In this raw and inspiring episode of All Things Fitness and Wellness, we dive into mental health with Derek Gallup, an industry veteran with over 20 years of experience in the fitness world. Derek opens up about how fitness became his anchor through some of the toughest personal challenges, including the struggles of supporting a partner through mental health crises.

Derek’s career includes leadership roles at UFC Gym, 24 Hour Fitness, and New Evolution Ventures, but in this episode, he shares his personal journey—moving beyond the boardroom to address the real mental health battles we face in our personal and professional lives. As we recognize Mental Health Month, Derek highlights how we, as an industry, often focus on physical strength but too often overlook mental health.

Key Topics:

Derek’s career evolution and leadership roles at top fitness companies
Navigating personal grief and mental health struggles
The power of fitness in healing and supporting loved ones
Creating a meaningful, purpose-driven life through fitness
How Derek’s experiences led him to support SPARKLE Foundation, dedicated to mental health advocacy
The influence of Spartan’s DEKA on building community and resilience
The importance of mental health conversations in fitness culture
We also explore Derek’s thoughts on the intersection of fitness and mental health, why the industry must do more to create space for these important discussions, and how he’s using his platform to support others going through similar struggles.

In addition to hearing Derek’s powerful insights, Krissy also shares parts of her own journey and how fitness played a key role in her emotional healing.

Tune in for an episode that’s much more than just fitness talk—it's about the emotional strength that helps us face life’s toughest battles.

00:00- Intro
03:15- The SPARKLE and Spartan Connection
08:13- Krissy Vann shares her story of supporting a partner with end of life ideation
20:50- Derek Gallup shares his story of supporting partner with depression
33:50- Supporting someone dealing with mental illness
37:10- The future of SPARKLE Carla Gallup Foundation

Connect with SPARKLE: https://www.sparklecgf.org
#fitnessbusiness #mentalhealth #mentalhealthmatters