The MumSafe Pro Podcast

Ep 65. Standing for Change: Jen Dugard on Leadership, Advocacy & the Future of the Fitness Industry


Listen Later

In this special episode of the MumSafe™ Podcast, the tables turn as Women’s Fitness Education founder Mish Wright interviews our very own host, Jen Dugard. With voting open for the AusActive Board, Jen shares what inspired her to stand for her third and final term, the lessons she’s learned from six years on the board, and her vision for the future of Australia’s fitness industry.

Jen opens up about the challenges and rewards of board leadership, from navigating industry politics to championing diversity, collaboration, and professionalism across the fitness sector. She reflects on her journey from personal trainer to national advocate, and why she continues to fight for safer, more sustainable careers for exercise professionals.

This episode is both an inside look into how systemic change happens in our industry and a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about courage, consistency, and staying committed to your mission, even when no one’s watching.

Highlights:

  • Why Jen decided to stand for re-election to the AusActive Board
  • How AusActive has evolved in professionalism, representation, and advocacy over the past six years
  • The importance of gender diversity and collaboration across the fitness industry
  • The shift from CEC to CPD: what it means for trainers and why it matters
  • How the board is bridging the gap between fitness, health, and allied health sectors
  • What it’s like behind the scenes of a national board: challenges, lessons, and leadership
  • Jen’s personal mission to elevate exercise professionals and give them a stronger voice
  • The future of the industry: national recognition, Medicare support, and sustainable careers

  • Key Takeaway:
    Real change in the fitness industry happens when passionate professionals take a seat at the table and use it. Jen’s leadership reminds us that advocacy begins with action, and that every trainer, coach, and educator has the power to shape a stronger, more professional, and more inclusive future for our industry.

    Connect with Jen Dugard:
    Instagram: @jendugard
    Website: www.jendugard.com/mumsafetrainer

    Connect with Mish Wright & Women’s Fitness Education:
    Instagram: @womensfitnesseducation
    Website: www.womensfitnesseducation.com.au

    ...more
    View all episodesView all episodes
    Download on the App Store

    The MumSafe Pro PodcastBy Jen Dugard


    More shows like The MumSafe Pro Podcast

    View all
    The Daily by The New York Times

    The Daily

    112,832 Listeners

    Fitness Education Online Podcast I For Personal Trainers, Fitness Professionals, Gym Owners & the Fitness Industry by Fitness Education Online

    Fitness Education Online Podcast I For Personal Trainers, Fitness Professionals, Gym Owners & the Fitness Industry

    19 Listeners

    The Imperfects by Hugh van Cuylenburg, Ryan Shelton & Josh van Cuylenburg

    The Imperfects

    396 Listeners