Doing It Anyway

Jess Hugo

The podcast for high achieving women who do it anyway. Hosted by Jess Hugo, known for her 20kg transformation and her grounded, no fluff approach to discipline, confidence, and self-trust. This show is about navigating a full life: ambition, identity shifts, relationships, routines, and showing up for yourself when things aren’t perfect. Expect honest conversations about growth, consistency, and becoming the woman who leads her life, not just her schedule. New episodes every Wednesday. Connect with me on IG @itsjesshugo or visit https://msha.ke/successwithjess

  1. 5D AGO

    The Self Sabotage Cycle Keeping You Stuck in Your 20s

    Ever notice how you can stay consistent for a few weeks… start seeing results… feel more confident in your body… and then suddenly fall off? This isn’t a lack of discipline. And it’s definitely not because you “just need to try harder.” In this episode of Doing It Anyway, we’re breaking down why self sabotage happens right when your fitness journey starts working, and why so many women in their 20s struggle to stay consistent once they begin seeing progress. Because the truth is, it’s not the start that’s hard… it’s maintaining the result. We dive into: Why you lose motivation after a few “good weeks”The small habits that slowly unravel your progressHow pressure increases when you start seeing results (and why it makes you pull back)The identity gap that keeps you stuck in old patternsWhy maintaining results feels harder than chasing themThe most common self-sabotage behaviours in fitness and weight lossYou’ll also learn how to break the cycle: How to stay consistent even when things are going wellWhy structure matters more than motivationHow to shorten the gap between slipping up and getting back on trackThe mindset shift that helps you build sustainable resultsThis episode is for the girl who knows she can start… but keeps falling off before she becomes the version of herself she’s working towards. Because real progress isn’t about proving you can start. It’s about becoming someone who knows how to stay. FIND MY IG & WAYS TO WORK WITH ME HERE

    20 min
  2. MAY 5

    This Is What Growth Actually Looks Like in Your 20s

    Welcome to a new era of Doing It Anyway, this episode is a real, behind the scenes look at what it actually takes to evolve, rebrand your life, and step into your next level in your 20s. Because growth isn’t always loud or aesthetic… sometimes it looks like fixing your weaknesses, trying new things that you’re not naturally good at, and letting go of the version of you that no longer fits where you’re going. In this episode, I’m sharing how the podcast rebrand is really going, what I’m currently working on behind the scenes, and the mindset shifts that are helping me elevate not just my fitness, but my life and business as a whole. We talk about: Strengthening your weaknesses instead of avoiding them (and why this is where real confidence is built)Trying new forms of movement like Pilates, mobility work, and training your body differentlyWhy removing limitations and doing things “just because” can completely change your identityHow I’m using my own growth to elevate my online coaching servicesThe reality of scheduling, instructors, and building structure into your routineDetaching from certain mindsets and gaining perspective on your lifeWhat I’ve noticed about negative, “salty” energy, and why it has nothing to do with youThis episode is for the girl who knows she’s ready for more, more growth, more confidence, more alignment, but needs to understand what that actually requires. Because levelling up isn’t about doing more.It’s about becoming someone different. FIND MY IG & WAYS TO WORK WITH ME HERE

    31 min
  3. APR 28

    Why You Keep 'Starting Over' After Every Holiday (And How to Finally Break the Cycle)

    If you feel like every holiday, birthday, or weekend turns into a cycle of “stay on track”… then “get back on track”… this episode is your wake up call. Because here’s the truth: If your routine falls apart every time life gets social. it’s not you, It’s your approach. In this episode of Doing It Anyway, we’re breaking down why so many women in their 20s feel like they’re constantly starting over with their fitness, weight loss, and routines, especially after events like Easter, Christmas, birthdays, or even just a weekend out. You’ll learn why the “all or nothing mindset” is keeping you stuck, how fear based fitness messaging has normalised the idea of “falling off track,” and why discipline isn’t actually your problem. We’re diving into: Why you feel guilty around food after social eventsThe real reason you keep restarting your fitness journeyHow “stay on track” culture is sabotaging your consistencyWhy your routine only works in perfect conditions (and how to fix it)The identity shift that allows you to stay consistent without restrictionThis episode is for the girl who is already going to the gym, already trying, already caring, but still feels like she’s never fully “there.” Because the goal isn’t to be perfect. It’s to build a routine that actually fits your life, so you never feel like you have to start again. FIND MY IG & WAYS TO WORK WITH ME HERE

    23 min
  4. APR 21

    Imposter Syndrome Isn’t What You Think (And It’s Holding You Back) ft Denisa Feng

    From High School Teacher to Store Owner: The Decision That Changed Everything. Thinking about a career change or wondering how to start a business while working full time? In this episode of Doing It Anyway, Jess sits down with entrepreneur Denisa Feng, founder of Hugh & Hyde, to talk about what it really takes to leave a safe career and build something of your own. Denisa’s journey didn’t start in business. After studying science and working as a high school teacher, she began a small ‘side hustle’ creating personalised gifts at markets and centre pop ups. What started as a passion project quickly grew into something bigger, eventually leading to the opportunity to open a brick and mortar store in the Hills. But the decision wasn’t simple. In this conversation, Denisa shares the behind the scenes reality of choosing between a stable career and taking a huge risk, navigating self doubt, learning the “unsexy” side of business, and building a brand that focuses on meaningful gifting and community. We also dive into the truth behind imposter syndrome, why discomfort isn’t always a sign you’re unqualified, and how to reframe fear as a signal that you're stepping into growth. If you’ve ever felt stuck between the life you should choose and the one you actually want, this episode will leave you thinking differently about risk, passion, and what’s possible. In this episode we talk about: • Leaving a secure career to start a business • Turning a side hustle into a brick and mortar store • The difference between self doubt and imposter syndrome • What founders actually learn behind the scenes • Why passion alone isn’t always enough to build a business • The importance of support systems and relationships when chasing big goals • Building a team and creating a strong workplace culture • Balancing ambition with reality when making big life decisions This episode is perfect for anyone in their 20s-30s navigating career choices, considering entrepreneurship, or trying to figure out what the next chapter of their life could look like. Sometimes the biggest opportunities appear when you’re not looking for them. The real question is whether you’re willing to back yourself when they do. Connect with me: Work with me Instagram Connect with Denisa: Instagram: @denisafeng_ LinkedIn: Denisa Feng Hugh & Hyde: www.hughandhyde.com.au

    1 hr
  5. Feeling Behind in Your 20s? The Pressure to Have It All Figured Out

    APR 14

    Feeling Behind in Your 20s? The Pressure to Have It All Figured Out

    Ever feel like you’re behind in your 20s… even when you’re actually doing pretty well? In this episode of Doing It Anyway, I’m having a real, unfiltered life update chat about the pressure to have your life figured out, and why it feels like everyone else is moving faster than you. We’re talking societal timelines, hustle culture, social media comparison, and how we’ve gone from one “expected path” to feeling like we need to do everything at once. I also share a recent client story that perfectly highlights how quickly we move the goalpost, going from achieving something huge straight into “okay… but what’s next?” energy. If you’ve ever struggled to actually stay in a good season without feeling like you should be doing more, this one will hit. This episode dives into: why you feel behind in your 20s (even when you’re not)the pressure of having your life figured outhow social media fuels comparison and timeline anxietythe impact of hustle culture on your mindsetlearning to stop rushing your life and actually enjoy where you areIf you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in comparison, or like you’re constantly chasing the next thing, this is your reminder that you’re allowed to slow down and build a life you actually enjoy living. You’re not behind. You’re just being exposed to everything at once. Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjesshugo/ Links

    20 min
  6. APR 7

    How to Get Into Social Media with NO Experience (Step by Step) ft Mon Ricco

    If you’re in your 20s feeling stuck, unfulfilled in your job, or questioning your next move… this episode will change the way you think about starting over. In this guest episode, I sit down with Mon Riccio (@socialhousesyd) to unpack how she went from working a low paid gym reception job… to building her own social media business with creative freedom, flexible hours, and clients she actually loves working with. We get real about what it actually takes to build a business in your 20s, the messy middle, the burnout, the self-doubt, and the pressure to “figure it all out.” This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s the behind-the-scenes of doing it anyway. We talk about: How to get into social media management with no experience Why building a portfolio matters more than a degree The truth about running your own business (no one talks about this) Pricing your services + backing yourself (even when people push back) Balancing freedom, burnout, and always being “on” Why your personal brand doesn’t matter as much as you think (unless it’s strategic) Outsourcing content vs doing it yourself How to start when you feel lost, behind, or unsure of your next move If you’ve been waiting to feel “ready” before starting something new… this is your reminder that confidence comes after action, not before it. This episode will help you stop overthinking and start building a life that actually feels aligned. Because the girls who get where they want to be? They’re not the most certain.They’re the ones doing it anyway. — Work with me: msha.ke/successwithjess Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjesshugo/ Connect with Mon: @socialhousesyd

    55 min
  7. MAR 31

    How to Reset Your Goals Without Starting Over (90 Day Check In)

    If your 2026 goals already feel off track… this is your sign to reset, not give up. It’s officially been 90 days since January 1st, aka the time most people stop checking in with their goals. In this episode of Doing It Anyway, we’re doing a real, honest 90 day goal check in, and more importantly… a habit reset that actually works for your lifestyle. Because let’s be honest, you didn’t “fail.”Your routine just stopped matching your life. In this episode, I’m breaking down: How to reset your goals without starting from scratchWhy “falling off” is normal (and what to do instead)The biggest reason your routine isn’t sticking (hint: it’s not discipline)How to build a realistic fitness routine for busy girls in their 20sSimple habit shifts to stay consistent during winter, busy work weeks & low motivation phasesHow to stop all-or-nothing thinking with food, workouts & your routineThe truth about goal setting vs real life (and how to adapt without spiralling)We also get into: Navigating busy seasons, social life & still seeing progressWhy your goals from January might not fit your life anymoreHow to identify self-sabotage patterns (and actually fix them)Creating a routine that works even when you’re tired, busy, or unmotivatedIf you’ve been feeling like you’ve “lost momentum” with your fitness, routine or life goals… this episode will help you get back on track without burnout, restriction or starting over. Because you don’t need a new plan.You need a plan that actually fits your life. Work with me 1:1 Connect with me on instagram

    27 min
  8. MAR 28

    From 9-5 Life to Running 3 Businesses (Even When She Wasn’t Ready) ft Tiana Whetnall

    In this guest episode of DOING IT ANYWAY, we dive into what it really looks like to go from corporate life to building multiple businesses; without having everything figured out. If you’re a girl in your 20s feeling stuck in your career, overwhelmed by where to start, or scared to take the risk… this is your permission slip to stop overthinking and start doing. We talk about the messy middle of starting a business, balancing a 9-5 while growing something on the side, and the reality of hitting a point where you need to choose between time and money. You’ll hear the honest timeline of building a marketing business from scratch, navigating career pivots, and why “just start” is still the most underrated advice. We also get into: - How to start a business while working full time - The real reason you feel stuck in your career - Balancing a side hustle without burning out - Imposter syndrome and backing yourself anyway - Knowing when to leave your job (and when not to) - Building multiple income streams in your 20s - Why everything feels “oversaturated” (and why it doesn’t matter) - The mindset shift that makes taking risks easier This episode is for you if you’re ready to stop waiting until you feel “ready” and start building your dream life now. Because the girls who get there? They’re not the most confident. They’re just the ones who started. Connect with me: ⁠Work with me⁠: Instagram: Connect with Tiana: Personal Brand: Content Studio:

    58 min

About

The podcast for high achieving women who do it anyway. Hosted by Jess Hugo, known for her 20kg transformation and her grounded, no fluff approach to discipline, confidence, and self-trust. This show is about navigating a full life: ambition, identity shifts, relationships, routines, and showing up for yourself when things aren’t perfect. Expect honest conversations about growth, consistency, and becoming the woman who leads her life, not just her schedule. New episodes every Wednesday. Connect with me on IG @itsjesshugo or visit https://msha.ke/successwithjess

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