A GoPride Interview

Jillian Michaels

Jillian Michaels inspires with "Maximize Your Life" tour

Thu. May 2, 2013  by Jerry Nunn

I was an overweight kid who appreciated that physical fitness was transcendent. When we feel strong physically it empowers and strengthens us in all facets of our lives.
Jillian Michaels

Jillian Michaels inspires with "Maximize Your Life" tour

Fitness guru Jillian Michaels brings her mind, body, and soul act to Chicago during her Maximize Your Life Tour. Appearing on 11 seasons of NBC's The Biggest Loser garnered Michaels attention from around the world, and she recently returned for season 14.

Additionally, She has sold over three-million books--including her latest --She released over 15 DVDs and has hosted a radio talk show.

Yet, between raising two children with her partner Heidi while juggling these many projects, Michaels found time to share a few things regarding her tour and Chicago show before arriving in the Windy City.

JN: (Jerry Nunn) Hi, Jillian. So tell our readers about your show. Is it a "get out of your seats and stretch" show?

JM: (Jillian Michaels) Not physically but will definitely be stretching your emotional and psychological fabric as the show will absolutely take you on a journey of self-exploration!

JN: Do people bring paper to take notes on?

JM: Yes! Absolutely! There's a lot of info and many behavioral exercises you will be put through!

JN: What has been your favorite thing about going on tour?

JM: The direct unedited connection with the audience. There's nothing as powerful in my opinion.

JN: Is it hard leaving Heidi and the kids while on tour or can you take them with you?

JM: They are with me. It's the ultimate file road trip!

JN: What inspired your going into personal training in the first place?

JM: I was an overweight kid who appreciated that physical fitness was transcendent. When we feel strong physically it empowers and strengthens us in all facets of our lives.

JN: I read you were bullied when you were younger. How did that affect you?

JM: It definitely helped me empathize with the underdog, notice I didn't say sympathize.

I feel their pain but I'm not going to take pity on them (which is what I believe sympathy to be) because I know they can do it.

JN: Was it a hard process to get on The Biggest Loser show at the beginning?

JM: Yes.

Extensive interviews. Months if training producers to prove we had the chops and deliver results. Thorough background checks etc.

JN: I recently interviewed Jackson for this season and found him to be the sweetest. What did you think of him? Finally a gay contestant!

JM: Adorable and inspiring!

JN: What has the making of video games process been like?

JM: So cool! I must admit that having your own avatar is definitely a highlight!

JN: Do you have a favorite place to eat while in Chicago?

JM: No! I've never gotten to spend any quality time! I'm so excited! Please tweet me recommendations!

See her for yourself as her Maximize Your Life Tour hits Chicago on May 10, 2013 at the Auditorium Stage, 50 E Congress Parkway. Ticket information is posted on AuditoriumTheatre.org or by calling (800) 982-2787 (ARTS).
 

Interviewed by Jerry Nunn. Jerry Nunn is a contributing writer to the GoPride Network. His work is also featured in Windy City Times, Nightspots Magazine and syndicated nationally.