Balanced and Built Podcast

Birth control is something so many women have experience with, but not many talk openly about what it actually feels like.Is it worth it? What is it really doing to your body?If you’ve dealt with anxiety, numbness, hormonal acne, or you’re thinking about coming off birth control, this episode is for you.We share our personal journeys, what led us to get off, and what we experienced along the way. This isn’t about telling you what to do. It’s about helping you feel seen, more informed, and supported as you navigate your own decisions.If this episode resonated with you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a woman you love 🤍—--------Coach with Morgan: https://www.morgansmindfulhealing.com/Coach with Shae: https://www.jotform.com/build/253525060924050 EPISODE LINKS:Digestive morning drinkAcne Episode: https://youtu.be/gnlgVVUYbu0?si=Oxh5AYYaf9TnnMBb 

If this episode resonated with you, please leave us a review and share it with another woman who may need to hear this conversation ⭐️Strong women struggle too.In this episode, we open up about our personal experiences with mental health over the years. We talk honestly about anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, perfectionism, confidence struggles, and the pressure many women feel to always have it together.So often, women carry their struggles quietly. We push through and show up for everyone else while hiding what we are feeling because we think that is what being strong looks like. But real strength is not about pretending everything is fine. It is about facing those challenges, speaking about them, and allowing ourselves to be human.Our hope is that this conversation reminds you that you are not alone. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, anxious, or like you have to carry everything on your own, this episode is for you.We hope it makes you feel seen, understood, and supported. 💛

Does lifting heavy make women bulky?This is one of the most common questions we get from women and today, we’re breaking it down.In this episode of Balanced & Built, we’re talking about:The truth about lifting heavy as a womanHow to actually build lean muscleWhy muscle is essential for fat lossHow strength training improves metabolism, hormones, mobility, and long-term healthWhy building muscle becomes even more important as we ageWARNING: lifting heavy won’t make you bulky. But it will change your body, allow you to reach your goals and improve health in the best way.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balancedandbuiltpod?igsh=MW1kNmxrcnN1cjhwZg==If you enjoyed this episode:- Like this video- Download it🔔Subscribe to our channel📩 Share it with a friend who’s afraid of the weight room

We talk a lot on the Balanced and Built Podcast about female empowerment. But what does empowerment really mean if we’re disconnected from the very rhythm that makes us women?In this solo episode, Morgan dives into why your menstrual cycle is considered the 5th vital sign - and why losing your period is never something to brush off, normalize, or wear as a badge of honor.A missing period isn’t just a hormone issue.It’s often a nervous system issue. A stress issue. A culture issue.Inside this episode, Morgan covers:Why your cycle reflects overall healthHow stress, under-eating, overtraining, and hustle culture impact ovulationThe connection between safety and reproductionWhy “no period” is not empowermentWhat your body may be asking for when your cycle disappearsHow reclaiming your period often requires softness, nourishment, and letting go of controlIf you’ve ever been told that losing your period is normal… or if part of you feels proud of how disciplined you are while another part feels exhausted - this conversation is for you.Your cycle isn’t an inconvenience.It’s feedback. It’s rhythm. It’s power.And when we honor it, we build something sustainable - in our bodies and in our lives.If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it, comment, share with a friend, and follow us! <3 Follow Us on Instagram!@balancedandbuiltpod@[email protected] episodes dropping every Monday!

In this episode of Balanced & Built, we read and react to health and fitness related Reddit “Am I the A-hole?” stories. From getting kicked out of a gym for questioning a coach, to debating whether it’s wrong to ask a yoga instructor to change the music, to a heated gym confrontation over being shirtless in a gym, we talk about it all and give you our opinions. Be sure to let us know what you think in the comments!SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: Like, comment, subscribe and rate our show as it really helped support our channel.

Every day, women are being sold something. A routine. A supplement. A diet. A look. It can feel overwhelming.In this episode of Balanced and Built, we talk about de influencing women from popular fitness and health trends and why what works for one person may not work for another.With so much information online, it can be hard to tell what is actually helpful and what is just marketing. True health is personal. It takes time to learn your body and figure out which supplements, routines, meals, and habits support you.We cover some of the most over influenced topics in women’s health today, including supplements, fitness trends, digestion, skincare, and wellness products.Our hope is that this episode helps you feel more confident trusting your body and making choices that support your long term health.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to share it with a woman in your life and follow Balanced and Built so you never miss an episode.

Healing from anything in life isn’t linear…and anyone who has experienced an injury, illness, loss, or mental health challenge knows how difficult the recovery process can be.In this episode of Balanced & Built, Shae opens up about her personal journey through injury, surgery, and healing. She shares the story of her leg injury that led to reconstructive surgeries and a chronic pain condition known as CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome). Most recently, Shae underwent surgery to replace her DRG stimulator, making this comeback one of the most mentally challenging seasons of her life.Throughout the episode, Shae discusses the reality of recovery, the emotional toll of starting over (again), and the mindset shifts that have helped her navigate healing with patience and grace. She shares practical tips, mental reframes, and encouragement for anyone struggling to find their “why” during a difficult health or recovery journey.Healing doesn’t follow a straight line. There are hard days, hopeful days, and days where simply showing up is a win. This episode is a reminder that setbacks don’t erase progress, and that every comeback is personal.If this episode resonated with you, please rate and review Balanced & Built to help support the podcast and reach more listeners navigating their own healing journey.

Hormonal acne is something many women struggle with, and it can seriously affect confidence and self-esteem. From breakouts around the chin and jawline to stubborn acne that never fully goes away, women’s acne is often treated with surface-level solutions instead of addressing the root cause.In this episode of Balanced & Built, Morgan shares her years-long journey of healing hormonal acne naturally. What started in middle school quickly led to birth control prescriptions, harsh medications, and topical treatments that offered only temporary relief. Each solution felt short-lived and never truly fixed the problem.During COVID, Morgan began focusing on hormone balance and internal healing. She dove into blood work, DUTCH testing, saliva hormone panels, elimination diets, liver detox support, breakout tracking, stress management, and nervous system regulation. With the help of a naturopathic doctor, she finally began to understand how internal health directly impacts acne.This episode is for women who feel frustrated, unheard, or stuck in their acne journey. You are not broken, and there is a path forward.🎧 If this episode resonated with you, download, follow the show, and leave us a review to help support Balanced & Built.

Why Your New Year’s Resolutions Fail and How to Finally Build a Healthy LifestyleEvery year, women set New Year’s resolutions focused on health, nutrition, and creating a healthier lifestyle. And every year, many of those goals fall apart within a few weeks.The truth is, it’s not about discipline or motivation. Most women are setting good intentions, but they are missing the systems, mindset, and structure needed to support long-term success. In this episode of Balanced & Built, we break down why New Year’s resolutions fail and what you can do differently to create lasting change in your health and wellness journey.In this episode, we cover:• How to vision board with purpose and clarity• Reframing health goals in a positive, sustainable way• Breaking the all or nothing mindset around nutrition and fitness• Finding your true “why” to stay consistent• Building habits that support a realistic, healthy lifestyleIf you’re tired of starting over every January and want a smarter, more sustainable approach to women’s health, this episode will help you reset your mindset and build a foundation that lasts all year.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the show. Your support helps us reach more women looking to improve their health in a realistic and empowering way.Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you in the next episode 🤍

In this episode of Balanced and Built, we share the health and fitness lessons we wish we knew before starting our wellness journeys. From strength training and muscle building to mental health, skin health, and healing your relationship with your body, this conversation is designed to help women better understand how their bodies work.We talk honestly about common fitness mistakes, misinformation in the health and wellness space, and the pressure women face from social media and comparison. This episode covers progressive overload, workout mistakes, hormonal health, acne and skin health, stress, relationships, and what real long term health progress actually looks like.If you are a woman interested in improving your health, building strength, healing your body, and creating sustainable habits, this episode will help you feel more confident, informed, and supported as you continue your health journey.Starting a health or fitness journey can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting information online. In this episode of Balanced and Built, we share the biggest lessons we wish we knew about our health before starting our own fitness journeys.This conversation is for women who want to better understand their bodies, improve their physical and mental health, and build sustainable habits without falling into common fitness traps. We talk honestly about what actually matters when it comes to women’s health, healing, and long term progress.In this episode, we cover:• Common workout mistakes and how progressive overload really works• Strength training and muscle building for women• Social media comparison and its impact on mental health• Acne, skin health, and hormonal changes• What real health and fitness progress looks like• Relationships, stress, and environments that affect overall wellnessIf you are interested in women’s health, fitness, wellness, healing, and learning how to work with your body instead of against it, this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical insight as you continue your journey.Be sure to follow Balanced and Built for more conversations around women’s health, strength training, mindset, and sustainable wellness.

“Building muscle will make you bulky.”“I’ve been working out for years but I don’t see definition.”“I just want to be toned.”Sound familiar?Muscle building can feel confusing, frustrating, and overwhelming especially for women. While building muscle is hard work, it is absolutely possible when you’re doing the right things. In this episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast, we break down exactly how to build muscle to actually see progress in the gym. We dive into the biggest misconceptions about muscle building, why so many women feel “stuck” in the gym, and what actually drives muscle growth and definition. Whether you’re new to the gym or have been training for years, this episode will help you train with purpose instead of guessing.In this episode, we cover:• Common myths about muscle growth• What to focus on when you’re starting in the gym• What progressive overload is and how to apply it to your workouts• A clear explanation of muscle hypertrophy and why it matters• How nutrition supports muscle repair and growth• The role of protein and carbohydrates in muscle building• Key differences between men and women when it comes to building muscle• How to structure workouts for long-term results and definitionIf you’ve ever felt like your workouts aren’t working, you’re under-eating, over-training, or unsure how to actually see results—this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in to learn how to train smarter, fuel your body properly, and build muscle with confidence.FOLLOW US:linktr.ee/balancedandbuilt

Daily habits are the foundation of a lifestyle change. In this episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast, we’re sharing our health non-negotiables. The simple, yet powerful, things we do every single day that keep us on track with our goals, support our hormone health, nutrition, muscle growth, and help us feel strong and consistent. These are the routines we rely on no matter how busy life gets. From nutrition habits, mindset rituals, and activity, to the small lifestyle choices that make a huge difference for women’s health, mental health, and more. Whether you're trying to build consistency, reset your routine, or create easy healthier habits that actually stick, this episode will give you ideas on how you can improve your daily routines too. We cover:• Non-negotiables that support women’s hormone balance, nutrition, and muscle growth. • Health rituals we never skip• Easy ways to relieve mental stress• Daily practices that help us keep our minds clear• Routines that set our day up for success• Simple daily choices that help you reach your long-term goals, and more.These habits helped us make the lifestyle shift, and we hope they inspire yours too.SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNEL Episode Links: Gazelle Escapes Death & Shakes: https://youtu.be/-QgglTik6G4Sacred Skin Tallow: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4369384695/whipped-tallow-balmHealth Coaching: http://morgansmindfulhealing.comFind us: https://linktr.ee/balancedandbuilt?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnJocZzNElAyqhYCl3vzEYZj2mLskBjC2jiL7uIAKGm6LeY01b_HZI3y6HsNs_aem_cQXHbS3anMOwPHh0Jivhgw

Are you having an “off day”… or are your hormones trying to tell you something?In this episode of Balanced & Built, we talk about real signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance, the ones most women overlook or chalk up to stress, a busy week, or “just PMS.” From fatigue and anxiety to mood swings, bloating, irregular cycles, and stubborn weight changes, your hormones play a far bigger role in how you feel day-to-day than most of us ever realize.We’ll break down:• How to recognize common signs of hormonal imbalance• Simple ways to reduce PMS symptoms and support a healthier menstrual cycle• Lifestyle habits that help restore hormone balance• Nutrition tips for women’s hormonal health• The connection between hormones, mental health, energy, and recovery• What every woman (16+) should know about her cycle and overall well-being• Ingredients in products to avoid Your hormones shouldn’t be a mystery or something you only think about during “that time of the month.” This episode is all about empowering you with the knowledge to understand your body, advocate for your health, and create habits that support balanced hormones long-term.Whether you're dealing with painful periods, mood fluctuations, constant fatigue, or simply want to feel more like yourself, this conversation is for you.Tune in, learn something new about your body, and take the first step toward feeling better from the inside out. 🌸Links from episode:Sacred Skin Tallow: https://www.etsy.com/listing/43693846...Health Coaching: http://morgansmindfulhealing.comFind us: https://linktr.ee/balancedandbuilt?ut…Buff Chik Coffee: https://buffchick.com/

Don’t let the holidays derail your progress this year.The holiday season doesn’t have to mean falling off your nutrition plan, skipping workouts, or putting your health goals on pause. This is your time to adjust, stay mindful, and build a plan that supports both your nutrition goals and your real life. You can enjoy the holidays AND stay on track.In this episode of Balanced & Built, we break down our top tips for staying consistent with your health, nutrition, and wellness routine during the busiest time of year. We cover:• Why you should NOT calorie-save• The importance of planning ahead and sticking to your schedule• Mindset shifts that help you stay accountable• What to do after your holiday meal• How to enjoy your free meals without losing momentum…and so much more.Remember: the holidays make up only a handful of days out of the entire year. Those days won’t ruin your progress—but letting them spiral into weeks of “I’ll start in January” might.You’ve got this. We believe in you. 🎄💪EPISODE LINKS: Sacred Skin Tallow: https://www.etsy.com/listing/4369384695/whipped-tallow-balmHealth Coaching: http://morgansmindfulhealing.comFind us: https://linktr.ee/balancedandbuilt?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bi

We get asked this all the time: “How do I lose weight and actually keep it off?”The truth might surprise you… weight loss isn’t the real goal. Long-term success comes from building a sustainable lifestyle change.In this episode, we break down the most common mistakes women make during a weight-loss phase and explain why old habits lead to regained weight—every time. If your previous routine involved undereating, eating low-quality foods, skipping tracking, guessing intuitively, or lacking nutrition education, you can’t return to that lifestyle and expect to maintain your results.Your old habits got you where you were.Your new habits create the weight loss, maintenance, strength, and confidence you want to keep.We dive into:• How to start a weight-loss phase the right way• What women should know about metabolism and nutrition• How to break through weight-loss plateaus• The steps to transition out of a deficit without regaining• How to build a lifelong approach to women’s health, nutrition, and weight stabilityIf you want clear, no-nonsense guidance on women’s health and sustainable weight loss, this episode is for you.Links MentionedShop Sacred Skin Tallow: http://etsy.com/listing/4369384695/whipped-tallow-balmHealth Coaching: http://morgansmindfulhealing.comHow to Set Up a Proper Diet (Adam Bonilla): https://youtu.be/e4MxoI1Vbjc

Sleep is the most underrated pillar of health and wellness, yet it has one of the biggest impacts on your body and mind. In this episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast, we’re diving deep into sleep — why it matters, how it affects your hormones, muscle recovery, memory, mood, metabolism, and even your motivation to stay consistent with your fitness and nutrition goals.We break down: • How your circadian rhythm works • Sleep and hormone balance • The connection between sleep, stress, and mental health • Why quality sleep accelerates muscle recovery • Simple and effective tips to improve sleep • How nutrition, evening routines, and daily habits impact your sleep cycleWhether you're struggling to unwind at night, waking up exhausted, or looking to optimize your recovery and performance, this episode gives you actionable tools to improve your sleep!Listen now and start improving your health from the pillow up. 💤 Please be sure to support this episode by leaving us a 5-star review and follow us on all platforms. https://www.youtube.com/@BalancedAndBuiltPodcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/balanced-and-built-podcast/id1842605240https://open.spotify.com/show/2gwdLL5AcVTlVElaRbC4AG?si=9d530114b7be4f99https://www.instagram.com/balancedandbuiltpod/

In this episode of Balanced & Built, we’re pulling back the curtain on the world of women’s bodybuilding — the good, the bad, and the brutally honest. 💪We talk about what it really takes to compete — from the financial costs and lifestyle sacrifices to the mental discipline and physical transformation. We also dive into how to know if you’re truly in a good spot to start a prep, what post-show reality looks like, and how to find balance once the stage lights fade.Whether you’ve dreamed of competing or just want to understand the bodybuilding lifestyle, this episode is for you. Shae started her bodybuilding career in 2023 when she competed in her first show. She fell IN LOVE with the sport, and has learned a lot along the way that we are sharing in this episode. Bodybuilding is an amazing sport - but just like anything else, you should do your research and educate yourself before jumping in. We hope this episode helps shine light on some of the questions you might have about bodybuilding. Topics we cover:    •    The truth about the “glamour” of bodybuilding    •    Financial and emotional costs no one talks about    •    Signs you’re ready (or not) to start a prep    •    What happens after the show    •    Building confidence, balance, and longevity in your fitness journeyDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode if you found it helpful!🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube: https://linktr.ee/balancedandbuiltFollow us on Instagram: @balancedandbuiltpod@[email protected] a reminder, Morgan and Shae are not doctors or certified medical professionals. Everything spoken about on our episodes are based on personal experienced, personal research, and client results.

In this episode of Balanced & Built, we’re giving our unfiltered takes on some of the most overhyped fitness and wellness trends out there 👀From fad diets that promise magic results to greens powders claiming to replace real food — we’re going unhinged, telling you our hot takes on these health and fitness trends. What are some health and fitness trends you don't like? Let us know in the comments if you agree/disagree, and if we missed any bother you!🤣💬 Take topics: • Fad diets like Carnivore, Keto, and Fasting being sold as “the solution”• The socks-only gym trend (why??)• “Best exercises for ___” videos and what they’re not telling you• Skinny teas and “detox” drinks • Greens powders • The myth of “fruit makes you fat”• The truth about fake meats like Beyond Meat — and whether they’re really healthy or sustainableWe’re all about a balanced, sustainable approach to health and fitness — no extremes, no gimmicks, and definitely no magic pills.✨ If you’ve ever felt confused by all the noise online, this episode is for you.Subscribe for more honest conversations about fitness, nutrition, and mindset.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balancedandbuiltpod/

Every woman experiences changes throughout her cycle — from PMS symptoms and mood swings to shifts in energy, strength, and motivation in the gym. But what if you could actually work with your body instead of against it? 🌿In this episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast, we dive deep into cycle syncing — a powerful approach to understanding women’s hormones and optimizing your hormone health, nutrition, and workouts to feel your best. This episode covers:💚 What cycle syncing is and how it can help you connect with your body🩸 The four phases of your menstrual cycle — and how your hormones affect energy, emotions, and performance🥗 Nutrition tips for each phase to support hormone balance and reduce PMS symptoms🏋️‍♀️ Workout ideas based on your cycle ✨ How understanding your hormones can help you feel more in control, empowered, and confidentWe’re passionate about women’s hormone education and helping women unlock their body’s natural rhythm through cycle syncing. Most of us were never taught how our cycles impact our mood, energy, and strength — and it’s time to change that.If you’re a woman who wants to improve your wellness, hormone health, and nutrition, this episode is your go-to guide to learning your body’s rhythm and using it to your advantage. Watch, learn, and start syncing your cycle today!👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your biggest takeaway.🎧 Listen to the Balanced & Built Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for more content on women’s health, nutrition, and fitness.DISCLAIMER: We are not doctors. This discussion is based on personal experience, coaching expertise, education, and research. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.

Are you ready to make a positive change in your nutrition but don’t know where to start?This episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast is made for YOU. 💪We’ve all been there — wanting to eat healthier, feel better, and learn more about food and nutrition, only to be overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice online. The truth? There’s no one-size-fits-all plan. Nutrition isn’t about perfection — it’s about learning how your body works and finding what fits you. In this episode, we break down the foundations of healthy eating and help you understand how to fuel your body through every phase — from maintenance to fat loss — using real, sustainable strategies.You’ll learn:🥗 How to start building a nutrition plan that actually works for you🔥 Why under-eating can harm your metabolism and long-term progress📊 The importance of macro tracking / knowing how much you eat with the eye test🚫 Why to skip the fad diets and focus on real results🍎 The benefits of prioritizing whole foods🍽️ How to build a balanced plate💪 Why carbs, proteins, and fats all matter for your goals🥩 Protein, carb, and fats ideas! …and so much more!If you want to feel confident in your health, nutrition, and how to fuel your body the right way, this episode is your starting point.👍 Like this video, subscribe for more health and nutrition content, and drop your questions below — we’d love to hear from you!FOOD ESTIMATION CALCULATOR:https://tdeecalculator.netFOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@Balancedandbuiltpod@[email protected]! WE ARE NOT DOCTORS. OUR ADVICE IS SOLEY BASED ON OUR OWN RESEARCH AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCES

Struggling with body confidence? You’re not alone. We promise! In this episode of Balanced & Built, we dive into the mental battles women face with body image and share tips to stop the spiral, build self-confidence, and truly love your body. It can feel impossible to get started or like these tips might never work, but the more you do them over and over, the more you can re-wire your brain to manage the thoughts.Throughout the episode we talk about: • How to recognize and stop negative thought patterns before they spiral• Mindset shifts to embrace your body at every stage• Why body confidence isn’t just about looks—it’s about health, hormones, and mental wellness• How to channel fitness, weight training, and nutrition to support confidenceThe Balanced & Built podcast's goal is to un-confuse women’s health by bringing clarity to topics like hormone health, strength training, proper nutrition, and overall wellness through sharing our stories, experiences, and what we've learned a long our own healing journeys. So whether you’re just starting your health journey or deep into it, this episode will give you tools to feel empowered and confident in your own skin.✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for weekly episodes that cover women’s health, fitness, nutrition, and confidence.🔗 Follow us on Instagram: @balancedandbuiltpod🔗 Find and follow us on YouTube and Apple Podcasts

Welcome to the first episode of the Balanced & Built Podcast — the show where fitness meets holistic health. We’re here to empower women with practical education on nutrition, hormone health, weight training, body confidence, and overall wellness.In this introduction episode, hosts Morgan Carcelli and Shae Eichele-Gawry share their personal health journeys and why they created Balanced & Built.👩‍⚕️ Morgan is a holistic health coach passionate about women’s hormone health, cycle syncing, nutrition, and alternative medicine. She helps women understand how the body is connected and how to find balance through overall wellness.🏋️‍♀️ Shae is an NPC Bikini Bodybuilder who educates women on meal planning, macros, progressive overload, weight training, and inspiring those with chronic pain to push past limitations and build strength.✨ On Balanced & Built, you’ll learn how to:• Start a sustainable nutrition plan• Identify and support hormone health• Improve confidence and body image• Use weight training to get stronger• Navigate fitness, lifestyle, and wellness in a balanced wayNew episodes drop every week on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts!📌 Subscribe now and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.📲 Follow us on Instagram: @balancedandbuiltpod

Full Episode 1 dropping Monday, 9.29.25! Stay tuned!