Fit Mother Project Podcast number 166 introduces us to Dr. Melissa Mahan. A 59-year-old grandmother of six, higher-ed leader, and certified professional coach from San Antonio who refused to let family history dictate her future. After a routine checkup in early 2024 revealed an A1C of 6.6 with high cholesterol and blood pressure, she chose a structured, natural path over medication—and found the Fit Mother Project. What followed was a systems-driven transformation built on consistent action, community support, and faith.

Within months, Melissa dropped her A1C to ~6.0, normalized her blood pressure, improved her lipid ratios, and lost ~35 pounds—largely by dialing in “protein first,” lifting consistently, and stacking simple habits like morning sunlight walks. She also learned powerful glucose-management strategies through a CGM, discovering how pairing protein/fiber (and avoiding “spike-on-a-spike” combos like soda before pizza) dramatically changed her numbers.

Melissa shares the tweaks that mattered (e.g., swapping coconut milk for almond milk in shakes and adding psyllium husk), along with her mantra of the “relentless return”—not perfection, but always coming back to the next right action. She describes how Fit Mother retreats, small-group coaching, and the in-app sisterhood reinforced mindset shifts, helped her navigate menopause challenges, and kept her on track during celebration-heavy seasons.

Now, just shy of 60, Melissa is training for senior-level cycling events and planning a 500-mile Camino de Santiago ride in Spain—proof that health creates possibilities. Her challenge to listeners: dare to dream, set a meaningful goal, and finish this year strong.

• A1C 6.6 → ~6.0; BP/lipids trending normal
• ~35 pounds down; energy and mood up
• “Protein first” meals; stronger satiety, fewer cravings
• CGM insights; smarter food order and pairing
• Skip soda-before-pizza; avoid “spike on a spike”
• Fiber + protein before carbs; steadier glucose
• Almond milk swap; lower sugar, cleaner shakes
• Psyllium add-in; soluble fiber, better fullness
• Morning sunlight + 20–30 min walk stack
• Strength training 2–4x/week; progressive overload
• Power-meter cycling; targeted endurance gains
• Retreats + small groups; consistent accountability
• Menopause-aware tweaks; sleep and stress prioritized
• “Relentless return” mindset; progress over perfection
• Big goal: 500-mile Camino; senior cycling events

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Click here to see everything you get when you join FM30X, subscribe to our YouTube Channel, check out our blog, and follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook,

In Episode 165 of the Fit Mother Project podcast, Dr. Anthony Balduzzi sits down with Katie Hess, founder of LOTUSWEI, to explore the gentle but powerful world of flower essences. They open with a clear distinction between flower essences and more familiar plant modalities like herbs and essential oils, then lay out how essences are made and why they’re aimed at shifting the emotional patterns that quietly drive our habits, stress, and sleep.

Dr. Balduzzi and Katie dive into practical use cases for women over 40—calming an overactive mind at night, softening stress responses, easing body-image spirals, and reopening a guarded heart. Katie shares real-world stories from her practice, along with simple “start today” rituals using drops in water or misting, and the intuitive method of selecting a flower you’re naturally drawn to.

The conversation expands into the science-adjacent terrain, touching on forest bathing research and why even short immersions in nature can imprint the nervous system for days. Katie explains how dilution in essence-making is designed to work at the “pattern level,” complementing (not replacing) conventional care and fitting seamlessly alongside nutrition, exercise, and mindset work.

They wrap with a beginner’s roadmap: pick one essence, build a tiny daily ritual around it, and notice shifts in mood, posture, and self-talk over a few weeks. If you’ve been curious about non-pharmaceutical, nature-based support for stress and sleep—or you simply want a gentler way to change stubborn habits—this conversation offers an accessible place to start.

• Flower essences = the flower’s energetic imprint in water; different from herbs/oils
• Work on emotional/energetic patterns that drive habits and health choices
• Passionflower essence helps quiet “monkey mind” and support sleep
• Peony softens scarcity/lack; attracts possibility and ease
• Daisy dissolves rigidity/over-seriousness; restores lightness and joy
• Rose opens the heart; supports healing from heartbreak/guardedness
• Jasmine supports self-acceptance and radiance (helpful for body-image ruts)
• Lotus amplifies all essences; accelerates insight and growth
• Forest bathing can lower cortisol and boost immunity with lasting effects
• Making essences: solar/lunar infusion → preserved “mother” → serial dilutions
• Dilution increases depth of action (pattern-level), akin to homeopathic theory
• How to use: 5 drops, 5x/day in mouth or water; mists and anointing oils also work
• Use intuition: we’re drawn to the flowers we most need right now
• Essences complement (not replace) medical care; think “emotional root support”
• Start simple: take the quiz, choose one blend, and build a daily ritual

Website: http://lotuswei.com/fitfamily

• Use discount code FITFAMILY at checkout and receive 10% off your order (one per customer).

Take the Master Flower Quiz to discover your most resonant flower essence. Answer 12 questions to receive a precise reading tailored to your preferences.

https://www.lotuswei.com/pages/master-flower-quiz?sca_ref=9468599.TfBKnRF6zDado1

Podcast: Flower Lounge with Katie Hess https://www.lotuswei.com/pages/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lotuswei

Instagram:

At 56, radiation therapist Babs Freeman shares how the Fit Mother Project helped her turn grief and burnout into strength, community, and joy. After losing close family members and taking time off work to heal, Babs found FMP in May 2024 and finally discovered the consistency and accountability that every other plan lacked. What started as “showing up for an early appointment with Dr. A, Ben, and Kat” became a lifestyle that lights up her mornings and carries momentum through the entire day.

Babs details the nuts and bolts of her routine: five training days per week, strength in the morning followed by incline walking, plus short walks after lunch to keep energy and mood high. She’s dropped 10 pounds, gained visible muscle, and built confidence by mastering form, using smart modifications for a partial meniscus tear, and—yes—tackling Ben’s endless push-up variations. Her longtime favorite? The Apex 10, which jump-started strength and definition and reminded her she can do hard things.

Nutrition was the tougher puzzle. With guidance from FMP coaches (special shoutouts to Amy and Ben), Babs now focuses on simple, nutrient-dense meals, front-loads hydration earlier in the day, and uses lighter evening options—like a protein shake or yogurt with berries—to meet protein goals without disrupting sleep. She’s learned to watch non-scale victories and ignore daily fluctuations: weight loss isn’t linear, and strength, energy, and clothes fitting better tell the real story.

Most of all, this episode is about hope, connection, and motion. Babs’ message to women approaching 60: it’s never too late to start. Move your body. Start small. Keep going. Be a lighthouse for the people you love—show what’s possible by living it every day. And if you need a community that makes early mornings feel fun (bloopers and all), Babs says FMP is the place.

• Consistency through community accountability
• Midday walks to boost mood, NEAT, and recovery
• Apex 10 as a transformative, repeatable staple
• Smart modifications for knee issues; form cues matter
• Hydration earlier in the day to improve sleep
• Light, protein-forward dinners to hit targets without heaviness
• Focus on inches, strength, and energy over scale swings
• “Weight loss isn’t linear”—ride the ebbs and flows
• Morning routine anchored by “showing up” for the team
• Coaching touchpoints
• Community as mental/emotional support, not just fitness
• Be a lighthouse, not a tugboat—lead by example

If you’re on a mission to simplify and accelerate your path to health optimization and feel better now, Troscriptions is where to start. Give it a try at troscriptions.com/FITFAMILY or enter FITFAMILY at checkout for 10% off your first order.

Foundations is a simple, sustainable, and specific weight loss program designed especially for busy women over 40. With short metabolic training workouts, an easy-to-follow meal plan, and an accountability team there for you every step of the way, Foundations can help you lose weight, regain energy and vitality, and live life to the fullest.

Click here to see everything you get when you join FM30X, subscribe to our YouTube Channel, check out our blog, and follow us on

Episode 163 of the Fit Mother Project podcast is an eye‑opening conversation with Kim Rogers, of RogersHood, known online as the “Worm Queen.” Kim shares with Dr. Anthony Balduzzi how a lifelong struggle with endometriosis, surgeries, and undiagnosed Lyme led her to a viral parasite‑cleanse journey—and a mission to help others. Kim explains the real‑world prevalence of parasites and why the common numbers likely underreport the problem due to testing blind spots. She breaks down the landscape: microscopic protozoa (e.g., Giardia, D. fragilis, Crypto), visible nematodes (roundworms, flukes, tapeworms, pinworms), Candida overgrowth, and Lyme—and how these often stack with heavy metals and mold to drive symptoms from gut issues to mood changes and cravings.

We dig into how parasites hijack behavior, the candida–sugar loop, and the often‑misunderstood toxoplasma story beyond just cats. Kim outlines a practical framework for cleansing: kill → bind → evacuate, including why binders are non‑negotiable, what biofilm is, and how her Parafiy/Parafide Kit (three tinctures + a binder) sequences herbs like wormwood, clove, cilantro (for metals), and more to make the process simple and tolerable. We also cover lifestyle support—movement, lymph flow, stress reduction, and smart food add‑ins (pumpkin seeds, garlic, cilantro, dandelion root).

Kim also shines a light on mold—how it brain‑fogged her life, how to suspect it, and why you should address the source (home, RVs, bathrooms, slow leaks) while using targeted support. She discusses water and pet exposures, why some municipal testing misses nematodes, and simple habits to stay proactive—like running a 30‑day cleanse 3–4×/year, especially around travel, sushi nights, lake swims, or stressful seasons.

We wrap with practical food and product tips: daily binders and minerals (she likes fulvic/humic support—her kit even uses a fulvic foot soak), probiotic foods like Coconut Cult, and gut‑soothing marshmallow root treats. If you’re over 40, love sushi, have pets, or feel stuck with “mystery” symptoms, this one gives you a grounded plan to test, cleanse, and rebuild—without fear.

• Parasites, candida, mold, and heavy metals often co-exist
• Visible worms are only part of the picture; protozoa are very common
• The cleanse framework is kill → bind → evacuate, with binders being essential
• Biofilm breakdown is necessary to expose hidden organisms
• Cilantro and other herbs can support heavy metal detox
• Sushi, raw produce, and undercooked meats are common parasite exposures
• Pets, ponds, lakes, and unfiltered water are major risk factors
• Running a 30-day cleanse three to four times per year is recommended
• Movement, lymph flow, and stress reduction improve outcomes
• Candida drives sugar cravings; diet adjustments are key
• Mold can change mood and behavior; addressing sources is critical
• Simple foods like garlic, clove, pumpkin seeds, and cilantro support cleansing
• Regular water and air testing can reveal hidden exposures
• Fulvic and humic minerals provide support and binding capacity
• Binders should always accompany anti-parasitic herbs or foods

Website: https://rogershood.com/

• Use discount code FITFAMILY at checkout and receive 10% off your order.

Podcast: What's Eating U?!

In powerful Episode 162 of the Fit Mother Project Podcast, Dr. Anthony Balduzzi sits down with Andy Hnilo, founder and CEO of Alitura, to explore the deep connection between skincare, nutrition, and overall health. Andy’s journey began as a college athlete struggling with cystic acne. This led him into a lifelong passion for natural remedies and clean living. But his story took a dramatic turn after a near-fatal accident that left him with multiple fractures and a wired jaw. Out of his recovery process came the experimentation and innovation that would eventually lead to his skincare line, now trusted by women and men worldwide.

Andy shares his four-step approach to radiant skin—cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, repair—and explains why most commercial products are full of toxic additives that can do more harm than good. He dives into the ingredients you should look for (like pearl powder, propolis, and aloe vera) and the ones you need to avoid, while highlighting the role of diet, hydration, and light therapy in maintaining glowing, healthy skin.

Beyond products, Andy offers practical insights on routines, habit-stacking, and the importance of integrity in both personal health and business. From the use of red light therapy to his philosophy on safe sun exposure, Andy’s holistic framework blends ancestral wisdom, cutting-edge science, and pure passion for helping people feel and look their best.

This conversation is more than just skin deep—it’s about resilience, creativity, and honoring the body as a sacred vessel. Whether you’re struggling with your skin, curious about natural skincare alternatives, or simply want to learn how to optimize your health from the inside out, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable takeaways.

• The pivotal accident that led to Andy’s healing journey and the creation of Alitura
• Importance of switching from harsh commercial products to simple, natural alternatives
• Why your skin is the body’s largest detoxifying organ
• Four-step skincare framework: cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, repair
• The role of clays and pearl powder in skin rejuvenation
• Propolis, aloe vera, and other natural powerhouse ingredients
• Hidden toxins in mainstream skincare: synthetic fragrances, sulfates, parabens, dyes
• How to use the Yuka app to check product safety
• Andy’s perspective on sun exposure and safe alternatives to conventional sunscreens
• The connection between nutrition, hydration, and skin health
• The benefits of red light therapy and habit-stacking routines
• Why processed foods, refined sugars, and poor water quality damage the skin
• Simple starter kit recommendations: Pearl Cleanser, Clay Mask, Gold Serum
• Andy’s mission: integrity, artistry, and guiding the skincare industry toward clean, effective products

Website: https://alituranaturals.pxf.io/9La6ge

• Use discount code FITFAMILY at checkout and receive 20% off your first order.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alituranaturals/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlituraNaturals/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIiI78N6imQrFbuBqohhzWg

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In Episode 161 of the Fit Mother Project Podcast, Dr. Anthony Balduzzi sits down with Dr. Catharine Arnston, founder and CEO of ENERGYbits, to explore one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet — algae. With over 15 years dedicated to researching and educating about spirulina and chlorella, Dr. Arnston shares her fascinating journey from a career in international business to becoming a global advocate for algae nutrition. It all started when her sister’s battle with breast cancer inspired her to learn about plant-based nutrition and the healing power of alkaline foods.

Dr. Arnston explains why spirulina and chlorella are considered superfoods among superfoods — boasting more protein per gram than steak, rich in essential fatty acids, packed with B vitamins, chlorophyll, antioxidants, and powerful compounds like phycocyanin and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Spirulina is an energy-boosting, hunger-satisfying, mitochondria-supporting powerhouse, while chlorella is the ultimate detoxifier, binding to heavy metals, pesticides, mold, and other toxins. Together, they address three major modern health challenges: nutrient deficiencies, toxin overload, and age-related cellular decline.

Listeners will learn exactly how to incorporate these foods into their daily lives — from quick energy before workouts to deep detox support at night — and why they’re safe for everyone from kids to grandparents (even pets). Dr. Arnston shares specific protocols, including dosages, timing, and pairing strategies for maximum benefits, as well as unique “biohacks” combining algae with red light therapy, cold plunges, and saunas.

Whether you’re looking to boost your athletic performance, support longevity, enhance detoxification, or simply fill nutritional gaps in a clean, convenient way, this episode will open your eyes to the untapped potential of algae. Plus, you’ll hear Dr. Arnston’s vision for bringing algae farming to the U.S. — making this ancient food a modern health staple.

• Dr. Arnston’s journey from international business to algae nutrition expert
• Spirulina = “nourishment in” for energy, focus, protein, and mitochondria health
• Chlorella = “toxins out” for detox, gut health, and immune support
• Spirulina has 3x more protein (by weight) than steak; 64% bioavailable protein
• Chlorella binds to heavy metals, pesticides, mold, and microplastics
• Both algae are rich in chlorophyll — nature’s blood builder
• No lectins or oxalates — gentle on digestion and autoimmune-friendly
• High in B vitamins for energy conversion at the cellular level
• Contains glutathione and SOD for antioxidant and mitochondrial protection
• Biohacks: spirulina before workouts, sauna, or cold plunge; chlorella after
• Chlorella stimulates peristalsis for healthy bowel movements
• Safe for all ages, pets included; easy to travel with
• Nutrient-dense enough to replace multiple supplements

Website: https://energybits.com/

• Use discount code FitFamily at checkout and receive 20% off your order.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energybits/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catharinearnston/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ENERGYbits/

YouTube:

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Number 160 of the Fit Mother Project Podcast, Dr. Anthony Balduzzi is joined by naturopathic physician Dr. Sharon Stills, a leading expert in women’s hormone health and a passionate advocate for transforming how we approach aging and menopause. Dr. Stills shares how she went from aspiring pediatrician to menopause expert—thanks to one curious patient and a Suzanne Somers book—and how that moment sparked a lifelong mission to help women reclaim vitality in their second act of life.

Dr. Stills challenges the outdated narrative that menopause is a disease to be feared or managed. Instead, she offers a "pro-aging" perspective, describing menopause as a sacred transition that can be optimized with the right tools. She dives deep into the science and clinical application of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), explaining why most women are being underserved by conventional approaches—and how individualized care using 24-hour wet urine testing, bioidentical hormones, and strategic supplementation can unlock vibrant energy, libido, and mental clarity.

Listeners will learn why standard blood tests miss the mark, how improper supplementation (like DIM and calcium d-glucarate) can backfire, and why topical hormone creams need to be applied to the mucosal tissues—not the skin—for proper absorption. Dr. Stills also debunks myths around estrogen, explains the vital role of estriol in preventing cancer and inflammation, and shares inspiring case studies of women who got their lives back—even after decades of suffering.

Whether you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond, this conversation will reframe how you see aging—and give you real tools to thrive physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

• Menopause is a natural transition, not a disease
• Pro-aging is a mindset: support aging instead of fighting it
• Estriol (E3) is anti-inflammatory and protective, not dangerous
• Standard blood tests often miss hormone fluctuations and metabolites
• 24-hour wet urine testing offers the most accurate hormone insights
• Individualized treatment is essential—no one-size-fits-all protocols
• Hormone creams must be applied to mucosal tissue for effectiveness
• DIM and calcium-d-glucarate can be harmful if not needed
• Hormones impact brain, bones, gut, libido, and overall vitality
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can work in as little as 3–4 weeks
• Transdermal patches often contain toxins and are poorly metabolized
• DHEA is best delivered orally in liposomal form
• Women in their 70s and 80s can still start HRT and experience huge benefits
• Symptoms like joint pain, insomnia, and brain fog often resolve quickly with proper HRT
• “Sort of better” isn’t good enough—optimize to feel amazing

Website: https://drstills.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsharonstills

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/REDHotMedicine

Dr. Sharon Stills, a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor with over two decades of dedicated service in transforming women's health has been a guiding light for perimenopausal and menopausal women, empowering them to reinvent, explore, and rediscover their vitality and zest for life. Her pioneering RED Hot Sexy Meno(pause) Program encapsulates her philosophy: to Reinvent your Health, Explore your Spirit, and Discover YOUR Sexy. This unique approach has revolutionized the way women experience their transformative years, making her a sought-after

In this deeply inspiring Episode 159 of the Fit Mother Podcast, Dr. Anthony Balduzzi sits down with Andre Walker — a Navy veteran, international photographer, filmmaker, and devoted father — to talk about health, faith, creativity, and reinvention at any age. At 69 years young, Andre is living proof that vitality doesn’t have an expiration date.

Andre shares his compelling life journey: from single fatherhood and creative hustle to discovering the Fit Father Project during COVID after seeing a photo that made him want to change everything. Now, he’s medication-free, full of energy, and showing up with passion — not just for his family, but for the world through his lens. And this August, Andre will be the man behind the camera at the Fit Father & Fit Mother LIVE event.

This episode is more than a health story — it’s about how purpose, legacy, and creativity all come alive when you commit to your well-being. You’ll hear about Andre’s mindset shift, his daily practices, how he uses faith as fuel, and the lessons he’s passing down to his kids.

Tune in to hear Andre’s tips for staying consistent, eating clean (even with a sweet tooth), and what it really means to be a fit, spiritual leader of your family — no matter your age. If you're looking for motivation, this conversation will light a fire in your soul.

• Age is not a barrier to transformation
• Faith and gratitude are Andre’s daily fuel
• Photography sparked from childhood passion with National Geographic
• Health journey began after a jarring beach photo
• Fit Father Project provided a structure and inspiration
• Consistency is more important than motivation
• Being fit gives you confidence and power
• Fitness helps you show up fully for your family
• Creativity can thrive at any stage of life
• Joy and energy are signs your body is working right
• Daily water, enzymes, and protein shake = Andre’s staples
• Being fit is about energy, not big muscles
• You must be accountable — to yourself, your family, or your faith
• "True strength has no age limits"

Website: https://www.andrewalkerphoto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewalkerproductions

Andre Walker discovered his passion for cinematography when he watched Gordon Parks Jr.'s blaxploitation film Super Fly. The realistic portrayal of crime and drama in New York City captivated him. He was also inspired by Parks' famous photograph "American Gothic, Washington, D.C.," which depicted an African American woman standing in front of the American flag with a mop and broom. This experience led him to pursue a career as a photographer and filmmaker. Hailing from Queens, NY, Andre is a United States Navy veteran who produced his first feature film, Better DayZ, distributed by York Entertainment. He also directed, produced, and wrote Don't Take It Personal, which was an official selection at the North Carolina Black Film Festival and was nominated for Best Cinematographer for the award-winning short film, Which Line Are You In? at the World Music & Independent Film Festival. He also directed and produced The Million Woman March documentary Sisterhood, Alive and Well, distributed by Cinema Guild and several independent music videos. Additionally, he had a lead role in Crackdown Big City Blues and appeared on television in Law and Order. A graduate of the Hollywood Film Institute in California, Andre is a highly sought-after photographer whose award-winning images have been featured in Israel, Costa Rica,...