Fitness Business Podcast: Leadership, Innovation, and Profit

Stories do what facts alone cannot. They make people feel, remember, trust, and act. In this special season finale takeover, master storyteller Danielle Krischik (podcast host and author of The Story Effect) flips the mic and interviews JT so you can hear the real reason behind the Fitness Business Podcast, REX Roundtables, and JT's mission to get more people moving in quality facilities with qualified professionals. Key highlights from the episode: Why storytelling shifts your brand from what you sell to why you exist How JT's early life, sport, and career pivot shaped his leadership style The role fitness facilities play in changing (and sometimes saving) lives Host takeover! Curious about the guest host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter. Giveaway! Win a Copy of The Story Effect: Zoe (Guest Host!) is giving away two copies of The Story Effect. To enter: Go to fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail Click Start Recording Leave a short voice testimonial (under 60 seconds) Include your name and email Your voice may also be featured on a future episode! Take the Next Step: - Become an FBP Insider (7 days FREE): https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Join our FREE live online events for fitness leaders: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail - Join our LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Quotes: "I have suffered and still do suffer imposter syndrome. I can be filled with self-doubt that I can actually help people or that I give value to people…" - JT "I really think the perception of our industry is what we get wrong… we're the most natural, healthy way to reduce the healthcare costs in every country, and yet governments still don't want to talk to us." - JT "If I can help save someone's life, if I can help save a marriage, if I can help someone get off medication because they're feeling better and more confident about themself through movement, then I'm happy." - JT Key Topics & Timestamps (00:00) Why stories beat data for trust and action (01:23) Join the FBP Insider on Patreon and the Story Effect giveaway (02:38) Danielle takes over the mic and explains why JT's story matters (03:48) JT's "shockers": imposter syndrome, saying yes too often, and staying in fitness (06:37) JT's childhood in Sydney and how sport shaped his resilience (08:55) The choice: friends, sport, or being smart (and what JT picked) (11:11) Teaching in tough schools, the chair incident, and choosing fitness instead (15:53) Fiona's story and the moment JT understood fitness changes lives (23:02) What the fitness industry gets wrong: perception and participation (29:19) JT's hardest season: ulcerative colitis, optimism, and the "whole movie" takeaway Our Guest Interviewer: Danielle Krischik, Partner, Chief Strategy Officer of The Knight Agency, and Author & Podcast Host of The Story Effect - Podcast and Book: https://thestoryeffect.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellekrischik/ - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storyeffectpodcast - Knight Agency - https://knightagency.com/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com A heartfelt thank you to the partners who support The Fitness Business Podcast: Solution One Partners: Provides marketing, loyalty, and CRM solutions for the fitness industry. https://solutiononepartners.com/ Arsenal Strength: Manufactures professional strength gym equipment and offers custom gym design. https://www.myarsenalstrength.com/ Power Systems: Sells a wide range of fitness, strength, and conditioning equipment. https://www.power-systems.com/ BlkBox Fitness: Designs and manufactures gym equipment and...

Burnout is not a badge of honor. For years, working 22-hour days and never taking holidays was worn as proof of resilience. But the reality is different. A 2025 study published in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine estimates burnout costs employers between $4,000 and $21,000 per employee per year in lost productivity, disengagement, and turnover. In this Wise Words episode, Justin Tamsett sits down with clinician, scientist, and founder of New Approach Health, Emahlea Wilcher, to unpack what burnout really is, how it impacts your body and brain, and what you can do right now to protect yourself and your team. If you are a coach, club owner, fitness entrepreneur, or leader who feels constantly tired, irritable, foggy, or disconnected, this conversation is essential listening. Key highlights from the episode: What burnout actually is and how to recognize the early warning signs before you crash How burnout impacts your body, brain, relationships, and income Practical strategies to prevent burnout for yourself and your team Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Take the Next Step: ✔ Become an FBP Insider (7 days FREE): https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast ✔ Join our FREE live online events for fitness leaders: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents ✔ Leave us a voicemail: fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail ✔ Join our LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ ✔ Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Quotes: "I think of burnout as the point where your brain and your body hit the emergency brake after too much stress for too long." "You have to lower the floor instead of trying to raise the ceiling." "Burnout doesn't turn around because of a big dramatic change. It's the little shifts that make the difference." Key Topics & Timestamps (00:00) Why Burnout Is Not a Badge of Honor (04:00) The WHO Definition and Signs of Burnout (10:30) Physical and Mental Effects of Chronic Stress (18:00) Why Hustle Culture Keeps Leaders in Denial (25:00) The Minimum Viable Week Framework (32:00) Nervous System Resets and Daily Recovery (40:00) Preventing Burnout Across Your Team (48:00) Scrolling, Stress, and Habit Formation (57:00) One Boundary + One Nourishing Habit Challenge Our Guest: Emahlea Wilcher, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of New Approach Health ✔ Website: https://www.newapproach.health ✔ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emahlea/ ✔ Instagram: instagram.com/newapproach.health ✔ Costa Rica Burnout Recovery Retreat August 2026: https://www.newapproach.health/retreat Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com A heartfelt thank you to the partners who support The Fitness Business Podcast: ABC Fitness Solutions: Simplifies operations, amplifies marketing and sales efforts, and enables a dynamic member experience. https://abcfitness.com/ Lionel University: Provides online degree and certificate programs in Exercise Science and fitness education. https://www.lionel.edu/ Atlantis Strength: Designs and manufactures professional strength equipment for gyms and athletes.https://atlantisstrength.com/ HireBob AI: Provides AI employees for fitness businesses for sales, support, and retention. https://hirebob.ai/ About Our Guest: Emahlea Wilcher, MPH, RD, LD, is a clinician, scientist, and founder of New Approach Health, a trauma-informed nutrition and burnout recovery practice. She helps high-achieving, stressed-out humans stop burning down their bodies to build their careers, using nervous-system–aware nutrition therapy and mind–body reconnection work. With dual master's degrees in public health nutrition and epidemiology (and her own history of burnout) Emahlea blends data, depth, and real-world...

Staff turnover remains one of the biggest challenges in the fitness industry, especially with part time and casual teams. In this episode, Justin Tamsett is joined by Alex Grande, psychologist and workplace recognition expert, to unpack how gamification, rewards, and genuine recognition can dramatically improve engagement, performance, and retention in fitness businesses. Alex explains the science behind motivation, the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic drivers, and why simple, low cost recognition programs often outperform expensive incentive schemes. Together, they explore practical examples fitness business owners can implement immediately, from peer to peer shoutouts and leaderboards to automation using everyday tools like Microsoft Teams and Excel. If you want a more motivated team without burning yourself out as a leader, this episode is a must listen. Key highlights from the episode: Why recognition from managers is often more powerful than praise from executives How gamification increases engagement without relying only on cash rewards The SAPs framework and how to use status, access, power, and rewards with staff How peer to peer recognition strengthens culture and retention Practical, low cost gamification ideas for fitness businesses How automation tools can make recognition consistent and easy Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Got value from today's episode? ✔ Leave us a review on your favorite podcast app ✔ Send us a voicemail at fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail ✔ Share this episode with a colleague who wants to build a stronger team Ready for more: ✔ Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast ✔ Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents ✔ Call in and let JT know if you think this has been the best season: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ ✔ Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "We underestimate how meaningful it is to stop and say thanks, and the impact it can create." - Alex Grande "Recognition from a manager is more meaningful than from an executive, oftentimes because the manager knows more about that person." - Alex Grande "People want to be appreciated and people want to be heard." - Alex Grande Jump Ahead: (00:03:00) What Reward and Recognition Really Mean in Fitness Businesses (00:05:00) Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Motivation and the SAPs Framework (00:06:00) The Psychology of Recognition and Why It Works (00:07:00) Why Manager Feedback Matters More Than Executive Praise (00:09:00) What Gamification Looks Like in a Real World Workplace (00:11:30) Using Status, Access, Power, and Rewards to Motivate Staff (00:14:30) Peer to Peer Recognition and Building Stronger Team Culture (00:18:00) Automating Recognition with Microsoft Teams and Power Automate (00:22:00) Engaging Part Time and Casual Staff Through Recognition (00:26:30) How to Start a Recognition Program Without Overthinking It Resources: ✔ Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast ✔ Fitness Business Podcast's LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ ✔ Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Recommended Books: ✔ Drive by Daniel Pink ✔ Influence: The Art of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini Resources Mentioned: ✔ Microsoft 365 Tools ✔ Zapier ✔ Notion Our Guest: Alex Grande, Founder & CEO of Recognize ✔ Website: https://recognizeapp.com/ ✔ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexgrande/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX...

If your body and mind are the engine of your leadership, what fuel are you putting into it? In this episode of The Fitness Business Podcast, Justin Tamsett sits down with Heather Wise Soubra, founder and CEO of Wiser Way Coaching and Director of the George Washington Leadership Institute at Mount Vernon. Heather shares powerful, practical insights on self-leadership—exploring how clarity, presence, values, habits, and alignment shape not just how we lead others, but how we lead ourselves first. This conversation is especially relevant for fitness business owners and leaders navigating pressure, chaos, and constant decision-making. Heather offers grounded strategies for responding instead of reacting, setting boundaries with integrity, and building daily practices that support sustainable leadership performance. Key highlights from the episode: ✔ Why self-leadership is the foundation of effective leadership ✔ How to build the "well" so you're resourced before pressure hits ✔ The importance of identifying and living by your personal leadership values ✔ How morning routines shape decision-making, communication, and energy ✔ Practical tools for boundary setting without guilt or conflict ✔ Why alignment—not hustle—is the key to long-term leadership impact Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Got value from today's episode? ✔ Leave us a review on your favorite podcast app ✔ Send us a voicemail at fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail ✔ Share this episode with a colleague who wants to build a stronger team Ready for more: ✔ Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast ✔ Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents ✔ Call in and let JT know if you think this has been the best season: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ ✔ Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Resources: ✔ Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast ✔ Fitness Business Podcast's LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ ✔ Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Recommended Books: ✔ Walk the Talk by Carolyn Taylor ✔ The 4‑Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss ✔ The Way of Integrity by Martha Beck ✔ PDF of Brene Brown's value exercises - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/prod/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/22_0120-Values-Document-BBbrandedUU.pdf Our Guest: Heather Wiser Soubra, Founder, Wiser Way Coaching and Director, George Washington Leadership Institute, Leadership Coach and Executive Facilitator ✔ Website: https://wiserwaycoaching.com/ ✔ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherwisersoubra/ ✔ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathersoubra/ Merch Sponsor: Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses (Australia exclusive) Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com A heartfelt thank you to the partners who support The Fitness Business Podcast: ✔ BeBalanced Centers: Provides natural hormone balancing for weight loss and symptom relief. https://www.bebalancedcenters.com/ ✔ Instinctive Insights: Provides profit-driven marketing and data science services to increase customer acquisition. https://www.instinctiveinsights.com/ ✔ Eleiko: Manufactures and sells premium strength and weightlifting equipment. https://eleiko.com/en-us ✔ NetGym: Provides automated staff operations and sub-request management for fitness studios. https://www.netgym.com ✔ EGYM: Provides smart, connected fitness technology and equipment for gyms....

Hiring the right people can make or break your fitness business. One great hire can elevate culture, performance, and profitability — while one poor hire can drain time, money, and momentum. In this episode, Justin "JT" Tamsett sits down with Christine Howe, founder of Fit Pro Finders and one of the most experienced recruiters in the global fitness industry, to unpack what it really takes to find, interview, and retain top talent today. From AI in recruitment to interviewing techniques, compensation strategy, onboarding, and resume red flags, Christine shares practical, experience-driven insights that every owner, manager, and leader can apply immediately. If recruitment feels overwhelming, inconsistent, or time-consuming, this episode will change how you approach hiring — forever. Key highlights from the episode: ✔ How to spot the right candidates faster: Christine explains the three interview questions she always asks to assess passion, preparedness, and long-term fit — and why video interviews are now non-negotiable. ✔ Why recruitment is only 50% of a successful hire: Learn how onboarding, leadership, and coaching determine whether great candidates thrive or fail after they're hired. ✔ What owners get wrong about resumes, compensation, and culture: From salary benchmarking to resume metrics and social media red flags, Christine breaks down what truly matters when choosing between top candidates. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Got value from today's episode? ✔ Leave us a review on your favorite podcast app ✔ Send us a voicemail at fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail ✔ Share this episode with a colleague who wants to build a stronger team Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Call in and let JT know if you think this has been the best season: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "Recruiting is only 50% of what makes a successful hire; the other 50% is leadership, onboarding, and training." - Christine Howe "You can't perform well at something you don't like doing. Passion and purpose always matter." - Christine Howe "One poor hiring decision can change your P&L for the entire year." - Justin 'JT' Tamsett Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast's LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Christine Howe, Owner and Principle Recruiter of Fit Pro Finders Website: https://www.fitprofinders.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitprofinders/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fit-pro-finders/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com The companies you're about to hear about are REX Roundtable Trusted Suppliers. They're also experts who help fitness businesses thrive. You can learn more about each one at FitnessBusinessPodcast.com. Support them as they support us. Groe Solutions: Provides AI and computer vision software for gym member retention. https://www.groe.solutions Budderfly: Provides comprehensive, no-cost energy efficiency as a service for businesses. https://www.budderfly.com/ Gym TV (Club Com): Provides custom digital entertainment, music, and signage for fitness clubs.https://www.clubcom.com/ Simple Again (Performance Food Centers): Helps...

Retail inside fitness clubs often feels like a high-effort afterthought - but according to retail strategist Meredith Rosson, it's one of the most untapped revenue streams in the industry. In this episode, Meredith breaks down how clubs can turn merchandise, apparel, accessories, and grab-and-go essentials into a meaningful secondary income source. With real numbers, practical frameworks, and a powerful client case study, she shows exactly how clubs of any size can create retail programs that elevate experience, drive fandom, and generate serious profit. If you've ever wondered what to stock, how much space you need, how to price, or whether retail is even worth it, this conversation is your new playbook. Key highlights from the episode: ✔ How to turn retail into a high-margin revenue stream: Meredith breaks down which categories actually make money, why apparel offers a 40–50% margin, and the inventory strategies that keep your shelves fresh and profitable. ✔ How to design a retail experience that members love: From visual merchandising to subtle logo placement to buying "wide and shallow," learn how to create offerings members actually want — not clearance-bin leftovers. ✔ How to align your retail strategy with your club's bigger goals: Meredith shares the homework every operator should do first, plus how retail can enhance programs, community, and overall perceived value. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Got value from today's episode? ✔ Leave us a review on your favorite podcast app ✔ Send us a voicemail at fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leaveusavoicemail ✔ Share this episode with a colleague who wants to create new revenue inside their club Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Call in and let JT know if you think this has been the best season: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "If they sweat in it, they're going to want their own — so sell it." - Meredith Rosson "You have something retailers dream of: a captured, regular audience walking past your inventory every day." - Meredith Rosson "The trend right now is subtle, modern logo placement. Members want pieces they'll actually wear outside the club." - Meredith Rosson Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast's LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Meredith Rosson, Founder of Elevated Version Enterprises (EVE) & Paper Dolls by EVE Website: https://elevatedversions.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paperdollsbyeve/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Make sure to check out other REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: World Insurance Associates: Provides insurance, risk management, benefits, and wealth management services. https://www.worldinsurance.com/ MXM: Provides software for fitness clubs to manage member experience. https://www.mxmetrics.com Centr Hyrox: Fitness and wellness app offering workouts, nutrition, and meditation. https://centr.com/ Matrix Fitness: Manufactures and sells commercial and home gym fitness equipment. https://www.matrixfitness.com/us/eng Yanga Sports Water: Provides subscription-based, flavored, vitamin-enriched, and calorie-free water for gyms....

Persuasion expert Michelle Bowden, whose episode 83 on the Fitness Business Podcast ranks in the all-time top 20, is back to break down the science of influence and how to connect with every prospect and member. If you want to boost sales, retention, and team member engagement without resorting to manipulative tactics or "buyer's remorse," this episode is a must-listen. Michelle explains the difference between influence and authentic persuasion, introduces her four persuasion types, and gives practical, 1% tips you can implement today to become a stronger communicator and get more of what you want in life. Key highlights from the episode: - Persuasion vs. Influence and the Four Types: Michelle advocates for persuasion as the assertive approach to achieve lasting change, contrasting it with coercive influence which often leads to "buyer's remorse". Her system identifies four persuasion types—Wise Owl, Commanding Eagle, Friendly Brolga, and Captivating Peacock—to help tailor communication to the specific stakeholder. - Managing Objections with P.O.O.: Use the five-step "Pacing Out Objections" (POO) technique to handle common sales resistance. A crucial step is to stop using "but" and "however," which trigger a fight/flight response, and instead use joining words like "and" or "so" to bridge your argument. - The Power of Commitment and Position: To sell professionally without being pushy, leverage the Law of Commitment and Consistency by having the customer articulate and commit to their own goals, such as by completing their own goals form. For better listening, adopt Second or Third Position (focusing on their needs or an elevated view) rather than the self-indulgent First Position. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Call in and let JT know if you think this has been the best season: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "Persuasion is actually what we're trying to do. And whilst there are five main ways to influence, there's actually four ways to persuade." - Michelle Bowden "Stop saying 'but' and 'however'. You don't even know how often you say it. It is just not functional communication to say it." - Michelle Bowden "To win in the next 90 days by persuasion, start by caring about what the other person wants and then giving it to them." - Michelle Bowden Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast's LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ - Episode 83 of Fitness Business Podcast: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/michelle-bowden-using-presentation-and-communication-skills-to-connect-with-your-clients-members-and-teams/ - Michelle Bowden's 7 Tips for Remembering People's Names - On Patreon only - https://www.patreon.com/posts/7-tips-for-names-141609461 Our Guest: Michelle Bowden, Director LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebowdenenterprises/ Website: http://www.michellebowden.com.au Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.bowden.1671 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_michellebowden/?hl=en Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website:...

Discover the surprising power of "Radical Customer Obsession" with author and expert Amanda Stevens. She explains that in a digitally distracted world, the key to success is getting to the heart of what your customers really need, not just what they tell you. From understanding the "Inner Circle" dynamic of female members to learning from other industries, this episode is packed with brilliant insights on how to create a "sticky" business that defies market pressures and turns customers into disciples. Key highlights from the episode: - Know Your Customer Intimately: Get "insanely curious" about your members, because the person who joined your gym isn't the same person they are today. - The Power of the Inner Circle: For female members, the "inner circle" of 2-3 friends is a primary source of information. Gaining a higher market share of these circles can increase member loyalty and tenure. - High-Tech, High-Touch: The future of the customer experience in the fitness industry will exist at the intersection of high tech and high touch, where you leverage technology while focusing on human moments that algorithms can't compete with. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "The members that you have in your club right now are not the same people that joined." - Amanda Stevens "If you make people advisors, you make them advocates." - Amanda Stevens "Customer experiences are really just employee experiences played out one by one." - Amanda Stevens Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ - Episode 171 of Fitness Business Podcast: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/171-ignite-the-customer-experience-in-your-fitness-business-with-amanda-stevens/ Our Guest: Amanda Stevens, Author and Keynote Speaker on Consumer Trends and Customer Experience LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketingamanda/?originalSubdomain=au Website: https://amandastevens.com.au/ Radical Customer Obsession Book: https://amandastevens.com.au/rco-order/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: Egym: Providing digital fitness solutions and equipment. https://egym.com/uk Budderfly: Increasing energy efficiency with no upfront costs or risk https://www.budderfly.com Lionel University: flexible online programs in exercise science. https://www.lionel.edu/ EVOLT 360: providing body composition analysis technology. https://evolt360.com/ American Barbell: getting to you high-quality fitness and strength equipment https://americanbarbell.com/ Skip to the good part: 00:00 Introduction to the guest Amanda Stevens and her book 03:00 Why customer obsession is so important in a noisy, digitally distracted market 04:00 The evolving consumer and the collision of fitness, wellness, and anti-aging 06:00 The future of health and preventative care, and what fitness businesses can learn from it 08:00 Learning from other industries:...

Discover the surprising science behind conscious leadership with Rachel Russo, who reveals how a simple pause and breath can activate your brain’s logic center and shift your leadership style from reactive to responsive. Fitness leaders will learn how journaling daily not only calms the mind but improves immune function and creativity. Plus, explore how self-awareness builds trust and collaboration in fitness teams where knowing your body meets leading your people. Ready to transform your leadership muscle and tackle your blind spots? This episode is packed with powerful insights and practical tools to help you lead with clarity and compassion. Key highlights from the episode: - Conscious leadership is about responding (not reacting) by engaging your prefrontal cortex through mindful pauses and breathing. -Journaling daily enhances creativity, reduces stress, improves immune function, and helps leaders get into their subconscious for better self-awareness. - Building trust starts with knowing yourself deeply and extends to creating a psychologically safe environment that fosters collaboration and courageous conversations. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "Conscious leadership is learning how to respond, not react." - Rachel Russo "When you breathe, you signal to your body that you’re safe and you turn on your prefrontal cortex." - Rachel Russo "Many of your reactions as a leader are literally you as a child responding as an adult." - Rachel Russo Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Rachel Russo, Founder of Conscious Arc Co LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-russo-4315b140/ Instagram:https//www.instagram/rachelrusso1 Website: https://consciousarcco.com The Art of Awareness Journal: https://amzn.to/47vo6My Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: https://www.power-systems.com/shophttps://www.lesmills.com/https://www.instinctiveinsights.com/https://www.hirebob.ai/https://eleiko.com/en Skip to the good part: 00:00 Introduction to the Future of Fitness Podcast 02:55 The Role of AI in Fitness 06:01 Personalization and Member Engagement 08:46 Challenges in the Fitness Industry 12:05 Skills for Gym Owners and Managers 14:59 The Trainer's Perspective on AI 17:51 AI Tools and Technologies in Fitness 21:02 Future Predictions for AI in Fitness 23:42 Conclusion and Key Takeaways About Our Guest: Rachel is a conscious leadership coach, culture strategist, author, and founder of Conscious Arc Co. She supports leaders and seekers in raising their awareness, reconnecting with their true selves, and leading from the inside out. With a background in psychology, education, Reiki, and over a decade in corporate strategy and leadership, Rachel created the Conscious ArcTM, a holistic method guiding transformation through awareness, responsibility, and choice....

Curious how technology will redefine fitness? Tune in as fitness industry thought leader Eric Malzone shares his front-line insights after 850+ interviews with fitness visionaries! Discover eye-opening truths on AI, member retention, and industry innovation - all filtered through Eric’s experience from gym owner to podcasting powerhouse. Whether you’re an operator, trainer, or entrepreneur, this episode delivers actionable trends and practical advice to future-proof your business and inspire your next move in fitness. Key highlights from the episode: - How AI will transform acquisition, engagement, and retention in the fitness industry - from sales support to hyper-personalized member journeys. - Why future-proofing fitness businesses requires patience, creativity, and upskilling human resources, not just chasing new tech trends. - Specific tools, brands, and strategies Eric recommends, including wearable tech integration, next-gen CRM, and leveraging online reviews for lead generation. Curious about the future host of Fitness Business Podcast? That's Zoe, the host JT's daughter! Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "AI won’t replace coaches and trainers, but coaches and trainers that use AI will replace all the others.” - Eric Malzone "The bread and butter of what we’re seeing right now, which is acquisition, engagement, and retention. So acquiring new members, making sure those members are engaged in the services that you provide. And then retaining those members.” - Eric Malzone "Panicking and rushing into things just to be using AI for the sake of AI is not the right thing; we really have to isolate in your specific business and your specific workflow, in your specific situation. Like what is the biggest problem that AI can solve right now, and starting with that." - Eric Malzone Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Eric Malzone, Fitness industry thought leader and podcaster Podcast: https://futureoffitness.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-malzone-8b452a3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.malzone.7 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emalzone/ Podcast Collective: https://www.podcastcollective.io/ Podcasting Whitepaper: https://www.podcastcollective.io/podcasting-whitepaper Merch Sponsor: REX Roundtables - REXRoundtables.com Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: Matrix: Commercial fitness equipment, technology, and programming. https://www.matrixfitness.com/us/eng Performance Foods: providing turnkey smoothie bar solutions for gyms. https://www.performancefoodcenters.com/ Myzone: monitoring, tracking and enhancing fitness through heart rates. https://www.myzone.org/business MXM Metrics: Analyzing and improving gyms through member metrics. https://mxmetrics.com/ MAX Members: automating member management and engagement. https://www.maxmembers.ai/ Skip to the good part: 00:00 Introduction to the Future of Fitness Podcast 02:55 The Role...

What if your gym could be the first line of defense against chronic disease? In this insightful episode of the Fitness Business Podcast, host Justin 'JT' Tamsett discusses the concept of 'Exercise is Medicine' with expert Lisa Dougherty, who has 27+ years of experience in the field. They explore the significant impact of physical inactivity on global health and the economy, emphasizing the crucial role of tailored exercise in combating chronic diseases. Lisa shares her journey and the evolution of specialized fitness training for various medical conditions. They also discuss best practices for gyms and trainers, the importance of advanced education, and how gyms can build respect within the healthcare continuum. The episode finishes with details on Lisa's upcoming virtual global medical fitness conference, bringing together a wealth of knowledge and expertise for fitness professionals worldwide. Key highlights from the episode: - A global health wake-up call: Why inactivity is projected to cost $314–$446 billion annually by 2050 and how gyms can position themselves as part of the healthcare solution. - Best practices for “exercise as medicine” programs: Education requirements, record-keeping, safety protocols, and emotional intelligence as core skills. - Business opportunities in medical fitness: How specializing in chronic condition populations can set you apart from competitors and create long-term client loyalty. Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: “It is crucial for fitness and allied healthcare professionals working with the aging population to have this higher level of knowledge, skill, and expertise.” - Lisa Dougherty “I started the MFN to improve the quality of life of the many millions of people with chronic disease and medical conditions.” - Lisa Dougherty “The fitness industry still targets the’ nearly fit’. Which is, you know, 15% of the population, and those are the shark infested waters. And 85% of the rest of the population has obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, cancer…it's a scroll of diseases.” - Lisa Dougherty Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Lisa Dougherty, Medical Fitness Expert Website: https://www.MedFitFoundation.Org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisadougherty1/ Event: 2025 Virtual Global Medical Fitness Conference: https://www.fbasucceed.com/medfit Use the Code: FITBIZ to save 25% (case sensitive!) Sponsor’s Pitch: Clint Aragona Max Members AI Website: https://www.maxmembers.ai/ Email:clint@maxmembers.ai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clinten-aragona-470123290/ and https://www.linkedin.com/company/maxmembers Merch Sponsor: ROGUE - https://www.roguefitness.com/ Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Free Online Live Events: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: 1. Reinig Insurance: Ken Insurance Guy specializes in risk management and insurance for fitness businesses...

In this engaging episode, communication expert and professional mentalist Christopher Carter joins host Justin “JT” Tamsett to uncover not just the science—but the art—behind effective communication in the fitness industry. With over 30 years of stage experience as a mentalist, Chris reveals how reading body language, mastering first impressions, and using humor can dramatically boost human connection, trust, and relationships. Listeners gain exclusive insights into practical skills used by mentalists to instantly build rapport and presence—skills any wellness enthusiast or fitness professional can use to strengthen client bonds and team dynamics. Whether you’re new to the show or a seasoned listener, this conversation is packed with entertaining stories and actionable strategies for leveling up your communication and listening skills. Key highlights from the episode: - Unique perspectives from Christopher Carter on applying mentalist techniques for interpreting body language and deepening human connection in your gym or studio. - Tips for making impactful first impressions and using humor to improve engagement with members and staff. - Step-by-step communication and training tips—like the “POPO” method (Proximity, Orientation, Pacifiers, Open body language)—for creating remarkable relationships with members and teams. Know the SECRET codeword? Submit it here for the chance to win a $100 Amazon Gift Card!* https://www.fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/codeword Ready for more: - Become an FBP Insider and get 7 days FREE to start! Learn more on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents - Leave us a voicemail: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/leave-us-a-voicemail/ - Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/review/ Quotes: "Trust is a result of presence." - Christopher Carter "No sale without trust." - Christopher Carter "Practice one step at a time." - Christopher Carter Resources: - Become an FBP Insider on Patreon: https://patreon.com/FitnessBusinessPodcast - Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9878228/ - Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses: https://mysteryshoppingforfitnessbusinesses.com.au/ Our Guest: Christopher Carter, High-Impact Keynote Speaker and Mentalist Website: https://christophercarter.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophercarterspeaker/ Sponsor’s Pitch: Magnus Nyberg Eleiko Sport Website: https://eleiko.com/ Email: magnus.nyberg@eleiko.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/magnus-nyberg-b5731872/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/merch/ REX Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.com Email: Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Free On-line Live Events: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: - Wellness Spaces: delivering innovative recovery and wellness experiences: https://wellnessspace.com/ - Solutions One: offering member engagement solutions for fitness businesses: https://solutiononepartners.com/ - The Abs Co: designs and sells innovative fitness equipment: https://theabscompany.com/ - Club Com: providing gyms digital entertainment, communication, and revenue solutions: https://www.clubcom.com/ - Smart Health Clubs: offering customizable fitness software solutions for health clubs: https://smarthealthclubs.com/ About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40...

In this episode of the Fitness Business Podcast, host Justin ‘JT’ Tamsett engages with Kim Gouch, Chief Brand Officer at Retro Fitness, to dive into effective gym marketing and management by building an authentic brand. Kim emphasizes how understanding current fitness industry trends and fostering internal brand evangelists is crucial for a cohesive message, demonstrating how Retro Fitness uses its core mantra, "Get Real," across all communications—from social media marketing for gyms to broader gym advertising. While the episode champions a long-game approach to branding, it provides practical gym marketing ideas and strategies that can be implemented today, including the vital role of consistent messaging to drive campaigns, convert leads, and ensure team alignment. Dr. Patrick Porter also contributes 'Wise Words' on brain fitness, discussing essential health habits. Key highlights from the episode: - Discover how Retro Fitness builds an authentic brand message that informs all gym marketing strategies, emphasizing internal team alignment and brand evangelism. - Explore practical gym marketing ideas for maintaining a cohesive message across various platforms, including digital marketing for gyms and social media marketing for gyms. - Understand the long-term play of effective gym advertising and management within the fitness industry trends, ensuring your brand stays in its lane for sustained growth and impact. Ready for more: Become an FBP Insider! Learn more on Patreon. Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More! Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: “An authentic brand is committed to evoking an emotion.” - Kim Gouch “We want to build on the relationship that we have with the team that's going to work to build the brand. Those people eventually become your brand evangelists.” - Kim Gouch “Your culture really is actually the essence of your brand and the essence of your brand message.” - Kim Gouch Resources: Become an FBP Insider on Patreon Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Our Guest: Kim Gouch, Chief Brand Officer Retro Fitness Website - https://retrofitness.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-gouch-a12818b/ Email - kim@retrofitness.com Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Sponsor’s Pitch: Dan Young, Founder & CEO of Simple Again Website - https://www.simpleagain.com Email - dan@simpleagain.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-young-189842/ Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Roundtables: Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Free On-line Live Events: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: Atlantis Strength: made by and for those who are dedicated to shaping greatness. https://atlantisstrength.com/ ABC Fitness: provides gym management & software solutions. https://abcfitness.com/ Digital Revenue Systems: offering digital revenue opportunities for you https://www.digitalrevsystems.com/ Centr Hyrox: The official equipment provider for Hyrox. https://shop.centr.com.au/collections/hyrox Covery: Wellness recovery franchise offering cutting-edge restorative services. https://www.thecovery.com/franchise About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23...

In this dynamic episode, join Justin JT Tamsett and Brian Keane for a dynamic discussion on the evolving world of personal training, where they share practical marketing, business strategies and coaching insights to help personal trainers and fitness professionals thrive in today’s competitive market. You’ll learn about why your personal branding story is key to your success and pricing strategies that actually work. Midway through the episode, Dr. Patrick Porter adds a powerful health perspective, warning about the dangers of prolonged sitting and how “sitting is toxic” for overall wellness - emphasizing the vital role fitness professionals play in combating sedentary lifestyles. Fitness leaders, managers, and owners will gain actionable advice on personal training, client engagement, business growth, and the science behind movement, making this episode essential for those focused on personal training excellence, gym management, and holistic member health. Key highlights from the episode: - Discover actionable strategies from top fitness entrepreneurs to grow your personal training business and attract loyal clients. - Learn why Dr. Patrick Porter says sitting is toxic and how fitness professionals can educate and motivate members to move more. - Gain insights on blending business acumen with science-backed health advice to drive gym success and member well-being. -Become an FBP Insider! Learn more on Patreon. -Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More! -Leave us a voicemail! -Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: “In a sea of certifications and training programs, your personal story is your most powerful marketing tool. It makes you magnetic and it's what turns prospects into loyal clients.” - Brian Keane “You need to be the guide. You’re Yoda, not Luke Skywalker. You’re Dumbledore, not Harry Potter. You're the guide on the side. Your clients are the hero.” - Briane Keane Resources: Become an FBP Insider on Patreon Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Brian Keane - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, The Brian Keane Podcast Brian’s Book - Rewriting Your Story Brian’s Book Recommendations - The 20 Success Principles by Jack Canfield and Blue Ocean Strategies Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Roundtables: Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Free On-line Live Events https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents Trusted Suppliers: Egym: Providing digital fitness solutions and equipment. https://egym.com/uk Budderfly: Increasing energy efficiency with no upfront costs or risk https://www.budderfly.com Lionel University: flexible online programs in exercise science. https://www.lionel.edu/ EVOLT 360: providing body composition analysis technology. https://evolt360.com/ American Barbell: getting to you high-quality fitness and strength equipment https://americanbarbell.com/ About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: Fitness business scaling tips, personal trainer marketing...

Become an FBP Insider! Learn more on Patreon. Our FREE LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More! In this episode of the Fitness Business Podcast, host Justin 'JT' Tamsett is joined by AI and digital marketing expert Shama Hyder and brain fitness pioneer Dr. Patrick Porter to deliver actionable insights for fitness business managers and owners aiming to future-proof their operations. The discussion with Shama tackles common myths about AI artificial intelligence in the fitness industry, with Hyder demystifying AI's role and offering a practical playbook for leveraging AI to boost revenue, streamline operations, and create standout customer experiences. In a special segment of the episode, Dr. Porter shares science-backed strategies for optimizing brain health and performance, emphasizing the critical link between quality sleep and business leadership. Listeners will learn why embracing AI is essential to avoid being left behind in a rapidly evolving market and how to implement simple, effective changes that drive real ROI for fitness clubs and studios Key highlights from the episode: - Shama Hyder debunks AI myths and explains how gym owners can use AI to analyze sales data, bridge the sales-marketing divide, and create revenue-driving customer experience. - Dr. Patrick Porter reveals the science of brain fitness, including practical sleep strategies to enhance decision-making and leadership performance for fitness professionals. - The episode provides a step-by-step challenge for fitness leaders to experiment with AI tools like ChatGPT, plus tips on optimizing your website and online reputation to ensure your gym stands out in AI-driven search results. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: "AI is not going away anytime soon...you ignore it at your own peril." - Shama Hyder "If AI is cheating, gosh, sign me up - because if calculators are cheating, look how much progress we've made." - Shama Hyder "Deep sleep is critical." - Dr. Patrick Porter Resources: Be an FBP Insider on Patreon Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Shama Hyder - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook Health and Fitness Association - Website Momentum by Shama Hyder Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Roundtables: Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Free On-line Live Events https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/onlineevents Trusted Suppliers: -Power Systems: your one stop shop for equipment, functional training, recovery and storage https://www.power-systems.com/shop -Les Mills: offering group fitness classes and solutions. https://www.lesmills.com/ -Instinctive Insights: Profit driven marketing using data science. https://www.instinctiveinsights.com/ -HireBob.Ai: Sell memberships, service existing customers and provide motivational fitness support with AI. https://www.hirebob.ai/ -Eleiko: supplying premium strength training equipment https://eleiko.com/en -MAX Members: automating member management and engagement. https://www.maxmembers.ai/ About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym...

Become an FBP Insider! Learn more on Patreon. We’re bringing you a brand-new series of LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More! In this episode of the Fitness Business Podcast, host Justin ‘JT’ Tamsett engages with storytelling expert Danielle Krischik to explore the vital role of storytelling in fitness marketing. They discuss how stories create emotional connections, the neuroscience behind storytelling, and the importance of crafting a compelling brand narrative. Danielle emphasizes the power of employee stories and how they can enhance customer experience. The conversation culminates in actionable steps for gym owners to activate their stories for greater impact. Also hear from Dr Patrick Porter about what Brain Tap is and how you can use it to have better rest, more resilience and better overall wellbeing. Key highlights from the episode: - Storytelling Drives Business Results: The episode highlights how stories are remembered far more than facts and can significantly boost marketing effectiveness, conversion rates, and even pricing power for fitness businesses. - Different Types of Stories Matter: The discussion explains the importance of distinguishing between brand stories, member transformation stories, and staff stories, emphasizing that each plays a unique role in building trust, authenticity, and emotional connection. - Storytelling Builds Culture and Performance: Sharing stories within the team helps foster a strong, connected workplace culture, improves staff retention and engagement, and ultimately enhances the overall experience for both employees and members. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: "The brain likes to stay in lazy mode." - Dr Patrick Porter "Authenticity is key in storytelling." - Danielle Krischik "Money is an outcome, not a purpose." - Danielle Krischik Resources: Be an FBP Insider on Patreon Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Danielle Krischik - LinkedIn, Podcast, Instagram Knight Agency - Website Danielle’s Book Recommendation: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller Matt Spears Live Event: Finance for Fitness Success - Register Here Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Roundtables: Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Trusted Suppliers: Matrix Performance Foods Myzone MXM Metrics MAX Members About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: storytelling, fitness marketing, emotional connection, brand story, employee engagement, neuroscience, gym owners, marketing strategies, customer experience, business growth Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

Become an FBP Insider! Learn more on Patreon. Online Live Event - Learn More! Are you a fitness leader, manager, or gym owner searching for actionable strategies to revolutionize your staff recruitment and retention? This episode of the Fitness Business Podcast, hosted by JT Tamsett, is a must-listen for anyone serious about building a high-performing fitness business in today’s competitive market. Discover how to wear your sales and marketing hat when hiring, ensuring your recruitment process is as dynamic and creative as your member acquisition campaigns. You’ll learn how applying marketing principles to staff acquisition can transform the quality and consistency of your hires. The episode dives deep into the power of crafting compelling job ads that resonate with potential candidates, making your gym stand out on job boards and attracting top-tier talent. The episode also unpacks the critical role of referrals, explaining why embedding a culture of referrals - where team members are rewarded for recommending candidates, not just successful hires - can create a self-sustaining pipeline of passionate, values-driven staff. Also hear from Dr Patrick Porter about what should really be in all our morning routines, plus why that 2pm slump gets to all of us - and what you can do about it. Key highlights from the episode: - Innovative Use of AI in Recruitment: Learn how artificial intelligence is streamlining everything from candidate screening to interview scheduling, making your hiring process faster, smarter, and more efficient. - Building a Referral-Driven Culture: Discover proven tactics to make daily referral requests a habit, and how to incentivize your team to help you build a robust bench of future staff, ensuring you’re never caught off guard by sudden vacancies. - Prioritizing Integrity and Attitude: Find out why focusing on these core traits - rather than just technical skills - leads to stronger teams and a more positive workplace culture, ultimately boosting member satisfaction and retention. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: “Your sleep cycle starts in the morning.” - Dr Patrick Porter “Never drink coffee first thing in the morning. I know a lot of people do that. Get up in the morning and drink a glass of water.” - Dr Patrick Porter “Don't post a boring job description. You got to make this exciting." - Fletcher Wimbush “Reward the referral, not the outcome.” - Fletcher Wimbush Resources: Be an FBP Insider on Patreon Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Fletcher Wimbush - LinkedIn, Website, Facebook FACT Driven Hire System - Use code: hirebetter Hiring Expert GPT - Watch how it works here Unlock your coaching potential with DISC Fletcher’s Book Recommendation - Who by Geoff Smart Indeed - Website ZipRecruiter - Website Lindsay Vastola Live Event: Own the Role, Achieve the Goal: How EQ Drives Performance & Accountability - Watch now on Patreon Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REXer in the Trenches: Mark Harrington - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram Mark’s Book Recommendation - The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni The Table Group - Website Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Trusted Suppliers: Reinig Insurance Power Plate ROR Partners HR Network Referrizer About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal...

Become a Patreon member! Start here. We’re bringing you a brand-new series of LIVE online events created specifically for fitness business owners, managers, and coaches who want to sharpen their skills and grow their business - Learn More! Is your inconsistent branding costing you clients? Our guest expert Seran Glanfield points out that studio owners often struggle with maintaining a consistent visual brand, diluting their memorability and impacting client recognition. She notes the critical role of consistent visual elements like logos and colors across all platforms. A clear, targeted message resonates far more effectively than a broad approach that speaks to no one. Tune in to this Fitness Business Podcast episode to discover how to refine your marketing approach, attract the right clients, and avoid common branding and messaging pitfalls that could be costing you business. Key highlights from the episode: - Brain Fitness: Learn from Dr. Patrick Porter about achieving peak brain performance through diet, exercise, and technology like BrainTap. - Marketing Strategies: Seran Glanfield reveals the biggest marketing challenges for studio owners and how to target your ideal client. - Actionable Insights: This season is all about taking action, with practical tips to implement in your fitness business immediately. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: "When your messaging is broad, when you're trying to reach everybody, it won't actually resonate with anyone specifically." - Seran Glanfield "If you're inconsistent with the visual elements of your brand, it's a problem because you lose that repetition, the value of being repetitive, and you aren't as memorable." - Seran Glanfield “If you're not sleeping well, or you're not thinking right, or you're not performing right, the first place to look is between your ears." - Dr Patrick Porter "When you have a propensity to be negative, you actually shut down the genes that will make you succeed...your brain will make you right 100% of the time." - Dr Patrick Porter Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Seran Glanfield - LinkedIn, Website, Facebook, Instagram and Podcast Seran’s Recommended Book - The Gap & The Gain Email Marketing Episode 99, Episode 314, Episode 470, Episode 489 Lindsay Vastola’s Episode Segment - Episode 529 Will Phillips - Fitness Industry Insights for 2016 Vicki Brick Tributes - Tribute from Club Solutions and Health & Fitness Association Wise Words: Dr Patrick Porter - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Dr Patrick Porter’s Book - Thrive in Overdrive Buy Your Headset Using our Link! Merch Sponsor: REX Roundtables - Website and Email REX Leadership Academy - Website Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Roundtables Website - www.REXRoundtables.com Email - Eddie@REXRoundtables.com Leadership Academy – www.REXLeadershipAcademy.com Trusted Suppliers: Garry Lewis - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram Wellness Spaces - Website Solutions One - Website The Abs Co - Website Club Com - Website Smart Health Clubs - Website About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: Client acquisition, member engagement, fitness marketing, gym growth, customer experience, fitness trends, health and wellness, fitness industry, gym management, business strategy Please note: We only...

Are you a gym owner, fitness entrepreneur, or wellness professional looking to inject some serious fun and engagement into your business? In this episode, host JT Tamsett and guests dive deep into the secrets of creating a customer-centric experience that keeps people coming back for more. Drawing inspiration from the wildly successful Savannah Bananas baseball team and social media marketing guru Richard Toutounji, this episode provides actionable insights on how to make your fitness studio, health club, or personal training business stand out from the crowd. Learn how to build a strong community, craft engaging content, and gamify your workouts to drive client retention and boost your bottom line. Get ready to transform your business into the place everyone is talking about! Key highlights from the episode: - Spice up your Socials: Learn Richard Toutounji's six elements of engaging social media content: Surprise, Shock, Relatability, Personalization, Timeliness, and Playfulness to create a marketing strategy that pops! - Embrace the "Fans First" Mentality: Discover how Jared Orton and the Savannah Bananas put their fans at the heart of everything they do, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. - Gamify Your Fitness: Explore the power of gamification to drive motivation and engagement in your clients' workouts with Jay Worthy from MyZone. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: "We feel like the critical mission of our team is to make baseball fun." - Jared Orton "We exist to create the best possible experience for our fans and every key stakeholder within the organization is aiming directly towards that." - Jared Orton “Don't take things too seriously, especially on social media. It is a platform to be playful as well." - Richard Toutounji Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Jared Orton - LinkedIn Savannah Bananas - Website Jared’s Book Recommendation - Unreasonable Hospitality Merch Sponsor: REX Roundtables - Website and Email REX Leadership Academy - Website Be a Merch Sponsor - Here REX Wise Words: Richard Toutounji - LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram COM Marketing - Website Trusted Suppliers: Eleiko - Website ABC Fitness - Website Instinctive Insights - Website Budderfly - Website About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: Client acquisition, member engagement, fitness marketing, gym growth, customer experience, fitness trends, health and wellness, fitness industry, gym management, business strategy Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

As a leader, are you doing everything you can to elevate women in leadership? This episode of the Fitness Business Podcast features insights from global female leaders Mel Tempest and Allison Flatley on elevating women in leadership and ownership roles within the fitness industry. The discussion covers current trends, the importance of empowering women to share their stories, and the need for supportive policies and professional development. The episode also highlights the power of storytelling in marketing, using examples like Mari Llewellyn's Bloom Nutrition and Nike's "Just Do It" campaign. Danielle Krischik shares a formula for creating captivating, relatable, and motivating stories to drive business results. Perfect for gym owners, fitness managers, and studio leaders seeking to improve their leadership skills, enhance their marketing strategies, and foster a more inclusive environment. Key highlights from the episode: - Women's Leadership: Gain insights on current trends and strategies to elevate women in leadership and ownership roles within your fitness business. - Storytelling for Marketing: Learn how to craft compelling transformation stories to connect with potential clients and drive membership sales, leveraging proven techniques for captivating and motivating audiences. - Inclusive Gym Culture: Discover the importance of supportive policies, professional development, and creating opportunities for women to share their experiences, fostering a more inclusive and thriving gym environment. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Quotes: "The more women hear other stories of other successful women, the more empowered they are." - Allison Flatley "Women [tend to] undervalue their contribution toward the industry.” - Mel Tempest "There is no greater sales tool for a gym than a transformation story." - Danielle Krischik Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn Community Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Allison Flatley - LinkedIn Mel Tempest - LinkedIn, Website and Instagram Health & Fitness Association Conference in Las Vegas REX Iron Maiden Roundtable Merch Sponsor: REX Roundtables - Website and Email REX Leadership Academy - Website Be a Merch Sponsor - Here Wise Words: Danielle Krischik - LinkedIn The Story Effect - Website and Instagram Bloom Nutrition & Nike Trusted Suppliers: Max Members - Website Les Mills - Website EVOLT 360 - Website American Barbell - Website About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: Gym management strategies, fitness marketing tips, studio growth, employee retention fitness, staff development programs, gym culture improvement, client engagement fitness, fitness industry trends, leadership development fitness, inclusive workplace Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!