The FIT Woman Podcast

Tania Gustafson

Welcome to the FIT Woman Podcast, where we talk all things food, hormones, metabolism, mindset, and midlife. I’m Tania Gustafson, a globally recognized, award-winning nutritionist and hormone health expert, columnist, and speaker. I created the FIT Method to help women just like you fuel your body, ignite your metabolism and your mind, so you can thrive through every stage of life — especially midlife. FIT Woman podcast is your place to learn how to take back control of your health, hormones, weight, gut health, and mental wellness — without dieting, deprivation, or guilt. Because here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Diets lie, willpower isn’t a strategy, and nothing thrives in a deficit. Each week we’ll dive into real, science-backed conversations, practical strategies and personal stories that help you ditch the survival mode, show up confidently, and thrive again. It’s time to let midlife be your re-launch — because strong is the new sexy, healthy is happy and you deserve the rest of your life to be the best of your life.

  1. 5D AGO

    Skin Deep

    What if the way you apply makeup could actually support your skin — not damage it? In this fascinating episode, Tania is joined by Yolanda Halston, professional makeup artist, beauty industry innovator, and founder of NV Beauty, for a behind-the-scenes look at skin, aging, confidence, and the evolution of beauty. With over 30 years of experience and a portfolio that includes more than 1,000 films, TV shows, editorial shoots, and celebrity clients, Yolanda has seen firsthand what truly works on real skin — and what doesn’t. Her career as a Hollywood makeup artist inspired her to challenge outdated beauty norms and create smarter, skin-respecting solutions that perform at the highest level. Yolanda shares how working with clients undergoing skin treatments pushed her to ask a revolutionary question: How can makeup look flawless without touching or damaging the skin? That curiosity led to category-defining innovations, including the world’s first patented aerosol foundation and the clean, long-wearing LIP PRINT stain. Together, Tania and Yolanda explore the intersection of beauty, skin health, confidence, and self-expression — especially for women navigating aging, sensitivity, and changing skin needs. In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: Why traditional makeup often works against aging or sensitive skin How skin changes over time — and why application matters as much as ingredients The story behind NV Foundation and its breakthrough delivery system Why less friction and cleaner formulas matter for skin health The truth about long-wear lip products and why most dry lips out How beauty can support confidence without covering who you are Why innovation in beauty often comes from empathy, not vanity This episode is perfect for women who care about skin health, want smarter beauty solutions, and believe confidence should feel effortless — not forced. Key Takeaways Great makeup starts with respecting the skin.Application techniques matter just as much as ingredients.Aging skin requires innovation, not heavier coverage.True beauty solutions are born from empathy and experience.Confidence comes from enhancing — not hiding — who you are. About the Guest Yolanda Halston is a professional makeup artist with over three decades of experience in film, television, editorial, and celebrity work. She is the founder of NV Beauty and a category creator in modern makeup application, best known for pioneering the world’s first patented aerosol foundation. Driven by compassion for clients with compromised or sensitive skin, Yolanda redefined how makeup can be applied — delivering flawless results without disrupting the skin barrier. Her innovations, including NV Foundation and LIP PRINT, are trusted by top Hollywood makeup artists and now available to women everywhere.   Connect with Yolanda Website: https://betheenvy.com/Instagram: @yolandahalston -----------------------------------------------------------------------------   Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video at fuelignitethrive.com. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life. Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    53 min
  2. FEB 5

    Post Partum to 7 Figure Earner: What This Mom Did

    What if motherhood didn’t mean putting your dreams on hold — but became the catalyst for building a life of freedom, impact, and abundance? In this powerful episode, Tania is joined by Christina Whiteley, mom of two, entrepreneur, 7-figure network marketing earner, real estate investor, and three-time bestselling author, to share her inspiring journey from the postpartum season of life to becoming a highly successful business leader. Christina opens up about the challenges, mindset shifts, and intentional choices that helped her move through self-doubt, exhaustion, and overwhelm — and into clarity, confidence, and financial independence. Her story is a reminder that success doesn’t come from perfection, hustle, or sacrifice alone, but from alignment, mentorship, and belief in what’s possible. Together, Tania and Christina discuss what it really takes to build a thriving business while raising a family, why personal growth is non-negotiable, and how women can redefine success on their own terms — without burning out or losing themselves in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: Christina’s journey from postpartum motherhood to 7-figure earner The mindset shifts that changed everything for her personally and professionally How mentorship and leadership accelerate growth Why freedom — not hustle — was her true motivation Balancing ambition, family, and self-care without guilt Overcoming fear, comparison, and self-doubt as a woman and mother What sustainable success really looks like behind the scenes Why impact and income can grow together This episode is a must-listen for any woman who knows she wants more — more freedom, more fulfillment, more impact — and is ready to believe that her season doesn’t define her ceiling.   Key Takeaways Your current season does not limit your future potential.Mindset and mentorship matter more than hustle.Success is built through alignment, not burnout.Mothers can create wealth without sacrificing their values or families.Freedom comes from intentional choices, not perfect timing. About the Guest Christina Whiteley is a mom of two, entrepreneur, 7-figure network marketing earner, real estate investor, and three-time bestselling author. She is the host of Freedom-Motivated Podcast, international award winner for business mentorship, leadership, and philanthropy, and currently serves as VP of Sales and Client Success for The Millionaire Maker with Danelle Delgado. Christina is passionate about empowering women to build businesses, confidence, and financial independence while creating lives they don’t need a break from.   Connect with Christina Website & Links: http://christinawhiteley.com/links   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video at fuelignitethrive.com. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    54 min
  3. JAN 29

    Gut Health, Hormones & Midlife

    Midlife brings powerful hormonal shifts—and for many women, those changes show up first in the gut. In this episode, Tania Gustafson sits down with Dr. Anna Toker, board-certified colorectal surgeon and gut health educator, to unpack the critical connection between digestive health, hormones, metabolism, and overall wellness during midlife. With over 30 years of experience as both a microbiologist and surgeon, Dr. Toker brings a unique perspective to digestive health — one that goes far beyond symptom management. She explains why so many women experience digestive disruption during perimenopause and menopause, how hormonal shifts impact the gut and microbiome, and what women can do now to support long-term health and vitality. Together, Tania and Dr. Toker cut through confusion and normalize conversations around digestion, hormones, and metabolism, giving women practical education instead of dismissal or quick fixes. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why gut health is foundational to hormone balance in midlife How estrogen changes affect digestion, bloating, and inflammation The connection between gut health, blood sugar, and stubborn midlife weight Why digestive symptoms are often ignored — and why they shouldn’t be How stress and the nervous system directly impact the gut Simple nutrition and lifestyle shifts that support digestive health When symptoms are common vs. when they’re warning signs Why gut health is about prevention, not just treatment This episode is a must-listen if you’ve been dealing with unexplained digestive changes, low energy, or feeling “off” in midlife and want science-backed clarity instead of guesswork.   Key Takeaways Gut health and hormones are deeply connected.Digestive symptoms are signals — not something to push through.Midlife requires smarter support, not restriction or extremes.Blood sugar balance plays a major role in gut and metabolic health.Education is one of the most powerful tools for long-term wellness.   About the Guest Dr. Anna Toker is a board-certified colorectal surgeon at Methodist Hospital, known for her excellent outcomes in robotic colorectal surgery and her passion for digestive wellness education. With more than 30 years of experience as a microbiologist and surgeon, Dr. Toker is dedicated to helping people understand how nutrition and gut health impact overall wellness and long-term health. She is the founder of Gut Check, an online email subscription offering weekly educational content, videos, emergency broadcasts on timely digestive topics, and live Q&A sessions. Dr. Toker also serves on medical advisory boards for innovative wellness companies and is a sought-after voice in gut health education across social media.   Connect with Dr. Anna Toker Website: https://drannatoker.com/Instagram: @drannatokerGut Check Program: https://drannatoker.com/gut-check-signup   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video at fuelignitethrive.com. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    1h 10m
  4. JAN 22

    Building Muscle in Midlife and Why It's So Important

    What if getting older didn’t mean slowing down — but getting stronger, more confident, and more energized than ever? In this motivating episode, Tania is joined by Coach Stephanie Sharp Ward, Certified Personal Trainer, Health Coach, Nutritionist, and Founder of Train Strong Fit. At 58, Coach Steph is living proof that age is not a limitation when you learn how to train, fuel, and care for your body the right way. Steph shares her personal transformation story, from feeling stressed, stuck, and 25 pounds heavier in her early 40s to rediscovering her strength, energy, and passion for fitness. That journey inspired her life’s work of helping women build strong, healthy bodies through sustainable fitness, balanced nutrition, and mindset shifts that actually last. Together, Tania and Steph talk about what it really takes to feel good in your body through midlife and beyond, and why strength training, consistency, and self-belief are non-negotiables for long-term health. In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: Why strength training is essential as we age How stress, lifestyle changes, and desk jobs impact weight and energy The mindset shifts that help women stay consistent long term Why it is never too late to transform your health How to approach nutrition without restriction or crash dieting The role of accountability and community in lasting change How to train strong without burnout or extremes Steph’s energy, honesty, and real-life experience make this episode both inspiring and practical for women at every stage of their health journey.   Key Takeaways Strength is the foundation of healthy aging. Consistency beats intensity every time. Balanced nutrition fuels energy, hormones, and confidence. Stress management matters just as much as workouts. It is never too late to feel strong, capable, and empowered.   About the Guest Stephanie Sharp Ward is a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Health Coach, Nutritionist, Functional and Sports Training Specialist, PFC Lifestyle Coach, and founder of Train Strong Fit. She has over 14 years of experience helping women transform their health through fitness, nutrition education, and sustainable lifestyle habits. After her own powerful transformation in her 40s, Steph dedicated her life to coaching women in simple, realistic approaches that create real results. Since founding Train Strong Fit in 2014, she has coached hundreds of women both in person and online, building a supportive community focused on strength, confidence, and longevity.   Connect with Coach Steph Website: coachstephward.com Facebook: facebook.com/coachstephward Instagram: @coachstephward   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video at fuelignitethrive.com. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania   For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    34 min
  5. JAN 15

    Peptides: What You Need to Know

    Peptides are everywhere right now - but what are they really, and how do you know if they’re right for you? In this eye-opening episode, Tania is joined by Mandy White Eskelin, retired celebrity trainer, holistic nutrition expert, and gut health specialist, to break down the truth about peptides and their role in midlife health, metabolism, and body transformation. Now 50 and a mother of two, Mandy brings both lived experience and deep expertise to this conversation. After years in the fitness industry and her own evolution through midlife, she is passionate about helping women biohack their bodies, reignite confidence, and restore metabolic function in a way that actually supports hormones - not stressing them further. Together, Tania and Mandy cut through the noise and explain peptides in a clear, grounded, and practical way so women can make informed decisions instead of chasing trends. In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: What peptides are and how they work in the body Why peptides are gaining traction for midlife women The difference between hype and evidence-based use How peptides can support metabolism, muscle, recovery, and fat loss The importance of gut health and nutrition alongside peptides Who peptides may be helpful for — and who should slow down Why peptides are a tool, not a magic fix This episode is a must-listen if you’ve been curious about peptides but overwhelmed by conflicting information or social media promises.   Key Takeaways Peptides can support metabolic health, but they are not a shortcut.Hormone balance, gut health, and nutrition must come first.Midlife bodies need smarter strategies, not more extremes.Biohacking works best when it supports the nervous system.Confidence and results come from alignment, not quick fixes.   About the Guest Mandy White Eskelin is a retired celebrity trainer of 15 years, holistic nutrition expert, and gut health specialist. Now 50 and a mom of two, Mandy specializes in helping women in midlife biohack their bodies, reignite confidence, and fire up their metabolism in a sustainable way. She is the founder of Reignite Her, a transformation program designed to support women through midlife with smart training, strategic nutrition, and metabolic restoration — not burnout. Mandy is currently launching her Reignite Her 8-Week Total Body Transformation, an elite group coaching experience for women ready to feel strong, energized, and confident again.   Connect with Mandy IG @mandy_white_eskelin https://www.instagram.com/mandy_white_eskelin?igsh=dHpiY3R0NmphdWpt FB https://www.facebook.com/share/1BgGKNDUL3/?mibextid=wwXIfr   —--------------------------------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life. Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    1h 7m
  6. JAN 8

    Mastering Metabolism in Menopause, The Fat Loss Formula

    In this powerful and science-backed episode, Tania sits down with menopause metabolism expert Shannon O’Gorman to break down what fat loss really looks like in perimenopause and menopause — and why the old rules no longer apply. With over 25 years of experience as a Kinesiologist, Exercise Physiologist, and Menopause Transformation Coach, Shannon shares both her professional expertise and her deeply personal journey through severe hormonal imbalance, gut dysfunction, burnout, and stubborn weight gain. Her story - and her method - offers hope and clarity to women who feel frustrated, confused, or stuck in their bodies during midlife. Together, Tania and Shannon unpack the Fat Loss Formula for Menopause, focusing on how to rebuild muscle, restore metabolic health, and rebalance hormones without restriction, overtraining, or chasing the scale. This conversation is empowering, validating, and practical — especially for women who are doing “all the right things” but not seeing results. In this episode, you’ll hear them discuss: Why traditional fat loss strategies stop working in menopause The critical role of muscle-building for metabolism, longevity, and confidence How gut health and inflammation impact fat loss and hormone balance The connection between stress, the nervous system, and stalled results Why habit-based self-care beats willpower every time How to rebuild trust with your body and feel powerful again in midlife Shannon’s approach is a reminder that menopause is not a breakdown -it’s an invitation to rebuild smarter, stronger, and more sustainably. Key Takeaways: Muscle is medicine. Strength training is non-negotiable in midlife.Fat loss starts with restoration, not restriction.Gut health and inflammation matter more than calories alone.Regulating stress is essential for hormone balance and results.Consistency and self-care create lasting transformation.   About the Guest Shannon O’Gorman is a Kinesiologist, Exercise Physiologist, and Menopause Transformation Coach with over 25 years of experience helping women rebuild strength, restore metabolic and hormone health, and reclaim confidence in their bodies. After overcoming her own journey with perimenopause, gut and digestive issues, burnout, and weight gain, Shannon dedicated her work to helping women master their metabolism through muscle-building, gut optimization, nervous system regulation, and science-backed habit change. She runs the global online coaching program The Strong & COREageous Life, owns Fit & Fueled Fitness in Kelowna, BC, and partners with Amare Global to support holistic bone, brain, muscle, hormone, and mental wellness. Her mantra says it all:“When you have the courage to transform, you unlock the door to reclaim your power — body, mind, and soul.” Connect with Shannon O’Gorman Website: www.shannonogormancoaching.comInstagram: @shannon_ogorman_Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitandfueledfitness/   ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    1 hr
  7. JAN 1

    Tania's New Year Invite

    In this timely New Year episode, Tania invites you to step off the resolution rollercoaster and approach your health with clarity, intention, and compassion. Instead of jumping into restriction, detoxes, or punishing routines, this conversation focuses on what actually creates lasting change in midlife health. Tania breaks down why most New Year plans fail, how diet culture keeps women stuck in cycles of guilt and burnout, and what it really means to build a strong foundation for your hormones, metabolism, and mindset. New Year, New You? Don’t buy into the lie. You don’t need a new you, you just need a New Plan.  This episode is a powerful reset for women who are ready to stop starting over and start moving forward in a way that feels sustainable, supportive, and aligned with real life. In this episode, Tania covers: Why New Year’s resolutions so often backfire for women in midlife The hidden cost of restriction on hormones, energy, and consistency How to set health goals that support blood sugar, metabolism, and mental health The importance of focusing on foundations instead of extremes How to shift from “I’ll be good this year” to realistic, repeatable habits What it looks like to create momentum without pressure or perfection This episode is a reminder that your health does not need a reset. It needs nourishment, consistency, and trust. Key Takeaways Healthy change is built on foundations, not force.Consistency matters more than intensity.Restriction creates stress, not results.Progress comes from supporting your body, not fighting it.   —--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    38 min
  8. 12/18/2025

    Endo Warrior: Alexa's Journey

    In this deeply honest and heartfelt episode, Tania sits down with Alexa Anderson, an Endo Warrior and co-creator of the Women’s Health Collective, to unpack the emotional, physical, and often invisible battle that comes with endometriosis. Alexa opens up about her long journey navigating chronic pain, fertility challenges, medical dismissal, and the emotional toll that so many women silently shoulder. Her story is raw, real, and incredibly relatable for anyone who has ever felt unheard or misunderstood in their health journey. Together, Tania and Alexa dive into why so many women are left without answers for far too long — and what true support, advocacy, and community can look like when women finally begin sharing their experiences openly. In this episode, you’ll hear: Alexa’s personal journey with endometriosis and the years she spent searching for answers How chronic pain, hormonal imbalance, and fertility struggles impacted her relationships, identity, and emotional well-being The profound difference it makes when women feel seen, believed, and supported Why women’s health conditions remain misunderstood — and how that’s finally starting to change What inspired Alexa and her co-founder to build the Women’s Health Collective, a safe space for open conversation and community How connection, vulnerability, and education are helping women navigate healing on every level — mind, body, and soul The power of advocating for your health, trusting your intuition, and refusing to settle for “this is just how it is” Alexa’s courage and openness remind us that women deserve to be heard, supported, and believed — and that healing becomes possible when we stop going through it alone.  Key Takeaways You’re not “too sensitive.” You’re not imagining it. Women’s pain is real — and deserves proper attention, diagnosis, and support. Community is medicine. When women share their experiences, it reduces shame and creates pathways to solutions. Your intuition matters. If something feels off, keep pushing for answers. Your body is speaking to you. Healing is multifaceted. Emotional support, nervous-system work, and community can be just as important as medical treatment. Connect with Alexa Anderson Instagram: • Personal: @alexaranderson • Women’s Health Collective: @healthwellness_collective Follow along to learn about upcoming events, hear more real conversations, or inquire about speaking opportunities. About the Guest Alexa Anderson is an Endo Warrior and co-leader of the Women’s Health Collective, an initiative dedicated to creating safe spaces for women to share, connect, and heal through honest conversation. After navigating her own long and emotional journey with endometriosis and fertility challenges, Alexa felt called to support other women walking similar paths. Her work centers on connection, vulnerability, emotional safety, and building community around women’s health. —--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Thanks for tuning in to the FIT Woman Podcast. Remember, nothing thrives in a deficit — not your body, not your hormones, and not your mindset. You deserve to feel strong, energized, and confident through every stage of life.If you’re ready to ditch the diets and deprivation and finally take back control of your health, hormones, weight and happiness, watch my free video. It’s the perfect next step to fueling your body, igniting your metabolism and your mind, so you can step into midlife with confidence, and thrive.Because healthy is happy, strong is the new sexy, and the rest of your life truly can be the best of your life.   Hugs,Tania For daily tips and inspiration, follow Tania on social:  FB  |  IG  |   YouTube

    48 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the FIT Woman Podcast, where we talk all things food, hormones, metabolism, mindset, and midlife. I’m Tania Gustafson, a globally recognized, award-winning nutritionist and hormone health expert, columnist, and speaker. I created the FIT Method to help women just like you fuel your body, ignite your metabolism and your mind, so you can thrive through every stage of life — especially midlife. FIT Woman podcast is your place to learn how to take back control of your health, hormones, weight, gut health, and mental wellness — without dieting, deprivation, or guilt. Because here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Diets lie, willpower isn’t a strategy, and nothing thrives in a deficit. Each week we’ll dive into real, science-backed conversations, practical strategies and personal stories that help you ditch the survival mode, show up confidently, and thrive again. It’s time to let midlife be your re-launch — because strong is the new sexy, healthy is happy and you deserve the rest of your life to be the best of your life.