Podcast Summary: The Squeeze Episode: Lindsay Arnold: Movement & Motherhood
Release Date: July 23, 2025
Host: Taylor Lautner
Guest: Lindsay Arnold

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of The Squeeze, Taylor Lautner welcomes Lindsay Arnold, a seasoned dancer and mother, to discuss her journey through dance, motherhood, and mental wellness. The conversation delves deep into Lindsay's experiences balancing a demanding career with the joys and challenges of raising her children.

Lindsay's Dance Journey

Early Partnerships and Competitive Spirit
Lindsay shares her lifelong passion for dance, highlighting her early partnership with Brandon Arnold, with whom she danced from the age of 15. "We danced together pretty much our whole life," Lindsay (00:45) reminisces, emphasizing the rare continuity of their partnership.

Dancing with the Stars Experience
Lindsay details her unexpected journey on Dancing with the Stars. Initially hesitant, she recounts her audition experience and rapid progression to becoming a professional dancer on the show.
"I was scared out of my mind. I'm like, what am I even doing?" (28:22) Lindsay admits her apprehension before deciding to embrace the opportunity, ultimately placing third with partner Calvin Johnson.

Balancing Career and Motherhood

Decision to Leave Dancing with the Stars
One of the most poignant moments is Lindsay's decision to step away from Dancing with the Stars to focus on motherhood. She explains the emotional turmoil and eventual peace she found in prioritizing her role as a mother over her career.
"It was the toughest decision I've ever had to make... but I knew it was right." (39:12)

Impact of Motherhood on Career Choices
Lindsay discusses how becoming a mother reshaped her priorities, leading her to seek a more balanced and fulfilling life. She reflects on the challenges of long-distance relationships and the profound impact of her children on her daily life and career decisions.

Motherhood Insights

Surprises of Motherhood
Lindsay highlights the intuitive aspects of motherhood that amazed her, such as the natural ability to care for her children without prior training.
"Truly the mother's intuition and how moms really just know how to get things done." (49:24)

Self-Care as a Mother
She emphasizes the importance of self-care, sharing her personal strategies for maintaining mental and physical well-being amidst the demands of motherhood. Lindsay reveals her morning routine, which includes workouts, sauna sessions, and cold plunges, as essential practices that enhance her patience and energy levels.
"Finding time for yourself as a mom is truly the only way I feel like you can stay sane and get things done." (60:25)

Mental Health and Self-Worth

Shift in Self-Perception
Lindsay discusses how motherhood transformed her self-worth and body image. Transitioning from a dancer to a mother, she learned to appreciate her body for what it can do rather than how it looks.
"I have this new confidence in appreciating my body and thinking of my body about what it can do for me." (63:00)

Setting an Example for Her Children
She shares how her interactions with her daughters, especially Riley, have influenced her positive self-talk and confidence.
"I want to make sure I'm being kind to myself for my daughter." (65:20)

Movement Club: Empowering Through Fitness

Founding the Movement Club
During her first pregnancy, Lindsay identified a gap in online fitness programs tailored for all individuals, including pregnant and postpartum women. This insight led her to create the Movement Club, a platform focused on accessible and inclusive fitness routines.
"There wasn't a program that was unintimidating, that you needed to have these prerequisites for." (71:40)

Mission and Programs
The Movement Club offers a variety of workouts catering to different fitness levels and life stages, including specialized programs for pregnancy and postpartum periods. Lindsay emphasizes the importance of moving the body for well-being rather than solely for aesthetic outcomes.
"It's about moving your body because it feels good." (73:24)

Rapid Fire Segment

In a light-hearted rapid-fire round, Lindsay shares personal insights and preferences:

• Movie/Song Title for Mental Health: Hannah Montana: Nobody's Perfect (77:26)
• Openness About Struggles: Lindsay is open with her husband but tends to keep struggles private from others.
  "I'm just like, I don't need to burden someone else by telling them I'm having a hard day." (78:17)
• Favorite Social Media Accounts: Her three sisters, highlighting the importance of family connections.
  "I'd probably say that number." (79:06)
• Favorite Self-Care Practice: Her morning routine, including workouts and cold plunges.
  "My morning routine sets me up for success." (79:34)
• Most Misunderstood Aspect: People assume her life is easy without realizing her struggles.
  "A lot of people just assume that things just happen easily for me." (81:10)
• Positive Impact on Mental Health: Her husband, who provides unwavering support.
  "He is my sanity through everything." (83:20)
• Moment to Relive: Advises her younger self to trust in her decisions and embrace peace.
  "It’s gonna be okay." (84:14)

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks as Lindsay shares her openness about her journey, encouraging listeners to prioritize self-care and mental wellness. Her candid discussion offers valuable insights into managing life's transitions with grace and resilience.

Notable Quotes:

• "When life gives you lemons, what do you do with them?" — Taylor Lautner (00:05)
• "It was the toughest decision I've ever had to make... but I knew it was right." — Lindsay Arnold (39:12)
• "Finding time for yourself as a mom is truly the only way I feel like you can stay sane and get things done." — Lindsay Arnold (60:25)
• "I'm just like, I don't need to burden someone else by telling them I'm having a hard day." — Lindsay Arnold (78:17)
• "I have this new confidence in appreciating my body and thinking of my body about what it can do for me." — Lindsay Arnold (63:00)

This episode serves as an inspiring testament to the strength found in balancing personal passions with the profound responsibilities of motherhood. Lindsay Arnold's story encourages listeners to embrace their journeys, seek support, and prioritize their well-being.