Nutrition & Life

Lisa Franz
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Mar 3, 2026 • 42min

#290 Casey Lee: Transform Your Training With Better Exercise Selection!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, host Lisa Franz sits down with Casey Lee, career trainer and founder of Purposeful Strength, for a deep dive into all things training—from exercise selection and consistency to building confidence, overcoming plateaus, and finding joy in movement.Casey Lee shares his unique path from college rec center trainer to running a thriving, non-traditional personal training studio in rural Vermont. He unpacks why exercise selection is the cornerstone of effective programming, how to make any equipment limitation work for you, and the power of personalized, sustainable approaches—whether you’re a total beginner or seasoned lifter facing stubborn plateaus.Tune in for a transparent, encouraging chat packed with practical tools, client stories, and relatable tips for trainers and motivated self-starters alike!Timestamp Overview:00:00 – Introduction & Episode Goals00:24 – Why Exercise Selection is #1 in Programming01:12 – Casey Lee’s Journey: From Campus Trainer to Studio Owner03:06 – Building a Home Training Studio in Vermont03:26 – Inverted Personal Training Model & Client Success04:50 – Equipment Limitations and Getting Started at Home06:06 – Outgrowing Equipment and Client Milestones07:20 – Making It Work with “Whatever You Have”07:41 – The Trainable Menu: Selecting Movements That Fit You09:19 – Building Confidence Through Variations & Addressing Pain11:05 – Assessing Pain, Doctor’s Orders, and Overcoming Fear13:14 – Emotional Reactions to Exercise: Trainer vs. Client Mindset16:19 – Progression: When and How to Push Clients18:24 – Rapport, Grit & Grace Coaching, Trusting Your Fitness20:27 – Why Exercise Selection Beats All Other Training Variables24:01 – Structuring Beginner Programs: Splits, Frequency, and Progression25:44 – Identifying Sticking Points & Unearthing Better Variations28:37 – Don’t Just Avoid—Find Variations That Work!29:23 – Behind the Scenes: Casey Lee’s Newsletter for Clients31:31 – When Do Clients See Big Leaps in Progress?33:08 – Progressive Overload and Building Equipment Confidence36:28 – Rep Ranges and Overcoming Stagnation38:04 – Getting Past Plateaus: The Power of Positional Isometrics40:35 – How Humbling New Challenges Can Be41:14 – Show Wrap-Up, Key Takeaways, and How to ConnectConnect with Casey Lee & Purposeful StrengthInstagram: @purposeful.strengthWebsite: purposefulstrength.comLove the podcast? Subscribe and follow on your favorite platform, and share your favorite breakthrough or “aha!” moment from this episode on Instagram—tag @purposeful.strength and @nutritioncoachingandlife!Connect, Share & Subscribe: Subscribe to the Nutrition and Life Podcast on YouTube and follow us for updates, expert guests, and Lisa Franz’s latest news. Share your favorite moments and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or visit our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com for more resources!Thanks for tuning in, and remember: fitness should work for you, not against you!
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Feb 27, 2026 • 46min

#289 Natural Bodybuilding: Tools and Mindsets for Long-Term Muscle Gains with Steve Hall

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! This week, host Lisa Franz is joined by WNBF Pro bodybuilder and Revive Stronger founder, Steve Hall, for a deep dive into the realities of natural bodybuilding, continuous self-improvement, and how anyone not just competitors can cultivate a lifelong love for fitness.Steve Hall candidly shares his journey from “not built for bodybuilding” to earning his Pro Card with the world’s most competitive natural federation. He lifts the curtain on his years-long dedication, the setbacks and triumphs on the world stage, and why genuine enthusiasm and patience outshine quick fixes or constant comparison. Along the way, you’ll get advice on training for enjoyment, breaking plateaus, the evidence (and experience) behind programming, and how gen pop clients can keep making progress—no matter what the scale or stage says.Tune in for actionable mindset tips, practical gym wisdom, and a motivating reminder to enjoy your own “improvement season” whatever your goals!Timestamp Overview:00:00 – Welcome & the Power of Virtual Connections00:54 – Steve’s Biggest Hopes: Inspiring Love for the Gym01:45 – The Slow Road of Natural Bodybuilding & “You vs. You”03:06 – Earning a WNBF Pro Card: Expectations & Surprises05:20 – Leveling Up: The Harsh Reality of Pro Competition07:07 – From Setbacks to “Growth Seasons”09:04 – Gen Pop Coaching: Motivation Without Deadlines13:29 – Health Habits, Enjoyment & Avoiding Complacency17:05 – Favorite Exercises & Keeping Training Fresh21:31 – Getting Specific: Feedback, Weak Points & Aesthetic Goals24:07 – Changing Your Mind: Research, Deloads & Volume29:07 – Range of Motion, Partial Reps, and Calf Progress33:20 – Finding Your Limits: Volume & Failure36:09 – Nutrition: Protein, Surpluses & Real-World Adjustments41:45 – Metabolic Adaptation & Personal Lessons44:00 – Wrapping Up: Inspiration for Everyone’s JourneyConnect with Steve Hall:Instagram:@revivestronger https://www.instagram.com/revivestronger/ \Revive Website: https://revivestronger.com/Youtube: @ReviveStrongerConnect, Share & Subscribe: Love the show? Subscribe to Lisa on YouTube and follow us for updates, expert guests, and Lisa Franz’s latest news. Share your favorite moments and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or visit our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com for more resources! Did this episode inspire you to work out, build mental toughness, or think differently about fitness and community? Drop a comment below, share your progress, and challenge yourself to create that next “aha” moment!
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Feb 24, 2026 • 46min

#288 Jeremiah Bair: Most Women's Dream Physique Actually Means Building More Muscle!

Welcome to another powerful episode of the Nutrition and Life Podcast!In today’s conversation, host Lisa Franz welcomes back coach and physique specialist Jeremiah Bair for a deep dive into muscle building, nutrition periodization, and what it really takes to build the physique you say you want.Jeremiah shares why so many people chasing a “lean” look actually need to build more muscle, not diet harder, and how strategic phasing of nutrition can transform both body composition and long-term progress. From primer phases to fat loss, maintenance recomposition, and lean building, this episode breaks down what intelligent physique development really looks like over 12–18 months.You’ll also hear Jeremiah unpack the biggest mistakes people make during building phases (hint: it’s not just about eating more), how to truly train close to failure, why hydration and sleep matter more than most realize, and how he has periodized his own physique over the past few years—including a 30+ pound stage-lean transformation.If you want practical, real-world insight into building muscle sustainably while keeping biofeedback, hormones, and performance in check—this one is for you.Timestamp Overview:00:00 – Welcome Back: What’s Changed in Two Years03:09 – The Real Gap: Why Most People Need More Muscle, Not More Dieting07:12 – Muscle Shape vs. Just Getting Smaller09:49 – What Is “Phasing Nutrition”? (Nutrition Periodization Explained)12:03 – Primer Phases, Reverse Dieting & Fixing Low Maintenance Calories13:25 – A 12–18 Month Muscle-Building Roadmap16:45 – Why Starting with a Fat Loss Phase Often Works Best18:44 – Leaner First, Then Build: Nutrient Partitioning & Visual Feedback21:56 – Do You Need to Gain Weight to Build Muscle? (Women vs. Men)23:00 – Training as the North Star in a Building Phase28:35 – Biggest Training Mistakes in a Building Phase31:55 – Limb Length, Execution & Individual Exercise Selection32:48 – The Truth About RIR & Training Close to Failure35:01 – Nutrition Mistakes That Kill Muscle Gains36:56 – Peri-Workout Fueling, Hydration & Caffeine Management39:15 – Why Building Phases Require Urgency Too39:47 – Jeremiah’s Personal Physique Timeline (177 → 205 Stage Lean)42:18 – Experimentation, Fasting, Training Frequency & Competing45:09 – Final Takeaways & How to Follow JeremiahHow to Connect with Jeremiah Bair:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremiahbair/Coaching & Content: (Add appropriate website link if desired)Connect, Share & Subscribe:Love the show? Subscribe to Lisa on YouTube and follow us for updates, expert guests, and Lisa Franz’s latest news. Share your favorite moments and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or visit our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com for more resources! Are you building… or just dieting again?
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Feb 20, 2026 • 35min

#287 Science-Backed Strategies to Manage Stress, Cortisol, & Stubborn Belly Fat

Welcome to another transformative episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, host Lisa Franz brings you a solo deep-dive into one of the most misunderstood topics in wellness: stubborn belly fat. If you’ve been doing “everything right” with your diet and exercise but the midsection won’t budge, this episode is your must-listen guide.Lisa Franz unpacks the science behind stress, cortisol, and how modern life has supercharged our fat storage mechanisms. More importantly, she delivers a toolkit full of practical, science-backed strategies to help you break the cycle, balance your hormones, and finally achieve your health goals—without adding more stress to your to-do list.Tune in for clarity, compassion, and concrete steps to reclaim a happier, healthier relationship with your body!Timestamp Overview:00:00 – Introduction & Why “Stubborn Belly Fat” is NOT Just About Calories 01:07 – The Science of Cortisol: Good vs. Chronic Stress 02:26 – Visceral Fat: Studies & The Real Dangers 03:33 – How Cortisol Drives Appetite and Muscle Loss 04:16 – Why Calories Still Matter (and Stress Makes Losing Fat Harder) 05:00 – Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: Eustress, Distress & Recovery 06:14 – How Stress Sabotages Body Composition & The Role of Recovery 07:02 – “Less is More” Philosophy for Lowering Stress 08:01 – Action Step #1: Declutter Your Calendar & Radical Focus 10:17 – Study: Selective Optimization Lowers Cortisol 11:07 – Action Step #2: The Power of Stillness Practices 12:10 – 4 Stillness Habits: Meditation, Walking, Journaling, Breathwork 13:29 – Nature & “Forest Bathing”: Cortisol and Immune Boost 16:44 – Breathwork Demo & Consistency is Key 18:03 – Action Step #3: Prioritize Sleep (Quality, Quantity, Rhythm) 19:26 – Poor Sleep = High Cortisol and More Fat Storage 21:14 – Landmark Sleep Study: 60,000 Women, Major Findings 22:50 – Sleep Hygiene Habits: Room, Routine, Caffeine & Tech 24:04 – Action Step #4: Nutrition Strategies for Stress 25:21 – Carbs for Lowering Cortisol & When to Eat 27:09 – Magnesium, Alcohol, and Supplements that Help 28:22 – The Truth about Ashwagandha & Omega-3s 29:59 – The Blood Sugar - Cortisol Connection 31:09 – Recap: Top 4 Action Steps to Manage Stress and Lose Belly Fat 32:06 – Exercise, Overtraining & Cortisol: How to Recover Right 33:38 – The Importance of Post-Workout Meals & Patience 34:36 – Final Thoughts and How to Reframe the Belly Fat Struggle 34:52 – Wrap-Up & Ways to ConnectConnect with Lisa & Nutrition and Life:Instagram: @nutritioncoachingandlifeWebsite: https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com/Love the episode? Share your favorite takeaway on Instagram and tag @nutritioncoachingandlife for a chance to be featured! Subscribe to the podcast for more expert tips, inspiring stories, and evidence-based nutrition strategies from Lisa Franz.Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the Nutrition and Life community. Don’t forget to subscribe!
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Feb 17, 2026 • 39min

#286 Conditioning Across All Energy Systems with 'The Air Bike Guy' John Moljo

Welcome to another energizing episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, host Lisa Franz is joined by John Moljo, renowned as the “air bike guy” and founder of Team Moljo Strength and Conditioning. Get ready for an insightful, transparent conversation about evolving your fitness journey, building mental toughness, and creating a community where every member feels seen, challenged, and supported.John Moljo shares his personal story of overcoming knee injuries and why the air bike became both a rehab tool and a source of mental strength. He unpacks the real difference between air bikes and traditional spin bikes, reveals how to set up and use the air bike efficiently, and dives into programming methods that suit everyone—from total beginners to seasoned athletes. You’ll hear candid advice on avoiding common mistakes (like the infamous “Tabata punishment”), building aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, and the importance of enjoying the process, not just chasing goals.Tune in for practical strategies, relatable stories, and actionable tips for anyone looking to level up their fitness, grit, and wellbeing!Timestamp Overview:00:00 - Introduction & How Lisa Franz and John Molj0 Met 00:33 - Evolving Fitness: The Importance of Showing Up 01:26 - Why the Air Bike? Rehab, Mental Toughness & Finding a Niche 04:23 - The Air Bike: Value, Versatility & Return on Investment 05:40 - Air Bike vs Regular Bike: Key Differences Explained 07:12 - Programming for All: Rehab to “Can’t Breathe” Conditioning 08:55 - Setting Up Your Air Bike for Efficiency & Safety 10:06 - Push vs Pull: Power, Technique, and Endurance vs Sprints 12:15 - Avoiding Common Air Bike Mistakes & the Myth of Tabata 14:19 - Conditioning Modalities: Aerobic, Anaerobic, ATP—Sample Programs 17:50 - Zone Training & How to Gauge Your True Max Effort 20:04 - Using the Air Bike Across All Energy Systems 21:28 - Community-Driven Coaching: Fostering Engagement & Support 24:01 - Challenges: 30 Strong, Tour de Moljo & Creating “Aha” Moments 26:46 - Nurturing Mindset: When Motivation Is Low 29:29 - Leadership, Learning & Growing as a Gym Owner 32:18 - Mental Resilience: The Power of Commitment to Process 35:50 - Training Manuals, Online Coaching & How to Connect 37:00 - Closing Advice: Challenge Yourself & Build Lasting MemoriesHow to Connect with John Moljo:Instagram: @teammoljoWebsite: https://teammoljo.comConnect, Share & Subscribe: Love the show? Subscribe to Lisa on YouTube and follow us for updates, expert guests, and Lisa Franz’s latest news. Share your favorite moments and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or visit our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com for more resources!Did this episode inspire you to ride the air bike, build mental toughness, or think differently about fitness and community? Drop a comment below, share your progress, and challenge yourself to create that next “aha” moment!
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Feb 13, 2026 • 49min

#285 Anti-Aging: How Exosome Therapy Is Changing Regenerative Medicine w/Caleb Granger

Welcome back to another transformative episode of the Nutrition and Life Podcast! This week, Lisa Franz welcomes groundbreaking guest Caleb Granger, founder of Apex Regenerative. Dive with us into the evolving world of regenerative medicine, where exosome therapy is changing the game for anti-aging, chronic conditions, and overall vitality. Whether you’re passionate about wellness, curious about reversing degeneration, or seeking new strategies for your health journey, this episode is a can’t-miss!Timestamps Breakdown:00:00 – Welcome & guest introduction00:26 – Regenerative medicine is happening now (not the future!)01:38 – Caleb Granger’s journey from spine surgery to regenerative medicine and Apex origins03:21 – Apex Regenerative: Focus on exosomes, growth, and market impact04:15 – Why traditional modern medicine doesn’t heal chronic illness at the source07:01 – Surgery vs. true regeneration: limitations of pharmacological and surgical interventions08:26 – Exosomes healing diabetes (and other cases) at the root: real clinical outcomes10:14 – How does exosome therapy work? The science (for everyone!)11:14 – Stem cell history, why transplantation fails, and why exosomes matter13:15 – Exosomes vs. live stem cells: safety, acceptance, powerful healing16:08 – Delivery methods: IV, sublingual spray, intranasal, localized injections, and more17:40 – Skin and hair renewal: beauty applications and what’s possible17:50 – Does the body “reject” exosomes? (Safety Q&A)19:09 – How do exosomes “know” where to heal? Targeting the body’s true deficits21:39 – Systemic protocols, why one treatment affects your whole body25:01 – Wellness, longevity, and starting protocols before disease sets in25:52 – Measuring true anti-aging: biomarkers, inflammation, and results28:14 – Caleb Granger’s real-life before/after experience: skin and lab markers31:21 – The science and power of NAD+ and cellular energy35:32 – What happens after protocol? How long do effects last, and do you lose progress?36:55 – Caleb Granger’s 95-year-old father: case study in kidney regeneration40:00 – Who benefits? Cost, entry protocols, and how to start if you’re not in Austin44:23 – Inflammation and whole-body “fire alarms”: why exosome reduction changes everything46:48 – Individualized medicine and financial accessibility: personalized plans for all47:06 – Closing gratitude & how to connect with Apex RegenerativeConnect & Follow Apex Regenerative:Instagram: @apexregenerativeTikTok: @apexregenerativeWebsite: theapexmedical.comConnect, Share & Subscribe: Want more nutrition wisdom and inspiring conversations? Subscribe to the podcast and follow us on social for updates, more expert guests, and Lisa’s latest news. Share your favorite takeaway from this episode and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com/
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Feb 10, 2026 • 39min

#284 Physique Development: Mia Ferguson’s Journey from Eating Disorder to Empowered Coaching

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, Lisa Franz sits down with Mia Ferguson, coach and competitor at Physique Development, for a heartfelt and honest discussion about navigating fitness, competition, body image, and the realities of living a fit lifestyle.From her early athletic background and struggle through an eating disorder to becoming a coach with a passion for empowering women, Mia Ferguson shares her journey with frankness and empathy. Whether you’re curious about the pros and cons of competing, managing growth and dieting phases, or simply looking to improve your relationship with food and yourself, this episode delivers practical advice, mindset shifts, and actionable strategies.So, grab your headphones and prepare for wisdom, laughter, and a deeper dive into what it truly takes to build a healthy, sustainable fit life.Timestamp Overview:00:00 - Welcoming Mia Ferguson & Episode Intro00:29 - Fitness Should Enhance Life00:50 - Mia’s Journey: From Athlete to Coach04:07 - Pros & Cons of Competing09:54 - Accepting Weight Gain After Competition15:45 - Tracking Macros & Consistency Tips19:36 - Digestion Strategies for Gaining & Cutting Phases24:00 - Mindset: Your Why and Sustainable Motivation32:32 - Handling Vacation, Lifestyle Leanness, & Awareness34:04 - Mia’s Upcoming Goals and Competing Plans36:14 - Training Splits & Periodization37:55 - Wrapping Up & Social LinksFollow Mia Ferguson:Instagram: @miamfergusonPhysique Development Team: @physiquedevelopmentWebsite: https://physiquedevelopment.com/team-mia-ferguson/Episode Availability: Catch this episode with Mia Ferguson and Lisa Franz on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or directly via our website.Connect, Share & Subscribe: Want more nutrition wisdom and inspiring conversations? Subscribe to the podcast and follow us on social for updates, more expert guests, and Lisa’s latest news. Share your favorite takeaway from this episode and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com/Join us next time for more illuminating conversations about fitness, mindset, and lifestyle optimization.
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Feb 8, 2026 • 42min

#283 Pelvic Floor Care, Yoga Practice, and Nutrition Insights from Dr. Rebecca Alexander Carey

Welcome back to a revitalizing episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, we’re joined by the inspiring Dr. Rebecca Alexander Carey, a pelvic floor physical therapist and seasoned yoga instructor whose journey from personal healing to clinical expertise will empower and enlighten you. Hosted by the ever-thoughtful Lisa Franz, this conversation explores the resilience of the human body, the healing potential of movement, practical breathwork techniques, and the powerful intersection of gut health, pelvic floor function, and nutrition.Get ready for a deep dive into making yoga accessible and transformative, demystifying breathwork, connecting the dots between pelvic and gut health, and discovering clear, actionable strategies for optimizing both body and mind. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, a fitness enthusiast, or someone seeking better self-awareness in health, there’s something here for you!So, grab your mat, take a deep breath, and settle in for this empowering episode filled with expert advice, relatable stories, and down-to-earth guidance to support your wellness journey.Timestamp Overview:[00:00] - Introduction, Meet Dr. Rebecca Alexander Carey[01:49] - Dr. Rebecca’s Story: From Patient to Practitioner[04:28] - “Mind vs. Body” in Yoga & Finding Resilience[07:14] - Meeting Clients Where They Are: Yoga as Therapy[10:10] - Finding Your Discomfort Zone: Yin, Vinyasa, and Growth[11:04] - The Science and Art of Breathwork (Diaphragmatic Breathing)[18:27] - How Breath and Pelvic Floor Connect[21:06] - Matching Breathwork to Your Energy & Mood[24:53] - Making Yoga Accessible for Pelvic Awareness[27:03] - Diet, Gut Health, and the Pelvic Floor[32:16] - The Impact of Antibiotics & The “Three Fs” for Gut Health[35:11] - Eating Enough to Support Pelvic and Gut Health[40:27] - Longevity, Bone Health, and the Role of Nutrition[41:13] - Final Thoughts, Resources, and Where to Find Dr. RebeccaFollow Dr. Rebecca Alexander CareyDr. Rebecca Alexander Carey Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.rebecca.dpt.ryt/#Website https://terraphysicaltherapy.com/Episode Availability: Listen to this insightful episode on all major podcast platforms—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts—and on our website. Connect, Share & Subscribe: Want more nutrition wisdom and inspiring conversations? Subscribe to the podcast and follow us on social for updates, more expert guests, and Lisa’s latest news. Share your favorite takeaway from this episode and tag us on Instagram @nutritioncoachingandlife or our website at https://nutritioncoachingandlife.com/
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Feb 3, 2026 • 46min

#282 Mastering the Athlete Mindset for Everyday Success with Zach Dancel

Welcome back to another empowering episode of the Lisa podcast! Today, we’re diving into the world of proactive and preventative care with our inspiring guest, Zach Dancel, Chief Operating Officer at Nava Health. Join host Lisa Franz as she explores how adopting an “athlete for life” mindset, discipline, and foundational habits can transform not only your health, but every aspect of your personal and professional life.In this episode, Zach Dancel shares his family’s journey that led to the founding of Nava Health, highlights critical lifestyle pillars for longevity, and delivers practical, actionable advice to help listeners break free from reactive mindsets and become consistent, optimal versions of themselves. Whether you're just starting your health journey or looking to level up, today’s conversation is packed with expert tips, encouraging insights, and the tools to take control of your well-being.So grab a notebook, settle in, and get ready to discover how simple strategies—and a shift in mindset—can help you live longer, healthier, and more fulfilled lives!Timestamp Overview:[00:00] – Introduction & Welcome[00:31] – Mindset: “Athlete for Life”[02:41] – Zach Dancel’s Background & Nava Health Story[05:46] – The Limits of Traditional Medicine & Power of Functional Medicine[10:03] – Personalized Diagnostics: “Test, Don’t Guess”[14:39] – The Foundations: Sleep, Food, Movement, Stress Management[19:09] – Easy, Accessible Habits for Proactive Health[22:12] – Lab Work: Why “Normal” Isn’t “Optimal”[24:55] – Being Consistent vs. Chasing Quick Fixes[28:17] – Building Discipline, Structure, & Accountability[32:55] – Discipline: Choosing Your “Hard”[37:16] – Habits for Busy Lives & Continuous Improvement[43:36] – Mindset, Legacy, & Daily Practice[44:51] – Connect with Zach Dance and Nava Health[44:24] – Episode Wrap-upConnect with Nava Health & Zach Dancel:Nava Health: https://navacenter.com/Zach Dancel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachdancel/Episode Availability: Catch this inspiring discussion on all major podcast platforms—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts—or on our official website.Connect with Us: For more episodes, health resources, and updates, visit our website and join us on social media.Podcast Website: (add appropriate link)Instagram: (add podcast Instagram link)Facebook: (add Facebook link)LinkedIn: (add LinkedIn link)Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe, rate, and review to help us bring you more life-changing conversations. Share this show with friends and family, and join us next time for more knowledge and inspiration to help you thrive!Remember: Longevity doesn’t need to be complicated—sometimes, the simplest shifts are the most powerful!
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Jan 30, 2026 • 43min

#281 Restoring Strength and Self: Expert Pregnancy and Postpartum Insights with Colby King

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, Lisa Franz sits down with the dynamic Colby King, registered dietitian, strength coach, and the powerhouse behind the “Build to Thrive” method for moms. This episode is packed with wisdom, practical tips, and heartfelt stories on everything pregnancy and postpartum, from nutrition myths to pelvic floor health and the ever-evolving journey of motherhood.Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or navigating life changes as a woman, you’ll find evidence-based advice, empowering discussion, and actionable strategies for thriving at every phase. Get ready for candid conversation, real talk about body image, fitness, and nutrition, and reminders that you’re never alone on your journey.So, get comfortable, grab a notebook, and let’s dive in!Timestamp Overview[00:00] – Introduction and WelcomingColby King[00:51] – Why Open Conversation About Women’s Health Matters[01:26] –Colby King’s Athletic Background & Career Shift[04:47] – The Leap from Clinical Work to Private Practice[05:25] – Pregnancy Fitness: Training & Nutrition Basics[05:59] – The Reality (and Myths) of Pelvic Floor Health[08:01] – Practical Breathing & Recovery Tips for Pregnancy[09:10] – Over-Activation vs. Weakness: Understanding Leakage[10:44] – Safe vs. Risky Movements During Pregnancy[12:07] – Core Training vs. Aesthetic Abs (and What Really Matters)[13:38] – Nutrition Priorities for Pregnancy: Variety, Protein, Fats, Carbs[17:01] – Lifestyle Factors: Managing Energy and Stress[17:23] – Postpartum Training: Adapting for C-Section/Vaginal Births[20:24] – Why the 6-Week Return-to-Exercise Rule Doesn’t Work[21:13] – Posterior Chain Training (What It Is and Why You Need It)[22:02] – Nutrition for Postpartum Recovery & Breastfeeding[24:45] – Honoring Hunger Cues (and Rejecting Diet Culture)[25:21] – The ‘Build to Thrive’ Method Explained[28:46] – Postpartum Identity, Grief & Transformation[33:57] – Surrender, Habits & the Balance of Control[35:48] – Embracing Change, Mixed Identities & Moving Forward[40:44] – The Trap of Comparison—and How to Stay Real[42:04] – Where to Find Colby King and Learn MoreFollow Colby King:Instagram: @colbyking_rdLearn more about “Build to Thrive”: ColbyKingCoaching.comFacebook: Colby King CoachingListen & Subscribe: Stream this episode—plus all future ones—on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast app. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help us continue delivering the content you love.

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