Chasing Common Ground: Lifestyle Conversations with Chris Liddle

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I reconnect with longtime friend and returning guest Tim Gourlay, who last joined me back in 2018. A lot has changed since then—both for Tim and for the businesses he’s built.

We talk about the transition from Fit Set Pass to Fit Set Ninja, the growth of ninja obstacle sports across Canada, and the surprising story of how a turf side hustle during the pandemic grew into a thriving business.

T...

🎙️ Chasing Common Ground with Shane Fennessey: A Deep Dive into Storytelling, Mental Resilience & Documentary Filmmaking in Canada

In this episode, Chris Liddle chats with Canadian filmmaker and documentary producer Shane Fennessey about the power of storytelling, navigating mental health, and building a creative career through persistence, purpose, and passion. From his early days in business school to working on docs like Bisping...

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I’m joined by coach Nolan Vannata, who’s on a mission to simplify sustainable fat loss—and show the internet that you can enjoy ice cream and lose weight.

We talk about his journey into coaching, what he learned from the Real Coaches Summit, and his takeaways from running an unconventional “Ben & Jerry’s + fat loss” experiment. We also dig into habit-building, tracking tools, and how to bala...

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, Chris Liddle sits down with longtime coach and family man Zach Pello to unpack two decades of insight in fitness, mental health, personal growth—and how redefining success in midlife reshapes the way you coach.

We talk about:

* Getting unstuck professionally and personally

* Mental health challenges as a coach

* Reigniting passion after burnout

* Real Coaches Summit as a networking catalyst

* Unc...

This week on Chasing Common Ground, I’m joined by strength coach and nutritionist Jeb Stuart Johnston to explore how our perception of time, our relationships, and the ability to embrace discomfort shape the lives we live.

We discuss:

* How viewing time differently changes your choices

* Building relationships that last decades in fitness & business

* Overcoming addiction by fostering connection and purpose

* Asking better questions to ...

Dean Guedo returns for his fifth appearance—his first since the show’s rebrand. This time, the mic is flipped toward life lessons, shifting priorities, and the quiet power of showing up when it’s not glamorous. Dean talks candidly about returning to teaching, evolving as a dad, coaching high school football, and why he’s doubling down on movement that matters—weighted vests, pushups, air squats, and showing up tired but fulfilled.S...

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Jay Croft — a journalist-turned-fitness content strategist helping gyms serve adults over 50. We talk about his new book Selling Longevity, why older clients are the future of fitness, and how life pivots can lead to deeper purpose.

We cover:✅ Why gyms struggle to serve adults 50+✅ The turning point after the fall of print journalism✅ Money trauma & reinvention in midlife✅ Th...

In this solo reflection, I explore one of the most repeated motivational phrases—burn the boats. But what does it actually mean when those boats are your comfort, identity, or backup plan?

I walk through the moments where I truly committed, the times I hesitated, and how it shaped my growth—personally and professionally. From quitting my job to pursue fitness to coaching others through transformation, this is a brutally honest take ...

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, Chris reconnects with long-time friend and fellow coach Mark Zarate. They reflect on the past two years of life, growth, aging, and all the messy middle parts that come with being in your 30s and 40s. From the therapeutic power of trees to navigating burnout, digital overstimulation, and learning how to actually live well in a hyper-distracted world—this is a deep, grounding, and timely con...

Today’s episode is one of the most powerful I’ve recorded—because it’s so real.

Meet Steve Lutz—first-time podcast guest, fitness coach, and someone who’s walked through fire. At one point, Steve was 381 pounds, drinking heavily every day, and living abroad in deep isolation during the pandemic. Now? He’s a coach helping others change their lives—and living proof that it’s never too late to take your power back.

We talk about:

* The s...

🧱 What can a pixelated video game about punching trees teach us about fitness, mindset, and life momentum?

In this solo episode, I break down surprising parallels between Minecraft and the real-life pursuit of meaningful goals—especially in fitness, health, and career. Whether you’ve never played the game or you’re an everyday adventurer, this episode will help you rethink how momentum, creativity, and connection show up in your da...

In this episode, I reconnect with Dr. Ashley Dwyer to dive into hormone health and its common misconceptions. Dr. Dwyer breaks down the importance of lifestyle choices over quick fixes and provides actionable advice for managing hormones like cortisol and insulin. The conversation also touches on the importance of authenticity and integrity in the wellness industry, ways to combine scientific evidence with practical advice, and str...

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Dr. Allan Bacon, fitness coach, industry educator, and founder of Maui Athletics. Known for his calm, no-BS approach to health, Dr. Bacon unpacks the often overwhelming world of fitness advice—and how to navigate it without burning out.

From breaking down creatine myths to managing stress and building realistic habits, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s tired of f...

In this special episode, Chris reconnects with longtime friend and fitness coach Alex McBrairty. Over the past four to five years, Chris and Alex have shared numerous conversations, making Alex a vital part of the show's community. Today, they dive deep into the challenges and barriers to change, motivation, and the importance of context in progress. Alex shares insights on combating perfectionism, dealing with weight fluctuations,...

In this episode I'm talking to Jayme Shiarla, a coach dedicated to helping high achievers escape burnout and realign their success with genuine happiness. I connected with her at the Real Coaches Summit I attended a few weeks ago and she had a great down-to-earth energy that really resonated with me. Jayme shares her own journey, emphasizing the importance of building a life driven by strength rather than mere survival.

Discover the...

In this solo episode, I’m unpacking the critical question of whether it's possible to understand someone you disagree with. Through a personal story from 2010 about my 'Free Hugs' initiative in Edmonton, I share my experiences regarding the importance of human connection, community, and empathy.

This episode reflects on the experiences of bridging differences, learning about others' perspectives, and the value of lifelong learning....

In this episode of Chasing Common Ground, I sit down with Mike Howard, a fitness professional, author, and retreat organizer, to explore the power of human connection, travel, and personal growth.

Mike has been leading fitness retreats for years, creating life-changing experiences for participants by combining movement, mindfulness, and adventure in stunning destinations. We talk about how these retreats foster deep, meaningful rela...

In this special solo episode of Chasing Common Ground, I’m celebrating my 33rd birthday by taking a deep dive into my life experiences and answering some thought-provoking questions. I reflect on how my mindset has evolved from my 20s to now, including the shifts in my beliefs about career paths and the limitations I once placed on myself.

I share personal stories about overcoming my initial reluctance to travel, the daily habits th...

In this episode I get to reconnect with someone local to me, known internationally, the one and only Dean Somerset. Dean reflects on his journey since his last appearance on the podcast, noting significant changes driven by the global pandemic—shifting his focus to in-person training and the development of an AI personal training resources. Dean also delves into the launch of his upcoming book, co-authored with Dan Pope, which aims...