Meant to Move – Episode 1
Hosts: Vanessa and Nick Leone
Summary:
In the debut episode of the Meant To Move podcast, host Vanessa Leone introduces the concept of movement therapy, blending holistic health principles with personalised fitness approaches.Joined by her father Vanessa reflects on her lifelong love of movement, tracing it from childhood sports to her current practice of individualized movement therapy. She emphasizes the emotional and psychological aspects of physical training, highlighting the importance of creating safe, adaptable environments for clients. Vanessa discusses challenges like perfectionism and health issues, which have deepened her empathy and shaped her holistic approach. This podcast aims to inspire self-discovery and better health by exploring diverse perspectives on fitness, movement, and personal growth.
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Vanessa (00:01):Hello and welcome to episode number one of Meant to Move. My name is Vanessa, and I will be your host every week for this brand-new podcast. I’m really excited to bring this to you. Today, for something a little different, I have my wonderful father with me. Hello, father! He has graciously agreed to help me out.
Nick Leone (00:23):Hello, Vanessa.
Vanessa (00:29):I’ve so lovingly dubbed him “Papa Producer.” I don’t know if he knew what he was getting into, but he’s stuck now. Today is exciting because he’s interviewing me to help you understand what Meant to Move is all about. Let’s dive in. Papa Producer, introduce yourself! Are you excited?
Nick Leone (01:10):Hello, Vanessa. How are you? I’m not sure if excitement’s the right word. My name is Nick, and Vanessa is my eldest daughter. She has a habit of roping me into her projects. I’ve been retired for a few years now, so she probably thinks I’ve got plenty of time. But like most retired people, I stay busy. I’ll give this a go. My previous career as a customs officer involved some interviewing, so maybe that’ll help. Vanessa, let’s start with a simple question: where did your love of exercise and movement originate?
Vanessa (03:25):Great question! It’s hard to pinpoint because you and Mum had me in sports from an early age. My first memories involve ballet, swimming, and gymnastics. I did netball, aerobics, basketball, tennis – pretty much everything. I’ve always loved moving, and that love turned into helping others love it too. Now I enjoy Pilates, calisthenics, hiking, paddle boarding, and kayaking. Movement fills me with joy and purpose.
Nick Leone (06:04):It’s clear that passion started early. How would you describe your work now as a movement therapist?
Vanessa (07:12):Movement therapy is individualized and adaptable. It’s about coaching people to connect with their bodies and address their physical and emotional states. I use a lot of questioning to understand someone’s mood, stress, and body mechanics. It’s a journey that evolves over time. I approach each client as a unique puzzle, using my 18 years of experience and continuous learning to solve challenges and empower them to incorporate movement into their lives.
Nick Leone (12:30):That evolution in your career is evident. I’ve seen you mature from a personal trainer into a more holistic practitioner. How do you connect with clients on an emotional level?
Vanessa (19:35):Connection starts with asking the right questions and creating a safe space for clients. Many people come to me with chronic pain or emotional barriers. I help them process emotions and build trust in their bodies. It’s about holding space for them to feel without judgment. Safety is the foundation for pain-free movement.
Nick Leone (21:23):How do you manage when a client’s emotional state prevents them from training?
Vanessa (21:39):I hold space for them, allowing emotions to surface while offering support. For example, a client recovering from a traumatic injury may experience fear. I let them set the pace but encourage them to face challenges when they’re ready. My goal is to guide them toward self-reliance and confidence in their movement journey.
Nick Leone (26:07):You emphasize emotions a lot. How does that work in group settings?
Vanessa (26:38):Group exercise is different. It’s more of a performance where I create an environment through music, language, and energy. While it’s harder to connect one-on-one, group classes offer a collective vibe that can be transformative. The social and emotional benefits of group exercise are powerful, and I strive to make every class uplifting.
Nick Leone (29:44):What challenges have shaped your career?
Vanessa (29:48):Perfectionism was a big challenge early on. It drove me to excel academically and professionally but also caused anxiety. Later, I faced health challenges, including Hashimoto’s, endometriosis, and hypermobility. These experiences taught me resilience and empathy, which help me connect with clients and adapt to their needs.
Nick Leone (35:00):Your empathy likely enhances your ability to help others. Who has influenced you most?
Vanessa (36:15):You and Mum were my first influences, supporting my love of sports. Ian O’Dwyer was pivotal in introducing me to fascia, which shifted my understanding of movement. Reading has also been influential; it expands my empathy and creativity, helping me see clients’ unique journeys.
Nick Leone (40:06):Why start this podcast, and what do you hope to achieve?
Vanessa (40:22):I wanted a platform to explore the nuances of movement therapy in a way that social media can’t. This podcast is for anyone seeking to better themselves through fitness, health, and self-discovery. It’s about questioning norms, learning from others, and finding personalized solutions for movement and well-being.
Nick Leone (44:04):This was insightful. Any final words?
Vanessa (44:34):Don’t hesitate to reach out on social media with questions or guest suggestions. This is an interactive space. Thank you, Papa Producer!
Nick Leone (45:04):Thank you, Vanessa. Goodbye, everyone!
Vanessa (45:05):Have a great day! See you soon.
Vanessa Leone Movement Therapist 