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.comEmail: [email protected]

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 creates bespoke training facilities. https://www.blkboxfitness.com

• Replify: Replify provides AI-driven receptionist and sales automation for fitness businesses. https://www.replify.ai/

"What we leave behind is not set in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others."

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

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 compassion to help people feel safe, powerful, and at home in their bodies again.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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 Roundtables: Website: www.REXRoundtables.comEmail: [email protected]

A heartfelt thank you to the partners who support The Fitness Business Podcast:

• Les Mills USA: Creates pre-choreographed group fitness classes and offers home workouts. https://www.lesmills.com/us/
• Referrizer: Provides automated marketing, referral, lead, and reputation management for local businesses. https://referrizer.com/
• Energy Lounger: Sells the EnergyLounger, a full-body red and near-infrared light therapy device. http://www.energylounger.com/
• Real Leader Fitness: Manufactures and sells commercial fitness and gym equipment. https://www.realleaderfitness.com/
• The Covery: Offers wellness, hormone replacement, weight loss, and aesthetic treatments. https://www.thecovery.com/

"What we leave behind is not set in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others."

About Our Guest: Alex Grande is an entrepreneur and workplace innovation expert who combines gamification with HR technology to help organizations build stronger, more connected cultures.

As the founder of Recognize, a social employee engagement SaaS platform, he helps companies improve communication, recognition, and retention through behavioral science and thoughtful design. With a degree in psychology and published research in unconscious bias and social cognition, Alex brings an evidence-based, human-centered approach to creating recognition programs that drive lasting cultural change.

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.

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

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. https://egym.com/us

About Our Guest: Heather Wiser Soubra is Founder and CEO of Wiser Way Coaching and Director of The George Washington Leadership Institute at Mount Vernon. An ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), she empowers leaders and teams to reach their fullest potential by tapping into inner wisdom and building on strengths. Previously Senior Vice President at the International Dairy Foods Association, Heather holds degrees from George Mason University in intercultural communication and coaching, plus an Executive Certificate in Facilitation from Georgetown University.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

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 businesses open smoothie and juice bars with clean ingredients. https://www.performancefoodcenters.com

• Power Plate: Sells whole-body and targeted vibration plate machines for fitness and wellness.https://www.powerplate.com/

Skip to the good part: (03:53) Why hiring the right people matters more than ever (05:10) AI in recruitment: what it can — and can't — replace (07:45) Hiring inside vs. outside the fitness industry (12:10) Christine's three go-to interview questions (18:40) Common hiring challenges and payroll realities (23:30) Why onboarding determines hiring success (30:05) Best practices for interviews and candidate experience (36:40) Resume mistakes and what actually stands out (42:20) Social media, reference checks, and red flags (47:30) The future of recruitment in the fitness industry

About Our Guest: Christine is the owner and lead recruiter for Fit Pro Finders, a full-service staffing firm that specializes in entry to executive levels roles in the fitness, wellness, and sports industries. Her services include creative sourcing, detailed screening, candidate interviews, career and business coaching. Prior to launching Fit Pro Finders she recruited for major fitness brands, including Xponential Fitness, Crunch, Equinox, Planet Fitness, and LifeTime. Christine loves sharing her passion and expertise in how to make the right match between job seeker and employer.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

Make sure to check out other REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers:

1. World Insurance Associates: Provides insurance, risk management, benefits, and wealth management services. https://www.worldinsurance.com/

2. MXM: Provides software for fitness clubs to manage member experience. https://www.mxmetrics.com

3. Centr Hyrox: Fitness and wellness app offering workouts, nutrition, and meditation. https://centr.com/

4. Matrix Fitness: Manufactures and sells commercial and home gym fitness equipment. https://www.matrixfitness.com/us/eng

5. Yanga Sports Water: Provides subscription-based, flavored, vitamin-enriched, and calorie-free water for gyms. https://yangasportswater.com/

Skip to the good part: (03:53) What Counts as Retail in a Gym? (05:26) The Most Profitable Retail Categories (08:43) Margin vs. Profit: Understanding the Numbers (09:24) Do You Need a Dedicated Retail Space? (12:47) In-Person vs. Online Retail for Fitness Clubs (14:39) Keeping Inventory Fresh and Avoiding Member Blindness (16:50) Logo Gear vs. Big Brands: What Actually Sells (22:06) Case Study: How One Club Generated $50K in Three Days (28:06) Your First Steps: Retail Homework and Strategy Alignment (31:20) Member Buying Behavior and Final Takeaways

About Our Guest: Meredith Rosson is the founder of Elevated Versions, a retail consulting company helping fitness clubs design profitable, modern, member-focused retail programs. With years of experience overseeing retail at Cooper Fitness Center and consulting with clubs across the country, she specializes in apparel, accessories, private label development, sourcing vendors, and inventory strategy. Meredith also runs her own online boutique, Paper Dolls by Eve, focused on contemporary women's apparel.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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: www.REXRoundtables.comEmail: [email protected]

Supplier: EGYM Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egym_global/ EGYM Website: https://us.egym.com/en-us Dana Milkie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-milkie-38ab47/

REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: Make sure to check out other REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers:

1. Atlantis Strength: made by and for those who are dedicated to shaping greatness. https://atlantisstrength.com/

2. ABC Fitness: provides gym management & software solutions. https://abcfitness.com/

3. Digital Revenue Systems: offering digital revenue opportunities for you. https://www.digitalrevsystems.com/

4. Centr Hyrox: The official equipment provider for Hyrox. https://shop.centr.com.au/collections/hyrox

5. Covery: Wellness recovery franchise offering cutting-edge restorative services. https://www.thecovery.com/franchise

Skip to the good part: 00:00 Welcome, Season Wrap-up, and Guest Introduction (Michelle Bowden) 02:00 Season Four Giveaway: How to Win a $100 Amazon Voucher 03:00 Tailoring Communication Styles: Persuasion vs. Coercive Influence 10:00 The Four Persuasion Types: Owl, Eagle, Brolga, & Peacock 14:00 1% Gains and Tips for Remembering Names 21:00 Handling Sales Objections: "Too Expensive" & "I Need to Think About It" 22:00 The 5-Step Pacing Out Objections (P.O.O.) Technique (and why to ditch "but") 29:00 Being Persuasive Without Being Pushy: The Law of Commitment and Consistency 33:00 Active Listening and the Three Communication Positions (First, Second, Third) 37:00 Challenge: How to Win in the Next 90 Days by Persuasion

About Our Guest: Michelle Bowden is the number one speaker on persuasion at work and the authority on persuasive presenting in business. She created the Persuasion Smart Profile®, a world-first psychological assessment tool for workplace persuasive strengths. Michelle is a best-selling, internationally published author of How to Persuade and How to Present. As a multi-billion-dollar pitch coach, her client list spans international businesses in banking, IT, pharmaceutical, retail, and more. Her popular Masterclass has been run over 1,000 times for more than 13,000 people.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

Suppliers: Brittany Ficano, Program Director at Budderfly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittanyficano01251991/ Website: https://www.budderfly.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/budderfly-inc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/budderflyenergy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/budderfly_inc/ Optimizing Energy for Healthcare & Fitness Facilities: https://www.budderfly.com/the-budderfly-effect/healthcare-fitness/

REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers: Egym: Providing digital fitness solutions and equipment. https://egym.com/ukBudderfly: 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: The "safari tours" concept 10:00 Case study: Mecca's radical approach to knowing its customer 12:00 The fear of niching down and understanding customer avatars 14:00 Loyalty programs: The secret to stickiness or a source of friction? 16:00 Two key strategies: curiosity and celebration 19:00 The importance of an internal customer experience strategy and employee retention 21:00 The "Inner Circle" dynamic and how it impacts member retention and loyalty 24:00 How to become radically customer obsessed in the last quarter of the year 25:00 The intersection of high-tech and high-touch in the AI era

About Our Guest: Amanda Stevens is a leading authority on consumer behavior and the author of Radical Customer Obsession. Having spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, she has provided insights to a wide variety of industries, from pet stores to hotel chains. Her work focuses on helping businesses understand what their customers are thinking and feeling, what their motivations are, and what keeps them awake at night.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

REX Roundtables Trusted Suppliers:

1. Power Systems: your one stop shop for equipment, functional training, recovery and storage https://www.power-systems.com/shop
2. Les Mills: offering group fitness classes and solutions. https://www.lesmills.com/
3. Instinctive Insights: Profit driven marketing using data science. https://www.instinctiveinsights.com/
4. HireBob.Ai: Sell memberships, service existing customers and provide motivational fitness support. https://www.hirebob.ai/
5. Eleiko: supplying premium strength training equipment 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. Her mission is to help create a more connected, compassionate, and conscious world.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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.comEmail: [email protected]

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 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: Eric Malzone is a prominent entrepreneur and thought leader in the fitness industry, with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of fitness, technology, and business innovation. After a successful decade in corporate America, he founded and later sold two thriving gyms: CrossFit Pacific Coast and Lighthouse Fitness. He transitioned from gym ownership to becoming a respected industry analyst and advisor. As the host of the popular Future of Fitness podcast, he has conducted more than 850 interviews with leaders, making the show a go-to resource for professionals seeking to understand emerging trends. Malzone also hosts two other shows, Athletech Unscripted and Fitness Blitz Radio. Eric is the co-founder and CEO of The Podcast Collective, an agency specializing in B2B podcast launches and strategic media placement. His advisory work extends to major brands like F45 and WRKOUT, as well as many smaller businesses, all of which benefit from his forward-thinking insights into the future of fitness and wellness.

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

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:[email protected] 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.comEmail: [email protected]

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 https://theinsuranceguy.com/

1. Power Plate: Whole-body vibration for fitness and wellness - https://powerplate.com/

2. ROR Partners: offering data-driven marketing strategies to enhance customer relationships. https://rorpartners.com/

3. HR Network: All your HR needs solved at the end of the phone. https://hrnetworkinc.com/

4. Referrizer: Automates marketing and referrals for your business https://business.referrizer.com/

About Our Guest: Lisa Dougherty has been in the medical fitness space for over 25 years. She founded the MedFit Network in 2013, which serves as both a professional membership organization and a free online resource directory. She established the MedFit Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization, in 2017 to elevate the quality and quantity of available education for fitness and allied healthcare through educational webinars, online courses, and virtual conferences. Lisa has been recognized as a fitness leader on multiple occasions, including by Personal Fitness Professional Magazine and The Huffington Post. The White House acknowledged her as a "Champion of Change".

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

Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!