Tag: blogfest

Idea World Blogfest 2018 Recap

Post author By De
Post date July 4, 2018
27 Comments on Idea World Blogfest 2018 Recap

Idea World Blogfest 2018 Recap

I am sitting here thinking about what my Idea World Blogfest 2018 takeaways are this year; This is my third year at Blogfest and saying it “exceeded my expectations” is not me exaggerating; it did! I forgot about the sisterhood of Blogfest and how women who make time in their lives to book the flight and come out.

Some were there first time like myself two years ago. Others who have been there all five years; Whether its to reconnect or get introduced the #SweatPink Squad. The reason Sweat Pink is such a fantastic community is it is led by four amazingly, loving, hardworking women.

Fit Approach

Your tribe attracts your vibe, and it was so amazing to be in a room with phenomenal women of Fitapproach are passionate about making people healthy. Connecting influencers and bloggers with brands to use their voice to make an influence in living an active, healthy lifestyle. These women are so kind and to pull off an event to this magnitude that is helping improve fitness bloggers skills or empower them to be their imperfect, beautiful self is impressive.

Sweat Pink Squad

Alyse, Jamie, Nicci, and Liz are four beautiful women who just are inspiring on their own. They are Moms and busy women running their own fitness practices and blogs. Two of the leaders are Moms of tiny ones (like under two years). Vet Mom’s you remember those days. Yet and still they pulled off the best Idea World Blogfest that I have been to in three years.

Photo credit courtesy of Liz Wilson Pictured: Liz Wilson,Jamie Walker, and Nicci Randall

A room full of my people

The place is filled with a man (sometimes two) and women different ages, ethnicities, who like to do different things to get fit, there in various stages of getting fit, but they all know that somehow their unique difference could make a difference.

Jerod our honorary Sweat Pink Mister and My girl Vida from Healthy Curves Rocks

It’s funny when you sit down and have a 15-minute conversation with a person that you initially identified as a Social Media Handle. You learn their name and where they come from, and it all makes sense why they chose that handle. Even more than that; you are inspired by who they are and just made a real-life connection with someone you would have never met before.

Sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone and say “Hi” to a stranger. You won’t get to meet a fascinating person. This was a big theme at Blogfest was “Get out of your own way” as well as embrace your imperfection which is how we began Blogfest.

Pictured with Mama Lifts and Chocolate Runner Girl

Perfection Detox

I think we all could use a little perfection detox. We are becoming a society that is ultimately anxiously pursuing perfection. Petra Kolber really motivated and inspired us to embrace who we are and comfortable with that but always strive to be your best.

The Perfection Detox Books is Coming in August

She has a fantastic book coming out in August “The Perfection Detox: Tame your Inner Critic, Live Bravely and Unleash Joy.” We can all use a good read and some joy releasing. You should check it out when it comes in August 2018.

It was a great way to start our morning after our #TeachOnTheBeach workout on the beach with Fit Bodies, Inc. Fresh Coconuts got a little weight on them and fun and still challenging workout. My butt and abs intensely felt it.

Idea World Blogfest is Two Days

The second day of Blogfest was the busiest. I was grateful to start off with breakfast! Bells Institue representing General Mills was a great option to cater to my gluten sensitivity and dairy intolerant. I haven’t had cereal in forever and after getting my butt kick needed to refuel with a big bowl.

Also, had the delicious HiYQ which I am obsessed with and excited to see it in my local grocery store soon. I could eat it with no sensitivity issues, and it is creamy low sugar delicious goodness. I may or may not have stopped at their booth for a few cups. Okay, I did, and I’ve tried Coconut, Mango, and Blueberry. All delicious!

We even got tips on how to Instastory and props to use to take pictures of our meals. It was nice to see the creativity of other bloggers work.

Photo Credit Carleeh Mulholland of Healthy Socialite Featuring Sandrell Bentley Natural Fly Diva

Get out of your Own Way

I liked the previous years’ speakers; if I didn’t I wouldn’t keep returning to Blogfest. This year the speaker’s actionable information was beyond excellent. Todd Durkin who was the keynote at Idea World Blogfest 2017 is always inspiring and uplifting. It was nice to have Female fellow blogger, mother, wife and rockstar business women as our keynote was empowering.

Idea World 2018 Jack Lalanne Award Recipients

Heidi and Chris Powell received the Idea World Jack Lalanne Award handed to them by my favorite lady Elaine Lalanne who I met at 91 and is now 92 years young since I have been attending BlogFest.

Learning about Heidi

Heidi Powell was real and just told her story straight off the cuff. She is a real as you and I and has had struggles and lived in imperfect life like everyone walking on this earth. Who she is on her Instagram story is who she is in real life so that was to be expected but it’s just different when you meet people in person.

I had a fangirl moment with her when she complimented me on my arms, like “Heidi Powell just complimented my “guns.”

It’s one of those things that “I never thought this would or could happen to me,” moments. It’s not why I started, and now I am here in the best shape of my life. All because when I came to IdeaWorld Blogfest two years ago. I was inspired to take care of my body and to become a trainer to help others do the same.

Getting to Know Heidi

Getting to learn how Heidi’s hard work, business skills and determination helped her overcome her circumstances. Together with her husband Chris who is apparently without her saying it her best friend, business partner and love her life.

Photo Credit Carleeh Mulholland of Healthy Socialite

When Heidi spoke, she motivated me because I know she could completely relate to me. I would love to make the impact she is making on people’s health. Heidi and Chris Powell are two visionaries that work well together and compliment each other.

The two of them are actually helping people live their best life through health and fitness. AND she is a Mom who is there every day for her four children and best friend husband, Chris Powell.

Takeaways from Heidi Speaking

It makes you think it can be done; it takes time; be who you are; live out your passion and create a life that makes a positive impact on other people’s live. That is my takeaway from Heidi speaking.

Learning how to Make Love to the Camera

I saw new and old connections between bloggers. Each year I meet someone who has been there before, but I really never really got to talk to the last trip.

This year I felt there were great opportunities to connect with each other and network. I loved in the past when we had peer group chats. We did video interviews with each other giving feedback and working together.

Making Better Videos

After hearing fantastic information about how to “Make love to the camera” by Gigi Ashworth of Gigi Eats Celebrities. I learned so many actionable, valuable tips on how to improve my video presence. I am planning on applying them to my new IGTV.

Broken down step by step

From idea conception, Gigi gave us the step-by-step guide to executing a video that is unique to you. In an hour and a half. We learned step by step how Gigi creates her Vlog post. In the future, I will be practicing what I learned.

Getting Hacks on Video Blogging

There was so much value the speakers presented at Blogfest which was great for both new and old bloggers. It’s nice to have step by steps from seasoned pro’s so you don’t have to reinvent the wheel.

I feel like a newbie blogger even though I am going on my fourth year. So, I appreciated the valuable information that Gigi brought with her fun personality that is just as endearing as her blog.

Her husband also made a cameo to talk about cameras. A cute couple can’t wait to see their little baby and see how Gigi Eats Celebrities with a baby.

The Difference between Idea World and Blogfest

What makes Blogfest different from IdeaWorld Convention? One Idea World Convention is classes, workshops, panel discussions, and certifications. It has also been happening annually for over 35 years. Blogfest is new it was introduced five years ago. At Blogfest you receive information about furthering your blog business, opportunities to learn and work with brands and we get fed.

Good Eats

The National Dairy Council gave us lunch which was great to get us through our jam-packed day. They also presented us with some significant research on the benefits of dairy that I didn’t know. It was a very informative delicious lunch.

Thank you for lunch National Dairy Council

Google Analytics Explained

I think why Idea World Blogfest 2018 exceeded my expectations is the caliber of the speakers. Kristine Beatty is a fellow Sweat Pink Sister, and during the day she is a Google Analytics master. Helping a business’ maximize their internet presence.

It was great to hear from one of your own Sweat Pink bloggers on something that she has passion and knowledge. Also, Google Analytics is a complicated spider web. I have been really intentionally trying to learn as much as I can and use it for blogging to work smarter not harder. Kristine thoroughly explained how to analyze, decipher and review your Google Analytics dashboard.

Sadie Nardini

I started following Sadie Nardini on Social Media earlier this year. Sadie is known for her Yoga Shred programs and her rockstar mohawk. She is women who decided to live life on her own terms. Do what she loves how she wants.

Her yoga is not traditional, but she has used her uniqueness to set her apart in a market that you can easily get overlooked.

She also has created an online business that allows her to make money her way. Sadie helped remove the trial and error of Online Fitness I have been struggling. She gave me clear direction and what I need to change about Bibles and Bootcamps and what I need to do.

From nuts to bolts Sadie broke it down so that anyone can start an Online Course with the skills they have and simple equipment.

I snuck away after her presentation to ask her a few questions about entrepreneurship, and she was so kind answering them all. It was great that she let me have few minutes of her time. I think that was another thing that made Idea World Blogfest 2018 better than years prior was meaningful connections.

Connection

I had a specific prayer the weeks leading to blogfest for God to give direction on Bibles and Bootcamps? Connections to my future and collaborations? God did not disappoint, but he exceeded. I was sitting down rolling out my hamstrings because we put in that work the second day morning on Frog Fitness.

Idea World Blogfest 2018 Frog Fitness Workout from FaithFueledMom on Vimeo.

Another fun workout from a Blogfest sponsor that was a sweaty mess. It was fun working out with other bloggers watching us all trying to get in action shots is always funny.

Meeting Natalie Jill

Rolling out on the Grid from Trigger Point I looked up and caught the eye of Natalie Jill. Serious fangirl moment! Natalie’s latest workout calendar is probably in my inbox now. Like other followers, I have watched her in her beautiful home; workout and make delicious recipes for over four years.

Her story is very similar to my own. I love how she is motivated to inspire women like myself to be confident in who they are.

I had to tell her how much she had inspired me. So, I walked up and introduced myself, and word vomited my story. Where I had been, what I did and yes, even pulled out my before and after photos. She was so kind, and her husband was too capturing this photo.

Do you see me in the pic? Yes, I am thinking is this really happening? Am I standing next to Natalie Jill?

It was nice to have the Trigger Point lounge which was a great place to have drinks, snacks and roll out in between Idea World Blogfest session. It was Godcidence we were there together, and I got to tell her how I am want to encourage others.

Trigger Point was so kind to gift me these foam rolling tools which are amazing. I can’t wait to share with you all that you can do to release muscle tension and help you in your workouts.

Natalie’s Business Tips

Natalie gave us a lot of info in a short time about how to create and stood by what your brand is which was another ongoing theme. I can so relate to her story and just like Natalie didn’t set out to be an influencer in fitness but through her own experience made it her work to help other women succeed too.

I also got to work out in person with a woman who I worked out with on YouTube and Facebook for countless hours years ago. She kicked my butt literally my booty was singing at the end of her bodyweight workout. It’s always nice to get a workout with no weights necessary.

We had a painful (because I had really tight muscles) after the two days, yet much-needed rollout with the Trigger Point grid. I learned some ways to reduce muscle soreness and relieve tight muscles.

It’s Hard to Say GoodBye

We ended with a Networking Party, and it was hard to say goodbye to other bloggers we met over the last two days. Or to those that because of lack of time you just didn’t get to connect. Although, we had brief encounters. I have some new Social Media friends until we get to connect at Idea World Blogfest, again.

There were so many sponsors throughout the two days that made the experience even more enjoyable through breakfast, snack breaks, and California Almonds. If you needed something to nibble, they had perfect portions, and there were plenty of almonds available to refill our tins.

We also got a delicious sweet treat with Being Better Matters delicious chocolate protein squares. These little bars are just what you need for your sweet fix and I will be doing a giveaway for a box of my favorite flavor. The Coconut Trail Mix is sinfully good! We really were spoiled and loved on by all of our sponsors.

IdeaWorld Convention

The two days after BlogFest ticket, we also have access to the Idea World Convention 2018 and the Nutrition and Fitness Expo.

It’s like the Superbowl for passionate fitness professionals. It’s an opportunity to work with and learn from the best in the Health, Fitness and Nutrition Field.

Workshops, Classes, and Certifications

While at the convention I took a course with Australian Trainer and Professor Mike Cunico. Other sessions I attended were mostly about Online Fitness business classes with Vito LaFata and Sadie Nardini.

Trigger Point Movement Prep-How to Integrate foam rolling

Marc Cunello taught us how to incorporate foam rolling in my training and group class programming. Marc is a respected sports trainer in the field.

I keep returning to IdeaWorld Blogfest because I keep learning and growing and working on this blog. Idea World Blogfest emphasized being my true self.

Getting to this point of my blog has been a journey in the last four years. I am eager to put what I have learned into practice to improve my blogging skills and help others honor their temple.

There are so many other fun things at Idea World like opening ceremonies (but if you have gotten to this point you either have a passion for fitness too or I’ve given you a good recap of my four days in San Diego at Idea World Blogfest 2018.)

Opening Ceremonies

Opening Ceremonies always makes you cry to see over 14,000 passionated fitness professionals in one room. There is a Diversity of the many different countries represented around the world. All convening to learn to grow and become better in their field.

Chris Powell quoted a former boss of his saying that “Trainers who attend Idea World are passion trainers, not paycheck trainers.” You go there to progress in your field and to be surrounded by people of a similar agenda is motivating, confirming and empowering.

Welcome Party

It’s also fun to have the Idea World Epic Party on Friday night with lots of foods, drinks, dancing and having fun all dressed up not in leggings. It’s a great way to start the Idea World Convention. It was so nice to get “purty up” with these ladies and get to know them a little better.

Pictured Sweat Pink Ambassadors Natural Fly Diva,Healthy Curves Rock,Emily Hardeman,Sheylu Fitness,Flecks of Lex

Blogging Boost

Blogfest is the needed connection, information and motivation to get through the second half of each year blogging. It’s also why I really want to help build their mission with Sweat Pink New Jersey to give opportunities for local fitness and active lifestyle influencers to experience the experience of Sweat pink.

Ultimately, Idea World Blogfest is about connecting, educating, and empowering healthy lifestyle influencers. Encouraging (mostly) women to be comfortable in who they are, grow their skills in blogging and make connections with like-minded people.

A group of women working together to spread a positive message to be their healthy selves. I think the women of Fit Approach are a fantastic job at building this community.

Join the Sweat Pink Movement

If you want to join the Sweat Pink movement or go to Idea World Blogfest 2019, I hope to see you there go ahead to www.FitApproach.com to become a Sweat Pink Ambassadors and until then let’s connect online or at a Sweat Pink New Jersey event.

Also, check out my Instagram Highlights for more pics, videos, and shares. Idea World Blogfest also had some fantastic sponsors and I want to say thank you for supporting bloggers and contributing to the growth of our brands. Want to thank! Almond Board of California, Being Better Matters, Fit Bodies, Inc., Frog Fitness, General Mills, Great Lakes Gelatin, Haiku Bags, JiMMYBAR!, Kettle Gryp, LaCroix, National Dairy Council, ReSync, and Trigger Point.

Do you attend any annual conferences? What do you get out of them? Will I see you at Idea World Blogfest 2019?

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IDEA World Convention & Blogfest 2017 Recap

Post author By De
Post date July 27, 2017
10 Comments on IDEA World Convention & Blogfest 2017 Recap

IDEA Convention Recap

Sitting back scrolling through pictures of another exciting, re-energizing blog fest! Now I am about to spill as much as I can remember so this is a grab something to grab your LaCroix 😉 and read about my experience at IdeaWorld Convention. Now, everything I mention in this post has been sponsored, but this is entirely my perspective and opinion.

This year was an entirely different experience than last year! First of all, I am not a new blogger wide eyed and bushy tailed. When I left blog fest last year the information and knowledge that I learned and applied allowed me some fantastic opportunities with my blog. It also allowed me to connect and collaborate with some great companies and gave me a better idea of the world of fitness blogging. When I came this year I came prepared to soak it all in, continue to make connections and meet some new friends in the blogger world. I wasn’t as apprehensive to say Hi to someone new and ask them their story, and I was pleasantly surprised by the amazing and inspiring women that showed up a blog fest this year.

Strong By Zumba Certified

Before I even began BlogFest, I attended the Strong by Zumba Certification at which I am now a Strong By Zumba certified instructor, Woot woot! The certification was kind of challenging last 9 hours with a 1-hour lunch break and about 6-7 hours of exercise and education on the program. It was a sweaty fun day, and now I can teach others this new dynamic workout. I am going to share why you should be trying Strong by Zumba in your town, but I am thrilled to be able to be an instructor in the South Jersey Area. It was so cool being instructed by the best and one that personally stood out for me which was Ms. Jeanette Jenkins! She has been teaching “in Lycra” for 27 years and gave us so many tips and tricks! AND she is a woman of open faith, YES!! Kelley Buzzard is a BEAST, and she kicked our butts all day long with Abraham Martinez taking it to the POWER level all day long. The three of them left us spent but psyched which says something for their enthusiasm for STRONG by Zumba!

35 Year Celebration

Blogfest is a recent extension of the 35-year celebration of the Idea World Fitness Convention where fitness professionals from all over the world gather to learn and network with each other. The place is electric, and the passion is fervent at Idea World, but the camaraderie of thousands of strangers all to help improve people’s health and fitness is contagious. It was just what I needed to continue to ignite my passion for helping people through fitness.

Sweating Pink

Blogfest is coordinated by a group of women from Fit Approach who’s hard work and dedication has in the past two years created an amazing experience for bloggers. Blogfest is educational workshops and opportunities for fitness bloggers to hone their skill and get up and personal with some leading companies in the fitness and food industry. This year’s line up was power packed with inspiration and leaders in the fitness industry.

Carleeh M from Healthy Socialite a fellow Sweat Pink Ambassador blogger organized a walk/run before the day of events. She had me at the walk because I only run if I have to but I prefer a good stroll. I also wanted to catch up and meet other bloggers, so my roomies Aida from Girlfriends with Goals and Shenie from Sheylu Fitness joined the walk around Vegas. Every year I come to blog fest other bloggers that not only inspire and influence lots of women but inspire and motivate me too. It was nice to be in such great company of fun ladies willing to venture out into the hood of Vegas, haha (but really it’s pretty ghetto in some spots). We did find some picture perfect moments along the way, and in true blogger, the style had lots of selfie moments. We also recruited some of the Casino staff to practice his photog skills. After the warm up both socially and physically we made it just in time to begin.

Lets’ Eat

The best way to put a group of bloggers in a good mood is through food (at least that reign true for me) Siggi’s® and California Almonds® provided not only tasty snacks but also gave us recipes to make ourselves. You haven’t had an almond until you have had a California Almond they really are delicious. I personally am nuts about nuts and can take it overboard and learned of the perfect portion. Which is 1-2-3 or 1 ounce equals 23 almonds basically, telling me to stop De at 23 too much of a good thing is never good and that mainly runs true with nuts?

As we happily snacked (anytime I eat I am happily doing it) and we got to learn from some of the best in the industry. ‘A great blogger Katy Widrick gives us some applicable tip on how to make our old content new again. So, get ready for some refresh in the future. It was great to get some tips that you could easily apply. Then we got an opportunity to hear from our sponsors Great Lakes Gelatin which are a long standing gelatin company in the industry. I already knew of the benefit of Collagen and consumed Collagen daily but was great to know of the quality that Great Lakes puts into their products and another option for my supplement needs.

Then we got to hear some knowledge bombs from Lindsay Valdez anyone who works virtually knows the importance of SEO yet might not necessarily know how to optimize it! Well, you should have been at blog fest because Lindsay did an excellent job of breaking it down and making it simple. With the 5 Most Important SEO elements on a blog post. I have personally did webinars and self-studies and the value that her presentation gave far exceeded my hours self-study lots of great information.

Opening Ceremonies

My favorite part of Idea World Convention is the Opening Ceremonies and Keynote presentation. This is when you get to gather in a room of the best in the industry, and we get to celebrate the achievements of those who have been serving people through fitness. Women like Jessica Matthews who won the Idea Fitness Instructor of the Year and Debbie Bellinger who was the Idea Program Director of the Year and Michael Piercy a Jersey Native who was the Idea Personal Trainer of the Year. The admiration and respect that I have for these individuals and the fact they all showed glory to God inspires me to work to achieve and inspire others as they have done. The highlight is always for me Elaine Lalane who is 91 years young presenting Todd Durkin with the Jack Lalane Award. Todd Durkin inspired me personally last year at Blogfest with words of encouragement on my weight loss journey and yet again his “Contagaism” motivated me to do better. Idea World Convention is 35 years old and us fitness professional was amused and entertained by the founders Peter and Kathie Davis dancing routine! It was so much fun!

IDEA World Fitness & Nutrition Expo

We got to explore the Idea Convention & Nutrition Expo which is also a great experience. This is where you can find what is new in the industry from workouts, equipment, apparel, and food. Anything that you can think it’s like a playground for me and I was ready to try EVERYTHING! I always find a few things that stick out to me every year and this year was the Spyder 360 and the Axle Workout! As soon as I saw these two things I had to strap in and give them a spin.

The Axle Workout is a barbell that is affixed to a wheel which can add a whole new dynamic to your workout. I am hoping to get certified and become a Master Trainer in September. This thing is a simple exercise equipment that challenges your core stabilization because it is on wheels. The Axle can be used in so many different ways, and I am excited to add this to my skill set.

The Spyder 360 is something that appealed to me for my husband’s business especially, and that was the Spyder 360. I am excited to work with this equipment to help build strength and stability in my clients as well as use it for ACL tear strength and stability exercises for my husband’s players. I will be working with the Spyder 360 in the fall and sharing why this new equipment is a must have item in the fitness world and for your workouts.

There was so much more than that I met Elaine Lalanne, Bennie Wylie from NBC Strong! who actually remembered me from last year and instead of encouraging me to continue on my journey as he did the year before this year his inspiring words was to share with others which is exactly what I plan to do using a lot of what I have learned at IDEA World and will continue to strive to learn more.

Tasted lots of different protein bars, nuts, an alternative sweetener that I think I can get down with it’s made of Monk Fruit and your body processes it as a her I am excited to try some new recipes with it and research the benefits of this sweetener that I got from Lakanto.

Day Three, Second Day of BlogFest

The next day I was tired, and ModelFit was the morning wake up I needed. I was grateful I didn’t have to jump around, but the workout was an intense balance. I still got a sweat on without all the jumping and enjoyed the exercise that Propel Propel Water provided for us! Thirst was quenched with my sweat session.

I was very excited to meet Jorge Cruise author of tiny and full™: Eat more, weigh less, and turn off hunger all day. I look forward to trying out a few recipes and reading the book and learning more about harnessing the power of thyroid boost. After the ModelFIT workout, I was happy for breakfast even though I am always glad to eat. I loved the grain free granola and needed to have that in my life.

I think I have figured out a way to be with my VIP Clients and train them! I am excited to explore the possibilities with GymGO and know that my clients would enjoy this service too. GymGO allows clients and their trainers have one on one or group video Sessions.

I have a guest blog for a couple of other outlets, but I can now hone the craft with some tips on “Everything You need to know to make money” lecture from Amanda Vogel was excellent information on how to continue to make use blogging as an income source. I found her presentation to be great and will be applying some things to my blog.

Have you ever written off something over a bad experience just to find out years later you’ve been missing out? That would be me! I had fig Newton’s as a kid and wrote figs off as a thing I won’t eat until I tried the fresh and dried California figs. They were so good and so good for you? I have been missing out all these years. Now I plan on adding these little yummies into my diet pronto! They are loaded with Fiber, Antioxidants, calcium, potassium, and magnesium I rather get my micronutrients from food instead of pills and plan on experimenting with figs in the kitchen.

Experiencing Todd Durkin

I just keep experiencing Todd Durkin, haha LAst year, I attended Todd Durkins Bootcamp at Idea World, and it was a highlight of my trip. I belive it was one of those many moments you have you on your journey that propels you to greatness. This time it was an overwhelming experience as well. Todd shared his story with us of trials and triumph and what pricked my heart especially is how he gave and showed all glory to God. While speaking, I had so many ah ha moments of things that I have been struggling with in the recent months.

Todd’s emphasis on “Be Different” and “Tell your Story” still resignates in the back of my mind. The fact that he openly is a faithful man of God also made me realize I am not the only one. I share my feelings on how faith and fitness work together daily and weekly I get feedback from all sorts that can sometimes be discouraging especially fellow Christians but that’s what is different is about. Todd also gave us his new book The WOW Book! Which I will be reviewing soon. I feel it is no coincidence that our paths crossed again this year and I thank God for using Todd to reenergize and give me clarity and focus on what I have feel I have been called to do.

Trigger Point Ambassador

The remainder of the blog fest was networking in different aspects. First, we listen to the panel discussion with the sponsors of blog fest to find out how we as bloggers can build long term relationships. Then we were given the opportunity to pitch directly to our core sponsors of blog fest. As well as an opportunity to got to the expo and network and pitch. I can’t wait to share some of the great products that I will be representing this year. I am grateful to be a Trigger Point Ambassador this year. I will be showing you the value of Self Myo Fascial (SMR) with Trigger Point products I find SMR and stretching to be a significant part of fitness and can’t wait to share more about their dynamic products.

Winging It

There were so many highlights to my trip and so much to share. I also got to meet two-time Olympic medalist Gracie Gold on Friday night at the Red Bull Networking party and not only did I get to meet her but I got some more knowledge bombs dropped at the party. I miss research everything never really put much research into Red Bull products and ingredients. I couldn’t read them, so I wrote them off entirely but some of the long unpronounceable ingredients that you can find on the back of can is actually things that I would consume other wise such as Vitamin B12 I also found out what the ingredient of Taurine actually was among all the other things that Red Bull is doing.

They are not only helping give you wings, but they are also making people fly with their Not For Profit Research Foundation “Wings for Life.” This research foundation is for spinal cord research, and it is a “simultaneous global race that is dedicated to supporting spinal cord injury research. It is very cool that this race begins at the same time across the globe so whether it’s 2 am or 5 pm everyone is starting at the same time to raise money to help find a cure for spinal cord injury. You can learn more or donate at www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com It was a great night and Red Bull really hooked us up with great food, some Red Bull to sip on and some JayBird which is just what this lifter needs they are fabulous, and a big thank you to Red Bull!

I couldn’t stay too long at the Red Bull Networking because I had to also network with my fellow bloggers and our great sponsors who had given us so much yummy food, tips, and opportunity. I also wanted to say good bye to bloggers I may not see for the rest of the weekend which was different CEC (Continuing Education) classes for me, and I will be sharing “All da things” I learned over the weekend.

Happy Hour

My third networking party of the night I was losing steam but the energy at BlogFest Happy Hour was great! Was able to play around on the TRX while sipping a LaCroix cocktail nibbling on Figs and Cheese from California Figs. It was a great night, and I was toast by the end. I had to get back to our room shower and pass out in that order. The next two days were filled with workshops and workouts from a different specialist from all over the country and some world. I took a lot of course on TRX Programming, Functional Fitness, and Generation X and my brain are still throbbing.

BIG Thank You

This amazing opportunity would not have been possible without the sponsors, and I want to say thank you! California Figs, Great Lakes Gelatin, GymGO and Siggi’s as well as General Mill’s for breakfast. Propel Water and Strong by Zumba for the workouts. Todd Durkin for the inspiration, Arctic Zero, Eggland’s Best, La Croix, Qalo, Takeya, TRX, California Almond®, and especially Fit Approach and Idea Convention this was all possible because of you and thank you!

Inspiration

I think the best part of the entire trip was the fellow bloggers that I have met. Talk about some inspirational stories there are some amazing women and men who have amazing stories that should be shared. I am hoping to be able to collaborate with a few and share why they inspire me and I know they will inspire you too. Blog fest is an amazing experience and every year I learn and grow so much from it. I am definitely going to be there in 2018 God willing and if you are a fitess and healthy blogger, enthusiast or professional you should join me there too!

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Finding My People-Idea World BlogFest Recap

Post author By De
Post date July 20, 2016
18 Comments on Finding My People-Idea World BlogFest Recap

IdeaWorldBlogfest

Idea World Blogfest 2016

I attended Idea World Blogfest with Sweat Pink

Last week, I went to a magical place, far far away called Los Angeles, and I entered into the world known as IDEA. It was such an amazing experience, and I was blessed to been able to attend it. I went to the IdeaWorld BlogFest Convention welcomed with open arms. I got to hang, learn and be around my people. Over 14,000 Fitness Professionals from 54 Countries attended and the entire week was buzzing with health, nutrition, fitness and wellness. It was everything that I expected!

Exactly what I didn’t expect

I expected to be educated about blogging. Suspected that I would meet a few women that I connected with and were nice. Intended on eating every day I was there. Knew I was going to workout before I attended that’s a given at a fitness convention. I was positive there would be vendors with fitness equipment, exercises, etc. I’ve been to a few expo’s I know how that part goes. I knew all these things were going to happen but to the caliber that they were executed; I didn’t know that.

IdeaWorld Blogfest Workshop

The Workshops
Each workshop had such great information, you didn’t want to get up to use the restroom because you might miss something. I did have to leave once so I audio recorded the session because I didn’t want to miss a thing. With all the water we received, lets just say we were well hydrated the entire time. The first day was full of workshops do’s and don’ts; tips and tricks, quick valuable, actionable information overload tweet breaks. The tweet breaks were great, it was direct information from the Brands that we love. They told us specifically what they are looking for, who do they hire and teaching us great information in a 20 minute session. That was awesome to hear news from The Bells Institute, Generals Mills, Siggi’s, GymGo, Vital Proteins and Melissa Hartwig co-author of the Whole 30.

Blogging Tips

The blogging information was just what this newbie needed. I’ve been blogging since May 2015, and its been advice, some good, some bad, trial and error but I think I am finally getting the hang of things. I have attended events in Philadelphia and New York but the amount of immediately actionable information that I received was right on time. If someone who is already doing what I am doing and successful at it tells me to do A+B; I’ll take their word and do what they advise. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. So, I went to Los Angeles ready to be a sponge and soak up everything I could.

IdeaWorld BlogFest.

Learning from our Peers and Pitches

We also had blog reviews from our peers, which was great to have a completely non-bias eye on the blog. I met other beginner(s), seasoned veterans and some women who have taken their blog, personal training and business to a level I aspire to be. The feedback which I received from others in our industry was invaluable. Everyone was so kind, so honest and helpful, it was a great experience. On the second day, we had the opportunity to pitch to major corporations. I believe I presented myself well but a barrier that I often face is my “in your face” Christianity, which I am not going to change and if Corporations can’t work with me because of my beliefs I’m okay with that. Either way, whatever the outcome it was a great opportunity to practice. The opportunity to network was welcomed & necessary to everyone participating.

John 15:19 does say, If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.

Staying Well Fed

The fact that I didn’t have to worry about feeding myself and there were options for my dietary needs that I didn’t have to think about, my food was a nice change of pace. It was like having my meal planned and prepped for me; It was wonderful! Breakfast was with General Mills on the first day and Silk on the second. Lunch was from Pure Protein and Morning Star. Each meal session gave valuable information about our sponsors and what they’ll be up to in the next few months. It was nice to get the inside scoop and information.

Our meals were of a great variety and using the sponsors products, some, I will be adding to my meal plan at home. Silk was represented by The Blender Girl she made an amazing Strawberry Red Bell Pepper Smoothie at their booth that I am going to make for my family without telling them the ingredients (hubby may know, he reads my blogs). It was delicious and I never knew that would be a tasty flavor combination. I have so many new recipes to try and you know me, I love a good kitchen experiment. So stay tuned for more of those hitting my “Mealtime Monday’s.”

IdeaWorld BlogFest Gunnar Peterson Workout

Bands Matter with Gunnar Peterson

I was at Idea World Blogfest and World Convention for three days & worked out three times. I could have done more but being a newbie I didn’t plan my schedule accordingly. Although, I don’t think my body could have handled much more; next year I should be in even better shape and will try to challenge myself. I was pretty spent on Saturday. The fitness aspect of IdeaWorld Blogfest didn’t happen until the second day. I do wish that they would have had a yoga session Thursday morning or something to have us moving. By the time it was Friday, I was ready to workout with Gunnar Peterson. The workout was great with resistance bands/high-intensity exercises. If you check out the video, you can see the struggle and a glimpse at our workout.

Experiencing the Todd Durkin Experience

Saturday, I arrived at Idea World Convention early to attend the Todd Durkin Bootcamp. That experience had me in tears, I didn’t realize what this last year has done to and for me. Brought me out of depression, motivated me to get up, be active, healthy and inspire others. Todd’s words of encouragement to all of us had me teary eyed with pride. I was praying to God not to let me embarrass myself by vomiting everywhere half way through a circuit. I did it though, got through it, didn’t vomit and had the sweat to prove that my fat was bawling and the workout was great. It was a great way to end the most intense workouts that I have done in awhile; the Bootcamp brought me back to my first days working out where it took prayer, willpower and determination to get it done. Here I am, 50lbs lighter and more determined than ever to reach my goal and destination! It was a Mind, Body and Spiritual experience, something that I aspire to give to my clients one day. After the intense training with Todd, I attended a Workshop by Scott Rawcliff, Metabolic Mayhem, which fascinates me. Saturday was a fantastic way to end my trip learning from the best in the business.

IdeaWorld Convention Todd Durkin

Two Amazing Women

There were two speakers at the Idea World Convention that motivated and inspired and made me want to go after my dreams. Each of their stories were very different ones, they choose to move on to something new and exciting. One of the speakers was forced to move on to something new and stimulating; the other chose to move on to something new. I am talking about Jenna Wolfe, who formerly was a Health and Lifestyle Reporter for the Today Show and Amy Van Dyken-Rouen the six-time Olympic Gold Swimmer. Although, each of their stories were different, their messages were the same! You can achieve anything and everything but tomorrow is not promised. So we must take advantage of today and make it count to the best of our abilities. I video’d each speech and have been listening to them on Audio for motivation. Everyday human beings can do extraordinary things and these two speakers, expressed that wholeheartedly.

My Biggest Takeaway

The takeaway that I had was that fitness is not age, color, race, ethnicity, size or gender. Fitness is a mindset! Want to uplift your body and be the best? Adapt that mindset. My experience at Idea World Convention was memorable. It was my first time but next year I will be attending as a Personal Trainer and the world of opportunity will be greater and brighter. I want to thank Fit Approach Sweat Pink for making me feel welcomed and organizing a great event for bloggers. I came home motivated to take this blog to another level. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to attend. Next year, I hope/aspire to be even closer to my goals and fine tuning my blog. For now, I am going to take what I have learned, apply it and improve upon it every day. I have no idea how but I am praying God will lead my steps.

IdeaWorld BlogFest Bloggers