• How Can Connection Help Overcome Binge Eating and Fuel Athletic Success? With Jane Pilger
    Nov 21 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith interviews Jane Pilger, a world-championship-qualified Ironman athlete and coach specializing in helping women overcome binge eating. Jane shares her journey in triathlons, detailing her training, significant injuries, and the role of faith in her athletic pursuits. She discusses her aspirations, including qualifying for the Boston Marathon, and the importance of prayer during runs. Jane also delves into her battle with binge eating, her podcast "Binge Breakthrough," and her upcoming book that explores the reasons behind binge eating and offers solutions.

    In this Episode:

    • Jane Pilger's journey as an Ironman athlete and her experiences in triathlons.
    • The significance of training methods and personal challenges faced by athletes.
    • Jane's aspirations, including qualifying for the Boston Marathon.
    • The role of faith and prayer in Jane's athletic pursuits.
    • The impact of a significant cycling injury on Jane's athletic career and recovery.
    • The relationship between disordered eating and significant life transitions, particularly for women.
    • Jane's holistic approach to addressing binge eating and fostering healthier eating habits.
    • The importance of connection with oneself and others in overcoming binge eating.
    • Insights from Jane's upcoming book on binge eating and its underlying reasons.
    • Encouragement for listeners to reflect on their own journeys and seek support in their health and wellness.


    Please connect with Jane here:


    Email: hello@janepilger.com

    Website: https://www.janepilger.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janepilgercoaching

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janepilgercoaching

    Why do I binge quiz: https://www.janepilger.com/quiz

    What to do after a binge: https://www.janepilger.com/after

    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    46 mins
  • Why Feeding Athletes Whole Foods Makes Them Better Athletes with Aimee Gallo
    Nov 14 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith talks with Aimee Gallo, a nutritionist and endurance athlete with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the importance of nutrition for female athletes, focusing on nutrient density, the drawbacks of processed foods, and the benefits of whole foods. Aimee emphasizes the value of frozen and seasonal foods, food choices' environmental impact, and communal eating's cultural significance. She offers practical tips for incorporating more produce into diets and highlights the connection between nutrition, exercise, and mental health. The episode encourages mindful, informed eating habits.

    In this Episode:

    • Importance of nutrition for female athletes
    • Barriers to healthy eating and misconceptions about food preparation
    • Nutritional density and the benefits of whole foods
    • Impact of processed foods on health and addiction-like behaviors
    • Cultural perceptions of food and communal eating practices
    • Food intolerances and emotional attachments to certain foods
    • Decline in nutrient density of produce due to modern agricultural practices
    • Benefits of local and seasonal foods for nutrition and sustainability
    • Environmental impact of food production and transportation
    • The role of exercise in mental health and overall well-being

    Please connect with Aimee here:

    Email: aimee@vibrancenutrition.com

    Website: www.vibrancenutrition.com

    Podcast: https://blasphemousnutrition.buzzsprout.com/

    Instagram: @vibrancenutrition

    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    42 mins
  • How Body Neutrality and Movement Help You Discover Joy with Andrea Troughton
    Nov 7 2024

    In this episode of the "Spirit of an Athlete" podcast, host Amanda Smith interviews Andrea Troughton, a holistic health coach and anti-diet personal trainer. Andrea discusses her journey in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, where she holds a purple belt, and her aspirations to achieve a black belt. She shares her holistic approach to health coaching, emphasizing body neutrality and fostering a positive relationship with exercise and nutrition. Andrea's philosophy focuses on well-being over traditional dieting, encouraging clients to enjoy movement and prioritize how they feel rather than their appearance.

    In this Episode:

    • [00:02:15] Andrea Troughton's journey in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and her rank as a purple belt.
    • [00:05:30] The motivations behind Andrea's interest in combat sports and self-defense.
    • [00:09:45] The commitment and dedication required to progress in martial arts.
    • [00:14:20] Andrea's holistic health coaching philosophy and its focus on well-being over dieting.
    • [00:18:10] The concept of body neutrality and its importance in health coaching.
    • [00:22:35] Strategies for building a positive relationship with exercise and nutrition.
    • [00:27:50] The significance of joint health and balancing flexibility with strength training.
    • [00:32:15] The anti-diet philosophy and its impact on clients' relationships with food and exercise.
    • [00:37:00] The demographics of Andrea's clients and their varying health and fitness needs.
    • [00:41:25] Resources for connecting with Andrea, including her social media, website, and published book.


    Please connect with Andrea here:

    Email: andrea@workofartcoaching.ca

    Website: https://www.workofartcoaching.ca/

    Instagram: @workofartyeg

    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    22 mins
  • Leading by Example: How Parents Can Foster Healthy Habits and Resilience in Their Children with Dr Tiffany Johnson
    Oct 31 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith interviews Dr. Tiffany Johnson, a holistic chiropractor, mother, and former athlete. They discuss the intersection of parenting, leadership, and mental health in young athletes. Dr. Johnson shares her journey from a timid individual to a confident chiropractor, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nervous system and holistic care. The conversation highlights the pressures young athletes face, the role of parents in fostering resilience, and the need for supportive environments. Dr. Johnson advocates for a holistic approach to well-being, integrating physical, emotional, and mental health.

    In this Episode:

    • [00:00:05] The influence of parents on children's health and performance.
    • [00:02:15] The importance of creating a safe and supportive home environment.
    • [00:05:30] Challenges posed by modern life, including screens and social media.
    • [00:08:45] Leading by example in parenting and personal well-being.
    • [00:12:00] Rising mental health challenges among young athletes, including anxiety and depression.
    • [00:15:20] The role of nutrition in supporting young athletes' health.
    • [00:18:35] Building resilience in children through facing challenges and learning from failures.
    • [00:21:50] The journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
    • [00:25:10] The significance of community support for parents and young athletes.
    • [00:28:25] The holistic approach to wellness, integrating physical, emotional, and mental health.


    Please connect with Tiffany here:

    Email: drtiffany@htchiro.com

    Website: www.htchiro.com

    www.drtiffanyjohnson.com

    Instagram: @drtiffjohnson


    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    44 mins
  • How a Colorful Diet Can Help You Thrive in Perimenopause and Menopause with Cathy Cury
    Oct 24 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith interviews Cathy Cury, a certified functional medicine health coach and self-taught chef. Cathy shares her journey from cooking on yachts to health coaching, focusing on nutrition and lifestyle changes for women in perimenopause and menopause. She emphasizes the importance of dietary choices, advocating for oneself, and managing symptoms through nutrition. Cathy offers practical tips for healthy eating, such as avoiding processed foods and caffeine, and highlights the value of community support. The episode provides empowering insights for women navigating midlife health challenges.

    In this Episode:

    • The impact of diet on health, particularly for women in perimenopause and menopause.
    • The transition from culinary arts to health coaching and its significance.
    • The importance of self-advocacy for women experiencing hormonal changes.
    • Common symptoms faced during perimenopause and menopause and their dietary connections.
    • Strategies for managing symptoms through dietary changes, including eliminating added sugars and processed foods.
    • The concept of "eating the rainbow" for nutritional balance.
    • The role of caffeine and alternatives for energy management.
    • The significance of self-care and mindfulness in health management.
    • The importance of community support for women facing similar health challenges.
    • Encouragement for women to seek comprehensive health testing and make informed dietary choices.


    Please connect with Cathy here:

    Website: https://revupmymetabolism.com/

    Email: Cathy@revupmymetabolism.com

    Instagram: @revupmymetabolism

    Threads: @revupmymetabolism

    Facebook: Rev Up My Metabolism

    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    34 mins
  • How to foster positive body image for dancers and safe spaces to thrive with Leslie Kuny
    Oct 17 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith interviews Leslie Kuny, a renowned dance educator and choreographer with nearly four decades of experience. They explore the intersection of athleticism and artistry in dance, discussing challenges such as body image issues and the impact of social media. Leslie emphasizes the importance of creating supportive, inclusive environments for dancers, particularly neurodiverse dancers. She shares her journey and insights on fostering self-expression and confidence in young dancers. The episode highlights the dance community's need for understanding and support to promote mental and emotional well-being.

    In this Episode:

    • 00:00 - The athleticism inherent in dance and its competitive nature.
    • 02:15 - Challenges of body image and self-esteem faced by dancers.
    • 04:30 - The impact of societal expectations on dancers' mental health.
    • 06:45 - The role of coaches in fostering a supportive environment.
    • 09:00 - The importance of inclusivity and understanding for neurodiverse individuals in dance.
    • 11:15 - The significance of community and trust among dancers for personal growth.
    • 13:30 - The influence of technology and social media on dancers' self-perception.
    • 15:45 - Strategies for promoting self-love and respect within the dance culture.
    • 18:00 - The balance between artistry and athleticism in dance.
    • 20:15 - The need for a nurturing and safe space for all dancers to express themselves.


    Please connect with Leslie here:

    Website: https://www.lesliekuny.com/

    Email: lesliekuny@gmail.com

    Instagram: @lesliekuny



    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    36 mins
  • Understanding the Role of Trauma in Eating Habits: A Deep Dive with Sharon Donato
    Oct 10 2024

    In this episode of "Spirit of an Athlete," host Amanda Smith talks with Sharon Donato, a former competitive gymnast who transitioned to certified athletic trainer and integrative nutrition health coaching. Sharon shares her journey, highlighting her struggles with food and trauma, and how these experiences shaped her career. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding nutrition, the impact of food on mental and physical health, and helping women reconnect with their bodies and intuition. Sharon also introduces the concept of brain spotting, a therapeutic technique for processing trauma that shows up in the eyes, aiming to foster healthier relationships with food.


    In this Episode:

    [00:00:05] Sharon Donato's journey from competitive gymnast to integrative nutrition health coach.

    [00:02:15] The impact of food on mental and physical health.

    [00:05:30] The relationship between trauma and eating habits.

    [00:08:45] The importance of understanding nutrition and its effects on well-being.

    [00:12:00] The concept of food as fuel and its role in health.

    [00:15:20] The significance of listening to one's body and intuition regarding food choices.

    [00:18:35] Common misconceptions about food and nutrition, particularly among women.

    [00:22:10] The role of rituals and habits in eating behaviors.

    [00:25:45] The 80/20 rule in dietary choices and promoting flexibility.

    [00:29:00] Introduction to brain spotting as a therapeutic technique for processing trauma related to food and body image.


    Please connect with Sharon here:

    website: https://sharondonato.thementalwellbeingcompany.com

    Social Media: Facebook Private Group: Sharon Donato Wellness Unlocked https://www.facebook.com/groups/260658516388064/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shdonato_wellness_unlocked/

    Promo code: 15% off with mention of: Spirit of an Athlete Podcast

    shdonato@gmail.com

    Watch Spirit of an Athlete on YouTube!

    Check out more from Amanda:
    Website: Body Whisper Healing
    Instagram: @Amanda.G.Smith
    Facebook: Body Whisper Healing
    Pinterest: AmandaGSmithBWH
    LinkedIn: Amanda (Ritchie) Smith

    If you’re a female athlete facing unexplained health issues, don’t forget to check out the Gutsy Chick Quiz created just for you! https://gutsychickquiz.com





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    35 mins