POPULARITY
Categories
Full Plate: Ditch diet culture, respect your body, and set boundaries.
I'm joined by DK Ciccone — comprehensively certified Pilates instructor, pain reprocessing therapy practitioner, and author of You're Meant to Move — for a conversation that is both deeply personal and clinically rich. We talk about what chronic pain actually is, why so many people have been dismissed or mislabeled, and what it looks like to rebuild a relationship with movement that isn't driven by fear, punishment, or diet culture.This was originally a paid episode. Consider upgrading to a paid subscription to keep Full Plate going: https://abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribeIn this episode:DK's journey with chronic pain and her past as a dancerHow chronic pain forms and why the pain is real even in the absence of ongoing tissue damageThe nervous system science behind pain sensitization — and why catastrophizing physically amplifies painKinesiophobia: the fear of movement that develops after chronic pain, and how to work through itSomatic tracking and pain reprocessing therapy as tools for understanding pain signalsHow to explore the difference between pain and discomfortDK's "refuge and reach" framework for rebuilding a movement practice incrementallyExploring functional movement versus "exercise"The research debunking weight loss as a solution for chronic painWhy restriction and dieting actually increase chronic pain risk — and the clinical evidence behind itHow trauma and disconnection from the body compound the chronic pain experienceWhat embodied movement looks like when you're coming back from years of diet culture messagingAbout DK Ciccone: Dana Karen ("DK") Ciccone is a comprehensively certified Pilates instructor who helps people in pain improve strength, mobility, and well-being in a weight-neutral environment. She is trained in pain reprocessing therapy through the Pain Psychology Center and is the founder of Movement Remedies, a chronic pain–focused Pilates studio and movement coaching business. Her book, You're Meant to Move: A Guide to Conquering Chronic Pain, Increasing Stress Resilience, and Reclaiming an Active Life, was released in December 2023.Support the show: Enjoying this podcast? Please support the show on Substack for bonus episodes, community engagement, and access to "Ask Abbie" at abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe Apply for Abbie's Group Membership:Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-group Social media:Find the show on Instagram: @fullplate.podcastFind Abbie on Instagram: @abbieattwoodwellness This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe
The lively and informative musical exploration dives into concerts, awards, milestones, tributes, and more. Among those in focus are Taylor Swift, Questlove, America 250, Johnny Cash, Chris Stapleton, David Bowie, Joe Jackson, Robert Plant, and others. Keen insights and loads of great stories!
The couple's view of life is full of life and flush with fun topics from tennis to Tony's, travel to reunions, fashion to film, and much more. in the spotlight Spielberg, Joe Jackson, Newton KS., Folly Theater, "Airport", Alexander Zverev, Steve Carell, Steve Coogan, and others. Join the fun with us!
Ultra-busy and always informative and entertaining, this edition dives into the opening of the Morton Ampitheater, a bevy of new releases, anniversaries and birthdays, tributes and deep dives. All featuring Paul McCartney, Keisha, The Rolling Stones, Taylor Swift, Summer Breeze, Brandi Carlile, Bo Diddley, The Killers, Tom Petty, Bill Murray, and many more. Come on along!
The couples view of life is off and running as a landscaping crew does their magic outside. Just one of myriad topics including films, music, travel, opinion, and more, and featuring Martin Short, Meryl Streep, Stanley Tucci, Kirk Douglas, kid rockers, "The Devil Wears Prada 2", war movies, Red Reed, and many others. A cool ride to join in on!
The focus is on Starlight shows past and present, a new KC venue, tributes, anniversaries, and more. Among those in the spotlight Kesha, Elton John, Peter Gabriel, David Byrne, David Bowie, Summer Breeze, Clarence Carter, Jack Douglas, and others. Always informative and enjoyable!
The couple's view of life has plenty to share in the latest sunny episode. Mother's Day thoughts, travel plans, documentaries, music, and more featuring David Byrne, Martin Short, CBS Radio news, "That's Dancing", The Crumpletons, "Virgin River", weddings, and other fun topics. Come on along!
Informative and enjoyable music comversation with Timothy Finn every time out. The eclectic agenda includes upcoming concerts and show cancellations, new documentaries, significant tributes and timely news. Among those featured Sting, David Byrne, Young Thug, Post Malone, Jelly Roll, Triumph, Iron Maiden, Sting, CBGBs, The Ronettes,The Mavericks and more. Lively and engaging as always so come along!
Back with a flourish after a bit of a hiatus, the couples view of life has plenty to chew on. Documentaries, travel anticipation and planning, music, fun events and more. In the mix Ralph Lauren, water running, business retreats, cruises, Rick Steves, Mary Tyler Moore, Blake Edwards, Benny Goodman, Chicago, and more. Join the fun!
Bursting at the seams with a fascinating array of top stars and big stories featuring Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Billie Eilish, Michael Jackson, James Cameron, Indigo Girls, Billy Strings, Live Nation, Prince, Iggy Pop and more. Lively and entertaining musical conversation!
I don't blog much any more since numbers have clearly shown by a ladslide you would rather listen than read. But with my wife's business travels pushing "Reconcilable Differences" to next week, I decided to do something I do enjoy...write a blog. My treatise of my cell phone ambivalence, however, will come in both forms. You can ACTUALLY read it, or listen if you like. Choose and smile!
The always engaging and informative session with Timothy Finn brings you tips, tributes, and updates featuring Live Nation, Eddie Vedder, Billie Holiday, Paul McCartney , Leo Sayer, Dash Crofts, Lindsay Buckingham, John Prine, and many more. Jon us and enjoy!
The couple's view of life is bursting at the seams with fascinating and enjoyable topics. Birding to singing, roadtrips to classic films and filmakers, hitmakers and movers and shakers. Dive into a star-filled, suggestion laden, smiles and frowns journey!
In this episode, Cody and Dr. Sean Pastuch unpack one of the most common questions they receive: what is Active Life—and why does it exist? Sean explains how the company was built to solve a massive gap between the fitness and healthcare industries, where people are often left feeling like they are the problem when they don't fit into traditional systems. The conversation dives into the deeper issue of a “trust recession” in fitness, where low standards for education and inconsistent coaching leave clients frustrated and underserved. Sean contrasts the minimal requirements to become a trainer with the rigorous, high-friction education and apprenticeship model Active Life created to ensure real results. By the end, listeners gain a clear understanding of how Active Life positions itself as a solution—not just another gym or clinic. Through intentional client screening, high standards for coaches, and a results-driven system, the company aims to deliver outcomes that exceed expectations and rebuild trust in the process.
Before we start with “Always Say Yes,” I want to tell you about an Easter devotional – FREE – to use this week. This tool gives you 2 pages for each day that feature: First, a “Brief Focus” with reflective thoughts. Second, a “Fun Activity” for each day. Third, a “Teaching Point” that blends those two sections into practical action points for your life. If you follow us on your favorite podcast app, you’ll get the audio episodes of the same content in your feed. So, you can have a visual and audio version to Prepare For Easter. Click here to get your free copy. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
A multi-generational deep dive as we explore new sensations, expanding musical tastes, classic stories, and timeless tributes. Among the featured, BTS, Bleachers, Bowie, Peter Frampton, Augie Myers, Wilco, Caaamp. Nick Cave, Carole Kaye, Goose, and more. It's a fun and informative ride!
Right now, I’m thinking of the late Queen Elizabeth II of England. One thing I remember and admire about her is how she always carried herself. Without doubt, she portrayed quality character, even in difficulties. Matter of fact, as I followed her life and conduct, I witnessed how she portrayed her position of privilege. How does a discussion about privilege apply to you? Let’s explore together. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
The couple's view of life is smiling and informing getting set for a rescheduled to view the cranes in Nebraska. We also include the Oscars, William Powell, John Mayer, Bruce Hornsy, Aixois, new books for each of us, and much more including Jayne rightly correcting Danny's pronunciation of Cilliam Murphy. How Reconcilable!!
In this episode, Cody and Ken break down one of the most important educational frameworks Active Life uses with clients: the Hierarchy of Needs for health and performance. While many people believe progress starts with workouts or specific exercises, this conversation explains why long-term success actually begins with much more foundational elements like stress management, sleep, and lifestyle structure.The discussion explores how clients often arrive focused on surface-level goals like getting stronger, losing weight, or improving performance, while the deeper obstacles preventing progress live much lower in the hierarchy. Cody and Ken explain how coaches can help clients identify which layer of the hierarchy they're currently struggling with, and why skipping foundational pieces often leads to frustration, setbacks, or stalled progress.By the end of the episode, listeners walk away with a clear understanding of how to use this hierarchy as a coaching tool to guide conversations, set realistic expectations, and help clients focus on the right priorities at the right time. For coaches looking to deliver deeper value beyond programming workouts, this framework provides a practical way to create real, lasting transformation.
Once-in-awhile, a burner on my stovetop “goes nova!” Unexplainably, it just gets super hot. Interestingly, it even glows! Needless to say, that makes it challenging to cook. As I ponder that frustrating phenomenon, I find myself reflecting about when life heats up and “goes nova!” When life heats up, you must – Manage the heat. Address critical details. Try not to get burned. Maneuver as skillfully as possible. Pray for God’s help. Have you ever gone nova? Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
This week's Active Life podcast guest is Kristen Blake, functional nutritionist and founder of Kristen Blake Wellness, a virtual root-cause practice serving clients nationwide. With a Master's Degree in Clinical Nutrition and Human Performance and coaching certifications through the AutoImmune Protocol and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Kristen specializes in helping men and women optimize energy, metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, hormone balance, gut health, and performance at every stage of life.Kristen's passion for functional medicine began years ago as the wife of a retired NBA player, when she saw firsthand how critical recovery, nutrition, inflammation management, and long-term health strategy are for both athletic performance and longevity. Kristen takes a proactive, investigative approach, using advanced labs, strategic supplementation, and personalized nutrition plans to uncover hidden drivers of health. Her mission is simple: help people stop guessing, start understanding their bodies, and feel their strongest, sharpest, and most resilient, well into their senior years and beyond.To learn more about Kristen and even contact her, visit: https://www.kristenblakewellness.comSend a text
Insightful and enjoyable music commentary every time. Tributes, tribulations, and analysis featuring Robert Christgau, Taylor Swift, Jack White, Live Nation, Vampire Weekend, Supertamp, Country Joe McDonald, Boston, and more. Come on along!
Think for a minute. What is your most valuable and effective daily resource? In fact, what are your top two tools you rely on most to effectively navigate your day? Your phone? Car? Washer and dryer? Backyard grill? To-do list? Cup of coffee? Bread machine? Google maps? What if I told you about two powerful tools that help you navigate the territory of your soul each day? Interestingly, that’s where the power of 2 little verses comes in. Let’s explore. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Another lively and fun-filled edition of the couple's view of life. From bird watching to American Masters to theater, classic films, music and iconic stars. Among the featured are “Hamilton", Dick Van Dyke, crane migration, Bogart, Strawberry Alarm Clock, dogs and much more. Come on along!
I often wonder what my readers and listeners are thinking as they read articles or listen to podcast episodes. Most importantly, I hope you to always read or hear: God wants you! So, in this content, we explore seven points that prove God wants you. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
The thyroid helps keep the body working at the right speed — but what happens if yours isn't functioning well? Many people know that fatigue is a symptom of a dysfunctional thyroid, but it can affect a wide variety of functions in addition to that because thyroid hormone is involved in nearly all aspects of how our bodies function. If there are issues with it — which there are for an estimated one in seven people, many of whom are unaware of it — it can hinder your ability to live a healthy and active lifestyle in a myriad of ways. In this episode, Jim LaValle, RPh, CCN, dives into this topic, explaining why thyroid health is vital for staying active and energized. This episode of Life Time Talks is part of our series on Performance and Longevity with MIORA. Find the episode highlights, get related resources and view the transcript for this episode at https://experiencelife.lifetime.life/podcast/why-thyroid-health-matters-for-an-active-life-performance-longevity-series Have thoughts you'd like to share or topic ideas for future episodes? Email us at lttalks@lt.life — we'd love to hear from you! Follow us on Instagram: @lifetime.life The information in this podcast is intended to provide broad understanding and knowledge of healthcare topics. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of advice from your physician or healthcare provider. We recommend you consult your physician or healthcare professional before beginning or altering your personal exercise, diet or supplementation program. Life Time provides administrative, non-clinical support to MIORA as well as services and amenities related to general wellness and fitness; Life Time does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or care.
Reliably informartive and enjoyable conversation as we focus on Dad and Daughter concerts, annniversaries, new documentaries, and more. In the mix are Elvis, Billy Preston, My Chemical Romance, U2, Howie Epstein, Brent Hoad, Billy Idol, and many more. Come on along!
Have you ever seen a pressure cooker going full tilt? It's a noisy, powerful event. Weights rocking. Steam hissing. The sound of boiling water from inside the cooker. It can even be a bit scary if you think about all the built-up pressure and stress going on inside that sealed kettle. Yes, the kettle you are standing right next to! With this illustration, let’s discuss the pressures of life and secrets of hope. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Coming off a wonderful Valentine's weekend getaway the couple's view of life returns to the regular rythms of life. Reflecting on the Cedar Crest Lodge fun, Olympic angst and triumph, musical memories, under the radar film noir, iconic figures, and other lively topics. Come on along!
In this episode, Sean and Cody explain why Active Life's movement assessment deliberately avoids popular top-down screens like the overhead squat and instead relies on joint-level, bottom-up testing. Sean walks through how the assessment was originally adapted from his clinical work and why the goal is not to watch a movement fail, but to predict how a movement will fail before loading ever occurs. The conversation breaks down the real limitations of screens such as the FMS when used with general population clients and even high-level athletes. Sean explains how skilled athletes can hide massive inefficiencies through compensation, creating false confidence and false negatives, while less skilled clients may fail screens simply because of coordination rather than true joint limitations. The group clarifies the difference between identifying a problem and having a usable path forward to solve it. The episode closes by showing how simple, low-skill, repeatable joint assessments create better client understanding, stronger buy-in, and ultimately better business outcomes for coaches. By using assessments to answer specific questions instead of gathering vague information, coaches can build more durable programs, reduce unnecessary risk, and create clearer stories clients can share with others—driving both results and referrals. 
Be content! What, exactly, does that mean? Realistically, if you were to rate yourself on a scale of 1 – 10 (1 not very content and 10 very content), where would you place yourself? Importantly, why? Contentment is a critical piece needed to live a healthy life. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
The always enjoyable and in-depth conversation dives into Super Bowl music, Grammy analysis, special anniversaries, and significant passings. In the spotlight Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, The Beatles, Laufey, Jelly Roll, Three Dog Night, Carol KIng, Chris Stapleton, Billy Joel, Three Doors Down, and more. Come along for the ride!
By now, I hope you’ve had a good start into this new year. Like so many other years, you’ll likely find yourself wearing down at some point. First, you’re not alone. Second, the key is to get in front of that reality. In this content, we look at the need for a heart-lift when you’re weary. Plus, we identify what it looks like to pursue a heart-lift. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Chas Snowden BACK In-Studio! Talking Her New Podcast - Food - Coaching - Being Active - LIFE! ===== THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Nutrition World: https://nutritionw.com/ Vascular Institute of Chattanooga: https://www.vascularinstituteofchattanooga.com/ The Barn Nursery: https://www.barnnursery.com/ Optimize U Chattanooga: https://optimizeunow.com/chattanooga/ Guardian Investment Advisors: https://giaplantoday.com/ Alchemy Medspa and Wellness Center: http://www.alchemychattanooga.com/ Our House Studio: https://ourhousestudiosinc.com/ Team Montieth Real Estate - Lori Montieth: https://www.findchattanoogarealestate.com/ Ballinger and Associates - Risk Management: https://ballingerandassociates.com/ AirSpace Acoustics: https://www.airspaceacoustics.com/ ALL THINGS JEFF STYLES: www.thejeffstyles.com PART OF THE NOOGA PODCAST NETWORK: www.noogapodcasts.com Please consider leaving us a review on Apple and giving us a share to your friends! This podcast is powered by ZenCast.fm
The couple's view of life settles things and moves along to holiday plans, cool musical backstories, big names explored, good friends, great assistance, and much more. In the enjoyable mix “Sentimental Value”, Mel Brooks, Andrew Gold, Pat Matheny, Valentine's Day, losing eyeglasses, dogs, and other topics. Come on along!
I’m sure you’ve listened to the news . . . read the newspapers . . . listened to podcasts. Subsequently, you know the world is really struggling right now. In essence, that’s why we should explore what it looks like to have hope in terrible times. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Insightful and incisive music commentary every time, with this edition featuring iconic artists and breakthrough newcomers. From the Super Bowl to Greenland, live shows, tribute bands, legal tangles, meaningful anniversaries, and more. It's a great ride!
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Schaalo to unpack his evolution from athlete and CrossFit coach to one of the key leaders shaping Active Life's coaching systems. Chris shares how fulfillment — not performance or prestige — ultimately pulled him toward helping people rebuild their lives through better coaching.We dive into the realities of growing into leadership inside a fast-moving company: building roles while flying the plane, learning to say “I don't know,” and creating standards that scale across locations without losing quality. Chris explains how mentorship, consistency, and ownership became the foundation of his role.This conversation is essential listening for coaches who want more than sessions and programs — who want to build careers, lead teams, and create systems that outlast them. It's a behind-the-scenes look at what professional growth actually requires.
Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu
The first article this year was “Start This Year Well.” We explored 10 great action points. January is almost over, and some of the emotional energy of starting a new year is wearing off. So, we ask the question – how can you live well this year? The entire year! Afterall, it’s an on-going question. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Lively and loquacious as the married couple's view of life sorts through some differences and relishes great talents documented, film, music and more featuring Mel Brooks, Beck, Geerge Carlin, "Hamnet", "The Full Monty", Judd Apatow, Pauline Kael, and much more. Share in the fun!
I’m sure you’ve heard the short quote – “life is good.” In fact, I even have a yellow T-shirt with that quote on it. When times are good, it’s easy to believe this is true. However, when times get tough, it takes resolve to fully believe Jesus makes life good. But! He does make life good. In today’s content, we’ll explore how this is true no matter what happens in your life. Naturally, this content gives you a boost into living well this New Year. Read More … For more resources and tools that inspire and equip you to live well using God's Word in practical ways each day, visit the Alive and Active Life website.
Back for another great year of talking music with Timothy Finn. We dive into big stars, fond remembrances and anticipation of interesting developments. In focus Johnny Cash, David Bowie, Bob Weir, Emmylou Harris, Paul Kelly, Bruce Hornsby, and more. Come on along!
The couple's view of life is grateful for a return to health. A few days down in the dumps came after a wonderful Christmas jaunt to Savannah, GA. and Hilton Head. Highlights from that, plus entertainments to ponder, holiday visitors, and more. Come on along!
This episode walks coaches through one of the most important pieces of client education Active Life uses: load versus capacity. Larry teaches the concept exactly as he would to a real client, using simple language, analogies, and a whiteboard explanation that makes complex biomechanics easy to understand. Listeners will hear how anatomical history, recovery, and functional ability stack together before life stress and training are even added. The conversation shows coaches how pain isn't mysterious or random—it's what happens when total load exceeds current capacity, often at the worst possible moment. The episode finishes by reframing the coach's job: not just shrinking the “boxes,” but raising the capacity line itself through intelligent programming. If you've ever struggled to explain pain, setbacks, or inconsistent progress to clients, this episode gives you a repeatable framework you can use immediately.
In this episode, Larry and Cody deliver a complete plug-and-play framework for coaches who struggle to build offers that actually land with clients. They break down the two prerequisites every coach must meet before crafting an offer: knowing exactly who your ideal client is, and having a product or service that genuinely solves their problem. Without these two pieces, even the best marketing copy in the world won't save you. From there, the hosts walk through the “Why This / Why You / Why Now” framework and apply it in real-world language that any coach can implement immediately. They illustrate how to articulate the specific problem your offer solves, why you're uniquely qualified to deliver the solution, and why the client should start now. They also show how stories—not statistics—drive real buying behavior and how testimonials should reflect the avatar you're trying to reach. Finally, Larry and Cody reveal the value equation behind every high-converting offer: dream outcome, proof of likelihood, fast first win, and low perceived effort. They connect this directly to Active Life's assessment process, helping coaches understand how to structure, name, and deliver an offer that passes every prospect's logical and emotional filters. If you're a coach trying to sell responsibly, clearly, and confidently—this is a masterclass.
In today's episode, Larry and Cody expand on last week's discussion about trust and move into the next critical phase of every professional conversation: certainty. Once a client trusts you, they still need clarity around four specific dimensions before they feel ready to commit their time, money, and emotional energy to a meaningful process. This episode breaks down each of those certainties—what they mean, why they matter, and how to address them directly instead of hoping they resolve themselves. They start with certainty in themselves, exploring why clients often doubt their ability to follow through and why coaches must help them uncover their past successes, failures, support systems, and obstacles. From there, they move into certainty in the plan, walking listeners through the four-phase Active Life method—Assess, Develop, Ascend, Freedom—and how to tailor detail or simplicity depending on personality type. This proactive clarity helps clients visualize the journey and understand what long-term success will require. Finally, the conversation moves to certainty in support and certainty in the decision. Larry and Cody unpack how clients evaluate the professional and the environment: Do they trust the team? Do they understand the support structure? Is the timing right? They highlight how the best coaches stay calm during this phase by being agnostic to the outcome, genuinely committed to helping people find the right fit—not just making a sale. This episode gives professionals a complete blueprint for guiding clients through confident, aligned decisions.
In this episode, Larry and Cody break down one of the most misunderstood concepts in sales and coaching: trust. Before any certainty can be built — before someone can believe you, follow your guidance, or buy from you — they must trust you. The conversation begins by clarifying why trust must precede certainty, and why even the most logical clients won't hear you until they first believe in your intentions. They then dive deep into the Four Pillars of Trust: propriety, commonality, credibility, and intent. Using detailed examples — from the impression your clothing makes, to how you relate authentically to clients, to knowing when to confidently say “I don't know” — the hosts show exactly how coaches, trainers, and service professionals can earn trust intentionally rather than hoping it forms by accident. These are the same interpersonal skills that separate average coaches from professionals capable of leading meaningful behavior change. Finally, Larry and Cody discuss the real-world application of these pillars inside Active Life's coaching and enrollment systems. They talk about how intent shapes energy, how desperation can be sensed even subconsciously, and how the best sales conversations come from unbiased advocacy — guiding people toward the right solution, not just a sale. The episode closes with a powerful reminder: mastering human connection isn't just good for business — it's essential for becoming a true professional.
In this episode, Larry sits down with Mary to break down one of the biggest problems facing the United States today: the chronic pain epidemic. Even with over a million personal trainers, hundreds of thousands of clinicians, and countless medical institutions, people are still falling through the cracks — stuck between incomplete medical discharge and a fitness industry unprepared to handle their limitations. Mary and Larry explain how this “gray zone” traps millions, leaving them unsure where to turn next. They discuss why so many people are told “this is as good as it gets,” and why that message is almost never true. From painkillers to braces, orthotics to modified gym routines, they outline how tools meant to be temporary often become permanent when there is no professional capable of guiding people out of pain. The pair break down the Active Life view that chronic pain resolution requires active participation — physical, mental, and environmental changes that create adaptations, not dependency. Finally, Mary shares the larger vision: a world in which people understand that living with chronic pain is a choice — but only when supported by professionals trained to guide the full journey. They explore the need for thousands more ALPs (Active Life Professionals), the gap after physical therapy where most people regress, and how Active Life's dual mission (education + brick-and-mortar locations) will reshape the future of pain resolution.
On episode of the 40+ Fitness podcast, Coach Allan is joined by one of the UK's most innovative osteopaths, David Vaux, to talk about his new book, Stronger: How to Build the Secret to a Longer, Healthier Life. Together, they dig into why strength training is crucial—especially for those over 40—and how it impacts not just your healthspan, but your "strength span," shaping your independence and quality of life as you age. During this episode, you'll discover how building practical, functional strength is the key to enjoying life's moments, from playing with grandkids to traveling without limitations. David shares personal stories and research-backed insights about grip strength, overcoming pain, and preventing frailty through smart, consistent movement. Whether you're just starting out or looking to up your game, you'll find tips and inspiration to fuel your fitness journey. Time Stamps: 05:26 Strength Training for Beginners 08:56 Strength Training for Longevity 13:28 Healthy Aging Through Strength Training 16:55 Grip Strength: Proxy for Active Life 19:10 Grip Strength for Healthy Aging 23:15 Avoid Overtraining, Aim for Consistency 27:39 Midlife Fitness: Consistency Over Intensity 31:42 Pain Gate and Distraction 37:23 Functional, Full-Body Exercise Priorities 40:53 Progressive Strength Training Tips 43:28 Simple Fitness for Lifelong Health 48:31 Strength Snacking and Resilience Instagram David Vaux - https://www.instagram.com/david_vaux/