Happy Hour Podcast with Dee and Shannon

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Mark and Lana from Blisstopia Retreats to talk about what it really takes to co-facilitate powerful retreats—and build a business together without losing your minds (or your marriage). Mark and Lana share their journey from psychotherapy and martial arts to running over 60 retreats and living on-site at their stunning Arizona retreat villa. With over 7,000 sq ft of curated wellness space, they've built a business based on balance, service, and transformation. You'll hear: Why co-leading retreats is a dance of trust, clarity, and communication The pros and cons of living at your retreat property What makes a retreat center host different from a vacation rental owner Tips for thriving in a saturated retreat market A special offer just for podcast listeners Mention this episode and get $500 off a 3-day retreat rental at Blisstopia Retreats! Whether you host retreats solo, with a team, or dream of running your own retreat center, this convo will give you a behind-the-scenes look at how to lead with heart and strategy. Connect with Mark and Lana: https://www.blisstopiaretreats.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ----------------- Timestamps: Introducing the Guests: Mark & Loni (00:00:25) Host introduces Mark and Loni, a couple running a retreat business together. Loni's Background & Entrepreneurial Journey (00:01:48) Loni shares her psychotherapy, wellness, and entrepreneurial background, and how she met Mark. Mark's Background & Transition to Retreats (00:03:28) Mark discusses his martial arts and coaching background, and their shift to retreats after the pandemic. Deciding to Open a Retreat Center (00:04:18) The couple describes the decision to sell everything and open a retreat center in Arizona. Transition to Co-Facilitating Retreats (00:05:21) Discussion on how they began co-facilitating retreats and integrating their skills. Why Retreats Over Other Wellness Businesses (00:05:56) Explaining the deeper impact of retreats compared to fitness or yoga classes. Mark's Growth & Their Yin-Yang Dynamic (00:06:57) Mark's journey into yoga and breathwork, and the couple's complementary energies. Choosing & Setting Up Their Retreat Property (00:08:40) How they selected, purchased, and set up their Arizona retreat property. Hosting Other Facilitators at Their Space (00:11:37) They welcome other retreat hosts and describe the support they provide. On-Site Support & Services for Retreat Hosts (00:12:04) Details about their on-site help, meal services, and understanding retreat logistics. Host's London Event Promo (00:13:00) Brief promotion for the host's upcoming retreat mastermind event in London. Why Retreat Centers Are Preferred (00:13:41) Host explains the advantages of retreat centers over Airbnb/Vrbo for hosting retreats. Challenges of Building & Planning as a Couple (00:14:55) Discussion about the challenges of planning and building a retreat space together. Staying in Their Lanes & Defining Roles (00:15:19) How they maintain boundaries, respect, and trust by sticking to their strengths. Industry Struggles & Oversaturation (00:17:06) Mark discusses industry oversaturation and the challenges of inexperienced hosts. Struggles of Working as a Couple (00:19:03) The couple shares the realities of being together constantly and how they communicate. Industry Growth & Differentiation (00:20:20) Host reflects on industry growth, competition, and the importance of differentiation. Staying in Lanes: Host's Personal Experience (00:24:29) Host shares her own experience working with her husband and the importance of defined roles. Living On-Site: Pros & Cons (00:26:32) Discussion about the benefits and challenges of living at the retreat property. Nature, Animals, and Sanctuary Vibes (00:27:10) Description of the property's natural setting, animals, and peaceful atmosphere. Being On-Site for Emergencies & Support (00:29:42) Anecdote about stepping in for a retreat host in need and the value of being on-site. Host's Perspective: Never Shutting Off (00:30:54) Host discusses the difficulty of separating work and home life when living on-site. Mark's Family Resort Experience (00:33:12) Mark relates his experience growing up around a family-run resort. Constant Upkeep & Business Mindset (00:34:07) The ongoing nature of property maintenance and always being in business mode. Special Offer for Listeners (00:35:20) Mark and Loni offer $500 off venue rental for podcast listeners. 

Your brand is more than a logo—it's the energy, clarity, and trust that sells out your retreats before you even open registration. In this episode, Shannon sits down with Kara Hollinger, founder and creative director of Made Outside, to explore how powerful branding and a cohesive online presence directly influence retreat success. They dig into: Why authenticity is your brand's biggest asset How storytelling builds trust and drives bookings Common branding mistakes retreat leaders make Aligning your website, social media, and messaging to serve your ideal client How to communicate your value so people are ready to buy Kara also shares a 20% discount on branding packages exclusively for podcast listeners—don't Connect with Kara: www.madeoutside.com Talk about this podcast and get 20% off   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in London  Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ---------- Automatically Transcribed With Podsqueeze Shannon 00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys! Welcome to or welcome back to the Retreat Leaders podcast at Shannon. And today I've got an amazing guest on the show that I am so excited to dig into our topic today because I feel like if it wasn't already so very important, it's becoming more and more important every day in the business world that we live in. So welcome, Kara to the show. Kara 00:00:46  Thank you for having me, Shannon. Excited to be here. Shannon 00:00:49  I'm so excited you're here. So Kara Hollinger is on the show. And do you just want to take a moment to tell us, like, who you are? What brought you here? Like, talk to us about who you are. Kara 00:00:59  Definitely. My background is in brand development and design as well as strategy, and I started Made outside. I'm the founder and we specialize in building brands with authenticity, transparency and trust so that the consumer will lean into that purpose and story and then choose you over another competitor. So in most cases, that level of authenticity and storytelling is what drives a consumer into the purchasing ability. And so through design and award winning design, I was able to actually take my intuition and my understanding of marketability and then design and merge that with design, which has been a really great outcome for our clients. And I'm a big supporter of wellness and retreats and leadership. And I think that combining brand purpose into, you know, whether it's a retreat or a leader or even a brand is the key to success in today's market, where it's very convoluted, it's hard to tell who's authentic or who isn't. And that's what we do for all of our clients. And we've had really great success. Shannon 00:02:06  I love this. Okay, so I love this for so many reasons, but especially because just like you mentioned, like if you are not presenting yourself in an authentic but also appealing way specifically to your demographic, then you are missing the boat. Shannon 00:02:24  And I know that a lot of things that you work on is brand strategy and social media presence, as well as website presence. And I think, I think it gets really underrated in the retreat world. I think people just put together a very, in my very humble opinion, a crappy landing page that has maybe a couple of pictures that do not look as good as they should look. and it's just, I mean, I see more and more of them and I'm like, oh my goodness. Like, there's an investment that has to be made in this business if you are wanting to it to be a business. And everybody knows that I'm big on like I, I don't do retreats for a hobby. I don't teach people how to do retreats for hobby. I teach you to do it as a business. And part of business in this world is investing in your social media and your website presence and brand strategy. Because I feel like it's got to tell a story. All of this has to tell a story. Kara 00:03:16  Definitely. And the world of templated websites and put something up with, you know, Squarespace or Wix. Those types of solutions do exist, and they can be successful, but only if they're brought into authenticity and something that's unique for you. Because if we all land on something that feels the same or doesn't feel authentic or is just another batch of stock photos, it's going to be really hard to get somebody to invest their time and money to stop what they're doing, fly and try. They're seeking something to go to a retreat they're seeking. And if you can't collectively tell them what they're going to get in a way that feels safe and authentic, then they're going to start to look elsewhere, or they're going to start to overthink the decision and then possibly not juju at all. So getting to the heart of what makes you different and why you started the retreat, or why this solution is going to be good for the person coming. That is the key to all of it. And you can do that. Kara 00:04:10  So simply with just words and visuals, it doesn't have to be a whole big investment. It's really about how you tell that story and then making sure it doesn't look like everyone else that you're seeing out there. Shannon 00:04:22  I couldn't agree more. So I the way I do my retreat bookings is probably a little different than some people. As far as they don't have to talk to me, they don't have to set an appointment with me. They don't have to be pre-screened by me. I just don't run those types of retreats. There are a there's a time and place for that. But I share that with you because people who don't know me at all are literally. I mean, I'll get on my my registration forms. Where did you find me? Google. So they're finding me and they're booking because of my landing page, because of my messaging, because of my image, because of the story, because of how I'm marketing them. And so that's the bulk of my registrations, or pretty close to 6,570%. Shannon 00:05:00  The other 25 to 30% is coming from referral or repeat guest. Or they've been listening to me and following me a long time, whatever. But the bulk of my my retreats are registrations are coming because of how my messaging is reaching them and the way that it's presented. And so when I tell you this is so important, I mean, this is so important. And even if you are someone, a host who, you know, you want to interview them first, they have to apply, they have to whatever. It's still the same thing. They're not even going to fill up that form to set an appointment with you if your messaging doesn't resonate, if it looks like, you know, a junior high schooler, put the whole thing together. You know what I mean? And I see this a lot in the retreat space where it's like, I don't know why my retreats not filling. I'm like, well, we're just going to start here. There's probably a whole lot of other stuff going on. Shannon 00:05:50  But also we're going to start right here. And I love that you talked about trust and authenticity Because I think you and I both know we live in the world now, where if we hear about a company or an organization or anybody we're going to give our money to, where's the first place we look? Nowadays it's social media. You know what I mean? Yes, it's their website, but we usually are on their website, and then we go find them on social media to really validate who they are. What are your thoughts on that. Kara 00:06:17  100% and the consistency between both stops, as well as how you email or solicit, has to be consistent and equally as professional. So somebody reached out to me recently and I thought it was very engaging. But then I went and found them on social and it was filled with stuff that was not authentic. It was really sloppy and done by I, and I immediately bounced. And so that originality is as important and the sales not going to come through just your site. Kara 00:06:45  It is through learning and engaging as well as social hearing, trust building and the social aspect has to reassure them that where they're coming, It's not just safe. Like, am I going to get hurt? But it's safe. Like I'm making the right investment. And is this what I'm looking for? Because when people are out there seeking these types of scenarios, they're actually looking to either feel better, find vision, reset, meet people. a lot of it's around feeling better, but it could be a series of just letting go. It could be. But if you don't show up and understand what you signed up for, or if what you see online is actually authentic to the experience you're going to get when you show up, it's that validation on social that actually confirms a sale. So 100%, and just so everybody knows, a brand is not a logo. A brand is how you show up as a company or as a person in every aspect the photography, your voice, your social, how you, send them the materials to get ready for the retreat, to how you answer the phone. Kara 00:07:53  It's all important. And that brand as a whole needs to look and feel the same across all platforms. And if it doesn't, it doesn't have to be custom. With a big, huge website. It could be a simple website, but the visuals and the storytelling needs to be simple and consistent across all touchpoints. Shannon 00:08:11  Oh, okay, now you're really talking my language because it's not just a one stop. It's not just the website, although that typically is. The starting point is sometimes it might be the social. That's the starting point, but they're quickly going to make their way to the website. They're going to make their way to both. Right. Period. It's 100%. So yeah. So there's multiple touch points. And then also the communication right away. Like if they make contact with you, what does that communication look like when they register. The whole process is part of your brand. And I'm so glad that you are clarifying that it's not a logo. I can't tell you how many times people get caught up in my in what my logo is. Shannon 00:08:40  That's everything. Listen, it's a very small. Believe it or not, part of the picture, right? Kara 00:08:45  It's like one pillar of your body, you know, it's like it's a small piece of the thing. And it's important that it resonates too. But people aren't going to hire you because of your logo. They're going to hire you because of how you feel. And if you have that element of attraction or law of attraction that bring you in, that is 100% aligned on every touchpoint. Because if it's really cool here, then they go somewhere else and they're getting a different experience. You automatically lost trust and that's why the consistency is key. Shannon 00:09:14  Yeah I so agree. So I love this. So we're talking about that. Your website has a look and feel and verbiage and energy to it. So should your social media match. So should your emails show. So should all. Everything should match that look and feel and energy that you are trying to create. And I think sometimes we don't know what that even is or how it should look. Shannon 00:09:37  Unless we work with someone like you or an organization that can help us see that. Because sometimes we just get caught up in the logo or, you know, whatever it is. And we're thinking, I'm going to just do this on Canva. I'm going to create a logo, pick a couple colors, and then I'm done. Kara 00:09:53  Exactly. And I am a big believer in Canva and we use it. We personally don't use it. We set our clients up with Canva templates. Once we're done doing our job so that that consistency piece is key. And you have to think of it as, how you meet anybody. Like you're going to go and say, hi, my name is Karen. Wait outside. But that's not enough. Like, you need to speak of who you are and why you're different in order to get attention. And it's the same for your brand. So like, just because I people like my dress and I dress very simple today, but say that was a compliment. They're not going to hire me because of my dress, they're going to hire me because of the whole picture. Kara 00:10:32  And that's why that logo is it's important that it doesn't, you know, it's legible, it's attractive. It doesn't feel dated, it doesn't feel too trendy. Like those are things that we need to look for for the logo. But that is like third of importance as to the whole picture. And that consistency and transparency is really reigning above the way the logo looks and what your color palette is. And I get asked a lot of times. Like we just see the logo on an updated color palette and I'm like, okay, but then you're going to need these things. And so we have to coach them on. When they put that new logo somewhere, it's not going to spike sales. It's not going to spike the call. What's going to spike that? Is that again I hear you I feel you I see you. That is the piece that is the component that you want to reach your consumers. And if you can figure out how to word that and how to make it feel like that through your brand, your sales will increase and you will get stickier. Kara 00:11:27  And they not only will love it, but then they're going to come and they're going to get the experience. They expected it, and they're going to go home and tell the people, and then they're also going to share it on social. So that viral ness is important in that first step. Shannon 00:11:39  Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second because I've got something you do not want to miss. I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets from pricing to planning, marketing to mindset, and you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat mastermind training and come join me across the pond. Yes. Okay, so I love this because a lot of retreat leaders don't know how to word it. Shannon 00:12:25  They don't. They don't know how to position it. They're like, well, here's here's they hopefully know who they can serve, right? Who their ideal guest is. Hopefully they know that and they know the problem that they can solve or solve for that person, but then they don't know where to go from there. And is that something that you and your group does that they can help? Kara 00:12:42  Conditioning is is everything, to be honest. and we really want that to be stable and established and and Attractive before the visuals ever get involved. because that like, you need to think of not what you like, not your personal style and your personal preference. You need to think of what the person you're wanting to show up needs and what they need to see and feel. And again, you got to know the emotion. Every retreats different. Some are more fitness, some are more wellness, some are more mental health, some are more silent. You know, relaxation. But what are what is their pain point? And then the moment you can position yourself to build trust and authenticity around their pain point, that's the position is like what you do, how you do it and why you're different. Kara 00:13:29  And then if you can say that in a way that's compelling and interesting and attractive, it's, it's a it's a home run, because then all of the visuals back that up. And so then that's why the logo is, is like a piece of it. It's all the messaging and all the little graphics and all the things that really instill and insinuate what it is that makes you different is how that brand look and feel. And consistency starts to build. Because if you just start creating pretty things, you're going to, again, blend in, because there's a lot of pretty things out there. But what you need to do is, is match that message with how it's going to feel. And then the visuals come into play. And I mean, I'm an award winning designer. So for years I thought design was everything. And then as I started to own my own businesses and help thousands of businesses, I realized the positioning and the strategy behind how you're going out and getting the business is the success component. Kara 00:14:21  And then the visuals, I mean, it's it's really amazing once you have that positioning, right, how far the visuals take off and how easy it is, it's like there's no overthinking. You're just doing because you have a North Star that you're following, and then that North Star is solving the pain point and the problem of who you're trying to attract in. Shannon 00:14:41  Yes, I really do believe I mean, I with all, every fiber of my being, I believe one of the biggest struggles for retreat leaders is this it's their marketing message. It's there. It's their brand. It's the look and feel of what they're trying to communicate. And. And I feel like they struggle the most with this. And this is where they get the most stuck. And they just put something together and then wonder why it's not working. And so please hear me when I say this for my listeners. Like, this is where you are stuck. I, I promise this is probably where you're stuck and you're thinking you're not getting sales because of your price, or you're thinking you're not getting sales because of the location or whatever. Shannon 00:15:21  And it's probably 99.9% of the time. It's the branding, and the messaging is falling flat. It's not reaching who it's supposed to reach. It's not consistent. It's not vibrant. It's not the energy you're trying to create. You're not attracting the people you want to attract because it's just not hitting the mark. So I'm so glad you're talking about it. Kara 00:15:40  Yeah, 100%. And again, you can go to Squarespace and build a website over a weekend. And and it could be very successful if you have the positioning and an authentic voice and really great visuals. It's not the methodology of how you do it. There's a lot of ways such as Canva, such as AI, to get there, but you have to start with that base of of being different. Like if you look like everyone else, there's nothing to sink your teeth into that makes you stand out. And especially when you start to advertise. Because if you start putting money into that and then you start soliciting people to land, that ad could be the best looking ad ever. Kara 00:16:20  And it could say, but if they land on your website and then it doesn't feel like that, or you're not answering those questions, they're going to bounce and your bounce rate will be so high because they're going to land on something that doesn't feel safe, authentic, or, you know, matching their pain points. And so that that's why the the visuals kind of come in second or sometimes there. Shannon 00:16:40  I really do think that you're exactly right. And do you have to hire a professional? Maybe not. But here's where I think the struggle is, is they they don't have the skill set if I'm being honest. They just don't like I have to. I have to partner with someone I don't. Just my skill set is what I deliver at the retreat and what I teach people to do. But when it comes to exact marketing branding strategy, I have to bring in someone else for my own stuff. I can see other people's better than my own stuff, right? It's that's what happens sometimes. and so working with a, an organization or a partner or somebody who knows how to do that, I think is really, really valuable, especially if, as a retreat leader, you're sitting here going, why am I not getting the sales? What is happening? And if you're truly consistently showing up but you're not getting the the traction you think it is almost most likely to do with your branding and your messaging. Shannon 00:17:33  It's just falling flat. Kara 00:17:35  100% I agree. And we help people. And one of the things that makes us uniquely different is we will work with what's working and help you with the roadblocks that aren't or the gaps. So it's not like you have to come to us and we have to do it all or we won't work with you. We actually look at what's working and what brand equity you have, and in some cases, there's a lot that's working and we can kind of just come in and we don't Band-Aid. We actually solve it and we look at the problems and then we look out also not where are you now? Where are you going? So everything we're building and creating is actually giving you legs to get to where your ultimate vision is so that you don't have to redo this like the goal of branding. And most of our clients are in ten plus years. Not only are they still coming back to help them grow, but they're not coming back to rebrand. And that is because the level of who they are and what they do is so clear and it's timeless. Kara 00:18:30  It doesn't feel trendy or attached to something that's popular today. It actually feels, you know, something that could have been five years ago, 20 years from now. It just feels safe and seen. And that is another key to this whole thing, is to stay far away from very heavy trends, because it will make you go through this process again and again. Shannon 00:18:52  Yes, yes. Gosh, I so agree with that. Well, Miss Kara, if somebody wanted to work with you, do you have something special for them? I think you mentioned. Kara 00:19:01  I did earlier. You're offering 20% to anybody that finds us through this podcast. We have lots of packages everywhere, from positioning to visuals to positioning, visuals and a website. We can do them in an intensive process as quick as a week or two, or we can spread it out and do a larger scale project that can take a couple of months. But we understand that these types of projects are kind of hot and they're ready to go. So we have figured out ways for us to build packages specific to retreats and wellness groups. Kara 00:19:33  That can happen as fast as you guys need us to. And we do that hands on one on one. And we have a really specific staff that helps and handles these types of clients. And I am the creative director, founder leader of made and you will work with me individually, and then my staff helps execute all the way to the end. And I am with the project from the beginning to the end. So that's another thing that differentiates us. And we are offering 20% off of any package. If you find us through this podcast. Shannon 00:20:03  Awesome! Well, her website is made outside, but it will also be in the show notes, so I highly, highly recommend that you take her up on this offer because more than likely, if you are not hitting where you are wanting to hit, it has something to do with your branding, marketing strategy and your messaging and where it's falling flat. So Kara, thank you so much for being a guest on the show. Kara 00:20:27  Absolutely, Shannon, thank you for having me. Kara 00:20:29  And I look forward to helping all of your guests. Shannon 00:20:33  Thanks for listening to the Retreat Leaders podcast. Learn more at the retreat. See you next time.

In this empowering episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail is joined by retreat host and business coach Raisah Salima Bickram for a deeply honest conversation about evolution, alignment, and energetic pricing in the retreat world. Together, they unpack what it means to outgrow clients, roles, and retreat formats—and how to move forward in integrity and confidence. Raisah shares her journey of raising her prices, honoring her worth, and navigating the guilt that can come with letting go of what no longer fits. Shannon and Raisah also dive into: Pricing from a place of energy and impact (not fear) Why fair pricing supports sustainability and transformation Offering scholarships without compromising profitability How to create aligned, soul-led retreats that evolve with you Standing firm in your message—even when trends suggest otherwise Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader or stepping into your first offering, this episode will inspire you to lead from a place of power, purpose, and authenticity About Raisah: Raisah Salima Bickram is a Spiritual Mentor and Business Coach who activates visionary women into their highest leadership and timeline. She is the founder of The Mind, Body + Soul Experience (The MBSX) and has designed and led over 30 retreats worldwide- ranging from intimate day experiences to transformative weekend immersions and international journeys. Her work explores themes of identity, expansion, healing, and the embodiment of sovereign leadership—guiding women to become the CEOs of their own lives. A certified somatic yoga teacher, sound healer, and Reiki Master, Raisah specializes in trauma-informed practices that create safe, sacred spaces for deep alchemy work. Her journey began in September 2020 with a pop-up backyard day retreat in Long Island, NY, where 18 attendees gathered. What started as a local gathering quickly evolved into a global movement. Since then, Raisah has guided retreats across the Caribbean Sea to the Indian Ocean, cultivating a community of clients who are drawn to soul work, sacred play, and exploration. Through her retreats, mentorship, and coaching, she supports women in unlocking their gifts, stepping into aligned leadership, and coming home to their truest selves. Today, Raisah continues to serve as a global retreat leader, business & mindset coach, and yoga teacher, weaving spirituality and strategy to empower women to rise into their fullest expression. Connect with Raisah: http://Thembsx.com  Instagram: @mbsx_raisah Special Offer: $200 off her Sedona retreat + free identity activation session for the first 3 bookings   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in London  Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ------------ Timestamps by PodSqueeze: Guest Introduction: Raisa (00:01:34) Raisa introduces herself, her work as a business coach, spiritual mentor, and retreat leader. Defining Outgrowing Clients, Spaces, and Seasons (00:02:32) Discussion on what it means to outgrow clients, spaces, and seasons in business. The Discomfort and Necessity of Growth (00:03:00) Raisa uses the analogy of outgrowing shoes to explain the discomfort and necessity of growth. Letting Go and Aligning with New Clients (00:04:26) Exploring the importance of letting go of old clients and attracting those aligned with your current value. Fears Around Outgrowing and Raising Prices (00:06:58) Shannon discusses common fears: hurting clients and fear of not replacing them when raising prices. Accessibility, Pricing, and Scholarships (00:08:31) Raisa and Shannon discuss making retreats accessible, pricing for value, and offering scholarships. Energetic Reciprocity and Industry Impact (00:14:15) Shannon emphasizes the harm of undercharging and the importance of energetic exchange in pricing. Energetic Alignment and Personal Pricing (00:16:15) Discussion on how pricing should feel energetically aligned and unique to each leader. Evolving Offerings and Audience (00:18:19) How evolving retreat experiences naturally calls in a different audience over time. Authenticity and Co-Creation in Business (00:19:40) Raisa discusses the importance of alignment and authenticity in creating retreat experiences. Magnetizing Your Ideal Clients (00:21:29) How being rooted in your message and expression attracts the right clients. Staying True to Your Vision (00:22:31) Shannon shares an example of a retreat leader staying true to her unique retreat format. Leadership, Trust, and Not Diluting Your Offer (00:24:19) Raisa talks about sovereign leadership, authenticity, and trusting your vision. Setting Boundaries for Retreat Structure (00:26:44) Advice on not allowing partial attendance at retreats to maintain integrity of the experience. Raisa's Upcoming Retreats and Offerings (00:27:10) Raisa shares details about her upcoming Sedona retreat and her new Retreat Mastery program. Special Offers and How to Connect (00:29:44) Information on special offers for listeners and how to connect with Raisa online. Closing and Call to Action (00:30:57) Shannon wraps up the episode, encourages reviews, and shares where to find more resources.  

Can you build a retreat business that isn't bound by location—and actually expands your impact? In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon chats with long-time health and fitness expert Alison Katschkowsky about building a hybrid retreat business model that combines the power of in-person transformation with the scalability of online programs. Alison shares her 30+ year journey from brick-and-mortar fitness to digital expansion, and how she now helps other entrepreneurs add retreats as a powerful layer to their business—without overhauling their structure. They dive into: The power of hybrid models (and how they outlive fads) How retreats can enhance your brand, not distract from it Creative ways to offer transformation in both in-person and online formats Alison's behind-the-scenes plan for her luxe Amalfi Coast retreat If you've been wondering how to blend the best of both worlds—connection and scale—this episode is your blueprint. Retreats aren't just an event—they're a business growth strategy.   Connect with Alison https://thealisonk.com/meet-alison   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in London  Join our LinkedIn Group Apply to be a guest on our show   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   -------------------------- Transcribed With Podsqueeze Shannon 00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys, welcome to or welcome back to the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Today I am so excited to say that not only do I have an amazing guest, but she's becoming an amazing friend and soon to be business partner, which we cannot wait to talk about that we're going to drop some little, little hints about what we have in store. But Alison, welcome to the show again. Alison 00:00:49  It is always a good day in my world when I can talk to you, Shannon. So it's. Shannon 00:00:52  All good. Amen. I feel the same. So, Allison, why don't you just refresh for those who maybe did hear your show or just let people know who you are and what brought you to this point. Alison 00:01:05  My name is Allison Koski, and you don't have to say that. For those of you listening, most people just say Allison K. But just so you know, when you look at my last name, the c h is silent. So it's really just Katz Koski. So it's a little bit easier to say, but Allison K works. So so and I my background is in health and fitness. I've been in the health and fitness industry for over 30 years. I was a very successful brick and mortar business owner for a lot of those years, until I started going online about ten years ago. That's about when I started doing retreats. It was probably 2013, 2014, something in there when it was really still a very new concept. And so what I figured out was, is that the big question back then was, is do we need to just now that online is becoming big and everyone was moving their business online. It was like, you know, well, we're just going to go in this direction. Alison 00:01:56  And so my argument was always, you don't have to choose one. You can do both. And then when the pandemic hit, everybody went online. And now what's interesting is, is that everybody's going back to adding some kind of in-person, because you and I are both seeing this in the retreat space. It's just it's blowing up there. Everybody and their mother is thinking about retreats now, which is great. It's great for us. It's great for the industry. But but I just think there is there is a lot of opportunity there for so many people. Shannon 00:02:24  I love this. One of the things that Alison and I talked about before we recorded is, is kind of the topics which Alison and I could spend, honestly, you guys weeks on this podcast talking about business and retreats and, and all of that good stuff. but one of the things I thought would be really relevant is a hybrid model. And Alison, you are the queen of this. You help people build this. So tell me what that looks like for the retreat industry. Shannon 00:02:49  What does that even mean when I when we say hybrid model? Alison 00:02:51  Before I get to that, let me just kind of give my little analogy when I talk about the hybrid model, when we think about a hybrid model, what are we really talking about? We're really talking the best example I can offer for people because I'm a big analogy person. The best example I can offer for people is think about the hybrid car. What is the hybrid car? Do the hybrid car allows you to use gas or electricity? Right. So it's both. And so one of the selling points is because it's a hybrid model, the car can go further. You can get further on a tank of gas. Therefore it's the maintenance is better right. It will cost you less in gas in the long run. So you see there, not the car. Literally. There's no choice made as to whether or not you go one or the other. The same thing is true when we do the hybrid business model in our business. Alison 00:03:39  Now back in 2012, 2013, 2014, when the online space was really blowing up, this is when social media was really becoming the thing. you know, a lot of people were starting to think this is kind of the direction that I want to go with my business. And in my industry, it was blowing up like crazy. Then what happened when the pandemic hit It is that everybody went online. And the good news is, is that we could go online because it was available. But the bad news is, is that people sort of got away from being in person. And now what we're seeing because it's 2025, is that really the best combination? The best plan is to combine both. And one of the things that I started doing back when the online space was really getting big was that I started slowly dipping my toe in the water of online. And what did that look like? It looked like offering like online challenges, like connecting with people online. And then of course, when the pandemic hit, it was like you had to go all in. Alison 00:04:38  And for me and a lot of other people in my industry, I had to basically start over. Basically my business as I knew it went out the window, but it was time for me to put my money where my mouth was and really make it work. And that's what I did. And that's one of the things that I really teach my clients how to do today, because you don't have to choose. That's the beauty of it. Shannon 00:04:57  That is the beauty of it is that you don't have to choose, Jews, especially today. Because you're right, Alison. You know, years ago, I mean, well, to be honest with you, years ago, the online business was not, you know, obviously what it is today, but you kind of felt like you had to fall into one or the other categories. So you're you're absolutely right. Tell me. Alison 00:05:15  there are a lot of people today that still feel like you have to fall into one or the other, because these are conversations I have every day with people when they say, well, I can't really be myself online, I can't really. Alison 00:05:25  It just doesn't feel the same. I'm not good at it. Or they'll say about in person, well, that's just not really what I do. This is what I'm used to. And this is kind of the conundrum that we found ourselves in. Shannon 00:05:36  Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second, because I've got something you do not want to miss. I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets from pricing to planning, marketing to mindset, and you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat Mastermind training and come join me across the pond. Yeah totally agree. I hear that all the time. As well as just people saying, well, my business is online, they're not going to want to meet in person, or the other way around. Shannon 00:06:26  You know, everything I do is in person. So you're right. It is. Sometimes we get pigeonholed and we just assume that it has to be in that that way. Can you? Can you give us an example of maybe somebody you've worked with and like what this looks like in real life when somebody is considering it a hybrid model? Alison 00:06:41  Well, I mean, there are actually lots of examples. But one example pretty much right now is I have a client right now who has an in-person, primarily in-person business. This is how people work with her. They come to see her, they book an appointment with her. She has some online resources, like she has an e-book and she has some other things, but it's really hardly the same thing as having an experience with her. And one of the things that we're actually working on right now is building out a retreat piece to go with her in-person business. Now, that might not seem like a typical hybrid model, but what she has to do is literally build an online presence to go with that in-person offering. Alison 00:07:21  Because in order to offer retreats, if you have a successful in-person business, is is that you have to be always reaching more people. So this is something else that we hear a lot of people say where they say, well, I don't know that my people would want to go on a retreat. I don't know if my people would want to do something in person. And so my question is always, how do you know that they don't? And so what we have to always ask ourselves is, what are we doing to consistently put ourselves out there and have us meet more people and expand our audience? And that's really what it's all about too. Shannon 00:07:53  I'm biased, of course, but for me, if there's anyone that I trust and I work with in any capacity or just consume their information. I would love to fucking get in person. You know what I mean? Like, whether it's a conference or a mastermind or a retreat, whatever it is. I mean, I don't, you know. Yes, there are I'm sure there are people in this world who are incredibly introverted. Shannon 00:08:14  And just like that just makes their skin crawl. But for the most part, I think there's a good audience for anybody doing anything online that they could create an in-person experience. Alison 00:08:26  Yeah, and the energy is just different when you're in person. Like, think about it, when you go to an in-person event, it's very different than if you're on a, say, a zoom call or a group networking session or something online where you see everybody's faces and they're just, you know, squares on the screen. You can still talk to people because I think human connection can still be meaningful that way. But it's not the same thing from being in person. Shannon 00:08:49  I agree, I agree, and I'm grateful. Right? We're grateful that we have these online tools that we can do these things. But I'll be honest with you. so I belong to Genius Network. It's an incredible Networking group. It's really a servant group. That's just incredible. And every month we meet either online or in person, you can choose one or the other. Shannon 00:09:07  Right. So that it fits your schedule. And I'm super. I hope they don't hear this. But the online I like minimize it. I'm doing other work. It's still just as good information. It's just badass. But I'm over here multitasking. I'm answering text messages whatever. The in person lights my fire so much that when I get back home I am like, bring it! We are. We're fixing to make some shit happen. And so yes, am I grateful that we have the tools available? Absolutely. do do I think, though, that we get more or at least a very vibrant, different, action packed energy from in person? Yes, I do. Alison 00:09:47  Yeah. And I just think that to piggyback on what you just said and to sort of finish my thought from before is that you really want to think about the hybrid model from two vantage points, really. And this is what I have found works the best with most people. It's like the example that I just gave of my current client, who has the in-person business, and we're adding a retreat. Alison 00:10:05  And so you might be sitting there thinking, well, that's too impersonal elements. Well, you're right, it is. But she's also building an online presence to go with it. That can still be considered a hybrid model. The other way to look at it would be if you primarily serve your clients online, whether that's a membership or an online program or a mastermind or whatever group coaching program. And then you insert some type of in-person retreat experience, whether it be a private retreat, a small group retreat, a boutique retreat, or even a small group summit, right then that is also can be considered a hybrid model that the advantage, the commonality with both of those is, is that you've taken your expertise and you're monetizing it in a number of different ways, and that is really what it's about for the future. Shannon 00:10:51  Amen. Hallelujah. Oh my goodness. You're speaking my language. I'm hoping that there's people listening to this that either have been considering retreats or are in the retreat business because you're right either side and are thinking creatively how they can add that other aspect. Shannon 00:11:05  So if you are hosting retreats, how can you add on that online aspect, which, by the way, continues to support the people that you are working with or who've showed up, right? And then if you're online, how can you incorporate in-person events? I mean, I know you and I are like, duh. This is a no brainer, but I'm hoping that there's like creative juices that are flowing for people on either side going, ooh, I could do X, and X doesn't have to look like what Allison does, and it doesn't have to look like what I do. Alison 00:11:33  Like X could be a number of different ways. Shannon 00:11:35  Yeah. And I love that you're like it could be a summit. It could be a mastermind. It could be a gathering. It could be a retreat. It could be look, it could be whatever. and same thing for the online portion of it. It could be coaching, it could be group coaching. It could be mastermind. It could be, Yeah. Shannon 00:11:51  I mean, it literally could be all the same names that you use for the other side. It's just structured differently. in the content is provided, however, it is that you like to provide content, So. Alison 00:12:00  Yeah. And you just. Well I think too. For people listening, I think what you want to always keep in mind is, is that the object if you're an entrepreneur now going into the future, the object is really about your personal brand. It's about what are you about? And what do you stand for? What, what are you for and what are you against? And it's like when you look at being able to offer a number of different ways that people can access you. So in a way that, I mean, people could come into you from your website, from a newsletter, from a challenge of some type, from an online program that you're offering. But don't discount those in-person opportunities, too, because there's a number of different ways that you can monetize all of what you do. Alison 00:12:42  And then that sets you up not only financially better for the future, but it puts you in a position where you're always meeting people. And when you're a business owner, you can never know too many people. Shannon 00:12:53  Okay, so I love that we are talking financials a little bit because as people who have listened to my podcast know, No, I'm in the retreat business, not the retreat hobby. And so Allison and I and our good friend Aaron now daily have conversations about this. And also hint, hint. This will be part of what we launch. And I think we're launching it in October. October. Yes. So stay tuned. But yeah, we're launching it in October. But it will be happening in 2026. Anyhow, we're all about how can we increase our business and our profit? Totally. and this again, is to me a no brainer if you're doing really well on the online space. Dude, add that that in-person space and it just contributes to your bottom line and vice versa. Shannon 00:13:42  You're still serving the same people. It's still in your genre. It's all connected. It's just a different way of delivering the information and adding more profit to your bottom line. Alison 00:13:53  Yeah. And also, I think to what I just want to say, again, for people listening is, is that it really? You know, I don't want to make it sound like we're just sitting here counting money and money bags. It's not about greed at all. You know, it's really about being able to serve at a much higher level. And when you're when you're able to offer somebody a transformative experience, like something in person, like a retreat or a group event or something, you're just adding massive value for them and you're adding massive value for yourself. And it's a win for everybody. Shannon 00:14:24  Yes. See? Speaking the same language win win, win, win win for everybody. I just love that so much. The other thing that we kind of talked about real briefly is the business logistics side, right. So whatever your your LLC is or your company or your formation, you've started it off at X, it's, you know, online or it's retreats. Shannon 00:14:45  There's no need at the beginning to, to do anything differently. Right. I mean, Alison, you were just talking about this. Tell us about your journey, about how that was and then now what you are thinking of doing in the future because of. Alison 00:14:55  Yeah, when I, when I first started doing retreats, I got to be honest. I I'll tell you, because my background is in health and fitness. I thought it was going to be a fitness weekend. That was kind of my initial vision was to do these boot camps, these workout camps. And I'll tell you, and this is probably a really bad analogy, but I'm just going to say it my, my, my inspiration for doing it was watching programs like The Biggest Loser, where people would just go somewhere and they'd stay for a few days or. And in that case, it was a lot longer. And that's not really what I had in mind, but it was taking people out of town somewhere where we could really focus on themselves. Alison 00:15:30  And since at the time I was 100% working in fitness, operating a very successful small studio with a small team, I thought, this is a no brainer. This is a great way to give people kind of a family type experience, you know? And so over the years, that vision kind of morphed into something a little more boutique like as I started getting more involved and interested in personal development and, you know, daily self-care strategies. I've always loved to travel. And so I sort of found a niche in providing what I like to call a futuristic, visionary experience. One of the things that I use in all of my retreat programs is the use of a compass. I talk all about the direction that you're moving, the direction of your future, being aligned with your future self, etc., etc. so that's a lot of what we do. But now, back then, all I was thinking about was offering. This would be a really fun experience to offer for my clients. I wasn't even thinking about starting another business. Alison 00:16:25  You know, I was just thinking, ding ding ding! This is a way to help more people. This is a way to give them more. It's going to be fun for me. Let's just try it and see what happens. You know, and I started off as really small groups. And then they grew and they grew to like 6 to 8 people traditionally, which is usually about my sweet spot. And so now ten, 12 years later, at some point, what I'm looking at in the next year or two is branching off the retreat part of my business and starting a whole separate company, because I'm traveling more and more as as are you. And, you know, there's a lot more that's on the horizon. Ahead that's going to be tied into this direction for me. And so what I want people listening to understand is, look, dip your toe in it first and kind of play with it and make it work for you. And then if it makes sense down the road, then we can certainly talk about what that looks like as a business. Shannon 00:17:18  Yeah, I, I totally agree. Yeah. I love this so much. So if you haven't gotten anything else from this podcast, expand your horizon and think creatively about how you could add either the online portion or the in-person portion to your current business model. Alison's contact information will be in the show notes. She is the master at helping you brainstorm this, build it, envision it, get it going. So please contact her. And she's got an incredible retreat coming up in Italy. Allison, about that retreat in October. Alison 00:17:52  And at the time that we're recording this, it's we have four rooms open, and I'm partnering with a colleague of mine who lives over there, and she speaks the language and she's a phenomenal health coach. And we've got an amazing program where we've got introductions into private family vineyards and wineries and gardens and things that you're just not going to find. If you go on TripAdvisor or Google and look for the the cool thing to do on the Amalfi Coast, which is where we're going to be. Alison 00:18:19  So if this kind of speaks to you, then I definitely would encourage you to reach out because I'm really expecting these rooms to fill up fairly soon. Shannon 00:18:27  Love it. They absolutely will. So Alison, thank you so much for being on the show and I can't wait to release our big stuff coming in the future. Alison 00:18:35  So we're going to have to, we're going to have to come back and do another episode about that. Shannon 00:18:39  Oh, no. Absolutely, absolutely. Alison 00:18:41  Yeah, 100%. Shannon 00:18:44  Thanks for listening to The Retreat Leader's podcast. Learn more at the Retreat. See you next time.

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon sits down with Brent McCann, founder of the True North Retreat, to talk about the rising tide of men's retreats—and what it takes to make them successful and sustainable. Brent shares how he transitioned from corporate HR into the retreat space, the lessons learned from his first Sedona retreat (including the power of trusting the process), and how he's now crafting a profitable, aligned retreat business. They dive into: Why men book differently than women—and how to speak directly to them Pricing strategies that work (and how Brent raised his profit margin from 1% to 30%) How to design high-impact experiences that create transformation and build community What it looks like to scale retreats with intention, alignment, and purpose Brent's upcoming True North Men's Retreat in Austin (Oct 23–26) is designed for men at a crossroads—ready to step out of the noise, zip-line into clarity, and walk away reconnected to purpose.    Connect with Brent: https://truenorthretreat2025.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats  Join our private Facebook Group Join our LinkedIn Group Join me in London   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   --------------------------------------- Transcribed With Podsqueeze Shannon  00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys! Welcome to or welcome back to the Retreat Leaders Podcast at Shannon. I am super stoked about my guest today. Before we started recording, I told our guest that I don't have enough of them on my show or enough of them. You know that I see in the retreat space. So welcome Brent to the show. I'm so excited you're here. Brent 00:00:44  Thank you. Shannon, it's my pleasure to be here. I appreciate the time. Shannon  00:00:48  Yes. So Brent is a retreat host. And what I meant by there's not enough of them, or at least I don't see enough of them. And so maybe it's just not on my radar as much as it should be, is that there's not enough men hosting men retreats, in my opinion, and Brent hosts men retreats that look absolutely fantastic. Shannon  00:01:06  But I don't want to take away too much of your thunder, Brent. So why don't you just tell us all about who you are, what you do, and what brought you to where you are now? Brent 00:01:13  Absolutely. Thank you. So, I'm a previous corporate, employee. I was a, you know, a mid senior level HR leader for about ten years working in corporate America. Before that, I was in the car wash industry working as an operations leader. So for for like 15, 20 years, I was working for the man. And I got to the point where, last year, well, about two years ago, I went to an event out in Austin and I was really moved by it. And in that moment, sitting with 100 people, I looked to my friend and I said to him, I said, listen, man, I'm going to do this someday. I want to do this kind of thing. And I didn't know how it was going to happen. I didn't know what to expect. Brent 00:01:53  But, what ended up working out was that, you know, last year, you know, I made a pretty good deal on a real estate thing that I was doing on the side. And about Q3, Q4 of last year, I had this epiphany that like, if I wanted to, I could probably take a year, year and a half off and see if I could grow this, this retreat business into something. Shannon  00:02:15  And yes. Brent 00:02:16  Yeah. So it was really, it was exciting and nerve wracking at the same time. Right? You know, it's like, I have no idea what I don't know. yep. But I trust. Right? You know, I trusted and, I actually did a, I went to this breathwork, certification thing, and I came back from that in December of last year, and I was all of a sudden I was in a meditation after doing a breathwork. And it was like I felt like, you know, the universe just zapped into my head and was like, you should do a men's retreat. Brent 00:02:47  And I'm like, okay. Speaker 3 00:02:51  I didn't think about that. But, you know, I was like, all right. Like, let's, let's look at this. Brent 00:02:55  And, and but I didn't know where, you know, like I had coordinated things in corporate HR. Before, you know, corporate retreat type things, but not in this space. And I felt this, this urge to go to Sedona. And I had never been to Sedona before. I knew nothing about it. Literally had no idea where it even was. But I was like, okay, that's cool. Like, let's go. and, you know, six months later, you know, I had my first retreat. So, you know, it's been a journey. You know, it's, it's a it's a gift. It's really what it comes down to. So, you know, I don't wanna get too long winded on it, but I. Shannon  00:03:28  Know that this is great. Okay, so there's so many things that happened just in this first snippet. Shannon  00:03:34  the first thing is, is, like, you definitely received your download because for you to have a download that says, go to Sedona and you've never even been there or didn't even know where it is. that's definitely a download. It's not usually what I would recommend unless it's a download. Right. Because, you know, we we typically want to host at least our first retreat. and I'm even a fan of saying all retreats in places we've been to at least one time. However, there are definitely situations like this where something is speaking to you and you've just got to follow it. And I love this so much. Let's talk about the fact. Steve, here's the thing, guys. What we're going to talk about today is Brent's recap of his first retreat, and then now how he's going to learn from that retreat and go forward. Because I think a lot of people, Brent, they think my first retreat, I'm going to make $1 million and it's going to be knocked out of the park. Shannon  00:04:26  And I also think there are a lot of people out there making it sound like you can do that, like you can just all of a sudden be an instant success. But the truth is that there's no such thing in any industry. I don't care what it is. If corporate, small business, large business, it doesn't matter what it is. You're typically not an instant success unless you consider the learning, the success, which I do. Right? Because that's what those first few retreats are. At least the first 1 to 3 are learning experiences and their investments for future ones. So I would love, Brent, for you to tell us what happened on your first retreat and what was the biggest downloads and learnings you got from it? Brent 00:05:04  Yeah, yeah. Absolutely, absolutely. I mean, the the goal here was just to break even. You know, I, I, you know, I remember listening to episodes that you had shared and even in your book where it says like don't go too far away. Brent 00:05:16  And I'm like, oh my God. Like I live in Western New York. I'm going to this, this place I've never even been to. Right. So, you know, like, I booked a flight and I got out there two weeks later and I scoped it out, and and things just really aligned very well. but really, you know, what I learned from this was in the retreats, probably. And as with anything new, who you're coming up against is not the people that I was advertising to or, you know, my family. I was coming up against myself. You know. Shannon  00:05:47  This? Yes. Brent 00:05:49  Vulnerable space to be in, financially vulnerable, energetically vulnerable. And, you know, and to know that, like, not everybody catches the, you know, picks up what you're throwing down there. Right? Like, people are like, what the hell are you talking about? You're doing this, you know? So, yeah, I really I invested in a program. that was okay. Brent 00:06:11  Like, I spent a lot of money on it, but it was. It had a pretty good return for me, at least, to get me familiar, because I didn't have, like, an Instagram following. I didn't have a LinkedIn following. I, I'm not on Facebook that often. So how do you do this? Right? and that was part of facing off with myself is like overcoming this limit, these limiting beliefs that I need those things in order for that to happen. And, I'll be honest with you, I was going to I was going to throw it out, like I that got to be I had one person sign up. It was the end of March. the, the, the agreements that I signed were coming into the point were like, okay, you're you're within 90 days, you're within 45 days. You need to, you know, make sure you get a deposit. You're on the hook for this. And, I just didn't see it happening and I just totally I gave up, and I was going to take the website down. Brent 00:07:03  And I remember thinking, you know, I've got it. I'm going to take the website down, on like Thursday or no, it was like a week before. And then all a sudden I'm like, I'll just wait. I'll wait a little bit. I'm going to have this meeting with a friend and then we'll see what happens. Well, before this meeting with my friend, I'm making breakfast one morning and I get this text alert and I'm like, what the hell is this from? And I look, and somebody had actually registered for the event like a straight cold registration. And all of a sudden I had this moment and it's like, wait a minute, maybe that vision from a couple months ago is true. Maybe this like, maybe there is something out there that's matching what people need or what men need, and maybe I should try a different route. And so it brought up this sense of inspiration. and then I signed up, 4 or 5 other people within two weeks. Shannon  00:07:49  Like it just. Shannon  00:07:50  Wow. Brent 00:07:51  Yeah. Yeah, it was really powerful. so, you know, from that lens, like, I learned, like, if I try to force it, it's going to be way more difficult than if I just, you know, take the right action and allow it to kind of manifest or create itself and create the outcomes. Yes. And then also, you know, even just from the the overall experience, like I had a whole budget thing written out, I, I'm a numbers guy. So I was looking at a lot of that, and, and trusting the process that, you know, like I, I knew my numbers well enough so I could speak to things confidently. I knew it was going to be within like $500 plus or minus, so I was okay with that. and then and then really the, the self-efficacy of realizing, right, like in the midst of the retreat, realizing I'm doing it like, wow, this is really happening, right? Seeing other people's lives start to change in a matter of four days. Brent 00:08:44  And then afterwards, that feeling of, you know what? I can do this. And now after the response that I got from them, I'm like, I think I should do this more. And so that's what led me to to building into this second retreat now. Shannon  00:08:58  Okay, Brent. First of all, congratulations. You've done your first retreat and in my opinion, it was a huge success. Also, I want to harp on a little bit or not harp on. That's not the right word, but I want to just celebrate. I guess, again, this mindset shift that you had, because that's really what sounds like happened when you got that second, that second booking. I'm a big fan, I tell. I like to tell people who are who are new in the business that if you got one booking and it's an aligned booking, right, it's you got one aligned booking, then there's others out there. You're just either not speaking the right language, taking the right action, etc. and so forth. Shannon  00:09:37  I also like to say, now if you've got none, then we need to revisit what what your words are and who you're talking to and all the other stuff. But if you get one, at least aligned one. The other thing is you said something really powerful. My opinion is you can manifest and attract and allow all you want, but if it doesn't have action assigned with it, then it's just daydreaming to me. And daydreaming is fine, but it won't equate to what you just said happened in your mindset shift. So another congratulations, because that's really cool. So yay. First retreat. Nailed it. Nailed the mindset shift. Now coming out of that, and also, I am so glad that you got to see some of the transformation for other people through the space that you're holding, because that's what you're going to hold on to, Brent, as you continue to grow your business, because now you're going to based upon our conversation before we start recording, you're going to build this into a profitable machine. Shannon  00:10:37  And in order to do that, you're going to run into more obstacles. The mindset is going to get a little Willy Wonka. And we'll talk about that and and your plans. But but you're just you will naturally. That's what happens when we are on the precipice of growing big. But you're going to hold on to that whole like, I saw what this does. I know the value of what this is like. I'm just I'm a big believer that we can have impact and income. They don't have to be exclusive. And so anyway, so share with me now like what are we doing to make sure that it's profitable. What are some changes or what are some things that you're doing. Brent 00:11:15  100%. You know, like I there were things that we did in like Sedona, an inexpensive place to be. Like, I didn't know that. I know that now, you know, and there's there's times a year to be there and times of year that you don't want to be there. And, you know, so what I really took away from this, like I kind of did like what I call like an after action report. Brent 00:11:33  Right. So when I was in the military, after every mission, you look back and you say, okay, what was it that we did? What did we do? Well, what could we do differently? Right. So after doing this, what I really looked at was like some things were they didn't really have the impact, you know, like. so for example like we went on like this Jeep tour, like it was nice, it was fun. But like the guys weren't raving about it, it was just more of like nice to have now the zipline tour. Everybody loved it. Even those that were afraid of it and overcame themselves there. They loved it. So, you know, when I look at that, you know, I think about like, okay, because part of my modus operandi is every day we're going to do something off site. So like we go to hotels, I like to stay in nicer places. so we're going to stay at, like, a nice hotel. Brent 00:12:17  We're going to go out, we're going to do something off site. We're going to come back during the day. We're going to train, you know, have teachings, all that kind of thing. And then we're going to go out for nice dinners at the same time. And what I realized was like, as I, as I build into Austin, like, I don't need to, like we're going to do ziplines. Like for sure. Right. Like that's going to be awesome. But like I looked at like, oh, maybe we could do horseback riding and we could do this and we could do that. And I'm like, but does it need to happen? Right? So like when I look at it and I realize something's going to cost $2,000, but is it really going to align with what I'm teaching? Is it going to make an impact and help drive home what we're learning? Right? Or is it, you know, kind of like how, you know, you talk about like, yeah, people want to know like the activities, but they're looking for the feeling. Brent 00:13:02  They're looking for the transformation more than anything else. Right? So now as I look at it, what I'm looking for now is, is what what what are the critical few that are going to really land, right. And you know, for me ziplines that that's something that lands because even if you love them, you're still going to get a rush of adrenaline. There's still going to be some type of emotional response in our body. and you know just I like to have something a little bit. That's, that's specific to the area too. Right. So like when we go out to dinner we're not going to like KFC. We're not going to McDonald's. We're going to go to nice places that are in the area. and, and you know, one I want I want the guys to feel good. Right. So yeah, as I look at that now and then I look at how I'm pricing it, like I knew I was underpriced. I didn't know how much until I was actually on the retreat. Brent 00:13:52  And I remember, like, we rented like this big SUV and we're driving to this, I don't even know what we were doing, but I remember driving with all the guys in the truck, and and I'm like, this is like a $5,000 retreat. Like, they're like, I would pay. Not because I'm biased, but like, I would pay $5,000 for this. And I was charging, like 335. Yeah. So yeah, as I look at this now, now I've created, you know, the packages that range between 3500 to 5000. and then I'm adding the value. Right. Like, it's it's all dependent on what value you want out of it. And then also with what I've reduced from, from an expense standpoint. Now that margin went from really, like, maybe 1% to now I'm targeting more like 20 to 30% margin. And that. Shannon  00:14:38  Gives me, yeah. Brent 00:14:39  Bigger wiggle room and confidence to step into it because I know what it's worth. Shannon  00:14:44  Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second because I've got something you do not want to miss. Shannon  00:14:49  I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets from pricing to planning, marketing to mindset, and you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat Mastermind training and come join me across the pond. Yes, yes, I noticed this. So Brent and I were talking before we started recording about. it's just my philosophy. Not all hosts are like this, but I'm not a discount person. I'm just. I absolutely am anti discount. And I love though, Brent. How you. I mean, I really loved how you built the value into each offering. So it's kind of like okay here's your first soft touch point you which includes this. And it's you know, 3500 or whatever it was. Shannon  00:15:54  This touch point includes these extra things, and it's 45, you know what I mean? Like, I just I absolutely love that I think that you are positioning yourself in such a way that it is going to be beautifully aligned for the guest to get what they want out of it, and then you to feel energetically aligned in a financial way for what you're offering. Right? Yeah, yes. Because the ones that are paying more, they're getting more from you. and so it's it's a really beautiful exchange. So it sounds like you're totally aligned. Tell me the difference about planning for Sedona, which, by the way, I'm really glad to hear that you at least went and visited the spot before you hosted there. Brent 00:16:33  So yeah. Shannon  00:16:33  Yeah, that really helps. And anybody who's listening, if you're planning a retreat and you've never been there, you've I'm telling you, you've got to make a site visit. It just makes all the difference in the world. and it just really does. But tell me the difference is in planning. Shannon  00:16:47  Now, your second retreat with a different location. like, what are some things that have come up for you in this process? Brent 00:16:54  Yeah, absolutely. I mean, what's nice now is I kind of know the recipe, right? Like, I kept everything the same. Like I'm looking like on my monitor to my right. Has everything written out different? Tabs on the worksheet. I know exactly what I'm looking at. And I've built this. I mean, you don't get to where. Not that I was, like, super high up, but like, you don't achieve success in air in corporate unless you know how to be a business partner, which means working with operations leaders, figuring out how to, you know, make money with the people. You have those kind of things. So when I looked at this and I'm like, okay, well, then I know what I need. I mean, I've done this with entrepreneurs, I've done this with fortune 500 companies. I need to do this for myself and in some ways kind of put myself in check, too, like if I'm dreaming, like I had a conversation with someone and they're like, oh, we're going to do this, and then we're going to have affiliate marketing and this and that. Brent 00:17:43  And I'm like, hang on a second. Like, let's get let's get up on our two feet first before we start thinking about this. You know, I love the energy, but let's just, you know, little reality check. so, you know, when I look at this now, I've got this the recipe. At the same time, I've been to Austin like 3 or 4 times in the last year, year and a half. So like, I'm familiar with where I want to go, I know that I don't want to take everybody out on sixth Street. If I want them to stay sober and have a really good, you know, experience besides having like a party until way late and feeling hungover. Right? So, yes, you know, so I know the spots where I want to go, you know, I know I knew the type of hotel we wanted to stay at. And so this time, it's a lot easier because I've been there, you know, and now and as I build into next year, I'm going to have several other retreats. Brent 00:18:31  And in some of these areas I've not been. So I look at it as it's an investment now I need to get out there. I need to to move and shake. I need to talk to people. You know, I've got three trips this summer to go to different places because I so firmly believe that that there's an energetic calling for this type of work, that it's just a matter of like where and when and how. So that how has become a lot easier now that I've gone through the one. Shannon  00:18:58  How, yes, yes to all of that. Well, We'll tell our listeners. Who is your ideal guest? And then tell us about your upcoming retreat. Brent 00:19:06  Absolutely. Thank you. So the ideal guest is obviously a man. it could be anywhere. you know, typically what I've seen, you know, in this last retreat was anywhere from their, their early 40s to their mid 60s, you know. for me, it doesn't really matter if the the key of what I look for is, are you at a crossroads in your life? Do you know that you want something different? Do you know what that is? And maybe it's just that you're not sure of how to get there. Brent 00:19:32  And if that's the case, then you're my ideal client. Because what I look at is, you know, I have a balance. I, I don't get super woo woo because especially as men, we don't typically want to get into that woo woo space. And you know, and I should also add that my ideal client is somebody who really hasn't been in this space before, that they haven't been to a retreat before. If they have been, maybe it's in a corporate background. So now what I'm doing is I'm giving them some of the neuroscience behind And change some of the things that have been found over the last ten, 15 years as it relates to meditation and breathwork, and then also tying that into a little bit of the woo woo just to get, you know, dab their dab their toes in it a little bit, but not shock the nervous system to. Shannon  00:20:15  Love. Brent 00:20:16  It. I don't want them walking out going like I'm never doing this again. You know I want. Shannon 00:20:20  I love it. Brent 00:20:21  You'll walk around, you know, walk out saying like, you know what? It was the the best balance of of opportunity. I learned some things. I tried some new things. And as a result, this is what's happened for me. Shannon  00:20:31  I love it. Awesome. So when is your next retreat? We know it's in Austin. When is that happening? Brent 00:20:37  Yeah, it's October 23rd through 26th of this year. and yeah, we're going to kick off. We're going to stay at this beautiful hotel just in the hill country, about 20 minutes south of Austin. and then we're going to kick off, like I said, ziplining all the fun stuff there. But more importantly than anything, we're going to have a strong sense of community. We're going to have anywhere from 8 to 12 guys that are going to get together, you know, from all over the country and they're here to. To better themselves. They're here to get through whatever's been blocking them. And that, to me is the most important part, is that transformation truly happens when you get people that are looking for it and are hungry enough to to sit at the table and see what happens. Brent 00:21:18  So I'm very excited for it. I think it's going to be incredible. Shannon  00:21:21  Well, hell yes Brent, all of that information will be linked in the show notes, so please check it out and share it with someone who you think might really benefit from this, because I can tell from the website, from your history, and from your energy that this is going to be an incredible retreat. So thank you so much, Brent, for sharing your history, your lessons, and your upcoming offerings. It is so appreciated. Brent 00:21:43  Thank you Shan, I really appreciate the opportunity. Shannon  00:21:45  Thanks for listening to The Retreat Leader's podcast. Learn more at The Retreat. See you next time.

Retreat not filling up? You're not alone—and it's probably not your price. In this power-packed episode, Shannon Jamail is joined by pricing and profit strategist Erin Haag to break down the real reasons most retreats fail to sell out—and exactly how to fix it. From outdated marketing approaches to misaligned pricing strategies, they unpack the blind spots that hold retreat leaders back from profitability. Erin shares her proven formula for pricing retreats using math over emotion—and the key profit margins every retreat business should aim for. Shannon and Erin also talk about why transformation sells more than price, the importance of daily sales activity, and why being in the right rooms with high-achieving peers can change everything. PLUS: Erin shares a free resource for retreat leaders—her Top 5 Tips for Hosting Profitable Retreats. Erins Top Five Tips: https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.mykajabi.com/top-5-tips-1 The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Get your legal docs for retreats Join Shannon in London  Join our LinkedIn Group   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Spotify

Most retreat leaders aren't just undercharging… they're under-profiting. In this powerhouse episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail is joined by Leni Cavazos—event strategist, loyalty marketing expert, and former Ritz-Carlton powerhouse turned retreat business mentor. Together, they unpack why up to 90% of retreats aren't actually profitable—and how to shift that. You'll learn: Why retreat leaders must treat their business like a business (not a hobby) What loyalty marketing actually is (and how to start it from day one) The biggest pricing mistake even experienced leaders make Why your transformation container is worth way more than a fancy vacation How alumni can become your secret sales team This episode is a must-listen for retreat leaders ready to stop surviving and start scaling.

Hey retreat boss—it's time for a heart-to-heart. In this solo episode, Shannon Jamail gets real about a truth that most retreat leaders avoid:

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail is joined by Alessia Tenebruso—founder of One Girl Travel, retreat content creator, and social media strategist—for a juicy convo on how to create social media that actually converts. Alessia shares the importance of having a dedicated content creator or social correspondent at your retreats to capture authentic, behind-the-scenes moments that build trust and spark FOMO (the good kind). They dive into how retreat leaders can stay visible and aligned online without burning out, plus tips on using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok strategically. Whether you're documenting a retreat or planning your next one, this episode is your blueprint for scroll-stopping, story-driven content that fills spots and builds your brand.

In this heartfelt and empowering episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, host Shannon Jamail sits down with Kelley Hartman to explore the transformative power of joy in retreat leadership. Kelley shares how a life-changing diversity retreat in her twenties sparked her passion for holding space and eventually led her to create her own retreats focused on joy, self-care, and aligned leadership. Together, Shannon and Kelley dive deep into why joy is not just a nice-to-have, but a non-negotiable for any retreat leader who wants to avoid burnout and truly support others. They get candid about energy management, setting boundaries, and honoring your nervous system—especially when life throws challenges your way. Whether you're a seasoned retreat host or dreaming of starting your first one, this episode reminds you that when you prioritize your own joy and well-being, you elevate the experience for everyone you serve.   Offerings from Kelley: Free 4 Step Outline to reset into joy: https://kelley-hartman.mykajabi.com/wildhartscollectivejoyresetsignup    Connect with Kelley: https://wildhartscollective.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   --------------------------------------------------- Automatically Transcribed With Podsqueeze Speaker 1 00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat. Success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys, welcome to or welcome back to the Retreat Leader's podcast. It's Shannon and today I have such a special guest, although I have to preface it by saying this is not as fun as France because my guest is someone that I met while I was in France, and we were just saying right before we recorded that it was such a magical group and I missed that energy so, so very much. But I'm really excited to see you today. Kelly, welcome to the show. Speaker 2 00:00:54  Thank you. Very excited to be here. Speaker 1 00:00:58  Yes. So Kelly Hartmann and I are going to talk about something that probably seems a little bit like. Speaker 1 00:01:04  Wait a minute, Shannon, why are you talking about this? But I actually feel like it's super, super important for us as retreat leaders and what we do and how we serve. And it's just a very, very important aspect of our leadership. But before we dig into the topic, Kelly, just tell us about who you are and what brought you to where you are today. Speaker 2 00:01:22  Great. Yeah. So I'm Kelly Hartman and I own Wild Hearts Collective, and I am a retreat leader. So the journey there is a little bit of a long one. I went to my first retreat in my 20s, and what really sparked my lifelong desire to host retreats was the amount of transformation that happens when you're on retreat. I met people there that I still connect with today, and that's 25 years later. and basically just learning the personal lived journeys needs of everyone there is what was life changing for me. It was a diversity retreat and it was getting that individual perspective. So when I hit 45, I said, I'm going to do what I wanted to do my whole life. Speaker 2 00:02:11  I'm going to host retreats. And I was also in corporate. I already host leadership trainings. I created Elevate Her, I host the global mentorship program and did a lot of trainings and learning and development for corporate women. So I'm taking that out of practice and doing it and hosting retreats of my dreams. So that is why I started. Speaker 1 00:02:36  Yay! You know what I love about this is that over 20 years ago, you had the spark and you're bringing it to fruition. And I think sometimes people, whether you're 40, 50, 60, 70, it doesn't even matter whatever your age is. But women, especially whatever that number is, that age in our head and we're like, yeah, I'm too old to do this now, you know? And I just, I call bullshit on that because there isn't an age that's too old. There just isn't. Okay. There isn't. And so, Kelly, I'm so, so glad that you were following your dreams now. And you're hosting these retreats because. Speaker 1 00:03:16  Yeah, I met Kelly in France, as I mentioned, and her energy is yummy. Like, I just cannot even put it into proper words. And so spending time with her on retreat, I'm sure, would be a joy, which is exactly what we're going to talk about today, because Kelly and I in France, we were talking about some of the things that might be missing from a retreat leader's life, as far as you know, being the best version of them. And one of those things is focusing on joy. So, Kelly, can you just kind of talk to us a little bit more about this? Speaker 2 00:03:50  Oh for sure. So as a retreat leader, you are facilitating the transformation of others on your retreat. And when you're doing that, that is having a requirement for you to hold space. And a lot of times, especially right now. Everything is so the world is messy and it's heavy. And every five seconds there's breaking news about something. And what that does is that triggers our nervous system to go into fight or flight. Speaker 2 00:04:22  And it makes all of this anxiety and worry and fear come into our energetic field and build up in us. And when we have all this heaviness and fear and anxiety and we dysregulated our nervous system, that is what causes us to basically not be able to hold that space. As retreat leaders, we need to know how to step out of the grind, to step out of burnout to start with self-care so that we when we show up on retreat, we are the best version of ourselves. And that's when we talk about anchoring into joy. Because what is joy and what is required for you to actually experience joy? You have to feel safe, right? You have to feel your nervous system has to feel good for you to even get to experience joy. And once you get there, that is when expansiveness comes. That is when you're in flow. That is when you can give and pour into other people's cups. Speaker 1 00:05:37  Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second because I've got something you do not want to miss. Speaker 1 00:05:42  I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets from pricing to planning, marketing to mindset, and you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat mastermind and come join me across the pond. Okay, I love this on so many levels. You are right, the world is messy. That's a really good way of putting it. I think the world's always messy, but it just feels extra loud. You know, at the moment. we've definitely in our lifetime, Kelly, we have seen some extra loud moments. probably. Maybe. You know, I'm sure more than previous decades. Only in the sense even that it's just so damn accessible. Too accessible in some ways. Speaker 1 00:06:43  Yeah. But yes, that and also I want to piggyback on this because as Kelly knows, this last month has been really very difficult for me. I've had some losses and and when we're in those spaces, whether it's heaviness from the world and our nervous system is disruptive or very personalized heaviness and we're disrupted. I think it's important that we remember that's not the time to create when we're in that space, when we're in that space of full disruption, full nervous system panic, whatever you want to call it. That's not the time to reach out. That's as far as reaching out to your, marketing efforts or your creation efforts or whatever may be the case. Maybe that's when you rely on a team member and you're like, hey, I need you to step up for me, or you hire it out for that moment, or you just take a break. But it's like, we need to honor that. There are times in life we're going to push, right? We're going to push through things. Speaker 1 00:07:38  You know, you stub your toe, push through it, whatever. But there are also times when your nervous system is telling you, okay, we we can't we can't go on. You know what I'm saying? Speaker 2 00:07:48  Yes. And it's so important that we learn to honor that in ourselves, because we have to learn how that we can honor that in our participants and see that and help them through that. In a lot of times, especially in the world right now, it's the hustle bustle. We got to go. We're we're women entrepreneurs, right? So we have a lot of big goals, a lot of big dreams. And I know that we hustle a lot. We're always kind of like, I gotta get this done and do that. And we don't take or make the space always to breathe, to anchor in, to return to our body out of our mind. And that causes those cortisol levels to rise, the anxiety, the panic. And it takes a toll on your physical and mental health and is so important for us to listen to our body, to rest like you said, to take a break and rest and recalibrate Because we're able to come back stronger than before. Speaker 2 00:08:48  It's so important. Speaker 1 00:08:51  Yeah. This is such a good reminder to me sometimes I forget. And I think many of our listeners forget that it doesn't always have to be pushed through it. It reminds me when I used to have my private practice for mental health. If I sat with a particularly heavy session with a client, I had to work really hard to reset myself so I didn't take it into the next session. It wouldn't be fair to that next patient for me to bring the previous patient's heaviness to them, right? And it's the same aspect here, Kelly, especially for those of us who are holding space. I'm just going to say it. You really should not be bringing your heaviness into the space that other people are trying to share their heaviness. It's just not appropriate. I know people are listening, are going to disagree with me. They're going to think, well, that's a safe space for everybody to do it. You know what? Yes, but not for the leader. The leader has to do their own processing, their own leaning in, their own resetting. Speaker 1 00:09:44  Separate. It really is. That is not the time and space for you to bring your heaviness in. It really alludes the whole point of a retreat for the guests that are paying to participate with you as a leader. It's okay to say, hey, I'm experiencing heaviness today. We're going to start our workshop a little bit later and then you do your thing. I'm not saying that you're going to show up and pretend like everything's okay. That's not what I'm saying. What I'm saying is, you're not bringing your shit into the same space that everybody else is trying to hold their heaviness or share their stuff, and, and I just I'm super passionate about that. And this is a really good reminder for myself as well. Speaker 2 00:10:23  100%. And that's and this is what I definitely want to talk about that this is not toxic positivity. This is not you should be enjoy every single day. And if you're not, enjoy it because that's bullshit. That is total bullshit. What this is, is that this is a reminder that we have tools and that to use those tools to really listen to your body and recalibrate your energy. Speaker 2 00:10:46  You own your experience on this planet, and when you choose to be a retreat leader, you're choosing to guide others and help them in their experience. And it's absolutely correct. You need to go in able to facilitate transformation. If you're in your own shit, you can't facilitate that transformation. You just you have to deal with that first. And having those tools to reset into joy, into calibrate to that is huge. It allows you to be expansive. It allows you to hold energy and space for others and allow them on their journey for transformation. Speaker 1 00:11:23  Yes. Thank you for this topic. I think it's so very important, and it's just one of those things that's often overlooked. as I shared, things have been really heavy with me, and one of the decisions that I made this August, I was having my retreat leader mastermind, and I'm actually Rescheduling it because it's just not the right time for me to hold space for others because I'm bringing my shit with me. And so I'm super transparent about that and making sure that, you know, I'm making decisions that are sound for my body and safe for me, but also for my guests. Speaker 1 00:11:58  I am still having my alumni retreat. for those that don't know what that is, is every other year, sometimes three years, but usually every other year, I host a retreat that's just for alumni. That means they've been on my retreat before. They know exactly who I am and what's going on. And I had a real heart to heart with myself and the group, and they are well aware of what I'm going through. And this is just a party. It's just a gathering. There's no transformation, there's no promise. There's no holding space necessarily. We're just coming together to celebrate. And we're all very excited about it. And I'm actually excited about it. My alumni retreat, because I just I feel safe with them just as much as they feel safe with me. And it's, you know, there's there's just a really good, And, it's just a really good vibe with this group and it's just going to be so fun. But I've really honored. The thing that I've put forth that I'm saying is I'm not creating anything in this time. Speaker 1 00:12:48  In this time. This time of my own heaviness. It's not fair to the people who might be receiving receiving it, but also they're not going to receive the, the, the my true heart right now. They're going to receive my broken heart or my grief heart or my guilt heart or whatever it is that I'm feeling inside. That's what they're going to receive. And that's not that's not representative who who I am. And so whether it's big like the world or like loss or anything like that, or whether it's just you struggle with sadness sometimes or you struggle with whatever, you know, or you've got, you know, difficulties in an important relationship, whatever that that is, you've got to lean into that and not bring it with you into your transformative spaces. And I think you, you know, you, Kelly especially, you offer tools and thoughts on how you can maybe tune out of that darkness. Speaker 2 00:13:42  Yes. Yeah, because we do have those. And first I want to say, thank you for sharing that and being vulnerable because you're setting an example and telling people that it's okay to pivot. Speaker 2 00:13:55  you know, when I work with women, both inside and outside of corporate, there's a lot of fear about, perception or quote unquote feeling, which is such bullshit. Sorry. But in that if we don't do things the way that we thought, if we don't, if we pivot, that's a failure. But you are actually doing something amazing for both you and the attendees and doing it in a space that will be transformative for them and bringing your best self when you can. So that's that's setting a huge example for everyone. And that's just amazing. So thank you for sharing that. Speaker 1 00:14:34  Hey, it's Shannon here. I'm just popping in really quickly to ask a big favor. Would you pause the show and go review it for us, please? Reviews really help us to be able to get more guests and more experts on the show to help you transform your retreats. So if you wouldn't mind pausing and leaving us a review, that would mean everything. And if you're not already subscribed, do that too. Speaker 1 00:14:56  Yeah. No, absolutely I, I really I. My, my motto is to try to walk the talk. And so what I teach I really I really do want to walk and I it was a really hard message to send to the attendees for August. and it was really it's been really hard, even for those that keep inquiring about it. but also feels right. It's hard, you know, the hard that feels right. That's what this is. This is the hard that feels right. And so I want my thing was, especially I had this conversation with an attendee who was really disappointed. But my thing was I want to show up and give my best self. I don't want to bring this and set it on your plate. or or do a half ass, you know, retreat for you. That's just not okay. And so anyway, so yeah, I feel really good about it. As hard as it is, I don't feel good about it. I feel good that the decision was the right decision to make. Speaker 1 00:15:52  just like I feel good that spending time with my retreat alumni who are coming tomorrow and I can't wait to see them. feels also very good, because I know that that's not going to require me holding space necessarily. My team can do it if that needs to be happening, but most my alumni retreats, I'm just going to be honest. It's just a party. It's a girl party. Speaker 2 00:16:11  That's awesome. So, so. And that is what we talk about a lot right now. And what I do is I gather the women we're gathering, the women gathering women in circles is so important and amazing. and just that space. But again, it's that that awesome and just radical honesty that you have, that this is what this experience is. It's not a retreat. It's a party. And that is. Yeah, that's exactly what will be expected of attendees. And they're excited to see you. They've already been through that transformation with you. And they they understand. So that is totally amazing. Speaker 1 00:16:48  Yes. Speaker 1 00:16:49  Yeah it really is. And plus the outpouring of love from them has been just beautiful. So, well Kelly, tell us, like if somebody wants to spend more time with you because I think that they would benefit from it greatly. Tell me some of the offerings that you currently have. Speaker 2 00:17:03  Sure. So I am hosting a retreat in September called Joy as Revolution and we are taking, this experience is amazing because it's allowing people to experience joy in different ways. So joy isn't always this exciting, passionate, like, oh, I'm in joy. I take everyone through the four elements. so how do you feel in Earth as you're experiencing joy. And that's a grounded joy of feeling stable or air. How does air feel? That's going to be light and that's doing breathwork and feeling alive. Or if you look at fire, fire is that passion. That's the creativity. So that's doing art, that's dancing, that's, you know, yelling at the moon, that fiery. And then last is water. Speaker 2 00:17:52  And that's when you're in flow and you let go of the things that we hold so deep. So the transformation that's coming there and what I specialize in, and that's with all of my offerings, is getting you out of your head and into your body. Your body knows. And you talked about that you felt into your decisions about both retreats. Your intuition told you what was right and you listened. And what I see so much in women is we ignore intuition because societal expectations tell us No. You should push through this. You should act a certain way. We have these expectations of how you show up and how you act. So I specialize in getting women to get into their bodies so they can transform and listen and learn and feel. And then they trust their intuition. And that is when the magic happens. Speaker 1 00:18:50  Oh, yes. Thank you. And may I have another I love this so much. And I will have Kelly's website linked in the show notes. So that way you can go check out her offerings. Speaker 1 00:19:00  And I think you even have a free gift for our listeners. Do you want to tell us a little bit about the free gift? Speaker 2 00:19:05  Yeah, it's my four tips to a joy reset. So it's exactly that. It's just an easy little thing that you can do really quickly. It has, some reprogramming and I'm certified. So it just is something that helps you get out of the loops that we have, those thought loops or anxiety or fear and gets you into your body so you can anchor into joy and you can visualize your best self and live as that self. And it's under five minutes. So really easy little quick thing. Speaker 1 00:19:34  Yay. Well that will also be linked in the show notes. So Kelly, thank you so much for coming on the show and just reminding us of what we need to be really focusing on as effective leaders in our industry, rather than just the metrics or social media or the right offering or the right workshop or all of these things that we think are super important and they are important to a certain degree. Speaker 1 00:19:58  But really, it all starts with our inner joy. So thank you so much, Kelly, for being on the show. Speaker 2 00:20:05  Oh, thank you so much, Shannon. I greatly appreciate it. Speaker 1 00:20:08  Thanks for listening to the Retreat Leaders podcast. Learn more at the Retreat. Com. See you next time.

In this candid episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Pilates studio owner and retreat host Misty Chambers to unpack the highs and lows of her first-ever retreat. From a surprise challenge with a sick guest to navigating meal budgets in the Champagne region of France, Misty shares everything she wishes she had known—and what she'll absolutely do differently next time. They talk about the importance of having personal space as a retreat leader, hiring a retreat coordinator, setting realistic expectations around meals, and most importantly: why retreat leaders must sell, not just market, their experiences. This is an honest, refreshing conversation that every retreat leader—especially those in their early retreat-hosting days—will deeply relate to.   Connect with Misty: www.breatheriveroaks.com   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Full Transcript  Automatically Transcribed With Podsqueeze Speaker 1 00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys, welcome to or welcome back to the Retreat Leaders Podcast. It's Shannon and I'm super excited to have a guest today. That is another Fellow of France Retreat member. I met her in France and fell in love with her and her energy, and I'm super excited to have her on the show because she's going to be super vulnerable with us. Y'all. and share with us something that a lot of retreat leaders hesitate to share about, or they just don't even want to talk about it sometimes, or they make it sound different than it was. And that is learning through our first retreat and how we would want to do it maybe differently. Speaker 1 00:01:01  And just we're going to go dig right into it. So welcome, Misty to the show. Thank you. I'm excited to be here. I'm so excited to see your face again. It's not the same as France, but I am glad to see your face. before we get started into this topic, just tell us a little bit about who you are and, you know, give us a little bit of a taste of what? What makes Misty. Misty. Yeah. So my name is Misty chambers. I live in Houston, Texas and have a brick and mortar Pilates studio there. I have been in the movement industry, most of my life. started off, teaching dance and then got into yoga and pilates and, along the way, I've done interior design and, and now retreats. So, I've kind of had a, a long little detour of things that have gotten to me where I am now. And, So, yeah, it's a little bit about me. I think all of us have that to some degree. Speaker 1 00:02:07  If I talked about all the different hats that I've worn until I got to the space. And it's funny because all the hats I have worn helped me in the space that I am in today. And I think that just is kind of how it is. So, so Misty, you just recently had your very first retreat, you hosted your very first retreat. You were actually when you left us in France, you were headed to host your retreat. And. Exactly. Yeah. Through that process, we kind of all you were keeping us all in the loop during this retreat on Voxer. And my heart was like, oh, my poor Misty, because I feel like the universe was showing you, like all the things that could possibly make you cranky about hosting a retreat. It was definitely a learning experience. Yes, but part of what we're going to talk about is a lot of times, retreat leaders think that their first retreat is like going to be that that. Speaker 2 00:03:02  Oh, all. Speaker 1 00:03:03  You know, like this is it. Speaker 1 00:03:04  This is exactly how it's going to be. I'm so excited. You know, there might have been 1 or 2 things, but, you know, this is it. And it's like, that's not always the case. As a matter of fact, I would say more often than not, after you host your first retreat, you're like, first of all, do I even want to keep doing this? Second of all, how can I, you know, change all these different things? And so anyway, Misty, let's just start off with maybe your very first thing that you were like, okay, this is what happened and this is what I plan to do differently in the future. Sure. And to feed off of what you said a second ago, I don't know if you got if you remember in the box or chat. after the retreat, I was like, I don't know if I'm cut out for this. I don't know if I want to host another retreat because I had such a challenging time with this one. Speaker 1 00:03:53  And, I think one of the things that made it so difficult is that one of one of my guest was ill, and she was very challenging to deal with because she did not feel good. She was not, nice to me. She wasn't nice to her tour guide. She we stayed at a hotel. She was not nice to the hotel staff, and it just made the energy very low. And like, we were walking on eggshells. And I one of the the first things in dealing with that, I would say that I have learned is that I don't want to stay at the same place, like I did. we we were staying at the same hotel. I, in fact, was just two doors down from, this woman. And I would want to hole up in my room when we were not doing anything because I didn't want to, you know, I needed some downtime to myself. And so, one lesson learned is that I think I would, stay either at another hotel or make sure that I was in a room in a different part of the hotel. Speaker 1 00:05:05  If you're or if you're doing a retreat venue staying offsite. just to give yourself a little bit of decompression time. yeah. So I love this. Before we keep digging in, I realized we didn't really share kind of what what your retreats entail. And so you're misty. You focus primarily on travel and culture experiences. And I remember when you and I talked, I was like, oh, my gosh, this is my jam. Like, it's it's not a travel guide. It's like a travel guide on steroids, right? I don't even I don't even like using the word travel guide. It's it's an experience that you're providing, you know, where it's got all elements of the retreat, what would be considered a retreat. It just doesn't have maybe a retreat transformation at the end so much as an immersion in this really cool place space, you know, and so anyway, so it includes, you know, lots of different aspects of it, the excursions and exploring and the meals and conversations. But it's just, you know. Speaker 1 00:06:08  It's a it's a travel and culture immersion. So I just I wanted to clarify that. So that way people are like, well, what were you doing in a hotel? Because not everybody does retreats in hotels. Some, some people do. and I also love that you said, because this is something that I talk about all the time when it comes to hosting retreats is retreat. Leaders have to have a separate space, at minimum, a completely separate room. Right? Because I've had I've seen retreat leaders where they're sharing rooms in co shared spaces, like with their retreat guests. And I just do not think that's a good idea. So at minimum you have to have a separate room like here on the ranch. It's a whole separate building at the back of the property. It's the retreat leader's apartment. They have their own own little kitchenette, even, like it's just a space where they can kind of, regroup, reset, retreat themselves. So that way they can show up as their best selves. Speaker 1 00:06:55  So I'm really glad that you said that. And then there are retreat leaders like Aaron, who's who. We met each other through where she even stays off site. So she might be a few houses down from the house or the venue that she's using, or whatever may be the case, so she can completely decompress and she's got someone on point like Matt, which I think Matt was her retreat coordinator, which I think was one of the points that you were going to make to Misty is having a retreat coordinator, right? Yes. Again, because I had a guest that was ill. I was having to, manage her, like finding a doctor. her husband also came. they wanted an extra room so they didn't have to sleep in the same room since she was sick. So just navigating all these, different, things that were unexpected. We also had to pivot the activities that we were doing. Now, I did have a tour guide that I had for three days during the retreat. she was local there, and, she was fantastic and did help with, the pivoting of the activities and stuff. Speaker 1 00:08:09  But it would have been helpful had I had, you know, some like Daysha Danzy or Matt Quinonez, who I hope I said his name correctly and right. Who, who, does this retreat coordination. That can be your point of contact, who can handle all those things so that you can be fully present for your other guests and not take time away trying to juggle all these, pivots. Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second, because I've got something you do not want to miss. I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets, from pricing to planning, marketing. To mindset. And you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat Mastermind and come join me across the pond. Speaker 1 00:09:20  You know I'm glad. Yes, this is so important. I had daysha on the show a few episodes ago. If you haven't listened to that episode, you got to dig into it. It's she's an incredible retreat coordinator. It is so critical that you have an on point person who takes all of these things on because Misty, as you've probably know and felt every single time this person would come at you with some of the thing they needed or whatever, it would just totally hit your nervous system and your whole body. And then to continue to try to hold space and and stay light and joyful and excited about the experience is really hard. Where if you have a point person on site who is the one that is the first stop for everything that's needed, every issue that comes up, everything that's needed, that's the first stop. And then if they can't handle something, then yeah, they can come to you and say, hey, Misty, I'm not clear where I should go with this direction. Fine. Speaker 1 00:10:07  But there should be a first stop person. So thank you for bringing that up because I think that that's so under underutilized underrated not talked about enough. And so yes. Thank you. So. So lesson one was you know staying away from your guests, having your own space to retreat to and, you know, decompress and just reset. And then lesson number two is having a retreat coordinator or assistant on site to help you. What other types of lessons did you learn? So, since we were staying at a hotel and not at a retreat venue, I did not have a chef on site, so we were eating out at all of our meals at different restaurants. We had, two meals that we did at the hotel. Most of the meals that we did were like, the menus were the prefix menus, but on the occasions where they weren't, I found myself going over the allotted budget that I had had per person. while I tried to, we were in the champagne region, so of course there was a lot of champagne, being consumed. Speaker 1 00:11:17  So I would try to order a bottle to help mitigate, you know, the different, amount of glasses that might be, ordered, but, you know, I couldn't predict what people were going to order for their meals. And while I tried to look at the menus ahead of time and tried to guesstimate a good budget per person, I felt like every time that we went out to eat, I was, blowing my budget a little bit. So I think having, an agreement with the restaurant beforehand, having a preset menu, these are the things that you can choose from, would definitely be helpful. Or, you know, allotting a budget, like if you're having the meal at the hotel, you know, giving, a certain amount of credit towards meals. but, just going out to dinner and, you know, I was including all meals, in the retreat and maybe giving some free time for them to go to dinner on their own would also be helpful. Hey, it's Shannon here. I'm just popping in really quickly to ask a big favor. Speaker 1 00:12:30  Would you pause the show and go review it for us, please? Reviews really help us to be able to get more guests and more experts on the show to help you transform your retreats. So if you wouldn't mind pausing and leaving us a review, that would mean everything. And if you're not already subscribed, do that too. I love that option that they could have, you know, a meal on their own in this cultural experience. I think that that would be a great option, but especially just having the preset, you know, just a preset. This is this is where you can order from. And if you want to order off of this, that's fine, but that'll be at your, your expense. being super clear. But Misty, you know, considering that you had never done this. I don't know that somebody would have thought of that, because you did look at the menus and you estimated and you, you know, you were prepared as much as you could be until you experience it. Speaker 1 00:13:21  And this is why I always say, like, you really won't know until you do. You know what I mean? Like you, we can plan and we can guess and we can do all the things. And that's good. That's a good start, you know? But until you do it, like your first time doing it, that's when you'll see like, oh, my budget was a little off here. Or oh, I didn't even think about this could happen. What would I do in the future? You know, so so again, this is just another thing that, you know, you won't you won't know everything until you do it. And even when you do it, Misty, there's still going to be times if you decide to do it again. There's going to be times where you're like, well, shit, I didn't think of that either, you know? And that just that just happens over time as you start to accumulate these experiences and these, just things that will come up and and be able to plan for those things. Speaker 1 00:14:12  So anyway, what else? so my other lesson, which I have heard many times from Aaron, and then also more recently Dora Rankin, was not to just market your retreat, but to sell the retreat. And I think I did a great job putting all the beautiful marketing and all the wonderful things that we were going to be doing, and it got people to say, oh, wow, that sounds like a great experience. But that's all I was doing was marketing. I did not ask for the sale, and that's very challenging for me. so definitely lesson learned. And I know that that's something that I need to work on and get more confident at doing, but people aren't just going to come because you put out pretty post and it looks amazing. So, definitely ask for the cell. You know, this is such a big one. Missed this for retreat leaders who've been doing it for years and years. They're still not necessarily doing that part of it, which is why I'm so glad I also had Dora on the show to talk about the difference between marketing and selling. Speaker 1 00:15:33  And if you are an entrepreneur, really, we're all selling, but especially if you're an entrepreneur, you're also a sales person. Like this is part of it. And you're right. Marketing isn't selling. Marketing's attracting, but it's not selling. And so I'm so proud of you for talking about that. And in general, Misty, thank you so much for being vulnerable and sharing, you know, your lessons, but also the fact that you were super, super like upfront saying, I don't know, you know, if I want to do this again, I, you know, like that's, that's a real thing and maybe you just need some time to like, release some of the, let's just be honest. Trauma of it. To release some of that trauma and then get reignited with your passion and your why and and what it could look like, and knowing that some of the quote unquote worst has already happened. Right. I mean, really, it has. And so because I don't want you to give up, because I want to come on one of your retreats. Speaker 1 00:16:30  Like you're speaking my language when it comes to travel and cultural experiences. I just think that that is, it's something that's so needed and it's such a beautiful thing. And not to mention that your energy is absolutely perfect for it, so I wouldn't want you to give up, but I also would want you to do it with your whole heart. So I don't know. What are you thinking? Where are you at today? So now that it has been, a few weeks since my return from a very challenging time, and have given it some more thought, I do want to continue. And in fact, I do want this to be a more a cultural Role travel experience. that will be unique and fun. And, I'm already looking at planning my next one. I'm hoping that it will be in New York, in December. A little Christmas, Christmas trip. So, I'm in the process of, hopefully trying to get that together, and I've got a few other ideas in mind for 2026, so we'll stay tuned for that. Speaker 1 00:17:42  So I'm not giving up yet. Good, good. That makes me so, so happy I really don't. And some people may just not want to stick around that long, but I really don't think you truly, truly know until your third one. And I know that sounds funny. Like why the third one? Well, the first one. You're almost just like a deer in headlights. No matter how much you work with Aaron, who's amazing. You work with Dora, who's amazing. Like they gave you a good framework and they're continuing to do so, but they're not the one hosting, right? Your first one you are. And so it's just like that kind of deer in headlights first one. And then you were happened to be blessed with a lot of challenges in your first one. Right. So but anyway, the first one is just like the deer in the headlights. The second one is like, okay, I'm getting traction. I figured out some things that I feel did not work. Speaker 1 00:18:30  I've learned some lessons, and you're kind of like, okay with this new mindset, but it's really like your third one that you're like, you've you've pretty much fine tuned who you want to be, who you want to be there with you, what your message is, what the experience is going to feel like for you and your guests. Like it's really fine tuned by your third one. And that's when you know, in my opinion, you're like, yes, this is what I want to do. Or you're like, nope, I want to be a guest on retreats instead instead of this. And so, like, I really don't feel like, you know, to your third one. So I'm really happy that you are. You're going for it again. And if people want to find out about your retreats that are going to be coming up. How can they find you? So they can find me on my website, which is breathe River oaks.com/retreats. And, you know, I figure at this point I can only go up from here. Speaker 1 00:19:30  I agree, Misty. I agree. listen, I if we, we should have a whole show about all the things that we've learned. I hate saying the word wrong because it just it isn't wrong. It just is what it is. And it's just a learning experience. But I have had some doozies in my life. Misty in my retreat life of of guests that were in pain and lashing out. physical issues of, you know, altercations. I have had some, some things. And so let me just tell you that that's okay. Like, it really is. Okay. It's part of the learning experience. And, it makes us so much better at what we do. It makes us so much better at holding space. And it is so true. It can only go up from this one. Misty, because you did have quite a few challenges. But I'm so proud of you. I'm so proud of you for keeping your head up through it all. You were texting us and you were super receptive and, and honestly, at the end of the day, you have such a beautiful heart. Speaker 1 00:20:27  So I'm really, really glad that you're going to continue doing this. Thank you. Shannon. Yes, I'm so excited. So all of her information will be in the show notes. Please go give Misty some love. Check out her retreats. But if anything, just give her some love and encouragement. Because we've all been there in our lives or careers where we're like, is this what I want to do? You know? Am I in the right space? And so it just feels good to be supported and loved. So misty. I'm so proud of you and I can't wait to see what you create. Thanks, Shannon. Thanks for having me. Thanks for listening to the Retreat Leaders podcast. Learn more at the Retreat. See you next time.

In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail is joined by social media strategist and author Robin Nathaniel (@robbinmarx) to dig into what it really takes to build a retreat brand that thrives online—without having to chase every trend. Robin brings two decades of experience in social media and shares how to focus on authentic, audience-focused content that stands out in an AI-driven world. From aligning your content with your brand's voice to Robin's powerful SYNC framework (Simple, Yield, Natural, Change), this episode is packed with gems for retreat leaders who want to grow their impact without burning out online. They also discuss: The myth of “going viral” and why it's overrated How to identify your content bandwidth and platform sweet spot Why “100% human-made” content is gaining new value The power of speaking directly to your audience like a best friend A sneak peek into Robin's Social Media Sync Bundle, made just for you! Grab your free Social Media Sync Bundle from Robin: landthetalk.com Connect with Robin: Website: https://robinnathaniel.com/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   -------- Full Transcript Automatically Transcribed With Podsqueeze Speaker 1 00:00:00  Welcome to the Retreat Leaders podcast, your sanctuary with retreat experts. Where we spill the tea on retreat success. Here we dive into crafting transformational guest experiences. Talk about how to avoid pitfalls and unlock marketing secrets. Whether you're a seasoned guru or a budding enthusiast, we've got the inside scoop for you. Join us as we learn how to flourish in this magical world of retreats. Hey guys, welcome to or welcome back to The Retreat Leader's podcast. I'm excited because I have another amazing guest today in. My guest is going to be talking about something that I think 99.999% of the people who are in our space think it's one of the most important aspects of marketing and growing your retreat business. And I would agree with you, although I also think email is important, but we are going to talk about social media. And so welcome, Robin Nathaniel to the show. Speaker 2 00:00:54  Thank you so much for having me, Shannon. I'm pumped to talk to your audience about social media, and I'm confident that they'll walk away with some value today. Speaker 1 00:01:03  That's fantastic. Robin, why don't you just first start off by telling us a little bit about who you are and what brought you to this space that you're in now. Speaker 2 00:01:10  Yep. So I started my career off in music. I was a performer as well as an event organiser and a producer. And then in 2010, I had my first child, my, my, my son. And when he was born, I was like, I need to get a job. So I switched gears and joined the non-profit field, and I moved up in non-profit leadership. And then the pandemic hit. When the pandemic hit, me and my family left our busy life in New York City to move down to the green pastures of the Atlanta area. And I reset and, shifted from my career in nonprofit leadership to finally take a hold of my marketing, career, which I have a degree in which I had been doing social media since the days of Myspace and Friendster and just led me down this path of social media leadership. Speaker 2 00:01:59  Now I lead a small team for local government with social media, and I also have an independent boutique agency where we support mission driven organizations and nonprofit with social media solutions. Speaker 1 00:02:09  Oh my goodness. I love so much about this, and I love that you've been in the industry for as long as you have, because and I think it even said it on your website somewhere when I was doing some research, like it's, it's not heard of for someone to be in the social media space for over 20 years. So how have you hung on this long? I have to know. Speaker 2 00:02:30  First of all, it's just like interest, right? So me getting into social media early, I got to see the beginning with sites like Friendster and Myspace, even six degrees before that. Right? And what I found was the power of being able to communicate with people in another place with a push of a button just blew me away, and I knew that there was going to be something there, so I just had a general interest for it. Speaker 2 00:02:55  I think when I started getting into it on an academic level because I was an adult learner for college and I had to like write papers around social, do research. It just opened my mind on a whole, on a whole nother level. And I believe that's what separates me from other people in the industry. And if people read my book, they'll see some of my philosophies kind of butt heads with what the quote unquote gurus are saying in the space. I have some conflicting messages and we'll talk more about it, but generally it's just the love for being able to impact people all over the world. Speaker 1 00:03:29  Okay, well, I'm glad that you are here, and I'm glad that you're in this space and that you've been in this space for this long. I have been a user since the Myspace days. I did start in marketing when Facebook first became kind of like to me, it seemed like the very first real engine of social media marketing. This is well over ten years ago. And so I've been marketing in the the social media space since then. Speaker 1 00:03:55  However, it has been hard as hell for me to keep up. I'll just be honest with you. The algorithms change. The expectations change. The rules change what works. Change is a new platforms on the horizon, you know. Do you know what I'm saying? Like, there's so many moving parts now. Compared to when I used to just spend 100 bucks on Facebook and get a really good return. And so keeping up has got to be something I don't know. That's its own beast. Speaker 2 00:04:20  It really is. And I and one thing that I mentioned early on in my book is that I work in this space, right? Like literally I wake up in the morning at 5 a.m. and I'm all, I'm all social media until I lay down right and I can't keep up. So don't feel bad. Just know that it moves so fast. And especially with the, the rise of AI, it's just increasing the pace of the, the growth and and and this the platform changes. So that's why in my teaching and in my philosophy, I focus on a concept that I call algorithm proof content instead of people becoming, you know, essentially slaves to what the platforms are doing or liking. Speaker 2 00:05:01  Just focusing on human connection through their content and creating strong, intentional relationships with their audience. Speaker 1 00:05:09  Okay, now you're speaking my language. So let's let's dig into it. Let's talk about some strategies. Did you want to start there with this algorithm proof concept or or talk to me. What do you want to start with. Speaker 2 00:05:19  Yeah we can start with algorithm proof content. So one thing that I found in all of my years in social is that folks are glued to what the next big thing is. For example, years ago when Snapchat first came out, people were hyped about Snapchat and then Instagram totally stole their model, which they often do, right? And then they created stories and then everyone shifted the stories. So what I felt like is that essentially we're on this seesaw. Whichever way it's going, we're going to slide to that end. And when the weight shifts, we slide with it. And what happens is you get seasick. You're like you. You know, like we're overwhelmed. We're confused. Speaker 2 00:06:02  We don't know which way to go. And we're just back and forth on this social media seesaw, if you will. And what I found is that staying in the center and identifying the fact that the one unique proposition value proposition that you will have in whatever business you do, whether it's organizing retreats or whether you sell donuts, is you is the person behind the brand, the the the person who fuels the wheels. And if we can lean into that and really find a way to communicate directly with our ideal target audience, that we create algorithm proof content, regardless of the platform, regardless of the medium. You can write it, you can videotape it, you can take a picture of it. It's still going to be authentically you. Speaker 1 00:06:48  So you are speaking my language on so many fronts. The first one really being just being you. Like, don't try to be someone else. Don't try to copy this thing that looks really good or is doing really well. Don't try to follow just all the trends in the whatever. Speaker 1 00:07:03  Like you can use some of this information, but it has to be authentically you. It has to have your voice, your spin, your whatever. So I love that. And then in conjunction with that, making sure that it is speaking to your ideal audience, you know, like I can't tell you how many times someone's like, oh, I did this post and it's really, really good. And I look at it, I'm like, it has nothing to do with your business at all. Like, you're doing it on socks and you're over here trying to sell, you know, mental health strategies or whatever. And so it has to be directed directly to your target audience. It has to be authentic to you. And I love that. That is like the whole concept behind algorithm proof, because you're right. If you're speaking to your people, like literally someone who's looking, looking, listening, watching, whatever, if they're feeling like, man, she or he is speaking directly to me, it doesn't matter what the algorithm is doing, right? Speaker 2 00:07:54  It really doesn't. Speaker 2 00:07:55  And I and I and I have a quick story to share with you. So I got on TikTok in 2020 and I had some success, and it kind of led to my independent boutique agency. I had a couple of videos go viral. Both videos had over 2 million views. But like you said, the videos weren't necessarily aligned with my mission. My, the the videos weren't necessarily speaking directly to my ideal target audience member. And essentially the, the the videos were just vanity metrics, right? They got me a lot of followers. They got me a bunch of views. Flip the other, flip that coin. And on the other side of that coin, I did a video on Facebook a few years later, I want to say it had 500 views, Shannon 500 views, and it was basically me sharing one of my signature frameworks. I got a call or I got a message I should say that led to a call that led to a long term client that that generated tons of revenue for my business. Speaker 2 00:08:56  So the point is. Vanity metrics and chasing views, likes and the surface level performance metrics is not where we are in this era as I can. Continues to evolve. Human connection is going to be valued more than anything else. There's going to be a time where the way you go to a fair or a, you know, a craft fair and you go around the tables and it's like, you, you sold that together. Yeah. It was human made, I made it. It's made by me, the creator. The content will be the same way. Shannon. Mark my words. People will stamp 100% human made and it's going to have a premium value. So that's why I'm leaning into people or or encouraging people to lean into the human aspect of content creation and social media in general. Speaker 1 00:09:44  Oh my gosh, I, I had to mute myself, but I could almost fall off my chair when you're like, it's going to be stamped human made because you are so right. You're so right. Speaker 1 00:09:55  That is where we're headed right now. And it's getting easier and easier to spot AI. And we'll just call it sometimes IBS all over the place. And people are going to be like, they're done. They're over that. Scroll on, keep going. Tune it out. They're going to be looking specifically for human made content. Human made everything. And so I love that so much. Talk to me about what other strategies retreat leaders should be considering. maybe these are strategies that you've shared in your book that they should be considering when they're trying to grow their audience and grow their business. Speaker 2 00:10:27  I think for retreat leaders, and again, I'm grateful to be on your platform, Shannon, because, this is an audience that I don't get to speak too often, but I've had some, life changing experiences at retreats. So for that reason, I'm really grateful for this opportunity. It really depends on what part of their journey they're on. So let's speak to the retreat leader who is not on social, is fearing social, has some trepidation around even starting like the journey. Speaker 2 00:10:54  What I would encourage them to do is to first start with identifying their bandwidth. That's the first step. I think oftentimes when people say, you got to get on social media, we open an account on every single platform. We, we, we fire up Canva, we create images for everyone and we just let it rip. Right? While that is social media, that's not strategy, and I don't think it's the best use of your resources. Right. So I would first identify your your your bandwidth. Is it going to be you. Is it going to be somebody on your team? How much of our time for our marketing contributions can we commit to this? And as we go into 2026, I will also as a ninja trick just right now, as you're if you're working on preparing budgets for next year, you should really prioritize align for social media. So whether you bring in a team to help you, a consultant and strategists like myself, or if you empower somebody on your team. So that's the first step, is just figure out who's going to do it and how much time can they spend to it? Spend, spend on it. Speaker 2 00:11:54  Next you want to clearly identify your ideal audience member. So we talked about it earlier. customer avatars. There's so many terms around ideal viewer, just the person that you want to speak to in your content. And I know what people are going to think. Well, Robin, if I speak to one person, how will I? I'm going to miss out on so many other people. It's a common concern that people, people have. One thing that I've seen is that when people speak to one ideal audience member in their content, especially smaller organizations who have like one, set of people that they're speaking to, the other people will get attracted. So even if you're speaking to Jane, 29, who lives in Ohio, Jimmy, 35, is her husband, and he'll hear you and listen to you, too. So that's the next thing. Identify your ideal, target audience member. So stop me at any point. Shannon, I'm going to kind of push through this. Speaker 1 00:12:45  So you're speaking my language. Speaker 2 00:12:48  So third step after you know your bandwidth, you know your ideal audience member. The third step. Now, what you want to really lean into is where your people are. Let's go and let's do some market research. Where are our folks hanging out? If you have an existing audience. Do a survey, send out an email, blast. Send out mailers. Whatever you do to communicate with your audience. Get on the phone. Even if it's 10 to 15 people, to do a small little experiment to find out where people are. Now here's where people sometimes get confused. Let's say all of your people are on Facebook, but now you have a intern who only knows how to use TikTok. So now you need to decide, do you want to teach this person how to operate on Facebook? Or do you want to start off on TikTok? Because having a person on your team who is equipped to actually do it is an important part of it. I lean towards going where the audiences, and if you want to do a balance of starting with two platforms, if you have someone who's skilled on another platform besides your audience's preference, then that's something you can consider as well. Speaker 2 00:13:55  So now you know where you're going to be. You know who's going to do it and you know who you're speaking to. The next step is really figuring out the medium that the the person or that, that team member is comfortable with. Is it writing? Maybe if it's writing, you should focus on LinkedIn content. Maybe you should focus on Twitter. or X threads, maybe blue sky. If it's video, maybe you have a founder that's extremely comfortable on camera, like Shannon here. Maybe you shoot a long form podcast episode and then cut up the clips and create video content. Maybe you have a skillful photographer on your team, or a graphic designer that you can maybe use that content on a platform like Instagram or even X, Twitter or LinkedIn. So identify where your strengths are and then decide on the medium. And another ninja trick. Do not sign up or do not get active on every single platform, just pick one. Just start with one. Because what happens is people get burnt out there. Speaker 2 00:14:58  They're trying to use social media management tools. If you want to reserve your handles on all of the platforms, that's okay. Put a profile picture, put a bio and put your flag in the ground. But pour your energy into the platform where your team member who's or leading this charge is comfortable and you have skills in that medium. And then the last step. Let it rip. Double down and triple down when things work well. If you have a photo post that goes off. Lean into that. If you have a video post that does well. Lean into that, but continue to experiment and just continue to contribute the energy, time, and space into this opportunity. Speaker 1 00:15:40  Hey, retreat leaders, pause that retreat planning for just a second because I've got something you do not want to miss. I'm headed to London this October to host a live event that's all about teaching you how to host a retreat that's not just transformational, but actually profitable. Imagine sipping tea or champagne with other like minded leaders while mapping out your next sold out retreat. Speaker 1 00:16:02  It's happening at the gorgeous Waldorf Hilton in London. I'm spilling all the secrets from pricing to planning, marketing to mindset, and you'll walk away with a strategy you can actually use. No fluff, no BS, just results. So head to Retreat mastermind and come join me across the pond. Okay, I love unpacking all of this. This is such good stuff. A couple of things that I heard, especially when you talk about like your bandwidth, like how much you know, time and energy are you able to dedicate to this? Because there's so like you said, there's so many people out there like you have to post ten times a day, you have to post 20 stories. You know, there's just all of this stuff and you could should yourself to death in this, this realm, right. In the social media realm, you could shoot yourself to death, but it really comes down to what's the bandwidth that you are going to deliver high quality, targeted, unique, authentic information. And if that's once a week and it's good shit, okay, go after it. Speaker 1 00:17:04  You know, like just really understanding what your bandwidth is. On the flip side, I do love the fact of having some sort of consistency, and only because the social media platforms love some sort of consistency. They do like consistency. The algorithms may change, but they really no matter what. I think all of the algorithms are always going to like some sort of consistency. So consider that when you're when you're thinking about your bandwidth. And I do think, Robyn, people just need to hire it out if they don't have it, if you don't have the bandwidth, you've got to hire it out. If you if you think you can not have social media and grow your business in today's world, man, I don't want to tell you you can't. But holy shitballs, you're making it so much harder for yourself unless you already have some sort of giant following from way back when. Social media has got to be part of your your your your marketing. It just does. So whether it's you or hiring it out or whatever. Speaker 1 00:17:58  I also love what you said about whoever's doing it. Where are where is their strength, right? Is it written or is it a video? Is it pictures? Is it graphics then? I love that so much. You don't have to do all the things right. It could just be where's the strength? The only key thing that I would say that I really focus on is if you're going to pick a platform, pick the one where your audience is. You know what I mean? Like, most of my audience is in Facebook. They just are like for my retreats, not necessarily for the Retreat Leaders podcast. Believe it or not, a lot of them are on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. But if I had to pick out of all of them, I would probably be more Instagram. But my retreat guests who attend my retreats, they're on Facebook, right? And so where are your people? And man, all you have to do is a quick chat GPT or Google search and say, here's my target audience and describe that one person to the T. Speaker 1 00:18:54  You know, what's their age, what's their gender, what's their religion, if any? What's I mean, I mean, describe them down to a T and then ask, where do they hang out the most in social media? Where does this demographic hang out the most? And that's what you go after. And I mean, like you said, double down, triple down, quadruple down, like nail it on that one platform. What's your thoughts? Speaker 2 00:19:16  I love all of that. And I and I agree with you totally. I do want to just, piggyback off of, the idea of, you know, picking the platform and using. I, I get a bad rap because some of my, my philosophies appear to be anti AI, and I'm not. I use AI every day, and in my book I'm constantly going through it like I'm not an AI hater. Please. Like, like, don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to hate on AI because I'm not. So I think that if you don't have any access to audience right now, that that is a great suggestion for people to just put it in the chat. Speaker 2 00:19:56  GPT and, try to get some results there. Speaker 1 00:19:59  Yeah, I'm, I'm super pro I, but I'm pro I with your voice. And all I mean by that is I feed the information into AI and then ask for ideas or spin offs or adjustments or give me something that I haven't looked at or whatever. So like, like I mentioned like give AI all the information and then ask AI based on this, where are my people hanging out at? If you don't already have an audience and you don't already know where they are? Yes, I totally agree with you. But I also use AI every day. It is getting you know, I know we're going off subject, but AI is one of those things where it's like either you're going to use it or you're going to be behind. At some point. It just is going to happen. And I don't think AI is going to replace people, but it's going to replace people who are not using AI, if you know what I'm saying. Like, it's there's a difference, like AI is going to be your tool and it will replace people who don't use AI, is what I mean. Speaker 1 00:20:51  So? So anyway, so yeah, I'm a big believer in all of that. Talk to me more about your book. Tell me what people can hear about or find in your book. Like why does someone need your book? Because it sounds like they do. Speaker 2 00:21:01  Yes. So I gave a Ted talk back in 2024, and when I got off of the stage, I knew that I wanted to write a book. I just didn't know what the book would be. And then some things happened. I had some, personal issues come up, and it kind of went on the back burner, Shannon and I, and I was like, I guess I'll just do it when I do it. I went on a podcast, talk to a gentleman that really just spoke to my soul, like he was asking me questions about my mom, my brother, just all of these deep questions. And I'm ready to, like, talk social media, right. And like, literally was bringing a tear to my eye in this interview. Speaker 2 00:21:37  And when I left the interview, I said, I have to finish the book, I have to I took all of my ideas, doubled down, talk to my wife, got her blessing, wrote in the morning, wrote in the evening, narrated and recorded in the car. Sent it to an editor and it used the framework from my talk, which I think is poetic because the talk is really about in person interactions, where this is the version for digital interactions, and really it's built on my sync framework. And what sync is, is basically a framework that we can use to build intentional human connections online. So S is for simple. Oftentimes online people want to be the smartest person in the chat room, right? Like, oh, the dexterity of the physicality of like dude. Like just just tell me it's rough around the edges. Right? and simple is really that, that that concept of boiling something down to make it super easy for people to receive and consume. Y is for yield to your intentions. Speaker 2 00:22:44  It's all about being intentional. Before you start writing, before you start taking pictures, before you start filming a video. Thinking about what do I want? How do I want people to feel, and what kind of action do I want people to take? And if you really want to be an overachiever, how can I do it in a positive light, right? Like, what kind of positive impact can I have on folks? n is for natural. Oftentimes people step into online spaces with corporate speak needing to sound as professional, as clean, as as clean as possible. It's okay to say y'all. If you say y'all, it's okay to say wanna w a n n a. If that's what you say when you speak a little, cheat sheet that I give people or trick that I give people is when you write a piece of content, especially when you're thinking about written, form content, read it back to yourself and ask yourself, would I say that if I was talking to my best friend? And when writing, try to write like you're writing to your best friend. Speaker 2 00:23:45  If you're if you look at your ideal audience member, target audience member as your best friend. That's a hack to like, write like you're writing to someone you love and you care about. And when you read it back, if it doesn't pass that test, you might need to go back to step one and make it a little more simple. And the last step is C for change it up online. We talked about the seesaw where we're just going with the flow. What did they what did Adam Mosseri from Instagram say. Oh we got to do stories. Let's do stories. No, no no reels okay. Let's go back to reels. And we're on this daggone hamster wheel of following the the trends of what the gurus are saying. What I would recommend is to change it up, listen to new voices, try new things. If everyone is zigging, try zagging and see what happens. If you always do written content, maybe change it up next month and try a couple of videos and that will give you the opportunity to give more flavors at your ice cream shop, and maybe folks will gravitate to one of those different styles of content. Speaker 2 00:24:48  And that's a quick and dirty breakdown of the sync method from my book Social Media Sync. Speaker 1 00:24:53  Hey, it's Shannon here. I'm just popping in really quickly to ask a big favor. Would you pause the show and go review it for us, please? Reviews really help us to be able to get more guests and more experts on the show to help you transform your retreats. So if you wouldn't mind pausing and leaving us a review, that would mean everything. And if you're not already subscribed, do that too. Heck yes. Oh my goodness, all of that stuff. I especially love the whole when you're writing and whether it's writing, talking or anything, do it like you're talking to your best friend. Oh my gosh, that should be the heart of all of the content that you deliver is like your best friend or someone that you love and care about. So. Yes, yes, yes. Well, we're going to wrap it up with you telling us about something that is for the audience. You have a little gift for the audience. Speaker 1 00:25:39  You want to tell them about that? Speaker 2 00:25:41  Yes, absolutely. So I was thinking about what I could do to provide you with next steps on where to go. If you're on your social media journey, especially if you're just starting out, and even if you've been in the social media, you know, world for a while and you've been putting out content for years, having a fresh perspective always helps. So what I created is what I'm calling my Social Media Sync bundle. What you get is two free eBooks. These are robust ebooks that give you a play by play of how to fine tune on social media and how to get started. But also, I'm going to give you a free preview of my book. It would mean the world to me if you took some time to check it out. I include a chapter. I also include the intro and a foreword. So you get like the intro of my book essentially, and you would also get onto my email list. So when when you sign up, all you have to do is reply to the email and I'll respond. Speaker 2 00:26:37  I'll respond to all of my emails. So you if you have a question about anything we talked about today, if you want to go deeper, just reach out to me directly. I'm accessible, approachable, and honestly, I would enjoy connecting with you. And to get all of that, the Social Media Sync bundle, all you have to do is visit land the talk.com land the talk com that's also the name of my podcast. Speaker 1 00:27:00  Heck yeah. That will all be in the show notes as well. So if you are driving and you're not able to grab it on the air, then just pause the show and grab it from the show notes. So Robin, thank you so much for being an incredible guest on the show and for your very valuable information on social media strategies. I really appreciate it. Speaker 2 00:27:18  And I appreciate you. And I just want to say, Shannon, you are an amazing host, and thank you for sharing a little bit of your life with me today. Speaker 1 00:27:24  Oh thank you. Thanks for listening to The Retreat Leader's podcast. Speaker 1 00:27:29  Learn more at the Retreat. See you next time.

In this fiery solo episode, Shannon Jamail gets real about a truth many retreat leaders need to hear: the biggest block in your retreat business isn't the economy—it's you. If you've ever said, “People just aren't spending right now,” or felt tempted to lower your prices just to fill spots—this one's for you. Shannon breaks down the mindset shift that will transform the way you sell your retreats and communicate their true value. She'll show you how to stop apologizing for your prices, own your worth, and confidently sell your retreat as the life-changing investment it is. Whether you're hosting your first retreat or scaling your next, this episode is your invitation to stop shrinking and start standing in your power. Tune in and get ready to ditch the discount mindset and step fully into the role of transformational leader.   Episode Highlights: Why the economy isn't the problem (and what is) How perceived value impacts retreat sales What it means to “sell the transformation, not the features” The #1 thing you need to shift before trying another promotion How to speak to your ideal client's soul—and not the bargain shopper's wallet   Read our full blog here: https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/the-biggest-block-in-your-retreat-business-is-you-not-the-economy/     The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this solo episode, host Shannon Jamail gets fired up and shares exactly what it means to level up as a retreat leader—and why it goes way beyond fancy goodie bags or extra plush pillows in your yurt. Fresh off a transformative retreat teaching experience in France and actively learning from high-level masterminds like Genius Network, Shannon lays out how growth happens through mentorship, aligned community, and being in the right rooms. She also gets real about the flood of new "retreat coaches" in the industry—and why it's more important than ever to vet your mentors and follow leaders with lived experience, not just big promises. If you're ready to stop playing small and start treating your retreats like a real business (with profit, purpose, and power)—this episode is your loving wake-up call.   What You'll Learn: What “leveling up” really means in the retreat world Why who you surround yourself with determines your growth How Shannon's trip to France & Genius Network shifted her leadership A no-fluff truth bomb about BS in the retreat coaching industry How the Retreat Leader Membership can give you the support you've been missing Why treating retreats like a business (not a hobby) is non-negotiable for success     Favorite Quote: "You don't get to the next level by doing the same things and hanging with the same crowd." — Shannon Jamail Read our full blog here with this link   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this powerful solo episode, Shannon Jamail gets real about something every retreat leader will face: objections. Especially the most common one—“It's too expensive.” But before you spiral into discounting or self-doubt, Shannon shares a refreshing and aligned way to navigate objections with confidence, compassion, and curiosity. This episode is your permission slip to stop taking objections personally and start using them as powerful conversations rooted in leadership.   What You'll Learn: Why “it's too expensive” usually isn't about money The #1 thing NOT to do when someone hesitates to book Shannon's 3-part method to handle objections without losing your power: A Soft Place to Land A Point of Agreement Get Curious How to hold space for transformation (not fear) Why objections are opportunities in disguise   Favorite Quote: “Objections aren't stop signs. They're starting points.” — Shannon Jamail Read our full blog here: https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/dealing-with-objections-as-a-retreat-leader/    The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this bold and enlightening episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Dora Rankin, a business growth coach and sales strategist who isn't afraid to tell retreat leaders the hard truth: you're likely spending way too much time on marketing and not enough on sales. Dora breaks down the key differences between sales and marketing (hint: they are NOT the same thing!) and explains why retreat leaders should be spending at least 70% of their business-building time focused on actual sales activities. From connecting directly with potential guests to having powerful discovery calls, Dora shows us how marketing is just the invitation—sales is where the transformation (and the bookings) happen. She also dives into the 4 core styles of sales and how to identify which one fits your personality and business model best. Whether you're a seasoned retreat host or new to the game, this episode will flip your mindset, get you out of hiding behind pretty Instagram posts, and into real, aligned action that fills retreats. What You'll Learn: The difference between marketing and sales (and why that matters more than you think) Why most retreat leaders are spending their time backwards The 4 ways to sell (and which one fits YOU) How to confidently step into the sales process without feeling slimy or pushy Practical tips to rewire your mindset around visibility, outreach, and relationship-building   Connect with Dora Rankin: Website: https://dorarankin.com   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this powerhouse episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, host Shannon Jamail sits down with luxury retreat designer and director Daesha Donze to talk all things logistics, style, and sanity-saving support for retreat hosts. If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to juggle planning, hosting, and actually enjoying your own retreat—this episode is your permission slip to hand over the clipboard and reclaim your energy.  Episode Highlights: Why hiring a retreat planner or coordinator is a total game-changer (Spoiler: so you can finally enjoy your own retreat) How Daesha tailors each event to the host's brand, vibe, and clientele The difference between hosting and directing—and why you shouldn't do both A quick dive into Seller of Travel laws and how Daesha can legally book and sell travel worldwide Her high-touch services: VIP Planning Sessions, Done-for-You Planning, On-Site Coordination, and VIP Weekends Whether you're planning your first retreat or looking to level up your next luxury mastermind, Daesha's insights will leave you inspired (and ready to hand over the spreadsheets).

In this powerful episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, host Shannon Jamail welcomes trauma therapist and retreat coach Lesley Martin for a raw and insightful conversation about the emotional resilience and energetic boundaries required to lead transformational retreats. Lesley and Shannon dive deep into the often overlooked emotional toll retreat leaders face, especially when carrying their own unhealed trauma or managing the weight of participants' needs. They discuss how coaching and self-reflection can help retreat leaders grow beyond the therapy room, create healthier emotional boundaries, and avoid the path to burnout. You'll also get an inside look at Lesley's upcoming Morocco retreat for burned-out entrepreneurs, designed to help participants reset through cultural immersion, desert meditation, and intentional stillness in the Sahara. Episode Highlights: Why retreat leaders must address their own trauma to serve powerfully Energetic boundaries and grounding practices to prevent burnout Behind the scenes of Lesley's Morocco retreat: A transformational journey for service-based pros Coaching vs. therapy: When it's time to level up your personal growth Tools like Lesley's new digital workbook to reimagine what's possible Special offers for podcast listeners including a $200 discount on Lesley's upcoming retreat Whether you're navigating your own healing or simply want to hold space more effectively, this episode is filled with heartfelt wisdom, practical tools, and real talk about what it takes to lead (and live) with intention.   About Leslie Lesley is the coach, guide, and mentor for entrepreneurs and professionals who've been through trauma or adversity and now want to feel better and live more authentic and fulfilling lives. She helps empower people to change their lives for the better. Lesley brings over 20 years of knowledge and training as a holistic psychotherapist into her work to benefit her clients. Her approach is holistic, and she incorporates psychological, meditative, intuitive, and spiritual practices to help her clients heal, deepen their connection, and thrive.   She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Contemplative World Religions from Naropa University in Boulder, CO, and her Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College. In 2021, Lesley completed a certification program in Life Coaching through The Life Coach School. Lesley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York State and is the founder of WNY Holistic Counseling, A Whole-Person Approach to Therapy.  She is also the founder of Blue Lotus Soul Coaching, where she utilizes Life Coaching to help her clients live unencumbered, whole-hearted lives. She offers Akashic Records Readings, Trauma Clearing Sessions, Oracle Card Spreads, Psychotherapy Sessions, 1:1 Coaching Packages and unique Retreat Experiences.   Connect with Leslie https://lesleymartincoaching.com/    Free Gifts: $200 discount off the Sahara Soul Awakening Retreat if the participant mentions this episode: https://sahara-soul-awakening.myflodesk.com/  Possibility Pie workbook: https://sahara-soul-awakening.myflodesk.com/possibilitypie      The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this inspiring episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, host Shannon Jamail sits down with journalist-turned-content-marketer and storytelling coach, Renee Frojo, to explore how powerful storytelling can transform your retreat business from “meh” to sold out. Renee shares her journey from the newsroom to coaching B2B and B2C entrepreneurs on connecting with their audience in the most human way possible—through story. After selling out her very first international retreat in Costa Rica using just stories and intention (not a massive follower count), she's now hosting her second retreat in Mexico City, and trust us—you'll want in on what she's teaching.

In this powerful episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail welcomes executive coach and consultant Adrian Koehler, a leadership expert with a bold approach rooted in emotional intelligence and unapologetic honesty. From "hugging the cactus" to "riding the elephant," Adrian shares what it really takes to lead high-impact retreats and teams—spoiler: it's not all good vibes and holding space. Episode Highlights: Leadership Beyond the Feel-Good: Adrian and Shannon break down why retreat leaders need more than intuition and good intentions—they need structure, clarity, and accountability. The Real Work of Alignment: Learn how to get your support team fully aligned with your retreat's vision, values, and promises so every attendee gets what they came for. Handling Conflict Like a Pro: Adrian shares his frameworks for navigating difficult conversations with empathy and precision—so you can be “hard on the problem, soft on the person.” Preventing the Parade of Horribles: Discover how addressing small issues early keeps your business relationships strong and your standards high. Empathy Meets Accountability: From venue problems to team tension, Adrian shows you how to approach challenges collaboratively while staying fiercely committed to your mission. Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader or building your first event, this episode will give you real-world tools to step into your role as a true leader—not just a space holder. About Adrian Adrian Koehler, the no-nonsense leadership engagement expert and Senior Partner at Take New  Ground, is the go-to guide for fast-moving leaders. Dedicated to breaking through barriers, he spends his time helping entrepreneurs and enterprise leaders cut through the noise and create transformative outcomes. Adrian coaches executives globally, encouraging authentic leadership and fostering courage for meaningful change. His passion for human performance has led him to diverse contexts, from Fortune 500 organizations to startups and healthcare, making Adrian a catalyst for real talk and impactful results. Adrian Koehler extends his influence beyond the boardroom as the co-host of "Raising The Bar" and "The Naked Leadership Podcast." Drawing on his background in philanthropy, ministry, activism, and medicine, he thrives in difficult conversations and engaging complexity, challenging listeners to live authentically. Currently residing in the heart of Hollywood, with his children Scout and Charli, Adrian is on a mission to inspire authentic leadership, urging individuals to raise the bar in both personal and professional realms.   Connect with Adrian https://takenewground.com/      The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Episode Summary: Join us on the Retreat Leaders Podcast as we dive deep into the art of selling with Jacob Hicks, a seasoned success coach with a decade of sales experience. In this enlightening episode titled "Mastering Sales as a Retreat Leader: Techniques and Insights with Jacob Hicks," Jacob unpacks the essential skills every retreat leader needs to thrive in the competitive world of retreats and personal development. Episode Highlights: Sales Mindset for Success: Jacob stresses the importance of adopting a sales mindset, explaining that everyone in business, regardless of their role, is essentially in sales. He shares insights on how retreat leaders can benefit from embracing this perspective to enhance their business success. The Power of Follow-Up: Learn why following up is crucial in sales and networking, with Jacob noting that a significant portion of business comes from persistent follow-ups. Discover strategies to improve your follow-up game and why it's critical not to give up after the first or second attempt. Providing Value in Sales: This segment focuses on the importance of offering value through consistent follow-up. Jacob discusses how to engage potential clients by addressing their pain points through insightful questions and leading conversations that demonstrate expertise. Handling Objections: Jacob provides practical advice on practicing objection handling and closing sales effectively. He emphasizes that understanding and addressing common concerns about time and money upfront can significantly increase your success rate. Sales Strategies and Resources: Wrap up the episode with actionable sales strategies that can transform your approach to selling retreats. Jacob generously offers free resources and a complimentary coaching session to help listeners apply what they've learned. Tune in to gain invaluable sales knowledge that will empower you to confidently sell your retreat experiences and grow your business. Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips to refine your sales approach and achieve greater impact. About Jacob CEO,Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur, LeadershipCoach,Mindset Expert Jacob Hicks is a coach and keynote speaker with over a decade of experience transforming lives and businesses. Thanks to 10 years in sales, Jacob has a knack for identifying what drives lasting success and delivering implementable strategies to help clients achieve it. Podcasters love working with Jacob because of his practical insights and engaging storytelling that leave audiences inspired. Known for his strong follow-up systems and mindset-driven coaching, Jacob empowers clients across industries to overcome challenges, implement sustainable systems, and move forward with confidence. Connect with Jacob https://jacobhickscoach.com/  The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this enlightening episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, host Shannon Jamail sits down with Terrie Christine, an intuitive energy healer whose transition from a corporate career to mastering the subconscious realm has transformed many lives. This discussion dives deep into how Terrie uses her unique skills to help individuals overcome subconscious blocks that hold them back from living fully empowered lives. Episode Highlights: Journey to Healing: Terrie shares her personal evolution from confronting childhood wounds and past emotional traumas to discovering her true calling in energy healing. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of facing and healing one's subconscious. Subconscious Triggers in Retreats: The conversation turns to the specific challenges retreat leaders face, such as self-doubt and limiting beliefs stemming from past experiences. Terrie emphasizes the importance of authenticity and understanding one's triggers to prevent them from impacting retreat planning and execution. Instincts Over Opinions: Terrie recounts her experiences while publishing her book, "The Secret Power of You," highlighting the crucial lesson of trusting one's instincts, especially when external opinions clash with personal intuition. Alignment with Purpose: Both Shannon and Terrie discuss the significance of aligning actions with one's true passion and purpose, ensuring that every decision contributes to personal and professional fulfillment. Reframing Money Perspectives: A profound part of the discussion is dedicated to reframing beliefs around money and value. Terrie offers insight into how upbringing influences financial perspectives and shares how she assists people in overcoming these deep-seated beliefs to embrace a more abundant mindset. Join Shannon and Terrie as they explore how tapping into the subconscious can lead to a more authentic and powerful leadership in retreat settings. This episode is packed with actionable advice for those looking to enrich their personal and professional lives by breaking free from the chains of unexplored subconscious thoughts. Tune in now to discover how to transform challenges into stepping stones towards a fulfilled and purpose-driven life. About Terrie Terrie Christine is an internationally acclaimed Celebrity Relationship Coach and Intuitive Energy Healer with nearly 20 years of experience. Featured on Bravo's The Real Housewives of Potomac, Love and Marriage DC on the OWN Network, Hay House Radio, and Good Morning Washington, Terrie specializes in helping individuals break through emotional barriers, embrace self-love, and create lasting, meaningful relationships. Through her intuitive healing, she empowers clients to heal past wounds and connect more deeply with themselves and their partners. She is the author of The Secret Power of You: A Guide to Mastering Your Inner Greatness. Connect with Terrie For more insights & wisdom, visit www.TerrieChristine.com or follow Terrie on YouTube and social media. She's @TerrieChristine on Instagram, and TikTok, or find her on Facebook @TerrieChristine333. Website: https://TerrieChristine.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terriechristine333 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terriechristine TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@terriechristine YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/terriechristine   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Dive into an energizing episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast where host Shannon Jamail connects with Ricardo, a vibrant videographer, photographer, and dance enthusiast from Philadelphia. Explore how Ricardo uses dance as a powerful tool for fostering community and connection in retreat settings. Episode Highlights: Embracing Dance in Retreats: Shannon and Ricardo delve into the transformative power of social dancing, particularly Latin styles like salsa and bachata, to break down barriers and enhance bonding among retreat participants. They discuss the magnetic effect of dance in creating safe spaces for expression and connection. Creating Inclusive Dance Environments: Learn how Ricardo crafts welcoming atmospheres for social dancing at retreats, encouraging participants to step out and dance with confidence. He shares tips on setting the right tone, using dance ambassadors, and making everyone feel comfortable on the dance floor. Journey through Dance and Teaching: Ricardo recounts his personal dance journey and his return to teaching with his partner, Alex. They co-teach workshops that not only focus on dance steps but also on fostering a deeper community among dancers. Integrating Dance into Retreats: Shannon and Ricardo discuss practical ways to integrate dance into retreats to enhance the overall experience. They talk about the importance of aligning dance activities with the retreat's theme and ensuring they add value to the participants' experience. The Power of Dance for Community Building: Both hosts explore how dance can serve as a cornerstone for building stronger connections within retreat groups. They reflect on their own experiences where dance helped participants form lasting bonds and shared memories. Tune in to this lively episode to discover how integrating dance into retreats can transform an ordinary retreat into an extraordinary experience. Whether you're a retreat leader looking to spice up your events or just curious about the benefits of dance, this episode offers fresh perspectives and inspiring stories that highlight the joy and community-building potential of dance. About Ricardo Ricardo is a media production professional and storyteller who specializes in documenting the transformative power of movement and dance communities. As the creator of 'Why We Move' podcast, he uncovers compelling stories that bridge cultural expression with community building, having produced 23 episodes featuring dancers, instructors, and wellness enthusiasts. After pivoting from a career in medicine, he found his true calling in visual storytelling and founded Rico Media Productions, where he helps businesses and communities tell authentic stories through video, photography, and podcasting. Ricardo's unique approach combines his understanding of movement dynamics with digital storytelling techniques, allowing him to capture and share the genuine moments that build lasting connections. His work spans social dance documentation, retreat experiences, and community events, always emphasizing the power of movement to break down barriers and create meaningful human connections. Connect with Ricardo https://direct.me/whywemove    The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Welcome to another episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, where today's guest, David Schafran, shares his unique journey from healthcare technology to founding Somo Loco, a company dedicated to dance immersions and retreats. Join us as we delve into how David transitioned to a more embodied practice and the crucial role of partnerships in growing a retreat business. Episode Highlights: From Tech to Dance: David discusses his shift from running a tech company to embracing the transformative power of dance and embodied wisdom. He explores how integrating physicality with meditation and dance can deepen personal and communal wellness experiences. The Power of Partnerships: Learn how David leverages partnerships rather than just personal networks to spread the word about Somo Loco. He emphasizes the significance of collaborating with aligned individuals and entities to enhance the reach and impact of his dance retreats. Challenges of Scaling Retreats: David shares insights into the complexities of scaling a retreat business that operates immersions every week of the year. He talks about overcoming control issues, ensuring quality, and aligning with the right people to maintain the integrity of the retreat experience. Strategic Marketing for Retreat Leaders: Dive into effective marketing strategies that focus on partnerships and collaborations. David highlights a successful case of working with a UK blogger, which significantly boosted interest in his retreats. He also discusses the benefits of involving influencers and setting clear expectations for content creation. Soma Loco's Unique Offering: Discover more about Soma Loco's retreats, which feature dance immersions in vibrant styles hosted in captivating cities like Medellin and Barcelona. David explains how these locations enrich the retreat experience, making them unforgettable for participants. Building Sustainable Retreat Practices: Shannon and David discuss the importance of developing sustainable practices to prevent burnout among retreat leaders. They explore how focusing on broader business strategies rather than individual branding can lead to more effective and resilient operations. Join Shannon Jamail and David Schafran as they uncover the magic of effective retreat marketing through powerful storytelling, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to community and personal transformation. Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you elevate your retreat business. Stay tuned to learn how to incorporate these strategies into your own retreat offerings and ensure your operations are not just profitable but also profoundly impactful. About David David Schafran is a serial entrepreneur, innovator, dancer, and armchair philosopher with a passion for uplifting people.   David started his first company at 26 with a high profile MIT professor and billionaire famed Silicon Valley Investor. After burning out helping over 5 million people access eye care over 130 countries with novel eye testing technology, David went and danced salsa full time in Medellin, Colombia, a move that changed his life.  He is now the founder of Somoloco, a dance and cultural immersion company based in Medellín, Colombia, where travelers experience the joy, connection, and energy of Latin dance and culture.  David's work has been highlighted by renowned investor Vinod Khosla, and his career reflects a commitment to blending innovation, human connection, and real-world impact. Whether launching cutting-edge tech, designing transformative travel experiences, or building community-centered solutions, David's mission is to spark joy, connection, and resilience in every project he touches.   You can find him dancing in Medellín, building new ventures in NYC, or exploring what's next at the intersection of culture, technology, and community. Connect with David somoloco.com  Discount code for 10% off: retreatleaders10   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Welcome to a captivating episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, where host Shannon Jamail engages with RoseAda Marie, a dynamic leader who is transforming the retreat landscape. Dive into the innovative world where wellness meets strategy, and discover RoseAda's unique approach that marries membership models with transformative retreat experiences. Introduction to RoseAda Marie Shannon introduces RoseAda, a strategic wellness coach and retreat leader, who brings a fresh perspective to integrating memberships with retreats. RoseAda shares her excitement about her journey and the upcoming collaborations, including her visit to Shannon's ranch. RoseAda's Wellness Philosophy and Retreats RoseAda discusses her extensive background in culinary arts, nutrition, and personal training, which has profoundly shaped her retreat leadership style. She emphasizes the seamless integration of her wellness transformation memberships with her retreat offerings, creating a continuous loop of engagement and transformation for her clients. Innovative Membership Models Explore RoseAda's pioneering membership tiers designed to support ongoing client transformation. From pre and post-retreat assessments to exclusive content and wellness partner promotions, RoseAda outlines how her structured support extends beyond the retreats, fostering a lasting impact on participants' lives. Sustainable Self-Care and Community Support RoseAda highlights the importance of sustainable self-care practices within her retreats and memberships, stressing the value of community and accountability. She shares insights on creating a supportive network that encourages personal growth and facilitates achieving wellness goals. The Launch of a New Era The discussion culminates with the launch of RoseAda's membership program, which promises to bring a new dimension to her wellness retreats. RoseAda expresses her gratitude for the platform to share her vision and discusses the potential expansion of her offerings to reach a broader audience. Closing Thoughts Shannon and RoseAda reflect on the importance of learning from each retreat experience to continually refine their offerings. They emphasize the role of personal growth in shaping the retreat leader's approach and the transformative impact on participants. Join Shannon and RoseAda for this enlightening episode that not only delves into the mechanics of successful retreat hosting but also celebrates the personal and professional growth that comes from innovative thinking in the wellness industry.   Connect with RoseAda https://www.roseadamarie.com/ Check out her memberships:  https://lftunplugged.thrivecart.com/lft-unplugged/ Schedule a Q&A session with RoseAda: https://calendly.com/roseadamarie/lft-unplugged-retreat-q-a-call     The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Dive into a captivating discussion on the Retreat Leaders Podcast where host Shannon Jamail and the dynamic Alison K., a seasoned health and fitness expert turned business mentor, unwrap the world of retreats. Discover how Alison transitioned from running fitness studios to guiding wellness entrepreneurs in monetizing their passions through both in-person and online platforms. Episode Highlights: Retreats vs. Vacations: Alison and Shannon explore the transformative essence of retreats, distinguishing them from typical vacations. They emphasize the importance of focusing on personal growth and the transformative outcomes rather than just fun activities. Crafting Transformative Experiences: Alison shares invaluable tips on how retreat leaders can effectively communicate the unique transformations their retreats offer. She stresses the necessity of ensuring guests are well-matched to the retreat's objectives to enhance satisfaction and outcomes. Marketing with Clarity: Learn from Alison's approach to marketing retreats by painting a vivid picture of what attendees can expect and clearly articulating the problems the retreat will solve. Her strategy includes using personal invitations to align expectations and screening guests to foster a cohesive group. Hybrid Business Model Insights: Alison discusses her hybrid business model, combining the best of in-person engagements and digital scalability. She provides a sneak peek into her strategies for helping clients leverage their unique strengths in a flexible and adaptable business framework. Plus, get a glimpse of Shannon and Alison's upcoming rendezvous in France and the exciting plans they have in store! Alison also generously offers listeners a free resource and consultation available through her website for those interested in exploring her innovative hybrid business model. Tune in to this insightful episode to elevate your understanding of designing retreats that promise and deliver true transformation. Whether you're a seasoned retreat leader or aspiring to be one, this episode is packed with actionable advice to refine your approach and achieve greater impact.   Connect with Alison https://thealisonk.com/meet-alison   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify    

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast! Today, we're joined by Sarah Waldbuesser, an experienced trademark attorney and business owner, to delve into the critical topic of legal protection for retreat hosts. Throughout the episode, Sarah underscores the heightened liability risks associated with hosting in-person events, such as physical injuries or medical emergencies. She walks us through the crucial need for having robust cancellation and refund policies clearly outlined in contracts to shield retreat hosts from financial losses. Drawing from her own experiences, Shannon discusses her strategy of implementing a no-refund policy and mandating guests to purchase trip insurance, emphasizing the importance of preparing for any eventualities. Further into our discussion, Sarah explores a variety of legal services essential for retreat hosts, including contract templates, tailored legal advice, and trademark registration. The conversation highlights the significance of securing vendor contracts that protect both retreat hosts and their vendors by setting clear expectations for services provided. Additionally, for those considering co-hosting retreats, Sarah advises on the necessity of a partnership agreement to prevent potential disputes and ensure smooth operation. The episode wraps up with a consensus on the importance of acting decisively to safeguard one's brand and business in the retreat industry. Shannon shares her plans to incorporate this valuable information into her retreat offerings and stresses that treating retreats as serious business ventures with proper legal documentation is non-negotiable for success and security. Stay tuned for actionable insights and expert advice to legally protect your retreat business and ensure its long-term prosperity.   Connect with Sarah  https://lddy.no/1la03      The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Welcome to our latest episode where we delve into the crucial topic of estate planning and business continuity with Oscar Vasquez, a state planning software coordinator. This discussion is not just for personal asset management but is especially tailored for entrepreneurs who wish to secure their business's future. Estate Planning and Business Continuity Oscar kicks off our discussion by emphasizing the importance of having solid estate plans in place, which includes everything from wills to detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). He shares an enlightening story about a bakery owner who successfully protected his business for future generations through meticulous legacy planning. The conversation, however, highlights that while Oscar's company provides software solutions for such planning, they do not directly integrate SOPs into their systems or templates. Living Trust and Affordable Legal Assistance Understanding the concept of a living trust can be daunting. Oscar breaks it down simply as a contract meant to safeguard one's assets for their beneficiaries, bypassing the need for lengthy probate hearings and avoiding hefty taxes. He proudly discusses how their service fills the gap between costly attorney fees and often insufficient DIY solutions, offering a middle-ground service that's both comprehensive and financially accessible. Software Solutions for Trust Management The benefits of using specialized software for trust management are vast. Oscar shares how their platform allows for unlimited changes, enabling users to adjust their plans as life situations evolve. He shares a touching story of a young couple using the trust to start saving for their future grandchildren's education, illustrating the personal and proactive nature of estate planning. Navigating Probate and Protecting Your Legacy Oscar explains the often misunderstood process of probate, detailing how it can expose estates to public scrutiny and potential scams, and significantly delay beneficiaries' access to bequeathed assets. To underscore the importance of a well-structured estate plan, he offers a discount code for listeners looking to start their journey in safeguarding their business and personal assets. Closing Thoughts As we wrap up, Oscar's insights remind us of the critical role estate planning plays not just in personal asset management but in ensuring the continuity and protection of a business. Listeners are encouraged to consider how they can apply these principles to their own business ventures to ensure a lasting legacy.   Connect with Oscar EstateDocPrep.com  Website  https://estatedocprep.com/ 24/7 Client Assistant AI phone number for Audience Question  805-909-4689 Download Free comprehensive Estate Guide https://estatedocprep.com/guide   For the First 10 members of audience to get a living trust get a $1000 discount code for a Comprehensive Living Trust, use Discount Code:  LEADERS     The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats      Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this enriching episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon is joined by Aleya Harris, a strategic storytelling consultant renowned for helping leaders, sellers, and speakers harness the power of stories to connect deeply, find fulfillment, and enhance profitability. Shannon and Aleya dive into the transformative role of storytelling within retreat leadership, highlighting how many leaders struggle to communicate their offerings effectively, often resorting to mere lists of features rather than engaging narratives. Real-Life Success with Strategic Storytelling Aleya shares a compelling case study from her professional experience, where she assisted a real estate brokerage firm in redefining its company story. This intervention came crucially as the firm faced a low valuation during a potential acquisition. Through crafted storytelling, Aleya helped the client reevaluate the company's worth, ultimately achieving a remarkable revaluation at $51 million, illustrating the significant impact of strategic storytelling in business contexts. Enhancing Retreats Through Engaging Speaking Further exploring the nuances of storytelling, Aleya underscores its critical role in public speaking and retreat settings. She advises retreat leaders to focus on audience transformation and personal relatability rather than self-promotion. Emphasizing preparation and personal clarity, Aleya suggests practices like meditation and journaling to ensure presenters can engage authentically and effectively with their audience. Introducing 'Spark the Stage' Program Aleya introduces her 'Spark the Stage' program, a comprehensive training initiative designed for those looking to elevate their public speaking skills. The program includes a 4-week live workshop complemented by an on-demand course and 12 months of group coaching, providing ongoing support for alumni. Shannon expresses enthusiasm about integrating this resource into her retreat offerings, recognizing the added value it could bring to her clients. This episode not only highlights the critical role of storytelling in enhancing retreat experiences but also provides listeners with actionable insights and resources to elevate their own leadership and communicative endeavors.   Connect with Aleya www.aleyaharris.com  About Aleya Aleya Harris is the spark for your spark™. A trailblazer in purpose-driven story crafting, she is a marketing executive and ex-Google Vendor Partner who brings her dynamic experience to her role as the CEO of The Evolution Collective Inc. Aleya is an international award-winning speaker, the founder and lead trainer of Spark the Stage ™, and the host of the award-winning Flourishing Entrepreneur Podcast. She is also the bestselling author of Spark the Stage: Master the Art of Professional Speaking and Authentic Storytelling to Captivate, Inspire, and Transform Your Audience. Her unique approach as a Strategic Storytelling Consultant has revolutionized the way businesses communicate, transforming workplace cultures and market positioning. With her dynamic energy and proven methodologies, Aleya guides clients to unlock their potential, articulate their radically authentic stories, and achieve unparalleled success.   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List  Get your legal docs for retreats      Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Join us in this insightful episode as Shannon Jamail talks with Casie, a renowned yoga studio owner and retreat leader, who shares her unique journey through the realms of yoga and entrepreneurship. Together, they delve into the intricacies of hosting mother-daughter yoga retreats and the profound impact these experiences have on participants. Casie's Yoga Retreat Experiences: Casie discusses the evolution of her career from opening a yoga studio to leading specialized retreats. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs she has encountered, particularly in hosting retreats designed for mothers and daughters. These retreats focus on strengthening bonds through shared yoga practices and activities, ensuring a balance of connection and independence. Casie reveals her plans to further refine the retreat format to enhance the experience for future events. Equine Yoga Training Program: The conversation shifts to Casie's innovative Equine Yoga Training Program available on her website, nectarflowyoga.com. This unique program combines traditional yoga with equine-assisted activities, designed to deepen the yogic practice through interaction with horses. Casie explains the structure of the program, which caters to both new learners and seasoned yoga instructors looking to add 55 CEU hours through Yoga Alliance. She highlights upcoming retreat opportunities for hands-on learning and personal growth in the serene setting of her ranch. Community Engagement and Future Plans: Casie also discusses her commitment to the yoga community by hosting monthly public classes at her ranch, which serve as a gateway for individuals interested in exploring equine yoga. Looking ahead, she shares her excitement for the next in-person retreat scheduled for May and another session in December, inviting all yoga enthusiasts to join and experience the transformational power of her programs. Closing Remarks: Shannon wraps up the episode by expressing her admiration for Casie's dedication to blending yoga with meaningful personal connections and her innovative approach to retreat leadership. Listeners are encouraged to explore Casie's programs and consider attending her retreats to experience firsthand the benefits of this unique yoga practice. Join Casie and Shannon as they explore the transformative impact of yoga retreats on personal and familial relationships, and the exciting opportunities within the equine yoga space.     Learn More:  https://nectarflowyoga.com/  Instagram: @nectarflowyoga   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our Retreat Leader Membership Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Welcome to today's episode where we explore the pivotal role your retreat website plays in attracting the right guests and repelling those who aren't a fit. It's about more than just filling spaces—it's about creating an environment where every participant is precisely where they need to be. Why Repulsion Is as Important as Attraction In the retreat business, it's crucial to understand that not every interested person should become a guest. Tailoring your website's message helps ensure that only those aligned with the retreat's goals feel compelled to attend, while those looking for something different know to look elsewhere. This focus prevents future dissatisfaction and creates a harmonious group dynamic that enhances the retreat experience for everyone. Segment 1: Targeted Messaging for Ideal Guests Your website should communicate directly to your desired attendees. For instance, if your retreat is aimed at women seeking spiritual growth, your message should clearly invite those who are looking for deep spiritual work and subtly discourage those in search of a light vacation. This targeted approach helps in attracting a like-minded audience, ensuring that every participant is engaged and invested in the retreat's offerings. Segment 2: Defining Who Your Retreat Is Not For Being explicit about who should not attend can be just as important as detailing who should. Clearly stating who the retreat isn't for can prevent potential misalignment and ensure that your guests are harmoniously matched with what you offer, enhancing satisfaction for both you and them. Segment 3: Tone and Imagery The tone and imagery of your website should reflect the nature of your retreat. Whether it's bold and energetic or calm and soothing, make sure your language and visuals resonate with the energy of the experience you're offering. This coherence between what you portray and what you deliver is key to meeting and exceeding expectations. Segment 4: Clear Calls to Action Make it easy for the right people to take the next step. Whether it's applying, booking a spot, or joining a waitlist, clear calls to action reduce hurdles in the conversion process, making it seamless for guests to commit. Conclusion: Clarity in Marketing Ultimately, the most effective retreat websites are those that dare to be clear and specific. They understand their audience and speak directly to them, setting the stage for retreats filled with guests who are exactly right for what you offer. Tune in as we dive deeper into each of these aspects, providing you with actionable insights to enhance your retreat website and ensure it works effectively as the first filter in creating transformative retreat experiences.   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our Retreat Leader Membership Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify  

In today's episode, we dive into the compelling journey of Dr. Nona Djavid, who moved to the US at 16 and transformed her early struggles into a flourishing career by embracing entrepreneurship from a place of abundance rather than scarcity. Journey from Scarcity to Abundance: Nona shares her initial steps into entrepreneurship, which were motivated by necessity and scarcity. She recounts her experience of starting her first business as a tutor and how it led her to open a successful chiropractic practice. However, despite its success, Nona faced burnout fueled by a fear-based mindset. This realization prompted her to delve into neurology and ancient wisdom, reshaping her approach to business into one driven by joy and abundance. Pivoting and Finding New Paths: Both Nona and host Shannon explore the emotional and practical aspects of pivoting in their careers. They discuss the importance of recognizing when a current path is no longer fulfilling and the courage it takes to pursue new directions. Nona shares insights from teaching quantum leaps, helping others navigate significant changes in their lives and careers. Addressing Money Mindset Challenges: The conversation shifts to the common financial challenges retreat leaders face, focusing on money mindset and its impact on business success. Nona introduces practical tools such as journaling and mental rehearsals to help shift perceptions of self-worth and financial potential. They discuss strategies for overcoming mental blocks to embrace a healthier relationship with money. Nona's Retreats: Unique Experiences, Cultural Significance: Nona details her approach to designing retreats that offer transformative experiences with a strong cultural component. She explains her preference for non-all-inclusive models that allow participants to engage more deeply with the local community, enhancing both the cultural significance and the economic benefits to the area. Aligning Energy with Personal Passions: The discussion concludes on the topic of aligning one's energy with their passions, both in personal and professional realms. Nona and Shannon talk about the importance of being present and making conscious decisions that resonate with one's true desires, which they agree is crucial for personal satisfaction and business success. Closing Remarks: Nona encourages listeners to connect with her on Instagram for additional resources and offers a free guide on quantum leaps for those who reach out to her directly. Shannon wraps up by highlighting the key takeaways from the discussion and thanking Nona for her profound insights and practical advice. Listeners can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of how integrating principles of abundance and mindfulness into their business practices can lead to greater fulfillment and success.   Learn More:  https://www.elivate.me/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nonadjavid  Instagram: @nonadjavid   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our Retreat Leader Membership Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide   Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Welcome to "Retreats with a Purpose: How to Make a Difference While Making a Profit," where we delve into the compelling ways retreat leaders can weave social responsibility into their business models. This episode is dedicated to those who see the potential for retreats to serve not just as gateways to personal growth but as platforms for meaningful societal contributions. Partnering with Non-Profits First up, we explore the strategic partnerships between retreats and non-profits. Learn how aligning with a cause that resonates with your retreat's theme can amplify the impact on both your attendees and the non-profit's goals. For instance, a mindfulness retreat could partner with a mental health organization to deepen the impact through combined efforts in wellness promotion. These partnerships not only enrich the retreat experience but also extend the reach and effectiveness of the non-profit's mission. We'll share success stories, like a retreat that included conservation efforts, enhancing participant engagement and helping the local environment. Implementing Scholarship Programs Next, we discuss the transformational power of scholarship programs. Offering scholarships makes retreats accessible to those who might otherwise miss out on such life-changing opportunities. We'll cover how to set up a scholarship fund, including eligibility criteria and funding strategies. Success stories from scholarship recipients will highlight the profound impact these opportunities can have on individuals and their communities, showcasing the ripple effect of generosity. Sourcing Locally and Ethically Our third segment focuses on the importance of local and ethical sourcing. This practice not only supports local economies but also ensures that retreats offer authentic and sustainable experiences. We'll talk about how to choose local vendors and ethical suppliers that align with your retreat's values, and share case studies that demonstrate the positive effects of these choices on both the retreat experience and local communities. Community Service Activities Integrating community service into retreat programs can profoundly enrich the retreat experience, turning a simple getaway into a deeply fulfilling journey. We'll explore different types of service activities that fit various retreat themes, such as environmental initiatives or educational programs. Feedback from both participants and local communities will highlight the mutual benefits of these integrations. Financial Donations Lastly, we'll tackle the role of financial donations in enhancing retreat appeal and impact. Allocating a portion of profits to charitable causes not only supports community projects but also positions your retreat as a socially responsible choice for potential attendees. We'll discuss effective strategies for marketing this aspect and share examples of how these donations have made lasting impacts. This episode is packed with insights from fellow retreat leaders who have successfully integrated these socially responsible practices into their operations, proving that it's possible to make a profit while making a difference. Join us to learn how you can transform your retreat into a powerful force for good.   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Join our In Person Mastermind Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Join us as we explore the enchanting world of Borgo Belsedere, a 1000-year-old medieval villa in Tuscany, Italy, transformed into a modern retreat venue by Franziska Leissner and her team. Discover how they've melded sustainability with historical charm to create a unique retreat experience. Venue Introduction: Franziska Leissner, a partner at Borgo Belsedere, delves into the history and transformation of the villa. Originally a medieval structure, the villa has been lovingly renovated to serve as a serene retreat location while retaining its Tuscan authenticity. Development Journey: The transformation journey began 1.5 years ago, with Franziska initially joining as a volunteer before recognizing the site's potential as a retreat venue. She discusses the collaborative efforts with co-partner Dorothea and property owner Martin to renovate 11 guest rooms and develop communal spaces, including a new piazza and over 1000 new plantings. The project's ambitious timeline aimed to welcome guests within six months of commencement. Retreats and Success: Shortly after the renovations, Borgo Belsedere hosted seven successful retreats, showcasing the venue's appeal. Franziska shares insights into the marketing strategies employed before the venue's completion, including video tours that helped build trust and anticipation among potential guests. Facilities and Offerings: The venue features 11 versatile rooms that can accommodate up to 22 guests, an industrial kitchen, and the option for guests to engage local caterers or bring their own chefs. Borgo Belsedere enriches guests' experiences with local activities such as truffle hunts, wine tastings, and cooking classes. Franziska highlights ongoing developments, including the addition of a pizza oven to enhance event offerings. Looking Forward: Plans for expanding Borgo Belsedere's facilities continue, with a focus on integrating more amenities and services to enrich guest stays. Franziska invites listeners to book their retreats and experience the unique blend of history and modern luxury that Borgo Belvedere offers.   About Franziska Leissner Business & Property Development / Management Franziska and her business partner Dorothea are the visionary minds driving the transformation of Borgo Belsedere into a unique retreat and event destination. With a shared background in international strategic business, they quickly identified the hidden potential of this magical Tuscan estate. Their expertise extends from property development and construction management to interior design, as well as holistic business and brand building including marketing, sales, and operations. Dorothea draws on over 12 years of international experience in business and brand building, including co-founding an NGO promoting art and culture.  Franziska brings over seven years of international experience in marketing, driving product positioning across different industries and leading strategies that strengthen brands and empower teams.  Together, they are creating a retreat location that seamlessly blends creativity, functionality, and inspiration—a place where connection and growth thrive.   Learn More:  https://www.borgo-belsedere.com/ Instagram: @borgo_belsedere    The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Our Retreat Leader Memberships are BRIMMING with tools, processes and templates to help you skyrocket your business!  Want live coaching?  Our memberships have that too!  Plus when you join our memberships you get access to our HIGH demand Retreat Leader Academy (that only opens up twice a year...unless you are a member- you can grab it anytime!).   Other ways to grow: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Join host Shannon Jamail as she delves into the nuanced world of retreat pricing with expert Erin Haag. They explore the dynamic between price-conscious and value-driven buyers, and the strategies for setting retreat prices that reflect the true value of the experience. Retreat Pricing Insights: Price vs. Value Shoppers: Erin outlines that retreats priced under $5,000 tend to attract price shoppers focused on budget, whereas retreats with a higher price tag draw in those who value the experience over cost. Shannon reflects on her own pricing strategies that range from $3,000 to $7,000, aligning with the type of clients she aims to attract. Impact of Economic Fluctuations: They discuss how premium-priced retreats remain stable even during economic shifts, highlighting the resilience of targeting value-driven consumers. Strategic Pricing Approaches: Setting Higher Prices: Erin and Shannon talk about the importance of pricing retreats to not only cover costs but to ensure profitability. This approach helps in adequately supporting attendees and sustaining the business. Consultation and Profit Goals: Erin shares her consulting firm's strategy aiming for at least $25,000 profit per retreat with a 50% margin, advocating for setting ambitious financial targets to reflect the value offered. Industry Pricing Norms: Valuing Services Appropriately: The discussion underscores the importance of not undervaluing one's services. Erin emphasizes the broader impact of appropriate pricing, particularly how women reinvest in their communities. Gender Disparities in Pricing: Observations are shared about how male retreat organizers often set higher prices for similar offerings, stirring a conversation about recognizing and asserting the worth of one's services. Overcoming Pricing Challenges: Addressing Low Pricing Issues: They highlight how underpricing can lead to cancellations and insufficient profitability. By evaluating past data and acknowledging the comprehensive effort required to plan and execute retreats, retreat leaders can better understand their value. Advice for Retreat Leaders: Erin provides practical advice for aligning price with value, ensuring that the transformative experience promised at retreats is effectively communicated and priced. Concluding Thoughts: Value Beyond Price: The episode wraps up with a focus on how retreats provide transformational experiences far exceeding the offerings of typical vacations or trips. This unique aspect should be a major factor in pricing strategy. Direct Engagement with Erin: Shannon closes by discussing how listeners can connect with Erin to refine their marketing strategies to appeal to value-focused demographics. Learn More: Listeners interested in improving their retreat pricing strategies or seeking personalized advice can reach out to Erin through provided contact details in the show notes.   Connect with Erin https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.com/ Instagram: @pricingoverhaul   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Join us in this enlightening episode where Nikki Rausch, a veteran sales professional, unravels the intrinsic link between sales and retreat leadership. Nikki delves into the art of selling as a crucial skill for retreat leaders, breaking down common sales pitfalls and emphasizing the strategic engagement of potential buyers. Embracing the Sales Role Nikki points out that many retreat leaders may not recognize themselves as salespeople, yet mastering sales techniques is essential for the success of their events. She stresses the importance of seeing every retreat leader as inherently involved in sales, encouraging a proactive approach to acquiring sales skills. Navigating Sales Strategies and Pitfalls Throughout the discussion, Nikki identifies key mistakes retreat leaders make, such as skipping essential sales steps and failing to notice buying signals. She advocates for cultivating curiosity to build interest and securing explicit permission from prospects, ensuring meaningful and respectful interactions. Audience Targeting and Client Selection Nikki uses the analogy of retreats being like a pristine liquid that should not be muddied by "dirt," representing misaligned attendees. She underscores targeting the right audience to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the retreat. The concept of "bless and release" is introduced for clients who do not fit, advising retreat leaders to maintain the quality and specific focus of their retreats without compromise. Empowering Retreat Leaders with Resources To help retreat leaders enhance their sales acumen, Nikki offers a free ebook, "Closing the Sale," available through her website. This resource is designed to bolster confidence in consultation calls and refine the sales approach, tailored specifically for retreat leaders aiming to perfect their craft. By the end of this session, retreat leaders are encouraged to acknowledge their role as salespeople, clearly define their target audience, and utilize Nikki's expert strategies to elevate their retreat offerings. Don't miss out on transforming your retreat leadership with seasoned sales strategies from Nikki Rausch!     About Nikki: Nikki Rausch integrates her 25+ years of experience selling to such prestigious organizations as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, and NASA, sharing with her clients the same approaches that led to her shattering sales records in her industry and receiving multiple “top producer” awards along the way. A business degree from the University of Washington and her master certification in Neuro-Linguistic Programming mesh perfectly to create a powerful foundation upon which Nikki built tremendous sales skills and now provides enormous benefits for her clients. Nikki has received numerous sales awards, shattered sales records across industries, and was featured in Female Entrepreneur Magazine. A sought-after speaker, she regularly shares the results of success through illuminating keynote addresses and business-changing workshops. Her robust Sales Maven Society ignites game-changing outcomes for clients. Many of whom have also reaped the benefits of her immersive VIP consultations. Nikki's three popular books are available on Amazon. And her podcast, Sales Maven, can be found on your favorite podcast platform.   Connect with Nikki: https://yoursalesmaven.com/  Instagram: @your_sales_maven  Free Offering from Nikki: https://yoursalesmaven.com/retreat      Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this enlightening episode, Shannon Jamail sits down with Shelly Swierz, a seasoned yoga instructor and the visionary behind Topia Boutique Retreat Center in Baja California Sur, Mexico. Shelly brings over 15 years of yoga teaching experience and shares invaluable insights into the world of retreat hosting. Topia's Mission and Setting Topia Boutique Retreat Center is dedicated to facilitating profound community connections for leaders. Nestled near the Pacific Ocean and conveniently close to Cabo San Lucas airport, the center is designed to support retreat leaders fully, from planning stages to execution, ensuring a seamless experience. Common Mistakes by Retreat Hosts Shelly discusses the pitfalls many retreat hosts encounter, such as overlooking the importance of building personal relationships and engaging deeply with their community. Other common mistakes include poor timing for retreats, inadequate guest preparation, and relying too heavily on social media for promotion rather than fostering real-life interactions. Best Practices for Hosting Retreats The conversation shifts to best practices that can dramatically improve the success of a retreat. Key strategies include: Over-communicating with guests to prepare them fully for what to expect, Choosing the right dates avoiding major holidays or adverse weather conditions, Engaging in one-on-one conversations to build trust and ensure alignment of expectations.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the nuances of retreat hosting and how to elevate their offerings to create unforgettable experiences for participants.       Connect with Topia topiaretreat.com  Instagram: @topiaretreat    Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify   

In this enlightening episode, host Shannon Jamail sits down with Kyera Kacey, a trailblazer in the personal development industry since the age of 17. Kyera, who opened her first office at 24 and launched her retreat business in 2022, dives into the details of her unique approach to retreat planning. The discussion kicks off with her debut retreat in Ireland, which she daringly announced with minimal prior planning and impressively sold out very quickly. Kyera discusses her pricing strategies, which began at $17,000 for her initial retreat, scaling up to $55,000 for subsequent luxury experiences. She shares insights into the importance of self-belief and conviction in achieving sales success, integrating her 'Rich Bitch' methodology and leveraging the 'power of nine' to cultivate financial abundance and self-worth. The conversation also covers her recent luxury retreat in Tulum, which provided a transformative experience for a small group of women, incorporating elements like private mentorship and mastermind sessions. Kyera emphasizes the importance of creating retreats that genuinely make a difference, urging retreat leaders to transcend limitations and focus on service rather than just profit. Shannon and Kyera discuss the nuanced dynamics of pricing and the importance of maintaining a reciprocal relationship with money. The episode wraps up with a discussion on their personal experiences in Tulum and the attitudes encountered in some retreat-hosting communities. Key takeaways for retreat leaders include embracing innovative strategies, understanding the profound impact of self-belief in setting prices, and the importance of creating meaningful, transformative retreat experiences.     About Kyera: Kyera Kacey is a bold, unapologetic force in personal and professional transformation. Known for her no-BS approach, she combines fierce love with intuition and decades of experience, inviting her audience to break through their most profound barriers.   Kyera isn't afraid to tackle taboo topics or challenge societal norms—she shows up exactly as she is: provocative and powerful.   At her events, expect raw, unfiltered truth, explosive energy, and a transformative journey that will forever change you.   Connect with Kyera: www.kyerakacey.com  Instagram: @kyerakacey Free Offering from Kyera: https://www.kyerakacey.com/kyera-in-your-pocket    Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Hey everyone! Today's episode is especially exciting because I'm sharing something I've been pouring my heart into for quite some time – my Manifestation Course: Unlock Your Power, Attract Your Desires, and Manifest a Life You Love in Just 7 Days! If you're a retreat leader, coach, healer, or anyone guiding others toward their dreams, you'll want to stick around for this episode. Manifestation isn't just for personal goals – it's a powerful tool to enhance every area of life, including your career, business, and the experiences you create for others. What is Manifestation? Let's start by diving into what manifestation really is. Manifestation is about more than just visualizing what you want or setting an intention. Those are important steps, but true manifestation involves aligning your energy, setting focused intentions, and taking inspired action. It's a powerful process that connects your thoughts, emotions, and actions to the outcomes you desire. If you're listening to this, you're probably someone who's already dedicated to growth, both for yourself and for others. You might be leading retreats, building a community, or simply trying to grow your own personal life in alignment with your purpose. Manifestation can be a game-changer – not just for personal goals, but for creating the career, impact, and experiences you want for your clients and participants.   My Journey with Manifestation Now, I'll be honest – this wasn't always something I felt confident about. Over a decade ago, I doubted my worth, felt overwhelmed by my goals, and struggled to believe I could actually create the life I envisioned. I remember feeling paralyzed by all the "what ifs" and waiting for that “perfect moment” to come along. And I know so many of you have felt that too. But everything changed when I slowly developed a structured approach to manifesting, a way to move beyond just dreaming and into doing. And here's the real kicker – over the past ten years, I've been able to manifest almost everything I desired, from my dream retreat center to building a fulfilling career that supports not only me but my family and all the incredible people I've met through this work. And that's exactly why I created this course. To teach YOU how to manifest whatever it is you want for yourself and the people you serve.   Why Manifestation is Powerful for Retreat Leaders Now, I want to speak directly to my fellow retreat leaders. You all are visionaries, people who hold space for others to grow, heal, and transform. But to truly serve from a place of abundance and alignment, we need to be clear and intentional about our own path. Imagine how powerful it would be to walk into every retreat you lead with the confidence that you're aligned with your purpose, your desires, and your own personal abundance. Manifestation isn't just a personal practice; it's also a practice that can elevate every retreat experience. When you're aligned, your energy will attract clients who are aligned with you. You'll create a space that draws in exactly the right people, the right opportunities, and even the resources you need to bring your vision to life. That's the beauty of manifesting – it's not just about “getting things,” it's about creating a life and a career that's fully aligned with who you are and what you're meant to do. What's Inside the Course So let's talk about what's inside this course. I've broken down the exact steps that have worked for me – steps that I've spent the last five months testing and refining with a group of incredible individuals. Here's what you can expect: A Prep Work Guide This is where you'll start. We get you grounded and help you set strong intentions for the journey. It's all about creating the mental and emotional space for manifestation, so you're ready to dive deep. A Step-by-Step Manifestation Guide This is the roadmap. Every day, you'll have a specific, simple activity to keep you on track and ensure your energy is aligned and your focus is sharp. This isn't about guesswork – it's a structured approach that makes manifestation achievable and tangible. 7 Days of Videos, Meditations, and Worksheets Each day, you'll also get a video and guided meditations to reinforce the day's theme, along with a worksheet to help you reflect and clarify your intentions. These tools are designed to get you fully engaged and connected with your goals. Additional Resources Beyond the core course, I've included activities and exercises specifically for identifying and releasing blocks that may be holding you back. These are the same tools I use whenever I feel like I need to realign or reconnect with my vision. Lifetime Access And this is a big one – you get lifetime access. That means anytime you want to go through the course again or need a refresher, it's there for you. Plus, as I add new modules and content, you'll receive those updates automatically. How Manifesting Can Transform Your Life – and Your Retreats I want you to imagine for a moment what it would feel like to move through your days knowing that everything you want is flowing toward you, that you're completely in alignment with your vision, and that you have the power to create not only a life you love but also experiences that empower and transform others. For retreat leaders, this is a game-changer. Think about the impact on your retreats – the energy you bring, the clients you attract, the opportunities that come your way. When you're manifesting from a place of abundance and alignment, it's like a magnet. Your energy is contagious, and people feel that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. How to Get Started Now, here's the best part: for y'all I'm offering 25% off the course using code MANIFEST25. I want you to experience the power of manifesting for yourself, and I'm so excited to be able to share it at this special rate. So, if you're ready to take your dreams from “someday” to “right now,” join me on this journey. This course will guide you every step of the way, giving you the tools and confidence to manifest the life – and the career – that you deserve.  Let's make 2025 YOUR year.  Visit retreatleadermanifesting.com  I know that when we're aligned and abundant, we can create spaces of healing, growth, and empowerment for others. I can't wait to see the amazing things you'll manifest, both for yourself and those you serve. Thank you so much for joining me today, and as always, I'm sending you so much love. Let's start manifesting the life you love – together.   Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Overview: In a captivating session of the Retreat Leaders podcast, host Shannon Jamail engages with Mellissa Tong, the storytelling maestro and visionary behind Duck Punk Productions. Mellissa shares her expert insights on the transformative power of storytelling in business and its critical role in connecting with audiences to drive sales. Mellissa's Journey and Duck Punk Productions: Mellissa Tong, renowned for her storytelling prowess, introduces listeners to Duck Punk Productions, a company that tailors its services to a diverse client base including big corporations, mid-sized companies, and entrepreneurs. The company's offerings span from creating impactful TV commercials and branded content to providing fractional CMO services and storytelling training. The Art of Storytelling in Business: Mellissa discusses the essential nature of storytelling in today's business landscape, especially for retreat leaders. She breaks down the four crucial stages of the sales cycle—connection, reaction, transformation, and action—and explains how compelling storytelling navigates these phases to captivate and convert audiences. Deepening Audience Engagement Through Stories: With her background in TV news as a foundation, Mellissa emphasizes the importance of crafting stories that are not only engaging but also perfectly aligned with the target audience. She highlights how data-driven companies can leverage storytelling to render complex information more relatable and digestible. Empowering Through Education: Looking ahead, Mellissa is excited about the launch of her Story Selling course next month. This course promises to equip individuals with the skills to craft and narrate personal stories across various formats, enhancing their effectiveness in both personal and professional interactions. She supports this educational journey with a dedicated Facebook group, fostering a community of continuous learning and support. Actionable Takeaways: Shannon commits to enriching the podcast show notes with additional resources including a link to Mellissa's LinkedIn article and the upcoming Story Selling course. Mellissa plans to extend a special discount code for the course exclusively for podcast listeners, ensuring that the audience can immediately benefit from her vast expertise. Conclusion: The episode wraps up with Mellissa reinforcing the value of storytelling in building deep, meaningful connections with audiences, a skill indispensable for anyone in the business of influence, especially retreat leaders looking to attract and engage their ideal guests.     About Mellissa: Mellissa Tong's journey is a testament to life's unpredictable paths. Beginning her career in music, she mastered the piano and conducted children's choirs, believing music was her destined path. With a passion for English Literature as well, Mellissa balanced her artistic pursuits with academic rigor, exploring comparative literature alongside her musical endeavors. Despite a seemingly fulfilled life, Mellissa felt a disconnect, stemming from her upbringing in Hong Kong where emotional expression was stifled. This feeling of isolation fueled her lifelong dream to study abroad, leading her to the United States in 1991. It was here that Mellissa's career took a pivotal turn. Initially feeling out of place, her breakthrough came when she joined a satellite TV station as a newscaster. Tasked with crafting human interest stories, Mellissa honed her skills in interviewing and storytelling, discovering the profound power of connection through narrative. This experience was transformative, guiding her to found DuckPunk, initially aimed at film and documentary storytelling. Over time, DuckPunk evolved into creating compelling TV commercials and branded content for major brands like Nissan, Verizon, and McDonald's. Recognizing the shifting landscape during the pandemic, Mellissa pivoted DuckPunk into a StorySelling agency, emphasizing the necessity for deeper connection and authentic storytelling in commerce. Today, Mellissa uses her unique journey and storytelling prowess to help businesses stand out, connect deeply with their audiences, and drive meaningful engagement. Her story—from a young musician to a leading voice in commercial storytelling—illustrates how our greatest challenges can lead to our most significant achievements. Connect with Mellissa https://www.duckpunk.net/ LinkedIn Article: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/4-stages-sales-cycle-mellissa-tong  Instagram: @duckpunkproductions    Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Unlock the Power of Podcasts: In an engaging session with Shannon Jamail, Julie Fry, the visionary behind Your Expert Guest, unveils the transformative role of podcasts in reaching precise target audiences. Julie illuminates how strategic podcast guesting can create meaningful connections and open up new avenues for entrepreneurs. Strategize Your Guest Appearances: Julie shares invaluable tips on becoming an exemplary podcast guest, emphasizing the necessity of detailed research on hosts and programs to tailor compelling pitches. She advocates for the importance of not just participating but adding value to the discussions, and suggests direct calls-to-action like booking calls to actively engage listeners. Leverage Expert Services: Delving into the professional support her company offers, Julie outlines services tailored for potential podcast guests, including creating customized pitch lists and handling guest booking processes. This segment offers insights into making strategic choices between a DIY approach to podcast guesting and opting for expert services.   About Julie: Julie Fry is the spirited CEO who thrives on making connections through podcasting. With a deep love for the great outdoors and a knack for making people laugh, Julie embraces every opportunity to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, whether it's hiking, kayaking, or braving the icy waters of the Polar Bear plunge—an event she's conquered 19 times! When she's not orchestrating perfect guest-host matchups or indulging in her favorite SNL sketches and Conan O'Brien laughs, Julie is deeply committed to her community. Her passion for local causes shines through her extensive volunteer work, aiming to foster inclusion and joy in her surroundings. Despite her profound influence in the podcast world, Julie admits to never having listened to a True Crime podcast, preferring to impact lives through laughter and connection. Connect with Julie https://yourexpertguest.com/about/ Instagram: @yourexpertguest   Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this insightful episode, Hailey Rowe delves into the untapped potential of LinkedIn for retreat leaders. Known for its affluent user base, LinkedIn offers unique opportunities for making personal connections and sharing compelling stories that resonate with prospective retreat attendees. Hailey introduces her 'FAST' framework—Followers, Action, Sales, Time management, and Transformation—to help refine and elevate marketing strategies. Hailey underscores the importance of addressing common objections directly in marketing materials and crafting a clear journey of transformation that participants can expect from the retreat. She also advises retreat leaders to reassess their marketing assets with a fresh perspective to ensure they are communicating effectively with their target audience. Listeners will also learn about Hailey's free weekly planning tool available on her website, designed to aid retreat leaders in organizing and managing their marketing efforts. Plus, for ongoing tips on retreat hosting and marketing, Hailey invites listeners to tune into her Health Coach Nation podcast. Key takeaways include: Using LinkedIn not just for professional connections but as a storytelling platform to engage potential clients. Implementing the 'FAST' framework to boost followers, encourage action, increase sales, manage time effectively, and outline the transformation offered. Evaluating and refining marketing strategies to ensure they meet the needs of an informed and connected audience. For those interested in exploring further, links to Hailey's resources and additional tools can be found in the show notes. Stay tuned for more practical tips and strategic insights in future episodes!     About Hailey: Hailey Rowe, a dedicated business coach for health coaches, life coaches, and service providers, is on a mission to simplify marketing, increase your earnings, and maximize your impact—all while eliminating the stress and overwhelm often associated with running a business. After transitioning from a high-stakes startup environment to establishing her successful coaching and consulting business, Hailey brings a wealth of real-world experience to her role. With a Bachelor's Degree in Entrepreneurship from Loyola Marymount University and extensive experience in Business Development and Marketing for wellness and coaching companies, Hailey has mastered the art of client attraction and sales. Her approach is all about efficiency: getting more results without the busywork, and she's passionate about helping service providers like you transform their passions into profitable ventures. Today, Hailey not only runs her own flexible, thriving business but also hosts the "Health Coach Nation Podcast," where she offers invaluable insights and interviews with industry leaders. Recognized as one of the Top 25 Coaches in Chicago and Top 6 Business Coaches for Health Coaches, Hailey is the go-to expert for coaches ready to scale their businesses and achieve new heights of success. She shares her F.A.S.T. framework, marketing, and business tips in her Health Coach Nation Podcast & in The Marketing Hub Facebook Group. She's been named as one of the Top 25 Coaches in Chicago (Chicago Entrepreneur Magazine) & one of the Top 6 business podcasts for health coaches (Primal Health Coach Institute). Since 2010, Hailey has worked in the coaching industry & in business development/marketing for startups.    Hailey's philosophy: You can have an amazing service and impact to make, but without a strong mindset, and sales and marketing plan, your business will remain a hobby.   Connect with Hailey https://www.haileyrowe.com/  Instagram: @hailey_rowe Free Time Management System You Can STICK With: https://haileyrowe.kartra.com/time  Free Business Growth & Networking Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/themarketinghubgroup  Website: https://www.haileyrowe.com  Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/hailey_rowe  Podcast: https://anchor.fm/health-coach-nation  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileyr Book your FREE Marketing Consult: https://calendly.com/haileyrowe-coach/30min     Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/ The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In this episode, host Shannon Jamail engages in a casual conversation with Laura Zavelson about the challenges retreat leaders, particularly women, face when pricing their retreats. They discuss the importance of setting prices that reflect the true value of the retreat, overcoming emotional barriers to pricing, and managing business finances effectively. Here are the key points: Introduction & Focus Shannon introduces Laura Zavelson, highlighting the main theme of the podcast: the struggle many retreat leaders have with underpricing their offerings, especially women. The discussion focuses on how pricing should cover expenses, pay the leader fairly, and reflect the value of the retreat. Pricing & Value for Retreat Leaders The conversation explores how retreat leaders can ensure their prices not only cover costs but also result in sustainable income. Laura addresses the emotional challenges many women face when setting prices and emphasizes the importance of revenue goals based on the desired number of retreats. Shannon and Laura discuss how proper pricing builds trust and conveys the value of the retreat. They also suggest ways to handle excess profits, including donating or reinvesting in the business. Business Financials & Management Laura highlights the need for retreat leaders to keep their business and personal finances separate. Using dedicated business accounts, credit cards, and bookkeeping software is recommended to maintain financial clarity. She stresses the importance of good financial hygiene, ensuring that all financial records are clean and well-organized. Laura also touches on the legal protection offered by forming an LLC, which helps limit personal liability. Laura's 'Business Breakthrough' Program In the final section, Laura introduces her 'Business Breakthrough' program, which is designed to help retreat leaders create profitable business models. She discusses the common gender disparity in pricing, encouraging women to set their prices based on the value they offer rather than underselling themselves. Laura wraps up the conversation with actionable tips, including calculating revenue goals, maintaining financial discipline, and subscribing to her newsletter for ongoing support and guidance.   Key Action Items: Calculate revenue goals based on the desired income and number of retreats. Keep business finances separate from personal finances to maintain financial clarity. Consider forming an LLC for liability protection. Subscribe to Laura's newsletter for more insights and details on her 'Business Breakthrough' program.     About Laura: Laura Zavelson is a seasoned entrepreneur, mentor, and educator dedicated to empowering women business owners. Laura has a rich history of guiding emerging entrepreneurs through the complexities of building successful businesses that offer not only financial rewards but also profound personal satisfaction. With experience launching and growing three companies to the $1M mark and beyond, Laura knows firsthand the challenges and triumphs of business development. Her journey began without the roadmap she now provides to others, making her own share of mistakes from over-investing in product perfection to undercharging and overhiring. These experiences have shaped her into a powerful mentor who does more than just teach entrepreneurship; she guides you on a journey, helping you navigate the pitfalls and obstacles with strategic advice tailored to achieving personal success with minimal drama. Laura's approach is holistic, focusing on key elements such as understanding the core problem your business solves, crafting compelling offers, and implementing effective systems to prevent overwhelm. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale up, Laura brings invaluable insights into creating a business that aligns with your values of flexibility, freedom, and meaning.   Connect with Laura https://laurazavelson.com/  Instagram: @laurazavelson  Sign up for her newsletter: https://programs.laurazavelson.com/the-next-leap-sign-up    Our In Person Mastermind is coming in 2025! Get on the list now: https://mindbodycomplete.com/wait-or-interest-list-rlp/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Join host Shannon in this enlightening conversation with Debi Kinney, the innovative CEO of Hello Coaching. Debi introduces her transformative workshop, 'Woo to Why,' crafted to help retreat attendees channel their newfound inspiration into concrete, actionable goals. Workshop Insights Discover how Debi's 'Woo to Why' workshop not only enhances the experience for retreat planners and participants but also promises a substantial return on investment. This unique workshop bridges the gap between the euphoric moments at retreats and real-world application, boosting success rates by helping attendees articulate and pursue their objectives. Accountability and Follow-up Debi delves into the tailored accountability options available post-retreat, which include personalized coaching sessions conducted primarily via Zoom. These sessions are designed to maintain momentum and ensure that the seeds planted during the retreat flourish into lasting change. Expertise and Additional Services With a background in corporate event planning, Debi brings a wealth of knowledge to the retreat space, emphasizing the value of incorporating external experts into retreat programming. She also shares exciting news about her upcoming website launch and how listeners can connect with her and avail themselves of her services online. Call to Action Listeners are encouraged to explore the possibility of integrating Debi's workshops into their retreat plans. For those looking to extend the impact of their retreat experience, Debi offers ongoing accountability coaching to help materialize the goals set during the workshop. Connect with Debi Check out Debi's new website at hellocoaching.info and follow her on Instagram @coachdebikinney for more insights and updates on her services. Tune in to this episode to learn how you can transform retreat inspiration into effective action and continue your personal and professional growth with Debi Kinney's expert guidance.   About Debi: Debi is the dedicated founder of Hello Coaching. From her early days at just 13, Debi has been deeply passionate about health and wellness. Her 25-year journey through the hospitality and events industry has equipped her with the unique skills to create memorable and impactful experiences that truly resonate with people. In November 2020, Debi embraced her roots and became a certified health coach, reigniting her lifelong purpose to empower others. Her coaching journey didn't stop there; she expanded her expertise to include nutrition coaching, personal training, and life coaching, developing a holistic approach to support your entire transformation journey. Debi is not just a coach; she's a wife, mom, and an award-winning business strategist who understands the delicate balance of multiple life roles. Her mission is clear: to lead by example and assist you in building a legacy filled with confident excellence.   Connect with Debi HelloCoaching.info  Instagram: @coachdebikinney  The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Episode Overview: In an invigorating session, hosts Emma and Shannon dive into transformative social media marketing strategies tailored for retreat leaders. Join us as Emma Tessler, the founder of 95 MediaeV, unveils the secrets to leveraging social media to not only grow your email list but also enhance overall engagement. Diving Into Digital: Emma opens the discussion by stressing the low visibility of organic content on social media—only about 2% of your audience actually sees it! She shares her expertise on how video content and Instagram stories can create meaningful connections and make your retreat stand out. Strategic Social Media Moves: Learn from a pro as Emma discusses the pivotal role of targeted social media advertising. With years of experience under her belt, she explains how tailor-made content for platforms like Instagram and Facebook can turn viewers into participants. Content That Converts: It's not just about posting; it's about posting with purpose. Emma talks about the art of creating high-converting content that resonates with your ideal audience. From the nitty-gritty of strategic planning to the magic of behind-the-scenes content, discover how to keep your followers engaged and eager for more. Collaboration and Growth: As the episode wraps, both hosts discuss future collaborations, with Shannon exploring how Emma's agency can amplify her brands' online presence. They outline steps for their potential partnership, setting the stage for a social media synergy that could elevate Shannon's retreat visibility to new heights. Closing Thoughts: This episode is a goldmine for any retreat leader looking to harness the power of social media to expand their reach and impact. Whether you're looking to refine your marketing tactics or find innovative ways to engage with your audience, Emma's insights provide a roadmap to success in the digital space. Join us to transform your retreat's social media approach and capture the hearts (and clicks) of your ideal audience!   Connect with Emma ninetyfivemedia.co  Follow us on Instagram Connect on Facebook Get inspired on Pinterest Tune into our Podcast The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Meet DeDee Cai Shannon welcomes guest DeDee Cai, the dynamic founder of Fit to Profit, to share insights on blending entrepreneurship with motherhood. DeDee discusses the ethos behind Fit to Profit, focusing on building business success grounded in personal well-being. Self-Care: The Entrepreneur's Keystone DeDee stresses the essential role of self-care in entrepreneurial success, drawing from her personal battle with burnout. She elaborates on how recovery and maintaining personal health are critical for sustaining business momentum and personal joy. Building a Successful Entrepreneurial Mindset DeDee outlines the five core elements of successful entrepreneurship: responsibility, commitment, discipline, service, and continuous action, highlighting responsibility as pivotal. The conversation covers the importance of integrating these elements with consistent self-care practices. Wrapping Up with Words of Wisdom DeDee extends support to entrepreneurs facing challenges, sharing her contact information for those seeking guidance.   Connect with DeDee www.fittoprofit.com   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Episode Overview: Join Kristine Palmer and Shannon Jamail in a captivating episode that explores the integration of equine-assisted activities into wellness programs. This discussion focuses on an upcoming Equine Assisted Retreat, specifically designed for wellness professionals looking to enrich their service offerings. Scheduled for December 3-4 at Retreat Ranch, this retreat promises a deep dive into the benefits and implementation of equine work. Key Discussions: Equine-Assisted Innovations: Kristine, founder of Horse and Bow, shares her expertise in employing horses for leadership and team-building exercises, explaining how equine sensitivity to human emotion can enhance communication and leadership skills within teams. Retreat Planning and Benefits: The retreat aims to demonstrate the transformative impact of equine-assisted activities on personal and client wellness. Shannon and Kristine discuss the structured activities planned for the retreat, including equine yoga and equine-assisted coaching, designed to expand practitioners' tools and methodologies. Accessibility to Non-Horse Owners: Addressing the logistics of incorporating equine work, the hosts discuss how wellness professionals without direct access to horses can still participate. Options include partnerships with local horse owners or rental arrangements, which they will exemplify at the retreat. Support for Rescued Horses: A unique aspect of their program is the involvement of retired or rescued horses, providing them care and a purpose, while offering attendees a meaningful way to interact and learn. Kristine proposes collaborations with local horse rescues as a way to benefit both the animals and human participants.   Event Details: The Equine Assisted Retreat not only aims to educate on the integration of horses into therapeutic practices but also provides practical experience in handling and learning from these intuitive animals. It's an ideal opportunity for wellness industry professionals to explore new dimensions of their practice. Join us to discover how you can transform your wellness offerings with the wisdom of horses at this innovative retreat at Retreat Ranch. Join the retreat: https://theretreatranch.com/equine-assisted-services-workshop/   Connect with Kristine https://horseandbow.com/ Instagram: @horseandbow The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Episode Introduction: Welcome back to another engaging episode where we continue our insightful conversation with Dr. Robyn McKay. Known for her expertise in spiritual intelligence and transformational leadership, Dr. McKay dives deeper into the psychology of retreats, discussing how integration tools not only benefit guests but also enhance the business models of retreat leaders. Key Discussion Points: The Psychology of Retreats: Continued Exploration: Dr. McKay elaborates on the psychological dynamics at play during retreats, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive environment that facilitates deep personal growth. Integration Tools: Discussion on innovative tools that help guests integrate their retreat experiences into daily life, ensuring long-lasting benefits.   Business Model Enhancement: Additional Revenue Streams: How retreat leaders can implement post-retreat integration tools and services as additional revenue streams. Case Studies: Examples of successful implementations that have not only enriched guest experiences but also significantly boosted business profitability.   Mindset for Retreat Leaders: Creating Value: The importance of mindset in shaping the offerings of retreat leaders, focusing on creating genuine value for participants. Overcoming Money Blocks: Dr. McKay addresses common financial obstacles in the retreat industry, offering strategies to overcome money blocks and foster a healthier relationship with business finances.   Listener Engagement: Interactive Segment: Listeners are encouraged to submit their questions on mindset and financial strategies in the retreat industry, which Dr. McKay will answer in a follow-up segment. Call to Action: Invitation for listeners to join a webinar hosted by Dr. McKay, focusing on spiritual intelligence in business and its impact on leadership and revenue.   Conclusion: Dr. Robyn McKay once again provides profound insights into the intersection of psychology, spiritual growth, and business acumen in the retreat industry. Her expert advice offers actionable strategies for retreat leaders aiming to deepen the impact of their programs and explore new avenues for income. Connect with Dr. Robyn McKay https://www.drrobynmckay.com/about  Consultation: https://drrobynmckay.com/cal FB group for spiritual entrepreneurs: https://www.facebook.com/groups/100kspiritualsecrets The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of our podcast, we sit down with Andrew Ronchetto, co-founder and CEO of Beon, a cutting-edge digital platform tailored for retreat leaders, coaches, and wellness practitioners. Andrew discusses how Beon is revolutionizing the retreat industry by offering customized digital tools that enhance both the in-retreat and post-retreat experience for guests. Discover the features of this innovative platform and how it can transform your retreat offerings. Key Discussion Points: Introduction to Andrew Ronchetto and Beon: Get to know Andrew, his journey to co-founding Beon, and the mission behind this unique platform. Explore how Beon provides tailored digital solutions to support wellness professionals in extending their impact beyond physical retreats.   Beonefits of a Digital Wellness Tool: Learn about the functionalities that Beon offers, such as session tracking, personalized content delivery, and real-time feedback mechanisms. Understand how these tools can enhance participant engagement and satisfaction during and after the retreat.   Customization Features: Dive into the customization options available on Beon that allow retreat leaders to tailor experiences to the specific needs of their clients. Examples of how customization can be applied in real retreat scenarios to improve outcomes and participant experiences.   Integrating Digital Tools in Retreat Settings: Discussion on the seamless integration of Beon into existing retreat programs. Practical tips from Andrew on how to introduce digital tools without disrupting the natural flow and intimacy of retreat experiences.   Post-Retreat Engagement: The importance of maintaining connection with participants after a retreat. How Beon facilitates ongoing engagement through features like follow-up wellness plans and community-building tools.   Conclusion: Andrew Ronchetto shares invaluable insights into how digital wellness tools like Beon are setting new standards in the retreat industry. For retreat leaders looking to elevate their offerings and ensure a lasting impact on their clients, integrating a platform like Beon could be a game changer. Call to Action: Visit Beon's Website to learn more about how you can integrate this digital wellness tool into your retreats. Sign up today to begin transforming your retreat experiences! Enjoy the full conversation on your favorite podcast app, and don't forget to subscribe for more episodes on how technology is shaping the future of wellness and retreats. Connect with Andrew: https://beonplatform.com/ The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

In a captivating episode of our podcast, we sit down with Jeff Buehner, the mind behind the transformative principles of the Sultan Musa of Mali. Jeff unveils the mystical 'language of the gods'—a powerful approach to influencing one's subconscious mind through feelings, which he describes as the ultimate tool for manifesting desires. Sultan Musa's Insightful Legacy Jeff begins by sharing the riveting story of Sultan Musa, one of the richest men in history, who, through a profound near-death experience, unlocked the ability to 'command' his destiny using the language of the gods. This ancient wisdom, revealed to Jeff in a rare manuscript, shows that our deepest feelings can shape our reality. Decoding the Language of the Gods The core of Jeff's teaching revolves around the idea that feelings, more than words or thoughts, serve as direct commands to the subconscious mind. By harnessing the power of imagination and visualization, we can transform our emotional landscape and thus, our life circumstances. Real-Life Manifestations Co-host Shannon shares her personal success story, detailing how visualization techniques allowed her to manifest her dream lake house, demonstrating the practical application of Jeff's teachings. This personal anecdote brings to life the abstract concepts discussed and offers listeners a template for applying these ideas. Leveraging New Understandings The episode wraps up with Jeff encouraging listeners to start noticing 'coincidences'—which are not mere chances but affirmations from the universe responding to their new, empowered feelings. He also shares a valuable resource, his free video book 'Sultan's Seven Secrets', which further explores these life-changing techniques. Listeners are encouraged to dive deeper by downloading Jeff's book, practicing visualization, and observing the powerful changes that follow—a journey towards mastering their own destinies through the ancient, yet ever-potent, language of the gods. Connect with Jeff Buehner: https://sultans7secrets.com/ https://www.facebook.com/7SecretsInstitute https://www.instagram.com/jeff_buehner/ The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify

Introduction: Welcome to today's episode where we delve into the dynamic world of digital marketing with Eddy Miranda, a self-made marketing guru whose journey from grassroots design to digital marketing mastery has included working alongside industry giants like Grant Cardone. Eddy's Marketing Philosophy: Eddy brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to digital marketing. He emphasizes the importance of understanding your customer deeply—knowing not just their needs but also where they spend their time online. This knowledge is crucial in choosing the right platforms for engagement and advertising. Key Discussion Points: Working with Icons: Eddy shares his invaluable experiences working with Grant Cardone and how those experiences shaped his approach to marketing and business.   Customer Understanding: The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the customer's digital hangouts to tailor marketing strategies effectively. Eddy stresses focusing marketing efforts on platforms where your target audience is most active.   Focused Marketing Strategies: Eddy talks about the efficiency of focusing on specific social platforms that align with your audience's presence, rather than spreading resources too thin across multiple platforms.   Advertising Insights: Insights into creating impactful ads for platforms like Meta and X, detailing strategies that blend attention-grabbing creative work with deep market understanding.   Beyond Selling - Building Relationships: Eddy emphasizes the importance of building relationships with your audience, not just selling to them. He discusses how nurturing these relationships can lead to sustained business success.   Coaching and Support: Eddy outlines the coaching and programs he offers to help businesses elevate their marketing strategies, providing tools and knowledge to navigate the complexities of digital advertising and customer engagement.   Conclusion: Eddy Miranda's journey and insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to understand their customers better and optimize their digital marketing strategies. His focus on targeted platforms and relationship-building provides a solid foundation for creating marketing campaigns that are not only effective but also sustainable. Call to Action: For those looking to dive deeper into strategic marketing and harness the full potential of digital platforms, Eddy's coaching services offer tailored support to elevate your marketing game.   Connect with Eddy  The demo call | Calendly link: https://calendly.com/deemmarketing/retreat-ranch-podcast?month=2024-08   The site link will be directly to his Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theoptimalmarketer   https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddydmiranda/   The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: Learn to Host Retreats Join our private Facebook Group Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide Free Top 11 Tips for Building an Email List    Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!   Subscribe:  Apple Podcast | Google Podcast | Spotify