Episodes

  • The Anti-Aging Superfood They Don’t Want You to Know About Ep. 235 - Jessica Lowery

    The Anti-Aging Superfood They Don’t Want You to Know About Ep. 235 - Jessica Lowery
    Jun 29 2025
    In 2017, Jessica Lowery found herself at a crossroads. A former public health lecturer and mother of three, she was facing unexpected financial hardship. Her husband’s health was declining, medical bills were mounting, and three of her university classes had been canceled—cutting a significant chunk from her family’s income. But amid that chaos, a memory from 2013 would come rushing back to light the way forward. Back then, pregnant with her son Beckham and battling flu-like symptoms, Jessica went in search of a natural alternative to traditional medicine. What she discovered was elderberry—a bitter-tasting, immune-supporting superfruit with a long history of antiviral and anti-inflammatory use. Years later, in the thick of financial strain and another looming flu season, she revisited that memory and began crafting her own elderberry syrup at home using only pure, organic ingredients. She posted a picture of her concoction on social media—and two people immediately asked if they could buy it. “I had been praying for God to show me a way to help my family,” Jessica recalls. “When those two people reached out, I knew that was the answer.” With faith as her compass and her family as her motivation, Jessica began producing elderberry syrup out of her home kitchen. She and her husband would stay up until 3:00 a.m., filling bottles after putting their three young children to bed. That simple act of faith sparked something extraordinary. What started as a small kitchen project quickly became The POWER of Elderberries®, a nationally trusted wellness brand known for its transparency, potency, and heart. Today, the company’s elderberry products are recommended by holistic practitioners across the country and have transformed countless lives. But what sets Jessica’s product apart? First, it’s about purity. Unlike many commercial elderberry brands that add refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives, Jessica’s formula combines European black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) with organic ginger root, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and local raw honey—nothing more. This proprietary blend not only boosts the immune system but also offers powerful anti-inflammatory benefits that support joint health, reduce allergies, improve sleep, and even regulate blood sugar. “Our two guiding words are anti-aging,” Jessica says. “When you combine these ingredients, you’re feeding your body on a cellular level—restoring health, reducing inflammation, and energizing naturally.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jessica says her own family and loyal customers who used the product daily either avoided illness entirely or recovered faster. The results, she believes, speak volumes about the power of prevention and natural immunity. But The POWER of Elderberries isn’t just a supplement—it’s a mission. For Jessica, faith is woven into every bottle. “I’m not just building a business. I’m building a movement rooted in God’s design and nature’s healing,” she shares. “What I want for my family is what I want for every other family.” Despite being offered investor deals and “Shark Tank” buzz, Jessica has turned them all down to preserve the integrity of her product. “We’ve grown organically, reinvesting every dollar. I’m not willing to cut corners for profit,” she says. “Our product ships cold-packed to maintain quality. No shortcuts.” As the company grows, Jessica’s heart for service remains unchanged. Her dream? To one day open a women’s shelter in Myrtle Beach—offering refuge and entrepreneurial mentorship to survivors of domestic abuse, a cause deeply personal to her. Even with national recognition, new product lines—including elderberry bites and upcoming formulas for pets—and an employee wellness program on the horizon, Jessica remains grounded in her roots as an educator. “I miss teaching. But now, I’m expanding the classroom. Podcasts like yours,” she said to Vince Ferguson, host of Six Weeks to Fitness, “are my new platform. I want to educate, empower, and restore health to as many people as possible.” Jessica Lowery’s story is a reminder that purpose often reveals itself in life’s darkest moments. And sometimes, all it takes is a homemade remedy, a prayer, and a leap of faith to transform not just one life—but thousands. To learn more or try The POWER of Elderberries for yourself, visit www.thepowerofelderberries.com.
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    46 mins
  • The Secret to a Flat Stomach? It Might Be What You're NOT Eating!

    The Secret to a Flat Stomach? It Might Be What You're NOT Eating!
    Jun 22 2025
    Hey everyone, Vince Ferguson here – President of Body Sculpt of New York, U.S. Navy Veteran, your dedicated Wellness Coach, and host of the Six Weeks to Fitness podcast. Today, I want to talk about something fundamental, something you might think you know all about, but perhaps you've been misled. I'm going to share why I sometimes skip breakfast, and why it's a game-changer for achieving a flatter stomach – something I believe everyone should absolutely want! You see, for years, we've been told that breakfast is the "most important meal of the day." It's ingrained in our minds, a ritual we follow without much thought. But what if I told you that this very habit might be holding you back from the flat, comfortable stomach you desire? My goal isn't to shock you, but to empower you with knowledge that can truly transform your body from the inside out. Tip #1: The Power of the Overnight Fast – Stop Eating Late! Let's start with my first, foundational tip for a flatter stomach: stop eating late at night. This is crucial. Your very last meal of the day should ideally be consumed 3 to 4 hours before you hit the bed. I know, I know—it's often easier said than done, especially with busy schedules and evening cravings. But trust me, this habit works wonders. Why does it work? It's simple science. Your body needs time to properly digest food, and that process takes a solid 3 to 4 hours. As evening rolls around, your metabolism naturally slows down. Your body is preparing for rest, not for actively burning calories or vigorously processing a heavy meal. When you eat late, that food sits in your system, undigested or only partially digested, when your body's fat-burning furnace is at its lowest setting. This can lead to increased fat storage, especially around your midsection, and leave you feeling sluggish and bloated the next morning. I also strongly suggest you cut down on your portions at night. Giving your digestive system a lighter load means it doesn't have to work as hard or as long. This allows your body to truly focus on repair and recovery overnight, instead of being preoccupied with digestion. If you find yourself hungry in the wee hours of the morning, don't fret! That's actually a good sign. It means your body is tapping into its stored fat reserves for energy while you're sleeping. The result? You'll wake up feeling less stressed, less tired, and with a noticeably flatter stomach. This process is profound; it's something I delve into deeply in my book and consistently teach in my Six Weeks to Fitness programs, because it really, truly works. Tip #2: Challenge the Norm – Strategic Breakfast Skipping Now, let's talk about tip number two, which might sound "sacrilegious" to some: Don't eat breakfast in the morning! Yes, I said it. For many of us, eating breakfast isn't about hunger; it's a deeply ingrained habit. We eat because the clock says it's morning, not because our body is sending hunger signals. Instead of rushing to eat your first meal at 6, 7, or 8 a.m., try delaying it until 12 or 1 p.m. When you do this, you're essentially doing what's known as "breaking the fast" – hence the word "breakfast." To help curb any initial hunger pangs, simply drink a glass of water with some fresh lemon juice squeezed into it. You'll be surprised how much that helps! Why does this work? It extends the time your body goes without food, effectively prolonging your overnight fasting period. If you stop eating at, say, 8 p.m. and don't eat again until 1 p.m. the next day, you're allowing your body a substantial window (17 hours!) to utilize its existing energy stores. Will you feel hungry at first? Probably, because your body is conditioned by habit. But trust me, your body is incredibly adaptable, and you can absolutely go for longer periods without food than you might think. When you allow your body that extended time before eating, it will instinctively seek out energy from other sources. Your body typically uses carbs, then fat, then protein for fuel. If there are no carbohydrates readily available from recent meals, your body's next best source of energy is fat. And guess where it loves to get that fat from first? You got it – your stomach! This direct approach is incredibly effective for targeting stubborn belly fat. The Truth About "The Most Important Meal" Just in case you're thinking I'm crazy for suggesting you occasionally skip breakfast, let me drop a little truth bomb: The slogan "Breakfast is the most important meal of the day" wasn't coined by a health expert or a nutritionist. It was popularized by John Harvey Kellogg from the Kellogg food company. His primary goal? To sell more cereal. And it worked like a charm – it ingrained a belief that has shaped our eating habits for generations, often without us questioning the underlying science or our body's true needs. Your Path to a Flatter Stomach & More So there you have it: two powerful, often overlooked tips – strategic late-night ...
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    8 mins
  • It's Not Too Late: Why NOW is Your Time to Invest in YOU (No Excuses!)

    It's Not Too Late: Why NOW is Your Time to Invest in YOU (No Excuses!)
    Jun 18 2025

    Hey everyone, it’s Vince Ferguson here – President of Body Sculpt of new York, wellness coach, Navy veteran, and host of the Six Weeks to Fitness podcast. And today, I want to talk to YOU – the woman or man over 40 who’s been putting your health on the back burner, waiting for the "right time" to start taking care of YOU.

    Well, let me tell you this: It’s not too late. In fact, now is the perfect time.

    No more excuses!

    Let’s be real. We spend hundreds of dollars on weekend getaways, brunches, shoes, and gadgets… but when it comes to investing in our own health, we hesitate. We tell ourselves, "I’ll start next month," or "I’m too tired, too busy, too old." But guess what? That story – it ends now.

    If you're struggling with belly fat, low energy, stress, or just feeling disconnected from your body, you’re not alone. But continuing down that path by yourself will only cost you more – in health, happiness, and quality of life.

    That’s why I’m bringing back my very popular Six Weeks to Fitness program – and starting July 15th, we’re going ALL IN. This isn’t just another fitness challenge. It’s a lifestyle transformation. A full support system. A movement.

    Over six powerful weeks, you’ll get:

    • Live virtual classes 3x a week – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 11 a.m.
    • Accountability
    • Wellness coaching
    • Expert guidance from myself and an incredible team of instructors:
      • 4th-degree Black Belt Carol Glasgow
      • Professional Dance Instructor Carmen Carriker
      • Master trainer George Meikle
      • Holistic nutrition from an internationally recognized Fruitarian Orvel Douglas
    • Access to the Six Weeks to Fitness w/Vince Skool platform – for bonus content, videos, motivational posts, community, and coaching.

    And all of this? Just $90. That’s only $15 a week… or $5 a class!

    You won’t find this level of quality, consistency, and transformation anywhere else at this price.

    Now, here’s the truth: The version of you with more energy, a flatter stomach, a stronger body, and less stress – that version doesn’t come from wishing.

    It – comes from action. From commitment. From showing up even when it’s hard.

    You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need to be in shape already. You just need to say: "Enough is enough. I deserve to feel good in my own body."

    That’s it. And I’ll be with you every step of the way. So, I’m inviting you right now – join me starting July 15th for a program that can truly change your life. Not someday. Not next month. Now.

    Register today at www.bodysculpt.org.

    Spots are filling up fast – because people are tired of waiting. They’re ready to invest in themselves. And you should be too.

    If you join now, you will have access to my Six Weeks to Fitness w/Vince Skool platform so you join my growing community even before the class begins

    Let this summer be the time you took back control of your health, your mindset, your body. Because you are worth it.

    No more excuses.

    I’ll see you inside the Six Weeks to Fitness program.
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    9 mins
  • Your Health for Less Than A Smoothie

    Your Health for Less Than A Smoothie
    Jun 15 2025

    Hey everyone, Vince Ferguson here – your Certified Wellness Coach, Navy Veteran, and founder of the renowned Six Weeks to Fitness program! In this powerful video, I'm cutting through the noise to ask a crucial question: How much is your health really worth to you? We often spend on temporary fixes, but hesitate when it comes to the ultimate investment: our well-being.

    It's time for a reality check! If you're tired of low energy, battling stubborn belly fat, feeling the weight of stress, or simply putting your own health last, this message is for you. We often believe a flatter stomach, more muscle tone, and boundless energy happen by accident – but they're built through commitment, support, and action.

    That's exactly why the Six Weeks to Fitness Virtual Program is back by popular demand and leveled up for you! This isn't just another online workout plan; it's a total health transformation and a sustainable lifestyle movement designed for lasting results.

    What makes this 6-week fitness challenge different?

    We've brought together an incredible team to guide your journey:

    Vince Ferguson: Your expert Wellness Coach and accountability partner.

    Carol Glasgow: A 4th-degree black belt and Hall of Fame martial artist, bringing powerhouse Cardio Kickboxing for serious core sculpting, body toning, and fat burning. Get ready for dynamic moves you can do right in your living room!

    Orvel Douglas: Internationally recognized Fruitarian and nutrition expert. Learn to eat for energy, optimize gut health, and achieve that flatter stomach using nature's most powerful foods.

    Here's what you'll experience over six powerful weeks of virtual fitness:

    Live virtual classes three times a week, bringing the gym to your home workouts.

    Core-focused workouts specifically designed to burn belly fat.

    Diverse routines including Zumba, strength and conditioning, Yoga Fusion, and more for a total body reset.

    Access to our FREE Six Weeks to Fitness Skool Platform community – your hub for class replays, daily motivation, crucial accountability, and a supportive tribe dedicated to helping you survive and thrive in 2025.

    Invest in YOU for just $90! That's an incredible value of $15 a week, or about $5 a class – less than the cost of a smoothie! This program delivers:

    6 weeks of expert coaching.

    Diverse fitness routines.

    Practical nutrition guidance.

    Unwavering community support.

    And ultimately, a personal transformation that extends far beyond just weight loss.

    Your health is the foundation of everything – your career, relationships, and legacy. It's the greatest investment you'll ever make. If you're ready to stop waiting and start doing, say "I'm done waiting. I'm all in!"

    Registration is OPEN NOW! We start on Tuesday, July 15th, and spots are filling fast. Don't miss your chance to reclaim your energy, boost your confidence, and become the strongest version of yourself.

    Click the link below to secure your spot today!

    Learn More & Register Here:

    www.bodysculpt.org/six-weeks-to-fitness
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    7 mins
  • Unlocking Generational Wisdom: Anthony Bonapart’s Powerful Message, Ep. 234

    Unlocking Generational Wisdom: Anthony Bonapart’s Powerful Message, Ep. 234
    May 31 2025
    In this episode of my Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Anthony Bonapart—Gulf War veteran, licensed private investigator, and now, author of the captivating and philosophical novel Sophia: Lessons for the Unschooled Mind. The conversation was nothing short of enlightening as Anthony shared the origins, messages, and deeper meaning behind his debut literary work, a story that seeks to awaken something ancient, honest, and often overlooked in the human experience. Set against a backdrop of emotional complexity and spiritual questioning, Sophia centers around a young boy named Kosef and his transformative relationship with his grandmother, Sophia. But this is no ordinary family tale. Sophia is more than just a caregiver—she is a wise, mystical figure who represents deep-rooted wisdom, emotional clarity, and spiritual strength. Her relationship with Kosef acts as a gateway to self-discovery, as the boy begins to question not only the world around him, but the very conditioning that has shaped his thinking. During our discussion, Anthony described Sophia as both a character and a symbol. She embodies the feminine energy that nurtures, challenges, and guides with unwavering intuition. Though rooted in a familial connection as Kosef’s grandmother, she also exists on a higher, more universal plane—as a metaphysical force meant to awaken what Bonapart calls the “unschooled mind.” This concept of the unschooled mind became a focal point in our conversation. Anthony explained that the unschooled mind is a state of consciousness untouched by cultural programming. It’s not uneducated, but rather unconditioned—free from dogma, rigid thinking, and institutional influence. In a world where most of us are trained to obey systems without question, Sophia teaches Kosef to see beyond the veil, to unlearn before he learns, and to think with the clarity and independence of a liberated soul. Through a series of philosophical teachings, emotional challenges, and spiritual revelations, Kosef begins to develop an awareness that goes far beyond traditional intellect. He learns that healing does not always come from external answers but from internal understanding. He is taught not merely how to cope with life’s pain, but how to interpret that pain, transform it, and grow from it. Sophia guides him through this journey with patience and wisdom, encouraging Kosef to see himself not as a victim of circumstance, but as a creator of perspective. What makes Sophia unique is that it blends emotional storytelling with deep metaphysical questioning. Readers are not simply following a fictional narrative—they’re being asked to reflect, pause, and consider their own beliefs, assumptions, and inner barriers. Bonapart uses Kosef’s journey as a mirror, inviting the reader to confront the limitations they’ve unknowingly accepted. Interestingly, Sophia herself never dominates the story with physical presence. She often exists in the background or as a quiet force—much like wisdom itself. She doesn’t push or preach. Instead, she guides Kosef to discover truths on his own terms. Anthony’s writing style in Sophia is poetic, intentional, and layered. The dialogue between characters is rich with symbolism, and the pacing allows for introspection. Readers will find themselves stopping mid-page to reread a sentence—not because it’s difficult to understand, but because it demands to be absorbed. This is not a book meant to be rushed. It’s a book that encourages the very stillness it preaches—a moment to turn inward in a noisy world. During the interview, Anthony also spoke about the broader purpose of the book. He hopes Sophia serves as a wake-up call to those who are spiritually restless or intellectually boxed in. It’s for anyone who has ever questioned their beliefs, felt confined by societal roles, or sensed there was more to life than what they were taught. He wants the book to not just be read—but experienced. By the end of our conversation, it became clear that Sophia: Lessons for the Unschooled Mind is more than a novel—it’s a philosophical journey disguised as a story. It’s an invitation to sit with your thoughts, to question your conditioning, and to listen—really listen—to the quiet teacher within. For those ready to embrace that journey, the book is available now on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble. To contact Anthony Bonapart: Facebook: anthony.bonapart.3 Linkedin: Anthony Bonapart Instagram: abbonapart You can write Anthony at: P.O. Box 1757 Garner, NC 27529
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    30 mins
  • The Hidden Reason You're Losing Bone Mass - And the Supplement a Veterinarian Created to Stop It, Ep. 233 - Dr. Ed Simpson

    The Hidden Reason You're Losing Bone Mass - And the Supplement a Veterinarian Created to Stop It, Ep. 233 - Dr. Ed Simpson
    May 18 2025
    When Dr. Edwin Simpson began his career as a veterinarian for champion racehorses, he never imagined he’d one day be formulating cutting-edge supplements for humans. But that’s exactly what happened. Over decades of working with elite animals suffering from stress fractures and performance fatigue, Dr. Simpson developed natural, plant-based formulas to strengthen bones and accelerate healing. What began as a mission to support equine health eventually became something much bigger—after clients began asking, “Can I take this too?” The answer became Alexsyn, a supplement company rooted in science, real-world results, and a deep understanding of how the body heals from within. Now, at the forefront of his human health product line is a revolutionary bone support formula called RevOsteo—a product that may very well change how we age, move, and stay strong. The Problem Most of Us Never See Coming By the time we reach our 50s, most of us are already losing bone density—and we don’t even know it. “Osteoporosis is known as the silent killer,” Dr. Simpson says. “You don’t feel your bones weakening—until you fall, fracture something, or get a DEXA scan that shocks you.” In fact, over 54 million Americans have low bone mass, and 1 in 2 women over 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Yet the traditional approach—calcium supplements and hope—isn’t cutting it. That’s where RevOsteo comes in. Why RevOsteo Is Different RevOsteo is not another calcium supplement. In fact, it doesn’t include calcium at all. “Most people get enough calcium from food,” says Dr. Simpson. “The real issue is whether your body is absorbing and using it effectively.” RevOsteo is designed to do what calcium alone can’t: stimulate new bone formation, reduce bone loss, and support long-term skeletal health. Its formula is built around three powerful, synergistic ingredients: Icarin – A plant compound from Epimedium that boosts the activity of osteoblasts (cells that build bone) while suppressing osteoclasts (cells that break bone down). Beta-glucans – Known for their immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory properties, they also help regulate bone metabolism.Vitamin K2 (MK-7) – Guides calcium into the bones and away from arteries, helping to prevent both bone loss and vascular issues. These are supported by Vitamin D3 (essential for calcium absorption) and Boron (for hormone balance and bone matrix production). The result? A complete, targeted approach to bone health—without fillers or fluff. The Origin Story Behind the Formula The inspiration for RevOsteo didn’t come from a lab—it came from the racetrack. Years ago, Dr. Simpson began treating young racehorses developing stress fractures during training. While their cardiovascular systems adapted quickly, their skeletal systems lagged behind, often resulting in serious injury. Through years of testing and formulation, he created a bone support formula that significantly reduced fractures in these high-performance animals. Eventually, that same formula evolved into RevOsteo for humans, fine-tuned for aging adults looking to protect their independence and mobility. The Bigger Picture of Aging Well Dr. Simpson is the first to say: RevOsteo is only one part of the solution. “To really protect your bones and live a long, healthy life, you also need strength training, proper nutrition, sleep, and sometimes hormone support,” he says. But supplementation fills in the gaps—especially as we age, hormone levels decline, and nutrient absorption weakens. That’s why RevOsteo is ideal for: Women post-menopause Men over 50 with declining testosterone Anyone with osteopenia or family history of osteoporosis Active adults looking to preserve mobility and avoid fractures And while it won’t deliver overnight results, Dr. Simpson says you can expect measurable gains—a 3–8% increase in bone density over 6 to 12 months—when combined with strength training and proper lifestyle support. What Else Is in the Alexsyn Line? While RevOsteo is the flagship product for bone health, Alexsyn offers a full suite of wellness tools, including: VeloSleep – A serotonin-boosting sleep gummy for deep, natural rest without synthetic melatonin overload.Amend GI – A plant-based gut health formula inspired by successful treatments for ulcers in high-performance horses.F-Ox VCS – Vision and cognitive support designed to protect the brain and eyes from oxidative stress as we age. Still, it’s RevOsteo that’s making the biggest impact—especially during National Osteoporosis Awareness Month and beyond. Ready to Strengthen Your Foundation? If you want to stay mobile, active, and independent well into your later years, don’t wait for a fracture to get serious about your bones. 🌐 Learn more and order your supply of RevOsteo at Alexsyn.com
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    44 mins
  • How This Grieving Mother Turned Pain into Purpose | Brenda Eason's Legacy of Healing, Ep. 232

    How This Grieving Mother Turned Pain into Purpose | Brenda Eason's Legacy of Healing, Ep. 232
    May 4 2025

    In a world where personal loss can bring life to a standstill, Brenda Eason chose a different path—one of strength, service, and legacy. On this deeply emotional episode of Six Weeks to Fitness, I had the privilege of speaking with Brenda, a visionary entrepreneur, media executive, and the beating heart behind some of the most impactful community platforms for Black entrepreneurs in the country. But more than that, Brenda is a mother who has turned unimaginable heartbreak into a movement of purpose.

    Brenda's journey is defined by her resilience. After the tragic passing of her beloved son, Zamari Ali Wilson, she found herself facing a choice: remain still in the grief, or rise—and build something in his name that would impact generations to come. She chose the latter.

    “I don’t wake up chasing money,” she told me. “My goal each day is just to keep going. To stay alive. To put one foot in front of the other.”

    Surrounded by her loving family—two younger sisters and her supportive mother—Brenda leaned on the power of unity. “We just wrapped our arms around each other and kept going,” she shared. And through it all, she continued to pour into others, believing that lifting people up was the greatest expression of her own success.

    That spirit led Brenda to co-found the Black Empowered Media Network (BEMN) alongside Dr. Tina Michelle, a long-time media professional and mentor. Through platforms like Connect to Your City, BEMN broadcasts on Roku TV, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime—giving authors, entrepreneurs, and visionaries a global voice. But even with this monumental success, Brenda never stops advocating for others.

    Her proudest work today centers around the Zamari Ali Wilson Foundation, a tribute to her son’s life and light. Brenda is working tirelessly to bring Zamari’s story to the world through a heartfelt documentary and a children’s coloring and activity book that will share his spirit with the next generation. Each year in August, she hosts a birthday celebration in his honor, keeping his memory alive through joy, laughter, and community.

    She’s calling for sponsors, donors, and volunteers to help make this dream a reality. “Even if you can’t donate, I’ll promote your business in return,” she says. “Whatever it takes to get this story told.”

    And Brenda doesn’t stop there. As the founder of BBON (Black Business Owners Network), a thriving Facebook group with over 70,000 members, she continues to build community every day. From virtual networking sessions to business coaching and goal-setting workshops with Dr. Tina, Brenda’s platforms are helping aspiring entrepreneurs turn dreams into businesses and obstacles into stepping stones.

    “I’m easy to find,” she says with a smile. “Just search Brenda Eason on any platform. I’m always in BBON, all day, every day.”

    Her presence is magnetic, her mission is personal, and her determination is divine. Brenda Eason is more than a media mogul or a mother—she is a force of light, shining through grief to inspire hope, healing, and purpose.

    To support the Zamari Ali Wilson Foundation, participate in upcoming events, or sponsor the documentary project, you can reach Brenda directly via Facebook or at 202-308-3157.
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    27 mins
  • Autism Fitness Breakthrough: A Trainer's Emotional Journey with Kids on the Spectrum - Ed Richardson, Ep. 231

    Autism Fitness Breakthrough: A Trainer's Emotional Journey with Kids on the Spectrum - Ed Richardson, Ep. 231
    Apr 26 2025

    In our latest episode of the Six Weeks to Fitness podcast, I had the honor of welcoming back a truly inspiring guest — Ed Richardson, certified personal trainer, entrepreneur, inventor, and founder of Jan Jo Fitness.

    Ed’s personal story is powerful enough — losing 50 pounds at age 50 and reclaiming his own health. But today, Ed’s impact stretches far beyond fitness transformations. For the past several years, he’s dedicated a major part of his work to helping children on the autism spectrum, and what he shared during our conversation was nothing short of remarkable.

    Ed never set out to work with autistic children. In fact, the opportunity came unexpectedly when a colleague relocated and recommended Ed to step in. What began as a favor turned into a calling. Today, Ed trains boys and girls ranging from five to seventeen years old, tailoring fitness programs to their unique needs, abilities, and personalities.

    But as Ed explained, training these children is about so much more than exercise. It’s about patience, trust, love, and connection. Every child he meets teaches him something new — about resilience, about courage, and about the power of genuine human care.

    He shared touching stories of breakthrough moments — like the young boy who couldn’t even do a single push-up when they started. After months of consistent, patient work, that same boy surprised Ed by not only mastering the push-up but even doing clapping push-ups! Ed described moments like these as ones that truly bring tears to his eyes — moments of pride, not just for the kids, but for their families and for himself.

    Training children on the spectrum isn’t without its challenges. Ed emphasized that every session requires adaptability — adjusting workouts on the spot depending on the child's mood, energy level, and emotional state. And not every match is perfect. Sometimes, Ed knows when it's time to step back and let a more specialized trainer step in — always keeping the child's best interests at heart.

    Perhaps the most important takeaway from our talk was this: you have to love this work. Children, especially those on the spectrum, can sense your energy and intention. If your heart isn’t in it, they’ll know. For Ed, it’s not about the money — it’s about making a real difference.

    As someone who has spent decades promoting health and fitness for children and families, hearing Ed’s passion and commitment reminded me why we do what we do. It’s about changing lives — one push-up, one smile, one connection at a time.

    If you missed this episode, I encourage you to tune in. It’s a heartfelt reminder that when love leads the way, anything is possible.

    Stay fit, stay focused, and keep moving!
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    25 mins