You know what to eat. You know how to train. And yet… the mirror doesn’t reflect the effort.
You’re showing up—but it’s not showing on you.
In this episode, I’m talking with Ali Turiano, a TV meteorologist and Powerhouse Academy member, about the real mental and physical toll of chasing results that just won’t stick.
Despite 15+ years of calorie counting, gym routines, and “doing everything right,” Ali found herself stuck in a frustrating cycle of burnout, body dysmorphia, and second-guessing her own reflection, all while juggling a demanding on-camera career.
What changed?
A mindset shift. A strategic reset. And permission to let go of the extremes.
We discuss what it means to rebuild trust with your body and your habits when you're a high-achieving, type-A woman who’s used to figuring it all out on your own. If you’ve ever thought “I shouldn’t need help,” this one’s for you.
Here's what we cover:
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Why smart, successful women still struggle with body image
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The myth of “I just need more discipline” and what actually works
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How Ali stopped tracking calories after 15 years and saw better results
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Why perimenopause changes everything (and what to do about it)
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How to build a workout routine that works with your lifestyle, not against it
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The emotional cost of showing up on camera while silently struggling
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Why the Powerhouse Academy approach helped Ali finally feel at home in her skin
Whether you’re a busy professional juggling deadlines and dinner plans, a recovering perfectionist who’s exhausted from chasing “just right,” or simply fed up with advice that doesn’t fit your real life, this conversation is your permission slip to do things differently.
Because your habits?
They should support your life, not hijack your sanity, steal your joy, or leave you second-guessing yourself every time you look in the mirror.
And sustainable change?
It doesn’t come from restriction, punishment, or performing wellness perfectly.
It starts with this simple truth: You don’t have to earn rest. You don’t have to earn worthiness. And you sure as hell don’t have to do it alone.
You don’t have to climb the mountain alone. The difference now is—I have a team helping me over every bump along the way. -Ali Turiano
Ready for coaching that meets you where you are? Join me inside the Powerhouse Academy—where smart women stop second-guessing and start seeing results that last. And follow @nathaliamelofit for real talk, proven strategies, and permission to stop overthinking.
Let’s go.
Connect with Nathalia
Apply for the Powerhouse Academy
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More about the Unfiltered Fit Life podcast
Ever wish you had a fit and straightforward BFF with over 15 years of experience to help you filter through all the information regarding fitness, nutrition, and life?
That’s exactly what you’ll get when you listen to the Unfiltered Fit Life Podcast.
Join Former Bikini Olympia Champion, mom of 2, and fitness coach Nathalia Melo each week as she shares fitness, nutrition, and life tips to help busy working moms simplify their fitness journey so they can learn easy and simple strategies on how to lose weight and feel sexy AF.
After helping over 5000 busy working moms, Nathalia has found the blueprint to fitness, nutrition, and life success, which she will be sharing in this podcast: actionable tips that will help busy working moms be more present at work and at home.
This show is for you if you realize that nothing good comes from your comfort zone and are ready to challenge yourself to achieve great things. Follow Unfiltered Fit Life wherever you are listening to join us each week for a splash of sass, humor, and a whole lotta truth.
The podcast transcript for this episode of the Unfiltered Fit Life podcast follows
Meet Ali Toriano: Meteorologist, Nutrition Coach, and Cat Lover
Natalia [00:00:01]
Welcome to another episode of the Unfiltered Fit Life podcast! Today, Natalia sits down with Ali Toriano, a long-time TV meteorologist and powerhouse community member. Ali shares her background, her move from the East Coast to Dallas, her life with her husband and cats, and all the chaos that comes with a busy career, and even busier Texas weather.
Struggling with Body Image and Fitness Despite Knowing the Basics
Natalia [00:05:30]
Ali opens up about her personal struggles: despite her training and years in the gym, she found herself dealing with body dysmorphia and the unique pressure of constantly being on camera. The expectation to “figure it out herself” became overwhelming. She explains how even knowledgeable people hit roadblocks, especially when the emotional toll kicks in.
Why Even Professionals Need Coaching and Accountability
Natalia [00:08:11]
Despite being a certified nutrition coach, Ali reached out for help when motivation and accountability vanished during stressful times. She highlights the importance of having the right systems and guidance, not just knowledge. The Powerhouse Academy approach offered structure, simplicity, and a chance to build from basics—without relying on calorie tracking and strict macro counting.
What Sets Powerhouse Academy Apart: Team, Simplicity & Mindset
Natalia [00:13:30]
Ali describes what made her commit to Powerhouse Academy: a team-centric approach (not just a lone coach), mindset support, and meeting her where she was. The difference? Real humans ready to strategize through both nutritional and emotional challenges, not just apps and numbers. Ali credits the counseling support with helping her shift her mindset, which has been crucial to her success.
Real Results: Mindset, Strength, and Life Beyond the Scale
Natalia [00:17:22]
Since joining the program, Ali feels stronger, less inflamed, and, most importantly, mentally healthier. Her massage therapist noticed positive physical changes, but the biggest shift has been in her confidence and mood, impacting not just work, but her relationships and day-to-day energy.
Advice for High Achievers on the Fence (and Why Coaches Still Need Coaches)
Natalia [00:19:58]
Ali encourages others, especially high-achieving women accustomed to solving everything solo, to get support. She explains the value of ongoing coaching, community, and a team that climbs the mountain with you. The Powerhouse Academy isn’t just another “quick fix” or cookie-cutter gym routine: it’s a sustainable approach focused on the real-life challenges and hormonal changes grown women face.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all-or-nothing mindsets, plateauing despite your best efforts, or simply exhausted from trying to “figure it out” alone, this episode is for you.
