- Mari Amari
- Jun 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 15
EPISODE NO. 12 / 1 MINS
000: TEST PODCAST FOR WEBSITE: Maria Denise Talks Boss Babes and Bacon

In this conversation, I chat with Madra Cochrane, a vibrant fitness instructor and nonprofit founder who knows firsthand how staying physically ready can change the outcome of your life—literally. Madra has been in and out of her wellness groove over the years, but it was her commitment to consistency that gave her the strength to face an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis.
Madra shares how her relationship with fitness has evolved—from chasing results to embracing resilience—and how exercise became her therapy, her prayer, and her power. We talk through the mental battles, spiritual shifts, and the joy she’s found in movement. And now, through The Marjorie Cochran Foundation, she’s creating space for other women to reclaim their health and confidence after cancer.
Madra has this grounded, graceful energy that makes you want to lace up your sneakers and get your life together. I picked up so many gems from our conversation about accountability, healing, and how self-love shows up in how we care for our bodies—even when life throws us off track.
Watch episode 012 on YouTube
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In this episode she shares:
Fitness has to be a part of everyday life.
Consistency is key to avoiding the ups and downs of fitness.
Muscle memory helps in getting back to fitness after a break.
New gym-goers should not be afraid to ask for help.
Finding an accountability partner can enhance your fitness journey.
Community and camaraderie in fitness can motivate individuals.
Rest and rejuvenation are essential during recovery.
Spirituality can play a role in overcoming health challenges.
Sharing personal experiences can help others in similar situations.
Staying ready in fitness prepares you for life's challenges. Stay ready so you don't have to get ready.
Your body will reward you for taking care of it.
Weight training is crucial for women as they age.
Finding enjoyment in exercise is key to consistency.
Exercise serves as a powerful stress reliever.
Empathy in fitness instruction can make a significant difference.
Community support enhances accountability in fitness.
Self-love is reflected in how we treat our bodies.
Nonprofits can play a vital role in supporting cancer survivors.
It's never too late to start prioritizing your health.
Highlights include:
00:00 Introduction and Setup
06:05 On-Again, Off-Again Fitness Journey
19:01 Facing Life's Curveballs: The Cancer Journey
23:21 The Power of Preparedness
24:55 Health and Lifestyle Choices
25:58 The Importance of Fitness at Any Age
27:58 Real-Life Impact of Fitness
30:17 Finding Enjoyment in Exercise
33:10 Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
40:15 Empathy in Fitness Instruction
41:40 Giving Back: The Marjorie Cochran Foundation
44:31 Fun Fitness Insights and Personal Favorites
Links mentioned in this episode
Monique’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquershields/
Monique’s Website: https://moniquershields.com/
Monique’s Podcast: https://moniquershields.com/podcast/
Side Hustle Pro: https://sidehustlepro.co/
Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): http://sidehustlepro.libsyn.com/rss
Guest Social Media Info
Monique’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moniquershields/
Monique’s Website: https://moniquershields.com/
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