Balance Lifestyle Podcast: Recent Episodes
Carmen Exler & Ash Jones
Balance is your Lifestyle Podcast, hosted by Carmen and Ash, two busy mums passionate about health, fitness, relationships & parenting @balance_lifestylepodcast
What a year it has been. I look forward to another great year with my listeners in 2024. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
On today's episode Carmen and Kylie talk about their experience at Sydney Marathon, Carmen's first marathon, 42.2km! The first part of the episode covers the conversation the night before, followed by the race recap (22:04) and some extras. This episode was recorded on a phone in Sydney, it is not studio quality however it gets better as the episode goes on. Video diary mentioned can be found on Carmen's Instagram.Carmen @the.fat2fit.mamaKylie @kylieosborne88Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast
In today's episode of Rhapsodic, Carmen is joined by her husband Daniel for a casual Q&A session. They're here to chat about Carmen's personal journey from losing 60kg to training for the Sydney Marathon (42.2km), all from Daniel's point of view. They're diving into questions from listeners, chatting about why Carmen went for weight loss surgery, the highs and lows of her journey, and the hard work it took to stick to healthy habits. And since this episode is a bit on the longer side, we've sorted all the questions and added time stamps. So, if you're looking for something specific, you can jump right to that part.
02:16 How do you stay so optimistic, what made you finally get into running and how do you find time with 3 young children? 07:34 Was Daniel supportive of the idea of weightloss surgery (WLS) in the start? 09:14 Did it go as Daniel expected? 11:00 What was the hardest part of the journey for each of you and Daniel? 14:08 How do you feel the big change has impacted your relationship, your routines and your goals as a couple? 18:25 What is Daniel the most proud of through this whole journey? 19:23 Even though you’ve lost the weight, do you still struggle mentally? 20:50 What are 2-3 highlights from your journey that stand out or which you are most proud of? 24:56 The failed efforts which led me to have the surgery and the days leading up to going under the knife. 33:26 What did you learn about yourself through the process and what motivated you through difficult days? 36:40 Do you still care about the number on the scales? 39:46 Were there any complications with your surgery? 41:14 Would you do it (WLS) again? 45:14 Did you ever want to give up in the early stages of the process before seeing results? 49:48 How is Daniel supporting you now? 51:05 What does Daniel believe is the biggest change physically, mentally and socially? 54:41 What was the hardest day in your fitness journey? 57:04 Why are you doing a marathon? 01:02:15 Have any of your friendships changed since weight gain or weightloss?
Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama Facebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
On today's episode of Rhapsodic Podcast, Carmen is fortunate to have Xenia and Simon join her as guests. They bravely share Xenia's personal journey of overcoming an abusive marriage and finding happiness with Simon in Australia. Throughout the episode, we delve into the challenging process of breaking free from control and abuse, and how Xenia, along with her four children, managed to escape and build a new, joyful life.
What makes Xenia and Simon's story even more inspiring is their commitment to helping others in similar situations. Together, they have founded a charity in 2010, AT THE ARK, dedicated to supporting families who have experienced child sexual abuse and domestic violence. Through their charity work, they aim to provide resources and assistance to those in need.
Tune in to this episode as we explore Xenia's remarkable journey, the resilience of her family, and the positive impact they are making to support others facing similar challenges. It is an episode filled with hope, strength, and the belief that no one deserves to suffer in silence.
At The Ark - www.attheark.org.au
Marathon Fundraiser
Xenia's website - www.xeniaschembri.com
Little Bear Book Series
Broken to be Beautiful book
Instagram - @at_the_ark_fundraising_gala
Podcast - @rhapsodic.podcast
Carmen - @the.fat2fit.mama
Facebook Group - Rhapsodic Podcast
In today's episode of Rhapsodic, Carmen interviews Ryan, an F45 coach with an inspiring weight loss journey. Ryan shares his incredible transformation from an obese sales manager weighing 148kg to becoming a marathon runner and F45 coach. Their conversation delves into his experiences at F45, how he manages to balance his family, work, and fitness life, as well as his insights on overcoming failure in his fitness and running journey. Ryan's ability to uplift and motivate others is evident as he shares how he has made a positive impact on people's lives through his journey.
Ryan @ryanfernance Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast Facebook group: Rhapsodic Podcast
In today's episode, Carmen interviews Dr Kylie Anderson, who is the business owner of FOHER Co, the very first women's specific triathlon apparel brand in Australia. During their conversation, they delve into how Kylie manages to balance her training for an Ironman event, running her successful business, and being a single mother. Furthermore, Kylie sheds light on her personal experience with perimenopause, which is a stage in women's health that often gets ignored. I hope you enjoy today's episode. Kylie @hellofredbird @foherco Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast Facebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
Welcome to a brand new episode of Rhapsodic with your host, Carmen! In today's episode, we are joined by a very special guest, Renee Bennett – a knowledgeable teacher with over 20 years of experience, an author, a parent to a teenager and young adults, and the host of The Girl Next Door podcast. Together, Carmen and Renee will delve into the topic of intentional parenting at every stage, offering valuable insights and tips for parents to implement in their daily lives. Whether you have a young child or a grown-up child, this episode promises to provide you with something valuable, so make sure to tune in and join the conversation with Carmen and Renee on Rhapsodic.
Renee @girlnextdoor.podcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast
Facebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
Welcome to today's episode of Rhapsodic Podcast. Carmen is excited to have Kimberly with her as our special guest. Kimberly is an author of a children's book called "The Moon Looks Like Cheese," this book helps children grieve the loss of a loved one, or deal with loved ones who move far away. Kimmy is a South African teacher living in America and a loving mother to a one-year-old. I hope you enjoy hearing more about her journey as a writer and the inspiration behind her book, which is available in Australia via Amazon.Kimberly @kimberly_jordaan_authorIllustrations @angeliquebouwerdesignsEditor @nicole.bouwerCarmen @the.fat2fit.mama Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast Facebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
In the latest episode of Rhapsodic Podcast, Carmen candidly shares her experience of decluttering amidst the chaos of motherhood. As a mum of three young children, her house was once cluttered and disorganised. However, Carmen has finally found a way to keep her home tidy and streamlined, and is now passionate about helping anyone looking for tips to keep their house tidy and clutter-free. This episode marks Carmen's inaugural solo episode on the show, and she is both excited and nervous to share her insights with her listeners. Be sure to tune in to discover Carmen's tried-and-tested strategies for keeping a home clutter-free in the midst of a busy family life.
Book mentioned "Declutter your life - Gill Hasson"
Podcast mentioned "Declutter your chaos"
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Podcast @rhapsodic.podcast
Carmen has a special guest joining her - the talented and experienced runner, Zac, who is also her running coach from Overlap. Zac has pushed his limits and completed an impressive range of distances, including the epic 102km ultra trail run, Gone Nuts, in Tassie. He shares his experience on this incredible run where he placed 2nd. Together, they dive into helpful tips and advice for newcomers embarking on their running journey, while also delivering relatable conversations for seasoned runners. You won't want to miss this episode, perfect for your next long run, so lace-up and tune-in to elevate your running game!
Zac @overlap.crcCarmen @the.fat2fit.mamaPodcast @rhapsodic.podcastFacebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
In this episode, Carmen is joined by Kylie, a hard-working mother of two young children under the age of four. Despite her busy schedule, Kylie has remained focused on a long-term goal of running an ultra marathon of 50km. Through dedication and sacrifice, she has trained tirelessly to achieve this remarkable feat. Tune in as Kylie shares her inspiring story of perseverance and determination to accomplish her dreams.Kylie @kylieosborne88Carmen @the.fat2fit.mamaPodcast @rhapsodic.podcastFacebook Group: Rhapsodic Podcast
In the first official interview episode of Rhapsodic Podcast, Carmen is joined by Nat from Your Local Nutrition Hub in Upper Coomera on the Gold Coast. Nat has a background in the nutrition and medicine field and is passionate about educating people on the importance of making healthy food choices. Nat's Local Nutrition Hub is famous for it's Loaded Teas and Meal Replacement Shakes, which are packed with vitamins, minerals, high protein, and low sugar to help you lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle.Nat @your_local_nutrition_hubCarmen @the.fat2fit.mamaPodcast @rhapsodic.podcastFacebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725
Introducing RHAPSODIC Podcast hosted by Carmen!
The Lifestyle and Fitness podcast where I explore the meaning of living life to the fullest.
RHAPSODIC speaks to the idea of being extravagantly emotional and enthusiastic about your life. It's about finding joy, passion and purpose in everything you do.
Enjoy the trailer
Don't miss out on our latest episode, "The End of Balance?" where we discuss some major changes. In this episode, Carmen bids farewell to Ash and they talk about what's next in Ash's busy life. Furthermore, Carmen gives insights on the upcoming rebranding of Balance, sharing her plans for the new name and exciting details for the new podcast. Tune in for the full episode to catch the trailer and be the first to know about our big announcement!
On today's episode Carmen chats with Jaime and Katie from The Long Haul Co, about their natural energy + vitamin drink. They chat everything from starting a business with family, choosing the ingredients for their products and launching a startup company. They generously supplied our listeners with a discount code below.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
@thelonghaulco
www.thelonghaulco.com.au
Discount code balance10
Have you ever had dreams that scare you? Or a voice inside your head telling you to think rationally about your vision for the future, leading you to dismissing what you really want as 'just another silly idea'. On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat about the power of mood boards, manifesting and previous big goals and dreams that is now their everyday life. Minds blown.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725/
Get ready to feel inspired to take action and chase your dreams. Today Carmen chats with Janessa, owner of Satis Studio.
The ego will tell you any seductive story to have you buy into it's illusion.
“That’s for other people, not for you”.
“Play small, then no one will judge you.”
“Who are you to think you can dream that big?”
But the truth is, you are not your thoughts, you’re not your emotions, and you’re certainly not what you do (or don’t do).
Learn how to upgrade your identity with Coach and Mentor, Janessa, so you can achieve the seemingly impossible.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Janessa @ignitebyjanessa
Satis Studio @satis.studio
You can apply for Janessa's online coaching and mentoring with this link:
https://e07vf5bygrc.typeform.com/to/UAf1wiXZ?typeform-source=linktr.ee
On today's episode Carmen and Ash have a chat about the importance of routine in their everyday life. They discuss small changes they have made which has made big changes in their family life. Carmen also shares some information about deliberate cold exposure, after doing some research into the health benefits of ice baths. We recommend having a fitness or health professional present when attempting an ice bath as there are risks involved.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Welcome back to Balance Lifestyle Podcast! It's a new year. Carmen and Ash have a quick catch up and discuss some achievements, goals and challenges they have faced as we enter another year.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
On today's episode Carmen chats with a returning guest, Greg Morris (S1E4), owner of Gemini Health and Nutrition in Ormeau, Gold Coast. They chat about supplements and how to use them for your specific goals and needs. Feel free to reach out to Greg via Instagram and remember to use his generous discount code, both online and in store.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Greg @ghnormeau
geminihealth.com.au
Discount code Balance10
This week Carmen chats with Dan Salter, the Gold Coast Coffee Guy from NOEGO Espresso Lounge and Roastery in Ormeau. They discuss the wonderful health benefits of coffee in general and free caf, caffeine free coffee.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
The Well Being Bean on Spotify
On today's episode Carmen and Ash record an episode together - in person, in the same state! It was so nice, after a year of being online friends, who met on Instagram and have a podcast together (so random we know!!) we finally got to meet!
It's a quick casual chat to introduce season 2 and our plans for the podcast!
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @life_with_ashy
www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725/
On today's episode Carmen and Ash have a chat about the year that has been, since embarking on this health and fitness journey. This episode is not just about the past, we share some exciting news and an update about the future of this podcast.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725/
This week Carmen chats with her F45 coach, Jamie-Lee. They chat about the benefits of health and nutrition on your mental health. Jamie-Lee used her knowledge from being a coach and certified nutritionist, to create a lifestyle which allowed her to write her own health pathway and not let genes determine her health.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Jamie-Lee @elevate.coaching
This week we bring you a double episode as part of the Birth Stories Mini Series.
In this episode Carmen and Ash chat with Kylie about her eventful birth experiences with both her girls. She had an ideal birth in mind and neither went to plan, in the slightest. We won't give any spoilers, go listen for yourself. Kylie is a return guest, from our very popular parenting chat on episode 2.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
This week we bring you a double episode as part of the Birth Stories Mini Series.
In this episode Carmen chats with Jade about her 10 pound baby, c-sections, VBAC, all natural birth, you name it, Jade has probably done it. With Jade's youngest, she was cared for by midwife Judy, who we had on last week for episode 17. She is a busy mum of four boys and runs a small business doing newborn and family photography.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Jade @jadereadphotography
On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat with midwife Judy. She shares with us insights and stories from her 30 years of being a midwife and how it ultimately saved her life. During our discussions we talk about cancer and stillbirth, listener discretion is advised.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
On today's episode Carmen and Ash answer questions they received on their Instagram account and NGL link. A quick way to get to know your hosts a bit better and sit in on a conversation with mates. We host Q&A's once a month, so make sure to join the Facebook group or follow our Instagram account to get involved.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725/
This week Carmen chats with ultra athlete Elle about her journey from morbidly obese 184kg, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, unable to walk 100m without a rest, to completing 9 full Ironman events, multiple 70.3 half Ironman events and even participating in Ultraman! Get ready be be inspired!!
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Elle @elle_goodall
On today's episode Carmen chats with Ash and her sister Sarah, to tell the story of how their sister Nicole was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and sadly passed away. They are advocates for knowing the early signs to look for, since it went undetected for too long with Nicole.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Helpful resources
https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/page/96/support-groups
https://www.canteen.org.au
This week Carmen chats with psychotherapist Merie Burton, about ways to manage anxiety and stress in every day life. Everyone experiences stress and anxiety at different levels, this episode has some great tips and resources for the first step to getting it under control.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Merie Burton merieburton.com.au
www.facebook.com/merieburtonpsychotherapy
On today's episode Carmen and Ash answer questions they received in their Facebook group and Instagram account. A quick way to get to know your hosts a bit better and sit in on a conversation with mates. We host Q&A's once a month, so make sure to join the Facebook group or follow our Instagram account to get involved.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
www.facebook.com/groups/960328474677725/
On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat with Brooke who shares her experience she went through in Bali, and how after trauma she has found confidence and happiness again. Brooke offers to be there for anyone who went through a similar experience and needs to talk to someone.
ReachOut is the most accessed online mental health service for young people in Australia
au.reachout.com 1800 737 732
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Brooke @Brooke_b_vsg
On today's episode Carmen chats with Amanda, owner of vegan meal delivery service, Herbidoor and Plant Providore. Former vegan fitness model, mother of two boys and blogger on Plant based parenting.
Instagram @herbidoor @amandaroseofficial
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Resources mentioned during the episode
The China Study - T Colin Campbell
Plant Based Nutrition course - eCornell - https://ecornell.cornell.edu/certificates/nutrition/plant-based-nutrition/
Skinny Bitch - Rory Freedman & Kim Barnouin
Thrive - Brendan Brazier
There are heaps of newer resources now that Amanda also recommends. Three of Amanda's most recent favourites on health, plant based diet and longevity.
Fibre Fuelled - Dr Will Bulsiewicz
The Proof Is In The Plants - Simon Hill
Lifespan - Dr David Sinclair
They aren't very strict on veganism ethics and focus on a pragmatic approach to adopting a plant based lifestyle.
Part 2 of 2. This week we have a double episode on relationships and dating. In part one (episode 08), Carmen and Ash chat with Rhi, who found herself engaged to someone with narcissistic traits. She shares her story of being controlled and how she gained the confidence to take her life back. Part two (episode 09), we have relationship coach Beck Thompson discussing some take away points from Rhi’s episode. She also answers general relationship and dating questions, with some great advice.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
1800RESPECT - 1800 737 732
Beck Thompson @the_relationship_circle
Part 1 of 2. This week we have a double episode on relationships and dating. In part one (episode 08), Carmen and Ash chat with Rhi, who found herself engaged to someone with narcissistic traits. She shares her story of being controlled and how she gained the confidence to take her life back. Part two (episode 09), we have relationship coach Beck Thompson discussing some take away points from Rhi’s episode. She also answers general relationship and dating questions, with some great advice.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
On today's episode Carmen and Ash answer questions they received in their Facebook group and Instagram account. A quick way to get to know your hosts a bit better and sit in on a conversation with mates. We will be hosting Q&A's once a month, so make sure to join the Facebook group or follow our Instagram account to get involved.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Their Stories Series is here. On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat with Linda who lost part of her leg when her boat exploded. Linda is an inspiration.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Linda @linda_amputee_fitness
On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat with Amanda from The Home Maid. She shares some of her top cleaning tips and secrets, to save you time and money on your every day cleaning tasks.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Amanda www.facebook.com/thehomemaid
On today's episode Carmen chats with Greg, owner of Gemini Health and Nutrition in Ormeau, Gold Coast. Get your pen and paper ready for an informative and interesting episode covering all your protein questions.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
Greg @ghnormeau
geminihealth.com.au
Discount code Balance10
On today's episode Carmen and Ash answer questions they received in their Facebook group and Instagram account. A quick way to get to know your hosts a bit better. We will be hosting Q&A's once a month, so make sure to join the Facebook group or follow our Instagram account to get involved.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
On today's episode Carmen and Ash chat with Kylie, a mum of two, about some popular parenting topics. 3 mums, 8 babies, all different journeys. This is a great episode, especially for any first time mum who is feeling lost, you are doing a great job!!
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast
On today's episode Carmen and Ash discuss all the diets they themselves and some members from their Balance Podcast Facebook Group have tried. Please note, we do not recommend majority of these diets due to lack of adequate nutrition and proper research prior to starting said diets.
Instagram @balance_lifestylepodcast
Carmen @the.fat2fit.mama
Ash @ashy_fit_mum
Facebook Group: Balance Lifestyle Podcast