How I escaped the 9-5 with PT Launch Lab
In this episode of PT Launch Lab, Callum sits down with Gemma, a Saddleworth-based personal trainer and mindset coach, to discuss her escape from the corporate world, her personal transformation, and how she now inspires other women to do the same through Phoenix Fitness Mindset.
In Episode 12 of the PT Launch Lab Podcast, Callum is joined by Gemma — a former sales professional who walked away from corporate life to become a personal trainer and mindset coach.
Gemma’s story is more than just a career pivot. It’s a transformation that started with her own weight gain, burnout, and sense of disconnection. Through training, reflection, and radical honesty, she began to rebuild her life — and now helps other women do the same through her brand, Phoenix Fitness Mindset.
🧠 Key Topics Discussed:
Why she walked away from a stable, high-level sales career
Her own struggles with weight, mental health, and lifestyle habits
The moment in Turkey that triggered her decision to change
How she used CrossFit, meditation, journaling and nature to heal
Her mindset-first approach to coaching
Why it’s never too late to start again — at any age
Her coaching style: empathetic, honest, and behaviour-focused
Her new hybrid offer for clients balancing busy home and work life
Joining Elevate at the Unit as head of sport psychology
Why fitness is the most powerful outlet for self-belief
🔥 Quotes to Remember:
“I was in a room full of people but didn’t feel like I fit anywhere. Something had to change.”
“It’s never too late to start over. The past is a lesson — what matters is what you change today.”
“People don’t just need a trainer. They need a belief system. They need someone to remind them they’re capable.”
🌱 Who Gemma Works With:
Gemma specialises in helping women — especially mums and professionals — who’ve lost touch with themselves after years of corporate work, parenting, or relationship breakdowns. She offers a safe space to reconnect with fitness, build self-belief, and regain control.
Her hybrid model offers online coaching + in-person support, making it accessible for busy clients who can’t always commit to a rigid training routine.