The Fit Physician
Jake Wright & Dr. Suzanne Rutherford
Are you a busy woman in medicine looking to take your fitness and nutrition to the next level to thrive in all aspects of your life? Look no further! Welcome to The Fit Physician podcast. As women in medicine, it’s your nature to care for others, often at the expense of your own physical and mental well-being. This can go on for months, even years. It’s time to put an end to this narrative, for all women physicians! And it starts now, with you, and The Fit Physician podcast! Hosted by Jake Wright, BSc, a women’s fitness specia...
Episodes
Ep. 114: Why Your Body Changes in Midlife & What to Do About It
Midlife weight gain is often reduced to one simple message: eat less and move more... But for many women, there’s much more to the story.In this episode, Dr. Suzanne Rutherford explores the often-overlooked factors that can impact body composition in midlife, including sleep, stress, changing family roles, aging parents, work demands, and simply having too much on your plateIf midlife weight gain has left you wondering “What am I doing wrong?”, this episode will help you look beyond the usual advice, identify what may actually be impacting you, and decide what to focus on first.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 113: The Woman Doctor’s Playbook: Building Healthy Habits That Finally Last
You already know what you should be doing for your health. But somewhere between patients, call weeks, kids, travel, and taking care of everyone else, your own health keeps getting pushed to the bottom of the list. You start, life gets busy, you fall off, and eventually you find yourself right back where you started.In this episode, Jake and Suzanne share a different way forward: stop trying to change everything at once and start building a foundation that can actually survive your life. You’ll learn how to break the start-stop cycle, take some of the mental load off your plate, and build strength, nutrition, and health habits that finally stick, so you can feel like yourself again and stay strong and capable for the decades ahead.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 112: Science Snack: The Surprising Role of Exercise in Dementia & MCI
In this Science Snack, Dr. Suzanne Rutherford explores what the evidence says about exercise, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. She breaks down why some of the popular claims around exercise and dementia prevention aren’t as clear-cut as they seem, and where the research is much more promising.We explore the evidence supporting exercise for people with MCI, including the roles of cardiovascular and resistance training, how much exercise appears to be beneficial, and the important limitations of what exercise can and cannot do.--👉 Click Here For Studies ReferencedMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 111: The Why Behind 500+ Women Physician Lives Transformed
In this episode, Jake and Suzanne take you behind the scenes of The Fit Physician and share the story of how it all began. What started with Suzanne struggling to fit fitness into the realities of life as a busy physician and mom eventually became a mission to help women physicians build strength, prioritize their health, and feel their best without their lives having to revolve around fitness.500+ women physicians later, that mission has only grown. Jake and Suzanne reflect on how their “why” has evolved, the ripple effect that prioritizing your health can have on every area of your life, and why providing women with evidence-based information they can genuinely trust matters more than ever.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 110: Closing Canada's Women's Health Gap: From Research to Real Change with Amy Flood
Amy Flood, Executive Director of Women’s Health Collective Canada, joins us to unpack the current state of women’s health in Canada and why the gaps in research, funding, and care are much bigger than many of us realize. From women receiving just a fraction of public health research funding to Canada’s surprising global ranking in women’s health, Amy talks about a problem that impacts women, families, workplaces, and our healthcare system.We also explore the economic case for investing in women’s health, including the estimated $37 billion annual opportunity for Canada, and the work Amy and Women’s Health Collective Canada are doing to turn awareness into action. It’s an eye-opening conversation about where we are today, why these gaps still exist, and what needs to change to create a healthier future for women in Canada.👉 Click here to learn more about the Women’s Health Collective CanadaMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 109: Science Snack: Can 2 Minutes of Exercise Improve Your Health?
In this Science Snack, Suzanne takes a closer look at the growing trend of “exercise snacks,” short bursts of movement performed throughout the day. She breaks down a recent 2026 meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials to find out whether a minute or two of exercise at a time can actually make a meaningful difference to your health and fitness.What does the research show, how hard do these exercise snacks need to be, and can they help when you simply don’t have time for a full workout? Suzanne breaks down the evidence and shares practical ways busy women physicians can incorporate exercise snacks into even the busiest days.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 108: What To Know About The Peptide Boom: Separating the Science From the Hype with Dr. Leigh Baxt, PhD
Wellness peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500 are exploding in popularity, with bold claims around recovery, longevity, and performance. But how much of that promise is actually backed by human data? In this episode, we sit down with drug development expert Dr. Leigh Baxt to separate what we know from what we still don't.Leigh takes us behind the scenes of how therapeutics actually move from promising science to approved medicine, and why that process matters when evaluating today's peptide boom. We unpack the gaps in research, potential risks, gray-market sourcing, and what physicians should know when patients come asking about wellness peptides.--📲 Click here to follow Dr. Leigh Baxt on Instagram💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 107: Real Physicians, Real Results: Jade's Journey to Strength, Confidence & Food Freedom
In this episode we sit down with Fit Physician member Jade. Just a few months ago, when she first came to us, she was a busy rural family physician, mom of two, and longtime runner who loved exercise, but struggled to find the right structure for her strength training and nutrition. She wanted to get stronger, fuel her body better, and move away from the perfectionism and all-or-nothing thinking that had shaped her relationship with food. Today, Jade is stronger and more confident than ever, from comfortably using a squat rack to carrying her 70-pound daughter to bed and training for her first half marathon since having kids. In this episode, we sit down with Jade and her coach Dan to unpack her transformation, what finally clicked, and how she's built an approach to fitness and nutrition that works with her incredibly busy life.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 106: Science Snack: Can High-Intensity Resistance Training Safe & Effective For Postmenopausal Women With Low Bone Density?
Can women with low bone density safely lift heavy weights, and could doing so actually help protect their bones? In this Science Snack, Jake and Suzanne review the **LIFTMOR study**, a randomized controlled trial examining high-intensity resistance and impact training in postmenopausal women with low bone mineral density.They break down how the study was conducted, what researchers found, and the important limitations to consider before applying the results. They also discuss what this research could mean for women with osteopenia or osteoporosis and how to approach progressive strength training safely.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 105: The Power of “I Don’t Know”: Kira Young’s Incredible Story of Hope, Resilience & Belief
What happens when a healthy 15-year-old athlete suffers a seemingly minor injury that turns into years of medical uncertainty? In this episode, we sit down with Kira Young and her mother, Dr. Sarah Cook, to hear Kira's incredible journey from a small ski injury to multiple hospitalizations, the ICU, and eventually a diagnosis of a rare autoinflammatory disease.We explore what Kira's experience can teach all of us about listening to patients, sitting with uncertainty, and sometimes having the courage to simply say, "I don't know." We also hear how Kira held onto hope through some of her darkest days and ultimately returned to sport, culminating in an incredible 1,600 km bike ride retracing the journey she once travelled for medical care. It's a powerful conversation about hope, resilience, and belief.--Click here to donate to Cassie & Friends on Kira's behalfMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 104: The Fit Physician Podcast: Top 100
We can't believe we've reached 100 episodes! To celebrate this milestone, we're sharing five of our favorite clips from some of our most-listened-to episodes. Thank you for all the love and support. We couldn't have done it without you, and we're just getting started!--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 103: The Portfolio Diet Explained: A Better Way to Lower Cholesterol
Could your diet lower your LDL cholesterol almost as effectively as medication in some cases?In this solo episode, Dr. Suzanne Rutherford explores the science behind the Portfolio Diet, an evidence-based nutrition strategy shown to significantly reduce LDL cholesterol. She explains the five key pillars of the diet, the unique science behind why it works, and when it may be the right choice compared with other well-known dietary patterns like the Mediterranean and DASH diets.Whether you're a woman navigating midlife or a clinician looking to better support your patients, this episode will give you practical, research-backed strategies to improve heart health through nutrition.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 102: In the Age of AI: How to Spot What's Real and What's Fake with Jeremy Carrasco
Artificial intelligence is changing the internet faster than most of us can keep up. From fake before-and-after photos to AI-generated health influencers, it's becoming harder to know what information (and who) you can trust.In this episode, we sit down with AI literacy expert Jeremy Carrasco to explore how AI is reshaping the way we consume health information. We discuss the rise of AI-generated misinformation, why "seeing is believing" no longer applies, and practical strategies to help you become a more informed consumer while guiding your patients through an increasingly complex digital world.--📲 Click here to follow Jeremy on Instagram💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician CoachingMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 101: A Psychiatrist's Guide to Women's Health with Dr. Bev Young
Anxiety, depression, irritability, panic attacks—how do you know what's a normal part of perimenopause, what hormone therapy can help with, and when it may be time to seek additional mental health support? In this episode, psychiatrist Dr. Bev Young joins us to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in women's health.We discuss the difference between hormonal changes and mood disorders, when antidepressants may be appropriate, the role of therapy, lifestyle strategies that support mental health, and how partners and healthcare providers can better support women through midlife.--➡️ Click here to visit https://www.betterbria.com/➡️ Click here to visit www.thefitphysician.comMentioned in this episode:July 2026 C2A Midroll
Ep. 100: Advocating For This One Simple Change That Could Transform Physician Wellness
Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to reduce burnout, improve our health, and help us show up at our best. For many healthcare workers, the biggest barrier isn't motivation—it's access. In this episode, we explore why every hospital should have an on-site gym and how it could be a game-changer for physician wellness.Suzanne shares how access to a hospital gym has transformed her own consistency, and we discuss the benefits for both healthcare workers and hospitals alike. We also walk through practical steps to advocate for a gym in your workplace, what equipment to prioritize, and simple ways to make exercise more accessible for busy physicians.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 99: The Science of Making Healthy Habits Stick for High-Achieving Women Physicians
Healthy habits aren't built through willpower, they're built through understanding how your brain works. In this episode, we sit down with behavior change expert Katie Faloon-Drew to explore the neuroscience behind lasting habit formation and why so many high-achieving women struggle to stay consistent, even when they know exactly what they "should" be doing.Together, we discuss why motivation is unreliable, how to make healthy habits feel more automatic, and practical strategies to build routines that fit into the reality of a busy physician's life. Whether you're trying to exercise more consistently, improve your nutrition, or simply stop feeling like you're constantly starting over, this conversation will give you the tools to create healthy habits that actually last.--👉 Click here to visit Katie's Website👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 98: Running for Mom: The Unexpected Gift I Found While Training for a Half Marathon
In this episode, Suzanne reflects on her recent experience completing a half marathon at nearly 50 years old—an accomplishment she never expected to pursue again after swearing off long-distance racing more than a decade ago. What began as a tribute to her late mother, an inspiring runner who completed marathons and half marathons well into her 80s, became a journey of self-discovery, gratitude, and healing.Along the way, Suzanne shares lessons about letting go of perfectionism, finding joy in the process rather than the outcome, and appreciating what our bodies are capable of at every stage of life. She opens up about the unexpected role the training played in helping her process grief after the loss of her mother. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that growth often comes from embracing the journey—not just the destination.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 97: Your Most Pressing Nutrition Questions Answered: Summer Goals, Removing Guilt, Making Lasting Progress
In this episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, we answer some of the most common nutrition questions about challenges we hear from women physicians trying to improve their health, body composition, and relationship with food. We discuss how to enjoy summer vacations, social events, and travel without guilt, while continuing to make progress toward your goals. We also cover rising A1C levels, protein intake, fiber, and the truth about processed foods.Most importantly, this conversation highlights why lasting success isn't about perfection or restriction. It's about building sustainable habits, developing confidence in your choices, and creating a nutrition approach that supports both your health and your life. If you're looking for a more balanced, practical way to achieve long-term results, this episode is for you.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 96: It’s Never Too Late: The Incredible Story Of How Joan McDonald Transformed Her Health at 70
At 70 years old, Joan McDonald was facing high blood pressure, declining health, and the very real possibility of losing her independence. What started as a tough conversation with her daughter, fitness coach Michelle MacDonald, became the catalyst for a complete transformation. In this inspiring episode, Joan shares how she lost over 50 pounds, discovered strength she never knew she had, and built a life that looks dramatically different at 80 than it did a decade ago.Joan opens up about overcoming fear, navigating the gym as an older beginner, recovering from surgery, and the mindset that helped her stay consistent when things felt hard. We also dive into aging, resilience, independence, and why she believes women are far stronger than they've been led to believe. Whether you're 40, 60, or 80, Joan's story will provide inspiration that it's never too late to get stronger, reclaim your health, and create a future you're excited to live.---📲 Click here to follow Joan on Instagram
Ep. 95: Proof You Can Put Your Health First Even Through The Chaos Of Life In Medicine: Dr. Michelle's Story
In this week’s episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, we sit down with emergency physician and global health leader Dr. Michelle Niescierenko to discuss how she transformed her health and fitness while working in some of the most challenging and unpredictable environments in the world. From traveling to more than 75 countries to navigating airports, time zones, hotel rooms, and demanding work schedules, Dr. Michelle shares how she stopped waiting for the "perfect time" and started taking small, sustainable steps toward better health.Together with her coach, Dan Porter, Dr. Michelle opens up about the mindset shifts, fitness strategies, and nutrition habits that helped her build strength, confidence, and consistency despite a life that rarely follows a plan. This conversation is a powerful reminder that meaningful change doesn't require perfect circumstances—just a willingness to start where you are and keep moving forward, one step at a time.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 94: Hall Of Fame: Fat Loss Unlocked- Changing Perceptions For Permanent Weight Loss
In this conversation, Jake Wright and Suzanne discuss the challenges of fat loss, the importance of preserving muscle mass, and the impact of menopause on body composition. They emphasize the need for sustainable approaches to fat loss and debunk the myth of inevitable weight regain. They also highlight the importance of strength training and adequate protein intake. The conversation concludes with a message of empowerment and self-worth.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 93: A Neuroscience-Based Approach to Stress, Cortisol & Recovery with Catherine Roscoe Barr
Have you ever felt like stress is just part of who you are now? Like life and responsibilities constantly pile up and there is no off switch? In this episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, we sit down with neuroscience-based wellness coach and bestselling author Catherine Roscoe Barr to explore the science of stress, cortisol, nervous system regulation, and recovery for busy high-achieving women.We talk about the difference between acute and chronic stress, how stress impacts the body and brain, and practical tools to help you shift from burnout toward greater calm, energy, and resilience.This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for women physicians looking to better manage stress while still showing up fully for their careers, families, and themselves.--👉 Click here to follow Catherine on Instagram👉 Click here to check out her website
Ep. 92: Science Snack: Can Strength Training Protect Your Brain as You Age
In this week’s episode, we dive into a fascinating study exploring the connection between leg strength and brain health in women as they age. Researchers followed female twins over a 10-year period and found that women with greater leg power performed significantly better on memory and cognitive testing years later.We break down what the study actually means, why strength training may play a powerful role in protecting cognitive function, and how building stronger legs today could impact your quality of life for decades to come. If you needed another reason to prioritize resistance training… look no further.--👉 Click here for the full study👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 91: Menopause Hormones Explained: Bioidentical, Compounded & Evidence-Based Care with Dr. Hollie Wakelyn
“Bioidentical.” “Compounded.” “Customized for you.”These terms are everywhere in menopause care but what do they actually mean?In this episode, we sit down with pharmacist, Dr. Hollie Wakelyn, PharmD, BCACP, MSCP, who shares her deep expertise in hormone therapy to separate fact from fiction. We dive into the real differences between approved hormones and compounded products, why so many women are being steered toward them, and what most people aren’t being told about safety, regulation, and outcomes.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 90: Sex, Menopause & Desire: Understanding Low Desire, Pleasure & What’s Possible with Dr. Lori Brotto, MD
For too long, women’s sexual health has been overlooked, misunderstood, or simply not talked about. In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with world-renowned sexual health researcher Dr. Lori Brotto to unpack the science of desire, what really changes during menopause, and why so many women have been led to believe they’re “broken” when they’re not. We explore spontaneous vs. responsive desire, why low desire is often deeply misunderstood, and how mindfulness may be one of the most powerful and overlooked tools for improving sexual well-being.We also dive into pain with sex, the role of hormones and relationships, and how women (and clinicians) can start having more open, shame-free conversations about sexual health. This is a practical, compassionate, and deeply validating episode that sheds light on a topic that impacts quality of life in profound ways but rarely gets the attention it deserves.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 89: Pelvic Floor Health 101: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Andrea Pickett, PT
Pelvic floor health is one of the most overlooked and misunderstood pieces of women’s health and fitness. In this episode, we sit down with pelvic health physiotherapist Andrea Pickett to break down what’s actually going on when it comes to symptoms like leakage, urgency, pain, and pressure… and why so many women are told it’s “just part of aging” or something they have to live with.We dive into what’s normal (and what’s not), the difference between strength vs. coordination, and how to actually support your pelvic floor through training, lifestyle, and simple daily habits. Whether you’re postpartum, in midlife, or just want to feel stronger and more confident in your body, this conversation guide you to understand your core, your workouts, and your long-term health.---💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 88: Fit Physician Breakthroughs: Michelle’s Journey Through Menopause to Muscle & Strength at 56
Meet Michelle, a rural family physician who spent nearly three decades caring for her community while her own health slowly took a back seat. Between long shifts, motherhood, and the loss of her fitness community during COVID, she found herself feeling isolated, deconditioned, and unsure how to move forward. As menopause began to shift her body in ways she didn’t recognize, she knew something had to change—but didn’t know where to start.Michelle shares how she rebuilt her strength, confidence, and energy—achieving things she never thought possible, like a 175 lb back squat at 56. We talk about navigating menopause, recovering from surgery without losing progress, and what it actually looks like to prioritize yourself in a demanding career. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter how the odds feel stacked against you, it’s possible to feel strong and confident in your body as a busy woman in medicine.---💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 87: Exploring The Rise of Peptides: Evidence, Unknowns, and Safety Concerns with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD
Peptides are quickly moving from niche biohacking circles into the mainstream and with that comes a wave of concerns. We brought in Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD, to break down what peptides actually are, why they’re gaining so much attention, and how they differ from well-studied peptide-based medications like GLP-1s. Share breaks down the science in a clear, practical way, what’s being overstated, and why so many claims don’t have the evidence to back them.We also talk about the biggest concerns—lack of human data, safety unknowns, misleading marketing, and the risks of unregulated products being sold in the wellness space. This conversation will help to make informed decisions for yourself and confidently navigate questions from patients or clients in a rapidly evolving area of health and fitness.---💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 86: Science Snack: The Effects of Resistance Training on Hot Flashes, Muscle, and Strength in Postmenopausal Women
Hot flashes, night sweats, and disrupted sleep are some of the most frustrating symptoms women face during menopause—but what if one of the most powerful solutions isn’t found in a prescription.In this Science Snack episode, we break down a randomized controlled trial exploring the impact of resistance training on menopausal symptoms. The results are surprising! We walk through the study design, key findings, limitations, and—most importantly—what this means for your own menopause journey.---💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching Study references:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31239119/ https://www.maturitas.org/article/S0378-5122(26)00033-2/abstract
Ep. 85: Troubleshooting Fitness for Busy Women in Medicine: Injuries, Schedules, and Starting From Scratch
In this episode, Coach Jake dives into some of the most important questions busy women physicians are asking right now—from where to start as a beginner, to how to stay consistent through travel, injuries, and unpredictable schedules. Drawing from years of coaching experience, he breaks down what actually drives results (and what doesn’t), including the importance of simple, structured strength training, progressive overload, and aligning your workouts with your real life—not your “ideal” week.From overcoming guilt around prioritizing yourself to navigating setbacks without falling into an all-or-nothing mindset, this episode is packed with practical, real-world strategies to help you build strength, energy, and confidence in a way that lasts.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 84: My Top Strategies To Make Fitness and Nutrition Stick As A Women in Medicine
For the woman physician who feels like she's constantly being pulled in a million different directions. In this episode, Suzanne gets real about what consistency actually looks like inside a physician's life, the mindset shifts that changed everything, how to ditch perfectionism, her approach to nutrition without spending Sunday doing full meal prep, and other tools that have helped hundreds of Fit Physicians ditch the food noise for good.This episode is full of real world strategies that has actually worked for busy women in medicine to regain control of their fitness and nutrition, feel good in their body, and finally stop letting the chaos of their career be the reason they put themselves last, you've come to the right place.--💪 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 83: Menopause, Medicine, and the Misinformation Crisis: Exploring the evidence with Dr. Jen Gunter
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jen Gunter — OBGYN, bestselling author of The Vagina Bible, The Menopause Manifesto, and Blood, and one of the most trusted voices in evidence-based women's health. We dive into the misinformation crisis that's reshaping how women navigate menopause, from hormone balancing and compounded hormones to estrogen on the face, testosterone hype, and the wild west of supplements.Dr. Gunter breaks down where the evidence actually stands on MHT and brain health, cardiovascular protection, and the wellness industry tactics that are driving women toward unregulated, unproven treatments — and away from the evidence. Whether you're a physician trying to guide your patients or a woman trying to make sense of it all, this conversation will leave you better equipped to cut through the noise.--Click here to follow Jen on Social Media @drjengunterClick here to check out Jen's Vagenda Newsletter
Ep. 82: 36 Years Studying Physician Well-Being: Burnout, the System, and the 5 C’s of Resilience with Dr. Mamta Gautam
In this episode of the Fit Physician Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Mamta Gautam, psychiatrist, speaker, and founder of PeakMD, to explore the realities of physician burnout, moral injury, and the hidden cost of caregiving in medicine. With over 35 years of experience supporting doctors, Dr. Gautam shares why none of us are immune to the pressures of practicing medicine. From the “mental health continuum” to the cultural stigma around seeking help, this conversation is both validating and deeply practical.We dive into the identity challenges physicians face, the guilt that keeps many from prioritizing themselves, and the five key pillars of resilience Dr. Gautam has seen transform lives. This episode will leave you feeling seen—and equipped with actionable tools to protect your well-being without sacrificing your purpose.--👉 For more from Mamta, visit PeakMD.ca
Ep. 81: Part 2: Sleep Is A Skill With Mollie Eastman
In Part 2 of this Fit Physician Podcast series, Suzanne and Jake continue their conversation with sleep coach and Sleep Is A Skill host Mollie Eastman, shifting from “why sleep matters” to what actually moves the needle—without making sleep feel overwhelming, expensive, or perfectionistic. Mollie breaks down the different “buckets” of sleep issues (optimization vs. insomnia/sleep anxiety), shares the most practical starting points for real people (sleep diary, wearables, CGMs, and why sleep testing can be a game-changer—especially for women over 40), and explains how to use wearable data in an empowering way (instead of letting a bad score derail your day). You’ll also learn the true low-hanging fruit for better sleep—circadian rhythm basics, consistency, bright days/dark nights, meal timing, temperature and thought timing—plus a refreshingly balanced take on screens and blue light (including why “perfect sleep hygiene” can backfire). If you want a clear, realistic playbook to improve sleep in a busy life, this episode delivers.---📲 Click here to follow Mollie on Instagram🎧 Click here to listen to the Sleep Is A Skill Podcast💤 Click here for Mollie's Sleep Is A Skill Resources
Ep. 80: Part 1: Sleep Is A Skill With Mollie Eastman
In Part 1 of this two-part Fit Physician Podcast series, Suzanne & Jake sit down with sleep coach and Sleep Is A Skill host Mollie Eastman to explore why sleep is often the missing pillar in health and performance — especially for busy, high-achieving women physicians. Mollie shares her personal journey through insomnia, the cultural normalization of burnout in medicine, and how sleep acts as a powerful barometer for stress, energy, and overall wellbeing. The conversation highlights common sleep mistakes, the challenges of shift work and midlife changes, and the growing idea that sleep isn’t just something you have — it’s a skill you can build.---📲 Click here to follow Mollie on Instagram🎧 Click here to listen to the Sleep Is A Skill Podcast💤 Click here for Mollie's Sleep Is A Skill Resources---📲 Click here to follow Mollie on Instagram🎧 Click here to listen to the Sleep Is A Skill Podcast💤 Click here for Mollie's Sleep Is A Skill Resources
Ep. 79: Real Physicians, Real Results: How Lynne Went From Stuck to 50 Pounds Down & Stronger Than Ever
In this episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, Jake sits down with Dr. Lynn C to share her transformation journey through strength training, empowered eating, and community support. From feeling completely stuck, low on energy, and frustrated by programs that didn’t fit her life as a busy physician and mom, Lynn walks listeners through how consistent three-day-per-week workouts, flexible coaching, and gradual mindset shifts helped her build remarkable strength, lose 50 pounds, and regain confidence both inside and outside the gym. She opens up about balancing family life, overcoming negative self-talk, redefining her relationship with food, and the powerful ripple effects her fitness has had on her children, career, and long-term health. This conversation highlights the value of meeting yourself where you are, investing in support that understands the physician lifestyle, and building habits that last for life rather than chasing quick fixes.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 78: The Physician’s Travel Playbook: How to Enjoy Vacations Guilt-Free and Return Strong
In this episode, Suzanne shares a refreshingly realistic approach to travel, vacations, and staying grounded in your health without sacrificing joy. She breaks down how to approach fitness, nutrition, and mindset while traveling—whether for work or rest—through the lens of sustainability, self-compassion, and long-term consistency. She offers practical, physician-proof strategies for staying energized on the road, enjoying food without guilt, and most importantly, mastering the “comeback” after vacation so a few days away don’t turn into weeks off track. If you’re a woman doctor who wants to travel, rest, and live fully without derailing your health goals, this episode is for you!--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 77: Hard Pass vs. Hall Of Fame: Most Hated and Love Exercises from 20 Years Of Coaching
After 20+ years coaching busy women physicians, Jake pulls back the curtain on exercise programming and shares a no-BS breakdown of five popular exercises he’ll never use—and five he almost always programs for strength, longevity, and real-world confidence. In this episode, you’ll learn why some “hardcore” movements come with more risk than reward, how trendy exercises can quietly derail progress, and which fundamentals consistently deliver results without wrecking your body. If you’ve ever wondered whether your workouts are actually helping—or just leaving you sore, tired, and spinning your wheels—this episode will completely change how you think about training.---👉 Click Here To Download Jake's Top 10 Hall Of Fame Exercises👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 76: What’s In vs. What’s Out: How to Level Up Your Health in 2026
Every year, we’re promised a new shortcut to health. A new supplement. A new rule. A new device that claims to change everything. And yet, most people feel more confused, more guilty, and further away from real results than ever. In this episode, Dr. Suzanne Rutherford and Jake Wright cut through the chaos of the modern wellness industry and explain why the obsession with optimisation is quietly sabotaging your health. From vibration plates and hormone hype to overthinking nutrition, cardio, and strength training, they reveal what actually works, why the basics are so hard to stick to, and how high-performing professionals can rebuild a simple, sustainable approach to fitness that lasts. If you’re exhausted by contradictory advice and ready to stop chasing hacks and start building habits that hold up in real life, this conversation will change how you think about health in 2026.---Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coach
Ep. 75: How To Build Strength & Muscle Like Never Before- The Fit Physician Way
In this episode of the Fit Physician Podcast, Jake breaks down how busy women physicians can build real, lasting strength—the Fit Physician way. Drawing from a live workshop, he explains why strength training is one of the most powerful investments you can make not just for fat loss or confidence today, but for bone density, longevity, resilience, and quality of life for decades to come. You’ll learn the biggest mistakes that hold women back, why “exercise” isn’t the same as training, how progressive overload actually works, and how even 20–30 minute workouts a few times per week can create extraordinary results when done with intention. Packed with real member case studies and practical takeaways, this episode will change how you think about strength—and show you what’s possible when you follow a plan designed for the realities of physician life.--Click here to join the 5-Day Kickstart Challenge 👇https://www.thefitphysician.com/thefitphysician5daykickstart
Ep. 74: Stronger Backs, Stronger Lives: Pain, Prevention & Performance — A Masterclass with Dr. Stuart McGill
In this powerful masterclass episode, world-renowned spine biomechanist Dr. Stuart McGill joins Jake and Dr. Suzanne to break down how the spine truly works, why most back pain isn’t “mysterious,” and how understanding tissue tolerance, load management, movement patterns, and assessment can completely change outcomes for patients and clinicians alike. He explains common injury mechanisms, why activities like heavy deadlifting can both build strength or create damage depending on context, how to identify specific pain generators instead of labeling symptoms as “non-specific back pain,” and the importance of personalized strategies over generic rehab advice.--Click here for all Stu McGill resources including books, certifications and more
Ep. 73: GLP-1 Medications Explained: Evidence, Side Effects, the Future, and More with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky
Get ready for one of the most insightful conversations we’ve ever had on The Fit Physician Podcast. We’re joined by Dr. Spencer Nadolsky—one of the most trusted, respected, and sought-after voices in obesity and metabolic medicine—where he deep dives into all things GLP-1 medications: what they do, who they help, and what’s hype. Spencer talks about the evidence and why these drugs have become so popular, the brain-level impact on “food noise,” why they are changing the way we understand obesity as a disease, and what physicians and patients actually need to know about safety, side effects, micro-dosing debates, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, perimenopause/menopause considerations, and long-term use. --Follow @drnadalsky on Instagram here Check out the Docs Who Lift Podcast hereLearn more about Vineyard here
Ep. 72: The Busy Woman Physician’s Holiday Guide: Fitness, Food, and Freedom From Guilt
The holidays are meant to be joyful—but for many busy women physicians, they also bring stress, overwhelm, food guilt, and totally derailed fitness routines. In this special holiday edition of The Fit Physician Podcast, Jake Wright and Dr. Suzanne Rutherford break down how to stay healthy, present, and grounded through the busiest season of the year—without perfectionism or burnout. You’ll learn practical strategies for navigating holiday eating, social events, alcohol, hospital snack traps, and disrupted workout schedules—while keeping your progress intact.--👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 71: Exploring Your Unbottled Potential: Rethinking "Gray Area" Drinking As A High-Achieving Woman with Amanda Kuda
In this episode, we sit down with alcohol-free lifestyle coach and author Amanda Kuda for a deeply honest conversation about the “gray area” of drinking so many high-achieving women silently navigate. Amanda shares her journey to becoming alcohol-free, the subtle signs alcohol may be pulling you away from your clarity, confidence, and potential, and the surprising ways removing it can transform your emotional resilience, health, and self-trust. Together, they explore identity, values, social pressure, and the inner dialogue that keeps women stuck—plus the tools, practices, and mindset shifts that make real change possible. Whether you’re sober-curious or simply questioning your current habits, this episode offers an empowering, judgment-free look at what life can feel like when you reclaim your energy and align your choices with who you truly want to become.--👉 Click here to check out Amanda's website👉 Click here to follow her on Instagram
Ep. 70: Your Guide to Better Evidence: Making Sense of Studies, AI Tools, and Health Claims with Dr. Katie Suleta, DHSc, MPH, MSHI
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Katie Suleta—an epidemiologist and science communicator—to tackle the growing wave of health misinformation facing today’s physicians. From predatory journals and supplement loopholes to influencer “experts” and unregulated health coaching, Katie breaks down how to separate credible science from cleverly marketed noise. We dive into real-world examples, red flags to watch for, and practical strategies to help physicians confidently guide patients in an era where Google, AI, and social media often speak louder than medical training. This episode is validation for every doctor who feels exhausted by misinformation—and a roadmap for staying grounded in evidence.---Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 69: Unlocking Your Fit Physician Identity: Build Your Identity. Fuel Your Habits. Transform Your Life.
In this episode, Jake walks you through a powerful exercise we use with every new member—Unlocking Your Fit Physician Identity. Discover how to visualize your future self, define the habits that will get you there, and create the confidence, strength, and lifestyle you want as a busy woman in medicine. Download the workbook and follow along!--Click here to download the workbook
Ep. 68: Ask Me Anything: Fall Retreat Live Q&A
This episode features a live recording from our Fall Fitness Retreat, with the most pressing questions about health & fitness asked from fellow busy women physician attendees— such as how quickly to expect fat loss, tracking without obsessing, what to do when you hit a plateau, the truth on protein powders, collagen, and cycle-syncing, plus practical fixes for grip strength and more. It’s evidence made simple, mindset made doable, and dozens of “use this today” takeaways for your own health & fitness journey.--If you're a high-achieving women doctor who is stuck and struggling with fitness, nutrition, and body confidence.👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 67: Bone Density 101: What Every Woman Physician Needs to Know
In this episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, Coach Jake and Dr. Suzanne Rutherford dive into the evidence-based lifestyle interventions that protect and optimize bone health—especially for women in midlife and beyond. Drawing from discussions at their recent women’s wellness retreat, they explore how strength training, nutrition, and mindset can profoundly influence longevity, independence, and quality of life. Suzanne breaks down the real statistics behind osteoporosis and the key exercise and nutrition strategies proven to support bone density, while Jake shares inspiring stories from clients who’ve built strength and confidence through resistance training. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to age strong, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to future-proof their health.--If you're a high-achieving women doctor who is stuck and struggling with fitness, nutrition, and body confidence.👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 66: Clickbait or Concern? The Real Story on Lead in Protein Powders
In episode, Suzanne breaks down the recent headlines claiming that most protein powders contain dangerously high levels of lead. She explains where the misleading information came from, what the research actually shows, and why you can breathe easy if you consume protein supplements — especially when choosing reputable, third-party tested brands. Tune in for peace of mind and practical guidance you can trust.--If you're a high-achieving women doctor who is stuck and struggling with fitness, nutrition, and body confidence.👉 Click here to learn more about The Fit Physician Coaching
Ep. 65: Fighting Misinformation and Finding Your Voice: Dr. Shazma Mithani on Advocacy, Connection & Courage
In this episode, emergency physician and advocate Dr. Shazma Mithani joins us to talk about leading with impact, building real connections, and advocating with confidence—without burning out. We dig into how she uses her platform to combat misinformation online and practical skills physicians can use to navigate trolls, tough conversations, and hospital or government decision-makers.Shazma also shares boundary-setting, time-blocking, and “personal board of directors” strategies to protect your energy, plus med-legal must-knows before you start educating or advocating on social media.--Follow Shazma on Instagram @drshazmamithaniCheck out the DocTalk Podcast hereLearn more about The Fit Physician here