Embrace Your Real

Today, we are diving into a topic I haven't talked about much lately: Body Image. I know this is a topic that we need to continue to come back to time and time again as SO many of us struggle with it. And honestly, for many of us, it's something we're going to constantly have to work on and that's okay!

So if you have been looking in the mirror and felt less than, if you've been picking apart your body instead of appreciating it, or if you've been thinking, "I'll feel better when I lose five pounds," this episode is for YOU.

What I discuss:

1. The mirror is not reality – Your perception is distorted by emotions. AND you need to stop body checking.

2. Rewrite the narrative of your "flaws" – Your body is not an object, it's an experience.

3. Social media is warping your perception – Unfollow anything that makes you feel "less than."

4. Stop using your body as a before and after – You are so much more than a number on a scale.

5. Your body is the least interesting thing about you – Who you ARE is what people truly love.

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

You've probably heard that 10,000 steps a day is the magic number for health and fitness. But… is that actually true, or is it just another arbitrary goal that the internet ran with?

If you've ever stressed about hitting your steps or felt like you're failing if you don't reach 10K, this episode is for you.

What I discuss:

• Whether 10,000 steps a day is really necessary

• How to sneak in more movement without even thinking about it

• Easy ways to increase your daily steps (even if you sit a lot!)

If you loved this episode, you'll also love 418: 3 Reasons Why Walking More Leads to More Fat Loss

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/3-reasons-why-walking-more-leads-to-more-fat-loss

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

You know that feeling when you scroll through fitness advice online and suddenly feel like you're doing everything wrong? One person says you have to chug a protein shake right after your workout, another says you must eat carbs before training or your workout is useless, and then there's that whole debate about whether you should eat less the day after going over your macros. It's a LOT.

But today, we're breaking it all down and keeping it real. Because the truth is—meal timing isn't as rigid as social media makes it seem. In this episode, we're diving into three BIG questions I know so many of you have:

What I discuss:

1. You do not need to slam protein after your workout. It's about how much protein you eat daily, not about how much you eat after working out.

2. You do not need to fuel before workouts if you're not hungry. Listen to your body and give it what it needs.

3. If you go over your macros, don't make it up for it the next day, just try to hit your macros tomorrow.

If you don't know what your macros should be, I got you, sister. Head over to macrocountingmadesimple.com for the ULTIMATE macro counting guide.

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Hey, hey! If you're a new mom, I know how much you're carrying right now. The exhaustion, the endless to-do list, the constant feeling that no matter what you do, it's never enough.

But I need you to know this: prioritizing your body is not selfish—it's survival. It's not about "getting your body back" or bouncing back—it's about feeling good in your body now, so you can show up as the strongest, happiest version of yourself.

So today, we're tackling five mindset shifts to overcome the guilt of prioritizing movement as a new mom.

What I discuss:

1. Your baby needs a mom who feels good—not just a mom who's physically present 24/7.

2. You are not losing time by working out—you're buying it back with more energy, patience, and ease.

3. Movement doesn't have to be alone time—you can integrate it into your day, guilt-free.

4. Movement is not a reward—it's a basic need. Your body deserves it.

5. You don't have to do it perfectly. Showing up imperfectly is still progress.

If you loved this episode, you'll also love… Episode 491: 6 Steps to Embrace your Postpartum Body

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/6-steps-to-embrace-your-postpartum-body

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Hey, hey, sister! Today, we're talking about how to find time to work out when life feels absolutely crazy.

Now, if you're new here or haven't joined yet, Movement with Julie is my workout app designed to help you feel strong, confident, and capable in your body. And when you join, you also get access to our amazing private Facebook group, where women connect, share their wins, struggles, and ask questions. It's honestly one of my favorite parts of the program because the support in there is unreal!

​​Alright, let's get into it: how do you actually make time for workouts when life is already full to the brim? Here's what the women inside Movement with Julie had to say…

What I discuss:

1. Delegate or delete – Remove something to make room for workouts.

2. Wake up at 5 AM – It's hard at first, but it gets easier and ensures you get it done.

3. Stack it with other tasks – Find ways to combine movement with daily life.

4. Use your lunch break – If possible, work out midday when kids are at school.

5. Move during kids' activities – Walk laps, do bodyweight exercises, and use whatever space you have.

If you loved this episode, you'll also love Episode 339: How to become a "morning person" with your workouts…

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/how-to-become-a-morning-person-with-your-workouts

And if you want workouts that fit YOUR life and a community of women who truly support each other, check out Movement with Julie! Head to sale.movementwithjulie.com to start!

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Hey, mama! In today's episode, I'm sharing five super simple ways to stay hydrated without making it feel like just another thing on your already long to-do list. Hydration is key to keeping your energy up and supporting your body's recovery, especially if you're breastfeeding. This episode is all about small habits that make a BIG difference.

Remember, self-care is a MUST, not a luxury. And I'm here to remind you how strong you are. Plus, we'll talk about some must-do self-care habits for your first three months postpartum you can't miss so… let's get it, let's go!

If you loved this episode, you'll also love Episode 488: My Non-negotiables For Self-Care During The First 3 Months Postpartum https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/my-non-negotiables-for-self-care-during-the-first-3-months-postpartum

What I discuss:

• Making hydration a natural part of your daily routine

• 5 simple ways to stay hydrated everyday

• Self-care Tips for postpartum mamas

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Alright, girl, let's ditch the whole "good" vs. "bad" food drama! In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I'm talking about nutrient-dense vs. non-nutrient-dense foods, and how to make eating choices that actually feel good and don't leave you guilty. Ice cream? Yes, please! Chips? You bet! Balance is the vibe, girl.

We're also diving into macro counting (it's way easier than it sounds, promise!), so you can focus on balance instead of being perfect. I'll tell you all about Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy, where you can learn to enjoy both healthy and indulgent foods without stressing.

What I discuss:

• Bye-bye, "good" vs. "bad" food labels!

• Balance is the secret…

• Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy.

• Why Macro Counting is the real solution.

Oh, and if you're curious about macro counting, check out Episode 313: 8 Reasons Why Macro Counting Isn't a Fad Diet

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/8-reasons-why-macro-counting-isnt-a-fad-diet

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Hey girl, it's time to choose YOU first! Let's dive into what it really means to put yourself at the top of the list—and how to do it guilt-free.

In this episode, I'm sharing 7 ways to start prioritizing yourself TODAY. If you've been waiting for a sign to finally put yourself first, here it is. No more feeling guilty or waiting for permission—this is your moment!

Because, girl—you deserve to be chosen. And that choice starts with you.

What I discuss:

1. Setting Boundaries That Protect You

2. Letting Go of People-Pleasing

3. Trusting and Believing in Yourself

4. Letting Go of People Who Don't Hold Onto Yo

5. Resting Before You Burn Out

6. Embracing authenticity

If you loved this episode, you'll also love: Episode 85: What Would You Do If You Loved Yourself More?

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/what-would-you-do-if-you-loved-yourself-more

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Hey mama! You know I'm all about staying strong and feeling amazing during your pregnancy. Core strength is a total game-changer—not just for your bump but for your back, your labor, and recovery too.

Forget crunches— Today I'm sharing fun, safe moves like pelvic tilts and bird dogs that work for every stage of pregnancy. Plus, I'll show you some calming breathing tricks to help you feel centered and strong. We'll also talk about what exercises to skip and low-impact options to keep you feeling great. Are you ready?! Let's get it, let's go…

What I discuss:

Importance of Core Strength in Pregnancy

Safe Core Exercises During Pregnancy

Avoiding Risky Exercises During Pregnancy

Embrace Your Authentic Beauty

If you loved this episode, you'll also love episode 481: Exercise Guidelines for a Healthier Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/exercise-guidelines-for-a-healthier-pregnancy-and-postpartum-recovery

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page

Bloating is the worst. It's uncomfortable, frustrating, and can make you feel like everything you're doing is wrong—even when you're eating well and working out. But here's the thing: bloating isn't random. Your body is always communicating with you, and if you take the time to listen, you can figure out why it's happening and what to do about it.

That's why in this episode of Embrace Your Real, Alright, I'm going to share the top five sneaky reasons you're bloated and what you can do to fix it. Are you ready?! Let's get it, let's go…

What I discuss:

If you're feeling bloated, take a step back and ask yourself:

Am I eating enough carbs?

Am I overexercising?

Am I eating foods my body doesn't like?

Am I super stressed?

Am I drinking enough water?

Your body is always talking to you—it's just a matter of listening! Instead of getting frustrated with bloating, use it as a sign to check in with yourself and make small changes.

If you loved this episode, you'll also love episode 317: 5 Reasons to Love Carbohydrates when Building the Body You Want

https://www.juliealedbetter.com/embrace-your-real/5-reasons-to-love-carbohydrates-when-building-the-body-you-want

If you want more from me, be sure to check out...

Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie

Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/

Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/

Website: www.juliealedbetter.com

Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook

Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page