Friends Fit Forties artwork

Friends Fit Forties

106 episodes - English - Latest episode: 12 months ago - ★★★★★ - 9 ratings

Friends fit forties is brought to you by Laura Muhlenbruck and Stephanie Wightman. This is a podcast about our fitness/wellness journey- we are two working moms in the Midwest who seek to live our best life. However we are novices in the world of fitness. By novice- read no clue. Our fitness budget is teeny tiny. So we are figuratively climbing a steep mountain and someday we are REALLY going to climb that mountain. We are excited to share our ups, our downs, and our roadblocks (and have we had some of those) But we have learned a ton and we want you to hear about all of our mistakes as well as celebrations. Our journey has lead us to emphasize the value of friendship, cooperation over competition, and celebrating the small victories along the way. This podcast is an invitation for you to join our journey, learn with us, laugh with us and actively construct your best day today and then again tomorrow.

Health & Fitness Education Self-Improvement friends fitness running positivity mindfulness nutrition humor sunshine laughter teachers
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

All About the Moms

May 02, 2023 02:00 - 13 minutes - 9.51 MB

Laura and Stephanie discuss some ideas to help celebrate mom during this season.  

Run, Walk, Wind and Hills

April 24, 2023 05:00 - 18 minutes - 12.9 MB

In this episode of Friends Fit Forites, Laura and Stephanie take on the running and the walking.  Join them as they discuss the wind and the hills and think about how to maximize the workout.  

Inhale: Six Ideas on Our Minds and Six Spring Loves

April 17, 2023 05:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MB

Laura and Stephanie are entering spring with and large inhale of fresh spring air,  the sun during a sunset, and new lines of thinking.  Life is a series of inhales and exhales- Laura and Stephanie are choosing this moment to breathe it in, let it soak , and step forward.  You'll love this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Beating Those Blues with a Workout

April 04, 2023 03:00 - 20 minutes - 14.1 MB

This episode of Friends Fit Forties has a little bit of exercise and a little bit of nutrition.  It is packaged up in a 20ish minute chunk that is perfectly for your commute to work.  Just some thoughts about lifting your workout mood and protein.  You'll love Laura and Stephanie chat about this topics.  

Role Models for Fitness & Conversations

March 28, 2023 03:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MB

Two completely different topics but equally interesting!  In this episode Laura and Stephanie will unpack how their families have jumped on their own fitness trains.  And, they will talk conversations with friends.    All kinds of fun conversation ahead in this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Team Treadmill or Team Trail? Which One are You?

March 19, 2023 23:00 - 14 minutes - 10.3 MB

So... do you love the treadmill?  Do you love the pavement or the trail?  In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, we will discuss the ins and outs of running on all kinds of different pavements.  Laura and Stephanie will discuss ways that they think about training in all of the different places they train.  You'll enjoy this short version of Friends Fit Forties. 

Navigating Daylight Saving and Your Identity

March 13, 2023 05:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MB

Warning explicit word used in this episode.  Laura and Stephanie discuss identity in this episode of Friends Fit Forties.  They try to answer the question- how do you define yourself and what can you add to that definition?  They also tackle the elusive daylight saving time.  Wake up! Get ready! Daylight saving time is upon us and so is this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Supersets for Spring

March 07, 2023 04:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

It is almost springtime in the midwest and Laura and Stephanie are ready to celebrate spring...with a good, solid workout.  Join them as they walk you through their idea of superset workouts.  And then Laura and Stephanie slow....it.....down and allow us all a moment to breathe. 

What is in a Compliment and Workouts While You're Sick

February 28, 2023 03:00 - 20 minutes - 14.3 MB

Laura and Stephanie talk about two things on their minds this week.  The first segment is all about living in gratitude and make sure you straighten somebody else's crown with a meaningful compliment.  Then they talk about negotiating those mid-winter illnesses and when to workout and when to rest.  

The 2nd Anniversary Episode

February 21, 2023 02:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MB

Join Laura and Stephanie as they highlight their two year journey as podcasters.  They'll discuss some of their favorite topics while previewing what is to come.  Also, Stephanie discusses some great ideas to cultivate close friendships.  You are sure to laugh with us during this episode.  Enjoy. 

Numberlicious- Replay

January 30, 2023 15:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MB

We are replaying one of our favorite episodes.  

These are a Few of Our Favorite Things

January 24, 2023 04:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

Join Laura and Stephanie as they talk about some of the products (and people) they love the most.  This episode is uplifting and might give you an idea about something you might want to try.  They promise that nothing is expensive.  

Short but Sweet: Three Ideas to Put Pep in Your Workout and Ideas for Vision Boards

January 17, 2023 02:00 - 18 minutes - 12.5 MB

Join Laura as she discusses ways to make your gym workout fun!  She has three fantastic and inexpensive ideas to switch up that workout.  Then join Stephanie as she discussess creating that vision for the year.   You'll enjoy the energy and laughter in this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Five Tiny Tips for the Gym and New Habits and Resolutions

January 10, 2023 03:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MB

Laura and Stephanie discuss some small things that might make your gym going a bit easier.  You'll want to listen to their tips to save yourself time and additional effort.   They will also discuss two of their favorite books about habits and applying this thinking to the new year.  This episode is packed with great ideas. 

New Year, New Gym (Goers), and New Word!

January 02, 2023 16:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MB

It's 2023!  We made it through the longest weekend of the year.  Laura and Stephanie are ready to get this year started.  They have lots of ideas for getting off on the right foot while also giving ourselves grace.  Their year starts with a word.  Listen in to hear all about it. 

Ten Holiday Traditions for your Heart, Mind, and Soul

December 19, 2022 06:00 - 20 minutes - 13.9 MB

Feeling the frenzy?  Busy?  Spent in more than just one way? The holidays can do that to you.  In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, Laura and Stephanie have your back.  They understand the crazy exhaustion of the holiday season and the overstuffed feeling of spending too much.  This episode will calm your nerves, highlight some low cost holiday ideas, and remind you that YOU are not alone in this crazy time.  Enjoy some calm today.  You deserve it. 

15 Holiday Gift Ideas (+ book recommendations)

December 12, 2022 17:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MB

This episode is truly your one stop shop for all things gift related.  Laura and Stephanie will list many, many gift ideas, most of which are $20 and under.  They focus on healthy and mindful gifts for your family and friends.  You will get into the holiday spirit with this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

The Season of Thanks

November 29, 2022 03:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MB

Laura puts it all out there again as she walks us through a challenging month for her and her family.  You'll appreciate her detailed descriptions of this month and leave with a few reminders for you and your loved ones.  

Three, Seven, and Two are More than Just Prime Numbers....

November 14, 2022 06:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

Laura and Stephanie unpack their journey of fitness.   They include the bumps and bruises and their best learning so far.  In this episod of Friends Fit Forties, Laura and Stephanie unpack the benefits of the "road less traveled".  They encourage you to join them on this journey. 

FUN Ideas for THIS Weekend and Gratitude

November 07, 2022 06:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MB

Looking for ways to have fun without the alcohol?  Laura's got you!  She has eight ways to enjoy this weekend with or without friends that don't include bonus beverages.  Stephanie then chimes in with ways to think about this gratitude thing.  After all, November reminds us all to be even a little more grateful.  You'll love their conversation.   It will be like having coffee with your two best friends.  

The Magic of the Number 4: Four Healthy Halloweeny Ideas and Four Ways to Survive the Longest Weekend of the Year

October 24, 2022 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.1 MB

What IS the longest weekend of the year?  Laura will tell you ALL about it AND she has amazing tips on how to survive this looonng period of time.  Also Stephanie and Laura discuss healthy ways to have a fun week before Halloween.  A spooky celebration low on chocolate but high on googly-eyed fun.  Join us for an episode you won't want to miss. 

Five Ways to Be Curious and Getting the Word Out about Breast Cancer Awareness

October 17, 2022 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

Laura and Stephanie are spreading the word about breast cancer awareness and early detection.  They share resources and tips during this pink October.  Also, Laura and Stephanie discuss curiousity as a way to connect with others and stay interesting. 

Blooms and Wishes.....The Dream

October 10, 2022 12:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MB

Join Stephanie and Laura this week on this very special episode of Friends Fit Forties.  In this podcast, Stephanie shares a lifelong dream and her steps to make this dream a reality.  She talks about the importance of making the most of this life we build.  As you listen, think about your dreams, the ones that nudge at you from the back of your mind.  How can you make those dreams your reality?  This is a journey - a beautiful journey- and part of this journey is going public.  For Stephani...

Laura's Four Stages of Motherhood and Five Ways to Share Kindness

October 03, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

Laura's background is child development and she is going to apply her understanding of parenting to stages of motherhood.    Through Laura's lens, we'll all understand motherhood a bit better.  Next, Laura and Stephanie tackle kindness and what it means to "share kindness with others".  Friends Fit Forties is sure to inspire you to live your best day today and then again tomorrow.  

Landmarks, Habits, and Snacks

September 27, 2022 01:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

Is Monday one of your temporal landmarks?  It could be!  It is for Stephanie.   Learn about the value of temporal landmarks and how they play a role in our habits and goals.  Also Laura and Stephanie share some amazing snacks to sink your teeth into during the autumn season.  

Lifting at the Gym AND Lifting your Mood

September 19, 2022 05:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MB

Laura and Stephanie are excited for you to join them on this episode of Friends Fit Forties.  Laura talk about her recent discoveries surrounding HRT/MRT while Stephanie explores weights in the gym.  You will love their honest conversation to get you going toward your best self.  

Episode Repeat: Planning for Success with Goals, Workouts, and Food

September 14, 2022 22:00 - 27 minutes - 18.8 MB

Join Laura and Stephanie as they unlock their secrets to planning a week that includes those workouts together.  Laura discusses how she meal preps for the entire week while Stephanie sits in awe of her.  You are sure to learn a tip or two about starting the week on the right foot in this episode of Friends Fit Forties.  Happy Planning! 

Quick and Easy Breakfast and Dinner Ideas for Back to School

September 05, 2022 13:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MB

It is season 3! Laura and Stephanie are excited to share this new season of Friends Fit Forties with you.  Join them as they negogiate work, family AND health and fitness.  This episode is all about taking the best from last season and merging into the next one.  They focus on streamlining meals while keeping in mind the valuable time with family, friends, and yourself.  

Goals, Habits, Change, and Savoring It All

August 05, 2022 18:00 - 22 minutes - 15.3 MB

As Laura and Stephanie round out season 2 of our podcast, they reflect on the change of seasons.  They report, honestly, about their work during the summer seasons while finding ways to more into a busier time.  Even if this is your first episode, you will connect with Laura and Stephanie's sincerity and passion. 

Mini Retreats with OR without Yoga

July 18, 2022 22:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

Laura and Stephanie are going to get creative with ideas for retreats that are inexpensive, inclusive and fun.  Then, they will break down yoga for the novice.  They'll define terms and take you through a couple of things to think about during a yoga class.  Get your creativity on!  This episode is bound to motivate you to grab some friends and retreat together. 

Making the Most of Each Day and Being Vulnerable

July 12, 2022 02:00 - 22 minutes - 15.7 MB

Laura and Stephanie share four tips and tricks to eeking in mindfulness, self care, and extra fitness throughout your day.  You are bound to figure out something to quickly add to a busy life schedule.  Also, Laura and Stephanie have a real conversation about some struggles.  This episode promises a few ideas and a lot of honesty. 

Updates and a Twist on Everyday Water

July 04, 2022 13:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MB

Laura and Stephanie are "summering" with a set of new goals and new things to try.  In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, they will give you an honest update of the ups and downs of their goals.  They will also offer some fun mocktail ideas with sparkling water that will pair perfectly with a summer day.  

Cheers to Trying New Things

June 28, 2022 04:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MB

In this episode, Laura and Stephanie are going to challenge you to try an old thing in a different way.  Make something old new again.  And...they are going to spill all of their tips and tricks to having a fun vacation and then getting back on track when you get home.  This episode of Friends Fit Forties will inspire you to enjoy every bit of your summer. 

The Ups and Downs of Our 1/2 Marathon

June 13, 2022 05:00 - 15 minutes - 10.4 MB

Laura and Stephanie are known for telling it like it is.  Their half marathon was complete, but imperfect.  In this episode they will share their highs and lows of the race.  They'll also talk music and figuring out how to select just the right music for your next run.  Listen in....you'll benefit from their mistakes. 

New Season= Fresh Start...Let's Set Some Goals

June 06, 2022 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MB

Laura and Stephanie will walk you through their goals for the summer.   They have both fitness goals and personal goals.  During this podcast, they'll use the SMART goal method of laying out their goals and then think about the habits they will form to make these goals achievable.  This episode is full of meat.  You may want to listen twice and bring a friend with you- to talk about your goals. 

Welcome to the Unofficial Start of Summer: Ideas to Fill your Days

May 30, 2022 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.1 MB

Looking for inexpensive and healthy ideas for your kids this summer?  Laura has a top ten list.  You'll want your pen and paper handy to take notes of ALL of her fabulous ideas.  Stephanie then takes the lead with book picks for summer.  She recommends great reads the whole family will enjoy.  You will definitely want your notebook ready for this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Our Packing List for a Long Run During May Teacher Tired

May 23, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

It is May.  In Laura and Stephanie's world, May means exhaustion.  They have gifted you with this podcast as they power through their exhaustion, finding light and inspiration in the workouts and the friendships that drive them.  Even in May, even in the middle of crazy, it is still important to craft your best day.  Laura and Stephanie talk about theirs.  Enjoy. 

Prepare Now for Summer and Progress

May 16, 2022 05:00 - 20 minutes - 13.8 MB

Laura and Stephanie are looking forward to the sunshine of summer.  Listen to this episode filled with tips to make this day your best day your can make it.  They will share their journey with humor and honesty.  Tune in to Friends Fit Forties. 

Hands, Shoulders, Skin, and Legs

May 01, 2022 05:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MB

In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, Laura and Steph tell you about the one part of their body they have learned to love.  They also talk about their struggles with nutrition.  Stephanie discusses the first questions she asks herself each morning.  This episode will be filled with tips for your week.  Enjoy!

Feeling Good in a Swimsuit. or at Least your Own Skin

April 25, 2022 05:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MB

Laura and Stephanie lay it all on the table.  They talk summer goals, swimsuit goals, goals for today and tomorrow.  They talk about finding the best in each of us in this moment.  And, they talk about the value of time.  Laura and Stephanie leave you with a time challenge.  Listen to Friends Fit Forties for all the details.

Truth, Taste, and Tech

April 18, 2022 05:00 - 26 minutes - 18.3 MB

Laura and Stephanie can be a hot mess, and in this episode of Friends Fit Forties, they share the hot messiest part of their week.  They also do a live tasting of three protein bars (after they purchase a complete second set).  Finally, they talk about technology and the idea of consumption vs. creation.  This episode is bound to leave you with a few laughs as well as a few ideas.  

Anyway You Slice It: Choosing your Workout Wear, Taking a Break, and Updates

April 11, 2022 05:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MB

Join us for a little humor, a little serious, and a few tips.  This week's episode of Friends Fit Forties is sure to make you laugh AND think a bit.   Laura and Stephanie discuss workout wear considerations for the spring.  And, they talk about breaks.  They'll reassure you that EVERYBODY needs a break.  In fact breaks help us work smarter.  Join us on our journey to live our best life. 

Navigating ALL the Daily Numbers

April 05, 2022 00:00 - 24 minutes - 17 MB

One of the promises Laura and Stephanie made to each other and to their listeners is honesty, raw honesty.  And in this episode of Friends Fit Forties, you'll get some honesty.  Stephanie opens up about her rough week and Laura supports her, as amazing friends do.  This episode will pose problems, gently offer solutions, and leave you feeling like we are all in this together.  

Stress: A Rerelease of One of Our Favorites from 2021

March 28, 2022 05:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MB

It is Spring Break and we are enjoying time with friends and family.  During this week, enjoy an episode from last year, one of our favorites, that highlights stress and the negatives and benefits that go with it. 

Spring Break Considerations for Vacationers and At Homers

March 20, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, Stephanie and Laura will talk spring break staycation ideas.  They will delve into the benefits and non benefits of alcohol consumption especially as it pertains to running.  Then Stephanie and Laura will tell you some little known facts about themselves.  Get your notebooks ready!  This episode of Friends Fit Forties is sure to bring on the sunshine.  

Spring Break Ideas for Vacationers and At-Homers

March 20, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, Stephanie and Laura will talk spring break staycation ideas.  They will delve into the benefits and non benefits of alcohol consumption especially as it pertains to running.  Then Stephanie and Laura will tell you some little known facts about themselves.  Get your notebooks ready!  This episode of Friends Fit Forties is sure to bring on the sunshine.  

Fun with Flowers, Fruit and Fitness

March 14, 2022 05:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

Laura and Stephanie are jumping on the springtime train as they think about ways to keep fruit fresh.  They are ready to start their planting and share a few tips on how to get started.  They are also training for their next big race.  Tune in to Friends Fit Forties for some light hearted conversation and laughter.  

Sunshine, Protein, and More Sunshine

March 07, 2022 06:00 - 23 minutes - 15.9 MB

It's March and Laura and Stephanie are ready to spread some sunshine.  In this episode Laura and Stephanie explore the benefits of the great outdoors, even if it is just a trip through your neighborhood.  They talk about the benefits of protein as they think about running their next half marathon.  Then, Laura and Stephanie wrap it up with suggestions on welcoming daylight savings time.  Listen to the end, you'll love this episode of Friends Fit Forties. 

Birthday Thoughts, Race Training, and Mindful Waiting

February 28, 2022 06:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

In this episode of Friends Fit Forties, we are going to pause, take a breath, and celebrate those folks right in front of us in our lives.  You know the ones......those doing the hard work of momming, dadding, adulting, pet parenting, or simply showing up.  Laura and Stephanie are going to celebrate those important people in a huggable distance.   And they are going to talk about their next adventure.  Take a breath and enjoy.

Finding Motivation, Our Paths of Nutrition, and Sharing Kindness

February 21, 2022 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.2 MB

This episode of Friends Fit Forties is a mid February check in moment.  Laura and Stephanie honestly discuss their struggles with consistency during the winter months.  They share their strategies to get over those mundane moments.  And, Laura shares a story about celebrating those she remembers in her heart and those she loves.  You'll want to listen to this episode until the very end.