If you’ve been working out consistently, eating “pretty healthy,” and still not seeing results — this episode is going to connect some major dots.

In Part 1 of this conversation, I’m joined by women’s health coach and doctoral candidate in sports nutrition and exercise science, Sarah of Strong By Sarah, and we’re breaking down why so many women are stuck in a cycle of:

• Chronic dieting
• Over-exercising
• Low calorie intake
• Hormone disruption
• High cortisol
• And stalled fat loss

We talk about reverse dieting for women, why eating more can actually improve metabolism, and how lifting heavier (instead of living in bootcamp cardio) changes your body composition and long-term health.

We also dive into:

• What leptin is and how chronic dieting disrupts hunger and satiety
• Why under-fueling leads to binge-restrict cycles
• The real reason your workouts might not be building muscle
• Cortisol and belly fat in women over 35
• Hormone testing, bloodwork, and advocating for yourself
• Why muscle is critical for longevity and perimenopause

If you’re a midlife woman in your 30s, 40s, or 50s who feels like your body isn’t responding the way it used to — this episode will help you understand why.

This conversation is especially important for women navigating:

• PCOS
• Perimenopause
• Hormone imbalance
• Metabolism changes
• Weight loss resistance

And in Part 2, we go even deeper into nervous system regulation, alcohol, confidence, and why so many women use drinking as a coping tool.

Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

About Sarah

Sarah is a women’s health coach and doctoral candidate in sports nutrition and exercise science. She helps women eat more, lift heavier, regulate hormones, and build strong, sustainable bodies without extreme dieting.

Follow her at:
Instagram: @StrongBySarah
Substack, TikTok + YouTube: Strong By Sarah

To connect with Erica + ShameOver go to shameover.me to get started today.

***Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects personal opinions and lived experience. It is not medical, mental health, or addiction treatment advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare or mental health professional about your specific situation before making changes to your drinking, medications, or treatment.***