Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts

Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole Arts

By Zen

Welcome to the GenX Pole Arts Podcast, where we celebrate the strength, resilience, and potential of women over 40 and the vibrant world of pole dance and pole fitness! When you are Fit, Fierce and Fearless you recognize that your passion knows no age.

Each week, we’ll connect with inspiring women who are redefining what it means to thrive in their 40s and beyond. From incredible stories of personal transformation to tips on building strength and confidence, we’ll explore the boundless possibilities that pole dancing offers for self-expression and empowerment and women supporting women.
Currently playing episode

Episode 1: GenX Pole Arts origin story

Fit, Fierce and Fearless, presented by GenX Pole ArtsJan 20, 2025
00:00
26:14
Episode 13: Goal Setting, or Not

Episode 13: Goal Setting, or Not

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  Zen dives into a powerful topic: the freedom of not having strict goals. While many are driven by the pursuit of specific achievements, she shares her personal journey of how she's navigated life and pole dance without the pressure of defined goals. This episode is for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the societal push to have a "plan" or "goal" for every part of their life. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Zen’s personal journey with pole dance and the lack of a strict goals for career or poleThe importance of stepping into the studio just to try something newHow Gen X Pole Arts fosters an environment where there’s no pressure to hit specific milestonesZen’s perspective on the difference between goal-driven and opportunity-driven growthA reminder that starting is an accomplishment in itself‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍   ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ If you’ve been feeling stuck or overwhelmed by the idea of goal-setting, this episode will encourage you to release that pressure and embrace your personal journey. Zen’s refreshing take is just the motivation you need to step into your own power, at your own pace.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Now’s the perfect moment to start! Whether you’re ready to challenge yourself, boost your confidence, or try a new movement style, the GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit is here to help. With everything you need to begin your journey from the comfort of home—no prior experience necessary! Take the first step today by signing up at www.genxpolearts.com.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Apr 14, 202524:38
Episode 12: Please don’t Stop the Music: A Conversation with Mimi

Episode 12: Please don’t Stop the Music: A Conversation with Mimi

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Today, Zen sits down with long-time friend and movement enthusiast Mimi to talk about reclaiming strength, mobility, and confidence in our bodies—especially as we age. From the joys of muscle gain to the challenges of shifting routines, this honest and energizing conversation dives into what it means to stay active, embrace change, and rewrite the narrative around aging as a Gen X woman. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:​How mobility and flexibility can completely shift your quality of life​Reframing body changes like weight gain and muscle gain in midlife​The importance of finding movement that feels good to you​Why many women feel stuck in their bodies after 40 or 50—and how to change that​Letting go of outdated ideas about who’s "allowed" to take a dance or pole class​Choosing community, movement, and growth—even when society tells you it’s “too late”​Navigating mindset hurdles, self-judgment, and finding grace in your fitness journey​Encouragement to just try something—from Zumba to yoga to pole dance‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Follow Mimi’s pole journey on Instagram @mimigoupanddownTake the class. Go to the gym. Try something new. You don’t have to be a dancer, an athlete, or a certain size or age. Movement is for YOU. Just start—your future self will thank you.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍  ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ There’s never been a better time to begin! Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, feel empowered, or explore a new movement style, the GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit has you covered. Get everything you need to start your journey at home—no experience required! Take the first step today! Sign up at www.genxpolearts.com and let’s get moving! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Apr 07, 202540:17
Episode 11: You are a dancer. Yes, YOU!

Episode 11: You are a dancer. Yes, YOU!

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Today, Zen dives into the transformative power of movement and dance, especially for those who may feel hesitant about stepping into a class. Inspired by her recent conversation with Chimeka about movement, dance, and athleticism, Zen reflects on why so many people hesitate to embrace dance and movement as part of their lives. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Redefining what it means to be a dancerExactly why YOU are a dancer - even if you don’t think soWhy dance is for everyone—not just professionalsThe mental and physical benefits of movementHow to find and sign up for beginner dance or pole classesIf you've ever thought, "I'm not a dancer," this episode is for you. It’s time to redefine what it means to move, to embrace the joy of dance, and to step into a new version of yourself. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ There’s never been a better time to begin! Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself, feel empowered, or explore a new movement style, the GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit has you covered. Get everything you need to start your journey at home—no experience required! Take the first step today! Sign up at www.genxpolearts.com and let’s get moving! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Mar 31, 202517:54
Episode 10: Nutrition, Mindset and Scheduling to Maintain Vitality as a Pole Dancer and Athlete

Episode 10: Nutrition, Mindset and Scheduling to Maintain Vitality as a Pole Dancer and Athlete

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Chimeka to talk about the leap from traditional work to pursuing passion-driven careers. We reflect on the fears, excitement, and growth that come with making a big life shift and how finding joy in the process makes it all worthwhile. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ We also dive into the power of movement as a healing modality—how dance and pole fitness provide not just physical benefits but also mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Whether it’s Gen X Pole Arts, Via Chakra, or other studio communities, we explore how movement brings people together and helps us stay present in an increasingly distracted world. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ You can follow Chimeka’s journey on Instagram @viachakraofficialWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:Taking the leap into full-time entrepreneurship and the emotions that come with itHow to think about nutrition and supplements as a powerful tool to build strength and wellbeing Maintaining vitality by controlling what is controllable and letting go of the restHow dance and movement serve as a healing modality for the body, mind, and spiritThe power of being present and mindful in movement practiceBuilding a community that uplifts and supports each otherThere's no better time to dive in! Whether you're looking to build strength, boost confidence, or simply try something new, the GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit has everything you need to get started from the comfort of home. Take the first step toward an exciting new adventure—sign up today at www.genxpolearts.com and let’s move! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Mar 24, 202546:31
Episode 9: Happy Women’s History Month

Episode 9: Happy Women’s History Month

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ In this episode, I’m getting personal about one of the biggest (and scariest) leaps I’ve ever taken—leaving my corporate job to launch Gen X Pole Arts. Doing my taxes this past weekend made it all feel so real. Seeing my business on paper, after years of doubt and fear, was a huge moment for me. And while I’m still figuring things out, I know there’s no turning back. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:​About my personal celebration of Women’ History Month​How I faced fear and took risks to follow my dreams​The power of celebrating our wins—big and small​A sneak peek at the Gen X Pole Arts weekend coming up this summer ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Ready to start your own pole journey? There’s no better time than now! The GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit is perfect for beginners who want to build strength and confidence right from home. Get started today—sign up at www.genxpolearts.com and take your first step toward something amazing! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍
Mar 17, 202511:37
Episode 8: Being a pole dancer in a military family: A conversation with Cat

Episode 8: Being a pole dancer in a military family: A conversation with Cat

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ In this heartfelt and fun episode, Nancy sits down with Cat to discuss the unique journeys that bring people together in the pole dance community. From career shifts to life transitions, they explore how each individual's background shapes their experience in the studio. They also touch on the vulnerability and empowerment that come with pole dancing and share personal stories of resilience, creativity, and connection. ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:​The diversity of backgrounds in the pole dance community​How being part of a military family effected Cat's pole journey​That support and encouragement can be found in unexpected people and communities​Why Mount (P)Olympus is coming back—bigger and better!​A heartfelt moment of gratitude and friendship between Nancy and Cat​Exciting updates on the Gen X Pole Arts MembershipYou can follow Cat's journey on Instagram @fromlondontopoleThere's no better time to begin! Kickstart your practice from the comfort of your home with my Beginner Pole Dance Starter Kit — designed especially for YOU. Sign up now at www.genxpolearts.com and take your first step! If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond! ‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍‍ Keep moving, keep shining, and remember—you are fit, fierce, and fearless!
Mar 10, 202540:23
Episode 7: Freestyle, free dance, and moving through space and time.

Episode 7: Freestyle, free dance, and moving through space and time.

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. In this solo episode, I’m sharing a deeply personal update on what’s been going on in my life — from navigating family health crises to finding strength in community during difficult times. Life has been throwing a lot at me lately, but what’s kept me grounded is the incredible support of the GenX PoleArts community.I also expand on a topic that Firebird brought up in the last episode - freestyle pole dancing. I share my philosophy on what makes free dance special, and why I prefer it over memorization.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What do we mean when we say “freestyle” How free dance is different than choreography Differences between freestyle pole tricks and freestyle base and floor movement How you can use prompts to explore freestyle dance at home About an upcoming freestyle workshop for beginnersAre you ready to embrace your next chapter? The best time to start is now! The GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit is designed just for you — a beginner program you can follow from the comfort of your home. Sign up today at www.genxpolearts.com and take the first step toward a stronger, more confident you!If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Mar 03, 202527:23
Episode 6: Unlocking the joy of your life at 46 years old- from inspired to inspirational: a conversation with Firebird

Episode 6: Unlocking the joy of your life at 46 years old- from inspired to inspirational: a conversation with Firebird

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. In today’s episode, we dive into the world of pole dance with the incredible Firebird! From gymnastics roots to discovering the ultimate form of expression through pole dance, we talk about what makes this art form so fulfilling.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Discover how Firebird blended gymnastics and dance to find her passion for pole. Learn how pole dance fosters focus, emotional clarity, and creative freedom. Explore the physical and mental benefits of pole, from improved coordination to mood boosts. Hear how transitioning from student to teacher at nearly 50 years old fulfilled Firebird’s dream. Get a peek into how young women are becoming trusted mentors for women twice their age. Discover how dancers of all levels are equally celebrated in showcases.Follow Firebird on Instagram @firebirdpole for performance snippets and behind-the-scenes content. Meet Firebird’s “pole mom” @tameauh on IG.Share your own pole showcase stories and tag @GenXPoleArts for a chance to be featured and celebrated!🎧 Tune In and Join the Community! Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just curious about the art form, this episode is a celebration of expression, empowerment, and connection. Hit subscribe and join the conversation.Want to Start Your Own Pole Dance Journey? There’s no better time to begin! Kick off your practice at home with my program, designed just for women aged 40 and up. Sign up for the GenX Pole Dance Starter Kit at www.genxpolearts.com and take your first step today!If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!
Feb 24, 202540:44
Episode 5: You can increase your activity and improve mobility at any age without fear of injury

Episode 5: You can increase your activity and improve mobility at any age without fear of injury

CORRECTIONS: at 4:19 Zen says, “Cortisol injection,” which should have been “Cortisone Injection.” At 13:48, Zen says, “Dr. Mary Beth Haver,” which should have been “Dr. Mary Claire Haver.” (see below)Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.In today’s episode, we dive into the vital topic of injury recovery and resilience in pole training. I share my personal journey of recovering from a recent car accident and a pole-related fall, offering insight into how to navigate setbacks with self-compassion and care. You’ll hear about the importance of listening to your body, embracing recovery protocols, and cultivating mental strength to overcome challenges and keep evolving.This episode is packed with actionable tips for injury prevention, proper warm-ups, strength training routines, and the power of mindset work. Whether you’re a seasoned pole dancer or just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to honor your body, overcome fear, and embrace your potential—no matter your age.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why listening to your body is key to injury prevention and recovery The difference between needing rest vs. a lack of motivation How to properly warm up to reduce injury risks Strength and mobility training tips for pole dancers The importance of mindset in overcoming fear and challenges How recovery can lead to new self-awareness and appreciationFor more information on supplementation, strength training, and menopause from the experts, please follow Dr. Andrew Huberman (Huberman Lab podcast), Dr. Stacy Simms (IG: @drstacysims), and Dr. Mary Claire Haver (IG: @drmaryclaire).Ready to kick off your pole dance journey? There’s no better time than now! Start from the comfort of your own home with my beginner-friendly program, designed with you in mind. Sign up today for the Pole Dance Starter Kit at www.genxpolearts.com and take that first step toward your new adventure!If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps uplift and empower more women over 40 in the pole dance community and beyond!Subscribe to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless to never miss an episode! Each week, we’ll bring you empowering conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories to inspire you to thrive in your 40s and beyond.
Feb 17, 202524:16
Episode 4: The Profound Impact of the Healings Arts at Menopause and Beyond: a conversation with Shay

Episode 4: The Profound Impact of the Healings Arts at Menopause and Beyond: a conversation with Shay

Welcome toFit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing.In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of movement as a healing modality. Our guest, Shay, shares insights into an upcoming pole retreat that blends multiple holistic practices, including Qigong, sound baths, yoga, meditation, and somatic healing. We discuss the profound impact of embodiment, self-connection, and community, as well as the importance of capturing movement through photography. Shay also reflects on the deeper purpose of this retreat—helping participants cultivate self-awareness, set boundaries, and find a renewed sense of self. Whether you’re an experienced pole dancer or a complete newbie, this conversation will inspire you to explore movement as a tool for healing and growth. You can follow Shay's journey on Instagram at @shaype.shifter and @selflovepoleWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:The role of pole dancing as a healing artThe emotional impact of seeing yourself embodied through movement photographyWhy connection—to self and community—is a crucial part of healingThe role of pole dancing beyond just technique and tricksInsights into personal transformation and setting boundariesReady to begin your pole dance journey? Now’s the perfect time! Get started at home with my beginner-friendly program, created just for YOU. Sign up for thePole Dance Starter Kit atwww.genxpolearts.com and take your first step today!Subscribe to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless to never miss an episode! Each week, we’ll bring you empowering conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories to inspire you to thrive in your 40s and beyond.👉 Subscribe and follow us for updates!
Feb 10, 202539:10
Episode 3: Sharing your pole life with your kids

Episode 3: Sharing your pole life with your kids

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. In this episode, I get personal about balancing motherhood and pole dancing and share my journey of embracing pole while raising three kids, navigating conversations with them, and breaking stereotypes about the sport. From leaving my boots around the house to producing a family-friendly pole show, I talk about how I turned my passion into a lesson in self-expression, confidence, and empowerment. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Balancing motherhood and pole dancing Deciding when and how to share pole with your kids The power of self-expression through movement Creating a family-friendly pole performance Have you had to navigate parenting and pole dancing? How do you share your pole journey with your family? Let me know in the comments, send me a DM, or connect with me on social media! If you haven’t started your pole dance journey, now is your chance to try it at home with my beginner program designed just for YOU! Join the 15-Day Pole Dance Challenge at the website www.genxpolearts.com and get started today. Subscribe to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless to never miss an episode! Each week, we’ll bring you empowering conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories to inspire you to thrive in your 40s and beyond. 👉 Subscribe and follow us for updates!
Feb 03, 202516:24
Episode 2: A Journey of Self Discovery through Pole Dance: a Conversation with Deeana Garcia

Episode 2: A Journey of Self Discovery through Pole Dance: a Conversation with Deeana Garcia

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by GenX Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. In this episode, we sit down with our special guest, Deeana, to talk about embracing your strength and feminine power at any age, and overcoming the challenges of comparison, especially for women over 40. Our conversation explores how pole dance provides a unique avenue for self-discovery, leading to personal growth, building strength, and celebrating your vitality at any stage in life. You can follow Dee’s journey on Instagram @the.exploration.of.her What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Power of Practicing Self-Compassion How Embracing Your Feminine Energy can Change Your Life Why You Should Try New Things Later in Life The Importance of Building Strength from Within No matter your age, it’s never too late to start something new. Wherever you are in your journey, you’re exactly where you need to be. Celebrate your progress, embrace the challenges, and keep moving forward—pole dance and the supportive pole community is for anyone willing to give it a shot. Subscribe to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless to never miss an episode! Each week, we’ll bring you empowering conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories to inspire you to thrive in your 40s and beyond. 👉 Subscribe and follow us for updates!
Jan 27, 202532:03
Episode 1: GenX Pole Arts origin story

Episode 1: GenX Pole Arts origin story

Welcome to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless, the podcast by Gen X Pole Arts! I’m Zen (Nancy Adzentovich), here to celebrate women over 40 finding strength, confidence, and community through pole dancing. In this first episode, I share my journey of discovering pole dancing at 49, overcoming insecurities, and building a life-changing passion. From awkward beginnings to finding an empowering community, pole dance transformed my life—and it can transform yours too! What You’ll Learn in This Episode: My journey of discovering pole dancing at 49 How pole dancing can boost confidence and transform your mindset The power of community in embracing life after 40 Subscribe to Fit, Fierce, and Fearless to never miss an episode! Each week, we’ll bring you empowering conversations, practical tips, and real-life stories to inspire you to thrive in your 40s and beyond. 👉 Subscribe and follow us for updates!
Jan 20, 202526:14