Brian Richey and Nora St John

Moving Conversations

#92 in Fitness · 🇮🇪 #134 in Fitness · 🇸🇬

About the show

Welcome to Moving Conversations, a podcast for movement professionals by movement professionals. Join Author and 2025 Personal Trainer of the Year Finalist Brian Richey and Balanced Body Content Creator Nora St John, with their combined 50 years+ of experience in Pilates, fitness and movement covering topics ranging from Pilates, fitness, corrective exercise, pre and post rehab, exercise programming, sports specific training, and of course any and all questions that come from you, the listener. Join the conversation on: Instagram: movingconvos Twitter: @movingconvos Email the show @ movingconvos@gmail.com

Newest episodes

New Moves-Skill Building!

Nov 10, 2026 51 min

As part of our New Moves series, we are looking at why and how we modify, progress or create new moves. In this episode we explore the idea of analyzing a movement goal, identifying the skills needed to achieve the goal and designing exercises to build movement skills progressively and safely. Whether you are training an athlete or dancer to perform at their best or a new grandparent to safely pick up their grandchild, this episode is full of practical advice for you and your clients. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

New Moves with Elizabeth Larkam

Nov 3, 2026 1 hr 5 min

Inspired by our episode on creating new exercises, we wanted to invite a few highly creative movement educators to share their process.Next up is Elizabeth Larkam who has been creating moves to reflect the evolution of movement science for decades. Join us for a wide ranging discussion on the origin, influences and inspiration behind her tremendous body of novel yet safe movement experiences. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

TOYS! Our Top 5 Home and Travel Tools

Oct 27, 2026 55 min

Brian and Nora travel a lot and having easy to use and portable fitness tools keeps them working out on the go. In this episode we talk about our favorite toys for mobility, release work, strength, balance and core. Whether you want tools for home or for a hotel room, we hope to inspire your creativity. Full disclosure, none of our recommendations are sponsored! Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

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All episodes

New Moves-Skill Building!

Nov 10, 2026 51 min

New Moves with Elizabeth Larkam

Nov 3, 2026 1 hr 5 min

TOYS! Our Top 5 Home and Travel Tools

Oct 27, 2026 55 min

New Moves with Nico Gonzalez

Oct 20, 2026 1 hr 4 min

On Nico’s app, Pocket Pilates, he has created an endless variety of skill building sequences in the Pilates environment. Today we discuss his excellent framework for creating variations, progressions and modifications for classes and private clients. Nico outlines a simple formula for taking the exercises you already know and keeping them fresh for clients and classes of all kinds. This is a truly practical and inspiring episode with one of the most creative minds in the business! Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

New Moves- From Theory to Practice

Oct 13, 2026 58 min

In this episode, Brian and Nora talk about closed chain and open chain and how they impact muscle activation, joint stability and coordination. This conversation is an excellent example of our thought process when we designing and modifying new exercises. For examples we focus on firing the adductors independently and modifying range of motion to balance glute and hamstring activation. This is a look "behind the curtain" of creating new moves. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

New Moves!

Oct 6, 2026 59 min

Everyone sees creative and occasionally provocative exercises on social media. Before teaching the exercise, we ask ourselves the following questions: 1) What is the purpose of the exercise. 2) Who is the exercise for. 3) Is it safe for this client or class and 4) How might I need to adapt it for clients who are taller, shorter, tighter or looser. Whether you create new exercises to address a particular movement pattern, to add variety to a workout or to help a client in pain move more comfortably, let's talk about why, how and when to create new exercises. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Knee Replacements: A Practical Guide

Sep 29, 2026 1 hr 0 min

Brian has worked with many clients pre and post knee replacement surgery and I wanted to hear what his approach is, when personal training and Pilates are most useful and how to optimize recovery. This episode lays out general guidelines and time frames along with specific exercise examples and drills to help clients return to their activities with confidence. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Helping Clients in Pain

Sep 22, 2026 59 min

Working with people in pain is challenging for both instructors and clients. Taking advice from new advances in the science of pain, Brian and Nora discuss ways to redirect clients away from their focus on pain, tips for helping them distinguish pain from discomfort and ways to help them create positive movement experiences. As instructors these clients can challenge us to remain optimistic and positive and we also include a few tips for helping you manage your own state when working with difficult clients. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Tendonitis - New Research and Training Techniques

Sep 15, 2026 1 hr 0 min

Join us today as we discuss new research on an effective program for healing tendinitis. Whether you’re dealing with tendinitis in the ankle, knee, shoulder, elbow or other areas, this research from Dr. Keith Baar out of UC Davis uses low load isometrics to rebuild and remodel tendons for optimum strength and resilience. His approach is immediately applicable in the Pilates or personal training environment and has broader applications for how we train. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Are You Sitting Down?

Sep 8, 2026 59 min

In this episode we explore sitting, sleeping, working and driving to uncover common sources of discomfort in clients’ daily activities. When a client spends most of their day in a less than ideal ergonomic setting, it can have profound and long lasting effects on their posture and tension patterns. Brian and Nora encourage you to uncover your clients’ daily environments and discuss simple ways to modify chairs, beds, workstations and cars to make them more comfortable. This one is filled with practical solutions for common problems! Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Anatomy in Motion

Sep 1, 2026 58 min

This is essentially a love letter to how anatomy and kinesiology form the foundation of our movement practice and philosophy. Understanding the body in motion makes problem solving more fun and keeps our curiosity alive. Building an internal model of the relationships between joints, muscles, connective tissue and the nervous system creates a toolbox for change. We hope to inspire you to stay curious and keep diving into the amazing world of movement science for inspiration and insight. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Balancing the Body

Aug 25, 2026 56 min

Working with clients we often discover imbalances such as differences in strength and mobility between the sides, discoordinated movement patterns or misalignments. Creating a more balanced body can decrease joint stress, improve performance and decrease pain. In this episode, Brian and Nora discuss ways to work toward balance through modifying repetitions, changing resistance, mental focus and changing daily habits. We get asked about this all the time so here are a few strategies for you to try. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Recovery- Returning to Life

Aug 18, 2026 59 min

Regaining the ability to do everything one wants to do in life is the ultimate goal of recovery. Helping clients return to their activities with confidence requires guidance to keep a client from getting stuck and giving up or pushing ahead too soon leading to reinjury. In this episode we discuss strategies for returning to running, strengthening the core and helping clients resume their lives whether they are a committed golfer, an obsessed pickleball player or a parent with young children. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Recovery: From the Beginning

Aug 11, 2026 58 min

When and how do you start exercising after an injury or a surgery? Physical therapists and surgeons may provide guidelines but as movement professionals, we still have to figure out what our client can do and how to help them get out of pain and resume their activities. In this episode, we provide practical advice and guidance about timing, managing fear, staying optimistic and designing a progressive movement program for success. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

How Reliable is Dr. AI ?

Aug 4, 2026 54 min

More and more clients are coming into the studio with information they have found using AI and internet searches. Sometimes the information is accurate and sometimes it’s not. This podcast is designed to help both instructors and clients distinguish between reliable from suspect information. Consider the source, consider whether what they are saying makes sense and be aware that you or a client may not have the background to understand the complexities of what a short AI summary provides. Welcome to the future my friends! Let’s make it work for us. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

What Kind of Influencer Are You?

Jul 28, 2026 56 min

What does it mean to influence someone? Whether you know it or not, if you work with people and help them grow, you are an influencer. Working with clients in your studio, teaching Pilates teachers, presenting at conferences or making social media posts, there are many ways to have a positive influence on your clients and your community. Join us for inspiration and support to all of you who are working to change the world, one exercise at a time! Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Pilates Evolution with Troy McCarty

Jul 21, 2026 1 hr 2 min

Following up on our Educator or Influencer conversation, Troy McCarty joins us to discuss his Pilates history and the evolution of his teaching over the last 40 years. Steeped in the classical work from Bruce King and Romana Kryzanowska, Troy has developed an engaged and precise teaching style that fully embodies the essence of the work while adapting it to the client in front of him. This is a wonderful opportunity to hear from a true master teacher! Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Preparing for Hip Replacement Surgery

Jul 14, 2026 58 min

Preparing a client for hip replacement surgery can have a major influence on how well they recover. In this episode we discuss key principles to focus on for clients who are considering hip replacement surgery. In some cases, a strong program to prepare for surgery can decrease hip pain, improve functional capabilities and negate the need for surgery. Case studies and program principles are the focus of this episode Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Hip Replacement Followup

Jul 7, 2026 1 hr 2 min

Following up on our in-depth conversation with Beth Kaplanek in the last episode, Nora and Brian provide more detail on the different kinds of hip replacements and what instructors should be aware when working with clients with posterior, posterior lateral, lateral or anterior surgical approaches. We also talk about what to do when a client comes to you very early in their post surgery journey rather than after a 6 week to 3 month course of physical therapy. This is not an uncommon occurrence and we want to make sure we all stay in our scope as movement professionals during this critical time. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Pilates and Hip Replacements with Beth Kaplanek

Jun 30, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Hip and knee replacements have been called “the surgery of the century” due to how frequently they are performed. As movement professionals, understanding what happens in a hip replacement, basic precautions to be aware of and how to progress a client safely are essential skills for managing clients with this common condition. Beth Kaplanek has both a personal and a professional interest in the topic and discovered the benefits of Pilates after her first hip replacement 26 years ago! This conversation is packed with essential information and practical guidance on this important topic. Beth Kaplanek's information: www.bethkaplanek.com beth@bethkaplanek.com Link: polestarpilates.com/beth Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

GLP1 and Exercise Update!

Jun 23, 2026 58 min

As more and more people are taking GLP1’s such as Ozempic for weight loss, information on the benefits and downsides is changing at a rapid rate. Today Nora and Brian discuss some of the latest findings on the anti-inflammatory and heart protective effects as well as the challenges of muscle loss, fatigue and emotional impacts. With close to 10% of the US population on one of these drugs, understanding how they affect your clients in the studio is essential. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Menopause Managed with Dr. Diedra Manns DPT

Jun 16, 2026 56 min

With 30+ years of clinical practice as a DPT, Pilates instructor and educator, Dr. Manns current project is assisting women through menopause with a whole person approach including movement, nutrition, sleep, medication where appropriate alongand cognitive and emotional support. Today’s episode focuses on the myofascial effects of menopause and strategies for managing them to improve women’s ability to stay focused, energetic and effective during this part of the life span. To book a Complimentary 30-minute Menopause Clarity https://calendly.com/flourishwithdoctordiedra/30-minute-menopause-clarity-call Web: drdiedra.com FB: facebook.com/doctordiedra IG: instagram.com/drdiedra LI: linkedin.com/in/drdiedra Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Influencer or Educator?

Jun 9, 2026 59 min

Working with instructors and clients around the world, we see how influencers have changed the fitness landscape. From new teachers who want to be international presenters to clients wanting to do the latest move, to influencers doing crazy things on Pilates equipment, it’s a wild world out there. Join Nora and Brian for some straight talk on the difference between an educator and an influencer and on how influencer culture affects all of us. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Walk Before You Run

Jun 2, 2026 52 min

Where do you start with a complicated client? How do you know what to focus on first? As a follow up to a previous episode “Begin with the End in Mind” Brian and Nora talk about strategies for finding a starting point when designing programs for challenging clients. Through case examples, client management strategies and assessment, we provide a framework to get you started. Moving Conversation Socials Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Youtube: @BrianRichey Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/ Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/moving-conversations/id1669504158?i=1000650467168 https://open.spotify.com/show/6cmgm8T0ZiC5wu6yhXrw9g #movingconversations

Breath! With Helen Vanderburg

May 26, 2026 50 min

Breathing is a hot topic and we wanted to start the conversation with Helen Vanderburg, a world champion synchronized swimmer, gym owner, international presenter and a woman who has possibly taught a greater variety of fitness modalities than anyone else we know. This conversation includes key ways to use breath to activate, balance, and restore the body and mind and provides practical examples for exploring and expanding the use of breath with your clients and classes. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Begin with the End in Mind : Program Design for Results

May 19, 2026 57 min

When working with clients with multiple issues, it can be easy to stop seeing the forest for the trees and get lost in the details of addressing each specific issue. In this episode we talk about how to make client sessions more effective by prioritizing specific skills and staying focused on them over time. This is how progress happens. We provided plenty of examples, tools and inspiration to support you in helping your clients make progress. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YouTube: @brianrichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Yes, Scapular Staility is Important!

May 12, 2026 58 min

We both grew up in an industry where keeping the shoulders away from the ears and scapular stability were a foundation of upper body strength. While helpful, this is a limiting understanding of functional upper body movement. Today we take a deep dive into the nuances of identifying, training and improving scapular mobility along with building a three dimensional understanding of upper body training. Join us for an enlightening conversation Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YouTube: @brianrichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Facing Fear- Working with Challenging Clients

May 5, 2026 59 min

Fear is a common emotion in many clients and especially in those who are dealing with pain. As an instructor, learning to create trust, manage expectations, refer when needed and maintain your center with difficult clients are important skills to cultivate. Brian and Nora talk through several common scenarios, share case studies and encourage you to cultivate compassion without losing your center. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YourTube: BrianRichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

AI meets Pilates and Fitness, What Now?

Apr 28, 2026 59 min

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is entering all of our lives. What impact is it having in the movement space? Pros and cons, human versus machine, science versus personal touch. Brian and Nora provide a thought provoking, wide ranging discussion of where the future of technology might impact our careers, our passion and our skills. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YourTube: BrianRichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Fitness Fads and Fundamentals

Apr 21, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Brian just returned from a major fitness industry trade show and it got us thinking about fitness fads that come and go and fitness fundamentals that last through time. This conversation takes a look at how fitness and Pilates have evolved over the last 30 years. From group exercise to personal training to Pilates, the history of fitness reflects the growth of movement science and the growing sophistication of training techniques and equipment. Join us for a look at where we have come from! Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YourTube: BrianRichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Keys to Connect Mind and Body

Apr 14, 2026 59 min

Last episode we learned about mirror neurons and the vagus nerve and other ways the brain and body connect with Anne C. Bishop, a neuroscientist and Pilates teacher. Today Brian and I discuss ways to bring the brain into training through clarifying intention, creating a safe environment and meeting our clients where they are on every level. Take a listen! Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 YourTube: BrianRichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

How the Brain influences Movement with Anne C Bishop

Apr 7, 2026 1 hr 3 min

Anne C Bishop, creator of Brain Body Connect has spent over two decades deciphering the connection between neurology and teaching movement. In this episode, she introduces us to mirror neurons, polyvagal theory and other concepts from neurobiology and how they inform teaching. If you wonder why some cues work on one client but not on another, this episode provides some useful strategies to make your teaching more effective. Anne C Bishop graduated from Harvard University with a Master's Degree in Mind, Brain, and Education. She created Body Brain Connect because she wanted to teach others what she felt was missing in mind-body education: the brain, educational best practices and solid pedagogy. anne_bishop@bodybrainconnect.com https://www.facebook.com/BodyBrainConnect/ LinkedIn Group: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4308834/ Download the Pilates Brain Infographic here: https://body-brain-connect.kit.com/961d1739f1 or use this one https://tinyurl.com/pilatesbraininfographic Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

To Correct or Not to Correct, That is the Question

Mar 31, 2026 54 min

As movement teachers, our role is to tell clients what to do, how to move and (ideally) how to move better. This often involves correcting their movement patterns through verbal cueing, manual cueing or adding props. In this conversation, Brian and Nora discuss when, how and why to correct or not to correct. Starting with the concept of the “correction continuum” where movement correction runs the gamut from no correcting at all to cueing with such specificity the client hardly moves, we discuss strategies and case studies to illuminate common struggles instructors face when improving client’s movement patterns. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Perfect Synergy- Combining Pilates and Personal Training

Mar 24, 2026 1 hr 1 min

The fitness world contains a wide variety of modalities and techniques. Nora and Brian discuss the roles Pilates and Personal Training play in a well rounded fitness routine. Pilates focuses on movement quality, while personal training focuses on functional abilities, when they are combined, everyone benefits. Nora and Brian discuss the roles the two disciplines play and how cooperation with talented trainers in complimentary fields can help clients reach their goals more effectively. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Designing Specialized Reformer and Group Classes

Mar 17, 2026 58 min

Following up on our inspiring conversation with Elizabeth Larkam, we discuss ways to design Reformer classes for special populations. Putting a couple of classes on the schedule focusing on clients with osteoporosis, low back pain or pre and post-natal women can bring in a loyal clientele and position you as an instructor with specialized expertise. Working with these clients requires a deeper understanding of the condition and a conscious approach to program design but it can be so rewarding to see how Pilates can truly change lives. Let us know if you are doing this already and how it’s going. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Intelligent Reformer Class Programming with Elizabeth Larkam

Mar 10, 2026 1 hr 0 min

S3-37 Intelligent Reformer Class Programming with Elizabeth Larkam Elizabeth Larkam has been teaching and evolving Pilates for 40 years. She developed the original group Reformer program when Balanced Body’s Pilates Allegro was launched in 1999. Since then Elizabeth has explored many advances in movement science, and integrated them into movement practice in the Pilates environment. She has now come full circle and is teaching 15 group Reformer classes each week. Listen to our fascinating discussion of how Elizabeth incorporates her many insights into the group Reformer environment. Elizabeth's Socials and Offers: Pilates Anytime classes 2026: Reformer Cardio - Leg and Arm Jumps Creating New, Strong Connections - Reformer with Box https://www.pilatesanytime.com/instructor-bio/76/Elizabeth-Larkam-Pilates-Teacher Books: 1. Fascia in Motion (Handspring 2017) 2. Pilates Applications for Health Conditions Two Volume Set Co-editors Madeline Black and Elizabeth Larkam Handspring Publishing, May 2025 Elizabeth teaches online classes every day. A different prop every day of the week as well as Chair with rotator discs, Reformer with jump board, Reformer with box, Reformer with cords, loops, infinity footbar. http://www.bewellstaywell.net/elizabethlarkam Pilates Anytime classes 2026: Reformer Cardio - Leg and Arm Jumps Creating New, Strong Connections - Reformer with Box

Madeline Black- Assessment, Analysis, Fascia and Movement

Mar 3, 2026 1 hr 1 min

Today we are joined by Madeline Black, a Pilates teacher and educator with over 40 years experience changing lives through movement. Madeline has dedicated her life to deepening her understanding of the body in movement through in depth study of manual therapy, fascia and gait in addition to a practical background in dance, Pilates, yoga and related physical disciplines. Today we talk about how she developed her unique approach presented in her book, “Centered: Organizing the Body Through Kinesiology, Movement Theory and Pilates Techniques” and how she uses gait as an essential assessment tool in “Pilates Applications for Health Conditions” co-edited with Elizabeth Larkam. This is a deep dive into the many disciplines that make an effective movement teacher. Enjoy! Madeline's Socials: www.madelineblack.com IG https://www.instagram.com/madelineblackpilates/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MadelineBlackMethod/ Substack https://substack.com/@madelineblackmoves Email: madeline@madelineblack.com Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

The Olympics!!!

Feb 24, 2026 49 min

The Winter Olympics are just over and Brian and Nora reflect on the highs, lows, injuries, inspiration and magic of watching the best athletes in the world do their best. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Thoracolumbar Fascia and Low Back Pain

Feb 17, 2026 58 min

Back pain has many causes and many solutions. Today Brian and Nora talk about the role of the thoracolumbar fascia in coordinating the action of the shoulder girdle, thorax, spine and pelvis and how it influences back pain. Movement, myofascial release and training principles for remodeling fascia are the key topics for today. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

What do I do about Stenosis?

Feb 10, 2026 1 hr 2 min

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the vertebral spaces the nerves travel through. Stenosis is a common concern for older adults and one that can be quite debilitating, leading to pain and weakness with walking, standing or sitting. Specific exercises from an experienced personal trainer or Pilates teacher can help clients to manage it to minimize pain and maximize functional movement. Join Brian and Nora for case studies and strategies for your clients or yourself. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Working with Kids

Feb 3, 2026 1 hr 2 min

Following up on our conversation with Matt McCulloch about kids and sports, we wanted to talk about strategies and training approaches to help kids become more comfortable and confident in their bodies, to learn that movement is fun and to set them up for a lifetime of physical enjoyment. Kids come into Pilates and personal training for many different reasons. If you work with kids training to improve their performance, their posture, to recover from an injury or just to work out this conversation has a lot of tips and pointers for creating success. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Kids and Sports with Matt McCulloch

Jan 27, 2026 1 hr 8 min

Matt McCulloch, the owner of Kinected Studio in New York joins us today to discuss the benefits and pitfalls of youth sports and how we can use our training as movement professionals to support our kids. Matt is a coach with two of his own boys in baseball and other sports and his experience and insights are invaluable for movement professionals and parents alike. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Building (or Rebuilding) your Fitness Foundation

Jan 20, 2026 57 min

Continuing with our January theme of creating your vision for health and vitality, the focus of today’s episode is strategies for creating a strong fitness foundation. Creating a plan, following through, adapting the program and creating success all start with a solid understanding of where you are, where you want to go and how to get there. Whether you or your clients are brand new to fitness or restarting their journey (again!) this episode is full of tips and tricks for getting back on track. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Begin with the Destination in Mind

Jan 13, 2026 1 hr 2 min

Lindy Royer, PT, Pilates instructor, educator and coach extraordinaire joins us today to drill down on how and why to create inspiring goals for the coming year. Lindy makes a strong case for building your vision of vitality and using it to inform your personal practice. Filled with practical exercises, this episode may change your life! For our listeners, Lindy would like to offer a 20-30 minute Vision Call where you can elaborate and get some support around discovering what's in the way of your vision for the body, and what you can do to shift it. Email Lindy directly at this email address: lindyroyer@innermatrixsystems.com

New Year, New Opportunities!

Jan 6, 2026 53 min

As the first episode of the New Year, Brian and Nora discuss strategies for creating change. Whether you’ve identified imbalances to work on, discomfort to manage or skills to develop, the new year is a good time to assess where you are, where you want to be and what you need to do to get there. Take this time for you!

Connecting Mind, Body and Movement with Tom McCook

Dec 30, 2025 1 hr 0 min

Tom McCook joins us once again for an in depth discussion on how to improve movement patterns through education, connection and awareness. Tom’s wide ranging experience in Pilates, yoga, athletics, coaching and meditation makes him a powerful agent of change for his clients and students. Understanding what is important to a client, educating them about how their body works and connecting the purpose of the exercise to the clients goals create the best outcome. Join us for a conversation to inspire your teaching. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Embodied Empowerment with Tom McCook!

Dec 23, 2025 1 hr 4 min

In this episode we revisit our first interview with Tom McCook from Center of Balance for an inspiring discussion on creating change through engaging clients in the process, focusing on functional movement and paying attention. Using functional anatomy as a foundation, we discuss how client education, instructor curiosity and creativity help clients take charge and create lasting change from the inside out. Check out Tom’s latest information and offerings: https://linktr.ee/tommccook Tom McCook/Mentorship Program 2025-dates/TBD (More info coming soon!) If interested, please email:info@centerofbalance.com Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Youtube: www.youtube.com/@brianrichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Working with Osteoporosis

Dec 16, 2025 1 hr 2 min

Working with a client with osteoporosis and managing their expectations can be challenging as a Pilates instructor or personal trainer. Client’s are often not given much guidance by their medical professional and are left on their own to figure out if their current workout routine is helpful or potentially dangerous. Our job is to keep them safe while doing our best to slow, halt or reverse their condition. In this episode we discuss strategies for minimizing risky moves like loaded flexion while working to improve posture, strength and bone density. We hope this conversation provides a starting point for better program design for your clients with osteoporosis. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Osteoporosis and Exercise

Dec 9, 2025 1 hr 1 min

Today we are lookinga back and repeating a hot topic we discussed back in May. We are wading into a very controversial topic, osteoporosis, where guidelines for exercise tend to be vague at best. Today we touch on what it is, some general guidelines and ways to keep clients active when flexion and rotation are contraindicated. Join the conversation to see if we can make progress at developing a better answer for clients who are recently diagnosed and trying to figure out how to stay active. This is part 1, in next week’s session, we discuss programming and client management strategies. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

Pilates for Kids with Melissa McNamara

Dec 2, 2025 1 hr 5 min

Melissa McNamara is a Stott Pilates instructor trainer with a passion for working with kids of all ages. Join us for a fascinating discussion about how to engage kids in Pilates, tips and tricks for working with different age groups and how Pilates, taught with fun in mind, can nurture a lifelong love of movement. Melissa is the author of “Pilates for Kids” and provides classes and resources for instructors looking to teach Pilates to children. Brian and I learned so much from this session not just about teaching kids but also about how to use simple props and storytelling to enhance our work with any client. Website: macpilatesforkids.com macpilates.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@macpilates IG@mindartcore Etsy shop for book purchases: macPilates. Moving Conversation Socials  Brian’s Book on Low Back Pain and Conditions: Back Exercise; Stabilize, Mobilize and Reduce Pain https://a.co/d/8IUb7L6 Youtube: www.youtube.com/@brianrichey Email: movingconvos@gmail.com IG: @movingconvos FB: Moving Conversations Brian IG: @fit4lifedc FB: https://www.facebook.com/brianrichey/  Nora IG: nora.s.john.7 FB: https://www.facebook.com/nora.s.john.7

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Podcast details

Created by: Brian Richey and Nora St John
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 10, 2026
Episodes: 175
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 59 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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