WHY to Fitness
Aaron O’Connell
The WHY to Fitness podcast is dedicated to supporting Christians in achieving peace of mind and heart in all areas of life because every aspect of life affects our health and fitness.
Hosted by Aaron O'Connell, an IFBB Professional athlete actively pursuing a Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychological Studies, the podcast's goal is to assist Christians in discovering their divine purpose while triumphing over spiritual, mental, and physical challenges related to their well-being.
At the core of this journey is the belief that God serves as the ultimate WHY, i.e., the ultimate driving force behind existence.
In this context, fitness is our ability to overcome the obstacles standing before the goal. It extends beyond exercise and nutrition to encompass relationships, mental health, finances, spiritual growth, and life experiences.
Tune in on a biweekly/weekly to access valuable insights, mindset strategies, theological discussions, interviews, and more to achieve success, which translates into attaining peace of mind and heart across every facet of life.
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Top 10 WHY to Fitness Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best WHY to Fitness episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to WHY to Fitness for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite WHY to Fitness episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
09/11/23 • 68 min
Can you remain true to your core values in an industry that worships physicality and often leaves the true purpose of fitness in the shadows? Abbey Hilton, a shining light in the world of fitness, joins us to share her wisdom on maintaining authenticity in the face of superficiality. Together, with Ciera Clemons, we expose the gritty realities of the fitness world, stressing the importance of functional fitness - a concept that transcends the aesthetic and embraces the importance of feeling good and functioning optimally in every aspect of life.
We also delve into deeper societal issues, exploring how normalized objectification, shifting gender roles, and the sway of celebrity culture can impact our overall potential. Abbey's unique perspective provides a roadmap for navigating these challenging terrains, emphasizing a firm definition of personal morals as the cornerstone of integrity. Engage with us in a thought-provoking conversation about satisfaction and purpose, as we shed light on the often overlooked, yet vital, aspect of why we set certain goals in the fitness industry and the distractions that can lead us astray.
The real power of this discussion lies in its ability to inspire change and challenge status quo. Abbey illustrates how surrendering to our values can unlock unexpected opportunities and foster personal growth. Listen in as we celebrate the power of maintaining and living by one's core values in the pursuit of fitness and overall wellbeing. This episode is a call to action for everyone in the fitness industry and beyond, to redefine success, embrace personal beliefs, and stay steadfast in the pursuit of authentic goals.
How to Easily and Effectively Share God's Redemptive Story: Disciple Making with Matt Tumas (Part 2 of 2)
WHY to Fitness
09/21/23 • 55 min
What if there was a practical method to share the story of God and your faith, enabling you to impact lives and bring them closer to God? That's exactly what we're unpacking today with our guest, Matt Tumas. We delve into the concept of 'three circles', an enlightening representation of God's design, our world's brokenness, and the hope found in Jesus. Together, we discuss how to initiate conversations about brokenness and draw attention to the broken state of the world and the desperate need for hope.
In a world where we are constantly seeking satisfaction, we often find ourselves chasing after success, fitness, or relationships, only to be left with a feeling of emptiness. Matt shares how God's standards of perfection have paved the way for our relationship with Him to be restored. This is a conversation about sharing the hope we have in Jesus, so others too can find their hope in Him.
Overcoming fear of rejection, recognizing the power of prayer, and living on mission form the pillars of this discourse. With Matt, we delve into the role of leading someone to Christ by sharing your faith story. We also discuss the Timothy Initiative, which is making an incredible impact by planting an average of 72 new churches every day. By the end of our conversation, our hope is to inspire you to share your faith story and live a life that glorifies God in every aspect. Join us, and discover how faith can be a transformative power in your life and the lives of those around you.
The Eleventh Element Experience with Logan Poirier
WHY to Fitness
11/20/23 • 61 min
What if church meets fitness? In a world where physical well-being takes precedence, how can spiritual health complement this journey? Listen in as Logan Poirier, founder and executive director of Eleventh Element, spins an intriguing tale on how he transitioned from a church pastor to a CrossFit coach, and eventually merged both worlds in a transformative way.
Logan shares how his passion for both fitness and ministry helped him create Eleventh Element, a unique organization dedicated to not only promoting a healthy lifestyle physically, but also emotionally and spiritually. We delve into what makes Eleventh Element an unconventional 'church', with community nights, baptisms, and the gospel being propagated within fitness gyms. Logan also shares exclusive insights on the challenges faced while sharing the gospel in a fitness setting, and how Eleventh Element is revamping this, one workout at a time.
In our chat, Logan also emphasizes the importance of integrity within the fitness community. He talks passionately about how Eleventh Element prioritizes accountability and accuracy in their group workouts. We also discuss how finding the right instructors is key to fostering an environment that lives out faith authentically. The episode concludes with Portier sharing his visions for the growth of Eleventh Element and how it plans to impact more lives. So tune in to discover how faith and fitness can intersect in life-changing ways, and how you can be a part of this journey too.
How to Easily and Effectively Share Your Testimony: Disciple Making with Matt Tumas (Part 1 of 2)
WHY to Fitness
09/18/23 • 74 min
Imagine a world where ordinary people are transformed into incredible disciple makers, touching lives across the globe. That's the reality for Matt Tumas, a beacon from the Timothy Initiative, who's here to share his powerful journey from college volleyball player to disciple maker for Jesus. Through an invigorating conversation, we navigate pivotal moments of his life, including a life-altering experience in Papua New Guinea that drove him to spread hope through the gospel.
Truth, acceptance, reality and love - these four elements are more intertwined than we often realize, especially in our generation that grapples with the subjectivity of truth. As Matt guides us through this complex topic, we uncover the importance of connecting these elements to lead individuals to Jesus and the unfortunate barriers language can pose in spreading the gospel. We also delve into the transformational power of personal stories, and how these narratives can not only engage others but truly open up profound discussions about faith and metamorphosis.
Finally, we tackle the paradigm shift in missionary work and the significant role pastors play in equipping their followers to become disciples. Matt and I explore the importance of preparing to share our stories and tie them to the transformative power of Jesus. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we discuss the power of authenticity in our testimonies and the need to not glorify our past but show how Jesus is transforming us. If you are ready to dive into the transformative world of disciple making, uplifting personal narratives and the essence of truth, this episode is for you.
Breaking Free from Vanity, Pride and the Lies of the Fitness Industry with Ciera Clemons
WHY to Fitness
09/04/23 • 100 min
Imagine finding yourself caught in the intricate web of vanity and pride, all because of the unrealistic standards set by the fitness industry. Enticed by the seductive promise of physical perfection, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Join us and our special guest, Ciera Clemons, a veteran in the fitness industry, as we peel back the layers on the darker side of fitness, exposing the pitfalls of comparison and self-deception, and revealing how this obsession with physicality can distract us from spiritual growth.
Ciera will share her transformative journey, pointing out the not-so-obvious idols that can subtly infiltrate our lives. But be not dismayed, our discussion isn't solely centered on the gloom. Through Ciera's story, you'll see how it's possible to pivot, altering one's perspective on fitness from a pursuit of physical perfection to an act of worship and dedication. You'll hear about the power of faith in finding your true purpose, the importance of a spiritual community, and the peace that comes from a wholesome relationship with the Lord.
As our conversation unfolds, we'll highlight the need to align personal values with the fitness industry, tackling the unrealistic ideals often promoted, and emphasizing the life-altering damage they could potentially cause. It's a no-holds-barred discussion, touching on everything from the struggles of vanity and pride to navigating fitness and faith decisions. Buckle up as we explore the essence of true purpose in fitness, the significance of obedience, and the spiritual transformation that arises from seeking God. After all, your fitness journey should be more than just a physical transformation—it should encompass your spiritual and mental well-being as well.
Masculine vs Feminine: Navigating the Unconscious Behaviors Affecting Relationships with Travis Gray
WHY to Fitness
08/28/23 • 73 min
What would you say if we told you that the key to maintaining healthy relationships lies in understanding spiritual attacks, unconscious behaviors, and masculine and feminine energies? Brace yourself for an insightful conversation with professional therapist, Travis Gray, as we dissect these elements shaping relationships in our modern society. We dig deep into the devil's role in destabilizing the family system and its ripple effect on our nation. Navigating the tricky terrain of unconscious behaviors, we discuss the potential of our minds to become our greatest adversaries, often creating the misery we're trying to avoid.
We then shift gears to address a stark societal change: a study predicting that by 2030, 50% of women aged 24 to 44 will be unmarried without children. How does this impact society and relationships? Travis provides enlightening insights on this, as well as on the importance of understanding and embracing both feminine and masculine energy. Get ready to embark on an internal journey with us to align with your true spiritual identity, shedding light on the power of choice, the role of our inner child, and the significance of purpose in leading a fulfilling life.
In the final segment of our discussion, we reflect on the story of Job from the Bible, highlighting the importance of humility and trust in God during challenging times. Taking a deep dive into suffering as a pathway to connecting with our inner spirit, we ponder a deeper understanding of truth and love. This episode promises not only to stir your thoughts but also to offer practical insights on overcoming struggles and striving for conscious, healthy relationships. So, join us for a compelling conversation about spiritual discernment, personal growth, and the transformative power of love and connection.
Unmasking Eating Disorders and Embracing Body Positivity: Kailyn España's Inspiring Story
WHY to Fitness
10/16/23 • 92 min
Ever felt caught in the whirlwind of societal pressures, idolizing the 'perfect' body and using food as a crutch? Our guest today, Kailyn España, takes us on the rollercoaster ride of her journey with eating disorders and body-image issues. A compelling tale that spans from her initial love for sports transforming into an unhealthy obsession with exercise, to her stepping into the world of health counseling and fitness, Kaelin's story is a must-listen for anyone battling similar demons.
Unmasking the often hidden, uncomfortable topic of eating disorders, Kailyn shares her personal experiences and enlightens us with the wisdom she's gained in her journey. We explore the dangers of food worship and the harmful effects of comparison, societal pressure, and unhealthy patterns. Kailyn opened up about her journey through different diets and how she sought control through food. Through her narrative, we investigate how generational trauma, societal pressure, and misconceptions around nutrition can impact our mental and physical health.
As we wrap up this enlightening episode, we dive deeper into the importance of community, faith, and functional fitness in overcoming struggles with eating disorders. Discover how Kailyn found solace in the power of Jesus and how He stood as her rock during times of hardship. Get ready to be inspired by the wisdom she shares on living God's will and how counseling, community, and faith can play a crucial role in healing. This episode is not just Kaelin's personal narrative; it's a beacon of hope for those grappling with similar issues, offering insights and practical advice on how to regain control of their lives.
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Empowering the Youth: Guery Ulysse and Young In Faith
WHY to Fitness
11/13/23 • 46 min
Imagine starting ministry at the tender age of 14 and it turns into a full-on ministry in the heart of your school and neighborhood. Sounds like a daunting task, right? That's exactly what Guery Ulysse, the founder of Young In Faith, did and continues to do. As we sat down with him, he unpacked his inspirational journey, right from his humble beginnings to the creation of a vibrant organization that empowers today's youth and students. He revealed the crucial role his mentors played, their belief in him led him to discover a passion that he himself was initially oblivious of – a passion for impacting schools and lost students.
Navigating through the challenging yet rewarding terrains of faith-based leadership, Guery shared his struggles when dealing with adversity, especially when on the precipice of significant breakthroughs. His resilience, unwavering faith, and an enlightening perspective on how persisting through these moments allows God's truth to wash over you, offered much-needed strength and insights. Speaking from the perspective of being a spiritual soldier, he emphasized that even Jesus faced hate and false accusations. As followers, we need to be ready to tread the same path, armored by our faith.
On a more relatable note, Guery shed light on the importance of contextualizing the Bible in a way that resonates with every generation. The key, he believes, is to offer a fresh perspective on an ancient text, making it digestible and relatable. We wrapped up with an encouraging note from Guery, urging listeners to persist no matter how hard life gets and to discover joy in Jesus every single day. Don't miss this inspiring discussion, as it promises to fan a spark of hope and faith in your hearts.
Stewards of Creativity: A Discussion with Scott Barlass
WHY to Fitness
11/27/23 • 50 min
Imagine experiencing creativity from a spiritual perspective, as a divine gift from God. Join us as we engage with serial entrepreneur, Scott Barlass, who enlightens us about the intrinsic harmony between creativity, entrepreneurship, and Christianity. Together, we journey through the foundations of creativity as a divine endowment, underlining our role as stewards of God's creation. Scott's experience in developing IdeaBase, a software fostering innovative thinking, brings a refreshing perspective to the table.
We grapple with the fear of judgment that often intimidates us from sharing our ideas. As we delve into the role of personality in fostering this fear, we discover the importance of providing everyone the opportunity to express their ideas. The discussion unfolds into the realms of diversity and uniqueness within the Christian community, mirroring the body of Christ, where varied skills and gifts coalesce to create something extraordinary.
Venturing into Christian entrepreneurship, we highlight how it can be harnessed to serve others and build God's kingdom. As we discuss overcoming the fear of failure and the courage to take business risks, Scott shares his inspiring faith journey and the role of consulting in spurring innovation. The conversation culminates in a beautiful prayer for Scott's ministry, leaving us with a sense of inspiration, encouragement, and empowerment. This episode is a treasure chest for Christian entrepreneurs and creatives seeking divine inspiration.
Unveiling the Secrets to a Stress-Free Fit Life
WHY to Fitness
10/19/23 • 26 min
What if the key to achieving your fitness goals isn’t more time at the gym but less stress in your life? Welcome to our enlightening conversation about the surprising effects of stress on our fitness journeys. We challenge you to rethink the role of stress in your life and its effect on your emotions, physical health, and behaviors. Join us as we delve into how transforming our minds, instead of simply following worldly patterns, can lead to a healthier, happier existence.
Imagine a world where your workouts are not a source of additional stress but a path to overall peace. It may sound counterintuitive, but we’re here to challenge the norm. We shed light on the downsides of stress-induced workouts and the destructive pursuit of material things. We draw on the wisdom of Matthew 6:21-34, encouraging a shift in focus from worldly concerns to God’s guidance. This spiritual perspective offers a refreshing take on fitness, inviting you to invest in the treasures of God rather than the fleeting rewards of physical achievement.
Now, let’s demystify the strategies to de-stress and find peace. Drawing inspiration from the Mayo Clinic’s advice, we explore prayer, gratitude, and the pursuit of a higher purpose. We’ll unpack the story of Martha and Mary from Luke 10, emphasizing the importance of spending time with God over being consumed by worldly tasks. We provide practical steps to replace stress patterns with healthier ones and to seek divine healing. Tune in to redefine your fitness journey and discover a path to peace beyond the gym.
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FAQ
How many episodes does WHY to Fitness have?
WHY to Fitness currently has 36 episodes available.
What topics does WHY to Fitness cover?
The podcast is about Purpose, Health & Fitness, Christianity, Success, Faith, Mental Health, Counseling, Religion & Spirituality, Fitness, Podcasts, Gym, Diet, Health, Jesus and Christian.
What is the most popular episode on WHY to Fitness?
The episode title 'Superhero Swim Academy: Life Lessons Through Swimming Instruction with Jacob Siegal' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on WHY to Fitness?
The average episode length on WHY to Fitness is 44 minutes.
How often are episodes of WHY to Fitness released?
Episodes of WHY to Fitness are typically released every 3 days, 12 hours.
When was the first episode of WHY to Fitness?
The first episode of WHY to Fitness was released on Aug 17, 2023.
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