Jacked on the Beanstalk: The Podcast

After a long winter for us Shorkey sisters, we are so happy that spring is finally here! The birds are chirping, the flowers are blooming and the sun is shining. And it's time to not only spring clean our houses but our bodies too! So let us celebrate the rebirth of beauty in nature and celebrate ourselves too! Yes, on this episode, I (Sam) am sharing some of my favourite springtime tips and practices to help me regain my energy and exude radiance to feel both refreshed and renewed this season. Enjoy!

Nothing is worse for a bodybuilder or athlete than getting injured. Whether it's an acute injury or chronic pain, this can be soul-destroying for anyone who is addicted to training for their sport. But we can't let an injury get us down! And this podcast is really more about the positive mindset that should come with being injured (rather than physical measures you can take to treat or heal said injury.) We talk about the importance of being a researcher of yourself and how pain can be a great teacher for us. We also discuss why complete rest is NOT the surefire way to heal an injury. And how consistency is key even if it means big changes to your workout regime. So give this one a listen and stay safe out there, vegan fit crew!

One of our most popular episodes of all time was an interview with Vegan Chef / Nutritionist Amy Longard a few years back! So naturally, we thought it was time to bring her back for an even more in-depth conversation about all things meal prep. And we're letting Sarah ask all the questions on this one as she claims to be “completely clueless” and “overwhelmed” when it comes to cooking and meal planning for her family. So give it a listen for all of Sarah's hard-hitting questions such as what to eat for optimal nutrition, recipe ideas for busy moms, healthy snack suggestions and so much more!

It's been a long time since we've had our good friend (vegan chef / nutritionist) Amy Longard on the podcast! Definitely a good time to have her back though as many of our clients have already given up on their New Year's resolution to "get fit & healthy." And being busy, self-employed moms ourselves, we wanted to share some of our best health tips and mom hacks on how we prioritize our own health and fitness. AND promote a new & exciting, super interactive, virtual 4-week long group training and nutrition program we're launching together called "Fit & Healthy Over 40." So give this episode a listen and be sure to hit up my website for more info on the program.

"Your mouth is the gateway to your body and your oral health is a huge indicator to your overall health" says Trina Felber of Primal Life Organics! And we are stoked to dive into all things teeth and gum health with her on this episode of the podcast! Yes guys, most of us don't even realize (myself included) that we are de-mineralizing our teeth all the time even via brushing our teeth with NATURAL toothpaste! So be sure to give this one a listen and start loving your mouth as much as you love your body!

Oh how I hope that none of the guys I've dated in the past listen to my podcast! Nevertheless, on this episode, we are diving into bodily smells yet again! But more specifically, why I always seem to detect this strong, pungent odour emitting from some of the steroid using, meat-loving guys I meet. I have always held this theory that it was some kind of predator vs. prey pheromones-type reaction going on. Perhaps my vegan body's way of saying "they are not a match for you." Whatever it was, I knew I had to research. And of course, share my findings with my beloved podcast listeners. Enjoy!

This episode comes to you via one of our very own podcast listeners who recently turned vegan and is never looking back! Yes, apparently our new listener Jack was just so damn inspired by our podcast that it turned him vegan! And in doing so, he actually had a lot of great questions for us that we thought we'd turn into a whole damn episode. So today, we're covering everything from fake vegan meats to the best and worst fast food options for vegan bodybuilders. Plus we're sharing our thoughts on whether vegans get sick less often than meat eaters. And finally, is it better to train with higher reps and lighter weights or heavier weight with lower reps? Enjoy!

Vabbing: The weird and gross TikTok trend where women literally take their vaginal discharge and place it behind their ears or perhaps on their neck and wrists (much like they would a perfume.) Apparently this attracts more male attention. Who the hell is actually doing this though? And WTF is wrong with people?! Naturally, I (Sam) had to try it for myself and see if there was any validity to it whatsoever. And I bet you Jacked on the Beanstalk podcast listeners can't wait to find out how my "vabbing experiment" went.

It's no surprise that I love to nerd out on numbers when it comes to my health and fitness. Tracking my calories and macros is of course, something I've done for years already. But only recently have I become fascinated with tracking my body composition metrics. I'm talking how much fat weight I have vs. muscle mass, bone density and water floating around inside my hot vegan bod! It's really fascinating stuff not to mention an absolute game changer when it comes to making progress with my training and nutrition efforts. And today, I'm sharing why I think these metrics are so damn important for all of us to know right here on the podcast. Enjoy!

Just in time for Valentine's Day, I am bringing you a very sexxxy and oh-so-taboo interview with one of my very own JOTB vegan clients: Professional Dominatrix Estelle Sinclair! Yes, we are diving into ALL the topics on this spicy episode! From farting fetishes and blindfolding to promoting veganism via sexual domination, we are learning ALL the tips from this alpha female. Just don't let your kids listen to this one!

November is deer hunting season here in Ontario, Canada. And the very reason why I (Sam) stopped eating animals at eight-years-old. Yes, it's an incredibly depressing time of year for me because of my personal connection to the beautiful deer that live out here. So naturally, I've been trolling hunters all month long via the local facebook groups! Which then led to a random chat with Sarah that we decided last minute to record. So this podcast episode is a short one but you vegans will no doubt appreciate it. Enjoy!

After 25 years of drinking an obscene amount of coffee every single day, I recently made the decision to break up with my caffeine addiction. Apparently my milf-spiration J-Lo doesn't drink coffee for skin health reasons. And I was really hoping that I'd notice many health benefits myself, mostly an improvement in my throat clearing without a major decrease in energy. How did this experiment go? You'll have to listen to find out!

To BCAA or not to BCAA? That is the question I see on vegan bodybuilding groups all over the internet. And it's about damn time I share my own opinion on the subject. So if you are a vegan looking to build some muscle, I highly suggest you give this one a listen! Not only am I sharing my own experience with the supplementation of BCAAs but also my own vast knowledge of amino acids in general and how their consumption can benefit or hinder your own vegan bodybuilding efforts. Enjoy!

For many of us, the idea of meal prep seems like a pretty overwhelming task. Especially when we're trying to think up ideas that are not just vegan but also high in protein and low in carbs / fat. Well, fear not, dearest podcast listeners! A solid vegan bodybuilding meal prep does NOT have to be scary or time consuming. It can be as simple as combining some basic plant-based staples that just happen to hit your macros beautifully. Yes folks, on this episode of the JOTB podcast, we're providing some tips and tricks on how to create quick and easy, high protein meals that will hopefully appeal to your whole family. So get out your knives and spatulas, vegan fit crew! And let the food prep begin!

After a recent friend breakup, I realized just how important it is to preserve our spiritual energy so that we can be the best versions of ourselves both inside and out. I'm sure we can all identify certain people in our lives who just seem to suck the energy right out of us. But then we can all agree that there are others we know who literally light up every room they enter with their warm, glowing, positive energy. But what about us? How do we boost our own good energy? Or better yet, how do we protect ourselves from taking on the dark, shitty energy of the negative people in our lives? Well, the Shorkey sisters are covering all of it on this episode of the JOTB podcast. Enjoy!

Well we've already covered periods, poops and perspiration on the past episodes. So naturally, it only made sense that we dedicate an entire podcast to bodily smells -- specifically, those emitting from our nether regions. I'm sure we've all heard that vegans taste better and drinking pineapple juice will make your secretions taste sweeter. But are there any scientific studies to actually back up these claims? Well you're in for a real treat, folks! Because the Shorkey sisters are here to debunk the funk as it relates to your junk! Now breathe it on in and enjoy the show!

To conclude our two-part anti-aging podcast series, we have scoured the internet for the best celebrity tips (according to Google) to help these stars (and now you) look and feel younger! And yes, they're all vegan friendly AND budget friendly! From superfood smoothies to cold water splashes, we're happy to share everything we've learned on reversing the clock from the hottest celebs in Hollywood. Enjoy!

Last week I celebrated my 39th birthday feeling pretty damn good about myself and where I'm at in life. Yet it sparked a lot of self-reflection. Mostly my fears around turning 40 and becoming less physically attractive as I age. And yes, the perfect time to discuss on the podcast. Apparently aging is such a hot topic, we're doing a special JOTB two-part series! Ooh-la-la! On this first episode, it's all about mind over matter, baby! We're delving into the mindset around aging -- the mental anguish that plagues many of us-- but also some tools and tricks to help you embrace every stage of life and the wisdom that comes with it.

It's been over a year since the start of the pandemic and we are STILL on full lockdown mode here in Ontario, Canada. It sucks. We're all irritated, depressed, stressed out, bored, stuck at home and without a whole lot motivating us to workout especially with gyms being closed. For many of us, we're just trying to get through each day, hoping for some light at the end of the tunnel. So let's cut ourselves some slack for now, shall we? And instead of being ridden with shame and guilt over gaining the "Quarantine 15" or spending copious amounts of money each week on Skip the Dishes and Uber Eats, let's dedicate an entire podcast to just a few small things we CAN do to at least FEEL somewhat healthy and not like a complete failure when it comes to your food and training. At least some things that have been helping me (Sam) get through.

You walk into the kitchen, open the cupboards and blankly stare. You then grab whatever is easy and accessible and mindlessly start plugging your face with it. We're all familiar with this scenario. Because we've all been guilty of BOREDOM EATING. And Lord knows we've done plenty of it amidst this pandemic. So what better topic to discuss on this episode of the JOTB podcast? And more importantly, why we eat out of boredom and how we can stop ourselves from doing it. Enjoy!

Tell me who among us does not yearn for rock hard buttocks that you could crush walnuts with if need be?! Well, as a bodybuilding coach, I I'd say that a "nice butt" is easily the second most sought after body part people hire me for (flat stomach being #1.) And I'm the first to admit that I LOVE having a big ol' booty that you can bounce a quarter off of. But sadly, the glutes are oftentimes the most difficult muscles to build. The good news, however, is that with a little knowledge in your back pocket (pun intended) you can absolutely sculpt the ass of your dreams. I built mine from scratch and this week on the podcast, I'm sharing how you too can add some mass to your ass. Enjoy!

Well HAPPY HOLIDAYS everyone! Yes, we’ve done a few holiday episodes already. And while the others have focused on AVOIDING too much holiday indulgence, this year we decided to center our thoughts around the aftermath that follows a major holiday hog fest. That’s right! We're talking to YOU if your intentions went right down the toilet this year. Perhaps you pounded back an obscene amount of baked goods and alcohol. Now what? Find out what kind of damage has actually been done to your body and what to do to prevent unwanted fat gain.

Ever notice how easy it is to feel deprived and miserable when you're on a strict "diet?" It's probably because you're completely fixated on losing pounds, dropping inches and deducting calories. Your whole focus is on something NEGATIVE aka "scarcity mentality." But when we can shift our mindset to one of GAINING rather than losing, the mental shift that can happen is pretty damn cool. And suddenly, "dieting" doesn't seem so brutal and restrictive after all. And that's precisely what we're discussing on this episode of the podcast! Yes folks, it's another mindful meathead episode all about the importance of embracing an "abundance mindset" especially when it comes to diet and nutrition. Enjoy!

Let's be real. No one likes mosquitos. Not even vegans. We ALL kill mosquitos. But isn't that a little hypocritical of us? Or what about the environmentalist vegans who EAT insects? Or the vegans who eat oysters and mussels because they apparently do not feel ANY pain?! These things just don't feel very "vegan" to me. Then again, it's a "grey area" topic I didn't understand very well. And clearly a topic we needed to explore to get the straight goods. And, well, who better to dive right in and confuse you even more than the Shorkey sisters? Enjoy.

Yes we're in the middle of a pandemic with travel restrictions in place worldwide. Nevertheless, we recorded this podcast all about staying on track with diet and exercise whilst traveling literally RIGHT BEFORE Covid hit. And despite not being able to go on our all-inclusive trip to Mexico this year (thanks a lot Covid) we figured we might as well share the episode anyway because hopefully we'll all be traveling again EVENTUALLY. And, well, I still have clients asking me how to eat and train when they're away from home (business trip, weekend getaway etc etc.) So whether you're going on a road trip, staycation or lucky enough to be going somewhere tropical, this episode's got you covered. From how to get enough plant-based protein at an all-inclusive to the best vegan bodybuilding foods to pack on a long plane ride, we've got all your travel questions and concerns covered.

Oh boy, do we ever have a special episode in-store for this week! It's THE PERIOD PODCAST! And we are covering all things menstruation from painful PMS symptoms and junk food cravings to menophiliacs aka the dudes who literally have a fetish for period blood. Get your barf bags ready! But more importantly, we are digging into the science behind our monthly cycles to determine if we actually do need more calories when we're menstruating and if we should give into those chocolate cravings the days leading up to good ol' Aunt Flo's visit. Ladies, you definitely need to listen. And gentlemen, you probably shouldn't (unless you're a menophiliac of course.) ;)

With Covid-19 unfortunately still hanging out in many cities across the globe, many of us are still stressed /depressed /tired /scared /anxious, you name it. And one mind/body response that has become increasingly difficult for many of us to manage is WILLPOWER. Let's be real: it ain't easy to muster up the self-control and self-discipline required to get those workouts done and healthy foods consumed. So on this episode of the JOTB podcast, we thought it appropriate to share our thoughts on how we can strengthen that willpower muscle and discuss the top 10 worst habits that most of us are guilty of doing (Shorkey sisters included.)

I know you've been losing sleep, excitedly awaiting the next episode of the JOTB Podcast! But truth be told, there's been radio silence because behind the scenes, it was a SHORKEY SISTER BATTLE ROYALE! Yup, we basically hated each other for the last two months and didn't know if we'd even be able to keep this podcast alive! But here we are. And thankfully we DID mend the fence. And as part of our therapy, we figured we might as well discuss this family feud on the podcast. So here we are, airing our dirty Shorkey sister laundry on air.

We really kept thinking this Covid-19 lockdown situation would end "any day now" then our podcasting efforts would resume "any day now" too. But alas, here we are, more than two months later, and still on effing lockdown. But I'll be damned if I have to avoid recording podcasts any longer! And what better topic to discuss than good ol' Coronavirus?! Like you're not already sick of talking about it. Believe me, we are too. But we did think that maybe you could use to hear our thoughts on this whole lockdown situation. And more importantly, enjoy some tips on how we deal with the stress of a pandemic and our suggestions for how you can stay both healthy and positive during these strange, strange times.

Would you describe your kitchen as "bright" and "fresh?" Well apparently that's how it should feel if you want to create a positive kitchen vibe that inspires you to cook healthy food! Yes, on this episode of the podcast, we are discussing how to de-clutter, freshen up and feng shui your kitchen space. And then we're sharing how long it's been since I (Sam) have had sex and which "Wiggles" character we would bang. Random episode? You bet! Still worth a listen? Hell yes.

Being a pro bikini competitor and having worked as a vegan trainer and nutrition coach for over seven years now, I definitely get asked the same exercise and nutrition questions ALL the time. So often that I've even created an "FAQ" document to reference for every time it happens. But I'm sick of copying and pasting that thing! So we thought why not make a podcast episode featuring some of the many FAQs I get asked? Brilliant idea, right? And no doubt, an informative podcast delving into everything from how do I prepare tofu to what is the best thing to eat post-workout. Yes, my meatless meathead brethren, this one's for you. Enjoy!

HOLY CRAP, IT'S 2020! That year flew by but I guess having a baby will do that to you. Nevertheless, I'm excited for what 2020 will bring. So much optimistic energy floating around these days, we thought it only necessary to wish everyone a happy new year and of course, discuss our own thoughts on "New Year resolutions" and any goals we have for the year ahead. It's a mini episode so give it a listen whilst you put in a 15-minute cardio session as part of your "New Year, New Me" protocol ;)

There aren't many books that I've read THREE times! In fact, I can only think of two. One is “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz and it's basically about the self-limiting beliefs we love to carry around that essentially rob us of happiness and instead, create suffering. This book has been such a game-changer for how I approach the various people and situations in my life. So what better topic to share and discuss on the podcast?! Yup, it's another "mindful meathead" episode! We're even delving into the psychology behind "Impostor Syndrome" -- another fun phenomenon I've personally battled. Enjoy!

I'll admit that I've always had a thing for bald men. I'll also admit that postpartum thinning hair SUCKS! Apparently sleep isn't the only thing a new mother loses after her baby is born... And so, what better (and timely) topic to address on the podcast than all things hair health and hair loss prevention?! That's right! It's "The Bald-Cast." And we're dishing on everything from supplements and topical treatments to wives tails and "cul-de-sacs."

Trick or treat, bitches?! Oh you're in for a real TREAT, boys and ghouls! It's Halloween of course. And we Shorkey sisters are ringin' in this Hollow's Eve with all kinds of terrifying tricks (and tips.) You might actually get sooooo scared listening that you won't be able to sleep tonight. But do still listen because we're covering all things VEGAN HALLOWEEN from candies and costumes to trick-or-treating and activism! MUAH-HA-HA-HA-HAAAAAA!!!

A podcast for all my meatless meatheads out there! Yup, we're covering all things recovery on this episode. From stretching and foam rolling to anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, you will never struggle to wash your hair or sit down on the toilet after a killer workout ever again! We're also giving away Performance Lab's pre-workout formula to one lucky Patreon fan and singing Led Zepplin. It doesn't get more "gym bro" than this!

I thought my new favourite mantra "energy flows where attention goes" was profound (and cheesy) enough to base an entire podcast around. But after recording this episode, we realized that it was essentially all about excuses. And more specifically, how to stop making excuses for not accomplishing what we really want in life. As a vegan trainer and nutrition coach, I definitely hear all kinds of excuses all the time as to why my clients can't follow through with their clean eating and workouts. So what better topic to delve right into on the podcast!? Enjoy!

Well it's our first podcast recording since the birth of my beautiful baby boy Harry! And what better topic to discuss than the MIRACLE OF LIFE!? Yes folks, we're sharing our very own (brutally honest and oh-so-different) pregnancy and childbirth experiences on this episode! The Shorkey sisters are back, baby! And we're talking 'bout babies, baby! Enjoy!

Anyone who knows anything about me knows just how OBSESSED I (Sam) am with BLOATING. (Or preventing being bloated I should say.) Yes, since immersing myself in the fitness world circa 2013, it's basically become my life's (self-absorbed) mission to avoid looking and feeling bloated at all costs! And this week on the podcast, I'm sharing all of my best tips, tricks, foods & supplements to help you listeners lose the water weight and confidently rock a bikini (or speedo) on the beach this summer! Here we go!

Well here's an episode that for once, Sarah might actually be the bigger "expert." And that's because she is one of very few "digital minimalists" that exist in 2019. Sarah does not own a smart phone nor does she have an Instagram account. And yet, I'm sure we all know someone who can't go to the bathroom without their iPhone in hand. Sidenote: eww. Yes, 'tis a timely topic that we've been wanting to address for a long time! Is checking your likes the new smoking? We've got all kinds of scary stats to share plus some tips on how to become a digital minimalist. Enjoy!

We all know how important sleep is for both our bodies and our minds. It is, after all, when our muscles repair themselves so we can get JACKED! Sadly though, the stresses and distractions of modern-day life and our non-stop, hectic lifestyles make it harder and harder to get a good night's sleep. Well we've got you and your zzzzzz's covered on this week's podcast! From figuring out your animal "chronotype" according to THE Sleep Doctor (Dr. Michael Breus) to our fave, all-natural sleep aids and technologies that will spark longer, more restful sleeps. It's ALL going down (like your head on a pillow) via this celebratory 50th episode of the JOTB podcast!

For those who haven't yet read my new juicy blog post or seen my half-naked instagram pic, I've got some BIG NEWS! Your beloved podcast host: Ms. "Jacked on the Beanstalk" is now sprouting her own little "beanie baby!" And nope, it was NOT planned hence why I've waited a solid seven months to spill these beans! If you're looking for an insightful, educational, information-packed podcast, then please skip this one. Although we do discuss ways to overcome shame AND perform an epic rendition of Creed's "With Arms Wide Open." But I fully admit there are no valuable takeaways from this episode so listen at your own discretion.

As a vegan coach, the #1 question I always get asked is "how to lose weight?" The answer might not be quick or easy but what better topic to address on this week's podcast than metabolism and more specifically, how to speed up metabolism and torch body fat!? From the best metabolism-boosting vegan foods to the fat-burning supplements that actually work, we're covering it ALL on this week's episode.

Happy Valentine's Day! And what a perfect day to discuss boners and orgasms! That's right! Not only are we sharing the history of this sexy holiday but we're also diving into the complex world of the female orgasm. PLUS the best foods men can eat to help prevent premature ejaculation AND erectile dysfunction. We're even doing a big VEGAN SEX PACK giveaway from Glyde America to one lucky podcast listener. It's all on this episode so don't miss it!

Are you guilty of turning your emotional problems into physical problems? There is obviously a HUGE link between our emotional state and our physical appearance and that's precisely what we're discussing on the podcast this week! Yes, it's another self-love episode (don't roll your eyes!) And we're sharing our best tips and "mental exercises" on how to face our deepest truths, stop stuffing down our emotions with food and actually start loving ourselves! Enjoy!

Happy holidays, vegan fit crew! Yes, 'tis the season for family, friends, cozy sweaters and a bottomless pit of food everywhere we turn. But who doesn't love this time of year?! We Shorkey sisters sure do! And we're using this episode to spread a little holiday cheer and share our top 10 tips for avoiding unwanted weight gain amidst the many holiday hog fests. And lucky you -- we're also singing TWO songs on this one (well, technically "caroling...") Now put on your Santa hat, gather 'round the Christmas tree and let's get feisty and festive, baby!

Finally a JOTB podcast episode for all you vegan and veg-curious parents! Yes, this week we're talking all things children and families with vegan mom extraordinaire Shoshana Chaim! If you're a hardcore podcast junkie, you might already know this vegan babe via her own podcast "The Plant Trainers" which she co-hosts alongside her husband Adam. Yes, Shoshana is joining us Shorkey sisters for an exclusive interview where we discuss everything from her own slow transition from meat eater to vegan to how she got her young kids on board and of course, some of her fave, kid-approved, healthy plant-based snacks and meals. A must-listen for any parent feeling scared or discouraged at the thought of transitioning their family to veganism. It can be done, folks!

This week, Oprah inspired me to record an entire podcast all about living with intention (thanks to her "Super Soul Conversation" with spiritual teacher Gary Zukav.) In this interview, they discussed the importance of intention awareness and how no matter what you do or say, there is ALWAYS an intention behind every thought and action. So we need to choose an intention that's based on love rather than fear in order to really live our best life possible. And it was this whole "power of intention" wavelength which then sparked me to go onto a classic Shorkey rant all about focusing more on self-DISCOVERY and less on self-IMPROVEMENT when it comes to making any kind of physical transformation. Yup, it's another mindful meathead moment with Sam(and plenty of gagging and eye rolling from Sarah.) Enjoy!

Have you always dreamed of entering a physique competition or wondered if you had what it takes to step on stage? Whether you're a vegan bodybuilding newbie or seasoned fitness competitor, this week's podcast is one you don't wanna miss. It's one of my most fun interviews yet-- featuring the lovely and vivacious Nadege Corcoran-- fellow Canadian and nationally-qualified vegan bikini competitor! Yes, this week's podcast is basically us two vegan babes shootin' the shit about all things prep life, fat loss, muscle building, self-confidence, diet and exercise. What more could you want from a vegan fitness podcast?! Enjoy!

This episode is for all the booze-loving babes out there. We all know that a glass of wine has its health benefits and probably isn’t going to make you fat. BUT regardless of the alcohol consumed, did you know that your body sees booze as a toxin and immediately stops digesting food to start getting rid of it?! And I think we can all admit that late night “drunchies” never end with a salad. Yes, this week we're covering all things ALCOHOL from how it affects weight loss to what makes wine and beer "vegan." Plus we're covering your best options when it comes to low-cal drinks and hangover cures. Enjoy!