The Practice Brave Podcast

In this episode of the Practice Brave podcast, I catch up with my longtime friend and fellow athlete mom, Michaela North. Michaela is one of the OGs in the CrossFit space—an individual competitor, a CrossFit Games team champion, and now the founder of Hungry Fitness, where she leads a team of coaches supporting women through all stages of life with nutrition and training.   We reflect on more than a decade of pregnancies, postpartums, and athletic pursuits, sharing how much (and how little) has changed in the resources available to moms in sport. Together, we talk about the importance of adaptability, the myth of “all or nothing” in motherhood and fitness, and how these lessons set us up for long-term health, performance, and fulfillment.  This conversation is both nostalgic and forward-looking—celebrating how far we’ve come while recognizing the work that’s still needed to support women in every stage of motherhood and athleticism.   Connect with Michaela: Instagram: @hungryfitness Website: https://hungryfitness.co/   👉 Join Me Live! What: The No-BS Guide to Coaching Pregnant & Postpartum Athletes: What Every Coach + Athlete Needs to Know When: October 1 at 12PM & 8PM EDT Register: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-masterclass     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this solo episode, I share from the heart about the messy middle ground of pregnancy and postpartum athleticism. After more than 12 years of working with female athletes, I’ve seen the pendulum swing between two extremes: overly conservative, fear-based recommendations and the “full send, no modifications needed” approach. Neither tells the whole story.   I dive into why nuance matters when it comes to training during pregnancy and postpartum, and how athlete psychology, core and pelvic health, and long-term performance goals all need to be part of the conversation. I also reflect on my own experiences with birth trauma, recovery, and what it means to adapt as an athlete across different life seasons.   If you’re pregnant, postpartum, a coach, or simply curious about supporting female athletes, this episode is a reminder that athleticism doesn’t end when motherhood begins. Instead, it evolves — and learning how to adapt is what preserves performance, identity, and longevity in sport and life.   👉 Join Me Live! What: The No-BS Guide to Coaching Pregnant & Postpartum Athletes: What Every Coach + Athlete Needs to Know When: Oct 1 @ 12PM & 8PM EDT Register: Briannabattles.com/masterclass   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Kenael Segal, PT, DPT, who works in alternative and holistic health services, about the importance of pelvic health from a holistic perspective. Dr. Kenael shares her journey from teaching to becoming a pelvic floor physical therapist, shaped by her own experiences with pelvic health challenges. We dive into how awareness of women’s health has evolved, the realities of postpartum recovery, and why individualized care is so essential.   We also discuss the emotional weight that comes with pelvic health struggles, the power of community support, and the value of ancestral knowledge and holistic practices in healing. Dr. Kenael brings such a unique perspective on balancing logic with spirituality in recovery, and she reminds us that motherhood is never a finished chapter—it’s an ongoing journey of learning, adapting, and growing.   Connect with Dr. Kenael: Website: https://drkenaelsegal.com/ IG: @lotuspelvicpt FB: https://facebook.com/LotusPTandWellness   Want to elevate your coaching skills? Join the waitlist for the Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Coaching Certification Course and be the first to hear when enrollment opens! 👉 Sign up now: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-waitlist    Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, UFC Fighter Katlyn Cerminara shares her journey as a new mom and professional athlete. She discusses her early experiences in martial arts, her rise in the UFC, and the challenges she faced while trying to conceive. Kaitlyn opens up about her fertility journey, including IVF treatments and the emotional toll it took on her. She also shares her positive pregnancy experience and the unexpected twists of her birth story. Now four weeks postpartum, Kaitlyn reflects on her recovery and her aspirations to return to the octagon, emphasizing the importance of community and support among women in combat sports.   Follow Katlyn: IG: @blondefighter Burning The Boats Podcast: youtube.com/@burningtheboatspodcast2868   Are you a pregnant combat athlete? Check out my free resource for BJJ during pregnancy and postpartum: https://go.briannabattles.com/bjj-freeguide   Learn more about the Practice Brave Fitness Program: https://briannabattles.com/practicebrave     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Sean Pastuch, founder of Active Life, about rethinking fitness, coaching, and business in ways that actually support people for the long run. He shares his journey from being a personal trainer who took on clients others overlooked, to becoming a chiropractor, gym owner, and eventually the visionary behind a company that helps both clients in chronic pain and coaches who want to serve them better.   We dive into what it really takes to build a sustainable career in the fitness industry, from learning how to charge what your services are worth to creating meaningful influence beyond just working with pro athletes. This is a powerful conversation about coaching, leadership, and life—one that will challenge the way you think about money, influence, and what it means to truly help people.   Connect with Dr. Sean: IG: @drseanpastuch Websites:  https://drseanpastuch.com/ https://activelifeprofessional.com/   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program    Learn more about the Practice Brave Fitness Program: https://briannabattles.com/practicebrave     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I sit down with Katherine Shai — a 7x Team USA National Team wrestler, former University World Champion, two-time Olympic alternate, and founder of the wrestling education platform LuchaFit. Katherine has transitioned from elite athlete to mindset and technical coach, and brings such a powerful perspective on how women in sport evolve over time.   We talk about what it truly means to balance athletic identity with motherhood, and how mental performance support is just as critical as physical training. Katherine shares her journey through high-level wrestling, coaching, and entrepreneurship, and we dive into how adaptability, joy, and mindset impact both sport and life. We also discuss changing the culture around weight in combat sports, building community for female athletes, and empowering the next generation to thrive beyond just performance. This is such a grounded and inspiring conversation about redefining what strength and success look like as women in athletics.   Connect with Katherine: IG: @katherineshai  Website: https://www.luchafit.com/    Learn more about the Practice Brave Fitness Program: https://briannabattles.com/practicebrave   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program        MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Rose Faure, a former Division 1 springboard diver turned endurance athlete, to dive into what it really means to be a high-achieving woman, especially in the context of sports and personal goals. We talk about the mental and emotional demands of maintaining a competitive mindset while juggling careers, families, and everything in between. We share how the pressure of competition affects us emotionally and why self-awareness has been such a crucial part of our journeys. We reflect on the influence of role models and how our experiences can help shape the next generation of athletes.   Ultimately, we emphasize that athleticism isn’t just a phase—it’s something that evolves with us. This conversation is about embracing the fluid nature of sport, supporting each other through it, and redefining what it means to be strong and successful at every stage of life.   Connect with Ashley:  Instagram and Facebook: @ashleyrosegoes   Join the Practice Brave Fitness Program: briannabattles.com/practicebrave Are you a pregnant combat athlete? Check out my free resource for BJJ during pregnancy and postpartum: https://go.briannabattles.com/bjj-freeguide If you’re a pregnant or postpartum athlete looking for resources, I can help: The Pregnancy Cheat Sheet Free E-Book: https://go.briannabattles.com/adjust-cheatsheet The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I’m joined by my husband, Jared, for a really special conversation that’s different from our usual topics—because we’re announcing something big: we’re opening a jiu-jitsu gym together here in Eagle, Idaho! We talk about how we each found jiu-jitsu (at very different points in life), how it’s become a huge part of our family’s identity, and why we’re choosing to build this business from the ground up. From Jared’s law enforcement background to my years in strength and conditioning—and now, coaching athlete moms—this is a story about merging worlds, pursuing passion, and creating a space for families to grow in confidence, athleticism, and community.   Join Us at Battles Jiu-Jitsu 🏠 Opening October 2025 in Eagle, Idaho 📍 Learn more and fill out the interest form: battlesjiujitsu.com  📸 Follow our journey on Instagram: @battlesjiujitsu Whether you’re a local family, a curious athlete mom, or someone who's been watching from the sidelines, this is your invitation to get involved. If you want to train, build confidence, or just see what this world is all about, reach out. We’d love to have you join our community. Are you a pregnant combat athlete? Check out my free resource for BJJ during pregnancy and postpartum: https://go.briannabattles.com/bjj-freeguide   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I’m joined by Joel Jamieson, renowned strength and conditioning coach, educator, and creator of Morpheus and 8WeeksOut.com. We talk all about athletic development across the lifespan, with a special focus on coaching in combat sports, training youth athletes, and using heart rate variability (HRV) to optimize performance and recovery.   Joel shares powerful insights from decades in the field, coaching everyone from MMA champions to teenage volleyball players. This conversation hits on everything from the culture of overtraining, long-term athletic development, and the dangers of early sport specialization to how we can support the next generation of athletes (and ourselves) through better coaching and smarter recovery.   Connect with Joel: Instagram: @coachjoeljamieson Websites: 8WeeksOut - https://8weeksout.com/ Morpheus - https://trainwithmorpheus.com/    If you're a parent, coach, or athlete trying to train smarter—not just harder—this episode is for you. Share it with your community, tag me @briannabattles, and let me know your biggest takeaway.   Join the Practice Brave Fitness Program: briannabattles.com/practicebrave   If you’re a pregnant or postpartum athlete looking for resources, I can help:   The Pregnancy Cheat Sheet Free E-Book: https://go.briannabattles.com/adjust-cheatsheet   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Christle Guevarra—physician, educator, athlete, and all-around powerhouse—for a real, raw conversation about health, hormones, weight loss medications, and what it actually looks like to live inside a female body with high-level demands. Christle shares her personal and professional journey from academic burnout and disordered habits to becoming a leader in fitness-forward medicine.   We talk about everything from body image to semaglutide, muscle loss fears, perimenopause, and the psychological toll of chronic dieting. If you’ve ever struggled with your weight, your hunger cues, or simply wondered what’s really going on behind the scenes of the latest health trends, this episode is for you.   Connect with Dr. Christle Guevarra: Instagram: @dr.christle YouTube: @rpstrength   Join the Practice Brave Fitness Program: briannabattles.com/practicebrave   If you’re a pregnant or postpartum athlete looking for resources, I can help:   The Pregnancy Cheat Sheet Free E-Book: https://go.briannabattles.com/adjust-cheatsheet   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

Every year around Cade’s birthday, we make it a tradition to sit down and record a podcast together. This year, Cade is turning 12, and I can’t believe how much he’s grown. Not just physically (hello, football tackles and jiu-jitsu moves), but emotionally and mentally too.   In this episode, we talk about his life right now—what he’s into, what he’s learning, how sports are shaping his identity, and what it’s like growing up in a high-energy, high-intention family. We cover everything from sibling dynamics and friendship to confidence, character, and, yes, middle school nerves.   This is a reflection of what it means to 'practice brave' in parenting, in sport, and in everyday life. It’s personal, it’s honest, and it’s a reminder of why I started this entire business in the first place: Cade.   Learn more about the Practice Brave Fitness Program: https://briannabattles.com/practicebrave   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   Tag me on Instagram @brianna.battles and share your favorite part of this episode—or a tradition you’ve created with your kids.     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I’m joined by longtime industry leader and educator Dean Somerset to talk all about what it takes to have longevity as a coach, trainer, and athlete. Dean has been in the fitness industry for over two decades, blending clinical insight with strength training in ways that are both accessible and high impact. We discuss navigating coaching through injuries, how to bridge the gap between rehab and performance, working with postpartum clients, and how to scale your coaching business without compromising quality.   Whether you’re a new trainer, a seasoned coach, or someone navigating injuries while still wanting to train hard, you’re going to take away so much from Dean’s grounded, no-BS approach.   Connect with Dean Somerset: Website: https://deansomerset.com/ Instagram: @dsomerset1 Book: Rock Solid Resilience   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   Learn to coach pregnant + postpartum athletes: https://briannabattles.com/ppacoach     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kristi Brewer—USA Weightlifting athlete, CPA, athlete mom, and all-around powerhouse. Kristi started Olympic weightlifting at 35 (yes, 35!) and went on to become a national team member in her late 30s and early 40s—all while raising her family, building her career, and training from her garage gym.   We talk about her journey into elite competition, the mindset that drives her, pelvic health issues in lifting (yes, we talk about peeing during lifts), and how the athlete identity doesn't just survive through motherhood and aging—it can thrive.   Follow Kristi on Instagram: @k_mighty   If this conversation lit a fire in you, share this episode with another athlete mom or late-in-life lifter who needs to hear it. Leave a review, tag us on Instagram, and let us know your biggest takeaway!   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   Learn to coach pregnant + postpartum athletes: https://briannabattles.com/ppacoach   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I’m diving into a question I get all the time—how are we raising our kids to be little athletes? As a former Division I athlete, coach, and now a sport mom to two high-energy boys, I share our family’s values, routines, and philosophies around youth sports. This conversation is rooted in real experience, not just opinion, and is especially for those of you navigating this season of life as athlete moms.   Whether you’re just entering motherhood or deep in the youth sports world, this is about more than just raising athletes—it’s about raising well-rounded, physically confident, emotionally intelligent kids who value movement and commitment.   Need workouts for your pregnancy or postpartum? Check out my programs (now with app access!):   The Pregnant Athlete Training Program: https://go.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/pregnancy   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   Let's create real change together!   Want to learn more about coaching female athletes? Check out the all-online coaching certification here: http://briannabattles.com/ppacoach   If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow sport mom, leave a review, and let me know what you’d like to hear more of in this season. Tag me on Instagram @brianna.battles with your biggest takeaway!   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I sit down with pelvic floor physical therapist Mindy English to discuss what to look for when seeking a pelvic floor PT. This is a common question we receive, and we wanted to provide a nuanced conversation around it, especially for female athletes who may not realize how interconnected pelvic health is with overall movement, training, and long-term well-being.   We also discuss what to expect in a pelvic floor PT appointment, why it’s critical for practitioners to take a full-body approach, and how pelvic floor therapy can help athletes of all ages—whether they’re dealing with postpartum recovery, leakage during workouts, or long-term pelvic health symptoms.   Follow Mindy English for more pelvic health insights: @mindy.english.dpt   Want to elevate your coaching skills? Join the waitlist for the Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Coaching Certification Course and be the first to hear when enrollment opens! 👉 Sign up now: briannabattles.com/waitlist     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ty Horn, who many of you might know from his presence on Instagram where he shares powerful insights about strength training, Jiu-Jitsu, and life.   Ty and I dove deep into his story—from being a Division 1 football player to hitting a major life setback, then rediscovering strength through strongman competitions and eventually falling in love with Jiu-Jitsu. He shared how strength training gave him not only physical resilience but a sense of identity and purpose again, especially after dealing with legal trouble, being ostracized, and navigating the post-athlete identity crisis.   This was a real, vulnerable, and fun conversation that covered so much more than just sports or lifting. Ty brought honesty, humor, and perspective to what it really means to train for life—not just for aesthetics or wins.   If you’re a parent, an athlete trying to figure out “what’s next,” or someone who’s trying to find their groove in fitness and life again—this episode is for you.   Follow Ty and his training journey, insights, and life lessons here: Instagram: @mobility_monster74 YouTube: @mobilitymonster74   📚 Want to Learn More About Jiu-Jitsu? Grab these free resources to help you on your journey: 📥 Free BJJ Ebook – https://go.briannabattles.com/bjj-freeguide 🎥 BJJ Workshop – https://go.briannabattles.com/combat-workshop-registration     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rose El-Sharouni, a Jiu-Jitsu black belt, about her powerful journey through pregnancy and postpartum as an athlete. We dove into how women's roles in Jiu-Jitsu have evolved, the critical importance of community support, and how training needs to adapt during pregnancy.   From physical and emotional adjustments to reconnecting with your body, Rose and I talked about the importance of gradual training, the link between breath and movement, and how to navigate the unique demands of competing postpartum.   We also addressed the common misconceptions about age and athleticism, and encouraged women to fully embrace their strength, capabilities, and evolution through motherhood and sport.   Connect with Rose: IG: @rose.jiujitsu Website: https://www.jiujitsuqueenz.com/rose-el-sharouni/   Want to learn more about Jiu Jitsu?   BJJ Free Ebook: https://go.briannabattles.com/bjj-freeguide BJJ Workshop: https://go.briannabattles.com/combat-workshop-registration     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In today’s episode, I sat down with the amazing Alicia Erickson, and wow — what a powerhouse of wisdom, grit, and light. Alicia is 51, vibrant, incredibly strong, and living proof that aging doesn’t mean slowing down — it means evolving. We talked all about how she’s embraced fitness, mindset, motherhood, and midlife with passion and intentionality.   👋 Connect with Alicia:   Instagram: @aliciae Website: themidlife-maven.com Coaching + App: aliciaericksonapp.com   Thanks so much for tuning in! If you’re navigating motherhood, fitness, or finding yourself in the midlife shift, this one’s a must-listen. You’re not alone — and it’s never too late to level up.   Want to learn more about coaching female athletes? Check out the Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism Certification here: http://briannabattles.com/ppacoach   If you’re a pregnant or postpartum athlete looking for resources, I can help:   The Pregnancy Cheat Sheet Free E-Book: https://go.briannabattles.com/adjust-cheatsheet   The 8-Week Postpartum Athlete Training Program: https://go.briannabattles.com/8-week-postpartum-athlete-training-program   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

In this powerful and heartwarming episode, I sit down with two incredible P&PA (Pregnancy and Postpartum Athleticism) coaches — Katie Doerksen and Julie Chutter — to highlight how they’ve each built meaningful coaching practices while honoring their roles as mothers and leaders in their communities.   Katie, a mom of three from rural Alberta, opens up about her transition from kindergarten teacher to strength coach and co-founder of Girls Who Lead — a program blending leadership development and physical literacy for young girls. She shares how she’s helping the next generation understand their bodies and embrace movement in a way that builds confidence for life.   Julie, a mom of two based in Vancouver, shares how her background in spin and boxing led her to launching postpartum fitness classes — babies welcome — in a jiu-jitsu studio. We talk about building community, finding your rhythm during those chaotic early postpartum months, and how her business background has helped her thrive while staying present with her family.   We reflect on the real-life challenges of motherhood, the drive that comes with “athlete brain,” and the power of creating supportive, judgment-free spaces for women in every season of life.   Connect with Julie & Katie:   Julie Chutter Website: movebyju.com Instagram: @move.by.ju   Katie Doerksen Website: longgamefitness.com Instagram: @long.game.fitness     Join My Upcoming Masterclass! The No-BS Guide to Coaching Pregnant & Postpartum Athletes: What Every Coach + Athlete Needs to Know When: Thursday, April 24, 8PM EDT Register here: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-masterclass     MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!

I’m so excited to have Tara LaFerrara join me today as we dive deep into coaching women, navigating fitness through different life stages, and redefining what it means to be strong and confident. Tara and I connected recently, and we quickly realized how much overlap we have in our coaching philosophies and the women we serve. She’s been in the fitness industry for years, coaching both in-person and online, and she recently launched her app, Broads, which is all about helping women take up space and feel strong in their bodies. The discussion also touches on the challenges of body image, the acceptance of aging, and the importance of movement as a baseline for well-being. Tara shares insights on entrepreneurship, the trust required to navigate it, and the impact of her business on women's lives.   Resources and Links: 📲 Download Tara’s app Broads on the App Store and Google Play 🌐 Visit Tara’s website: TaraLaFerrara.com 📩 Connect with Tara on Instagram: @taralaferrara   Join My Upcoming Workshop! 📅 The No-BS Guide to Coaching Pregnant & Postpartum Athletes: What Every Coach + Athlete Needs to Know 🗓️ When: Thursday, April 24, 8 PM EDT 🔗 Register here: https://join.pregnancyandpostpartumathleticism.com/ppa-masterclass   MORE ABOUT THE SHOW: The Practice Brave podcast brings you the relatable, trustworthy and transparent health & fitness information you're looking for when it comes to coaching, being coached and transitioning through the variables of motherhood and womanhood. You will learn from athletes and experts in the women's health and coaching/performance realm as they share their knowledge and experience on all things Pregnancy & Postpartum Athleticism. Whether you're a newly pregnant athlete or postpartum athlete, knowing how to adjust your workouts, mental approach and coaching can be confusing. Each week we'll be tackling questions around adjusting your workouts and mindset, diastasis recti, pelvic health, mental health, identity, and beyond. Through compelling interviews and solo shows, Brianna speaks directly to where you're at because she's been there too! Tune in every other week and share the show with your athlete friends!