The Fit Pro Journey - Business Coaching for Fitness & Health Coaches - podcast cover

The Fit Pro Journey - Business Coaching for Fitness & Health Coaches

Ria Zervos - Business Coaching for Fitness & Health Coacheswww.riazervos.org
The Fitness Pro Journey is the go-to weekly podcast for personal trainers, health coaches, and fitness professionals ready to start or grow a profitable online coaching business—without the fluff, burnout, or bro-marketing tactics. Hosted by Ria, a former Fit Pro turned business mentor with over 22 years in the fitness industry—from club program manager to trade show organizer—this show is packed with no-BS advice, industry insight, and real talk from someone who’s done it all. Since launching her coaching business in 2018 (and going full-time in 2020), she’s helped hundreds of Fit Pros build sustainable, client-attracting businesses online. Each episode delivers raw, actionable strategies to help you launch your first offer, attract your dream clients, show up confidently online, and build a business that actually fits your life—with a little humor and tough love along the way. Whether you’re brand new to online coaching or ready to scale your existing fitness business, The Fitness Pro Journey will help you ditch self-doubt and unlock your full potential. Tune in every week and take the next step in building the coaching business you’ve been dreaming of. Connect > IG @_ria_z Connect > TikTok > @riazfitbizcoach Connect > admin@riazervos.com
Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

#126 Why You’re Not Getting Clients Online (Even if You’re Doing All the Things)

Are you posting daily, tweaking your niche, and jumping on trends—but still not signing clients? In this episode, we break down why your online fitness business isn’t converting and what to do instead. Learn 3 practical steps to attract clients without burning out, including how to network offline, reconnect with past clients, and simplify your message. Whether you're a personal trainer or health coach, this is your first step to building a coaching business that actually gets results. If you en...

Jun 23, 202513 minEp. 127

#125 The Truth About Building an Online Fitness Business in 2025

Trying to launch your online fitness or health coaching business — and thinking a logo or website is step one? Hit pause. In this episode, I’m walking you through exactly what you need in place before spending time (or money) on funnels, branding, or a fancy site. We’re talking: ✅ The 3 must-have foundations every online coach needs to grow ✅ How to get client clarity that actually converts ✅ Why branding too early can slow your income This is your go-to episode if you're an online coach wanting...

Jun 16, 202512 minEp. 126

#124 10K Followers? Cute. I Made Bank With 400.

Think you need 10k followers to go full-time online? Think again. In this episode, we’re flipping the script on the “more followers = more income” myth. I’ll share how I built a profitable online coaching business by focusing on relationships, not reach — and why your next high-ticket client is probably already in your circle. ✅ Perfect for: Health & fitness coaches building online ✅ You'll learn: How to sign clients without a big audience Why conversations > content What actually leads t...

Jun 09, 202512 minEp. 125

#123 How I Turned My Online Side Hustle into My Full-time Job Without Hustling 24/7?

Can You Really Go Full-Time Online Without Hustling 24/7? Going full-time online as a health or fitness coach doesn’t mean burning out on Reels and hoping a hashtag brings you clients. In this episode, I’m breaking down what it actually takes to go full-time — without living on your phone. You’ll hear my personal transition story, the 3 questions to ask before going all-in, and why structure (not hustle) is your new best friend. Oh, and we’re already teasing the magic behind real-world connectio...

Jun 02, 202516 minEp. 124

#122 Fitness Pros: Build Better Systems & Stop Overwhelm – Featuring Tracy Hoth

If your coaching biz feels more like a cluttered closet than a smooth-running machine, this episode is your permission slip to breathe. I sat down with Tracy Hoth — organizing coach and queen of simplification — to talk about how Fitness Pros like you can finally ditch the chaos and streamline your business (without needing color-coded folders... unless you’re into that). We’re talking: Why your “systems” might actually be slowing you down How to create simple workflows that save your sanity The...

May 26, 202529 minEp. 123

#121 Before & After: A Fitness Coach’s Real Breakthrough

Ever feel like you're doing everything and still getting nowhere in your fitness business? In this episode, I walk you through a powerful before-and-after story of one coach who went from burnout and inconsistent income to building a sustainable business that doesn’t rely on social media to thrive. If you're tired of early mornings, last-minute cancellations, and chasing clients online—this one’s for you. If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a message on Instagram @_ria_z to ope...

May 19, 202516 minEp. 122

#120 From Rock Bottom to 6-Figure Breakthrough (ft. My Husband)

What started as an April Fools' nightmare turned into the turning point of our lives. In this episode, I’m joined by my husband as we share the raw story of how getting unexpectedly let go from his job led to both of us completely pivoting our careers—and building businesses we love. If you’ve ever been in a “WTF do we do now?” moment, this one’s for you. 👉 Grab the free guide to create your signature program: Click here 👉 DM “SIGNATURE” on Instagram to get it directly: @_ria_z If you enjoyed ...

May 12, 202522 minEp. 121

#119 Tried Online Coaching in 2020 and Failed?

Tried Online Coaching in 2020 and Failed? Here’s Why You Should Try Again (This Time, With a Real Plan) Tried online coaching in 2020 and felt like it was a total flop? You’re not alone. In this episode, we unpack why your first attempt didn’t work—and why now is the perfect time to give it another shot (with a real plan this time). I’ll walk you through what’s changed, what’s possible, and why having an online component to your fitness business is no longer optional—it’s essential. 🎯 Ready to ...

May 05, 202514 minEp. 120

#118 Is Your Job at the Gym Safe? Why Now Is the Time to Build Your Online Business

Is your job at the gym really secure? In this episode, Ria breaks down why so many health & fitness coaches are rethinking their in-person roles and how to start building an online business before burnout or layoffs hit. She shares real stats, a powerful client story, and the very first step to taking control of your income—creating your signature program. Don’t miss this one if you’re ready for more freedom and sustainability in your coaching career. 👉 Grab the free guide to create your si...

Apr 28, 202515 minEp. 119

🎉 Happy Birthday to Me! Half a Century, Zero Regrets: 50 Lessons from 50 Years 🎉

Turning 50 is a milestone, and I’m celebrating the best way I know how—by sharing 50 of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through fitness, business, motherhood, marriage, and life. From the hard-hitting truths to the funny “wish I knew this sooner” moments, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and a little bit of tough love. Whether you're just starting your journey or you're a fellow 40+ powerhouse, I promise you’ll walk away with insights that make you think, laugh, and maybe even say, “Y...

Apr 21, 202535 minEp. 117

#116 Build Your Fitness Career in 12 Weeks 🏋️‍♀️ with IDEA's Mentorship Program

So many talented fitness professionals struggle to turn their passion into a lasting career—but it doesn’t have to be that way. Amy Boone Thompson, CEO of IDEA Health & Fitness Association, joins me to share how her new mentorship program is helping fitness pros gain clarity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed. If you’re ready to build a sustainable career in fitness, this conversation is for you! Amy Boone Thompson is a visionary leader and three-decade veteran of the fitness an...

Apr 14, 202534 minEp. 118

#115 Building Confidence as an Online Coach: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt (Without Being Online 24/7)

Feeling like a fraud every time you go to post online? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about how to build real confidence as an online coach—even if you’re not online 24/7. I’ll walk you through where imposter syndrome really comes from, how to shift your mindset, and give you 4 powerful tools to help you show up with confidence, clarity, and purpose. Whether you’re just starting or feeling stuck, this one’s for you. If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a messag...

Apr 07, 202525 minEp. 116

#114 “What the Heck Do I Even Post Today?” – Fixing Your Content Struggles for Good (Without Being Online 24/7)

Struggling with what to post on social media? In this episode, we’re tackling the all-too-common content confusion that keeps fitness coaches stuck. You’ll learn why content feels like a struggle (hint: it’s not just about writing skills) and how to fix it with clarity, messaging, and a strategy that doesn’t rely 100% on Instagram. Plus, I’ll show you how to attract clients beyond social media through offline networking—so you can grow your business without being glued to your phone. Ready to st...

Mar 31, 202523 minEp. 115

#113 Stepping Back Without Falling Behind: Why Posting Less Won’t Break Your Business

Feeling guilty about posting less on social media? Life happens, and sometimes you need to take a step back—and that’s okay! In this episode, we’re talking about why social media is just a tool, not your entire business. I’ll break down how to maintain momentum even when you're not posting as much, why consistency doesn’t mean daily content, and how to build a business that thrives beyond Instagram and TikTok. If you’ve ever worried that stepping back means losing everything, this one’s for you!...

Mar 24, 202513 minEp. 114

112 - Why Posting Daily Isn’t Enough (And What to Do Instead)

My client was doing everything right—showing up daily, posting valuable content, and still… nothing. No clients. No real leads. Just frustration. But then, she made one powerful shift that changed everything. Within weeks, she signed several high-ticket clients, booked podcast interviews, and landed a speaker opportunity—without endless content creation. In this episode, I break down exactly what she did differently and how you can apply the same strategy to attract clients without burnout. 🎧 T...

Mar 17, 202515 minEp. 113

#111 If You Don’t Have a Business Outside the Gym, You’re Screwed (Again)

2020 changed the fitness industry overnight—gyms shut down, clients disappeared, and most fitness pros had no backup plan. Fast forward to today, and if you’re still relying only on in-person training, you’re taking a massive risk. In this episode, we’re breaking down why building a business beyond the gym is no longer optional and how you can create a sustainable, client-generating system without being glued to social media 24/7. I’ll share how my Authentic Connection Networking System helps fi...

Mar 10, 202516 minEp. 112

#110 How to Build an Online Fitness Business—Without Leaving the Gym

Feeling stuck in the gym grind? Early mornings, late nights, and pay that depends entirely on your sessions? You’re not alone—80% of trainers leave the industry because of burnout and lack of control. But what if you could have both? In this episode, we’re breaking down how you can start an online coaching business without giving up in-person training.No, you don’t have to be a social media influencer, and no, you don’t have to work even more hours. Learn how to take back ownership of your busin...

Mar 03, 202517 minEp. 111

#109 Your Next 5 Clients Aren’t Even on Instagram: How to Sign Clients Without Chasing the Algorithm

Struggling to sign clients despite spending hours creating content for Instagram? What if your next five clients aren’t even on social media? In this episode, we’re breaking down why relying on the algorithm is holding you back and how shifting to real human connections can help you sign more clients—without chasing likes or going viral. Tune in to learn where your ideal clients actually are and how to build a sustainable business through referrals, networking, and authentic conversations. Ready...

Feb 24, 202516 minEp. 110

#108 What If They Judge You? Do It Anyway!

Overcoming Fear & Self-Doubt in Your Online Fitness Coaching Business Fear of judgment, rejection, and self-doubt can hold you back from starting your online coaching business—but only if you let it. In this episode, I’m sharing personal stories of criticism, setbacks, and the moments that nearly made me quit. From being told I wasn’t “presenter material” to facing brutal industry standards, I’ve heard it all. But here’s the truth: those who doubt you don’t define you. If fear is stopping yo...

Feb 17, 202520 minEp. 109

#107 The "6 Degrees of Kevin Bacon" Method for Finding Clients

Think you need a huge audience to sign clients? Think again. In this episode, I break down how the 6 Degrees of Kevin Bacon concept applies to your business—and why your next client is already closer than you think. I’ll share the biggest mistakes coaches make when trying to grow, real-life examples of how this method works, and simple steps to start leveraging your existing network. 🚀 Ready to sign clients without constantly chasing new leads? Tune in now! If you enjoyed this episode I’d love ...

Feb 10, 202514 minEp. 108

#106 The Real New Year Starts Now: How to Win in 2025 Without Being Online 24/7

January felt like a warm-up, but now it’s time to really get to work! If you’re an online fitness coach who wants to grow in 2025 without being glued to your phone 24/7, this episode is for you. I’m sharing the biggest mistakes coaches make at the start of the year, what actually works in 2025, and a simple challenge to help you take action right now. 🔥 Ready to build a business that fits your life? DM me on Instagram ( @_ria_z) or reply to this episode’s email with your #1 goal for February—I’...

Feb 03, 202527 minEp. 107

#105 From Burnout to Building a Coaching Business

This podcast episode dives into my journey from burnout as a gym manager to building a thriving coaching business that empowers fitness professionals. I share the pivotal moments that sparked my transformation, the lessons I learned along the way, and how I’m now on a mission to help Fit Pros break free from the grind, build sustainable businesses, and live life on their terms. If you’ve ever felt stuck, this episode is for you! If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a message on ...

Jan 27, 202521 minEp. 105

#104 What's New in 2025 for Building Your Fitness Biz on Social Media

Discover what's new, what's dead, and what still works for building your Health & Fitness coaching business on social media in 2025! In this episode, we dive into the latest trends, share hot takes, and explore why offline networking might just be the secret to boosting your online presence. Packed with humor and actionable insights, this is a must-listen for any coach ready to level up their game this year. If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a message on Instagram @_ria_z...

Jan 20, 202526 minEp. 104

#103 Going Full-Time Online as a Health & Fitness Coach: Building Momentum and Overcoming Challenges

In this follow-up episode, we’re diving deeper into what it takes to go full-time as an online health and fitness coach. Learn how to build momentum, overcome common challenges, and create long-term sustainability in your business—all without the hustle. If you’re ready to step into your next-level self and make 2025 your year, this episode is packed with the insights and action steps you need to succeed! If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a message on Instagram @_ria_z to ope...

Jan 13, 202517 minEp. 103

#102 Making 2025 the Year You Go Full-Time as an Online Health & Fitness Coach

Ready to go full-time as an online health and fitness coach in 2025? In this episode, I’m sharing actionable steps to help you transition without the overwhelm or hustle. From setting a sustainable vision and simplifying your offers to building systems and attracting clients with ease, this roadmap will guide you to create a thriving coaching business that aligns with your life. Let’s make this your year! If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me a message on Instagram @_ria_z to ope...

Jan 06, 202520 minEp. 102

#101 As Health & Fitness Coaches You’re Changing the World—Not Just Paying Bills!

As the new year approaches, it’s time to think bigger than just building a business. In this short and inspiring episode, I’ll help you shift your mindset from focusing on money to focusing on the impact you make as a coach. You’re not just running a business—you’re changing lives and creating ripples that can change the world. Let’s dive into how you can step into 2025 with purpose, passion, and a commitment to the transformation you bring. If you enjoyed this episode I’d love to know! Send me ...

Dec 30, 202411 minEp. 101

#100 Santa’s Sleigh and Your Health & Fitness Business Goals

Santa’s sleigh ride isn’t just holiday magic—it’s a masterclass in preparation, consistency, and delivering results. In this short and festive episode, we’ll draw inspiration from Santa himself to keep you motivated, focused, and ready to hit the ground running in 2025. It’s funny, it’s inspiring, and it’s exactly what you need to hear before Christmas Eve. Tune in, reflect on your wins, and set a bold intention for the new year. Let’s make 2025 your best year yet! 🎄✨ Get on the waitlist for my...

Dec 23, 202410 minEp. 100

#99 Are You Building Your Business or Just Chasing Certifications?

In this episode, we tackle the “certification trap” many health and fitness coaches fall into. While certifications are valuable, they can sometimes become an excuse to avoid the real work of building a business. Join us as we explore the mindset behind over-certification, the importance of taking action, and what clients really want from you. If you’re ready to stop waiting for the “next big cert” to move forward, this episode is your call to action. Let’s get you focused on building the busine...

Dec 16, 202413 minEp. 99

#98 Changing the Game: How Two Coaches Evolved with the Online Coaching Industry

In this episode, Changing the Game: How Two Coaches Evolved with the Online Coaching Industry, we sit down with experienced business coach Rosemary to discuss her unique journeys in the ever-changing online coaching space. She shares how she has adapted to industry shifts, the key strategies that helped her grow, and the lessons she learned along the way. Whether you're new to online coaching or a seasoned pro, this episode offers valuable insights on staying ahead and thriving in a competitive ...

Dec 09, 202421 minEp. 93

#97 Setting Game-Changing Goals for 2025: A Blueprint for Online Health & Fitness Coaches

Get ready to set impactful goals for 2025! In this episode, we break down goal-setting strategies specifically for online health and fitness coaches. From reflecting on 2024, creating SMART goals, and building sustainable systems, to embracing flexibility and tracking progress, this episode will help you design a clear, actionable plan to grow your business. Tune in to make 2025 your breakthrough year Ready to kickstart your 2025 with a clear, powerful plan? Join me for a LIVE class on December ...

Dec 02, 202424 minEp. 98
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android