
Advertise on podcast: Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts
Rating
5from
This podcast has
52 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
ZenExplicit
No
Date created
2025/01/21
Latest episode
2026/02/02
Average duration
46 min.
Release period
8 days
Description
Welcome to the GenX Pole Arts Podcast, where we celebrate the strength, resilience, and potential of women over 40 and the vibrant world of pole dance and pole fitness! When you are Fit, Fierce and Fearless you recognize that your passion knows no age. Each week, we’ll connect with inspiring women who are redefining what it means to thrive in their 40s and beyond. From incredible stories of personal transformation to tips on building strength and confidence, we’ll explore the boundless possibilities that pole dancing offers for self-expression and empowerment and women supporting women.
Unlock Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts podcast Email contact info,
Listeners & Audience details
Email contact information
Direct podcast contact details

Listeners
Audience numbers & engagement insights

Audience details
Podcast Insights

Podcast episodes
Check latest episodes from Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts podcast
S2E5: Proof You’re Never Too Old For Pole, or Whatever it is You Want to do in Life: A Conversation with Jill Hackett
2026/02/02
In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, we sit down with Jill, a remarkable woman whose journey with pole dance and movement is a story of courage, patience, and joy. From discovering pole later in life to embracing spin and static pole, Jill shares how she’s cultivated strength, flexibility, and self-awareness—all while balancing family, career, and life’s inevitable aches and shifts.
Jill opens her heart about the lessons she’s learned through teaching, training, and nurturing students of all ages. She reflects on the power of consistency, the value of showing up, and the joy of celebrating progress without pressure. With a gentle perspective on aging, recovery, and self-care, Jill shows us how to keep moving—physically and emotionally—so that we can continue to live fully and vibrantly at any age.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Finding your pace and embracing the journey, rather than rushing toward the next skill.
How movement, mindfulness, and creative practice can sustain the body, even in the presence of arthritis or other challenges.
The balance between teaching, performing, and caring for yourself.
The joy of being a role model, both to your children and your students.
The beauty of staying curious, consistent, and compassionate with yourself through midlife and beyond.
How play, movement, and connection keep us youthful, energized, and alive.
Whether you’re new to pole, revisiting a passion, or simply seeking inspiration to honor your body and your life at any age, Jill’s story offers a calming, uplifting reminder: strength, grace, and joy are always within reach.
🔗 Connect with Jill: Follow @never.too.old.for.pole and @inesscircus on InstagramThis episode is about permission—permission to take up space, to be seen, to be messy and magical, and to live your one wild life fully.
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
S2E4: Having it all in Midlife: Business Owner, Mother, Teacher, Performer, Competitor, International Champion. A conversation with Joanna Littlewood-Johnson
2026/01/26
**CORRECTION: Joanna returned to pole at age 39, not age 49 as she states at the beginning of the episode. **
In this episode of Fit, Fierce & Fearless, I’m joined by the truly extraordinary Joanna Littlewood-Johnson, a multi-time world champion pole artist, studio owner, Pilates instructor, competition founder, and all-around force of nature joining us from Australia.
Joanna is 56 (yes, you read that right), and her story is a powerful reminder that strength, artistry, and reinvention do not have an expiration date. From her early days as a lifelong dancer to returning to pole in midlife, competing on the world stage, recovering from a ruptured Achilles, and continuing to evolve through menopause — this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.
We talk about what it really means to move, train, recover, and take up space as women over 50 — both on the pole and off.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Joanna’s journey from lifelong dancer to world champion pole artistReturning to pole at 49 and stepping into competition soon afterTraining, recovery, and longevity in your 50sMenopause, HRT, bone density, and supplements for performanceRupturing an Achilles tendon and returning to the stage 11 months laterArtistry, musicality, and storytelling in pole competitionPerforming on Australia’s Got Talent and normalizing poleCreating inclusive competitions and educating smarter pole teachersYou don’t need to be strong to start pole — you get strong by doing it. There’s no rush, no deadline, and no single way to show up. Pole is movement, expression, strength, artistry, and rebellion — and it’s for you. The lessons we learn about ourselves in the pole studio show up in all areas of our lives, and the community makes us braver, bolder, and more supported than ever before.
🔗 Connect with Joanna everywhere she is with her Linktree links: https://linktr.ee/JoannaLittlewoodJohnson
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey. If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
S2E3: Midlife Is the Awakening: Movement, Magic, and Radical Self-Permission: a Conversation with Chivon Parks
2026/01/19
I honestly can’t believe we’re here. Fifty episodes of Fit, Fierce & Fearless, and this milestone episode felt like the perfect moment to bring on a guest who truly embodies everything this podcast stands for.
Today I’m joined by Chivon (also known as Firestorm) — dancer, instructor, performer, business owner, and all-around magical force of nature. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to fully step into your power after 40, this conversation is it.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
How pole dance becomes a gateway to self-trust, freedom, and reinvention
Letting go of other people’s expectations (and the masks we wear) as we age
The magic of movement, presence, and storytelling through dance
Injury, recovery, and why rest can make you stronger than before
Why women-centered spaces feel threatening—and why they’re essential
Creating intentional, heart-centered studios and classrooms
Sensuality, creativity, and feminine energy as forms of self-care and resistance
Aging boldly, unapologetically, and on your own terms
What it means to live fully—ass out, heart open, fear turned way down
Chivon shares her 10-year pole journey, how she merged movement with ritual and spirituality, and how her signature classes—like Goddess and Bedtime Stories—give women permission to explore character, sensuality, and expression without rules or judgment.
🔗 Connect with Chivon (Firestorm): Follow @firrestorrm on Instagram
This episode is about permission—permission to take up space, to be seen, to be messy and magical, and to live your one wild life fully.
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
S2E2: The Art of Fearlessness: Lauren F*****g Hill on Pole, Flight, and Freedom
2026/01/12
Welcome to Season 2 of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless — and I honestly can’t believe I’m saying this — this episode marks one full year of the podcast.
To kick things off, I had to bring you someone truly special. My guest today is Lauren Hill, and if you’ve seen her on Instagram or in real life, you already know she brings a fearless, rebellious, deeply creative energy that fits this podcast perfectly.
Lauren is a pole and aerial artist, a visual artist, and a self-taught mover who lives for anything that involves being in the air. In this episode, we talk about her lifelong obsession with flight, how pole and aerial became a natural extension of that, and why she’s now starting flight school at 40 — yes, actually flying planes.
This conversation is about so much more than pole. It’s about control, joy, creativity, embodiment, and what happens when you stop trying to fit into traditional systems and start trusting your own way of moving, creating, and living.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Celebrating one year of the Fit, Fierce, and Fearless podcast
Starting flight school at 40 and the connection between flying and pole
How aerial movement becomes a moving meditation
How a family plane crash shaped fear, control, and mastery
Being self-taught and breaking away from traditional dance systems
Turning movement into art through pole, aerial, and painting
Why beginners are already beautiful at any age
The power of community, collaboration, and connection
This conversation is a reminder that art, movement, and connection are acts of resistance — especially in a world that often encourages isolation. Pole and aerial arts aren’t just fitness; they’re tools for self-expression, empowerment, healing, and community.
Lauren’s story is proof that creativity doesn’t expire — it evolves.
🔗 Connect with Lauren: Follow @laurenfuckinghill on Instagram
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
S2E1: Season 1 Top-5 Episode Wrap-Up
2026/01/05
Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless Season 2!
In this first episode of Season 2, we revisit the five most-streamed episodes of Season 1.
Episode 1 - The GenX Pole Arts Origin Story
Episode 3 - A Conversation with Deeana Garcia
Episode 6 - A Conversation with Firebird
Episode 27 - A Special Episode with Shana Pereira
Episode 47 - A Conversation with Firebird
These five inspirational episodes are the perfect overview of what this podcast is all about. You will feel inspired.
Episode 47: The Power of Slow: Trusting Your Body and Your Personal Evolution. A conversation with Firebird
2025/12/29
Welcome to the final episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless for 2025—and the season finale of our very first year.
For this special episode, I’m joined once again by Firebird, who is not only a three-time guest on the podcast, but also the guest from our most-streamed episode of the year. Bringing her back felt like the perfect way to close out this season and reflect on growth, creativity, resilience, and the power of pole dance as we move into 2026.
We talk honestly about how much can change in a year—physically, emotionally, and creatively—and how pole dance continues to be a grounding, healing, and empowering force for women over 40.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Reflecting on the success of Season One and what consistency can create
Firebird’s evolution as a dancer and teacher
Letting go of “tricks” and industry expectations in favor of embodied, joyful movement
The role of pole dance in emotional processing, healing, and self-expression
The importance of community, in-person connection, and shared energy
Looking ahead to 2026, including retreats, travel, and what’s next
This conversation is a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from pushing harder—it often comes from listening more deeply to your body, your emotions, and your intuition. Pole dance gives us permission to move slowly, sensually, powerfully, and honestly—exactly as we are, at any age.
🔗 Connect with Firebird: Follow @firebirdpole on Instagram
💖 Thank You!
I am so grateful to Firebird, to every guest who joined me this year, and to all of you who listened, shared, reviewed, and supported the podcast. This show would not exist without this incredible community.
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode 46: Ageless Confidence: Letting Go of Limits and Flying Over 50 - a Conversation with Makeda
2025/12/22
In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with someone I’ve admired for years—Makeda, the incredible woman behind Flying Over 50.
I’ve been following Makeda since the very beginning of my own pole journey, and having her on the podcast felt full-circle. She is living proof that movement, confidence, sensuality, and strength do not expire with age. At 64, she is still dancing, still inspiring, and still redefining what’s possible for women over 50.
This conversation was honest, empowering, funny, and deeply relatable. We talked about aging, pole, body changes, mindset shifts, and the freedom that comes from letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
How Makeda found pole dance later in life—and why it changed everything
The origin story behind Flying Over 50 and the importance of representation
Breaking societal myths about aging, femininity, and movement
Navigating body changes, menopause, and self-acceptance with compassion
The shift from aerial tricks to low flow—and honoring different seasons of movement
Why the pole community is so uniquely supportive, especially online
The power of movement as healing, focus, and self-connection
Creating safe, accessible spaces for older women to move—at home and online
Makeda’s evolution into The Makeda Method, offering private online sessions, deep stretch yoga, and breathwork
This conversation is a reminder that it’s never too late to start something new, reclaim your body, or redefine what strength and beauty look like. Whether you’re a seasoned pole dancer, new to movement, or simply curious, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, validated, and empowered.
🔗 Connect with Makeda:
Follow @FlyingOver50 on Instagram
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode 45: From hesitant to fearless: Stephanie’s journey to confidence - her GenX Pole Arts Exp
2025/12/15
In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I sit down with Stephanie—an incredibly strong, honest, and inspiring woman I met at one of my GenX PoleArts Intro to Movement & Pole Dance Workshops.
Stephanie shares her journey of rediscovering herself after leaving a relationship where she felt unable to fully be who she was. At 56 years old, she’s built nearly 7 pounds of muscle, won a gym competition, and decided it was time to say yes to curiosity instead of fear—including walking into her very first pole class.
What We Talk About
Overcoming intimidation, fear, and self-doubt
The importance of supportive instructors and inclusive studio spaces
How pole fitness builds not just physical strength, but confidence in everyday life
Why bruises (“pole kisses”) are badges of honor
Letting go of judgment—your own and others’
The mindset shift that comes with choosing yourself
Living without regrets and embracing the power of “What if?”
Stephanie’s message is clear and powerful: don’t wait, don’t wonder—just go for it. Whether it’s pole dancing, trying a new fitness class, or stepping into any long-held curiosity, this conversation is a reminder that growth happens when we choose courage over comfort.
✨ If you’re on the fence about trying pole—or anything new—this episode is for you.
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode 44: Strength, Skill, and Self-Belief with Fran of Body by Fran
2025/12/08
In this episode, I sit down with Fran, the powerhouse coach behind Body by Fran — a trainer, pole athlete, physique competitor, and educator who has built a reputation for transforming bodies and mindsets with equal intensity.
We explore her evolution from passionate mover to competitive pole athlete to certified bodybuilding coach, and how she blends these worlds to help her clients build strength, mobility, body awareness, and unapologetic confidence. We also talk about her signature certification program for pole instructors, created to elevate coaching standards and equip instructors with evidence-based strength and conditioning principles.
This conversation is a masterclass in what it means to pursue strength from the inside out.
How Fran discovered pole dance and rose into the competitive pole world
The discipline and artistry behind training as a pole athlete
Her transition from bodybuilding and physique competitions to pole
Why these two disciplines complement each other more than you’d think
The training philosophies behind Body by Fran
How she coaches pole dancers to build the functional strength, mobility, and endurance required for high-level tricks
How she coaches bodybuilders to develop symmetry, conditioning, and stage confidence
Her specialized certification program for pole instructors, designed to help them safely train students, program intelligently, and understand biomechanics
Why she rejects one-size-fits-all fitness and builds programs around each client’s unique mechanics
The mindset work that makes physical transformation possible
Fran is a pole athlete, competitive bodybuilder, strength coach, and educator with a dual specialty that sets her apart in the fitness world. Her methodology blends performance training, aesthetic conditioning, biomechanics, and deep respect for the body’s lived experience.
She has coached:
Competitive and recreational pole dancers working toward inversions, handsprings, ayeshas, power spins, dynamic movement, and stage conditioning
Bodybuilders preparing for stage, working on symmetry, physique development, glute/hamstring emphasis, and overall conditioning
Everyday athletes seeking stronger, more confident, more capable bodies
Pole instructors pursuing her specialized certification, which teaches them how to safely progress students, understand movement mechanics, and apply strength and conditioning principles to pole dance
Fran understands both the artistry of pole and the discipline of bodybuilding — and teaches with the precision, intensity, and compassion of someone who has lived both worlds.
This conversation is for anyone who:
Wants to understand the real strength and science behind pole dance
Is curious about bodybuilding or physique training
Wants a coach who blends compassion with elite-level expertise
Is learning to rewrite old stories around strength, age, or ability
Is a pole instructor seeking deeper knowledge and more effective programming
Fran’s work reframes fitness as a form of self-respect and personal power, not punishment or performance.
Pole dance is an elite athletic discipline requiring strength, endurance, mobility, and technical skill.
Bodybuilding teaches discipline, structure, and intentional muscle development that complements pole perfectly.
Instructor education matters — and Fran’s certification fills a major gap in pole teaching standards.
Strength begins with the way you think and speak to yourself.
It is never too late to build strength, capability, and confidence.
Connect with Fran & Explore Her Programs:
Fran on Instagram
Level 1 Pole Studio Certification
Pole Body Bootcamp
Body by Fran Website
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
Episode 43: Changing the Internal Dialogue and Giving Thanks
2025/12/04
Theme of the Episode
In this episode, Zen explores how the stories we tell ourselves can distort our sense of ability, identity, and worth. From underestimating our physical capabilities to minimizing the legitimacy of our own careers, this episode digs into the quiet, persistent narratives that shape how we see ourselves — and how often they’re completely false.
Zen shares how she spent three years believing she couldn’t do the pole trick Ayesha, despite having the strength and skill to do it long before she finally tried again. That internal script — “I can’t do this” — became truth simply because she repeated it.
She also reframes another powerful narrative: the myth that she “doesn’t have a job” because she’s not currently drawing a paycheck. In reality, she is working — building, creating, teaching, producing, and leading — and her entrepreneurial path deserves the same respect as any traditional career. This episode is about reclaiming your own story before someone else defines it for you.
So many women in midlife carry outdated beliefs about what they can do, what they’re allowed to do, or what “counts” as real work. GenX women have spent decades prioritizing everyone else. This conversation speaks directly to those who are rewriting their identities, trying new things, building new careers, or reclaiming their physical power later in life. The stories we repeat matter — and it’s never too late to change the narrative.
“I have a fucking job. I’m just not getting a paycheck.”
This episode invites you to:
Question the limiting stories you’ve accepted as truth
Recognize where outdated beliefs are holding you back
Reframe how you talk about your work, your abilities, and your worth
Allow yourself to evolve without apologizing for it
If this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast — it helps the show reach more people who need it.
And if you’ve been wanting to try pole dancing but don’t know where to start, download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit and begin safely at home, at your own pace.
Episode DetailsWhy It Matters for GenX WomenQuote & TakeawaysSupport the Show
Episode 42: A Conversation with Viral Superstar, National Treasure, and 72-year old World Champion Pole Dancer, Mary Caryl
2025/11/24
In this episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I chat with the incredible Mary Caryl, a 72-year-old multi-talented artist, pole dancer, performer, designer, and entrepreneur who is an inspiring example of living a heart-led, joyful life.
From revealing her secrets for candy-making, skincare, wellness, and staying active, to diving deep into her love for pole dancing, Mary Caryl shares how she maintains strength, beauty, and joy while juggling performances, travel, design work, family, pets, and all of life’s challenges.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The story of how Mary discovered and fell in love with pole in her late 50s
Practical wellness and skincare routines that support aging gracefully.
The benefits of collagen, vitamins, and supplements for overall health.
Why stress-free eating and a balanced approach to life and diet matter for longevity.
How pole dancing keeps Mary Caryl physically and mentally strong.
The importance of studio energy versus at-home practice for pole skill growth.
Tips for embracing life changes, fashion, and your evolving self with confidence.
Behind-the-scenes of designing pole dance apparel for all types of women.
Upcoming pole performances and competitions and the story behind Mary Caryl’s other creative projects.
Nothing ever stays the same. Embrace the changes, embrace the new you, and give attention to your soul and spirit—they will keep you young, vibrant, and fearless.
Follow Mary Caryl @marycarylglam and @marycaryldesignWebsite: marycaryldesigns.com
Discount code for Mary Caryl Designs PCW2025
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode 41: Fearless Reinvention: Discovering your self again and again. A conversation with Jacq Frances
2025/11/17
In this powerful and honest episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, I talk with the incredible Jacq—multi-disciplinary artist, self-published author, performer, and deeply insightful human navigating a season of uncertainty, growth, and courageous self-reinvention.
This conversation is honest, warm, and full of truth-telling about creativity, fear, self-expression, and the importance of community during challenging times. Together, we explore what it means to stay rooted in authenticity—especially when the world feels uncertain—and how art, embodiment, and connection can anchor us through it all.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Jacq’s journey as a writer and the reality behind creating her first book
How a super-successful, 10-year career as a stripper led to the invention of Jacq the Stripper, and ensuing creative endeavorsLessons learned about the vulnerability and freedom of self-publishing after writing 6 booksNavigating fear, censorship, and major life transitions as an artist
The healing power of community, connection, and in-person experiences
Rediscovery through movement, creativity, and embracing joy at any age
Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and reminded that it’s never too late to step into your power, express yourself fully, and embrace life with courage and creativity!
Follow Jacq @jacq_frances
Connect with Jacq & Explore Her Work:
Linktree - Sign up for painting classes, get info on her books, and explore more of her art and creative projects—all in one place.
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode 40: Turning My Light Back On After a Crushing Loss
2025/11/11
About This Episode
This week, Zen shares the heartbreaking news that her dear friend — and former Fit, Fierce & Fearless guest from Episode 28 — Shana Pereira has passed away. Many listeners will remember Shana’s strength, humor, and perspective, and may be stunned to learn of her loss. In honor of Shana’s life and message, Zen shares the full audio of her TED Talk within this episode.
A personal update on Shana’s passing and the impact of her loss
The complete audio of Shana’s TED Talk, shared in her memory
Zen’s reflections on grief, emotional heaviness, and showing up during a difficult week
A symbolic moment where her neon “Zen Pole” sign won’t turn on — unintentionally capturing exactly how she’s been feeling
An invitation for listeners to watch Shana’s TED Talk on YouTube to help amplify her message
A note about next week’s guest and Zen’s hope to return with more light
Shana’s story touched many people, and this episode offers the chance to hear her voice and message again. If you’ve ever lost someone you love, or felt your own light dim in the aftermath, this conversation may bring comfort, connection, and reflection.
Please watch her TED Talk on YouTube — linked below. Your view helps push her words to more people who may need them.
Shana's TedTalk
Episode 39: Reclaiming yourself through comedy and movement- a survivor’s tale: A Conversation with Orchid Cameron.
2025/10/27
Trigger Warning: this episode discusses domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
In this inspiring episode, Zen dives into a raw and empowering conversation with comedian, pole coach, and all-around badass Orchid, as she opens up about rebuilding life after loss, owning her identity, and redefining strength as a woman over 40.
We explore what it means to rise from a chapter you never asked for — to choose resilience, joy, and self-expression in a world that often underestimates women over 40. Through comedy and movement, Orchid continues to rewrite what confidence, beauty, and boldness can look like in midlife.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Orchids journey from profound grief to reclaiming joy
Why embracing your feminine power is NOT anti-feminist
The power of movement — especially pole — to heal and transform confidence
How women over 40 are rewriting the conversation around strength, sexuality & aging
The role of community in rebuilding identity
Why it’s never too late to try something totally new
How to step into your “stadium era” — believing your dreams deserve big stages
Prepare to feel seen, understood, and wildly empowered. You’re not behind… you’re right on time for your comeback.
Follow Orchid @orchidcameron
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
Upcoming Workshops:
November 8 – Santa Fe, NM
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Episode38: Blazing trails and building bridges for dancers with nontraditional body types - a conversation with beloved performer and instructor, Panther
2025/10/20
In this inspiring episode of Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, Zen sits down with Panther, a 55-year-old dynamic, passionate, and beloved pole dance instructor with over 15 years of experience. From her first class and competition, to teaching countless students of every size and shape how to move with confidence, Panther shares her wisdom about growth, community, and owning your lane—no matter your age, body type, or skill level.
Together, we dive into what it truly means to feel comfortable in your own skin, celebrate your strengths, and find joy in movement—without comparison or pressure. This conversation is full of laughter, heart, and lessons that every dancer (and woman!) can relate to.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
What it means to show up and push through, even when you don’t see anyone else in the room who looks like you
The importance of staying true to your own journey and letting go of comparison
Why you’re never too old or out of shape to try something new, to start dancing, or to feel sexy
How to find your unique style and embrace what works for your body
The power of community, encouragement, and showing up authentically in class
You’ll walk away from this episode reminded that growth has no timeline, strength has no age, and your lane is exactly where your magic lives. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or rediscovering your fire, this episode will inspire you to move boldly, live fully, and dance like it’s your time—because it is.
Follow Panther @Panther_4u
Start your journey today!
Want to try pole? Join a class at your local studio or download the free GenX Pole Arts Starter Kit to begin exploring at home.
Visit the Linktree for links for upcoming workshops, YouTube videos, and resources to support your pole journey.
Upcoming Workshops:
November 8 – Santa Fe, NM
If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share, subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Podcast reviews
Read Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts podcast reviews
Podcast sponsorship advertising
Start advertising on Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts relevant audience podcasts
You may also like to advertise on these Podcasts

4.4153101
Mike Gallagher Podcast
Salem Podcast Network

4.8266440
The Construction Leading Edge Podcast
Todd Dawalt

4.8105100
Jake Ducey's 2nd Mind Podcast
Jake Ducey

4.7246623
Half-Ass Movie Podcast
Roboys

4.456500
Phillies 24/7 Shows
Audacy

4.71906752
Thank God I'm Atheist
tgiatheist

4.159965
The Daily Lowdown
Hello! Magazine Ltd

4.9210390
Entreprenista
Entreprenista Media

5263212
Habits on Purpose
Kristi Angevine, MD

4.9331279
The Underdog NFL Show
Underdog Podcasts