Confessions of a Group X Instructor

Episode 101: Happiest I’ve Ever Been Professionally

I can genuinely say this: I am the happiest I have ever been professionally.

That doesn’t mean everything is easy. It doesn’t mean there aren’t challenges, growing pains, or days when I wonder what the hell I’m doing. But I’m building something I believe in, surrounded by people I love, and creating a life that feels completely aligned with who I am.

In this episode of Confessions of a GroupX Instructor, I’m catching you up on what’s happening in my world—and the...

What if the biggest thing holding you back isn't your talent, your circumstances, or your opportunities... but your personality?

It's a tough question—and one most of us would rather avoid.

In this episode of Confessions of a Group X Instructor, Ellen explores what to do if your personality is the problem.

Do people experience you as encouraging or intimidating? Confident or arrogant? Passionate or controlling? Honest or harsh?

The truth is, our intentions don't always match our impact.

Whether you're a fitness instructor, leader, business owner, or simply so...

In this episode, Ellen sits down with Nicole for an honest, balanced, and empowering conversation about GLP-1 medications and the growing role they’re playing in modern health and wellness.

Together, they unpack:

What GLP-1 medications actually are and how they work in the bodyWhy these drugs are creating hope for people who have struggled with weight loss, metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and food noiseThe emotional side of health reclamation and how many people are finally feeling successful after years of frustrationThe importance of removing shame and stigma from conversations around body composition and medical support

In this episode, Ellen shares the real behind-the-scenes journey of opening the WARRIOR Group Fitness Studio — from vision and branding to construction, founding memberships, community-building, and finally opening the doors.

This conversation dives into what it truly takes to bring a fitness vision to life while balancing leadership, creativity, business strategy, and resilience.

Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!

Check out the WARRIOR formats:

⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠

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Episode 97: Get What You Want — How to Break Free From What Holds You Back (with Janice Jaicks)

Why do so many people never achieve the things they say they want?

In this honest and insightful conversation, I sit down with Janice Jaiks, owner of Fitness Fest, to explore what really keeps people stuck—and what it actually takes to move forward. We talk about the gap between intention and action, the invisible forces that hold people back, and why breaking free often requires internal courage and external strategy.

Janice shares powerful perspective on what...

Episode 96: The Last Class — Leaving After Two Decades

After 20 years, I taught my final class at the DAC.

This episode is raw, unscripted, and deeply personal. I share what it actually felt like to walk into that room knowing it was the last time. The weight of the moment. The memories in the walls. The people. The version of myself that grew up there.

I also talk openly about what happened behind the scenes—how the club responded to my decision to leave, how I was treated, and the complicated mix of gratitude, grie...

🎙️ #95 with special guest Cassie Mazie

We live in a culture obsessed with optimization—biohacking, productivity, and constantly doing more. In this episode, we explore when the pursuit of self-optimization shifts from supportive to harmful, and Cassie talks about how pushing harder isn’t always the answer. We also unpack what self-kindness truly means and how it differs from the version of “self-care” that’s often marketed to us.

Through the lens of the fitness industry, we examine the unspoken expectations to override the body, suppress emotions, or ignore intuition in order to meet external standards. This conversati...

Pelvic floor health is one of the most overlooked — and most essential — pieces of whole-body wellness. In this episode #94, we’re breaking the silence, removing the shame, and empowering instructors and everyday movers with knowledge they should have learned years ago.

Paige shares practical education, compassionate insight, and actionable tools to help you better understand the pelvic floor, cue it safely in group fitness settings, and support participants without stepping outside your scope of practice.

Whether you’re an instructor, an athlete, or simply someone who wants to feel more confident and connected in your body, th...

In this episode #93, we explore what it truly takes to design, host, and lead a retreat that changes people from the inside out. Sabrina shares the heart and history behind Camp Be Here Now, the wisdom she’s gained as a retreat creator, and the magic that keeps her coming back year after year.

We open the conversation by exploring Sabrina’s personal definition of a retreat: what it represents, why it matters, and how stepping away from daily life can create space for deep healing and connection.

Sabrina takes us back to the moment the...

In Episode 92, Ellende Werd sits down with the Nicole Printon for an honest, empowering, and deeply informative conversation about perimenopause—a transition nearly every woman experiences, yet few feel prepared for. Nicole opens up about her personal journey, the science behind the symptoms, and the lifestyle shifts that help women thrive during this season of change.

Nicole and Ellen share about their personal experience(s) with hormonal havoc.

Together, we break down what perimenopause really is:

How it differs from menopause

The most common symptoms women experience

In today’s heartfelt conversation, Ellen sits down with Betsy Tanenbaum, the chef, creative heart, and author behind ROOT DOWN, RISE UP. Together, they share how they met, how Betsy fell in love with cooking, and why this cookbook is about so much more than recipes — it’s about healing, intuition, nourishment, and coming back to yourself.

You’ll hear how the book came to life, the stories behind Betsy’s dishes, and the intention behind every ingredient. Episode 90 is for anyone who wants to slow down, savor the process, and reconnect with food in a way that serve...

In this episode #89 of Confessions of a GroupX Instructor, Ellen pulls back the curtain on her very first WARRIOR retreat with 23 women in paradise, and the emotional rollercoaster of battling Meta over hacked and restricted accounts. Ellen shares the scoop on both—plus a handful of random life and business updates you didn’t know you needed.

Lot’s of studios and gyms will be closed and we know folks really enjoy moving their bodies on Thanksgiving - so let’s WARRIOR it up! 

10:00am WARRIOR Rhythm

10:30am WARRIOR Strength

11:0...

In this solo episode, #88, Ellen gets real about something that happens far too often in the fitness industry — instructors “borrowing” or flat-out stealing programming from other brands, formats, or creators.

If you’ve ever seen a class that felt a little too familiar, or had your own work copied and renamed, this one’s for you. Ellen breaks down what’s really going on, why it matters, and how to navigate it with integrity.

The difference between inspiration and imitation

Why stealing programming hurts everyone — including the instructor doing it

What ethical inspir...

If you haven’t listened to Part 1: How I Got Hacked, pause right here and go back to that episode first—it sets the stage for everything we’re diving into today.

In this follow-up, I’m sharing the next chapter of the story: how I recovered my accounts after 54 weeks of frustration, dead ends, and persistence. From learning what not to do, to finally finding the steps that worked, I’ll walk you through exactly what happened, what I learned, and what you can do to protect yourself before you’re ever in this situation.

We’ll cove...

In episode #86 of Confessions of a GroupX Instructor, Ellen sits down with Liz Filippone, a corrective exercise specialist who’s passionate about helping people move better, feel better, and perform better. Together, they unpack what “corrective exercise” really means and why understanding it can transform the way you teach, train, and even live in your own body.

We start with Liz's’s story—what led her into the world of corrective exercise, and how she found her niche within the fitness industry. They break down the concept in plain language so any instructor (or participant) can grasp it, and we...

Ever wonder why some people barely glisten while others look like they ran through a sprinkler after one workout? In this episode, no. 85, Ellen breaks down the science of sweat — what it is, why it happens, and why some bodies just produce more than others.

You’ll learn how eccrine glands (your body’s natural cooling system) differ from apocrine glands (the ones behind body odor), what causes hyperhidrosis — excessive sweating — and why sweating more doesn’t mean you’re out of shape.

Whether you’re an instructor, athlete, or just someone who’s tired of wiping your for...

In this episode of Confessions of a GroupX Instructor, I share a very personal and devastating experience: my Facebook account was hacked and wrongfully disabled. Overnight, I lost access to my personal profile, business Pages, and linked Instagram accounts — the digital home of my international fitness business.

You’ll hear:

How the hack happened, even with two-factor authentication enabled

What it feels like to suddenly lose access to your professional identity online

The surprising roadblocks I faced trying to restore my account

Practical steps you can take today to prot...

Today we’re taking a quick but valuable dive into one of the tools that makes or breaks a group fitness class: the microphone. As instructors, our voices are everything—we cue, motivate, and connect through sound. That’s why choosing the right mic matters so much.

In this episode (#83) , I’ll share:

🎤 My personal favorite mic for teaching and why it stands out from the rest

⚡ The key features that make it reliable, comfortable, and clear

If you’ve ever battled with muffled sound, feedback, or sore vocal cords, this mini dive will...

In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the history, politics, and science (or lack thereof) behind the original USDA Food Guide Pyramid. Once considered the gold standard for nutrition, this now-controversial chart may have done more harm than good. From the overemphasis on refined carbs to the demonization of fats, we explore how misguided guidelines influenced generations of eating habits—and what we should be doing differently today.

Getting older is a privilege—but let’s be real, it’s not always easy. In this candid conversation, Ellen de Werd dives into the complex feelings around aging, self-image, and the desire to keep looking her best. From embracing laugh lines as life’s souvenirs to wrestling with the temptation (or decision) to get Botox, we unpack the push and pull between self-acceptance and self-enhancement.

Whether you’re proudly going au naturel or scheduling your next appointment with your injector, this episode is a judgment-free zone where we explore:

The emotional side of noticing changes in...

What happens when people who’ve never taught a class—or even taken one—start calling the shots in your group fitness department?

In this candid and fiery episode, Ellen de Werd dives into the disconnect between club owners and the world of GroupX. From misguided scheduling decisions to underestimating the role of instructors, we expose what goes wrong when leadership lacks firsthand experience in fitness programming—and how that impacts both staff and members.

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by a decision that made zero sense from the studio floor, this one’s for you.

In this solo episode, Ellen de Werd reflects on the whirlwind of the IDEA World Convention—from the high-energy WARRIOR sessions and unexpected conversations to the deeper takeaways that are fueling what’s next.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at what went down in Sacramento, including what it felt like to NOT win the Group Fitness Instructor of the Year Award again.

Whether you were at IDEA or following along online, this is your chance to hear the unfiltered reflection and momentum behind Ellen’s next moves.

I got interviewed on My Own Show

🎙️ Episode 78: Behind the Magic of CON⭐️CON with Diva & Ellen Theme: Vision, Vulnerability, and the Power of Community

In this heartfelt episode, Ellen and Diva sit down to reflect on the birth, the beauty, and the behind-the-scenes truth of CON⭐️CON—WARRIOR’s first-ever instructor conference.

💫 From Idea to Reality Ellen shares when the idea first sparked—and whether she felt confident, crazy, scared, or all of the above. 

🛠️ The Work, the Details, the Deep Dive From late nights to steep expenses, Ellen opens up about what it really took...

🎙️ Episode 77: Leveraging ChatGPT for Your Fitness Business
with Dr. Ted Vickey
In this forward-thinking conversation, fitness tech expert Dr. Ted Vickey joins us to break down how artificial intelligence—especially ChatGPT—is transforming the way fitness professionals run their businesses. From writing class descriptions and social media posts to automating client communication and reducing burnout, AI is quickly becoming a must-have tool in every fitness pro’s toolbox.

Whether you're a studio owner, group fitness instructor, or personal trainer, this episode offers practical tips, ethical considerations, and a glimpse into the future of fitness technology. Dr. Vickey...

🎙️ Part 2: Money Mindset for Yoga Teachers & Fitness Instructors
Kate Lombardo, director at YOGARENEW, is baaaaack to talk about worth, pricing, and abundance in a service-oriented career.

In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between purpose and prosperity. Many yoga teachers and fitness professionals enter the industry to help others—but struggle when it comes to pricing their services and valuing their work.

We dig deep into the mindset shifts, personal stories, and practical tools that can help instructors break free from scarcity thinking and step confidently into abundance.

Website...

Kate Lombardo‘s influence as a yoga instructor + wellness business strategist spans the globe, touching tens of thousands of students internationally.
For almost a decade, Kate has been teaching and leading training programs through her award-winning yoga studios before expanding virtually through YogaRenew. She answers to many titles-- Yoga Director, CEO, CMO, Speaker, Leader, Writer, Podcaster-- but most importantly... Mama.

Kate teaches in Hoboken, NJ
In this powerful first episode, we explore one of the most underrated skills in entrepreneurship—the pivot. Our guest opens up about a pivotal moment in her career when letting go of...

What happens when the gym you’ve called home suddenly shuts its doors? For many fitness pros, it can feel like the end. But for today’s guest, Angel Ballance, it was the beginning of something even more impactful. In this inspiring episode, Angel shares how she turned a major setback into a launchpad for growth, creativity, and deeper community connection.

If you’ve ever faced a career crossroads—whether from transition, burnout, or the desire for more freedom—this episode will empower you to see what’s possible when you dare to pivot.

💡 What You’ll Learn:<...

Let’s talk about the hard lessons no one warns you about. From hiring habits to financial blind spots, this episode exposes the leadership mistakes that sneak up on you—and hit hard. If you're running a team, studio, or business, you’ll want to hear this before it’s too late.

Ann Gilbert is the successful owner/operator Fit-Her Health & Fitness for Women, who is here to help others flourish in the fitness and wellness industry. Ann is the creator of S.E.A.T Supported Exercise for Ageless Training and presents for SCW IDEA ICAA AFC

In episode #73, we dive into the world of macronutrients—but through a holistic lens. Nicole Printon explores how nutrition goes far beyond numbers and tracking, from foundational knowledge to emotional eating and long-term sustainability. Whether you're a wellness professional or just looking to better understand your body, this conversation sheds light on how macronutrients affect every part of your well-being.

🔍 Topics Covered:

1. Foundational Understanding

What are macronutrients, and why are they essential from a holistic nutrition standpoint?

How do holistic practitioners approach “macros” differently than traditional dietitians or fitness coaches?

2. 🥦 In...

The 2024 IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year, Ingrid Knight-Cohee, is back! This time, she addresses the "elephant in the room"—the next generation of instructors! She covers:

How the demographic landscape of fitness professionals is shifting

Why understanding generational differences matters more than ever

Key motivators for younger generations to become instructors

The role of passion, purpose, and personal brand in career decisions

The importance of authentic connection and belonging

The critical role mentorship plays in building confidence and skills

Ar...

Putting Your Best Foot Forward – A Deep Dive into Foot Health for Fitness Pros

Your feet are your foundation—literally. In this episode with Dr. Emily Splichal, we’re stepping into the world of foot health and why it’s crucial for athletes, trainers, and fitness professionals alike. Whether you're leading group classes, training clients, or pounding the pavement, taking care of your feet isn’t optional—it’s essential. We’re covering common foot issues, injury prevention, smart footwear choices, and practical care tips to keep you moving pain-free and performing at your best.

Topics Covered:<...

The Power of Partnerships – Navigating Conflict & Embracing Differences
Great partnerships aren’t about always agreeing—they’re about learning to work through differences and leverage each other’s strengths. In this episode, we dive into the art of conflict resolution, why opposing personalities can be a strength, and how diverse skill sets create powerful collaborations. Whether you’re in business, leadership, or creative partnerships, this conversation will help you navigate challenges and build stronger relationships.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ Why different personalities can create dynamic, well-rounded teams
✔️ How to approach conflict a...

Episode #69 Summary: In this episode, Amy Boone Thompson dives into what it truly means to be a leader, extrapolating gems of wisdom from a book she recently co-authored, “Lead Like a Woman”.  She explains that great leadership is not established through force, but by embodying gratitude and grace as the foundation. She explores how these qualities empower women to lead with authenticity, resilience, and purpose in any environment—whether in business, family, or personal growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✨ Why gratitude is a leadership superpower and how it shifts your mindset

✨ The rol...

🎙️ Episode #68 Summary
Are you stuck teaching the same old group fitness format, feeling uninspired and burnt out? It’s time to shake things up! In this episode, we dive into the power of evolving as a fitness instructor—embracing new formats, stepping out of your comfort zone, and reigniting your passion for teaching.

💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✅ Signs it’s time to move on from a format you’ve outgrown
✅ The benefits of learning new styles and certifications
✅ How to overcome the fear of change and try something new
✅ Tips for keeping your fitness...

Beyond Recovery: How Rollga Transforms Group Fitness

Guest: Taggart Downare, Founder & Inventor of Rollga

Episode Overview:
In episode 67 we’re joined by Taggart Downare, the visionary behind Rollga, the revolutionary tool that’s redefining movement, recovery, and training. Rollga is more than just a foam roller—it’s a versatile prop that enhances balance, proprioception, and deep muscle release. In this episode, we explore how Rollga is making waves in group fitness, personal training, and beyond!

🔹 The Rollga Origin Story

Kam Niskach is BACK for part 2! This time she speaks to WOMEN about why it is so important to lift weights. She shares with us her secrets to success and gives us the inside scoop on HOW she trains and WHY she trains the way she does. We talk about her supplement company K-Pow Nutrition and her group fitness format MetKon RX!

Kam Niskach, DPT, is a fitness trainer, educator, sports performance coach, and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. After transitioning from physical therapy, she dedicated herself to building a...

Episode 65 is a juicy dish! Tune in to Ellen and Kam, “east coast-west coast besties” and former colleagues talk openly and honestly about their experiences with Beachbody and how they rose from the ashes. 

Kam Niskach, DPT, is a fitness trainer, educator, sports performance coach, and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. After transitioning from physical therapy, she dedicated herself to building a community for fitness enthusiasts and athletes of all ages and abilities. As a former P90X LIVE Format Expert and Beachbody LIVE Master Trainer of the Year, Kam playe...

Mastering Your Metabolism

In this episode, Nicole Printon and Ellen de Werd dive deep into the world of blood sugar—what it is, why it matters, and how you can take control of it to optimize your metabolism and overall health. Nicole explores the key factors that influence blood sugar, the consequences of imbalances, and how cutting-edge tools like Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) can help you make smarter lifestyle choices.

🩸 Segment 1: What is Blood Sugar?

Imposter syndrome is a real struggle for many of us, but what if constantly talking about it is actually making it stronger? In this episode (#63), we challenge the idea that giving too much attention to imposter syndrome only fuels self-doubt. Instead of reinforcing the narrative that we’re “not enough,” Ellen de Werd encourages us to shift our mindset and stop giving power to the fear of not measuring up.

Quotes from the Episode:
🗣️ “Talking about imposter syndrome is not in alignment with your best self . In fact, giving it a voice is feeding your worst self...the we...

Ever wondered what goes into the professional production of a fitness video? Tune into episode 62 where Ellen de Werd interviews her entire cast immediately after filming a lesson. We talk openly, honestly, and candidly about the whole process, which takes eight weeks from start to finish. 

This episode is highly entertaining, so grab some popcorn  🍿 

Thank you so much for listening! Please rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and share the show!

Check out the WARRIOR formats:

⁠https://warriorinstructors.com/⁠

🤘🏼 Follow Ellen on Social:

⁠⁠https://www.linke...