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

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

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

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:

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

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

In this raw and unfiltered episode Ian and I sit down for a much-needed Honesty Hour—a candid conversation about life, love, parenting, training, and everything in between. From late-night trail runs and house hunting to tattoos, Ironman prep, and how we really keep things spicy, no topic is off limits.

Listeners will hear heartfelt stories about blended family life, navigating past divorces, and the lessons learned in building a healthy, communicative partnership. They also tackle questions from the audience—covering relationship communication, prepping for 20+ mile runs, thoughts on alcohol, and the realities of working and training as a couple.

Whether you’re here for the fun banter, relationship wisdom, or fitness tips, this episode is packed with laughter, honesty, and vulnerability.

_____

Spicy light bulb

Dream Recovery | code: SAM15

https://dreamrecovery.io/

Grow Therapy

Visit GrowTherapy.com/SAMCFIT today to get started. 

Puori

Go to puori.com/SAMCFIT and use the code SAMCFIT at checkout for 20% off. The code even works on already discounted subscriptions.

AquaTru | code: SAM

Head to AquaTru.com now and get 20% off your purifier.

Manukora

Head to Manukora.com/SAMCFIT to save up to 31% plus get $25 worth of free gifts with the Starter Kit.

_____

SHOWNOTES:

Sam’s LINKS:

https://www.shopltk.com/explore/SamcfitLight bulb

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

Follow Ian:Insta: @ianschinelli

Topics discussed:

00:00:00 – Intro

00:01:19 – NYC Trip with Kids & SEAL Swim Recap

00:03:52 – Upcoming Travels & Events

00:06:28 – House Hunting Preferences

00:09:16 – Miscommunication in Relationships

00:14:46 – Tattoo Meanings

00:18:00 – Getting Her Period Back & Training Updates

00:20:02 – Training Together: Challenges & Joys

00:22:24 – Alcohol: Why They Stopped Drinking

00:28:24 – Do You Ever Get Bored of Each Other?

00:29:27 – What Made You Get Divorced?

00:33:01 – Fear of Remarriage?

00:34:47 – Long Run Prep Routine

00:38:00 – Weighted vests and final questions

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Mari said, “No one’s coming to save you—you have to save yourself”, this became the catalyst for her incredible journey from rock bottom to building Bloom Nutrition and inspiring millions around the world.

In this episode, I sit down with Mari to unpack her transformation—from battling mental health struggles and self-doubt, to losing 90 pounds, to turning a $5 PDF fitness guide into a thriving wellness empire. Mari opens up about the raw truth behind her success, the lessons she’s learned in scaling a business with authenticity, and how she’s now navigating the new chapter of motherhood with intention and grace.

This conversation is real, unfiltered, and deeply inspiring. Mari’s story is proof that with passion, perseverance, and self-belief, you can rewrite your entire life.

SHOWNOTES: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  

Timeline | SAMCFIT

Just head to timeline.com/SAMCFIT to get started.

EightSleep | EMPWR

Head over to https://www.eightsleep.com/empwr and use the code EMPWR to get $350 off your veryPod 5 Ultra.

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 SamInsta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine

Follow MariInsta: @marillewellyn 

TikTok: @marillewellynYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PursuitOfWellnessPodcast

Topics discussed:

00:00:00 – Intro & Trigger warning

00:01:26 - Pursuit Network

00:05:22 –Childhood & Trauma

00:07:06 – College rebellion; partying & blackouts

00:09:43 – First self-harm; BPD diagnosis, rock bottom

00:12:39 – Quitting meds cold turkey

00:14:04 – Turning point: “save yourself, mental shift

00:21:40 – Learning macros

00:22:20 – 90 lbs weight loss year: The year of transformation

00:26:07 – Before/after picture goes viral

00:27:03 – $5 PDF guides; first business mechanics

00:30:08 – Bloom idea & formulation

00:33:12 – Family planning season

00:36:37 – Fertility struggles

00:39:43 – Emotional toll of infertility

00:41:10 – IVF journey

00:44:00 – Pregnancy mindset & body-image shift

00:47:52 – Pregnancy training & nutrition 

00:51:00 – Hopes & values for baby boy; parenting intentions

00:54:17 – Keeping work simple during pregnancy; closing reflections

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Ian and I break down the four non-negotiables for achieving real, sustainable health and fitness results. Whether you’re frustrated with not seeing progress despite working hard, or you’re just looking for a clear blueprint to follow, this conversation lays out exactly what may be missing in your routine.Together, we cover the fundamentals of nutrition, fitness and progressive overload, the importance of sleep and recovery, and the ultimate “secret sauce”, consistency. This episode isn’t just about workouts and macros—it’s about building a lifestyle that actually sticks. If you give yourself three months and apply these principles, you’ll see and feel a transformation.

SHOWNOTES:

Sam’s LINKS:

https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit

Dream Recovery | code: SAM15

https://dreamrecovery.io/

Clearstem | SAMCFIT

Go to www.clearstem.com/SAMCFIT for 15% off.

Cozy Earth | code: SAMCFIT

Head to www.cozyearth.com for 40% off!

REMI | code: SAMCFIT

Go to www.shopremi.com/SAMCFIT for up to 50% off your custom night guard.

David’s Protein:

http://davidprotein.com/samcfit

Caraway | code: SAMCFITCarawayhome.com/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 SamInsta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine

Hatch Restore 3

Sam’s Nutrition Coach | James FreeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/27healthandwellness

Topics discussed:

00:00 Intro + Life update

03:08 The foundation of nutrition, key principles 

10:11  Macro Tracking + examples of under-eating or misjudging intake

13:07 Protein Intake + food quality (fear of eating protein, whole foods vs processed foods)

15:31  Meal prep + consistency (cheat meals, balancing indulgences while staying on track)
21:27 Progressive overload basics

27:10 Tracking body composition changes

29:00 Muscle fatigue vs. failure and debunking the myth that lifting heavy makes women bulky
32:25 Training frequency & at-home options

38:25 Why sleep is a game-changer

41:14 Recovery tools & strategies

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on EMPWR, we're joined by Angelo Keely, Co-founder and CEO of Kion, for an eye-opening deep dive into the world of essential amino acids and why they’re so much more than just a supplement buzzword. From building muscle and boosting energy to supporting skin, brain function, and healthy aging, amino acids are foundational to overall wellness, and Angelo breaks it all down in a way that’s practical, science-backed, and empowering.

Angelo shares his unique journey, from growing up in a health-conscious family to a life-altering near-death experience at 16 that led him to rebuild his body through nutrition, meditation, yoga, and breath work. That pivotal healing journey ultimately inspired him to build a company rooted in true health optimization. We explore: why essential amino acids matter (especially for women!), how to support your body with better protein intake, Angelo’s personal wellness rituals and daily routines, tips for staying energized and healthy while managing business and family, and the power of manifestation and creating a life that feels aligned. Whether you’re a wellness pro or just curious about how to feel stronger, more energized, and empowered in your body, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired to take your health to the next level.

SHOWNOTES:

Visit ⁠getkion.com/samantha⁠ for 20% off

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  

Timeline | SAMCFIT

https://www.timeline.com/samcfit

LMNT:

drinklmnt.com/SAMCFIT

Beam Kids | code: SAMC

http://shopbeam.com/SAMC

Vitaclean | code: SAMCFIT

https://vitacleanhq.com/

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 SamInsta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine

Follow Angelo & KION:

Insta: @kion

https://www.instagram.com/kion

Topics discussed:

00:00:00: Intro

00:01:19: Angelo's story

00:18:49: Starting Kion & supplement philosophy

00:23:08: Amino Acids vs. Protein explained

00:41:17: Whole Foods vs. Supplements debate

1:06:01: Science & Studies on Aminos

1:13:05: Empowerment through nutrition, how amino acids fit into sustainable wellness

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on The EMPWR Podcast, we’re joined by Harry and Brett– best friends, former college athletes, and the voices behind The Meat Mafia Podcast. From their own health transformations to launching a platform that challenges mainstream nutrition norms, these two are on a mission to empower people to think differently about their food, and where it comes from, and ultimately, to become the CEO of their own body.

We get into: the path from athletics and burnout to entrepreneurship and metabolic health, Brett’s experience navigating an autoimmune disease and getting off all medications by taking his health into his own hands, why the meat industry has been so misunderstood (and what most people get wrong), hot takes on the carnivore diet, vegan diet, seed oils, and what “clean eating” really means, the food system, decentralization, and taking your health into your own hands, and building a brand (and a mission) with your best friend.

We also talk about the “good, better, best” framework when it comes to sourcing meat, and how to apply that same mindset to the way you consume and make choices with food in everyday life. If you’re passionate about clean eating, but also believe in balance, and if you're questioning what’s actually healthy, or just want to feel more grounded in your choices… this one’s for you.

SHOWNOTES:

Sam’s LINKS:

https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Samcfit

Dream Recovery | code: SAM15

https://dreamrecovery.io/

Boncharge | code: SAMCFIT15

https://boncharge.com/

Cozy Earth | code: SAMCFIT for 40%

cozyearth.com

Manukora Manuka Honey | code: SAMCFIT for 15% off

http://manukora.com/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

Noble Origins | code: EMPWRHead to https://nobleorigins.com/ and get 20% of your first order

Follow SamInsta: @samcfit_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Samantha_Christine

Cal Newport’s book “Deep Work”https://a.co/d/gVhb4Qg

Follow Brett & Harry:

Insta: @meatmafiabrett 

https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiabrett

Insta: @meatmafiaharry

https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiaharry/?hl=en

Topics discussed:

00:00 – Introduction

01:15 – Brett’s story

07:05 – Impact on family eating habits, removing seed oils, prioritizing grass-finished meats

10:32 – Harry’s Story 

14:36 – Animal-Based Diet & Endurance 

17:47 – Carnivore vs. Animal-Based 

19:40 – Meat Quality & “Good, Better, Best” 

22:28 – Grocery Store Strategies 

26:10 – Eggs & Raw Milk  “Swill milk” problem, pasteurization, nutrient loss, industrial motives.

32:37 – Veganism & Nutrient Deficiencies 

35:55 – Eating Animal-Based with Family 

39:12 – Seed Oils & Metabolic Health 

43:04 – Sugar, Carbs & Metabolic Flexibility 

46:48 – Dining Out & Travel Eating 

50:15 – Meal Prep & Simplicity 

54:26 –Biggest Myths About Meat 

59:15 – Food System & Personal Responsibility 

01:03:52 – Final advice for improving diet quality

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices