Welcome back to The Psyche Behind the Physique! In this episode, Maddy Michielssen and dives into a game-changing mindset shift—learning to distinguish between ought to, have to, and want to in our lives.

Maddy shares a deeply personal story that forced her to reassess how she was operating—constantly stuck in a cycle of productivity and external obligations, losing sight of what truly mattered. She also discusses a powerful breakthrough with one of her athletes, who transformed her physique and mindset but found herself overwhelmed by external pressures.

In 30 minutes, Maddy unpacks why we often operate from obligation (ought to), how it can derail our goals, and the importance of realigning with our have to (non-negotiables) and want to (what truly fulfills us).

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

✅ How to recognize when you’re making choices out of obligation vs. true desire

✅ Why ought to thinking leads to burnout, self-sabotage, and resistance

✅ How shifting to have to and want to mindsets fuels long-term success

✅ Practical steps to realign your goals, whether it’s in fitness, career, or life

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, spread too thin, or stuck in a cycle of doing what you “should” instead of what truly serves you, this episode is for you.

💡 It’s time to stop running on autopilot and start living intentionally.

🔗 Ready to align your goals with your true desires? Whether it’s holistic health, lifestyle coaching, or stepping on stage for your first (or next) competition, our team at MPowered Coaching Collective is here to guide you. Apply for 1:1 coaching today—let’s build the blueprint that works for YOU!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Join⁠⁠⁠⁠ MPowered Coaching Collective for your lifestyle & contest prep needs -- where physique goals meet functional health

IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠ | YT: @⁠⁠⁠⁠madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠

🎙️ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Your feedback helps us create episodes that support YOU on your journey.

👉 Tune in, take inventory of your life, and start living in alignment.

For years, both Alexa and I have navigated the challenges of amenorrhea, and in this episode, we’ll share our journeys to recovery, the pivotal role your cycle plays in overall health, and why it’s so much more than just fertility. From discussing the science behind hormonal balance to sharing mindset shifts, actionable tips, and lifestyle strategies, this episode is packed with everything you need to start reclaiming your health and vitality.

If you’re struggling with hormonal imbalances, feel overwhelmed by the thought of change, or just want to understand why a regular cycle is a reflection of optimal health, this episode is for you.

💬 Ready to take the next step? Let us help you navigate your unique journey, whether you're working through functional health complications, wanting to lose body fat, gain muscle, or step on stage the MPowered Coaching Collective has a spot for you. Join us and become a better student of your body—because you only get one!

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for new episodes every other Saturday.

IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠ | YT: @⁠⁠⁠⁠madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠

IG: Alexalift

⁠⁠⁠⁠Join⁠⁠⁠⁠ MPowered Coaching Collective for your lifestyle & contest prep needs -- where physique goals meet functional health

In this inspiring episode, host Maddy Michielssen, IFBB Bikini Pro and founder of the MPowered Coaching Collective, is joined by two-time overall bikini champion Alexa Sotere to discuss the emotional and mental intricacies of breaking out of "the cycle" as a competitor.

🎙 Through personal stories, pivotal moments, and practical insights, Maddy and Alexa explore:

• The allure and challenges of staying "in the cycle" and why stepping out feels so daunting.
• How routine and control can serve us, but also hinder growth when they become fear disguised as discipline.
• The importance of balance, self-trust, and making intentional decisions around food, training, and life.
• Practical tips for navigating extremes, building self-trust, and redefining indulgences as part of the experience.

Through relatable analogies, like their NYC trip and the "Cake, Cookies, and Bergdorf’s" discussion, Maddy and Alexa shed light on how letting go of perfectionism and embracing flexibility can lead to greater fulfillment and progress🗽

Ready to take the next step in your own journey? Whether you’re just starting with weight loss, working on functional health, or stepping into competition prep, the MPowered Coaching Collective has a spot for you. Join us and become a better student of your body—because you only get one!

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for new episodes every other Saturday.

IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠ | YT: @⁠⁠⁠⁠madsmichiefitness⁠⁠⁠⁠

IG: Alexalift

⁠⁠⁠⁠Join⁠⁠⁠⁠ MPowered Coaching Collective for your lifestyle & contest prep needs -- where physique goals meet functional health