Girls Talk Healthy Aging

In this inspiring episode of Girls Talk Healthy Aging, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Ginny MacColl, the world’s oldest American Ninja Warrior competitor. From her early days on Broadway to becoming a Guinness Book World Record Holder in her 70s, Ginny’s journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and the belief that "strength is ageless."

Ginny shares her incredible life story, including how she overcame the challenges of single motherhood, a career change, and personal setbacks. After watching her daughter, Jessie Graff, compete on American Ninja Warrior, Ginny decided it was time to pursue her own fitness goals. She talks about the societal pressures she faced growing up, how she redefined her view of strength, and her determination to master pull-ups and conquer obstacles—both on and off the Ninja course.

Now a Guinness World Record holder, Ginny reflects on how she has reversed osteopenia, maintained balance and mobility, and stayed active well into her 70s. She points out that “moving parts don’t rust.” This is a rallying cry for women of all ages to keep moving, keep dreaming, and never let age define their limits. Whether you're 30 or 90, Ginny's story will motivate you to stay strong and embrace new challenges!

Tune in for this motivational conversation on aging like a warrior, fitness, and the power of persistence.

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

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Follow Ginny MacColl on Instagram @ginnymaccoll

In this exciting episode of Girls Talk Healthy Aging, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Jump Rope Champion Adrienn Banhegyi to uncover her incredible story. Hailing from Hungary, Adrienn started jumping rope as a child, unaware that it would one day lead her to perform with Cirque Du Soleil. Her father wanted her to compete in a traditional sport. But she and her sister saw media with a jump roper performing tricks and were mesmorized. She then began learning jump rope tricks and later discovered the competitive world of jump roping. Adrienn shares how they began performing in Hungarian cities, sparking a lifelong passion for the sport that has become her career.

Adrienn opens up about her international competition years and her journey toward becoming a performer. She recalls the initial rejection from Cirque Du Soleil after her audition in France, only to receive a surprise callback six years later, proving that persistence and practice pay off. Adrienn describes her years with Cirque Du Soleil, the transition from competitor to performer, and what it was like to entertain global audiences. She also highlights the company’s dedication to their artists, from physical therapists and quality food to a supportive environment for maintaining long-term health.

Now back in Hungary, Adrienn has founded her own jump rope company, teaching the sport she loves to others. She gives practical advice for beginners, emphasizing the benefits of jump roping for cardio health, coordination, concentration, and fun. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just curious about Adrienn’s inspiring journey, this episode is packed with insights on how jump roping can improve your health—and maybe even take you around the world!

Tune in for a fun and motivational conversation with a true champion who never stopped jumping!

Follow Adrienn on Instagram @adriennbanhegyi_official

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

In this episode of Girls Talk Healthy Aging, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Endocrinologist Dr. Ashwini Gore to dive deep into one of the hottest topics in health right now: GLP-1 medications. 

These groundbreaking drugs, including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and others, were initially designed to treat Type 2 Diabetes, but they’ve recently gained FDA approval for managing obesity and weight-related conditions as recently as 2021.

Dr. Gore, who has been prescribing these medications since 2005, shares her extensive expertise in endocrinology, a specialty focused on hormone-related conditions. She breaks down the science behind GLP-1 medications, how they work differently for diabetic vs. non-diabetic patients, and the vital role of a knowledgeable physician in guiding treatment. 

Dr. Gore also discusses side effects, proper usage, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including resistance training—to maximize results and minimize risks.

If you’re curious about these medications and whether they’re right for you, or just want to learn more about their long-term implications, this episode is packed with expert advice and insights you won’t want to miss!

About Dr. Ashwini Gore: 

Education

-Bharati Vidyapeeth’s Medical College – Pune, India

-Virginia CommonWealth University – Department of Biomedical Engineering

-Abington Memorial Hospital – Abington PA, International Medical – Residency

-Medical University of South Carolina – Fellowship in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Medical Genetics

Academic Appointments

-Abington Memorial Hospital – Physician

-Temple University Hospital – Hospitalist

-Medical University of South Carolina – Chief Fellow

-Dr. Gore has been at The Jones Center for Diabetes & Endocrine Wellness since 2011

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

In this episode of Girls Talk Healthy Aging, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down for a panel discussion with three women who are currently taking or recently took GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro for Type 2 Diabetes or weight loss. These courageous ladies share their personal stories, shedding light on the real-world experiences behind the headlines. From the moment they decided to start taking these medications to the impacts on their health, diet, and lifestyle, we get an inside look at life on GLP-1s.

Emily, who has successfully transitioned off the medication for over a year, now focuses on regular workouts and better food control, maintaining her weight loss. Laura, who is taking the medication for both Type 2 Diabetes and weight loss, has seen significant improvements in her A1C and is committed to staying on it for life as needed. Annie shares her journey of struggling with weight loss for years despite diet and exercise changes, and how the medication finally gave her the boost she needed.

We also dive into the stigma surrounding these medications. Why do so many women feel embarrassed or secretive about taking them? We explore the reasons behind this hush-hush mentality and discuss how these drugs have affected the daily lives of these women.

While these women are not medical experts, their stories provide valuable insights. For expert advice, make sure to check out episode 54, where we interview Endocrinologist Dr. Ashwini Gore about GLP-1 medications.

Thanks to these brave ladies for sharing.

Panelists:

Laura Robertson: Founder/CEO of Keystone Innovators  Website: keystoneinnovators.com

Emily Jones

Annie (Anonymous)

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

In this heart opening episode of *Girls Talk Healthy Aging*, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Tim Shriver, a prominent advocate for unity and understanding in a divided world. As a member of the Kennedy family, Tim is no stranger to the devastating consequences of political violence, having lost two uncles—President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert Kennedy—at a young age. Despite this painful history, Tim remains committed to finding ways to bridge divides, especially in today’s polarized climate.

Tim shares profound insights from his work with the Special Olympics, an organization founded by his mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Through nearly three decades as Chairman, Tim has witnessed both the harm of exclusion and the transformative power of unity. He explains how hearing the cheers of a crowd can be life-changing for Special Olympics athletes—many of whom have never experienced such support from the masses—and how these moments reveal our shared humanity.

In this conversation, Tim shares how he got involved with the Dignity Index, a powerful tool he promotes through UNITE an organization he founded. He works on the Dignity Index with one of the creators, Tami Pyfer (featured in Episode 46), to encourage respectful dialogue even in moments of deep disagreement. This 8-point scale measures how we speak to those we differ with, guiding us to engage with dignity rather than contempt and helping to prevent the escalation of hate or violence. Tim also reflects on the life lessons he’s learned as an educator and a father of five, and how his family and faith have guided him on his journey to inspire unity and understanding.

Join us for this compelling episode as Tim Shriver shares his mission to promote dignity in our conversations and reminds us that even in the face of strong disagreements, we can find common ground and build a better future together.

Tim Shriver is married, a father of 5, the Chairman of Special Olympics International, CEO & founder of UNITE.  The Dignity Index is a tool that can be used in schools, churches, government or at the dinner table. If you would like to learn more about the Dignity Index visit https://www.dignity.us

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

We could not be more excited to sit down with Dr. Stuart Phillips, a leading Skeletal Muscle Researcher at McMaster University, to explore the profound benefits of strength training for women, particularly as we age. Dr. Phillips dives deep into his research, revealing that while our ability to build muscle may decline with age, it's still very much possible—and crucial—to stay strong throughout our lives.

Women, especially, need to prioritize strength training, not only to maintain functionality and independence but also to prepare for the later years of life, where we are more likely to outlive our male counterparts and potentially face time in retirement or nursing facilities. Historically, women haven’t had many role models when it comes to lifting weights, but that narrative is changing. However, the journey towards widespread acceptance of strength training among women still has a long way to go.

Dr. Phillips sheds light on how his research is conducted and funded, and offers practical advice on how to differentiate between legitimate research and the often misleading information spread by online influencers. He emphasizes that while the truth might not always be as glamorous, it's vital to rely on sound science, especially when it comes to supplements and muscle health.

During the discussion, Dr. Phillips also covers the critical role of protein consumption, the impact of popular GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro on muscle tissue, and the importance of integrating weight training with these medications. He explains how losing muscle in later years can be challenging to recover from, highlighting the importance of staying active beyond just focusing on weight loss.

Finally, the episode wraps up with Dr. Phillips addressing a common question: Should we be lifting lighter or heavier weights? His insights on the difference between training for muscle strength versus bone density are invaluable for anyone looking to maximize their health at any age. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will inspire women of all ages to embrace strength training as a key component of healthy aging!

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Dr. Stuart Phillips is a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and a member of the School of Medicine at McMaster University. He is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Skeletal Muscle Health. He has been in the top 1% of cross-field (nutrition and physiology) highly-cited scholars globally for six straight years 2018-2023.

General

Lab: https://goo.gl/k4x9Xv

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.ca/citations?user=VLu9hqgAAAAJ&hl=en

Web of Science: https://www.webofscience.com/wos/author/record/B-2343-2009

University sites

https://bit.ly/SPhillipsKin

https://experts.mcmaster.ca/display/phillis

Socials

Twitter, Instagram, TikTok: @mackinprof

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMPPh.D/

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

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

Co-hosts Shawna Kaminski and Alli Kerr are sitting down with Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur, a Naturopathic Doctor, to discuss the important differences between conventional and naturopathic medicine. Dr. Vadeboncoeur sheds light on her holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of treating the whole person rather than just focusing on single health issues.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how naturopathic doctors like Dr. Vadeboncoeur integrate nutrition, lifestyle, and mental well-being into their practice. She also addresses the misconception that naturopathic medicine is anti-drug, explaining that while she’s not licensed to prescribe pharmaceutical drugs, she recognizes their importance and collaborates with conventional medicine when necessary.

Dr. Vadeboncoeur shares her personal journey from intending to pursue conventional medicine to discovering her true calling in holistic health. She emphasizes the importance of finding a qualified and evidence-based practitioner, offering tips on how to identify properly credentialed naturopathic doctors, especially in areas where regulation may be lacking.

The episode also delves into the increasing trend of women feeling overwhelmed by societal pressures and responsibilities. Dr. Vadeboncoeur introduces her “energy audit” strategy, helping women prioritize and clear their plates of unnecessary tasks to focus on what truly matters. One of her biggest passions is working with clients experiencing fatigue. She encourages women to reduce the time spent obsessing over weight and appearance, freeing up energy to live their best lives.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional perspectives on health and inspires listeners to take a more balanced, holistic approach to their well-being.

To learn more about Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur visit: https://drsarahv.ca

Listen to her podcast The Fatigue Fixer here: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-fatigue-fixer--5982197

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Grab Shawna's book 'Lose Your Menopause Belly' and other freebies here: https://meetshawnak.shawnakaminski.com

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). 

Train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom here: https://www.thepinkphysique.com 

In this heartwrenching episode of the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast, co-hosts Alli Kerr and Shawna Kaminski sit down with Laura Stevenson, a vibrant 36-year-old who shares her incredible journey from being a physically active college student to navigating life after a Chronic Myeloid Leukemia diagnosis. Laura opens up about the initial warning signs, including unexplained exhaustion, strange bruising, and night sweats, which she initially attributed to her busy lifestyle and sports activities. Her story takes a dramatic turn when she gets to a doctor for blood work, leading to a life-changing trip to the ER.

Laura discusses her treatment journey, starting with an experimental oral chemotherapy, the challenges of managing side effects, and her decision-making process about pursuing a bone marrow transplant. Her brother was a match, but her doctor encouraged another medication, which she continues to take today. Laura shares how she coped with the physical and emotional toll of the disease while balancing her studies and how this experience taught her to empathize with others' unseen struggles.

Beyond her treatment, Laura highlights the pivotal role of lifestyle choices, including group fitness, yoga, and weight lifting, in regaining a sense of power and control over her body. She also reflects on the influence of her mother's positive attitude and her own determination to set goals and explore new adventures, regardless of her health status. Laura candidly shares her emotional journey of attempting to conceive, the challenges she faced when her cancer resurfaced, and her exploration of nutrition and wellness as a means of living her best life.

Stay tuned for a future episode where Laura will share the next chapter of her story, including the miraculous arrival of her daughter, Rose. This episode is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of positive thinking. You won't want to miss it!

Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively). If you live in Middle Georgia you can train with Alli at The Pink Physique in person in Macon, Georgia or Online via Zoom. Visit www.thepinkphysique.com to book a consultation.

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Let’s welcome Susan Salenger, an 82-year-old author and researcher, to discuss her groundbreaking book, SIDELINED: How Women Can Navigate a Broken Healthcare System. Susan shares her personal story of undergoing an unnecessary exploratory surgery in her 30’s, a pivotal experience that sparked her mission to help women advocate for themselves in the healthcare system. 

Susan's has found that women often mismanage their healthcare by downplaying symptoms, hesitating to ask necessary questions, and feeling conflicted about medical decisions.

She highlights how women, while being the primary caregivers for their families, often neglect their own health needs due to guilt or fear of taking time away from other responsibilities.

Tune in as Susan provides practical tips for women to prepare for doctor visits, ask the right questions, and confidently navigate their healthcare journeys. She also discusses the emotional barriers women face, such as embarrassment and self-blame, and how these can be overcome to ensure better health outcomes.

Susan, who has been dedicated to exercising for over 40 years, credits her fitness routine for her excellent health. Not only did she write this book in her 80’s but she has started a second book. She is a testament to how our later years can be our best and most fulfilling years. This episode a must-listen for women of all ages seeking to take control of their health and continuing living our best lives into our 80’s and beyond.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation that aims to sideline the outdated norms and empower women to become their own health advocates. Join us for practical advice, heartfelt stories, and a roadmap to better healthcare.

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Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively)

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Susan Salenger is the author and researcher behind SIDELINED: How Women Can Navigate A Broken Healthcare System. Sidelined examines the many ways in which some women manage and sometimes mismanage their healthcare. (Released, April 2022)

Today, at age 81, Susan lives in Northern California to be near her incredible family which includes her two daughters, four grandchildren, a cat named Max and a dog named JD (Salenger). When she is not speaking about her book or spending time with family and friends, you will find Susan power lifting to stay in shape.

WEBSITE AND SOCIAL HANDLES:

https://www.susansalenger.com/

https://www.tiktok.com/@grandma.gains

https://www.instagram.com/susansalenger/

https://www.facebook.com/suesalenger/

https://twitter.com/susansalenger

https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-salenger-a4a02716/

@shewritesdotcom (IG)

@shewritespress (FB)

Get Susan’s Book Sidelined Here:

https://www.amazon.com/Sidelined-Women-Manage-Mismanage-Health/dp/1647424011/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Today we are sitting down with the remarkable Hillary Bitar, a 62-year-old model who embodies natural beauty. With no Botox, fillers, surgeries, or hair color, Hillary's stunning long gray locks and phenomenal shape are a testament to her commitment to fitness and inner wellness.

In this episode, Hillary reveals the secrets behind her radiant beauty and vitality. She shares how fitness has been the cornerstone of her beauty routine, giving her a glow that shines from the inside out. Hillary discusses her minimalist approach to supplements and her personal decision to forgo hormone replacement therapy.

Hillary opens up about the unique challenges women face in the modeling industry, reflecting on her journey from struggling to fit the industry's narrow standards when she was younger to becoming a sought-after model in her 50s. She offers insightful perspectives on how the modeling business has evolved and the importance of embracing one's natural beauty at any age.

Listeners will be inspired by Hillary's positive mindset about aging and beauty. She provides valuable advice on choosing influencers and products wisely, promoting a more realistic and self-loving approach to beauty. Hillary shares her personal health and fitness journey, including practical tips for beginners looking to make fitness a lifestyle.

For anyone looking to enjoy the aging process without stress or unrealistic comparisons, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Hillary's empowering message and learn how to age gracefully with confidence and authenticity.

Don't miss this episode of Girls Talk Healthy Aging, where true beauty is celebrated in its most natural and inspiring form.

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Follow Hillary on Instagram at @silverstorm777

Join Girls Talk Healthy Aging Facebook Group for updates and additional resources: 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/330434366004030

Thank you for listening, following, & downloading the Girls Talk Healthy Aging Podcast. We are so appreciative and would love your feedback and ideas for future episodes. Big Thanks if you have taken the time to give us a rating or review. It means the world to us!

Email us at: [email protected]

Follow & Message Shawna on Instagram: @shawnakaminski

Follow & Message Alli on Facebook & Instagram: Alli Kerr and @allikerrfitness (respectively)

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