Female Athlete Diaries

Send us Fan MailSeason two of Female Athlete Diaries launches with a two-part compilation on raising sporting children in a body-conscious, social-media-driven world.Host Kirsty Sheehan interviews parents including Anne-Marie, Suzie Moffatt, Katie Hawkins, and Kaliki James about modeling positive attitudes to movement, food, and body image. They discuss focusing on what the body can do, avoiding negative self-talk and comments about others’ sizes, keeping treats in moderation without demonizing foods, and using family meals for connection. Topics include early signs of self-consciousness, social media access, pressures in gymnastics leotards, puberty changes, periods and practical supports, and encouraging participation and volunteering. Kirsty suggests GP referrals and Dietitians Australia to find Eating Disorders Specialist Dietitians and care plans when concerns arise.00:00 Season Two Kickoff00:47 Why This Topic Matters02:03 Meet Your Host02:27 Annemarie Introduction03:13 Kids Sports Snapshot04:34 Parents as Role Models07:52 Early Image Pressures13:19 Home Strategies and Language14:55 Progress Over Perfection20:58 Weighing Without Numbers22:10 Annemarie Key Advice24:44 Suzie Joins the Chat26:37 Gymnastics and Competition30:29 Body Consciousness Creeping In33:38 Social Media and Access35:15 Movement and Family Meals39:09 Lunchboxes and Real Life40:15 Practical Advice and Support42:02 Dietitian Referral Advice42:26 Wrap Up With Suzie42:53 Meet Katie Hawkins44:02 Katie’s Sporty Family45:17 Netball And Body Image46:17 Raising Body Positive Kids47:46 Meet Kaliki James48:57 Kaliki's Triathlon Journey50:41 Active Kids And Family Culture53:01 Body Image Boys Vs Girls57:27 Curvy Athlete Challenges01:02:48 Periods And Puberty In Sport01:05:58 Role Modelling And Volunteering01:08:40 Handling School Comments01:12:22 Episode Takeaways And ResourcesResources:Annemarie's book suggestion: All The Ways To Be Smart by Davina Bell.

Send us Fan MailNavigating RED-S: Insights from Pro Triathlete and PhD Candidate Penny SlaterIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan welcomes Penny Slater, an accomplished Australian Pro triathlete, coach, and PhD candidate. Penny shares her journey, including her switch from off-road to long-course triathlon and her struggles and recovery from Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (RED-S). The discussion delves into the symptoms, diagnosis, and long-term effects of RED-S, as well as Penny’s academic research on the subject. Penny emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition, ongoing care from professionals, and the need for education and support for female athletes. Tune in to learn about the physiological and psychological impacts of RED-S and how Penny’s journey is contributing to better awareness and preventive education in the sports community.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:24 Meet Penny Slater: Professional Triathlete01:15 Penny's Battle with Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)02:12 Understanding RED-S: Causes and Diagnosis03:05 Penny's Personal Journey and Challenges07:19 Psychological and Physical Consequences of RED-S10:53 The Importance of Proper Nutrition for Athletes16:28 Penny's PhD Research on RED-S28:22 Reflecting on a Career-Defining Year28:42 The Importance of Fueling Performance30:35 Running Performance and Body Composition32:38 Future Education Initiatives35:50 Addressing Energy Availability and RED-S43:34 Advice for Young Female Athletes50:13 Plans for the Future53:04 Conclusion and Future EpisodesInsta: @pen_slater

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan interviews Bonnie McDonald, a former competitive swimmer for Australia. Bonnie shares her extensive career achievements in swimming, including multiple national titles and competing at international championships. She discusses the pressures of body image and nutrition in elite swimming, the transition from an athletic identity to a business career, and her eventual transition into bodybuilding. Bonnie explains how the discipline and training in bodybuilding have reshaped her perspective on body image and provided a new outlet for her competitive drive. She emphasizes the importance of a supportive community, the role of a knowledgeable coach, and the mental and physical aspects of competing in bodybuilding. This episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining athletic excellence and navigating life after competitive sports.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:23 Meet Bonnie McDonald: A Swimming Prodigy00:47 Bonnie's Swimming Achievements02:11 Transition from Swimming to Business03:20 Early Swimming Journey09:56 Challenges of Body Image in Swimming18:22 Experiences in the American Collegiate System23:21 Retirement and Identity Crisis32:24 Life After Swimming35:58 Returning to Australia and Moving Away from Swimming36:51 Discovering Functional Fitness and CrossFit37:24 Embracing Competitiveness in CrossFit41:27 Transitioning to Bodybuilding46:14 The Challenges and Rewards of Bodybuilding53:31 Body Positivity and Mental Health in Bodybuilding58:18 The Longevity and Future of Bodybuilding01:01:54 Final Thoughts and Advice for WomenYou can contact Bonnie: @[email protected]

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan interviews Kat Krosch, a physiotherapist and triahtlon coach specialising in running and cycling biomechanics and injury prevention. Kat shares her journey from starting triathlon in 2012 to becoming a professional triathlete, despite numerous challenges including stress fractures, the COVID period and managing full time work. She discusses her decision to relinquish her pro license, her experiences with inequities in prize money, overtraining, and the impact of relative energy deficiency. One of the key takeaways from this episode is clear communication with your coach and having the confidence to advocate for yourself when you know things aren't right with your training. Kat also highlights her initiatives to increase female participation in endurance sports and her ongoing passion for coaching.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:27 Meet Kat Krosch: Physiotherapist and Triathlete01:14 Kat's Journey into Triathlon02:01 From Army to Triathlon05:54 First Triathlon Experiences07:22 Transition to Longer Distances10:45 Pursuing Professional Status14:10 COVID-19 and Career Shifts20:42 Coaching and Core 4 Endurance24:01 Challenges and Triumphs in Professional Racing33:11 Highs and Lows of Intense Training35:16 Overtraining and Stress Fractures36:43 The Impact of Training Age and Gender Differences39:45 Communicating with Coaches and Self-Advocacy43:58 Mental and Physical Challenges of Injuries51:40 Navigating RED-S and Menstrual Health57:14 Transitioning from Pro Racing to Coaching01:05:53 Future Plans and ReflectionsTo contact Kat and Core 4 Endurance: https://core4endurance.com.au/contact/Current initiatives include an Introduction to Crit Racing for women. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, hosted by Kirsty Sheehan, we hear the story of Margo Macintosh, an accomplished age group athlete and multiple world champion in sprint distance triathlon as well as long course. The most resounding parts of Margo's journey are her consistency to training, her resilience when faced with setbacks, her dedication to the process and enjoyment of growth and development in sport. Margo also highlights the significance of supportive communities in sport. She shows great bravery in discussing her experience around an unwitting doping violation in 2019 at the World Duathlon titles and how she overcame this. Something every athlete can learn from. Margo's recount of her redemption in 2023 at the World Sprint Distance Triathlon Titles is a display of resilience that leaves us feeling emotional. Margo's story is one of persevere, embracing the process, and highlighting the importance of growth and enjoyment in sports.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:25 Meet Margo Mackintosh: A Journey of Athletic Achievements01:32 Early Beginnings in Athletics06:33 Transition to Triathlon12:07 The Triathlon Community and Training18:03 Challenges and Triumphs in School Sports33:55 Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks41:04 Facing Unexpected Challenges43:34 Navigating Supplement Use and Anti-Doping Measures46:17 The Emotional Toll of Being Labeled a Fraud50:06 Ironman Preparation and Training Adjustments59:02 Facing the Ironman Challenge in Austria01:07:48 Redemption at the Short Course Worlds01:15:32 Reflecting on Achievements and Future Plans01:22:32 Concluding Thoughts and Future Ventures

Send us Fan MailOvercoming Menopause with UltramanIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan delves into the compelling story of Mel Cockshutt, an athlete who emerged resiliently from four challenging years of menopause to take on the Ultraman challenge in Australia. Mel details her journey, including the concessions she made in training, the role of her supportive crew, and innovative strategies she used. She explains the stages of the three-day Ultraman race and shares the emotional highs and lows, from early fears and body confidence issues to the triumphant moments of completing the race with the help of her community and family. Additionally, Mel shares her passion for teaching ocean swimming through the Sea Dragons group, empowering others to overcome their fears. The episode emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the importance of finding personal fulfillment in sports and life after menopause.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:38 Mel Cockshutt's Journey Through Menopause01:26 Preparing for the Ultraman Challenge02:04 The Ultraman Australia Event Breakdown03:29 Training Strategies and Support Crew05:32 Overcoming Nutritional Challenges15:01 Founding the Sea Dragons22:49 Reflecting on the Race Experience23:26 Competitive Spirit and Internal Conflict25:28 Navigating Challenges and Enjoying the Journey27:43 Day Three Strategy and Execution30:51 Finishing Strong and Reflecting on the Achievement37:23 Community Involvement and Future Plans41:48 Advice for Women Facing Perimenopause

Send us Fan MailFemale Athlete Diaries – Part 1: Mel CockshuttIn this inspiring episode, host Kirsty Sheehan sits down with Melinda Cockshutt, an accomplished athlete, coach, and community leader. Mel shares her remarkable journey from a career in law to becoming the oldest competitor to win the women’s race at Ultraman Oz, all while raising funds for Heart of Courage and supporting cancer outcomes for First Nations communities.Mel opens up about her early days in triathlon, balancing motherhood and training, and the challenges she faced returning to sport postpartum. She discusses her transition to professional racing, her experiences at Ironman events—including racing against legends like Chrissie Wellington—and the impact of family and community on her athletic career.A significant portion of the conversation delves into Mel’s candid account of perimenopause and menopause, the physical and emotional toll it took, and the importance of finding the right support network. Mel and Kirsty explore the need for better awareness and resources for women navigating these life stages, especially for athletes.Other highlights include:Mel’s passion for coaching and empowering othersHer fundraising efforts with Tour de Cure and Heart of CourageThe importance of longevity and balance in sport and lifeHonest reflections on identity, resilience, and self-compassionStay tuned for Part 2, where Mel shares her training journey leading up to Ultraman and how she tackled the event itself.Connect with us:Instagram: @femaleathletediariesIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review!

Send us Fan MailEmpowering Stories and Practical AdviceIn this short episode of Female Athlete Diaries, we recap the inspiring stories and insights shared by eight amazing women. Each guest, including marathoner Michelle Barnes, Jia Yee Yang, Keely Mancini, Clare Leung, Alli Cooke, Jodie Browning, Dr Deb Latouf,  and Alisha Van Asperen, discussed various topics such as overcoming physical challenges, dealing with eating disorders, managing menopause, and navigating high-performance sports. This recap provides useful resources like the Dietitians Australia search function, the Butterfly Foundation, Healthy Bones Australia, and Australasian Menopause Society to help listeners find professional support. Listeners are encouraged to rate the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcast and stay tuned for future episodes covering diverse topics such as training for ultras at 50 and postnatal depression.00:00 Introduction and Recap Overview00:49 Michelle Barnes: Embracing the Bigger Girl Who Can Run02:44 Jia Yee Yang: Training for more than Aesthetics and Overcoming Eating Disorders03:51 Keely Mancini: Coping with Osteopenia05:37 Clare Leung: Navigating Menopause as an Athlete07:22 Alli Cooke: Managing Perimenopause and Bone Stress Injuries08:51 Jodie Browning: High Performance Endurance Sport and Addiction10:40 Dr. Deb Latouf: Talent Identification, making a difference to ordinary athletes and health struggles12:54 Alisha Van Asperen: Bodybuilding Journey and Health Tips14:12 Conclusion and Upcoming EpisodesUseful links for further advice:Find a Dietitian:https://member.dietitiansaustralia.org.au/Portal/Portal/Search-Directories/Find-a-Dietitian.aspxButterfly FoundationButterfly.org.auHealthy Bones Australiahttps://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/https://healthybonesaustralia.org.au/Australiasian Menopause Societyhttps://menopause.org.au/Australian Psychological Societyhttps://psychology.org.au/Spin Doctor Coaching: Dr Deb Latoufhttps://spindoctorcoaching.com.au/

Send us Fan MailNavigating the Bodybuilding World: Alisha's JourneyOn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan speaks with Alisha Van Asperen, a Dietitian who decided to be a guinea pig for a bodybuilding competition. Alisha shares her transition from basketball and soccer to bodybuilding, the rigorous training and diet regimes, and the physical and mental challenges she faced during her preparation for the competition. The conversation delves into topics such as muscle dysmorphia, maintaining discipline with diet, the physical discomforts of cutting calories, and the struggles with body image post-competition. Alisha, emphasises the importance of a balanced approach and professional guidance.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:42 Meet Alisha Van Asperen: From Dietetics to Bodybuilding01:58 The Journey Begins: Training and Nutrition03:19 Challenges and Adjustments in Bodybuilding10:21 The Cutting Phase: Diet and Training Changes16:39 Physical and Mental Struggles18:47 Social and Emotional Impact21:50 Reflections and Learnings25:17 Struggles and Milestones at the Six-Week Mark25:33 Final Preparations and Stage Appearance27:09 The Cost and Effort Behind the Competition29:23 Posing Practice and Stage Confidence30:55 Judging Criteria and Subjectivity33:05 Post-Competition Reflections and Challenges36:07 Refeeding Syndrome and Recovery38:59 Long-Term Impact and Lessons Learned45:20 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Send us Fan MailAn Inspirational Spin with Dr. Deborah LatoufIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan speaks with Dr. Deborah (Deb) Latouf, a distinguished sports scientist, coach, and athlete with over 30 years of experience. Deb shares her early career journey, her role in the Talent Identification program for the Sydney Olympics, and her personal transition from elite coaching to focusing on age group and master's athletes. She delves into her experiences with disordered eating, the challenges of managing an athlete's health, and the importance of adaptive, personalized training. Deb also discusses the significance of work-life balance, philosophical shifts in coaching, and her renewed focus on the holistic well-being of her athletes. This episode is a rich exploration of the highs, lows, and transformative insights gained through a lifetime dedicated to sport.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:40 Meet Dr. Deborah Latouf: A Journey in Sports Science02:55 From Talent Identification to Olympic Success04:55 The Philosophical Shift: Medals vs. Meaningful Impact09:11 Transition to Coaching and Personal Athletic Pursuits17:46 Challenges and Adaptations in Masters Athletics20:39 The Role of a Modern Coach: Beyond Programming24:07 Personal Health Challenges and Empathy in Coaching26:19 Facing Setbacks and Adjusting Training26:33 Mental Flexibility and Health Prioritization30:01 Coaching Female Athletes: Bespoke Approaches30:44 Managing Training Around Menstrual Cycles35:55 Dynamic Programming and Athlete Feedback38:28 Deb's Journey with Disordered Eating47:36 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Joy in Sport49:59 Concluding Thoughts and Future Episodes*Contact Deb on: [email protected]

Send us Fan MailNavigating High Performance and Identity in Endurance Sports with Jodie BrowningIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan, an age group athlete, and former triathlon coach, delves into an insightful discussion with Jodie Browning. Jodie shares her experiences in endurance sports, highlighting the addictive elements of high-performance training and the balance between personal identity and athletic goals. The conversation covers Jodie's journey from childhood sports through competitive triathlons, her experiences with body image, eating disorders, and the psychological aspects of high-performance sports. She emphasizes the importance of understanding one's motivation, the impact on personal life, and how sport can be both a challenge and a source of inspiration for others. This episode provides a raw and authentic look at the intersection of high performance, personal growth, and identity.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:33 Highlighting Jodie Browning's Journey01:40 Jodie's Early Experiences and Challenges03:43 Rediscovering Sport and Setting Goals05:41 Balancing Family and High Performance12:57 The Psychology of Addiction in Endurance Sports19:29 Transitioning Away from Competitive Sports27:05 Reflecting on the Impact of Sport41:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Send us Fan MailAlli Cooke: Insights on Training for World Championship Events, Perimenopause, Bone Stress Injuries, and the Road to RecoveryIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan interviews Alli Cooke, a three-time age group Ironman Champion and Performance coach. They discuss Alli's journey through various stages of life as a female athlete, including dealing with perimenopause, bone stress injuries, and the mental challenges associated with them. Alli shares her experiences of training pressures, the importance of proper nutrition, strength and conditioning, and the significant role of professional guidance in her recovery. This episode provides valuable insights into the intricacies of training and competing at a high level while navigating the unique challenges of aging and hormonal changes.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:31 Welcoming Alli Cooke: A Champion's Journey01:51 Alli's Kona Experience: The Pressure and the Plan03:27 Training Challenges and Personal Sacrifices04:24 Understanding Perimenopause and Its Impact05:07 Post-Kona Reflections and Injuries08:00 The Role of Nutrition and Recovery12:00 Strength and Conditioning: A New Focus16:48 Coaching Female Athletes: Unique Considerations20:31 Understanding Female Athletes' Goals21:15 Injury Before the 70.3 World Championships25:07 The Road to Recovery25:36 Training Adjustments and Nutrition28:45 Mental and Physical Recovery Challenges35:29 Future Goals and Advice for Athletes39:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsAlli Cooke: [email protected]

Send us Fan MailNavigating Athletic Life Through Perimenopause and Beyond with Clare LeungIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan sits down with Clare Leung to discuss her extensive journey in sports and how perimenopause and menopause have influenced her athletic pursuits, particularly in triathlon. Clare shares her early experiences with swimming and running, her late start in triathlon, and the challenges she faced with motivation and weight gain during menopause. She offers insights into maintaining a consistent training routine, the importance of body maintenance, and finding a balance between high performance and enjoying the social aspects of sport. Claire’s story provides a candid look at how aging and hormonal changes impact female athletes and offers valuable advice for staying active and motivated through life’s transitions.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:35 Meet Claire Long: A Journey Through Sport01:12 Early Sporting Life: Swimming and Running02:55 Transition to Triathlon05:49 First Triathlon Experiences07:02 Off-Road Adventures and Achievements08:27 Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause11:01 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Balance15:18 Rebuilding Motivation and Consistency16:24 Cheese Platter and Mindful Eating16:59 Weight Loss Journey17:30 Body Changes and Self-Perception18:21 Middle Age and Fitness20:13 Training Routine and Fun Balance21:57 Addiction to High Performance27:31 Empowering Through New Skills29:18 Racing Plans and Advice for Women31:09 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Send us Fan MailThe Fight for Bone Health: Keely Mancini's Journey with Osteopenia In this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty Sheehan welcomes Keely Mancini, a seasoned Pilates teacher and educator with over 25 years of experience. Keely shares her surprise diagnosis of osteopenia bordering on osteoporosis and how a DEXA scan revealed her bone density issues. Despite her active lifestyle, she delves into the contributing factors, including periods of poor diet during her early dance career, the impact of breastfeeding, and her journey through menopause. The conversation highlights the importance of bone health, the role of diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices in maintaining bone density, and Keely’s efforts to educate clients and young women on these crucial topics. She also discusses her adaptive training routines, the significance of specialist consultations, and embracing aging while focusing on longevity.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:34 Meet Keely Mancini: Pilates Teacher and Endurance Athlete01:42 Keely's Osteopenia Diagnosis02:14 Understanding Bone Health and DEXA Scans04:53 Keely's Athletic Background and Bone Health07:33 Impact of Diet and Lifestyle on Bone Health09:36 Challenges of Maintaining Bone Health Through Life Stages18:19 Raising Awareness and Educating Others25:39 Exploring Bone Health: Initial Steps and Professional Consultations26:48 The Importance of Vitamin D and Sun Exposure28:49 Understanding Celiac Disease and Gut Health30:32 Exercise and Bone Health: Key Practices33:30 Educating Teenagers on Bone Health38:32 Adapting Exercise Routines with Age40:20 Practical Changes for Bone Health and Aging42:01 The Role of Foot Health in Overall Well-being45:32 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Send us Fan MailThe Girl Who Never Stopped EatingIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, Kirsty Sheehan interviews Jai Yee Yang, a 27-year-old medical student and endurance athlete. They discuss Jia Yee's journey from gymnastics to ultra-endurance sports, her struggles with body image and eating habits, and how she overcame these challenges to achieve incredible feats in endurance racing. The episode also highlights the importance of proper nutrition and mental health in athletic performance. Introduction: Meet Jai Yee Yang Gymnastics Beginnings Transition to Flat Water Kayaking Move to Australia Struggles with Body Image Realization and Recovery Coast to Kosci Experience Future Plans and Advice

Send us Fan MailA Conversation with Michelle BarnesIn this episode of Female Athlete Diaries, host Kirsty She-in welcomes guest Michelle Barnes, a Trisutto coach, and accomplished triathlete, to discuss the unique challenges faced by female athletes. Michelle, who has completed 17 Ironman races and qualified for Kona nine times, shares her personal journey through the ups and downs of training, diet, and hormonal health. They dive into Michelle's brush with low-carb diets, relative energy deficiency syndrome (RED-S), and her path to achieving a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. The conversation touches on the importance of proper nutrition, the impact of weight and body composition on performance, and the nuances of training as an older athlete and coach. This episode is packed with insights for female athletes looking to improve their training and overall well-being.00:00 Introduction to Female Athlete Diaries00:37 Meet Michelle Barnes: Triathlon Coach and Athlete02:13 Michelle's Journey: From Low Carb to Balanced Nutrition03:29 Understanding Relative Energy Deficiency Syndrome (REDS)04:47 The Impact of Proper Nutrition on Performance10:55 Embracing Your Natural Body Weight16:13 Weight Fluctuations and Hormonal Imbalances16:54 Marathon Achievements and Weight Impact17:47 Strength and Injury Prevention18:58 Nutritional Adjustments and Iron Levels20:32 Current Running and Training Challenges24:08 Adapting Training for Hormonal Health27:32 Future Plans and Upcoming Topics29:21 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview