In today’s episode, we interview Iris! We dive into Iris’s personal story, uncovering the deeply ingrained struggles many of us face around food, body image, and exercise, and the path to self-acceptance. The conversation takes us through the early influences of her childhood, the pressures of dieting, and how she eventually found balance and peace in a world that often pushes extremes.This episode is packed with personal anecdotes, valuable lessons, and a deep exploration of how our relationships with food and exercise are shaped from childhood… and what we can do about it. This episode is an inspiring reminder that our journeys are ever-evolving and that embracing the basics with consistency can lead to profound changes both physically and mentally."Every day you decide to go in and do something hard is another day where you're proving to yourself that you can handle something hard."- Iris Deadlifts“If people could understand that it always comes back to their choices and their personal responsibility in any situation, they would be amazed at the progress they can make." - Iris DeadliftsThis week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:* Reflecting on the impact of “good vs. bad” food language in childhood* The lasting impact of restrictive diets on body image and mental health* The importance of lifting weights for both physical strength and mental resilience* How shifting her mindset from aesthetics to health has transformed Iris’s life * The power of consistent movement in improving both body and mind* Why curating your feed matters - the importance of surrounding yourself with evidence-based, positive voices on social media* Iris’s breakthrough moment: letting go of strict deadlines and embracing a sustainable approach* Recognizing that control doesn't mean rigidity, but rather, understanding your choices and taking responsibility in a compassionate wayConnect with Us:* Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/)* Meri on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/therealliftedlife/)* Amy Rudolph on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/amyrudolph832fitness/)* Episode: Q&A: Weight Loss Plateaus, Bulking, & An "Ideal" Week of Workouts (https://blubrry.com/1471014/133009744/qa-weight-loss-plateaus-bulking-an-ideal-week-of-workouts/)Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-bitches-talk-fitness/id1660618985) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5BZ47e46cLrUlUBUY636fO)Be sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/irisdeadlifts/),