The EMPWR Podcast

• We Are Engaged!

  I can’t believe I get to finally say this out loud… we’re engaged!! In today’s episode, I’m joined by my fiancé (!!!) Ian, and together we’re reliving every detail of the proposal — from how he secretly planned it to the moment I realized what was happening (spoiler: I was completely shocked). We’re opening up about everything — how it really went down at the coffee shop where we had our very first date, why having the kids there made it so special, and what this next chapter means to us after both having walked through divorce, growth, and healing.This episode is raw, joyful, and full of laughter (and maybe a few tears). It’s one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever shared on the podcast, and I’m so excited to let you in on our story. If you’ve been following our journey — from healing to happiness — thank you for being part of it. Your messages and support mean the world. Listen in to hear how Ian asked, how I said yes, and what’s next for us.  _____ Sam’s LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs   Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine _____ Dream Recovery | code: SAM15 https://dreamrecovery.io/ Manukora Head to https://manukora.com/SAMCFIT to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit. Growth Therapy Visit https://GrowTherapy.com/SAMCFIT today to get started. EightSleep Head to https://eightsleep.com/empwr and use the code EMPWR to get $350 off your very own Pod 5 Ultra. CLEARSTEM Go to https://CLEARSTEM.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off.  Kion Visit https://getkion.com/samantha  for 20% off. _____ Topics discussed: 00:00 – Intro 00:15 – We are engaged! 01:21 – How Ian Planned the Proposal 03:06 – Why the Coffee Shop Was Meaningful 04:32 – The Morning of the Proposal 07:12 – The Proposal Moment 09:15 – Ian’s speech to Sam & Sam’s Reflections 10:17 – Full-Circle Feelings & Family 14:18 – After the Proposal: Celebration & Sushi 15:36 – Favorite Parts of the Engagement 17:46 – The Ring 18:29 – Other Moments Sam Thought It Might Happen 20:35 – Ian Asking Sam’s Dad for Permission 23:13 – Reflections on Healing & Partnership 26:40 – How This Engagement Feels Different 29:21 – What’s Changed with Age & Maturity 33:05 – Lessons from Past Relationships 38:28 – Next Steps: Wedding or Elopement? 40:23 – Wedding Vision & Dress Talk 40:45 – Destination Ideas: Greece, Switzerland, Florida 41:17 – Staying Present & Planning Ahead 41:36 – Tentative Wedding Timeline 42:45 – Wrap-Up & Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Do This in Your 30s to Prevent Cognitive Decline | ft. Louisa Nicola

  In this must-listen episode, I sit down with Louisa Nicola — neurophysiologist, human performance coach, and founder of Neuro Athletics — to reveal the science-backed strategies for peak brain health, fitness, and longevity. With a background in neurophysiology from the University of Sydney Medical School, Louisa has become a trusted advisor to elite CEOs, professional athletes, and top executives. Through her groundbreaking platform Neuro Athletics, she’s trained and certified over 2,000 coaches worldwide, helping people optimize brain performance, prevent cognitive decline, and unlock their full potential. Louisa also opens up about her new women’s health product, Brain Code, launching in October, designed to support brain and body optimization for women at every stage of life. This conversation is packed with both science and heart — including emotional moments around the impact of Alzheimer’s, and practical strategies anyone can adopt now to improve brain health and performance. Together, we dive into: Why creatine is one of the most researched and misunderstood supplements Creatine’s surprising role in Alzheimer’s prevention and cognitive longevity How exercise, diet, and strength training impact brain health The truth about fasting, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and women’s health Actionable brain-first strategies you can implement today Connect with Louisa: Instagram: louisanicola_ Podcast: The Neuro Experience YouTube: Louisa Nicola The Brain Code Website: https://www.neuroathletics.com.au/ _____ Sam’s LINKS:https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit Blokes + Joi Wellness | code: SAMCFITPOD*50% off all labs on both sites* https://blokes.co/samcfitpod https://choosejoi.co/samcfitpod  CarawayVisit https://Carawayhome.com/samcfit or use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 10% off. PuoriGo to https://puori.com/SAMCFIT and use the code SAMCFIT at checkout for 20% of. AquaTruHead to https://AquaTru.com and get 20% off your purifier using code sam. AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee or your money back.  CalmGet 40% off a Calm Premium Subscription at https://calm.com/SAMCFIT_____ Topics discussed: 00:00 – Intro clip 00:28 – Guest intro 02:06 – Creatine 101: Why Luisa Champions It for Brain Health 03:34 – What Is Creatine & Why the Brain Needs It 06:14 – Optimal Creatine Dosage for Women 07:53 – Addressing Myths: Bloating & Water Retention with Creatine 09:29 – Creatine for Concussions, Recovery & Neuroprotection 10:50 – The NFL, Traumatic Brain Injuries & Luisa’s Work with Athletes 11:41 – Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease & Why It’s Preventable 13:07 – Root Causes: Inflammation, Diet, and Poor Lifestyle 14:46 – Ad18:06 – Why Alzheimer’s Impacts More Women Than Men 19:13 – Sugar, Inflammation & the Brain's Deterioration 21:01 – Early Symptoms: Brain Cell Death & Cognitive Decline 21:53 – Creatine's Protective Role in High-Stress Brain Environments 24:08 – Mental Health & Creatine: A Better Alternative to SSRIs? 25:17 – Why Exercise Is Essential for Brain Longevity 26:23 – Zone 2 Cardio: BDNF, Hippocampus Growth & Aging Brain Benefits 29:44 – Resistance Training: Strength, Cognition & Mental Performance 32:27 – Ad 35:06 – Twin Study: Leg Strength and Brain Volume Connection 36:36 – The VO2 Max Death Zone: Why High Intensity Isn’t Enough 40:44 – Luisa’s Daily Training Routine: Intervals, StairMaster & Recovery 42:27 – The Truth About Yoga & Pilates for Cognitive Health 42:33 – Is Fasting Good for the Brain? Weighing the Risks for Women 46:11 – Hormones & Brain Health: The Power of HRT 48:15 – How Estrogen Fuels Brain Energy & Function 48:45 – Ad 56:37 – Estrogen Testing, Hormonal Shifts & Menopause Prep 58:52 – What Women Should Do Before Starting HRT 59:59 – The Cognitive Power of Testosterone in Women Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Q&A: Health, Faith, Fitness & Daily Routines

  In this heartfelt solo episode, I get real about the chaos of constant travel, balancing personal goals with family life, and the power of giving yourself grace when life gets messy. From award wins and podcast milestones to personal updates and your most-asked questions, I invite you into a cozy girl chat that will leave you feeling seen, grounded, and inspired. If you've been struggling to stay consistent with your workouts, feeling the weight of mom guilt, or just need some motivation—this one’s for you. _____ Sam’s LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit Resource Links Mentioned: Clearstem cleanserClearstem serum Clearstem moisturizerComplexion color correcting pads Complexion cleansing oil Complexion retinol oil Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask® + Moisturizer Eye cream Clearstem | code: SAMCFIThttps://clearstem.com/SAMCFIT _____ Grow Therapy Visit GrowTherapy.com/SAMCFIT today to get started Timeline Head to timeline.com/SAMCFIT to get started. That’s timeline.com/SAMCFIT. Your cells will thank you! Remi Go to shopremi.com/SAMCFIT  and use CODE  SAMCFIT to get up to 50% off your nightguard at checkout.  Puori Go to puori.com/SAMCFIT and use the code SAMCFIT at checkout for 20% off. EightSleep Head to eightsleep.com/empwr and use the code EMPWR to get $350 off your very own Pod 5 Ultra. Beam Head to shopbeam.com/SAMC and take advantage of their limited time pricing of up to 35% off PLUS 2 free gifts when you use the code SAMC at checkout. _____ EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs   Follow Sam:Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine Topics discussed: 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 00:10 - Reflections on Summer & Travel Recap 00:28 - Winning the Rising Star Award 01:34 - Perspective on Hard Work & Sharing Success 01:57 - San Diego Trip & Celebrating Ian 03:47 - Austin Trip & Pursuit Network Launch Event 04:28 - Travel Fatigue & Missing Routine 05:14 - Finding Motivation & Giving Yourself Grace 05:54 - Instagram Q&A Intro 06:10 - Ironman Training Plans & Uncertainty 10:17 - Daily Eating Routine & Supplements 13:06 - Balancing Fitness Without Obsession 13:32 - Faith & Christianity 15:20 - House Hunting & Offer Accepted 16:36 - Engagement Timeline & Relationship with Ian 21:36 - How Often to Workout & Importance of Rest Days 22:17 - Building a Supportive Social Media Community 24:10 - Adding Protein Without Caloric Surplus 25:41 - Full Skincare Routine 30:10 - Managing Mom Guilt & Using Affirmations 31:37 - Bucket List Travel Destinations 32:34 - Meal Prepping for a Hungry Partner 33:17 - Tanning Routine & Products 33:59 - ADHD Diagnosis, Medications & Natural Coping 34:59 - Minimalist Lifestyle with ADHD 35:57 - Ian’s Potential Training App Idea 36:40 - Merch & Hat Restock Plans 37:24 - Closing Thoughts, Community Love & Future Episodes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• She Healed Chronic Pain With One Diet Change (You Won’t Believe It) ft. Addison LaBonte

  What if your chronic pain was actually your biggest breakthrough? After years of unexplained leg pain nearly ended her athletic career, Addison LaBonte made one life-changing decision: she ditched gluten. Not only did it heal her body, but it also ignited a mission to create clean, gluten-free desserts that actually taste amazing. In this powerful episode, we go deep on training, entrepreneurship, clean ingredients, and how to stop letting fear make your decisions for you. About Addison LaBonte Addison is a former D1 college athlete turned clean dessert entrepreneur. She’s the founder of Sweet Addison’s, a fast-growing gourmet gluten- and dairy-free dessert brand, and the voice behind the blog Organically Addison. After healing her own body through food, Addison is on a mission to redefine what “healthy” desserts can taste like. _____ Shop Sweet Addison’s at ⁠⁠https://sweetaddisons.com⁠⁠ and use code SAMCFIT for 10% off. Follow Addison:⁠⁠ @organicallyaddison⁠ SHOWNOTES: Sam’s LINKS: ⁠https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit⁠ Dream Recovery | code: SAM15 ⁠https://dreamrecovery.io/⁠ LMNT Head to⁠ https://drinklmnt.com/SAMCFIT⁠ to grab a free 8-count sample pack of their most popular flavors with any purchase. David Protein Buy four cartons and get the fifth free at ⁠https://davidprotein.com/samcfit⁠. Manukora Head to⁠ ⁠⁠https://manukora.com/SAMCFIT⁠ to save up to 31% plus $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit Branch Basics Head to ⁠https://ranchBasics.com ⁠and use code EMPWR for 15% off your Premium Starter Kit. EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* ⁠https://www.empwrbysam.com/⁠ My Macro Guide: ⁠https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only⁠ Running Programs: ⁠https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs⁠   Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine⁠ Resources & Links: Shop Sweet Addison’s: ⁠https://sweetaddisons.com⁠ Follow Addison:⁠ @organicallyaddison⁠ Topics discussed 00:00:00 – Intro 00:00:20 – Addison’s backstory 00:03:37 – Compartment syndrome diagnosis  00:06:45 – Going gluten-free: dramatic health improvements 00:08:42 – Cutting out gluten & dairy  00:10:46 – Passion for baking & beginning of “Organically Addison” blog 00:16:33 – Corporate finance career vs. entrepreneurial calling 00:20:53 – Fear of failure → entrepreneurship bravery 00:24:34 – Comfort zones & resilience: moving states, launching a business, growth mindset 00:26:14 – Product development decisions 00:30:24 – Product expansion 00:35:29 – Daily eating habits, enjoying her own products, impact on moms & kids with allergies 00:39:42 – Bigger mission: clean food movement, reducing dyes & artificial ingredients 00:41:00 – Ironman training: discipline and planning races 00:44:10 – Triathlon training challenges: swimming, biking, Navy SEAL coaching, endurance prep Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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• Fertility, PCOS & Period Loss: The Hidden Epidemic in Fit Women | ft. Dr. Natalie Crawford

  This is one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on The EMPWR Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Natalie Crawford — fertility physician and hormone expert — to unravel the truth about hormone health, period loss, PCOS, fertility struggles, and the dangerous undercurrent of underfueling in high-performing women. Whether you're planning to get pregnant, struggling with PCOS, or simply want to feel better in your body, this episode is a wake-up call every woman needs to hear. Guest Bio: Dr. Natalie Crawford is a fertility physician at Fora Fertility in Austin, Texas who knows that trying to understand your body and your hormones can be exhausting and overwhelming in the world of medical misinformation and contradicting opinions. She started the As a Woman Podcast to educate and empower, giving people access to the knowledge she's acquired on health and fertility from the comfort of their home. Resources & Mentions: – Dr. Natalie Crawford’s Podcast: As a Woman – Preorder Dr. Crawford’s Book: https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book – Fora Fertility Clinic: https://www.forafertility.com/ Follow Dr. Natalie Crawford: Instagram & YT: @nataliecrawfordmd Website: www.nataliecrawfordmd.com _____ Sam’s LINKS: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit Blokes + Joi Wellness | code: SAMCFITPOD *50% off all labs on both sites* https://blokes.co/samcfitpod https://choosejoi.co/samcfitpod   Clearstem Go to https://clearstem.com/SAMCFIT and use code SAMCFIT at checkout for 15% off.  Vitaclean Head to  https://vitaclean.co and use code SAMCFIT for 20% off their Starter Kits. Caraway Visit https://Carawayhome.com/samcfit you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase. EMPWR by Sam App | *free 7-day trial* https://www.empwrbysam.com/ My Macro Guide: https://samcfit.com/macro-guide-only Running Programs: https://www.samcfit.com/running-programs   Follow Sam: Insta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine Topics discussed: 00:00:00 – Intro  00:01:28 – Impact of nutrition on hormone health 00:02:19 – Most important daily nutrition habits for hormonal balance 00:06:52 – Samantha shares losing her period for 13 months 00:09:07 – Why healthy fats are critical for hormone production 00:09:52 – Advice for busy, under-fueled women not seeing results 00:12:07 – Sleep as the foundation for hormone balance 00:14:21 – Navigating sleep misalignment with partners 00:16:00 – Tools & supplements to improve sleep (melatonin, noise apps) 00:18:11 – Must-have daily supplements for hormone support 00:19:44 – Importance of bloodwork: especially vitamin D & deficiencies 00:23:51 – Deep dive: PCOS – what it is, symptoms, and diagnosis 00:30:14 – Lifestyle and food interventions for PCOS 00:33:10 – How muscle building & movement reduce inflammation 00:35:03 – Training without losing your period again 00:38:10 – Tracking ovulation & reading body signs 00:41:17 – Primary culprits for rising fertility challenges 00:42:27 – Why some women get pregnant after stopping IVF 00:44:42 – Egg quality vs quantity: what you can and can't change 00:46:12 – Lifestyle shifts that boost metabolic and egg health 00:52:52 – Preparing to try: what active women should do 1 year out 00:55:00 – How long before trying should you stop birth control? 00:56:02 – Using body cues + basal temperature to track cycles 00:58:06 – Most women only track after struggling: why that's too late 01:00:02 – Fertility testing & advocacy: when to seek help 01:02:39 – MTHFR gene: what it means for folate & pregnancy 01:04:02 – Methylated folate vs folic acid for birth defect prevention 01:05:23 – Miscarriage risks without proper folate supplementation 01:08:14 – Low progesterone and miscarriages: how it works biologically 01:10:33 – Inflammatory foods, sugar, and alcohol's role 01:13:00 – Removing toxins and endocrine disruptors at home 01:15:12 – Household changes to protect children's long-term health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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