Feisty Women's Performance

Tired of fads, quick fixes, and performance advice that wasn’t designed for you? So are we. Feisty Women’s Performance cuts through the noise to bring you credible, science-backed insights to live your best, healthiest, active life. Hosted by Dr. Erin Ayala, this is your go-to resource for tackling the challenges of being an active woman today—whether you’re hoping to PR your next marathon or just trying to understand how much protein women actually need to be eating. We’ll move beyond the male-dominated lens of sport science to deliver honest conversations and actionable advice from women for women, to improve women’s health. Each episode dives deep into one of our four pillars—physiology, nutrition, mental health, and cultural issues—with leading experts to explore topics that are often left undiscussed. If you’re an active woman who cares about your sustainable health, performance growth, and long-term progress, these conversations are for you. No fads, no quick fixes. Just real science and legit experts. Re-launching January 2026.

  1. 12 HRS AGO

    GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs: The science vs. the marketing with Dr. Rebecka Peebles and Nathalia Trees, RD

    Dr. Rebecka Peebles and registered dietitian Nathalia Trees dive into the booming world GLP-1 medications and the complex intersection of weight loss, body size, eating disorders, and marketing. They unpack the rapid rise of these weight loss drugs, the scientific and ethical dilemmas for clinicians, and practical strategies for navigating weight loss treatments. Whether you're on GLP-1s right now or considering the pros and cons of the medications, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of the risks, benefits, and long‑term considerations of these drugs. Key Takeaways Prescriptions for GLP‑1 drugs have surged since 2023, especially for adolescents, but long‑term safety data at high doses remains limited.Clinicians have to weigh metabolic benefits for diabetes against potential harm for patients with eating‑disorder histories.Transparent communication about side‑effects—GI issues, rare ocular events, and possible mood changes—is critical.Sustainable weight management, including the popular "microdosing" of GLP-1s, requires a holistic approach. Dr. Rebecka Peebles – VP of Adolescent Medicine at Monte Nido, obesity‑medicine certified, expert in GLP‑1 therapy and its application to youth. Nathalia Trees – Registered dietitian at Monte Nido, specialist in eating‑disorder treatment, weight‑inclusive care, and nutrition‑focused performance coaching. Links & Resources Guest email contacts: rpeebles@montenido.com | ntrees@montenido.com FDA’s warning letter to Novo Nordisk Journal of Fat Studies article exposing GLP‑1 trial data gaps If you found this conversation insightful, hit Subscribe so you never miss an episode, leave a 5‑star review to help other professionals discover the show, and join the discussion on social media with Feisty Women’s Perofrmance. Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1hr 6min
  2. 18 MAY

    Avoid burnout and say goodbye to toxic productivity with Israa Nasir, MHC-LP

    What are the hidden costs of “toxic productivity?” And how does it sabotages women’s performance in their careers, relationships, and athletic endeavors? Psychotherapist, digital wellness expert, and author Israa Nasir, MHC-LP shares practical strategies to spot burnout, set healthy boundaries, and reclaim balance without sacrificing ambition. You'll leave with a clear roadmap to shift from relentless hustle to sustainable success—and learn why embracing mediocrity can actually boost productivity. You can get started by setting three concrete boundaries this week: time‑box high‑impact projects, schedule intentional rest, and say no to at least one non‑essential request. Key Takeaways Recognize the red‑flag signs that productivity has become toxicUse a simple audit to map out tasks, identify value‑aligned activities, and eliminate low‑impact workApply “benefit‑finding” and radical acceptance to reframe unavoidable obligationsImplement the “good‑enough” principle With over a decade of experience helping individuals and organizations combat burnout, Israa Nasir, MHC-LPbrings evidence‑based insights on mental health, performance psychology, and sustainable achievement. Links & Resources Book: Toxic ProductivityIsraa’s Substack, The Well Guide Instagram, @well.guide If you found these insights valuable, hit subscribe so you never miss a episode, leave a review to help fellow entrepreneurs discover the show, and send this to a friend who needs to hear it. Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    59 min
  3. 11 MAY

    Every athlete should know these signs of under-fueling with Rebecca McConville

    You probably *think* you're eating enough. But are you? In today's episode, Dr. Erin Ayala talks with performance dietitian and eating‑disorder specialist Rebecca McConville about Low Energy Availability (LEA) and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED‑S) — and how even athletes (especially female athletes!) who think they're fueling enough might not be for the amount of activity they're doing. Rebecca breaks down the science behind LEA/RED‑S, shares practical strategies for athletes and coaches to identify and prevent under‑fueling, and explains how to create sustainable, performance‑enhancing nutrition plans. Key takeaways: LEA/RED‑S is actually a continuum of under‑fueling that can affect athletes of any size, not just “thin” competitors.Early warning signs include subtle changes in mood, sleep, menstrual cycles, bone health, and performance plateaus.Use the “energy bank” analogy (deposits vs. withdrawals) to understand deficits.Practical fueling hacks: portable “snacker boxes,” energy‑dense smoothies, and scheduled micro‑meals for busy women.A year‑long recovery roadmap (baseline assessment → acute intervention → long‑term monitoring) helps sustain health and performance. Rebecca McConville is a performance dietitian, eating‑disorder specialist, and author of Finding Your Sweet Spot. She helps athletes recognize, diagnose, and treat LEA/RED‑S through evidence‑based nutrition and holistic coaching. Links & Resources Rebecca’s website & email: AskMe@BeccaMcConville.comRead the book: Finding Your Sweet SpotFollow her on Instagram: @rebeccaeddietitian Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr If you found this episode valuable, subscribe to the Feisty Women’s Performance Podcast, leave us a 5‑star review, and share it with fellow athletes or coaches. Follow Rebecca on Instagram for more nutrition tips, and join our community to stay updated on future episodes that highlight thought leaders and subject matter experts in the women’s health & performance space.

    59 min
  4. 4 MAY

    Stop silently suffering through saddle sores with Dr. Melissa Mauskar

    It's a taboo topic too often overlooked in women's cycling: saddle sores. Dr. Melissa Mauskar, a dermatologist specializing in vulvar health, unpacks the medical science behind saddle sores, debunks common myths, and offers practical advice for prevention and treatment. If you've ever Googled "saddle sore remedies" at 2 a.m., this episode is a must-listen—your comfort on the bike depends on it! Key Takeaways: Understand the different types of saddle sores and their causes, including friction and inflammation.What are effective home remedies and when should you seek professional help?The importance of proper saddle fitting and how anatomy affects saddle sore risksAnd don't be afraid to start open conversations about vulvar health and break down stigmas. Dr. Melissa Mauskar is a dermatologist specializing in vulvar health and the treatment of skin conditions among female cyclists. With her expertise, she aims to empower women to discuss these often-taboo topics openly. Episode resources: Follow Dr. Mauskar on Instagram: @drmelissamauskarLearn more about the Feisty Women's Performance Podcast: Feisty Women's Performance If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to our podcast for more valuable insights and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us continue to bring essential conversations to the forefront. Share this episode with someone who could benefit from it so we can normalize discussions about women's health together. Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KvLxR75DAz0 Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1 hr
  5. 27 APR

    What is 'intuitive eating'? And why you should try it with Eden Morris MS, RD, LD

    Eden Morris, a registered dietitian specializing in sports nutrition and intuitive eating counseling, is helping us dive into the culture of nutrition and fueling workouts — and how that can often lead to disordered eating. What is intuitive eating? It's learning to trust your body's cues and adapting a healthier mindset for *your* nutrition needs instead of sticking to rigid rules. Key Takeaways: Understanding intuitive eating and how to incorporate the principles into your routineThe importance of fueling your body effectively for optimal performancePractical strategies for overcoming food fears and building a healthier relationship with nutrition Eden Morris is a registered dietitian and sports nutrition expert who focuses on helping athletes develop a healthy relationship with food. With a background in psychology and nutrition, Eden combines evidence-based practices with personal experiences to empower athletes to thrive both physically and mentally. Links and Resources: Visit Eden's website: Teton Performance NutritionFollow Eden on Instagram: @gardenofeden_rd If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to our podcast for more insights and expert advice. Leave us a review to help others discover our content, and don’t hesitate to connect with us on social media for updates and discussions! Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1hr 10min
  6. 20 APR

    Cannabis isn't what you think anymore with Dr. LaTisha Bader

    Dr. LaTisha Bader, an expert in sport psychology and addiction counseling, goes deep with us into the complexities of cannabis use and its effects on mental health and athletic performance. With the rise in legal marijuana use and a growing number of questions about its impacts on health, what do you need to know? With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bader shares her insights on how cannabis potency has evolved and the implications for athletes and active women. Get the information you need to make informed choices about cannabis use in your life. Why has there been a dramatic increase in cannabis potency?Understand its impact on mental health and athletic performance.The science of endocannabinoid system and how cannabis acts as a "great dysregulator" in the body.And what are the unique effects of cannabis on women, including implications for fertility and menstruation? Dr. LaTisha Bader is a Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Addiction Counselor, and Certified Mental Performance Consultant with over 20 years of experience in the mental health and addiction field. She specializes in helping athletes navigate the complexities of substance use and mental health. If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Engage with us on social media and share your thoughts on this important topic. Your feedback helps us bring more insightful conversations to the community. Links and Resources: • Clear 30 App • Dr. Bader’s Bio and clinical work Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1hr 13min
  7. 13 APR

    The truth about women's health supplements with Dr. Briana Botsford

    Dr. Briana Botsford, a naturopathic doctor and advocate for women's health, helps us dive deep this week into the world of predatory health and fitness marketing. How can you learn to recognize the misleading claims around proprietary blends in the supplement industry? How do you measure the evidence over the marketing hype? Key Takeaways: Understand how to identify and avoid predatory health marketing tactics.Recognize what to look for on supplement labels.Learn how to make informed choices in the wellness space. And know that sometimes prioritizing rest and foundational health practices can be the most effective strategy for optimizing performance and well-being. Dr. Briana Botsford is a naturopathic doctor and clinic owner based in Edmonton, Alberta. With a passion for women's health and sports medicine, she advocates for evidence-informed practices that empower women to take charge of their health and wellness. Links and Resources: Feisty Women's Performance PodcastFollow Dr. Briana on Instagram: @docbribotsDr. Briana's Website: drbrianabotsford.com If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and foster a community focused on empowering women in health and performance. Join us on this journey of informed wellness! Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1hr 6min
  8. 6 APR

    Bone Health Secrets Every Female Athlete Needs with Dr. Stephanie Mundt

    Dr. Stephanie Mundt, a physical therapist and former collegiate runner, shares her expertise on bone health and the often-overlooked issue of bone stress injuries in female athletes. From her personal experiences with injuries and recovery, she provides valuable insights into what truly makes bones healthy and why many athletes suffer from misdiagnoses. Listeners will learn actionable strategies to enhance their bone health and understand the critical link between nutrition, training, and injury prevention. Key Takeaways: Understand the critical role of nutrition and energy availability in maintaining bone health.Learn why female athletes should aim for higher bone density than the general population.Identify the common signs of bone stress injuries and the importance of early detection.Discover effective recovery strategies for high-risk bone injuries and the misconception around rest periods.Gain insights on how to communicate symptoms effectively with healthcare providers to ensure proper diagnosis. Dr. Stephanie Mundt is a physical therapist and researcher specializing in bone health for female athletes. With her background as a collegiate runner, she brings a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, health, and injury prevention. Dr. Mundt is passionate about empowering athletes to understand their bodies and prevent injuries. Links and Resources: Feisty Women's Performance PodcastFollow Dr. Mundt on Instagram: @StephMtDpt If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and create insightful content. Join our community for more tips on health and performance. Join Feisty at the Grand Traverse in Duluth, MN on October 3rd! Use code FEISTY20 for $20 off when you register at https://feisty.co/events/the-grand-traverse Sign up to Receive The Feisty Women's Performance Newsletter: https://feisty.co/newsletters/feisty-womens-performance/ Follow us on Instagram: @feisty_womens_performance Visit the Feisty website at https://feisty.co/ for info on all of our events and podcasts Support our Partners: Eternal: Get 15% off services with code FEISTY15 at https://eternal.co/ Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ PILLAR Performance: use code FEISTY for 15% off first-purchases at https://pillarperformance.shop/, or https://thefeed.com/ for North American listeners. Wahoo: Learn more about Wahoo Fitness Products at: Wahoo: Learn more at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

    1hr 4min

Trailers

About

Tired of fads, quick fixes, and performance advice that wasn’t designed for you? So are we. Feisty Women’s Performance cuts through the noise to bring you credible, science-backed insights to live your best, healthiest, active life. Hosted by Dr. Erin Ayala, this is your go-to resource for tackling the challenges of being an active woman today—whether you’re hoping to PR your next marathon or just trying to understand how much protein women actually need to be eating. We’ll move beyond the male-dominated lens of sport science to deliver honest conversations and actionable advice from women for women, to improve women’s health. Each episode dives deep into one of our four pillars—physiology, nutrition, mental health, and cultural issues—with leading experts to explore topics that are often left undiscussed. If you’re an active woman who cares about your sustainable health, performance growth, and long-term progress, these conversations are for you. No fads, no quick fixes. Just real science and legit experts. Re-launching January 2026.

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