Confessions of a Group X Instructor

In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the history, politics, and science (or lack thereof) behind the original USDA Food Guide Pyramid. Once considered the gold standard for nutrition, this now-controversial chart may have done more harm than good. From the overemphasis on refined carbs to the demonization of fats, we explore how misguided guidelines influenced generations of eating habits—and what we should be doing differently today.

Getting older is a privilege—but let’s be real, it’s not always easy. In this candid conversation, Ellen de Werd dives into the complex feelings around aging, self-image, and the desire to keep looking her best. From embracing laugh lines as life’s souvenirs to wrestling with the temptation (or decision) to get Botox, we unpack the push and pull between self-acceptance and self-enhancement.Whether you’re proudly going au naturel or scheduling your next appointment with your injector, this episode is a judgment-free zone where we explore:The emotional side of noticing changes in your face and bodyCultural and industry pressures to “stay young”How fitness and wellness professionals navigate appearance expectationsFinding the balance between self-love and self-maintenanceWhy it’s okay to want both grace and great lightingJoin us for a raw, relatable, and sometimes funny look at aging in a world that doesn’t make it easy.Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!Check out the WARRIOR formats:⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ellendewerd/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Facebook:⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorrhythm⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorstrengthofficial⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WARRIORCombatOfficial⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Insta:⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorrhythm/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorstrength_official/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on YouTube & TikTok:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdA3cH7_JBKp30H5vwyVk7w⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@warriorinstructoracademy?lang=en⁠⁠

What happens when people who’ve never taught a class—or even taken one—start calling the shots in your group fitness department?In this candid and fiery episode, Ellen de Werd dives into the disconnect between club owners and the world of GroupX. From misguided scheduling decisions to underestimating the role of instructors, we expose what goes wrong when leadership lacks firsthand experience in fitness programming—and how that impacts both staff and members.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by a decision that made zero sense from the studio floor, this one’s for you.The telltale signs that club leadership doesn’t understand GroupXHow misreading data leads to damaging class cutsWhy instructors are more than just “warm bodies on a mic”Real stories of poor scheduling, subbing nightmares, and broken trustThe ripple effect on member experience and retentionWhat great owners do differently—and how to build better communicationHow instructors can advocate for smarter, more respectful leadership💥 What We Cover:

In this solo episode, Ellen de Werd reflects on the whirlwind of the IDEA World Convention—from the high-energy WARRIOR sessions and unexpected conversations to the deeper takeaways that are fueling what’s next.Get a behind-the-scenes look at what went down in Sacramento, including what it felt like to NOT win the Group Fitness Instructor of the Year Award again.Whether you were at IDEA or following along online, this is your chance to hear the unfiltered reflection and momentum behind Ellen’s next moves.

I got interviewed on My Own Show🎙️ Episode 78: Behind the Magic of CON⭐️CON with Diva & Ellen Theme: Vision, Vulnerability, and the Power of CommunityIn this heartfelt episode, Ellen and Diva sit down to reflect on the birth, the beauty, and the behind-the-scenes truth of CON⭐️CON—WARRIOR’s first-ever instructor conference.💫 From Idea to Reality Ellen shares when the idea first sparked—and whether she felt confident, crazy, scared, or all of the above. 🛠️ The Work, the Details, the Deep Dive From late nights to steep expenses, Ellen opens up about what it really took to bring CON⭐️CON to life. Every detail—from the keynote speaker to the welcome bag—was designed with intention and love.🎁 Gratitude & Growth Ellen and Diva give a huge shoutout to the generous sponsors who helped make the welcome bags spectacular. Plus: lessons learned and plans for next years.

🎙️ Episode 77: Leveraging ChatGPT for Your Fitness Businesswith Dr. Ted VickeyIn this forward-thinking conversation, fitness tech expert Dr. Ted Vickey joins us to break down how artificial intelligence—especially ChatGPT—is transforming the way fitness professionals run their businesses. From writing class descriptions and social media posts to automating client communication and reducing burnout, AI is quickly becoming a must-have tool in every fitness pro’s toolbox.Whether you're a studio owner, group fitness instructor, or personal trainer, this episode offers practical tips, ethical considerations, and a glimpse into the future of fitness technology. Dr. Vickey shares his insights on where to start, how to overcome tech intimidation, and why paying for AI might be worth every penny.What You’ll Learn:Smart ways fitness pros can save time using AIReal-life examples of ChatGPT in action for content and admin tasksCreative uses for AI in marketing, emails, and programmingMindset tips for those nervous about trying AI toolsThe importance of using AI responsibly in fitnessWhat the future holds for fitness and artificial intelligenceReady to explore the possibilities? Tune in and learn how to work smarter—not harder—with the power of AI.Dr. Ted Vickey is the Founder and CEO of FitWell LLC, a fitness and wellness disruptive health technology company serving clients worldwide. In addition, he is the Senior Advisor of Fitness Technologies at the American Council on Exercise and has held teaching positions at Point Loma University, the University of San Francisco, and Tulane. Referred to as "One of the most connected men in fitness," Vickey served as Executive Director of the White House Athletic Center under two Presidents. He was named the most influential fitness tech person in January 2021 and served as the fitness technology expert witness for the Meta vs. FTC federal court case in 2022. Dr. Vickey has a Ph.D. in Engineering and Data Analytics from the University of Galway, a Master's degree in International Business and Entrepreneurship from the University of Limerick, and a Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Penn State.www.tedvickey.com (download first chapter of book there)Workout Creator Tool (built on AI)  www.myfitnessprompt.com Ideal Client Builder:  https://tedv.link/IdealClientFree GPT tools:  https://tedv.link/FreeGPTsBlog:  www.tedv.link/blog_________________________________________________________Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!Check out the WARRIOR formats:⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ellendewerd/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Facebook:⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorrhythm⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorstrengthofficial⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WARRIORCombatOfficial⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Insta:⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorrhythm/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorstrength_official/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on YouTube & TikTok:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdA3cH7_JBKp30H5vwyVk7w⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@warriorinstructoracademy?lang=en⁠⁠

🎙️ Part 2: Money Mindset for Yoga Teachers & Fitness InstructorsKate Lombardo, director at YOGARENEW, is baaaaack to talk about worth, pricing, and abundance in a service-oriented career.In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between purpose and prosperity. Many yoga teachers and fitness professionals enter the industry to help others—but struggle when it comes to pricing their services and valuing their work.We dig deep into the mindset shifts, personal stories, and practical tools that can help instructors break free from scarcity thinking and step confidently into abundance.Website: yogarenewteachertraining.comInsta: https://www.instagram.com/yogarenew/https://www.instagram.com/kate.lombardo/

Kate Lombardo‘s influence as a yoga instructor + wellness business strategist spans the globe, touching tens of thousands of students internationally.For almost a decade, Kate has been teaching and leading training programs through her award-winning yoga studios before expanding virtually through YogaRenew. She answers to many titles-- Yoga Director, CEO, CMO, Speaker, Leader, Writer, Podcaster-- but most importantly... Mama.Kate teaches in Hoboken, NJ In this powerful first episode, we explore one of the most underrated skills in entrepreneurship—the pivot. Our guest opens up about a pivotal moment in her career when letting go of an original plan created space for something even better. Whether you’re a yoga teacher, group fitness pro, or wellness entrepreneur, this conversation will give you permission to reimagine your path.If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared to start over, or unsure if changing course means failure—this one’s for you.Key Topics Covered:A personal story of a major pivot: what changed and whyWhy pivoting is scary—and why it shouldn’t beHow to know when to shift vs. stick it outRedefining “failure” as fuel for growthEncouragement for anyone afraid to start overA real-life example of how letting go opened new doors🔗 All the links!Website: yogarenewteachertraining.comInsta: https://www.instagram.com/yogarenew/https://www.instagram.com/kate.lombardo/

What happens when the gym you’ve called home suddenly shuts its doors? For many fitness pros, it can feel like the end. But for today’s guest, Angel Ballance, it was the beginning of something even more impactful. In this inspiring episode, Angel shares how she turned a major setback into a launchpad for growth, creativity, and deeper community connection.If you’ve ever faced a career crossroads—whether from transition, burnout, or the desire for more freedom—this episode will empower you to see what’s possible when you dare to pivot.💡 What You’ll Learn:The Turning PointWhat it felt like when the gym closure news hitHow Angel processed the sudden shiftFinding Your FootingThe early challenges of navigating uncertaintyRebuilding confidence and purposeReinventing the PlatformChoosing where—and how—to teach nextEmbracing new environmentsCommunity & CreativityHow her loyal following respondedThe unexpected ways she flourishedLessons in ReinventionKey takeaways on resilience and reinventionSilver linings that emerged from the shake-upTactical TakeawaysAngel’s advice for fitness instructors facing burnout or instabilityTips for creating new opportunities and staying inspired Social Media Links: Instagram: Instagram.com/angelballance Facebook Personal Profile: Facebook.com/adballance Facebook Fitness Page: Facebook.com/angelballance Website/Blog: angelballance.com  YouTube:  youtube.com/@angelballance Email: Angel@angelballance.com

Let’s talk about the hard lessons no one warns you about. From hiring habits to financial blind spots, this episode exposes the leadership mistakes that sneak up on you—and hit hard. If you're running a team, studio, or business, you’ll want to hear this before it’s too late.Ann Gilbert is the successful owner/operator Fit-Her Health & Fitness for Women, who is here to help others flourish in the fitness and wellness industry. Ann is the creator of S.E.A.T Supported Exercise for Ageless Training and presents for SCW IDEA ICAA AFCIn this episode Ann covers::🧰 Not Opening My ToolboxWhy neglecting tools like motivation, education, perspective, and discipline can leave you stuck.🚪 Hiring Instead of RecruitingThe hidden cost of filling roles versus attracting the right people with shared passion and purpose.🌫️ Failing to Share the VisionHow keeping your mission to yourself leaves your staff unmotivated and directionless.🎯 Losing Focus on Unique ValueThe danger of blending in—and the downward spiral of discounting just to stay competitive.🔥 Missing the Signs of BurnoutHow ignoring burnout (in yourself or your team) can quietly sabotage everything you’re building.💸 Not Knowing Where Every Penny IsWhy financial fog is a leadership red flag—and how to gain clarity fast.📉 Not Being Proactive About ExpensesThe mistake of reacting to financial issues instead of planning for them—and how to flip that script.Takeaways:Spot and fix the habits that chip away at your leadershipGet honest about money, motivation, and missionShift from reactive to intentional leadership for long-term successFacebook: AnnD.GilbertLinkedin.com/in/ann-gilbert-3428339/IG Website: annd.gilbertClub Fit-Her.com___________________________________________________Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!Check out the WARRIOR formats:⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ellendewerd/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Facebook:⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorrhythm⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorstrengthofficial⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WARRIORCombatOfficial⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Insta:⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorrhythm/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorstrength_official/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on YouTube & TikTok:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdA3cH7_JBKp30H5vwyVk7w⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@warriorinstructoracademy?lang=en⁠⁠

In episode #73, we dive into the world of macronutrients—but through a holistic lens. Nicole Printon explores how nutrition goes far beyond numbers and tracking, from foundational knowledge to emotional eating and long-term sustainability. Whether you're a wellness professional or just looking to better understand your body, this conversation sheds light on how macronutrients affect every part of your well-being.🔍 Topics Covered:1. Foundational UnderstandingWhat are macronutrients, and why are they essential from a holistic nutrition standpoint?How do holistic practitioners approach “macros” differently than traditional dietitians or fitness coaches?2. 🥦 Individualization & Bio-IndividualityHow to determine the right macro balance for someone based on their body, lifestyle, and goalsThe impact of stress, sleep, and gut health on macronutrient metabolism3. 🧘‍♀️ Emotional and Mindful EatingExploring the emotional relationship we have with carbs and fats—and how to shift away from guiltMindful eating practices to help you tune in to what your body needs (not just what the tracker says)4. 🌾 Whole Food FocusHow to prioritize nutrient-dense whole food sources of macros without becoming restrictiveReal-world tips to “upgrade” your macros through food quality, not just quantity5. 🧠 Beyond the PlateHow macro imbalances show up in mood, mental health, and energy levelsCommon symptoms that might signal a need to rebalance your nutrition holistically6. 🌀 Debunking Myths & TrendsCommon macro myths (like the fear of carbs or fat) and how to reframe themMention “CGX” to get 20% off Nicole’s Services Website: https://www.nicoleprinton.com/FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/386222051529897IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleprinton/____________________________________________Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!Check out the WARRIOR formats:⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ellendewerd/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Facebook:⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorrhythm⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorstrengthofficial⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WARRIORCombatOfficial⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Insta:⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorrhythm/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorstrength_official/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on YouTube & TikTok:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdA3cH7_JBKp30H5vwyVk7w⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@warriorinstructoracademy?lang=en⁠⁠

The 2024 IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year, Ingrid Knight-Cohee, is back! This time, she addresses the "elephant in the room"—the next generation of instructors! She covers:State of the Industry TodayHow the demographic landscape of fitness professionals is shiftingWhy understanding generational differences matters more than everKey motivators for younger generations to become instructorsThe role of passion, purpose, and personal brand in career decisionsThe importance of authentic connection and belongingThe critical role mentorship plays in building confidence and skillsAre today’s certifications and programs meeting new instructors' needs?How continuing education and real-world practice set the stage for successWhat the industry must do to create a more engaging path for growthSuccessful strategies for attracting and keeping younger talentTraits and skills defining the next generation of fitness professionalsThank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!Check out the WARRIOR formats:⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellendewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/ellen.dewerd⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ellendewerd/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Facebook:⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorrhythm⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/warriorstrengthofficial⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/WARRIORCombatOfficial⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on Insta:⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorrhythm/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorstrength_official/⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/⁠⁠🏹 Follow WARRIOR on YouTube & TikTok:⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdA3cH7_JBKp30H5vwyVk7w⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@warriorinstructoracademy?lang=en⁠⁠

Putting Your Best Foot Forward – A Deep Dive into Foot Health for Fitness ProsYour feet are your foundation—literally. In this episode with Dr. Emily Splichal, we’re stepping into the world of foot health and why it’s crucial for athletes, trainers, and fitness professionals alike. Whether you're leading group classes, training clients, or pounding the pavement, taking care of your feet isn’t optional—it’s essential. We’re covering common foot issues, injury prevention, smart footwear choices, and practical care tips to keep you moving pain-free and performing at your best.Topics Covered:👣 General Foot HealthWhy foot health is a game-changer for fitness professionalsThe most common foot problems in active populationsHow ignoring your feet can derail performance and long-term health🩹 Injury Prevention & TreatmentEarly warning signs of overuse injuries in the feetWhat to do about plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and more🦶 Footcare Tips for Active LifestylesDaily habits to keep your feet strong and injury-freeSimple mobility and stretching routines to support foot healthBarefoot training and minimalist shoes—helpful trend or risky move?🧘 Special ConsiderationsTailoring footcare for Yoga instructors, HIIT trainers, and runnersWhether you're teaching back-to-back classes or just want to keep up with your own training, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply right away.Dr. Emily Splichal, Podiatrist and Human Movement Specialist, is the mind behind Barefoot Strong, EBFA Global and Naboso Technology. With a spirit to challenge conformity, Dr. Splichal has taken her conventional Podiatric Medical degree and combined it with years of experience and expertise in human movement, functional medicine and sensory science.Dr. Splichal believes that our experiences in this world are built around sensory stimulation and our ability to process, perceive, and integrate this information effectively. Since 2012, Dr. Splichal has been traveling the world to share her unique approach to human movement, foot function, and barefoot science. Having taught in 40 countries and to over 25,000 professionals, Dr. Splichal has quickly become a global leader in barefoot training and sensory rehabilitation.Degrees/Certifications: Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), Master's Human Movement (MS), NASM-CES, NASM-PES, NSCA-CPT@dremilydpm and @naboso_technology Naboso's website is http://www.naboso.comThis is Dr Emily's practice website: http://www.thefunctionalfootdoc.comThis is Dr Emily's educational platform: http://www.ebfaglobal.com🎁 SAVE 20% of with code: WARRIOR20

The Power of Partnerships – Navigating Conflict & Embracing DifferencesGreat partnerships aren’t about always agreeing—they’re about learning to work through differences and leverage each other’s strengths. In this episode, we dive into the art of conflict resolution, why opposing personalities can be a strength, and how diverse skill sets create powerful collaborations. Whether you’re in business, leadership, or creative partnerships, this conversation will help you navigate challenges and build stronger relationships.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why different personalities can create dynamic, well-rounded teams✔️ How to approach conflict as an opportunity for growth, not a roadblock✔️ The role of communication and trust in successful partnerships✔️ Strategies for balancing strengths and weaknesses effectively✔️ Real-life examples of partnerships that turned conflict into success💡 "Great partnerships are built on trust, respect, and a willingness to grow together."📌 Follow Diva on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/divarichards/https://www.instagram.com/divarichardsfitness/https://www.instagram.com/warriorcombat_official/Follow Diva on Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/divarichardsfitnessRequest Diva's Total Body Beatdown grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/2286327804870570🎙️ Tune in now and learn how to turn differences into your greatest advantage!

Episode #69 Summary: In this episode, Amy Boone Thompson dives into what it truly means to be a leader, extrapolating gems of wisdom from a book she recently co-authored, “Lead Like a Woman”.  She explains that great leadership is not established through force, but by embodying gratitude and grace as the foundation. She explores how these qualities empower women to lead with authenticity, resilience, and purpose in any environment—whether in business, family, or personal growth.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✨ Why gratitude is a leadership superpower and how it shifts your mindset ✨ The role of grace in handling challenges, setbacks, and tough decisions ✨ How leading with gratitude and grace fosters stronger, more effective teams ✨ Actionable strategies to foster gratitude in your lifeResources & Links: 📌IDEA Social Media Links:IDEA Health & Fitness AssociationLinkedIn - https://www.facebook.com/ideafitInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/ideafitFaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/ideafit📌Amy’s Social Media Links:Amy Boone ThompsonLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/amybthompsonInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/amyboonethompson/FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/amy.b.thompson.31📌 Lead Like A Woman: Grateful BookYou can find the book and purchasing information here:Volume 1: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DXCQQH1P📌 IDEA World Landing Page:https://www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/Join the Conversation: 👉 Share your thoughts on Instagram: @confessionsofagroupxinstructor 👉 Tag us in your leadership journey with #LeadLikeAWoman Subscribe & Review: If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us inspire more women to lead with gratitude and grace.