The F*ck It List: Midlife, Self-Care & Owning Your Next Chapter (with Dr. Erin Nitschke & Jessica H. Mauer)

In this episode, Nikki sits down with Dr. Erin Nitschke and Jessica H. Mauer, co-hosts of the Fit and Flustered podcast, for a raw, real, and hilarious conversation about what it actually feels like to be a woman navigating midlife.Time Stamp:[0:00] Intro & meet your guests[5:50] Navigating midlife in the fitness industry[6:20] Midlife clarity: values & what you'll no longer tolerate[7:30] Rediscovering joy in movement, food & everyday life[9:00] The "Fuck It List" vs. the bucket list[10:30] Perimenopause & the gift of not giving a f*ck[11:45] Whimsy, rage & the Persephone meme[12:00] Self-care vs. self-preservation — a spa day is CPR, not care[13:15] Showering is NOT self-care. That's hygiene.[14:30] Notification overload & protecting your energy[16:00] Why "balance" is a myth — the tide analogy[17:50] Setting boundaries without guilt — two ways to say no[20:15] What Gen Z already figured out about boundaries[21:20] Where to find Erin & JessJessica H. Maurer and Dr. Erin M. Nitschke Podcast: Fit and Flustered — subscribe wherever you listen!Bios:Dr. Erin M. Nitschke is a nationally recognized leader in health coaching, exercise science, and fitness education, with more than 23 years of experience spanning higher education, industry leadership, and direct client care. Erin Nitschke, NFPT-CPT, NSCA-CPT, ACE Health Coach, ACE-CPT, Fitness Nutrition Specialist, Therapeutic Exercise Specialist, Pn1, FNMS, and DSWI Master Health Coach, is a seasoned college professor in health and human performance dedicated to advancing evidence-based practice and professional education. As Dean of Workforce and Curriculum at Lionel University, she leads the development and implementation of certificate through graduate-level programs, shaping the next generation of health and exercise professionals. She holds a Doctor of Education in Adult and Post-Secondary Education, along with graduate and undergraduate degrees in kinesiology and exercise science from the University of Wyoming. To connect with Dr. Nitschke, email her at [email protected] or connect on Instagram @nitschkeerin.Blog: http://www.belivestaywell.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/belivestaywell/Twitter: @belivestaywell1 or @erinmd03Jessica H. Maurer is a recognized wellness business consultant, strategist, and keynote speaker dedicated to helping professionals overcome burnout and cultivate mental wellness. Through international presentations, workshops, and consultations, she empowers individuals and organizations to move from overwhelm to clarity, resilience, and sustainable success. With a dynamic stage presence, Jessica delivers actionable insights, fresh ideas, and inspiring strategies that drive personal and professional transformation. Her expertise in wellness, leadership, and career growth positions her as a sought-after voice for fostering balance, emotional health, and lasting impact in high-pressure industries. Jessica has over 20 years of experience delivering long-form workshops and keynote presentations, emceeing events, and consulting with clients across industries and audiences of all sizes. She has presented on international stages for leading conferences and organizations, authored widely published content, and continues to shape the way fitness and wellness professionals approach both physical and mental well-being. Jessica is the IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year 2026, and now serves as Director of Education for the Mental Wellbeing Association, where she develops innovative programs and content that blend science-based strategies with a holistic, uplifting approach to wellness.Jessica H. Mauer🌐 jessicahmauer.com | Instagram: @jessicahmauer | LinkedIn: Jessica H. Mauer