All Episodes

May 20, 2025 36 mins

“It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible”

 

Episode summary |

In this episode of the ROG Return on Generosity podcast, host Shannon Cassidy interviews Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, a certified personal trainer and founder of Royal Change. Sydney shares her journey from a small-town athlete to a global fitness influencer, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, resilience, and community. She discusses her transition from sports to personal training, the creation of her YouTube channel, and the impact of personal tragedies, including the loss of her brother and a traumatic shooting incident, on her mission to help others. Sydney's story is one of overcoming adversity and inspiring others to pursue their passions with heart and dedication.

 

R.O.G. Takeaway Tips |

  • Everyone deserves someone who genuinely cares about them.
  • Authenticity in fitness is more impactful than perfection.
  • It's important to think bigger than what you know is possible.
  • Staying grounded amidst success is essential for personal fulfillment.

 

Chapters | 

00:00 Introduction to Sydney Cummings

03:07 The Journey of Authenticity

06:09 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose

09:04 The Birth of Royal Change

12:09 Navigating Personal Loss and Resilience

14:56 The Impact of Community and Generosity

17:46 The Shooting Incident and Its Aftermath

21:12 Gratitude and Moving Forward

 

Guest Bio |

Sydney Cummings Houdyshell is a nationally certified personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and the founder of Royal Change, a global fitness brand dedicated to making health and wellness accessible to all. With over 1.7 million subscribers on her YouTube channel, Sydney delivers free, high-quality workouts every single day, inspiring millions to achieve their fitness goals right from their living rooms.

Her journey to becoming a fitness powerhouse was anything but ordinary. Growing up as a small-town athlete, Sydney’s passion for sports laid the foundation for her career in personal training. But it was her resilience in the face of personal tragedy—including the heartbreaking loss of her brother and surviving a traumatic shooting incident—that truly shaped her mission. Sydney channeled her pain into purpose, building Royal Change as a beacon of strength, positivity, and community for people around the world.

Sydney’s philosophy goes beyond physical fitness—it's about authenticity, resilience, and showing up every day with purpose and heart. Her inspiring story and commitment to empowering others have made her a sought-after voice in the fitness industry and beyond.

 

Guest Resources:

https://royalchange.fit/

https://www.youtube.com/@sydneycummingshoudyshell

https://www.instagram.com/sydneycummings_/?hl=en

https://x.com/sydneycummings_?lang=en

 

Bridge Between Resources:

 

Credits: Sydney Cummings Houdyshell, Host Shannon Cassidy, Bridge Between, Inc.

 

Coming Next: Please join us next week, Episode 234, Special Guest, Sydney Cummings Houdys

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

United States of Kennedy
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club

Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club

Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.