Fitness coach Denise Kirtley joins us to talk about why transformation in midlife begins with mindset, not macros. In this conversation, she challenges outdated views of aging, critiques perfection culture, and explains how real strength is built through daily intention. Denise also speaks candidly about social media backlash and how sharing her journey in a bikini inspires women to believe change is possible. Her message is clear: stop waiting, and just start.

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Chapters

(03:15) The Journey of Midlife Women

(10:36) Choosing the Hard Path

(15:16) Normalizing Healthy Living

(19:32) Authenticity vs. Perfection in Aging

(26:56) Navigating Personal Choices in Aesthetic Enhancements

(34:21) The Impact of Body Image and Societal Expectations

(41:41) Empowerment Through Self-Acceptance and Action

Key Moments

"The hardest part of transformation is the mindset."

"You want to change? You can literally start as soon as you listen to this podcast."

"You have to get strong to have a good life because life’s going to get hard as you get older if you’re not strong."

Connect with Denise
Website: rebellionbody.com
Instagram: instagram.com/fiftyfitnessjourney

App: rebellionbodymethod.com

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In this week’s episode, Jennifer Vaughan Maanavi, founder of Physique 57, shares why fitness must be the foundation of any wellness plan—especially as we age. She explains how the explosion of wellness trends has dangerously shifted focus away from physical health. Jennifer offers powerful insights on building a sustainable, results-driven fitness habit that supports brain health, cardiovascular health, and emotional well-being. Listeners will come away with a clear, actionable framework for prioritizing fitness as a true cornerstone of longevity and life quality.

How long will you live? Take our quiz today to find out! Visit ageist.com/longevityquiz

Thanks to Our Sponsors

Timeline Nutrition: Our favorite supplement for cell support and mitochondrial function. Listeners receive 10% off your first order of Mitopure with code AGEIST at TimelineNutrition.com/ageist.

Our Place – our top cookware brand for non-toxic, PFA-free pots and brands. Use code “AGEIST” for 10% off at fromourplace.com

LMNT Electrolytes — our number one electrolytes for optimal hydration. Listeners receive a free 8-serving sample pack with their purchase at DrinkLMNT.com/AGEIST.

Chapters

(10:15) Jennifer's Journey from Finance to Fitness

(20:28) The Evolution of the Wellness Industry

(27:27) Integrating Fitness into the Healthcare Continuum

(30:21) The Importance of Fitness in Wellness

(34:50) Fitness as a Foundation for Wellness

(36:50) The Evolving Landscape of Wellness Activities

(41:04) The Need for Outcome-Driven Fitness Conversations

(42:38) The Role of Nutrition and Supplements in Wellness

(44:41) The Future of Fitness in Medical Prescriptions

Key Moments

"Wellness is taking over and it's not bringing fitness with it."

"You have to think about now—present value—who you are now and how you’re going to bring yourself into the future."

"Fitness is preventative care; it’s the key to preventative care."

Connect with Our Guest
Website: https://physique57.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/physique57
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifervaughanmaanavi/

Book: The Physique 57 Solution

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Physical therapist and endurance athlete Dr. Mike Studer joins us this week to break the myth of a one-size-fits-all approach to health. He shares why personalization—based on genetics, performance metrics, and lifestyle—is critical to long-term success in fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing. From sleep consistency to gut microbiome insights, Dr. Studer lays out practical strategies to help listeners become their own best scientist. Tune in to learn how to effectively experiment, track outcomes, and stop feeling like a failure for not thriving on someone else's plan.

How long will you live? Take our quiz today to find out! Visit ageist.com/longevityquiz

Thanks to Our Sponsors
Fatty15 – C15 is the first essential fatty acid to be discovered In 90 years. Fatty15 is on a mission to replenish your C15 levels and restore your long-term health. Get 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit here or enter code: AGEIST at checkout.

Meditate Happier – Navigating menopause isn’t just about managing physical symptoms—it’s about supporting your mind and emotions too. That’s why Meditate Happier created the Mindful Menopause Guide, with Diana Winston. It is a free, expert-led course designed to help you move through menopause with more ease, confidence, and calm. Click this link or visit: www.meditatehappier.com/menopause

Troscriptions — Precise, pharmaceutical-grade nootropics for peak performance. Whether you need laser focus, mental clarity, or a boost in cognitive endurance, Troscriptions delivers science-backed results. Use code: AGEIST for 10% off, or click here.

Chapters

(03:25) Understanding SNPs and Personal Choices

(09:19) The Role of Autonomy and Beliefs in Health

(15:54) Gamification and Measurement in Health Choices

(17:46) The Importance of Sleep and Its Variability

(22:50) Genetics, Microbiome, and Personal Health

(26:08) Becoming Your Own Scientist in Health

(28:01) The Personalization of Health and Wellness

(32:36) Conclusion: Statistics vs. Individual Experience

Key Moments

“Statistics are for populations, not people.”

“We’re always our own best scientist and best prescriber.”

“You get dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin from doing what you believe is healthy for your future self.”

Connect with Our Guest

• Website: MikeStuder.com
  
  
• LinkedIn: Mike Studer on LinkedIn
  
  
• Book: The Brain That Chooses Itself

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Check out the full interview transcript

Say hi to the AGEIST team!