Don’t F*kn Shrink: Health for High-Achieving Women

Daffney Allwein: Performance Physiologist
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Mental Health

Success shouldn't cost you your health. For years, women have been taught to push through stress. But what if that's exactly what's holding you back? Don't F*kn Shrink is the podcast for high-achieving women who want to perform at their best without sacrificing their health, relationships, or identity. Hosted by performance physiologist Daffney Allwein, each episode explores the science behind sustainable performance; from nervous system regulation and stress recovery to strength, longevity, leadership, and the psychology of ambition. Whether you're leading a company, raising a family, building a career, or navigating midlife, you'll learn how to work with your body instead of against it so you can show up with more energy, confidence, and clarity Because success isn't about shrinking yourself to fit your life. It's about building a life where you never have to. Subscribe and join thousands of women who are redefining what success looks like - one grounded, sustainable step at a time. If an episode resonates with you, share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more women discover the tools they need to lead, perform, and thrive. liftprowellness.com/podcast

  1. 2d ago

    59: Burnout Is Not a Requirement for Success: 4 Steps to Stop Hustling and Start Thriving

    Send us Fan Mail What if burnout isn't the price you have to pay for success? In this episode of Don't F*kn Shrink, I'm challenging the hustle culture that has convinced so many women that doing more means being more. I'm sharing my four-step framework—Stabilize, Energize, Plan, and Practice—to help you protect your energy, prioritize your health, and create sustainable success without sacrificing yourself along the way. If you're a high-achieving woman who's tired of chasing productivity and ready to build a life that actually feels as good as it looks, this conversation is for you. You don't have to hustle harder. You get to choose differently. And you don't have to f*kn shrink. Listen now and share this episode with a woman who's ready to redefine success. Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  2. Oct 9

    58: Mastering Body Image and Confidence

    Send us Fan Mail "We're all just ten pounds from perfect."  But as Daffney Allwein and Jenny Schatzle discuss, our body image can often hold us back from living authentically. In this engaging conversation, Jenny, a seasoned fitness expert and motivational speaker, dives into the complexities of body image, confidence, and the importance of community in personal growth. The Journey to Confidence Jenny Schatzle’s journey began at just 19 years old when she started working at Gold's Gym. She quickly transitioned from front desk duties to personal training, discovering her passion for helping others transform not just their bodies but their lives. "I wasn't in the fitness business; I was in the confidence business," she shares, emphasizing how fitness can lead to personal empowerment. Building Community One of the core messages Jenny conveys is the significance of community. "We never wanted to start a gym; we wanted to start a community," she states. This community-focused approach allowed women to feel safe, loved, and seen—essential elements for personal growth. The impact of this is profound, as Jenny explains how women often take newfound confidence from the gym into their daily lives, leading to career advancements and improved personal relationships. "When you show up as your authentic self, you give other women permission to do the same." Overcoming Negative Feedback Jenny also touches on her experience with public speaking, particularly her TED Talks. The first, centered on body image, reinforced the idea that "the perfect body is the one you already have." However, the aftermath of sharing her message was challenging. She recalls her business partner's advice: "Whatever you do, do not read the comments." Yet, curiosity got the better of her, and she found herself spiraling into negativity, which led to her second TED Talk addressing the very issue of how we allow others' opinions to affect our self-worth. The Role of Sobriety In a deeply personal moment, Jenny shares her 13-year journey of sobriety, attributing it as a cornerstone of her success. She believes that issues like alcoholism and body image are interconnected, stemming from a desire for fulfillment. "We all have our thing," she notes, highlighting that whether it's alcohol, food, or social media, these behaviors often lead to unfulfilled lives. Moving Forward Ultimately, Jenny emphasizes the importance of awareness and action. Recognizing what keeps us small and learning to break those patterns are crucial steps toward living authentically. "It's not about never feeling insecure; it's about knowing how to redirect when those feelings arise." As Daffney and Jenny wrap up their conversation, they invite listeners to reflect on their own journeys and how they can create supportive communities that encourage authenticity and growth. If you're looking for inspiration to embrace your true self, this conversation is a must-listen. Connect with Jenny Schatzle https://www.jennyschatzle.com instagram.com/jennyschatzle 🙋🏻‍♀️ Connect with Daffney: Podcast: https://dontfknshrink.buzzsprout.com Instagram: @daffneyallwein   @dontfknshrinkpodcast Website: https://liftprowellness.com LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/daffney-allwein 👉 Schedule YOUR Game Changer consult: https://calendly.com/liftprowellness-info/the-game-changer-consult?utm_campaign=button_list_RequestAConsultation&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=later-linkinbio&month=2025-10 Get the merch here. https://dfs-podcast-store.printify.me/ Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  3. Oct 2

    57: Lets get Visible! Real strategy for Showing up and Standing out

    Send us Fan Mail "What does being seen feel like in your body?" Scary, uncomfortable, vulnerable or Empowering?! In this conversation, Daffney Allwein and Jen Johannsen explore the transformative journey from dentistry to political consulting, emphasizing the importance of ethical influence in communication, navigating vulnerability, and the quest for authenticity. Jen shares her experiences with visibility, self-perception, and the impact of mentorship on her business model, highlighting the significance of finding meaning beyond external success. In this conversation, Jen Johannsen and Daffney Allwein explore the themes of building sustainable business models, empowering women through connection, and the importance of collaboration over competition. They discuss defining personal success, the role of curiosity in growth, and the journey to authenticity. The dialogue emphasizes the need for women to step out of societal hierarchies and engage in meaningful conversations that challenge norms, ultimately leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. 00:00 From Dentistry to Political Consulting: A Journey of Transformation 03:03 The Power of Ethical Influence in Communication 06:01 Navigating Vulnerability and Visibility 09:00 Understanding the Impact of Visibility on Self-Perception 12:00 The Journey to Authenticity and Self-Discovery 14:46 Finding Meaning Beyond External Success 17:56 Mentorship and the Path to Efficient Business Models 20:21 Building a Sustainable Business Model 22:01 Empowering Women Through Connection 23:28 The Importance of Collaboration Over Competition 28:40 Defining Personal Success and Healthy Enoughness 32:43 Curiosity as a Tool for Growth 35:56 Authenticity in Conversations 38:46 Challenging Societal Norms 50:09 The Journey to Authenticity Connect with Dr. Jen Johannsen https://grounded-now.com/ instagram.com/jenjohannsen Connect with Daffney: Podcast: https://dontfknshrink.buzzsprout.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifthearted/ Website: https://liftprowellness.com Get the merch here. https://dfs-podcast-store.printify.me/ Schedule a Game Changer consult: https://calendly.com/liftprowellness-info/the-game-changer-consult?utm_campaign=button_list_RequestAConsultation&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=later-linkinbio&month=2025-10 Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  4. Sep 25

    56: What the Lindsay Clancy Trial Reveals About Postpartum Mental Health

    Send us Fan Mail The six-week checkup is over. The meal train has stopped. Maybe you’re back at work. So why does everyone expect you to be fine? Against the backdrop of the Lindsay Clancy trial, Daffney talks with postpartum therapist and clinical sexologist Ashley Odom-Rodrigues about the stretch of motherhood that often gets the least support. She explains why the three-to-four-month mark can be especially difficult, how sleep loss and returning to work can affect mental health, and why asking for help can feel so hard. Connect with Dr. Ashley Odom-Rodrigues: ashleyrodrigueswellness.com instagram.com/ashleyodomrodrigues In This Episode: (02:30) Why postpartum struggles may surface months after birth(06:45) The gap between a six-week checkup and ongoing mental health support(10:30) Sleep deprivation, breastfeeding changes, and the pressure to return to work(17:20) Small moments of connection that help relationships through early parenthood Connect with Daffney: liftprowellness.com Instagram | YouTube | Merch Your body is talking. This Free 2-Minute Quiz can help you pinpoint what’s draining your energy, impacting your health, and keeping you stuck. The Game-Changer Consult → This 60 min deep dive offers you clarity and insight into what’s possible for your next 60 days. Leave this consult feeling full of possibility and with the energy of purpose! Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  5. Sep 18

    55: How Stress Shows Up in Your Body (and What to Do About It)

    Send us Fan Mail That neck tension, pounding headache, or pain that shows up during a workout isn’t something to blindly push through. Daffney explains how stress can reveal itself through posture and movement, how to tell the difference between pain and normal exercise discomfort, and why reconnecting with your body is essential for building strength without running yourself into the ground.  If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or like your body is waving a red flag? Take Daffney’s free two-minute quiz to uncover what may be holding back your health, energy, and performance. → Take The Quiz In This Episode: (01:00) How stress and nervous-system patterns can affect posture and movement(02:00) What “coat-hanger pain” may be telling you about your body(05:30) Why intentional strength becomes increasingly important after 35(08:30) The difference between pain, fatigue, and exercise discomfort(10:00) When to modify a movement, take a break, or seek professional support Connect with Daffney: liftprowellness.com Instagram | YouTube | Merch Subscribe to Daffney’s monthly newsletter for health and performance tips! The Game-Changer Consult → This 60 min deep dive offers you clarity and insight into what’s possible for your next 60 days. Leave this consult feeling full of possibility and with the energy of purpose! Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  6. Sep 11

    54: Fascia Explained: The Connection Between Stored Emotions and Chronic Pain

    Send us Fan Mail What if the tension you’ve been carrying isn’t “just tight muscles”? Maria Alfieris, founder of Magical Hands Physical Therapy, talks all things fascia, emotional release, and the connection between what we suppress and what the body may continue to hold. She unpacks self-responsibility, alternative healing modalities, and what can happen when you stop ignoring your body and finally give yourself permission to let some sh*t go. Connect with Maria Alfieris: magicalhandshealing.com instagram.com/magicalhandsphysicaltherapy In This Episode: (01:00) What fascia is and how it connects different parts of the body(05:00) The potential relationship between emotional experiences and physical tension(10:00) Treating the whole person instead of focusing on one painful body part(14:30) Daffney’s unexpected emotional release during a fascia workshop(17:05) Taking responsibility for your healing without expecting someone else to “fix” you Connect with Daffney: liftprowellness.com Instagram | YouTube | Merch Your body is talking. This Free 2-Minute Quiz can help you pinpoint what’s draining your energy, impacting your health, and keeping you stuck. The Game-Changer Consult → This 60 min deep dive offers you clarity and insight into what’s possible for your next 60 days. Leave this consult feeling full of possibility and with the energy of purpose! Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  7. Sep 4

    53: How She Lost 180 Pounds and Took Her Life Back

    Send us Fan Mail At 47, Dr. Marianne Pinkston-Mueller was 300 pounds, battling serious health conditions, and exhausted from putting everyone else first. Then she made a decision: enough. She joins Daffney to share how she lost 180 pounds, rebuilt her health, transformed her relationship with food, and created a life that finally felt like her own. If you know a woman who is ready to stop putting herself last and start fighting for her health, send her this episode. She doesn’t have to do it alone and neither do you. Connect with Dr. Marianne Pinkston-Mueller: Drpbetterlife.com In This Episode: (01:20) Why your 40s can become the ultimate “F-you” chapter(03:10) The connection between chronic stress, self-abandonment, and your health(08:20) Losing 180 pounds without relying on perfection(14:50) Why meaningful transformation requires the right support(18:30) Choosing yourself even when it disappoints other people Connect with Daffney: liftprowellness.com Instagram | YouTube | Merch Your body is talking. This Free 2-Minute Quiz can help you pinpoint what’s draining your energy, impacting your health, and keeping you stuck. The Game-Changer Consult → This 60 min deep dive offers you clarity and insight into what’s possible for your next 60 days. Leave this consult feeling full of possibility and with the energy of purpose! Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

  8. Aug 28

    52: Tired, Wired, and Gaining Weight? Let’s Talk About Cortisol

    Send us Fan Mail Cortisol is getting blamed for everything; from stubborn weight gain and sleepless nights to anxiety, exhaustion, and burnout. But is cortisol actually the problem, or is the internet selling you another quick fix? Adrian Thompson breaks down what high and low cortisol really look like, why “adrenal fatigue” isn’t as straightforward as social media makes it sound, and when your symptoms deserve a closer look. If you’re tired, wired, overwhelmed, or convinced you need a cortisol detox, listen to this before buying another supplement. Connect with Denise Tallcott: vidawomenshealth.com instagram.com/vida_womenshealth In This Episode: (01:20) What cortisol is and why your body needs it(03:20) Signs of high vs low cortisol(06:40) How cortisol should fluctuate throughout the day(10:15) Why cortisol testing isn’t always reliable(15:15) The truth about adrenal fatigue, supplements, and lifestyle changes Connect with Daffney: liftprowellness.com Instagram | YouTube | Merch Your body is talking. This Free 2-Minute Quiz can help you pinpoint what’s draining your energy, impacting your health, and keeping you stuck. The Game-Changer Consult → This 60 min deep dive offers you clarity and insight into what’s possible for your next 60 days. Leave this consult feeling full of possibility and with the energy of purpose! Thanks for being a part of our community! It would be an incredible honor to have you review our show. And Sharing IS Caring. Please share this episode to start an important health conversations with the women you love and support in your life. Lets not F*kn Shrink, together.

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Success shouldn't cost you your health. For years, women have been taught to push through stress. But what if that's exactly what's holding you back? Don't F*kn Shrink is the podcast for high-achieving women who want to perform at their best without sacrificing their health, relationships, or identity. Hosted by performance physiologist Daffney Allwein, each episode explores the science behind sustainable performance; from nervous system regulation and stress recovery to strength, longevity, leadership, and the psychology of ambition. Whether you're leading a company, raising a family, building a career, or navigating midlife, you'll learn how to work with your body instead of against it so you can show up with more energy, confidence, and clarity Because success isn't about shrinking yourself to fit your life. It's about building a life where you never have to. Subscribe and join thousands of women who are redefining what success looks like - one grounded, sustainable step at a time. If an episode resonates with you, share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more women discover the tools they need to lead, perform, and thrive. liftprowellness.com/podcast

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