Welcome to the final episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless for 2025—and the season finale of our very first year.

For this special episode, I’m joined once again by Firebird, who is not only a three-time guest on the podcast, but also the guest from our most-streamed episode of the year. Bringing her back felt like the perfect way to close out this season and reflect on growth, creativity, resilience, and the power of pole dance as we move into 2026.

We talk honestly about how much can change in a year—physically, emotionally, and creatively—and how pole dance continues to be a grounding, healing, and empowering force for women over 40.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Reflecting on the success of Season One and what consistency can create

• Firebird’s evolution as a dancer and teacher

• Letting go of “tricks” and industry expectations in favor of embodied, joyful movement

• The role of pole dance in emotional processing, healing, and self-expression

• The importance of community, in-person connection, and shared energy

• Looking ahead to 2026, including retreats, travel, and what’s next

This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from pushing harder—it often comes from listening more deeply to your body, your emotions, and your intuition. Pole dance gives us permission to move slowly, sensually, powerfully, and honestly—exactly as we are, at any age.

🔗 Connect with Firebird: Follow @firebirdpole on Instagram

💖 Thank You!

I am so grateful to Firebird, to every guest who joined me this year, and to all of you who listened, shared, reviewed, and supported the podcast. This show would not exist without this incredible community.

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

 ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with someone I’ve admired for years—Makeda, the incredible woman behind Flying Over 50.

I’ve been following Makeda since the very beginning of my own pole journey, and having her on the podcast felt full-circle. She is living proof that movement, confidence, sensuality, and strength do not expire with age. At 64, she is still dancing, still inspiring, and still redefining what’s possible for women over 50.

This conversation was honest, empowering, funny, and deeply relatable. We talked about aging, pole, body changes, mindset shifts, and the freedom that comes from letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• How Makeda found pole dance later in life—and why it changed everything

• The origin story behind Flying Over 50 and the importance of representation

• Breaking societal myths about aging, femininity, and movement

• Navigating body changes, menopause, and self-acceptance with compassion

• The shift from aerial tricks to low flow—and honoring different seasons of movement

• Why the pole community is so uniquely supportive, especially online

• The power of movement as healing, focus, and self-connection

• Creating safe, accessible spaces for older women to move—at home and online

• Makeda’s evolution into The Makeda Method, offering private online sessions, deep stretch yoga, and breathwork

This conversation is a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new, reclaim your body, or redefine what strength and beauty look like. Whether you’re a seasoned pole dancer, new to movement, or simply curious, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, validated, and empowered.

🔗 Connect with Makeda:

• Follow @FlyingOver50 on Instagram

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

 ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I sit down with Stephanie—an incredibly strong, honest, and inspiring woman I met at one of my GenX PoleArts Intro to Movement & Pole Dance Workshops.

Stephanie shares her journey of rediscovering herself after leaving a relationship where she felt unable to fully be who she was. At 56 years old, she’s built nearly 7 pounds of muscle, won a gym competition, and decided it was time to say yes to curiosity instead of fear—including walking into her very first pole class.

What We Talk About

• Overcoming intimidation, fear, and self-doubt

• The importance of supportive instructors and inclusive studio spaces

• How pole fitness builds not just physical strength, but confidence in everyday life

• Why bruises (“pole kisses”) are badges of honor

• Letting go of judgment—your own and others’

• The mindset shift that comes with choosing yourself

• Living without regrets and embracing the power of “What if?”

Stephanie’s message is clear and powerful: don’t wait, don’t wonder—just go for it. Whether it’s pole dancing, trying a new fitness class, or stepping into any long-held curiosity, this conversation is a reminder that growth happens when we choose courage over comfort.

✨ If you’re on the fence about trying pole—or anything new—this episode is for you.

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this episode, I sit down with Fran, the powerhouse coach behind Body by Fran — a trainer, pole athlete, physique competitor, and educator who has built a reputation for transforming bodies and mindsets with equal intensity.

We explore her evolution from passionate mover to competitive pole athlete to certified bodybuilding coach, and how she blends these worlds to help her clients build strength, mobility, body awareness, and unapologetic confidence. We also talk about her signature certification program for pole instructors, created to elevate coaching standards and equip instructors with evidence-based strength and conditioning principles.

This conversation is a masterclass in what it means to pursue strength from the inside out.

• How Fran discovered pole dance and rose into the competitive pole world

• The discipline and artistry behind training as a pole athlete

• Her transition from bodybuilding and physique competitions to pole

• Why these two disciplines complement each other more than you’d think

• The training philosophies behind Body by Fran

• How she coaches pole dancers to build the functional strength, mobility, and endurance required for high-level tricks

• How she coaches bodybuilders to develop symmetry, conditioning, and stage confidence

• Her specialized certification program for pole instructors, designed to help them safely train students, program intelligently, and understand biomechanics

• Why she rejects one-size-fits-all fitness and builds programs around each client’s unique mechanics

• The mindset work that makes physical transformation possible

Fran is a pole athlete, competitive bodybuilder, strength coach, and educator with a dual specialty that sets her apart in the fitness world. Her methodology blends performance training, aesthetic conditioning, biomechanics, and deep respect for the body’s lived experience.

She has coached:

• Competitive and recreational pole dancers working toward inversions, handsprings, ayeshas, power spins, dynamic movement, and stage conditioning

• Bodybuilders preparing for stage, working on symmetry, physique development, glute/hamstring emphasis, and overall conditioning

• Everyday athletes seeking stronger, more confident, more capable bodies

• Pole instructors pursuing her specialized certification, which teaches them how to safely progress students, understand movement mechanics, and apply strength and conditioning principles to pole dance

Fran understands both the artistry of pole and the discipline of bodybuilding — and teaches with the precision, intensity, and compassion of someone who has lived both worlds.

This conversation is for anyone who:

• Wants to understand the real strength and science behind pole dance

• Is curious about bodybuilding or physique training

• Wants a coach who blends compassion with elite-level expertise

• Is learning to rewrite old stories around strength, age, or ability

• Is a pole instructor seeking deeper knowledge and more effective programming
  

Fran’s work reframes fitness as a form of self-respect and personal power, not punishment or performance.

• Pole dance is an elite athletic discipline requiring strength, endurance, mobility, and technical skill.

• Bodybuilding teaches discipline, structure, and intentional muscle development that complements pole perfectly.

• Instructor education matters — and Fran’s certification fills a major gap in pole teaching standards.

• Strength begins with the way you think and speak to yourself.

• It is never too late to build strength, capability, and confidence.
  

Connect with Fran & Explore Her Programs:

• Fran on Instagram

• Level 1 Pole Studio Certification

• Pole Body Bootcamp

• Body by Fran Website

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
  

Theme of the Episode

In this episode, Zen explores how the stories we tell ourselves can distort our sense of ability, identity, and worth. From underestimating our physical capabilities to minimizing the legitimacy of our own careers, this episode digs into the quiet, persistent narratives that shape how we see ourselves — and how often they’re completely false.

Zen shares how she spent three years believing she couldn’t do the pole trick Ayesha, despite having the strength and skill to do it long before she finally tried again. That internal script — “I can’t do this” — became truth simply because she repeated it.

She also reframes another powerful narrative: the myth that she “doesn’t have a job” because she’s not currently drawing a paycheck. In reality, she is working — building, creating, teaching, producing, and leading — and her entrepreneurial path deserves the same respect as any traditional career. This episode is about reclaiming your own story before someone else defines it for you.

So many women in midlife carry outdated beliefs about what they can do, what they’re allowed to do, or what “counts” as real work. GenX women have spent decades prioritizing everyone else. This conversation speaks directly to those who are rewriting their identities, trying new things, building new careers, or reclaiming their physical power later in life. The stories we repeat matter — and it’s never too late to change the narrative.

“I have a fucking job. I’m just not getting a paycheck.”

This episode invites you to:

• Question the limiting stories you’ve accepted as truth

• Recognize where outdated beliefs are holding you back

• Reframe how you talk about your work, your abilities, and your worth

• Allow yourself to evolve without apologizing for it

If this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast — it helps the show reach more people who need it.

And if you’ve been wanting to try pole dancing but don’t know where to start, download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit and begin safely at home, at your own pace.

Episode DetailsWhy It Matters for GenX WomenQuote & TakeawaysSupport the Show

In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I chat with the incredible Mary Caryl, a 72-year-old multi-talented artist, pole dancer, performer, designer, and entrepreneur who is an inspiring example of living a heart-led, joyful life.

From revealing her secrets for candy-making, skincare, wellness, and staying active, to diving deep into her love for pole dancing, Mary Caryl shares  how she maintains strength, beauty, and joy while juggling performances, travel, design work, family, pets, and all of life’s challenges.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The story of how Mary discovered and fell in love with pole in her late 50s

• Practical wellness and skincare routines that support aging gracefully.

• The benefits of collagen, vitamins, and supplements for overall health.

• Why stress-free eating and a balanced approach to life and diet matter for longevity.

• How pole dancing keeps Mary Caryl physically and mentally strong.

• The importance of studio energy versus at-home practice for pole skill growth.

• Tips for embracing life changes, fashion, and your evolving self with confidence.

• Behind-the-scenes of designing pole dance apparel for all types of women.

• Upcoming pole performances and competitions and the story behind Mary Caryl’s other creative projects.

Nothing ever stays the same. Embrace the changes, embrace the new you, and give attention to your soul and spirit—they will keep you young, vibrant, and fearless.

Follow Mary Caryl @marycarylglam and @marycaryldesignWebsite: marycaryldesigns.com

Discount code for Mary Caryl Designs PCW2025

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

 ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this powerful and honest episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I talk with the incredible Jacq—multi-disciplinary artist, self-published author, performer, and deeply insightful human navigating a season of uncertainty, growth, and courageous self-reinvention.

This conversation is honest, warm, and full of truth-telling about creativity, fear, self-expression, and the importance of community during challenging times. Together, we explore what it means to stay rooted in authenticity—especially when the world feels uncertain—and how art, embodiment, and connection can anchor us through it all.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Jacq’s journey as a writer and the reality behind creating her first book

• Navigating fear, censorship, and major life transitions as an artist

• The healing power of community, connection, and in-person experiences

• Rediscovery through movement, creativity, and embracing joy at any age

Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and reminded that it’s never too late to step into your power, express yourself fully, and embrace life with courage and creativity!

Follow Jacq @jacq_frances

Connect with Jacq & Explore Her Work:

• Linktree - Sign up for painting classes, get info on her books, and explore more of her art and creative projects—all in one place.

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

  
  

 ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

About This Episode

This week, Zen shares the heartbreaking news that her dear friend — and former Fit, Fierce & Fearless guest from Episode 28 — Shana Pereira has passed away. Many listeners will remember Shana’s strength, humor, and perspective, and may be stunned to learn of her loss. In honor of Shana’s life and message, Zen shares the full audio of her TED Talk within this episode.

• A personal update on Shana’s passing and the impact of her loss

• The complete audio of Shana’s TED Talk, shared in her memory

• Zen’s reflections on grief, emotional heaviness, and showing up during a difficult week

• A symbolic moment where her neon “Zen Pole” sign won’t turn on — unintentionally capturing exactly how she’s been feeling

• An invitation for listeners to watch Shana’s TED Talk on YouTube to help amplify her message

• A note about next week’s guest and Zen’s hope to return with more light

Shana’s story touched many people, and this episode offers the chance to hear her voice and message again. If you’ve ever lost someone you love, or felt your own light dim in the aftermath, this conversation may bring comfort, connection, and reflection.

Please watch her TED Talk on YouTube — linked below. Your view helps push her words to more people who may need them.

Shana's TedTalk

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses domestic and sexual violence and abuse.

In this inspiring episode, Zen dives into a raw and empowering conversation with comedian, pole coach, and all-around badass Orchid, as she opens up about rebuilding life after loss, owning her identity, and redefining strength as a woman over 40.

We explore what it means to rise from a chapter you never asked for — to choose resilience, joy, and self-expression in a world that often underestimates women over 40. Through comedy and movement, Orchid continues to rewrite what confidence, beauty, and boldness can look like in midlife.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Orchids journey from profound grief to reclaiming joy

• Why embracing your feminine power is NOT anti-feminist

• The power of movement — especially pole — to heal and transform confidence

• How women over 40 are rewriting the conversation around strength, sexuality & aging

• The role of community in rebuilding identity

• Why it’s never too late to try something totally new

• How to step into your “stadium era” — believing your dreams deserve big stages

Prepare to feel seen, understood, and wildly empowered. You’re not behind… you’re right on time for your comeback.

Follow Orchid @orchidcameron

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

Upcoming Workshops:

• November 8 – Santa Fe, NM

If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!

In this inspiring episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, Zen sits down with Panther, a 55-year-old dynamic, passionate, and beloved pole dance instructor with over 15 years of experience. From her first class and competition, to teaching countless students of every size and shape how to move with confidence, Panther shares her wisdom about growth, community, and owning your lane—no matter your age, body type, or skill level.

Together, we dive into what it truly means to feel comfortable in your own skin, celebrate your strengths, and find joy in movement—without comparison or pressure. This conversation is full of laughter, heart, and lessons that every dancer (and woman!) can relate to.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What it means to show up and push through, even when you don’t see anyone else in the room who looks like you

• The importance of staying true to your own journey and letting go of comparison

• Why you’re never too old or out of shape to try something new, to start dancing, or to feel sexy

• How to find your unique style and embrace what works for your body

• The power of community, encouragement, and showing up authentically in class

You’ll walk away from this episode reminded that growth has no timeline, strength has no age, and your lane is exactly where your magic lives. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or rediscovering your fire, this episode will inspire you to move boldly, live fully, and dance like it’s your time—because it is.

Follow Panther @Panther_4u

Start your journey today!

• Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit⁠ to begin exploring at home.

• Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.

Upcoming Workshops:

• November 8 – Santa Fe, NM

  
  

 ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!