Escape Your Limits & LIFTS

ESCAPE YOUR LIMITS: Inside the minds of fitness industry influencers. Find out what drives, fuels and motivates the leaders in health and fitness. Each episode of Escape Your Limits reveals the mental, physical and emotional ingredients involved in standing out above everybody else. Discover why successful people keep going when most people stop, and what keeps them going day after day. It’s not about shortcuts for dreamers; these people prove that constant hard work fueled by the right frame of mind is what makes dreams a reality. Join Matthew Januszek, co-founder of Escape Fitness, as he delves into the mindset of leadership and success. LIFTS: Every week, our intrepid hosts Matthew Januszek of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal of SweatWorks will discuss the breaking fitness industry news, providing their own perspective on the headlines whilst provoking thoughts and conversations. All delivered in a quick-fix, approximately 30-minute podcast.

LIFTS Episode 98 - Strava vs Garmin, Basic‑Fit Expansion & AI’s Rise with Leon Rudge 11/16/2025

LIFTS Episode 98 - Strava vs Garmin, Basic‑Fit Expansion & AI’s Rise with Leon Rudge In this episode of LIFTS, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with fitness technology veteran Leon Rudge for a deep dive into three major stories shaping the industry: the Basic‑Fit/Clever‑Fit mega‑merger, the Strava vs Garmin lawsuit, and Ladder’s push into integrated nutrition tracking. Leon also shares insights from four months immersed in Southeast Asia’s digital‑nomad tech hubs. Key topics include: • Leon’s experiences inside Southeast Asia’s booming digital‑nomad tech scene. • Why the Basic‑Fit acquisition signals a new phase for European fitness. • The real story behind the Strava vs. Garmin lawsuit. • Why integration, not features, is the new competitive advantage. • How Ladder is using nutrition tracking to boost retention. • The rise of AI across fitness products and ecosystems. • Why culture gets lost as companies scale and how to prevent it. • Predictions for global fitness technology in 2025–2026. 👉 To learn more about Leon Rudge click here: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 Intro & Retreat Check‑In 01:26 Matthew’s Immersive Retreat 03:05 Guest Intro: Leon Rudge 03:36 Why Leon Moved to Southeast Asia 05:24 Traditional Tech vs the New Tech Mindset 06:36 AI‑Driven Digital Nomad Culture 08:10 Story 1: Basic‑Fit Acquires Clever‑Fit 11:15 Tech Integration Challenges Ahead 13:57 Data Strategy & App Ecosystems 15:29 Story 2: Strava vs Garmin Lawsuit 17:34 Why Integrations Fail 24:32 Story 3: Ladder Adds Nutrition Tracking 26:14 Strength Apps & Measurement Challenges 32:00 Key Takeaways: Integration & Longevity 37:25 AI Boom or Bubble? 37:38 Closing Thoughts /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/39047790

LIFTS Episode 97 - How Gyms Can Stop Chasing Gadgets and Start Healing People with Dr. Sean Pastuch 11/09/2025

LIFTS Episode 97 - How Gyms Can Stop Chasing Gadgets and Start Healing People with Dr. Sean Pastuch In this episode of the LIFTS Podcast, Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Dr. Sean Pastuch, founder of Active Life, to challenge the industry’s obsession with recovery rooms and redefine what it truly means to treat fitness as healthcare. From debunking lazy innovation to outlining a blueprint for gyms that prioritize people over gadgets, this conversation reimagines how fitness professionals can become the front line of real health transformation. Key topics include: • Why recovery rooms are the ‘lazy man’s innovation.’ • The economics and illusion of retention in gyms. • How trainers can evolve into healthcare professionals. • The difference between preventative and responsive fitness. • How to attract and develop high-value trainers. • When AI should, and shouldn’t-- replace human judgment. • Why fitness must specialize like medicine to truly grow. 👉 To learn more about Dr. Sean Pastuch, click here: 👉 To get Sean's ebook "Turn Pro" for free, click here: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 Intro & Tribute to Rick Caro 02:19 The Recovery Movement & Industry Data 05:00 Are Gyms Investing in the Wrong Things? 10:43 What the ‘Wellness Industry’ Really Includes 13:19 Retention, Training, and Investment Priorities 17:29 Who Actually Needs Recovery? 23:32 Fitness as Healthcare Explained 27:01 Why Physical Therapy Isn’t Enough 30:12 Developing Great Trainers 33:03 Targeting the Right Clients 36:29 Specialization and Industry Evolution 39:08 What Belongs in a Modern Gym 41:22 The Role of AI and Technology 43:50 Key Takeaways & Closing Thoughts /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38916820

LIFTS Episode 96 - Exercise Is Medicine: Inside the 2025 Global Fitness Report with Liz Clark & Anton Severin of HFA 11/02/2025

LIFTS Episode 96 - Exercise Is Medicine: Inside the 2025 Global Fitness Report with Liz Clark & Anton Severin of HFA In this special remote episode of the LIFTS Podcast, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Liz Clark and Anton Severin of the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA) to unpack the 2024–2025 Global Fitness Report and explore the intersection of data, health, and the future of fitness. Recorded across three continents, this conversation dives deep into how exercise is redefining healthcare, the evolving role of recovery and wellness, and what’s next for the global industry. Key topics discussed: The new definition of obesity and its massive implications for public health. How fitness must be recognized as preventative healthcare. Global fitness market growth and emerging trends. Why recovery and wellness are now the new anchors in gyms. The rise of wearables, AI, and the need for standardized fitness data. Bridging fitness with healthcare through credible evidence and policy. The future of the FIT Act and global legislative momentum. Recruiting and retaining qualified trainers and instructors. Generational shifts: from aesthetics to mental health and longevity. The evolving role of the Health & Fitness Association in shaping the industry. 👉 To get your copies of the Health & Fitness Associations Reports please use the links below: 2025 HFA Global Report: 👉 2025 Fitness Industry Benchmarking Report: 👉 If you are an operator located in the US or Canadian markets, please also complete the Employee Compensation and Benefits Survey by Friday November 14, 2025: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 – Introduction: Mo from Sydney 1:42 – Introducing Liz Clark & Anton Severin of HFA 4:27 – Obesity crisis and redefining fitness as healthcare 8:10 – The global fitness report and data insights 15:30 – Post-pandemic growth and changing consumer behavior 17:28 – Gyms as third spaces & the rise of recovery zones 26:27 – Recruiting trainers and the challenge of engagement 31:49 – Wearables, AI, and fitness data accuracy 39:04 – Turning fitness data into medical-grade insight 45:24 – From participation to impact: the next decade of fitness 46:05 – The FIT Act and global policy shifts 50:18 – Key takeaways from the report 53:49 – Upcoming HFA event & closing remarks /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38870685

LIFTS Episode 95 - Dan Uyemura on Tech, Trust & Transformation in the Fitness Industry 10/26/2025

LIFTS Episode 94 - The Future of Fitness & Recovery: Insights from Industry Leaders at W3Fit North America 10/19/2025

LIFTS Episode 93 - W3Fit Live: Industry Consolidation, Robotic Massages & Celebrity Endorsements 10/12/2025

LIFTS Episode 92 - LIFTS Live Podcast at W3Fit North America with Matthew Januszek & Mohammed Iqbal 10/05/2025

LIFTS Episode 92 - LIFTS Live Podcast at W3Fit North America with Matthew Januszek & Mohammed Iqbal Live from W3Fit North America at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal host a special onstage edition of the LIFTS podcast. In this wide-ranging conversation, they explore the future of the fitness industry—from AI gyms and private equity consolidation to the booming recovery market and the resurgence of strength training. Discussion highlights include: What makes live podcasts unique compared to studio episodes. First impressions of Fred Fitness, the AI-first gym. The impact of mergers, acquisitions, and private equity in fitness tech. How AI is reshaping software, business, and member experience. Why recovery is the next big differentiator for gyms. Programming and personalization in recovery spaces. Revenue and retention gains from recovery add-ons. Strength training, Pilates, and pickleball as the future modalities. The cultural rise of run clubs and community-based fitness. How fitness brands can innovate to stay ahead of shifting trends. 👉 Learn more about W3Fit: https://weworkwellevents.com/w3-fit/ Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro & Live Audience Energy 1:30 What Makes W3Fit Different 3:00 Visiting Fred Fitness: The AI Gym 7:20 Industry Consolidation & Private Equity 16:20 The Role of AI in Fitness Businesses 19:20 Recovery & Wellness Trends 27:10 DIY vs. Service-Based Recovery Models 35:00 Future Modalities: Strength, Pilates, Pickleball 39:10 Strength Training’s Cultural Shift 44:30 Closing Thoughts & Tomorrow’s Follow-Up Session /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38436725

LIFTS Episode 91 - Apple vs. Samsung vs. Oura – Who Wins in Health Tech? | with ROOK Co-Founder Marco Benitez 09/28/2025

LIFTS Episode 91 - Apple vs. Samsung vs. Oura – Who Wins in Health Tech? | with ROOK Co-Founder Marco Benitez Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. This week, Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Marco Benitez—former Taekwondo champion turned biomedical engineer and now CEO of rook, a health tech company that transforms wearable data into actionable health insights. Together, they explore how wearables are reshaping the future of fitness, healthcare, and personal health. Key topics covered include: Why your smartwatch might already know more about your health than your doctor. How Apple, Samsung, and Aura are competing in the wearable health space. The challenge of making sense of endless health data. What FDA approval for consumer wearables really means. How fitness coaches and gyms can use wearable data to improve client outcomes. The differences in HRV tracking across Apple, Whoop, and Aura. Wearables as a bridge between fitness and healthcare industries. The future of implants, rings, and continuous monitoring devices. Marco’s vision for rook as the middleware connecting all wearable platforms. 👉 Learn more about Marco Benitez: 👉 Learn more about ROOK: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro & Guest Introduction 0:45 Do Smartwatches Know More Than Doctors? 2:44 Wearables During COVID and Data Explosion 6:55 Why Coaches Must Use Wearable Data 10:00 Apple Watch as a Public Health Tool 12:30 Accuracy vs. Data Trends 15:00 HRV Tracking Explained 18:42 How Consumers Actually Use Apple Watch 20:41 Wearables in Latin America & Global Health 23:02 Apple vs. Samsung vs. Huawei 25:40 Future of Wearables – Implants & Rings 27:31 Rook’s Role in Cleaning Wearable Data 29:37 Wearables Are the Next Medical Device 31:14 Final Takeaways & Closing /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38248875

LIFTS Episode 90 - Building the Future of AI-Powered Nutrition with Rami Alhamad 09/21/2025

LIFTS Episode 90 - Building the Future of AI-Powered Nutrition with Rami Alhamad Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. In this episode, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with entrepreneur and engineer Rami Alhamad, co-founder and CEO of Alma, an AI-powered nutrition companion. From his early days building PUSH, the pioneering strength-tracking wearable later acquired by WHOOP, to his mission with Alma, Rami shares insights on persistence, startup timing, decision-making, and the future of fitness technology. Key topics covered include: How persistence and decision-making frameworks shaped Rami’s entrepreneurial journey. The origins of PUSH and its role in strength-tracking innovation. Why timing is everything in startups. Rami’s decision to sell PUSH to WHOOP and lessons learned. The pivot from hardware to AI-powered nutrition with Alma. Why ChatGPT is Alma’s real competitor. Challenges in nutrition tracking and how AI is solving them. Insights into branding, Nike, and the importance of offline communities. Predictions for the future of fitness and consumer tech. 👉 Learn more about Rami Alhamad: 👉 Learn more about Alma Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro – Hosts and Guest Introduction 1:11 Persistence as a Founder’s Superpower 3:03 Decision-Making Frameworks and Philosophy 5:57 The Origin Story of PUSH 10:00 The Future of Strength-Tracking Technology 13:48 When to Sell a Startup 18:24 Pivoting to AI and Nutrition with ALMA 22:16 Obesity, AI, and the Case for ALMA 27:47 ChatGPT vs Nutrition Apps 32:38 Voice Logging and the Future of Nutrition Tech 37:26 Patents, Innovation, and Wearable Competition 40:38 Branding, Nike, and Reaching New Generations 44:49 The Future is Offline Communities 47:02 Generational Shifts and Technology 50:57 Final Takeaways and Closing Thoughts /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38206920

LIFTS Episode 89 - ClassPass Debate: Does It Help or Hurt Studio Owners? Jeff Bladt vs. Rachel Hirsch 09/14/2025

LIFTS Episode 89 - ClassPass Debate: Does It Help or Hurt Studio Owners? Jeff Bladt vs. Rachel Hirsch In this special debate episode of the LIFTS Podcast, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal are joined by guest co-host Jack Thomas (Fitness Business Asia) to moderate a high-level discussion on the impact of ClassPass for boutique fitness owners. Industry voices Jeff Bladt (ClassPass/Playlist) and Rachel Hirsch (Wellness Growth Ventures, The 2% Club, and studio owner) share opposing perspectives on whether ClassPass is a powerful growth partner or a dangerous dependency. Discussion highlights include: The origin and evolution of ClassPass. How ClassPass transformed consumer behavior in fitness. Free trials, pricing power, and fairness for studios. Parallels with aggregators in travel, dining, and delivery. Revenue data showing both growth and risks for studio owners. Strategies to avoid over-reliance on ClassPass. How ClassPass affects women-led boutique studios. Industry-wide calls for better collaboration between aggregators and studios. 👉 Learn more about Jack Thomas: 👉 Learn more about Jeff Bladt: 👉 Learn more about Rachel Hirsch: 👉 Learn more about ClassPass: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro & Hosts 4:21 Why ClassPass Matters 5:50 The Origin Story of ClassPass 10:30 Consumer Perspective with Rachel 12:46 Free Trials Debate 19:10 ClassPass as an Aggregator 23:05 Discounting & Devaluation Issues 27:40 Revenue Data Insights 33:44 Consumer Wins vs. Studio Risks 38:22 Women in Leadership Discussion 47:51 Final Thoughts & Takeaways 54:34 Closing Remarks /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/38114320

EYL Ep 343 - My Crazy FBI Arrest Story That Changed Everything! | Owen Hanson 09/07/2025

EYL Ep 343 - My Crazy FBI Arrest Story That Changed Everything! | Owen Hanson On this week’s episode of the Escape Your Limits Podcast, we welcome Owen Hanson, a dynamic entrepreneur, former athlete and the ultimate example of crime to come back. Once a USC football player with a bright future, Owen’s competitive drive led him to build a multi- million-dollar bookmaking business — but that success came at a cost. Drawn deeper into the criminal underworld, Owen became entangled with one of the world’s most dangerous cartels, running international drug operations while living a life of extreme luxury. After his dramatic arrest by the FBI — helicopters, undercover agents, and all — Owen found himself locked in a 6x8 prison cell. But instead of giving up, he found a new purpose: fitness, mindset mastery, and even launching a protein ice-cream brand from behind bars. In this powerful episode, Owen shares his jaw-dropping journey from national championships to Cartel connections, from extravagant spending to creative prison hustles, and ultimately to a path of personal redemption. He opens up about the dangerous allure of fast money, the brutal lessons of prison life and how he’s rebuilding his empire the right way. Packed with raw insights, unbelievable stories and hard-won wisdom, this conversation is one you absolutely do not want to miss. In this podcast, Owen discusses: His arrest and FBI takedown. The journey from USC athlete to businessman. How business led to Cartel connections. Prison life and survival hustle. The birth of Kingpin Ice Cream (now California Ice Protein). Extravagant lifestyle and excess. Addiction, pressure and a strong mindset. Reinvention and second chances. Lessons for entrepreneurs. To learn more about Owen Hanson, click here: To buy Owen's book, click here: Check out Owen's new protein ice cream business click here: ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: Shop gym equipment: View our full catalog: https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog (US) https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue (UK) ====================================================== Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro 0:30 Getting arrested and realizations 9:31 Finding hope and maintaining sanity 12:16 Football and early ambitions 16:08 Transition to bookmaking and business growth 17:27 Mathematical skills and business strategy 28:02 International expansion and logistics 36:53 Handing pressure and making decisions 42:17 Luxury and extravagance 46:33 Interactions with the Cartel 52:20 Post-prison business ventures 53:11 Building Kingpin, the ice-cream brand in prison 1:03:40 The importance of appearance and image 1:07:01 Overcoming challenges and building the brand 1:08:42 Lessons learned and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/36539965

LIFTS Episode 88 - From Bond Trading to Fitness Tech: Lauren Foundos' Journey 08/31/2025

LIFTS Episode 87 - From F45 to Strong Pilates Going Global | Michael Ramsey’s Journey 08/24/2025

LIFTS Episode 87 - From F45 to Strong Pilates Going Global | Michael Ramsey’s Journey In this episode of LIFTS, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Michael Ramsey, co-founder of Strong Pilates, to explore the explosive growth of Pilates worldwide. Ramsey shares his journey from F45 franchise success to launching Strong Pilates, a unique fusion of strength, cardio, and Pilates that has rapidly expanded across 14 countries. The discussion covers the evolution of boutique fitness, the importance of product innovation, franchise support, marketing strategies, and the controversial role of ClassPass. Key Topics: How an injury led Ramsey to discover Pilates. The fusion of strength, cardio, and Pilates in Strong. Franchise growth from Australia to the US. Why boutique studios still win over big box gyms. The critical role of innovation in fitness. Marketing strategies and customer acquisition costs. The challenges and opportunities of ClassPass. Building trust and community in local markets. Handling criticism from traditionalists in Pilates. Future outlook for Strong Pilates and boutique fitness. 👉 Learn more about Strong Pilates: 👉 Learn more about Michael Ramsey: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro & Host Updates 0:59 Guest Introduction – Michael Ramsey 3:55 The Global Pilates Boom 4:38 From F45 to Strong Pilates 6:18 Fusing Pilates, Strength & Cardio 10:00 Entrepreneurship & Timing 13:19 Boutique vs. Big Box Gyms 15:03 What Makes Studios Successful 16:22 Marketing & Cost of Acquisition 18:18 The Rise of Strength Training 20:00 Innovation in Fitness 22:01 Expanding in the US Market 25:00 The ClassPass Debate 30:00 Filling Classes & Community 33:49 Challenges Entering the US 35:13 Wearables & Stress Study 36:00 Closing Thoughts /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/37898400

LIFTS Episode 86 - Inside the Running Boom and Smart Footwear Revolution with Royi Metser 08/17/2025

LIFTS Episode 86 - Inside the Running Boom and Smart Footwear Revolution with Royi Metser Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal speak with Royi Metser, Founder & CEO of Avelo Running, about the explosive growth of running, the evolution of smart footwear, and how data-driven insights are changing the sport forever. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Gen Z and women are driving the second running boom. Why running clubs are replacing bars as social hubs. The challenges big brands faced in launching smart shoes. How Avelo integrates cutting-edge materials with advanced sensors. The importance of mechanical load monitoring for injury prevention. Why Kickstarter backers snapped up Avelo’s first batch in under 20 hours. Insights on running form myths and individual biomechanics. The role of gyms and treadmills in the future of running. How data can help every runner train smarter and safer. 👉 Learn more about Avelo Running: 👉 Learn more about Avelo Running Kickstarter: 👉 Learn more about Royi Metser: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro & Creatine Experiment 4:03 Creatine Gummies & Supplement Quality 6:28 Guest Introduction – Royi Metser 8:11 The Second Running Boom 12:13 Why Running is Timeless 14:56 Treadmills vs Outdoor Running 18:19 Running Clubs as Community Hubs 20:19 Why Big Brands Failed at Smart Shoes 25:21 The Materials & Tech Behind Avelo 32:23 Preventing Running Injuries with Data 32:41 Kickstarter Launch Success 34:34 Guiding Runners Beyond Guesswork 36:29 Debunking Running Form Myths 38:09 Host Takeaways 43:09 Closing Thoughts & Preorder Info /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/37824425

LIFTS Episode 85 - Trump Brings Back Presidential Fitness Test and National Wearable Data Integration 08/10/2025

LIFTS Episode 84 - Wellness, Hospitality, and Recovery Trends and Events Popular with Gen Z | Star Sage of Hyperice 08/03/2025

LIFTS Episode 83 - FISA Insights, Tariffs, Trends & Planet Fitness Growth with Sal Pellegrino 07/27/2025

LIFTS Episode 82 - Building Gyms for Longevity, Not Just Muscle | Rod Hill of Zenergie 07/20/2025

LIFTS Episode 81 - Connecting the Dots in Wellness: From Recovery Shoes to Artificial Dyes | Brian von Ancken 07/13/2025

LIFTS Episode 81 - Connecting the Dots in Wellness: From Recovery Shoes to Artificial Dyes | Brian von Ancken Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. In this episode of LIFTS, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Brian von Ancken, wellness entrepreneur and mastermind community leader, to dive into the future of fitness, biohacking, and collaborative innovation. From protein cold foam to recovery clogs, and even fecal transplants, nothing is off the table. Key Topics Discussed: Brian’s journey scaling brands like Tough Mudder, Barry’s, and Othership. How his mastermind group connects over 200 wellness entrepreneurs. Elite athlete fecal transplants: biohacking or bizarre?. The explosion of protein products in mainstream retail. Innovation in recovery footwear and smart shoes. How to responsibly vet science and trends in wellness. Why American foods still use dyes banned in Europe. The rise of wellness as the new luxury experience. Building a supportive and ethical health industry community. 👉 Learn more about Brian von Ancken: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 0:00 Intro + Cold Open Topics 0:36 Catch-up with Matthew and Mo 1:06 Tonal Gains + Hume Health Scale 4:44 Matthew’s Fasting Protocol 7:56 Guest Introduction: Brian von Ancken 9:21 Wellness Silo Breakdown & Integration 11:40 Elite Athlete Fecal Transplants 17:15 Protein Goes Mainstream 25:04 Recovery Innovation: Super Shoes & Clogs 31:26 Wellness as the New Luxury 33:58 Science, Skepticism, and Marketing 36:16 Artificial Dyes and Food Ethics 38:54 Brian’s Final Thoughts 40:17 Outro + Final Reflections /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/37357610

LIFTS Episode 80 - Edward Hertzman: Disrupting the Fitness Industry from the Outside In 07/06/2025

LIFTS Episode 80 - Edward Hertzman: Disrupting the Fitness Industry from the Outside In Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Matthew and Mo sit down with Edward Hertzman, founder of Athletech News, to unpack insights from last week’s Innovation Summit in NYC. From fitness industry disruption and wearable tech to rethinking health outcomes and branding, they explore where the industry is heading. Key takeaways include: Why the fitness industry may need a new name. The dangers of unregulated TRT use and peptide clinics. Tracking actual health outcomes instead of just gym check-ins. The role of wearables in reshaping accountability and personalization. How HVLP models like EOS and Crunch are thriving. The strategic value of long-term thinking in event planning. What disruption in fitness can learn from other industries. The surprising power of fashion and discipline in health branding. Opportunities for collaboration across wellness, hospitality, and tech. 👉 Learn more about Athletech News: 👉 Learn more about Edward Hertzman: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 – Welcome and Introductions 02:17 – Edward Recaps the Innovation Summit 06:44 – NAD, TRT, and Biohacking Trends 09:07 – Fitness Industry Identity Crisis 13:01 – Rethinking Health Metrics and ROI 18:13 – Why the Industry Doesn’t Collaborate 22:53 – Tracking Health Outcomes in Gyms 27:44 – Disruption and Outsider Innovation 32:17 – HVLP Growth and Private Equity 36:01 – What’s Going on with Orange Theory? 41:35 – The Rise of Wearables in Fitness /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/37287335

LIFTS Episode 79 - Fitness Meets Healthcare: Where Are We Headed? | Athletech Innovation Summit 2025 with Emma Barry 06/29/2025

LIFTS Episode 79 - Fitness Meets Healthcare: Where Are We Headed? | Athletech Innovation Summit 2025 with Emma Barry In this special LIFTS recap episode, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal are joined by fitness futurist Emma Barry to reflect on their shared experience at the Athletech News Innovation Summit in New York. From immersive biohacks to political debates, the conversation gets real, raw, and reveals what’s next for the fitness industry. This episode covers: Firsthand reviews of NAD+ infusions, ShiftWave, and the Immortal experience. Debates around GLP-1 drugs, longevity trends, and influencer-led wellness. Insights on turning fitness from a trend into front-line healthcare. What Japan teaches us about childhood obesity – and why the U.S. is lagging. Emma Barry’s call to arms: Prepare for disruption, or be left behind. Big Pharma, Big Food, and the uphill battle for consumer health. Why AI’s future in fitness lies in context and personalization. The struggle to have real conversations when investors are watching. Is wellness finally mainstream – or still misunderstood? What made this summit different – and why it matters. 👉 Learn more about Emma Barry: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 – Intro + Innovation Summit Debrief 02:30 – Biohacking at the Summit (NAD+, ShiftWave, Immortal) 10:30 – Keynote Highlights & Industry Disruption 14:30 – Political Tensions & Healthcare Reform 25:00 – Mo's Shocking Healthcare Statistics 28:00 – The Japan Model: Early Intervention and Respect 33:00 – Addiction, GLP-1s, and the Challenge of Change 36:00 – Influencers vs. Institutions: Who’s Leading Wellness? 45:00 – Big Themes & Final Takeaways 50:00 – Outro + Thank You to Athletech Team /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/37128610

LIFTS Episode 78 - Wearables, Subscriptions & Data: A Deep Dive with Ben Foster 06/22/2025

LIFTS Episode 77 - AI Coaches, Cheap Pilates Reformers & Supra Human Fitness with Debra Strougo 06/15/2025

LIFTS Episode 77 - AI Coaches, Cheap Pilates Reformers & Supra Human Fitness with Debra Strougo Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. This week, Matthew and Mohammed are joined by Debra Strougo (co-founder of Row House) to explore the cutting edge of wellness. From biohacking breakthroughs at the Dave Asprey conference to magnesium for sleep, AI coaches with empathy, and a viral $150 Pilates reformer from Aldi—this episode covers it all. Debra brings insights on stem cells, Airbnb's bold move into wellness, and how marketing voice defines success in high-ticket fitness. A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of health and fitness. This LIFTS episode covers: Biohacking & Supplements – Insights from the Dave Asprey conference, including nitric oxide, magnesium, and stem cell supplements. AI in Wellness – Exploring empathetic AI health coaches, personalization, and trust in tech like ChatGPT. Wellness Tech & Data – How companies like Amazon, Apple, and Airbnb are leveraging user data to drive health and fitness experiences. High-Ticket Fitness Programs – Discussion of Supra Human and the rise of identity-based, premium fitness coaching. Mass-Market Fitness Trends – Aldi’s viral Pilates reformer and what it says about wellness going mainstream. 👉 Learn more about Debra Strougo: Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: 🛒 Shop gym equipment: 📘 View our full catalog: US – UK – Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 – Intro & Weekly Rundown 01:24 – Welcoming Debra Strougo 02:59 – Biohacking Conference Highlights 05:51 – Sleep Supplements & Magnesium 08:06 – Stem Cell Supplements 09:14 – AI Coaching with Empathy 12:14 – Trusting AI as a Wellness Coach 15:14 – Airbnb's Wellness Expansion 21:23 – Superhuman: Identity Transformation 27:18 – Aldi’s Viral Pilates Reformer 30:50 – Final Takeaways & Reflections /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/36885100

LIFTS Episode 76 - Ring Wars, Sleep Hacks & The Future of Fitness Tech 06/08/2025

LIFTS Episode 75 - The Truth Behind Profitable Fitness Studios | Julian Barnes of BFS 06/01/2025

LIFTS Episode 75 - The Truth Behind Profitable Fitness Studios | Julian Barnes of BFS Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Today, hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks, are joined by Julian Barnes, Co-founder and CEO of BFS. Julian unpacks critical trends shaping boutique fitness—like the explosive growth of Pilates studios, the impact of tariffs on equipment pricing, and the secrets behind the most profitable studios. If you're a studio owner, investor, or just passionate about the business of fitness, this is an essential listen packed with actionable insights. This LIFTS episode covers: The power of hiring a full-time manager. Studio profitability benchmarks and benchmarks. Tariffs, supply chains, and pricing strategy. The growing role of experience in member retention. Why Pilates is outperforming other modalities. To learn more about the 2024 BFS State of the Industry Report, click here: Use discount code "LIFTS" to get $50.00 off your copy of the report. ====================================================== Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at wendy@escapefitness.com for advertising opportunities. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: Shop gym equipment: View our full catalog: https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog (US) https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue (UK) ====================================================== Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 Welcome Back to LIFTS 02:00 Introducing Julian Barnes 03:30 The BFS Network & State of the Industry 05:10 Breaking News: Exponential Fitness & Sequel 08:45 Studio-Level Performance vs Portfolio Models 11:20 The Impact of Tariffs on Equipment Imports 16:15 Rethinking Global Manufacturing Strategies 19:40 How Operators Can Sell Outcomes, Not Features 21:00 Profitable Studios Have One Key Role… 24:00 Trainer vs. CEO: What Studio Owners Must Become 27:30 FER: Find, Enroll, Retain 30:00 Aggregators like ClassPass: Help or Hindrance? 33:00 Pilates Is Booming—Here’s Why 37:00 What Actually Works in Boutique Fitness 42:00 Raise Prices, Raise Value 45:00 Takeaways: Fundamentals Over Fads 48:30 Disney-Level Client Experience? Why It Matters 50:00 Wrap-up & How to Get the Report /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/36766020

LIFTS Episode 74 - Revolutionizing Self-Care: The Social Wellness Movement | Dr. Jonathan Leary, Founder | Remedy Place 05/25/2025

LIFTS Episode 73 - Can Gamification Make You Healthier? The Surprising Power of Play | FIBO 2025 05/18/2025

LIFTS Episode 72 - AI in Fitness: Industry Leaders Discuss Practical Applications Beyond the Hype | FIBO 2025 05/11/2025

LIFTS Episode 71 - Beyond the Hype: Tim Gray on Biohacking’s Real Impact on Health | PerformX LIVE 2025 05/04/2025

LIFTS Episode 70 - The Rise of Budget Boutique Fitness in Europe – What’s Driving the Boom? | EHFF "Live" at FIBO 2025 04/27/2025

LIFTS Episode 70 - The Rise of Budget Boutique Fitness in Europe – What’s Driving the Boom? | EHFF "Live" at FIBO 2025 Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended EHFF 2025 in Cologne, Germany. In part 2 of this episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by: Michelle Dand, Head of Fitness Product and Programming of David Lloyd. Benjamin Roth, Co-Founder and CEO of Urban Sports Club. Jim Pisani, CEO and Board Member of Life Fitness Hammer Strength. David Stalker, Ambassador for EuropeActive. This episode covers: Evolution of branded group fitness programming at premium clubs in response to boutique competition. The rise of budget boutique fitness concepts in Europe and their rapid scaling approach. Equipment manufacturing strategy and the renewed focus on both cardio and strength equipment. Impact of global political climate and tariffs on fitness equipment production and pricing. The industry's decade-long transition from fitness-focused to health-focused approaches. The importance of offering multiple fitness modalities to meet diverse consumer preferences. To learn more about EHFF, click here: ====================================================== Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at marketing@escapefitness.com for advertising opportunities. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: Shop gym equipment: View our full catalog: (US) (UK) ====================================================== Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: 00:00 Intro 02:36 David Lloyd’s Response to Market Trends 05:00 Challenges and Lessons from Standalone Boutiques 07:28 Budget Boutique Market and Its Impact 27:58 Life Fitness and Hammer Strength’s Evolution 41:35 Impact of Global Political Climate on Business 49:37 David Stalker’s Reflections on Industry Growth 50:55 Mentorship and Advisory Roles 52:09 Future of the Fitness Industry /episode/index/show/escapefitness/id/36317090

Escape Your Limits & LIFTS

TOPICS