If The Jeans Fit: Learn To Love The Woman In The Mirror (Shaquelle Falon)

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Traditionally, a woman's role in society was meant to nurture and care for others. But with these conventional expectations, we have to navigate through the struggles of burnout, the constant battle of not feeling good enough, pretty enough, or thin enough – a relentless pursuit of being 'enough.'
 
 
In this episode I share my story on how I navigated gaining weight easily, losing the same 20 lbs over and over again, a pre-diabetes diagnosis and how I reversed it all without the use of medication and how I finally gained some level of self-confidence.

Learn more about Shaquelle on her website here

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This episode dives into the top 5 actionable step to take in order to conquer any health goal. 

These 5 steps, motivation, optimization, vitality, empowerment and scale, make up the pillars of Kinactivity; where I coach women living in with chronic pain and chronic illness to a place of freedom. 

From setting a clear vision to staying resilient, discover the keys to transform your health aspirations into long-term achievements. 

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In this episode a conversation about finding balance in exercise and nutrition is discussed with Resident Physiotherapist, Dominic King.

Dominic is passionate and outgoing with a zest for life! His personality, smile and laughter are contagious!

His focus is providing a sports or athletic style physiotherapy session, using his experience in high-performance training, orthopaedics, and exercise prescription - giving his clients an extremely well-rounded experience focusing on injury prevention and education with a PLAN!

In his spare time, Dominic enjoys weightlifting, running, playing basketball, longboarding, reading, listening to music, and travelling.

Listen to this episode to hear the unique perspective on building healthy habits from individual who has worked through his own health and wellness struggles.

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Join us in this episode with Haneen Al-Jaqobi as our guest. 

Haneen studied psychology and urban inner studies at the University of Winnipeg. She currently works as a settlement worker in schools to serve the immigrant, refugee and newcomer community. Outside of work Haneen enjoys an active lifestyle. 

In this episode we discuss our experiences navigating dieting trends such as calorie-counting and the keto diet. We also dive into the importance of embracing our cultural foods in order to create the healthiest version of yourself. 

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Lyn, also known as Dalyn, is a mom of 2 little dumplings & 2 fur babies! She loves cooking, camping & food. Shaq and Lyn have been friends with Shaq since early high school. 

Join Dalyn and Shaquelle for a conversation about how routines change during different seasons of life. Together we dive into the mindset shift from being and athlete to becoming a mom; and how this type of life change can change how you fit into your clothes, your food choices and exercise routines. 
 

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April is Parkinson’s Awareness month. To start the month off, I had the great pleasure of hosting Katie Yeandle, Registered Kinesiologist, as a Parkinson’s Disease expert.

Katie is a Registered Kinesiologist who has a passion for using joyful exercise to strengthen the brain and body. Her business, Achieving Motion (located in Princeton, Ontario), specializes in reducing the risk of dementia, as well as Parkinson’s Disease management. 

In her spare time, Katie enjoys all things outdoors-hiking, camping, kayaking-as well as playing baseball and hockey, and cuddling with her dog. 

Find Katie at www.achievingmotion.com or on facebook and Instagram: @achievingmotion

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Join Kira, Chelsea and Shaquelle for a conversation about current and harmful trends on social media in today's fitness world. 

Kira Onysko (Oh-nis-ko) Jones is a non-diet certified personal trainer and holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. She focuses her career around teaching people how to enjoy exercise without feeling pressured to change their bodies, or letting exercise consume their lives, and how to fight back from the constant messaging online that tells us that our bodies, and the ways we move, aren't good enough.

Chelsea Chandler is a non-diet/weight inclusive registered dietitian and certified intuitive eating counsellor. She loves to bring a light-hearted and humorous energy to the not-so funny topics within the diet culture space. While not currently practicing as a dietitian, she keeps her skills sharp on the Wellness Check Podcast with Kira!

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Episode 10 kicks off mental health month featuring guest, Joanne Marcelo.

Joanne Marcelo is a holistic health coach and a new mum to a beautiful, rambunctious 1 year old! She’s a huge advocate for personal wellness and is committed to empowering others to take charge of their health.

Joanne is no stranger to challenges when it comes to health, as her first bout with chronic disease came when she was only 3, where she experienced her first anaphylactic reaction. Asthma was common, but serious allergies weren’t very prevalent at the time, and she had to learn how to take control of her health on her own and at a young age.

Since then, she’s learned (and is still learning!) how to have healthy relationships, a thriving career, conquer motherhood, and still maintain an active lifestyle. 

She is passionate about the mind-body connection, meditation and mindfulness. It has all taught her how to become more present, self-aware, overcome anxiety and panic attacks, set realistic goals and most importantly, set aside more time for her friends and family.

Joanne is all about introducing lifestyle changes that are both sustainable and manageable for you, your family and your budget. After all, healthy living should be fun!

May is Mental Health Month and we've partnered with Empowered Rehab and Training to help you manage your mental health, and find flow, balance and strength in a beautiful movement practice.
Use the code Shaq11 to save $11 off her movement flow program.

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In this episode, guest speaker Kristina Cooke and host Shaquelle Hibbert discuss ways to manage a type 2 diabetes diagnosis without crash dieting.

Kristina is a Registered Dietitian from the beach cities of Los Angeles. In her program, The Blood Sugar Collaborative, she provides virtual services to help those with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes lower their blood sugars and A1c without cutting out the foods they love. She provides nutrition education and specializes in healing your relationship to food, all while learning to incorporate your cultural foods, enjoy holidays and vacations, and still have the occasional dessert. 

Check out Kristina's website and services here:
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Welcome to the first episode of If The Jeans Fit that begins to highlight the ups and downs of managing mental health during different stages of life. 

On today's episode, Oksana shares her story navigating mental health throughout stressful world events. 

Oksana studied kinesiology – athletic therapy stream at University of Manitoba. She is currently working as a certified athletic therapist in a local clinic, helping clients of any age and ability to achieve their goals post injury or to overall improve their fitness levels. Oksana’s focus with her clients to help them connect mindfully to their bodies either through specific movements or through helping them manage their emotional stressors. During her spare time, Oksana loves spending time outdoors with her two furry babies, practicing yoga, travelling, and continuing her passion for dancing.

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On today's episode of If The Jeans Fit; Jasmine Tsang, Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Director of Reflections Psychotherapy, shares her thoughts on the connection between mental health, body-image and acceptance. 

Jasmine offers a therapeutic experience that is collaborative and affirming. She creates a safe environment where you can deeply explore you thoughts and emotions at your own pace. Rather than just providing answers, Jasmine guides you through intentional questioning, helping you uncover natural solutions that resonate and gain heightened awareness of the complexities of your issues. 

As clarity of your mind emerges, Jasmine places trust in your innate wisdom, knowing you'll organically find your path with her guidance through intentional questioning. This collaborative journey is designed to support and empower you on your unique therapeutic path.

​You can connect with Jasmine on her website here. 

May is Mental Health Month and we've partnered with Empowered Rehab and Training to help you manage your mental health, and find flow, balance and strength in a beautiful movement practice.
Use the code Shaq11 to save $11 off her movement flow program.

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In episode 12, Athletic Therapist, Author and Educator, Megan Pomarensky, dives into the unspoken parts of rehab and training that can make a world of difference in your injury recovery. 

Getting unstuck from the pain, anxiety and
re-injury cycle you’ve been in, is going to
take a different approach than what you’ve
been doing.
That’s where Megan comes in.
She has guided over 12k athletic therapy and
training sessions, spent countless hours on
the sidelines at national sports events and
games, experienced how life changing yoga
and meditation with sound healing is,
published academic research, lectured in
universities, write/teach/present for
international continuing education platforms
and podcasts, and blended that all together
to create a sweet spot of holistic wellness
that empowers you to live freely again!

Megan also leads a virtual  yoga movement flow. Use my discount code "SHAQ11" to get $11 CDN off her subscription monthly!

May is Mental Health Month and we've partnered with Empowered Rehab and Training to help you manage your mental health, and find flow, balance and strength in a beautiful movement practice.
Use the code Shaq11 to save $11 off her movement flow program.

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Dr. Sam Clouthier is a Naturopathic Doctor with a focus in mental health. She and her wife own a multidisciplinary health clinic in Fort McMurray Alberta. Sam sits on her local Pride board and is an advocate for Health At Every Size and 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusive health care. 

In this episode, Dr. Clouthier and Shaquelle discuss the relationship between mental illness, pharmacology, and social determinants of health. The two also discuss the unfair creation of diagnostic tools and medication based off of inequities in research done on mental health. 

May is Mental Health Month and we've partnered with Empowered Rehab and Training to help you manage your mental health, and find flow, balance and strength in a beautiful movement practice.
Use the code Shaq11 to save $11 off her movement flow program.

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Jasmine Tsang, Registered Psychotherapist and Clinical Director of Reflections Psychotherapy, discusses the importance of self-acceptance when striving towards weight loss and health improvement goals. 

Jasmine offers a therapeutic experience that is collaborative and affirming. She creates a safe environment where you can deeply explore you thoughts and emotions at your own pace. Rather than just providing answers, Jasmine guides you through intentional questioning, helping you uncover natural solutions that resonate and gain heightened awareness of the complexities of your issues. 

 
To  learn more about Jasmine, check out her website here.

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Join Jo-Ann and Shaquelle as they dive into high quality advice and personal stories that shed light on menopausal experiences and aging. 

Jo-Ann Martin is a proud Canadian with strong Jamaican roots. For the last
20 years, she has worked as a Sign Language Interpreter providing communication
access to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community at large. The bulk of her
childhood was spent in a dance studio and her passion for health and fitness
today is a direct result of many years on the competitive dance stage. In addition,
she manages her own online business in the health and wellness industry.

Jo-Ann is a daughter, sister, friend and the BEST Auntie ever- but don’t call
her “mom”! This fierce childfree advocate is always ready to challenge society’s
assumption of the “role a woman is supposed to play”. Her Black is beautiful she
is here to support, encourage and lock arms with fabulous women everywhere!

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In episode 17, Shaquelle and Maia discuss the importance of understanding your body and how this understanding can lead to deep healing. 


Maia Caschera-White is a writer, yoga instructor, energy healer and teacher. Maia comes from a world of emancipation and mysticism. With support from her guides, ancestors, angels and God Maia has found her purpose in being the vessel of knowledge, guidance and authenticity for others to finally meet the divine within themselves, cultivate their own healing, and expand spiritually.

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In this episode, we delve into the relationship between mindset, body image, and intuitive eating. Our guest, Deanna Balbermann, a  discusses how shifting your mindset can transform your relationship with food and your body. Whether you're struggling with diet culture or looking to enhance your well-being, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you on your journey toward intuitive eating and body acceptance.

Deanna is a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, Enlifted Level 2 mindset coach, and current Master's student, pursuing her dream career as a psychotherapist.  Deanna loves helping women step away from fad diets, and stepping into a more confident, embodied life. She does this through teaching Intuitive Eating and using different mindset strategies to help you with inner growth. She believes if you work on growing inside, you will be glowing outside!

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In this episode, Caulien opens up about her experience competing in bodybuilding shows, its connection to disordered eating, and her path to self-love.


Caulien Sophia is a bodybuilding coach/NPC Bikini competitor who embodies intentionality and consistency in her trainings. She not only focuses on helping her clients achieve their aesthetic goals, she also prioritizes overall functionality. She teaches her clients how to become process driven so they can develop the lifestyle that results in the best version of themselves. 

Connect with Caulien Sophia on Instagram @cauliensophialife

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In episode 20, we dive into practical strategies for managing PCOS and preparing for fertility while still enjoying your favorite foods. Our guest expert, Raschelle Sabourin, shares her insights on how to balance your diet, make sustainable lifestyle changes, and maintain a positive relationship with food.

Whether you're just starting your journey or looking for new tips, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you achieve your health goals without feeling deprived.

Raschelle Sabourin is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counsellor. She is passionate about women's health, particularly PCOS, menopause, and infertility. She enjoys utilizing Intuitive Eating principles to assist women in improving their relationship with food.

Visit Raschelle’s Website here or send her a dm on Instagram @raschelle.sabourin.rd to connect with her. 

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In episode 21, we tackle the complex and often sensitive topic of weight loss and its potential impact on mental health and eating habits. Our guest, a registered dietitian, Mariana Serback, with extensive experience in disordered eating and weight management, shares expert advice on how to pursue weight loss goals in a healthy and sustainable way. We discuss the signs of disordered eating, how to develop a positive relationship with food, and practical tips for maintaining balance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their health without compromising their well-being.

Mariana Serback, MS, RD, CDN is a registered dietitian who helps women lose weight, manage their cravings, and live a healthier lifestyle without cutting out their favorite foods.

Contact Mariana on Instagram @eat.guilt.free 

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In this special season finale, I share my personal journey to self-confidence. From overcoming challenges to embracing my true self, this episode is a deep dive into the experiences that have shaped my confidence today. I also reveal my top three steps to help you improve your confidence and live a more empowered life. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey through Season 1. Stay tuned for more inspiring content in Season 2!

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Intuitive Eating Research Study
Intuitive Eating Official Website

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Join your host, Shaquelle Thomas, as she shares thoughts on entrepreneurship as a black woman- especially in the fitness world. Truly, the "ideal standard" of fitness and health does not encompass a range of bodies. It mainly encompasses a "barbie doll" look. So, as a woman who does not fit that standard in the slightest, challenges tend to come up. Shaquelle dives into the importance of having representation of different body types and skin colours in the Health and Fitness scene. 

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In 2024, we have had an increase in representation in the Fitness Industry. Group Fitness Instructors, Personal Trainers, Coaches and Fitness Leaders of all shapes and sizes have entered the chat- and we are here for it. But, that doesn't mean we are not met by unaccepting people and circumstances. Join Adoma (Adz) and Shaq as they discuss their personal stories on becoming Fitness Leaders in non-traditional fitness bodies. Adoma "Adz" Amoah is a UK-born fitness enthusiast who moved to Toronto 5 years ago. She trained and qualified as a Spin instructor in 2019 and is now one of the leaders of Ultra Black run club. 

Adz is passionate about “fitness at all levels, for all shapes, for all sizes” and really finds joy is finding ways to stay active and healthy whilst having fun.

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Shaquelle and Constance have two things in common; specializing in Diabetes Management and navigating the business world with challenges being black women.Listen in as Shaquelle and Constance discuss the staple changes needed to manage type 2 diabetes as women and share their experiences as entrepreneurs in a business world that isn't accustomed to black women in leadership.Constance Brown-Riggs is an award-winning registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist, and the author of four diabetes-related books, including Living Well with Diabetes 14 Day Devotional and The Diabetes Guide to Enjoying Foods of the World, both of which received Gold Hermes Creative Awards.

A recognized expert in nutrition, diabetes, and cultural health issues affecting people of color, Constance combines her scientific knowledge with her virtual nutrition counseling practice to help patients manage their health. Her ability to translate complex concepts into practical advice has made her a sought-after speaker, educator, and author. She is dedicated to bridging cultural gaps in health care and promoting better nutrition and wellness.

Connect with Constance below:WebsiteInstagram 

In this episode, Shaquelle and Kwene dive deep into the world of fitness, training and their experience with body image as black women. Being the minority race growing, the women experienced unique challenges in discovering self-love, fitness spaces and community groups they felt comfortable in. 

Kwene is a personal trainer and avid lover of all things movement. As a coach with The Gang Fitness, she empowers women through strength training to build their best selves. Outside of training, Kwene is either deep in a forest, behind a podcast microphone or taking up a new hobby.

Connect with Kwene on Instagram @kwene_fit

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Underrepresentation can create real obstacles, from finding inclusive beauty products to feeling seen in wellness spaces that don’t reflect black experiences. In episode 5, Shaquelle and Eunice discuss how to improve your confidence and self-love in ways that celebrates our culture and roots.

Eunice Boateng is an entrepreneur, utilizing most of her skills in the industries of hair and beauty, fitness and business and finance. A former Syracuse international athlete and health admin MBA candidate, with a strong passion for athletics and her growing beauty business, “the hair thairapist”, originally founded in 2020 with a common goal of fortifying a black community at a PWI. Her hobbies include indulging in reality tv, music and introducing herself to new hobbies, concepts and experiences on a day to day basis.

Eunice is also affiliated with Natural Shilajit Resin and offers us a discount code for all products. Use Eunice’s discount code for EUNICE10 for 10% off your purchases.

Connect with Eunice on social media:

Instagram: @eunicee_b & @thehair.thairapist

Snapchat: @eunicee_b

Youtube: @eunicee_b

In this episode, Felicia and Shaq dive into the art of investing in yourself, with a special focus on social, physical, and mental wellness as a busy Black woman. We explore practical strategies to create balance in a packed schedule, nurturing meaningful relationships, staying physically active, and caring for mental health without overwhelm.Felicia is a certified fitness coach and healthy lifestyle enthusiast. She loves empowering others to live a healthy, active lifestyle and build sustainable habits.Connect with Felicia on Instagram 

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Shaq and Eboni share their insights on generational habits have bled into the way they think, feel and live their lives today.  How do you switch the narrative of "work hard to survive" to "how do we thrive in this day and age"? A few unique answer lie within Shaq and Eboni's conversations. The way we balance work, health, hobbies and more is rooted deeper than you may think. Eboni Morgan is a multifaceted writer, captivating keynote speaker, community builder and meditation + yoga teacher. Renowned for her work in public speaking and community building, Eboni’s work is driven by her passion for empowering her community and fostering meaningful connections. Following her first book A Year of Black Girl Magic, Eboni founded the Black Girl Magic Collective to continue encouraging young Black girls and women the importance of owning their innate magic. 

She continues to spread the word of self-love through her mentorship, yoga offerings and creating space for community. A Year of Black Girl Magic, Eboni founded the Black Girl Magic Collective to continue encouraging young Black girls and women the importance of owning their innate magic. She continues to spread the word of self-love through her mentorship, yoga offerings and creating space for community.

Connect with Eboni and The Black Girl Magic Collective on Social Media:Instagram: @ebonicurlsblog & @blackgirlmagiccollectiveTikTok: @ebonicurlsblogPinterest: @ebonicurlsblogWebsite: ebonicurls.ca

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