What does it really take to transform your life, from rock bottom to peak strength, both mentally and physically?
In this powerful episode of The Art of Badassery podcast, host Jenn Cassetta sits down with veteran journalist and professional bodybuilder Anne Marie Chaker. Annemarie opens up about her journey from battling postpartum depression and alcohol addiction to finding healing and empowerment through the world of bodybuilding. She shares wisdom from her book Lift, unpacks the societal pressures placed on women’s bodies, and makes a compelling case for why strength training is about so much more than muscle. This conversation is a must-listen for any woman ready to reclaim her power and write a new chapter.
Watch the episode here
Listen to the episode here
From Drinking to Deadlifts: How Anne Marie Chaker Reclaimed Her Strength and Story
Welcome to the Art of Badassery Podcast
In this episode of the Art of Badassery podcast, host Jenn Cassetta welcomes a truly special guest, Anne Marie Chaker. Anne Marie is a veteran journalist, professional bodybuilder, and author whose personal journey from postpartum depression and alcoholism to bodybuilding and empowerment is both inspiring and enlightening.
Guest Introduction
Anne Marie has had a distinguished career at the Wall Street Journal, covering diverse topics such as politics, consumer trends, and sociological shifts. Her article “I Never Thought I’d Write This: I Am a Female Bodybuilder” has generated significant interest, and her book entitled “Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives” is a testament to her incredible transformation journey.
Annemarie’s Origin Story
Anne Marie recounts a tumultuous period in her life characterized by postpartum depression, the sudden death of her father, and the end of her marriage. Consumed by grief and frustration, she found herself experiencing an increasing dependency on alcohol. A pivotal moment at an ice hockey tournament led her to the realization that change was necessary.
The Path to Righteousness
During a tournament weekend, Anne Marie encountered a committed hockey mom who was fully dedicated to bodybuilding. Intrigued by her story and discipline, Anne Marie decided to embark on her own bodybuilding journey with guidance from a retired bodybuilder, Tina Perino. Through tracking her macros and embracing a disciplined workout regimen, Anne Marie began to see a transformation not just in her physique, but in her mental and emotional well-being.
The Story of Skinny
Anne Marie delves into the historical and cultural evolution of societal body ideals, uncovering how perceptions have shifted dramatically over time. She discusses the change from larger women being considered more ideal in times of scarcity to the rise of diet culture and thinness glorification. Anne Marie emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing diverse body types while challenging restrictive societal norms.
Strength and Empowerment
Muscle building and strength training aren’t just about physical transformation—they provide a host of health benefits, especially for women approaching menopause. Anne Marie discusses how lifting weights has not only improved her physical health but also her mental clarity, confidence, and overall life satisfaction.
A New Beginning
Anne Marie’s journey underscores the importance of embracing one’s strength and power. She encourages women to reclaim their athleticism and redefine their perceptions of strength and beauty. Her story is about transformation, empowerment, and the rediscovery of one’s innate potential.
Conclusion
Anne Marie’s journey from struggle to strength is a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination that exists within all of us. Her book “Lift” offers guidance and encouragement for anyone looking to embark on their own transformational journey.
Takeaways from the Episode:
- Embrace Strength Training: Lifting weights not only benefits physical health but also enhances mental wellness, confidence, and provides a sense of empowerment.
- Challenge Societal Norms: It’s essential to recognize and reject detrimental societal norms about body image and embrace diverse body types.
- Transformation is Possible: Regardless of past struggles, transformative change is achievable through dedication and self-empowerment.
Important Links
- Anne Marie Chakur’s newsletter
- Anne Marie’s Website
- Anne Marie’s Book Lift
- The 6 Habits of High Performers (past episode)
- The Art of Badassery Nutrition Guide
- Subscribe to Jenn’s newsletter so you never miss an episode
- Book Clarity and Connection by Yung Pueblo
- Burnout to Badass
- The 6 Habits Of High Performance With Jenn Cassetta – Past episode
- Art of Badassery Retreat
- Art of Badassery Newsletter
About Anne Marie Chaker
Anne Marie Chaker is a veteran journalist and professional bodybuilder. During her two-decade career at The Wall Street Journal, she held reporting jobs all over the paper, from the Journal’s regional editions to the Spot News Desk during the September 11 attacks. She has covered everything from politics to news events, consumer trends, education, the workplace, and the major sociological shifts of our time. Her article “I Never Thought I’d Write This: I Am a Female Bodybuilder” has generated more than 500k views since it was published in 2020. Chaker lives in the Washington, D.C., area with her partner, Rick; daughters Juliette and Sylvie; and their overeager pup, Ninja.
For more, see https://annemariechaker.com/
