In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, Chris Liddle sits down with longtime coach and family man Zach Pello to unpack two decades of insight in fitness, mental health, personal growth—and how redefining success in midlife reshapes the way you coach.
We talk about:
* Getting unstuck professionally and personally
* Mental health challenges as a coach
* Reigniting passion after burnout
* Real Coaches Summit as a networking catalyst
* Unconventional wins from clients that made it all worth it
🔑 Trending topics: Fitness coaching, mental health for trainers, Real Coaches Summit, online coaching balance, sustainable goal setting.
🕒 Timestamps:00:00 - Zach’s origin story in fitness01:45 - Catalyst moments that reshaped his coaching03:00 - Balancing personal health with business goals06:15 - Identity, injuries, and rebuilding purpose08:00 - Real Coaches Summit & investing in relationships12:00 - Changing your mind as a seasoned coach15:50 - Client environment & social support success18:00 - Navigating unsupportive environments with empathy20:30 - Training for long-term functionality23:30 - Making NEAT activity sustainable27:00 - Creative ways to make strength training stick30:00 - Long-term goals in your 40s and beyond35:00 - Breathwork, blood pressure & staying vital40:00 - Reconnecting with hobbies and friendships44:00 - Self-reflection, identity, and living fully
📌 Zach Pello's Links:Instagram: @pellofitness
📌 Chris Liddle’s Links:🎙️ Apple Podcasts: Listen Here🎧 Spotify: Listen Here📺 YouTube: @christianliddle🏋️♂️ Training: InvigorateTraining.com🎥 Video Editing (CapCut Academy): Enroll Here📝 Podcast Course: Build A Podcast You Won’t Quit
