Episode Title: Inside the 2026 NIRSA + IDEA World Conference & Expo: A Historic Industry Collaboration

On the premiere episode of Season 7 of the IDEAfit Pro Show, host Amy Boone-Thompson kicks off the season by spotlighting one of the most significant moments in IDEA’s history: the first-ever collaboration between IDEA Health & Fitness Association and NIRSA (National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association).

Together, these two organizations are launching the 2026 NIRSA + IDEA World Conference & Expo, a powerful, unified event designed to bridge campus recreation, commercial fitness, wellness, and industry partners — all under one roof.

In this episode, Amy is joined by three leaders from the NIRSA team who are shaping the combined event experience. They take listeners behind the scenes of the expo, education programming, career pathways, and immersive experiences that will define this landmark conference.

1. Why the IDEA + NIRSA partnership is a game-changer for the fitness and recreation industries
2. What attendees can expect from the combined Expo Hall, including activations, education, and networking
3. How paid attendees gain access to both IDEA and NIRSA education programs
4. How the expanded Career Fair connects students, emerging professionals, employers, and brands
5. Why experiential events like golf, pickleball, and social activations play a vital role in professional growth
6. Who this event is designed for — from students and instructors to executives and industry partners

Nick Zumbrun

Leads Expo and Sponsorship for the NIRSA + IDEA World Conference & Expo

Nick shares how the combined expo experience creates unmatched energy, innovation, and business growth opportunities for brands and attendees alike.

Brittany Regda

Oversees Education Programming and the Career Fair for NIRSA

Brittany discusses the structure of the dual education programs, main stage speakers, career pathways, and why professional development is at the heart of this event.

Becky Sowers

Leads Special Experiences for the NIRSA Foundation

Becky highlights experiential networking opportunities including the golf tournament, pickleball championship, and fundraising initiatives that build connection beyond the classroom.

2026 NIRSA + IDEA World Conference & Expo

April 2026

National Harbor, Maryland

This groundbreaking event brings together:

1. Campus recreation professionals
2. Fitness and wellness leaders
3. Students and emerging professionals
4. Commercial fitness brands and suppliers
5. Corporate and community wellness stakeholders

With 20+...

As we close out Season 6 of the IDEAfit Pro Show, Amy Boone Thompson reflects on an unforgettable season packed with wisdom, connection, and purpose. From inspiring stories to actionable strategies, every episode has prepared us for the ultimate gathering of fitness professionals: IDEA World 2025. In this finale, Amy shares highlights from the season, how they align with IDEA World’s pillars of knowledge, community, and inspiration, and why this year’s convention in Sacramento promises to be a career-defining event.

• How Season 6’s conversations set the stage for IDEA World 2025
• The three pillars of IDEA World—knowledge, community, and inspiration—and how they come alive at the event
• Highlights of this year’s Golden Gala, including Denise Austin receiving the Jack and Elaine LaLanne Award
• What to expect at IDEA World: 175+ sessions, 22+ CECs, an expansive expo, and unmatched networking opportunities
• Why attending IDEA World is the best investment for fitness professionals at any career stage

• Register for IDEA World 2025: https://www.ideafit.com/world
• Learn about IDEA Health & Fitness: https://www.ideafit.com
• Follow IDEA on Instagram: https://instagram.com/ideafit
• Catch up on Season 6 episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
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IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of...

With over four decades of empowering millions to move, Denise Austin has redefined what it means to make fitness fun, accessible, and sustainable. In this special episode, Amy Boone Thompson talks with the iconic fitness expert and 2025 recipient of IDEA’s Jack and Elaine LaLanne Award. Denise reflects on her groundbreaking career, shares stories of her mentors Jack and Elaine LaLanne, and reveals how she continues to inspire generations to live healthier, happier lives.

• How Denise Austin launched her fitness career and became America’s favorite fitness expert
• Her lifelong mentorship connection with Jack and Elaine LaLanne
• Tips for staying relevant and inspiring in the ever-changing fitness industry
• Denise’s current focus on “Fit Over 50” and making wellness accessible for all
• What to expect when Denise is honored at IDEA World 2025’s Golden Gala

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Resources & Links:

• Denise Austin Website: https://deniseaustin.com
• Denise Austin Easy Spirit Shoe Collection: https://www.easyspirit.com/collections/denise-austin
• Follow Denise on Instagram: https://instagram.com/deniseaustin

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion

What does it take to create a thriving, sustainable career in fitness? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Darien Parker and Dr. Erin Nitschke—two powerhouse educators and co-creators of IDEA’s Mentor Network Program. Together, they share their career journeys, the evolution of mentorship in fitness, and how the Mentor Network is shaping the next generation of professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to invest in yourself and your future.

• Why mentorship is essential for fitness professionals at every career stage
• The difference between mentorship and coaching—and why it matters
• How IDEA’s Mentor Network Program creates structure, accountability, and results
• Opportunities at IDEA World 2025 to connect with mentors and grow your career
• Why investing in yourself is the key to longevity and success in fitness

• IDEA Mentor Network Program: https://www.ideafit.com/idea-mentorship-program/
• Register for IDEA World 2025: https://www.ideafit.com/world
• IDEA Fitness Journal: https://www.ideafit.com/idea-fitness-journal/fitness-journal-issues/

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and dedication of IDEA Members in more than 80 countries. 

For further information contact: 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

www.ideafit.com

Email: contact@ideafit.com

If you have any questions or feedback,...

Midlife can be a challenging season for many women—but with the right knowledge and support, it’s also a time for empowerment and transformation. In this episode, Dr. Kathleen Jordan, Chief Medical Officer at MIDI Health, shares how fitness professionals can better understand perimenopause and menopause to support their clients holistically. From hormones to lifestyle changes and collaborative care, learn how to make a meaningful impact in this pivotal chapter of women’s lives.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The science behind perimenopause and menopause, and how it affects women’s health.
• Why movement and fitness are crucial during midlife and beyond.
• Common symptoms and overlooked signs of perimenopause.
• How fitness professionals can collaborate with healthcare providers like MIDI Health.
• Practical tips for supporting clients using GLP-1 medications and other therapies.

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Resources and Links:

• Join MIDI Health – Virtual care for women navigating midlife and beyond
• IDEA Fitness Journal – Stay tuned for articles from MIDI experts
• Register for IDEA World 2025 – July 17–19, Sacramento, CA
• Visit MIDI Health at IDEA World Booth #606 for symptom trackers, AgeWell giveaways, and a chance to win raffle prizes

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and...

At nearly 100 years old, Elaine LaLanne—affectionately known as “Lala”—continues to inspire generations with her energy, wisdom, and heart. In this special episode, the First Lady of Fitness shares unforgettable stories from her life with fitness pioneer Jack LaLanne, her own journey into wellness, and why staying active, having a project, and someone to love is the true secret to longevity.

• The incredible origin story of Jack LaLanne’s fitness empire—and how it started with one powerful lecture.
• How Elaine shifted from a donut-eating, chain-smoking producer to a wellness icon.
• Why staying curious and having a mission keeps Elaine feeling youthful at 99.
• Elaine’s current projects, including a new book and an upcoming documentary about Jack’s life.
• The story behind the Jack and Elaine LaLanne Award and this year’s honoree: Denise Austin.

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Get in touch with Elaine:

• Elaine LaLanne’s website & podcast: https://elainelalanne.com
• Books by Elaine LaLanne: Fitness After 50, Dynastride, Pride & Discipline (with Greg Justice), and If You Want to Live, Move!

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and dedication of IDEA Members in more than 80 countries. 

For further information contact: 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

www.ideafit.com

Email: 

What if lowering cholesterol was as simple as changing your breakfast? Cardiologist and Step One Foods founder Dr. Elizabeth Klodas joins the show to discuss how clinically proven, nutrient-rich foods can dramatically improve heart health—without relying solely on medication. Drawing from decades of medical experience and a passion for prevention, Dr. Klodas shares the science, strategy, and inspiration behind using food as the first line of defense against cardiovascular disease.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why traditional medical treatments often fall short in preventing heart disease
• The most common nutritional gaps contributing to high cholesterol and how to fix them
• How Step One Foods conducted a gold-standard clinical trial to prove its effectiveness
• How fitness professionals can recognize signs of cardiovascular issues and collaborate with medical providers
• Practical strategies to empower clients through small, consistent nutritional changes

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Get in touch with Dr. Klodas:

• Step One Foods Website
• Email: elizabeth.klodas@steponefoods.com
• Order Step One Products

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and dedication of IDEA Members in more than 80 countries. 

For further information contact: 

IDEA® Health...

What happens when a fitness professional becomes a millionaire mentor? Meet Loral Langemeier—money expert, best-selling author, and founder of Live Out Loud, Inc.—who started her career in exercise science and built a global financial empire. In this episode, Loral shares her journey from fitness entrepreneur to wealth-building powerhouse and reveals how fitness professionals can take control of their money, protect their IP, and live “corporate” to unlock generational wealth.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

• Loral’s transition from exercise science to wealth strategy
• Why fitness professionals need to operate as corporations—not sole proprietors
• The 3–5 Year Millionaire strategy and why sequencing matters
• How to monetize your intellectual property and fitness brand
• Tax structures, business models, and financial systems that keep more money in your pocket

Sign up for IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

RESOURCES AND LINKS

• Loral’s Company: Live Out Loud, Inc.
• Make Your Kids Millionaires Book + Checklist: makeyourkidsmillionaires.com
• Financial Fitness for Athletes: financialfitnesstrainer.com

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit  
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding.

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association 

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43 years. We deliver world-class content and continuing education to fitness professionals, business owners and allied health professionals via our publications, including the award-winning IDEA Fitness Journal. We also power fit pros through our fitness, business and nutrition conferences, most notably our IDEA WORLD Convention and with hundreds of digital courses available on ideafit.com. We Inspire the World to Fitness® with the passion and dedication of IDEA Members in more...