Being Fuerte. It’s Time to Speak!

Welcome to episode 6 of the Let’s Get Fuerte mini-series, where we break down one of the most overlooked parts of fitness: building a strong foundation through core strength, balance, and stability.Inspired by recent conversations around the rise of ACL injuries in young athletes, especially girls, I want everyone to know why injury prevention, mobility, and stability training is essential for every age and fitness level. From athletes and busy moms to beginners and aging adults, this episode explores how improving your core strength and movement patterns can help protect your joints, improve posture, prevent pain, and build confidence in and out of the gym.Mi gente, remember: you don’t have to do everything at once. Start small, stay consistent, and keep showing up for yourself.Gracias y adiós.NPR segment on ACL injury:https://www.npr.org/2025/05/02/nx-s1-5383872/training-women-as-women-not-men-could-be-key-to-avoiding-knee-injury

Welcome to episode 5 of this mini series, where we’re cutting through the noise to help you make informed, confident choices about supplements.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the talk lately around supplements like protein, and creatine, I'm here to clear things up. Because the truth is, supplements aren’t magic, they’re tools. And like any tool, they only work when you understand how (and if) they fit into your routine.Let’s take the guesswork out so you can decide if supplements might benefit your fitness.

What if everything you thought made you who you are… was taken away?After a devastating car accident ended a promising career as a dancer in New York City, Dawn Christensen was forced to rebuild, not just her body, but her entire outlook on life.Through chronic illness, over 35 surgeries, and years of deep healing, she discovered a different kind of power: one rooted not in pushing harder, but in listening, softening, and coming back home to herself. Now, she helps others do the same.Today, Dawn is a Certified Expressive Arts Counselor and certified Somatic Coach, she teaches somatic healing and breathwork. She works one-on-one with individuals navigating chronic illness, anxiety, trauma, and nervous system dysregulation. This is a story of resilience. Of guardian angels. Of embodiment. Of what it truly means to be fuerte from the inside out.Dawn can be found at http://dawnchristensen.substack.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/share/18D4ptaN9W/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Ya es tiempo para hablar. Viene.

Welcome to episode four of this mini series, where we focus on the different types of training and what each one brings to your routine. Today we’re breaking down what your body actually needs. Cardio, resistance training, HIIT, flexibility, and balance all play a role in building a strong, capable body. Let's explore how to use each type of training in a way that fits your real life. We love your questions. Reach out to us on social media and tell us what you’d like us to cover next.

Today, I sit down with my chiropractor, Dr. Aixa Santos, to talk about caring for your whole body, rather than treating pain as an isolated problem when it shows up. We discuss her journey from Puerto Rico to Seattle and her path into chiropractic care. She is here to issue an invitation to health; not a quick fix, but the tools and resources to reduce pain and create lasting changes in your mobility and strength. If you’re ready to think differently about your body and take a proactive approach to your wellness, this conversation is for you. Tune in and step into your strength.You can find Dr. Santos at https://www.health1stchiro.com/on Instagram @seattleuppercervicaldoc

Welcome to episode three of this mini series, where we turn clarity into action. Today we are talking about strength training and letting go of the idea that there is only one right way to do it. Resistance training can look like weights, bands, bodyweight, core work, cardio, flexibility, or a mix of all of it. The goal is not perfection. It is finding a strength practice that works for you and fits into your real life. Let’s explore your options and help you build strength in a way that feels sustainable and empowering.

Welcome to episode 2 of this mini series, where we shift from momentum to clarity. In this episode, we’ll pinpoint the habits that serve you, let go of the ones that weighed you down, and get clear on the experiences you want to create by year’s end. This podcast is a space for our community to reflect, release, and reset, so we can move forward even stronger!

Welcome to episode 1 of this mini series, where we kick off the new year by building momentum and breaking through the habits that hold us back. In this episode, I’m sharing simple tips you can start using today to build habits that actually stick. If you feel like you’re getting in your own way or stuck in the same cycle, this episode will help you change that, take baby steps, and turn consistency into real results. Let’s do this together!

Nature has a way of calling us back to ourselves — whether we answer that call alone or in the company of others. In today’s episode, my friend Shannon Vaughn and I dive into our own adventures in the wild, exploring the magic of stepping into nature and the very different experiences of going solo versus traveling with a group. If you’ve been craving fresh air, open trails, and a deeper connection with the world around you, and you want some practical advice to make it happen, this conversation is for you.

Food isn’t the enemy. Shame is. You can enjoy the food and stay committed to yourself. Let’s practice together!

Listen to a conversation with my high school friends Mandy Denham and Heidi Young. They were influencers before it was a thing - at least they were for me! They helped me find my way to running my own business. These entrepreneurial women share hard-won lessons from their careers, marriages, raising children, and more. Even though we now live in three different states, we are as connected as ever. I love these ladies, and so will you!Content warning: We talk about abusive marriages in this episode. Please listen with care. If you need support, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233

I did Doc Wilson's 80 mile bike ride in August this year, and I love how he created this as part his business! He has more rides coming up- don't worry if you are a beginner- he's got a 5 mile ride tailored for those looking to create some momentum on the road. You can get out into the fresh air and keep biking right through winter. Getting people to move is Doc Wilson's goal, and completely in line with mine, so I just had to know all about Peace Peloton and how to get involved! I found out it was better than I imagined... think 5 mile bike ride, live Salsa band, beer, wine... are you interested yet? Tune in to get all the scoops.

Chris Schmitt’s recent birthday celebration speaks volumes about who he is: an epic day of hiking and biking. He’s all about testing his limits, embracing adventure, and reconnecting with friends and nature. He knows that this is exactly what he needs to balance the stress and chaos of everyday life.In this episode, we’ll explore why pushing past your boundaries is so powerful, how Chris does this in his own life, and how it ultimately led him to a career leading executive coaching expeditions.

The El Camino de Santiago in Spain is one of the oldest and most popular networks of pilgrimage routes, drawing people of all ages, backgrounds, and reasons. I’ve always wanted to do it—but time has always held me back. So when this amazing woman told me she biked it, I was blown away! In this episode, we dive into her journey along the French Route and what it was really like to experience El Camino on two wheels.

Our previous podcast featured Karen’s story, including how I met her and how she came to the US. In this episode, I share my personal experience with immigration court and reveal what I discovered about businesses that claim to support immigrants.

Meet Karen- a wife, mother, and immigrant arriving in the United States. We will follow her story for a few days, told from her perspective. Hear about how I met her, how my friend advocated on her behalf, and how she mobilized my community. We will also retrace the journey that ultimately brought her to Seattle. In the next episode, we'll take you inside a day in immigration court.

On today's episode, I share how Yoga Church evolved into what it is today. This unique space is close to my heart because it’s given me the emotional support and space I needed to grow and grieve. It's helped me move through difficult experiences.Yoga Church is a community created Terilyn Wilder, who I have interviewed previously on my podcast. It’s a one of a kind space, because she is one of a kind. It’s where I go to practice self care and devotion to my spirit. I can give support as well as have my emotional needs met when life serves up challenging moments. It's a weekly reminder for me to take care of myself and continue the practice of yoga.I really got to know Terilyn this year at the yoga retreat she lead in Nicaragua. You learn a lot about someone when you do a little traveling together... but that will be our next episode.If you would like to attend yoga church and learn more about Terilyn, here is her info: Facebook- @terilynwylder Instagram- @yoginiterilynYoga Church is held at Dragonfly Yoga and Pilates. Find then on Instagram @dragonfly.yoga.pilates.dance

Tough experiences can bring about the best changes. This was a tough podcast; I describe my relationship with the only parent I really knew. Yet I only knew her for the first 14 yrs of my life. The rest is what I experienced through the few interactions I had with her in the years that followed. Warning: this episode includes talk about child molestation, listener discretion is advised.

Listen to a frank discussion about pregnancies, birthing experiences and becoming a new mom with Cynthia Moore, Physical Therapist. She describes the challenges of connecting with not only a new body, but a new relationship to that body, as well as tools that helped empower her to do just that after childbirth. We also discuss the life of a working mom trying to stay fit. When I first met Cynthia, we bonded over a single conversation on this one topic, and it’s one I wanted to share with you. She is so relatable and easy to talk to, and I know you will enjoy meeting her. If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, or adjusting to life as a new mom in a new body, you are in the right place. We look forward to hearing from her again! If you want to ask Cynthia any questions, please contact her at: [email protected] Instagram:@cynthiaemoore

This is part 3 in a series of conversations about perimenopause and menopause. I've heard from so many women who felt like they went through it alone, or didn't have anyone to confide in or help them through it. So let's normalize talking about menopause - what it can look like, what to expect, and ideas for how to best navigate the inevitable changes that come with this phase of life.Maria's story is different than Lisa's and Nancy's, in particular because she had 2 babies in her 50s, but if you've listened to all 3 conversations about perimenopause, you will surely recognize some commonalities. And if you are noticing these symptoms yourself - you're not going crazy! There is support available- information, treatments, other women having similar experiences.Our stories are unique. We are not doctors, nor are we giving medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your health and follow their professional advice.Here are some books we mention that we have found to be helpful on this journey:-The New Menopause by Dr Mary Claire Haver-Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia-Estrogen Matters by Arum Bluming, MD, and Carol Tavris, PhD

This is part 2 in a series of conversations about perimenopause and menopause. I've heard from so many women who felt like they went through it alone, or didn't have anyone to confide in or help them through it. So let's normalize talking about menopause - what it can look like, what to expect, and ideas for how to best navigate the inevitable changes that come with this phase of life.What sticks with me about Nancy's story is not just the truly difficult times she has been through, but how taking a broad perspective of life's ups and downs helped her ride out the lows. It is normal to experience lows and rough times! Even so, she was able to take charge of her health and get relief from her symptoms with the help of her doctors. You are an inspiration, Nancy!Our stories are unique. We are not doctors, nor are we giving medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your health and follow their professional advice.At the end of this episode, I mention my naturopath. Here is her information:Dr. Savannah Bukant  Naturopathic Doctor, Biofeedback Therapist, Mindbody CoachSeattle, WA  |  (425) 403-7480  |  www.savannahbukant.com 

Welcome to a series of conversations about perimenopause and menopause. I've heard from so many women who felt like they went through it alone, or didn't have anyone to confide in or help them through it. So let's normalize talking about menopause - what it can look like, what to expect, and ideas for how to best navigate the inevitable changes that come with this phase of life.I am truly grateful to Lisa for sharing her story and what she has learned. Menopause is going to look different for everyone. But you can be sure that, whatever you are going through, you are not alone! Our stories are unique. We are not doctors, nor are we giving medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your health and follow their professional advice.

How does the way you talk to yourself translate into your reality? Nancy and I discuss our workouts, her decision to go back to school a little later in life, and juggling the many demands placed on us. You can have what you want in your life. Put your mind to it and take positive action. If you're anything like us, you have often taken care of others before yourself. Maybe it's time to let others support you. 

What if going through the motions was exactly what you needed? Sometimes when life throws a curveball, leaning into your routines can keep you going until you heart kickstarts. And physical motion can get you unstuck, heal wounds, and move stagnant energy out. Hear how it's helped me through turbulent times.

Sometimes we pride ourselves on our individualism and ability to stand on our own, which is definitely a product of Western culture. However, in my life, community support has been an essential ingredient for success. Every time I've stretched into uncharted territory- whether it was working out, starting a business, or parenting- I have leaned heavily on my tribe. They have always been there to listen, commiserate, laugh, and sometimes share advice; every person has been a vital piece of not feeling alone. Through these relationships, I have learned essential emotional tools that help me be a better friend, business person, partner, and mother. We know that we are wired for connection, and that belonging is a basic human need. So embrace your community, lean on each other for support, and do the work to nurture those relationships that bring beauty and meaning to your life.I hope you listen to this podcast and see yourself in it. Because some of you have become those family and friends I am talking about.

My fitness story is a life-long journey of learning to listen to my body and give it what it needs. I started by losing weight. It was a necessary first step, but my instinct to eat less and drop pounds wasn't ultimately what was best for me. I needed to build muscle, and eat more healthy, protein rich foods to support that muscle growth. Strength training has been one of the best things I have done for myself. It has supported me through many stages in life- from competing, to having a baby, to going through the first stages of perimenopause. And I'm not done yet!I love fitness. I love working on my body. I do it every day. But I would be lying if I said I am motivated and excited about it every single day. I share some of the things I do to overcome the urge to be stationary. My top tip- find something that brings you joy when you exercise and do that regularly. It will shift your whole perspective.

Learn how to be an advocate for your health and put together a team of care providers that will listen to you and point you in the right direction. Dr. Bukant and I also discuss perimenopause, so if you are going through this, about to go through this, or are close to someone in this stage of life, you will definitely want to tune in. Want more? We’ll have a part two, where we dive into the tests you can ask for based on your health history and what your are experiencing.

Lo Shdo from Shdofitness and I talk about flow from our perspective as trainers and business owners. We created our dream jobs and tell you how we got there. Sometimes we can forget that we don't have to recreate the wheel; not every venture needs to be into uncharted territory. We share our stories to give you tips and inspiration for bringing your own ideas to fruition. Each of us has to find our own rhythm; join us for our conversation and get into flow! 

Hear from Amy, this year's Fuerte Fitness Holiday Challenge winner, as we reminisce about our adventures in 2023. Road cycling and paddling boarding trips- join us for more in 2024! Come as you are, and perhaps leave a slightly better version of yourself!

Listen to a great conversation about being an older mom. Maria is so inspiring to listen to because of her journey to become a mom at 50. The process is a true miracle, and happily for Maria and her family, all the pieces fell into place to make it happen. We talk about her journey, her career as a physician assistant in neurosurgery specializing in deep brain stimulation. We discuss the management of her own health, as well as work-life balance and making fitness a priority. And everything in-between that made it possible. We also reflect on the loved ones we have lost and preserving our language and traditions as we raise our children.

Let’s take in all in!

Burnout. Who hasn't been there? Today I sit down for a conversation about overtraining  with Ben Willis. Ben was a professional soccer player in the USL Championship within the Houston Dynamo organization. He went on to become the assistant goalkeeper coach and strength and conditioning coach at Rio Grande Valley FC. Ben is an ACSM Certified-Exercise Physiologist and Certified Inclusive Fitness Training, with a speciality in working with individuals with disabilities, and has his B.A. in Kinesiology from Gonzaga University.  Ben and I talk about our experiences with burnout and how we overcome it. We will help you identify the signs of overtraining and give you tips for coming back to fitness, perhaps in a different way than before. And importantly, we normalize it as part of the game of fitness. It is nothing to be ashamed of or beat yourself up over. Just like other life challenges, you can embrace the challenge and pass through it.To learn more about Ben or work with him, visit Strong Willed Training http://www.swtrainings.com, or find him on Instagram @strongwilledtraining or @benwillis99

Sleep. It's one of the key factors that determines how we feel and perform. And let me tell you- and I learned the hard way- I do not skimp on my sleep any more!In this short episode, I talk about how and why I track my sleep, the function of sleep, and how you can optimize your sleep and feel your best. I leave you with some tips that you can put into action today. Join me for an exploration of sleep, which I hope inspires you to take on Sober October! If you are entering the days of perimenopause, like I am, you will definitely want to tune in. I definitely want to minimize the number of nights I find myself awake at 3 am, and I have learned what steps to take to so that my body functions how I want it to. You can, too! It may not always be the advice we want to hear (I love a glass of wine with dinner!) but you will thank yourself when you wake up refreshed at the proper time in the morning.Read about the link between poor sleep and Alzheimer's.

If you, yourself or someone you know is struggling with suicide please reach out to anyone that will listen. If you don’t feel comfortable going to someone you know, call the suicide hotline: 988 or text 988.But having been through this twice. I promise that there are people in your community willing to help, you just have to reach out. 

If you are curious about what it takes to be a fitness competitor, you don’t want to miss this conversation with Nicole Sims, IFBB Pro, Fitness and Wellness Coach. But don’t worry, if the competition track is not for you, Nicole and Adriana have tons of tips and tricks for simply moving toward a more active, healthy lifestyle. Body image is not about perfect bodies, it is about loving your body and celebrating what you body can do. Tune in, you’ll be inspired to give your body nourishing food and regular activity to help you feel your best! 

Listen to Mishele's fitness story and how she’s been able to change her workouts through the various stages and phases of life that we all go through!

Our village, community and tribe is what we make it! It continues to support us, even  before we recorded the first Tribe podcast during the pandemic in early 2021.If you missed it check it out here!Thank you.

Everyone needs to go on a retreat. It gives us a necessary break from our routines so we can see our lives from a new perspective. Then we can hone in on what's working- and what's not working- and you can have this wonderful reset.That's what Rejuvenation Retreat is all about- to rejuvenate you, fan the flame of passion back into your life, not only from joy and mindfulness and presence, but also by taking care of your body and mind. Then you can communicate with your heart and let it guide you into exactly the right places and spaces that are meant just for you.Join us from August 3-6, 2023 (we changed the dates). Four days and three nights in beautiful Poulsbo Washington, with Adriana and Candice teaching you all about how to nurture a healthy body, change your heart and mind, and really connect spiritually.https://urtheur.kartra.com/page/poulsboretreat

Hear about what I learned in the Bahamas. I want to share this with you!

Hear Jane's story about accomplishing her childhood dream to become a police  officer in her 50's! After 10 years of actively pursuing her goal, she can teach a master class in perseverance and dedication. But you can start here with the lessons she learned along the way about dealing with setbacks, timing and preparation, finding support, and so much more.  She is such an inspiration for us all! 

What does it take to create and promote a business? I ask creative marketing strategist Robbin Block for her insight. Over the years, Robbin has helped me develop my business. She is always asking me the right questions to hone in on my strengths and goals, and to help me differentiate myself. Whether you own a business or have ever considered starting one, you will want to tune in to this conversation!Website: blockbeta.com, Email: [email protected], LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robbinblock, Twitter: twitter.com/robbinblock, Facebook: facebook.com/blockbeta

Enjoy a conversation with a great friend, entrepreneur, and social butterfly! We met couch surfing over 16yrs ago. Sheila designs awesome jewelry using the power of crystals.We talk about more- Check out her website:https://satincrystals.com/YouTube:https://m.youtube.com/c/satincrystals Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/satin_crystalsFacebook:https://m.facebook.com/100039128449327/And Twitter:https://mobile.twitter.com/satincrystals

Nicole Sims, IFBB Pro, Fitness and Wellness Coach, talks about beauty and the importance of why and how to develop a skin care routine. Get your notepad and pencil ready; Nicole has a wealth of ideas and tips you can implement right away.

Natasha and I have been friends for nearly 15 years, and our lives have changed so much during that time. Her most significant life changes included marriage, motherhood, and ending her career to move to New Zealand. Join us as we talk about our life transitions and how they shape our identity and inform the way we raise our children. 

My client Caitlin Singer and I swap notes our workouts, diet, motivation, and even our genes! Caitlin came to Fuerte Fitness Bridal Bootcamp before her wedding. I can personally attest that she rocked it! She shares her journey and how she fits in those workouts whenever she can. 15 minutes... Good enough! Caitlin is also launching her own podcast, ‘Just Slayin’. Check out her podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-slayin/id1640611381I love the banter and the hear the commentary on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. 

Revisamos que estamos prendiendo de esta libro. Porque nos gusto y cómo nos ayudó con mi Amiga Lorena Muñoz que es un estudiante de psicología por la Universidad de Mexico. 

What can we do after the Robb Elementary shooting? What can one person do? Reflections on the tragedy in Texas and what it means for each of us. Stay strong, show compassion, share love.  I am here for you, mi gente.

What does the little internal voice mean to you? Is it nice, loving, and affirming or critical and judgmental?  Does it keep you from doing things or expressing who you really are? Does it support you in your adventures? Listen to a great short conversation with Dewa Dorje, comedian, entertainer, writer and podcaster,  on what it means for us. It's funny how both Dewa and I had a different take on that little voice, yet we understood where the other was coming from. I was talking about the judgmental internal voice I struggled with growing up, and she was talking about the way you talk to your younger self now. You can follow Dewa and go hear her live at https://www.dewadorje.comInstagram @dewadorje Facebook @dewa.dorje https://www.facebook.com/dewa.dorje

Self love is easy to say, yet so difficult to practice at times. How does it show up in your life? Who do you look up to in that department? As you can see, Frida Kahlo taught me that through her self portraits, especially the one where she’s holding her own hand. Wow, she was there for herself, she had her own back in joy as well as dark times. RIP Frida, gracias for leaving something for me!