Episode 21: Telling a New Story with @irisdeadlifts

Join us as we welcome Iris (@irisdeadlifts), a seasoned nutrition, strength, and hypertrophy coach with Beth Feraco Fitness. She's also the co-host of the podcast "Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck." Iris's story begins with a family member's hospital stay during her high school years, sparking a long foray of extreme dieting practices. From the HCG diet to Keto and intermittent fasting, she navigated the pitfalls of fad diets before discovering a balanced, sustainable approach to health and fitness. Iris shares her personal transformation and the critical lessons learned from these early challenges.

Reflecting on the complex issue of teenage body image, Iris opens up about the mental energy required to shift from self-comparison to self-acceptance. Influences from societal pressures and media representations play a significant role in shaping young girls' perceptions of their bodies. Through our conversation, we explore how adopting a mindset focused on individual growth can be a game-changer, even amidst the chaotic teenage years. Iris highlights the importance of "peaceful striving"—pursuing personal goals without succumbing to constant anxiety or pressure.

Breaking away from restrictive diets, Iris embraced a balanced and enjoyable approach to food and fitness, fueled by influential figures in the industry. Participating in challenges helped her break the binge-restrict cycle, while strength training replaced extreme workouts with empowering muscle gain. Iris's journey illustrates the significance of challenging self-limiting beliefs, redefining personal identities, and finding courage to explore new paths. This inspiring episode is packed with practical advice and motivational stories that underscore the importance of balancing physical goals with mental well-being to create a fulfilling and authentic life.

Episode Summary

(0:00:09) - Fitness Journey Reflection and Transformation (12 Minutes)

This chapter introduces Iris, a nutrition, strength, and hypertrophy coach with Beth Feraco Fitness, and co-host of the podcast "Tater Talks, Two Bitches Talk Fitness" (Recently rebranded as “Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, & Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck.") We explore Iris's journey into the world of fitness and coaching, starting from her high school years. Iris shares how a family member's hospital stay led them both to engage in extreme dieting, including the HCG diet, which fostered unhealthy relationships with food and exercise. Iris recounts her experiences with various diet protocols such as Beachbody, keto, paleo, and intermittent fasting, often combining them with detrimental effects. Her story highlights the pitfalls of fad diets and the importance of a balanced approach to health and fitness.

(0:12:13) - Teenage Body Image and Self-Acceptance (6 Minutes)

This chapter explores the complex and often challenging journey of body image, especially among teenagers. Reflecting on personal experiences, we discuss the impact of societal and media influences, such as dance competitions and social media, on young girls' perceptions of their bodies. The conversation highlights the struggles of comparing oneself to others and the mental energy required to navigate these emotions. We emphasize the importance of developing a mindset focused on individual journeys and self-acceptance, noting that while this is difficult, it is achievable even during the tumultuous teenage years. We also touch on the concept of "peaceful striving" in health and fitness, underscoring the significance of pursuing personal growth without constant anxiety or pressure.

(0:17:48) - Changing Mindsets (9 Minutes)

This chapter explores the transformative journey from restrictive dieting to a balanced, enjoyable approach to food and fitness. We reflect on the influential voices like Jordan Syatt and others, who introduced a more open perspective on nutrition, where all foods can fit into a healthy diet without moralizing them. The realization that food can be both enjoyable and part of a balanced diet led to pivotal moments which helped break the binge-restrict cycle. Additionally, the chapter touches on the shift in exercise philosophy from extreme workouts to strength training, inspired by figures like MegSquats, who celebrate muscle gain and strength over weight loss. This new approach fosters a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle, emphasizing enjoyment and balance over restriction and punishment.

(0:27:06) - Fitness and Mindset Transformation (5 Minutes)

This chapter delves into the journey of overcoming mixed messages in fitness and embracing strength training. We explore the challenges of navigating MLM fitness setups where salespeople, rather than knowledgeable coaches, provide misguided advice. By experimenting with weights and finding inspiration in industry figures, we discuss the transformative experience of discovering effective strength training. The conversation highlights the joy of physical progress, the importance of mindset, and the freedom that comes with peaceful striving toward fitness goals. We also touch on the simplicity of health principles versus the complexity of personal mindsets, illustrated by a poignant example of embracing personal growth and confidence, symbolized by wearing pink.

(0:32:31) - Challenging Self-Limiting Beliefs (6 Minutes)

This chapter explores the process of challenging and dismantling self-limiting beliefs to discover and embrace new aspects of personal identity. We share experiences of redefining ourselves, such as discovering a love for the color pink after years of denying it. We discuss the common self-limiting beliefs people hold, such as "I'm a perfectionist" or "I'm too old," and how these beliefs often serve as a safety net to avoid the uncertainty of change. We also examine the comfort found in predictable outcomes, even when they are negative, and emphasize the importance of asking the powerful question, "Is this true?" to break free from these constraints and open up to new possibilities.

(0:38:49) - Exploring Self-Identity and Growth (4 Minutes)

This chapter explores the multifaceted nature of identity, particularly through the lens of embracing both tomboy and feminine qualities. We discuss the challenges of navigating parental expectations and the importance of living authentically rather than vicariously through others. Reflecting on moments of personal transformation, such as rejecting societal pressures around body image, we highlight the significance of showing up for oneself and embracing new beginnings. We emphasize the necessity of trial and error in achieving success, acknowledging that failure is an integral part of the journey. The courage to explore different paths and the willingness to close doors that don't serve us fosters continuous growth and prevents stagnation.

(0:43:10) - Navigating Self-Discovery and Personal Growth (5 Minutes)

This chapter revolves around a powerful quote by George Bernard Shaw: "Life isn't about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself." We explore the significance of this mindset, emphasizing the courage it takes to create oneself and the humility required to admit when a path isn't working. The discussion highlights the importance of trial and error in personal growth, noting that success often comes through perseverance and adaptability. We also touch on the balance between physical goals and mental well-being, asserting that lasting change requires a focus on the mind as well as the body. Ultimately, the chapter underscores that while finding what works for you might be challenging, it is essential to choose the 'hard' that enriches your life.

(0:48:40) - Creating Identity Through Self-Improvement (15 Minutes)

This chapter explores the concept of "constructive discomfort" and differentiates it from harmful practices, emphasizing that progress involves effort but should not equate to suffering. We discuss the balance between what is necessary and what is manageable, using examples like calorie tracking to illustrate how personalized approaches can prevent overwhelm. Additionally, we address the mindset of feeling "too old" to make significant changes, highlighting that women over 30, often juggling complex life roles, can still prioritize themselves and achieve meaningful transformations. By challenging self-limiting beliefs and societal expectations, individuals can take control of their lives and create identities that align with their goals and values.