Six Weeks To Fitness

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Jermaine Rivers, actor, author, and U.S. Army veteran from Atlanta, Georgia. Jermaine was recently cast in a recurring Guest Starring role as Shatter on Fox/Marvel’s ‘The Gifted’ opposite Steven Moyer (True Blood), Amy Acker (Person of Interest). Some of Rivers other notable roles were as the notorious Officer Carter on season 3 of “Devious Maids” and Officer Holmes on Season 5 of Tyler Perry’s “The Haves and Have Nots”. Look for him in the upcoming Feature Films “HANGMAN” starring Al Pacino and Karl Urban also “DEN OF THIEVES” starring Gerard Butler and 50 Cent.  During the interview, Jermaine will take us on his journey which began growing up in Georgia to a military family, serving in the U.S. Army for over 10 years and pursuing a very successful acting career.  Jermaine will also share how his military background helped him to land various roles and how important gratitude and a positive mental attitude is to achieving your goals.  He will also discuss what it’s like playing a Marvel comic book character and how he prepares for the role.  His exercise and nutrition regimen is also discussed and much more. This was a very informative and inspiring interview. Jermaine is definitely on his way to a long- lasting and successful acting career. 

Direct download: Episode_114_Jermaine_Rivers.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:01pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks To Fitness podcast, I am joined by Carla Christine, founder and creator of the  Yoga Greenbook, the first online streaming service providing yoga and meditation videos created by and for people of color. During the interview, Carla will share her journey from her childhood growing up in Charleston, South Carolina in a military family, pursuing an Electrical Engineering degree and working for the Federal Government.  After suffering from work-related anxiety, long commutes, and unfulfilling tasks for over 10 years, Carla decided to quit her lucrative job as an Electrical Engineer.  She didn’t know what she was going to do, but she knew it was time to make a change and pursue a more purposeful and fulfilling career.

Carla first tried Yoga back in 2011 after the recommendation from a friend who was worried when a doctor prescribed her with an anti-depressant for anxiety without an evaluation. At the time Carla couldn’t see how twisting and bending could cause such healing in her body and mind but since her friend knew her struggles she agreed to try it. She believes it is probably the best advice she has taken because since then yoga has aided her in self-healing and self-study.  Carla wakes up every day with undying passion to share yoga’s transformational powers through the Yoga Greenbook.

Yoga Green Book leads people of color to a safe online space with culturally-affirming teachers using the ancient healing art of yoga to promote wellness. You can try Yoga Greenbook with a 30 Day Free Trial Membership at yogagreenbook.com.

Direct download: Episode_113_Carla_Christine-Yoga_Green_Book.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:55pm EDT

In this Episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Dr. Jason McKeown, CEO of MODIUS Health and Tom Bilyeu, co-founder of the 2014 Inc. 500 company Quest Nutrition and the co-founder and host of Impact Theory.

Dr. McKeown and Tom will discuss how MODIUS, a revolutionary new wearable technology, works to help you reduce body weight and gain a lean muscular body.  MODIUS, which has been approved by the FDA as a “wellness device”, was developed by Dr. McKeown and other neuroscientists, based in San Diego, California.  During the interview, Dr. McKeown explains how MODIUS works by “stimulating the vestibular nerve, which connects to the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is the area of the brain that controls body weight and appetite. Vestibular stimulation has been shown to influence body weight.”  In August of 2017, a 2-month fundraising campaign on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo was created to raise $50,000.  According to Dr. McKeown, MODIUS is fully funded and did not need the $50,000 but as a way to further promote the product and do a proof of concept by having people purchase and try the product, the crowdfunding campaign was created. The campaign is nearly over and as of this writing; MODIUS has raised approximately 1.5 million dollars, 2995% of its $50,000 fundraising goal.  MODIUS is not meant to take the place of proper nutrition and exercise, but to be a catalyst that would encourage people to eat better and exercise.

The creators of MODIUS are so confident as to the device’s effectiveness, that they are offering a 100% money back guarantee.  If for some reason you lose too much weight or not enough, or if it just doesn’t work for you, you can still get your money back no questions asked.  This device has the potential to being one of the greatest breakthroughs in modern history as it relates to weight loss.  Tom Bilyeu stated that since he’s been using MODIUS, he has better quality sleep and sleeps about one hour longer, which is another health benefit from using MODIUS. 

This has been a truly fascinating interview about an amazing product, which can potentially benefit millions and perhaps billions worldwide.

Direct download: Episode_112_Jason_McKeown_Tom_Bilyeu.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:15pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Kershel Anthony, founder and creator of KerboomKidz Inc., an energetic and challenging group exercise program that is especially designed for kidz (ages 4-17). The goal of KerboomKIDZ is to increase student’s health by creating a non-judgmental environment while improving children’s memory and physical coordination. KerboomKIDZ raises students' confidence and stimulates their physical and mental states. Kershel started dancing at the age of five and attributes his love of dance to being surrounded by music while growing up in Long Island, New York.  He studied Dance at Hofstra University, where he perfected his style, becoming an expert in hip-hop, ballet and modern dance, as well as perfecting his break-dancing sills. From The King Michael Tour, to SHAPE America Conferences and to the IDEA World Fitness Conference, Kershel has been stomping his feet and making imprints into today’s hottest trends. He has appeared on Sweat, Inc., with Jillian Michaels, Obi Obadike, Randy Hetrick and former NFL Star, Terrell Owens.  If you attended our 14th annual Children’s Sports & Fitness Expo on Saturday, June 24th, you would have had the pleasure of witnessing Kershel’s high-energy workout class first hand.

Direct download: Episode_111_Kelshel_Anthony.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:09pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by ShLanda Burton, a Food, Nutrition, Health and Wellness Specialist out of Clemmons, North Carolina. Shlanda holds two University Degrees in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a Registration Eligible - Dietician, Certified Diabetes Peer Educator and Certified Birth Doula. During the interview, Shlanda will share the lifestyle changes she made which enabled her to lose 140 pounds in 3 short years and how she is able to keep it off.  Shlanda will share that although she has a gym membership, she does not go to a gym.  In her own words, “nature is my gym” and Shlanda will discuss how she utilizes nature to help her lose weight along with her healthy eating style and methods.  After her career working for government agencies she created her business Balanced By Burton, where she leads and teaches others in their journey to use the right tools and support for healthy and successful weight loss. Shlanda believes that true health is about balancing your body, mind and spirit with the food you put into your body.  She assists her clients with their transitional journey, by taking them step by step through her nutrition education techniques.  This interview with Shlanda is full of “food for thought” when it comes to designing your own personal nutrition program for weight loss.

Direct download: Episode_110_Shlander_Burton.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:40pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Katrina Williams, an HR professional who by day works on Wall Street and by night is the owner of Top Mogul Kat Dance Studio (TMK), out of Newark, New Jersey.  Katrina is also a personal training client of Jabir (JayTheBody) Bryan, owner of “Secret Formula Fitness” personal training studio out of Hillside, New Jersey. I interviewed Jay in Episode 107 of my podcast and was very impressed by the fact that in a short amount of time, he has amassed over 21 clients who have lost a total of one thousand pounds under his training and guidance.

During the interview, Katrina shared how Jay’s unique training style and methods helped her to reach her fitness goals.  Katrina also shared what her childhood was like growing up in East Orange, New Jersey as a very active and healthy child, participating in all types of activities, including dance, but it wasn’t until later in her adult life while trying to juggle her passion as the owner of Top Mogul Kat Dance Studio and commuting to Manhattan for her day job, that the daily commute and the stress that goes along with it, really took a toll on Katrina’s body and caused her to gain about 30 pounds and that’s when she reached out to Jay for help.  With the help of Jay’s Secret Formula Fitness training methods, Katrina was able to “get her body back” to where it used to be and is now feeling totally energized and motivated towards taking TMK Dance Studio to a higher level.

Direct download: Episode_109_Katrina_Williams.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:13am EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Danielle Crosby, a Certified Personal Trainer, and aspiring bodybuilder.  During the interview, Danielle will take us on her journey growing up in Detroit, Michigan in a single parent household with 2 other siblings.  As a child, Danielle witnessed something that no child should have to see and that is domestic violence against her mom.  This was a traumatic experience for young Danielle along with the fact that she felt like an outcast among her peers.  To deal with the loneliness, Danielle would spend her time eating all types of food, especially sweets for comfort, which added to her excessive weight gain.  Later in life, after a divorce from her 5 year old son’s father, Danielle found herself in continuous cycles of harmful relationships which further led her down an unhealthy path, but one day she found the strength and courage to move on from those relationships realizing that she deserves more from life than to be in relationships that are detrimental to her mind and body and she is also her son’s sole provider.  Danielle turned her attention to eating healthy and exercising 5 days per week.  As a result of her switching to a healthy lifestyle with nothing but positivity around her, Danielle has lost over 70 pounds and has a goal to compete in a major bodybuilding competition while building her personal training business.  Danielle is determined to succeed and she is documenting her progress on her Instagram page @dannycfitness.

Direct download: Episode_108_Danielle_Crosby.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:27pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Jabir (JayThe Body) Bryan, a graduate of Rutgers University, Certified Personal Trainer and owner of “Secret Formula Fitness” a “results oriented" personal training company out of Hillside, New Jersey.  During the interview, Jay will discuss his humble upbringing in Irvington, New Jersey as the son to a single parent mom, who he credits for being one of the main reasons for his success.  Jay started his company out of the trunk of his car, traveling throughout various parts of New Jersey providing one- on-one personal training in parks and in his clients’ homes.  It wasn’t long before word spread about the success Jay’s personal training methods were having on his clients, most of whom lost a significant amount of weight in a short amount of time that Jay decided to open his own training facility called Secret Formula Fitness.  Jay now has over 21 clients who have lost over 1000 pounds under his supervision and guidance. 

In March of 2016, Jay launched another company called Secret Formula Nutrition which is his Supplement line.  In the interview, Jay will explain where he gained the knowledge, skills and sales experience which contributes to the success of his company.  Jay is looking to franchise his Secret Formula Fitness brand throughout the country and is seeking investors.  This was truly an inspiring and informative episode of how a young man with grind and hustle is determined to succeed and turn his company into a multi-million dollar brand.  He is well on his way.

Direct download: Episode_107_-Jabir__JayTheBody_Bryan.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:35am EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Ashley Watkins, a mother of 2 boys, a certified personal trainer, kinesiology student and business owner. Ashley, who is originally from Buffalo New York, now lives in Los Angeles where she is fulfilling her dreams by helping others. After battling a lifetime of obesity and losing 100 pounds (in 6 months) through her own journey, Ashley started “Body by Ashley”, a company dedicated to helping thousands of men, women, seniors and children achieve their highest health and fitness goals through developing challenging fitness programs, group classes, one on one training and meal planning. Her in-person training has transformed the lives of many, but more importantly, her social media influence and online programs have touched thousands across the globe. 

During the interview, Ashley will share her amazing journey to creating Body by Ashley, including what it was like having to go to physical therapy as a 14-year old child because of her weight gain and how this affected her self-esteem growing up.  Ashley will also discuss the impact being in a toxic relationship had on her mentally and physically, and how she was able to use this situation as motivation to change the direction of her life.  Also in the interview is the actual exercise routines and nutrition format Ashley followed to lose 100 pounds. This is another informative and inspiring story of how one young woman was able to take the lemons that were handed to her and turn it into lemonade. 

Direct download: Episode_106_Ashley_Watkins.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:04am EDT

In this week's episode of Six Weeks to Fitness, Vince Ferguson, the host of the Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, announces the pre-launch of his online course "How to Create A-List Events on a Shoestring Budget", "A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating High Profile Events, Attracting Athletes, Celebrities, and Sponsors on a Small Budget. For the past 25 years, Vince has created and produced award shows and fitness events that have brought out well over 100,000 people.  During the podcast, Vince goes into detail on the content of the course as well as the launch date which will be August 2, 2017.

Direct download: Episode_105_Vince_Ferguson.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:49pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Lanett Tachel, a talented young actress and writer from Prince George's County, Maryland. Lanett knew from her childhood that she was destined to be an actress, so after receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Howard University and performing on stages in the DC Metropolitan area and touring as the lead character in “The Bluest Eye” in the Dominican Republic, Lanett moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams to be an actress. 

During the interview, Lanett will share what life was like growing up in Prince George’s County, to a very supportive and entrepreneurial minded family where failure was not an option.  Lanett grew up in an environment where almost everyone around her was a professional and very successful, so the expectations were that whatever you chose to do, you will succeed.  Lanett took that mindset to Hollywood, where she has lived for the past 7 years and has appeared on TV and in films such as the erotically thrilling true story of 'THE PROVIDERS,' directed by talented "Queen Sugar' writer, Denise Harkavy and the newly released erotic thriller  “ILLICIT”, where Lanett shows off her acting and co-writing talent. ILLICIT was just released on “Video on Demand”.

 Lanett believes that good health and hard work is key to her success, so she tries to exercise 4 times a week engaging in her favorite activity, which is a Spin class.  Lanett is a rising star who shows no signs of slowing down and wants to help as many people as she can in her climb to the top.

Direct download: Episode_104_Lanet_Tachel.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:16am EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Ms. Bo Talley, a mother of four, former R&B singer, entrepreneur, event host, philanthropist, actress, fitness motivator and wife of professional basketball coach Fred Williams. In addition to these many hats, Ms. Bo serves as a motivation to many people, especially after her age-defying photo went viral and made national and international headlines.  During the interview, Ms. Bo will discuss her childhood growing up in a small town called Scottsboro, Alabama and why she credits the women in her family, especially her grandmother for being such a positive role model and inspiration in her life.  Ms. Bo will also discuss a charity event she created called “Balling for Lupus”,  the 1st ever All FEMALE Celebrity Charity Basketball Game in Atlanta, GA.  The Balling for Lupus foundation’s main purpose is to help bring more awareness and funds to the chronic illness.  Ms. Bo admits that she didn’t know much about Lupus until she found out that her cousin has the disease and that her aunt died from that disease years earlier, at a time when no one really talked about Lupus. Her celebrity coaches and players consist of current and former WNBA Players, Actresses, Reality TV Stars, Models and top community influencers.  The 4th annual Balling for Lupus Charity Tournament will take place on July 8th in Atlanta, Georgia.  The event will also be streamed on Facebook Live and on Instagram.

Also during the interview, Ms. Bo discusses her exercise philosophy, provides exercise tips to develop your arms, legs and abdominals.  Ms. Bo is truly an amazing woman whose positive energy, age defying smile and body, shows no signs of slowing down.

Direct download: Episode_103_Ms._Bo_Talley.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:28pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Gustavo Velasquez, actor and 2017 Daytime Emmy Award Nominee, known for his work in Conversations in L.A. a breakout sleeper hit by Immediate Vision Productions, also starring creator, writer, director, actress Ann Marie Cummings.  During the interview, Gustavo will discuss why, after graduating from college with an Honors Degree in Accounting, he decided to walk away from the accounting field to pursue his passion.  Gustavo will also discuss the importance eating healthy and exercise plays in in his personal and professional life and why he feels everyone should take their health seriously.  Gustavo will also discuss what it feels like being nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for his first acting role and how a chance meeting in Starbucks helped to launch his acting career.

Direct download: Episode_102_Gustavo_Velasquez.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:52pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Ashanti Middleton, creator and host of “Taste and Toast”, a restaurant review TV series available on tasteandtoastwithus.com, Facebook and on YouTube.  Ashanti is a native New Yorker who was born and raised in Queens.  During the interview Ashanti discusses the reasons why she created Taste and Toast, which involves traveling throughout New York City, trying out different foods and drinks that each restaurant specializes in and exposing these restaurants to the public. 

 Each episode will take viewers into the “belly of the feast” with a casual style and high-class swagger combination designed to attract both newcomers as well as refined palates to come together to uncover the latest treats to hit the streets of the nation’s latest casual and fine dining hotspots!

Taste & Toast is designed to speak to a new generation of socially networked, mobilized, tech-savvy, culturally aware individuals seeking the most adventurous, interesting, culturally relevant, and tasty restaurants that the nation has to offer.

Ashanti has visited all types of restaurants with her show, including Peruvian, Thai, Soul Food and more.  Taste and Toast is becoming so popular, restaurant owners in Arizona and Atlanta have approached Ashanti with their interest in having Taste and Toast at their facility.  Taste and Toast is the only show of its kind that is produced by a young, African-American female entrepreneur.  Taste and Toast is totally self-funded by Ashanti.  She is currently seeking sponsors and funding for additional shows. 

Ashanti is a rising star in the entertainment industry and shows no signs of slowing down.  Taste and Toast has the ability to become a “runaway hit” with the proper exposure.

Direct download: Episode101-Ashanti_Middleton.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:37pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Dorcas Meyers, Founder of Roc-A-Natural LLC. and lifestyle wellness coach, who advocates for beauty that illuminates from within for a holistic, authentic new you.  Dorcas is dedicated to emphasizing the beauty of natural hair, and educating diverse generations about the importance of proper nutrition and exercise to illuminate your beauty from the inside out.  Dorcas is also the creator of the Roc-A-Natural Hair, Health and Beauty Transform Your Life Expo, which will take place on Saturday, May 13th in New York City at the Watson Hotel.

During the interview, Dorcas will share the many exciting activities, presentations, and workshops that will take place at the Expo, such as an innovative and exciting Natural Hair Fashion Show. Industry professionals and fashion designers from the tri-state area will have the opportunity to showcase their fabulous work through the wonder of artful expression. During the show, the Roc-A-Natural Awards Ceremony will honor outstanding leaders who inspire excellence, ingenuity, effect change, a positive mindset and offer resources to live a successful and natural lifestyle.  Vince Ferguson, President, and Founder of Body Sculpt of New York and creator of the Children’s Sports & Fitness Expo, will be on hand to receive one of these prestigious awards.  

Certified Holistic Nutritionist Yvette Onofre, will address the nurturing of a healthy body through the “Nutrition Workshop and “Smoothie Operator” demonstration that will radiate confidence and beauty from within. This is just a small sample of what will take place at this highly anticipated event which will inspire and encourage an entire community to be proud of their inner beauty while seeking a more natural way of life.

This is the Roc-A-Natural Hair and Beauty Transform Your Life Expo’s 4th year in existence and it shows no signs of slowing down.  Dorcas’ enthusiasm is contagious and Inspiring.

Direct download: Dorcas_Meyers_-_Episode_100.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:35pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Meredith Shirk, a health and fitness expert, serial entrepreneur, traveler and small business consultant currently residing in Malibu, California.  Meredith is also a Certified Personal Trainer with the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the Creator and Founder of Svelte Training, a multifaceted approach to obtaining one's optimal lifestyle.  Meredith believes that mental and physical wellbeing are both key pieces of the puzzle that can create the best, most happy version of you.  In 2016 Meredith started to develop Svelte as an online fitness and lifestyle consulting company and from ground zero, she took it to over $400K in sales in less than 12 months. Starting without a list, a real online product, a name or an offer, Meredith molded her business partner and mentors, solidifying herself as an authority in her space.

 Going from physical one on one personal training, trading time for dollars, to utilizing her knowledge and expanding her online influence, Meredith has built her own path to success using a lucrative online business model to scale and leverage her time

Meredith Shirk is a driven and savvy business woman who is now stepping out from behind the curtain to educate, enlighten and empower not just people struggling with their weight, but entrepreneurs looking to bust down the barriers of self-deprecating mindsets and really take hold of their lives.

Direct download: Episode_99_Meredith_Shirk-Svelte_Training.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:58pm EDT

In this Episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by the Detroit Piston’s Tobias Harris. The 6’ 9” forward played for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Orlando Magic before joining the Pistons where he is currently the team’s leading scorer. Throughout his five-year career in the NBA, Tobias has remained committed to his mentorship programs, specifically via the Tobias Harris School of Business Basketball Camp.  During the interview, Tobias will discuss his childhood growing up on Long Island, New York to a large family of basketball players.  He will also share his exercise routine in the gym, which includes weight training, calisthenics and more.  Tobias will also discuss how eating a plant-based diet has increased his endurance and stamina on the court.  Tobias is a strong believer in giving back to the community, especially children, which is evident by the work he is doing through his Tobias Harris School of Business Basketball Camp.  This camp not only teaches kids the important skills necessary to compete in the game of basketball, but it exposes kids to other professions as well.  Tobias believes that children should focus on education first and if basketball doesn’t work out, they have other options in their lives.  Tobias not only “talks the talk but he also walks the walk.”

Direct download: Episode_98_Tobias_Harris.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:33pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Charity Lynette, Celebrity Fitness Instructor and creator of Curvy Chick Fitness.  During the interview, Charity will discuss what life was like growing up in a small northwestern town to military parents.  Most of Charity Lynette's life she was overweight and although playing High School and college Basketball, she still struggled with her weight. The turning point in her life was the surprising loss of her mom due to unhealthy living. Fueling her choice to start a healthier lifestyle and with her mother in mind, she dedicated her life to helping others do the same, losing over 100 pounds in the process. Since then she has continued to work within Hospitals and Health fairs throughout the country, teaching women that although they all have curves, healthy curves is what matters most.  As a Plus Size Model and Fitness Instructor Charity went through her challenges explaining to those who didn't understand how a Plus Size women could teach fitness, the answer was simply “We all have different body types but as long as we are eating right and exercising, the body will take its course."  Charity is showing the world that just because you’re thin, doesn’t mean you’re fit and just because you have curves doesn’t mean you’re unhealthy.  Charity is a rising star in the fitness industry and she is looking to expand her brand throughout the country.

Charity has been featured in numerous media outlets such as Bustle.com, Hip Hop Weekly, NY Daily News, Abigail Magazine, blackbride.com, Society of Curves, cocoafab.com, Entertainment Scoop, Boston Fitness Magazine, Skinny Minority Blog, Your Tango, Stylish Curves and more.

Direct download: Episode_97_Charity_Lynette.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:55pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Caprice O’Bryant, a 24-year old Certified Nutritionist, Personal Trainer and owner of Excuse Free Fitness out of Homewood, Illinois, near Chicago. Caprice has been through the wire, surviving a serious car accident at 14 and learning how to walk again and then surviving a second life threatening car accident a few years later that left her with seizures. At 19, she had a severe seizure that caused her to hit her head on the concrete, resulting in total memory loss. During the interview, Caprice will discuss her road to recovery which started at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, where she was encouraged to try yoga.  With an invitation from her father, she began going to the gym.  It was in the gym where glimpses of her future self were shown.  Caprice attributes her ability to turn tragedy into triumph to the love and support of her family and the important role that proper nutrition and exercise plays in her life.  It is through proper nutrition and exercise that Caprice has been able to control her seizures.  Being “seizure free” for the past 2 ½ years, Caprice can now focus on utilizing her knowledge and skills to help improve the health and wellbeing of others through exercise and by creating custom meal plans that encourage healthy eating and appeal to the taste buds as well. Caprice is also a warrior and advocate of Epilepsy awareness. Her motto is, “with Excuse Free Fitness, you can do ALL things”! She is truly a walking miracle, and despite all obstacles, she continues to persevere.  Caprice truly is an amazing young woman, who truly believes in Excuse Free Fitness.

Direct download: Episode_96_Caprice_Obryant.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:05am EDT

In this episode of Six Weeks to Fitness, I am joined by Imani Hakim, best known for her role as Tonya Rock, kid sister to Chris Rock on the very popular sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris”.  On March 10, 2017, Imani will star in the Netflix original Movie “Burning Sands” alongside actress Alfre Woodard.  Although most people decide what career path they want to take after they graduate from high school, Imani Hakim already had developed a strong passion for acting by the tender age of seven and by age 11 she landed her first acting role in Everybody Hates Chris.  During the interview, Imani will discuss how her persistence along with her father’s support and belief in her abilities, helped her land her first role.  She will also discuss in detail her next movie, Burning Sands, which will give you a raw, voyeuristic journey of fraternity pledging through the eyes of one favored pledgee (Trevor Jackson), who is torn between honoring a code of silence or standing up against the intensifying violence of underground hazing.  Imani will also discuss what life is like being a young actress in Hollywood auditioning for film and TV roles.  Imani believes that there is no substitute for confidence, believing in yourself and getting paid to do what you love to do.  Imani will also discuss her exercise routine and the important role nutrition plays in her life. 

Direct download: Episode_95_-_Imani_Hakim.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:54pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Dr. Phoenyx Austin, founder of the Fit Beauty Shop, creator of Dr. Phoenyx Nutrition, best-selling author of “If You Love It, It Will Grow – A Guide to Healthy, Beautiful Natural Hair”, and communications consultant. Dr. Phoenyx specializes in providing nutrition products and practical tips to help women achieve a fit, healthy and beautiful body from the inside out! She is highly respected for her expertise in both fitness and nutrition, as well as her passion for entrepreneurship and making healthy living fun.  Dr. Phoenyx has been featured in many major publications and has served as an on-air health/fitness expert on networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, NewsOne Now and Radio One. Although Dr. Phoenyx is a medical doctor and has served in the U.S. Air Force as a physician, Dr. Phoenyx stated in the interview that she was not taught nutrition in school; instead, she learned how to treat disease with medication after you became sick.  It wasn’t until after medical school that Dr. Phoenyx immersed herself into fitness and nutrition and became an expert in the field and is now sharing her expertise with the world as a speaker, consultant and entrepreneur.  You can find out more about Dr. Phoenyx by visiting www.drphoenyx.com.

Direct download: Episode_94_-_Dr._Phoenix_Austin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:38pm EDT

In this Episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by actress Rachel Currence, who played Sharmari Fears, the wife of Ronnie Devoe in the BET Blockbuster hit “The New Edition Story”.  During the interview, Rachel will share what it was like working with the other cast members, which included Fox TV show Empire’s "Bryshere Y. Gray" and other outstanding young actors.  Rachel will also talk about what life was like growing up in San Diego, California, being the youngest of 4 siblings, starting out in beauty pageants and winning many titles, one including LITTLE MISS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, which placed her in many parades, charity events and the local newspaper, which, thanks to her mother, started her out on the road to becoming an actress.  Rachel will also discuss the importance of drive, persistence and focus to achieving your goals in acting and how staying true to her diet is the key to her health and wellbeing.  When Rachel isn’t acting, she enjoys investing in Real Estate. Rachel is a rising star and true entrepreneur in every sense of the word.

Direct download: Episode_93_-_Rachel_Currence.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:45pm EDT

In this episode of Six Weeks to Fitness, I am joined by Theresa Wells (Coach Wells), owner of Tone At Home Fitness, A mobile fitness training support company out of San Diego, California.  Coach Wells holds multiple certifications as a Group Fitness instructor, Zumba instructor, Boot Camp instructor and Insanity® (Beachbody) fitness instructor.  She is also a Running and Nutrition Coach.  Coach Wells is a graduate of both the University of California at San Diego, (UCSD) and the University of San Diego (USD), she earned her B.A. in Urban Studies and Planning with an emphasis in Education and Community Dynamics and Later obtained a Masters in School Counseling and PPS Credential.  During the interview Coach Wells will take us on a journey from her youth growing up in San Diego, California where she lived a very active childhood and maintained a successful fitness business until a near tragic car accident occurred in 2016 where she sustained multiple injuries to her body, including a major concussion and short-term memory loss.  She also gained about 30 pounds after the accident.

When doctors told Coach Wells, she will never be able to run again, something she prides herself in doing having run numerous marathons, Coach Wells proved the doctors wrong.  Today, Coach Wells is almost fully recovered and back in the park running and helping her clients get in shape through her one on one training and her Tone At Home Facebook page, which provides exercise, nutrition and weight loss tips. Coach Wells turned near tragedy into triumph and shares her knowledge and wisdom on the importance of exercise and nutrition to achieving fitness goals.  This and much more is in this very informative and inspiring episode.

Direct download: Episode_92_Theresa_Wells.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:23pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Tom Bilyeu, co-founder of the 2014 Inc. 500 company, Quest Nutrition — a unicorn startup valued at over $1 billion — and the co-founder and host of Impact Theory, a first-of-its-kind company designed to facilitate global change through the incubation of mission-based businesses and the cultivation of empowering content. Every piece of content Impact Theory creates is meant to underscore the company mission to free people from “The Matrix” and help them unlock their true potential. During the interview, Tom will take us on a journey from his youth growing up in Tacoma, Washington in a family that struggled with obesity and how this struggle gave him a personal drive to segue into the health and fitness industry and help his loved ones and others like them revolutionize their relationship with food. As it would turn out, this new focus on something deeply personal and passion-based led Tom and his two partners to create Quest Nutrition.

Tom has taken his drive to help people develop the skills they will need to improve themselves and the world even further with his new company, Impact Theory, where he interviews high-profile innovators and thought leaders, such as Tony Robbins, Tim Ferris, Lewis Howes, Lisa Nichols, Michael Strahan and others.  Also, in this episode, Tom talks about the role the mind plays in determining your success and the methods and tools he and his partners used to take their company from zero to one billion dollars in less than 7 years.  This is truly one of my most informative and impactful interviews on health, wealth and success.

Direct download: Episode_91_-_Tom_Bilyeu-Impact_Theory.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:11am EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Dr. Arabia Mollette, Emergency Physician and Internet TV host out of the South Bronx, in New York City.  At the age of 5, young Arabia envisioned herself becoming a doctor but wasn't sure what kind of doctor she'd become until two tragedies occurred in her life. At 17, she became a teen mom to a precious baby boy, whose life was tragically taken away at four months old. Six years later, her youngest sister was shot and killed while riding in a friend’s car. Both tragedies caused her to question the doctors about their medical explanations, and it sparked a desire for Arabia to make a difference in her community.  During the interview, Dr. Mollette will take us on a journey from her youth up until today, sharing some of the obstacles and challenges she had to overcome and how her belief that she was placed here to fulfill a higher purpose enabled her to realize her dream to becoming an Emergency Physician and offering medical help and advice to people all around the world.  Dr. Arabia has even launched her own podcast called “The Visit with Dr. Arabia Mollette”, where she provides free medical advice, while discussing a variety of topics such as  wellness, mental illness and more with the guests on her show.  This is an amazing story of how a young, African American woman turned tragedy into triumph.

Direct download: Episode_90_-_Part_I.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:59am EDT

In this Episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Jameelah Struthers, a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor and co-host of Professionally Fit radio, out of Southfield, Michigan. Jameelah’s fitness journey began after her mother, who lived a very active and healthy lifestyle, was diagnosed with Brain Cancer and was given 8 months to 3 years to live.  During the interview, Jameelah will take us on her personal journey battling depression, anger and grief and how starting an exercise and nutrition program started her on the road to recovery, physically, emotionally and spiritually.  Jameelah will share how healthy eating has affected her thought processes.  Jameelah believes that by cutting out refined sugars, bread and other processed foods from her diet, she now has more mental clarity and positive thoughts.  Jameelah believes that there is a connection with the foods we eat and how we think.  Jameelah will also share her exercise philosophy, which she believes is the reason why she was able to lose 25 pounds.  Jameelah operates a Facebook page called “Get Fit With Jaye”, where she gives fitness and nutrition advice. 

After conditioning her own body and mind to achieve her goals and developing a passion for health and wellness, Jameelah now spends her time helping others to achieve their fitness goals.

Direct download: Episode__89_Jameelah_Struthers.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:21pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Bruce Cardenas, Chief Communications Officer for Quest Nutrition. Prior to joining Quest, Bruce served in the U.S. Marine Corp. where he was assigned to the security detail for one of the Marine Corp. generals.  While in the Marines, Bruce participated in various sports such as powerlifting and football.  After leaving the Marines, Bruce pursued his life-long dream of becoming a police officer and joined the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).  While in the LAPD, Bruce started a high end security firm providing security for music executives and celebrities such as Mariah Carey, Courtney Love, Rickie Martin, Mark Anthony and many others.  During the interview, Bruce will share how he met the owners of Quest Nutrition at a local gym, and how that relationship evolved into him becoming the Chief Communications Officer for the company.  Bruce will also discuss the Quest mission and the Quest Nutrition products, which include protein bars, powders and chips.  The products are in 90 countries and the protein bar is the top selling protein bar in the market.

Bruce believes that developing long-lasting relationships is key to any successful business. His natural entrepreneurial ambition, combined with his strong affinity for connecting communities through meaningful relationships, has solidified his place with the Quest family. 

Direct download: Episode_88_Bruce_Cardenas.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:16pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Nicole Rodrigues, CEO and founder of NRPR Group, a strategic positioning agency in Beverly Hills, which was awarded best PR agency in the city. More than 16 years ago, Nicole worked in-house as a PR coordinator for the Oakland Raiders, while also cheering for the team as a Raiderette. She’s developed and executed strategic campaigns for some of the biggest names in business, such as Yahoo!, Dolby, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Sony PlayStation, Hulu, M-GO, Toon Hero, Demand Media, MobiTV, and the Oakland Raiders.

During the interview, Nicole will take us on a journey from her childhood, growing up the oldest of 9 children in Fremont, California, working 3 jobs to pay for her college education to pursuing her dreams as a cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders and becoming the owner of a very successful PR company.  Nicole will also discuss the important role exercise and nutrition played in helping her to achieve her goals and why, while in the 8th grade, she decided to give up drinking soda and how that has impacted her life.  Nicole believes that in order to be successful you must have a positive mindset and limit the amount of negative people in your life.  Nicole doesn’t believe in excuses.  She believes if she can live her life’s dream and purpose, coming from humble beginnings, anyone can.  Nicole didn’t know how she was going to achieve her goals but stayed on a positive, health conscious path, believed in herself and her abilities and became a trailblazer.

Direct download: Episode_87_Nicole_Rodrigues.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:57pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Zhivi Williams, CEO of Leading by Example and Passion Driven, out of Charlotte, North Carolina.  Zhivi is a Health, Wellness and Fitness Accountability Coach, motivational speaker, Personal Trainer, and author of “Who Needs A Gym” Using Social Media for Weight Loss”.  During the interview, Zhivi will discuss various chapters of the book, which was written for men and women who don’t know where to start on their fitness journey and for those who are on a budget and may not be able to afford a personal trainer, but still need the inspiration and support that a personal trainer can provide, but at no cost using social media as the fitness platform.  The book also includes information on how to get free online healthy eating and weight loss support, meal suggestions, exercise routines and much more.  Zhivi will also discuss her online coaching business, her 30 day challenge which will take place each month starting in January.  You can also workout with Zhivi on Facebook every morning.

Direct download: Episode_86_Zhivi_Williams_-_Book_Releasse.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:38pm EDT

In this episode of our Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I am joined by Dre Baldwin a/k/a DreAllDay, a former professional basketball player turned Mental Toughness Coach and Expert. He coaches, consults, and speaks with audiences ranging from business owners, salespeople, content marketers, branding executives, sports teams and high schools.  Dre is the author of 11 books including The Mental Handbook, where he writes about having a “bullet proof” mindset.  During the interview, Dre will take us on a journey from his youth growing up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, playing Division 3 basketball to becoming a professional basketball player and a Mental Toughness Expert.  Dre will also discuss the importance personal development and visualization played in the achievement of his goals and successes.  Dre Baldwin lays out a blueprint in this interview that anyone can follow, if they know how to apply information and have the mental toughness it takes to stand out from among the crowd. 

Dre Baldwin is now a top speaker and motivator in his field, having published over 5,300 videos since 2009 with over 120,000 subscribers, and 39,000,000 views of his YouTube channel.  This is a very inspiring interview from a young man who knows what he’s talking about and is living his dream!

Direct download: Episode_85-Dre_Baldwin.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:36pm EDT

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