Meet Barbara: a 62-year-old powerhouse of transformation and inspiration. In just 10 months, Barbara went from feeling sluggish and overwhelmed to reclaiming her vitality, shedding 45 pounds, and stepping confidently into the gym that was unfamiliar to her. Her story isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about redefining what’s possible at any stage of life.
As a busy business owner, world traveler, and devoted grandmother, Barbara’s days are full. Yet, she found the time to prioritize herself, embracing a program that combined strength training, nutrition, and mindset work. Along the way, she conquered menopause challenges, bid farewell to back pain, and discovered her love for weightlifting—all while becoming a role model for her family and others.
Barbara’s candid reflections are relatable for any woman navigating the complexities of midlife. Her journey is proof that age is just a number and that it’s never too late to feel strong, energized, and proud in your own skin. Whether you’re seeking motivation or practical advice, Barbara’s story will leave you believing, “If she can do it, so can I
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PART 1 Barbara’s journey, facing challenges, setting goals, embracing strength training, and navigating a new way of eating.
JEN: Thank you so much for joining me today, Barbara. Before we dive into the specifics of your incredible journey, I’d love to hear a bit more about your life before starting this program. You mentioned juggling a lot as a small business owner, a wife, and a grandma. Can you tell us a little more about how you were feeling physically and mentally before you made the decision to start your 12 Week Transformation? Were there any specific moments or challenges that made you realize something needed to change?
BARBARA: I started this program at 61, about 10 months ago. As a small business owner, I’m juggling a lot—my business, helping my husband, and being a grandma. But I wasn’t feeling good. I was sluggish, tired, and worried about my health. I knew I needed to lose weight, but more importantly, I wanted to feel better physically and mentally in this next phase of my life—without relying on medications or dealing with health issues.
I’ve had my share of stress, especially with menopause, which I’ve been going through for over 10 years. But once I committed, I pushed through and feel better now than I did in my younger years. It frustrates me that so many women are told it’s too late for them to make changes, but I’m proof that it’s not. If I can do it, anyone can. I wish I’d found Jen and this program years ago, but I’m so grateful I found it when I did. Now, people are always asking what I’ve been doing because I look and feel amazing—my skin is even glowing! It’s incredible what the right program can do.
CHALLENGES AND STARTING THE JOURNEY
JEN: I can definitely relate to what you’re saying, especially being a 55 year old female—so many women in midlife feel like it’s too late to make a change, especially with all the challenges that come with menopause. It’s inspiring to hear how you pushed through that and took control of your health. So, before you started the program, what were some of the biggest challenges you were facing? And what was your main motivation to take the leap and start your weight loss journey?
BARBARA: Before starting the program, I was active but struggled with weight gain, brain fog, and just not feeling like myself after early menopause. I tried so many programs, but nothing worked long-term. I knew I needed something that resonated with me, and that’s when I found you.
I was doing all the “right” things—swimming, cutting carbs—but still felt terrible with inflammation and weight issues. My main motivation was to be active with my grandkids and just feel better overall. The turning point came when you helped me set clear goals, create a vision, and gave me mental tools to stay focused. That mindset shift made all the difference.
I was looking for a holistic approach that truly fit my life. There’s so much out there, but nothing felt right until I spoke with you. I wanted a program that addressed the whole person—mind, body, and habits—not just diet and exercise. Once I realized this was the right fit, everything clicked.
SETTING GOALS
JEN: I love how you focused on finding something that fit your life and addressed everything—mind, body, and habits. It’s clear that mindset played a huge role in your journey. So, once you decided this program was the right fit, what were your initial goals? What did you hope to achieve when you started?
BARBARA: I set a goal to lose 45 to 50 pounds. And I’m proud to say I lost 45 pounds in about 9 months. But the real transformation goes beyond the number on the scale. I’ve built a lot of muscle, which means I’ve lost fat, too. I’m down 10 inches in my waist, 10 inches in my hips, and 4 inches in my thighs. I’ve dropped two dress sizes, two bra sizes, and my clothes fit and feel amazing. I’m more toned, especially in my legs, arms, and even my abs. I no longer feel like I have excess fat on me, which is honestly a huge win.
My main goal was to lose weight and feel better, but I also wanted a sustainable solution—a program I could stick with long-term, not just a quick fix. I was looking for something I could truly adopt as part of my lifestyle. Even now, 10 months later, I’m still committed, setting new goals, and excited to continue working with you to keep progressing. This isn’t just a one-time transformation; it’s become part of my life.
EMBRACING STRENGTH TRAINING
JEN: I love how committed you are, Barbara, and how you’ve embraced this as a lifestyle, not just a quick fix. Now, as you know, this program focuses on mindset, strength training, and nutrition. Let’s talk about strength training. Were you doing any strength training before joining the program, and how comfortable were you in the gym?
BARBARA: Before your program, I stuck to cardio and Pilates, avoiding the gym because I felt intimidated. I knew strength training was important, but it was a totally foreign concept to me. With your structured plan and feedback on my form through the TrueCoach app, I gained confidence, learned to use weights, and started seeing real changes—like definition in my arms. Now, I feel completely at ease in any gym, know exactly what machines and weights to use, and strength training is a regular part of my routine. That confidence has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
Even when I traveled, you were always there for support, helping me modify workouts based on what was available at the gym. You made it easy to stay on track, no matter where I was.
Honestly, mindset, strength training, and nutrition were all equally crucial to my transformation. I embraced each aspect and incorporated it into my life.
WAITING TO START
JEN: You’ve made strength training a regular part of your routine and how you’ve adapted, no matter where you are. That’s such a powerful shift.
I hear from many women who put off starting their nutrition or workout plans, thinking they’ll wait until after an event—like the holidays or a trip. I think they feel like it has to be “all or nothing” or that it’s too hard to commit leading up to something like that. What would you say to these women?
BARBARA: My advice is simple: just start. I was terrified before my trip, too. After five months on the program, I thought, “How am I going to stick with this while traveling?” But once I got started, I realized it was completely doable. I worked out when I could, and luckily, I was in places where I could swim and walk a lot. In the beginning, it’s easy to think you need everything to be perfect—your gym, your routine, your food scale. But the truth is, you don’t need everything to be ideal. The key is to take that first step, even when it feels overwhelming. You’ll figure it out, and it will feel so much more manageable than you expect.
I also felt so supported by you, Jen. You were always there to help me come up with strategies for success, whether it was adjusting my workouts or finding ways to stay on track with nutrition while traveling. Just committing to show up, no matter where I was, made all the difference. Having that ongoing support made it so much easier to keep going.
CALORIES + MACRONUTRIENTS
JEN: Absolutely, Barbara—taking that first step and committing, even when it feels overwhelming, is key. And having a coach who supports you with strategies, not excuses, makes all the difference. Now, let’s switch gears and talk about your nutrition plan. What was the lowest caloric intake you were on during your “cut phase,” where you’re in a slight caloric deficit to gradually lose body fat?
BARBARA: I think it was like 1450 during my cut phase.
JEN: Did you feel deprived when you’re on 1450 calories per day?
BARBARA: No, I never felt deprived. In fact, there were times I felt like I was eating more than enough. On strength training days, I was eating around 1600 calories, and I remember thinking, “I can’t even finish all these carbs!” But it was a process of self-discovery—learning how to balance my meals and understanding what worked best for my body. It wasn’t about restriction; it was about finding the right balance and learning to listen to my body’s signals.
JEN: Definitely. When you hit your goal and we slowly started to increase your calories to bring you into maintenance how did that feel? And what changes in your body are you noticing?
BARBARA: Now that I’m in maintenance, my caloric intake is around 1800 calories a day, which feels satisfying and gives me lasting energy. The biggest change has been breakfast—I now have 400-450 calories in the morning, and I look forward to it. It’s amazing how finding the right breakfast has made such a difference.
Seeing real muscle definition has been exciting. When you first increased my calories, I was hesitant—they felt like my “security blanket.” But with your guidance and the boost in strength training, I can really see the difference. The increase in carbs, which I was unsure about, is clearly working. It took some trust, but I can definitely feel the progress now.
What was most surprising is that as we increased my calories, my weight didnt change, but my inches in my waist and hips continued to drop. Very exciting.
JEN: Yes, indeed. Now that you’re moving into your build phase, where we’ll be gradually increasing strength and progressively overloading your exercises, we’ll also be slowly increasing your calories to 2200 (wink, wink). I know that might sound like a lot to some of the listeners, but it’s exactly what your muscles need to support strength gains and hypertrophy.
So, when we started, we increased your protein intake and carefully adjusted your carbs and fats—especially with your love of Italian food and all those healthy fats. How was this shift for you? Can you share how that process felt for you and how you navigated the learning curve of logging your food?
BARBARA: It was definitely a learning process, but I quickly figured out what worked for me. I made sure to incorporate enough protein in each meal, especially in the evenings, and spread it out throughout the day. With your guidance, I started eating four or five times a day, which made a huge difference. I also found plenty of plant-based protein options, and I always keep a protein snack in the car for when I’m on the go—that keeps me on track no matter what.
I love the Mediterranean diet, but I used to go a little overboard with olive oil. Now, I measure it out—just a teaspoon or tablespoon at a time. I still enjoy it, but moderation is key. The same goes for other healthy fats like avocado and nuts. This shift in managing fats was crucial in helping me lose weight and keep it off.
I’ve learned to pack my meals with vegetables, legumes, and beans. I get plenty of carbs, but I’ve realized they’re essential. For lunch, I usually have fish, like tuna salad, and for breakfast, I get 30-35 grams of protein from oats with protein powder—it’s been a game-changer. I can enjoy a nice piece of fish or chicken at dinner without feeling the need to overeat. It’s all about balance and making sure I’m fueling my body properly throughout the day.
JEN: By spreading out your meals, you’re giving your body a steady supply of protein throughout the day, which supports protein synthesis—the process that helps build and repair muscle. This helps with muscle recovery and strength, especially when combined with your workouts. Plus, having a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats at each meal helps stabilize your blood sugar levels, keeping your energy steady and preventing those crashes. Now, tell us—what does a typical day of eating look like for you? What’s your breakfast like, and what do you have for your mid-morning meal?
BARBARA: For breakfast, I pretty much have the same thing every morning because I love it. I mix my protein powder into gluten-free oatmeal, then add some fruit—usually blueberries or apple—and top it off with a tablespoon of chia seeds and flax. It’s the perfect combo for me. I don’t feel stuffed, but I’ve got a lot of energy to start my day. It just works.
For lunch, I’ll often have something like fish, chicken, or turkey, but I also like to switch it up with a veggie option, like a hearty minestrone or vegetable soup. I usually add some veggies on the side with a little olive oil and balsamic, and I’ve found this gluten-free buckwheat seeded bread that’s become my treat. It’s delicious!
In the afternoon, my third meal is usually a protein shake—sometimes a different flavor, just to keep it interesting. I’ll throw in some chia seeds or almond milk and froth it up for a nice little dessert. But if I’m craving something savory, I might grab a Chomps snack (Turkey jerky) and pair it with some gluten-free crackers or an apple. It’s quick, especially if I’m running around.
Then for dinner, I keep it pretty simple with a good protein—usually fish—and plenty of veggies. Now that I’ve started getting more carbs in, I’ll add sweet potato, and I’ll make a big batch to keep in the fridge. It’s so easy to just heat up, and it’s a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare.
PART 2 Navigating social situations, excuses vs strategy, Jens support, Mindset and impact on other areas of your life
JEN: You have shared with me that women have approached you and said “I just can’t give up my wine” or what ever it is that is the “thing” that they think they will have to give up. What do you tell these ladies?
BARABRA: How much do you want to feel better?
How committed are you to that? I mean, I love wine, but I went five months without a single glass. My friends would ask, “Did you get to drink?” And I’d say, “I chose not to.” Why would I drink when I’m putting all this effort into something I’m so committed to? When I was focused on losing weight, I didn’t want to sabotage that progress. I knew that one drink could show up on the scale the next day, or I wouldn’t feel as good.
So, I’d tell anyone in this situation—there’s no room for excuses. You have to be all in. 100%. Whether you’re training for a marathon or working toward a goal with a program like this, when you’re fully committed, you’ll find success. If you’re only giving it 70%, but then still sneaking in those cocktails or indulging in desserts, you’re not giving yourself the chance to succeed as quickly. It’s going to take longer, and honestly, I’m not sure it would even work at all if you’re not fully invested. You can’t expect to feel 100% great when you’re only putting in 70% effort.
I never felt deprived, even though we went to events, holidays, and parties. It wasn’t like I was avoiding social situations. I’d have my sparkling water, and if they had veggies out, I’d go for that. Maybe I’d skip the dip, but I’d focus on the things that were in line with my plan. I never felt like I was missing out because I was so focused on the bigger picture. The journey I was on felt so much more important than the short-term indulgence—whether it was alcohol or fried foods. Those things just weren’t part of my path anymore, and still aren’t.
As we head into the holidays, I don’t feel that pressure to overindulge like so many people do. You know how it goes—people eat way too much, then feel awful, and by January, they’re starting from scratch. I think the key is to plan ahead. You can decide to have that glass of wine or a treat, but you don’t have to overdo it. You can still enjoy the moment, connect with people, and stay true to your goals without feeling like you’re missing out.
BARBARA: You know, I hear a lot of people say things like, “I want to be able to enjoy my wine,” or “I want to go out and have fun, or have dessert once in a while.” And I get it—I do. But at some point, that’s just an excuse. And honestly, I don’t buy into that anymore. If you’re really serious about making changes and getting the results you want, you have to be all in. You can’t just dip your toe in and expect to see major shifts. The rewards are there, but you have to commit 100%. The excuses are like little voices in your head—”It’s okay, just one more drink,” or “I deserve that treat.” But you know what? Those voices start to fade when you focus on the bigger picture. You have to make the plan your priority, and when you do, those voices get quieter. The more you stick with it, the stronger your commitment gets. And that’s when the magic happens—when your desire to feel good and succeed becomes louder than the excuses.
JEN: I totally agree. And then, I know what a lot of people are thinking next—”But I don’t have time for this,” or “It’s going to be too hard to stay 100% committed.” What would you say to that?
BARBARA: I hear that all the time. And to be honest, that’s just a fear-based mindset. We all have time for the things that matter. You find the time for what’s important to you. Yes, it might feel tough at first, especially if you’re juggling a busy life, but once you get into the routine and start seeing the changes—more energy, better sleep, strength—it becomes second nature. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent. And the truth is, when you make this a priority, you will find the time. It’s just a matter of shifting your focus and realizing that the payoff is worth every bit of effort.
BARBARA Well, those are excuses too. It’s not too difficult. It’s not you have the time. You have the time in your day. You have 10 minutes in your day to write down your macros you have. You have the you have. You’re going shopping for groceries, you have time to choose the right things to bring home. You have. I mean, I feel like it’s, that’s, that’s a big I mean, obviously I’m, you know, there’s people that have a lot less. I mean, they, you know, they’re juggling a lot. And this other gal that’s on the program, that’s my big inspiration, and she has all these kids and and, you know, she has her own business. I mean, I heard that, I was like, wow, she has the time. I mean, if she has the time, anybody has the time, and
COACHING SUPPORT
JEN You know, one thing I really want to emphasize for the listeners is that I’m here to support you 100%. I’m fully invested in your success, and I think it’s important for people to know that when they commit to giving their best, they’re not doing it alone. I’m right there with them, every step of the way. And I know that when you first hear, “You need to give 100%,” it can feel intimidating—like, “Am I really ready for that?” Can you talk a bit about how that felt for you when you first heard that, and what made you decide to go all in?
BARBARA You know, it’s not just that you give us 100%, you give us 150%. You’re really there for us. And I think that’s the difference. Like, I always knew I could count on you—whether it was a text asking how I was feeling, especially when I was in the cut phase. There were times when I’d think, “Oh, no! I have to answer to Jen now!” But it wasn’t in a bad way—it was more like, “Okay, I’ve got this. Jen’s got my back.” And I think that’s the thing that really kept me going.
Honestly, I couldn’t have done this without you. There’s no way. The support, the guidance, the knowledge you bring—it’s been a game-changer for me. My sister actually asked me just the other day, “Could you have done this without Jen?” and I told her, “Absolutely not.” It would’ve been impossible.
There were definitely moments of frustration, days when I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted, or when the scale didn’t reflect all the hard work I was putting in. And during those times, just knowing you were there, checking in and offering your support, made all the difference. It was like, “Okay, I’m not alone in this. I’ve got Jen with me, and we’ll figure it out.”
In the beginning, I needed more hand-holding, and you were there for that. But now, it feels more like we’re on this incredible journey together. You’re leading the way, but it’s also a lot of self-discovery for me. You’re guiding me, but I’m learning things about myself that I never expected—and that’s been such a powerful part of the process.
JEN Looking back to when you first started and reflecting on your journey, how did the consistent support and accessibility I provided, especially during those early challenging days, impact your confidence and commitment to this process?
BARBARA Absolutely, I always felt your support 100%. In the beginning, it was a bit overwhelming with so much to learn, but breaking it down piece by piece made it manageable. Anytime I had questions, they were answered clearly, helping me navigate the process and build confidence as I learned.
MINDSET
JEN: It’s been amazing to see your growth and excitement throughout this journey, especially as it goes beyond just weight loss and transforms other areas of your life. Can you share some of the key mindset shifts or ‘aha’ moments you experienced along the way?
BARBARA: My biggest ‘aha’ moment came early on, especially after reading The Big Leap. It helped me confront the excuses and doubts I had about myself and shift my mindset to, ‘I can do this.’ That realization was transformative. I started giving myself credit for creating habits, staying focused, and truly committing to the journey.
Before this, I lacked confidence, especially with my history of failed diets and setbacks. But as I stuck to my macros, showed up at the gym, and stayed consistent, my confidence grew. Success felt strange at first, especially after past struggles, but over time, I began to embrace it.
The most rewarding part wasn’t just the weight loss or physical changes—though those were great—but how good I felt overall. Waking up energized, feeling stronger, and hearing others notice my progress was amazing. Ultimately, it’s the feeling of wellness and pride in myself that means the most.
IMPACT ON OTHER AREAS OF YOUR LIFE
JEN: Beautifully said. That leads perfectly into my next question: how has this journey impacted other areas of your life beyond the physical changes?
BARBARA: I feel more positive overall, with so much more energy and drive. Spending time with my grandson is a joy now—I can keep up with him and do things I never thought I could before. I feel younger, more vibrant, and honestly, better than I did even in my 40s. At 62, it feels like I’ve turned back the clock by 20 years, and that realization is incredible.
The physical changes are nice—dropping sizes, finding my waist again, and noticing new biceps—but it’s the deeper changes that matter most. Feeling strong, capable, and truly alive every day is something I never expected. Each small ‘aha’ moment, whether it’s how I feel waking up or seeing a little progress, all adds up. It’s like finding a whole new version of myself, and that’s priceless
PART 3 Misconceptions regarding weight loss, ongoing process, next goals, advice for someone just starting out, doubting journey is never finished – ongoing process and key takeaways
MISCONCEPTIONS REGARDING WEIGHT LOSS
JEN: So what we’ve touched upon this earlier, but just for some general advice, what common misconceptions about weight loss or fitness? Would you like to address to the audience?
BARBARA: I think one of the biggest misconceptions, especially for women, is relying too much on aerobic exercise. I used to focus solely on that, thinking it was the key, but it’s not enough. Strength training is so important, and yet many women shy away from it, often sticking to classes or focusing on burning calories. Meanwhile, the guys are in the weight section, building strength—and that’s where women need to be, too. Strength training changes everything, from how your body feels to how it performs.
There’s also so much conflicting information out there, which can leave people feeling lost. Add to that the growing trend of relying on weight-loss medications. While they may have a place for some, they’re often seen as a quick fix. But real transformation isn’t easy—it’s about putting in the work, and that’s where the reward is. Hard work builds not just your body but your confidence and sense of accomplishment. Don’t fear the effort—it’s what makes the journey so powerful and fulfilling.
NEXT GOALS
JEN: What are your future goals now that you’ve achieved success in your weight loss journey?
BARABRA: Well, yes, I mean,It’s been a journey of growth and change, and I still feel like there’s so much more I can do. I want to keep getting stronger, more defined, and yes, build more muscle. I know there’s still fat I can burn off, but more than that, I want to keep refining my body and my health. This isn’t just a phase—it’s a lifelong commitment to feeling good in my own skin, staying active, and maintaining my strength as I get older.
What’s been incredible is that I don’t have any back pain anymore. That, in itself, is a huge win. I can move with ease now, and it makes a world of difference. I also know I have to keep working at it, because I want to maintain my balance, my flexibility, and that sense of fluidity in my movements. As I get older, I know how important it is to keep that going—to feel like I can move through life without limitations.
I had a moment recently that really struck me. We were traveling to the East Coast to see my grandson, and I was on the plane, walking down that narrow aisle to the bathroom. I’ve always thought of myself as being a pretty average size, but I realized that I used to feel bigger in those kinds of situations. I would feel crowded, like I was constantly squeezing past people or trying to make myself smaller. But this time, as I moved down the aisle, I couldn’t help but notice how small I felt in that space. There was so much room for me to move through, and I could do it with such ease. It might sound like a silly thing, but it was such a powerful, unexpected moment for me. It was like my body was finally aligning with how I wanted it to be—strong, flexible, and able to navigate the world with ease. It was a reminder that every little change adds up, and that the work I’ve put in is paying off in ways I didn’t even anticipate.
I want to keep feeling like that—light, strong, and capable. It’s not just about how I look; it’s about how I feel, how I move, and how I live.
I want my grandson to remember me as someone strong and active. When we went to Italy, I was able to run around with him on the beach, chasing him in the water, collecting seashells, and just playing without feeling held back. That was my goal— to be fit and lean, to have the energy to be present with him in those moments.
I can get up and down off the floor quickly, grab him when he needs me, even carry him for a little while. It’s the little things that matter. I want him to look back and remember a grandmother who was vibrant and full of life, not the person I used to be. That’s what keeps me going. It’s not just about me; it’s about the memories we’re building together.
JEN: A strong, healthy, vital grandma.
BARBARA: Super Nana.
JEN: Where has your focus shifted from the beginning till now to 10 months later?
BARBARA: Oh, well, my focus has shifted from just losing weight to building strength and toning my body. In the beginning, I was solely focused on shedding pounds, but now it’s about refining my muscles and feeling strong. Seeing the results of my strength training is incredibly exciting—it’s a whole new level of progress.
ADVICE FOR SOMEONE STARTING OUT
JEN: What advice would you give to someone just starting their weight loss journey?
BARBARA: If you’re thinking about starting this journey, my advice is to choose something that inspires you, something that really matters to you—whether it’s just to feel better or something more specific. For me, having that clear vision made all the difference. It gave me focus, especially in the beginning when it felt like a big change. But once I committed, everything started to fall into place.
The most important thing I can say is: trust the process. It’s easy to doubt yourself, to think it’s too hard or that you’re too busy. But honestly, it’s not as hard as you think. It’s challenging, yes, but in a good way. And the results—physically, emotionally—are worth every bit of effort. The key is to be all in. When you listen to Jen’s podcasts, read her materials, or join a session, take it all in. This is for you. This is your time, the time in your life when you’re not running on empty for everyone else. It’s your turn to prioritize yourself. Don’t let anything, or anyone—including your own doubts—get in the way.
For me, it was a game-changer. This is the first time in my life I’ve truly felt like I was doing something for me—no guilt, no distractions. Even my husband recognized how important this was to me and made space for me to focus on it. He knew my workouts were a non-negotiable, and he supported me in that.
And here’s the thing: make this your number one priority. Be all in. This isn’t something you can do half-heartedly and expect to see results. Commit, be diligent, and stick to it, because when you do, the payoff is beyond what you can imagine.
Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jen if you ever feel lost or unsure. She’s there for you—whether it’s a quick text or a Zoom call—she will help you stay on track and break things down into manageable steps. It’s okay if you feel overwhelmed, but just keep going. Jen’s got your back, and you’ve got this.
If you invest the time and effort, you’ll reap the benefits. So don’t cheat yourself out of what you’re capable of achieving. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
DOUBTING
JEN: Thank you for sharing that. Just to clarify, when you talk about seeing this as a challenge, what you’re really saying is that it’s not about the program being hard in a way that feels impossible. It’s about how you approach it—with the mindset of taking on something positive, something that you know you can handle because you are smart, capable, and ready to rise to the occasion. You’re not just doing the program, you’re embracing it as a way to grow, to show yourself what you’re truly made of.
And one last question for you—there are women out there who might be thinking, “Well, that’s Barbara. She can do it, but I can’t.” Maybe they feel like they’re not strong enough, or they don’t have what it takes. What would you say to those women? How can they find the courage to believe in themselves?
BARBARA: Honestly, I think that’s just a big excuse. It’s a story we tell ourselves to avoid the discomfort of stepping outside our comfort zone. But the truth is, anyone can do this. It’s not about climbing Mount Everest or solving the world’s problems. It’s not rocket science. All you’re being asked to do is commit to a program, follow through, and show up for yourself 100%.
Think about it—there’s been a time in your life, somewhere, when you’ve committed to something fully, 100%. Maybe it was a job, a relationship, or a goal you set for yourself. Remember how that felt? The sense of pride, the sense of accomplishment? You’ve done it before, and you can do it again. It’s about deciding that you’re worth the effort.
The truth is, a lot of these doubts and excuses come from past experiences where we’ve tried and fallen short. And that can make us question if we can ever succeed. But failure doesn’t mean you can’t do it—it just means you haven’t gotten there yet. It’s part of the process. But if you commit, really commit, you will succeed. You will see the results, and you will feel the transformation, inside and out. Don’t let the fear of failure hold you back. You’re capable of so much more than you realize.
JEN: I completely understand that feeling—so many women hesitate because they’ve tried before and felt like they didn’t succeed. The fear of what if I fail again? can be so overwhelming. But here’s the truth: the steps are there, and they work. The key is committing to them, trusting the process, and following through. As Barbara shared, it’s all about that initial commitment. Once you push past that early stage and build the foundation, it starts to feel less like effort and more like a natural part of your life. It becomes something you do without thinking, a lifestyle, not a struggle.
And that’s exactly what happened with Barbara. She committed fully for the first three months, and from there, it just flowed. Now, almost a year later, she’s still thriving—because when you stick with it and let it become part of your rhythm, it becomes easier, more intuitive. So, if you’re wondering if you can keep going—you can. It gets easier, and the rewards come in ways you can’t even imagine yet. It’s all about taking that first step and trusting that the rest will follow.
ONGOING PROCESS
JEN: You’re such an inspiration, and I love that it’s not about ‘before and after’ photos for you—it’s about the ongoing journey. You’ve embraced the process, and it’s incredible to see your excitement as you hit milestones and then immediately say, ‘Okay, Jen, what’s next? Let’s set new goals for the next three months.’ It’s clear that you’re not just focused on the destination but truly enjoying the growth and transformation along the way. I have no doubt you’ll keep pushing forward and achieving amazing things.
BARABRA: Exactly, because it’s never really ‘done.’ This journey isn’t about reaching an end point and going back to old habits or an old lifestyle—it’s about evolving. Once you start feeling stronger, healthier, and more confident, you don’t want to stop. You want to keep building, getting stronger, gaining more definition, and pushing yourself to new levels. It’s a lifelong process, and that’s what makes it so powerful and rewarding—it becomes who you are, not just what you do.”
JOURNEY IS NEVER TRULY FINISHED
BARBARA: As you’ve said, this journey is never truly “finished.” It’s ongoing, and now the focus shifts to refining things like increasing your macros, continuing strength training, and honing your technique—while making sure you’re feeling healthy, strong, and fit.
And above all, trust the process. Trust that strength training is key, even on the days when you’re unsure or when an exercise feels challenging. Jen is always there to help, ready to modify things if something doesn’t feel right or if you’re dealing with physical limitations. There were times I felt uncertain or incapable, but Jen always had a solution, offering personalized adjustments that kept me going. It’s not a one-size-fits-all program—everything Jen creates is tailored to you, meeting you where you’re at and helping you move forward at your own pace. That’s what makes it so effective and empowering.
JEN: Absolutely, and that’s the beauty of it—if something isn’t working, we make the necessary tweaks until it does.
Barbara, I can’t thank you enough for your time today. Your willingness to share your story is so inspiring. You dove in fully, and now, 10 months later, you’re a living example of what’s possible. It’s amazing to see how far you’ve come. My hope is that anyone listening feels empowered to take that first step, no matter where they’re starting from. It’s not about working with me—it’s about finding the courage to move, to commit to yourself. If Barbara can do it, you can too. This is your time. Just start.
BARBARA: f I can do it at 62, after dealing with inflammation and extra weight, anyone can do it. I always say that—it’s not about being perfect, it’s about committing, believing in yourself, and following the steps. You’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
That moment on the plane really stuck with me. I remember thinking, Should I share this? And I’m so glad I did, because it was such a small, yet profound realization. We’ve all been there—walking down those narrow aisles, feeling like we’re squeezing through. But this time, I felt different. I had all this space, I moved so easily. It was a simple thing, but for me, it was a powerful reminder of how far I’ve come. Moments like that are everything—they show you that change is happening, even in the little things.
JEN: Barbara, thank you. Thank you for saying yes to this interview and sharing your journey. You are truly an inspiration.
BARNARA: Thank you, Jen.
Barbara’s Advice to You
- Start Now: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Begin where you are and trust the process.
- Commit 100%: Success comes from showing up fully. Half-efforts yield half-results.
- Focus on the Bigger Picture: Celebrate how you feel, not just how you look.
- Embrace the Journey: Each challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger, inside and out.
Barbara’s story is proof that it’s never too late to transform your life. Her journey inspires us all to prioritize our health, embrace challenges, and believe in the power of consistent effort.
Should you have any questions or wish to explore my coaching services, please feel free to reach out—I would be delighted to support you.
You can get more information on my new programs by clicking the link below:
NEW NUTRITION COACHING PROGRAMS
+ 5 Day Reset
+ 21 Day Cleanse
+ 12 Week Transformation
