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Health & Fitness

Feisty Women's Performance

Dr. Erin Ayala

Tired of fads, quick fixes, and performance advice that wasn’t designed for you? So are we. Feisty Women’s Performance cuts through the noise to bring you credible, science-backed insights to live your best, healthiest, active life.

Hosted by Dr. Erin Ayala, this is your go-to resource for tackling the challenges of being an active woman today—whether you’re hoping to PR your next marathon or just trying to understand how much protein women actually need to be eating.

We’ll move beyond the male-dominated lens of sport science to deliver honest conversations and actionable advice from women for women, to improve women’s health. Each episode dives deep into one of our four pillars—physiology, nutrition, mental health, and cultural issues—with leading experts to explore topics that are often left undiscussed.

If you’re an active woman who cares about your sustainable health, performance growth, and long-term progress, these conversations are for you.

No fads, no quick fixes. Just real science and legit experts.

Re-launching January 2026.

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  • 205 episodes
  • Updated Yesterday

Episodes205

Newest first
  • Jun 23, 2022 · 1 hr 8 min

    IX: Setting Women Free with Bobbi Gibb

    Many of us have heard of Kathrine Switzer, but how many of us have heard of Bobbi Gibb? For the second episode of our limited Title IX series, Sara Gross interviews the very first runner of the 1966 Boston Marathon. Bobbi snuck her way into the running crowd by jumping out of the bushes next to the start line wearing a bathing suit and men's board shorts. And she ran FAST! Sara asks Bobbi about her running journey and her passion for female empowerment. At 80 years old, Bobbi reminisces about the restricting stereotypes placed on women in the 50s and how she knew that she had to make a change. After being denied entry to the Boston Marathon by the race director, citing that women were incapable of running this distance, Bobbi ran 40 miles out of anger. It was at this moment that she knew that she had to run the Boston Marathon if only to prove that women could. Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Jun 20, 2022 · 1 hr 2 min

    Cindi Miller MS, LCMHCA - Be a Boundary Pusher

    For many of us, the feelings of self-doubt, lack of self-compassion, and negative body image are far too familiar. As active, performance-minded women, our social media feeds are filled with women who seem quite literally to be "doing it all". This week, Sara welcomes Cindi Miller to discuss all things self-acceptance. Cindi Miller is a therapist and ex-volleyball coach and division 1 athlete. Cindi defines herself as a "receiver", dedicated to allowing herself to receive what comes to her. Sara and Cindi discuss the process of creating the goddess within yourself, and what it takes to own your own sexuality. Follow Cindi on Instagram @thecindiproject and @sportsfoodandmentalhealth Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Jun 16, 2022 · 50 min

    IX: Changing the Game with Wendy Mink

    TODAY IS THE DAY! We are overwhelmed with excitement to share the first episode of our limited Title IX series. This week, Haley Chura - co-host of Ironwomen - interviews the renowned Wendy Mink. Wendy is a professor of politics, women's and gender studies, as well as the daughter of the very first woman of color in congress - Patsy Mink. Patsy was the co-author of the Title IX legislation and paved the way for women's participation in sports. Wendy shares her mother's journey and the reasons that prompted her to fight for change. Haley and Wendy discuss what Title IX was created for, and they give us the groundwork for the rest of the series. Click here to purchase a copy of Wendy's new book! Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Jun 9, 2022 · 12 min

    Trailer: IX Voices for Title IX Powered by InsideTracker

    Feisty Media Presents: IX Voices for Title IX Powered by InsideTracker. Listen to this trailer, where Sara and Selene tell us what to expect for this exclusive series. To be released on June 16th, just days before the 50th anniversary of Title IX, the series will investigate the ways in which Title IX did and did not represent a cultural shift for women in sport. The nine-episode series will feature in-depth interviews with women who lived through the cultural shift that Title IX represented, including icons like Joan Benoit, the first winner of the women’s Olympic marathon; Marianne Martin, the first woman to win the Tour De France Feminine; Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to finish the Boston Marathon; as well as athletic directors and athletes who continue to press for change today. Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Jun 6, 2022 · 49 min

    Liz Koch - Maximizing the Efficiency of Movement

    As athletes, we are sure many of you have heard phrases like, "push through the pain" or "if it doesn't hurt it's not working". But are these really words to live by? This week, Sara welcomes Liz Koch onto the show. Liz is a physiotherapist dedicated to helping athletes reach maximum efficiency with their movement. However, Liz is not just a physio, she is also a division 1 soccer player, white water kayaker, mountain biker, and coach. Liz is a strong believer that there are right ways to hurt...AND wrong ways to hurt. She shares how in order to maximize the efficiency of your movement, you have to understand what should be hurting, what shouldn't, and why. Finally, in true WPP fashion, Liz tells us how societal messaging towards women hinders proper breathing and therefore affects the efficiency of our training. For more information from Liz visit www.theridelife.com Join her "Mountain Biking Ladies" Facebook page And, subscribe to her youtube channel Liz's Ride Life Watch Liz's talk at the 2022 Feisty Women's Performance Summit Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • May 30, 2022 · 48 min

    Annika Naidoo - Building Trust in Your Body with Strength and Yoga

    Okay. Take a deep slow breath into your abdomen... Bring your awareness to yourself and to your own breath... This is how Annika Naidoo tells us to begin using breathing techniques to work towards mindfulness. Annika is a master yoga instructor, health coach and mentor, and this week she shares with Sara the tools she uses for self-mastery. Struggling with obsessive training tendencies, an eating disorder, and feeling lost, - Annika went to India. The duo discusses what Annika has learned on her journey to self-awareness. Using yoga as a way to find balance, Annika has learned to find stillness, quiet, and curiosity in her life. Of course, we don't all have time to do yoga every day, but Annika still gives us ways to use the teachings of yoga, to find our "why". Follow Annika on Instagram @themindfulnesscoach_ Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • May 23, 2022 · 1 hr 4 min

    Jennifer Schmidt - Unlock Your Limitations

    Imagine this...you are 14 years old and you start to feel exhausted, nauseous and dizzy, all of the time. The doctors can't figure out why. Finally, a naturopath tells you that your stomach is filled with alcohol. Turns out - an overproduction of yeast in your system has been making you drunk and hungover for an entire year. This is the experience that prompted Jennifer Schmidt, to become a health coach and recreational therapist for athletes. This week, Sara talks to Jennifer about a holistic approach to wellness, and how this approach can help her clients reach peak performance. Tackling mental health as well as physical health, Jennifer deciphers the mindsets that can affect physiology and gives practical techniques to manage the stress involved in sports performance. Jennifer even conducts a mini-session on Sara, to show what recreational therapy can do for athletes. Follow Jennifer on Instagram @ignitehealthcoaching and visit her website at https://www.igniteyourhealth.ca/ Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • May 16, 2022 · 1 hr 9 min

    Melissa Dessaulles - A Physio for the Embarrassing Things

    Why can't we talk openly about our leaking pee and poo? As we know, it is incredibly challenging to find trustworthy information for active women, especially in relation to "taboo" topics. Refreshingly, Melissa Dessaulles says "f*** that" and talks about all things pelvic health. Melissa, aka the pelvic expert, is a physical therapist that focuses on the female pelvic region, especially for perinatal and postpartum athletes and active women. This week, Sara and Melissa discuss the ways women can advocate for their needs as athletes while pregnant and in the years that follow. With so much misinformation and confusion around just how "active" pregnant women really can be, Melissa lays down some tangible ways to uncover what is best for you during your specific pregnancy. AND to top it off, Sara learns how to "hook" her clitoris. Follow Melissa on Instagram @mommyberrieshealth And go here to listen to her podcast, The Pelvic Floor Project Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • May 9, 2022 · 1 hr 5 min

    Molly Hurford - Lean Into Your Athlete Identity

    Did you think we could cover it all in just one season? I don't know about you, but we have full lifetimes of B.S. to cut through. Welcome to season two of the Feisty Women's Performance Podcast. We are so happy to start this season off with a bang, and that bang is Molly Hurford! Molly is a long-time journalist and outdoor extraordinaire, coaching running, cycling and yoga. She is the author of many books and her most recent series - Shred Girls - is a youth fiction series dedicated to encouraging young women to "shred it" on the bike. This week Molly shares how she got to where she is today, and how bagels and Mountain Dew encouraged her to start her journey as an athlete. She teaches us how to own and fully lean into our athlete identities and the power of positive self-talk. Finally, of course, Sara and Molly talk about the importance of eating the things that feel good for you. Take home message? Trust yourself! You can follow Molly on Instagram @mollyjhurford Learn more and listen to her podcast at consummateathlete.com Finally, you can learn more about Shred Girls at https://shred-girls.com/ Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • May 2, 2022 · 43 min

    **REBROADCAST** Monica Garrison - Changing the Gears of the Cycling Culture

    Each week on the Women's Performance Podcast, we discuss the four pillars of performance, which are physiology, nutrition, mental health, and culture, while recognizing that ultimately, we can't separate one from the other. Today, we take this multidisciplinary approach with activist, entrepreneur, Mom, and cyclist, Monica Garrison. As Founder and Executive Director of Black Girls Do Bike, Monica and her team of "Sheroes" have amassed a worldwide organization of 30,000 members with over 100 chapters in the US and, most recently, in London. While it's wildly important to celebrate the fact that she is helping to get black women on bikes and identify as cyclists, it's equally important to recognize how black women are shifting the culture of cycling for the better. Monica and Sara Discuss: Monica's background as a photographer/videographer and how that influences her work with Black Girls Do Bike Crafting the imagery of BGDB How they motivate their children The impetus for starting BGDB The initial response from the industry when she started BGDB Why it is important to have a space for Women of Color Issues or stereotypes of black women that most don't see The valuable assets black women bring to the cycling culture and industry Viewing herself as a serial entrepreneur - even with some failures How she finds sponsors and supporters for BGDB Personal cycling or fitness goals Pressures she feels as the leader of this growing organization Her vision of BGDB over the next several years Advice for those of us who are trying to shift the culture and create a more inclusive space We must continue to create spaces for underrepresented groups and, with people like Monica, we see a beautiful representation and the power of being that change. About Black Girls Do Bike Founder, Monica Garrison Monica Garrison is the Founder, Executive Director, and Chief Storyteller at Black Girls Do Bike. She is tasked with fueling 100+ BGDB chapters worldwide and a network of 180+ lady leaders. She believes that the simple act of riding a bike can be a catalyst for wonderful, life-changing experiences for women of all ages. Growing and supporting a community of women who share a passion for cycling is her north star. Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Apr 25, 2022 · 58 min

    **REBROADCAST** Every Woman Deserves Performance

    Every woman deserves performance. We have observed that there is A LOT of B.S. information out there for women coming from the fitness and health industries, which gets even worse as we age. Because of this, we saw the need to bring trusted information to women so we can feel and perform our best. The launch of the Women's Performance Podcast features host, Sara Gross, with three change-makers, movers, and shakers in the women's performance space - Dr. Stacy Sims, Selene Yeager, and Jamila Gale-Agans. They discuss multiple topics around performance and dive deep in order to provide solid information and access to resources for active women, coaches, parents, race directors, and companies. Stacy Sims provides perspective on the biggest changes in her field of research, and what new directions she is seeing that will help women. Selene discusses changes she has seen in the fitness industry and media, and how she vets information when working on an article or looking for a guest on the "Hit Play Not Pause" podcast Jamila paints a picture of her time as a US Army Officer and the cultural assumptions she had to navigate in this "culture within a culture." They also provided valuable roundtable insight on questions from both Sara and the live audience, including: What does it mean for you to focus on performance in your life? And, how has it changed through the years? What does it mean to continue to focus on performance as we age? How do history and culture affect our work, research, and performance? Why is it important to look at performance through a variety of lenses? What's the best advice you've received as a performance-minded individual? How do you make strength training fun? How do I know if I need a rest day, or if I'm just being lazy? (spoiler alert: you're NOT lazy) Do you train according to your cycles? What is your advice on recovery? This is our time to learn, grow, and thrive. It’s not about standing on a podium (although some of us will); it’s about being able to do the things we love throughout our life. Why We Started the Women's Performance Podcast By Feisty CEO, Sara Gross, PhD Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Apr 18, 2022 · 51 min

    Holley Samuel, RD, LD, CPT - Finding Value in Your Food

    Drumroll please! … It’s the season finale! For this very special episode, we have Holley Samuel on the podcast to teach us how to fuel our bodies for peak performance. But wait, there’s more! Holley is a registered dietician, certified personal trainer, and takes an extremely holistic approach to wellness. She delves into her path to female entrepreneurship, and also - the importance of a well-baked cookie. Sara and Holley talk about their personal journeys with disordered eating, and what diet culture made them believe about themselves. Holley tells us how to create positive attachments to food and see the individual value in all kinds of food - not just the “healthy” ones. As she says, we need to put ALL food on a level playing field. Follow Holley on Instagram @fitcookienutrition And visit her website at www.fitcookienutrition.com Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Apr 11, 2022 · 46 min

    Josefine Holmberg - Sculpting Your Own Personal Performance

    This week, Sara talks to professional trainer, figure and bikini competitor Josefine Holmberg about all things bodybuilding like a woman. Josefine is an all-around athlete who competed in CrossFit, Olympic Lifting, and Figure before finding her love for Bikini competitions. Josefine shares how she uses the advice of Dr. Stacy Sims to optimize her performance, and the performances of the women she trains. A natural optimist, Josefine describes her long return from Lyme disease and how she dealt with a difficult, multi-year return to sport. She discusses her experience of having to advocate for herself, even with well-meaning doctors, in order to reach a diagnosis. And last but not least, Sara and Josefine talk about being celiac and an athlete, and bond over their GI symptoms :) Follow Josefine Holmberg on Instagram @iamjosefineholmberg Listen to Josefine’s podcast on both Spotify and Apple Podcasts: One You Podcast Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Apr 4, 2022 · 1 hr 1 min

    The Future of Female Performance is FASTR with Dr. Emily Kraus and Dr. Megan Roche

    Okay, Feisty friends, if you are looking for some inspiration and motivation - this is the episode for you. This week, Sara talks to Emily Kraus and Megan Roche. Emily is the FASTR program coordinator, MD, a clinical assistant professor at Stanford children's orthopedic and sports medicine center, a seven-time marathoner, and a two-time Boston finisher. Megan is the FASTR lead researcher, an MD, a Ph.D. candidate in epidemiology, AND a five-time national trail running champion. So what is FASTR? It is a program designed to conduct research and provide information for female athletes. Sara talks to Emily and Megan about the moments they first realized there was a gender gap in sports science research, and how they are working to close that gap. Further, they discuss how women have certain advantages built into their physiology to help them perform, and what Emily and Megan would do if they could conduct ANY research on female performance broadly. Follow the FASTR program on Instagram @stanfordfastr FASTR Website Follow Emily @emilykrausmd_sportscience Follow Megan @meg_runs_happy Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Mar 28, 2022 · 1 hr

    Selene Yeager - The Power of Pushing Back, Speaking Out, and Welcoming In

    This week on the show, Sara shares Selene Yeager’s Keynote Speech from last weekend’s Feisty Women’s Performance Summit. Selene is a professional journalist, health and fitness writer, personal trainer, professional mountain bike racer, and an all-American IRONMAN triathlete. Selene discusses her journey to where she is today - as host of Feisty Menpoause’s Hit Play Not Pause podcast. She underlines the importance of coming together as women and creating an empowering culture for all women - not just those that are ready to break down barriers. Sara and Selene end the show with an insightful Q&A session where they get real with us and share the ways they have been built up by their communities. Selene Yeager Instagram Feisty Menopause Instagram Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Mar 21, 2022 · 46 min

    Amelia Boone Wants to Live Life to the Fullest

    This week on the show, Sara welcomes obstacle racer, Amelia Boone, to discuss Amelia’s experience as a high-performance female athlete. Boone is one of the most decorated obstacle course racers ever, four-time obstacle course World Champion, three-time winner of the World's Toughest Mudder, Spartan Race Champion, Ultrarunner, AND full-time lawyer for Apple inc. Amelia tells us about her start in obstacle racing and the importance of having a good neighborhood playground. Amelia and Sara delve into the pressures of sport from a young age. When Amelia was 15, she first developed an eating disorder that would seriously jeopardize her mental health, physical health, and athletic performance. They discuss the clear and distinct intersection of sport and disordered eating and the ways in which self-knowledge can propel recovery. Amelia Boone Instagram Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Mar 14, 2022 · 50 min

    Why Lael Wilcox Won't Hold Hands at the Finish Line

    Sara welcomes Ultra-endurance bike rider and racer, Lael Wilcox, to discuss her unconventional success in ultra racing and the joy of making people (ok, mostly men) think, "How is this even possible?!" In 2016, she won the Trans Am Bike Race outright, making her the first female to do so. The Trans Am is the premier self-supported road race across the United States, traversing over 4200 miles. She discusses: The exhilaration of winning outright Her strategy and logistics for winning such a grueling event The power of beating the boys - "A Win for Womankind" A woman's capacity for resilience and grit What it was like being constantly doubted and questioned Handling the physical and mental aspects of pain and how she made friends with it Lael also runs Tucson GRIT and Anchorage GRIT (girls riding into tomorrow), a cycling mentorship program, for girls ages 11-13. They ride together for six weeks, with a build-up to a camp-out ride. Her true passion? Getting more girls and women to “give it a go.” She shares her advice with parents of young girls, and even older women who want to achieve their own epic adventures. Find mentors and start small. Do things that will build your confidence. Then, before you know it, you'll be riding across the country in jean shorts beating the boys across the line. Lael is a keynote speaker at the 2022 Women's Performance Summit - it's a talk you won't want to miss. Lael Wilcox Instagram Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Mar 7, 2022 · 53 min

    Dr. Carla M. Digirolamo, MD - You (and Your Hormones) are NOT Broken

    Sara welcomes Dr. Carla DiGirolamo, a double board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and reproductive endocrinologist who has experience with the unique physical and mental challenges that women face through every stage of life's journey. In addition to specializing in all aspects of fertility care, Dr. DiGirolamo is also a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner, Crossfit Level 1 Trainer/Crossfit Health, Certified Nutrition Coach, and Les Mills BodyCombat Instructor. Today, she and Sara talk hormones, including: The purpose of hormones Myths and misconceptions about hormone imbalance Training under stress - the good and bad Advice for prepubescent teens and parents of those children Pros and cons of different birth control methods for active athletes Benefits of HIIT Training and lifting heavy shit CrossFit Health Recommendations on nutrition Advice to someone struggling with infertility Advice to someone struggling with perimenopause and menopause Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Feb 28, 2022 · 43 min

    Monica Garrison - Changing the Gears of the Cycling Culture

    Each week on the Women's Performance Podcast, we discuss the four pillars of performance, which are physiology, nutrition, mental health, and culture, while recognizing that ultimately, we can't separate one from the other. Today, we take this multidisciplinary approach with activist, entrepreneur, Mom, and cyclist, Monica Garrison. As Founder and Executive Director of Black Girls Do Bike, Monica and her team of "Sheroes" have amassed a worldwide organization of 30,000 members with over 100 chapters in the US and, most recently, in London. While it's wildly important to celebrate the fact that she is helping to get black women on bikes and identify as cyclists, it's equally important to recognize how black women are shifting the culture of cycling for the better. Monica and Sara Discuss: Monica's background as a photographer/videographer and how that influences her work with Black Girls Do Bike Crafting the imagery of BGDB How they motivate their children The impetus for starting BGDB The initial response from the industry when she started BGDB Why it is important to have a space for Women of Color Issues or stereotypes of black women that most don't see The valuable assets black women bring to the cycling culture and industry Viewing herself as a serial entrepreneur - even with some failures How she finds sponsors and supporters for BGDB Personal cycling or fitness goals Pressures she feels as the leader of this growing organization Her vision of BGDB over the next several years Advice for those of us who are trying to shift the culture and create a more inclusive space We must continue to create spaces for underrepresented groups and, with people like Monica, we see a beautiful representation and the power of being that change. About Black Girls Do Bike Founder, Monica Garrison Monica Garrison is the Founder, Executive Director, and Chief Storyteller at Black Girls Do Bike. She is tasked with fueling 100+ BGDB chapters worldwide and a network of 180+ lady leaders. She believes that the simple act of riding a bike can be a catalyst for wonderful, life-changing experiences for women of all ages. Growing and supporting a community of women who share a passion for cycling is her north star. Black Girls Do Bike - Website and Resources Monica's Photography Website Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo

  • Feb 21, 2022 · 1 hr 2 min

    Kristen Arnold MS, RDN, CSSD - Fuel Your Powerful Body

    Sports nutrition is entering a new era of sex hormone-specific needs. Athletes who menstruate have specific fueling needs during and around training as it relates to hormone levels. Today, Sara takes a deep dive on the topic of performance nutrition with Kristen Arnold, MS, RDN, CSSD. They discuss: Common pitfalls of fueling Sorting through the diet trends like Intermittent Fasting and Paleo. GI issues during and after exercise and tips on how to train your stomach to absorb calories during training Navigating perimenopause How to stop fearing food and start loving ourselves and our powerful bodies This interview is valuable for anyone who's looking for women's specific nutrition information, or information on how to love our bodies and have a better relationship with food. Kristen Arnold, MS, RDN, CSSD Join us at Feisty Fest - September 18-20th, 2026: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Momentous: Head to https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use promo code PERFORMANCE for up to 35% off your first order Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: https://wahoofitness.pxf.io/0GAByR Tifosi Optics: Use code FEISTY2026 for 20% off at https://tifosioptics.com/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Orca: Use the code FEISTY15 for 15% off at https://orca.avln.me/c/HzUkzIfxsmYo