This is the sixth episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll discuss the importance of advocacy, with Mike Goscinski, the author for the article in the themed issue entitled "Empowering Health and Fitness: Advocating for Industry Representation and Policy Influence."

Get insights into the legislative landscape affecting fitness businesses as Mike outlines the Health and Fitness Association's efforts to monitor and amend state laws, ensuring they are fair yet consumer-friendly. From click-to-cancel requirements to auto-renewal policies, understand the nuances and challenges of broad legislation that impacts gym memberships. Mike shares concrete examples, illustrating the practical implications of these advocacy efforts. Hear how direct engagement with lawmakers led to the successful amendment of around 50 bills this year, safeguarding both business interests and consumer rights.

Finally, we tackle the critical need to reshape the health and fitness industry's image through targeted advocacy and lobbying. Mike discusses strategies to counter outdated stereotypes and emphasize the sector's vital role in public health, especially post-pandemic. Learn about the economic impact of the industry and the importance of grassroots advocacy, engaging with trade associations, and building connections with local policymakers. With practical action items for exercise professionals, this episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to advancing the professionalization of the fitness industry. Don't miss out on these valuable insights—hit play now!

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm6

Our Guest: Mike Goscinski 

Mike is the Vice President of Government Affairs, overseeing the Health & Fitness Association’s advocacy program that provides comprehensive legislative and regulatory lobbying on issues impacting the industry in Washington, D.C. and throughout State Legislatures.

Mike is the health and fitness industry’s first registered federal lobbyist and is helping establish a first of its kind trade association advocacy program for the industry focused on direct lobbying, strong grassroots activation, and political involvement.

Prior to joining Health & Fitness in December of 2022, Mike worked in Government Affairs for the National Automatic Merchandising Association, representing the issues of the convenience services industry, and has been advocating in Washington, D.C. for more than a decade on issues impacting the food and beverage industry.

A native of Bayville, NJ, Mike resides in Washington, D.C. He has a strong passion for physical activity and fitness, and enjoys spending his personal time staying active.

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This is the  fifth episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll explore the important topic of education and credentialing, with Dr. Ben Thompson, the lead author for the article in the themed issue entitled "The Role of Programmatic Accreditation, Certification, and Career Advancement." 

Ben has extensive experience in academic accreditation and credentialing in the exercise profession.  His journey through academia and his impactful work with the ACSM and CREP provide a rich backdrop to our discussion on how accreditation and certification can bolster the credibility of exercise professionals with healthcare providers and the public.

We delve into programmatic accreditation within academic institutions, focusing specifically on kinesiology and exercise science programs. Ben demystifies the process universities must undergo to achieve programmatic accreditation and highlights the differences between accredited certifications versus less rigorous alternatives. We also tackle the ongoing debate between certification and licensure, considering their respective roles in fostering trust within the healthcare industry.  Tune in for invaluable insights and resources that will guide you through the professional standards and career advancement opportunities in the exercise profession.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm5

Our Guest: Dr. Ben Thompson, Ph.D., FACSM, ACSM-EP 
Ben is a professor and program director of a CAAHEP accredited Exercise Science program at Metropolitan State University of Denver.  He currently serves as the chair of the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) and is an advisory board member to the Coalition for the Registration of Exercise Professionals (CREP). He has served as the Chair for the ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Boards for the Exercise Physiologist and President of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of ACSM.  He is dedicated to preparing his students to be future exercise professionals and continues to advocate for the profession. 

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Ready to revolutionize your approach to healthcare? Join us on the Wellness Paradox Podcast as we sit down with Joel Hungate, the Executive Director of Wellbeing and Employer Services at Hancock Health. Joel’s journey from biomedical engineering to spearheading integrated well-being services is nothing short of inspiring. He shares invaluable insights into medical fitness and discusses how data-driven strategies and a strong ROI perspective can bridge the gap between fitness professionals and the medical community, offering lessons that could reshape your understanding of health promotion.

Our conversation with Joel takes a critical look at the economic challenges of the current healthcare system. Discover how Hancock Health is pioneering the transition from a volume-based fee-for-service model to a value-based care approach. Learn about their strategic investments in analytics and patient data, resulting in over $50 million in downstream revenue, and how these innovative approaches are setting a new standard for financial sustainability in healthcare.

Finally, we explore the transformative power of wellness centers in community health. Learn how these centers, once seen as loss leaders, are now recognized as standalone services that contribute significantly to economic and community health. From the importance of dynamic movement and resistance training to the broader economic impact of integrated well-being models, we delve into the future of healthcare engagement. Join us in envisioning a future where living in Hancock County means choosing a healthier life, and discover how this model could inspire similar initiatives nationwide.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episode132

Our Guest: Joel Hungate
Joel is an engineer, mountaineer, healthcare executive, and innovator who has spent his entire career reimagining possibilities in health and well-being, from working in large, international orthopedic companies, to being a principal and investor in health tech startups, to creating a venture group focused on helping start and scale innovative human performance, healthcare, and defense technologies. 

As Executive Director of Well-Being and Employer Strategy with Hancock Health, Joel is creating the “infrastructure of well-being” to evolve the delivery of healthcare in his community by aligning the immense resources of three industry-leading, comprehensive, well-being integrated campuses to deliver an innovative, consumer-driven approach to wellness and medical care that is local, focused, innovative, and kind — ultimately removing barriers to accessing care, improving health and well-being in his community, and reducing the total cost of care in a model that can be replicated the world-over. 

Joel holds an Executive MBA, received his B.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Purdue University, is an expeditionary mountaineer and survivalist with a world-first ascent in Western Mongolia, is honored as a Randall Tobias Leadership Fellow and Advisory Board Member for the fellowship, is a passionate contributor to thought leadership in mental health advocacy and healthcare policy, and is an alpha adventurer who starred in the first season of the international hit Netflix adventure competition series "Outlast".

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This is the fourth episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll explore program development and implementation, with Dr. Karen Wonders, the lead author for the article in the themed issue entitled "Making Exercise as Medicine a Clinical Reality: Program Development and Implementation."

Discover how evidence-based, outcome-driven exercise programs are revolutionizing patient care, enhancing treatment compliance, and reducing healthcare utilization. Dr. Wonders offers a wealth of knowledge on integrating these programs into clinical settings, ensuring they are not only accessible and sustainable but also clinically significant.

We begin by discussing how to bridge the gap between fitness and healthcare, focusing on the creation of exercise programs that resonate with both patients and providers. Dr. Wonders shares compelling stories and successful case studies, such as a cervical cancer patient who reclaimed her quality of life through personalized exercise interventions. Learn about the challenges of applying broad exercise guidelines to specific conditions and the importance of tailored approaches. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for exercise professionals eager to make a meaningful impact. Tune in for practical strategies, real-world examples, and the promise of a healthier, more engaged patient population through the power of exercise.

Show Notes Page: https://www.wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm4

Our Guest: Karen Y. Wonders, PhD, FACSM

Dr. Wonders is the Founder and CEO of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, and Professor of Exercise Physiology at Wright State University. Through Maple Tree, she provides evidence-based exercise training to thousands of cancer survivors every month at 65 clinical locations across the US and in 16 countries. Dr. Wonders has given numerous professional presentations including a talk at TEDxDayton on Exercising through Cancer Care. 

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This is the third episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll explore registration of exercise professionals, with Dr. Brian Biagioli, the lead author for the article in the themed issue entitled "Harmonizing Health and Fitness with Healthcare Through the U.S. Registry of Exercise Professionals."

In this episode you'll gain crucial insights into the harmonization of health, fitness, and healthcare, all through the innovative framework of the Coalition for the Registry of Exercise Professionals. Brian explores the necessity of establishing minimal competencies for exercise professionals to maintain high standards and ensure ongoing education.

This episode tackles regulatory oversight in the exercise profession, the pressing need for qualified exercise professionals, and an alternative approach to state licensure through a national registry.

Witness the transformative potential of a national registry for exercise professionals. Discover how this system benefits employers by enabling real-time verification of professional qualifications and maintaining ongoing educational standards. Brian emphasizes the importance of collaboration among leading organizations like ACE, NSCA, and ACSM to enhance the industry's credibility and efficiency. Engage with us as we explore the necessity of a unified framework, drawing lessons from international examples, and highlight the collective effort needed for industry advancement. Join the conversation and contribute to the evolution of the fitness profession.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm3

Our Guest: Dr. Brian Biagioli, EdD.

Dr. Biagioli currently serves as a Graduate Program Director for Applied Physiology in the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Science at the University of Miami. He holds positions on several boards related to standard setting, education accreditation and population engagement in physical activity, including the Committee on Accreditation for Exercise Science, Coalition for Registration of Exercise Professionals (Vice-President), the International Confederation of Registers for Exercise Professionals (Past-Chair), and Board for Certification for the National Council on Strength and Fitness.

Dr. Biagioli has authored four college textbooks related to physical activity, health, nutrition and performance. Additionally, he presents and collaborates both nationally and internationally with thought-leaders on common themes affecting public health and physical activity engagement.

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Unlock the secrets to impeccable posture and peak physical performance with our latest episode featuring Kristen Schuyten, a veteran physical therapist from Michigan Medicine. Kristen's extensive experience with athletes—ranging from athletes and performers—offers a comprehensive look at the critical role of posture in injury prevention and optimal function. Whether you're a fitness professional or a strength coach, Kristen's insights will prove invaluable.

Gain a deeper understanding of the natural curves of the spine and why maintaining alignment is essential for overall body health. We discuss the modern-day culprits of poor posture, such as prolonged computer use and weight gain, and how these factors lead to muscle imbalances and spinal issues. Kristen provides practical advice on addressing tightness in the front body and weakness in the back to ensure balanced musculature and prevent injuries during workouts.

Finally, navigate the landscape of postural improvements and clinical pathology with expert guidance. Learn how to distinguish between issues that can be managed through standard exercise interventions and those requiring professional medical attention. Kristen emphasizes the importance of warm-up and cool-down routines, offering practical tips and resources to integrate into your daily regimen. This episode is packed with actionable advice and strategies to help you or your clients achieve and maintain optimal posture for superior performance and health.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episode131

Our Guest: Kristen Schuyten, PT, DPT, MS, SCS, CSCS

Dr. Kristen Schuyten is a Physical Therapy Clinical Specialist and Performing Arts Rehabilitation Program Coordinator at MedSport Domino’s Farms and a Physical Therapist with the School of Music, Theatre and Dance Wellness Initiative.  She holds her Board Certification in Sports through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA. 

Dr. Schuyten received her undergraduate education from University of Michigan, and her Master’s and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Central Michigan University.  She performs staff training in the evaluation, screening and treatment of Performing Arts patients and coordinates and performs on-site triaging, backstage treatment services for the School of Music, Theatre and Dance (SMTD).  
She has collaborated in the creation of return to dance post-operative protocol, gymnastic, instrumentalist, post-concussion return and figure skating injury risk screening for these specialized patient populations.  For over a decade, she has coordinated injury risk screening for the UM SMTD including analysis of individual screenings and customized exercise prescription. 

Dr. Schuyten volunteers with the US Figure Skating Team USA, serving on their medical as Team Physiotherapist and supporting the team supported the team in Olympic and World Championship events.  Through US Figure Skating and Michigan Medicine collaborations, she has served as a Co-Chief Medical Officer for 2019 National Figure and Synchronized Skating Championships. 

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This is the second episode of our special podcast series exploring the Sept/Oct themed issue of the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal on professionalization and advocacy. In this episode, we’ll discuss actionable steps exercise professionals need to take, with Dr. Rachele Pojednic, the co-author for the article in the themed issue entitled "Critical Action Steps to Take as a Certified Exercise Professional in a Rapidly Evolving Healthcare Market."

In an enlightening discussion with Rachele, we learn the vital importance of trust-building with healthcare providers and the general public. Discover why certification and credentialing are more than just formalities—they are the cornerstone for establishing credibility and demonstrating expertise. Dr. Pojednic merges her extensive experience in both academia and industry to reveal how evidence-based practices can be successfully applied in real-world scenarios.

Advocacy and communication are more important than ever as we work to shift the perception of exercise from a luxury to a healthcare necessity. Social media and professional credentials play crucial roles in differentiating credible exercise professionals from "fitfluencers," and we share practical tips for leveraging these platforms to build trust. Rachele shares an engaging anecdote about presenting to endocrinologists, highlighting the existing trust gap and the pressing need for exercise professionals to advocate for their indispensable role in modern healthcare. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you elevate your career and make a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector. Don't miss out—tune in now!

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm2

Our Guest: Dr Rachele Pojednic, PhD FACSM
Dr. Pojednic is the CEO and Founder of Strong Process Education and the Director of Scientific Research at Restore Hyperwellness. She holds a faculty appointment at Stanford University and is a research associate at the Institute of Lifestyle Medicine at Harvard Medical School. She received her PhD in nutritional biochemistry from Tufts University and her current research examines nutrition, supplementation and physical activity interventions on muscle physiology, performance and recovery. She has a passion for science communication and has been featured in NPR, NYTimes, Time, Popular Science, Oprah Daily and the Wall Street Journal.

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Join us for the first episode in a twelve-part podcast series brought to you in collaboration with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). This podcast series is based on the Sept/Oct 2024 themed issue of the ACSM Health & Fitness Journal on the topic of professionalization and advocacy. In this discussion, Wellness Paradox host Michael Stack (who is the editor of the themed issue), will explore the topic of professionalization in the exercise profession. 

He’ll walk you through his introduction article to the themed issue entitled Professionalizing the Exercise Profession— What It Means and Why it Matters. Michael will dive into all critical aspects of the work underway to allow qualified exercise professionals to ascend to the status of Qualified Healthcare Professionals. In doing so, he’ll explore the topics covered in the themed issue and in this special podcast series. Most importantly he’ll make the clear case for why remaining informed, unified, and intensely focused in the professionalization effort will lead to the improved financial health of the fitness industry, while at the same time improving the health of our nation. 

Join Michael as he outlines the “movement for movement” created by the professionalization effort in the exercise profession. This episode is truly a must-listen, not just for anyone in the health and fitness industry, but anyone involved in healthcare and health policy more broadly.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episodeacsm1

Our Guest: Michael Stack, ACSM-EP/EIM/PAPHS, CSCS
Michael is the creator and the host of the Wellness Paradox Podcast, produced in conjunction with University of Michigan. He is the founder & CEO of Applied Fitness Solutions and the Michigan Moves Coalition. He is also a faculty lecturer for the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology. 

Michael is an exercise physiologist by training and a health entrepreneur,
health educator, and fitness industry advocate by trade. He is dedicated to the
policy and system changes to ensure fitness professionals become an essential
part of healthcare delivery.

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Ever wondered how yoga and other forms of exercise can revolutionize mental health treatment? This episode of the Wellness Paradox is a must-listen as we sit down with Melissa Hatcher, a seasoned mental health professional and yoga instructor from MindBody Optimization. Melissa delves into her extensive background in applied behavior analysis, marriage and family therapy, and equine-assisted therapy, with a special focus on neurodivergence. Together, we explore the rising tide of mental health issues and the strains on the mental health workforce, while shedding light on the groundbreaking role of yoga and exercise as powerful adjunctive therapies to traditional treatments.

Discover firsthand stories of triumph and challenges, from Melissa's personal journey with yoga helping manage anxiety during a major cross-country move to the emotional liberation running offered one of her clients. We tackle the intricate issue of exercise resistance, particularly in individuals grappling with anxiety and depression, and discuss how a gradual, exposure therapy-like approach can build comfort and confidence. This episode is packed with invaluable insights, practical strategies, and a deep dive into the multidisciplinary approach of MindBody Optimization. Join us as we underscore the transformative power of integrating physical activity into mental health practices.

Show Notes Page: https://wellnessparadoxpod.com/episode130

Our Guest: Melissa Hatcher, LMFT- Associate
Melissa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFT Associate) under the supervision of Dr. Rachel Falbo, LMFT-S, LPC-S. She holds a master’s degree from Texas Woman’s University and began her career in 2006, specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with neurodivergent populations. Since then, she has gained experience in various therapeutic roles, demonstrating expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), social services, and clinical research.

Melissa’s approach is rooted in Gottman Couples Method and Solution-Focused Therapy, and she is certified in trauma-informed practices and adaptive yoga and breathing techniques, providing clients with a holistic and diverse range of therapeutic methods to support their mental health and well-being.

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Can the fitness and wellness industry truly be inclusive? Join us as Dr. Dexter Shurney, a trailblazer in lifestyle medicine and health equity, unpacks the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the sector. With a career that spans general surgery to pivotal roles like Chief Medical Officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Dr. Shurney offers unparalleled insights into how the industry can bridge the gap between fitness professionals and the broader community. This episode is a must-listen for those committed to fostering a more representative and inclusive fitness landscape.

Ever wondered why some people struggle more with their health than others? We shift the narrative by exploring the profound impact of social determinants on personal health. Dr. Shurney encourages a change in perspective from "what's wrong with you?" to "what happened to you?"— highlighting how environmental factors can create significant hurdles. From unsafe neighborhoods to socio-economic obligations, we delve deep into why privileged perspectives can be dangerous and how systemic biases play a critical role in health disparities.

Finally, we take an exhilarating look at the transformative potential of lifestyle medicine, with a special focus on Blue Zones. Dr. Shurney discusses how intentional lifestyle choices and natural movement can lead to longevity and improved health outcomes. This chapter underscores the significance of combining physical activity with purposeful tasks and the need for collaboration between fitness, wellness, and medical professionals. This seamless blend of science and practical advice will leave you inspired to rethink your approach to health and wellness.

Show Notes Page: https://www.wellnessparadoxpod.com/episode129

Our Guest: Dr. Dexter Shurney MD, MBA, MPH, FACLM

Dr. Dexter Shurney is President of the Center for Lifestyle Medicine Innovation (CLMI), a branch of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. CLMI is a hub for lifestyle medicine research, innovation, and thought leadership on identifying and eradicating the root causes of disease. He is also the Chief Healthl Officer of Blue Zones, LLC, that helps enable cities, counties, and large employers to transform their environments helping people live better, longer. The work is based on the orginal Blue Zones research.

Other former roles have included Chief Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer for Adventist Health, Vice President, Chief Medical Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director of Globlal Employee Benefits at Cummins, Inc., Chief Medical Director, Employee Health Plan at Vanderbilt University and Medical Center, Senior Vice President, Chief Medical Officer at Healthways, and Senior Advisor Managed Care Strategy at Amgen. 

Dr. Shurney received his BS from Loma Linda University and his MD from Howard University College of Medicine. He also has an MBA and MPH from the University of Detroit/Mercy and the Medical College of Wisconsin, respectively. A licensed physician, he is board certified in both preventive medicine and in lifestyle medicine, and is a Fellow in the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. 

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