Are you ready to be inspired and challenged to lead with greater purpose? In this inspiring episode, Martin Rooney, renowned coach, author, and industry innovator, opens up about his transformative journey from the gym floor to the world of fiction with his new novel, Blood Feud. Driven by his friend Todd’s courageous battle with cancer and the enduring legacy of his pioneering mother, Martin shares how personal pain can fuel professional passion and positive change. He discusses the power of mentorship, the necessity of evolving as a leader, and the urgent need to rethink how we educate and inspire the next generation of fitness professionals. With every book sold supporting cancer organisations, this episode is more than just a story - it's a call to action for gym owners and managers to lead with heart, embrace feedback, and leave a lasting legacy. Don’t miss this chance to discover how resilience, purpose, and community can transform not only your business, but the entire fitness industry. Listen now and ignite your own journey of impact!
Our favourite quotable moments:
“Do something new. It's not the absence of courage. It's acting in spite of it.” - Martin Rooney
“The future leaders of our industry are already born. They're already alive.” - Martin Rooney
“Don't let the first 'no' stop you from pursuing your goals.” - Martin Rooney
Resources:
Blood Feud: Raising Cain by Martin Rooney
Martin Rooney - LinkedIn, Training for Warriors, Presenting Greatness
Dan Henderson - Website, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube
About Guest:
Martin Rooney is the founder of Training For Warriors (TFW) and an internationally recognised strength and conditioning coach, speaker, and author. With degrees in Physical Therapy, Health Science, and Exercise Science, Martin was a four-time All Conference and MVP track athlete at Furman University and a former U.S. Bobsled team member. After training with Renzo Gracie in MMA, he began coaching elite fighters and has since prepared world-class athletes, Olympians, and NFL players, while consulting for teams like the NY Giants and NY Jets. Martin holds a black belt in Kodokan Judo and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and has lectured globally for major sports organisations and Fortune 500 companies. Featured in top media outlets and author of eight books, Martin’s TFW system is used by athletes, military units, and leading sports programs worldwide, with his mission focused on helping people "Bring Out The Warrior Within."
About Dan:
Dan Henderson, founder of Fitness Profit, is a coach and business consultant who helps fitness owners achieve more freedom, impact, and income. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Dan is a well-respected leader, owning two successful businesses within the space: Momentum 360 gym and Australia's largest fitness conference, Filex. As a published author and entrepreneur, Dan shares his knowledge on the Profit Made Simple podcast, where he interviews industry experts and offers practical advice for growing your fitness business, building your brand, and achieving your goals. Join Dan each week and take your fitness business to new heights with Profit Made Simple.
Related: gym owner, fitness, courage, feedback, personal growth, legacy, cancer awareness, creative process, publishing