Feisty Women's Performance

BONUS: Take the Leap: Kate Veronneau on Adventure and Trying Something New at FeistyFest

In this bonus episode, Hit Play Not Pause host, Selene Yeager welcomes longtime friend, cyclist, and women’s sports powerhouse Kate Veronneau to the show for a preview of the first-ever FeistyFest in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. For Kate, the location is personal. The Valley Preferred Cycling Center is where she first fell in love with bike racing, found her cycling community, and eventually launched a career in the sport. She shares how a casual Friday night trip to watch track racing turned into an entry-level “try the track” class, a relocation to the Lehigh Valley, and years immersed in one of the most magical cycling communities around. Selene and Kate talk about what makes the Lehigh Valley so special: quiet roads, covered bridges, gravel before gravel was “gravel,” beautiful trails, and a deep community of people who love to ride, run, explore, and support one another. They also dig into what attendees can expect at FeistyFest: track riding, gravel, trail running, lifting, swimming, pickleball, community, laughter, and the kind of grown-up summer camp energy that reminds women how good it feels to try new things. Kate also shares why women-only spaces can be so powerful, especially when women feel safe, supported, and encouraged to step outside their comfort zones. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or brand new to an activity, there is something magical that happens when women come together, lift each other up, and give each other permission to live a little bigger. Learn more and register for FeistyFest

Is Strava sabotaging your mental game? with Dr. Hayley Russell

Ever compare yourself to others on Strava? Feel yourself pushed to do more to hit a "streak" or online badge? This episode's for you. Sport psychology professor Dr. Hayley Russell dives into the upsides and pitfalls of fitness‑tracking apps like Strava. She explores how self‑tracking can boost motivation, community, and self‑awareness — but can also fuel comparison, pressure, and body‑image concerns. What can you do to make the most of your online fitness tracking? Balance function over appearance: Use data to celebrate what your body can do, not how it looks. Set intentional goals: Focus on consistency and health‑supporting habits rather than perfection or daily “streaks.” Curate your feed: Mute or unfollow accounts that trigger negative social comparison; follow supportive communities instead. Take digital breaks when needed: Recognize signs of obsessive tracking and give yourself permission to step away without guilt. Leverage community features: Join or create niche groups (e.g., postpartum athletes, larger‑body runners) to find relatable peers and reduce isolation. Protect privacy: Adjust route‑sharing settings to hide start/end points and consider the safety implications of public activity logs. If you found this conversation valuable, hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode, leave a review on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for extra resources and behind‑the‑scenes content. Watch the episode on YouTube https://livefeisty.com/training/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs: The science vs. the marketing with Dr. Rebecka Peebles and Nathalia Trees, RD

Dr. Rebecka Peebles and registered dietitian Nathalia Trees dive into the booming world GLP-1 medications and the complex intersection of weight loss, body size, eating disorders, and marketing. They unpack the rapid rise of these weight loss drugs, the scientific and ethical dilemmas for clinicians, and practical strategies for navigating weight loss treatments. Whether you're on GLP-1s right now or considering the pros and cons of the medications, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of the risks, benefits, and long‑term considerations of these drugs. Key Takeaways Prescriptions for GLP‑1 drugs have surged since 2023, especially for adolescents, but long‑term safety data at high doses remains limited. Clinicians have to weigh metabolic benefits for diabetes against potential harm for patients with eating‑disorder histories. Transparent communication about side‑effects—GI issues, rare ocular events, and possible mood changes—is critical. Sustainable weight management, including the popular "microdosing" of GLP-1s, requires a holistic approach. Dr. Rebecka Peebles – VP of Adolescent Medicine at Monte Nido, obesity‑medicine certified, expert in GLP‑1 therapy and its application to youth. Nathalia Trees – Registered dietitian at Monte Nido, specialist in eating‑disorder treatment, weight‑inclusive care, and nutrition‑focused performance coaching. Links & Resources Guest email contacts: rpeebles@montenido.com | ntrees@montenido.com FDA’s warning letter to Novo Nordisk Journal of Fat Studies article exposing GLP‑1 trial data gaps If you found this conversation insightful, hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode, leave a 5‑star review to help other professionals discover the show, and join the discussion on social media with Feisty Women’s Perofrmance. https://livefeisty.com/training/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

Avoid burnout and say goodbye to toxic productivity with Israa Nasir, MHC-LP

What are the hidden costs of “toxic productivity?” And how does it sabotages women’s performance in their careers, relationships, and athletic endeavors? Psychotherapist, digital wellness expert, and author Israa Nasir, MHC-LP shares practical strategies to spot burnout, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim balance without sacrificing ambition. You'll leave with a clear roadmap to shift from relentless hustle to sustainable success—and learn why embracing mediocrity can actually boost productivity. You can get started by setting three concrete boundaries this week: time‑box high‑impact projects, schedule intentional rest, and say no to at least one non‑essential request. Key Takeaways Recognize the red‑flag signs that productivity has become toxic Use a simple audit to map out tasks, identify value‑aligned activities, and eliminate low‑impact work Apply “benefit‑finding” and radical acceptance to reframe unavoidable obligations Implement the “good‑enough” principle With over a decade of experience helping individuals and organizations combat burnout, Israa Nasir, MHC-LPbrings evidence‑based insights on mental health, performance psychology, and sustainable achievement. Links & Resources Book: Toxic Productivity Israa’s Substack, The Well Guide Instagram, @well.guide If you found these insights valuable, hit subscribe so you never miss a episode, leave a review to help fellow entrepreneurs discover the show, and send this to a friend who needs to hear it. Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

Every athlete should know these signs of under-fueling with Rebecca McConville

You probably *think* you're eating enough. But are you? In today's episode, Dr. Erin Ayala talks with performance dietitian and eating‑disorder specialist Rebecca McConville about Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED‑S) — and how even athletes (especially female athletes!) who think they're fueling enough might not be for the amount of activity they're doing. Rebecca breaks down the science behind LEA/RED‑S, shares practical strategies for athletes and coaches to identify and prevent under‑fueling, and explains how to create sustainable, performance‑enhancing nutrition plans. Key takeaways: LEA/RED‑S is actually a continuum of under‑fueling that can affect athletes of any size, not just “thin” competitors. Early warning signs include subtle changes in mood, sleep, menstrual cycles, bone health, and performance plateaus. Use the “energy bank” analogy (deposits vs. withdrawals) to understand deficits. Practical fueling hacks: portable “snacker boxes,” energy‑dense smoothies, and scheduled micro‑meals for busy women. A year‑long recovery roadmap (baseline assessment → acute intervention → long‑term monitoring) helps sustain health and performance. Rebecca McConville is a performance dietitian, eating‑disorder specialist, and author of Finding Your Sweet Spot. She helps athletes recognize, diagnose, and treat LEA/RED‑S through evidence‑based nutrition and holistic coaching. Links & Resources Rebecca’s website & email: AskMe@BeccaMcConville.com Read the book: Finding Your Sweet Spot Follow her on Instagram: @rebeccaeddietitian FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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 If you found this episode valuable, subscribe to the Feisty Women’s Performance Podcast, leave us a 5‑star review, and share it with fellow athletes or coaches. Follow Rebecca on Instagram for more nutrition tips, and join our community to stay updated on future episodes that highlight thought leaders and subject matter experts in the women’s health & performance space.

Stop silently suffering through saddle sores with Dr. Melissa Mauskar

It's a taboo topic too often overlooked in women's cycling: saddle sores. Dr. Melissa Mauskar, a dermatologist specializing in vulvar health, unpacks the medical science behind saddle sores, debunks common myths, and offers practical advice for prevention and treatment. If you've ever Googled "saddle sore remedies" at 2 a.m., this episode is a must-listen—your comfort on the bike depends on it! Key Takeaways: Understand the different types of saddle sores and their causes, including friction and inflammation. What are effective home remedies and when should you seek professional help? The importance of proper saddle fitting and how anatomy affects saddle sore risks And don't be afraid to start open conversations about vulvar health and break down stigmas. Dr. Melissa Mauskar is a dermatologist specializing in vulvar health and the treatment of skin conditions among female cyclists. With her expertise, she aims to empower women to discuss these often-taboo topics openly. Episode resources: Follow Dr. Mauskar on Instagram: @drmelissamauskar Learn more about the Feisty Women's Performance Podcast: Feisty Women's Performance If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to our podcast for more valuable insights and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us continue to bring essential conversations to the forefront. Share this episode with someone who could benefit from it so we can normalize discussions about women's health together. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KvLxR75DAz0 FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

What is 'intuitive eating'? And why you should try it with Eden Morris MS, RD, LD

Eden Morris, a registered dietitian specializing in sports nutrition and intuitive eating counseling, is helping us dive into the culture of nutrition and fueling workouts — and how that can often lead to disordered eating. What is intuitive eating? It's learning to trust your body's cues and adapting a healthier mindset for *your* nutrition needs instead of sticking to rigid rules. Key Takeaways: Understanding intuitive eating and how to incorporate the principles into your routine The importance of fueling your body effectively for optimal performance Practical strategies for overcoming food fears and building a healthier relationship with nutrition Eden Morris is a registered dietitian and sports nutrition expert who focuses on helping athletes develop a healthy relationship with food. With a background in psychology and nutrition, Eden combines evidence-based practices with personal experiences to empower athletes to thrive both physically and mentally. Links and Resources: Visit Eden's website: Teton Performance Nutrition Follow Eden on Instagram: @gardenofeden_rd If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to our podcast for more insights and expert advice. Leave us a review to help others discover our content, and don’t hesitate to connect with us on social media for updates and discussions! FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Register for FeistyFit: https://livefeisty.com/training/running/feistyfitfall/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Women's Mechanic Camp in Tucson: https://livefeisty.com/events/bike-mechanic-school-tucson/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

• Chapters

Cannabis isn't what you think anymore with Dr. LaTisha Bader

Dr. LaTisha Bader, an expert in sport psychology and addiction counseling, goes deep with us into the complexities of cannabis use and its effects on mental health and athletic performance. With the rise in legal marijuana use and a growing number of questions about its impacts on health, what do you need to know? With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bader shares her insights on how cannabis potency has evolved and the implications for athletes and active women. Get the information you need to make informed choices about cannabis use in your life. Why has there been a dramatic increase in cannabis potency? Understand its impact on mental health and athletic performance. The science of endocannabinoid system and how cannabis acts as a "great dysregulator" in the body. And what are the unique effects of cannabis on women, including implications for fertility and menstruation? Dr. LaTisha Bader is a Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Addiction Counselor, and Certified Mental Performance Consultant with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field. She specializes in helping athletes navigate the complexities of substance use and mental health. If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Engage with us on social media and share your thoughts on this important topic. Your feedback helps us bring more insightful conversations to the community. Links and Resources: • Clear 30 App • Dr. Bader’s Bio and clinical work FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Register for FeistyFit: https://livefeisty.com/training/running/feistyfitfall/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Women's Mechanic Camp in Tucson: https://livefeisty.com/events/bike-mechanic-school-tucson/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

The truth about women's health supplements with Dr. Briana Botsford

Dr. Briana Botsford, a naturopathic doctor and advocate for women's health, helps us dive deep this week into the world of predatory health and fitness marketing. How can you learn to recognize the misleading claims around proprietary blends in the supplement industry? How do you measure the evidence over the marketing hype? Key Takeaways: Understand how to identify and avoid predatory health marketing tactics. Recognize what to look for on supplement labels. Learn how to make informed choices in the wellness space. And know that sometimes prioritizing rest and foundational health practices can be the most effective strategy for optimizing performance and well-being. Dr. Briana Botsford is a naturopathic doctor and clinic owner based in Edmonton, Alberta. With a passion for women's health and sports medicine, she advocates for evidence-informed practices that empower women to take charge of their health and wellness. Links and Resources: Feisty Women's Performance Podcast Follow Dr. Briana on Instagram: @docbribots Dr. Briana's Website: drbrianabotsford.com If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and foster a community focused on empowering women in health and performance. Join us on this journey of informed wellness! FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Register for FeistyFit: https://livefeisty.com/training/running/feistyfitfall/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Women's Mechanic Camp in Tucson: https://livefeisty.com/events/bike-mechanic-school-tucson/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

Bone Health Secrets Every Female Athlete Needs with Dr. Stephanie Mundt

Dr. Stephanie Mundt, a physical therapist and former collegiate runner, shares her expertise on bone health and the often-overlooked issue of bone stress injuries in female athletes. From her personal experiences with injuries and recovery, she provides valuable insights into what truly makes bones healthy and why many athletes suffer from misdiagnoses. Listeners will learn actionable strategies to enhance their bone health and understand the critical link between nutrition, training, and injury prevention. Key Takeaways: Understand the critical role of nutrition and energy availability in maintaining bone health. Learn why female athletes should aim for higher bone density than the general population. Identify the common signs of bone stress injuries and the importance of early detection. Discover effective recovery strategies for high-risk bone injuries and the misconception around rest periods. Gain insights on how to communicate symptoms effectively with healthcare providers to ensure proper diagnosis. Dr. Stephanie Mundt is a physical therapist and researcher specializing in bone health for female athletes. With her background as a collegiate runner, she brings a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, health, and injury prevention. Dr. Mundt is passionate about empowering athletes to understand their bodies and prevent injuries. Links and Resources: Feisty Women's Performance Podcast Follow Dr. Mundt on Instagram: @StephMtDpt If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and create insightful content. Join our community for more tips on health and performance. FeistyFest Info: https://livefeisty.com/events/feisty-fest/ Courses and Coaching: https://livefeisty.com/courses/ Women's Mechanic Camp in Tucson: https://livefeisty.com/events/bike-mechanic-school-tucson/ Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://livefeisty.com/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance 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

How to continue training through pregnancy — and what to know with Dr. Margie Davenport

In this episode, Dr. Margie Davenport, a leading expert in exercise during pregnancy and postpartum, dismantles long-held myths about training before, during, and after pregnancy. Dr. Davenport explains the significant physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and how they affect exercise safety and guidelines. And she dives into the evidence to support high-intensity training, and practical insights for both pregnant athletes and healthcare providers. Key takeaways: Pregnancy is not a period of fragility, but one of profound physiological changes that enhance resilience. The 2019 Canadian guidelines established that exercising during pregnancy reduces labor complications by 40%. Women can start new exercise routines during pregnancy, regardless of prior activity levels. High-intensity training and heavy lifting can be safe for well-conditioned pregnant athletes. The postpartum period requires individualized approaches, with no set timelines for returning to exercise. Dr. Margie Davenport is a Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Alberta and the Director of the Program for Pregnancy and Postpartum Health. She has been instrumental in shaping Canada's exercise guidelines for pregnancy and postpartum, collaborating with organizations like FIFA and Sport Canada. Episode links and resources: Dr. Margie Davenport on Instagram Exercise and Pregnancy FeistyFest Info: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/feistyfest-feisty-media-1943243299#about-this-trip Courses and Coaching: https://feisty.learnworlds.com/ Women's Mechanic Camp in Tucson: https://www.wetravel.com/trips/women-s-bike-mechanic-camp-tucson-az-feisty-media-24985624#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 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