Well Beyond 40 - podcast cover

Well Beyond 40

JJ Virginwww.jjvirgin.com
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.
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Episodes

Why Seed Oils Are Sabotaging Your Health with Dr. Cate Shanahan

"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 Shanahan I 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 indus...

Apr 16, 20251 hr 19 minSeason 3Ep. 753

Trying to ‘Tone’ Your Arms? Why Lifting Heavier Is the Answer

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...

Apr 13, 202524 minSeason 3Ep. 752

Wine, Fasting & Protein: Melanie Avalon's Longevity Blueprint

"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 Avalon Melanie 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 entre...

Apr 09, 20251 hr 7 minSeason 3Ep. 751

Skipping Breakfast? Here’s How It’s Hurting Your Muscle and Metabolism

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 ...

Apr 06, 202524 minSeason 3Ep. 750

The Gut-Longevity Connection with Dr. Steven Gundry

"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 Gundry I 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 cardiolo...

Apr 02, 202553 minSeason 3Ep. 749

Afraid of Red Meat? Here’s Why Women Over 60 Actually Need More

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 foun...

Mar 30, 202525 minSeason 3Ep. 748

The Surprising Science of Beneficial Stress with Dr. Sharon Bergquist

"The leading cause of disability in this country is disuse. Most people think it's arthritis. It is actually disuse, which is so profound because we can control the leading cause that is leading to so many people being handicapped." - Dr. Sharon Bergquist I sat down with Dr. Sharon Bergquist to explore the revolutionary concept of "good stress" and how it might be the missing key to longevity we've been searching for. Dr. Bergquist, an award-winning physician who graduated from Yale and Harvard ...

Mar 26, 20251 hr 8 minSeason 3Ep. 747

My Sleep Routine to Guarantee 8 Hours of Sleep

I'm deeply passionate about busting the dangerous myth that you need less sleep as you age. The truth is, quality sleep becomes even more critical as we get older, especially when we're working hard to build muscle and recover from workouts. In this episode, I share my battle-tested sleep strategies that I've used personally and with thousands of clients. You'll discover why proper sleep timing matters, how to create the perfect bedroom environment, and the supplements that can transform your sl...

Mar 23, 202526 minSeason 3Ep. 746

Why Getting Stronger Could Save Your Life with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng

"When you see so many people coming into hospital with preventable disease and you see the amount of suffering associated with landing in ICU, you really want to provide people with the tools to avoid seeing someone like myself." - Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng As an ICU and palliative care physician, Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng (Dr. KK) reveals a startling truth: nearly half of his ICU patients could have avoided being there through better lifestyle choices. With his wealth of frontline medical experienc...

Mar 19, 20251 hr 9 minSeason 3Ep. 745

5 Foods I Eat To Lose Weight + Build Muscle Over 50

If you're over 50 and think losing fat and building muscle is impossible, I have great news! After years of testing, I've identified five essential foods that can transform your body composition. These protein-rich powerhouses - grass-fed beef, wild salmon, Greek yogurt, pasture-raised eggs, and collagen - are the foundation of a diet that supports muscle growth while fighting inflammation. The secret isn't just about eating protein; it's about consuming the right kinds with their unique amino a...

Mar 16, 202524 minSeason 3Ep. 744

The Hidden Link Between Stress, Gut Health, and Your Nervous System with Dr. Will Cole

Uncovering the Real Cost of Processed Foods on Your Health "How we're doing food wrong today is criminal. We need to follow other countries that have banned artificial dyes and make our food supply safer for our families." - Dr. Will Cole Dr. Will Cole, a pioneering functional medicine expert, pulls back the curtain on the shocking realities of America's food industry and its impact on our health. Fresh from confronting Kellogg's over harmful artificial food dyes at their headquarters, Will shar...

Mar 12, 20251 hr 4 minSeason 3Ep. 743

My Rituals for More Energy as a Woman Over 50

As a woman in her 60s, I'm sharing my daily non-negotiable habits that keep me energized, focused, and maintaining lean muscle mass—whether I'm at home or traveling (which I do about 70% of the time). From my morning gratitude practice (thanks Dr. Joe Dispenza!) to evening sleep preparation rituals, learn how I've crafted a portable, sustainable routine that maximizes my health and vitality. Learn why I travel with a bioimpedance scale, prioritize post-meal movement, and never skip my resistance...

Mar 09, 202526 minSeason 3Ep. 742

Little-Known Hormone Is Key to Aging Well with Dr. Anna Cabeca

"The most powerful hormone in our body may surprise you - it's not estrogen or testosterone, but oxytocin. While often called the 'love hormone,' oxytocin's impact extends far beyond cuddles and connection." - Dr. Anna Cabeca World-renowned hormone expert Dr. Anna Cabeca returns to reveal groundbreaking insights about oxytocin – the master hormone that can transform your stress levels, bone health, sexual vitality, and longevity. Drawing from decades of clinical experience and cutting-edge resea...

Mar 05, 202552 minSeason 3Ep. 741

The Secret To Burning Fat For Women Over 40

Breaking down the science of metabolism, I dive deep into why conventional weight loss advice might be holding you back. From the fascinating role of brown fat to the power of exercise "snacks," this episode demolishes outdated myths about cardio, calorie restriction, and keto dieting. You'll discover why muscle is your metabolic powerhouse – acting as your body's natural Spanx while sending out hundreds of powerful messenger signals that burn fat, reduce inflammation, and even boost brain healt...

Mar 02, 202518 minSeason 3Ep. 740

Why Your Workout Isn't Working: A Revolutionary Approach to Menopause with Dr. Bill Campbell

"What I've learned as I've studied menopause and fat loss research is that protein is the menopause nutrient. Everything that menopause introduces to our bodies, protein helps with." - Dr. Bill Campbell Dr. Bill Campbell, professor and director of the only Physique Enhancement Lab in the country, joins me to reveal why he's dedicating his research career to understanding menopause, metabolism, and body composition. After witnessing his wife's challenging menopause transition despite her fitness-...

Feb 26, 20251 hr 24 minSeason 3Ep. 739

My Diet As A Nutritionist Expert To Build Muscle and Lose Weight - For Women Over 50

Diving deep into the science of eating for optimal health after 50, I share my proven strategies for maintaining energy, building lean muscle, and managing weight through strategic meal timing and food choices. From the crucial "first meal effect" that sets your metabolic tone for the day to the surprising truth about wine consumption and sleep quality, this episode delivers the exact blueprint you need to fuel your body for vitality and strength. Drawing from both cutting-edge research and deca...

Feb 23, 202518 minSeason 3Ep. 738

Protecting Your Brain Starts in Your Gut with Dr. Partha Nandi

"When you heal your gut, you're not just improving digestion – you're protecting your brain and cognitive function for decades to come. The gut-brain connection is so powerful that what's happening in your microbiome today could determine your brain health at 75 or 80." - Dr. Partha Nandi World-renowned gastroenterologist and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Partha Nandi joins me for a fascinating deep dive into the incredible connection between our gut and brain health. After witnessing hi...

Feb 19, 202543 minSeason 3Ep. 737

The Best Kept Secret About Aging Powerfully

The statistics about aging can be frightening – from plummeting bone density to cognitive decline and muscle loss. But I'm here to tell you there's a revolutionary approach to aging that turns these scary numbers on their head. Today, I share how a positive mindset alone can add 7.5 years to your life, and why resistance training is non-negotiable for women over 40. We dive deep into why those little pink dumbbells aren't really serving you, and how incorporating power moves like jumping can act...

Feb 16, 202528 minSeason 3Ep. 736

Transform Your Metabolism: The Mind-Body Connection You Can't Ignore with Ben Azadi

"It's a victim mindset to identify yourself with something that's holding you back." -Ben Azadi I had an incredible in-person conversation with Ben Azadi that's going to revolutionize how you think about your metabolism. Ben's journey from obesity and depression to becoming a leading voice in metabolic health proves what I've always said - mindset shifts must come before lasting physical transformation. We dug deep into the science of metabolic flexibility and why it's absolutely critical for wo...

Feb 12, 20251 hr 17 minSeason 3Ep. 735

GLP-1s / Ozempic vs. “Natural” Weight Loss - What's The Better Path For Women Over 40?

Recent headlines about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic have created more confusion than clarity for women seeking sustainable weight loss solutions. As someone who's spent decades helping women transform their bodies, I'm diving deep into what the research actually reveals about these medications – both the surprising benefits and the critical precautions. More importantly, I'm sharing the essential foundation every woman needs before considering any weight loss approach, whether using GLP-1s or ...

Feb 09, 202529 minSeason 3Ep. 734

Creatine Reimagined: A New, US-Based Product for Strength, Energy & Longevity with Mark Faulkner

"I'm absolutely convinced that creatine is something everyone needs to be on. When you look at how it impacts cellular energy, strength, brain fog, and aging - it's really a game changer, especially for women in midlife." - Mark Faulkner As a pioneer in creatine research, Mark Faulkner brings groundbreaking insights about what may be the most misunderstood and underutilized supplement for women's health. In this eye-opening conversation, Mark shares how his journey from developing NFL steroid te...

Feb 05, 20251 hr 28 minSeason 3Ep. 733

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 effectivel...

Feb 02, 202526 minSeason 3Ep. 732

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 profess...

Jan 29, 202553 minSeason 3Ep. 731

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 str...

Jan 26, 202529 minSeason 3Ep. 730

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 25, 20255 min

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 sha...

Jan 22, 20251 hr 33 minSeason 3Ep. 729

What I'd Do If I Wanted To Lose 10 Lbs, Step-by-Step

In this eye-opening episode, I break down my proven, science-backed strategy for losing those stubborn 10 pounds – and keeping them off for good. I'm sharing my personal approach that focuses on smart tracking, strategic eating, and sustainable habits that don't require hours at the gym or restrictive dieting. From the game-changing importance of protein timing to the surprising impact of NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) on your metabolism, I'm revealing the exact methods I use with my...

Jan 19, 202519 minSeason 3Ep. 728

Beyond Aging: How Peptides Transform Health with Nathalie Niddam

"I discovered peptides when I stumbled into a conference lecture and heard about compounds that could help rejuvenate aging bodies and repair tissues. I was completely gobsmacked - and that moment changed everything I knew about regenerative medicine." - Nathalie Niddam Join me for a groundbreaking conversation with holistic nutritionist and longevity educator Nathalie Niddam about the science of peptides and bioregulators - powerful compounds that work with your body's natural healing systems. ...

Jan 15, 202555 minSeason 3Ep. 727

29 Foods I Eat EVERY WEEK As a Nutrition Expert

In this revealing episode, I open up my kitchen and share my personal nutrition strategies that keep me energized, lean, and strong at any age. From my morning ritual of protein-packed breakfasts to my strategic approach to incorporating fermented foods, I break down exactly how I maintain optimal health through simple, sustainable food choices. I'm particularly excited to share my practical solutions for busy women who want to prioritize their health without spending hours in the kitchen, inclu...

Jan 12, 202522 minSeason 3Ep. 726

Ditch Your Reading Glasses: Natural Vision Solutions with Claudia Muehlenweg

" When I did these practices, my vision would clear up immediately ." - Claudia Muehlenweg In this eye-opening episode, I am joined by Claudia Muehlenweg, founder of the Naturally Clear Vision Institute, who shares her remarkable journey of ditching glasses twice in her life through natural methods. As someone who has helped thousands improve their vision naturally, Claudia reveals why 80% of people over 45 need reading glasses – and more importantly, what we can do about it. Claudia challenges ...

Jan 08, 202554 minSeason 3Ep. 725
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