The Direction and Future of The Fat Loss Troubleshooter
I mentioned previously with the banner change/contest that the site itself was going to go through a big overhaul. The truth is that this blog is not reaching half the potential of what I want it to be or an optimal level for you the reader either. There is a lot of filler which I need to remove and maximize more content instead. I also want to put additional focus on some of the more complex aspects of dieting, my boys are being neglected a little, and training is nowhere to be seen. I want the world, but I can’t do it alone! So I need your help out there readers!
Change one: An Editor
First, I am learning to take my time with my writing. Most of the time it’s being rushed to do a thousand different things, which leads to mistakes rather than lack of understanding. For instance, I know the difference between the words ”principal” and “principle,” but I just write fast and they get mixed up in use. So, I need help to fix old posts and to double-check new ones yet I am limited on time. As a result, in the next two weeks all previous posts and articles will be edited and updated by a new editor. In addition, when I have new posts I will do my best to utilize my newly-learned skills in writing. If I slip, I can assure you my grammar coach will be on me faster than I get on you.
This is an important lesson that is applicable in multiple aspects of life. We all need accountability for something. I have taken things to another level to enhance my blog and writing. Are you doing the same thing with your fat loss?
Change two: Guest Bloggers/More Content
As I noted earlier, I realize that my schedule can keep me a little busy. Some days, like today, I get a few hours to focus on things. Other days, even weeks, I am too swamped. So I’ve recently determined that a great way to fix this time management issue of mine is to bring in some of my favorite professionals and writers to blog a thing or two for me. I have a lot of people who don’t have blogs themselves or an audience yet to speak to who would want to take advantage of the good-sized readership I have here. You don’t have to be a professional, you just have to have a good knowledge on the subject and some common sense. This isn’t about guru worship, this is about information and getting it to the masses. I want this blog to be massive in scope and the one-stop shop for fat loss information and general nutrition/training. However, like I said above, I can’t do that alone.
If you are interested in contributing to the blog or want more information on doing so please contact me here� for more information.
Change three: Layout
The current layout is not a huge deal to most of the readers but I’m giving fair notice that it’s going to be going through a few small changes here and there. If you get confused there will be a site map going up to help out. Overall, the point is to make it easier to access older posts and the goods of the site.
The actual site address is going to change too BUT you will still be able to access it through avidityfitness.net. The future site will be Thefatlosstroubleshooter.com.
Change four: Resources
The OPT program has made it even more apparent that there needs to be more specific training content and exercise demonstrations available. In addition to these materials, I want to give to you more resources to not only explain how things work with nutrition and the body, but to make it easier for you to refer to this site as a resource of information. The thing is, again, time is not of the essence, and I am knee-deep in training and personal rehab. However, although I have come to find that most of the training videos are already out there, they’re just scattered! So I am taking a cue from JP’s on Lisa (aka: “The Linkzilla”) and putting together a nice collection of approved exercise demonstrations and training movements not only for the OPT program but also in general. It should be a nice database and hopefully, it will not take very long at all.
Change five: You asked for it, you got it!
Basically if you ask for my service, you will get it the best I can give it.
However, I can’t help you if you don’t tell me what you need. I need to know from YOU what you want to see more of in general from me in terms of content.
I need you to answer these question for me in the comment section.
*Note:
- Do not have to use your real name or email for this.
I have turned off that function for this post. You do still have to fill it out, but it does not have to be valid. For example, you can put
Name: Answers
Email: answers@yahoo.com
You can also use the contact form and send them to me there. This should only take a few minutes and would really help me to help you better as a reader. For the people that do this, your answers will not be seen or approved for the public.
Thank you, all of you, for helping me build this to what it is already. I want to make it even better, but I can’t do that without you.
Here are the questions and I am looking forward to the answers.
1. Age/Sex
2. Do you find you need help more with:
Training
Diet
Motivation
All of the Above
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content?
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content?
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging?
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back?
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences?
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see?
Sinead
It sounds like you have some great changes in store!
Your questions/my answers:
1. 35/female
August 15th, 2008 at 3:40 pm2. Do you find you need help more with:
All of the Above–I’ll take whatever information you have to give me!
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content? I like the fun, especially since I know the content will be there.
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content? That works for me, too.
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging? I don’t think people realize the importance of tracking calories/nutrients and of being certain that what you think you’re tracking is really what you’re eating. Basically–FLTS! I think it’s important to know the whys of doing something rather than just to do it. Our goal should be to understand the process so that we can achieve success and then figure out how to maintain our success with the knowledge we’ve gained.
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back? I love that you speak the truth, no bones about it. You are full of tons of amazing information and you’re so generous about sharing it.
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences? Ummm…YEAH!
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see? How about your friend Sheila?
Sinead
and can I just say that it gives me a little thrill to be the first commenter? hehehe (AND that I’ve gotten 6.5 hrs of sleep for the last 2 nights–that’s about a 2 hr improvement each night! yay!)
August 15th, 2008 at 3:40 pmMissy
1) 38 - female
2)I need all of the above and then some!!!
3)Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content? Umm, I like both. Definitely content but heck yeah, it needs to be fun!!!
4)Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content? Yes, anything relevent to fat loss, taboo or not!!
5)What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging? I think blogging makes it hard sometimes to get across what you are asking and people can take you the wrong way. But the support is good and accountability is a must. As far as fat loss info, you pretty much have it, but in general (for me)I think the problem lies not so much with the facts, just my laziness and unwillingness to do it!! (hence the motivation!) Also, my old habits and preconceived notions that fat is bad and hours of cardio is good. That is a hard one to let go of for some reason.
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back? It’s all about you Leigh… LOL, but not only that, it is all your facts and your willingness to help us. You do seem as though you truly care if we get it or not.:)
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences?
This is a joke, right? Are you kidding me? OF COURSE I AM INTERESTED!!!
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see?
A) Lyle Mcdonald - but he HAS to use the words “retarded” and “monkey” in the post!!
B) Matt Perryman
C) Martin Berkhan
D) Alan Aragon
Those are just off the top, but I am sure I can come up with others!! Ooohh, I am excited!!
August 15th, 2008 at 5:03 pmSinead
oh! And Julie! Maybe you could talk Julie into coming and talking about some good prehab exercises/stretches stuff to do.
It seems like people are always wanting to know what kind of warm ups to do, so maybe she could help with something like that, too.
August 15th, 2008 at 11:01 pmStephanie
1. 38/Female
2. Do you find you need help more with:
Definitely motivation & diet
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content?
I think a little of both. I love your humor and would miss it, but sometimes the direct and to the point way is what is needed.
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content?
I’m not a debator by nature…..I’d rather curl up in a corner and not say a word. But if that is someone’s thing….I’ll read it and cheer on my side silently.
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging?
Not sure because I only read your blog…..lol
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back?
You are sincere. You are in this for people to reach THEIR dreams.
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences?
Definitely!
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see?
Not sure.
August 16th, 2008 at 7:48 amMe
1. Age/Sex - 41/Female
2. Do you find you need help more with - ALL
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content? — I like both ways.
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content? — YES
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging? — The info is out there, but I think most people need the support and encouragement. Having blogs like this helps.
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back? — Your message of “get in and get out”. For me, that allows me to diet without feeling deprived. I know that I am not going to be eating in a deficit forever, so it is not hard to restrict myself when I’m trying to get it done. That makes you unique, and I love it!
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences? — Of course!
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see?
– Personally, I don’t care to see anyone who already has a blog. I can read their blog if I want to. I come here to read what you have to say. However, I would be happy to see entries from other trainers you may work with, who might just be getting into blogging (like you introduced your old client.) Also, I’d love to see some of your old/current clients write about their success and how they did it.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:39 amVickie
1. Age/Sex
36/Females
2. Do you find you need help more with:
Training
Diet (mostly here but training also)
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content?
A little fun with content
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content?
not really a debate or taboo person but it depends on the actual topic
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging?
Not sure, really looking for the hows and whys but that is why I need to see if I can get the book. I would love to see more recipes.
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back?
You are so customer oriented, yes, you are a trainer but you also really care. you have good stuff
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences?
YOU BET I WOULD
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see?
No real idea
August 16th, 2008 at 8:53 amMissy
C’mon everyone! I know there are more than 4 people who read this blog that could post their answers and suggestions!!!
August 16th, 2008 at 8:18 pmLeigh Peele
Heh Missy a lot of people have answered. Remember if you choose to no use your name you wont be approved/posted public.
August 16th, 2008 at 8:47 pmMissy
Well that makes me happier! I guess I thought they would show up and just say “anonymous”!
August 17th, 2008 at 11:43 amSinead
hehehe I was wondering why people weren’t answering, too, Missy!
Good to know that they are! 
August 17th, 2008 at 12:18 pmGina
1. Age/Sex - 44/F
August 17th, 2008 at 3:37 pm2. Do you find you need help more with:
Training
Diet
Motivation
All of the Above - all of the above, especially motivation
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content? Both
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more “taboo” content? Yes
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging? Diet advice & strategies for results (not recipes).
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back? No BS but fun to read.
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences? Definitely.
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see? Any of the people on your blogroll.
marty
1. 31/F
August 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm2. All of the Above
3. Fun!
4. Yes, definitely.
5. I don’t think there is much missing in terms of fat loss information - anyone who reads your stuff should know what to do, from a physical standpoint. I think that the most challenging (and ignored) part is the psychology of it all.
6. Because you are funny and know your stuff.
7. Hell yeah!
8. Anyone on your blogroll would be great. Also, what about some of your clients? People who could tell their success stories, with where they struggled, and how they got through those challenges.
Charliza
1. 52 F
August 19th, 2008 at 12:07 am2. Diet and Motivation more than training.
3.Direct with some of your unique humor but get to the point quickly or the dissemination of info becomes a full time job. Bullet points with take away info are great too. Give us stuff we can put on a post it note or index card.
4.Sure bring it on, but don’t dilute your fine product.
5. Need diet advice & strategies for results. Some special attention please for middle aged, hormonally challenged women SOS. Sample meal plans, access to truly accurate calorie info linked to your site etc.
would be fab. Also strategies for those darn last 10 pounds as often as possible.
6. I love when you point out the hidden elements that sabotage weight loss with specific examples along with how to turn a bad situation around.
7. Definitely!
8.Tom Venuto is a classic. Also like Joey Atlas who specializes in trouble shooting female physique issues.
Carol
I just wanted to say I enjoyed your fitcast.
August 19th, 2008 at 8:31 amJo
1. 34/F
2. motivation and diet
3. Can we have a mix of both? Part of the reason I love reading your blog is that you have a wry sense of humor and sometimes just out and out goofy. I’d really miss it if it was “dry”.
4. Sure!
5. I’m not so sure that there is a lack of information rather than just TOO MUCH information. There are so many programs out there and so much information and I think it can get overwhelming. It’s really easy to get wrapped up in the menusha of freaking out about things like timing carbs properly, which supplements to take, types of workouts to do and miss the big picture of fat loss. I love how you really hammer it down that doesn’t matter which method that you use but that you use a method (if that makes any sense).
Additionally, there seems to be a lack of information on blogs/fat loss on what happens after you’ve dieted down and how to maintain it. I have your manual on it and I think that is the first thing I’ve ever really seen on techniques on how to keep the weight off. Most of what i’ve personally seen is just folks saying, “well, you’ve got to change your diet into a lifestyle of eating” but that doesn’t really mean much to folks who have dieted for years and years and have no friggin’ clue what “normal eating” means.
6. You are delightfully no B.S. You do not sugar coat things. You do not give “huggles” for “just showing up”. You call people out when they need to be called out. You are one of the first people I’ve read who has ever admitted that fat loss sucks and makes you feel crappy and that is just part of the deal. You are a strong advocate of not letting people B.S. themselves and have them take ownership for their actions.
7. Girl, I’d PAY for teleconferences. If you want to do them for free, I’d be stoked.
8. Noone in particular.
August 19th, 2008 at 2:45 pmWaras
1. Age/Sex - 23/F
August 20th, 2008 at 11:40 pm2. Do you find you need help more with:
Training
Diet
Motivation
All of the Above
All you have!
3. Do you like more direct and to the point content or making things fun a little but still with content?
I always adore content-packed blogs, like Alan or Lyle style or those articles in Figureathelete.com. But having fun is a good character of you and I think it’s great to keep it up.
4. Do you enjoy having the ability to debate a little and talk about more �taboo� content? You mean something like f-word post or maybe good carbs bad carbs post? I think the latter is awesome because there is so much useful info in it. But the former, I just personally dislike it even though I understand and agree with your point, totally. For me it’s ‘mildly’ irrelevant to the content of the whole site. (You won’t talk about politics, for example, or will you?) Oh, if you mean something different then, no, I won’t debate, but I’m willing to listen to what you have to say.
5. What do you feel is lacking the most for fat loss information out there and blogging? There are tons of information on the web about how overweight ppl can lose weight. I’m not overweight and, in my opinion and experience, it’s much slower and more difficult for lean folks to lose fat. I’m seeking information that is directed to these fairly lean ppl/atheletes. Also, like other ppl say, physiology info like women hormones, how it plays a role in fat loss, and how can you physiologically control craving. I have heard enough “do not stuff your face on weekends” or “every bite of carrots counts” kind of message. I want real knowledge (in “for-dummies” version, of course, lol.).
6. What do you like about what I do most and why do you keep coming back? Because you are a girl, like me. There are too many guy trainers out there, and they don’t understand women, not one bit. Oh and because you are genuine, you have a good heart, you reach for people and let them in. You are the complete opposite of arrogant and that’s what I like about you.
7. Would you be interested in free teleconferences? Depending on what it is about.
8. What guest bloggers specifically would you like to see? Lyle McDonald. He’s the best.
Lacey
Leigh,
First of all I want to thank you for all of the great information and I really love the podcasts. Your no nonsense approach is refreshing and appreciated.
I am 32/Female. I am in need of motivation. When the cravings hit hard or my mood is less than sunny, I pop out to your site to find something that reminds me that what I am doing is worthwhile and that that giant bowl of Corn Pops is not going to help.
Thank again
August 25th, 2008 at 8:33 pm