Reflections on Fitness and Wellness Leadership at the World Bank

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G’day — I’m Aussie Mike, and I’ve been lucky enough to spend over 25 years helping to build something pretty special at the World Bank Fitness Center.

In this interview with Bob Malloy from the World Bank Group I chat about the journey — the wins, the lessons, and the brilliant people (especially the volunteers!) who made it all possible.

Have a listen below and enjoy the story behind the scenes . A detailed topic timeline appears underneath the recording

:00–6:00 — Beginnings & Recruitment
Mike shares his surprising journey from Australia to the World Bank in 1993. He reflects on early impressions, relocation challenges, and his initial role managing a small fitness operation.

6:00–12:00 — Program Growth & Early Feedback
As the fitness center formalized under the Health Services Department, Mike began listening to staff suggestions and introduced structured programming. Includes early mentions of volunteer-led ideas like the “Abdominal Express” class.

12:00–13:30 — Volunteers: The Heart of the Program“We couldn’t have had 70+ classes a week without them.”
Volunteers were essential — not only teaching classes but promoting wellness across the Bank. Special mention: Susan Dubas, who continued teaching after retirement.

13:30–18:00 — Community Engagement & External Partnerships
Mike describes outreach with Gallaudet, GWU, veterans groups, and local gyms. Emphasis on service, accessibility, and community-building beyond the Bank.

18:00–24:00 — Organizational Culture & Inclusive Wellness
Describes the shift from exercise-as-discipline to wellness as inclusion. Management support and a fun, culturally-aware environment helped change the culture of fitness.

24:00–30:00 — Recognition & Global Impact
The Bank’s internal fitness program earned global recognition. Mike helped design a fitness center for the African Development Bank in Tunisia.

30:00–36:00 — Reflections, COVID-19 & Lessons Learned
Mike reflects on the pandemic's impact: loneliness, isolation, and the overlooked struggles of the fitness industry. Advocates for holistic wellness and community-minded recovery.

Themes That Emerged

  • Leadership through service and empowerment

  • Volunteers as essential community builders

  • A shift from performance to connection and inclusion

  • The fitness center as a model for institutional culture change

Thanks for tuning in Trendsetters— I hope you enjoyed my interview with the World Bank Development reflections Unit

If something resonated with you, feel free to hit the like button, share this with a friend or colleague, or drop a comment below. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even your own reflections on wellness, leadership, or volunteering. Cheers for stopping by and Keep punching !!!