Strong Like Her: Haley Shapley on Redefining Women’s Fitness and Power

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful Pre-Zero Sports Talk Podcast episode, host Sid Bensalah sits down with author, historian, and strength advocate Haley Shapley to unpack the forgotten stories and modern realities of women in fitness. Drawing from her acclaimed book Stronger Like Her, Haley takes us on a compelling journey through history, culture, and the pursuit of physical power, beyond aesthetics.From the surprising role of the bicycle in women’s emancipation to trailblazers like Kathrine Switzer, Pudgy Stockton, and Serena Williams, Haley shines a spotlight on women who defied norms and redefined what it means to be strong.They explore:Cultural myths that held women back from sportThe evolution of strength training and CrossFitRepresentation, body image, and the media’s roleGender equity in sports—including the fight for equal payWhy inclusivity in fitness is more important than everHaley’s personal journey, fitness philosophy, and writing processHaley also shares practical insights on building strength, her challenges with upper body training, and the more profound message she hopes young girls take from her work: You are stronger than you think.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:41 The Bicycle & Women’s Independence06:23 Kathrine Switzer’s Marathon Moment13:02 Social Barriers & Fitness Media22:04 The Power of Role Models in Sport26:18 Behind Stronger Like Her29:27 Haley’s Strength Training Journey32:23 Gender Equity & The US Women’s Soccer Team39:58 The Future of Women’s Fitness42:38 Lightning Round51:02 Final Thoughts🎧 Watch and listen on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app.Episode Quote:“The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.” — Ayn Rand📲 Connect with Haley at haleyshapley.com and follow her on Instagram @haleyshapley.Support the showStay Connected with Pre-Zero Sports Talk.Join host Sid Bensalah and the Pre-Zero Sports Talk community for real conversations beyond the game, where sport meets leadership, faith, performance, purpose, identity, community, and impact.Listen, watch, and follow:Spotify Video: Watch full episodesYouTube: Subscribe and join the conversationX: @PreZeroSTInstagram: @PreZeroSportsTalkLinkedIn: Connect with the CommunityTikTok: @PreZeroSportsTalkSubstack: Sid BensalahGot feedback, a topic idea, or a guest suggestion?Send your thoughts here: https://prezerosportstalk.com/contact/Support the Podcast: https://prezerosportstalk.com/donate/