Living authentically involves a balance between what is occurring within us and how we express and represent ourselves outside. But how do we actually do that? How do you we actually start showing up more authentically? In a world of inauthenticity, I know it feels impossible sometimes to be authentic. That’s why in this episode of Embrace Your Real, I want to give you a few tips on showing up more authentically in your life. What I discussed: Stop pretending. It’s exhausting trying to be someone you’re not…24/7! Compartmentalizing and presenting a different version of you to all the various groups in your life will drain you to your core. Get Comfortable in the discomfort of vulnerability. There is no authenticity where there is no truth. And there is no truth where there is no vulnerability. The reason why you may be struggling with authenticity is because you’re striving for perfection. But here’s the thing: You’ll never achieve it because the bar always gets raised. Link mentioned in this episode: Episode 49: The Danger of Embracing Your Real If you want more from me, be sure to check out: Instagram: @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Free eBook: www.juliealedbetter.com/free-ebook Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-6bda1ca8?ref=cm_sw_em_r_inf_pub_influencer-6bda1ca8_dp_DgsIam9salgfi
Can gratitude actually change the way you approach fitness? Imagine shifting your mindset from focusing on what your body can’t do to appreciating what it can do. That simple shift can unlock a whole new level of motivation and consistency in your workouts. Gratitude isn’t just about saying thank you—it’s about grounding yourself in the present and celebrating small wins. Start by taking a few mindful breaths before your workout to center your thoughts on what you’re grateful for: your body’s strength, the time you’ve carved out for yourself, or even the progress you’ve made, no matter how small. Reflect on your achievements at the end of the day, focusing on what went well instead of what didn’t. This abundant mindset allows you to see fitness not as a chore but as an opportunity to honor your body. By celebrating progress, not perfection, you cultivate authenticity and self-worth—two key drivers of personal growth. Remember, working on yourself isn’t selfish; it’s a gift to you and everyone around you. I also discuss: (02:19) Incorporating Gratitude Into Workouts (07:55) The Power of Gratitude Practice (08:35) Embracing Authenticity and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and celebration—but they don’t have to mean compromising your health or feeling like your progress takes a back seat. In this episode of the Embrace Your Real podcast, I’m sharing practical strategies to help you stay on track with your macronutrient balance while still indulging in the festivities. From pre-logging your meals to prioritizing protein, I’ve got tips to help you navigate holiday gatherings with confidence and ease. Bring a dish that aligns with your goals, gracefully handle food-pushing relatives, and keep your metabolism steady by eating regular meals—it’s all about balance. Follow along for more tips to embrace the season feeling empowered and confident in yourself—because you deserve it. I also discuss: (08:48) - Managing Macros During Holiday Celebrations (11:26) Balanced Eating Before Holiday Meals (16:13) Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy (18:32) - Embracing Authentic Beauty and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Can celebrating small wins really power you toward your big fitness goals? Today, I’m breaking down why these little victories—like squeezing in an extra rep or going slightly heavier—are essential for motivation and lasting progress. Using tools like the Movement With Julie app to track your progress can make it even more rewarding to see how far you’ve come. And let’s not forget recovery: the Oura Ring is perfect for keeping tabs on health metrics like heart rate variability, which helps signal when rest is needed. Embrace every small triumph, and remember, true confidence comes from showing up authentically. I also discuss: (01:56) Celebrating Small Wins for Sustainable Progress (08:20) Monitoring Health With Oura Ring (12:00) Embracing Rest Days in Fitness and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Are six-pack abs truly the ultimate fitness goal, or is there more to the story? In this episode of the Embrace Your Real podcast, I dive into our long-standing obsession with chiseled abs and encourage a shift towards something far more valuable—functional core strength. For years, like many, I thought those cover-model abs were the pinnacle of fitness success, but the real powerhouse lies in the core’s intricate muscles—obliques, pelvic floor, and lower back—working together to stabilize and protect. Rather than chasing aesthetics, embracing core strength builds a central support system that boosts stability, confidence, and control in everyday life. Tune in to discover five reasons why redefining core strength can transform your fitness journey. I also discuss: (01:38) Figureoutable Postpartum Challenges (04:08) Debunking the Benefits of Abs and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Are your fitness goals starting to feel like a mountain that’s too steep to climb? Believe me, we’ve all been there—many of us set ambitious goals only to feel our motivation slipping as the journey unfolds. The secret to lasting progress isn’t just about the big wins; it’s about celebrating each small victory along the way. I also share how these smaller milestones can make all the difference in sustaining your motivation and transforming your outlook on fitness. By shifting focus to these achievable steps, we make our progress feel more real and attainable. Here’s the thing: Every small win, from completing a workout on a tough day to reaching a new personal best, fuels a sense of accomplishment that builds unstoppable momentum. I also discuss: (00:00) The Power of Small Wins (09:24) Embracing Small Wins for Motivation (10:08) Embracing Authentic Beauty and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
What if the real celebration of postpartum isn’t about “bouncing back” but about honoring the powerful changes your body has embraced? Too often, society’s expectations push new mothers to fixate on returning to pre-pregnancy shapes, overlooking the strength, resilience, and beauty gained through the journey of childbirth. This is what I dive into in this episode of Embrace Your Real. I will also discuss some practical ways to embrace your current self—from choosing clothes that bring comfort and confidence to recognizing milestones like renewed energy and strength. Let’s celebrate each stage of postpartum, creating a space for shared experiences and unity in honoring our unique transformations! I also discuss: (02:51) Embracing Postpartum Body Transformation (07:15) Embracing Movement Postpartum (11:04) Navigating Postpartum Body Confidence (13:32) Embracing Body Confidence Through Dressing (20:32) - Embracing Postpartum Strength and Unity and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Is your health journey built on quick fixes or lasting habits? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, we dive into a question that becomes even more pressing during the holiday season, where we’re surrounded by trends promising fast results, like the Ozempic craze. It’s easy to feel tempted by the allure of instant change, especially when societal pressures amplify the appeal of quick solutions. But what if the real beauty of transformation lies in taking things slow and steady? This episode encourages you to pause, rethink, and choose a sustainable path to health and wellness. We’re shifting the focus to the why behind your goals, honing in on the importance of long-term habits over fleeting fixes. By setting small, achievable milestones, you can stay grounded in a way that not only brings results but builds the confidence that comes with knowing you’re truly caring for yourself. I also discuss: (00:00) - Building Confidence Through Long-Term Habits (00:39) Long-Term Results Over Quick Fixes (09:52) - Embrace Real Beauty and Confidence and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Feel like your workout motivation fades as the days get shorter? You’re definitely not alone. When the colder months set in, the urge to cozy up instead of working out can be strong. But staying active through winter doesn't have to be a struggle—it can actually become an enjoyable part of the season. In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I dive into how you can create a winter fitness routine that works with your body’s natural rhythms, making your workout time something you look forward to. One key strategy is adapting your routine to suit winter’s slower pace. Resistance training, for example, can be a grounding choice that supports your goals without overwhelming your energy levels. Embracing periodization—essentially, cycling through different workout intensities and focuses—allows you to stay consistent without burning out. Fitness isn’t about pushing forward relentlessly; it’s about tuning into the season's natural ebb and flow and working with it, not against it. I also discuss: (00:00) - Navigating Seasonal Changes in Fitness (07:58) Seasonal Maintenance (10:03) - Creating a Cozy Winter Workout Environment (16:32) - Embracing Authenticity for Inner Beauty and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood and wondering how you’ll find time for self-care? Balancing the two may seem impossible, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Embrace your Real, I dive into the heart of managing those early, unpredictable months of motherhood while making space for your well-being. You’ll discover practical ways to nurture yourself, from catching much-needed rest to nourishing your body in small but impactful ways. I'll also explore how setting personal boundaries and leaning into your intuition can prevent burnout + so much more. I also discuss: (00:00) Balancing Motherhood and Self-Care (06:36) Prioritizing Self-Care for New Moms (14:50) Daily Movement for Postpartum Self-Care (19:48) Embracing Authentic Beauty and Confidence and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Is cardio the secret sauce for achieving a lean, toned physique, or is there more to the equation? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, let’s dive into the truth about cardio's role in your fitness journey and why it may not be as essential as you think. While cardio improves heart health and helps burn calories, it’s resistance training that truly transforms your body composition, builds muscle, and boosts your metabolism. Join me as I explain why prioritizing strength training, with a sprinkle of cardio, creates a balanced routine that can unlock your strongest, most confident self. From integrating HIIT to incorporating steady-state cardio and active recovery, I’ll guide you through designing a fitness plan that works for you—even if you're stuck at home and more. I also discuss: (00:00) Role of Cardio in Strength Training (08:56) Balancing Cardio in Strength Training (09:43) Benefits of Steady State Cardio (15:38) Strategic Cardio for Optimal Fitnes (18:34) Convenient Dumbbell Workouts for Women and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
How do you stay committed to your health and fitness goals during the holidays without feeling like you have to defend your choices? In this episode, we dive into the art of navigating social gatherings with confidence, even when your healthy lifestyle comes under scrutiny. From practical tips on handling comments to staying aligned with mindful practices like counting macros, we’ve got you covered. Instead of fixating on food, shift your focus to the people around the table. By fostering connections and engaging in meaningful conversations, you can enjoy the festivities while staying on track. After all, the real joy of the season is in the relationships we nurture, not just what's on your plate! I also discuss: (00:00) Navigating Social Gatherings With Confidence (02:01) Dealing with Social Pressures Around Healthy Eating (08:58) Embracing Authenticity in Social Settings and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Is there an ideal time of day to work out, or does it all depend on your lifestyle? In this episode, we dive into the world of afternoon and evening workouts, especially for those who just can’t get moving in the morning. I also explore the bonus benefits of evening workouts, like transforming leftover stress into relaxation but, of course, it’s not all perfect – I tackle the common challenges of evening exercise, from disrupted sleep to schedule clashes and that creeping sense of losing motivation as the day winds down. Whether you’re rethinking your workout schedule or looking to optimize your current routine, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you find the best fit. I also discuss: (00:27) Pros and Cons of Afternoon Workouts (10:10) Understanding the Cons of Evening Workouts (12:39) Managing Workout Motivations in Seasons (19:35) Choosing the Best Workout Time and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
What if your biggest barrier to progress wasn’t physical but mental? Think about it—if your mind is telling you that you can’t push further or won’t improve, you may start believing it. Your body responds to your thoughts, and this can be the real reason why you’re stopping early, skipping reps, or shying away from challenging exercises. In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I'm diving into why negative self-talk can sabotage your fitness journey and how to tackle it head-on. The mind is just as important as the muscles when it comes to reaching your goals. If we constantly reinforce self-doubt, we hold ourselves back. But imagine what can happen when we reframe those thoughts. We’re breaking down actionable steps to silence that inner critic, from recognizing negative thoughts in the moment to replacing them with positive affirmations. I also discuss: (02:55) - How to recognize negative self-talk + when it's happening (04:18) Focusing on progress and not being perfect (05:52) Creating your mantras and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Is your workout time working against you? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I will uncover how your body's natural rhythms could be impacting your fitness gains. Whether you're a crack-of-dawn enthusiast or someone squeezing in a late-night session, we’re here to break down how timing could be the missing piece in your fitness puzzle. Early morning workouts come with perks like enhanced fat burning, better insulin sensitivity, and the benefit of syncing with your natural hormone surge. But, let's be real—mornings aren’t for everyone! For those who feel more alive later in the day, we'll explore how understanding your chronotype could help you optimize your workouts. If you’ve tried and struggled to make mornings your go-to workout time, we’ve got you covered with practical tips to ease into a routine, all while keeping it simple and stress-free. We also discuss: (00:00) Optimal Exercise Timing for Results (02:11) Pros and Cons of Morning Workouts (04:31) Benefits of Morning Workouts (06:12) Effectiveness of Fasted Workouts (16:19) Finding Your Ideal Workout Time (17:09) Optimal Exercise Performance Timing and more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
What if your self-worth wasn’t tied to your reflection? In a world where body image can feel like everything, imagine the freedom of valuing yourself beyond physical appearance. In this episode of Embrace Your Real, we dive deep into the relationship between self-image and body image—two concepts that often get tangled in our minds. I’ll be sharing practical tips and mindset shifts to help you build a positive self-image that isn’t confined to what you see in the mirror. Together, we’ll explore how to break free from comparison, avoid harmful self-labels, and focus on personal progress and authenticity. You’ll discover that nurturing a healthy self-image starts with recognizing your intrinsic value, which goes far beyond any social media highlight reel. (00:00) Improving Body Image (01:32) Building a Positive Self-Image (13:33) Embracing Authentic Self-Worth If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Can you picture maintaining your fitness routine while feeling empowered and energized throughout pregnancy? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, join me as I dive into how staying active can ease common symptoms like fatigue and swelling, while boosting both mental health and circulation. Bonus points: I will share tips for adjusting your routine during the first trimester, including how to embrace energy fluctuations. I’ll also cover the importance of strengthening your core and pelvic floor, using gentle movements like diaphragmatic breathing and pelvic tilts + so much more I also discuss: (00:00) Staying Active During Pregnancy (11:10) Building Strong Core and Pelvic Floor (16:04) Second Trimester Exercise and Posture (29:17) Exercise Guidelines During Pregnancy (35:30) Embracing Your Authentic Beauty And more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
What if perfectionism is holding you back from reaching your fitness potential? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I dive into the all-or-nothing mentality that often derails our progress before we even realize it. Whether it's skipping workouts because you don’t have time for a full session, or feeling discouraged by a single misstep, this mindset can leave you stuck. In reality, small, consistent efforts can have a huge impact over time. (00:00) Breaking the All or Nothing Mentality (1:43) Embracing Small Wins in Your Fitness Journey (07:35) Promoting Self-Acceptance And more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Do you think your workouts could bring you closer to your partner? What if your fitness routine is not only good for your health but it could also be the secret to deepening your bond? In this episode of Embrace Your Real, I dive into the hidden treasures of working out with your significant other. Not only can it boost your physical health, but it can also transform your relationship into a stronger, more connected one. I’ll talk about how exercising together increases accountability, enhances communication, and fosters a deeper emotional connection. I’ll even share personal stories of how working out with my husband has positively impacted our relationship. Plus, you’ll learn practical ways to make fitness a consistent and fun + so much more! I also discuss: (03:41) Partner Workout Benefits and Tips (07:00) Strengthening Your Relationship Through Fitness (7:41) Joint Workout Partner Challenge (14:48) Encouraging Partner Fitness Together And more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Have you ever felt like restarting your fitness journey is an insurmountable task? We've all been there, facing that daunting first step and grappling with discouragement. But in today's episode of Embrace Your Real, I am diving into strategies that can help shift your mindset and reignite your motivation. You'll learn how to stay present, celebrate even the smallest victories, and make decisions that truly support your goals. We also talk about the importance of understanding your deeper motivations—keeping your "why" front and center can be the key to pushing through tough times. Also - If you want to explore this more, don’t forget to revisit episode 88, where we dig deep into discovering your "why." As we transition into fall and the last stretch of 2024, it's the perfect time for fresh starts and building resilience. I also discuss: (1:44) - Fitness journey setbacks and starting over (3:09) - The why behind your goals (5:51) - The type of goals you need to have (08:37) - Embracing authenticity And more! If you want more from me, be sure to check out... Follow me on Instagram: @juliealedbetter | @embraceyourreal | @movementwithjulie Movement With Julie | App: https://sale.movementwithjulie.com/ Macro Counting Made Simple Online Academy: https://www.macrocountingmadesimple.com/ Website: www.juliealedbetter.com Get my eBook: FREE Macro Counting Ebook Amazon Storefront: Julie Ledbetter's Amazon Page
Kindly Athena
A super great episode!
Courtney Borders
Such a simple message, but one I think so many ladies out there miss completely. With weight loss and that number on the scale seemingly being the most important aspect of being "healthy,"it's no wonder so many women struggle with their body image, self-love and confidence. Julie's message in this was spot on and something I myself have struggled with in the past. When we associate our weight with our happiness, our worth, our confidence, and our ability to be loved - we are essentially hating our bodies into submission, trying to force them into something they are not meant to be. And that unhealthy mindset does NOT equal happiness, confidence, self-worth or love of any kind. We have to love our bodies in every single season, shape, size if we hope to lead a truly healthy lifestyle.
Courtney Borders
Dang. This episode really hit home with me. Julie's honesty and transparency are inspiring and empowering on so many levels. She has a way of reaching so many different women, whether they have a shared experience or not. This episode had my emotions all over the place in the best way! I loved hearing this side of things and finding out what inspired her to live her life the way she does now. Loved this episode!
Courtney Borders
Julie is absolutely amazing! when I started following her on Instagram a year or two ago, I had no clue she would help me the way she has. She is NOT your typically fitness influencer. She's the real deal. Her entire message is so empowering, so inspiring, so transparent and honest, and above all - completely life-changing. The 5 reminders from this episode will be referenced daily by me as I continue working on myself and getting to where I want to be mentally and physically.