Everyone knows that exercise and movement are important to health, both mental and physical. But can exercise help build strength in other ways--like resilience? 

Jake Weiner thinks so. Jake is the founder of Zooz Fitness, an inclusive fitness community in Los Angeles dedicated to making health and movement accessible to individuals of all abilities. Jake has witnessed the transformative power of movement, and shares how resilience, inclusivity, and empowerment drive his mission to make movement accessible to all.

Zooz is more than a fitness space — it's a community where individuals of all abilities discover confidence and capability through movement. Jake's belief that "movement is a universal language" allows him to reach individuals regardless of ability or self-perception to help them reframe limits and redefine what's possible.

Jake's approach exemplifies taking intentional, often imperfect action and building community. He helps clients focus on what they can do, building small victories into major transformations. Jake's work demonstrates that resilience is often rooted in consistency, compassion, and community — not in perfection. Each session at Zooz reinforces the idea that progress is personal, and every step forward is worth celebrating.

Jake's leadership helps others see their innate strength and potential--even when they can't see it themselves. By creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity in ability and experience, he helps people reveal their brilliance through movement, self-belief, and connection. Jake's story reminds us that true brilliance is not about doing more — it's about being more, right where you are.

For more of Jake's wisdom, and to learn from Zooz Fitness member (and awesome lady!) Mary Bella, tune into this week's episode of the Brilliantly Resilient podcast. Learn more about Jake and Zooz here, and be sure to listen for these additional bits of Brilliance: 

• "Movement is a universal language — everyone deserves the chance to experience what their body can do."

• "At Zooz, we don't focus on what people can't do. We start with what they can — and we build from there."

• "When someone walks through our doors, it's not about perfection or performance. It's about participation."

• "We all have barriers, but when you move beyond them — physically or mentally — that's where growth happens."

• "Inclusivity isn't just about access. It's about creating a space where everyone feels seen, capable, and celebrated."

• "Sometimes resilience looks like showing up. That's it. Just being here, trying again, and refusing to give up."

• "The biggest transformation I see isn't in muscle or strength. It's in confidence."

• "Everyone has their own version of brilliance. At Zooz, our job is to help people uncover it through movement."

• "Zooz isn't just a gym — it's a community of people redefining what strength and success look like."

Thank you, Jake (and former guest Allison Norlian--episode here) for caring and doing what you do!

Let's be Brilliantly Resilient together!

XO,

Mary Fran