Purpose Driven Movement

If you’re a health or fitness professional wanting to stay ahead of the curve, this episode of the Purpose Driven Movement podcast is essential listening. Host Tarek chats with Jennifer Halsall and Dr Lou Atkinson from The Collective, about the cultural shift sparked by the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. These treatments are giving many people their first real chance to move without pain or shame, but as Jennifer and Lou explain, medication alone isn’t enough - physical activity is vital to prevent muscle loss and support genuine, lasting health. The episode digs into the real barriers GLP-1 users face, from gym intimidation to stigma, and highlights how The Collective is championing beginner-friendly programs, empathetic coaching, and welcoming spaces for all bodies. With powerful stories and practical advice, this conversation will help you better support clients on GLP-1s and rethink what it means to foster true health in a changing landscape. Don’t miss it!

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Resources:

Jennifer Halsall - LinkedIn
Dr Lou Atkinson - LinkedIn
Whitepaper on the GLP-1 consumer - Free Resource
Connecting the Dots - Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube

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Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Dr Lou Atkinson is a behavioural scientist, educator and exercise professional. With a 25+ year career spanning Public Health, Fitness, Academia and MedTech, she works at the intersection of science and real-world application. Her research focuses on obesity, physical activity and chronic conditions, as well as women’s health behaviours at key life stages including pregnancy, postpartum and menopause. As a consultant and fractional executive she supports organisations in the health and fitness sectors to deliver and evaluate evidence-based products & services. She is a scientific advisor for multiple charities and professional bodies, and a passionate advocate for inclusivity in health and work.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

This podcast is sponsored by ZIVA. Discover more at www.ziva.com.

What if the fear holding you back is actually the key to your next breakthrough? In this episode, host Tarek Michael-Chouja is joined by Whitney Jones, three-times Ms. Fitness Olympia Champion, mentor and author of Win Broken. Whitney shares the raw reality behind the medals: injuries, setbacks and the deep internal battles most never see. You’ll learn how embracing fear, building discipline and showing up for yourself, even when broken, can lead to real transformation. Listen now and get ready to shift your mindset and face your own “what ifs” head-on.If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Our favourite quotable moments:

“The whole philosophy behind “win broken” is there's people in life that are just going to survive and there's people who truly thrive.” - Whitney Jones

“I've broken a lot and I've won, but it's not just about breaking bones in your body. It's about breaking your spirit.”  - Whitney Jones

“There is a big part in here about fear because when you learn to embrace fear the proper way, you're unstoppable.”  - Whitney Jones

Resources:

Whitney Jones - Book, Website, Instagram and Facebook

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Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest:

Whitney Jones is a globally recognised powerhouse in the fitness industry, celebrated as a three-time Ms. Fitness Olympia champion and Arnold Classic Ms. Fitness International winner. As a professional athlete, bestselling author of the Amazon bestseller "Win Broken," fitness coach, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, Whitney has inspired many through her resilience and determination. She has overcome significant adversity, including 18 surgeries and a broken neck, while balancing her roles as a single mother of two boys and owner of multiple fitness businesses, including Pro Physiques gym and the Unstoppable 365 coaching platform. Whitney is also a prominent figure in the IFBB and NPC communities, promoting major fitness competitions and empowering others to embrace challenges and achieve their goals with a champion mindset.

About Your Host:

Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

This podcast is sponsored by ZIVA. Discover more at www.ziva.com.

What does it take to keep elite athletes at their peak, even under relentless travel, pressure, and fatigue? In this episode of Purpose Driven Movement, host Tarek Michael Chouja speaks with Dr Stephen Bird, a professor in sport and exercise science, about the realities of athlete development. You'll hear about the power of planning, the importance of self-care, and why small routines—on and off the court—make all the difference. Plus, practical strategies you can apply to your own life or your clients’ lives, whether they’re an athlete or not. Listen now and get ready to rethink how you approach performance, preparation, and wellbeing! 

Our favourite quotable moments:

“Our goal is to assist the player as we've already mentioned to present their best version of themselves next time they hop on court.” - Dr Stephen Bird

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” - Dr Stephen Bird

Resources:

Dr Stephen Bird - Website, UniSQ Profile, and Facebook

Dr Stephen Bird’s Book Recommendation: When Winning Matters: Lessons Learned from Sports Elite

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Professor Stephen Bird, Director of High-Performance Sport at the University of Southern Queensland, is an acclaimed performance scientist and strength and conditioning coach. He has supported athletes across six countries and 26 major events, including two Olympic Games, achieving Olympic gold. Recipient of the inaugural ESSA Medal (2006), he has contributed to the field as Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Strength and Conditioning and through roles with professional associations. Currently leading the 2 WIN Student-Athlete Empowerment Project, he also serves as Strength and Conditioning Lead for GB Basketball (Women), focusing his research on optimizing health and performance in elite female athletes.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

This podcast is sponsored by ZIVA. Discover more at www.ziva.com.

In this insightful episode, host Tarek sits down with cognitive fitness expert Anna Milani to explore how movement can transform both body and mind. They discuss the impact of cognitive fitness training on mental health, longevity, and the fitness industry, highlighting the importance of complexity in training and the benefits of a holistic approach. Anna shares inspiring stories and insights into dual-tasking and the differences between cognitive fitness and traditional brain training. This conversation is a must-listen for health, fitness, and wellness professionals looking to enhance their understanding of mental resilience, emotional well-being, and the latest trends in brain-boosting fitness strategies.

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Our favourite quotable moments:

"Cognitive fitness training merges mental health and physical movement." - Anna Milani

"There's a lack of accessible education in cognitive fitness.” - Anna Milani

“The more neuroplastic your brain is, the more you feel empowered, the more you are confident” - Anna Milani

Resources:

SPARKD - Website and Instagram

Anna Milani - Linkedin and Instagram

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Anna Milani  is the Founder and CEO of SPARKD, the first Brain Body Gym concept in Singapore and Asia for physical and cognitive health, performance and longevity. Anna has 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry across Europe and Asia, having worked in high end studios and large franchises. Anna holds a BA (Hons.) in Contemporary Dance and an MBA as well as many certifications in the fitness and neuroscience field. Her journey with SPARKD began after losing her grandfather to Alzheimers and realising the importance that exercise and cognitive motor training has on brain health. Anna regularly presents at conferences and for corporations on the topic of brain health and movement.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

Related keywords: cognitive fitness, brain training, dual tasking, longevity, neurodegenerative diseases, movement philosophy, fitness industry, mental health, complexity in training, health and wellness

In this podcast episode, Dr Sachin Patel, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner, shares groundbreaking insights on the transformative power of breathwork in health and wellness. Health professionals will find invaluable information on how breath can be a powerful tool for regulating the nervous system, facilitating emotional release, and improving overall health. Dr. Patel introduces the innovative "Breathe Like This, Not That" approach, providing guidance on optimal breathing techniques for various scenarios. The discussion also explores the crucial role of nasal breathing and tongue positioning in overall well-being, and emphasises the importance of patient empowerment and health creation rather than disease prevention. For health, fitness, and wellness professionals seeking to expand their toolkit and offer holistic solutions to their clients, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge on integrating breathwork into daily life and its potential to create significant shifts in health outcome.

Our favourite quotable moments:

“Grief is stored in our lungs.” - Dr Sachin Patel

“If there’s one thing I could change about the health industry, it would be getting people’s nervous systems regulated.” – Dr Sachin Patel

Resources:

Breathwork with Sachin - Website, Facebook and Instagram

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Sachin Patel is a father, husband, philanthropist, functional medicine practice success coach, speaker, author, breathwork facilitator, and plant medicine advocate. Sachin is convinced that “the doctor of the future is the patient” and he has committed himself to helping others raise their consciousness, activate their inner doctor, and initiate their deepest healing through the use of lifestyle, and breathwork. Sachin founded The Living Proof Institute through which he pioneered a revolutionary approach to patient-centered healthcare. Sachin coaches hundreds of practitioners around the world so that they are empowered to deliver affordable and inspired care to their communities through his Perfect Practice Mentorship Program.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

Related words: health, wellness, breathwork, functional medicine, heart rate variability, emotional health, lifestyle, epigenetics, nervous system, coherence, breathwork, health creation, nervous system, patient empowerment, wellness, holistic health, breathing techniques, innate intelligence, functional medicine, chiropractic care

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to recover from an injury—both physically and mentally? In this episode, Dane Larsen, an Exercise Physiologist at Total Fusion Gym, shares practical strategies for rehabilitation. From working with physios in the early stages to building strength and confidence for a full return to sport, he breaks down the process step by step. You’ll learn about the power of mindset, tailored training plans, and breathwork techniques to manage stress. Whether you’re an athlete, trainer, or just passionate about movement, this episode has something for you. Listen now and rethink recovery!

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Our favourite quotable moments:

“Surrounding yourself with smarter people than you and learning from the wisdom that exists around and that will just really have this amazing knock on effect to you and your clients.” - Dane Larsen

“Focusing on what you CAN do is a big game changer.” - Dane Larsen

“[Clients] might have some anxious thoughts coming up. So getting them to be aware of their state is such an important first thing.” - Dane Larsen

Resources:

Dane Larsen - Website, Instagram and YouTube

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Dane Larsen is a dedicated health and wellness professional with a unique perspective shaped by personal experience. Having undergone four ACL surgeries by the age of 25 and battled OCD, he discovered the transformative power of community support through his local gym. This journey ignited his passion for helping others overcome physical and mental challenges. With extensive experience at one of Australia's premier sports medicine clinics, Dane has honed his skills under the guidance of top physios, surgeons, and doctors from elite sporting organizations such as the Wallabies, Socceroos, Broncos, Brisbane Lions, QAS, and AIS. His holistic approach to rehabilitation and performance optimization empowers clients to achieve their full potential and return to their beloved activities.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

Dive into the cutting-edge of fitness industry evolution with Ross Campbell, founder of Beyond Activ, in this must-listen episode for fitness professionals. Campbell, a veteran in market insights and industry growth, unpacks the transformative trends shaping health, wellness, and fitness businesses in 2025. From the rise of "light training" like Pilates to the resurgence of big box gyms, this episode offers invaluable insights into the shifting landscape. Campbell explores the blurring lines between fitness, wellness, and hospitality sectors, and how technology is revolutionizing the industry. Whether you're a gym owner, personal trainer, or wellness entrepreneur, this episode provides the knowledge you need to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving fitness ecosystem. Don't miss out on these crucial insights for your business strategy in 2025 and beyond.

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Our favourite quotable moments:

"Group fitness has absolutely been on the rise for the last few years." - Ross Campbell

“We sit here and complain about penetration rates, but we're not creating any products or platforms or facilities for them.”

“Wearables also have been a really buoyant trend in the last five years... with some of the major players like Fitbit, for example, being replaced by the likes of Apple and Whoop, Oura, and Garmin.” - Ross Campbell

Resources:

Beyond Activ - Website

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Ross is a life-long health and fitness fanatic, a former gym owner and operator, the Founder & CEO of Beyond Activ, and the Co-Founder of Singapore Fitness Alliance

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

How would you and your loved ones’ lives change if you could prevent illness rather than treat it? Dr Torkil Færø, an ER Doctor and leading voice in preventive healthcare, shares why the future of medicine lies in empowering individuals to take control of their well-being. You’ll learn how simple, accessible tools like wearable tech and heart rate variability tracking can provide actionable insights, shifting the focus from curing disease to building resilience. Dr Færø’s message is clear: prevention is within your grasp. Listen now and get ready to take the first step towards lasting health and vitality.

If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Our favourite quotable moments:

“It's just a matter of educating people that they have this power over their health.” - Dr Torkil Færø

“Change the focus from treating people after they get sick to preventing them from getting sick in the first place.” - Dr Torkil Færø

“What we can measure, we can manage.”  - Dr Torkil Færø

Resources:

Website: The Pulse Cure

The Pulse Cure - Video Lecture

LinkedIn Page: Dr Torkil Færø

Facebook Page: Dr Torkil

Twitter Handle: @FTorkil96880 

Instagram: @Drtorkil

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Simply go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

Join Our Mailing List

About Our Guest: Torkil Færø is a Norwegian doctor, photographer, adventurer, and author. He has traveled to over 80 countries on 5 continents and speaks 8 languages. As a photographer, he has had exhibitions, made photography books and held over 60 photographic workshops in 11 countries. Torkil sees that many people become ill from unfortunate lifestyle choices and poor coping skills. Instead of treating people after they become ill, he wants to help people prevent disease and increase their quality of life by taking responsibility for their own health! He is the author of The Pulse Cure, a book on how to use wearables to track health metrics like heart rate variability.

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the Functional Training Institute. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling co-author of Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

Looking to listen to older episodes of Purpose Driven Movement, but not sure where to start? This episode with hosts Tarek and Vanessa reflects on 2024, highlighting some of their favourite interviews and themes on the podcast throughout the year. Vanessa found Paul Taylor's insights on the endocrine function of muscles particularly impactful, while breathwork emerged as a unifying theme across various guest discussions. Tarek emphasised the importance of integrative approaches in health and fitness, citing his conversation with Sam Merza and Dr. Simon Baarbé as examples. The hosts also discussed the value of seeking out diverse perspectives, both within and outside their own industries, through travel, mentorship, and continued learning.

Episode Links:

Longevity and the Holistic Fitness Approach with Sam Merza
Mind-Body Fitness and Kettebell Mastery with Steve Cotter
Rethinking Fitness: Ian O'Dwyer Explores Controversial Beliefs for Better Health
Injury Prevention and Improved Resilience with Ulrik Larsen
The Benefits of Barefoot Training and Healthy Feet with Andy Bryant
Nervous System Regulation and Self-Regulation with Jessica Maguire
Holistic Fitness Training, Zone 2 Training and Exercising for Longevity with Paul Taylor

Resources:

To learn more about Vanessa’s new podcast and what she's up to, visit her website here.

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

Join Our Mailing List

About Your Host: Tarek is the co-founder of the functional training institute and FitWell Education lab. Tarek is an international educator and speaker who has presented numerous times at the biggest convention in Australia, Asia and the US. In addition, Tarek has presented courses to thousands of trainers throughout Australia, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Tarek is also a best-selling author of ‘Purpose Driven Movement.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!

How can breathing and movement reshape your health practice? In today’s episode of Breath Performance, we’re joined by Tom Williams, a physiotherapist with a passion for integrating breathwork into therapy. Tom breaks down the practical application of breathwork and its profound impact on physical therapy. You’ll hear about how small shifts in breathing can lead to powerful results in movement, the resistance professionals face when incorporating new techniques, and why building trust with clients can sometimes be more important than a specific technique. Tom also explores how wearables can bridge the gap between science and intuition. Listen now and get ready to rethink how simple habits can transform your approach to health.

If you're loving the podcast, please leave a review on this listening platform!

Resources:

Tom Williams - Instagram

Get 15% off any of our online courses. Go to Functional Training Institute and input 'PDM15' at cart checkout.

Check out our best selling book Purpose Driven Movement by host Tarek Michael-Chouja and Dan Henderson.

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About Our Guest: Tom is an experienced clinician who wants to help you move better to get back to exercise!  Tom holds a Bachelor of Sports and Exercise Science, to go with his Masters of Physiotherapy degree. Since graduating, he has been involved in numerous sporting clubs including UQ Rugby Football Club, Toowong Football Club along with UQ Swimming. Additionally, he was a physiotherapist at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast. Tom uses a unique blend of hands on manual therapy, breathwork and breathing strategies, visual and vestibular retraining, along with exercise prescription to get you back moving freely. Tom’s whole body approach, coupled with his exercise prescription will allow you to move better and be more confident with how your body moves.

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 a hybrid trainer, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality presenting 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.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.

We sometimes include links to products and services we find interesting. These may or may not be affiliate links. Thanks for your support!