Fitness and Family Podcast

Ashley Welling - Fitness Expert and Health Habit Builder
  • 5.0 (2)
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Learn how to find your healthy balance. The Fitness and Family Podcast focuses on the intersection of health, wellness, and family life focusing on the 3 pillars of health: Physical, Mental and Social. Hosted by fitness expert Ashley Welling and her expert guests, we will guide you through discussions on fitness strategies, nutrition tips, and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle while balancing family responsibilities. Each episode is designed to inspire and help you prioritize health while fostering strong family and friend connections.

  1. 6d ago

    Episode 42: Faith, Health & Finding Your Purpose: Trusting God Through Life’s Journey with Melissa Wilkinson

    What happens when you trust God enough to follow a path you never expected? In this episode of The Fitness and Family Podcast, I’m joined by Melissa Wilkinson, a mom of two beautiful children living in New York. Melissa’s journey has taken her through retail management, motherhood, direct sales, blogging, and some unexpected turns along the way—but through every season, one thing has continued to guide her: faith. Melissa shares how making faith-driven decisions has influenced her health, family, career, and overall happiness. Her story is a reminder that sometimes the path we think we should take isn't the path God has planned for us. In This Episode, We Talk About:The challenges and unexpected turns in her health journeyHow faith helped guide her through major life decisionsLearning to trust God when you don’t know what comes nextFinding purpose through unexpected opportunitiesBalancing health, family, career, and personal growthHow faith can influence the way we approach wellnessWhy trusting the journey can lead to unexpected blessings Melissa’s story is about so much more than health or career changes. It’s about learning to trust the process, listen for direction, and have faith when the next step isn't always clear. To connect with Melissa and find out more about her podcast, planner, and more, visit her website Speaking | Melissa Wilkinson Our health journey can have twists and turns just like every other part of life. Sometimes the biggest changes happen when we stop trying to control every outcome and become willing to follow where our faith leads us. Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  2. Sep 14

    Episode 41: Lose Weight for the Last Time: Change Your Mindset & Focus on What Your Body Can Do with Stacy Smith

    Welcome back to the Fitness and Family Podcast! In this episode, I’m joined by Stacy Smith. Stacy knows firsthand what it feels like to struggle with body image, weight, and self-confidence. Her turning point came when she looked in the mirror and realized she no longer felt like herself. Instead of continuing to focus only on the number on the scale, Stacy began shifting her mindset toward what her body was capable of doing. Through consistent bike riding and a new perspective on movement and fitness, Stacy lost 50 pounds—but her biggest transformation was the way she viewed her body and her health. Today, Stacy helps women approach weight loss differently by separating movement from weight loss and focusing on strength, capability, consistency, and what their bodies can do. In This Episode, We Talk About:Why movement doesn’t have to be about losing weightChanging the way you think about exercise and your bodyBuilding a healthier relationship with fitnessWhy focusing on your body's capabilities can change your mindsetHow Stacy helps women lose weight for the last timeFinding sustainable habits instead of quick fixes If you’ve ever felt like exercise is simply something you have to do to lose weight, Stacy’s story may give you a completely different perspective. Your body is capable of so much more than a number on a scale. When we begin to appreciate what our bodies can do, movement can become something empowering rather than something we feel obligated to do. Whether you’re working toward weight loss, trying to improve your relationship with exercise, or simply looking for a healthier mindset, this conversation is filled with practical encouragement and inspiration. Tune in, take notes, and discover a fresh approach to movement, weight loss, and body confidence. Connect With StacyLearn more about Stacy’s approach to weight loss coaching and discover how she helps women focus on what their bodies can do. Follow her podcast here and visit her website www.sascy.com Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  3. Sep 2

    Episode 40: Living with POTS: Understanding the Invisible with Kirsten Leigh

    Welcome back to the Fitness and Family Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Kirsten Leigh, a mom of two from Ohio who knows firsthand how challenging it can be when your body doesn’t feel like it’s working the way it should. Several years ago, Kirsten began experiencing unexplained symptoms that significantly affected her health, forced her to step away from her career, and impacted her family life. After navigating a long journey to understand what was happening, she was diagnosed with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). In this episode, we discuss:What POTS is and how it can affect everyday lifeKirsten’s journey from unexplained symptoms to a diagnosisHow chronic health challenges can impact work, family, and relationshipsLearning to listen to your body instead of fighting against itBuilding resilience while navigating physical and mental health challengesStrategies for creating a meaningful life despite health obstaclesThe importance of self-awareness and understanding your bodyHow Kirsten uses health coaching to help others move forward Kirsten's story is a powerful reminder that a health challenge doesn't have to define your future. While your journey may look different than you expected, you can still find ways to build resilience, prioritize your wellness, and create a life that feels meaningful to you. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and hear Kirsten's story, her experience with POTS, and her advice for anyone navigating a physical or mental health challenge. To connect with Kirsten, visit her website www.kirstencares.com or Instagram Follow The Fitness and Family Podcast for more conversations about physical, mental, and social wellness. Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  4. Jul 27

    Episode 39: A Father’s Journey: Caring for His Son After Brain Surgery with Ray Vest

    Welcome back to the Fitness and Family Podcast! In Part 2 of this heartfelt episode, we're joined by Ray Vest, Ryan's dad, a retired firefighter from Australia and father of three boys. Throughout his career, Ray was trained to remain calm in emergencies and respond when others needed help. But nothing could have prepared him for the day his teenage son was diagnosed with a brain tumor and required multiple brain surgeries. Ray shares the emotional journey of becoming his son's caregiver—a role that tested him in ways no amount of emergency training ever could. From navigating fear and uncertainty to providing daily physical and emotional support, he offers an honest look at what it means to care for a loved one during one of the most difficult seasons of life. In this episode, we discuss:What it was like receiving his son's brain tumor diagnosisThe challenges of becoming a caregiver for a teenager after brain surgeryHow caregiving affects physical, mental, and emotional healthThe importance of resilience, hope, and family supportLessons learned through one of life's most unexpected journeysAdvice for parents and caregivers supporting someone through cancer or a serious illnessWhy caregivers need to care for themselves, too Whether you're currently caring for a loved one, know someone who is, or simply want to better understand the caregiver's perspective, this episode offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope. To connect with Ray, email him here 🎧 Follow the Fitness and Family Podcast, download this episode, and share it with someone who may be walking a caregiving journey. Sometimes the greatest strength comes from simply showing up, one day at a time. Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  5. Jul 13

    Episode 38: Surviving a Brain Tumor at 17: Strength and Resilience with Ryan Vest

    Welcome back to the Fitness and Family Podcast! In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Ryan Vest from Sydney, Australia. At just 17 years old, Ryan's life changed forever when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. After undergoing not 1 but 3 brain surgeries, he is now tumor-free and focused on rebuilding his life with gratitude, purpose, and resilience. Ryan opens up about the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of facing a life-threatening diagnosis during his teenage years. From surgery and recovery to learning how to move forward after cancer, he shares the lessons that have shaped the person he is today and the mindset that continues to inspire others. In this episode, we discuss:What it was like undergoing three brain surgeriesThe physical and emotional challenges of recoveryNavigating life as a young adult after a life-changing diagnosisFinding purpose through resilience and a positive mindsetAdvice for anyone facing a serious health challengeHow family, hope, and perseverance helped Ryan keep moving forward Ryan's story is a powerful reminder that while adversity may change your life, it doesn't have to define it. His courage, determination, and outlook on life will encourage anyone facing difficult circumstances to keep believing in a brighter future. You can connect with Ryan below YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok 🎧 If this episode encouraged you, be sure to follow the Fitness and Family Podcast, download the episode, and share it with someone who could use a message of hope and resilience today. "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  6. Jun 29

    Episode 37: The Wellness Blueprint: How to Build a Healthy, Balanced Life

    Welcome back to The Fitness and Family Podcast and thank you for listening! If you are new here, thank you for joining. I am very excited for this episode because it is about WELLNESS and what it means for you. When you hear the word wellness, what comes to mind? Nutrition? Exercise? Sleep? Mental health? The truth is that wellness means something different for everyone. I decided to breakdown what the word WELLNESS means and how you can approach it for your own health journey. Each letter represents an important piece of health that can help you build a stronger foundation for your physical, mental, and social well-being. In this episode, you'll learn: Why wellness looks different for everyoneHow your health priorities change throughout different seasons of lifeThe importance of building a strong wellness foundationHow sleep, nutrition, exercise, stress management, and self-care work togetherPractical ways to identify the areas of wellness that matter most to youWhy focusing on progress is more important than striving for perfection Remember, your wellness journey is your story. Some of the topics discussed in this episode may resonate with you right away, while others may not—and that's okay. The goal is to find the areas where you can take meaningful action and begin creating habits that support the healthiest version of yourself. 🎧 Follow the podcast, download this episode, and share it with a friend who is looking to improve their health and wellness. Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  7. Jun 15

    Episode 36: Overcoming Anorexia: A Journey to Recovery and Self-Acceptance with MaryClaire Dorinksy

    Welcome back to the Fitness and Family Podcast! In this episode, we talk to MarieClaire Dorinksy, who is a student at The Bowling Green State University. After struggling with an eating disorder in high school—fueled by the pressures of social media and the isolation during COVID—she has turned her experience into a mission to help others. Through her ongoing recovery, MaryClaire has developed a deep sense of self-awareness and a passion for speaking openly about mental health. In this episode, we talk about: The early signs and warning signals of an eating disorderHow social media and the COVID pandemic influenced her relationship with food and body imageNavigating recoveryThe importance of self-awareness and speaking upWhy recovery is a lifelong journey, not a destinationAdvice for parents, friends, and anyone supporting a loved one with an eating disorderWays to build a healthier relationship with food, body image, and mental health MaryClaire's story is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible, asking for help is a sign of strength, and no one has to walk this journey alone. 🎧 Be sure to follow, download, and share this episode with someone who may need encouragement or hope. Together, we can continue the conversation around mental health and eating disorder awareness. Connect with MaryClaire's Dietician, Amanda Liptake, here Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

  8. Jun 1

    Episode 35: Self-Love: More Than Just a Buzzword with Emily

    Welcome back to The Fitness and Family Podcast and thank you for listening! Our next guest is Emily. She is a student at The Bowling Green University and also on the Executive team of the Self Love Club. Emily is responsible for leading the club by creating a positive pathway for members and also mentoring future executive leaders. I’ve had the privilege to teach them a Pilates class, and I’m excited for her to share more about herself, the group and what is means to “self-love” In this episode, we talk about: What self-love really meansHow to build confidence and believe in yourselfPractical ways to practice self-love dailyTips for stepping into leadership with confidenceAnd so much more So, grab a pen and paper, download this episode, and let’s dive. Ready to finally build healthy habits that actually stick? Your guide 6 Steps to Healthy Habits breaks it down into simple, realistic steps you can start today—no overwhelm, no perfection required. Whether you’re looking to improve your energy, stay consistent with fitness, or feel more in control of your daily routine, this guide is designed to help you create lasting change in a way that fits your life. ✨ Click below to get your copy and start building habits that support the life you want. ashley-welling-fitness.kit.com/6-steps-healthy-habits-guide Wellness Journal I Use Your wellness journey starts with awareness, reflection, and small intentional steps. I created this journal to help you slow down, organize your thoughts, and focus on the areas of life that matter most to your overall well-being. "Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal" is more than just a notebook; it's your personal coach, guiding you to optimize your sleep, elevate your fitness, make healthier food choices, and incorporate supplements wisely. Whether you're aiming for better physical health, mental clarity, or increased vitality, this daily journal is your tool for self-discovery and transformation. Begin your journey to wellness today and let this journal be your trusted companion along the way. Make each day a step toward a healthier, happier you! Your Wellness Journey: A Comprehensive Journal: A step towards a happier and healthier you: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books If you’re ready to bring more structure and consistency to your workouts, this fitness planner was created to help you stay focused and motivated on your fitness journey. Whether you’re just getting started with exercise or looking for a simple way to stay organized with your routine, this planner gives you a clear space to map out your workouts, celebrate small wins, and stay committed to your goals. Fitness Planner: A Daily Journal: A healthy step towards your success: Welling, Ashley: Amazon.com: Books Ways to connect with Ashley Website: www.ashleywellingfitness.com Email: ashley@ashleywellingfitness.com YouTube: ashley welling fitness

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About

Learn how to find your healthy balance. The Fitness and Family Podcast focuses on the intersection of health, wellness, and family life focusing on the 3 pillars of health: Physical, Mental and Social. Hosted by fitness expert Ashley Welling and her expert guests, we will guide you through discussions on fitness strategies, nutrition tips, and ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle while balancing family responsibilities. Each episode is designed to inspire and help you prioritize health while fostering strong family and friend connections.

Information

  • Creator
    Ashley Welling - Fitness Expert and Health Habit Builder
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Ashley Welling
  • Show Website
    Fitness and Family Podcast