91: 36 Lessons I’ve Learned in 36 Years

You’re not losing fat because you’re doing it wrong. No, not because you’re lazy or lack willpower, but because the advice you’ve been fed is outdated, oversimplified, and straight-up wrong. Calorie deficits, cortisol fear, and overtraining? We’re done with that.That’s why I sat down with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, board-certified obesity specialist and hormone expert, to break down what’s actually going on when fat loss stalls. We talk about GLP-1 medications, metabolic adaptation, willpower myths, and how to lose fat without losing your mind (or your muscle).Whether you're in a plateau, navigating perimenopause, or just sick of guessing—this episode gives you the science, the strategy, and the mindset shifts that actually work.Dr. Spencer Nadolsky is a board-certified obesity specialist, former NCAA wrestler, and medical director at Sequence. He’s known for translating complex medical topics into clear, actionable advice that actually helps you change your body, and your mindset.We Also Discuss:00:44 – The real reason your body’s holding onto weight16:32 – What these meds are doing to your cravings and brain26:04 – Muscle loss on weight loss meds? Here’s the truth38:30 – Why the same med works for your friend but not you44:25 – Can you lose fat and build muscle at the same time?52:24 – Willpower isn’t your problem—this is01:00:04 – Still judging weight loss meds? You might be missing the pointThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads: Broads 1:1 – Ready to ditch the bullshit and start feeling good in your body? Choose your level and let's do this together. Apply for BroadsCOACH or BroadsCHAMPION today at broads.appLegion: Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comMomentous: Head to livemomentous.com and use code TARA for up to 35% off your first order. Because foundational health isn't optional – it's everything.Find more from Dr. Spencer Nadolsky: Website: https://drspencer.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drnadolsky/Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara

Feel like you're lifting heavy but still not getting stronger? You might be missing the real markers of strength—and Angela Gargano (former D1 gymnast and 4x American Ninja Warrior) joined me to set the record straight.We’re talking about the biggest misconceptions women have about strength training, how to train through your cycle without burning out, and why confidence in the gym translates to confidence everywhere else. Angela also shares her personal story of injury and recovery—and how it changed her entire approach to fitness.Whether you’re working on your first pull-up or just trying to feel more powerful in your body, this episode will fire you up with tools, mindset shifts, and no-BS advice that actually works.Angela Gargano is a 4x American Ninja Warrior, former D1 gymnast, and certified strength coach. She’s also the founder of Strong Feels Good and a leading expert in helping women conquer their first pull-up.We Also Discuss:03:22 – Why Angela stopped chasing aesthetics and started chasing real strength09:47 – What American Ninja Warrior taught her about confidence (and failure)17:05 – The pull-up mindset shift every woman needs to hear21:33 – The truth about upper body strength most women don’t know26:42 – How to train pull-ups if you can’t do any yet33:18 – Grip strength hacks that actually work44:11 – Why women hold back in the gym—and how to stopThank You to Our Sponsors:BROADS: The smart strength training app for women. Home and gym workouts built for progress (not burnout). Try it free at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month.Legion: Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comMomentous: Head to livemomentous.com and use code TARA for up to 35% off your first order. Because foundational health isn't optional – it's everything.Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferraraFind more from Angela GarganoWebsite: https://www.angela-gargano.com/Instagram: @angela_gargano Pull-Up Revolution: https://www.pulluprevolution.com/

Ever wonder if you’re actually overtraining… or just being dramatic? Or if your protein goals are realistic—or completely made up? In this solo episode, I’m answering all the juicy questions you sent in—and I’m not holding back.We’re talking sore muscles, toe yoga (yes, really), my real-life workout split, how I handle cardio, and what to do when your period disappears but you still want to build muscle. No fluff. Just real talk.I’m also breaking down overtraining symptoms that most people ignore, how I approach strength training in my 30s (and why I’m not chasing PRs right now), tips for getting in more protein without gagging on dry-ass chicken, the truth about body recomposition and irregular cycles, and why I give a shit about ankle mobility and barefoot shoes.Whether you’re trying to lift heavier, feel better in your body, or just not feel wrecked after every workout, this one’s packed with reminders, mindset shifts, and practical stuff you can try this week.Because training should support your life, not drain the hell out of you.Let’s get into it.I Also Discuss:(00:01) Q&A Kickoff: Overtraining, Progress Plateaus & Real Talk(09:57) Muscle Gains, Protein Tips & Why You Might Feel Nauseous Lifting(13:35) Body Recomp 101: Can You Lose Fat & Gain Muscle at the Same Time?(19:59) Foot Health Is Sexy: Toe Yoga, Ankle Mobility & Why It Matters(27:43) Community, Confidence & Taking Up Space TogetherThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads 1:1 – Ready to ditch the bullshit and start feeling good in your body? Choose your level and let's do this together. Apply for BroadsCOACH or BroadsCHAMPION today  at broads.app   Momentous: Ready to try supplements based on actual science instead of marketing bullshit? Head to livemomentous.com and use code TARA for up to 35% off your first order.Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara

Ever feel disconnected from your partner… but not sure how to fix it?You’re not alone. Between mismatched desire, mental load, body image struggles, and awkward communication, intimacy often becomes one more thing on your to-do list, instead of a source of connection.In this episode, I’m joined by Vanessa and Xander Marin—licensed sex therapist and bestselling author duo behind Sex Talks and the Pillow Talks podcast. We’re breaking down the silent issues that show up in long-term relationships and how to reconnect (without relying on spontaneous desire or unrealistic expectations).We’re talking about what’s actually behind low libido (hint: it’s not just hormones or sex drive), how to reduce the mental load so you can feel more connected, and why “scheduled sex” isn’t boring, it’s powerful. Vanessa Marin is a licensed sex therapist with 20+ years of experience and Xander Marin is her husband, co-author, and brings the real-life partner perspective that makes these conversations feel refreshingly honest, relatable, and actionable.We Also Discuss:08:26 – Why we need to talk about sex way more openly13:44 – The 5 conversations every couple should have about sex18:32 – The truth about “how often” you should be having sex26:23 – Why desire doesn’t just happen—and what to focus on instead32:42 – How mental load kills intimacy (and what to do about it)40:00 – The surprising link between body image and your sex life47:12 – What the “bristle reaction” is—and how to fix it54:04 – The most underrated forms of foreplay (hint: it’s not lingerie)Thank You to Our Sponsors:Broads: Broads gives you structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join today at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Legion: Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comFind more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferraraFind more fromInstagram: @vanessaandxander Website: https://vmtherapy.com/ Youtube: @vanessaandxanderPodcast: Pillow Talks

Ever feel like you should have it all figured out by now—but you secretly don’t? Same. In this episode, I’m celebrating 36 trips around the sun by sharing 36 lessons that have changed how I train, how I show up, and how I treat myself (inside and out).We’re talking about the pressure to shrink yourself and be “less,” why discipline beats motivation every time, and how lifting weights transformed my confidence way more than chasing aesthetics ever did.I also get into the messy stuff: setting boundaries, choosing rest, and learning to love your body before it hits your “goal.”If you’ve ever felt stuck, behind, or like everyone else has life figured out—this episode is your permission slip to evolve, to expand, and to take up space at any age.Because aging isn’t the end of anything. It’s the beginning of becoming who you really are.I Also Discuss:(01:00) – Why turning 36 feels weird and exciting(05:14) – Shrinking yourself doesn’t keep you safe(11:12) – Your body is not your resume(16:13) – Rest is productive—period(22:45) – Lifting weights changed everythingThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads 1:1 – Ready to ditch the bullshit and start feeling good in your body? Choose your level and let's do this together. Apply for BroadsCOACH or BroadsCHAMPION today  at https://www.broads.app/application  Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara

Ever been told your symptoms are “just stress” or “totally normal” while your body feels anything but normal? You’re not imagining it—and you deserve real answers.In this episode, I’m joined by hormone health expert Dr. Carrie Jones, and we’re diving into the truth behind why so many women feel anxious, exhausted, inflamed, and out of sync—especially in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. If your labs are “normal” but you don’t feel normal, this episode is for you.We’re breaking down what’s actually going on in perimenopause, how nervous system dysregulation and chronic stress impact your hormones, and why some of the popular fixes (like overtraining or fasting) might be doing more harm than good.Dr. Carrie Jones is a board-certified functional medicine doctor and hormone health expert with 20+ years of clinical and educational experience. She is board-certified in Naturopathic Endocrinology and holds a Master's in Public Health.We Also Discuss:00:00 – Why “normal” labs don’t mean you feel normal05:51 – The hormone lies women are still being told18:44 – How to actually know if your hormones are off23:24 – Are your healthy habits secretly stressing your body?36:01 – The real impact of stress and overtraining on hormones40:50 – What your bloodwork isn’t telling you53:52 – The problem with getting hormone advice from social mediaThank You to Our Sponsors: Broads: The app made for women who lift. Fierce home & gym workouts, smart progression, and a community that’s here to hype you up. Try it free at broads.app with code PODCAST for 20% off your first month.Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferraraFind more from Dr. Carrie JonesWebsite: www.drcarriejones.com Instagram: dr.carriejones

For years, I thought nutrition had to be all or nothing… you either perfectly tracked your food, followed a strict diet, or you were "failing." I spent so much time overthinking every meal, trying to find the “perfect” way to eat, only to end up feeling stressed, guilty, and frustrated.I thought true health meant rigid rules, obsessive tracking, and pushing myself to stick to the latest diet trend.But the truth? Nutrition should be about fueling your body, building strength, and creating habits that support your life, not controlling every bite.In today’s episode, I’m answering your top nutrition questions: from intermittent fasting, to how to actually hit your protein goals, to healing your relationship with food in a way that feels empowering, not exhausting.If you’ve ever struggled with overcomplicating nutrition, feeling lost with protein targets, or rebuilding trust with your body, this episode is for you!I Also Discuss:(00:00) Nutrition Myths You Still Believe (and What Actually Works)(07:41) How Much Protein You REALLY Need (Without Going Crazy)(16:17) Healing Your Relationship With Food (Without Strict Diets)(18:07) Navigating Sobriety When Your Partner Still Drinks(24:47) Why Broads Is Different: Strength Over ScalThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads App – Get structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara

How many times have you been told your heavy periods, low libido, or mood swings are “just part of being a woman”? Or handed birth control as the only option, without anyone actually explaining why your body feels off?If you’re nodding along, this episode is a must-listen. Today, I’m joined by Dr. Jolene Brighten—a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, menopause specialist, and author of Beyond the Pill and Is This Normal?—and she’s here to drop some serious truth bombs about women’s health.We’re breaking down the hormone myths that keep women confused and stuck, how to actually know if you have PCOS or endometriosis (even if you’re on the pill), and why your sex drive, sleep, and strength training are all connected.Get ready for real talk, science-backed advice, and the permission you’ve been waiting for to finally understand (and trust) your body.​​Dr. Jolene Brighten is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist and best-selling author known for her expertise in women's health, hormones, and sexual wellness. Dr. Brighton is also the founder of Dr. Brighten Essentials.Trust me, you won’t want to miss it! We Also Discuss:(00:31) The Truth About Women's Health – Dr. Jolene Brighten’s No-BS Approach(13:13) Why Women’s Health is Still Ignored: The Real Challenges(20:27) Endometriosis & PCOS: What You’re Not Hearing from Doctors(29:52) Breaking the Silence: How to Normalize Women’s Health Conversations(35:01) How Stress Kills Your Sex Drive: The Truth About Hormonal Balance(46:15) The Hidden Connection Between Hormones & Your Sexual Desire – Explained(58:02) Perimenopause Isn’t the End: How to Thrive in Your 40s and Beyond(01:04:45) Eating, Sleeping, and Strength Training: The Key to Hormonal HarmonyThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads App – Get structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Find more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferraraFind more from Dr. Jolene BrightenWebsite: drbrighten.comInstagram: @drjolenebrightenTikTok: @drjolenebrightenYouTube: Dr. Jolene BrightenThe Perimenopause Weight Loss Action Plan: https://drbrighten.com/plan/

For years, I thought I had to push myself to fit into this “summer body” ideal, sweating it out through restrictive diets and unrealistic fitness goals, only to feel like I was falling short. I kept repeating the cycle—working hard, but not seeing lasting results. I thought the key to being happy in my body was to lose weight fast and look a certain way for an event or season. But the truth? It was all a big, exhausting loop that left me feeling drained and disconnected from my true health goals.In today’s episode, I'm talking about breaking free from the “bikini body” myth and the pressure to constantly shrink your body for the sake of appearance. I share my own experiences of being stuck in the weight-loss obsession, and how I learned to focus on what really matters— the real, long-term changes that create true strength, energy, and confidence—no matter the season.This episode is for anyone who’s tired of the endless cycle of dieting and unrealistic body standards.  I Also Discuss:(00:00) Break Free from the Summer Body Trap!(11:17) Sustainable Fitness: Real Results, No Quick Fixes(18:01) Want Strong Abs? Stop Crunching and Start Lifting(26:09) Stop the Dieting Cycle: Build Lasting Health Instead(26:09) Empowerment Over Aesthetics: The Real Way to TrainThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads App – Get structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Legion - Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comFind more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara

Let’s be honest—how often do we think about how pregnancy and postpartum affect our training and recovery? For many women, this season of life brings unique challenges that aren't always addressed in mainstream fitness advice.In today’s episode, Brianna Battles, founder of Pregnancy and Postpartum Athleticism, joins me to discuss the importance of training during pregnancy and postpartum. We dive into how to modify your workouts to protect your pelvic health, the importance of understanding diastasis recti, and how to train your body while respecting its changes. Brianna also shares valuable insights on mindset—why it’s crucial to adjust your approach to exercise during these transformative periods and how to embrace the process.With years of experience helping women train safely through pregnancy and postpartum, Brianna offers practical advice on regaining strength, improving pelvic health, and rethinking fitness goals for the long term.Tune in for a powerful conversation on fitness, health, and recovery after having a baby!We Also Discuss:(00:13) The Fitness Struggle: Balancing Motherhood & Health(07:38) Pelvic Health 101: Why It’s Key During Pregnancy(18:54) Embracing the Shift: Navigating Body Changes in Motherhood(26:35) Core Training Secrets for Pregnant Women: What You Need to Know(37:14) Diastasis Recti: Understanding Postpartum Recovery(49:00) Overcoming Postpartum Challenges & Restoring Your Strength(58:37) Building a Support Network for Pregnant & Postpartum AthletesThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads: Broads gives you structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join today at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Legion: Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comFind more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferraraFind more from Brianna Battles:Website: https://go.briannabattles.comInstagram: @brianna.battles Programs: https://go.briannabattles.com/programs