashleigh thinks you should just suck it up and eat liver). All that and more in this episode! If you do want to try organ meat supplements, we recommend you try Optimal Carnivore or Paleovalley's versions. Send your feedback, topic ideas, questions, and funny gym stories to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Our NEW sponsor is BiOptimizers! Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. For an exclusive offer, go to bioptimizers.com/science and use the code Science during checkout to save 10% - and if you subscribe, you'll get amazing discounts, free gifts, and make sure your monthly supply is guaranteed. Don't forget, we offer discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel for all of our programs. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com    

In this solo episode, Ashleigh updates you as she hits the halfway mark of her second pregnancy, including what's different or the same this time around, what's easier and what's more difficult, and anything that's surprised her along the way. She shares info on her supplement routine as well as how she's working out and eating, and her birth plans. She also answers pregnancy questions from listeners about taking creatine in pregnancy, whether it's possible to build muscle while pregnant, navigating the challenges of returning to training postpartum, and more.  Have pregnancy-related questions for the pod? Send them, and any other topics or questions you have, to musclescience4women@gmail.com. Our NEW sponsor is BiOptimizers! They are doing an epic Black Friday sale for the entire month of November. Go to bioptimizers.com/science and use code Science to get our exclusive discount and access to up to $100 in free gifts today!  Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. Resources mentioned in today's podcast: Fuel for Pregnancy and Postpartum (ebook) Pelvic Health Masterclass My Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum experience https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4007139/  https://www.hudson.org.au/news/creatine-and-pregnancy-what-you-need-to-know/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p5yd4Qp0Lw Don't forget, we offer discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel for all of our programs. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com      

In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Alison Mars, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Cookbook author of The Paleo Gut Healing Cookbook, about managing Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and PCOS; how fertility, pregnancy, and parenthood can impact gut health; and all the things that play into our gut health that aren't food (hint, there's a lot). We dive into mental health practices, optimizing circadian rhythm, better and worse fitness routines, and definitively answer the question, "does walking count as exercise?" This conversation is less about "here's exactly what you eat to heal your gut," and more a chat about how to LIVE in a way that promotes optimal digestion. It's a fun one, and I hope you enjoy it.  Learn more about Alison and get some healthy recipes at FoodbyMars.com.  Subscribe to her weekly newsletter and get a FREE 20-minute Paleo/AIP Meal Prep Plan right here. Have comments, feedback, or questions for us? Email musclescience4women@gmail.com, and don't forget to leave a review, rating, or comment on our podcast wherever you listen!   Our NEW sponsor is one of Ashleigh's favorite supplement companies, BiOptimizers! They are doing an epic Black Friday sale for the entire month of November. Go to bioptimizers.com/science and use code Science to get our exclusive discount and access to up to $100 in free gifts today!  Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. This episode is also brought to you by Kion - they offer creatine monohydrate, Essential Amino Acids, organic coffee, clean protein, and other high-quality products for the discerning health enthusiast. Get up to 20% off your order at getkion.com/musclescience  Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com  

In this episode, Ashleigh gives an update on her pregnancy; the ladies answer a question about how to slowly increase calories without gaining fat; dive into the benefits of magnesium supplement; discuss the pros and cons of putting young kids into formal sports; and more. The book we mention is called Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World, by David Epstein. Send your questions, feedback, topic ideas, or just say at musclescience4women@gmail.com. Our NEW sponsor is one of Ashleigh's favorite supplement companies, BiOptimizers! They are doing an epic Black Friday sale for the entire month of November. Go to bioptimizers.com/science and use code Science to get our exclusive discount and access to up to $100 in free gifts today!  Ashleigh's favorite product is Magnesium Breakthrough - it has all seven magnesium forms in one convenient bottle. With this product you'll spend less money, and still get the top 7 forms of magnesium for better sleep, manage stress, balance hormones, improve mood, and feel refreshed. Don't forget, we offer discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel for all of our programs. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com      

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions from listeners: What are coregasms? How and why do they happen in the gym, and if they're happening, how can you stop them so you don't hurt yourself during a heavy back squat? (yikes!) What is a deload week? How do you program them properly? When do you know you need one, and what does it consist of? If you had money allocated specifically for health or fitness improvement, what would you spend it on? All that and more - email musclescience4women@gmail.com with your questions, topic ideas, and feedback! Don't forget, we offer discounts to first responders, military, and medical personnel for all of our programs. Send us an email for the code. Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com  

In this episode, we discuss training and nutrition for women with PCOS, and also how to think about food cravings during your period; we discuss one of the biggest food-related challenges for women in losing fat that isn't talked about, and we give our unsolicited opinion this season's favorite flavor, pumpkin spice. Wanna tell us what you think about pumpkin spice, or anything else? Send your questions, topic ideas, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com      

Who is the best and most well-rounded female athlete? What does it mean to be a well-rounded athlete anyway? Why are some "fitness" standards different for men and women (it must be the uterus...) Is cardio really "out" now, or are there types of cardio that can still be beneficial for building muscle and losing fat? Does exercise count as "therapy"? Ashleigh and Rachel discuss all these topics and more - plus, we have some more music playlist ideas for you. We hope you have as much fun listening to this episode as we did making it! Send your thought experiments, funny gym stories, questions, and feedback to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by Muscle Science for Women! Check out our programs below, and if you're a member of the military, first responder team, or medical industry, send us a message for a discount on our programs. MSW Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  MSW Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  And our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

Today best-selling author and thyroid health expert Elle Russ joins Ashleigh to discuss the importance of your thyroid: what it does and supports in the body, tell-tale signs that your thyroid health is compromised; hormonal health, fertility, and how that connects with thyroid health; how to advocate for the support you need in the medical system; the connection between confidence and physical health, and so much more.   Interested in taking Elle's Ultimate Thyroid course? Click here: https://www.elleruss.com/a/2147520265/UHhNaaFq   Or learn more about her Ultimate Confidence course here: https://www.elleruss.com/a/2147520266/UHhNaaFq    Have comments, feedback, or questions for us? Email musclescience4women@gmail.com, and don't forget to leave a review, rating, or comment on our podcast whereever you listen!   This episode is brought to you by Kion, they offer creatine monohydrate, Essential Amino Acids, organic coffee, clean protein, and other high-quality products for the discerning health enthusiast. Get up to 20% off your order at getkion.com/musclescience  Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders  Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes   Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com  

In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh are asked by a special listener to design the "perfect human meal;" they talk about what to do if whey protein and whey products are causing skin issues; and they chat about folic acid supplementation for women who may look to become pregnant - can you get enough from your food? Should pregnant women really be eating liver? What's the difference between folic acid and folate?  If you have any comments, feedback or questions for the podcast, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com For more information on the folic acid supplementation question, we recommend you give Lily Nichols, RDN a follow on social media and her website can be found here: https://lilynicholsrdn.com/?s=folic+acid Here's an article from her website on folate/folic acid: https://lilynicholsrdn.com/?s=folic+acid 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

Today Ashleigh chats with personal trainer, nutritionist, best-selling author, and host of The Brian Keane Podcast about endurance racing as a bodybuilder; strength training for women; the biggest misconceptions about sustainable health; and much more. While we mostly talk to women, about women's issues, sometimes it's enlightening to learn about the similarities (and different perspectives) of coaches with different backgrounds than us, so we hope you find this one interesting! In addition to helping men and women achieve their fitness goals, Brian is a bodybuilder, a dad, and he trains for and has completed some of the world's most grueling endurance challenges, such as six back-to-back marathons through the Sahara desert, 230 km through the Arctic, and multiple ultra-marathons, including a 100-mile ultra-marathon in the desert in Nevada. Have comments, feedback, or questions for us? Email musclescience4women@gmail.com, and don't forget to leave a review, rating, or comment on our podcast whereever you listen!   This episode is brought to you by Kion, they offer creatine monohydrate, Essential Amino Acids, organic coffee, clean protein, and other high-quality products for the discerning health enthusiast. Get up to 20% off your order at getkion.com/musclescience Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

In this week's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how to juggle, prioritize, and properly rank all the big healthy lifestyle factors, especially as your life and goals change - we talk about the "Healthy Decision Tree" and how to determine when your priorities should change or when you should make adjustments to your plan. We also discuss how to stick to your goals and healthy habits if you happen to live with people who are not supportive, and in some cases seem like they're actively trying to sabotage you!  All that and more - please rate, review, subscribe, leave a comment on the podcast if you're listening in Spotify, and send all your questions or comments to musclescience4women@gmail.com. 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

In this episode Rachel shares some big life news, Ashleigh discusses recent conversations about health and fitness with family members, and they answer some fun questions from listeners, including questions about the pros and cons of creatine cycling, and how to know if your strength training and sports-specific training is well balanced. The ladies may have also found one of the coolest podcast listeners ever... Have questions, comments, feedback for us? Send it all to musclescience4women@gmail.com 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 or use the code MSW10 to save 10% on your purchase! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

Not everyone is trying to get leaner and smaller - lots of us want to get bigger and grow more size and muscle, and that can be just as difficult as leaning out. In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how to train and eat to GROW: training frequency and type, intensity, nutrition, and the tips you may be missing that could be stalling your growth. We also talk about whether beef protein powder is a complete protein, and how you should be incorporating incomplete proteins into your overall meals and macros. A reminder that if you are a member of the military, medical, or first-responder community, we offer discounts for all of our programs. Emails us at musclescience4women@gmail.com for the discount, or to send us any questions, comments, or topic ideas! Shouout 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! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel talk technology (including some new fitness-related tech Ashleigh is loving, and their thoughts on the health risks of EMF's) but the big conversation today is about goals and standards. They discuss how important it is to have quantifiable goals (vs vague or purely emotional ones); the difference between having high standards and unrealistic ones; and how to audit your life and your goals so they match - because the alternative is always feeling like you're failing, not good enough, or not successful. It turns out, your goal is just as important as the plan you make to get you there - make sure you have the right goal AND the right training. Questions, comments, or feedback? Send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is also brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. They have a special Anniversary Sale offer from August 11-18 only: use this link for 35% off and get a free gift with purchase! This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order anytime at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com 

In this short episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how you know when it's time to eat more carbs, and offer some practical and tangible health tips for shift workers.  A reminder that if you are a member of the military, medical, or first-responder community, we offer discounts for all of our programs. Emails us at musclescience4women@gmail.com for the discount, or to send us any questions, comments, or topic ideas! This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience  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! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

The Women of Muscle Science are back from their summer break! Get ready for fun life updates, some silliness, and as always, plenty of education mixed in. This week the ladies answer questions about how to stay consistent with your fitness when you travel a lot for work; how to improve your workouts in general; and the age-old question: is it really harder for women to lose fat than men? And if so, WHY?! (and what can we do about it?) Don't miss it - and please email musclescience4women@gmail.com with any feedback, questions or comments. Here's the link to Ashleigh's blog post with three ways to improve your workouts now, without even changing your programming: https://ashleighvanhouten.com/blogs/news/three-ways-to-improve-your-workouts-today-without-changing-your-programming  We have an epic Amazon Prime deal from our show sponsor, Active Stacks - makers of high-quality collagen peptide powder and beef protein powder in two delicious flavors, chocolate and vanilla. Head to this link and use the claim code 05PRIMEMSW https://www.amazon.com/promocode/A2PBCGF48UL6FT This episode is also brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

In this week's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat about how they manage their colds (including what they do to minimize sickness). They also answer questions from listeners about how to improve bone density: what exercises should we be doing? At what age is it too late? Why is bone density important? What foods help? Do partial range of motion reps help hypertrophy even more than full range of motion? Prepare for a deep dive! And Ashleigh tells a Planet Fitness story Download Rachel's sick protocol: https://www.rgfit.com/blog/sick-protocol  All that and more - if you have questions, comments, or funny stories for the Muscle Science ladies, send them to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience 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! Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

In this episode Rachel recaps a fun Vegas weekend, they talk about some of their favorite "on the go" snacks, and they answer a listener question about balancing strength training and marathon training. The girls also go through a case study from a listener who is also a VERY common client profile: a woman in her 50's who has spent decades undereating, being extremely rigid and strict with their diet, over training and under recovering, and practicing a negative and fear-based mindset around food and training. This client is now, in menopause, struggling with minor weight gain and wondering if decades of habits are impossible to fix or change. There's a lot to unpack here and we hope you find it helpful! This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com     

This week Ashleigh and Rachel recap Ashleigh's San Diego visit; they respond to a critical email about Botox; they answer a question about whether or not you should cut or bulk first, and a deeper conversation about how to know when you have "enough" muscle. What does enough muscle even mean? How do you know if you have enough to maintain health - and should we be at all worried about too much muscle - what are the potential downsides? This is a fun episode - if you have any feedback or topic ideas send them 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 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!

In today's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about whether or not three meals per day is optimal for protein/nutrient absorption; if some builds or anatomies just aren't cut out for certain exercises (and if so, how do we pick the best movements for our bodies?); Ashleigh rants about a particularly bad take on the carnivore diet; and more. If you have questions, comments, feedback, or want to add a topic for "Ashleigh's Rant Corner," send it to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience Sign up for our new Strong & Sculpted Shoulders workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/shoulders Or check out the Grow Your Glutes Workshop: https://www.rgfit.com/glutes  Learn about our flagship strength training program, Muscle Science for Women: http://www.musclescienceforwomen.com   

In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer a listener's question about a recent study claiming that high leucine (and dietary protein) intake can cause atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease. The links below provide more information on the study and their response.  The ladies also chat about some recent injuries, Ashleigh's upcoming trip to San Diego, and more. If you have questions, comments, feedback, or want to add a topic for "Ashleigh's Rant Corner," send it to musclescience4women@gmail.com. This episode is brought to you by Paleovalley. They make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience 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  Link to the study discussed in this episode: 1. Zhang X, Kapoor D, Jeong SJ, et al. Identification of a leucine-mediated threshold effect governing macrophage mTOR signalling and cardiovascular risk. Nat Metab. 2024;6(2):359-377. Link to Dr. Peter Attia's response, also mentioned: https://peterattiamd.com/protein-and-ascvd/  

Enjoy this re-release of one of our more popular episodes with Stan Efferding, 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. Stan conducts seminars all over the country for various sports and nutrition and training techniques, and he coined the Vertical Diet - in this episode Ashleigh and Stan talk all things diet, muscle building, and what we can all take from the regimens of elite athletes.  They cover: Stan's morning/daily routine His book, The Vertical Diet Some of his key nutrition tips around fiber and protein Practical tips for the rest of us gained from the worlds of powerlifting and bodybuilding Stan's experience dealing with depression and anxiety, and how he addressed it Working with elite athletes like Hafthor Bjornsson and Jon Jones And much more! Please check out our new show Sponsor, Palleovalley - they make amazing healthy snacks, like 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 treat). They also have a range of real-food supplements, like Fish Roe and an Organ Complex. This company doesn't cut corners, they combine the best that plants and animals have to offer for our health, and it shows - get 15% off your order at https://paleovalley.com/musclescience 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, 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 about taking time off from your training or diet; 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, and Ashleigh discusses the results of her Genova Metabolomix+ nutritional deficiency test, including whether her meat-forward diet is giving her enough variety, antioxidants, and 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: how these body types are characterized if there's real "truth" to these categorizations whether you can change your body composition dramatically outside of your body type how to train to optimize your body type and how all this may impact your feelings about your body and your capabilities.  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! We 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: What essential amino acids are and why they're important The differences between BCAA's and EAA's How much you're actually getting from your food How to make sure you're getting enough to optimize your health How to best incorporate EAA's to optimize intake, muscle growth, and overall health Can you overdo it and ingest too many EAA's? Are supplemental EAA's necessary, and if you want to use them, how best to incorporate into a well-rounded diet 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, Ashleigh and Rachel dive into a case study of a woman trying to figure out her low back pain, and what she should (or shouldn't) do in the gym while trying to stay fit and heal her low back issues. If you're dealing with low back pain, should you stop everything until you figure out the cause? Should you focus on strengthening your core to relieve back pain possibly caused by core instability? Is it a mechanical issue, an overuse issue, or something else altogether? Dive into the episode to find out more - we know low back pain is a very common complaint so chances are you'll hear something that can help you! Rachel also tells us about her new part time job, and much more! 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!