The Comeback Season

In this powerful conversation, Christi sits down with holistic wellness coach Carla Wainwright to explore how midlife can become a woman’s “second spring”—a season of renewed vitality, pleasure, healing, and personal power. Together, they discuss the hormonal and metabolic changes women experience in perimenopause and menopause, the impact of chronic stress on libido and energy, and why reconnecting with pleasure through everyday moments can be a powerful path back to health. This episode is an invitation for women to stop seeing midlife as decline and start seeing it as a comeback.Connect with Carla and get her FREE gift: The Vibrancy Guidehttps://www.vibrancyreset.com/Five powerful shifts for women 40+ to help you boost energy, balance your hormones, and reconnect with the wisdom of your body - without overwhelm, deprivation, or burnout.

In this powerful episode of The Comeback Season, Kym Coco shares the life-changing story of her late husband’s catastrophic accident, the years of healing that followed, and the lessons she learned about resilience, mindset, and the human capacity to grow through pain. Together, they explore fear, the inner critic, neuroplasticity, and how small daily choices can create extraordinary transformation after life’s hardest seasons.Connect with Kym and get her free resource here:https://swagtail.com/podcastbonus/

In this episode of The Comeback Season, we dive deep into what it truly means to live in a state of integrated personal excellence. Joined by Personal Excellence Mentor Jenifer Merifield, we explore how to move beyond surface-level habits and step into a fully aligned, high-performance way of being.This conversation unpacks the hidden patterns that keep high achievers stuck in overwhelm, burnout, and inconsistency—and reveals how to reclaim your focus, regulate your energy, and elevate your standards. Through the lens of identity, mindset, and intentional action, you’ll learn how to bridge the gap between your current reality and your next-level self.If you’ve been experiencing:Feeling overwhelmed and pulled in too many directions, unsure what actually mattersStruggling to maintain consistency and high performance without burning outGetting stuck in old patterns, even when you know you’re meant for moreLacking clarity on how to bridge the gap between who you are now and your next-level selfThis episode will give you the clarity, tools, and perspective to sharpen your focus, eliminate distractions, and fully step into your YOU 2.0.Get Jenifer's free resource here:The Bridge Integration WorkshopDon’t plan your future without updating the part of you that actually creates it.Are you ready to have a life that matches what you want? No more waiting for it, this Free Webinar is for you, compliments of Jenifer!

In this episode of The Comeback Season Podcast, Christi sits down with financial advisor Andrew Quebbemann to talk about what a financial comeback can look like in midlife. They discuss how to start where you are without shame, why money is a tool rather than something to fear, how to find balance between enjoying life now and planning for the future, and why budgeting, estate planning, and financial education matter more than many people realize. They also dive into teaching kids about money, avoiding common financial leaks, and building confidence one step at a time.Connect with Andrew here: www.noshameinadollar.comThis conversation is for general educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized financial or investment advice. Individual financial situations vary, and listeners should consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions. Andrew Quebbeman is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC.  www.SIPC.org Supervisory office:  4900 N Scottsdale Road Suite 4000 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251 (480) 638-2100.  CRN202904-10812499

In this episode, Nichole sits down with integrative trichologist Jennifer Polly to talk about the emotional and physical reality of hair loss—especially for women navigating stress, trauma, and menopause. Jennifer explains why hair loss can feel like a loss of identity (not vanity), how shame and comparison can intensify the stress cycle, and why “quick fixes” often miss what’s really happening. They also cover common types of hair loss (including female pattern hair loss and alopecia areata), the role hormones and cortisol can play, and why getting the right testing and support matters. Most of all, it’s a validating conversation for anyone who’s been silently carrying this—and a reminder that you’re not alone, and there are real paths forward.Connect with Jennifer here:Website: saskatoonhairloss.comInstagram: @YXEHairLossFacebook: “The Jennifer McCowan”

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole McLeod sits down with manifestation coach Irina Portnova, founder of LifePalette, to unpack what manifestation actually is—and how to practice it in a grounded, sustainable way. Irina shares her personal comeback story, including a near-divorce that became a turning point, and explains how thoughts, words, emotions, and actions shape the results we experience. Together, they connect manifestation to identity, nervous system regulation, and neuroscience (including how your brain filters for what you expect). You’ll also hear three practical tools you can start using right away: noticing what you’re noticing, reflecting through journaling, and getting clear on what you want and why—then taking aligned action consistently.Connect with Irena here: www.lifepalette.net

In this bonus episode, Tracy from Interstate Hypnotherapy guides us through a simple exercise designed to help you recognize and begin shifting the patterns that shape your reactions and relationships. If you haven’t listened to Episode 27 yet, we encourage you to start there first. In that conversation, Tracy shares the deeper context behind this work—how generational patterns form, how they show up in motherhood, and why awareness alone isn’t always enough to create change.Once you’ve heard that foundation, come back to this bonus episode and walk through the exercise with us. It’s a practical next step to help you move from understanding the pattern to beginning to change it.

Anxiety isn’t always a diagnosis. Sometimes it’s the constant mental noise that tells you you’re not safe, not ready, or not enough. In this episode of The Comeback Season, we sit down with psychotherapist Bonnie Brindle, known as the “Anxiety Avenger,” to unpack what anxiety really is, why so many high-functioning women live in survival mode, and how to begin calming the nervous system for good.Bonnie shares practical tools for understanding your triggers, shifting anxious thought patterns, and building internal safety. If you’ve felt stuck in overthinking, racing thoughts, or constant self-doubt, this conversation will help you move from chaos to clarity — and remind you that your comeback starts in your mind.Get Bonnie's free resource here:https://www.skool.com/calm-your-chaos-1458

n this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole sits down with Dr. Dan Sneider, a licensed couples therapist and creator of The Intimacy Shift, to talk about why conflict isn’t the real threat to a relationship—disconnection is. Dr. Dan breaks down the “trigger → thoughts/feelings → behaviors” cycle that keeps couples stuck, and shares practical tools to move from blame and shutdown to safety and connection. They cover attachment patterns, the power of naming the pattern (with humor), the 5:1 positive-to-negative dynamic, and concrete communication strategies like using “I” language, asking whether your partner needs a “trash can or toolbox,” and taking breaks with a 24-hour return agreement. Dr. Dan also shares how couples can rebuild trust through small, consistent actions—“coins in the piggy bank”—and why calm nervous systems are the foundation for intimacy, fun, and repair.Find Dan here: www.intimacyShift.com

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole sits down with Jennie “Adrenajen” Milton—elite kite surfer, former Australian women’s champion, and the Extreme Courage Kite Coach—to talk about fear, courage, and what it really takes to step into the unknown. Jennie shares how she wasn’t “born brave,” and how her brother’s childhood battle with bone cancer shaped her understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the “MacGyver mindset.”Together, they break down practical ways to work with fear instead of waiting for it to disappear, including Jennie’s FEAR Formula (Forecast, Educate, Adapt, Repeat), the idea that courage comes through action, and simple tools like three deep breaths + a countdown (“3, 2, 1… go”). Jennie also opens up about her own comeback season after three brain surgeries, and how finding a Plan B helped her stay connected to joy and purpose.how to find Jenny and work with her: Website: www.adrenajen.com Instagram: @Adrenajen

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole sits down with Lulu Agan of Swell Women for a real conversation about truth, alignment, and what it actually takes to create lasting change. They unpack why transformation can’t stay in your head—because fear, beliefs, and old patterns live in the body too. Lulu shares how awareness (becoming the observer), emotional intelligence, and nervous system regulation help you move through triggers instead of getting stuck in them. You’ll hear practical tools like “worry windows,” the “AND” mindset (I feel afraid and I do it anyway), and a simple 90-second practice to help close the stress loop and come back to yourself—one small, intentional step at a time.Find Lulu here:www.swellwomen.com@swellwomen on Instagram

Nichole sits down with Kathryn Eipl (founder of EIPL Healing: “Every Individual Person is Love”) to talk about the quieter side of addiction—how coping habits like scrolling, drinking, shutdown, or cannabis can slowly become patterns we depend on. Kathryn shares her own turning point (career misalignment, heartbreak, loneliness, and a “this isn’t me” moment) and how it led her toward healing work rooted in nervous system safety. Together, they unpack the idea that the real question isn’t “what’s the addiction?” but “why the addiction?”—often tied to pain, trauma, identity, and the need to feel safe. The episode emphasizes awareness, self-compassion (not shame), and rewiring through small steps—using tools like breathwork (longer exhales), grounding/nature, journaling, sound therapy, tapping, and “playing the tape forward” to choose new responses. They close by reminding listeners that healing isn’t about perfection; it begins the moment you decide you’re worth saving.

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole is joined by mindset coach-in-training Haley Edwards for an honest and deeply personal conversation about trauma, grief, and healing. Haley shares her lived experience with complex trauma, mental health struggles, and nervous system survival responses—and how understanding the why behind her reactions became the doorway to emotional freedom. Together, they explore self-worth, trauma responses, forgiveness, and the power of nervous system regulation, including the role of EFT. This episode is a compassionate reminder that healing is possible, even after years of survival, and that your story does not end with your pain.

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole talks with burnout coach Jennifer Keable, who shares her personal experience with burnout and why it often starts earlier than we expect. They break down the difference between stress and burnout, the subtle warning signs many people dismiss, and how people-pleasing, perfectionism, and weak boundaries accelerate burnout.The conversation focuses on practical recovery tools—prioritizing sleep, using intentional daily rest, resetting the nervous system, and rebuilding self-trust through small, consistent actions. Jennifer also challenges listeners to redefine success in a more holistic way, centered on health, peace, and how life feels, not just what it looks like.

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Christi is joined by author and speaker Caren Pascal for a powerful conversation about reclaiming your life in midlife. Caren shares her journey from anxiety and self-doubt to yoga, spiritual study, and ultimately stepping into her purpose as a teacher and writer.After losing her husband, closing her yoga studios during the pandemic, and feeling called to begin again, Caren made the bold decision to move across the country and create a new life aligned with her soul. Along the way, she discovered a simple but profound process for transformation—one rooted in self-belief, decluttering what no longer serves you, and taking a sacred pause to realign with who you truly are.Together, Christi and Caren explore what it means to move from constant “doing” to intentional “being,” how our environment and relationships shape our growth, and why you don’t have to have all the answers to take the first step. Caren also shares the inspiration behind her new e-book, From Midlife Crisis to Midlife Creation, and offers practical wisdom for anyone feeling stuck, called to more, or ready for their next chapter. Find Caren HereFacebook

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole McLeod sits down with Dr. Tamara White—therapist, author, coach, and “the Divine Disruptor”—for a powerful conversation about why change can feel so hard, even when you know you want something different.Dr. Tamara breaks down the real reason we stay stuck: fear, control, and the brain’s need for safety—even when “safe” looks like familiar dysfunction. Together, they talk about how to interrupt old patterns at the root, build consistency through small, doable steps, and start shifting identity by getting honest about the season you’re in and who you’re becoming. You’ll hear practical encouragement around boundaries, journaling, nervous system regulation, and why accountability isn’t a weakness—it’s part of being human.If you’ve been feeling resistance, overwhelm, or that internal tug-of-war, this episode will help you stop shaming yourself and start moving forward—one brave decision at a time.

Perimenopause can feel like a hurricane—especially if you’ve already battled chronic illness. In this candid conversation, nutritionist and “menopause energy expert” Lindsey Spivey shares how early perimenopause knocked her flat—and the physical, emotional, and spiritual practices that helped her rebuild. We unpack how to tell perimenopause symptoms from chronic illness flare-ups, why under-eating + over-exercising can backfire (hello, cortisol and insulin resistance), and where to start when sleep, hot flashes, mood swings, and “I don’t feel like myself” collide.You’ll hear gentle, doable first steps—calming inflammation, protecting sleep, using meditative movement, easing into strength training, and practicing emotional regulation tools (from prayer to tapping to nature walks). We also talk identity and purpose in midlife, Gen X’s “we’re talking about it” attitude, and reducing everyday endocrine disruptors.

In this episode, our guest, Tracy Simonnettas, dives into generational patterns in motherhood—how they’re formed, how they show up in our reactions, and how they get passed down without us realizing it. Tracy from Interstate Hypnotherapy shares her personal story of becoming a mom, recognizing the old “survival strategies” running the show, and the moment she knew something had to change.We talk about why big reactions are often rooted in old imprints (not the current moment), why awareness alone doesn’t always shift behavior, and how nervous system regulation and subconscious rewiring can help you respond instead of react. This conversation is a mix of compassion and practical tools—and a reminder that you’re not broken, you’re patterned… and patterns can change.Find Tracy here:Website: innerstatehypnotherapy.comFacebook: innerstatehypnotherapyInstagram: innerstate_hypnotherapyFree Guide: https://www.innerstatehypnotherapy.com/resources

This is our last holiday episode. Listen to this before you set your New Year resolution. We want to help you with your Comeback in 2026. Please download our free Comeback Blueprint.You can find us on Instagram:@christicountsmacros@mcleodnichole

If motivation feels hard to come by during the holidays, you’re not alone—and nothing is wrong with you.In this episode of The Comeback Season: Holiday Edition, Christi and Nichole explain why motivation often dips during times of stress and overstimulation. They break down how under-fueling, emotional pressure, and nervous system overload can make even simple habits feel heavy.You’ll learn why motivation isn’t something you wait for, how small actions can gently rebuild momentum, and why flexibility matters more than perfection during the holidays. This episode offers practical, compassionate tools to help you support your body, regulate your nervous system, and move forward without guilt or burnout.Motivation doesn’t come from pushing harder—it comes from feeling supported.A free Momentum Tracker is available to support you through the rest of the season.

The holidays can bring joy, connection, and meaning—but they can also stretch women emotionally, mentally, and physically. In this solo episode, Christi shares why setting boundaries during the holiday season can feel so uncomfortable, especially for women who are wired to care for others and keep the peace.You’ll learn why boundary-setting often triggers guilt or anxiety, how people-pleasing is a nervous system response rather than a personal flaw, and why over-giving leads to burnout and resentment. Christi reframes boundaries as an act of self-trust and leadership—not restriction—and explains the difference between controlling others and clearly communicating how you choose to show up.This episode offers real-life holiday examples around food, family, time, and emotional energy, along with gentle scripts you can use to protect your peace without conflict. The core message is simple and empowering: boundaries don’t limit your holiday—they protect the version of you who gets to enjoy it.You are invited to download the Holiday Boundary Script Freebie to practice creating calm, clear, and kind boundaries that support a grounded, nourishing holiday season.

In this episode of The Comeback Holiday Edition, Nichole and Christi unpack the “guilt hangover” that lingers after holiday eating, skipped workouts, or emotionally charged family moments. They break down the difference between guilt and shame, explain how your nervous system can shift into freeze mode (hello, avoidance and procrastination), and show you how negative self-talk keeps the cycle going. You’ll learn simple anchor habits—like one-plate rules, pre-party snacks, deep breaths, and short walks—that help you feel safer, calmer, and more grounded in your body. Nichole and Christi also walk you through powerful reflection questions so you can understand why guilt feels so heavy, name the emotional load you’re carrying, and start rewriting the story you tell yourself this holiday season.Get your Guilt Detox Guide Here

In this episode of The Comeback Holiday Edition, Nichole and Coach Christi unpack what nervous system burnout really looks like during the holidays—that wired-but-exhausted feeling that shows up when you're juggling events, emotions, food, family, and a never-ending to-do list. They talk about the “holiday identities” many women slip into (the fixer, the peacekeeper, the hostess, the one who makes it magical for everyone else) and how that can lead you to ignore every signal your body is sending.Get your Holiday Calm Kit here

In this first episode of our six-part holiday series, Christi and Nichole unpack why the binge–restrict cycle shows up so strongly this time of year—and why it’s not a willpower problem. Using Christi’s pendulum analogy, they explain how swinging between overindulgence and strict restriction keeps your brain stuck in survival mode, always chasing safety through food. Nichole breaks down what’s happening in the nervous system (hello, HPA axis, cortisol, leptin, and ghrelin), and together they share practical tools like nervous system regulation, planning ahead, protein-focused anchor habits, and post-meal walks to keep you in your “intentional zone.” You’ll walk away with a calmer way to approach holiday eating, a new perspective on “I’ll start again Monday,” and an invitation to use the Holiday Food Freedom Journal to start rewiring your patterns with awareness instead of shame.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Comeback Season, host Nichole McLeod sits down with Michelle Vaughn to explore how the nervous system shapes every aspect of our lives—from how we process trauma and grief to how we experience joy, health, and connection.Michelle shares her remarkable journey from building a multi-state business to walking through unimaginable loss and discovering the healing power of nervous system regulation. Together, Nichole and Michelle unpack how unprocessed emotions live in the body, why generational trauma repeats itself, and how simple, intentional habits—like breathwork, posture, and co-regulation—can help us break free from cycles of pain and disease.If you’ve ever wondered why you feel “stuck,” anxious, or overwhelmed despite doing all the “right” things, this conversation will open your eyes to what your body has been trying to tell you—and how healing truly begins from within.

After surviving three strokes in a matter of hours—one that took her speech and another that nearly took her life—Certified Life Purpose & Confidence Coach Shelley Meche’tte felt her whole life pivot. In this conversation, she shares how that moment reframed time, success, and control—and why ambitious, faith-driven women don’t have to live in hustle culture to be productive. Shelley walks us through her SMILE Formula—Set the tone, Maintain flexibility, Include rest, Let go of perfectionism, Engage in joy—plus practical “5-minute pockets” that create clarity and calm in real life. We talk about inviting God into your day, leading from overflow (not overwhelm), and the simple two words she wants every listener to remember: You can.Get Shelley’s free resource on burnout, productivity, and purpose-aligned living.Connect with Shelley here:IG: https://www.instagram.com/shelleymechette/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@shelleymechetteFB: https://www.facebook.com/shelleymechette

In this powerful conversation, Nichole McLeod sits down with life coach Mary Crayston to unpack one of the most universal struggles we all face—the inner critic. That relentless voice that says you’re not enough, not ready, or not doing enough isn’t who you are—it’s your nervous system trying to keep you safe. Together, Nichole and Mary explore the science behind self-sabotage, the role of the amygdala, and how childhood conditioning shapes our inner dialogue.You’ll learn practical tools to calm your nervous system, rewire negative thought patterns, and build self-compassion through awareness, breathwork, and body-based regulation. From the “three R’s” framework—Recognize, Regulate, Rewire—to the importance of setting boundaries and practicing self-kindness, this episode offers a roadmap to transform that critical voice into a compassionate inner guide.Because when your body feels safe, your mind opens—and that’s where real growth begins.Get Mary's Freebie here: The Inner Critic ChecklistConnect with Mary on Substack: Confident Enough

Nichole and energy coach Beth Chazome (Kamiya Coaching) unpack how the body stores stress and trauma—and how simple tools like EFT tapping, breathwork, grounding, and humming can calm the nervous system, lower cortisol, and restore peace. They bridge science and spirituality, showing energy work as part of God’s design for resilience and renewed purpose.Find Beth at www.kamiyahcoaching.com and on Instagram @kamiyah_coaching

Have you ever been told you’re “too much”—too emotional, too opinionated, too intense? In this episode of The Comeback Season, I sit down with Darla Ridilla, a certified somatic trauma-informed relationship coach, to talk about what it really takes to stop shrinking yourself and start showing up fully in your relationships.Darla shares her personal journey of breaking free from toxic, narcissistic patterns and why midlife is often the turning point for women to finally choose themselves. We dive into how unresolved childhood dynamics shape adult relationships, why so many women repeat the same painful cycles, and what it looks like to set radical boundaries and trust your inner wisdom.If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been accepting too little—or if you’re ready to step into a season of self-trust and reinvention—this conversation will inspire you to stop proving and start choosing.Find Darla here

Ever felt that whisper in midlife that says, “there has to be more than this”? In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole sits down with Kellie Grutko, founder of Purposeful Pivot, to talk about turning that tug into transformation. Together they explore why midlife is less a crisis and more a calling—an invitation to rise, rediscover yourself, and step into deeper joy and alignment. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to begin your comeback, this conversation is it!Connect with Kellie hereNew Beginnings eBook

Educator and medical intuitive Hanna Kok joins Christi to explore how unspoken emotional baggage can surface as bloating, burnout, skin issues—and why forgiveness is a surprisingly practical healing tool. Hanna explains how judgment and grudges constrict energy pathways (meridians), elevate stress chemistry, and drain the “maintenance energy” the body needs to repair itself. She unpacks the “inner genie” (the subconscious) and how our brains filter reality to match our beliefs—plus a simple upgrade using empowering “love-formations” (e.g., Why do I love feeling healthy?). They discuss hormones in midlife, including how post-menopause estrogen relies on the adrenals, making stress management essential. Hanna shares client stories (and her own) where releasing resentment led to rapid symptom relief, and offers a free intro to her iThrive app and a reference guide that links common health issues to underlying conflicts. The episode closes with tools for self-compassion, conflict resolution, and re-writing your script so your body can finally heal.Find Hanna here

It’s not the plan on paper—it’s how you execute it. In this episode, Nichole and Christi break down intentional training (form, tempo, mobility), recovery that actually builds strength (sleep, active recovery, stretching), and the lifestyle choices that supercharge results (protein timing, carbs for training, hydration, mindset, and community). You’ll learn why quality reps beat “junk reps,” how to structure warm-ups and cooldowns, what to eat around workouts, and simple mindset + recovery tools (journaling, morning light, red light, cold exposure, rebounding) to accelerate progress—especially for women 40+.Follow us on Instagram: @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole

Nichole sits down with sleep coach Morgan Adams to unpack why sleep is the bedrock of health—impacting hormones, mood, metabolism, decision-making, and recovery. They dig into why midlife women struggle (hormone shifts, anxiety/depression, caregiving + career load), how to build morning/evening routines that actually work, and why consistency matters even more than the mythical “8 hours.” Practical tools include the constructive worry exercise, smarter caffeine/alcohol/meal timing, optimizing the “cool–dark–quiet” bedroom, and when to use (or skip) sleep trackers.Connect with MorganWebsite & free guide: Awake Again at 3 AMInstagram: @morganadams.wellness

Motherhood changes us in ways we don’t always expect. Parenting coach Amy Haydak joins The Comeback Season to talk about the identity shifts we face—from pregnancy to empty nest—and how to meet each stage with compassion, reflection, and growth. This conversation explores trauma cycles, “supermom” myths, mom guilt, and the power of pausing, repairing, and rediscovering yourself along the way.Get Amy’s book here!

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole and Christi break down the differences between self-worth, self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-love, and how they work together to shape your self-perception and your life. Through personal stories, examples, and relatable analogies (including a powerful “house” metaphor), they’ll help you see where you’re strong, where you can grow, and how to start building yourself from the inside out.By the end, you’ll understand why your worth isn’t something you earn—it’s something you were born with—and how to protect, nurture, and act on it every day.Special Bonus: We’ve created a free Inner House Cleaning Toolkit PDF to help you clear out the mental and emotional clutter and start living from a place of grounded confidence. Download it here and put today’s conversation into action.If you enjoyed this episode or any of our other episodes, please leave a review and/or share with a friend! Thanks for listening.

In this empowering episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole and Christi are joined by menopause expert Shazia Warsi to explore how mindset, nutrition, and movement can help women thrive during menopause. They uncover what’s really happening in the body beyond the hot flashes, why strength training and protein are non-negotiable, and how reframing menopause as a breakthrough—not a breakdown—can change everything. You’ll learn practical strategies for managing symptoms, nourishing your body, and advocating for yourself, along with encouragement to see this season as an opportunity for growth, confidence, and possibility.Connect with Shazia here: http://www.shaziawarsi.com http://www.instagram.com/shinefromwithincoachingFacebook Get a Free Menopause resource here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fr5N0ZFltbYdpWsdq2_tpdJnLclRWhk2/view?usp=drive_link

Do you ever wonder if there’s more out there for you—but feel stuck, unsure where to start? In this powerful and personal episode, Nichole and Christi dig into what it really means to find your purpose. And no, it’s not about chasing a title or crafting a five-year plan. It’s about alignment. Joy. Identity. And sometimes, even pain.Together, they explore:Why purpose is built, not foundHow joy (and even suffering) can lead you back to yourselfWhy emotional regulation and generosity are tied to your purposeHow to stop shrinking yourself for others’ comfortThe role of identity and inner stories in self-sabotageWhy imposter syndrome shows up when you’re closest to growthChristi shares her story of rediscovery after her kids left home, and Nichole opens up about how suffering nearly became her identity—until she chose to rewrite her story.Whether you're in the middle of a transition or just beginning to ask what's next, this episode is your permission slip to stop waiting and start becoming.If you are not following us on social media already, find us on Instagram @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole

If you’ve been feeling puffy, stiff, tired, or like your body just isn’t responding the way it used to—this episode is for you. Inflammation is often dismissed as a vague buzzword, but in midlife, especially during menopause, it can be the silent force driving fatigue, joint pain, weight gain, and mood swings.In this episode of The Comeback Season, Christi and Nichole sit down with integrative health expert Tricia Brady to unpack what inflammation really is, how it’s connected to hormone shifts, gut health, metabolism, and why so many women feel like their bodies are working against them. Together, we explore how nutrition, movement, and mindset can either feed inflammation—or help reduce it.We break down:What inflammation actually looks and feels like in the bodyWhy it worsens during menopause and how hormones play a roleHow gut health and blood sugar imbalances add fuel to the fireThe connection between chronic stress, cortisol, and stubborn belly fatSimple, sustainable shifts that make a big difference over timeYou’ll walk away with clarity, compassion, and real tools to help your body feel safe, strong, and supported in this season of life.Please take the time to subscribe and share our podcast so we can reach the women who need this information. You can follow us for more insights on Instagram: @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnicholeThank you to our guest, Tricia Brady, for sharing your knowledge with us. You can find her on Instagram @tricia.brady5

In this episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole McLeod and Christi Counts Macros get real about a truth too often ignored: changing how you eat isn’t just about food—it’s about how you think.If you’ve ever felt like you “fail” even with the perfect meal plan, you’re not alone. Nichole and Christi unpack why plans often crumble when life gets messy, showing that discipline is only half the story. The other half? Building a resilient, flexible mindset that can weather real-life curveballs.They explore:Why meal plans alone don’t work long-term and why flexibility matters more than perfection.Emotional eating as information, not failure—plus strategies for naming your triggers without shame.The trap of control: how strict rules fuel the binge-restrict cycle, and why food morality keeps us stuck.What stress does to your brain (spoiler: cravings aren’t sabotage—they’re your brain trying to keep you safe).How to build a real “mental plan”, with practical tools like awareness exercises, emotional regulation, and a “non-food comfort menu.”Throughout the episode, Nichole and Christi share personal stories and client experiences, reframing nutrition as a deeply emotional and human journey. They emphasize that food is more than fuel—it’s culture, connection, and yes, comfort. The goal isn’t perfect meals but mindful choices anchored in self-compassion.If you’re tired of starting over every Monday or beating yourself up for falling off plan, this episode offers a new path: understanding yourself, meeting your needs with kindness, and creating a plan that works with your life instead of against it.Reflection Prompt:“Next time you reach for comfort food, pause and ask: What do I really need right now? And how can I meet that need with kindness instead of punishment?”Listen in and get inspired to transform not just your meal plan, but your mental plan—so you can make your comeback for good.Give us a follow on Instagram: @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole

Ever feel like you’ve lost touch with your intuition? That you’re just “getting by” on autopilot, listening to everyone else’s advice instead of your own inner wisdom? This episode of The Comeback Season is for you.Nichole and Christi sit down with breathwork facilitator Rikki to explore how the simple act of breathing with intention can reconnect you to yourself, regulate your nervous system, and build true emotional resilience.They talk about:Why so many of us feel disconnected—and how shallow, rushed living cuts us off from our own knowing.How breathwork creates safety in the body, allowing us to move from fear into curiosity and change.The role of breath in emotional regulation—learning to feel feelings (even the hard ones) instead of fixing or avoiding them.Practical breathwork tools to get started, from box breathing to short daily practices.How breath-led awareness supports comebacks, pivots, and big life transitions by helping us hear our own guidance.The ripple effects of this work—building healthier relationships, setting boundaries without guilt, and learning to receive love.This episode also includes a short guided breathwork experience you can try in real time.If you’re in a season of rebuilding or just feeling foggy about your next steps, let this be your invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and remember you are supported.Follow Rikki on Instagram @rikkiandrewIf you enjoyed this episode, connect with us on Instagram @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole. We share practical tips, real stories, and ongoing discussions about strength, nutrition, mindset, and navigating life’s pivots. Come join the conversation and let us know what you think.

In this episode of The Comeback Season, we sit down with guest Jo-Dee Hecko to explore “The Becoming Zone”—that vulnerable, often-overlooked space between who you were and who you're becoming. Together, they unpack why this messy middle matters, sharing personal stories of growth, self-doubt, and learning to sit with discomfort instead of rushing through it. Jo-Dee describes how naming this phase helped her embrace it as sacred ground for transformation. With reflections on grief, self-compassion, and practical grounding rituals, this conversation offers encouragement for anyone navigating uncertainty. If you’re in the middle of a change—feeling lost, stuck, or raw—this episode will remind you you’re exactly where you need to be.If you enjoyed this episode, connect with us on Instagram @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole . We share practical tips, real stories, and ongoing discussions about strength, nutrition, mindset, and navigating life’s pivots. Come join the conversation and let us know what you think.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but nothing is working, this episode is for you.This week, Christi and Nichole go deep into why transformation has to start on the inside. From self-sabotage and burnout to emotional eating and inconsistent motivation—it’s not a willpower problem. It’s a nervous system issue.They break down:The difference between fight-or-flight vs. rest-and-digestHow your thoughts, trauma, and beliefs affect your body and behaviorWhy overtraining and undereating keep you stuck (especially after 40)Real tools to regulate your nervous system and start showing up from a place of calm, not chaosYour comeback doesn’t start in the mirror—it starts in your mind, your body, and your beliefs.Follow us on Instagram: @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole

Summer doesn’t have to be the season that derails your goals.In this episode, Nichole and Christi are breaking down the real secret to staying consistent—even when routines go out the window: anchor habits.These small, steady actions act like pegs in a tent—keeping you grounded, focused, and feeling like yourself through the chaos of summer travel, late nights, and shifting schedules. From protein-packed breakfasts to quick mindset check-ins, we’re showing you how to choose habits that actually fit your life (not your fantasy routine).We’ll walk you through:What anchor habits are How to choose your own based on your current seasonWays to bounce back without shame when you’ve had an off weekendYou don’t need perfection to make progress—you just need rhythms that keep you anchored. This is your permission to let summer be messy, but not mindless.Get your Anchor Habits Cheat Sheet HERE!Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and follow us on Instagram: @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole

In this refreshingly honest episode of The Comeback Season, Nichole and Christi unpack the sneaky ways summer throws us off track—and why that happens more often than we’d like to admit. From disrupted routines and emotional eating to the all-or-nothing mindset that whispers, “I’ll start again in September,” this conversation explores the real reasons women struggle with consistency when life gets messy.They dive into common summer slip-ups like skipped workouts, company in town, vacation-mode eating, and the belief that treats must always equal ice cream and indulgence. You’ll hear how perfectionism, guilt-avoidance, and outdated definitions of “treating yourself” sabotage progress, and why falling off isn’t failure—it’s a chance to find your rhythm.This episode sets the stage for next week’s follow-up, where they’ll share practical tools to stay strong and aligned with your goals all summer long—without sacrificing joy, flexibility, or fun.Thank you for listening! Please like, subscribe and share. Follow us on Instagram @christicountsmacros and @mcleodnichole for more tips on fitness and fat loss!

Episode 1 – Rock Bottom Isn’t the End: How Breakdowns Become BreakthroughsWelcome to The Comeback Season, where we have real conversations about fueling your body, rebuilding strength, and reclaiming your life.In this first episode, Nichole and Christi open up about the moments that brought them to their lowest points—and the quiet strength it took to begin again. They share personal stories, explore what it really feels like to hit rock bottom, and offer gentle but powerful ways to take the first step forward.Together, they walk through:Why women stay stuck in survival modeThe first tiny shifts that spark healingHow faith, food, and fitness became part of their comebackThe lies we believe—and how to rewrite the story in our mindsSimple actions you can take today to move forwardIf you’re feeling overwhelmed, lost, or unsure how to begin again, this episode is a reminder that rock bottom isn’t the end of your story—it’s the beginning of something new. One breath, one choice, one day at a time.This is your comeback season. And it starts now.