Hurdle with Emily Abbate

To say that Sam Gash is inspiring is the understatement of the year. But before I tell you more about her, what I want to make sure I mention right off the bat is that this weekend — June 11 through June 13, 2021 — Sam is helping to put together an awesome event called Relief Run to benefit World Vision Australia’s India COVID-19 appeal, which will see funding provide more beds, oxygen machines and medical supplies in hospitals in some of the worst hit districts. While things are feeling more normal here, the state of affairs over in India is frightening. Since the beginning of the pandemic, at least 1 in 49 residents have been infected, with a total of more than 27 million cases. If Relief Run sounds familiar, that’s because last year’s installment raised more than $1 million in support of Australian bushfire relief efforts. To participate, register at ReliefRun.com.au/ and then walk or run a  all over the world to run or walk 5K, 10K, or half-marathon at a location and time that suits you.  I’m doing it, and I hope you will too.  Now, a little more on Sam. Sam is a social entrepreneur and former Survivor contestant, as we mention in todays episode we actually met on an unbelievable trip to ibiza which feels like both forever ago and just yesterday. To say that sam has done a helluva lot of good in this worlds would be the biggest understatement. She has turned her passion for running into a vehicle for social change, completing events like Run India in 2016 —a 3,200K run from the west to the east of India in an effort to raise funds for World Vision education initiatives — to a 222K non-stop foot race across the Himalayas at 6,000 meters above sea level — an event that had only been completed previously by one man. She’s truly a one-of-a-kind individual. And, of note, Sam was actually a corporate lawyer with zero athletic background until she decided to make her endurance activity part of her life's work. I am blown away by her, and I know you will be, too. SOCIAL @samanthagash @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you get when you combine camo pants, a fiery passion for dance, sweat, and a good time? Meet Caleb Marshall, known to his 3.25 million (and growing) YouTube subscribers as The Fitness Marshall. For episode 161, I talk to Caleb all about his journey to becoming a top YouTube creator, where he uses his platform to spread joy, self-love, and confidence to as many people as he can through his one-of-a-kind — as he calls them — ”fitertainment” routines. We also chat about what it was like for him to come out as gay to his family and friends as a teenager, and his hopes for other members of the LGBTQ community if they struggle to do the same.   There are so many things I love about this episode, but really it’s Caleb's vibe that no matter your age, size ability, color, gender expression — everyone has a place, period. SOCIAL @thefitnessmarshall @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle. Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE15" for 15 percent off your order.  JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When I laid out the content for this week, there was no doubt in my mind that I A. Wanted to talk about run culture and B. Would need to do that with Knox Robinson. For his second appearance on the show, I'm chatting with the runner and writer about how run crews came to be and what he took into account when co-founding Black Roses NYC. We also chat about how runners around the country can get more involved locally, the difference between run crews/collectives and training groups (hint: culture), and discuss that even in groups — it really starts with the individual. SOCIAL @firstrun @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Run Week: Getting Through the Crappy Runs With Aisha Praught-Leer Run Week: How to Master the Long Run With Coach Jess Movold Run Week: How to Start (And Stay!) Running With Jess King OFFERS Tracksmith | Do some good (and look good, too). Head to Tracksmith.com/hurdle and use code "HURDLE" at checkout. Tracksmith is donating 5 percent from every purchase to Girls On the Run, and you'll get free shipping, too! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once a week, I get a message or email from a listener asking me "how do I start?" Today, I'm addressing this with Jess King of Peloton, an old friend of mine and a newer Tread instructor. We're chatting about everything from the importance of buying the right gear and finding community to the value of a run/walk approach (and more!).  SOCIAL @jesskingnyc @onepeloton @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Run Week: Getting Through the Crappy Runs With Aisha Praught-Leer Run Week: How to Master the Long Run With Coach Jess Movold OFFERS Tracksmith | Do some good (and look good, too). Head to Tracksmith.com/hurdle and use code "HURDLE" at checkout. Tracksmith is donating 5 percent from every purchase to Girls On the Run, and you'll get free shipping, too! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Time flies when you're on the move. Today for Run Week, I'm sharing the biggest takeaways that I've learned from 13 years (!) of running, from the importance of the right gear to the good things about the bad days — and so much more. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Run Week: Getting Through the Crappy Runs With Aisha Praught-Leer Run Week: How to Master the Long Run With Coach Jess Movold SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Tracksmith | Do some good (and look good, too). Head to Tracksmith.com/hurdle and use code "HURDLE" at checkout. Tracksmith is donating 5 percent from every purchase to Girls On the Run, and you'll get free shipping, too! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Run Week on Hurdle! In celebration of global running day on Wednesday, June 2, I’m bringing five back-to-back episodes dedicated to the sport that changed my life. For today’s episode, I’m chatting with Aisha Praught-Leer, she’s a professional middle-distance runner for Puma, a world finalist, and olympian, and seriously one of the kindest, most down to earth interviews. She’s been on the show before,  but this time around we’re chatting about the bad runs. That’s right — the days where your head’s just not in the game. We cover how to navigate that icky feeling and when to call it quits. Aisha shares so many actionable tips that I found myself using during Sunday nights Orchard Street Runners race. Hope everyone had an excellent Memorial Day weekend! SOCIAL @aishapraughtleer @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Tracksmith | Do some good (and look good, too). Head to Tracksmith.com/hurdle and use code "HURDLE" at checkout. Tracksmith is donating 5 percent from every purchase to Girls On the Run, and you'll get free shipping, too! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Run Week on Hurdle! In celebration of Global Running Day on Wednesday, June 2, I’m bringing five back-to-back episodes dedicated to the sport that changed my life. That’s not an exaggeration. As many of you know, I started running back in college with a half-mile every single day for a summer. Over the years, that half mile became a mile, that mile became a 5K, and well — now I’m a nine-time marathoner and certified run coach via the United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy. I know we have a lot of runners in the Hurdle community, and I made it pretty clear at the start of season 6 that my goal is to cover all areas of wellness. But, I couldn’t let this week go by without doing something special.  I’m super amped about the line-up of guests this week kicking off with Jess Movold. She’s known by many as a coach for Runner’s World, based here in New York, and a long-time friend of mine. Today we are chatting about the long run, what it is and how it can differ in length depending on your goals, how to do it better, strategies that you can implement on this particular workout to better slay your next race, and so much more. She’s also got a pretty rough first marathon story to share with all of you, which includes and unfortunate incident with some white shorts (you may be able to guess where this one is going.) SOCIAL @runnersworldcoach @jessmovold @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Tracksmith | Do some good (and look good, too). Head to Tracksmith.com/hurdle and use code "HURDLE" at checkout. Tracksmith is donating 5 percent from every purchase to Girls On the Run, and you'll get free shipping, too!  JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I went to my first fitness class in something like 14 months on Wednesday night, and it just so happened to pour rain on me. Fun fact: It was amazing — and an essential reminder that sometimes you can't control everything and that's OK. SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED LISTEN: ON Purpose with Jay Shetty: “Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Perry ON: Healing From Childhood Trauma And Becoming Self Aware, Confident Adults” WATCH: Money: Explained on Netflix WATCH: The Me You Can’t See on Apple TV+ BUY: A Print from artist John Donohue OFFERS LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 shipping! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You asked, I answered. Popping in today to answer a slew of listener questions, talking about marathon training, working alone (and how to stave off loneliness), nutrition myths, running shoes, and so much more. SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED Weekly Hurdle: 4 Years, 300+ Pairs of Sneakers & These Are My 12 Favorites OFFERS LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 shipping! JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I’m talking with Lori Harder. She’s a self-love specialist, host of the Forbes top-rated podcast ”Earn Your Happy,” founder of the bliss project, author of A Tribe Called Bliss, founder of Lite Pink, a new spiked seltzer company — yeah, she does a lot. Her story is super inspiring — raised in a very small town with an extremely restrictive religion, she struggled with depression, obesity, and being bullied by the other kids. As she came into her own, she decided to go after what excited her: Fitness. Thus she began competing in fitness competitions, striving to win top honors and land major magazine covers. After years in a destructive industry, she made a massive pivot into the self-love arena, working with women to help them harness and appreciate their big potential. In today's episode, we talk about everything from how she grew her multiple businesses to her biggest tips to coming into your own power. SOCIAL @loriharder @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED Girlfriends In Business podcast OFFERS Baronfig | Head to baronfig.com and use code HURDLE20 to get 20% off of your purchase of $50 or more Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE15" for 15% off your order. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Things are opening. Life is happening. Masks are less frequent. (You get the idea.) For today's episode of #HURDLEMOMENT, I'm offering up my best-practice tips for easing back into the swing of things at your pace.  SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast CHECKOUT: HURDLE SESSIONS Couldn't make this week's So, You Think You Want To Run a Marathon? Session? Get it on demand, here. Info: It's official, you've committed to the 13.1- or 26.2-mile race that will change your life. As the reality sinks in, so do the questions and we've got the answers! We'll sit down with Amber Rees and Lindsey Clayton of  Brave Body Project and talk through the entire training process — from finding the right training plan and paces, to the long run and training nutrition, to race day tips and everything in between. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! P.S. No topics are off limits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Excited to welcome Victoria Garrick to the show today, host of Real Pod, former D1 volleyball player at USC, mental health advocate (the list goes on!). Garrick went viral after she gave a Ted Talk as a junior, highlighting the mental struggles many college athletes go through — labeling these as the “hidden opponent." In today's episode, she talks me through how she navigated her mental health journey, at times battling disordered eating, deep depression, and a packed schedule leaving little-to-no time for herself. We also address some helpful resources for anyone struggling to prioritize theirs — including inspiring professionals including psychologists and psychiatrists offering up free tools for the masses — as well as what it was like for Garrick to go on anti-depressants (and then, come off of them). Plus: How she navigates being someone that others look to for advice, and how she squashes negative self-talk.  SOCIAL @vitoriagarrick @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. Daily Harvest | Head to dailyharvest.com to get $25 off your first box using the code “HURDLE” at checkout. REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I never thought that I'd move to Brooklyn. Ever. But, here we are. I've never been more sure of something in my life, but that doesn't mean I'm not scared and experiencing ALL of the feels. In today's episode, I'm talking you through a teary-eyed run I had on Thursday, and sharing where my head's at going into a huge transition. PROMPT: When was the last time you felt equal parts scared and excited? SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE LISTEN: Alexi Pappas on Armchair Expert LISTEN: We Can Do Hard Things from Glennon Doyle LISTEN: Chandler Smith on Trained LISTEN: Prince Harry on Armchair Expert JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is probably one of the most popular topics I get DMs and emails about. I totally get it, because making friends as you get older is tough stuff! I'm calling in my dear friend Kristina Rodulfo to chat about this: She's the beauty director at Women's Health (and your new BFF!). We rap about tips for making friends and best-practice strategies that have worked for both of us. We also talk about the importance of not having surface-level relationships, and how to know when you should walk away from a budding friendship that may not be serving you. Plus: Things to remember about your friends who ~may~ be in relationships, and how to navigate being friend dumped.  SOCIAL @kristinarodulfo @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle. REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a no-brainer for me to kick off season six (!) with Hillary Allen, an ultra runner who survived a near-fatal #hurdlemoment in 2017. During a skyrace in Norway — which is essentially a run that involves massive vertical gain and direct ascents over steep, technical terrain — she slipped and fell from a ridge. Cue a 50-foot free fall followed by a nasty tumble, more than 100 feet further down jagged rocks. In today's episode, she talks to us about how she got to that point — born in Colorado and falling in love the outdoors from a young age, then trail running while working on her masters degree. That hobby turned into a full-blown career, leading her to become one of the best mountain ultra runners in the world. She talks us through the details of that accident, bracing for impact and landing in a hospital with 14 broken bones. She gets honest about the road to recovery, which was more than just physical, admitting that there were times in the months that followed where she didn’t want to live. Grateful that Hillary, new author of Out And Back, is here with us to tell us this story. Bonus: trail running advice for newbies and a great perspective on the “right” way to get over any hurdle. SOCIAL @hillygoat_climbs @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. Green Chef | Head to GreenChef.com/90hurdle to get $90 off your first month plus free shipping on your first box! Use code “90hurdle” at checkout. Baronfig | Head to baronfig.com and use code HURDLE20 at checkout to receive 20% off of your first purchase of a Guided Edition Journal. REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Mother's Day, so what better time than now to bring a conversation with my mom to the feed. Part of this week's MOTHERHOOD IN FOCUS series, I'm grateful for the opportunity to finally sit down with my mom and a microphone to hear more about her story. We talk about a bunch of stuff, from what life was like for her before having me, what it was like to move back and forth between the two coasts and wind up in Connecticut, how she felt going back to work after having my brother and me, and where she hopes to see me in the next 10 years. Also: Her proudest moments, minor parenting mishaps, and how she feels about me being a "public" person. REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leading up to Mother's Day, I'm chatting with six extraordinary women. Some moms. Some not. But, each has a story to tell, forever shaped by the women that came before them. Today on the show I’m talking to Annie Thorisdottir, CrossFit’s 2x Fittest Woman on Earth. The Reebok-sponsored athlete is, like Sarah Larson Levey who I spoke with earlier this week, a new mom of a pandemic-born baby. We talk about how Annie navigated critical feedback on her workouts during pregnancy as well as her timeline to getting back in the swing of things after having her baby Freya. She also shares the one thing that could make her withdraw from the 2021 CrossFit Games and she offers up essential advice to any new mom just trying to make it from day to day. SOCIAL @anniethorisdottir @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Leave a review of the show in Apple Podcasts and send a screen grab to [email protected] to enter to win a pair of Reebok Nano X1 for you (and one for a friend!) REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leading up to Mother's Day, I'm chatting with six extraordinary women. Some moms. Some not. But, each has a story to tell, forever shaped by the women that came before them. Ten years. That's how long Steph Bruce has been chasing her Olympic dreams. During that time, she had two sons within a 15-month period (not planned), has dealt with injuries, launched a successful business (what's up, Picky Bars), and so much more. In today's episode, she explains how — how she's stayed so steadfast on her goals, how she's recovered after a difficult labor while managing diastasis recti, and how proud she is of the children she's raising. She also confesses a shameful moment, and unpacks the importance of a great support system, believing in yourself, and working with people (and companies) that believe in your big potential. SOCIAL @stephrothstein @naz_elite @pickybars @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leading up to Mother's Day, I'm chatting with six extraordinary women. Some moms. Some not. But, each has a story to tell, forever shaped by the women that came before them. To say that I am better for having the opportunity to chat with Peloton's Tunde Oyeneyin is an understatement. Today, she's back on the show (listen to our first conversation here) to celebrate her late mother. In our conversation, she talks about what it was like to lose three family members within a 6-year span and how she's navigated the grief that comes with such trauma. Her everything-happens-for-a-reason perspective is inspiring, as is her advice on navigating Mother's Day (and the days without your loved ones). Grateful to Tunde for her vulnerability, and I have no doubt that her story will inspire others to keep pushing forward when the hurdles keep coming.  SOCIAL @tune2tunde @onepeloton @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, I'm hosting six conversations as part of a special series on motherhood here on Hurdle. Although I'm not a mom just yet, my talks with Hurdlers over the years have taught me so much about this life chapter. I've learned that motherhood itself is both beautiful and challenging, exhausting and rewarding. Whether or not children are in the cards for you, it's safe to say that we've all been dramatically impacted by a mother — whether it be our own or another — in our lives.  So, leading up to Mother's Day, I'm chatting with six extraordinary women. Some moms. Some not. But, each has a story to tell, forever shaped by the women that came before them. The year 2020 was a one of drastic change for Y7 Studio’s Sarah Larson Levey. Between the shuttering of all of the company’s studios because of the pandemic, having a baby boy in June, and moving to Austin from New York — it’s been an emotional whirlwind. In today’s episode, Sarah and I chat navigating coming back to her body after the baby, moving in a way that feels right for her, and agree that there’s nothing wrong with wanting to lose weight if you’re uncomfortable in yours — as long as that’s not purely based on a number on the scale. She also mentions how motherhood has taught her the importance of patience and staying calm, both which have helped her while working to studios (Chicago just did so this week!). We agree that back to “normal” is going to be a social adjustment for sure,  but we’re both excited for the opportunity to connect again. SOCIAL @sarah_ayako @y7studio @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate REGISTER So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP  SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the next seven days, I'm hosting six conversations as part of a special week of content on motherhood here on Hurdle. Although I'm not a mom just yet, my talks with Hurdlers over the years have taught me so much about this life chapter. I've learned that motherhood itself is both beautiful and challenging, exhausting and rewarding. Whether or not children are in the cards for you, it's safe to say that we've all been dramatically impacted by a mother — whether it be our own or another — in our lives.  So, leading up to Mother's Day, I'm chatting with six extraordinary women. Some moms. Some not. But, each has a story to tell, forever shaped by the women that came before them.  Today I'm chatting with Rachel Nicks, Founder of Birth Queen, Lululemon ambassador, founding MIRROR trainer, actress, doula, and lactation consultant (plus, mother of two!). A lot of takeaways with Rachel, my biggest are that joy is so so important, and we have the conscious choice to choose it each and every day. For Rachel, choosing joy empowers her to be a better mother and be more present with her boys. It also empowers her to show up at home and at work. Rachel also discusses the struggles that she faces as a Black mother, sharing some alarming statistics that encouraged her to become a doula and lactation consultant as well as found Birth Queen, which aims to educates, supports, and empowers Black women and parents, enriching the Black birth experience and saving lives. SOCIAL @rachelenicks @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle SIGN UP: HURDLE SESSIONS: We’ve got new Sessions on deck, and I’d love to see you in one of them! Click the links below for more details. Note: If you can’t make “So, You Want to Run a Marathon?” live — no problem! All ticketed attendees will receive an on demand recording of the Session the next morning. So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! P.S. No topics are off limits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week I had a difficult battle with the comparison trap at the track. I'm talking about it for this week's 5-MINUTE FRIDAY, and how to pull yourself out of a rut and refocus when things are going south.  SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE READ: 3 of the Best Neck Pain Exercises To Nix Soreness, According to a Physical Therapist by Tamara Pridgett on Well + Good LISTEN: The Rich Roll Podcast: “Roll On, Notes From Minneapolis” TAKE: The 5 Love Languages Quiz SIGN UP: HURDLE SESSIONS: We’ve got new Sessions on deck, and I’d love to see you in one of them! Click the links below for more details. Note: If you can’t make “So, You Want to Run a Marathon?” live — no problem! All ticketed attendees will receive an on demand recording of the Session the next morning. So, You Want to Run a Marathon?, May 17 @ 7:30 p.m. ET It's official, you've committed to the 13.1- or 26.2-mile race that will change your life. As the reality sinks in, so do the questions and we've got the answers! We'll sit down with Amber Rees and Lindsey Clayton of  Brave Body Project and talk through the entire training process — from finding the right training plan and paces, to the long run and training nutrition, to race day tips and everything in between. Mid-Year Reset, May 11 @ 7:00 p.m. ET Remember those new year goals you committed to in the final days of 2020? It's time to launch into the final 180 days with clarity and purpose. Maybe you set some big goals and then life just happened. Maybe you conquered one or two goals early in the year but now find yourself searching for motivation to finish out what you set to achieve in 2021. Whatever the reason, it's time for a mid-year reset, and I’ve got your back. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! P.S. No topics are off limits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, I'm bringing Eve Lewis Prieto, Director of Meditation and mindfulness teacher at Headspace, onto the show to chat about the benefits of meditation when it comes to our sleep. It's a perfect time to connect as we head into Global Stress Awareness Month and today marks the premiere of "Headspace Guide to Sleep" (Eve narrates the series). She offers up her best-practice tips for meditating for improved ZzZs, talks about when you should be doing it, and sheds some light on an important question: Are there different meditations for different predicaments, like stress versus food anxiety versus pandemic versus (you get the picture). MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 157. Alex Silver-Fagan, Trainer & Creator Flow Into Strong REGISTER: Hurdle Session: Mid-Year Reset OFFER Picky Bars | Get 20 percent off any $25 order or more at PickyBars.com/Hurdle JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Alex and I recorded together for episode two of the show back in 2017, she had no idea of the hurdles that lay ahead in her journey. My first-ever guest back in 2017, we recently agreed that it was time to have her back for round II. For episode 157, the New York-based trainer and "human" (listen to find out where that's coming from) is getting really vulnerable about the bumps in the road over the last few years, including falling in love (and then ending an engagement), leaving her job, and checking herself into a mental health facility at the end of 2020 — emerging from treatment with a new lease on life. She offers up her tips for anyone who can share in her struggle, we talk about the importance of having good relationships in life and how to set boundaries, and navigating spending time alone.  The stuff we get into today is serious. I can't stress enough that this was a conversation we talked a lot about before having it, and our hope is that it opens up important discussions within our communities. I'm grateful to Alex for opening up, and I want to reiterate that if you struggle with your mental health – you are not alone. Some helpful resources:   Crisis Text Line SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) NYCWell.CityOfNewYork.us MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 2. Alex Silver Fagan, Nike Master Trainer OFFERS Super Coffee | Head to DrinkSuperCoffee.com/HURDLE or use code ”HURDLE” at checkout for 25 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thanks so much to everyone who hit me up with feedback last week about 5-MINUTE FRIDAY. This week, I'm explaining what I've learned from all of your emails and explaining why I'm thankful that I got caught in the rain (literally) on Wednesday.  PROMPT: When was the last time going with the flow worked in your favor? MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE WATCH: Billie Eilish - The World’s A Little Blurry LISTEN: Girlfriends & Business WATCH: John Mayer on Songwriting VISIT: Jane Motorcycles in Noho 76. Brittany Driscoll, Founder of Squeeze 6. Adam Kallen, Co-Founder of Jane Motorcycles JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! P.S. No topics are off limits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An estimated 64 million Americans have tried CBD in the last 24 months. So, today I'm having an expert come in to answer your CBD-related questions, appropriate for the week of 4/20. Meet Max Poling, the Director of Innovation at Beam. We talk about what is CBD, what are the benefits, what happens when you use it topically versus ingest it, what some of the biggest CBD myths are, and how much a standard serving size is (+ more!). SOCIAL @beam @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE2021" for $10 off your order. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renée Rouleau is a pink-haired warrior. You may recognize her name from an episode we did a few weeks back, answering your biggest skincare questions. I was really excited to record this with her as well because man, this woman has had her fair share of hurdles — personally and professionally — especially over the last few years. For episode 156, Renée explains how she got into the skincare industry and the challenges she conquered becoming a direct-to-consumer business and ultimately shifting her operations from Dallas to Austin. She explains why she decided to become an esthetician over a dermatologist, and how that decision has paid off. She also talks openly about the loss of her late husband Florian to cancer in 2018, who was the Chief Operating Officer at her company as well as her best friend and partner in life. She shares what life’s been like since then, and how she’s managed to move on and find happiness with her new normal. We also joke about Dr. Pimple Popper, she tells me why she's excited about Clubhouse, and explains the difference between blackheads and whiteheads.  SOCIAL @reneerouleau @reneerouleauskincare @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Renee’s Skincare Blog #HURDLEMOMENT: Your Biggest Skincare Questions Answered OFFERS LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored.You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle. Daily Harvest | Go to DailyHarvest.com and enter promo code “HURDLE25” at checkout to get $25 dollars off your first box. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last week was a lot. I finally found my next home, an apartment in Brooklyn after almost a month of looking and a hole lot of "maybe" options. Today for 5-MINUTE FRIDAY, I'm telling you a story about how much my new home means to me, and detailing what apartment hunting (and applying!) was like.  SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE CELEBRATE: Des Linden’s 50K World Record READ: “How to Create a Happier, Healthier Living Space During Springtime” from Shape SUPPORT: Birth Queen SNAG: Tops and Bras for 20 Percent Off at Athleta A follower brought this sale to my attention yesterday, which is notable because Athleta rarely goes on sale. Linking my three favorite tops and bras, here: Vapor Scoop Tank Conscious Crop (I wear this with skirts all spring and summer) Ultimate Bra WATCH: Before the Flood  JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money can feel a little awkward to talk about sometimes. So, I'm calling in the reinforcements! Just because Tax Day got the scoot from April 15 to May 17 doesn't mean we can't start talking $ now. This week for #HURDLEMOMENT, I'm chatting with Kumiko Love, AFC, better known to her massive social media following as "The Budget Mom." Love talks me through her best-practice tips for better financial health, from tracking your spending and creating a budget to planning for retirement and maximizing your earning potential. TRUST ME, this is one episode you don't want to miss.   SOCIAL @thebudgetmom @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Super Coffee | Head to DrinkSuperCoffee.com/HURDLE or use code ”HURDLE” at checkout for 25 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here.  ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Akin Akman may be a fitness coach, but he's really aiming to make an impact on your mind. The now-Chief Fitness Officer and co-founder at AARMY learned about the importance of movement and mindset from a young age. At 7, he was training to become one of the top players on the tennis court at IMG Academy. His coach, Nick Bollettieri, told him that he had the potential to be the best and go pro — until, he got injured. Devastated at first, Akman reflects on that #hurdlemoment today with gratitude because it put him on the path to where he is now. In episode 155, Akin shares the details surrounding the first Spin class he ever taught in Miami, and how he ended up moving to New York and joining the team at Soul Cycle, selling out 30+ classes each week within minutes. He talks about how "Akin’s Army" came to be, and the challenges that came hand-in-hand with launching AARMY shortly before a global pandemic. Plus: His take on a champion’s mindset, how he defines purpose, and what he’s looking forward to in the year to come. SOCIAL @akiniko @aarmy @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 140. Angela Manuel-Davis, Co-Founder AARMY OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. Green Chef | Head to GreenChef.com/90hurdle to get $90 off your first month plus free shipping on your first box! Use code “90hurdle” at checkout. Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. Please only register if you're definitely going to show, as there is a capacity limit! ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I was recording an episode yesterday with a friend who happens to be a well-known yoga instructor. She said something during our session that stuck with me. “You, out of almost anyone I know, are the best at being alone.” She expanded a little more on the subject. As she did, I felt tears well up behind my eyeballs. Tears that I fought back as I took a deep breath and continued on with our discussion. Once she was done with her thought, I thanked her for the compliment. Then I told her my truth (which I'm sharing with you in today's 5-MINUTE FRIDAY). SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 32. Ryan Flaherty, Senior Director of Performance at Nike READ: “5 Women of Color Changing the Face of Therapy” from TODAY WATCH: WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn READ: “How to Reboot Your Brain After a Year of Stress” on Well+Good LISTEN: Trained: “Joelle D’Fontaine, Getting in Step — With Yourself” CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here.  ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Between Spring 2007 and Spring 2010, I lost 70 pounds. I was in college, and before the night that changed everything (you'll have to listen to hear exactly what happened), I felt uncomfortable and unhappy in my body. For today's #HURDLEMOMENT, I'm talking you through how I got to the place where I was ready to make some forever lifestyle changes, and answer your questions about this chapter: Almost 12 years later, how do you keep it off? What was the hardest part? What did you eat? Did you count macros? (Plus, so many more.)  Note: I am not a registered dietitian or a nutritionist. The feedback and lessons I've learned, I share them with hopes to help someone else. If you are interested in losing weight, I recommend you talk to an expert one-on-one about your body. And of course: Have some grace with yourself. SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle.  CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. Please only register if you're definitely going to show, as there is a capacity limit! ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Massy Arias knew she was destined to do big things from a young age. Coming into her own after arriving in the U.S. from the Dominican Republic at 13, she braved #hurdlemoment after #hurdlemoment, including a stage IV cancer diagnosis for her brother, abusive relationships, and devastating depression. For eight months, she barely left her Brooklyn bedroom, feeling entirely lost. An intervention with her family and friends led to her embracing a more active lifestyle, with trips to the gym (+ time on the elliptical) resulting in a more dedicated, consistent fitness routine. Through the discovery of bodybuilding — which she said contributed to severe body dysmorphia — she learned that her big goal was to help find a healthy approach to fitness, empowering others to find happiness through movement. And so, she began to construct her empire — diving into certifications and social media. Fast forward to today, the new mom offers up fitness plans and inspiration to her millions of Instagram followers and works with well-known clientele, all pieces to the puzzle of building her brand. Amped to finally bring this conversation to the feed. SOCIAL @massy.arias @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE2021" for $10 off your order. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE We do talk about some sensitive topics in today’s episode. If you or someone you know have similar thoughts of self-harm or are struggling, you can always reach out to me over DM or email, it’s [email protected]. The national suicide helpline (800) 273-8255. UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and meeting on Zoom on April 21. To register, click here. Please only register if you're definitely going to show, as there is a capacity limit!  ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I used to pride myself on being a high-caliber multitasker. It made me feel mentally agile, like a modern-day Superwoman. The catch? It’s not exactly desirable to be good at giving multiple things a fraction of your attention. For today's episode of 5-MINUTE FRIDAY, I'm talking about #hurdlemoment I had earlier this week that reminded me of the importance of giving one thing (and one thing only) my attention. Trust me: It's an exercise that can help you destress and better tackle whatever the day throws your way. SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 147. Tunde Oyeneyin, Peloton Instructor CHECK IT OUT: On Transgender Day of Visibility Wednesday, Nikki Hiltz wrote a really beautiful post READ: “My Mom Taught Me That My Mind Is My Strongest Muscle” on Well+Good LISTEN: Demi Lovato on Joe Rogan READ: “Sleep Coach Update: Incorporating Menstrual Cycle Phase for Increased Accuracy” on WHOOP Locker OFFERS Covey |  Head to coveyskin.com and use code “HURDLE” at checkout to get 10 percent off of The Covey Routine, a three-step, derm-approved, universal skincare ritual. Thanks to this week’s Hurdle sponsors, BLUBlox, Beam, Athletic Greens, and Super Coffee! For a complete list of the show’s sponsors and some really great deals, check out the sponsors page, here. UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can't do this. You're not good enough. This isn't for you. We've all had negative thoughts, but when was the last time you took ownership over them? Today I'm chatting with Dr. Amy Cirbus Ph.D, LMHC, LPC, Director of Clinical Content at Talkspace all about this. Why do we have negative self-talk, who is more prone to it, and how can we better deal with the effects of it — flipping the script and adopting a more positive mindset. SOCIAL @talkspace @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The Talkspace Voice OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter SIGN UP: Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here. ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beyond being my personal style inspiration and a model, Emily DiDonato is also the founder of a new skincare brand called Covey and a body positivity advocate. For episode 153, we chat about her journey to self acceptance and the rollercoaster that was becoming a model after being scouted in a Connecticut Mall. She talks to me about struggling with her size early on in her career, spending hours on end at the gym and eating apples trying to be the “right fit.” She details one #hurdlemoment with a makeup artist and stylist on set that changed everything, empowering her to do away with restrictive behavior and embrace her body — encouraging others to do the same. She also opens up about the evolution of her career, including big opportunities with companies from Maybelline to Chanel and Giorgio Armani, and how she got into the skincare game (she’s absolutely loving being an entrepreneur). We also talk content creation, New York City living, her go-to fitness routine, and so much more. SOCIAL @emilydidonato @covey @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Covey |  Head to coveyskin.com and use code “HURDLE” at checkout to get 10 percent off of The Covey Routine, a three-step, derm-approved, universal skincare ritual. OFFERS Baronfig | Head to baronfig.com and use code HURDLE20 at checkout to receive 20% off of your first purchase of a Guided Edition Journal. Super Coffee | Head to DrinkSuperCoffee.com/HURDLE or use code ”HURDLE” at checkout for 25 percent off. LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored. You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle.   CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter SIGN UP: Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here. ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life has been a lot lately. In between the work calls and running around, I've been having a lot of conversations with friends about worth — the importance of owning it and sticking up for yourself. For today's episode of 5-MINUTE FRIDAY, I'm talking about the importance of being your own advocate. When you do, you may just be pleasantly surprised the next time you’re going after what you want. PROMPT: When was the last time you sold yourself short? Why do you think you do that? What can you change to better handle a similar situation the next time? SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE LISTEN: Real Pod WATCH: Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal on Netflix CHECK OUT: IRL Fitness Is Back In New York! Thanks to this week’s Hurdle sponsors, BLUBlox, Beam, Athletic Greens, Super Coffee, and Baronfig! For a complete list of the show’s sponsors and some really great deals, check out the sponsors page, here. UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will I ever be able to run/walk/squat again without peeing myself? How soon is too soon to exercise post-baby? What's the deal with pelvic floor and diastasis recti? Over the years, I've received handfuls of questions from the Hurdle community and today I'm calling on my friend Bree Koegel, FitOn trainer and pre- and post-natal certified trainer to give us some answers. Whether or not you're a mom, this episode is loaded with helpful insight to help us all get stronger and gain a better understanding of what the female body goes through when there's a baby on board.  SOCIAL @breekoegel @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE2021" for $10 off your order. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter JOIN: Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emily Skye wants women everywhere to know that they are not alone in their struggles. Today, I’m catching up with the fitness trainer who reaches 14 million via her app (and more than 2.5 million on Instagram) for the show. The Australian-born mom-of-two talks to me about her upbringing and the #hurdlemoments that came in her teenage years resulting in anxiety and depression. She details a few abusive relationships that made her question her value, and gets honest about trying to end her life around age 18. She talks about how that experience made her determined to help those with similar struggles, eventually inspiring her journey into the fitness industry and the creation of her online programming. With her outstanding reach, being such a public person comes with a fair amount of criticism. We chat about that today and how she manages unsolicited feedback. Plus: The individuals who inspire HER to be better so that she can be more present, both online and with her family. We also talk about life as a mom (just nine months ago she had her second baby on her bathroom floor!) and what she’s looking forward to in the coming months including the recent launch of her fit post-pregnancy program. SOCIAL @emilyskyefit @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. BLUBlox | Head to BLUBlox.com/Hurdle and use "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. Daily Harvest | Go to DailyHarvest.com and enter promo code “HURDLE25” at checkout to get $25 dollars off your first box. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE We do talk about some sensitive topics in today’s episode. If you or someone you know have similar thoughts of self-harm or are struggling, you can always reach out to me over DM or email, it’s [email protected]. The national suicide helpline (800) 273-8255.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday morning I was reminded of the important difference between "I can't," and "I don't." I didn't want to get out of bed to work out before an early flight. But then, I started. I laced up my sneakers. I made my way to the treadmill, and couldn't have been more grateful that I made that "me" time a priority. Maybe it’s with a work out. Maybe it’s with your job. Maybe it’s a tough conversation with a friend. Whatever hurdle you have on deck in the coming weeks, I encourage you to remember this: You can. PROMPT: What’s one thing that you can do to give back to you (and your body!) in the next 72 hours? SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE CHECK OUT: The New Peloton x Adidas Collection WATCH: Ginny & Georgia on Netflix HURDLER SPOTLIGHT: Counter Programming with Shira and Arielle DONATE: Support the AAPI Community Fund LISTEN: Life Kit: “A First-Timer’s Guide to Filing Taxes” NEW RELEASE: Lululemon Swift Speed Tight Thanks to this week’s Hurdle sponsors, BLUBlox, Beam, Athletic Greens, Super Coffee, and Baronfig! For a complete list of the show’s sponsors and some really great deals, check out the sponsors page, here. UPCOMING Hurdle Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering,  and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Monday, I had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Michael Gervais and we touched on the power of breath. So, for #HURDLEMOMENT this week, I decided to bring in an expert to explain the essentials. Meet Joy Dushey, a spiritual and holistic life guide, intuitive energy healer, breathwork facilitator, and host of The Methodology podcast. We talk about everything from the benefits of the practice to how to execute and the difference between breathwork and meditation. Also: How breathwork helped Dushey deal with past trauma, so much so that she made teaching it a part of her life’s work. SOCIAL @thejoyfulapproach @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter JOIN: Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Top athletes. Actors. CEOs. Dr. Michael Gervais is a high performance psychologist who has worked with some of the best to help them master their mind and better their craft. For episode 151, we talk about how he got to where he is today. The Finding Mastery podcast host and author chats with me about how his experience surfing growing up actually lead him to getting more interested in the mind, and the memorable #hurdlemoment that taught him how to navigate hard times and get brave in front of large crowds. He also details how we can decipher our purpose, articulate our philosophy, and separate the two different types of thoughts.  SOCIAL @michaelgervais @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Finding Your Best: Dr. Michael Gervais created a Masterclass with NFL head coach Pete Carroll. In it you’ll learn how to craft your own personal philosophy, set a vision, and how to train your mind to be more confident, optimistic, calm, and mindful. Head on over to @hurdlepodcast on Instagram for more details on how to be one of two lucky winners! ($500 value) OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. Green Chef | Head to GreenChef.com/90hurdle to get $90 off your first month plus free shipping on your first box! Use code “90hurdle” at checkout. Baronfig | Head to baronfig.com and use code HURDLE20 at checkout to receive 20% off of your first purchase of a Guided Edition Journal. LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored.You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Book club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering, and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here. SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

365 days. Wow. This week, I’m reflecting on the year that no one expected, but — I’d argue — everyone needed. Of course, I don’t say this to downplay the tragedy of what has happened in our country and across the globe. The immense amount of loss is heartbreaking. Life has been forever changed. However, this difficult year has taught me a lot of lessons (and reinforced some, too). I'm sharing those in this week's episode of 5MF. PROMPT: What’s your biggest takeaway from the past year? SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE LISTEN: ”Sunbathe” by Miguel and Tainy WATCH: One of these ‘50 Best Comedies on Netflix Right Now’ WATCH: Biggie: I Got a Story to Tell SUBSCRIBE: The Dipp OBSESSING OVER: Puma Deviate Nitro OFFERS BLUBlox | Head to BLUBlox.com/Hurdle and use "HURDLE" at checkout for 20 percent off. BaronFig | Head over to BaronFig.com and use “HURDLE20” at checkout for 20 percent off of a guided edition today. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: The Weekly HurdleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Base pace. Long. Tempo. Intervals. Recovery. If you’re new to running or a veteran at this point, all of these have a place in your routine, regardless of your overall goals. For today’s installment of #HURDLEMOMENT, I’m breaking it all down with Colleen Quigley, Olympian and professional runner. We talk about the specifics on each, what your Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) should be mid-stride, and how often you should be incorporating them throughout a typical week. Plus: We reveal our favorites and Colleen gives us an update on what she’s up to now that she’s left the Bowerman Track Club. SOCIAL @steeple_squigs @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Goodr | Head on over to Goodr.com/Hurdle and use code "HURDLE" for $10 off your order. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 30. Colleen Quigley, Pro Runner, Olympian UPCOMING Book Club! We’ll be reading The Art of Gathering,  and I’ll announce a date in the coming weeks for our April Zoom meet-up. To sign up to be kept in the Hurdle book club loop, click here. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting WorkshopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By now you’ve probably heard of The Sculpt Society, a dance-based fitness method with a cult-like following. Over the pandemic, it grew astronomically — more than 700 percent (!) — as many of us leaned into at-home fitness. Today on the show, I’m chatting with The Sculpt Society founder Megan Roup. Growing up in California, Megan started dancing at a young age and went through her fair share of hurdles on her way to New York University's Tisch School of The Arts. In episode 150, we talk about the pressures that came hand in hand with trying to make it as a dancer, including struggling with disordered eating and getting to a place where she felt truly comfortable in her body. We also chat about her stint as a Brooklyn Nets dancer and how her love for dance-based fitness actually started as a side hustle when she was running around New York auditioning for new opportunities. Megan also shares what 2020 was like for her, an eventful year in her personal life as well with a wedding, a baby on the way, and more. We also cover what the uptick in The Sculpt Society users taught her about herself as an entrepreneur and the need to prioritize self care. Spoiler: We both cry in this episode, so yeah … that doesn’t happen often on the show. BUT, in this case it doesn’t surprise me. There’s a lot of emotions that happen when two passionate people sit down to talk about their why. SOCIAL @thesculptsociety @meganroup @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE The Sculpt Society |  Head to TheSculptSociety.com and use code ”HURDLE25” to get two weeks free and 25% off your first month. OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. BLUBlox | Head to BLUBlox.com/Hurdle and use "HURDLE" at checkout for 20 percent off. Super Coffee | Head to DrinkSuperCoffee.com/HURDLE or use code ”HURDLE” at checkout for 25 percent off. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter SIGN UP: Hurdle Book Club (Throw your next-pick suggestions in this link, too!) ASK ME A QUESTION: Leave me a voice message, ask me a question, and it could be featured in an upcoming episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last year has been difficult for most everyone. How many times back in March, April, and May of 2020 did you or someone you know say “2020 was supposed to be my year.” I felt that way, for sure. In today's episode, I'm discussing the power of perspective and letting go of the anger about how things "could be." Huge thanks to Trent Shelton (check out our conversation here) for the inspiration for this week's topic.  SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE DOWNLOAD: Goody Gifting LISTEN: ”Planning Your Life for Success” on Mindset Mentor READ: “Opinion: A Boston Marathon for All Benefits the Running Community” CHECK OUT: TOGETXER SIGN UP: Coa RECOVERY TOOLS: Theragun Elite, Normatec Boots, MiHigh Sauna Blanket, Triggerpoint Foam Roller, PowerDot (go to powerdot.com and use the code “HURDLE” at checkout for 20% off of a Duo) OFFERS BLUBlox | Head to BLUBlox.com/Hurdle and use "HURDLE" at checkout for 20 percent off. BaronFig | Head over to BaronFig.com and use “HURDLE20” at checkout for 20 percent off a guided edition today. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: The Weekly HurdleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Excited to chat about this popular topic with my friend Dan Churchill, a performance chef, host of The Epic Table podcast, and owner of Charley St. here in New York. On today’s episode, we dive into all of the plant-based diet questions, from the benefits and how to go about eating this way to exactly how plant-based fans get their protein and what a typical day of eating could look like. Plus: Dan talks about the benefits of seaweed, gushes over all things gut health, and I giggle at least 12 times about how he says different words with his heavy Australian accent. SOCIAL @dan_churchill @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 12. Dan Churchill, Chef OFFERS Beam | Go to BeamTLC.com and use code "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting WorkshopSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alexi has conquered a lot of hurdles her life, from navigating her mother’s suicide at a young age to battling depression herself after running for Greece at the 2016 Olympic games. It’s no wonder why her triumphant story has inspired so many, recently told within the pages of Pappas’ first book, Bravey. For episode 149, I’m chatting with the multi-hyphenate about everything from her upbringing in California to her mental health struggles. On the heels of a slew of press for her new book, I made it a point to ask her what haven’t you been talking about? She also answers a lot of tough questions, like how to pull yourself out of a dark place, how does someone get better at self-care when they have no established practice, and what she really sees when she looks at herself in the mirror. SOCIAL @alexipappas @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast OFFERS Athletic Greens | Head to AthleticGreens.com/hurdle to get a year’s receive the FREE D3/K2 wellness bundle with your first purchase. Baronfig | Head to baronfig.com and use code HURDLE20 at checkout to receive 20% off of your first purchase of a Guided Edition Journal. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle Newsletter SIGN UP: Hurdle Book Club (Throw your next-pick suggestions in this link, too!)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday morning was the first time in a long time I debated skipping my morning workout. Of course, I take rest days during the week. But, this was not intended to be one of those. For today's episode of 5-MINUTE FRIDAY, I'm talking you through what went through my head, and how I've put in a place a fool-proof routine to keep me on track when it comes to my a.m. sweat. Plus: Offering up my five best-practice tips. PROMPT: What's one thing you can add to your morning routine that'll make your day better? SOCIAL @emilyabbate @hurdlepodcast MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE LISTEN: Renegades: Born in the USA READ: “Why I Decided to Cut My Hair Short for the First Time Ever” by Sophia Roe for Vogue SWEAT: Bells Up TV LISTEN: John Legend’s playlist on Headspace OFFERS BLUBlox | I have been wearing my BLUBlox constantly, anti-blue light glasses, which help me to navigate persistent headaches and discomfort from way too much time in front of the computer (thank you, pandemic). They’ve got loads of cute styles, and after three months of consistent wear, they’ve made a major difference for me. Head to BLUBlox.com/Hurdle and use "HURDLE" at checkout for 15 percent off. BaronFig | I write in my BaronFig notebook every single day, first thing. I’m obsessed with the clothbound cover, the fact that it lays flat when you open it, and how it looks on the shelf. I’m especially into their guided-editions, daily journals that focus on different topic areas like meditation, habit formation, and dream tracking. Head over to BaronFig.com and use “HURDLE20” at checkout for 20 percent off a guided edition today. JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: The Weekly HurdleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confession: I have been struggling with establishing a steady skincare routine for years. Today, I’m tackling the topic of skincare (and, skin health!) with esthetician and CEO and founder of Renee Rouleau Skincare, Renee Rouleau. We really dive into the nitty gritty, from the absolute basics to make up a routine and how to deal with the dreaded “maskne” to what’s the deal with collagen. Plus: Unpacking SPF best-practices, the sweat bumps on your forehead that feel like they never go away (is this just me?), and if there are certain foods you should nix from your diet for clearer, brighter skin. SOCIAL @reneerouleau @reneerouleauskincare @hurdlepodcast @emilyabbate MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Renee’s Skincare Blog Click HERE for Austin relief efforts OFFERS LMNT | Head to DrinkLMNT.com/hurdle to get a FREE LMNT Sample Pack, including two citrus, two raspberry, two orange, and two raw unflavored.You only pay $5 for shipping! Only for Hurdle listeners, to claim this deal you must go to drinkLMNT.com/hurdle. CHECK OUT: HURDLE SESSIONS All past Sessions are now available on the Hurdle website. NEWLY LAUNCHED: Goal Setting Workshop JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP SIGN UP: Weekly Hurdle NewsletterSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.