How To Survive Thanksgiving Without Losing Your Progress with Drew & Jordan Brannon
Hey there, fit fam!
Welcome to a warm, laughter-filled holiday episode of the Fit Body Lifestyle podcast. In this special sit-down, Jami and Greg are joined by the dynamic duo Drew and Jordan Brannon to chat all things holiday mindset, prep, and staying on track—without sacrificing joy, connection, or a slice of pie. 😉
Whether you're deep in competition prep or just trying not to lose your groove during the holidays, this conversation is full of golden nuggets. Think of it like a cozy chat around the Thanksgiving table—with a healthy scoop of wisdom and a sprinkle of sass.
5 Key Takeaways from the Episode
1. Plan Your Holiday Strategy With Intention
Just like you wouldn’t walk into the gym without a plan, don’t stroll into the holidays without one either. Whether you’re two weeks out from a show or enjoying your off-season, decide ahead of time what flexibility looks like for you. Planning is power—and it’s the key to avoiding regret.
2. Communicate with Your Circle
Family dynamics can make or break a holiday plan. Don’t let Grandma’s mashed potatoes derail your goals. Have respectful, proactive conversations with your loved ones about your choices, especially if you’re bringing your Tupperware. Love can still be shared even if you skip the casserole.
3. Recognize the Emotional Anchors Around Food
The holidays are a sensory explosion—smells, sounds, sights, and flavors all tied to deep emotional memories. If you’ve attached joy to food alone, you might be setting yourself up for a struggle. The crew encourages us to decouple food from fun and re-anchor joy in connection, gratitude, and presence.
4. Know What Phase You’re In
The episode outlines four key athlete categories during the holidays:
Those prepping through Thanksgiving
Athletes in pre-prep for early 2026 shows
Athletes mid-reverse dieting
Those in full off-season
Each requires a different approach. Know your season and act accordingly.
5. Shift the Narrative: Holidays Can Be Healthy and Happy
You don’t have to choose between results and relationships. Start with protein, stay hydrated, bring your own dishes if needed, and remember—it’s not the mashed potatoes that make the memories, it’s the people around the table.
