Meant to Move
Meant to Move is a weekly podcast hosted by movement therapist Vanessa Leone that promotes a holistic approach to health and wellness. It encourages listeners to find joy in movement rather than following rigid exercise routines. The show covers topics like pain management, stress reduction, mood improvement, and physical fitness through mind-body therapy. Aimed at people over 35 who are frustrated with conventional wellness advice, it offers practical tips and inspiring stories for integrating mindful movement into daily life.
Episodes
The Real Reason People Get Defensive About Weight and Health; with Alice & Gee
Hard questions in coaching, friends, and relationshipsThis conversation explores how to ask sensitive questions about weight, food, training, and health without triggering shame or defensiveness. Vanessa is joined by Alice Moore and Gee Tual from Peak Movement, and together they unpack how trust, timing, and tone shape whether a hard question opens a useful conversation or shuts it down.In this ep
Movement & Strength: Find Your Flow in Boxing
How Boxing, Movement, and Coaching Changed Kieran Gives’ Approach to FitnessVanessa welcomes coach Kieran Gives for a conversation about his journey from plumbing to personal training—and how boxing and movement shaped the way he coaches. They explore patience, learning through mistakes, in-person feedback, and building strength for everyday life.Kieran shares why training should fit around life,
Why More Learning Changed My Body, My Career, and My Confidence
What if the most useful education in your life was not the one that made you look smart, but the one that forced you to rethink yourself? Vanessa Leone traces the courses, mentors, failures, and breakthroughs that shaped her from a perfection-driven science student into a coach who sees movement, behaviour, and the human body in a completely different way.Vanessa takes you inside the moments that
From Fitness to Inspiration: Learn to Harness Resilience
Harnessing Resilience: A Conversation with Bart Walsh on Overcoming Challenges and Building Inner StrengthIn this episode, Vanessa Leone hosts motivational speaker Bart Walsh to explore the profound concept of resilience — what it truly means, how to develop it, and why it is essential for overcoming life's challenges. Bart shares his personal journey, insights into mental toughness, and practical
Gendered Fitness Training: What really Matters?
The round table discussion explores the differences in female and male training, challenging gender stereotypes, and addressing gender bias in gym environments. The conversation delves into the biopsychosocial approach to training, the impact of social media on training narratives, and personal experiences with gender bias in gym environments. The speakers discuss the importance of improving gym e
Back to Basics: Simplifying Nutrition
Mastering Simplicity in Nutrition with Kira SutherlandIn this episode, Vanessa chats with Sports Nutritionist and Naturopath Kira Sutherland about cutting through the noise and returning to the basics of good nutrition. They explore practical strategies to improve health, manage weight, and optimise performance by focusing on simple, evidence-based habits.Key topics:The impact of ultra-processed f
The Huberman Effect: Training for Everyday Life?
In this conversation, Vanessa and Ben explore various training methodologies, focusing on the Huberman protocol and its applicability to real-life scenarios. They discuss the importance of individualisation in training, the role of neck training, and the balance between empirical data and personal biofeedback. The conversation emphasises the significance of understanding one's body and adapting tr
Rethinking Medicine and Fitness: Insights from real life coaches
Discover how medical professionals and fitness experts view collaboration, credibility, and improving client health. In this episode, industry leaders discuss the gaps, opportunities, and future of integrated healthcare and fitness. Together they find ways to help people bridge the gap between sick care and health care. Key Topics:The gap between research and face-to-face practice in health coachi
Move your Body Better with Movement Therapy
Vanessa Leone returns for season two of the podcast, expressing her intention to take a slower approach and introduce new interactive elements. She discusses the importance of practical takeaways and announces the introduction of round table discussions with experts. Vanessa shares her personal journey with movement therapy, including experiences with dentistry and the impact of Invisalign on her
Misconceptions in Fitness: Strength and Exercise in Reality with The Muscle Nerds
In this episode of the Meant to Move podcast, host Vanessa Leone engages with Luke and Zoe from Muscle Nerds to explore the multifaceted world of strength training and fitness education. They discuss the definition of strength training, the importance of context in training, and the common misconceptions surrounding health and fitness. The conversation delves into the significance of specificity i
The Overlooked Key to Longevity and Health: Your Feet!
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Emily Splichal, a functional foot podiatrist, discusses the critical role of foot health in overall movement and fitness. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how our feet function, the mechanics of walking, speed and technique, and the connection between foot health and core stability. The discussion also covers the differences between muscular and fas
A Journey into Nutrition & Food Relationships
In this entertaining episode Vanessa Leone and her partner, Michael, discuss fitness, nutrition, and personal transformation. Michael shares his journey from being overweight to bodybuilding, emphasizing the importance of protein and fibre. He explains macros and calorie counting, volume eating, and how he balances health with enjoyment of food. They discuss the psychological aspects of dieting, t
Transformative Recovery Practices
In this engaging conversation, Vanessa Leone speaks with Tony Eames, the owner of Calm Bar, about his journey from a corporate career to the wellness industry. They explore the importance of recovery practices such as breathwork, saunas, and ice baths, discussing their transformative effects on mental and physical health. Tony shares his personal experiences and insights on how to approach these w
Detoxification: The Key to Holistic Health
In this episode of Meant to Move Vanessa Leone speaks with holistic wellness expert Dave Liow about movement, detoxification, and well-being. Dave shares insights from his background in physiology, explaining how toxins from food, water, and the environment affect health. He emphasizes sustainable detoxification through nutrition, hydration, exercise, and gut health while debunking detox myths. Th
Core Truths: Breaking Down Taboos and Finding Power
In this insightful conversation, physiotherapist Nicola Andreacchio joins Vanessa Leone to discuss the often-overlooked world of pelvic health. Nicola shares her unexpected journey into pelvic floor physiotherapy and highlights the crucial role it plays in both male and female health. From taboo topics like erectile dysfunction and painful sex to broader issues such as endometriosis, prolapse, and
The Power of Biofeedback in Wellness
In this conversation, Vanessa Leone and Ian O'Dwyer explore the complexities of fitness measurements, emphasizing the importance of context, personal experience, and self-awareness in fitness and wellness. They discuss the role of biofeedback, the significance of language in fitness assessments, and the necessity of understanding pain and movement. The dialogue also highlights the importance of nu
Trailer: Meant to Move Podcast
Movement should be about finding and doing what YOU love. Not what you think you ‘should’ be doing!Welcome to Meant to Move, a podcast dedicated to guiding you towards a holistic approach to health and wellness. A podcast where movement is medicine, and we hold space for you to be the best, worst, happiest and saddest versions of yourself without judgement.Hosted by Vanessa Leone, a passionate and
Therapy Through Fitness: Redefining Group Fitness
In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa Leone and Emma Masters explore the intricate relationship between movement therapy, emotional health, and self-acceptance. Emma shares her journey from musical theatre to group fitness, describing her studio, Therapy, which offers Cycle, Run Lift, and Connect—each modality aims to provide different therapeutic experiences, from joy and euphoria to empowerm
Join me on my Wild Breathwork Experience
SummaryIn this episode, Vanessa shares her transformative experience with a deep breathwork session combined with sound healing and Reiki. She discusses her intentions, the emotional releases she experienced, and the profound sensations that arose during the session. Vanessa emphasizes the importance of community support and the liberating nature of surrendering to the process. She encourages list
The Art of Movement Therapy: Unlocking Your Movement Potential
In this engaging conversation, Vanessa and Gee Tual delve into the multifaceted world of movement therapy, emphasizing a holistic approach to fitness, the importance of manual therapy, and adapting training to individual needs. They explore the benefits of Animal Flow, highlighting its unique quadrupedal movements that enhance coordination, cognitive development, and mindfulness. The discussion al
Wake Your Body Up: From Pain to Performance
In this conversation, Vanessa Leone interviews Gary Ward, a prominent figure in the fitness industry known for his innovative approach to movement and anatomy. They discuss the importance of understanding the human gait cycle, the role of the nervous system in movement, and practical strategies for improving body awareness and movement efficiency. Gary emphasizes the need for individuals to take o
Meant to Move: Vanessa’s Journey to Movement Therapy and Personalised Fitness
In the debut episode of the Meant To Move podcast, host Vanessa Leone introduces the concept of movement therapy, blending holistic health principles with personalised fitness approaches. Alongside her father, Nick Leone, Vanessa shares her personal journey of injury recovery and growth through exercise. The episode explores the mind-body connection, emphasising how movement therapy differs from t
Unlocking Wellness Age: Strength, Cardio & Longevity Tips
In this episode, Vanessa Leone is joined by Rhys James and Jesse O'Sullivan from Technogym to discuss the importance of wellness testing and the innovative Checkup tool. They explore various aspects of health, including strength, power, cardio, body composition, mobility, and cognitive health. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding one's WellnessAge, which provides a more ac
Performance, Play & Mindfulness: What Running Can Teach You
In this conversation, Vanessa Leone and Rory discuss the challenges and benefits of running and breathwork. Vanessa shares her struggles with running, while Rory, a breathwork coach, emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between jogging and running. They explore the mental and physical benefits of running, including mindfulness and emotional release. Rory highlights the significance of nasal
Your Guide to Unlocking Healthy Recipes And Nutritious Meals
In this conversation, Vanessa and her partner discuss practical cooking hacks, the importance of understanding recipes and their nutritional value, and how to enhance meals with vegetables and fibre. They emphasize the significance of meal planning to reduce decision fatigue and explore the concept of comfort food, balancing indulgence with nutrition. The discussion also covers practical cooking t
Exploring Sound Healing and Music therapy
In this episode, Vanessa Leone and her group therapist Emma discuss the profound impact of sound healing and music therapy on wellness and movement. They explore the science behind sound healing, the effects of vibration on the body, and the instruments used in sound healing practices. The conversation delves into the biological responses to music, the emotional connections we have with different
Why Rehabilitation Is A Dirty Word: Learn To Revamp Your Body
In this episode, Vanessa and OD discuss the concept of rehabilitation, exploring its emotional and mental aspects, and how it can be redefined in the fitness industry. They emphasize the importance of addressing not just the physical injuries but also the emotional responses that come with them. The conversation delves into various tools for recovery, such as vibration and percussion therapy, and
Microdosing Movement: Revolutionising Fitness and Health
In this inspiring episode, John Sinclair discusses the concept of "microdosing movement"—breaking down exercise into small, accessible, and purposeful doses tailored to individual lifestyles and needs. He explains how his company, Seven Movements, helps people improve function through seven-minute daily movement "snacks," especially for those who find traditional fitness environments or 60-minute
Movement, Mindset & Meaning: 20 Father-Daughter Life Lessons
In this 20th episode of Meant to Move, host Vanessa Leone chats with her father, Nick Leone—affectionately known as “Papa Producer.” Together, they reflect on the evolution of the podcast and discuss key themes and insights from previous episodes. They highlight the importance of individualized movement, emotional connection, pain awareness, social exercise, nutrition, breathwork, and the joy of p
The Science of Fitness Trackers & Measurements - What You Need to Know
In this episode of Meant to Move, host Vanessa Leone engages with fitness experts Rhys and Jesse to explore the significance of measurement in fitness and wellness. They discuss personal measurement practices, the importance of aligning measurements with goals, and the mental health implications of tracking progress. The conversation delves into innovative testing methods, beginner approaches to m
Is An exercise Program Necessary For Health & Longevity?
In this engaging conversation, Vanessa Leone and OD explore the multifaceted nature of exercise programming, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's body, the emotional aspects of movement, and the need for personalized approaches to fitness. They discuss the balance between routine and variety, the significance of recovery, and practical strategies for implementing change in exercise hab
Fact Checking Fitness- Navigating Wellness In A Social Media World
In this episode host Vanessa welcomes wellness consultant and journalist Sarah Zakzouk, who shares her journey from publishing to fitness, specializing in Pilates, personal training, and wellness consulting. They explore the multifaceted world of wellness and fitness, discussing personal journeys, the impact of media, the importance of individualized approaches, and the evolving nature of fitness
From Pain to Power: Rethinking Movement Therapy for Total Wellness
In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa interviews Ian O'Dwyer (OD), a "movement coach" known for his holistic approach to movement therapy. OD shares his journey from semi-pro sports and plumbing to becoming a movement mentor. He emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, emotion, and interoception—listening to internal body signals. Through anecdotes, OD explains how tailored movement practices
The Lymphatic system and Movement: The Key to Health
In this conversation, Vanessa Leone and OD explore the concept of fluidity in the body, discussing the importance of fascia, movement, and the lymphatic system. They delve into how emotional health is connected to physical fluid flow and provide practical tips for enhancing fluidity through breath and playful movement. The discussion emphasizes the significance of applying knowledge to improve hea
Add More, Restrict Less: Everyday Nutrition with Michael Fisher
In this conversation, Vanessa and Michael explore various aspects of nutrition, emphasizing the importance of fibre, the benefits of black beans and nuts, and the role of micronutrients. They discuss practical tips for incorporating healthy foods into daily diets, the significance of food prep, and the joy of enjoying foods like chocolate. The conversation highlights how small changes can lead to
Just Breathe: Breathwork practices, Inner Awareness & Healing with Emma Masters
In this episode, Vanessa Leone and Emma Masters delve into the transformative power of breathwork, exploring its significance in wellness and mental health. They discuss the science behind breathing, the effects of over-breathing, and the importance of CO2 in our respiratory health. Emma shares practical techniques for incorporating breathwork into daily life, the emotional and spiritual dimension
Unlocking Fascia: The Key to Movement, Longevity, and Performance
In this episode, Vanessa Leone and Ian "OD" O'Dwyer discuss the importance of fascia in movement, health, and performance. OD explains how fascia, which encases every structure in the body, plays a key role in communication, fluid flow, and force mitigation. They explore the differences between "Viking warriors" (stiffer individuals) and "temple dancers" (more flexible individuals), emphasizing th
Navigating Women's Fitness: Hormones, Health, and Resilience with Mikayla Foss
In this enlightening conversation, Vanessa Leone and Mikayla Foss delve into the intricacies of women's health and performance, emphasizing the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle, the impact of birth control, and the necessity of tailored training approaches. They discuss how to empower women through education and awareness, the significance of building lean muscle, and the benefits o
The surprising truth about muscle tension: Mini Episode #2
SummaryIn this episode, Vanessa explores the concepts of muscle tension and tightness, emphasizing the importance of understanding how our muscles function at rest and during activity. She discusses the impact of stress on muscle tension and provides practical techniques for down-regulating muscle activity to improve overall physical health and reduce pain.TakeawaysAll muscles are always on to a c
Mini Episode #1
In this episode, Vanessa Leone introduces the concept of 'slowgress,' emphasizing the importance of understanding that health and fitness progress is not linear. She discusses how seasonal changes affect our wellness goals and shares her personal journey of recovery post-surgery. Vanessa encourages listeners to reflect on their own wellness journeys and to embrace a more gradual approach to achiev
Calisthenics: Play & Learn Skills For Strength and Longevity
In this episode Vanessa Leone speaks with calisthenics coach Yannick Kwai-Pun about the evolution, philosophy, and personal journey within the realm of bodyweight training. They discuss the importance of skill development, overcoming injuries, and the significance of mobility in calisthenics. Yannick shares insights on realistic expectations for beginners and highlights key movements that promote
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