
Well Beyond 40
Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin is the podcast for women who want to age powerfully and enjoy the best chapter of their lives. It’s YOUR turn now to focus on nutrition, wellness, fitness, mindfulness, and beauty. Refuel your body. Reignite your wellness. Renew your passion. Fall (back) in love with your life, and discover what it means to age powerfully. Every information-packed episode combines cutting-edge science, pearls of wisdom from JJ’s four decades as a health and wellness leader and the world’s leading experts on weight loss, metabolism, menopause, life transitions and much more. We dive deep into topics like cultivating mindfulness, building strong relationships and setting boundaries, and choosing health…in a nutshell, how we can AGE POWERFULLY into this second half of our lives. At Well Beyond 40, we empower women in their 40s, 50s, 60, 70s (and beyond!) to defy stereotypes and say, “It's my time now. It's my turn now. It’s my opportunity to step into my best life!” For four decades, JJ Virgin has helped people lose weight and stop weight regain by eliminating hidden food intolerances and lowering their sugar impact. As a triple-board certified nutrition expert and Fitness Hall of Famer, JJ helps you stay fired up and focused on being your healthiest rockstar self. In addition to hosting Well Beyond 40, JJ is a prominent TV and media personality. She was co-host of TLC’s Freaky Eaters and the on-camera nutritionist for Weight Loss Challenges on Dr. Phil. Over the years, JJ has made numerous appearances on PBS, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, Access Hollywood, and the TODAY Show. She also speaks regularly and has shared the stage with notables including Seth Godin, Lisa Nichols, Gary Vaynerchuk, Mark Hyman, Dan Buettner, and Mary Morrissey. JJ is the author of 4 New York Times bestsellers: The Virgin Diet, The Virgin Diet Cookbook, The Sugar Impact Diet, and The Sugar Impact Diet Cookbook. JJ is also the author of Warrior Mom: 7 Secrets to Bold, Brave Resilience. She regularly writes for major blogs and other publications including mindbodygreen and Medium. Visit jjvirgin.com for hundreds of free recipes and resources, plus state-of-the-art programs, products, and plenty of support to help you rev up your metabolism, reignite your wellness, and step powerfully into the second half of your life. 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.
Latest episodes

Feb 19, 2025 • 43min
Protecting Your Brain Starts in Your Gut with Dr. Partha Nandi
Dr. Partha Nandi, a board-certified gastroenterologist and bestselling author, explores the fascinating link between gut health and brain function. He emphasizes that a healthy gut can protect cognitive abilities well into old age. Listeners learn how stress and inflammation affect brain health, while simple dietary changes can foster a healthier gut-brain connection. Dr. Nandi also advocates for community, spirituality, and movement as essential components of overall wellness. His insights could transform how you view aging and brain protection.

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Feb 16, 2025 • 29min
The Best Kept Secret About Aging Powerfully
Explore how a positive mindset can add 7.5 years to your life while challenging traditional views on aging. Resistance training is crucial for women over 40, but those small weights may not be enough. Discover the power of high-intensity interval training and the surprising benefits of creatine HCL for cognitive and physical health. Learn the shocking protein needs for aging women and the importance of recovery in a holistic approach to aging powerfully. Uncover the hidden challenges for postmenopausal women and take proactive steps for better health!

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 18min
Transform Your Metabolism: The Mind-Body Connection You Can't Ignore with Ben Azadi
In this enlightening conversation, Ben Azadi, a health entrepreneur and bestselling author, shares his journey from obesity to becoming a wellness influencer. He emphasizes the crucial role of mindset in achieving physical transformation and explains the concept of metabolic flexibility, urging listeners to switch from sugar-burning to fat-burning for better health. Ben demystifies ketosis, presents a revolutionary approach to exercise, and highlights how thoughts can influence cellular health. Prepare to rethink eating and wellness!

10 snips
Feb 9, 2025 • 29min
GLP-1s / Ozempic vs. “Natural” Weight Loss - What's The Better Path For Women Over 40?
Recent discussions reveal the surprising benefits of GLP-1 medications, from reducing inflammation to boosting mood. For women over 40, preserving muscle mass is crucial for health and metabolism. Effective weight loss strategies focus on protein intake, resistance training, and alternative ways to enhance natural GLP-1 production. It’s emphasized that tracking body composition is more meaningful than just scale weight. Interestingly, adopting slower, steady weight loss yields more sustainable results than quick fixes.

Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 28min
Creatine Reimagined: A New, US-Based Product for Strength, Energy & Longevity with Mark Faulkner
Mark Faulkner, a pioneer in creatine research and America's sole creatine manufacturer, discusses the transformative potential of creatine for women's health, particularly during midlife. He reveals how common creatine forms can cause bloating and introduces his innovative creatine HCL for better absorption. The conversation highlights creatine's benefits beyond muscle growth, including cognitive support and immune function. Faulkner underscores the importance of quality American manufacturing and rigorous testing in supplements for safety and efficacy.

Feb 2, 2025 • 26min
Forget Cardio! Strength Training Is The Real Fountain of Youth After 40!
In this game-changing episode, I'm challenging everything you thought you knew about exercise after 40. Forget the old rules about cardio being queen – I'm sharing why resistance training is actually your secret weapon for burning fat, building stronger bones, and even creating new brain neurons. Drawing from my background in Exercise Physiology at USC and the latest research, I break down why it's never too late to start lifting weights (yes, even at 85!), and how to begin safely and effectively. You'll discover why those gym machines aren't just for twentysomethings, and how building muscle becomes your metabolic superpower. Plus, I reveal the surprising truth about getting "bulky" (spoiler alert: it's probably not what you think), and share my fool-proof strategy for starting your strength training journey today. What you'll learn: Why resistance training trumps cardio for fat loss, heart health, and longevity after 40 The fascinating science behind myokines and how they boost brain health and immunity Essential baseline measurements to track your strength training progress A practical breakdown of the three main movement patterns for total body transformation How to progress safely from beginner to advanced resistance training The truth about muscle building for women over 40 and why "getting bulky" is a myth The optimal combination of resistance training and daily movement for best results 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. Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/strengthtrainingafter40 Oxiline bioimpedance scale: https://oxiline.shop/product/scale-x-pro/?ref=mza2ntv Dumbbells: https://amzn.to/3wVXDYf Hand Grip Dynamometer: https://amzn.to/48OI2a1 Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Try SHEatine: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/all/products/sheatine-capsules Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 29, 2025 • 54min
Conscious Dance: The Science of Movement Medicine with Jennifer Joy Jimenez
"When I was a professional dancer, I felt the worst in my body when I probably looked my best to the outside world. That's when I knew something had to change." - Jennifer Joy Jimenez In this energizing episode, I sat down with Jennifer Joy Jimenez, transformational leader and founder of the Brave Thinking Institute's health and wellbeing division, to explore how conscious movement can revolutionize both physical and emotional wellbeing after 40. Jennifer shares her powerful journey from professional dancer battling body shame to pioneering Transcendance, an innovative blend of movement, mindfulness, and energy healing. The science is clear - social dance can decrease Alzheimer's risk by up to 76% while flooding our bodies with mood-boosting hormones. We dive deep into how incorporating just minutes of mindful movement daily can transform stress, unlock creativity, and reignite joy at any age. Jennifer reveals practical strategies for breaking free from rigid exercise mindsets and embracing movement as medicine for both body and soul. What you'll learn: How conscious dance can activate happy hormones and reduce stress in just minutes a day The profound mind-body connection and its role in healing trauma Why movement is essential for maintaining cognitive function and reducing dementia risk Simple ways to incorporate playful movement into your daily routine The science behind using dance for emotional and physical wellbeing How to break free from perfectionist exercise patterns Practical strategies for connecting with your body's innate wisdom 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 26, 2025 • 30min
How To Get Rid of Menopause Belly Fat the Fastest & Simplest Way
In today's deep dive, I'm breaking down the science of menopause belly fat and sharing game-changing strategies that actually work. As women enter perimenopause, the triple threat of low estrogen, elevated insulin, and high cortisol creates the perfect storm for accumulating dangerous visceral fat around our organs. But armed with the latest research, I'm revealing why your daily movement patterns matter more than you think, the surprising impact of protein timing on fat loss, and how simple strategies like cold exposure can help activate fat-burning pathways. I'm also sharing critical insights about hormone replacement therapy and why it could be the missing piece in your metabolic puzzle. If you're ready to understand and tackle menopause belly fat with science-backed solutions that work, this episode is your roadmap to success. What you'll learn: The crucial difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat, and why location matters for your health How the triad of hormones (estrogen, insulin, and cortisol) impacts belly fat storage during menopause The science-backed sweet spot for HIIT training that specifically targets visceral fat Why protein timing and amount can make or break your fat loss efforts The surprising connection between hydration, stress, and your body's fat-storing mechanisms 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. Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/menopausebellyfat 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Oxiline bioimpedance scale: https://oxiline.shop/product/scale-x-pro/?ref=mza2ntv Kooru Cold Plunge: https://www.koorucoldplunges.com/ and use code JJVIP500 for $500 off. Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Sunlighten Sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/JJVirgin use promo code JJVIRGIN when requesting pricing information for $600 off. Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Tape Measure: https://amzn.to/3wQw4Q2 TRX Resistance Training Equipment: Free Shipping on all orders $99+: https://trxtraining.sjv.io/EKrvrP Dry Farm Wines: dryfarmwines.com/jjvirgin Study: Visceral Fat: What Is It?: https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-visceral-fat Study: Adipose tissue in health and disease: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7776562/ Study: Adipose Tissue Distribution, Inflammation and Its Metabolic Consequences, Including Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cardiovascular-medicine/articles/10.3389/fcvm.2020.00022/full Study: Is the goal of 12,000 steps per day sufficient for improving body composition and metabolic syndrome? The necessity of combining exercise intensity: a randomized controlled trial: https://consensus.app/papers/is-the-goal-of-12000-steps-per-day-sufficient-for-improving-chiang-chen/676d54b152e25c6b80e07f6a12b02fc0/ Study: Physical activity and healthy ageing: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal cohort studies: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/physical-activity Study: Physical Activity: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/physical-activity Study: Body Fat Percentage: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/body-fat-percentage Study: A reduced ratio of dietary carbohydrate to protein improves body composition and blood lipid profiles during weight loss in adult women: https://consensus.app/papers/a-reduced-ratio-of-dietary-carbohydrate-to-protein-layman-boileau/01653d342eab51adbb319a1a1b45079f/ Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 25, 2025 • 3min
Unlock the Secret to an Exclusive Podcast Experience
Something exciting is happening, and I can’t wait to share it with you! In this special episode, I reveal a game-changing new way for you to enjoy the podcast like never before. Curious? Let’s just say it involves more of what you love—uninterrupted. Tune in to find out what’s new and how you can be part of this exclusive experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 34min
Why Getting Sick Might Be Your Body's Reset Button with Dr. Zach Bush
"Nature has never allowed an injury that she didn't already have a solution to." - Dr. Zach Bush In this transformative episode, I sat down with Dr. Zach Bush, a physician whose journey from ICU medicine to understanding the human ecosystem has revolutionized how we think about health and healing. We explored the profound connection between human health and our relationship with nature, diving deep into why illness isn't a failure of the body but often a reset mechanism for healing. Dr. Bush shared groundbreaking insights about how our disconnection from nature has led to chronic disease, and more importantly, how we can reverse this through simple, powerful reconnections with the natural world. His message of hope – that we can restore our health and the planet's wellbeing through embracing nature's intelligence – couldn't come at a more critical time for women seeking genuine, sustainable wellness solutions. What you'll learn: Why getting sick isn't a failure of your immune system, but often a necessary reset mechanism How our obsession with "killing germs" is actually compromising our health and resilience The surprising truth about human biology - we're not just a body, but a complex ecosystem Why connecting with nature is more powerful than any biohacking technique The revolutionary approach to healing that starts with curiosity and self-discovery How women's intuitive, process-oriented nature holds the key to both personal and planetary healing The power of witnessing and being witnessed in our healing journey 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. Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/drzach Learn more about Dr. Zach Bush: https://zachbushmd.com/ Intelligence of Nature - new customers use code VIRGIN for 15% off: https://intelligenceofnature.com/?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=1&affid=425 Journey of Intrinsic Health: http://journeyofintrinsichealth.com Shop Oura Rings: https://ouraring.com/ Oxiline bioimpedance scale: https://oxiline.shop/product/scale-x-pro/?ref=mza2ntv Kooru Cold Plunge: https://www.koorucoldplunges.com/ and use code JJVIP500 for $500 off. Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep The Tapping Solution: https://www.thetappingsolutionapp.com/jj Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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