
Future of Fitness
We are putting a shoulder into the fitness industry and pushing it forward into the modern digital age. Eric Malzone, a 14-year industry veteran, entrepreneur, advisor, and coach, interviews the brightest movers and shakers in the fitness and health industries. Interviewing some of the industry's top executives, entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders, topics will vary covering cutting edge technology, entrepreneurship, hot industry trends, and so much more. If you're in or around the industry, this is how you keep your edge sharp.
Latest episodes

Jul 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
Juliet Starrett & Alex Alimanestianu - Quarterly Earnings Reports, CEO Shuffle, Luxury Longevity
In this episode, Eric, Juliet Starrett & Alex Alimanestianu break down the latest industry reports from fitness giants like Planet Fitness, Peloton, and Xponential. They tackle the rise of pricey longevity programs, debating whether they’re truly effective or just a luxury. The team also discusses the hurdles of CEO transitions in the fitness world and the increasing consumer interest in strength training and power metrics as indicators of longevity. Plus, they share some summer stories and talk about how setting personal fitness goals can help you stay motivated with your workouts. https://podcastcollective.io/

Jul 24, 2024 • 51min
Don Faul - The Future of CrossFit
Don Faul, the CEO of CrossFit and a seasoned athlete, shares his transformative journey leading the brand. He discusses the passion within the CrossFit community and highlights the power of its unique affiliate model. Faul addresses challenges faced by affiliate owners, emphasizing the need for robust business practices and education. Looking ahead, he envisions engaging 30 million participants by 2030, aiming for a healthier global community. The importance of effective leadership and member support within CrossFit is a recurring theme in their conversation.

Jul 19, 2024 • 47min
John Welbourn - Power Athlete & The Need For Authenticity
In this podcast episode, John Welbourn, a former NFL player and founder of Power Athlete, discusses his extensive background in performance training and the history of CrossFit Football. He highlights his contributions to the fitness world, particularly in the integration of periodized strength training into CrossFit methodology. John shares insights on the evolution and future of fitness, the importance of authenticity in the strength and conditioning world, and his company's various offerings. He also touches on the impact of technology and marketing in the fitness industry, as well as his views on modern consumer behavior and challenges in the coaching industry. https://powerathletehq.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

Jul 14, 2024 • 56min
Austin Cohen & Justin Turetsky - FlexIt & Evolving from "F Word" to Health
In this episode, host Eric Malzone sits down with Austin Cohen and Justin Turetsky, the innovative minds behind FlexIt, to explore the transformative trends within the fitness and wellness industry. They recount their experiences at the recent IHRSA event, discussing the shift from traditional fitness models to a broader concept of interconnected health. This episode dives into the strategic evolution of their company, highlighting the expansion from virtual personal training to a comprehensive suite of wellness services, including health coaching, yoga, and nutrition. They share insights on the challenges and opportunities this transition presents, such as SEO impacts and changes in consumer behavior, and emphasize the importance of integrating various modalities to support overall well-being. Visit: https://podcastcollective.io/

Jul 9, 2024 • 46min
Ross Stewart Campbell - Beyond Activ & Global Industry Perspectives
In this episode, Ross Stewart Campbell discusses his journey from running large-scale investment events in the oil and gas industry to founding FitSummit and Beyond Activ. He elaborates on his passion for fitness, his experiences opening a gym, and the evolution of his business through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Campbell highlights the unique value proposition of Beyond Activ's events, including their global reach and integration of multiple verticals like fitness, health, wellness, and hospitality. He also shares insights on managing large-scale events, the importance of thought leadership, and the future plans for Beyond Activ. LINKS: https://podcastcollective.io/

Jul 4, 2024 • 52min
Brian Kirkbride - FitLab & Nike Studios
In this episode, Eric Malzone interviews Brian Kirkbride, Co-CEO and co-founder of FitLab. They discuss the mission of FitLab to build a fully integrated platform for the next generation of fitness and wellness consumers. Brian shares his journey from roles in venture capital, investment banking, and as an executive at Nike to his current position at FitLab. The conversation delves into the unique consumer expectations of millennial and Gen Z generations, and the necessity of integrating various fitness modalities into one cohesive platform. Brian also provides insights into their recent acquisitions, like RPM and Assault, and the exciting development of Nike Studios. https://podcastcollective.io/ https://www.fitlab.com/

Jun 29, 2024 • 50min
Carl Hardwick - OPEX, CoachRx, & Simplifying Fitness
Former athlete and CEO of OPEX Fitness, Carl Hardwick, discusses the importance of foundational fitness principles, the evolution of coaching, and the impact of relationships with clients. He introduces CoachRx and AI-driven RX Bot to streamline program design. Emphasizing simplicity, Carl highlights the need for intentional fitness practices in the industry.

Jun 24, 2024 • 49min
Vadim Fedotov - Bioniq & The Future of Personalized Supplements
In this episode, Vadim Fedotov shares his journey from a professional athlete to becoming the CEO of Bioniq, a personalized supplement company. Vadim talks about his early life, his father's influence, and his career in basketball that was cut short due to injuries. This experience fueled his interest in health optimization. He transitions to discuss his corporate journey, including his role at Groupon, and eventually founding Bioniq. Vadim highlights the company's mission to provide personalized supplements based on blood tests, the challenges faced in the early stages, and their recent rapid growth in markets like the US and Saudi Arabia. He also touches on the importance of partnerships, the data-driven approach of Bioniq, and the unique value proposition of their products. Vadim emphasizes transparency, the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and the importance of maintaining a vision to achieve global recognition in the health and wellness industry. https://www.instagram.com/vadim_bioniq/ https://podcastcollective.io/

Jun 19, 2024 • 48min
Cody Mooney - Pliability & The Mindful Movement Market
In this episode, Eric sits down with Cody Mooney and discusses his journey in the world of CrossFit, his role as the Director of Performance at Pliability, and the evolution of mobility training. From his early days in sports to competing in the CrossFit Games, Cody shares insights on the importance of functional fitness and mobility. He highlights how technology and education are becoming crucial in promoting human movement health. Cody also covers the business growth of Pliability, their focus on hyper-personalization, and their expansion into new markets like golf and running. Episode Highlights: Discovering CrossFit and Coaching Competing in CrossFit Games Joining Romwad and Pliability The Importance of Mobility Expanding Pliability's Reach Consumer Experience with Pliability Challenges in Adopting Mobility Routines Trendy Therapies vs. Mobility Educating on Natural Recovery CrossFit Culture and Time Challenges Market Opportunities and Expansion Golf and Running Markets Partnerships and Data Insights Commercial and Community Outreach Challenges and Future Goals www.podcastcollective.io

Jun 14, 2024 • 46min
Eric Durak - The GLP-1 Playbook
In this episode, host Eric Malzone welcomes Eric Durak, one of the nation's leading clinical Exercise Physiologists and Health Educators, to discuss the complex world of GLP-1 weight loss medications. Durak, with over 30 years of experience in medical fitness and research, discusses the clinical and practical aspects of these medications. He provides insights into the mechanisms through which they aid weight loss, their potential side effects, and the critical role of exercise and proper hydration. Durak also emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive fitness programs tailored to individuals using GLP-1 medications. He further discusses the significance of community relationships, legal considerations, and the necessity for ongoing trainer education to safely and effectively integrate these medications into the fitness industry. Episode Highlights: The GLP-1 Opportunity in Health and Fitness Legal and Safety Considerations Understanding GLP-1 Medications Impact on Exercise and Body Composition Industry Reactions and Preparations Developing Effective Programs Historical Context and Modern Applications Practical Steps for Health Clubs The Role of Technology in Fitness Training Marketing Strategies for Weight Loss Programs The Impact of Cancer Exercise Programs The Future of Health Clubs Long-Term Effects of Weight Loss Drugs Nutritional and Supplementation Insights Links: https://podcastcollective.io/ https://www.medhealthfit.com/