When you think of a personal trainer / gym trainer, what images does this conjure?

"I started out sweeping floors, selling memberships, repairing gym equipment and then I was offered the chance to teach classes. This is how it was when I started; you began at the bottom and worked your way up with on the job training"

-Shannan Ponton

Shannan's career began well over two decades ago; Before being a trainer was cool, and before entry to it's market place was simply a matter of dollars and a few quick weeks of entry-level education.

Shannan Ponton epitomises what it means to be a true 'Fitness Professional', and is a subtle reminder of what the industry was, versus what it has become. And this is no stab at the thousands of great trainers who motivate and direct their clients daily, more an indicator of what the industry has evolved into, and the areas in which it has failed in an effort to saturate the floors of a gym near you.

With 10 seasons of the highly successful Channel 10 hit TV series "The Biggest Loser" behind him, Shannon and Shannan reflect on the career that was, and Shannan's thoughts on weight loss, training, mindset and the struggle within.

As the industry continues to debate the answers to our obestity epidemic, Shannan talks about the very simple factors that allow the TV contestants to drop weight week after week. And while the scientific communities continue to argue over the pathogenesis of this insidious disease, Shannan and his team just keep getting results for each and every participant for every year that the show screens.

But behind the celebrity is always a normal person with their own unique struggles and life lessons. Learn how Shannan deals with all the normal cravings, time constraints and daily life issues as us all, and what it is that has made him a household name.

I was fortunate to hang out with Shannan in his Sydney home, and talk casually about life, love and family. He's an amazing dad who is happier hanging out at the local skate park with his son, rather than seeking attention via public displays at known paparazzi haunts. He's also a committed husband, and the energy between Shannan and his wife is genuine and infective.

I think that so much of who and what Shannan is will completely resonate with every listener, and motivate you to get more out of every day.

Please enjoy

Shannon...