92. Lessons on success, mindset and defying the odds with Hannah Downes

This is the episode you’ll be texting your best friend about. Meet Hannah Downes: a 17-year-old girl from rural Victoria who woke up one day in a hospital bed, paralysed after a life-changing accident. Told she’d never walk again, Hannah could’ve let that define her—but instead, she wrote a different story. One of grit, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the power of movement. Fast forward, and Hannah has reclaimed her life and founded OneBody, a brand-new pilates studio in Swan Hill with a mission to remind us that we all have one body—our most precious asset—and it’s worth cherishing, no matter our abilities. In this unforgettable conversation, Hannah shares how pilates became her anchor, the deep meaning behind the OneBody brand, and how she’s bringing an inclusive, transformative space to her hometown (think reformer pilates, ice baths, and aesthetics that rival the best in Melbourne). But this isn’t just a story of a young woman overcoming the odds—it’s a blueprint for turning your biggest challenges into a business with purpose. From building her vision to handling self-doubt, Hannah is spilling the secrets behind her launch and her goal of signing up 100 memberships right out of the gate. This episode will make you laugh, cry, and rethink what’s possible when you decide to show up for yourself—and your one body. 🎧 Tune in now to hear Hannah’s inspiring story, her tactical advice for new entrepreneurs, and how she’s redefining wellness in her corner of the world. Don’t miss this one—it’s everything. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit emilyandjanepodcast.substack.com/subscribe