Meant to Move

In this episode of Meant to Move, host Vanessa Leone engages with fitness experts Rhys and Jesse to explore the significance of measurement in fitness and wellness. They discuss personal measurement practices, the importance of aligning measurements with goals, and the mental health implications of tracking progress. The conversation delves into innovative testing methods, beginner approaches to measurement, and the role of enjoyment in fitness. They also touch on key measurements for longevity, such as grip strength and VO2 max, and conclude with thoughts on the future of health measurement and the therapeutic aspects of movement.

You’ll learn about:

Measurements should align with personal goals.

Tracking sleep can significantly impact overall health.

Measurement practices & post-goal reflections can lead to mental challenges.

Innovative testing methods can enhance fitness assessments.

Grip strength & VO2 max: key indicators and predictors of longevity

& health outcomes.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"What do you actually measure for yourself?" - Vanessa

"Measurements all align with goals." - Jesse

"You can compete against yourself." - Rhys

If you’re loving the podcast, share on your socials!

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About Rhys James

Rhys is a highly qualified and dedicated wellness professional with a multidisciplinary approach to knowledge sharing. Passionate about practical learning, he has gained diverse experience, from professional soccer to public health and wellness in leisure settings. Most recently, he served as a Technogym Ambassador and Trainer at the 2024 Olympic Games in Tahiti, supporting surfers and coaches. As Wellness Institute & Community Manager for Technogym Australia, he aims to expand the Technogym Network through education. Rhys has also worked at Technogym’s Headquarters in Italy, experiencing their cutting-edge R&D from concept to launch.

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/rhysj.94/

About Jesse O’Sullivan

Jesse O’Sullivan is an Exercise Physiologist, Online Coach, and Technogym Educator dedicated to better the lives of Australians through healthy living. As the founder of Project U.P., he provides structured coaching programs that optimise strength, endurance, and mental discipline. Jesse specialises in guiding high-performing men through tailored training, nutrition, and accountability systems while also navigating injuries and clinical conditions to ensure sustainable progress. Now expanding into corporate wellness, he helps professionals integrate fitness into their demanding lifestyles to improve performance, energy, and resilience in both work and life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesse.healthcoach/

 https://www.instagram.com/project.u.p/

About Your Host:

Refer to podcast information

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode host Vanessa welcomes wellness consultant and journalist Sarah Zakzouk, who shares her journey from publishing to fitness, specializing in Pilates, personal training, and wellness consulting. They explore the multifaceted world of wellness and fitness, discussing personal journeys, the impact of media, the importance of individualized approaches, and the evolving nature of fitness measurements. They delve into the intersection of journalism and wellness, the challenges of navigating information in the age of social media, and the significance of movement therapy in personal wellness practices.

You’ll learn about:

How Storytelling plays a crucial role in sharing wellness experiences.

Social media provides both valuable information and potential misinformation and can influence perceptions of fitness and wellness significantly.

The necessity to critically evaluate fitness information from various sources.

How “Clickbait” headlines can distort the true message of fitness articles.

Online training can be beneficial but may lack personalized guidance, individualized approaches to fitness is the key to success.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"Not everything is about weight loss—focus on wellness." - Sarah

"Social media isn’t always fact-checked—question everything." - Sarah

"Strength grounds me, Pilates challenges me, swimming heals me." - Sarah

If you’re loving the podcast, share with a friend!

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

AboutSarah Zakzouk:

Sarah is a Wellness Coach and Consultant, and Founder of Wellness Division. Sarah works with a myriad of client profiles in rehabilitation, strength training, and lifestyle fitness to promote functional movement and longevity. Education is at the heart of Sarah’s ethos, hosting workshops and online courses – ranging from Pilates education to effective communication. She has a Masters in Publishing and extensive experience as a journalist, writing for numerous publications, including Vogue Arabia, Women’s Health magazine, and VICE Arabia. She merges the worlds of physical wellness and the written word in her online magazine, “The Narrative by Wellness Division”.

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sarahzakzouk/

https://www.instagram.com/wellnessdivision/

Website:https://wellnessdivision.com

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Vanessa Leone introduces the concept of 'slowgress,' emphasizing the importance of understanding that health and fitness progress is not linear. She discusses how seasonal changes affect our wellness goals and shares her personal journey of recovery post-surgery. Vanessa encourages listeners to reflect on their own wellness journeys and to embrace a more gradual approach to achieving their goals, allowing for both progress and regress.

Takeaways

The concept of slowgress allows for both progress and regress in wellness.

Expecting linear progression in health and fitness can be damaging.

Seasonal changes should influence our health and fitness goals.

Periodization is essential for sustainable athletic performance.

Personal experiences can shape our understanding of wellness.

Listening to your body is crucial for effective training.

Avoid pushing yourself to the point of exhaustion.

Reflecting on personal goals can guide your wellness journey.

Choosing one or two areas to focus on can lead to better outcomes.

Embracing a gradual approach can enhance overall well-being.

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Vanessa Leone and Ian O'Dwyer explore the complexities of fitness measurements, emphasizing the importance of context, personal experience, and self-awareness in fitness and wellness. They discuss the role of biofeedback, the significance of language in fitness assessments, and the necessity of understanding pain and movement. The dialogue also highlights the importance of nutrition, hydration, and daily self-appraisal, as well as the innovative concept of mobilizers in movement. Ultimately, they advocate for a more mindful and personalized approach to fitness, encouraging listeners to connect with their bodies and listen to their needs.

You’ll learn about:

Biofeedback and fitness measurements should inform, not dictate fitness journeys.

Language can significantly impact perception and performance: use appraisal instead of assessment to reduce pressure and promote self-awareness.

Nutrition and hydration are critical components of fitness performance: breathing and mindfulness can also enhance fitness experiences.

Daily self-appraisal can help individuals gauge their readiness for exercise.

Mobilizers are essential for addressing fascial tissue and improving movement.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"It's all about context." - Vanessa

"Language can be very off-putting." - Ian

"We need to ask better questions." = Ian

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review! 

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest Ian O’Dwyer:

Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.

IG - feel.soma

FB - /feelsoma

Website: https://www.feelsoma.com

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this entertaining episode Vanessa Leone and her partner, Michael, discuss fitness, nutrition, and personal transformation. Michael shares his journey from being overweight to bodybuilding, emphasizing the importance of protein and fibre. He explains macros and calorie counting, volume eating, and how he balances health with enjoyment of food. They discuss the psychological aspects of dieting, the importance of planning meals, and the role of gut health in overall well-being. Michael highlights the benefits of home cooking and mindful eating, advocating for a balanced approach rather than strict dieting. The conversation is candid, practical, and focused on sustainable, healthy eating habits.

You’ll learn about:

How food relationships are crucial for mental and physical health.

Tracking macros and how it can provide insights into dietary habits.

How protein and fibre are essential for a balanced diet.

Volume eating and how it helps manage hunger and improves nutrition while deprivation can lead to binge eating and unhealthy habits.

Planning meals reduces food waste and saves money.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"You control what you put in your mouth." - Michael

"Fibre is super important." - Michael

"You need to increase it gradually." - Michael

If you are interested in real life movement therapy get in touch with Vanessa.

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About our guest Michael Fisher:

Michael is Vanessa’s partner and shares her ethos of being better. Michael is passionate about food, coffee and the English Premier League club, Arsenal. Michael has been a natural bodybuilder since the age of 21. Michael is an enthusiastic and accomplished home cook and is meticulous and disciplined in the way he plans meals with a balanced approach that is focused on nutritional value, and adequate protein and fibre that all contributes to sustainable and healthy habits, as well as enjoyment of food. Michael emphasises the important role of gut health in overall well being.

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mfisher1410/

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Emily Splichal, a functional foot podiatrist, discusses the critical role of foot health in overall movement and fitness. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how our feet function, the mechanics of walking, speed and technique, and the connection between foot health and core stability. The discussion also covers the differences between muscular and fascial systems in movement, the significance of intentional foot engagement, and the benefits of barefoot training for optimal performance.They explore the benefits of Naboso products, including toe spacers and recovery socks, emphasizing the importance of small, consistent habits for long-term foot health.

You’ll learn about:

How a healthy foot stabilizes, absorbs shock, and transfers energy, and is linked to core stability and pelvic floor function.

The impact of walking speed on cognitive function and overall health.

How muscular movement differs from fascial movement in efficiency of movement.

Footwear choice can significantly affect foot function and health, and transitioning to barefoot footwear should be gradual.

Naboso products stimulate foot awareness, recovery, alleviate foot issues and improve balance.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"The power of the feet is incredible." - Dr Emily

"We were not designed to wear shoes." - Dr Emily

"Your foot is a sensory gateway." - Dr Emily

If you’re loving the podcast, share on your socials!

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest Dr. Emily Splichal:

Dr Emily Splichal, Functional Podiatrist and Human Movement Specialist, is the Founder of EBFA Global, Author of Barefoot Strong and CEO/Founder of Naboso Technology. With over 24 years in the fitness industry, Dr Splichal has dedicated her medical career towards studying postural alignment and human movement as it relates to barefoot science, foot to core integration and sensory integration.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dremilydpm/ 

Website: www.thefunctionalfootdoc.com.

 www.naboso.com

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa Leone and Emma Masters explore the intricate relationship between movement therapy, emotional health, and self-acceptance. Emma shares her journey from musical theatre to group fitness, describing her studio, Therapy, which offers Cycle, Run Lift, and Connect—each modality aims to provide different therapeutic experiences, from joy and euphoria to empowerment and mindfulness. They discuss the challenges of body image, the significance of movement therapy, and the need for a shift in the fitness narrative towards emotional health rather than aesthetics. The conversation highlights the power of group fitness, the impact of stress on mental health, and the therapeutic power of breath work.

You’ll learn about:

The deep connection between movement and emotions..

Fitness that focuses on mental well-being, not just aesthetics, is essential for overall health.

Creating a non-intimidating group fitness environment is crucial and can enhance emotional health..

How body positivity and self-love is a continuous journey of self-acceptance.

Breath work as a powerful therapeutic tool.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"We are in a stress epidemic." - Emma

"Self-love is a daily practice." - Emma

"Breath work combines science and magic." - Emma

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest:

Emma Masters is an internationally acclaimed fitness presenter, educator, and business owner with nearly two decades of experience in the health and fitness industry. Having held senior roles, including Group Exercise Manager for Virgin Active in both Australia and the UK, Emma has established herself as a leader in the field. Emma is founder of Experience Age Consultancy, a company dedicated to group fitness education + boutique fitness consultancy as well as co-founder of Therapy Fitness, a studio and brand that aims to 'change the feeling of fitness' by focusing on the mental and emotional benefits of movement alongside physical wellness.

Instagram:instagram.com/ema_masters

instagram.com/therapyfitness_au

Website:https://www.experienceageconsultancy.com/

https://www.therapyfitness.com.au/

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa interviews Ian O'Dwyer (OD), a "movement coach" known for his holistic approach to movement therapy. OD shares his journey from semi-pro sports and plumbing to becoming a movement mentor. He emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, emotion, and interoception—listening to internal body signals. Through anecdotes, OD explains how tailored movement practices can prevent injuries and enhance joy. He advocates for intuitive, low-risk interventions like grounding and fluid flow exercises. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional intelligence and underscores the connection between emotion, intuition, and physical well-being, offering a refreshing perspective on fitness and wellness.

You’ll learn about:

• Movement therapy is about inclusivity and emotional connection, it should bring joy and happiness, not be a chore.
• Coaching is about listening and understanding individual needs, and respecting their unique movement journey.
• Interoception is crucial for understanding our body's signals.
• Grounding and connecting with nature can enhance well-being.
• Personal experiences, listening to our bodies, and challenging conventional fitness norms  lead to better outcomes.

Our favourite quotable moments:

"You're a Movement Yoda!" - Vanessa

"Movement is my gig!" - OD

"Emotion is motion." -Vanessa

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review! 

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest Ian O’Dwyer:

Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.

IG - feel.soma

FB - /feelsoma

Website: https://www.feelsoma.com

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Vanessa and Gee Tual delve into the multifaceted world of movement therapy, emphasizing a holistic approach to fitness, the importance of manual therapy, and adapting training to individual needs. They explore the benefits of Animal Flow, highlighting its unique quadrupedal movements that enhance coordination, cognitive development, and mindfulness. The discussion also covers the role of personal trainers in addressing client variability, including factors like stress and hydration, while fostering overall well-being. Vanessa and Gee underline the importance of education in the fitness industry, encouraging trainers to empower clients through diverse and personalized movement practices.

You’ll learn about:

• How movement therapy combines various techniques to enhance physical and mental well-being.
• The crucial role that manual therapy plays in addressing movement issues.
• How consistency in training is important, but adapting training and flexibility to individual client needs is essential for success.
• How a holistic approach to fitness and mindfulness in movement can enhance physical and mental health..
• Animal Flow’s unique benefits for movement and coordination.

Our favourite quotable moments:

"Animal flow is like meditation for me." - Vanessa

"How do you get better at something your bad at? You do more of it." - Gee

"Movement is a tool for bettering ourselves." - Gee

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest:

French-born Guillaume TUAL, also known as ‘Gee’, is a Gold Coast-based Movement Therapist and PT who specialises in rehabilitation, movement coaching and snow sports conditioning. A former professional basketball player and teacher, he founded Peak Movement in 2010 to help his clients move away from pain, live and ski better with a holistic approach to training and injury rehabilitation. Gee is also an Animal Flow Master Instructor, a Barefoot Rehab Specialist, a mentor for Fitness Professionals and Personalised Health Coach.

website: www.peakmovement.com.au

Instagram: Peak_Movement_Aus

Facebook: Peak Movement

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the debut episode of the Meant To Move podcast, host Vanessa Leone introduces the concept of movement therapy, blending holistic health principles with personalised fitness approaches. Alongside her father, Nick Leone, Vanessa shares her personal journey of injury recovery and growth through exercise. The episode explores the mind-body connection, emphasising how movement therapy differs from traditional fitness methods by incorporating emotional health and personal growth. Vanessa discusses her career challenges and the influences that shaped her passion for this unique approach to health and wellness. The podcast aims to be a valuable resource for listeners seeking to deepen their understanding of the intricate relationship between movement, fitness, and overall well-being

You’ll learn about:

• The foundations of movement therapy and its holistic approach to health and wellness
• Vanessa Leone's personal story of overcoming physical challenges through innovative movement techniques
• The crucial role of the mind-body connection in fitness and emotional health
• How movement therapy offers a personalized fitness experience distinct from conventional exercise methods
• The goals of the Meant To Move podcast as a platform for personal growth and health education

If you’re loving the podcast, tap subscribe!

Our favorite quotable moments:

“Safety is the number one subconscious barrier for pain-free movement.” - Vanessa Leone

"Movement therapy is about learning as well as about coaching." = Vanessa Leone

"I hold space for them to let whatever emotion that there is." - Vanessa Leone

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person! 

Get in touch: Website or Instagram.

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.