Beyond the Hustle

Tag: fitness

  • 8 Meaningful Steps to Close Out 2025 Strong

    As we begin to close the door on 2025, there’s this collective feeling in the air… part reflection, part momentum, part “holy crap, how is it already December?” And if you’re anything like me, you’re ready to close the year feeling aligned, grounded, and proud of the work you’ve put in.

    Here are the 8 things every one of us should be doing to finish 2025 strong, healthy, and on purpose…with a few of my personal favorites sprinkled in, because sometimes the little things are what keep us grounded.

    1. Revisit Your Wins, Even the Small Ones

    (Guys, this is sooo important.)

    We move so fast we forget to acknowledge what we’ve actually done. Pull out your camera roll, your planner, your notes app, and look at everything you’ve accomplished this year. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ve grown, even in moments that felt heavy or messy.

    Pro tip: This is also the perfect moment to light a candle, sip a warm mug of instant bone broth (my winter go-to), and let yourself actually appreciate how far you’ve come.

    2. Audit Your Habits

    Your habits tell the truth long before your goals do. What’s working? What’s draining you? What needs to stay in 2026 and what needs to go?

    This is the season for honest evaluation, NOT judgment.

    3. Check Your Biomarkers, Not Just Your Weight

    Energy, strength, sleep, stress, hormones, muscle mass, hydration, recovery…these matter just as much—maybe even more—than the number on the scale.

    And yes, this is where my bioactive peptide foundation (Fit + Lean + Hydrated) has become a huge part of my own health baseline. Getting real data and supporting your body from the inside out is game-changing.

    4. Fall Back in Love with Your Warm-Up

    We’re in such a rush to hit the ground running that we skip the part that keeps us healthy. Whether it’s your warm-up at the gym, the way you start your work day, or your morning routine, slow down.

    Preparing well is the foundation for performing well.

    And if you need a little boost to get started? Turn on a motivating podcast, lately, Ed Mylett’s “One More Day, One More Choice” has been my reset button, but there are tons of great ones available.

    5. Make One Meaningful Financial Decision

    It doesn’t have to be big, but it does need to be intentional.

    💰Increase your savings by 1%.
    💰Pay down a piece of debt.
    💰Organize your taxes early.
    💰Or finally set up the financial system you’ve been avoiding.

    A small move now sets up major ease in January.

    6. Strengthen Your Relationships on Purpose

    Reach out to the people who lifted you up this year. Set boundaries with the ones who drained you. Nurture the connections that make you better.

    You don’t need more people. You need the right people.

    My favorite tradition: picking one friend or family member each week in December to surprise with a message, a note, or even a treat drop-off.

    7. Simplify Your Wellness Routine

    The end of the year isn’t the time to overhaul everything. It’s the time to anchor into the basics:

    • Hydrate (support energy & boost metabolism)
    • Move daily (preferably outdoors)
    • Strength train (lift for longevity)
    • Prioritize sleep (this is when our bodies repair and recover)
    • Support your hormones (decrease cortisol & boost NAD)

    Your future self will thank you.

    And don’t skip little treats, we need those for our wellbeing too. So, for those cozy winter evenings, a chocolate mug cake has saved many nights for me. You’re welcome!

    8. Set a Theme for 2026 (Not a Resolution)

    Instead of a long list of goals you’ll forget by February, choose a theme—a word, phrase, or intention, that guides your decisions.

    Clarity. Strength. Expansion. Ease. Resilience.

    Let it shape the year before it even begins.

    Lastly…

    Closing out a year isn’t just about tying up loose ends; it’s about stepping into the next chapter with intentionality, strength, and self-respect.

    You don’t need perfection. You just need direction.

    Here’s to ending 2025 grounded, grateful, and ready for whatever comes next. Remember, joy doesn’t just happen, you create it through tiny choices, tiny rituals, and tiny moments that remind you who you are.

    Grab your 🎧 … I dropped a fun Christmas playlist for you. Enjoy! 🎄

    Cheers to new beginnings.


    Denise xo

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  • The Power of Consistency: How Small Daily Habits Transformed My Wellness

    Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get the spotlight it deserves: CONSISTENCY. It doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s not flashy, it’s not sexy, and it’s definitely not what we want to hear… but it’s what actually gets results.

    In a world full of “quick fixes”, overnight transformations, self-proclaimed Instagram influencers, it’s easy to forget that real change, the kind that lasts, comes from the small choices we make every single day. It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about showing up, over and over, even when it’s hard.

    I learned this the hard way earlier this year when I had ankle surgery.

    My Personal Journey Back to Strength

    Before surgery, I was incredibly active, always on the trails, in the gym, always moving. But suddenly, I was forced to slow down. I couldn’t do the workouts I loved, and it took a toll not just on my body, but on my mindset too.

    That’s when I leaned fully into getting consistent with my nutrition, peptides, and prioritizing sleep. I had been using bioactive peptides beforehand, but this time, I made it non-negotiable. Every morning: Fit, Lean, and Hydrated, the Metabolic Collection. (Listen, I’m not out here just trying to push something I don’t believe in, I’m out here sharing natural, effective alternatives designed and engineered for the human body.) 

    And guess what? I started noticing real changes:

    • FIT helped me maintain muscle mass while I was less active. I didn’t feel like I was losing all my strength, and when I returned to movement, my recovery felt smoother.
    • LEAN supported my metabolism and helped balance my energy, even though my physical activity had drastically changed.
    • HYDRATED kept my body fueled at the cellular level. Proper hydration helped reduce inflammation and supported my recovery.

    It wasn’t a magic pill, but paired with consistency, these peptides were game-changing. They helped me bounce back faster, with more clarity, energy, and strength than I expected. Oh, my surgeon was fully onboard with ingestible peptides, that was HUGE for me!

    For the Women Entering a New Season of Life

    If you’re a woman heading into perimenopause or menopause, you might be feeling the shift already: the brain fog, fatigue, stubborn weight, mood changes, or a general sense that something feels “off.”

    You’re not imagining it. Hormonal shifts during this time can be overwhelming, but there are tools that can help.

    That’s where the power of bioactive peptides come in.

    These aren’t just for gym-goers or athletes. They’re for the woman who’s juggling work, family, and health, and wants to feel like herself again.

    Peptides like Fit and LEAN support hormonal balance, improve cognitive function, boost metabolism, and help you build and maintain lean muscle, which becomes harder as estrogen starts to decline. And HYDRATED? Think of it as the unsung hero. When your cells are properly hydrated, everything works better…your skin, your brain, your energy levels.

    It’s the Little Things That Add Up

    I’m not suggesting you need to overhaul your entire life tomorrow. Start with one thing. Get to bed earlier. Take your peptides each morning. Go for that walk. Commit to a tech break for an hour every day. Drink the extra water. Read for 30 minutes. Reach out to someone in your community and have a real conversation.

    The truth is, consistency wins over intensity every time. Whether you’re recovering from surgery like I was, trying to lose a few pounds, build strength, or simply feel better in your skin, the magic is in the everyday effort.

    So here’s your reminder: progress doesn’t come from perfection. It comes from the daily commitment to take care of yourself, even in the smallest of ways. Even if that means doing it in the carpool lane dropping your kids off!

    You’ve got this. And I’m cheering you on, every step of the way.

    Denise xo

    Curious about bioactive peptides?
    Click here to dive into the science behind them, explore how they work, and see why they’re at the center of a wellness movement that’s changing lives from the inside out.

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  • If You Knew Tomorrow Would Change Everything, How Would You Live Today?

    January 1st started like any other day. I was out on the trails — doing what I love — feeling strong, hopeful, and excited about everything I had planned for the new year. I was having fun, taking selfies, showing off some of my favorite skincare, soaking in the fresh start that January always seems to bring. In that moment, life felt solid. Safe. Predictable.

    And then, less than 24 hours later, everything changed.

    One misstep.
    One fall.
    One accident that I never saw coming.

    The day after that first picture was taken, I found myself hurt, scared, facing a serious surgery, and unsure of what the next few months — or even the next few days — would look like. Everything I thought I could count on — my routines, my independence, my physical strength — was stripped away in a second.

    And when I look back now at the photos side by side, it almost doesn’t feel real. How can life shift so dramatically between one sunrise and the next?

    It’s a gut punch reminder that nothing is promised. Not our health. Not our plans. Not even our ability to lace up our shoes and walk out the door.

    If you knew your life could change tomorrow, how would you live today? Would you rush through it? Would you waste it on things that don’t matter or people who aren’t worthy of your time or mind space? Would you stay quiet about the dreams that are burning inside you, waiting for the “right” time?

    Or would you wake up?

    Would you say the thing you’ve been meaning to say? Would you finally take the risk? Would you stop waiting for the “perfect moment” to start living fully? Would you finally start focusing on your health and wellbeing?

    I wish I could go back and tell the version of me on January 1st:
    Savor it. Really, truly savor it. Laugh harder. Hug tighter. Trust your strength, but also respect how fragile this life is.

    But since I can’t go back, I can only move forward — differently.
    Wiser.
    Softer.
    More awake to the small, beautiful details of every day.

    The truth is, life will change. We just don’t get to choose when.

    But we do get to choose how we live right now.

    And today, I’m choosing gratitude. I’m choosing courage.
    I’m choosing to live like it could all change tomorrow — because it can.

    If you’ve been waiting for a sign to do the thing — this is it.
    Book the trip. Start the business. Write the book. Lift weights like your life depends on it — because it does. Get outside. Soak in the sun. Chase the moments that make you feel alive. Whatever it is that’s been tugging at your heart, now is the time.

    We can’t control what tomorrow brings. But we can choose to live fully today.

    Make Moves, Live Boldly!

  • The Key to Aging Well: Why Wellness Matters More Than Ever

    Aging is inevitable—but how we age is in our hands. The choices we make today shape how we feel, move, and thrive in the years ahead. I wish I knew at thirty, what I know today, but don’t we all?!

    That’s why I’m deeply passionate about fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, community, and the power of ingestible peptides—five wellness pillars that have transformed my own approach to aging and vitality.

    Wellness as the Foundation for Healthy Aging

    True wellness goes beyond just looking good—it’s about feeling strong, energized, and resilient as we experience life’s stages. Our bodies are constantly changing, and prioritizing wellness isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for successful long-term health.

    The Hidden Danger of Being “Skinny Fat”

    Have you ever heard someone say they don’t need to focus on nutrition or exercise because they’re naturally thin? Many people focus solely on weight when assessing their health, but body composition matters more than the number on the scale. Studies have shown that people with low muscle mass but higher fat percentage—often referred to as “skinny fat”—face increased risks of metabolic disorders, osteoporosis, and early aging (Medical News Today). YES, READ THAT AGAIN!

    This is why strength training and proper nutrition are crucial, not just for aesthetics but for long-term health and longevity.

    Fresh Air: A Natural Reset for Mind and Body

    There’s something deeply rejuvenating about stepping outside, breathing in fresh air, and moving your body. Whether it’s a walk in nature, a morning run, or simply soaking in the sun, fresh air:
    ☀️ Reduces stress and enhances mental clarity
    ☀️ Supports cardiovascular health
    ☀️ Boosts immune function

    Nature has a way of reminding us to slow down, reset, and reconnect with our well-being. Nature’s benefits are highly under utilized in our healthcare system (in my opinion). If you look at other countries, it’s very common to be prescribed 30-60 minutes daily of fresh air, sunshine, and movement. I believe this is an area we can vastly improve upon, so here’s your nudge…grab your sneakers or hiking boots, and get outside!

    Strength Training: The Anti-Aging Secret

    Muscle loss is one of the biggest challenges of aging, but it’s not inevitable. Ladies, this is a big one! Strength training is one of the most powerful ways to preserve muscle, boost metabolism, and protect bone health. Incorporating resistance training into your routine can:
    💪🏼 Increase strength and mobility
    💪🏼 Reduce the risk of injury and osteoporosis
    💪🏼 Support hormone balance and longevity

    Lifting weights isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maintaining independence, energy, and resilience as we age. If you don’t know where to start in the gym, hire a trainer/coach.

    **Let me know if you need help, I know a lot of fitness pros who can help you get started, online or in-person.

    Good Nutrition: Fueling Longevity from the Inside Out

    What we eat plays a massive role in how we age. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s information for our cells. A diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods can:
    🥗 Support gut health and digestion
    🥗 Provide essential vitamins and minerals for cellular repair
    🥗 Reduce inflammation and slow down aging

    Prioritizing lean proteins (super important), healthy fats, fiber-rich vegetables, and antioxidant-packed foods helps our bodies function optimally, keeping us energized and resilient.

    Ingestible Peptides: A Game-Changer for Cellular Health

    One of the most exciting breakthroughs in wellness is the power of bioactive precision peptides.

    Exciting research is underway exploring how bioactive precision peptides can support cancer patients, as well as individuals with chronic conditions such as autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists are also investigating their potential in areas like gut health, muscle preservation, and overall cellular regeneration.

    These potent compounds support cellular function, helping to:
    🌱 Boost collagen production for skin, hair, and joints
    🌱 Enhance muscle recovery and performance
    🌱 Support weight loss, immune function, and overall vitality

    Since incorporating peptides into my routine, I’ve experienced noticeable changes in my energy, recovery, and overall well-being. I’ve seen firsthand how they help with muscle retention, skin elasticity, and overall resilience—things that become even more important as we age.

    This was one of the biggest reasons why I partnered with the groundbreaking company Make Wellness and launched a business helping others find solutions that are effective, science-backed, plant-based, and affordable. I truly believe that aging well shouldn’t be complicated or expensive—it should be accessible to everyone who wants to feel stronger, healthier, and more vibrant.

    Whether you’re looking to improve athletic recovery, support your skin and joints, or simply feel better in your daily life, these peptides can be a game-changer. If you’re curious about how they work or if they’re right for you, I’d love to share more about my experience!

    Power of Community in Wellness

    Wellness isn’t just about what we eat, how we move, or the supplements we take—it’s also about the people we surround ourselves with. The saying, “you are who you surround yourself with” is absolutely true. Having a strong, supportive community can make all the difference in staying motivated, accountable, and inspired on our health journeys.

    🫶 Encouragement & Support – Being part of a like-minded group can push you to stay consistent and celebrate your wins, no matter how small.
    🫶 Knowledge & Resources – The right community can introduce you to new wellness strategies, expert insights, and shared experiences that help you grow.
    🫶 Connection & Purpose – Feeling connected to others improves mental well-being, reduces stress, and reminds us that we’re not alone in our challenges.

    That’s why I’m so passionate about creating a space where people can come together, share their wellness journeys, and lift each other up. Whether it’s through Make Wellness, Instagram, or my women’s group in Facebook, I love seeing people find strength—not just in their bodies, but in the relationships they build along the way.

    At the end of the day, wellness isn’t just about aging well—it’s about living well, together. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, challenge you, and remind you that you’re capable of incredible things.

    The Bottom Line: Invest in Your Future Self

    Aging doesn’t have to mean decline—it can mean strength, vitality, and longevity. By prioritizing fresh air, strength training, good nutrition, strong communities, and the power of ingestible peptides, we can take control of how we age and live with energy and purpose.

    Wellness is an investment in your future. Are you making yourself a priority today?

  • Why Strength Training for Life Matters!

    Everyone trains to avoid injuries, but few train to overcome them.

    Injuries happen when we least expect them (I was literally standing still)! I never truly understood the depth of injury recovery until now! One moment, I was in my routine—running, lifting, moving the way I always had—and the next, I was forced to slow down, navigating pain, setbacks, and frustration. What I didn’t expect was how much effort, patience, and consistency it would take to heal, both physically and mentally.

    Another eye-opening realization is how poorly our society accommodates those who rely on wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids. In the spirit of kindness, let’s take a moment to slow down, be more aware, and offer a helping hand when we can. Life isn’t moving so fast that we can’t make it a little easier for someone else. #humankindness

    What I’m learning through this experience is something I wish more people knew: strength training isn’t just about aesthetics or athletic performance—it’s about building a body that supports you for the sport of LIFE.

    What No One Tells You About Injury Recovery

    🔸 Healing Isn’t Linear

    Some days, it feels like I’m making real progress, and then suddenly, I’ll wake up feeling stiff, sore, and completely discouraged. Recovery isn’t a straight path—it’s full of ups, downs, and unexpected roadblocks. I have had to learn to listen to my body and trust the process.

    🔸 The Mental Toll is Just as Hard as the Physical

    I expected the physical pain, but I wasn’t ready for the mental toll an injury would take. Losing my independence—whether it’s training at the gym, driving, hiking with my dogs, or even doing everyday tasks like cleaning—has made me question everything. My patience, my progress, and even my identity as someone who thrives on movement. Staying motivated has been a challenge, especially while watching my friends live their full lives. I’ve had to work just as much on my mindset as I have on my recovery plan.

    🔸 Strength Training is the Key to Resilience

    I always knew strength training was important, but I didn’t realize just how much it mattered before and after injury. What I did in the gym before my injury is making my recovery easier, and what I do now will determine how strong and injury-resistant I am in the future.

    Strength training isn’t just about lifting heavy weights—it’s about:
    ✔️ Protecting joints and reducing the risk of re-injury
    ✔️ Building balance and coordination for everyday movement
    ✔️ Regaining mobility and functional strength after setbacks
    ✔️ Creating a strong foundation for long-term health

    Muscle is the organ of longevity. The stronger and healthier your muscles are, the better your chances of living a longer, healthier life. ~Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

    How I’m Rebuilding My Strength—And What You Can Do Too

    If you’re recovering from an injury or just want to bulletproof your body, here’s what working for me:

    1️⃣ Working With a Professional – A physical therapist, trainer, or strength coach can help ensure you’re moving properly and safely. Having a plan is making all the difference in my recovery.

    2️⃣ Focusing on Stability First – I’m to starting with the basics: core stability, joint mobility, and small controlled movements before jumping back into full workouts.

    3️⃣ Prioritizing Mobility and Flexibility – Daily stretching, mobility drills, and deep breathing is helping me regain movement while expanding my lungs, without putting too much strain on my body.

    4️⃣ Easing Back Into Strength Training – I’m starting light, focusing on proper form, and will gradually work my way back to heavier lifts. Compound movements like squats, lunges, dips, and deadlifts (when done correctly) are literally quality of life movements.

    5️⃣ Training For the Long Game – I’ve learned that consistency beats intensity every time. Recovery isn’t about how quickly I can get back to my old routine—it’s about coming back stronger, smarter, and more resilient. You can bet your bottom dollar (I know, mommism here) I will be fully committed to my training for the rest of my life.

    My Go-To Essentials for Recovery & Wellbeing

    Injury recovery goes beyond just rehab exercises. Supporting my body from the inside out has been a game-changer. Here are a few of my favorites that I can’t live without (links included):

    ✨ Peptides from Make Wellness – These bioactive precision peptides have helped me recover faster, improve muscle repair, calm my mind, and optimize my overall health. They are clean, safe, affordable and effective, and I swear by them! Especially Fit and Calm! Both play critical roles in my mind and body’s well-being! (psst…now through 2/28 you can get $15 off your first order with the code Share15)

    🧖‍♀️ Kate McLeod Body Stone – Hydration is key, and this solid body moisturizer is packed with nourishing ingredients that help(ed) my skin and muscles feel amazing.

    🌿 A Consistent Skincare Routine – Stress and inflammation can take a toll on my skin, so I made sure to keep up with a solid skincare regimen.

    💦 Hydration – Water is essential for cellular function and regeneration. When injured, our body needs extra fluids to transport nutrients, oxygen, and immune cells to the affected area. Proper hydration helps speed up tissue repair and reduce recovery time.

    Hydrated by Make Wellness was (and will always be) my go-to for hydration.

    🍵 Bare Bones Bone Broth – This has been a staple in my recovery—rich in collagen, amino acids, and minerals that support joint health, gut healing, and overall recovery.

    Final Thoughts

    An injury can feel like a major setback, but I’ve been choosing to see it as an opportunity—to rebuild, to focus on passion projects (like this blog), to come back stronger, and to truly understand my body.

    I don’t just want to recover—I want to be stronger and more resilient than before.

    This experience has reinforced something I’ve always believed:
    💪 Strength training isn’t about aesthetics or performance alone.
    💪 It’s about being strong enough to handle whatever life throws at you—injury, aging, setbacks, or the demands of daily movement.
    💪 It’s an investment in longevity, resilience, and overall health.

    If you’re dealing with an injury—or want to future-proof your body—start prioritizing strength training today. Your future self will thank you!

    Need help figuring out where to start? I know some incredible health and fitness pros and would be happy to recommend someone based on your goals. Just reach out!

    (Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, trainer, or coach. This information is based on my personal experience.)

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  • Welcome!

    Welcome!

    Building Wellness and Connection, One Story at a Time

    Hi, I’m so glad you’re here.

    For a while now, I’ve been craving a space beyond the scroll of social media and the pace of work… a place to share stories that are both meaningful to me and valuable to others. In a world that often feels overwhelming, I believe we all need more connection, encouragement, and a little lightness.

    Beyond the Hustle is where ambition meets alignment. It’s about creating a life that feels as good as it looks—one rooted in wellness, growth, and authenticity. It’s for those of us who believe in showing up fully, but also slowing down enough to enjoy the view.

    A little about me: I’m a wife and mom of three, a dog lover (hi, Stella and Stanley!), an entrepreneur running a digital marketing agency, a new podcaster, and a passionate wellness advocate. I’m also an avid hiker, trail runner, and fitness enthusiast who believes wellness is a lifestyle—not a look.

    After years in the corporate world—working in marketing across nonprofit, human resources, and speaker management—I took the leap into entrepreneurship. I loved those chapters, but after navigating corporate shakeups and the unpredictability of the pandemic, I realized I wanted to write my own story. Now, I help entrepreneurs and small business owners build their brands with purpose, and I’m honored to grow right alongside them.

    This blog is part passion project, part wellness journal, part real-life reminder that we can thrive—beyond the hustle.

    What You’ll Find Here

    Beyond the Hustle is your go-to hub for:
    ✨ Entrepreneurship & Business – Lessons from my journey and insights.
    ✨ Wellness & Mindset – Real talk about balance, self-care, and empowering women.
    ✨ Lifestyle & Personal Growth – Navigating family, passions, amazing eats, and everyday life with intention.
    ✨ Community & Connection – A place for real conversations, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement.

    Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a wellness seeker, a woman seeking community, or simply someone looking for inspiration beyond the daily grind, you’re in the right place.

    Let’s Stay Connected

    I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, stories, and ideas for topics. Drop a comment, follow me on Instagram and Facebook, and let’s navigate this journey together.

    Thanks for being here—now let’s go beyond the hustle!!