All Episodes
Every full episode of Muscle Science for Women, newest first. Each one has the show notes, the audio, and links to listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.
145 episodes
Episode 145 · October 6, 2026 · 44 min
Fitness trends rated: peptides, intuitive eating and more
Sleepmaxxing, peptides, intuitive eating, and AI personal training: Ashleigh and Rachel give their thoughts--underrated or overrated- on a list of fitness trends, food ideas.
Episode 144 · September 29, 2026 · 54 min
Food addiction, short workouts and training on low iron
Can you be addicted to food? Rachel opens with the research she has been doing since the emotional eating episode. Then the ladies answer two listener questions: whether three…
Episode 143 · September 22, 2026 · 48 min
Fiber myths: how much do you actually need?
How much fiber do you actually need, and can you overdo it? Rachel and Ashleigh sort the fiber claims that hold up from the ones that don't: where the 30 gram number came from…
Episode 142 · September 15, 2026 · 53 min
Emotional eating: the shame cycle and how to break it
In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh talk about recent struggles with comfort eating, sharing the reality that nearly EVERYONE has experienced at least once: eating in secret, or…
Episode 141 · September 1, 2026 · 59 min
What you need to know about pelvic floor health and strength training
If you've been wanting a masterclass on pelvic floor health, look no further. Ashleigh interviews Dr. Caroline Packard, DPT, a pelvic floor physical therapist, lifelong athlete…
Episode 140 · August 18, 2026 · 50 min
Should Women Fast? Talking fat loss, muscle growth & sustainability
Rachel and Ashleigh both ran a short fast in the same week, Ashleigh for 36 hours and Rachel for 24, and this conversation is what came out of it. They cover why they each wanted…
Episode 139 · August 11, 2026 · 1 hr 15 min
The Science of Sprinting - Burn Fat, Build Power & Live Longer
Brad Kearns is a New York Times bestselling author, including his recent book Born to Walk. He's a #1 world-ranked Masters track & field high jumper in 2025 and a #3 world-ranked…
Episode 138 · August 4, 2026 · 37 min
GLP-1's and Building muscle: What you need to know
Does it suddenly feel like everyone you know is on a GLP-1 medication? Even people who seem to be using it just to lose those "last ten pounds"? Are you feeling pressure to do the…
Episode 137 · July 21, 2026 · 43 min
Here's what you actually need to do to lose body fat
If you listened to episode 136 and completed the six-step audit to determine if you're REALLY doing the right things to lose fat, and you're still at a loss, you may be thinking…
Episode 136 · July 14, 2026 · 55 min
Is your fat loss stalling? Check these 6 things
Have you been trying, seemingly forever, to lose fat, and just not seeing the results you want? Maybe you've tried a bunch of methods or different diets, you've tried exercising…
Episode 135 · June 30, 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
How Fit Moms Raise Active Kids
In today's episode, Ashleigh speaks with family and motherhood fitness influencer Kayla (@kdavis_fitness on IG) about balancing fitness and motherhood as a mom of three (who just…
Episode 134 · June 23, 2026 · 57 min
Are you training in the wrong zone? How to use training zones effectively
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel provide a comprehensive overview of the Training Zones 1 through 5, giving you all the information you need to understand and use them…
Episode 133 · June 9, 2026 · 43 min
Are you self-sabotaging your own goals (and happiness)?
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh answer questions about how sleep can impact meal timing, how to properly breathe during exercise (especially for those of you who always feel…
Episode 132 · May 19, 2026 · 56 min
Heal your gut with Hannah Aylward
In this episode Ashleigh speaks with Hannah Aylward, a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Gut Health Expert + Mindfulness Advocate, to help breakdown:
Episode 131 · April 28, 2026 · 40 min
How to train NOW to be strong at 80
In this episode, hosts Ashleigh and Rachel discuss what we need to be doing now to live the life we want when we're older, including discussing some key markers of longevity, the…
Episode 130 · April 21, 2026 · 28 min
Influencer red flags | act like a baby - for your health
In this solo episode, Ashleigh offers some food for thought on how to handle the onslaught of health information we are exposed to on a daily basis, and how to determine whether…
Episode 129 · April 7, 2026 · 31 min
Super disciplined, or just not resilient?
In this episode, hosts Ashleigh and Rachel give updates on their Dopamine Reset Challenge, continue to explore the impact of AI, talk about the latest negative fitness trend on…
Episode 128 · March 17, 2026 · 36 min
Does more control = more freedom?
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel explore practical strategies for optimizing routines, managing dopamine, and choosing the right support systems to enhance overall well-being…
Episode 127 · March 10, 2026 · 49 min
Beet juice, vibration plates, red light therapy: do they work?
Today Ashleigh and Rachel discuss more of the wellness trends you sent in, going over research about their efficacy, including beet juice powder, red light therapy, vibration…
Episode 126 · March 3, 2026 · 31 min
Is your favorite workout overrated?
In this short solo episode, Ashleigh offers a free Substack subscription if you review the pod; she answers a listener question about whether or not it's normal to make gains and…
Episode 125 · February 10, 2026 · 40 min
Is your Type-A approach helping or hurting you?
In this episode, the ladies discuss where they were in 2016, they both touch on some recent injuries and how they're dealing with them, and they talk about how having a Type A…
Episode 124 · February 3, 2026 · 43 min
Is AI going to take over coaching (and our brains)?
In this episode, Ashleigh offers updates on her month-long Costa Rica residency, the ladies discuss more dopamine management, and they dive deep into AI as it relates to the…
Episode 123 · January 20, 2026 · 30 min
What women need to know about Iron
In this episode, Ashleigh breaks down the basics of what you need to know about iron and iron deficiency as a strength-training woman. She discusses why iron deficiency is so…
Episode 122 · January 13, 2026 · 50 min
2026 Goals: Dopamine Reset and Finding Alignment
Welcome to 2026! In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh catch up on their holiday breaks, share personal reflections on growth and alignment, and announce an exciting new product…
Episode 121 · December 16, 2025 · 55 min
12 Tips for Dealing with Seasonal Depression
In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, the hosts reflect on the challenging year of 2025 and share strategies to combat seasonal depression. They discuss their personal…
Episode 120 · December 2, 2025 · 1 hr 11 min
Understanding Thyroid Health
In this episode with renowned thyroid expert Elle Russ, bestselling author of The Paleo Thyroid Solution, Ashleigh and Elle discuss:
Episode 119 · November 18, 2025 · 45 min
Body fat percentage confusion | changes coming for Muscle Science for Women
In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel discuss the differences in body fat percentages between men and women, including what's healthy and sustainable, and how they will look…
Episode 118 · November 11, 2025 · 44 min
How long does it take to lose muscle?
This week Rachel and Ashleigh answer questions from listeners including:
Episode 117 · October 28, 2025 · 43 min
Distractions, numbing tactics, and what's keeping us from being our healthiest selves
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel have an impromptu mental health chat, talking about their own personal struggles and ways in which we can all face our challenges head on…
Episode 116 · October 21, 2025 · 28 min
5 Ways to make fitness progress when you have NO time
In this quickie episode, Ashleigh talks about five key ways to make fitness, strength, health, and body composition improvements even when you have no time - maybe you have young…
Episode 115 · October 7, 2025 · 50 min
does weightlifting stunt teenage growth?
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer user questions about whether or not powerlifting is bad for teenagers' growing bodies; talking about body image with your kids; can you…
Episode 114 · September 23, 2025 · 44 min
Why your diet isn't working anymore - and how to fix it
In this solo episode (a re-release of a popular episode from Rachel's other podcast, MetFlex and Chill) Rachel discusses what happens when your diet stops working for you, and how…
Episode 113 · September 16, 2025 · 45 min
Are you being insane?
In this brand-new episode, Ashleigh and Rachel share big life and fitness updates; they give their unfiltered answer to a listener question who wonders if she's being insane about…
Episode 112 · September 9, 2025 · 51 min
10 Mistakes Women Make When Trying To Build Muscle
In this solo episode (a re-release of a popular episode from Rachel's other podcast, MetFlex and Chill) Rachel talks about the mistakes women make when trying to build muscle.
Episode 111 · August 26, 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
Healthy Aging Series: Mental Health
In this episode of the Healthy Aging Series, Ashleigh and Beth discuss mental health: how it impacts physical health and vice versa; how it changes through the decades; how our…
Episode 110 · August 19, 2025 · 34 min
Weighted vests and CrossFit support groups
In this solo episode, Ashleigh weighs in on whether or not weighted vests are worth it; she talks about starting a CrossFit support group for folks trying to leave, and answers a…
Episode 109 · August 5, 2025 · 34 min
Wellness retreats, skinny-fat problems, working smarter not harder
This week is a mixed bag of listener questions: Rachel and Ashleigh discuss ideas about wellness retreats or traveling events; they answer a question from a listener who thinks…
Episode 108 · July 29, 2025 · 41 min
What is a maintenance phase and how does it work?
In this episode the ladies talk about "maintenance," - what does it mean, how do you get to maintenance, how do you stay there, how long do you stay there, why is maintenance a…
Episode 107 · July 15, 2025 · 43 min
How grief impacts health
In this vulnerable episode, Rachel and Ashleigh talk about the intersection of grief and health - it's a topic that we'll all deal with at some point, but isn't often discussed…
Episode 106 · July 8, 2025 · 55 min
All about pelvic health
This episode is a deep dive into pelvic health, an incredibly important aspect of overall health, function, and quality of life for women that many of us don't know enough about…
Episode 105 · June 24, 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
Healthy Aging Series: Motherhood
This week is another episode of the Healthy Aging Series, and this time Ashleigh and Beth are diving into motherhood, a deeply personal and lifechanging event. They discuss the…
Episode 104 · June 17, 2025 · 34 min
Limiting factors in training | How to avoid being skinny-fat
In this episode, Ashleigh answers listener questions about:
Episode 103 · June 3, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min
Ashleigh's birth story, part 2
In this vulnerable episode, Ashleigh shares her pregnancy and birth story from the recent birth of her daughter. She covers topics including:
Episode 102 · May 13, 2025 · 41 min
Muscle-building tips for teens | Are you eating enough?
In this episode Ashleigh talks about a reel of hers that went viral; shows the ladies are binging; advice for a teenager just starting her muscle-building journey; how much organ…
Episode 101 · April 29, 2025 · 52 min
Training for symmetry | Are kettlebells good for muscle building?
In this week's episode Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions from listeners about:
Episode 100 · April 15, 2025 · 31 min
Celebrating 100 episodes!
Today is the 100th episode of Muscle Science for Women! We've had a blast learning and sharing our knowledge with each other, and with our listeners, and we appreciate each and…
Episode 99 · April 1, 2025 · 1 hr 56 min
Ashleigh's birth story - Part 1
While we wait for Ashleigh to recover from her second birth, we decided to re-release an episode from before the rebranding of the podcast. Back in 2021, when the podcast was…
Episode 98 · March 25, 2025 · 45 min
Is fasted cardio more effective? | Some thoughts on male coaches who work primarily with women
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions about fasted cardio and their thoughts on male coaches who focus on female clients looking to grow their glutes (there are a…
Episode 97 · March 18, 2025 · 51 min
The differences in training for strength vs. hypertrophy
Today is another re-release of a popular episode from a while back you may have missed: in this one, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss the nuances between training for strength and…
Episode 96 · March 4, 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Can you eat intuitively and still lose weight / gain muscle?
Today is a re-release of a popular episode you may have missed with Rachel and Ashleigh all about the idea of "intuitive eating" - what does that term mean, exactly? Is it…
Episode 95 · February 18, 2025 · 43 min
Is it better to work out in the morning or evening? | Tips to reduce sugar cravings
Today the ladies answer questions around the optimal time to work out, how to make the best of a poor workout schedule, and they provide a lot of actionable tips on how to…
Episode 94 · February 11, 2025 · 49 min
All about the anabolic window
Today Ashleigh and Rachel talk about the "anabolic window" - what it is, how important is it really, and how you can optimally fuel before and after your workouts to maximize your…
Episode 93 · January 28, 2025 · 50 min
Ashleigh and Rachel: originally mortal enemies? | Can you work out while sick?
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh answer a listener question about how they met, and they reminisce about their "origin story" and talk about how they work now as…
Episode 92 · January 14, 2025 · 28 min
How to talk to your doctor about menopause
In this important episode, Rachel and Ashleigh walk listeners through how they can have the "menopause" conversation with their doctor: the information you should have and bring…
Episode 91 · January 7, 2025 · 48 min
Can endurance training impact fertility? | Ideal rep ranges for strength and hypertrophy
In this episode, Rachel talks about a camping adventure; the two ladies discuss whether or not there are "ideal rep ranges" for building strength and muscle; they dive into one…
Episode 90 · December 24, 2024 · 37 min
How much muscle do you REALLY need?
In the final episode of 2024, Rachel and Ashleigh answer a question about weight loss from a male listener, highlighting some of the differences and similarities men and women…
Episode 89 · December 17, 2024 · 57 min
A deep dive on red light therapy
Today Ashleigh asks an expert all the questions about red light therapy: Having dealt with health challenges in childhood and early adulthood, Scott Chaverri has always been…
Episode 88 · December 10, 2024 · 40 min
Gym Etiquette and Mukbang Videos
Proper gym etiquette (ie, manners and common sense) is so important, but often overlooked - Rachel and Ashleigh get fired up over some of the most egregious issues we see in the…
Episode 87 · November 26, 2024 · 1 hr 2 min
Ashleigh answers your pregnancy questions
In this solo episode, Ashleigh updates you as she hits the halfway mark of her second pregnancy, including what's different or the same this time around, what's easier and what's…
Episode 86 · November 19, 2024 · 1 hr 7 min
There's more to gut health than what we eat
In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Alison Mars, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Cookbook author of The Paleo Gut Healing Cookbook, about managing Hashimoto's Thyroiditis…
Episode 85 · November 12, 2024 · 39 min
Can you increase calories without gaining fat?
In this episode, Ashleigh gives an update on her pregnancy; the ladies answer a question about how to slowly increase calories without gaining fat; dive into the benefits of…
Episode 84 · November 5, 2024 · 46 min
Let's talk about coregasms
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions from listeners:
Episode 83 · October 22, 2024 · 39 min
PCOS and Pumpkin Spice
In this episode, we discuss training and nutrition for women with PCOS, and also how to think about food cravings during your period; we discuss one of the biggest food-related…
Episode 82 · October 8, 2024 · 40 min
Does Your Uterus Get In the Way?
Who is the best and most well-rounded female athlete? What does it mean to be a well-rounded athlete anyway? Why are some "fitness" standards different for men and women (it must…
Episode 81 · October 1, 2024 · 1 hr 26 min
Understanding thyroid health with Elle Russ
Today best-selling author and thyroid health expert Elle Russ joins Ashleigh to discuss the importance of your thyroid: what it does and supports in the body, tell-tale signs that…
Episode 80 · September 24, 2024 · 28 min
We design the optimal human meal | Whey causing skin issues?
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh are asked by a special listener to design the "perfect human meal;" they talk about what to do if whey protein and whey products are causing…
Episode 79 · September 17, 2024 · 1 hr 8 min
Lessons learned from a bodybuilder who races ultra-marathons
Today Ashleigh chats with personal trainer, nutritionist, best-selling author, and host of The Brian Keane Podcast about endurance racing as a bodybuilder; strength training for…
Episode 78 · September 10, 2024 · 40 min
When your family doesn't support your goals
In this week's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how to juggle, prioritize, and properly rank all the big healthy lifestyle factors, especially as your…
Episode 77 · September 3, 2024 · 36 min
Creatine Cycling? | Big Life News | Coolest listener ever?
In this episode Rachel shares some big life news, Ashleigh discusses recent conversations about health and fitness with family members, and they answer some fun questions from…
Episode 76 · August 20, 2024 · 25 min
Answering your growing and bulking questions
Not everyone is trying to get leaner and smaller - lots of us want to get bigger and grow more size and muscle, and that can be just as difficult as leaning out. In this episode…
Episode 75 · August 6, 2024 · 44 min
Are your fitness goals unrealistic?
In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel talk technology (including some new fitness-related tech Ashleigh is loving, and their thoughts on the health risks of EMF's) but the big…
Episode 74 · July 23, 2024 · 28 min
How do you know when it's time to eat more carbs?
In this short episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how you know when it's time to eat more carbs, and offer some practical and tangible health tips for…
Episode 73 · July 16, 2024 · 32 min
Why is it so much harder for women to lose fat?
The Women of Muscle Science are back from their summer break! Get ready for fun life updates, some silliness, and as always, plenty of education mixed in. This week the ladies…
Episode 72 · June 25, 2024 · 39 min
How to improve bone density | partial ROM reps for hypertrophy?
In this week's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat about how they manage their colds (including what they do to minimize sickness). They also answer questions from listeners about
Episode 71 · June 18, 2024 · 32 min
Did you ruin your metabolism by undereating?
In this episode Rachel recaps a fun Vegas weekend, they talk about some of their favorite "on the go" snacks, and they answer a listener question about balancing strength training…
Episode 70 · June 4, 2024 · 40 min
How much muscle is enough - or too much?
This week Ashleigh and Rachel recap Ashleigh's San Diego visit; they respond to a critical email about Botox; they answer a question about whether or not you should cut or bulk…
Episode 69 · May 21, 2024 · 36 min
Are some people just not "built" for certain exercises? | How many meals per day is optimal?
In today's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about whether or not three meals per day is optimal for protein/nutrient absorption; if some builds or anatomies…
Episode 68 · May 14, 2024 · 40 min
Too much dietary protein causes cardiovascular disease (again)? Discussing the latest study
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer a listener's question about a recent study claiming that high leucine (and dietary protein) intake can cause atherosclerosis or…
Episode 67 · May 7, 2024 · 1 hr 29 min
Lessons on nutrition and muscle building from Stan Efferding
Enjoy this re-release of one of our more popular episodes with Stan Efferding, an IFBB Professional bodybuilder and World Record Holding Powerlifter. He is one of only 10 men in…
Episode 66 · April 30, 2024 · 30 min
How to Figure Out Maintenance Calories? | Herniated Disc Recovery
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about how to transition from a cut to "maintenance" and all the mistakes and misconceptions that come from this…
Episode 65 · April 23, 2024 · 30 min
Aging well doesn't happen by accident: how to enjoy the process
The term "aging," to many, is a bad word, associated with negative changes and a general decline in health. But many of the negative aspects we associate with aging aren't…
Episode 64 · April 15, 2024 · 48 min
Lowering LDL cholesterol on a high-protein diet | Are healthy desserts "orthorexic"?
In this episode the ladies answer questions from listeners including one about how to lower LDL cholesterol on a high protein diet: what might be causing the high LDL reading…
Episode 63 · April 9, 2024 · 37 min
Are BCAA's any good | Do you need a coffee detox?
In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh answer listener questions about the efficacy of BCAA's for muscle building and recovery, the concept of "macro thresholds" ie, how much wiggle…
Episode 62 · April 2, 2024 · 43 min
Vegan Protein | Nutritional deficiencies from a meat-based diet?
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about how to enjoy vacation without guilt, vegan protein powders, and Ashleigh's nutritional deficiency test results. They discuss how to…
Episode 61 · March 26, 2024 · 38 min
Are genetic "body types" a thing, and how do you train accordingly?
This is a fun one! In today's episode, Rachel and Ashleigh discuss the concept of body types: (you've probably heard of these, ectomorph, endomorph, and mesomorph). They talk…
Episode 60 · March 19, 2024 · 40 min
Talking to teens about fitness
Ashleigh and Rachel are VERY excited to answer questions from some younger listeners! They answer questions from a high school listener about weight gain and birth control…
Episode 59 · March 12, 2024 · 1 hr 17 min
Essential Amino Acids: what exactly are they and why do we need them
In this episode Ashleigh asks the CEO and co-founder of Kion, Angelo Keely, to do a deep dive on essential amino acids. As a life-long meat eater, Ashleigh is skeptical about EAA…
Episode 58 · March 5, 2024 · 41 min
Should Ashleigh give up working out? | Can stronger glutes fix low back pain?
In this episode Ashleigh shares her struggles with burnout, comparing her current self to her former self, and struggling with balancing her current goals and responsibilities…
Episode 57 · February 27, 2024 · 32 min
How to "start over" in the gym | Rachel's new job
In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh and Rachel dive into a case study of a woman looking to start over again in her fitness and strength journey, after kids and…
Episode 56 · February 20, 2024 · 40 min
Not making progress in your fitness goals? Here's the missing piece
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about some of the ways their beliefs and behaviors around fitness and nutrition have changed over the past ten years; they discuss what…
Episode 55 · February 13, 2024 · 41 min
Can you REALLY grow your legs in a home gym? | Prepping for pregnancy
In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel discuss whether or not you can effectively grow your legs and glutes with a limited home gym (and give plenty of advice on how you can maximize…
Episode 54 · February 6, 2024 · 34 min
Maybe gluten and dairy aren't so bad | Our blood glucose experiment
In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel dive into a variety of topics around nutrition, including understanding the difference between a food "sensitivity" and an actual allergy; they…
Episode 53 · January 30, 2024 · 39 min
Staying on track with your health while traveling
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh discuss mindset and the do's and don'ts of staying healthy while traveling. Rachel has just come back from an epic three-week trip to Thailand…
Episode 52 · January 16, 2024 · 37 min
Do's and don'ts: creatine, therapy, competitive bodybuilding
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer listener questions about:
Episode 51 · January 9, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
Parasite Cleanses | Gut Health during Travel
In this episode, Ashleigh sits down with Halie Schoff, functional wellness and nutrition expert and coach who specializes in gut and hormonal health, to talk about how to best…
Episode 50 · December 19, 2023 · 37 min
Training around injuries | What people get wrong about muscle building
In the LAST episode of 2023, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about goals and answer listener questions about:
Episode 49 · December 12, 2023 · 1 hr 15 min
Can we really change our mindset to improve our health?
In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Erin Power, the coaching and curriculum director at the Primal Health Coach Institute about the complex and layered relationship between a…
Episode 48 · December 5, 2023 · 32 min
How sore is too sore? | More glute-building tips
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer more listener questions, like:
Episode 47 · November 21, 2023 · 1 hr 20 min
Optimizing hormonal health throughout your life with menopause expert Esther Blum
Today Ashleigh dives into your most frequently asked hormone questions with Esther Blum, an Integrative Dietitian and Menopause Expert. In the past 27 years she has helped…
Episode 46 · November 14, 2023 · 37 min
Ranting about lazy journalism | mainstream nutritionists | Instant gratification
In this episode Ashleigh and Rachel catch up on their lives, answer listener questions, and get pretty fired up over:
Episode 45 · October 31, 2023 · 1 hr 35 min
Fitness in your 40's and beyond | Dr. Stephanie Estima
In this week's episode, Ashleigh speaks with Dr. Stephanie Estima, a doctor of chiropractic and a health expert focusing on improving lifespan, health span, body composition, and…
Episode 44 · October 17, 2023 · 55 min
Is body positivity a good thing? | Are you eating more than you think?
In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh answer questions about:
Episode 43 · October 3, 2023 · 50 min
Are weight "set points" real? | How to eat out on a diet
In this episode, Ashleigh talks about the stress of sending her toddler to pre-school and her fitness plans for the rest of 2023; Rachel gives an update on her "mini cut" and they…
Episode 42 · September 26, 2023 · 1 hr 32 min
Dr. Bill Schindler - What does it mean to eat like a human?
In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with Dr. Bill Schindler, an archaeologist, primitive technologist, chef, and author of the book, Eat Like a Human.
Episode 41 · September 19, 2023 · 34 min
Rachel's "mini cut" | Girl dinner takedown
In this episode Rachel tells us about her "mini cut" for an upcoming vacation, which leads to a discussion on pool party fashion; Ashleigh has a wellness industry rant about "girl…
Episode 40 · September 5, 2023 · 38 min
TMI Time! All about periods
Ashleigh and Rachel get real womanly in this episode, covering everything about periods including:
Episode 39 · August 22, 2023 · 41 min
Best hormonal testing | Unilateral training | American Gladiators
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat about the new American Gladiators documentary, what type of testing is best to determine hormone levels and overall health, and how to…
Episode 38 · August 8, 2023 · 43 min
Thoughts on 75 Hard | Safe Tanning | Caffeine
In this Q&A episode, Ashleigh and Rachel dive into the 75 hard challenge, they talk about safe sun exposure, caffeine consumption, and they revisit their old debate on using wrist…
Episode 37 · August 1, 2023 · 49 min
How to: fix bloating, find a good doctor, and target your hamstrings
In this fun episode Ashleigh and Rachel show off some summer fashion (follow us on YouTube to watch the episodes!) and answer listener questions including:
Episode 36 · July 25, 2023 · 1 hr 5 min
Postpartum fitness and health with Melissa Paris
In this episode with Ashleigh and her special guest, postpartum fitness and kettlebell expert Melissa Paris, the two moms discuss the importance of the postpartum period for…
Episode 35 · July 11, 2023 · 59 min
A deep dive on Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh dive deeper into the topic of hormone replacement therapy for women, attempting to clear up some misconceptions and provide information for…
Episode 34 · June 27, 2023 · 31 min
Q&A - Ozempic | Cottage Cheese trend | Net vs total carbs
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel try (and fail) to do a rapid-fire Q&A, but they still cover a lot of ground: they chat about the latest fat-loss drug, Ozempic; the new social…
Episode 33 · June 13, 2023 · 47 min
Q&A: HRT | best glute exercises
In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh catch up on what's going on in their lives after a brief break and chat about:
Episode 32 · May 30, 2023 · 1 hr 30 min
What's wrong with the health and fitness coaching industry, and how we can fix it
In this re-released episode, Ashleigh discusses what she's seen/experienced as the issues in the coaching industry today, and what we can all do to improve it.
Episode 31 · May 16, 2023 · 44 min
How Nutrition and libido are connected
In this re-released episode, Ashleigh welcomes back her friend Dr. Elly Michelle Lieppman, a licensed naturopathic doctor who specializes in individualized women's medicine…
Episode 30 · May 9, 2023 · 36 min
Body fat percentages | Rest day restlessness
In this Q&A episode, Ashleigh and Rachel are asked about their body fat percentages, our favorite lifts, what to do with rest day restlessness, and more chats about optimizing…
Episode 29 · May 2, 2023 · 1 hr 40 min
The Science of Stress and Stress Mitigation with Dr. Andrew Huberman
Since May is a busy month for the Muscle Science for Women ladies, please enjoy the re-release of one of the most popular podcast episodes Ashleigh ever recorded: her interview…
Episode 28 · April 18, 2023 · 51 min
What is reverse dieting? | How to do it correctly
This week is all about reverse dieting: Ashleigh and Rachel discuss what a reverse diet is, and why you should do it after spending time in a caloric deficit. They also talk about…
Episode 27 · April 11, 2023 · 34 min
Are HIIT workouts actually good for you?
In today's episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk all things High Intensity Interval Training:
Episode 26 · April 4, 2023 · 44 min
Can you change your body composition without changing your weight?
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel talk about cutting and bulking in tandem with the seasons; whether or not you can/should try to change your body composition without losing or…
Episode 25 · March 28, 2023 · 59 min
Final photoshoot prep update | Dealing with back pain
Have you ever found yourself frustrated with a body composition or fat loss goal - you feel like you're doing everything right but not seeing the results you want? It could be…
Episode 24 · March 14, 2023 · 53 min
Motivation and cardio - How important are they for fat loss?
In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh gives an update on her short but intense photo shoot prep and fat loss plan, revealing the challenges she's having (they're…
Episode 23 · March 7, 2023 · 44 min
Let's talk glutes! | Training around your cycle
Join the Build Your Glutes Workshop interest list HERE!
Episode 22 · February 28, 2023 · 43 min
Talking beauty standards in the fitness industry
In this episode, hosts Rachel and Ashleigh answer your questions, including whether their feelings about themselves or about beauty in general have changed as their "online…
Episode 21 · February 21, 2023 · 42 min
Does nutrition timing matter for fat loss? | Nerding out on creatine
In this episode, the girls nerd out about the benefits and uses of creatine and collagen; they discuss the nuances of nutrition timing when in a deficit; Ashleigh talks about her…
Episode 20 · February 14, 2023 · 47 min
Ashleigh talks about her photoshoot prep with a SURPRISE coach!
Even coaches need coaching - Ashleigh is working on a short but intense "prep" for an upcoming photoshoot, and she discusses her plan and goals with her surprise coach - including…
Episode 19 · February 7, 2023 · 30 min
Is fasting good for women or not?
In this short solo episode, Ashleigh answers listener questions about whether fasting for women is a good idea; when you know you've reached a goal and when it's time to take a…
Episode 18 · January 31, 2023 · 1 hr 4 min
Optimize your hormones with Dr. Halie Schoff
One of the questions most frequently asked of the Muscle Science for Women podcast hosts is around optimizing hormonal health as we age, so we can maximize muscle, minimize…
Episode 17 · January 24, 2023 · 40 min
How to get your strength back after injury or illness
Ashleigh and Rachel answer some of the most commonly asked questions they get about:
Episode 16 · January 17, 2023 · 38 min
Can you spot reduce muscle?
In this episode, Rachel and Ashleigh catch up after the holidays and talk about their new year's challenges and resolutions and some things they're working on.
Episode 15 · January 3, 2023 · 1 hr 8 min
Answering more of your questions about healthy, fit pregnancy
In this episode, Ashleigh speaks with health and fitness coach Laura Ruspis (@coachlaura.fit) and mom of four about her fitness and motherhood journey, and together they answer…
Episode 14 · December 13, 2022 · 35 min
Is Intra-Workout Fuel Useful?
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of intra-workout fuel (I.e., eating something during a workout). We dive into the details of why…
Episode 13 · December 6, 2022 · 1 hr 9 min
Get Strong AND Look Good Naked with Functional Bodybuilding
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel chat with Functional Bodybuilding Master Coach Bri Lamb about her journey from college athlete to CrossFitter to training for health and…
Episode 12 · November 29, 2022 · 45 min
The hosts answer YOUR personal questions!
In this fun - and overdue - episode, you can get to know your hosts Rachel and Ashleigh as they answer your rapid-fire personal questions about how they met, what it's like being…
Episode 11 · November 22, 2022 · 38 min
What CrossFit gets wrong about strength training
In this episode, Ashleigh and Rachel answer questions about:
Episode 10 · November 15, 2022 · 1 hr 5 min
Preventing holiday weight gain - LIVE podcast!
In their second live webinar/podcast episode, Ashleigh, Rachel, and their guests discuss the fears, misconceptions, and tactics around eating during the holidays. They cover…
Episode 9 · November 1, 2022 · 1 hr 6 min
Troubleshooting Body Composition Plateaus - LIVE podcast!
This episode marks the first time that Rachel and Ashleigh recorded a "live" podcast, allowing listeners to attend the zoom call and participate, asking questions and giving…
Episode 8 · October 18, 2022 · 43 min
Is weight fluctuation normal?
Rachel and Ashleigh are answering your questions today on topics like the importance of veggies when building muscle, how to add carbs intelligently to support training and muscle…
Episode 7 · October 4, 2022 · 30 min
Ashleigh and Rachel get in a fight over squats
This one is spicy! In this Q&A episode, Rachel and Ashleigh start out by discussing workout and exercise order selection, but then dive deep into a fun, but respectful, debate…
Episode 6 · September 20, 2022 · 20 min
What the fitness coaching industry is missing
In this solo episode, Ashleigh talks about some of the key elements largely missing from the strength and fitness coaching industry, especially regarding coaching women - the…
Episode 5 · September 6, 2022 · 46 min
Let's stop blaming carbs for our poor lifestyle habits
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh answer listener questions about carbs (carbs aren't bad, it's how we use-or abuse-them), talk about some upcoming trips and exciting life…
Episode 4 · August 23, 2022 · 57 min
Prepping For A Photoshoot
In this episode Rachel and Ashleigh chat about how Rachel is prepping for her latest photoshoot - they talk nutrition and caloric deficits, how much cardio you really need to do…
Episode 3 · August 9, 2022 · 1 hr
Women Are Not Small Men with Dr. Stacy Sims
In this episode, Ashleigh chats with Dr. Stacy Sims, an exercise physiologist and leading voice in women's performance.
Episode 2 · July 26, 2022 · 26 min
When Doctors (and Kim Kardashian) Give Bad Health Advice
In this episode of Muscle Science for Women, Ashleigh and Rachel discuss Kim Kardashian's new job as "chief taste consultant" for Beyond Meat, and also talk about Rachel's…
Episode 1 · July 12, 2022 · 21 min
Introducing: The Muscle Science For Women Podcast!
Today's podcast is a big one, and comes with an announcement: Ashleigh is officially changing the Muscle Maven Radio podcast to the Muscle Science for Women podcast!