Strategic Leadership & Growth at Life Time With Jeff Zwiefel

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his keynote presentation delivered live at FitLife's Club Network Conference in Seattle. Bryan explores the key trends transforming the global fitness industry from rapid technological advancements to the evolving importance of human capital. He emphasizes why now is a pivotal moment for leaders to shape the future of fitness. To view Bryan's slide deck, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-fitlife-club-network-keynote-seattle-2025-bryan-orourke/283944575 One Powerful Quote: 16:54: "Clarity is a superpower." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:34: Bryan gives an introduction to the major trends shaping the fitness industry and their impact on its future direction. 17:38: Bryan shares the opportunities and challenges that will define the next five years in fitness and wellness. 18:48: Bryan discusses the capital and financial shifts in the marketplace. 27:02: Bryan speaks on bridging the digital and physical gap through humanized experiences. 37:06: Bryan talks about business models that are driving innovation in health and fitness services. 44:12: Bryan highlights what's real in understanding the technology and AI hype cycle. 56:46: Bryan explains why people and trust are the most valuable assets today. 1:06:50: Bryan summarizes how translating strategy into execution can lead to meaningful change. Bullet List of Resources: https://fitlifeclubs.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

27 Okt 1h 12min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes back Chris Edwards, Founder and CEO of TriCore Wellness. TriCore focuses on the integration of technology, health data, and professional coaching to deliver comprehensive wellness solutions for individuals, employees, and organizations. Chris joins Bryan to discuss his business model and share valuable insights on current trends in integrative coaching and wellness services. One Powerful Quote: 7:51: "You have to unlearn before you can relearn." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:23: Chris and Bryan discuss how TriCore supports fitness operators by identifying business challenges and creating solutions that drive opportunities. 10:07: Bryan and Chris talk about exploring the unique challenges and emerging opportunities in wellness service products. 12:57: Bryan and Chris talk about addressing the disconnect between traditional fitness education and the evolving needs and expectations of modern consumers. 15:53: Bryan asks Chris why there hasn't been a fresh perspective on identifying and addressing service gaps in the fitness industry. 20:11: Chris shares closing thoughts and actionable advice for listeners navigating the future of wellness services. Bullet List of Resources: https://tricorewellness.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-edwards-367094196/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

8 Sep 24min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Richard Grönberg, Founder and CEO of ECDESIGN — a leading 3D interior design software that empowers sales professionals to quickly plan and visualize any space without the complexity of traditional CAD tools. With over 10,000 companies across 170 countries using the platform, ECDESIGN is transforming how fitness and commercial environments are imagined and brought to life. Tune in as Richard shares insights into the power of design, his business philosophy, and how intuitive planning tools are shaping the future of space visualization in the fitness industry. One Powerful Quote: 18:31: "There are no shortcuts." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:51: Bryan asks Richard about the origins of ECDESIGN and what inspired him to launch the business. 5:25: The conversation shifts to Swedish design and how it influenced Richard's journey into the fitness industry. 7:15: Richard explains how design expectations have evolved and what users now look for when using ECDESIGN. 8:26: Bryan and Richard explore how gaming principles have influenced modern design tools and the role of technology in that transformation. 13:21: Richard shares his approach to leadership, organizational management, and his core business philosophy. 16:20: Richard offers closing thoughts and shares key insights for listeners from his entrepreneurial experience. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.ecdesign.se/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-gronberg/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

1 Jul 20min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke is joined by Julian Barnes, Co-Founder and CEO of The BFS Network, a market intelligence and growth accelerator for beauty, fitness, and self-care businesses. In his role, Julian serves as a strategic growth advisor, helping BFS members enhance profitability and scale smarter. With a background that includes marketing leadership roles at Velocity Sports Performance and Oasis Day Spa, Julian later co-founded Body Local, NYC's premier networking platform for wellness professionals. Today, he leads BFS, which supports business owners by offering collaborative learning, operational training, and access to high-impact products and services. Tune in as Bryan and Julian explore innovation and the evolving needs of the modern, boutique fitness business. For those who wish to purchase the full BFS Report, use Discount Code FIT-C for $50 off. One Powerful Quote: 38:10: "Focus on the one thing that's the most important thing to get you to the next milestone." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 1:41: Julian shares his personal journey and background in the fitness industry. 4:13: Julian talks about the lifecycle of boutique fitness and how the industry is evolving. 7:40: Bryan and Julian reflect on the origins of boutique fitness and the iconic brands that shaped the space. 13:50: Julian talks about boutique modalities and the renewed popularity of pilates. 22:59: Julian speaks about the convergence of fitness, recovery, longevity, and beauty. 27:51: Julian offers his perspective on the growing role of strength training. 30:22: Bryan and Julian discuss intermediaries, membership dynamics, and business models. 37:57: Julian imparts his pearls of wisdom to the listeners. Bullet List of Resources: https://bfsnetwork.com/ www.BFSReport.com https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-rise-of-boutique-studio-fitness-concepts/66643673 Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianabarnes/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

30 Jun 40min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke is joined by Eddie Arpin, Co-Founder of OfferingTree, a comprehensive website, scheduling, and payment solution designed specifically for wellness professionals. OfferingTree empowers coaches, yoga instructors, personal trainers, mindfulness teachers, and other wellness practitioners by streamlining digital operations, so they can focus on delivering exceptional client experiences. In this conversation, Eddie shares the journey behind OfferingTree, his insights into the evolving needs of wellness professionals, and practical advice on building trust, improving client engagement, and leveraging digital tools effectively. One Powerful Quote: 16:06: "Trust is the most valuable commodity in the world now." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:47: Eddie shares his software background and the origins of OfferingTree. 5:24: Bryan and Eddie talk about common pain points for wellness professionals. 9:37: Bryan asks Eddie about the value and impact of SMS marketing. 12:26: Eddie goes into evolving trends in content strategy and SEO. 14:57: Eddie shares his thoughts on payment processing and earning customer trust. 17:14: Bryan and Eddie discuss why tech stack integration matters more than ever. 25:54: Bryan wraps up the interview with Eddie imparting his final pearls of wisdom. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.offeringtree.com/ https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiearpin/ https://x.com/fifth_eddie https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

21 Jun 30min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his keynote, "The Key Trends Creating Opportunities and Challenges for the Global Fitness Industry in the Next 5 Years" live from Beyond Activ in Singapore. Bryan shares the spotlight for what's next for fitness across the globe — from emerging technologies and programming innovations to finance, business models, and the forces reshaping how to serve members and scale impact. Whether you lead a gym, studio, supplier brand, or digital platform, this talk is designed to challenge your thinking and equip you for what's ahead. To view the slideshow, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-keynote-bryan-orourke-beyond-activ-singapore-2025/280332550 One Powerful Quote: 7:41: "In a world deluged by irrelevant information, clarity is power." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:09: Bryan opens his keynote with "What if?" and the convergence of macro/micro trends. 7:47: Bryan talks about opportunities and challenges in the next 5 years. 11:31: Bryan articulates on business models as the mainstay configurations for fitness delivery. 15:40: Bryan speaks on biotechnologies and the new social constructs today. 17:40: Bryan defines leadership vision and the processes to execute on it. 19:09: Bryan recaps his presentation. Bullet List of Resources: https://beyondactiv.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

10 Jun 22min

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Pariskshit Dutt & Jackson Powell to the show. They are the founders of Fittest, a hardware-free heart rate tracking platform designed to help gyms boost member engagement, drive accountability, and increase retention. By seamlessly integrating with wearables, Fittest provides real-time in-studio and at-home tracking, gamification, and performance insights without the cost or hassle of additional hardware. Today, the two join Bryan to talk about their startup business and the challenges with data wearable technology. One Powerful Quote: 18:13: "The barriers to entry have never been lower." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:47: Bryan asks Pariskshit & Jackson their general thoughts on wearables. 7:36: Pariskshit & Jackson talk about creating better user experiences. 9:38: Bryan articulates on the innovator's dilemma; Pariskshit gives his feedback. 12:48: Pariskshit & Jackson speak on the idea behind fittestapp and its feature sets. 18:00: Pariskshit imparts his pearls of wisdom to the listeners. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.fittestapp.co.uk/ https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-bryan-k-o-rourke-pdf/273973112 Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pdutt111/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackson-powell-0b7362207/ pd@fittestapp.co.uk jackson@fittestapp.co.uk https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

31 Mai 24min