Not A Fitness Pro

MATTHEW ODE is my guest on this episode.  He is a testicular cancer survivor and since beating it, he has been sharing his story.  He tells his story on hearing the news from his doctor that he has cancer at the age of 24.  We talk about what motivated and inspired him to fight through this and how fitness played a huge role in his life before and after cancer.  He also talks about what little things we can do to make improvements in our lives and to stop comparing ourselves to anything and anyone.  It was a great chat!WEB: WWW.MATTODESPEAKS.COMIG: @MATTY_ODETT: @MATTODEIG: @NOTAFITNESSPROTT: @NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

My guest today is Ryan Turner, RD, CSSD, CDN.  He is host of the Fuel You Podcast, Dietitian and Owner of FOOD IS FUEL NYC  and is also Director, sports nutrition at Townhouse.  Ryan and I had a great chat about nutrition.  He gave us a brief history on how he got started and then went on to talk about topics such as gut health, Sports Nutrition, importance of carbs and fiber and understanding food=energy, and the impact a good night sleep can have on overall health and performance.  IG: @FOODISFUELNYCIG: @TONEHOUSEIG: @FUEL_YOU_PODCASTWEBSITE: WWW.FOODISFUELNYC.COMIG: @NOTAFITNESSPROTT: @NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

Amanda Odgers is my guest on this episode.  She is a CPT, Nutrition Coach, Life Coach, and Trainer at F45.  She recently started her own fitness business with her personal training and podcasting.  We discuss her training styles, her story on how and why she got to where she is, and gut health.  She goes over her training methods and her Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset philosophy. She also reveals her battles with her gut health and how she improved herself by eating healthier and changing her lifestyle to a more healthier one.  She also talks about her issues with gluten and what the alternatives for her are.  She admits that gluten free pizza from Dominos is better than the regular crust.  Something I told her I would have to try considering I love Dominos.

Dr. Michaela Czernekova is my guest on this episode.  She has a PhD in Cell Biology, is a yoga instructor and Health and Wellness Life Coach.  She is from the Czech Republic.  We discuss her life as a coach and how and why she got into coaching.  She goes into little ways we can start building our confidence and allowing us to achieve our full potential.  We talk about how some of us have unhealthy relationship with food and and unhealthy relationship with ourselves and what we can do to get into a more positive mindset.  Had a great time talking with her and learning different ways to help cope with negativity, laziness, insecurities, etc.  She also reveals her own way of how she gets herself motivated and inspired.IG: @dr.michaela_coachIG: @notafitnessproTT: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

JORDAN SYATT is my guest on this episode.  He is a fitness coach and founder and creator of SF Inner Circle Fitness Program. Jordan talks about his fitness journey from joining the wrestling team making fitness his career. We go over the disinformation on the internet when it comes to nutrition and exercise and how it can impact the fitness beginners.  And Jordan reveals his favorite exercise and food! IG: @syattfitnessIG: @notafitnessproTT: @notafitnessproYT: notafitnesspro EMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

KRISTEN BEATTY is my guest on this episode.  She is a former competitive figure skater, and was an avid gym goer and runner until she heard the most devastating news she ever heard in her life...CANCER!  She found out in early November of 2021 that she had cancer and started chemo pretty much right away.  She has endured 6 long 96 hour sessions of chemo and is now on the road to recovery and getting herself back into shape.We talk about her journey pre and post cancer and how she has dealt with the news but also coping and adapting to a new lifestyle.  She shows a lot of courage and bravery and strength with not only going through what she went through but to put herself out there and educate people and let them know that if anyone is going through something similar you have her support.  We also talk about hair loss, weight loss, mental health as well as dating while going through cancer and her new journey into getting back to her old self.  TT: @kristenbeatty24IG: @kbskateTT: @notafitnessproIG: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

Kate Geller is my guest on this episode.  She is a mental health advocate, recovering addict and fellow podcaster.  I was introduced to Kate by Coach Tara Garrison.  Kate specializes  in shame and her podcast SHAME ON SHAME is dedicated to sharing her own personal experience and to help those who are going through similar experiences as she did such as bullying, insecurities, addictions, loneliness and lack of self confidence.  She shared her own personal journey and her struggles with shame.  We also discuss the idea of Guilt vs Shame and impact of social media when it comes to mental health.  Sometimes what you see on the surface isn't necessarily what is going on beneath.  IG: @KATEONSHAMETT: @KATEONSHAMEWEBSITE: WWW.KATEGELLER.COMPODCAST: SHAME ON SHAMEIG: @NOTAFITNESSPROTT: @NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

PAULA TARNACHOWICZ. is my guest on the show.  She is a former D1 basketball player and a retired professional European basketball in Europe.  She is a CPT and nutriton coach who practices a plant based nutrition plan.  We discuss her life as a college and pro athlete and her transition in to coaching.  We talk about her life as being plant based and the differences between plant based, vegan and vegetarian.  She talks about myths and generalizations of being plant based and how she doesn't miss meat and enjoys eating what she eats.  And it works!  The final conclusion is do what makes you happy and eat what makes you happy!IG: @pt_plantbasedcoachTT: @pt_plantbasedcoachIG: @notafitnessproTT: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

DR. CHRISTOPHER SWART is my guest on this episode.  He is an exercise science professor and has a PhD in exercise physiology.  We discuss everything from exercise to nutrition to metabolism.  We dive into IF (Intermittent Fasting) as well as the toxic information that is out there when it comes to nutrition and getting into this whole "diet culture".   At the same time there are "trainers" out there who are spreading this misinformation.  Fitness is simple but not easy.  It takes work but there are ways for people to sustain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing your sanity.IG: @doctor.swartIG: @notafitnessproTT: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

MATTHEW SANTIAGO is my guest on this episode.  He is a war vet, CPT, and fellow podcaster, host of the show Train Hard Live Strong as well as Founder and CEO of Athletic Beings Apparel and Clothing.  Matt talks about his fitness journey and how he got to where he is today.  We discuss exercise and nutrition and how people who are just starting out can get overwhelmed and discouraged by the wrong information that is put out there on social media.  We also talk about how we both fell for fitness traps early and learning there is more than just spending time in the gym.  Nutrition and rest are equally important to get the biggest best results.The overall message from Matt is getting in shape and becoming healthy doesn't have to be hard.  Making small adjustments to start is key to making this fitness journey sustainable.IG: @MATTHEW_FITNESS_TRAINERIG: @ATHLETICSBEINGSIG: @ATHLETICBEINGSTRAININGIG: NOTAFITNESSPROTT: NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO

TARA GARRISON  is my guest on this episode!  She is a Health and Mindset Coach, Podcaster, and Author of a new book called SHORT TERM KETO.  We discuss what KETO is and why people are either totally against it or for it.  Her approach to KETO however is unique and she goes in depth on how it can be beneficial for some but not necessary for others.  She goes over her own personal journey with fitness and how she discovered KETO and how it has be extremely beneficial to her physical and mental states.  "KETO IS A TOOL AND NOT A DESTINATION"IG: @COACHTARAGARRISONIG: @HIGHER.COACHINGTT: @C0ACHTARAGARRISONIG: @NOTAFITNESSPROTT: @NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

NIKKI MONTESANTI is my guest on this episode.  She is a Health and Fitness Coach and a WBFF Diva Pro Fitness Model.  We had a fun time talking about her nutrition and diet plan, her mistakes she has made with food in the past and how she now approaches food with not only herself but with her clients as well.  She goes into detail on how she starts out with new clients by getting to know their habits first and setting realistic goals.  She recently had knee surgery but is still looking to compete in the near future.IG: NIKKII_FITNESSTT: NIKKII_FITNESSIG: NOTAFITNESSPROTT: NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

Kevin Caporiccio is my guest on this episode.  He is an amateur bodybuilder who is working towards getting his pro card.  Kevin tells us what it's like to be a bodybuilder, doing shows, and the level of intensity for his workouts and nutrition plan.  We also discuss the importance of the mind muscle connection when it comes to training.  He also revealed that during the offseason he consumes 6,000 Calories a day for a bulk!IG: @Kevin_caporiccioIG: @notafitnessproTT: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

BRODY AND SYDNEY are my guests on this episode.  They are a couple who recently started to document their fitness journey. These two have great energy and chemistry and are proving that couples who workout together get stronger together.   We talk about how they got started and what they have learned over the course of their journey.  Sydney also reveals how she prefers training upper body over legs, (which I agree with)! IG: BrosydfitTT: BrosydfitYT: BrosydfitIG: notafitnessproTT: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

ALICE COCKS is my guest on this episode!  She is a virtual assistant who specializes with clients in the Fitness and Health&Wellness space.  We discuss what people can do to maximize their time and how she can help you become more efficient with time.  She also puts emphasis on how important work/life balance is.  She gives tips on how we can grow our brand and our page on social media platforms.

ERIN LARAIA is my guest on the this episode.  She is a recovering addict and alcoholic turned fitness junkie and aspiring marathon runner.  She talks about her struggles with addiction and what she went through with not only herself but with loved ones during those dark times.  We talk about the road to recovery and how she found fitness and running as a way to get that natural high.  Her story is amazing!  Her basic message was taking things day by day when you are in recovery!IG: ERINLARAIAFB: ERINLARAIAIG: NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

In this episode I talk about supplements.  From Protein powders and creatine to fish oil and fat burner pills.  Getting your macros and micros from whole foods should be the first priority.  Protein powders and creatine should not be used as meal replacements, but in addition to your everyday meals.  And stay away from fat burners in any form.  They are not healthy for you and there are too many toxins and chemicals in those that can really hurt your insides.  Also those things are not sustainable.  Losing or Gaining weight is solely based on the amount of calories burned compared to amount of calories consumed.IG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

Nic DeCaire is my guest on this episode.  He is a former gym owner and is currently the operator of Fusion Racing which he founded.  We discuss everything from his early days as a powerlifter/bodybuilder to owning a gym to organizing 5K races every week.  We talk family, business, what to look for in a gym if you are brand new to it, and the importance of mentorship.IG: fusionracingIG: nicdecairewww.fusionracetiming.comIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

Dr. Arianne Missimer is my guest on this episode.  She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Registered Dietitian, Author of RISE UP and Founder and Owner of The Movement Paradigm.  We discuss her life story from being diagnosed with Cancer to competing in American Ninja Warrior.  She has an incredible fitness journey experience.  We also talk about mental and emotional health as well as the importance of flexibility and mobility.  And finally the fact that we are all different but we are all capable of doing better things.IG: themovementparadigmwww.themovementparadigm.comIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

Helena Berggren is my guest on this episode.  She is a 6X Sweden National Dance Champion and Founder of From Now To Fit!  We discuss her journey from being a world ranked dancer from Sweden to living in Philadelphia, PA.  She talks about her approach to fitness and how she overcame her own personal struggles with health and being over weight.IG: HelenaofswedenIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

Odette Yang is my guest for this episode.  She talks about her journey as a powerlifter and what she's learned so far.  She is a rising senior at UPENN.   We discuss the current diet culture and feeling comfortable with the way you feel and look as opposed to what the number reads on the scale.  And she tells us what her favorite "cheat" meal is!  Great time talking to her about her life and fitness!IG: odetteblogsTikTok: odetteyangIG: notafitnessproEmail: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode I had the pleasure of chatting with recent cancer survivor, army vet, and father & husband Mr. Ben Lawson!  We discuss his incredible journey battling leukemia and how he has come back to lifting heavy weights again and still pursuing his dream of becoming an IFBB Pro.  His discipline and never give up mentality is very inspiring.IG: lawlessfitnessTikTok: lawlessfitnessIG: notafitnessproEmail: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode I have Richmond's Hometown Jump Rope Hero, Floyd Johnson!  I discovered Floyd through IG and was blown away at his tricks and jump roping ability and how big the jumprope community is growing.  We discuss how jump roping as helped in his life and how he wants to share his love for jump roping with others.  PS. Not all jumpropes are built the same!IG & TIKTOK: freshlikefloydIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode I chat with Philly Fit Magazine Founder, Owner, Publisher Ms. Jami Appenzeller!  We discuss her magazine and the process she went through to publish her first issue in 2004.  Since then she has created an APP and organized fitness retreats while helping people along the way.  Her mission is to make fitness a safe place for everyone and encourage them to just get up and move around cause we all have to start from somewhere.  She also gives great advice for those who are looking into starting their own business like she did.  IG: phillyfit_magazineWEBSITE: PhillyFit.comIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode Ben Harris is my guest.  He is a powerlifter and powerlifting and Olympic lifting coach.  We go over the similarities and differences between powerlifting training and bodybuilding training.  We also discuss diets and training methods when it comes to powerlifting.  Just lift heavy!!!IG: @b3nswoloIG: @teamswoloIG: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode Kate Mackie returns!  We discuss if there is an ideal window of when and what to eat pre and post workout.  We  dive into supplements and the different variations of protein powders and creatine.  We also discuss the fad diets and the real secret of why people lose weight through IF or KETO.  Spoiler alert, it's not carbs that make you fat!!!IG: Kate.mackie.wellnessIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode Caleb Macleod is my guest!  He is a ACE CPT, powerlifter, and Head Coach at Orange Theory in Center City Philadelphia.   We discuss what Orange Theory is as well as Splat Points,  We also go over the idea that HIIT style training is not just cardio work and the myths of "bulking"IG: calebmacleodIG: otfphillyIG: notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode my guest is Mr. Steve Notebaert!  He is the Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Performance and Strength and Conditioning Coach at The Hill School. We talk about S&C at the high school and college level.  We also discuss the importance of education on fitness as well as how coaching is important at any level.  IG: HILLSPORTSPERFORMANCEIG: NOTAFITNESSPROEMAIL: NOTAFITNESSPRO@GMAIL.COM

In this episode  my guest is Ria Patag.  She is a entrepreneur, fellow podcaster, and fitness "addict"!  We discuss the sacrifices and mistakes she has made during her fitness journey.  We also talk about how the gym and consistency has made her more confident not only in the gym but in life as well.  IG: @fitnessbyriaIG: @riapatagIG: @notafitnessproEMAIL: notafitnesspro@gmail.com

F is for Functional!  In this episode I have 2 guests on the show,  Joe Swoyer and Rob Sanei, and they are here to talk about F45!   Joe is a Licensed Physical Therapist and co-owner and operator of F45 Training in Center City Philadelphia and Rob is a CPT and Studo Manager of the same training facility.   F45 is a HIIT style workout program and is gaining popularity in the fitness world.  We discuss what HIIT actually is, what to expect from a F45 workout and ego lifting.  https://f45training.com/centercityphiladelphia/homeIG: F45_training_centercityIG: notafitnesspro

In this episode Liv Lee, MS RDN/LDN joins us to talk about diet and nutrition.  We discuss how carbs get a bad rep for no reason and that moderation and NOT elimination is key to having a successful and sustainable nutrition plan.  www.livelynutrition.comIG: livelynutritionIG: notafitnesspro

CPT Mike Lacroce is back on the show.  In this episode we discuss the importance of warming up or "waking up the  muscles" before starting your workout.  We also talk about going over a checklist before lifting anything heavy as well as SuperSets and DropSets and what they are exactly.  IG: mike_lacroceIG: notafitnessproEmail: Notafitnesspro@gmail.com

In this episode my guest is Stephen Tallon!  He is a former collegiate athlete and is now a husband and father of 4.  We talk about his life as an athlete in college and his fitness lifestyle now while having a family and full time career.  We discuss having the willingness and drive to stay in shape as well as getting his kids to understand the importance of fitness and nutrition.  Instagram: TALLONREEmail: StephenTallon@KW.com

This episdoe I go over 4 basic Gym Etiquette Rules and Guidelines.  The importance of keeping the locker room and gym floor clean, not being a jerk, and controlling the cell phone usage on the gym floor.  This is a very serious matter so please forward this podcast to anyone who you feel need to hear this!

This episode's guest is ACE CPT Christy Green.  She is the founder of Jump-N-Fun where she "trains" 2-5 year olds.  We discuss her start in this business, the importance of educating young kids about their heart and fitness and how critical simple things like breathing and sleeping are.  

In this episode Kate Mackie joins us.  She is a CPT, RN and RNC and founder of KATE MACKIE WELLNESS!  We talk about mental health, pitfalls of certain diets, as well as getting the right coach.  IG: @kate.mackie.wellnessIG: notafitnesspro

In this episode my good friend Katie Cardner is my guest!   She is a CPT, Group Fitness Trainer, and Health and Wellness Coach.  We discuss nutrition, eating habits, lifting weights, plant based diet as well as go over what exactly a Health and Wellness Coach does.  

Today's guest is CPT Mike Lacroce who is not only a certified personal trainer but my personal trainer for the last 3 years.  We discuss what to look for in a trainer as well as going over common gym myths.  Please check out his page on IG: @mike_lacroceINSTAGRAM: @NotAFitnessPro

First podcast of Not A Fitness Pro!!!  A brief summary of my fitness journey and why I wanted to do a podcast about it!  I have some great guests in upcoming episodes so please subscribe to my podcast.  INSTAGRAM: @NotAFitnessPro