Episoder
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So many fitness professionals are experts in the body and movement, but are completely lost when it comes to marketing, building a brand for themselves, and even creating a website that is attractive, engaging, and helps their business grow. Join Jenny as she digs into the details behind effective website building, creating a logo that people will never forget, and more with her guest, Jolinda Anderson of Shapes & Colors in Richmond, Virginia. Let’s demystify marketing together! It all comes down to building awareness and this episode is loaded with intel to help YOU invest in yourself and your business the same way you ask your clients to invest in themselves!
www.jolinda.com
Do you have general marketing questions Jolinda can help with? Schedule some time to pick her brain (for free!) here: https://bit.ly/ShapesColorsMarketingAMA
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John is making a guest appearance with Jenny to continue the tradition of Research and Real talk! Join this dynamic duo as they explore a litany of topics including prebiotics, Carbs and cancer risk, genetic factors for obesity, coaching burnout, client retention, trainers and social media, and traits of a bad coach!
References:
1.Yutaka Nakazawa, Masumi Kageyama, Tomohiko Matsuzawa, Ziqin Liang, Kaito Kobayashi, Hisaka Shimizu, Kazuki Maeda, Miho Masuhiro, Sei Motouchi, Saika Kumano, Nobukiyo Tanaka, Kouji Kuramochi, Hiroyuki Nakai, Hayao Taguchi, Masahiro Nakajima. Structure and function of a β-1,2-galactosidase from Bacteroides xylanisolvens, an intestinal bacterium. Communications Biology, 2025; 8 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s42003-025-07494-1
2. Bhupesh Kumar Thakur, Yann Malaise, Saurav Roy Choudhury, Anna Neustaeter, Williams Turpin, Catherine Streutker, Julia Copeland, Erin O. Y. Wong, William W. Navarre, David S. Guttman, Christian Jobin, Kenneth Croitoru, Alberto Martin. Dietary fibre counters the oncogenic potential of colibactin-producing Escherichia coli in colorectal cancer. Nature Microbiology, 2025; DOI: 10.1038/s41564-025-01938-4
3. Natalie J. Wallis, Alyce McClellan, Alexander Mörseburg, Katherine A. Kentistou, Aqfan Jamaluddin, Georgina K. C. Dowsett, Ellen Schofield, Anna Morros-Nuevo, Sadia Saeed, Brian Y. H. Lam, Natasha T. Sumanasekera, Justine Chan, Sambhavi S. Kumar, Rey M. Zhang, Jodie F. Wainwright, Marie Dittmann, Gabriella Lakatos, Kara Rainbow, David Withers, Rebecca Bounds, Marcella Ma, Alexander J. German, Jane Ladlow, David Sargan, Philippe Froguel, I. Sadaf Farooqi, Ken K. Ong, Giles S. H. Yeo, John A. Tadross, John R. B. Perry, Caroline M. Gorvin, Eleanor Raffan. Canine genome-wide association study identifies DENND1B as an obesity gene in dogs and humans. Science, 2025; DOI: 10.1126/science.ads2145
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Exercise programming is both an art and a science—and the best trainers know how to balance both. In this episode, Jenny and John dive into the essentials of program design, client assessments, and the science behind effective training.
We break down common programming mistakes, the importance of assessments, and strategies for selling and retaining clients through well-structured, personalized fitness plans. Plus, we take a deep dive into ISSA’s Purpose Driven Training Model (PDTM)—what makes it different, why we created it, and how it can help trainers design better programs and grow their business.
Whether you're a new trainer or a seasoned pro, this episode contains actionable insights to level up your programming skills and client success.
Tune in now and learn how to create smarter, more effective training programs!
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In this episode Jenny reconnects with long-time fitness professional and education advocate Amy Thomposon of IDEA Fitness. The fitness industry is rebounding well from the pandemic, but one thing that never went away was the need for health and fitness education and mentorship. Amy discusses the growing opportunities for online and in-person education for fitness professionals as well as the benefits and opportunities for impactful mentorship in the field.
2025 IDEA World- July 2025
Learn about Mentorship Opportunities HERE!
www.ideafit.com
IDEA Fit on Instagram
IDEA Health & Fitness on YouTube
IDEA Fit on Facebook
Idea Health & Fitness Association on LinkedIn
Amy Thompson on LinkedIn
Amy Thompson on Instagram
Hear more! Amy shares insights on The Wellness Paradox Podcast
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What makes a great runner? Is it genetics, training, or something more? In this episode, Jenny and John chat with Dr. Jason Karp—renowned running coach, exercise scientist, and author of 15 books—to explore the fascinating world of running performance.
From coaching elite Kenyan runners to training everyday athletes, Dr. Karp shares insights on what truly separates top runners from the rest. We dive into common myths about running, the role of science in performance, and how personal trainers can integrate running into their programming for better client results.
Plus, we tackle key questions like:
Is there really such a thing as a “non-runner”?Should you go barefoot or stick with high-tech running shoes?How does running impact mental health and longevity?How can personal trainers leverage running to build a more successful coaching business?Whether you're an endurance athlete, a personal trainer, or just someone who wants to enjoy running more, this episode is filled with valuable insights.
https://www.instagram.com/drjasonkarp/
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What does it take to succeed as a college athlete in today’s evolving sports landscape? Strength and conditioning coach from Seton Hall University Angelo Gingerelli joins us to dive deep into athletic development, recruiting, NIL deals, and the realities of college sports.
With experience training athletes across multiple sports, Angelo shares his insights on sport-specific training, the importance of recovery, and how sports science has changed the game. We also discuss his book, The Next Four Years, which offers a must-read roadmap for student-athletes (and their families) navigating college recruiting, NIL opportunities, and the transfer portal.
If you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with essential insights on what it really takes to thrive in college athletics.
Tune in now and connect with Angelo!
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What does it take to be a great trainer, educator, and leader in the fitness industry? In this episode, Jenny and John chat with Miguel Vargas, TRX Senior Master Instructor and TRX Training and Education Manager, to dive into his journey from passionate trainer to international educator.
With over a decade of experience leading TRX workouts, workshops, and courses around the world, Miguel shares insights on what separates good trainers from great ones, how to build confidence on the training floor, and what it takes to transition into coaching and education roles.
We also get into some fun "Would You Rather" fitness scenarios—because let’s be honest, we’ve all had that client who insists on their magic fat-burning detox tea!
Tune in for expert advice, industry insights, and a few laughs along the way.
https://www.instagram.com/migueltrxsf/
https://www.instagram.com/trxtraining/
https://www.trxtraining.com/pages/education
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In this episode Jenny and John chat with the one and only Emma Barry, founder of Trouble Global and a true force of nature in the fitness industry. Dubbed the “Oprah of Fitness”, Emma is a powerhouse speaker, advisor, and investor who thrives on igniting boldness, breaking conventions, and catalyzing massive innovation in business, leadership, and personal development.
In this episode, we dive into:
What it really means to create “trouble” in leadership and why it’s essential for successThe biggest shifts happening in the fitness industry and where the biggest opportunities lieHow to cultivate a high-performance mindset without burning outInsights on breaking industry norms, battling imposter syndrome, and building a lasting legacyPlus, a fast-paced lightning round where Emma shares her most unconventional beliefs, biggest industry wish list, and top resources for fitness pros.
https://troubleglobal.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmabarryistrouble/
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We’re back for more Research & Real Talk with Jenny and John! Take a deep dive into some fascinating new studies shaping the health and fitness landscape.
Research with Jenny
Heart Health & Wearables – Did you know that nearly two-thirds of Americans use a device to track their heart health, yet only 25% share the data with their doctor? We explore why this matters and how fitness professionals can bridge the gap.Traffic & Fast Food – A new study out of California shows that traffic delays may lead to an increase in fast food visits, impacting long-term nutrition choices. How does urban infrastructure play a role in public health?Women’s Gym Experiences – A UK/Ireland study highlights barriers women face in gyms, from body image concerns to harassment. How can the fitness industry create more inclusive spaces?Real Talk with John
The ethics of before-and-after photos – Are transformation marketing tactics doing more harm than good?Beyond aesthetics – What’s the real goal of health and fitness?Tune in for insights, discussion, and a no-nonsense look at the realities of the fitness industry!
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In this insightful episode, Jenny and John chat with Pete McCall, a fitness educator, author, and industry thought leader. Pete shares an update on his work with Ramp Gym, a cutting-edge fitness concept that can create an additional revenue stream for personal trainers and health clubs. Next, Pete shares his practical, no-nonsense approach to recovery, with key insights from his latest book, Smarter Recovery. Here he explains why traditional recovery methods are often misunderstood and how fitness professionals can help clients recover more effectively.
Tune in now for expert advice on training smarter, recovering better, and staying in the game for the long haul!
Learn more about RAMP Gym: rampgym.com
Connect with Pete: https://www.instagram.com/petemc_fitness/
Get Pete’s book: “Smarter Recovery”
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In this powerful episode, Jenny and John chat with Josif Todorovitz, a highly respected personal trainer and mentor, whose journey from prison to prosperity is nothing short of inspiring. Josif shares how he transformed his life through fitness, overcame immense obstacles, and built a six-figure career in the industry. As the Head Trainer at Self Made Training Facility in Folsom, CA, he has not only impacted countless clients but also guided aspiring trainers toward success.
We dive into his personal transformation, the challenges of re-entering society, and how his experiences have shaped his unique approach to coaching, leadership, and mentorship. Josif also opens up about his work in diversion programs, the lessons he hopes to impart, and his vision for the future of fitness.
Whether you're a fitness professional, someone facing personal challenges, or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode is packed with insights, wisdom, and real talk on resilience and success.
https://www.instagram.com/josif4/
https://www.instagram.com/ironflexfitness2020/
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In this episode, Jenny and John chat with Dr. Gabrielle Fundaro. She breaks down the key differences between improving appearance (aesthetic changes) versus improving body image (self perception)—and why it matters. We explore how fitness professionals can help clients shift their focus from aesthetics to true well-being, the role of emotional health in body image, and practical strategies for fostering lasting, meaningful change. Whether you're a coach or on your own health journey, this conversation will challenge the way you think about fitness and self-perception.
https://www.instagram.com/trust_and_nourish/
Thomas Cash- body image researcher
http://www.body-images.com/assessments/
Value Sorting Exercises
https://www.think2perform.com/values/
Internalized Weight Bias Article
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3543476/
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In this episode Jenny and John chat with Dr. Jonathan Mike, a renowned expert in exercise science, strength training, and sports nutrition. With over 120 presentations on global stages, numerous peer-reviewed publications, and 12 influential book chapters, Dr. Mike is a powerhouse in the fitness industry.
We dive into his journey in the field, explore practical ways for trainers and coaches to elevate their expertise, and discuss how to separate credible information from fitness misinformation.
Dr. Mike also tackles some of the most pervasive fitness myths surrounding resistance training—such as fears about "getting bulky," misconceptions about toning, and the role of strength training in fat loss and flexibility. Plus, he shares the importance of resistance training for older adults and debunks the craziest myths he’s encountered recently.
Whether you’re a fitness professional or someone looking to maximize your own training, this episode is packed with actionable insights and science-backed wisdom.
https://www.instagram.com/drjmike/
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In this episode, Jenny and John chat with Adam Daniel, a renowned human performance and leadership coach, to explore the transformative journey of personal and professional development.
With a wealth of experience spanning senior leadership roles in global health and fitness brands, consulting for National Governing Bodies, and building a gym from the ground up, Adam brings a unique blend of practical insights and cutting-edge strategies. He’s coached professionals worldwide, helping them identify strengths, cultivate self-awareness, and embrace positive change for greater fulfillment in work and life.
What to Expect:
Adam’s incredible journey from athlete to leadership coach.The role of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and mindset in achieving lasting success.Proven strategies to identify growth opportunities and take actionable steps forward.Key advice for fitness professionals aspiring to lead, innovate, or build thriving businesses.Whether you’re a fitness professional, entrepreneur, or someone seeking personal growth, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and inspiration to help you unlock your full potential
https://www.instagram.com/adamdanielmba/
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In this episode Jenny and John chat with Evan Ledahl and Jason Bombard, the innovative minds behind Demotu, a cutting-edge movement assessment app that’s changing the game for fitness professionals and athletes alike.
We explore:
The origins and purpose of DemotuWhy movement analysis is critical and how Demotu enhances the processHow trainers, clinicians, and athletes can benefit from the appInnovative features like remote assessments and workout buildersInsights into the role of technology, including AI, in shaping the future of fitness toolsEvan and Jason then share inspiring success stories from professionals who’ve used Demotu to achieve remarkable results and offer a sneak peek into what’s next for this game-changing platform.
https://www.demotuapp.com/
https://www.instagram.com/demotuapp/
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In this episode Jenny and John chat with Brian Grasso, author of Mindset Matters Most, to talk about leadership and mindset in the fitness industry. From overcoming imposter syndrome to cultivating trust with clients, Brian provides invaluable advice for trainers looking to enhance their leadership skills. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced trainer, this episode will guide you in developing the mindset of a leader to influence and inspire those around you
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In this episode of Trainers Talking Truths, Jenny kicks things off with Lightning Fast Facts, diving into the latest research on health and wellness. She covers the surprising risks of standing too long at work, the dangers of sedentary behavior for heart health, and the impact of ultra-processed foods on muscle quality, especially in the thighs.
Then, John takes over for the Real Talk segment, discussing the pressure of New Year’s resolutions and why progress over perfection is key. He shares how personal trainers can help clients set realistic, sustainable goals and avoid the all-too-common crash and burn.
Tune in for some eye-opening research and practical advice to kick off the year right!
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Welcome to this special "Best Of" episode of Trainers Talking Truths! Today, we’re taking a look back at a valuable past episode from a great leader in our industry. A huge thank you to all our listeners—whether you’ve been with us from the start or just found us, your support means the world. Sit back, enjoy, and let’s revisit the truths that have inspired and guided us all!
In this episode, Jenny and John chat with fitness marketing expert Scott Rawcliffe to explore the game-changing role of AI in the fitness industry. Scott breaks down how AI tools are revolutionizing personalized workouts, virtual training, and content creation for fitness businesses. Plus, he shares insights into the future of AI and how smaller fitness operations can leverage this technology without breaking the bank.
A.I. Tools List For Fitness Professionals
Things in the world of AI are changing so fast, so this list may not always have the most up-to-date. Scott’s suggestion is to pick 1-2 tools and start integrating them into your daily/weekly tasks.
All of these are tools Scott has spent at least 5-10 hours testing. The ones in RED are the ones that I’m either currently using or have spent more than 10 hours using.
1. ChatGPT
Description: ChatGPT is an advanced AI language model designed to help fitness professionals create engaging content, answer client questions, and even craft workout plans. It can be used to write emails, generate social media content, or provide clients with helpful fitness tips. With its conversational nature, it’s an essential tool for handling customer queries, automating responses, and creating personalized client communication.
2. Claude
Website: Claude by Anthropic
Description: Claude is a conversational AI assistant that helps fitness professionals by providing quick insights, generating workout and nutrition content, and automating client interactions. Claude can also be used for brainstorming session ideas, outlining educational content, or even drafting blog posts for your fitness business.
3. Gemini
Website: Gemini by Google DeepMind
Description: Gemini is an AI tool by Google DeepMind designed for complex problem-solving and planning. For fitness professionals, Gemini can assist with business strategy, client journey mapping, or optimizing fitness program designs. It’s still an evolving tool, but its deep learning capabilities make it an exciting option for large-scale planning.
4. Perplexity
Website: Perplexity AI
Description: Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine and chatbot that helps fitness professionals quickly research new trends, find workout data, or explore health studies. It provides fast, comprehensive answers to detailed questions, saving time when looking for the latest research or best practices in the fitness industry.
5. Poe
Website: Poe by Quora
Description: Poe is a platform that offers access to various AI chatbots in one place. Fitness professionals can use Poe to get quick answers from different AI models for diverse needs—whether it’s nutrition planning, exercise tips, or marketing ideas. It’s a handy tool when you want to test out different AI responses and find the best solutions for your business.
6. MidJourney
Website: MidJourney
Description: MidJourney is an AI tool focused on generating stunning visual content. For fitness professionals, it’s a fantastic way to create custom images for social media, promotional material, or even branding elements for fitness...
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Welcome to this special "Best Of" episode of Trainers Talking Truths! Today, we’re taking a look back at a valuable past episode from a great leader in our industry. A huge thank you to all our listeners—whether you’ve been with us from the start or just found us, your support means the world. Sit back, enjoy, and let’s revisit the truths that have inspired and guided us all!
In this episode, Jenny and John are joined by Raphael Konforti, Senior Director of Fitness Business and Operations at 24 Hour Fitness, a brand with over 270 locations and a 40+ year legacy. With over 15 years in the fitness industry, Raphael has a wealth of experience in personal training, group fitness, digital product development, and more. We'll dive into his career journey, discussing pivotal moments that shaped his approach to fitness and business. Raphael will also share insights into the latest innovations at 24 Hour Fitness, strategies for driving revenue and member engagement, and the future of technology in the industry. Tune in to learn about the trends shaping the future of fitness and how continuing education is crucial for professionals in the field.
https://www.instagram.com/raphaelkonforti/
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In this episode, Jenny and John chat with Joseph Carson to uncover the incredible story of his 177-pound weight loss transformation and how it ignited his passion for health and fitness. From building the largest private training studio in Oklahoma to creating Age-Well Arizona, a groundbreaking program for empowering older adults, Joseph’s journey is full of inspiration and practical insights. Tune in to learn how he turned personal challenges into massive entrepreneurial success, built thriving fitness businesses, and discovered innovative ways to help clients of all ages achieve their best lives. Whether you're seeking motivation, business strategies, or lessons in leadership, this episode delivers invaluable takeaways.
- Se mer
