Well Beyond 40

"No one feels good about having to tell a pet parent 'there's nothing more we can do." - Dr. Marlene SiegelI was absolutely blown away by my conversation with Dr. Marlene Siegel, a pioneer in integrative veterinary medicine with 40 years of experience. Her passion for bio-regulatory medicine—addressing the root causes of pet illness rather than just managing symptoms—is transforming how we think about pet health. Dr. Siegel shared shocking statistics about pet cancer rates and explained how the same environmental toxins affecting human health are devastating our pets, who are even more vulnerable due to their smaller size. What truly resonated was her revolutionary wellness framework that mirrors what many health-conscious people are already doing for themselves, only now we can extend this life-changing approach to our beloved animal companions. What you’ll learn: Why pet cancer rates are soaring and how environmental toxins are affecting pets even more severely than humans The six-step bio-regulatory medicine approach that addresses root causes instead of just managing symptoms Why carbohydrates and vegetables in pet food may be causing inflammation in carnivores like dogs and cats How pet vitamin D deficiency affects immune function and why they can't get it from sunlight like humans The importance of using mercury-free vaccines and making educated decisions about which ones your pet actually needs Why your emotional state and stress levels directly impact your pet's health through energetic entrainment The truth about raw, species-appropriate diets and why supplements should be given separately from food Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/pethealth Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm tackling a question I get all the time—how to tighten and tone those "bat wings" under your arms. This isn't just about vanity; it's about counteracting the muscle loss that naturally occurs as you age. Starting around 30, you begin losing up to 1% of muscle mass yearly due to something called anabolic resistance, and declining estrogen during perimenopause makes it even harder to maintain muscle. But here's the exciting truth—muscle loss isn't inevitable! I've seen amazing women in their 70s, 80s, and even 90s build impressive muscle. The key is understanding that you can't spot-reduce fat, but you can build muscle that creates that toned look. I'll share why compound movements beat isolation exercises, why progressive overload matters, and specific strategies for nutrition and exercise that work especially well during menopause. What you’ll learn: Why women experience muscle loss starting at age 30 and how declining estrogen during perimenopause accelerates this process The truth about "spot reduction" and why building muscle gives you that toned look How compound movements like pushups and rows give better results than isolated bicep and tricep exercises Why progressive overload and training to near-failure is critical for seeing results in your arms The importance of protein, collagen, creatine, and resistant starch for muscle building and fat loss How to determine if you're overtraining or not training hard enough Options beyond exercise if you have significant loose skin, including estrogen creams and laser treatments Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/losebatwings Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I am on a mission to show in the most positive manner just how far off a lot of these people are and to show people there's hope and to teach them how to do it without completely eradicating their health." - Dylan GemelliI sat down with Dylan Gemelli, a prominent figure in the fitness and biohacking industry who's transitioned from the bodybuilding world to becoming a cellular health expert. Dylan shared his incredible journey of rebuilding his life from scratch, discovering peptides and SARMs long before they became mainstream, and his personal battle with heart disease that led him to prove medical professionals wrong about what's possible. We dive deep into the world of peptides, cardiovascular health testing beyond standard panels, and why the hierarchy of health should include strategic supplementation for optimal aging. Dylan's passion for challenging medical dogma is infectious, especially his evidence that LP(a) levels can be lowered despite conventional wisdom saying otherwise.What you'll learn: What peptides and SARMs are and how they differ from harmful substances like steroids Why standard cholesterol panels miss the most important cardiovascular risk markers How Dylan lowered his "unchangeable" LP(a) levels by over 230 points when doctors said it was impossible The hierarchy of health supplements everyone should consider, starting with creatine for women of all ages Why microdosing GLP-1s may be the ultimate longevity hack for improved metabolic health How specialized peptides can accelerate healing, improve sleep, and support cellular repair The truth about NAD+ supplementation and what delivery methods actually work Why building and maintaining muscle mass is critical as we age, especially for women Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/dylan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I invite you to join me in a deep dive into why dark chocolate should be part of your fat-loss strategy—yes, you read that right! This episode reveals why bitter dark chocolate actually satisfies sweet cravings, lowers your appetite-stimulating hormones, enhances metabolism, and supports insulin sensitivity. I break down the complete fat loss picture for women in perimenopause and beyond, explaining why muscle is your metabolic superpower and how protein, fat, and fiber create the ultimate satiety trifecta. Learn about resistant starch foods that can boost fat burning by 20-30% after meals, and discover my everyday strategies for managing portions, cravings, and creating a sustainable eating approach that works specifically for your body's unique needs.Listen to my interview with Dr. Annette Bosworth  What you’ll learn: Why dark chocolate supports fat loss by satisfying cravings and enhancing metabolism How women's metabolism differs from men's and changes during perimenopause The importance of protein for building muscle and supporting metabolism (0.7-1g per pound of target body weight) Why resistant starch foods boost fat burning by 20-30% after meals Strategies for managing cravings with bitter and sour foods How to approach restaurant dining without sabotaging your progress The "5 days on, 2 days at maintenance" approach for sustainable fat loss Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/chocolatediet Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Vegetable oils are oxidative stress in a bottle. And oxidative stress is the root cause of disease and death. So vegetable oils are really death in a bottle, accelerated aging in a bottle." - Dr. Cate ShanahanI hosted family physician and medical revolutionist Dr. Cate Shanahan to unpack the science behind "seed oils" and their devastating impact on our metabolic health. What started as my own misconception about omega-6 to omega-3 ratios turned into a shocking revelation about how these industrial oils create toxic byproducts in our bodies. The "Hateful Eight" seed oils—corn, canola, cottonseed, soy, sunflower, safflower, rice bran, and grapeseed—aren't just causing inflammation; they're literally creating oxidative stress that accelerates aging and drives disease. Dr. Cate explained how eliminating these oils from her diet helped heal her own health crisis and even eliminated her lifelong sugar cravings! If you're experiencing inflammation, insulin resistance, or simply want to upgrade your energy and metabolic health, this episode reveals the simple swaps that could transform your health in just weeks.Discover the truth about seed oils and how they may be secretly sabotaging your health with Dr. Cate Shanahan, who explains why these industrial oils create toxic byproducts in your body that accelerate aging and drive disease.What you'll learn: Why seed oils are not just inflammatory but actually create toxic byproducts in our bodies The "Hateful Eight" seed oils to avoid in your diet and where they're hiding How eliminating seed oils can surprisingly reduce sugar cravings The connection between seed oils and insulin resistance Why the processing method of these oils creates harmful compounds How traditional fats like butter and olive oil support cellular health Simple swaps to remove seed oils from your diet and improve your health Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/cate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tossing aside those tiny pink dumbbells might be the best decision you make for your arms! After 40 years helping people transform their bodies, I'm sharing why those high-rep, low-weight workouts aren't delivering the toned arms you want. True muscle definition comes from understanding what muscle tone actually is—a partial contraction that gives shape even at rest—and that requires stimulating real muscle growth with challenging weights. I break down exactly how many sets, reps, and what types of compound movements will transform your upper body, plus why concerns about getting "bulky" are completely unfounded (something I've literally never seen happen unless someone's overeating and not exercising). What you’ll learn: Why the "small weights, high reps" approach won't give you the toned arms you want The truth about muscle tone and why you won't get "bulky" from resistance training How compound movements are more effective than isolation exercises for defined arms The ideal protein intake and training frequency for visible arm definition The "vanity trio" of finishing exercises that can enhance your results Why resistance training benefits not just your muscles but also bone density and skin elasticity How to strategically build muscle first, then reduce body fat for maximum definition Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/tonearms Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When I graduated college and moved into my apartment, I started feeling unwell. I was high on adrenaline and combating it, but I knew something was wrong. It wasn't until I moved out two years later that I discovered black mold behind my bed and that my oven had been leaking carbon monoxide!" - Melanie AvalonMelanie Avalon returns to the show after nearly a decade, and we dive deep into all things biohacking, longevity, and wellness. This Renaissance woman—actress, author, podcaster, and entrepreneur—shares her passionate perspective on topics from wine consumption to protein intake that challenge conventional wisdom. I was fascinated by her strategic approach to finding healthier wines at restaurants and her commitment to one-meal-a-day eating while maintaining muscle mass. We explore the EMF risks from our devices, debate protein's role in longevity, and discuss the importance of red light therapy and sauna sessions for detoxification. Melanie's journey into biohacking began with health challenges that led her to become the ultimate self-experimenter, now sharing her discoveries through multiple podcasts and wellness product lines.What you'll learn: Why European organic wines might be better choices and how to find them at restaurants The science behind Melanie's one-meal-a-day approach and how she consumes 300g of protein in a single meal How EMFs affect cellular calcium channels and simple ways to reduce your exposure The importance of protein for maintaining muscle mass as you age, despite conflicting longevity research Benefits of red light therapy for circadian rhythm regulation and pain management How sauna sessions can support detoxification and overall wellness The concerning lack of regulation in beauty products and brands that prioritize safety Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/avalon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm tackling a hot topic today that might surprise you: why intermittent fasting could be backfiring for women over 40. If you've been diligently following that 16:8 schedule and skipping breakfast, you might actually be accelerating muscle loss at a time when preserving lean mass is critical. Studies show that women in perimenopause and beyond need MORE protein, not less, and that consuming it earlier in the day is essential for maintaining metabolic health. I explain why eating breakfast sets your metabolic tone for the day, prevents the catabolic breakdown of muscle, and helps regulate blood sugar. Plus, I share my personal experiment with fasted workouts versus eating before training—with surprising results that changed my entire approach to morning nutrition.At age 40+, we need to focus on preserving muscle tissue to maintain metabolism and quality of life, not just weight management. This episode reveals exactly how much protein you need, delicious high-protein breakfast options, and how to adapt intermittent fasting to work WITH your hormones, not against them.What you'll learn: Why muscle preservation becomes critical after age 40 and how breakfast plays a key role The scientific research on how skipping breakfast affects metabolism and muscle preservation How proper protein timing can prevent "anabolic resistance" as we age My personal experiment with fasted vs. fed workouts and the game-changing results Practical high-protein breakfast options that support muscle maintenance How to adapt time-restricted eating to work with your hormonal needs The ideal protein intake for women over 40 (hint: it's higher than you think!) Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/goodbreakfast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Our gut microbiome had a big deal in protecting us and teaching the immune system who's a good guy, who's a bad guy." - Dr. Steven GundryI welcome back controversial cardiologist-turned-nutrition expert Dr. Steven Gundry to discuss his latest book, Gut Check, where he shares groundbreaking insights on how our microbiome influences everything from mental clarity to longevity. As a former heart surgeon who now sees patients six days a week, Dr. Gundry revealed why both neurologists and cardiologists are now obsessed with gut health—because as Hippocrates said 2,500 years ago, "All disease begins in the gut." We explored how leaky gut leads to systemic inflammation and accelerated aging, plus practical ways to repair your gut barrier and restore your internal "tropical rainforest" of beneficial bacteria. Dr. Gundry also challenged popular "Blue Zone" myths, arguing that longevity hotspots aren't plant-based paradises but rather communities of active people consuming fermented foods, animal products, and engaging in consistent physical activity on hilly terrain.Get Dr. Gundry’s new book Gut Check: Unleash the Power of Your Microbiome to Reverse Disease and Transform Your Mental, Physical, and Emotional HealthWhat you'll learn: Why leaky gut is the hidden driver behind autoimmune disease, Hashimoto's, eczema, depression, and brain fog How the health of your gut barrier directly impacts your longevity and quality of life The crucial role of butyrate and why 80% of your colon cells depend on it for nourishment Why simply taking probiotics isn't enough—you need fermented foods and prebiotics together to rebuild gut diversity Simple ways to increase beneficial short-chain fatty acids through foods like vinegars and low-sugar kombuchas The truth about Blue Zones and why many longevity hotspots actually feature sheep herders eating fermented dairy and cured meats How "exercise snacking" throughout the day on hilly terrain contributes to longevity Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 55,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/gundry Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm on a mission to bust the myths about red meat that have been circulating for decades. Contrary to what you've been told, lean grass-fed beef might be exactly what you need for aging powerfully, especially after 40. As a recovering vegan, I've discovered firsthand how quality red meat provides essential nutrients that combat muscle loss (starting at 30, we lose 3-8% per decade!), boost energy, and support bone health. The secret lies in the branched-chain amino acids, iron, B12, and zinc found abundantly in grass-fed beef—nutrients that are critical for combating fatigue, maintaining cognitive function, and supporting hormonal balance during perimenopause and beyond.What you'll learn: The crucial difference between processed meats and grass-fed, grass-finished beef How red meat helps combat age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) in women 40+ The unique nutrients in quality beef that support energy, bone health, and metabolism Why grass-fed beef contains beneficial CLA that supports fat loss and smaller waistlines How to properly incorporate red meat into your diet for optimal results Simple ways to maximize iron absorption from meat by combining with vitamin C-rich foods Tips for choosing the best cuts and preparation methods to maximize nutritional benefits Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do:Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 50,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.Want to listen to the show completely ad-free?  Go to subscribetojj.com Enjoy the VIP experience for just $4.99/month or $49.99/year (save 17%!) Click “TRY FREE” and start your ad-free journey today! Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/redmeat Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices