The Real History of Women Who Lift: From Cardio Bunny to Muscle Mommy with Michael Joseph Gross

Author Michael Joseph Gross (Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives) reveals how muscle has shaped human health, confidence, and culture for centuries—and why it’s time for women to reclaim it. Learn why “brains vs. brawn” is a myth, how lifting builds empathy and resilience, and the surprising history of strong women—from Victorian Europe to the modern gym.

Episode Overview:
(0:00) Intro/Teaser
(4:00) From Greeks to Gains: The Origins of How We See Muscle
(10:00) The Myth of Brain vs. Brawn
(20:00) How Lifting Weights Rewires the Brain
(25:00) Why Most People Still Don’t Lift (and How to Change That)
(34:00) The Doctor Who Proved Strength Has No Age Limit
(46:00) How Pop Culture Shaped Our Fear of Muscle
(53:00) Are We Afraid of Strong Women?
(58:00) Jan Todd and the Victorian Women Who Lifted
(1:09:00) The Bettys Are Reclaiming Their Strength
(1:11:00) Raising Strong Daughters (and Sons)
(1:16:00) Where to Begin: Strength Training for Every Woman
(1:24:00) BONUS: After-Party with Dr. Stephanie

Resources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep444/

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P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:

Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.

Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results.

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