Peloton’s Robin Arzón: From Hostage Survivor to Fitness Icon Inspiring Millions

Robin Arzón’s leap from lawyer to fitness powerhouse wasn’t just a career shift; it was a radical reinvention. After surviving a traumatic hostage situation, she turned to running as a way to heal, reclaim control, and push past limits. What began as a coping mechanism evolved into a mission: to complete ultra-marathons, build a global fitness brand, and inspire others as a lead instructor at Peloton. Even after being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, Robin refused to be defined by anything but her unstoppable drive. In this episode, Robin opens up to Ilana about how she transformed trauma into purpose, made a bold leap into fitness, and became a global force in wellness with Peloton.

Robin Arzón is a fitness expert, former lawyer, author, and motivational speaker. She is best known as an instructor at Peloton, where she inspires millions with her high-energy cycling and strength classes.

In this episode, Ilana and Robin will discuss:

(00:00) Introduction 

(01:37) Surviving a Hostage Situation

(05:47) Discovering Running as a Healing Tool

(08:51) From Casual Runs to Ultra-Marathons

(11:29) Transitioning from a Law Career to Fitness

(13:19) Landing a Job at Peloton with a Cold Email

(15:49) Living and Thriving with Type 1 Diabetes

(18:34) Juggling a Career, Motherhood, and Life’s Demands

(21:39) Pushing Past Her Limits at the StriveX Challenge

(24:54) Building a Global Brand Through Consistency

(28:18) Swagger Society and Upcoming Cookbook

(31:47) Learning to Trust Life’s Redirections

Robin Arzón is a fitness expert, former lawyer, author, and motivational speaker. She is best known for inspiring millions with her high-energy cycling and strength classes as an instructor at Peloton, where she is also the Vice President of Fitness Programming. Robin is also a New York Times bestselling author of Shut Up and Run and Strong Mama, sharing her personal stories and fitness philosophies. She advocates for mental and physical strength, promoting the power of movement and mindset to achieve personal transformation.

Connect with Robin:

Robin’s Website: https://www.robinarzon.com/ 

Robin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinnyc 

Resources Mentioned:

Robin’s Books:

Shut Up and Run: How to Get Up, Lace Up, and Sweat with Swagger: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062445685 

Eat to Hustle: 75 High-Protein Plant-Based Recipes (A Cookbook): https://www.amazon.com/dp/031659427X

Robin’s Journal, Welcome, Hustler: An Empowerment Journal: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1454946342

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