#23 - Katya Virshilas The Competitive Edge: Life in Ballroom Dancing

#27 - Solo Q&A - Lessons Learned

In this episode of Move, Sweat, Discover, I reflect on the lessons learned from previous guests, the evolution of the fitness community, and the importance of connection and curiosity in movement. I discuss my personal journey in fitness, the significance of morning routines, and the role of community support in mental health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Podcasting Journey 02:38 Lessons Learned from Guests and Personal Growth 04:52 Community and Connection in Fitness 07:23 The Purpose Behind the Podcast 09:53 Personal Practices and Morning Routines 12:17 Mental Health and Self-Care Strategies 14:42 Overcoming Challenges Through Movement 16:52 Teaching and Inspiring Others 19:38 Future Aspirations and Evolving Relationship with Movement 22:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Movement

#26 - Roshan Melwani - The Grind: Hard Work and Self-Love - Part 2

In part two we explore themes of family, fitness, and personal growth. Roshan shares memories of swimming with family, the transition to online business, and the lessons learned through workouts. The importance of connection and support in fitness is emphasized, along with navigating personal challenges and finding joy in movement. 00:00 The Impact of Childhood Experiences 00:48 Fitness and Well-Being During COVID 02:18 The Joy of Swimming and Family Memories 03:49 The Shift to Online Presence and Business Adaptation 05:13 Lessons Learned Through Workouts 05:54 The Importance of Connection and Support in Fitness 07:49 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth 11:22 The Value of Movement and Physical Activity 14:03 Finding Joy in Fitness and Overcoming Obstacles 16:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Exercise 22:57 The Challenge of Uphill Racing 26:39 The Journey of Self-Discovery through Running 30:31 Finding Joy in Movement 35:48 Morning Routines and Personal Rituals 38:45 The Grind: Hard Work and Self-Love 41:38 Future Aspirations and Cultural Identity

#25 - Roshan Melwani - Family, Business and Fame - Part 1

In part one, Roshan Melwani, the TikTok Taylor and owner of Sam's Taylor, shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by celebrities to navigating the complexities of family dynamics and the family business. He reflects on the impact of sports and fitness in his life, the challenges of transitioning into the family business, and the lessons learned along the way. Roshan emphasizes the importance of gratitude, personal growth, and the responsibility he feels towards his family and community. 00:00 Introduction to Roshan Melwani and Sam's Taylor 02:06 Childhood Influences and Celebrity Encounters 06:04 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 11:09 The Role of Sports and Fitness in Life 15:56 Transitioning into the Family Business 24:01 Career Journey and Lessons Learned 32:07 Navigating Challenges and Social Responsibility 39:59 Reflections on Success and Family Expectations 47:11 Embracing Authenticity and Peace 48:58 The Journey to Fame and Recognition 51:48 Controversial Content and Public Perception 55:59 Resilience Against Criticism 59:58 Self-Help and Personal Growth 01:01 The Impact of Childhood Experiences

#24 - Brad Wharakura - The Performer: Finding Joy in Fitness

In today’s episode Brad Wharakura shares his journey from a small town in New Zealand to becoming a prominent figure in the fitness industry in Asia. He discusses his experiences with queerness, the challenges of coming out, and the vibrant life he led in Hong Kong. We touch on the evolution of his relationship with fitness, the impact of ageism in the industry, and the birth of his drag persona, Madame Mincemeat. Expect to learn about of self-discovery, personal growth, and the importance of community. Chapters 00:00 The Cleansing Experience of Fitness 01:21 Introduction to Brad Farakura 02:59 Friendship and Connection 04:35 The Performer Within 06:28 Growing Up in New Zealand 10:23 Childhood Memories and Early Interests 12:06 Navigating Queerness 15:12 Coming Out Journey 19:30 The Move to Hong Kong 22:15 Living the Big City Life 25:09 Balancing Fitness and Social Life 27:50 Evolving Relationship with Fitness 30:36 Reflections on 18 Years at Pure 34:21 Ageism in the Fitness Industry 39:04 The Birth of Madame Mincemeat 44:58 Navigating the Drag Scene 52:31 A New Chapter: Leaving Hong Kong 55:59 Spiritual Awakening and Self-Discovery 01:00:48 Movement and Self-Acceptance 01:07:02 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions 01:14:57 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

#23 - Katya Virshilas The Competitive Edge: Life in Ballroom Dancing

In this episode of "Move, Sweat, Discover," I sit down with Katya Virshilas, a professional ballroom dancer and actress. Together, we delve into the transformative power of movement, reflecting on Katya's early dance experiences and the challenges of body image and competition in the dance world. We explore her journey from competitive dancing, acting in Hollywood and performing on Strictly Come Dancing. Katya opens up about her personal story of resilience, her drive to succeed against the odds, and the importance of community in empowering young dancers. We also discuss the challenges she faced in the competitive dance environment, the impact of her breakthrough role, and how society's perception of dance has evolved. Finally we touche on her transition to Hong Kong, the founding of Ballroom Bees, and the significance of early childhood development through movement. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Movement 02:08 Katya's Early Dance Journey 05:55 Challenges in Dance and Body Image 10:00 Overcoming Adversity in the Dance World 12:00 The Drive to Succeed 12:58 The Competitive Nature of Ballroom Dancing 16:05 Transitioning from Competitive Dance to Acting 20:00 Life in Hollywood and New Beginnings 23:09 Hollywood Encounters and Aspirations 24:14 The Journey from Acting to Dancing 25:49 Breakthrough Role and Its Impact 28:02 Joining Strictly Come Dancing 30:21 Life in the Strictly Bubble 31:46 Challenges and Bullying in Dance 35:36 The Pressure of Live Performances 36:35 The Evolution of Dance's Perception 37:00 Finding Love in Unexpected Places 38:02 Transitioning to Hong Kong and New Beginnings 39:02 The Birth of Ballroom Bees 44:05 Building a Scalable Dance Business 46:44 The Athleticism of Dance 48:08 The Importance of Human Connection in Dance 49:14 Redefining Gender Norms in Dance 50:50 Cultural Expressions Through Dance 52:57 Experiencing Dance: A Personal Journey 55:58 The Therapeutic Benefits of Movement 57:46 Empowering the Next Generation 01:02:56 Challenges of Female Entrepreneurship 01:04:06 Future Aspirations and Expansions