Encore: Success After Biggest Loser and Motherhood

Speaker 1 Forget everything you've ever heard about dieting, what if you can eat the foods, you love and find a way to get fit. That was actually enjoyable. Welcome to have it all with Devin Alexander, the chef from TVs. Biggest Loser, has lost 70 pounds and kept it off for over 30 years. She has also helped others to stop yo-yo dieting and actually transformed their lungs. Now here's your host Devin Alexander. Hey everyone, welcome to the show. Speaker 2 Happy Wednesday. As you all know, I am on week 2 of motherhood, I got my daughter two weeks ago so I'm still a little sleep deprived as I'm sure all the moms out there. No, but I am so excited to be here today because I know a lot of you have really been waiting for her, but we have today Biggest, Loser season, 11 winner, Olivia Ward. So welcome to live. Yeah. Hi. How are you? I'm great. I'm so excited to have you here. I think especially, you know, you and I had plan this, but I know you had so much travel and you were doing your cruise life and everything. And I'm really glad now that I'm in, Mommy Mode, a little bit and getting to talk to you now because I know you are also in Mommy Mode. I am at first of all, congratulations, welcome to Motherhood, amazing, I know like, over the years and people, you know, may know it or not. No, but you and I have always kept in touch over the years and I think both of us have just, we've always been kind of Kindred Spirits, I think in our desire to be mothers and to have that part of our Lives, come to fulfillment. So it not only so awesome to be able to like chat with you just about, you know, weight loss and everything. But I love it that now. After, you know, sometime and of knowing each other that we get to like, share this experience together. It's just it's really incredible. Well and I also think it's so great. That you totally have been following your dreams. I do my best to do it and I told people in the course of the show, like, part of the reason, I decided that I had to move forward and figure out a way to be a mom at my age. I'm 46 for those who don't know. So, and Olivia here, a tiny bit older to not as old as me but you know, it's like I tell people to go after your dreams and all of that and like what's that big scary thing that you're afraid of and to be honest, like in my heart I have always always, always wanted to be a mom. And the guy thing didn't work out and I twisted it into like oh well if I get a child first, I'll be giving up on the gym for a guy and then in the course of doing this show, like it totally struck me. That, you know, I was listening to these weird sisters Little Norms that I always tell people not to, and it would actually, especially at my age, be better to have a daughter. And then, you know, figure that the rest of that out later, which honestly, I think will probably be easier because I'll be around more single dads in the course of, you know, raising my daughter and you know exactly who are grounded and cool, not all these guys who are still flakes. 250 is right and I think it's just all so Like, I, like you said, we get so drawn into these societal Norms wet. Like, feels like, oh, it has to be this certain way or it can't happen. And I think, you know, I mean to tie in kind of what I learned at Biggest Loser made for me, I even lost weight and a very unconventional kind of environment. But that it doesn't matter because, you know, for me, it may not have been the norm for everybody else, but it was part of my plan. It's a part of what life had for me and I think Sometimes you know things happened the way, you know, Society thinks they should go and then sometimes it does it and how wonderful is that because everybody story and like their life plan, everything is unique and I think it's just so important to embrace if you you know have the heart of a parent you know whether you're a mom or a dad that I feel like that that's the most important like that if you really desire, that that there is a way. To fulfill that dream and that you just need to go for it. You know what I mean? And the rest just falls into place the way it's supposed to anyway. Yeah, well and, I mean, I really want to jump into you, which congratulations on. Not only winning the show, but this many year, I have what year was it out of curiosity? Because I know you still look awesome. And you're still living the life 2010, I believe. Did you guys 11? So it's been seven years, it'll be seven years in May that I Shadow side kept the weight off for almost seven years. So it's been what it's been, a journey. I'll be really honest with you. It's been you know, ups and downs and sideways and but I think for the most part, you know, I'm still figuring things out and working through things, it'll be a lifelong process for me but I do feel like I have gotten to a place now where I'm really kind of happy with where I am. And I don't, I tell Tend to not stress so much about it has to be this number or has to look like this or like what you said he has to. I have to eat this way because society says, this is the way that if you're going to be healthy, it has to be this number and this plan. And I just kind of found things that really work for me. And so and like I said, I mean I feel now I'm just now getting to the point where I feel really confident and kind of sharing you know, with people and things because I feel like, you know what, seven years, the good amount of time like It's I've really put some time into figuring this out, so it's really it's amazing that that long, you know, it's funny that you say that because to be honest, like, when I started my career, I like gave myself a 15-pound cushion. Like I was saying, oh, I lost 55 pounds when it was really 70 because I was like, well, if I gain if you back I never wanna lie kind of thing. And it took me Years to, you know, feel like I don't know if your journey was similar to To mine, but I basically went from being like really obese to just so controlling with food that I was like a size 0 to and wound up in Overeaters Anonymous. At that point because I was just so obsessed with food. That overtook my life. Like, I no longer have a life like I couldn't go on vacation. I couldn't do all those things. And then finally, I mean now for me, I'm super blessed but it was 17 or 18 years Wow, I guess I was 26. So almost 20 that I was pretty much the same way up until like 2 years ago. I think, you know, I had a car accident and a traumatic brain injury and all of that. And and so that put an extra like five pounds on me and I'm not as muscular and like that was bumming me out. And now the funny thing is, I'm not kidding you. In the past, two weeks of being a mom, I've lost five pounds. Look good, it's investing the beginning. It's like no sleep you like half the time I would look at My husband and I like, wait, yes, what wait, did we eat meeting today? What if we eat? Because you just so it's, I mean, it is all encompassing, especially when they're just so little because they can't do anything for themselves. So you're just constantly really all of your attention. Plus some, it's going to them so that does I will tell you that that does level out. So you'll be back, you know, kind of your more normal routine in the near future. It's funny. I was saying yesterday I don't know what have Ever seen bunny can solo. She's the one who she has, no arms. Yes, and it's so funny. My dad used to make us watch those videos as kids if we thought we couldn't do something but the other night I was like making brown rice. Like I hadn't really eaten. I was bringing brown rice, the baby was crying. I had her in my arms and I needed to feed her and I literally like was at that point where you have to turn, you know, from the boil to the summer and I did it. Like I channeled my inner Bonnie and did it with my toes. Oh that's amazing. It's really amazing. How you're like oh, I only have two hands but when then, when you become a parent you like oh no, I actually have four. I've got two feet feet are great for picking up, things off the floor, that's all you know. Got toes work, just perfectly. Yeah, so I would love to hear because I know there's so many people out there who are really struggling, especially at this time of year. What would you say was the thing that flipped with you? Like why are you suddenly able to do this? You know, I think I for so many years I and one of the things that I really, really, really discovered when I was on The Biggest Loser because really, for most of my life, I mean I was always A straight, A student. I was very driven. I was very active in like choir and competitions. And I wasn't, I did, you know, I played Sports and whatever but it was like all of that drive and all of the things that I was doing any my fault insecure or nervous or scared. I just all those emotions just went into my food and so, I always I was I really can remember being back in like the fifth grade and being overweight at that point, and looking around and not being the first time I really, Realized it, you know? Because I mean when, when you're really small you don't mean, you know I didn't believe I just was like okay I'm amazing and I just, you know, whatever. But I remember in the fifth grade be like, wow, I don't, I don't really look like everybody else. Like I'm, you know, and I was also significantly taller than everyone. Everyone else is funny. One of the things that people when I meet people who watch Biggest Loser they're always like oh wow, you're really tall because I'm 510, but I put in most people purse I must have looked really short on the show because people always think I'm going to be like 53 and person. But it's just so weird. But, you know, I think for me when I got on Biggest Loser, I just look like I can pretty much do anything that I put my mind to. I'm just, I've always been my parents really instilled that in us as kids. And so, I always liked dive headfirst into projects and things, but I really got to play around, like, why can't I do this? Like, why can't I figure out, why can't I really lose away? Why do I just yo-yo back and forth and back and forth? And I think I had Finally got to a point where I was like I have to figure this out because I just I don't want to live like this anymore, like I really had a very at that point. A happy marriage, a happy life. But that particular area of my life was so deeply. Disappointing to me, just personally and it really wasn't. I mean, it was, I mean I mean I'm not going to, you know, let's be honest like II. Everybody wants to look their best and feel their best and I didn't. Feel good or art in my own mind. I didn't like the way that I physically looked, and I think, but, even more than that, I just was so upset that I couldn't fix it. Like why can't I fix this? So, you know, kind of long story short, my, my whole focus when I went to Biggest Loser because I was like, listen, I'm going to be, you know, working out Bob and Jillian. I was going to be working with you. I was going to be learning how to eat, how to cook all these things. I knew that I was going to be able to lose the way, people go on the show and they always With the way, but my thing was like, I want to figure out why I do the things that I do. Because I know when I go home I can't I can't let all this work. Go to waste and go right back. So I think for me it was really really delving into why why in this area am I out of control? Why do I do the things that I do? So really as I don't really work and delve deep into you know kind of my weight loss Journey. What I really realized is I just was so terrified. A failing in that, that area like a fear of failure was a big big deep-rooted issue for me in this particular area, in other things, people are like, that's so weird because you seem kind of fearless in a lot of other areas, but for whatever reason, I just had to send my head. If what if I really give everything, what if I just throw my whole heart, my soul my time, my effort, my money, everything into trying to do this, I still can't do it. And idea of that failure was so overwhelming to me that Just I never would really fully commit to it. So Biggest Loser was kind of my first step to really be like, all right, all chips and all cards on the table. I'm going to even if I just fail in front of, you know, all these millions of people, it's I'm just going to go for it because clearly what I'm doing up to this point is not working and it's just making me very unhappy and so I think that's my always, my biggest piece of advice to people is, you know, you got to get to that place where You're all in where you're going to cannonball into the deep end. Like I feel and I'm not talking about, like, not doing things in moderation, but I'm talking about your commitment to it. And for some people that's like, you know, signing up for for a plan, like, a Weight Watchers or whatever organized plan for others. It's like, alright, I'm going to get a trainer and a nutritionist and for other people, it's like, I'm just going to do this at home. Whatever it is, it has to be 100%. Like you have to be All in and that has been the biggest help to me and when I came home it was a continuation of that. Yes. And you know Devin having kept your weight off for so many years. It truly is about a lifestyle about doing it every day and yes, do we have days where we get to have the cupcake? Of course, you know, or the brownie or thing. But it's not every day and it because you've got that mentality of this is the way it is. This is way my life is and I'm All in, I'm all in, on this on maintaining this health, maintaining this gift, still working towards maybe a 5 pound or a 10 lb. I give myself a little bit of wiggle room because it is life and this time of year, I would love to have a cookie in a cocktail with my friends and that's part of it. But I think that's my biggest thing is you have to just really get to commit to it all in. You are absolutely, right? So we are going to break right now. And when we come back, Olivia is going to tell us How she started that journey and how it is continued. So stay tuned everyone. Speaker 1 What is the voice of America influencers? Channel Be Inspired tune into the spotlight with Tony dear. So and special VIP co-hosts for an entertaining and thought-provoking weekly discussion with some of the top stars in their fields from business Sports and science to entertain with music literature and current events. If you're looking for what's next and comparing it to what's now or what's past? Look no further than the Light with Tony dear. 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So, save 20 bucks today, with coupon code. Vah 639 at freshly.com. Here's the story. Be motivated. The inspired join us today. Voice America influencers. You are listening to have it all with Devin Alexander to reach the show today, please call 1-866-462-1922 for 795. That's one eight six, six, four, seven, two, five, seven, nine five or send an email to fans at Devon Alexander.com. Now back to have it all. Hey everyone. I'm back Speaker 2 with Olivia Ward. Season 11 Biggest Loser. Winner, we all know and love her single. Yeah, she left the show, not only has she kept her weight off. She's become a mom. She's a soul cycle instructor who and I got to take her classes which are amazing because I'm not usually into that stuff, but I love Olivia's like. So we were talking about Olivia was telling us that you need to go all-in when you make this, you know, when you're really ready to make the change, you've Speaker 2 I will then struggled, particularly if you have a ton of weight to lose and Olivia, I'm curious. I know that, you know, a lot of people say that, well, you were on Biggest Loser, and that's what did it. But the truth is everyone, you know. Yes, Olivia was lucky to get on Biggest Loser on the flip side of that, you know, if you look at the Biggest Loser contestants, so many have gained the weight back. So while that was the Catalyst for you, it wasn't what actually happened. So, Can you tell us? You know, you say, go all in? What did that mean for you? When you came off the show, I think for me, when I got off the show, it was okay great. So like you said, I mean, I am not going to lie, I won, the weight loss lottery. I totally did, like I had access to the most incredible trainers, you know dietitians, I mean, obviously Devon was in my back pocket as well. And that like that, I don't. For one second, even deny that that wasn't a major part of my initial success, 100%, when I got home, you know, it was, I was really scared. If I'm if I could be quite honest like I was like, oh my gosh like yeah it was it was really easy when I knew that I had to get on a scale in front of all America alike, not eat, you know, the things that weren't going to serve my goals and whatever but then you get home and all of a sudden you're just stepping on the scale and your bathroom and nobody's watching and nobody knows. And And, you know, so for me, I always tell people, I'm like, it's not the same, but kind of like, when you, when you hear about when people, you know, leave prison, and they just want to go back a little bit because they're so used to that routine. It was kind of like that for me because loser, I when I first left, I was really nervous and scared like, because I mean, I live in New York, I know Devin you're always up here visiting and you know, like you can't even turn your head without a bakery or a pizza. Parlor or something like there is food everywhere in the City it chases you down the street so I really is street fairs. Like, it's so funny. I never have time to have been on walks and like you pass. You know, Diane turkey legs. I mean, like, turkey legs and funnel cakes. I mean, there is just food everywhere here, which is one of the things that's incredible about the city. But like, for those of us who are really trying to make a life change and all of that, it was really tough. And so for, so in the beginning, I kind of went the opposite direction and the sense that when My went into biggest loser. I went in scared, like, oh I can't do this and then I left scared, like, oh my gosh, I'm not going to be able to keep this. And so, I did for the first like, I would say, two to three months, like I just did not 0 I8. Exactly like I did on the show, I just like I was so I didn't want to eat anything that I wasn't used to or whatever. And I remember about three months in, I was actually at dinner with Bob Harper who has remained a really dear friend of mine and I remember he was like at And he was like, you know, he was like, you would you like to have a glass of wine with dinner or like oh no? You know, I mean there's like, you know, I was rattling off however many calories and he was like Olivia. He was like, we were at dinner. We're going to have a glass of wine with our dinner. You can't be afraid to have a glass of wine. This is silly, like he and then. So we spent like the rest of the night really talking about how, like, looking to find balance. And that was a major that particular evening was a major Breaking Point with me because I was like, oh wow, I really Ali just swapped one extreme for the other and I don't know that's not that my whole goal was to get away from being afraid. So that from that point on I really really really strive to find balance. So in the beginning I had to be a little more structured just because that's what felt good to me. So I did one day, one treat day a month where I just for 24 hours if I wanted pizza for breakfast by gosh, I was having people over for breakfast. If I wanted, you know, a cupcake for lunch. That's what I was going to have and I found that really In my mind, I was kind of working towards that. He was like a like a like a I don't know like a prize each month and although I'm going to eat healthy all month to get to that, I'm going to really and I would write down, huh? A little list like who I saw this and so I wasn't just wasting my treat on like a Snickers bar. Does that make sense? Like, I wanted it to be really worth it and that really worked for me for a while, actually. And then I started to be like, you know what, I got this i got this now, I can start doing a little bit more. And seeing how the scale goes who was all like kind of like trial and error? It's and now I do like one small kind of treat once a week. Like I just allow myself to have weather that you know pancakes at brunch with my friends or you know at Night My Husband is a big he loves ice cream and there's ice cream everywhere around the city. So maybe that one week we go and ice cream together with Harper and I always include been in Harper with me so my son also because I don't want him to be afraid of food either you know it's tough. That you'll find out Devin like being a parent and especially apparent that really cares about eating well and everything like I want him to eat well but I don't want my kid to only know K. Like I want my kid to know that a cookie is okay but it's a treat and things like that. So I think just finding that balance for me has been a long journey and I will continue to tweak it. I'm sure here and there and be successful at times and not be successful at times. But I have found that that once a week little treat It really allows me to feel like I'm not so boxed in anymore and I'll never forget when I left as final four, I weighed 149 and remember Jillian was like, remember this number because this is probably what we're if you're faithful with what you've done, this is around will you know where you will live? And I remember the time of course in Biggest Loser mode, you know, this Devin, but I was like 149. No way. I'm going to get Donald 120 or something just ridiculous. Yeah. Then I ended up. It was crazy it. When I look back on it I just want to Pat her on the back of that. It's okay. Honey, you're still in the game. It's fine, it's fine, but just know. She's right? And then I ended up, I finished at 131 132, and now I live, I live between 150 and 160 that is, I'm in like pretty much a size, 68 and a medium across the board, and that I don't have to kill myself to stay here. I just can't enjoy my life. And I'm really really, really happy with with where I am and that's you know, 20 pounds heavier than I was when I won the show. But that was like my prize fighting way. You know what I mean? Like I didn't stay there for very long and I'm totally okay with that. You know what I mean? Well, and I'm glad you're being really honest about that because the truth is like everybody thinks like, you know, we here, 110, 110 all the time or 120, you know? It's like, I mean, I'm like in the 135 to 40 range and people are like, you are. It's like, because everybody lies about their weight, really true. It is so true. And yeah, and my thing is, like, I listen, I, you know, I'm a soul cycle instructor I ride, you know, 15 times a week. Sometimes I eat really healthy but I don't want to have to spend all my life in the gym or to get to that, you know, hardly any body fat and just like and and I was the same way when I left Biggest Loser at once sir. 30, 31, 32 ish. I was like a size 2. If I for, I mean, I was so tiny and that was, you know, absolutely amazing. But I was at Biggest Loser where I was able. I didn't have a have to have a job. I was working out eight, 10 hours a day like that was, it was for that time. And I really appreciated that time. I appreciated that I was able to kind of see, you know, the capability of what my body is able to do. But I also am So thankful that I have found life, I have found a lifestyle, I have found something that I can hang onto for not just a year after the show. But two years, three years, four years, and I'm getting ready to hit my seventh year. I had a baby I gained weight. I mean, when being pregnant, I gained weight actually gained and I exercise and eight really, really well. And I still gained over 40 pounds, but I lost, you know, within the first, I don't know what the first like couple days. I lost 30 of that for you really quick, but it took me a good eight, nine, ten months to lose that extra 10 pounds. It was tough. I was like, oh man, I haven't had to lose to, you know, why all that? It took me time not to be patient again with my body, but I love it. That I have found a really nice balance that I still have to work hard. Don't get me wrong, I'm not even act like an easy. It's still really tough, but I don't have to just beat my body just to do something. It doesn't want to do. Does that make sense? No, it totally does. And, you know, one of the things That I think about sometimes is, you know, we look at movie stars and they're all in great shape and like the word. Yeah, movie stars. The one who are going from movie to movie. Like, for those who don't know, you know, they spend all their time like their job is to be in shape and then they did a movie and then they get, you know, they have their trainers, they have their nutrition as they have all these secrets they have these you know even I went to some celebrity Guru person who taught me skin brushing, which I found to be insanely valuable you know like things like yeah, they have these Extra secrets and things. So, you know, people across the country are comparing themselves to them, but as you said like you have a job now, I mean, my heart times to keep my weight are when I'm on planes like you know for years it was like pretty much every weekend. I was on a plane and going somewhere and it's so much harder to be in a routine and you're tired and you're, you know, so kudos to you for that and then also I wanted to acknowledge something else. You said which you know, you mentioned that you stayed friends with Bob. And we already said that we've stayed friends. And I like to thank the part of your success is not giving bobber, I credit, but giving you credit for staying in touch with people and befriending people who, you know, can help you if you start to fall. Absolutely. Oh my gosh. Absolutely. And I think that felt like, you know just to clarify on that like I've never felt like Olivia's been my friend so that if she falls I can help her. It's I mean that has not been our friendship. At all. And I don't expect her to fall. But as I said, it's, you know, I am friends with a number of the contestant and a lot of those people are the people who have really kept it off because they've really wanted to, you know, like not change their friends circles but, you know, be around people who lift them up in the ways that they need that elevation, I guess. Absolutely. Absolutely. And to be honest, there were a handful people That you know, it wasn't like, well I'm not going to be your friend anymore, but there were a lot of people who are not on board with my new lifestyle, with my new, you know, you know, because it does change who you are a little bit. Like I no longer was the girl at the bottom of the roller coaster holding the purses. I was now like, hey, I want to ride the roller coaster with everybody. You know what I mean to give that kind of analogy. I was always a girl, like, you would like, oh, y'all get in the picture. I'll take it or, oh, no, you know, y'all go on the roller coaster. I'll hold. He's handbags. Like, I was always that girl and, you know, I love being a part, and I always tried to make myself go to things, but I just, I could never fully participate, because I just was not fully happy with who I what I was choosing and how I was choosing to live and just like, I think it was it's just so poignant what you say is that you do kind of choose the people that are going to elevate your choice because either hard choices and I love the fact that I know I know at any given Wait, I could call you text, you be like, oh my gosh, seven like I'm having such a hard time and I know you would be there with no judgement to help me to like, you know, cry with me or hug me, or laugh with me or whatever. And I think it is important to have people like that. And I also important to surround yourself with people who understand your journey, and I always have loved that about you. As that like, you understand what it's like to be overweight and to struggle. And it's not just like, you know, it Doesn't, it's not just easy. Like, a lot of people portray it to be or, you know, see it as that. It is a struggle and we have to continue to choose. So, I think that is a big tip for people, that surround yourself with people who are, you know, in your corner and who are willing to support you, and go on walks with you. And listen to you, talk about counting your calories, or your points, or whatever, because a lot of times you do, talk about things like that and those type of Journey and it's important to have a team of friends and Only to have your back 100%. Yeah. And I mean to be honest like I lately have been, you know, reaching out to a lot more entrepreneurs and things because you know I really want to build my business into something so much bigger. And yeah it's that kind of thing. Like I and no way you know think that well I as I said I just I just wanted to acknowledge you for you know, just being such a bright light that people do want to be around you that you clearly took responsibility. Ability for yourself and then befriended us as like a tribe of. I mean, I don't think you've ever asked me for anything if I'm being honest, but just hearing me know that you had dinner with Mom and then he was able to offer advice. And I mean, I know there have been a couple contestants. Like there's there's one who I kind of think of, as a little sister who calls me often and I coach her, but for the most part, it's, you know, there, I just I don't think in life in general, we all take all of the help that we Get. And I'm seeing this, a tiny bit of a critically right now because the first couple, well, the first week and a half. I feel like I've had my daughter for so much longer but the first wheel and a half, I have a nanny. Like I obviously had to hire a nanny. I'm a single woman with a full-time job. Yeah, Chilean work from home. So I'm around my daughter all day whether or not the nanny is here, but you know, she she I got somebody with a completely flexible schedule because I wanted to be able to If I needed her at night or thingies, are during the day or if I had an event or whatever. And honestly, I didn't take advantage of the first week and a half of her doing, even a single overnight. I kind of yeah decided that, you know, the person who the baby is fed by it night at the person who she'll bond with. And so, I had a little fear around that and then I finally decided that I was like, ready to pass out from, you know, trying to proof read a book and, and watch a baby all day that I'm like, I've got to do this and it was the best. Thing ever when I got one night sleep. So oh my God. Just think in general. We all need that help. And I want to make that a big thing here. We actually have to go to another break, but when we come back, I'm going to dig deeper with Olivia and find out how she's really doing it. Now, I think I know some of it, but I'm sure there's a lot of secrets that she'll share with me, and, of course, with you, so, stay tuned. Speaker 1 We don't follow wheelie, join us. The voice of America, influencers channel. If you think you've seen online TV before, let us surprise, you boys. America dot TV is online. Now, the leader in live internet, talk radio has done it again, multiple channels. A state-of-the-art viewing experience live and on-demand program streaming 24 hours a day. It's exactly what you want when you want it voice America dot TV, from health and wellness, to business Sports and everything in between discover, Or New World visit voice America dot TV now and experience the future of online, television voice America, dot TV. Tune into the voice of America variety channel on The Voice of America talk radio network voice, America, variety broadcasts, a diverse array of topics, reaching a global Community. Our experts come from all walks of life and the topics they discuss or everything from current events arts and entertainment leadership parenting relationships self-improvement. Career advice and a variety of other topics. Check us out today. You're sure to find something of Interest Voice of America variety. Talk on today's hot topics. Change Starts Here, change Starts Now, join us the voice of America influencers channel. You are listening to have it all with Devin Alexander to reach the show today, please call 1-866-462-1922 for 795 that's one eight six, six four, seven, two, five, seven, nine five or send an e-mail to And at Devon Alexander.com, now back to have it all. Hey everyone, welcome back. I'm here Speaker 2 with one of my favorite Biggest Loser contestants Of All Times season seven winner, Olivia Ward. We all know her from obviously Biggest Loser. And she's done so many other things. She just got back from a fitness Cruise along with Courtney and your sister, right? Yes, yes, hello, who was also on the show and who also wishes at home winner, right? Right. Yes, he was at home are no Hannah argument Hannah? Yes she came in second less than one percent behind me. So she was basically almost hide with me, somehow least a, but that's awesome. Yeah, I knew you both did insanely well so I'm curious so life after Biggest Loser. So you come home. And as you said, you have some fear around things. I'm curious. I've noticed sort of a pattern with contestants who Somehow work a little bit in the Fitness World 10. Yeah, we really keep the weight off. Do you think that's a chicken and egg thing? Or how did you end up teaching Soul cycle and doing all of that? It's so interesting. So part of a big part of my story was that I was an opera singer for a long time. Didn't lots and lots and lots of travel. I was gone more than I was at home. And so that you when I got back from Biggest Loser, of course, I was very fortunate. I want a little bit of money on The Biggest Loser. And, and the question I get asked all the time, it's did you split it with Hannah? And, of course I did, but it was Hannah. And then I also spoke to split it with Uncle Sam in California and New York. So, after all was said, and done, I did have a little bit of money left over, but I decided for the first year, I was going to pay myself a small salary like enough to, where I wouldn't have to get a job and I could just wish again. I know this is such a luxury but that I would didn't to me that was the best way to spend some of my money. And so I could figure all this out, so I could just live decide. Did I want to go back on the road again? They want to do opera still? Did I did a little bit of auditioning and in, you know, when you first got back, I got back from Biggest Loser. I was very fortunate, being on The Biggest Loser. And, you know, having been in such in the public eye, in such a big way, lots of Fitness companies, reach out to you. So when I got back to New York, I have like lots of different like workout modalities and different companies, reaching out to me, like, always I love for you to come and try our class, we love. So I just try to everything I tried, all I did cross it, I did far. I did try trapeze lessons. I did this whole like trampoline class. I did everything like anything and everything yoga, all of it and then full cycle. Also reached out to me and said, and I had done some soul cycle in preparing for my finale and they were just very, very supportive and they said, you know, we would like to sponsor you For the next little while to help you get on your feet and really like support you in your journey and so I was like oh this is amazing. So I started one full cycle and I just loved it. There was something that was so different about it reminded me very much of Bob's thin glass and Ela, which I had in a lot of on the show and it was dark and there were candles and it was lots. And lots of incredibly challenging cardio and weight. But the thing I loved the most about it was that it Reminded me so much of the way Bob and Jillian would communicate with us during workouts, it was very Soulful. They were very inspiring was very positive, it was very much about tending to the inside of your body, to your mind, your heart, your soul, and connecting that with the outer body. And to me, that is the magic wand exercise that you could do lifelong like to me. Otherwise I get bored. It just feels like, you know, one of those little hamsters on a wheel and I like to be with people Or I like to feel really fulfilled, not just physically worked out, but emotionally and spiritually, lifted and built up. And I was like I just from my very first ride or die yet. This is for me, this is for me. So I just started writing. I just as a writer like just as my exercise and then I started finding out, I was writing like two times a day and then I had a certain instructors Melanie Griffith. Who's one of the instructors? Not the actress, the instructor Master instructor? She actually had a rare form of cancer. When I first started writing, I became very good friends with her and she went, she was going to chemotherapy could not ride her bike, but was still teaching. So then I had the amazing opportunity to actually ride her bike. So I rode her bike for her. And one of the founders Julie rise happen to be in the class and said, you got to do this, you've got, this is, this is what you're supposed to do. You've got, you just the way you ride the bike, love it. People love you. You've got to do this. And I think, you know, and I don't know if you agree with this Devin but that There are like, I always say like that in her chubby. Olivia was like, Oh no, you're not a fit. Like, you can all the doubt, all the like, oh no. And then, the more I thought about it, the more I was like, you know what? Yeah, I have a very unique story in the fitness industry. I actually understand why most people want to exercise. They want to be healthy. A lot of people want to lose weight. I don't have like a 12-pack ripped ABS. I feel like I my body is strong. I like the way I look but it is a very different viewpoint. Point. Then a lot of people in the fitness industry that is lacking. I feel in the fitness industry, so it was crazy. How all of a sudden I all of a sudden were like, oh my gosh, this is my purpose. Like I love Opera, I love seeing I still singing. I still do things here and there but it was like all of a sudden I had this major passion and fire to kind of bring what I had learned to other people. And that's and I've been working for SoulCycle in January, was in five years. I've been teaching and I love it. Just as much today, as I did five years ago and it is 100%. 100%. You know what? That's amazing. And I'm really glad you said that you tried trapeze and you tried all these different things. Because to be honest, like I spent most of my life thinking, I didn't like, working out, because I am walking on a treadmill running on a treadmill or doing whatever. And then when I really started, you know, trying Coop, Nautica, and trying other things. I'm like, who I actually like this, I realized it's the time that I did like, like, I really felt like it was a waste of time, like, and Every time I get on a machine, my head would be so many different places. So I get the soulfulness that you're talking about. Yeah, me I eventually I think, you know, like I am tennis obsessed Beach, tennis team sast and yeah. I joked my entire life that I must have been like a mermaid in another life because there's some things we we got about it. I agree. What I said, I agree with that. You are definitely a mermaid in your former life. Yeah. I mean, I know there's something about being on the beach that is just so, Rejuvenate rejuvenating to me that I can't explain. And yeah, so when I found Beach tennis like for me, it was not only that combination of that meditative like ocean and all of that. But then also like my mind is, you know, like where does the ball go? And I need to be thinking in that way. And I think it's interesting because, you know, to hearing you talk about Soul psycho. It almost makes you want to go, do it. But I've done it and I And I like your class, like, I like your class because I like you so much, but most of the classes that I've done, like, haven't resonated with me? And I don't know, I'm bringing this up, because, as we said like we have, I feel like you and I are like Soul Sisters in a way and we do have so much in common and such a, you know, sort of parallel life in so many ways. Yeah. But even with that, like we can both have very different ways to, you know, work out With love and with you, no honor to our bodies and with, you know, the knowledge that this is what's good for us. And so I think too many people like, you know, if they can't afford a trainer, they just feel like they're stuck and just going out and trying, everything will help you find Mighty tennis and your soul cycle 100%. And I feel like, you know, I used to think working out was about to beat down and it's about the build-up it really, and truly, You've got to find something that doesn't feel like a Beatdown now, it may be a physical Beatdown, you may walk out on me like, well I just torched up bunch of calories. I am sweating but it's got to be something every time. You walk out, whatever that is. And for some people that's going out on a run by themselves or walking or doing zumba or whatever it is, does he have to have lost friends? Like, you know, it is so important to sometimes. I 100% agree. Like finding like a Community of people are but it just like you said, it's about finding something that feels Like A build-up. That feels that you're passionate about that something that every time you do it you're like no. I mean I'm going to be honest and I'm sure I know you probably feel the same way. There are some days. I'm like oh man do I have to work out that? I don't want you but I never ever leave going. That was a waste of my time that was just terrible. I just wish I wouldn't have sweat and burn all those calories. That's awful. Like I always feel great when I'm done most days. Truthfully. I really, really enjoy doing it. I'm excited about doing it but I'm normal human being there are days. I just might ho man. Can we just say in pajamas all day? I'll I want to be that day, you know? But I do think it's super important. I do, I recently bought a jump rope. I haven't had a jump rope in forever and I started adding just 10 minutes a day of jumping rope just to do something different with my body and it is so hard. I don't know how we all. Did that growing up as kids kids can just jump rope Forever and ever. It is so tough but I have been loving it and jump ropes are really inexpensive and don't require a gym. You just go in your backyard or your living room or in your driveway and it's a really good workout. I mean 10 minutes of jumping rope a day, like it, that's all the time you had. That would be huge for your body and whatever kind of like physical goals you have. It's so true. Okay, see ya. Oh, now we are heading to holiday season, so I'm sure in And to jumping rope which it is brilliant for the you know, when people say it's too cold outside go in your basement as Olivia sad, grab a jump rope for 10 minutes so the simple things like that can really transform. Yeah, that end. So I would love to hear your best tips for holidays. Like how are you living life this week or the next few weeks I should say? Oh yeah, I feel like holidays. I was just that we got nine minutes left, so you're going to have to fit that in. And you have to tell people where they They can find you and get in touch with you, and all of that now. All right, I'll go, quick. I'll go quick. I think, holiday season more than anything, it's about making a plan, it's about making a plan knowing what parties you're going to go to know when they are. I always say, if you're going to a party that night, get some exercise in the morning that you feel good about enjoying yourself at night, it's not about beating yourself up, it's about living your life and enjoying. And maybe this is where you allow yourself to kind of loosen the ties a little bit, but just I know that it's not every single party and after that you just go, full ham, maybe you pick one or two where you're like, I'm really going to allow myself to indulge picking a cocktail that's like something that's very, very low in calories. Like any kind always talk about the clear Liquors like, you know, vodka or tequila like those kind of drinks with soda and not tonic things like that that you can sip on throughout an evening or going to keep your calories in check. You're going to feel good. When you leave, you're going to feel festive and all that. Were super, super important to make a plan. That is my biggest. Biggest. Biggest thing also bring a healthy option that you like to a party that's like a right bringing Sue's that, you know, there'll be at least one game, you can load up on that's yours that you brought, you can still have a little bit of the more indulgent stuff, but you're not feeling like starving and miserable because you can't eat the entire cheese ball because that's where I tend to hover parties around the cheese for people. I mean, I'm sure you do this too, but the worst thing you can Do is eat lunch at like noon and show up at the party at 7:00 and I think that you're going to fill up on appetizers. So whatever you do have a green juice, have, I mean, what's your afternoon, snack, Olivia? Oh my gosh, like, for me, I've been loving it, unsweetened applesauce with cinnamon, especially this type of year, like I'll get like a cup of it, a good portion of unseen elbows with cinnamon. No sugar, just a cinnamon and a tablespoon or two depending on how hungry I am of natural, peanut butter. I know it sounds The weirdest combination, but it's amazing. It's like eating apple and peanut butter and then the cinnamon is just festive, it sounds weird, but it's delicious. Well, my weird one like that is, I used to, I haven't done this in a long time, but you just reminded me because I thought this is where you were going. I put vanilla protein powder and the applesauce, it's delicious to. I've done that too. It's delicious, it's so good. And sometimes out of place, feels a little more glamorous than eat, just eating an apple. Like sometimes, I mean, Apple my comment and I eat apples all the time, but there's so many. You eat get really festive, you can make your. You can go pick your apples and make your own applesauce. And that's real festive and super easy. It's definitely. Okay, so we only have a couple minutes left where can people find you? And find more about the amazing things you're doing, and maybe even take a soul cycle class. Oh my God. So Soul cycle. Has a website. It www.old-violin.com. I have an instructor page there that shows my schedule. Every week ever come to New York. That's my most favorite thing is have people visit. I'm the most active on Instagram. I love Instagram. I love Instagram stories and posting. I post all kinds of things, Fitness stuff. Stuff about my child everything and my Instagram is at the the0 bird OB ird. So one word at the oh bird just kind of weird but you can also just search in Google Olivia Ward Instagram and it will come up. And then I had such a good time on our fitness cruise this year. That we're doing another one next year, which I'm so excited about with Courtney and Hannah. We Have fun. You know, special guests. And we're super excited and there's a website called dust Fitness cruises.com with all the information about dates and deposits. And we had the absolute most best time on this last cruise. We had did it in November about 85 people and we just, we worked out and we celebrated and we had treats and we got it went on the beach to get. It was awesome. It was so great, so I can't wait to do that again. Oh yeah. Well thank you. So much I can't believe the hour is up already, but you've been amazing. It was so nice catching up with you. We have to catch up online because it's been a while. But I'm again, thank you so much and good luck with your son and the holidays and enjoying a very peaceful wonderful, rest of the year. Thank you. It's been so wonderful being here and catching up. And like, you said, we're doubling enough to catch up offline and congratulations on your beautiful daughter. Enjoy it. Give her a kiss for me. I can't wait to meet her. I will Well, thanks, everyone. We'll see you again next Speaker 1 week. Thanks for listening to have it all. Be sure to join Devin, Alexander for another great show. Next Wednesday, at noon, Eastern Time, 9:00 a.m. Pacific Time on The Voice, America, influencers, channel until we talk again have a fit and fun week.