What do you do when your format disappears overnight? If you're Ellen de Werd, you build your own. In this vulnerable and motivating episode, Ellen shares how she turned a pivotal career moment into a thriving global fitness brand—and why authenticity, grit, and representation are at the core of her mission.

With more than 25 years of experience, Ellen de Werd has worn nearly every hat in group fitness—from instructor and manager to presenter and now CEO of her own format brand. In this episode, Ellen opens up about overcoming personal struggles, building WARRIOR formats from the ground up, and creating an inclusive community for instructors around the world. She also shares her framework for long-term fulfillment and success in the industry, and gives us a sneak peek at what she’s bringing to IDEA World 2025.

Ellen de Werd is a renowned fitness industry leader with over 25 years of experience in group fitness. A 2024 IDEA Group Fitness Instructor of the Year Award nominee, she is the visionary creator behind the WARRIOR formats—dynamic, license-free programs now taught in 14 countries. Through her company, Ellen empowers group fitness professionals with smart, fun, and original content designed to inspire and elevate their classes. She’s also the host of the Confessions of a GroupX Instructor podcast, a Legacy Lululemon Ambassador, and an active instructor based in Eugene, Oregon.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

✅ How Ellen went from backup dancer to brand founder

✅ What it really takes to start your own format from scratch

✅ The 5 ingredients in Ellen’s personal framework for fulfillment and success

✅ How the WARRIOR formats create inclusive, license-free opportunities for instructors

✅ Why IDEA World 2025 is a full-circle moment in her journey

Sign up for Ellen’s sessions live at IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

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Get in touch with Ellen:

• Instagram: @ellendewerd

Learn more about WARRIOR formats: warriorinstructors.com

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IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness...

What happens when a fitness icon and a professional athlete join forces—onstage and off? In this heartwarming and high-impact conversation, Carolyn Erickson and her daughter Juliann Faucette reveal the power of multigenerational mentorship, mindset mastery, and motherhood in motion.

This special Mother's Day episode celebrates the powerful bond between a trailblazing mom and her elite athlete daughter. Carolyn Erickson and Juliann Faucette open up about motherhood, mentorship, and how fitness shaped every chapter of their journey—together and individually.

Carolyn Erickson is a seasoned fitness educator and consultant with nearly four decades in the industry. Her daughter, Juliann Faucette, is a former All-American volleyball player turned pro athlete, coach, and mentor. Together, they reflect on what it takes to grow a career—and a family—in the spotlight. From single motherhood and elite athletics to reinventing careers and raising resilient kids, this episode delivers a deeply personal and inspiring look at what it means to lead by example. You’ll also get a sneak peek at their dynamic session coming to IDEA World 2025.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Carolyn built a multi-decade career while raising three daughters as a single mom

✅ The key mindset shifts that helped Juliann succeed in elite athletics and return after motherhood

✅ Why embracing reinvention is essential for long-term success in fitness and sport

✅ Tangible strategies for coaching young athletes through pressure and identity

✅ Why IDEA World 2025 is more than an event—it’s a full-circle moment for this powerhouse duo

Sign up for Carolyn’s sessions live at IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Get in touch with Carolyn:

• Instagram: @carolynannerickson

Get in touch with Juliann:

• Instagram: @juliannfaucette

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s...

What does it take to stay inspired, impactful, and relevant for over three decades in fitness? Jeff McMullen shares the real story behind his longevity—and why service, self-awareness, and joy are the keys to lasting success.

With over 35 years of experience in fitness leadership, education, and performance, Jeff McMullen has done it all—from high-level club management to starring in workout videos and developing signature classes. In this uplifting and honest conversation, Jeff reflects on the power of reinvention, finding joy in service, and the impact IDEA has had on his career. He also shares what it means to show up for others and yourself as a professional, a friend, and a community leader.

Jeff McMullen is a veteran fitness educator and presenter with over 35 years in the industry. Based in Los Angeles, Jeff’s career has spanned competitive athletics, club leadership, and program design. He has contributed to the IDEA Fitness Journal and is a longtime IDEA presenter. Known for his creative energy and dedication to service, Jeff continues to influence the industry through teaching, mentoring, and performing. He will present at IDEA World 2025.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Jeff has stayed relevant and inspired throughout his decades-long career

✅ The personal values that guide his leadership style and teaching philosophy

✅ Why he says, “you can’t serve from an empty cup”—and how he refills his

✅ How to remain open to evolution, even after decades in the business

✅ Why IDEA World 2025 will be a career highlight

Sign up for Jeff McMullen’s sessions live at IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Get in touch with Jeff:

• Website: www.Jeff-Fitnesspro.com
• Instagram: @jefffitnesspro
• Facebook: Jeff Fitness Pro
• LinkedIn: Jeff McMullen

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness...

In this episode, host Amy Boone Thompson welcomes Whitney Houlin—Director of Fitness at WeGym, content creator, and first-time IDEA World presenter—to share her refreshingly realistic approach to fitness. Whitney opens up about her unexpected journey from elementary school teacher to leading voice in the wellness space and how she's redefining what success looks like in fitness.

She dives into the concept of “setting minimums,” a simple but powerful strategy for helping clients build consistency without burnout. You'll hear how she helps people move away from the all-or-nothing mindset and instead focus on what’s actually sustainable. Whitney also shares insight into her role at WeGym, the launch of their new Pro Series equipment line, and what attendees can expect from her sessions at IDEA World 2025.

Whether you're a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, or studio owner, Whitney’s message will resonate: fitness should feel empowering—not overwhelming.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ How Whitney transitioned from teaching school to leading in the fitness industry

✅ Using the “minimums” approach to create consistent fitness habits

✅ Strategies for realistic, sustainable client goal setting

✅ A behind-the-scenes look at WeGym’s new Pro Series and their app launch

✅ What to expect from Whitney’s sessions at IDEA World 2025

Sign up early for Whitney Houlin’s sessions and see WeGym’s Pro Series debut live at IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Follow WeGym:

• Instagram: @wegym_fit
• Website: https://wegymfit.com/

Follow Whitney:

• Instagram: @getfit_whit

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including

This week on the IDEAfit Pro Show, host Amy Boone Thompson is joined by international presenter and personal trainer Alessandro Pisanu. Known for his high-energy, music-driven approach to fitness, Alessandro brings his signature style to IDEA World 2025 with three dynamic sessions: Step Fusion, Functional Step, and Functional Bodyweight.

In this episode, Amy and Alessandro discuss the importance of musicality, precision cueing, and designing inclusive and innovative classes. Whether you’re a veteran instructor or new to group fitness, this conversation will inspire you to level up your movement coaching and energize your class experience.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The power of musicality and rhythm in group fitness programming

✅ Why precision cueing is essential for accessibility and participant success

✅ What to expect from Alessandro’s sessions at IDEA World 2025

✅ How he designs inclusive workouts that fuse fun, function, and fitness

✅ Alessandro’s global journey and evolution as a fitness educator

Follow Alessandro:

• Instagram: @ale.pisanu_trainer
• Website: www.alepisanutrainer.com

IDEA World 2025 Sessions:

• Step Fusion – A blend of aerobic choreography and functional training

• Functional Step – Reinventing the step platform with purposeful, progressive drills

• Functional Bodyweight – No equipment, all intensity—learn how to build smarter, balanced routines using just bodyweight

Join Us at IDEA World 2025!

Sacramento, CA

July 17–19

Early Bird pricing available now

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEA upcoming events:

• IDEA World

Download the Brochure



IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via...

Get ready for an insightful and inspiring conversation as host Amy Boone Thompson welcomes Dr. Jonathan Mike to the show. In this episode, we explore Dr. Mike’s approach to smarter strength coaching, progressive overload, and the science of eccentric training—all with a preview of what’s coming to his must-attend sessions at IDEA World 2025.

As a professor, coach, speaker, and researcher, Dr. Mike breaks down what makes training more effective, how to improve movement quality through eccentric and asymmetrical loading, and why it’s time to challenge outdated methods. Plus, hear how he uses real-time feedback and innovative teaching styles to empower coaches and elevate the fitness profession.

Whether you’re attending IDEA World for the first time or returning for more, this episode gives you a front-row seat to Dr. Mike’s teaching style and the value-packed sessions he’ll be leading in Los Angeles this July.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ What to expect from Dr. Mike’s IDEA World 2025 sessions on eccentric training and asymmetrical loading

✅ How question-based coaching techniques can improve communication and client outcomes

✅ Why tempo and tension are crucial variables for building strength

✅ Dr. Mike’s approach to challenging traditional training models with critical thinking

✅ What makes IDEA World a uniquely energizing and must-attend event for fitness pros

Follow Dr. Mike:

• Instagram: @drjmike
• TikTok, Facebook & YouTube: Dr. J Mike

Find his articles and courses on IDEAfit.com – just search “Dr. Mike” to explore his past sessions and content.

Dr. Mike is presenting two sessions on Saturday, July 19.

Don’t wait! Early-Bird pricing is available now, and session seats are filling fast.

Register for IDEA World 2025: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/

Browse the session schedule: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/sessions-thursday/

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEA upcoming events:

• IDEA World

Download the

Welcome to the IDEAfit Pro Show Season 6!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jan Schroeder. Jan is the event programmer for the 2025 IDEA World Fitness Convention and a professor of Kinesiology at Long Beach State University. Get an exclusive look at what’s in store for this year’s event, including top presenters, session categories, special features, and what makes IDEA World an unforgettable experience.

From streamlined scheduling to outdoor sessions and cutting-edge education, we cover everything you need to know about the premier event for fitness professionals. If you’re ready to network, gain CECs, and take your career to the next level, this episode is a must-listen!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ The structure of IDEA World 2025 and what’s new this year

✅ How the event is organized and key session tracks

✅ Top industry experts and emerging presenters to watch

✅ Special outdoor workout experiences in beautiful Sacramento

✅ How to register, select your sessions, and maximize your experience

✅ Why IDEA World is a can’t-miss event for fitness professionals

Register for IDEA World 2025: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/

Browse the session schedule: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/sessions-thursday/

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEA upcoming events:

• IDEA World

Download the Brochure

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World...

Welcome to Season 6 of the IDEAfit Pro Show!

Host Amy Boone Thompson, CEO of IDEA Health and Fitness Association, shares some groundbreaking initiatives set to shape the future of the fitness industry. From the highly anticipated IDEA World 2025 in Sacramento to the launch of the IDEA Mentorship Network, which connects emerging fitness professionals with industry veterans, this season is full of opportunities for growth.

Tune in for an exciting season ahead, and remember to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Register for IDEA World 2025: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/

Browse the session schedule: www.ideafit.com/fitness-conferences/2025-idea-world/sessions-thursday/

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEA upcoming events:

• IDEA World

Download the Brochure

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and dedication of IDEA Members in more than 80 countries. 

For further information contact: 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

www.ideafit.com

Email: contact@ideafit.com

If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach out to us at content@ideafit.com. The IDEAfit PRO SHOW is part of the IDEA Podcast Network. A big thanks to our entire team at IDEA Health & Fitness Association. Copyright 2025 by IDEAfit, Inc.. All rights reserved....