The Movement Movement

Have you ever wondered why changing shoes helps for a while, only for the same pain to come back? This conversation will change how you think about feet, form, and "support." In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Jae Gruenke, Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner and founder of The Balanced Runner™, who explains why many runners stay stuck in pain even after new shoes, inserts, or medical treatment. Often called the "wise woman of running," she's helped runners and triathletes, from beginners to Olympians, improve performance and resolve chronic issues through neuromuscular reeducation and movement learning. Together, she and Steven Sashen unpack the cushioning vs minimalist debate and reveal the overlooked forces and compensation patterns that determine whether your stride feels easy or keeps fighting you.  Key Takeaways:→ Your nervous system governs movement choices, often limiting range and load as a protective strategy. → Improved coordination reduces effort and unlocks "alre

What you put on your feet can quietly sabotage your technique or unlock a level of performance you didn't know you had. In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Denis Vasilev, MA, 11x Kettlebell World Champion, IKO Master Coach & Founder, who returns to break down the overlooked performance variable most lifters ignore: footwear. A multiple-time kettlebell sport champion and elite-level competitor, Denis recently won a competition with 85 reps in 10 minutes using double 32kg in the long cycle—an internationally ranked, top-tier result, especially at age 42. He explains why traditional weightlifting shoes can mask flaws, how minimalist footwear improves feedback and consistency, and what that means for strength, efficiency, and long-set performance.   Key Takeaways: → Better sensory input from the ground helps people self-correct their technique in real time. → Heel lift and rigid structure may mask mobility and timing issues rather than fix them. → Thick, rigid. Heels red

Nike says this new "brain-first" shoe can unlock focus and performance but does the science hold up, or is it just brilliant marketing?   In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Courtney Conley, Jay Dicharry, Dr. Irene Davis, and Dr. Emily Splichal who break down Nike's new sensory-focused shoe and the bold claims behind its "mind tech," from two-point discrimination to "amplifying" what your feet feel. The conversation challenges whether thick cushioning and widely spaced pods can truly enhance sensory input — and why novelty and instability can be mistaken for real performance gains. You'll also hear the bigger takeaway: how to think about foot strength, sensation, and movement so you're not buying a shortcut that quietly makes you weaker.   Key Takeaways: → How Nike's two-point discrimination explanation doesn't match the large, spaced pods on the shoes. → How Nike's design appears to ignore the toes, which is a major sensory area. → Why the thick, soft cushioning may mute s

Discover the art and science of kettlebell training for a unique fitness experience unlike any other. In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Denis Vasilev, MA, 11x Kettlebell World Champion, IKO Master Coach and Founder, who dives into the world of resistance training. They discuss the profound mental and physical benefits of kettlebell training, emphasizing the importance of consistency and strategic workout scheduling. Through Denis's expertise and passion for coaching, listeners are encouraged to explore the artistic and challenging nature of kettlebell sport to enhance their fitness levels and achieve personal milestones. Key Takeaways: → How resistance training is crucial for building muscle mass and longevity. → Why consistency in training is key and how just three workouts a week can lead to significant results. → How engaging in kettlebell training is achieved by utilizing gravity and body weight shifts. → Why your training progression with kettlebells should

From San Diego to Florida, this cross-country trek raises Alzheimer's awareness while spotlighting the power of natural movement, smart footwear, and a strong community.   In this episode of the The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Judy Benjamin, who embarked on a remarkable journey from San Diego to Florida to raise awareness for Alzheimer's disease. Judy's powerful story highlights the importance of early detection, proper walking techniques, and footwear from Xero Shoes in managing her own early Alzheimer's diagnosis. Through personal anecdotes, she emphasizes lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, and humor to enhance brain health while shedding light on the emotional and financial burdens faced by families affected by Alzheimer's.   Key Takeaways: → Why it's vital to focus on good posture, foot placement, and body alignment during walks. → How people should educate yourself about Alzheimer's disease and the Bredesen Protocol. → Why incorporating humor into your daily life helps navigate

Uncover the secrets of optimal fitness, longevity, and peak performance as we dive into the fascinating world of fascia and movement.   In this episode of The Movement Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Dr. Edythe Heus, Founder and Creator of Rev6 and a movement expert, who explores the importance of incorporating risk and novelty into fitness routines for optimal performance and enjoyment. From martial arts anecdotes to promoting natural movement patterns, this episode inspires listeners to embrace challenges and live life feet first.   Key Takeaways: → How fascia plays a crucial role in movement and overall health. → Activating small muscles through unstable surfaces showcases the importance of fascia in coordinating movement. → The interconnectedness of fascia and muscles is crucial in movement and strength training. → Walking barefoot on various surfaces can improve foot reflexes and aid in the development of arches in the feet. → An optimal fitness program should include novelty, sensory stim

Think your shoes are helping your feet? You might be shocked by what the science actually says.   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen interviews Dr. Jenn Perez, Co-Founder and COO of Gait Happens, who joins the show to debunk foot myths and explain how modern footwear influences your movement. Drawing on emerging research and years of clinical teaching worldwide, Dr. Perez explains pronation, toe spring, the windlass mechanism, and why “foot strength” is finally measurable in minimalist footwear studies. She and host Steven Sashen discuss how to build resilient, pain-free feet by allowing them to function as they are naturally designed.   Key Takeaways: → Foot strength is more important than quadriceps strength in determining fall risk in the elderly.  → Changes in gait and walking speed can be early indicators of mental decline and potential dementia diagnosis. → Flat feet and pronation are separate concepts with different implications for foot health. → Understanding foot anatomy

Unlock the secrets to optimal health and movement with expert insights on natural practices and regenerative techniques.   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Dr. Grove Higgins, Owner and Chiropractor at Neuroathlete Clinic, who delves into the profound connection between natural movement and overall well-being. They explore the importance of learning from indigenous tribes' functional health practices, the impact of sensory awareness on movement quality, and the revolutionary regenerative techniques transforming orthopedics. Through insightful discussions on biomechanics, brain-body connections, and the power of embracing ancestral wisdom, listeners are invited to rethink conventional approaches to physical health and movement for a more vibrant and sustainable life.   Key Takeaways: → Natural movement is crucial for efficient movement and overall well-being. → Tai Chi improves balance, sensory awareness, and response time. → Humans evolved to run on natural terrains, n

Boost your CO2 tolerance and improve your breathing by practicing nose breathing techniques. In this episode of The Movement Movement, Steven Sashen talks with Dr. John Douillard, DC, CAP, founder of LifeSpa and a respected figure in Ayurvedic medicine, who discusses how he’s been combining ancient wisdom with modern science for over forty years. His groundbreaking work, particularly in his book Body, Mind, and Sport, examines the benefits of nose breathing versus mouth breathing during physical activity. Dr. Douillard's research indicates that nose breathing enhances nitric oxide production, a crucial factor in efficient oxygen intake and stress relief. It also significantly improves overall health and performance, as demonstrated in his work with elite athletes and firefighters. A strong advocate of the health benefits of nasal breathing, Dr. Douillard encourages making it a daily habit to enhance respiratory health, immune function, and overall well-being. Key Takeaways: → Nose breathing improves oxyg

Discover how an aerospace engineer turned ultra runner is helping athletes unlock their full potential by optimizing running techniques for peak performance and injury prevention.   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Samuel Stow, an accomplished ultra runner with over two decades of endurance racing experience, who has carved a niche for himself in the optimization of running techniques. With a unique blend of aerospace engineering and biomechanics expertise, Samuel has effectively enhanced his own performance and that of his clients by integrating Chi running principles since 2009. He advocates for the utilization of the posterior chain, emphasizing the importance of proper body alignment, posture, and core activation, not only to boost performance but also for long-term health and injury prevention. A certified personal trainer, Samuel underscores the role of strength training in developing muscle awareness and biomechanical efficiency, making him a sought-after expert in o

Unleash your inner speed demon as we dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of high-performance racing simulations.   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Brian McRae, a professional sim racer who approaches the virtual racing world with the same dedication and seriousness as traditional motorsports, viewing it as a legitimate discipline within the racing community. He asserts that modern racing simulators offer a level of fidelity and realism akin to flight simulators, making them highly effective training tools for aspiring racers. By advocating for sim racing as a viable entry point into professional motorsports, McRae highlights success stories like those of NASCAR drivers Ty Majeski and William Byron, who transitioned from virtual to real-world racing. His passion for sim racing is further reflected in the vibrant community he has fostered, with his popular YouTube league drawing a dedicated audience and showcasing the thrill of racing without the financial and physical risk

Compensations in the body can lead to foot pain. Addressing the root causes of foot pain and adopting a comprehensive approach are crucial for long-term relief. Ditch the temporary fixes!   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Angela Walk, DC, The Plantar Fasciitis Doc. She has developed a six-step program to effectively address plantar fasciitis at home, challenging misconceptions about the condition. Her approach emphasizes transitioning to functional footwear with wide toe boxes and zero drop to promote natural foot function and reduce reliance on orthotics, which can weaken foot muscles.   Key Takeaways: → Why functional footwear is crucial in preventing conditions like plantar fasciitis. → How orthotics can weaken foot function and contribute to foot problems. → Why elevated heels in footwear can lead to gait issues and muscle tension. → Why plantar fasciitis rehabilitation should focus on strengthening lower leg muscles, not stretching.   → How gradually transiti

At 44, Ariana Hakman is rekindling her passion for sprinting while exploring new horizons in Master's Track and Field, symbolizing her belief in the power of continual goal-setting and embracing new challenges.   In this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement, Steven Sashen speaks with Ariana Hakman, Founder and COO of LunaFit. In this episode, Ariana champions a holistic approach to fitness that evolves with age and personal growth. With a competitive track and field background, she uniquely understands the necessity of setting adaptive fitness goals, especially for those transitioning from high-intensity sports.   Key Takeaways: → Why it’s crucial to find physical activities you enjoy for your overall well-being. → How simple habit changes and staying active leads to lasting improvement in health and fitness. → Why you should evolve your fitness goals to keep yourself motivated and fulfilled → How prioritizing sleep helps with weight loss and overall wellness.  → Why consistency, discipline, and focusing on prote

Sudo Actual is an avid cross-country and run-and-gun (biathlon) competitor passionate about outdoor adventure. A dedicated hiker, camper, and fan of Type 2 fun, Sudo thrives in environments that challenge endurance and resilience. Whether he is navigating rugged trails or competing in high-intensity shooting sports, he prefers the freedom of the wilderness to time spent behind a keyboard and monitor. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Sudo Actual about mastering trail running for centerfire competitions. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How it’s crucial to maintain high levels of physical fitness for long-distance shooting events. - Why participating in diverse shooting competitions enhances adaptability and proficiency. - How focusing on finding a balance between speed and accuracy in shooting competitions is vital. - Why simulating diverse terrains and variables helps prepare people to compete in biathlons. - How video analysis helps improve performa

Nick Nilsson, widely known as the "Mad Scientist of Muscle," is a fitness expert renowned for his innovative and unconventional training methods. With over 20 years of experience in bodybuilding and strength training, Nick has crafted unique exercises and programs that challenge traditional fitness norms. Holding degrees in Physical Education and Psychology, Nick blends advanced biomechanics and anatomy with creative exercise design. He is the author of several books, including The Best Exercises You’ve Never Heard Of and Gluteus to the Maximus – Build a Bigger Butt NOW!, as well as the creator of the "Time-Volume Training" method, which maximizes muscle growth using efficient, adaptable techniques. Nick shares his expertise through his website FitStep.com and contributions to major fitness platforms like Bodybuilding.com and Iron Man Magazine. Inspired by his father’s commitment to fitness and his own journey from endurance sports to bodybuilding, he has built a career helping others achieve their health

Dr. Emily Splichal, functional podiatrist and human movement specialist, is the mind behind Naboso. With a spirit to challenge conformity, Dr. Splichal has taken her conventional Podiatric Medical degree and combined it with years of experience and expertise in human movement and sensory science to found Naboso. Dr. Splichal believes that our experience in this world is built around sensory stimulation and our ability to process, perceive, and integrate this information effectively. Since 2012, Dr. Splichal has been traveling the world to share her unique approach to human movement, foot function, and barefoot science. Having taught in 35 countries and to over 25,000 professionals, Dr. Splichal has quickly become a sought out leader in barefoot training and rehabilitation.  Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Dr. Emily Splichal about the longevity power of sensory stimulation. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How natural movement and foot strength di

Nick St. Louis is the founder and Lead Foot Nerd at TFC. He obtained a Masters of Physical Therapy from Western University and his current obsession is with researching every pillar of health to discover the truths that science has to offer. He now spends less time in clinic and has devoted his days to weaving together a global tribe of people on a mission to collectively solve the health crisis by inspiring and empowering the individual to take back control of their bodies.   Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Nick St. Louis about the impact of modern athletic footwear marketing claims.   Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How marketing claims in the fitness industry often lack scientific evidence, creating a challenge in discerning between legitimate research and marketing ploys. - Why you should embrace natural movement for optimal foot health and well-being - How many shoe designs are promoted despite lacking evidence of their effectiveness in enhan

Al Kavadlo began his fitness journey in 1992 at the age of 13, and a decade later, he launched his career in the fitness industry. In 2009, Al started his blog and YouTube channel, which quickly gained traction, leading to a book deal with Dragon Door Publications. His first book with Dragon Door, Raising The Bar, was released in 2012, followed by several more titles, including Get Strong, a collaboration with his brother Danny Kavadlo. Al is also recognized for his appearance in Dragon Door’s popular Convict Conditioning series. In addition to his work with Dragon Door, Al has self-published several titles, available at FortifyTraining.com. To date, his books and programs have sold over a million copies worldwide.   Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Al Kavadlo about getting fit and strong without a gym.   Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How bodyweight training can calisthenics offer benefits in fitness programs. - Why variations in calisthenic

David Durante is a highly accomplished gymnast and dedicated coach, co-owner of Power Monkey Fitness, and a former member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic gymnastics team. His journey in gymnastics began at Stanford University, where he became an NCAA All-American. Over the years, he claimed multiple U.S. national titles and represented the country in two World Championships. Now based in Oregon, Dave is passionate about teaching handstands and skill development, advocating consistent training and mobility work. His role as an educator at Power Monkey Camp allows him to share his expertise with athletes of all levels, from beginners to elite competitors. Known for his love of gymnastics, Durante inspires others to embrace fitness with enthusiasm and consistency, ensuring they find joy in their fitness journeys. Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with David Durante about the mental challenges, pressure, competition, and responsibility athletes face. Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on thi

As a Podiatrist, Human Movement Specialist, and Global Leader in Barefoot Science and Rehabilitation, Dr. Emily Splichal has developed a keen eye for movement dysfunction and neuromuscular control during gait.  Originally trained as a surgeon through Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City and Mt Vernon Hospital in Mt Vernon, NY, in 2017 Dr. Splichal put down her scalpel and shifted her practice to one that is built around functional and regenerative medicine.    Listen to this episode of The MOVEMENT Movement with Emily Splichal about the truth about orthotics.   Here are some of the beneficial topics covered on this week’s show: - How functional podiatry emphasizes the connection between movement and foot function while using a holistic approach to foot health. - Why orthotics should be used for healing purposes instead of indefinitely. - How expensive orthotics aren’t necessarily superior to off-the-shelf options, especially when treating plantar fasciitis. - Why podiatrists face challenges in