Épisodes

  • Episode #518: Beyond the Gym-Exploring Cities with Michael Riordan's City Fit Tours

    Episode #518: Beyond the Gym-Exploring Cities with Michael Riordan's City Fit Tours
    Aug 27 2024

    Michael Riordan, a fellow New Yorker and entrepreneur, shares his journey in building a unique fitness tourism business. We'll dive into how his personal experience and professional background as a personal trainer inspired him to create immersive, wellness-focused tours for travelers and business people visiting the city.

    While in Hawaii, he was faced with the decision of either running on a treadmill or exploring outdoors, he chose the latter and embarked on a beach run that turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences of his life. This moment of clarity inspired him to integrate more local and immersive activities into his routine.

    Back in his professional life, he noticed a recurring theme among his clients, who often traveled to fun destinations for work but rarely got to experience the local culture. Michael became a staunch advocate for blending fitness with business and/or adventure travel, encouraging clients to explore and enjoy their surroundings, no matter where their travels took them.

    Riordan states, "The identity of the the Fit Tours business is that we are actually a tour company with a fitness twist as opposed to a fitness company with a tour twist."

    Key themes discussed

    • Embrace local experiences & keep up your fitness while traveling for work.
    • Fit Tours offers a combination of unique fitness and city exploration.
    • Strategic partnerships and filling classes for entrepreneurs.
    • Balancing cost and sustainability for fitness tours.
    • Recruited dynamic, engaging tour guides for events.
    • Competitor collaboration led to successful new business entity.

    A few key takeaways:

    1. Innovative Business Concept: Riordan identified a niche in the market by providing fitness-focused tours for travelers. This stemmed from his own experiences and frustrations with traditional gym routines while traveling.

    2. Target Audience and Value Proposition: The primary target audience includes both leisure and business travelers who want to maintain their fitness routines while also experiencing local sights and culture. This dual-purpose offering provides an immersive wellness experience unique to each city.

    3. Effective Team Building: Riordan found success by hiring actors and performers as tour guides. These individuals not only had the fitness focus he needed but also brought an energetic and engaging dynamic to the tours, enhancing the overall experience for guests.

    4. Adapting and Expanding: During the pandemic, Riordan expanded to Chicago by acquiring a local running tour company at no cost, demonstrating resourcefulness and strategic growth. This move was facilitated by his connection with the former owner's similar vision and goals.

    5. Merging for Better Outcomes: By merging Fit Tours NYC with City Running Tours to form City Fit Tours, Riordan and his partner combined their strengths and resources. This allowed them to share the workload more effectively, with Riordan focusing on business development and his partner on operations.

    Click here to download transcript.

    Resources:

    • Michael Riordan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-riordan-97a1167
    • City Fit Tours: https://fittoursnyc.com
    • Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
    • Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
    • HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com

    Connect With Us:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/
    Website: https://www.halotalks.com
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    26 min
  • Episode #517: Chris Craytor on Innovative Strategies for Health Club Growth and Member Retention

    Episode #517: Chris Craytor on Innovative Strategies for Health Club Growth and Member Retention
    Aug 20 2024
    Chris Craytor took on a significant challenge when joining the board of IHRSA, the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association. At a time when raising funds was particularly difficult, Craytor played a key role in steering the organization towards a stronger focus on advocacy, education, and research. With the strategic hire of Liz Clark as CEO, Craytor helped pivot IHRSA—now known as the Health and Fitness Association—towards these critical areas. This shift was underscored by the COVID pandemic, which signifcantly heightened awareness among club operators about the importance of advocacy. Craytor envisions increased efforts to influence state-level legislation, recognizing that many crucial battles for the industry are won and lost at the local level. Chris and host Pete Moore discuss a range of topics crucial to the fitness industry, including managing member relationships, especially within the Medicare Advantage community, and the critical role of customer retention. Chris shares his innovative approach to business by addressing personal and professional challenges and emphasizes the significance of strong leadership. They also explore the ever-evolving landscape of health insurance, exercise and its impact on long-term health, and the importance of preventative care covered by groups like Medicare and Medicaid. Chris also highlights the rapid growth in insurance-based memberships and the challenges and solutions provided by Welld Health, a leading software platform connecting health clubs to healthcare payers. Key themes discussed Discussing importance of active voter participation and issues.ACAC founded with inclusive, community-focused approach.Layering AI in medical data for reimbursement.Software companies require 5-year SaaS agreements.States for ACAC business expansion in 36 months.Clean database, streamline member files, reduce rejection.Popular programs offer competitive advantages in business. A few key takeaways: 1. Medicare Advantage Programs and Revenue Potential: Health clubs can significantly benefit by targeting the Medicare Advantage community. Large chains have the potential to generate millions of dollars monthly through these programs. 2. Customer Retention and Leadership: Effective customer retention efforts are crucial for clubs. Finding the right individual within the club to manage these efforts can make a significant difference. The role of a Chief Revenue Officer was highlighted as potentially beneficial for improving accounting processes and overall efficiency. 3. ACAC's Inclusive and Comprehensive Approach: Chris shared insights into ACAC Fitness and Wellness, which operates on a larger format with high-end amenities. Their approach to inclusiveness, medical programs, physician referrals, and partnerships with doctors and hospitals sets them apart. The emphasis on tracking member outcomes and offering first-class service above their middle-market price point further highlights their differentiation. 4. Health and Fitness Advocacy: The rebranding of IHRSA as the Health and Fitness Association underscores a new focus on political advocacy, education, and research. Project 435, for example, aims to have a club captain advocating for health clubs in each of the 435 congressional districts, showcasing the importance of grassroots advocacy within the sector. 5. Challenges and Benefits of Health Insurance Integration: The podcast also shed light on the integration of health insurance with fitness clubs, particularly the challenges around eligibility verification, member management, and reconciliation. Software platforms like Welld Health play a critical role in reducing rejection rates and bad data, ultimately saving significant revenue for clubs. The ability to run long-term medical programs via partnerships with YMCA's and medical centers further illustrates the evolving landscape of preventative healthcare coverage. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Chris Craytor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-craytor/Welld Health: https://www.welldhealth.com/solutions ACAC: https://acac.com/ Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com
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    34 min
  • Episode #516:Jill Kinney on Medical Fitness Centers and Active Wellness Innovations

    Episode #516:Jill Kinney on Medical Fitness Centers and Active Wellness Innovations
    Aug 14 2024
    Host Pete Moore is joined by an industry pioneer and long-time friend Jill Kinney, currently the Founder/Chairman of Active Wellness. They deep dive into the ever-evolving landscape of fitness for the senior population, focusing on Jill's innovative work with Active Wellness. She shares her insights on redefining fitness centers, especially within healthcare systems and senior living communities, through the creation of Activate—a high-touch, personalized wellness program which are transforming traditional spaces into profitable, consumer-facing wellness hubs. Drawing from a rich background in developing, owning, and operating fitness clubs, Jill has successfully melded her expertise to create distinct, consumer-focused models within the industry. Kinney states, "I don't think the health care systems or hospitals per se, really understand marketing. Most of the folks that we've dealt with felt like their medical fitness center was somehow or another going to be so unique that it would have no competition . . . and there's there's nothing further from the truth . . . what we've done is taken our branding, marketing, and sales skills and turned these businesses around, so they're profitable. They're generating 18 to 25% EBITDA returns." Key themes discussed Challenges of managing hospital real estate assets.Personalized wellness program with brain training, recovery, and E-Gym.Excitement for real estate investment opportunities and models.Opening up facility to public feedback. A few key takeaways: 1. Active Wellness is a fitness and wellness management company that provides a unique twist through two distinct models: -Active Wellness Centers: These are similar to medical fitness centers but with a profitability and business focus, making them more consumer-facing and competitive. -Activate Program: A turnkey, approximately $2,000,000 solution with a small footprint (5,000-10,000 square feet), integrating personalized wellness and fitness programs featuring high-tech and data-driven approaches. 2. Hospitals and healthcare systems often underestimate the importance of sales and marketing, especially when it comes to running fitness centers. Active Wellness steps in to turn these facilities into profitable, consumer-friendly wellness centers that attract members and operate with commercial efficiency. 3. The Activate program includes a variety of personalized services such as personal health coaching, registered dietitians, and specialized equipment like eGym for tailored fitness plans. Emphasis is placed on a holistic approach encompassing fitness, recovery, and even brain training. 4. Activate centers generate significant financial returns (28%-35% ROI on invested capital starting from year 2) and transform previously cost-center amenities into profitable entities. 5. Although initially targeted at seniors and independent living communities, the program's appeal is broadening to a younger demographic. Active Wellness plans to scale up, aiming to have around 20 Activate locations in the near future, with a longer-term goal of expanding to 50-100 locations. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Jill Kinney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillkinney/Active Wellness: https://activewellness.com/ Buck Institute: https://www.buckinstitute.org/ E-Gym: https://egym.com/us Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com
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    24 min
  • Episode #515: Transforming Healthcare-Cyrus Massoumi's Journey from Zocdoc Founder to Dr. B Innovator

    Episode #515: Transforming Healthcare-Cyrus Massoumi's Journey from Zocdoc Founder to Dr. B Innovator
    Aug 6 2024
    Host Pete Moore had a sit-down at the Health & Fitness Association 2024 trade show in Los Angeles with Cyrus Massoumi, the visionary founder behind Dr. B, a revolutionary telemedicine platform. Pete chats with Cyrus about his journey from founding Zocdoc to his passionate pursuit of affordable, how the name came about, remote healthcare solutions through Dr. B, and more. They also discuss how COVID has transformed medical interactions and highlight the critical role of exercise in managing medical conditions. Massoumi offers insightful perspectives on utilizing FSA and HSA dollars for fitness expenses and shares how Dr. B's partnerships with fitness brands are making healthcare more accessible. You'll learn about the importance of letters of medical necessity, the compliance landscape of telehealth, innovative ways to maximize healthcare benefits, and how this can complement your fitness journey. Massoumi is driving a holistic approach to wellness and pushing the boundaries of healthcare, ensuring it meets the needs of both insured and uninsured individuals. He states, "Our goal is not just to offer letters of medical necessity to fitness club members, but also to be health care partners for all of these gyms and fitness studios that are interested in making that leap and understanding what that looks like, and how do you do it in a responsible way and make sure that you can really make people's lives better more holistically." Key themes discussed Starting and growing Zocdoc.Enable health account payment method for members.Regulations needed to curb destructive conduct from other bad actors in this space.Health savings accounts rising due to high deductibles.Initial misunderstanding, now promoting HSA and FSA.Be disciplined, use resources, make an impact. A few key takeaways: 1. Dr. B, founded by Cyrus Massoumi, is a telemedicine platform focused on providing affordable and accessible healthcare, particularly for COVID-19 patients and the uninsured. It emphasizes remote care, making healthcare services more reachable during and beyond the pandemic. 2. Massoumi highlights the crucial role of exercise in preventing and managing medical conditions. The opportunity to use Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for fitness-related expenses is underlined, promoting healthier living through financial incentives. 3. Dr. B positions itself to make healthcare more accessible through the issuance of letters of medical necessity for FSA and HSA use. This allows members to use pretax dollars for medical expenses, reducing the overall cost burden and encouraging preventative care. 4. The company has seen immediate demand from the fitness industry and focuses on collaborating with fitness brands of all sizes. This partnership is designed to promote holistic health by integrating medical necessity letters into fitness services, which can be redeemed using FSA and HSA funds. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Cyrus Massoumi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cyrus-massoumi-58330b Dr. B: https://www.hidrb.com Zocdoc: https://www.zocdoc.com Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
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    28 min
  • Episode #514: Speir Pilates Approach to Community, Wellness, and Studio Growth with Andrea Speir and Liz Polk

    Episode #514: Speir Pilates Approach to Community, Wellness, and Studio Growth with Andrea Speir and Liz Polk
    Jul 31 2024
    Today we're diving into the Pilates/boutique fitness world with two incredible guests, Liz Polk and Andrea Speir, Co-Founders of Speir Pilates. We explore how Liz and Andrea have transformed their love for Pilates into a thriving business that not only promotes health and wellness but also fosters community and inclusivity. Liz and Andrea share their journey, from leaving corporate careers, including Liz's decade at Netflix, to building a brand known for its welcoming atmosphere and thier collaborative spirit with other businesses. We'll discuss their strategies for maintaining high-quality instruction, the importance of a strong entrepreneurial management team, and their innovative use of technology to enhance member experience. These two women have created something unique. Speir Pilates is not just about fitness, but about creating a supportive, family-like culture and pioneering unique events from bachelorette parties to influencer classes. There's something here for any business owner in the HALO space! The episode is packed with insights on adapting to change, building community, and the pivotal role of partnerships in business success. "We don't really do we don't do free offers," states Liz. "You're getting high quality instruction from people who are certified in something complex, which is a little different than a Spin class. This highlights the value we place on providing expert guidance over free alternatives." Key themes discussed Seeking input, asking questions, open to learning.Discussing Pilates locations, equipment, growth, and uniqueness.Select talent and instructors who embody the brand.Diverse delivery methods expand Pilates instructor opportunities.Customer experience modeled after hospitality industry.Investment advice: Build a strong management team! A few key takeaways: 1. The partners emphasize the importance of building a strong community within and beyond their 4 walls. They engage in collaborations with peer studios and complementary fitness modalities like boxing to create supportive and cohesive fitness experiences. This fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose among clients. 2. Liz's journey from a corporate background to Co-Founding Speir Pilates highlights the value of adaptability and being open to pivot when necessary. The duo’s ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, such as during the COVID-19, showcases their entrepreneurial resilience and innovative approach to overcoming challenges. 3. Andrea underscores the brand’s commitment to inclusivity, making Pilates accessible to a broader audience without the need for "exclusive invitations." This aligns with their vision of creating a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of fitness level or background. 4. Speir operates with a hospitality mindset, ensuring that clients feel expected and cared for from the moment they step into the studio. This includes personalized services, gathering client information to enhance their experience, and optimizing relationships to foster a sense of community and belonging. 5. Their choice of locations and the aesthetic design of their studios play a crucial role in the business model. By selecting blank new construction spaces and considering neighboring tenants, Liz and Andrea ensure that each studio offers an optimal client experience. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Andrea Speir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-speir-65742610a/ Liz Polk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizmpolk/ Speir Pilates: https://speirpilates.com/ Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
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    29 min
  • Episode #513: Navigating HSA and FSA for Fitness-Insights from Sam O'Keefe

    Episode #513: Navigating HSA and FSA for Fitness-Insights from Sam O'Keefe
    Jul 29 2024
    Host Pete Moore sits down with Sam O'Keefe to delve into the (often confusing!) world of HSA (Health Savings Accounts) and FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts) and their intersection with the HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoors) sector. In a market worth nearly $150B, Sam shares her expertise on how fitness-related expenses, including gym memberships and fitness programs, can become eligible for reimbursement under certain conditions. We'll explore how Flex, Sam's fintech company, is making it easier for HALO-businesses to integrate HSA and FSA benefits, facilitating seamless payments and reimbursements for members. Sam also discusses the critical role of exercise in both mental and physical health, the psychology behind spending HSA and FSA funds, and the entrepreneurial challenges she continues to face in this very new, rather niche space. From the nuances of telehealth evaluations to contributing and spending behaviors in HSA and FSA accounts, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of health and fitness reimbursement. This is a must listen for all gym owners, especially if they wish to uncover the incredible amount of revenue and opportnities that exists in Q4, if this is implemented and marketed properly. Join us as we break down the complexities and uncover the opportunities in this fascinating field. As HSA and FSA payment options become more popular, Sam states, "It's very exciting to see companies like DoorDash, Instacart, Walgreens, and others that are starting to roll this out. What it's really doing is increasing awareness for consumers and getting them to realize, 'Oh hey. . . I can spend these dollars not just at the doctor's office.'" Key themes discussed Challenges and solutions in healthcare industry discussed.Diversity in payment regulations for different businesses.Verify POS inventory for HSA, FSA eligibility.American customer base faces health challenges, bridge gap.Direct payment possibilities with industry CRM's like (MarianaTek and others) for seamless integration.Encouraging health club operators to capitalize on HSA/FSA, especially during Q4. A few key takeaways: 1. Sam discussed the intricacies of HSA and FSA reimbursements, which present a massive $150B market. She emphasized the importance and utility of these accounts in covering fitness and health-related expenses, provided there's a medical necessity and proper documentation. 2. Both Pete and Sam underlined the critical role of exercise in both mental and physical health. They stressed the need to shift the healthcare focus toward preventive measures, highlighting how activities like pickleball can contribute significantly to mental well-being and longevity. 3. Sam talks about Flex, a fintech and telehealth company she started to help streamline the reimbursement process. Flex simplifies HSA and FSA reimbursements by integrating them directly into the merchant's checkout flow and offering telehealth visits to obtain the necessary documentation. 4. The episode shed light on the specifics of what can be considered eligible for HSA and FSA spending. While general fitness programs and equipment usually don't meet IRS guidelines, they can qualify if prescribed by a doctor. This highly nuanced regulatory landscape requires precise documentation and coordination with healthcare professionals. 5. The conversation also touched on the entrepreneurial journey, providing listeners with insights into staying motivated through the ups and downs of business. Physical activity was highlighted as a key strategy for managing stress and maintaining clarity, reinforcing the episode's strong focus on the holistic benefits of exercise. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Sam O'Keefe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samokeefe/Flex: https://www.withflex.com/ SIGIS: https://www.sig-is.org/ Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
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    30 min
  • Episode #512: Navigating Boutique Studio Ownership with Studio Grow's Beth Potter & Peter Pastijn

    Episode #512: Navigating Boutique Studio Ownership with Studio Grow's Beth Potter & Peter Pastijn
    Jul 25 2024
    Today we're joined by Beth Potter and Peter Pastijn, industry veterans in the HALO sector and two top players at Studio Grow, one of Integrity Square's strategic partners who provide top notch, in-the-trenches coaching for boutique studio owners worldwide. Beth and Peter draw parallels between Studio Grow and the role of a regional director, highlighting the extensive network they provide, from legal and marketing, to specialized coaches. They emphasize the importance of collaboration, ongoing support, and the value their services they can bring to not only independents but also franchisees, with some groups even adding Studio Grow to their Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD's.) They also explore the need for succession planning and exit strategies, the impact of holistic wellness trends, and how Studio Grow is fostering confidence and understanding of financial metrics like EBITDA among studio owners. On Studio Grow's services Pastijn states, "If I'm coaching a session with an advanced studio and they want something I'm not an expert in, I just call one of my other coaches in and say, 'Hey, can you help them out?' So we all have different fields of expertise. Also, as we are all owners or former former owners, [Studio Grow] has created templates and and outlines for absolutely everything you can imagine." Key themes discussed Advising businesses on revenue and marketing strategy.Focusing on the member journey and retention is vital.Optimize experience, involve initially, for successful collaboration.Studio owners locked in long franchise agreements.Discuss succession planning and exit strategies for business. A few key takeaways: 1. Beth and Peter highlighted Studio Grow's extensive support services, which include legal and marketing teams, as well as diverse expertise among their many coaches. This structure is designed to work closely with everyone from franchisees, to individual owners to help them grow and succeed. 2. Peter emphasized the critical importance of having a succession plan and exit strategy for studio owners. This ensures cultural continuity and prepares owners for potential business transitions, enhancing long-term stability and potential profits. 3. Understanding key business metrics like EBITDA is crucial for studio owners. Beth and Peter discussed the importance of proper budgeting, funding support, and financial planning to ensure studio profitability and growth. 4. The growing trend of holistic wellness, recovery, and med spa businesses was highlighted, underscoring the increasing demand for comprehensive health services that go beyond the 'standard' fitness offerings. This represents an opportunity for studio owners to expand their services and capture a broader market. 5. Member journeys and retention are especially vital in the boutique fitness industry. Beth stressed the need to coach teams effectively to retain customers and discussed the process for matching studio owners with suitable advisors through consistent check in calls. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Peter Pastijn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-pastijn-8047661/Beth Potter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-potter-6a6b98193/ Studio Grow: https://www.studiogrow.co Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
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    28 min
  • Episode #511: Chelsea Piers Leadership: Greta Wagner on Culture and Customer Connection

    Episode #511: Chelsea Piers Leadership: Greta Wagner on Culture and Customer Connection
    Jul 23 2024
    Greta Wagner is a seasoned fitness industry veteran with over four decades of experience in the HALO (Health, Active Lifestyle, Outdoor) space. A current Board Member of the Health & Fitness Assocation (formerly IHRSA), and Executive Director of Chelsea Piers, her journey began at the age of 16, when she started teaching what used to be called "aerobic dance." After a decade-long hiatus in the golf industry, her return to fitness was marked by a pivotal realization: The sector had seen little growth and was still grappling with engaging the same 80% of people who do not participate in regular exercise or attend fitness clubs. Her career reflects both her adaptability and enduring passion for promoting a healthier lifestyle. Greta shares her invaluable perspectives on fostering inclusivity, broadening communication, and the significance of a positive work culture that transcends beyond just having state-of-the-art facilities. Also discussed are the pressures of athleticism on young kids, branding excellence of Chelsea Piers, and innovative ideas for advocacy in the health and fitness sector. We'll hear about the challenges of maintaining client attention, and the evolving landscape of video and streaming technology. Finally, we'll look at leveraging competition and technology to drive member engagement and success. This episode is packed with valuable insights from an industry veteran on leadership, resilience, and the collective effort required to drive meaningful change in our space. On workplace culture, Wagner states, "I can't dictate what company culture is gonna be. I can hope what our culture is gonna be. We can say 'this is what our strategic plan is to make our culture,' but it's our actions, and it's how we live our lives in every moment while we're working together, playing together, socializing together, and our principles and core values. If you stay true to those and you hire the people who believe in those core values and can live it . . . that will resonate. In my opinion, that is everything." Key themes discussed IHRSA (and the industry's) challenges during the pandemic.10-year summer camp experience, impact of sports.Workplace culture, branding, employee focus, values.Private, non-institutional company, unique KPIs.Monitoring retention and valuing employee contributions.The evolving role of the Health & Fitness Association. A few key takeaways: 1. Greta emphasizes that a positive and inclusive work culture is crucial for any business's success, especially in the HALO space. She illustrates this by highlighting Chelsea Piers' commitment to their core values and how it translates into meaningful connections with customers and a happy, long time, dedicated workforce. 2. She emphasizes the importance of open conversations, organization, and effective messaging to address societal and political divisions. Enhancing communication and education within the club environment can foster unity and collective growth. 3. Both Moore and Wagner stress the significance of offering a variety of sports to children, rather than early specialization. This approach helps in reducing pressure and optimizing overall athletic development, allowing kids to explore various interests and skills. 4. Pete asks about leveraging the large membership base of clubs collectively for advocacy efforts. Collecting a small contribution per member per year, as Pete suggests, could significantly bolster financial capabilities for important advocacy initiatives at local, state, and federal levels. 5. Greta discusses the resilience of Chelsea Piers during natural disasters, highlighting the collaborative effort of employees and members to rebuild the property. This underscores the solid and caring culture of the company, which is pivotal in navigating crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to download transcript. Resources: Greta Wagner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greta-wagner-6764a4bb/ Health and Fitness Association: https://www.healthandfitness.org/ Chelsea Piers: http://www.chelseapiers.com Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.comPromotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.comHigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com Connect With Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/ Website: https://www.halotalks.com Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
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    32 min