MOVE SWEAT DISCOVER

Avey Cortes

The podcast where fitness meets self discovery. Join host Avey Cortes, as he dives into engaging conversations with inspiring guests. Each episode beginning with a challenging workout, exploring how movement can reveal insights about ourselves and our journeys. From personal triumphs to transformative lessons learned in the gym, we’ll uncover the powerful connections between physical activity and personal growth. Tune in to discover not just the stories of our guests, but perhaps a little more about yourself along the way. Let’s move, sweat and discover together!

  1. 07/06/2025

    #27 - Solo Q&A - Lessons Learned

    In this episode of Move, Sweat, Discover, I reflect on the lessons learned from previous guests, the evolution of the fitness community, and the importance of connection and curiosity in movement. I discuss my personal journey in fitness, the significance of morning routines, and the role of community support in mental health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Podcasting Journey 02:38 Lessons Learned from Guests and Personal Growth 04:52 Community and Connection in Fitness 07:23 The Purpose Behind the Podcast 09:53 Personal Practices and Morning Routines 12:17 Mental Health and Self-Care Strategies 14:42 Overcoming Challenges Through Movement 16:52 Teaching and Inspiring Others 19:38 Future Aspirations and Evolving Relationship with Movement 22:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Movement

    29 min

  2. 06/29/2025

    #26 - Roshan Melwani - The Grind: Hard Work and Self-Love - Part 2

    In part two we explore themes of family, fitness, and personal growth. Roshan shares memories of swimming with family, the transition to online business, and the lessons learned through workouts. The importance of connection and support in fitness is emphasized, along with navigating personal challenges and finding joy in movement. 00:00 The Impact of Childhood Experiences 00:48 Fitness and Well-Being During COVID 02:18 The Joy of Swimming and Family Memories 03:49 The Shift to Online Presence and Business Adaptation 05:13 Lessons Learned Through Workouts 05:54 The Importance of Connection and Support in Fitness 07:49 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth 11:22 The Value of Movement and Physical Activity 14:03 Finding Joy in Fitness and Overcoming Obstacles 16:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Exercise 22:57 The Challenge of Uphill Racing 26:39 The Journey of Self-Discovery through Running 30:31 Finding Joy in Movement 35:48 Morning Routines and Personal Rituals 38:45 The Grind: Hard Work and Self-Love 41:38 Future Aspirations and Cultural Identity

    45 min
  3. #25 - Roshan Melwani - Family, Business and Fame - Part 1

    06/22/2025

    #25 - Roshan Melwani - Family, Business and Fame - Part 1

    In part one, Roshan Melwani, the TikTok Taylor and owner of Sam's Taylor, shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by celebrities to navigating the complexities of family dynamics and the family business. He reflects on the impact of sports and fitness in his life, the challenges of transitioning into the family business, and the lessons learned along the way. Roshan emphasizes the importance of gratitude, personal growth, and the responsibility he feels towards his family and community. 00:00 Introduction to Roshan Melwani and Sam's Taylor 02:06 Childhood Influences and Celebrity Encounters 06:04 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 11:09 The Role of Sports and Fitness in Life 15:56 Transitioning into the Family Business 24:01 Career Journey and Lessons Learned 32:07 Navigating Challenges and Social Responsibility 39:59 Reflections on Success and Family Expectations 47:11 Embracing Authenticity and Peace 48:58 The Journey to Fame and Recognition 51:48 Controversial Content and Public Perception 55:59 Resilience Against Criticism 59:58 Self-Help and Personal Growth 01:01 The Impact of Childhood Experiences

    1h 6m
  4. #24 - Brad Wharakura - The Performer: Finding Joy in Fitness

    06/16/2025

    #24 - Brad Wharakura - The Performer: Finding Joy in Fitness

    In today’s episode Brad Wharakura shares his journey from a small town in New Zealand to becoming a prominent figure in the fitness industry in Asia. He discusses his experiences with queerness, the challenges of coming out, and the vibrant life he led in Hong Kong. We touch on the evolution of his relationship with fitness, the impact of ageism in the industry, and the birth of his drag persona, Madame Mincemeat. Expect to learn about of self-discovery, personal growth, and the importance of community. Chapters 00:00 The Cleansing Experience of Fitness 01:21 Introduction to Brad Farakura 02:59 Friendship and Connection 04:35 The Performer Within 06:28 Growing Up in New Zealand 10:23 Childhood Memories and Early Interests 12:06 Navigating Queerness 15:12 Coming Out Journey 19:30 The Move to Hong Kong 22:15 Living the Big City Life 25:09 Balancing Fitness and Social Life 27:50 Evolving Relationship with Fitness 30:36 Reflections on 18 Years at Pure 34:21 Ageism in the Fitness Industry 39:04 The Birth of Madame Mincemeat 44:58 Navigating the Drag Scene 52:31 A New Chapter: Leaving Hong Kong 55:59 Spiritual Awakening and Self-Discovery 01:00:48 Movement and Self-Acceptance 01:07:02 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions 01:14:57 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

    1h 17m

  5. 06/08/2025

    #23 - Katya Virshilas The Competitive Edge: Life in Ballroom Dancing

    In this episode of "Move, Sweat, Discover," I sit down with Katya Virshilas, a professional ballroom dancer and actress. Together, we delve into the transformative power of movement, reflecting on Katya's early dance experiences and the challenges of body image and competition in the dance world. We explore her journey from competitive dancing, acting in Hollywood and performing on Strictly Come Dancing. Katya opens up about her personal story of resilience, her drive to succeed against the odds, and the importance of community in empowering young dancers. We also discuss the challenges she faced in the competitive dance environment, the impact of her breakthrough role, and how society's perception of dance has evolved. Finally we touche on her transition to Hong Kong, the founding of Ballroom Bees, and the significance of early childhood development through movement. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Movement 02:08 Katya's Early Dance Journey 05:55 Challenges in Dance and Body Image 10:00 Overcoming Adversity in the Dance World 12:00 The Drive to Succeed 12:58 The Competitive Nature of Ballroom Dancing 16:05 Transitioning from Competitive Dance to Acting 20:00 Life in Hollywood and New Beginnings 23:09 Hollywood Encounters and Aspirations 24:14 The Journey from Acting to Dancing 25:49 Breakthrough Role and Its Impact 28:02 Joining Strictly Come Dancing 30:21 Life in the Strictly Bubble 31:46 Challenges and Bullying in Dance 35:36 The Pressure of Live Performances 36:35 The Evolution of Dance's Perception 37:00 Finding Love in Unexpected Places 38:02 Transitioning to Hong Kong and New Beginnings 39:02 The Birth of Ballroom Bees 44:05 Building a Scalable Dance Business 46:44 The Athleticism of Dance 48:08 The Importance of Human Connection in Dance 49:14 Redefining Gender Norms in Dance 50:50 Cultural Expressions Through Dance 52:57 Experiencing Dance: A Personal Journey 55:58 The Therapeutic Benefits of Movement 57:46 Empowering the Next Generation 01:02:56 Challenges of Female Entrepreneurship 01:04:06 Future Aspirations and Expansions

    1h 7m

  6. 05/31/2025

    #22 - Jack Thomas - Redefining Sales Strategies in Fitness

    In this episode of Move, Sweat, Discover, I sit down with Jack Thomas, founder and CEO of Base Gym in Bangkok. Jack shares his journey from a corporate life to the fitness industry, discussing the evolution of fitness in Bangkok, the importance of movement, and the challenges he faced while establishing his gym. He also delves into effective sales strategies in the fitness industry, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' needs and building rapport. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jack Thomas and His Journey 02:59 The Evolution of the Fitness Industry in Bangkok 05:47 Personal Reflections on Movement and Fitness 17:18 The Creation of Base Gym 24:22 Sales Strategies in the Fitness Industry 32:56 Embracing ClassPass in the Fitness Industry 34:40 The Boutique Fitness Scene in Thailand 36:25 Growth and Maturity of the Fitness Industry in Asia 37:56 Insights from the Fit Guide: Global Fitness Trends 39:49 The Importance of Customer Experience in Fitness 42:41 The Role of Personalization in Fitness Services 48:05 Hyrox: A Trend or a Fad? 51:40 Self-Discovery Through Workouts 58:16 Future Plans for the Fit Guide @sweatwithavey @movesweatdiscover @jacktbase

    1 hr
  7. #21 - Aileen Wong & Tiara Hoquee - Authenticity in the Fitness Industry

    05/25/2025

    #21 - Aileen Wong & Tiara Hoquee - Authenticity in the Fitness Industry

    Summary In this episode of *Move, Sweat, Discover*, host Avey is joined by Aileen Wong and Tiara Hoquee, the founders of MindFit and IncluFit. They explore the intersection of fitness and mental health, address the challenges of juggling business with personal relationships, and emphasize the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in both their work and social media presence. The discussion showcases their distinctive approaches to fitness, self-care, and community building, stressing the necessity for safe spaces where individuals can nurture both their physical and mental well-being. Key themes include: Vulnerability and its role in relationshipsGratitude and its transformative effectsThe importance of curiosity** and empathy in fostering deeper connections They highlight the critical nature of open communication and the impact of vulnerability on mental health and community involvement. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Movement and Self-Care 02:18 Balancing Business and Relationships 05:34 Merging Physical and Mental Health 09:04 Who is the MindFit Client? 12:32 IncluFit: Fitness for All 17:41 Rewarding Moments in MindFit and IncluFit 22:31 Authenticity in Social Media 29:06 Challenges of Being Authentic 40:21 Vulnerability as a Catalyst for Connection 41:43 Unpacking Vulnerability in Relationships 44:04 The Power of Curiosity and Empathy 46:26 Exploring Gratitude Through Movement 49:20 Deepening Connections with Gratitude Practices 51:52 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability 55:01 Lessons Learned from Gratitude Runs 01:01:23 Embracing Growth and Vulnerability 01:11:31 Future Aspirations and Community Impact

    1h 15m
  8. #20 - Andrew Cox - The Transformative Power of Movement

    05/18/2025

    #20 - Andrew Cox - The Transformative Power of Movement

    In this conversation, Andrew Cox shares his journey from a childhood immersed in sports, influenced by his father's coaching, to becoming a co-owner of Joint Dynamics, a multi-disciplinary health studio. He discusses the transformative power of movement, the impact of family on his athletic pursuits, and the challenges faced in building a successful business in the fitness industry, including navigating a global pandemic. We discuss the importance of maintaining a strong company culture, the future of fitness in relation to an aging population, and the personal philosophies that guide their approach to health and wellness. Chapters 00:00 The Transformative Power of Movement 06:42 The Evolution of Athletic Passion 11:54 From Passion to Profession: The Path to Joint Dynamics 18:55 Building a Business: Challenges and Triumphs 26:00 Fostering a Positive Work Environment 32:52 The Future of Fitness and Longevity 36:49 Connection with Nature and Personal Philosophy 40:48 Outdoor Workouts and Breathing Techniques 41:33 Learning Through Movement and Pain Management 43:55 Exploring Personal Growth Through Physical Challenges 45:58 The Importance of Play in Training 48:17 Finding Motivation and Connection in Workouts 51:44 The Role of Community and Shared Experiences in Fitness 54:56 Reigniting Passion for Movement and Playfulness 56:54 Understanding Personal Connections Through Movement 57:29 Planning and Execution in Workouts 58:08 Courage and Adventure in Personal Growth 01:00:52 The Journey of Podcasting 01:02:20 The Sacred Space of Conversations 01:04:50 The Current State of the Fitness Industry 01:06:09 Opportunities in Aging and Strength Training 01:07:35 The Role of AI in Fitness Training 01:09:04 The Importance of Human Connection in Fitness 01:11:00 Challenging Negative Body Image 01:14:12 The Misconceptions of Fitness Marketing 01:16:08 Embracing the Pain Cave 01:17:05 The Power of Consistency 01:18:33 Quickfire Questions: Insights into Lifestyle 01:21:21 Reflections on Travel and Family 01:24:11 Recovery Practices and Self-Care 01:26:12 Life Mantras and Lessons Learned 01:27:53 Future Aspirations: Bringing Wim Hof to Hong Kong @sweatwithavey @jointdynamics @andrew_cox_movement_medicine @movesweatdiscover

    1h 31m
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About

The podcast where fitness meets self discovery. Join host Avey Cortes, as he dives into engaging conversations with inspiring guests. Each episode beginning with a challenging workout, exploring how movement can reveal insights about ourselves and our journeys. From personal triumphs to transformative lessons learned in the gym, we’ll uncover the powerful connections between physical activity and personal growth. Tune in to discover not just the stories of our guests, but perhaps a little more about yourself along the way. Let’s move, sweat and discover together!

Information

  • Creator
    Avey Cortes
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Avey Cortes
  • Show Website
    MOVE SWEAT DISCOVER