Well Beyond 40
JJ Virgin
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 25, 2024 • 1h 17min
Beyond Hot Flashes: The Hidden Impact of Menopause with Karen Martel
"I really thought I was going to sail through menopause... until I didn't have it all figured out. I started going into early menopause at 42, and that's when everything changed." - Karen Martel Today, I sit down with hormone expert Karen Martel, to dive deep into the truth about perimenopause, menopause, weight gain, and hormone replacement therapy. As a nutritionist who experienced early menopause herself, Karen shares invaluable insights about why the conventional "calories in, calories out" approach fails so many women in midlife. Together, we explore why even health-conscious women who "do everything right" can still struggle with unexplained weight gain, mood changes, and other perimenopausal symptoms. Karen reveals game-changing information about estrogen's crucial role in metabolic health and why starting hormone replacement at the right time can make all the difference in your journey through menopause. If you're tired of being told it's "all in your head" or that you need to “eat less and exercise more”, this episode will validate you and arm you with the knowledge you need to take control of your hormonal health. What you'll learn: Why conventional advice about menopause and metabolism is often wrong, especially for women over 40 The surprising connection between estrogen levels and insulin resistance in midlife How to recognize early signs of perimenopause that most doctors miss Why the timing of starting hormone replacement therapy matters more than most realize The truth about progesterone dosing and why "more" isn't always better How modern environmental factors trigger earlier onset of perimenopausal symptoms The role of new medications, like GLP-1s, to support metabolic health in menopause Game-changing insights about topical estrogen for skin health and aging Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/hormonecream Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 22, 2024 • 17min
The WORST Diet Mistakes Beginners Always Make (Avoid This!) with JJ Virgin
In this eye-opening episode, I dive deep into the most common diet mistakes that derail progress, including the shocking truth about calorie tracking (even nutritionists get this wrong!), why protein timing is crucial for maintaining muscle mass during weight loss, and the real reason cardio might be working against your goals. I also share specific strategies for tracking, essential tools for accurate measurement, and explain why focusing on body composition rather than just the number on the scale is key for lasting results. What you'll learn: Why tracking your food intake incorrectly (or not at all) could be sabotaging your progress The optimal protein intake for maintaining muscle mass while losing fat How excessive calorie restriction impacts your metabolism and muscle retention Why resistance training trumps cardio for sustainable body transformation The truth about bio-impedance scales and tracking meaningful progress Essential tools and apps for successful weight management Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/worstmistakes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 11min
Building Mental Grit and Physical Power After 40 with Gabby Reece and JJ Virgin
"The minute I put a little pressure on you in your life, you freak out. So what I want to do is figure out how to get this pressure and try to get calmer." - Gabby Reece In this powerful episode, I sat down with volleyball legend and wellness pioneer Gabby Reece to unpack her evolution from professional athlete to wellness entrepreneur. At 54, Gabby shares her refreshingly practical approach to aging powerfully, revealing how she has adapted her training methods to focus on longevity, while still maintaining the discipline that made her a champion. She opens up about her innovative training approach, combining underwater workouts, heat exposure, and strategic strength training—designed not solely for physical gains, but also for building mental resilience. What truly sets this conversation apart is Gabby's candid discussion about navigating her marriage to fellow athlete, Laird Hamilton, raising three daughters in today's sometimes overwhelming world, and finding the delicate balance between being a powerful woman and embracing vulnerability in her relationships. What you'll learn: How Gabby transformed her professional athlete training routine into a sustainable lifestyle focused on longevity The game-changing benefits of underwater training for both physical and mental resilience Why building muscle becomes increasingly crucial for women as they age The surprising truth about how she maintains her physique through simple nutrition principles Her refreshing perspective on marriage dynamics when both partners are high achievers Practical strategies for training smarter, not harder, as you age The importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/highperformanceliving Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 15, 2024 • 23min
Weight Training for Women Over 40 (What to Do, Step by Step) with JJ Virgin
In this game-changing episode, I'm tackling a topic that's close to my heart and crucial for every woman over 40: strength training. Drawing from decades of experience (I started at 16!), I'm sharing my evolved approach to building muscle and strength that's specifically tailored for midlife women. We're diving deep into why traditional cardio isn't enough and how proper resistance training can transform your body composition, boost your metabolism, and enhance your daily functionality. I'm breaking down everything from how to measure your starting point using DEXA scans to implementing a practical, progressive training routine that works for your lifestyle. Plus, I'm sharing my personal insights on why grip strength matters and how simple tools like a rucking vest can accelerate your results. What you'll learn: How to accurately measure and track your body composition beyond just the scale The critical connection between grip strength and overall health for women over 40 Why walking 8,000 steps daily is a foundation for success (and how to make it happen) The 4 essential movement patterns that will transform your strength training routine Why muscle building works differently in midlife and how to adapt your approach The truth about rest and recovery for optimal muscle growth after 40 Essential nutrition strategies to support your strength training goals Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/weighttraining Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 11, 2024 • 49min
How to Finally Lose Stubborn Belly Fat After 40 with Dr. Ashley Lucas
"Once we fully collapse the belly fat, visceral fat, then we find the metabolism does become more fast and efficient." - Dr. Ashley Lucas In this episode, Dr. Ashley Lucas—former professional ballet dancer turned PhD in sports nutrition—breaks down the surprising science behind visceral fat. She reveals how this type of fat acts like its own organ, secreting hormones that actively resist your weight loss efforts. Drawing from her clinical work and success as the founder of PhD Weight Loss, Dr. Lucas challenges the common advice to “eat everything in moderation” and explains why it might be setting you up for failure. Tune in for a paradigm-shifting discussion on how understanding the true role of visceral fat is key to sustainable weight loss, especially for women over 40. What you'll learn: Why visceral fat acts like a "tumor" in your body and how it sabotages your metabolism The surprising truth about carbohydrate tolerance and why it's different for everyone How to identify and manage your personal food triggers for lasting success Why the habits needed for maintaining weight loss are different than those for losing it The critical mindset shifts required for sustainable transformation How stress perception impacts your ability to lose belly fat The reason you need to "collapse" visceral fat completely to prevent regain Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/ashley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 8, 2024 • 15min
These 10 Foods Decrease Cortisol Naturally to Reduce Stress Hormones
Today, I dive deep into the fascinating world of stress-fighting foods that can naturally lower your cortisol levels. As women navigating midlife, managing stress becomes increasingly crucial for our overall well-being and weight management goals. I’ll share my personal strategies for incorporating these powerful foods into daily life, from my morning ritual with dark chocolate (yes, chocolate can be healthy!) to simple ways to sneak stress-busting greens into your meals. You’ll discover how specific nutrients work to calm your body’s stress response and learn practical tips for making these foods a regular part of your routine. Whether you’re facing midlife hormonal changes, career pressures, or family responsibilities, these natural solutions can help you find more balance and peace in your busy life. What you'll learn: The surprising connection between specific foods and cortisol reduction Which everyday snacks can actually help calm your nervous system How to properly use dark chocolate as a stress-management tool The vital role of specific nutrients in supporting adrenal health Simple ways to incorporate stress-reducing foods into your daily routine Why gut health is crucial for managing your stress response Key evening rituals that combine nutrition and relaxation Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/lowercortisol Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dec 4, 2024 • 1h 32min
Transform Your Energy: From Metabolism to Mitochondria with Dr. Casey Means
"Good energy is fundamentally about giving your body what it needs to thrive. When we do this, our cells work better, our hormones balance, and we feel absolutely incredible." - Dr. Casey Means In this eye-opening episode, I sat down with Dr. Casey Means, Stanford-trained physician, #1 New York Times bestselling author of "Good Energy," and co-founder of Levels, to unpack the truth about America's metabolic health crisis—and more importantly, how we can naturally optimize our body's energy systems. As women over 40, understanding our metabolic health is crucial not just for weight management, but for sustained energy, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Dr. Means shares groundbreaking insights about how we can naturally boost our body's production of key hormones like GLP-1 (the same hormone in popular weight loss medications) through simple dietary and lifestyle changes. Her approach proves that we don't need expensive prescriptions to feel our best—we just need to work with our body's natural wisdom. What you'll learn: Why 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy and what this means for your health The three key factors of "bad energy" that drive metabolic dysfunction Natural ways to boost your body's production of satiety hormones without medications Simple food combinations that help stabilize blood sugar and increase energy How continuous glucose monitoring can help you personalize your diet and lifestyle The surprising power of post-meal movement for blood sugar control Key tests to request from your doctor to understand your metabolic health Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/goodenergy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
10 snips
Dec 1, 2024 • 30min
I Changed My Body by Taking These 8 Supplements Every Day
Discover the transformative power of a personal supplement routine tailored for women over 40. Learn about vital nutrients like vitamin D, fish oil, and collagen that support overall health and muscle recovery. Find out how to tackle pesky issues like brain fog and night leg cramps. Explore cutting-edge supplements that act like 'exercise in a bottle' and how they can boost your energy and vitality. Plus, get insights on fueling workouts as your body evolves with age!
Nov 27, 2024 • 56min
Midlife Love Story: Dating, Marriage & Intimacy After 40 | Expert Guide with James & Claire Davis
"Sometimes at midlife, we stop doing the things we think we should be doing, and start focusing on what we truly want to do. That's when we find that inner peace." - James Davis Are you navigating the complex waters of midlife relationships? In this enlightening episode, I sit down with James and Claire Davis, founders of Midlife Mentors, to explore the transformative journey of relationships after 40. Having met in their late thirties/early forties and now running a successful business together, they bring a unique perspective on finding love, maintaining connections, and reinventing ourselves during this pivotal life stage. As someone who found my own love story at 52, I was particularly moved by their insights on how our values shift during midlife and why this period can become our greatest opportunity for growth and authentic connection. James and Claire share their personal journey of maintaining intimacy while working together, including their courageous decision to seek marriage counseling—proving that investing in our relationships is just as crucial as investing in our careers. What you'll learn: Why midlife isn't a crisis but an opportunity for reinvention and deeper self-discovery How hormonal changes affect both men and women's relationships and what you can do about it The surprising truth about friendship transitions during midlife and why they're actually healthy Key strategies for maintaining intimacy and connection while navigating major life changes Why investing in your relationship is crucial and how to do it effectively How to handle when one partner starts making healthy changes and the other feels threatened The truth about dating apps and finding love later in life Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/midlifereset Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nov 24, 2024 • 19min
Cardio vs Weights After 40s, 50s, 60s (Wish I Knew This Sooner!)
In this game-changing episode, I'm tackling one of the most confusing topics for women over 40—what type of exercise actually works for maintaining a healthy weight, strong bones, and vibrant energy as we age? Drawing from both my personal journey and decades of research, I'm exposing the outdated myths about cardio and weight training that might be holding you back from your best health. You'll discover why the conventional wisdom about endless treadmill sessions could be sabotaging your results and learn about the surprising connection between grip strength and longevity. If you're frustrated with your current fitness routine or worried about maintaining your independence as you age, this episode is your roadmap to building a stronger, more resilient body that keeps up with your vibrant life. What you'll learn: The shocking truth about muscle loss after 40 and what it means for your metabolism Why your grip strength could be the most important health metric you're not measuring The game-changing research about VO2 max and longevity How to combine cardio and weights for optimal results at any age Simple strategies to prevent bone loss and maintain independence The most effective exercise sequence to transform your fitness routine Why the old "cardio-first" approach might be working against you Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://www.jjvirgin.com/cardiovsweights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
