Fit for Real Life with Virginia

Virginia
  • 5.0 (5)
  • NUTRITION

Fit for Real Life with Virginia is the podcast for women who want sustainable health, confident energy, and real-life results—without perfection, obsession, or starting over every Monday.  Hosted by Virginia, Faster Way coach, wife, mom of two, travel-lover, and working professional, this show teaches simple, science-backed habits that fit into your actual life. Whether you're juggling career and carpool, rebuilding your health journey, or craving energy that lasts, you’ll find honesty, humor, and doable strategies here. This is wellness for the woman who wants her healthiest years to start now.

  1. 2D AGO

    A Real Conversation About Bodies, Confidence, and Life with Liz from the Midsize Optimize

    Send us a text In this episode of Fit for Real Life, I’m joined by Liz from The Mid Size Optimize for a conversation that feels honest, grounding, and refreshingly real. Liz creates content that cuts through the noise of extreme fitness, unrealistic beauty standards, and performative confidence. We talk about how we connected, why her work feels so steady and supportive, and what it looks like to show up fully in a real body while balancing two jobs, fitness goals, and everyday life. We dive into her running journey, how movement supports her confidence and mental health, and what she’s learning about balance, consistency, and self trust. Liz also shares where she finds inspiration, what she’s working toward in 2026, and how she stays grounded in a space that can feel loud and overwhelming. This conversation is for anyone who wants to feel more at home in their body, less pressured to fix themselves, and more supported as they move through real life with confidence and care. You’ll walk away feeling like you just talked with a friend who truly gets it. Liz can be found on IG: https://www.instagram.com/themidsizeoptimize/ TikTok: themidsizeoptimize1 I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    1h 5m

  2. JAN 5

    Travel More & Better With Melissa Barronton From Sunshine Travelers Podcast

    Send us a text In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Barronton from the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, a source I’ve come to trust for practical, real world travel advice. I first discovered Melissa and her husband Scott through their podcast and Instagram and never expected them to respond when I sent a question during their Egypt trip question box. They not only replied, but thoughtfully answered my son’s questions too, and I’ve been hooked ever since. We talk about what travel looks like beyond highlight reels. Melissa shares the trips that shaped her most, what 2025 taught her about how she wants to travel in 2026, and how Sunshine Travelers helps people plan confident, thoughtful trips through their podcast, destination guides, packing resources, and travel planning services. This episode is especially for anyone who wants to travel smarter and safer while still visiting dream destinations. We cover driving internationally, personal safety, tech security, and how to make big trips feel manageable for families, couples, and solo travelers.  Some of my personal favorite resources they share are their packing and planning guides, and the deals they share through their Travel Deal Insiders!  Where to find Sunshine Travelers: Sunshine Travelers Podcast searchable here: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast More Destinations on the Sunshine Travelers Blog: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog For trip planning https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/plan-your-trip Follow our travels on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/ Travel Deal Insiders: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/newsletters/2147703369/subscribe I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    1h 33m

  3. 12/30/2025

    The In Between Week - Mini Episode 3

    Send us a text From In-Between to Intentional: Choosing Consistency Over Another Restart This week between Christmas and New Year’s can feel awkward — not quite holiday, not quite “back to normal.” And for a lot of women, it’s where consistency quietly slips away. In this episode, I’m building on what we talked about in Episode 2: staying on track isn’t about perfection or willpower — it’s about having simple anchors you can return to. I’m sharing how I personally approach this in-between season so January doesn’t feel like another reset, but a natural continuation of progress. You’ll hear: Why consistency isn’t a streak — it’s a practiceHow I simplify food and movement during unstructured weeksThe small anchors I rely on when motivation is lowWhy support and structure matter more than disciplineAnd how to move into January already feeling groundedI’m also sharing one of my go-to, realistic meals — Crockpot Protein Oats — because consistency starts with meals that actually work in real life. If you don’t want another “start over” next week, this episode is for you. 🍓 Bonus Recipe: Crockpot Protein Oats (Simple, balanced, and perfect for busy mornings) This is one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts when life feels full. It’s warm, satisfying, high-protein, and easy to portion — exactly what I lean on when consistency matters more than variety. Base: 3 cups rolled oats6 cups milk (or half milk / half water)2 tbsp basil seeds1 tsp saltProtein — choose ONE: 👉 Protein powder: 2 cups total (≈ 25g protein per serving)👉 Greek yogurt: Optional, 3 cups total, (stir in after cooking) basil seeds + salt to crockpotCook LOW 6–7 hoursCool 10 minutesStir in proteinPortion for the week or freezerHow to add fruit 🍓 Frozen fruit → stir in after cookingFresh fruit → add after reheatingSkip freezing bananas (trust me)Add a splash of milk when reheating if it thickensHigh protein. Zero morning stress. One less decision all week 🙌 Why This Works This meal supports: Protein first (a FASTer Way core principle)Blood sugar balanceSatiety and energyConsistency without overthinkingIt’s not fancy — it’s functional. And that’s the point. I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    9 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    The In Between Week - Mini Episode 2

    Send us a text 🎙️ Episode 2: Eating Without Tracking — Using the PPP Plate (Protein • Produce • Pleasure) The week between Christmas and New Year’s can make tracking food feel overwhelming — but not tracking can feel just as stressful. In this episode, I share how I eat without logging a single bite and still feel grounded, confident, and in control. I walk you through the PPP plate (Protein, Produce, Pleasure) — a simple, realistic framework I use during busy, food-filled weeks when routines are off and perfection isn’t the goal. This approach helps you navigate parties, potlucks, and everyday meals with intention instead of guilt, while still supporting energy, fullness, and consistency. To make this week easier, I’m sharing two of my go-to recipes that align perfectly with the PPP method — one fresh, satisfying salad and one cozy, low-effort crockpot soup you can rely on when decision fatigue is high. Recipes Featured in This Episode 🥗 Thai Chicken Peanut Salad This is one of my favorite balanced meals when I want something flavorful and filling without overthinking food. Thai Chicken Peanut Salad – 30g protein, packed with flavor, ready in 3 minutes. Sauce (choose one): Trader Joe’s shortcut: 2 tbsp Trader Joe’s Peanut Sauce thinned with 2 tbsp waterDIY: 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp tamari, 2 tbsp waterToss with 2/3c coleslaw mix, 15g cucumber, 15g red bell pepper, green onion, and 5 oz cooked chicken breast. Dice, toss, and enjoy!   Time saver: Cook once, eat twice. 🍲 Bonus Crockpot Soup (Low-Effort, High Return) I’ve included a simple crockpot soup recipe in the show notes for days when you want a nourishing dinner without spending time in the kitchen. Protein: lean chickenProduce: vegetables that cook down into a comforting, hearty baseEase: minimal prep, dump-and-go, and great for leftoversThis is the kind of meal that supports consistency during busy weeks — warm, grounding, and satisfying without feeling heavy. Easy Gluten-Free Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup This cozy, dump-and-go crockpot soup brings all the classic chicken parmesan flavors — without the breading and completely gluten-free. It’s perfect for busy weeks, meal prep, or when you want comfort food with minimal effort. Why you’ll love it: Gluten-freeSlow cooker friendlyMinimal prepFamily-approved comfort foodIngredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)1 (24 oz) jar gluten-free marinara sauce4 cups gluten-free chicken broth I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    13 min

  5. 12/28/2025

    The In Between Week - Mini Episode 1

    Send us a text You’re Not Behind — You’re in the In-Between I'm launching 3 mini podcast episodes for this in between week between Christmas, and New Years! Each will include actionable items you can use in your everyday life, plus a balance meal recipe that you can easily make! This week isn’t a failure — it’s a bridge. In this episode, I reframe the space between Christmas and New Year’s and talk about how to stay consistent without tracking, perfection, or pressure. You’ll walk away with simple anchors and one nourishing meal to bring you back to baseline. What You’ll Learn: Why this week feels mentally harder than the holidays themselvesHow to maintain progress without “resetting”The power of one anchor habit per dayA simple breakfast that grounds your energyMeal Mentioned: Overnight Protein Oats – Ready When You Are Start your morning strong with this simple, protein-packed breakfast. In a bowl or container, whisk together: 1/4 c rolled oats1/2 peeled banana (reserve some for topping)1 tsp Basil or Chia seeds3/4 c Unsweetened almond milkMaple syrupFaster Way Vanilla Protein Powder1 1/2 tsp walnutsCover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with sliced banana and chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Boom — breakfast is served! Nutrition Highlights: 388 calories, 28g protein, 9g fiber, 12g sugar, plus vitamins and minerals to kickstart your day. Pro Tip: Cook once, eat three times! Triple the batch and enjoy this easy meal all week long. I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    13 min

  6. 12/22/2025

    Travel Spain Authentically with Abby Gray from Experience España Part 2

    Send us a text In this episode of Fit for Real Life, I welcome back Spain travel expert Abby Gray of Experience España for a deeper conversation about travel that truly stays with you. With decades of lived experience in Spain, Abby shares why meaningful travel can’t be planned by an algorithm — and why no computer search can replace human insight, cultural understanding, and real connection. She reflects on the feedback she hears from adult travelers and high school students who experience Spain through her slower, more intentional approach — one rooted in relationships, rhythm, and respect for local culture. From meals that turn into memories to moments that quietly reshape perspective, this conversation explores why how you travel matters just as much as where you go — and how traveling with guidance, context, and care can influence the way you live long after you come home. This episode is for anyone who wants more than a checklist trip — and who understands that the most meaningful experiences come from connection, not search results. To learn more about Abby’s work and her human-centered approach to travel, and TONS of resources, visit her website Experience España - Spain Travel Consultant, Spain Travel, Travel to Spain Or find her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/experience.espana.abby You can watch our chat here, on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e5RXpiA_H8o I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    53 min

  7. 12/16/2025

    Travel Spain Authentically with Abby Gray from Experience España Part 1

    Send us a text Want to experience Spain like a local — not a tourist? In this episode of Fit for Real Life, I sit down with Abby from Experience España, a Spain specialist with over 30 years of lived experience in the country. Abby helps travelers craft trips that are authentic, respectful, and deeply connected to Spanish culture. We dive into: Abby’s personal journey and how she fell in love with SpainInsider tips for solo travelers, couples, families, and friendsHow to slow down and embrace the Spanish lifestyle, from local markets to daily rhythmsExperiential travel that connects you to people, food, neighborhoods, and traditionsLessons from Spain that can shift your perspective and inspire a more mindful approach to lifeWhether you’re dreaming of your first trip or your tenth, Abby’s insights will help you move beyond sightseeing to truly live like a local, making your Spanish adventure unforgettable. I love that Abby says it best herself: “I believe that travel should be about creating unforgettable experiences and memories. That’s why I offer a range of travel consulting services that cater to different interests and travel preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury vacation, travel on a budget, Spanish language immersion, or an adventure expedition, I’ve got you covered.” So if you’ve ever wanted a trip that’s more than just sightseeing — one that truly immerses you in Spanish culture and creates memories that last a lifetime — Abby’s your go-to. Listen in and discover Spain the way it’s meant to be experienced! Want to watch our chat on YouTube? Watch it here: https://youtu.be/R4waVOpMO5o Want to connect with Abby and plan your own authentic Spanish adventure? Visit Experience España - Spain Travel Consultant, Spain Travel, Travel to Spain  or follow her on Instagram @experience.espana.abby I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    37 min

  8. 12/12/2025

    Holiday Metabolism Hacks: Plan Now, Thrive in 2026

    Send us a text The holidays don’t have to derail your progress. In this episode, we look ahead to 2026, and the micro changes we can make now, to set us up for success.  We dive into: How metabolism naturally shifts during the holidays—and why small, proactive adjustments matterThe real impact of alcohol on fat burning, sleep, and hormonesA self-audit to assess nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress before the new yearScience-backed strategies from the Faster Way to Fat Loss for sustainable habits, energy, and resultsPlanning ahead to start 2026 confident, energized, and ahead of the gameWhether you’re enjoying holiday indulgences or juggling travel chaos, this episode shows you how to make small, measurable changes now—so you don’t have to “start fresh” in January. I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen! Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia Helpful Links: Join my 21 Day Reset: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes? Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount! https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

    19 min
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About

Fit for Real Life with Virginia is the podcast for women who want sustainable health, confident energy, and real-life results—without perfection, obsession, or starting over every Monday.  Hosted by Virginia, Faster Way coach, wife, mom of two, travel-lover, and working professional, this show teaches simple, science-backed habits that fit into your actual life. Whether you're juggling career and carpool, rebuilding your health journey, or craving energy that lasts, you’ll find honesty, humor, and doable strategies here. This is wellness for the woman who wants her healthiest years to start now.

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