Virgin Active Minds

Learn about what kind of athlete you are to get the most out of your workouts and to challenge yourself physically. In this episode, gene expert and yoga master trainer Hayley Alexander breaks down the three different body types for genetic composition. She shares how certain body types have advantages with varying kinds of physical activity. You’ll be able to reflect on what type of exercise you...

Learn about the three sleep chronotypes and which one fits you best so you can function well and feel better. In this conversation, Australia’s leading sleep expert and author, Olivia Arezzolo,  shares a wealth of knowledge and alarming statistics about the detrimental effects insufficient sleep can have on our health, immunity, productivity and wellbeing. You’ll learn about understanding you...

Thanks for loving our podcast! Our weekly episodes have moved to fortnightly. Be sure to follow us (if you’re not already) and be the first to know when the newest episodes are released. Have you ever wondered whether your poo habits are healthy? Or normal? Learn all about healthy bowel movements to assess your toileting habits. In this enlightening conversation, learn from nutritionist and gut-he...

Is there an age when it's just not a good idea to exercise anymore? And what healthy habits help you age better? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this inspirational conversation with psychologist and author Dr Gordon Spence. Learn brilliant strategies to tap into your unrealised physical capabilities during mid-life or later stages of life. You'll also learn about the significan...

Learn about your body's circadian rhythms to improve your sleep, health, wellbeing and performance. In this insightful conversation, sleep researcher Dr Gemma Paech shares that many circadian rhythms govern the body's different functions. Mark and Dr Gemma discuss how these circadian rhythms can negatively impact us if they're out of sync and how to begin to shift our circadian rhythms to function...

Learn about shifting your mindset around weight management to create sustainable health goals. In this episode, Mark speaks with Sports Dietitian Michelle Theodosi about the flawed – and potentially damaging – messages coming from the diet industry. Michelle shares her expertise around nutrition, health, lifestyle and wellbeing and encourages everyone to examine their ‘why’ to shift from a ‘diet m...

Learn about bloating and gut health from Functional Diagnostic Nutritionist Aline McCarthy, FDN-P, to feel better and begin beating that bloat! While very common, bloating is not normal – it’s your body’s way of communicating that something is wrong. In this episode, Aline highlights many of the possible underlying causes of bloating, signs of something else going on in your body, and some simple...

How do you prepare for a training session? Whether you are heading to yoga, cycle or a heavy strength training session at the gym, it’s important to know what steps you can take to prepare for it. In this educational episode, Mark chats with Fitness Coach Myrik Ong about the five key principles you need to achieve personal success with your workout. Listen as Myrik shares helpful mindset, exercise...

Do genetics affect your weight? Can you influence your genetic makeup with lifestyle choices? No matter your body weight, shape or size, this chat has essential information for all. In this conversation with Health Coach Hayley Alexander, discover why identifying your genetic code can help you understand your body better. You’ll also walk away with a clearer understanding of the power your lifesty...

Did you know that Virgin Active gyms are most busy on Tuesdays? That's why we're getting ready to move our podcast to - you guessed it - Tuesday! So take this podcast with you to the gym, on your commute, or for your favourite walk. We've got a special treat for you for this special "last Saturday" episode. In this soothing episode, Mark Seeto, our host and Head of Yoga & Pilates at Virgin Act...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with forest bathing expert Mayu Kataoka. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: What is forest bathing – from the ancient origins to the science behind it. The importance of connecting with nature. How you can practise shinrin-yoku in smaller-scale green spaces and even in your own home. Our favourite quotable m...

Within the health & wellness industry, we see many types of people walk through our doors. Those who want to work on their physical wellbeing, find a moment of relaxation, or even to feel a sense of escapism. All of these people have one thing in common: they’re boosting their mental health with every visit. So in honour of R U OK? Day, we’ve curated a collection of conversations about mental...

Learn about the incredible wellness benefits of 'Forest Bathing' – also known as shinrin-yoku – from certified Forest Therapy Guide Mayu Kataoka to improve your physical and mental health. In this episode, Mark chats to Mayu about what Forest Bathing is, how we can practise it whether we live close to nature or in the middle of a city, and the powerful healing benefits, connection and mindfulness...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with Matt Defina. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: The intense pressure teen boys are under concerning masculinity, academic success and sex. How adults and elders can provide guidance through storytelling and simply listening. How our values and beliefs may be outdated for the current generation of young...

Learn about guiding young men to be their 'better self' from organisational psychologist, coach, facilitator and explorer Matt Defina, who shares some of the challenges teenage boys face today. In this episode, Matt shares his wisdom about what young men need to reject toxic ideals of masculinity, understand their mental health and wellbeing, live healthy relationships, and make positive connectio...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with Anula Maiberg. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: The different Pilates cultures Anula sees globally, from inclusive to not inclusive. Practical ways teachers and students alike can help bring more diversity, equity and inclusion to their local Pilates and Reformer Pilates studios. What Joseph Pilates i...

Learn about the power of diversity and inclusion in this fascinating two-part episode with Anula Maiberg, founder of Pilates Human. Mark and Anula invite you along for a conversation intended for Pilates teachers and students about exploring inclusivity, body neutrality, and the modern-day Pilates industry. You'll walk away with more awareness about what you can do to find more joy in and out of t...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with Louka Parry. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: How learning a new language can help you view yourself, others and the world from a different perspective. Becoming more 'human' in a world driven by machines and technology. Fostering curiosity and a love of learning. Our favourite quotable moment: "Learn...

Learn about becoming more human through language and learning to understand ourselves and others better. In this chat, Founder of The Learning Future Louka Parry shares many insights about the power of learning to deepen connections, build emotional intelligence, improve social awareness and maintain wellbeing – all crucial elements for humanity as we head into the future. In this episode, you'll...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with Professor Andrew Oswald. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: What the happiness U-Curve is. How comparison negatively impacts happy people. The importance of normalizing the psychological low experienced in middle age. Our favourite quotable moment: “It is normal to feel low, and you will recover.” Andre...

Trigger warning: The episode contains content about suicide. Please contact your local suicide prevention or emergency services if you need to talk to someone. Is the "mid-life crisis" a real thing? In this engaging episode with Andrew Oswald, he shares insights from his many years as a Professor of Economics and Behavioral Science and researcher of what it means to be happy. He has been at the fo...

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with resilience expert Jason Timor. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: What connection to country means, and how deeply it is ingrained into first nation's culture and identity. The effects of colonisation. How Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal art, language and culture continue to hold significant value...

Learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations, culture and connection to country through this riveting conversation with Jason Timor, co-founder of Two Point Co. Come from a place of learning as we listen to Jason and Mark have a meaningful discussion about first nations people and Indigenous communities and how non-Indigenous businesses and people can honour and engage with first...

Check out a two-minute sneak peek of this episode with Jason Timor, as he and Mark discuss cultural burning in Australia. You can find the full episode, a deep dive into the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations, culture and connection to country in our list of episodes, available now wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.

This is part 2 of 2 of the two-part series with Dr Amantha Imber. You will find Part 1 in our list of episodes. In this episode, you'll learn about: A deep dive into the habits, strategies of rituals of the most successful people today. Getting to know yourself and your chronotype to achieve better results in the workplace. Methods to achieve deep-focused work in the age of digital distraction. Ou...