The Research Hub podcast brings together field experts, scientists, athletes and leaders to talk about what matters most in health and fitness.
Each episode is grounded in evidence and built for professionals who design and influence training spaces and member experiences. From adaptive equipment to mental health and performance strategies, this series highlights what progress looks like in practice.
From Health Policy to Fitness Participation with Alina Chebes
How much does public policy influence who becomes physically active and how fitness fits into the healthcare system?
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer speaks with Alina Chebes, Health Policy Manager at EuropeActive, about the growing role of policy in improving access to physical activity across Europe. From funding initiatives and healthcare partnerships to community programs and exercise referral pathways, they explore how policy decisions can help create healthier, more active communities.
The conversation covers:
• How public policy shapes physical activity participation
• Why fitness facilities are becoming community health hubs
• The role of exercise in prevention, rehabilitation and long-term health
• How Be Active Day has grown to reach more than 820,000 participants across Europe
• The connection between physical activity, mental health and social connection
• Emerging trends including healthcare integration, AI and exercise referrals
Whether you're a fitness professional, operator, health advocate or simply interested in the future of active living, this discussion offers practical insights into the policies and partnerships helping shape the next generation of fitness.
5 Jul 2026
The Truth About Women's Physiology and Strength Training with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple
Join Dr. Karlie Intlekofer and Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple as they explore the myths and facts about women's physiology, hormone impacts, and resistance training across different life stages. They emphasize the importance of personalized, consistent training over hormone-based protocols and discuss how aging and menopause influence physical health.
Key topics:
- Hormonal influence on training outcomes
- Myths about women and resistance training
- Impact of aging and menopause on muscle mass
- Importance of individualization in fitness programs
- Role of hormones versus other factors in physical adaptation
10 Jun 2026
The Future of Fitness: Racing, Tech and Community with Kris Walter
Steve Barrett talks with Kris Walter, Director at Princeton Club, about where fitness clubs are heading and what keeps members coming back.
Their conversation covers the rise of fitness racing, the role of AI in coaching and the importance of building community through better programming.
Listen to the full conversation to hear Kris share lessons from 30 years in fitness and his view on the future of member engagement.
5 Jun 2026
Muscle Health Gains That Drive Member Loyalty with Dr. Karlie Intlekofer
Muscle health is becoming one of the biggest conversations in fitness, aging and long-term health. In this session from the HFA Show 2026, Dr. Karlie Intlekofer looks at why strength, power, muscle mass and muscle endurance matter, especially as physical capacity starts to decline more quickly after age 40.
She also breaks down the gap between what members say they want and what their training habits often show. Many people want more muscle, strength and energy, but they need clearer guidance, visible progress and early wins to stay consistent.
Topics covered in this episode include:
• Why muscle health matters for longevity
• How strength and power affect aging
• Why many gym-goers plateau after 6 to 12 weeks
• How pain and injury can change member behavior
• Why members join for outcomes, not equipment
• How early wins build confidence, consistency and retention
• Why progress tracking helps members see results
For fitness facilities, trainers and wellness leaders, this conversation offers a practical look at how to turn growing interest in muscle health into better member engagement, stronger outcomes and long-term loyalty.
15 May 2026
Why Strength Training Matters for Female Endurance Clients with Triathlete and Coach Amanda Almond
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer is joined by Matrix Master Trainer, triathlete, and endurance coach Amanda Almond to examine the role of strength training in improving performance and durability. Drawing from both research and Amanda’s hands-on experience coaching women and busy clients, the conversation offers practical strategies for integrating strength into endurance-focused programs.
15 Apr 2026
Bridging Science and Coaching in Strength & Conditioning with Ian Jeffreys and Steve Barrett
What does modern coaching really look like?
Steve Barrett sits down with Professor Ian Jeffreys, President of the NSCA, to explore the evolving role of strength and conditioning, the balance between science and coaching experience, and why performance can’t be defined by metrics alone.
13 Apr 2026
[Dutch] From Elite Athletes to Everyday Fitness with Jorden Bres
In this Dutch-language episode of the Research Hub Podcast, Brice van der Elzen sits down with Olympic Strength & Conditioning coach Jorden Bres to explore what high-performance sport can teach coaches, trainers, and gym operators.
With experience preparing athletes for five Olympic Games across sports like judo, gymnastics, and speed skating, Jorden shares practical insights that apply far beyond elite sport. From programming fundamentals and equipment choices to coaching mindset and long-term member retention, this conversation focuses on what truly drives results — at any level.
11 Apr 2026
Solutions for Sustainable Progress in the Weight Room with Dr. Eric Helms and Dr. Karlie Intlekofer
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer is joined by Eric Helms, PhD, CSCS, AccredSpNut, to unpack how coaches can better personalize strength training and help clients train at the right level of effort.
Dr. Helms is a sport science and nutrition researcher, science communicator and coach. He is co-director of the Sports Research Institute New Zealand at Auckland University of Technology and co-founder of MASS Research Review. He also coaches competitive and recreational drug free strength and physique athletes through Team 3D Muscle Journey. As an athlete, he is a WNBF pro natural bodybuilder and competes in strength sports.
9 Apr 2026
Programming Strength Progression with Antonio Squillante Ph.D and Dr. Karlie Intlekofer
Strength training works best when progression and coaching go hand in hand.
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer is joined by Antonio Squillante, Ph.D, Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at PLNU and member of the NSCA Board of Directors, to break down how muscles adapt to training over time.
The conversation covers strength, muscle growth and eccentric training, along with why presence on the gym floor matters more than programs alone. Antonio shares practical insight on personalization, goal setting and guiding better results through real-time adjustment.
This episode is built for coaches, trainers and fitness operators looking to bring more clarity and consistency to their approach.
7 Apr 2026
Indoor Cycling Trends, Challenges and What Comes Next with Becky Jalbert
Indoor cycling has taken a hit since COVID, but it is far from done. In this episode of the Research Hub podcast, Becky Jalbert takes a clear look at where indoor cycling stands today and where it is heading next.
They cover participation trends, instructor shortages and how clubs are adjusting their cycling programs to meet changing member needs. The conversation looks at why cycling still matters, how experience drives engagement and what operators can do to get more value from their studios without overspending.
From premium experiences to mid market pressure, this episode gives operators real insight into how to keep indoor cycling relevant, inclusive and worth the space it takes up.
5 Apr 2026
Top Fitness Trends Influencing Member Expectations with Becky Jalbert
Listen to Becky Jalbert break down key fitness trends and member expectations through a practical lens. They cover functional training, wearables and recovery, along with how these areas influence programming and engagement across the industry. Becky shares clear insight from her product and coaching background. They also outline what different member groups expect and how teams can adapt to meet those needs.
3 Apr 2026
Myths and Misconceptions About Zone 2 with Dr. Brendon Gurd and Kristi Storoschuk
Zone 2 training is one of the most promoted approaches on social media. It is presented as the best way to improve endurance, burn fat and support mitochondrial health. This episode examines what the research actually shows. Dr. Karlie Intlekofer will be joined by Dr. Brendon Gurd and Kristi Storoschuk from Queen’s University to share evidence on exercise intensity, highlight where Zone 2 is effective and explain where other approaches deliver greater benefits.
1 Apr 2026
Sprint Intensity and Performance Training with Doug Lawson and Steve Barrett
Sprint training done right can trigger powerful, lasting change and Sprint 8 proves it. Steve Barrett, Global Director of Fitness Programming at Matrix Fitness, teams up with Douglas Lawson, Facility Operator at Lawson Street Gym, to unpack the concept of sprint intensity, particularly focusing on the Sprint 8 methodology. They discuss the differences between sprint intensity and traditional HIIT, the science behind the physiological benefits of sprint training, and the transformative effects it can have on individuals. The conversation highlights real-life success stories, the importance of group dynamics in training, and how sprint intensity can be effectively combined with strength training for optimal results.
30 Mar 2026
Understanding Body Composition in Fitness with Dr. Nina Crowley & Dr. Karlie Intlekofer
Dr. Karlie Intlekofer and Dr. Nina Crowley discuss the evolving landscape of fitness and health, emphasizing the importance of personalized communication between fitness professionals and their clients. They explore misconceptions surrounding body composition, the significance of functional health over aesthetic goals, and the role of technology in tracking progress. The discussion highlights the need for fitness facilities to adapt their messaging and practices to better support members in achieving their health goals, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and empowering fitness environment.
27 Mar 2026
Closing the Communication Gap in Member-Centered Fitness with Dr Nina Crowley & Dr Karlie Intlekofer
Listen to Dr. Karlie Intlekofer and Dr. Nina Crowley as they discuss the critical communication gap between fitness professionals and their members.
They explore the importance of behavior change, creating inclusive environments, and the need for a member-centered approach in fitness. Dr. Crowley shares her journey in nutrition and psychology, emphasizing the significance of understanding individual experiences and biases in fitness settings. The conversation highlights the necessity of personalization in fitness goals and the impact of weight bias on member experiences, ultimately advocating for a more empathetic and supportive fitness culture.
24 Mar 2026
Building Community Through Group Training with Rick Muhr & Chad Yarvitz
Stay tuned to learn how Matrix Master Trainers Chad Yarvitz and Rick Muhr examine the lasting impact of group training through the lens of connection, trust and community.
Drawing from decades of leadership in coaching and club operations, they reflect on how group training environments foster resilience, personal growth, and deep member engagement. Their conversation explores the value of shared effort, the evolving role of technology, and why authenticity and care remain foundational to effective programming.
More than a discussion on fitness, this episode underscores how group training elevates the experience, transforming clubs into communities.
24 Mar 2026
Making Adaptive Fitness a Priority in Gyms with Matt Lesperance
In this very first episode of the Research Hub series, Dr. Karlie Intlekofer engages with Matt Lesperance, a gold medalist in wheelchair basketball, to discuss the importance of inclusivity in fitness. They explore the evolution of adaptive fitness, the barriers faced by adaptive athletes in traditional gyms, and the need for better training and knowledge among fitness professionals.
The conversation highlights the significance of adaptive equipment, creative workout strategies, and the overall culture of fitness facilities in making them accessible for everyone. Matt shares his personal journey and insights on how to foster a more inclusive environment in the fitness industry.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Contact Research Hub - Presented by Matrix
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Research Hub - Presented by Matrix?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
