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In this episode, I’m joined by Melissa Barronton from the Sunshine Travelers Podcast, a source I’ve come to trust for practical, real world travel advice.

I first discovered Melissa and her husband Scott through their podcast and Instagram and never expected them to respond when I sent a question during their Egypt trip question box. They not only replied, but thoughtfully answered my son’s questions too, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

We talk about what travel looks like beyond highlight reels. Melissa shares the trips that shaped her most, what 2025 taught her about how she wants to travel in 2026, and how Sunshine Travelers helps people plan confident, thoughtful trips through their podcast, destination guides, packing resources, and travel planning services.

This episode is especially for anyone who wants to travel smarter and safer while still visiting dream destinations. We cover driving internationally, personal safety, tech security, and how to make big trips feel manageable for families, couples, and solo travelers. Some of my personal favorite resources they share are their packing and planning guides, and the deals they share through their Travel Deal Insiders!

Where to find Sunshine Travelers:

Sunshine Travelers Podcast searchable here: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/podcasts/sunshine-travelers-podcast

More Destinations on the Sunshine Travelers Blog:

https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/blog

For trip planning https://www.sunshinetravelersexperiences.com/plan-your-trip

Follow our travels on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunshinetravelerspodcast/

Travel Deal Insiders: https://www.sunshinetravelers.com/newsletters/2147703369/subscribe

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

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From In-Between to Intentional: Choosing Consistency Over Another Restart

This week between Christmas and New Year’s can feel awkward — not quite holiday, not quite “back to normal.” And for a lot of women, it’s where consistency quietly slips away.

In this episode, I’m building on what we talked about in Episode 2: staying on track isn’t about perfection or willpower — it’s about having simple anchors you can return to. I’m sharing how I personally approach this in-between season so January doesn’t feel like another reset, but a natural continuation of progress.

You’ll hear:

• Why consistency isn’t a streak — it’s a practice
• How I simplify food and movement during unstructured weeks
• The small anchors I rely on when motivation is low
• Why support and structure matter more than discipline
• And how to move into January already feeling grounded

I’m also sharing one of my go-to, realistic meals — Crockpot Protein Oats — because consistency starts with meals that actually work in real life.

If you don’t want another “start over” next week, this episode is for you.

🍓 Bonus Recipe: Crockpot Protein Oats

(Simple, balanced, and perfect for busy mornings)

This is one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts when life feels full. It’s warm, satisfying, high-protein, and easy to portion — exactly what I lean on when consistency matters more than variety.

Base:

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 6 cups milk (or half milk / half water)
• 2 tbsp basil seeds
• 1 tsp salt

Protein — choose ONE:

• 👉 Protein powder: 2 cups total (≈ 25g protein per serving)
• 👉 Greek yogurt: Optional, 3 cups total, (stir in after cooking) basil seeds + salt to crockpot

1. Cook LOW 6–7 hours
2. Cool 10 minutes
3. Stir in protein
4. Portion for the week or freezer

How to add fruit 🍓

• Frozen fruit → stir in after cooking
• Fresh fruit → add after reheating
• Skip freezing bananas (trust me)
• Add a splash of milk when reheating if it thickens

High protein. Zero morning stress. One less decision all week 🙌

Why This Works

This meal supports:

• Protein first (a FASTer Way core principle)
• Blood sugar balance
• Satiety and energy
• Consistency without overthinking

It’s not fancy — it’s functional. And that’s the point.

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

🎙️ Episode 2: Eating Without Tracking — Using the PPP Plate

(Protein • Produce • Pleasure)

The week between Christmas and New Year’s can make tracking food feel overwhelming — but not tracking can feel just as stressful. In this episode, I share how I eat without logging a single bite and still feel grounded, confident, and in control.

I walk you through the PPP plate (Protein, Produce, Pleasure) — a simple, realistic framework I use during busy, food-filled weeks when routines are off and perfection isn’t the goal. This approach helps you navigate parties, potlucks, and everyday meals with intention instead of guilt, while still supporting energy, fullness, and consistency.

To make this week easier, I’m sharing two of my go-to recipes that align perfectly with the PPP method — one fresh, satisfying salad and one cozy, low-effort crockpot soup you can rely on when decision fatigue is high.

Recipes Featured in This Episode

🥗 Thai Chicken Peanut Salad
This is one of my favorite balanced meals when I want something flavorful and filling without overthinking food.

Thai Chicken Peanut Salad – 30g protein, packed with flavor, ready in 3 minutes.

Sauce (choose one):

• Trader Joe’s shortcut: 2 tbsp Trader Joe’s Peanut Sauce thinned with 2 tbsp water
• DIY: 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tsp tamari, 2 tbsp water

Toss with 2/3c coleslaw mix, 15g cucumber, 15g red bell pepper, green onion, and 5 oz cooked chicken breast. Dice, toss, and enjoy!

Time saver: Cook once, eat twice.

🍲 Bonus Crockpot Soup (Low-Effort, High Return)
I’ve included a simple crockpot soup recipe in the show notes for days when you want a nourishing dinner without spending time in the kitchen.

• Protein: lean chicken
• Produce: vegetables that cook down into a comforting, hearty base
• Ease: minimal prep, dump-and-go, and great for leftovers

This is the kind of meal that supports consistency during busy weeks — warm, grounding, and satisfying without feeling heavy.

Easy Gluten-Free Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup

This cozy, dump-and-go crockpot soup brings all the classic chicken parmesan flavors — without the breading and completely gluten-free. It’s perfect for busy weeks, meal prep, or when you want comfort food with minimal effort.

Why you’ll love it:

• Gluten-free
• Slow cooker friendly
• Minimal prep
• Family-approved comfort food

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 (24 oz) jar gluten-free marinara sauce
• 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

You’re Not Behind — You’re in the In-Between

I'm launching 3 mini podcast episodes for this in between week between Christmas, and New Years! Each will include actionable items you can use in your everyday life, plus a balance meal recipe that you can easily make!

This week isn’t a failure — it’s a bridge. In this episode, I reframe the space between Christmas and New Year’s and talk about how to stay consistent without tracking, perfection, or pressure. You’ll walk away with simple anchors and one nourishing meal to bring you back to baseline.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why this week feels mentally harder than the holidays themselves
• How to maintain progress without “resetting”
• The power of one anchor habit per day
• A simple breakfast that grounds your energy

Meal Mentioned:

Overnight Protein Oats – Ready When You Are

Start your morning strong with this simple, protein-packed breakfast. In a bowl or container, whisk together:

• 1/4 c rolled oats
• 1/2 peeled banana (reserve some for topping)
• 1 tsp Basil or Chia seeds
• 3/4 c Unsweetened almond milk
• Maple syrup
• Faster Way Vanilla Protein Powder
• 1 1/2 tsp walnuts

Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with sliced banana and chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Boom — breakfast is served!

Nutrition Highlights: 388 calories, 28g protein, 9g fiber, 12g sugar, plus vitamins and minerals to kickstart your day.

Pro Tip: Cook once, eat three times! Triple the batch and enjoy this easy meal all week long.

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

In this episode of Fit for Real Life, I welcome back Spain travel expert Abby Gray of Experience España for a deeper conversation about travel that truly stays with you.

With decades of lived experience in Spain, Abby shares why meaningful travel can’t be planned by an algorithm — and why no computer search can replace human insight, cultural understanding, and real connection. She reflects on the feedback she hears from adult travelers and high school students who experience Spain through her slower, more intentional approach — one rooted in relationships, rhythm, and respect for local culture.

From meals that turn into memories to moments that quietly reshape perspective, this conversation explores why how you travel matters just as much as where you go — and how traveling with guidance, context, and care can influence the way you live long after you come home.

This episode is for anyone who wants more than a checklist trip — and who understands that the most meaningful experiences come from connection, not search results.

To learn more about Abby’s work and her human-centered approach to travel, and TONS of resources, visit her website Experience España - Spain Travel Consultant, Spain Travel, Travel to Spain

Or find her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/experience.espana.abby

You can watch our chat here, on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e5RXpiA_H8o

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

Want to experience Spain like a local — not a tourist? In this episode of Fit for Real Life, I sit down with Abby from Experience España, a Spain specialist with over 30 years of lived experience in the country. Abby helps travelers craft trips that are authentic, respectful, and deeply connected to Spanish culture.

We dive into:

• Abby’s personal journey and how she fell in love with Spain
• Insider tips for solo travelers, couples, families, and friends
• How to slow down and embrace the Spanish lifestyle, from local markets to daily rhythms
• Experiential travel that connects you to people, food, neighborhoods, and traditions
• Lessons from Spain that can shift your perspective and inspire a more mindful approach to life

Whether you’re dreaming of your first trip or your tenth, Abby’s insights will help you move beyond sightseeing to truly live like a local, making your Spanish adventure unforgettable.

I love that Abby says it best herself: “I believe that travel should be about creating unforgettable experiences and memories. That’s why I offer a range of travel consulting services that cater to different interests and travel preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxury vacation, travel on a budget, Spanish language immersion, or an adventure expedition, I’ve got you covered.”

So if you’ve ever wanted a trip that’s more than just sightseeing — one that truly immerses you in Spanish culture and creates memories that last a lifetime — Abby’s your go-to.

Listen in and discover Spain the way it’s meant to be experienced!

Want to watch our chat on YouTube? Watch it here: https://youtu.be/R4waVOpMO5o

Want to connect with Abby and plan your own authentic Spanish adventure? Visit Experience España - Spain Travel Consultant, Spain Travel, Travel to Spain

or follow her on Instagram @experience.espana.abby

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

The holidays don’t have to derail your progress. In this episode, we look ahead to 2026, and the micro changes we can make now, to set us up for success.

We dive into:

• How metabolism naturally shifts during the holidays—and why small, proactive adjustments matter
• The real impact of alcohol on fat burning, sleep, and hormones
• A self-audit to assess nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress before the new year
• Science-backed strategies from the Faster Way to Fat Loss for sustainable habits, energy, and results
• Planning ahead to start 2026 confident, energized, and ahead of the game

Whether you’re enjoying holiday indulgences or juggling travel chaos, this episode shows you how to make small, measurable changes now—so you don’t have to “start fresh” in January.

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA

Send us a text

I know what it’s like when life feels completely unpredictable — work deadlines, kids, travel, and all the chaos in between. In this episode, I’m sharing practical strategies, real client stories, and small, adaptable routines that help you stay consistent, feel empowered, and build habits that last — even when your schedule is anything but perfect.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why the myth of the “perfect routine” is holding you back
• How to use flexible discipline to make progress, even in chaos
• Real client stories that show small habits create big results
• The A/B/C Routine Method — ideal, real-life, and chaos-mode routines
• Simple tools like the “Two Anchor Rule” and a 3-minute evening reset
• How to build patience and habits that last throughout the year
• Why fads, gadgets, and quick fixes often fail, and what actually works

I'd love and appreciate a 5 star review, and sharing my content with a friend who might love to listen!

Find me on Instagram for daily life, tips and fun content: @wellness.with.virginia

Helpful Links:

Join my 21 Day Reset:

https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

Want to try a FREE workout and try my FAVORITE seasonal crock pot dishes?

• Free FASTer Way 30-Minute Workout: https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/workout-free?aid=wellnesswithvirginia
• Free Crockpot Meal Guide: https://www.fasterwaytofatloss.com/guide/crockpot-meals?aid=wellnesswithvirginia

My favorite high quality protein use this for a discount!

https://www.equipfoods.com/WELLNESSWITHVIRGINIA