Alyssa Ages and Dr. Stephanie join forces to unravel the complex narratives surrounding strength training, challenging societal norms that equate health with thinness and worthiness with smallness. They explore the transformative power of strength training beyond physical appearance, touching upon its role in cultivating grit, reshaping our relationship with failure, and fostering courage and confidence.

With refreshing candor, Alyssa confronts stereotypes and redefines notions of "bulky," advocating for a paradigm shift towards embracing strength and taking up space. This episode invites listeners to reconsider what it means to be powerful, vital, and worthy after 40, igniting a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Episode Overview:
0:00 Intro/Teaser
1:24 Unveiling Strength Training Narratives
3:03 Personal Evolution and Resilience
6:17 Trusting Your Body Through Trauma
11:07 Embracing Strength and Self-Reflection
15:09 Holding Multiple Truths
18:04 Lifting Through Trauma: A Lifeline
22:31 Mastery and Mental Health Benefits
28:31 Lessons in Handling Failure
30:09 Embracing Failure
42:09 Overcoming Fear of Failure
51:17 Strength for the Future
53:23 Redefining Body Image
58:06 Strength and Courage
59:22 Lessons from the Fringe

Resources mentioned in the episode:
Alyssa's Book: https://www.alyssaages.com/book
Pumping Iron 2: the Women: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089852/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/alyssaages
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssaages1

Bio:
Alyssa Ages is the author of Secrets of Giants: A Journey to Uncover the True Meaning of Strength. She is a journalist whose work has appeared in GQ, ELLE, SELF, The Globe and Mail, Wired, Parents, and others. Find out more at https://www.alyssaages.com

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