How To Prepare For The Future With John Sanei

As mentioned in the podcast, we encourage listeners to submit their nominees to the 2020 Fitness Technology Innovation Award. We encourage everyone to apply and nominate those who have demonstrated new solutions to serve their clients in unique and better ways. You can do so here: http://www.fittechcouncil.org/fits-innovation-award-2020 This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Shay Amir, Founder & CEO of Spivi. Spivi is an interactive fitness tracking and streaming platform made for gyms to track performance and motivate members both in-studio and at-home. Spivi's performance tracking, gamification, and visuals help keep engagement and motivation at the forefront of every workout delivered. Today, Bryan and Shay converse on the idea behind omni-presence and some of the things Spivi is doing with their technology. One Powerful Quote: 26:45: "If you haven't moved yet, move. Don't wait. You cannot. You're not allowed to wait." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:53: Shay shares his thoughts on the buzzwords in the industry such as engagement, gamification, and personalization. 12:39: Bryan asks Shay why operators resist adopting the platforms that integrate these features. Shay elaborates on the technologies on Spivi's platform. 18:42: Bryan and Shay discuss how can studios have competitive differentiation without hybrid adoption. 21:56: Bryan inquires with Shay on what's coming next. 26:43: As Bryan wraps up the show, Shay imparts his final words of wisdom. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.spivi.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayamir/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shayamir/ https://twitter.com/ShayAmirSpivi https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

21 Jan 202130min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes strategic adviser Pete Moore to the show. Pete is the managing partner at Integrity Square, which specializes in advising passionate entrepreneurs, fast-growing companies, and seasoned executives with the right sources of capital where Pete advises the health, active lifestyle, and outdoor sector of the firm. Today, Bryan and Pete share their insights on the financial market and what firms are doing in the industry now. As a reminder, we encourage all our listeners to participate in FIT-C's inaugural 2020 Fitness Technology Innovation Award. This award will be going to the most innovative and technologically progressive fitness professional, supplier, and facility in response to overcoming and innovating as a result of the pandemic. We encourage everyone to apply and nominate those who have demonstrated new solutions to serve their clients in unique and better ways. Winners will receive special awards and recognition for their efforts. Please visit our website at: http://www.fittechcouncil.org/fits-innovation-award-2020 to learn more. Nominations are due by January 31st. One Powerful Quote: 18:39: "You gotta be patient, okay. You can't expect to be in a place right now where in 3 or 6 months things are going to be materially better. But you know in 2 to 3 years from now, you know we might even forget that we went through this. So be patient, hibernate. Just get to the other side, okay. Then, if you get to the other side, then it's like you've won the race. And now, you can basically reset." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:42: Pete shares his spin on what's going to happen in merger and acquisitions. 6:37: Bryan and Pete discuss public performance in the market and private equity investments. 9:56: Pete articulates his vision of big tech in the marketplace. 11:58: Bryan and Pete talk about firms creating partnerships in the home and digital markets. 14:37: Bryan inquires with Pete on his perspective that certain business cycles can be compared to the "Roaring 20s". 18:36: Bryan wraps up the show by asking Pete to share his pearls of wisdom to the listeners. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteymo/ https://www.halotalks.com/pete-moore/ https://www.integritysq.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteymo/ https://www.facebook.com/pete.moore.794 https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

30 Dec 202021min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his interview with corporate finance and strategic adviser, Rohit Kulkarni. Rohit is the Head Internet Analyst at MKM Partners, which specializes in researching and investing in capital markets. Today, Bryan recaps his thoughts on broad questions in the marketplace on big tech and other dynamics to consider in our industry as we approach the new year. One Powerful Quote: 35:59: "I think there may be some pricing power in certain markets, which has not existed for clubs in sometime for certain concepts…so those brands that have the power I think are going to do very well." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:09: Bryan introduces himself and his background, and Rohit asks him his views on the table-stakes of the fitness industry prior to the pandemic. 8:18: Bryan articulates his thoughts on the market with demand, valuation summaries, and trends that have accelerated. 11:01: Rohit asks Bryan to further extrapolate his views on the evaluation of firms. 13:18: Rohit inquires with Bryan about competitors of Peloton. The two discuss these firms that are unique in their value proposition. 19:56: Bryan talks about elements of social community and how user experiences will be catered to by many choices in different markets. 22:54: Bryan highlights his thoughts about intellectual property disputes. 24:25: Bryan delves into why big tech companies are moving into health and wellness and the strategy in their network effect. 29:17: Rohit asks Bryan his opinion on big firm acquisitions. 31:05: Bryan shares his belief that market consolidation and omni-channel offerings will be the future of the industry. 34:00: Bryan explains why many boutique models are not feasible, business models. 35:18: Bryan talks about the statistics on gym facilities closing as a result of COVID-19, pricing power in certain markets, and how some firms like Planet Fitness will continue to grow. 36:47: Rohit and Bryan discuss how big tech firms enter into the healthcare system and primary preventive care. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohitkulkarniwg2009/ https://www.mkmpartners.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rohitkulkarniwg2009/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

21 Dec 202040min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Michele Meleski to the show. Michele is the VP of Fitness, Racquet, and Recreation at ClubCorp which operates over 200 clubs and serves over 430,000 members. Her history in the space includes other notable executive positions at The Bay Club Company, Wellbridge, World Gym, and VillaSport Athletic Club & Spa. Today, Bryan and Michelle discuss trends in leisure and lifestyle operations, the impact of technology, and some advice about the industry space. If you are interested in registering for their upcoming eGym webinar series on ClubCorp with Bryan, Michele, & Dana Milkie on December 17th at 2PM EST, you can do so here: https://egym.zoom.us/webinar/register/4016020963874/WN_wahS2ESZRzO8gYC5gEPJAg One Powerful Quote: 4:35: "It's always people first then it's programs and then it's product. And if you get all those things right, those three things right, then it typically leads to a successful business model." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:48: Bryan asks Michele about the history of ClubCorp as she describes what it means to be in a lifestyle community as a fitness professional and member. 6:43: Michele shares the scope of fitness services provided at their facilities. 8:36: Michele articulates Bryan's response in how to approach operationalizing lifestyle, leisure experiences. 13:25: Michele gives her perspective on technology as a value added driver to complement relationships and offer the flexibility of connection. 15:45: Michele delves into the unique challenges in light of COVID and what she believes will be the future of health. 19:06: Bryan wraps up the show by asking Michele to impart her final thoughts to listeners. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-meleski-520771a/ https://www.clubcorp.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-meleski-520771a/ https://www.facebook.com/michele.meleski https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

10 Dec 202023min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke invites listeners to participate in FIT-C's inaugural 2020 Fitness Technology Innovation Award. This award will be going to the most innovative and technologically progressive fitness professional, supplier, and facility in response to overcoming and innovating as a result of the pandemic. We encourage everyone to apply and nominate those who have demonstrated new solutions to serve their clients in unique and better ways. Winners will receive special awards and recognition for their efforts. If you are interested in submitting, please visit our website at: http://www.fittechcouncil.org/fits-innovation-award-2020. Self and third party nominations are both accepted. Nominations are due by January 31st. You can reach out to Bryan at bryankorourke@gmail.com if you have any other questions. One Powerful Quote: 3:44: "Necessity is the mother of invention." Guest Contact Information: https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

4 Dec 20205min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Brent Darden to the show. Brent's history in the health club and fitness space began as a personal trainer and working in corporate wellness, most notably as the GM for the Cooper Institute and Telos Fitness Center in Dallas, Texas. He has served as the Chairman of the Board for IHRSA and is Chairman for REX Roundtables. He recently was appointed the Interim President & CEO of IHRSA. Bryan and Brent touch upon some great information in our industry and share their optimism for the future. If you are interested in registering for the upcoming webinar series with Bryan, Brent, and Dana Milkie of eGym on November 19th at 2PM EST, you can do so here: https://egym.zoom.us/webinar/register/4016020963874/WN_xHTfAqnUQWyFHj7vVT3tOg One Powerful Quote: 18:35: "Crisis breeds progress. It breeds creativity, inventiveness, and it propels action." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:44: Bryan asks Brent to share his insights on why our industry is essential with the data behind low-risk spreading of COVID-19. 7:14: Bryan and Brent discuss the future for club operators and the consolidation of the industry. 11:38: Bryan asks Brent about the impact of technology as an upcoming hybrid model. 14:31: Brent highlights a few key initiatives for IHRSA domestically and internationally for navigating the pandemic. 17:45: Bryan wraps up the show, and Brent shares his final advice for operators and professionals. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-darden-141b7113/ https://www.europeactive.eu/news/safeactive-study-%E2%80%93-preliminary-results-showing-extremely-low-levels-covid-19-risk-fitness-clubs https://www.ihrsa.org/about/media-center/press-releases/check-in-data-a-success-clubs-arent-spreading-the-virus/ https://www.ihrsa.org/ https://www.ihrsa.org/industry-leadership/national-health-and-fitness-alliance Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brent-darden-141b7113/ https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

11 Nov 202022min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes back friend and advocate, Emma Barry. The two revisit Emma's views on the boutique studio space as she and Bryan discuss digital and technology ahead of their upcoming webinar series. Emma has lead key senior roles including Director of Group Fitness for Equinox and as a founder for group fitness exercise for Les Mills International. Emma is currently the Chief Creative Soul at Good Soul Hunting which helps health and fitness brands recruit top executive talent. As an author, speaker, and advisor, Emma is considered one of the leading thinkers in the personal betterment sector. If you are interested in registering for the upcoming webinar with Bryan and Emma on Tuesday, October 20th, you can do so here: https://egym.zoom.us/webinar/register/4016020963874/WN_YLAyoIGfSyqODmZKEyNzbA One Powerful Quote: 7:28: "We sit on believe systems. We sit on behaviors… it's the small things that give the big change. It's not the big change that I want tomorrow because you fail at that… it's behavioral change and it's when you need it at the dosage that you need it. And in fact, the most effective behavioral change is when you barely discern it." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:19: Bryan reflects with Emma on the unexpected transformation in the boutique industry, and Emma elaborates on why gamification has become so prominent through hyper personalized data points. 6:07: Bryan and Emma articulate on what behavioral modification drivers are and what that means to users. 8:27: Bryan asks Emma her thoughts on omnichannel content distribution as a means of forced adoption and what she thinks users are demanding. 11:46: Bryan inquires with Emma about the division in apps that deliver value to users. They agree that these tools have become a convenient, integrated experience and a crucial part for business strategy. 17:27: Emma shares what are automated functionalities in boutique studios. 21:12: Bryan and Emma discuss why legacy brands are at a disadvantage to their competitors with digital transformation. 25:13: Emma elaborates on strength training as a micro segment in the boutique studio marketplace. 31:35: Bryan wraps up the podcast by asking Emma how she discerns defining the space by generation. Bullet List of Resources: Building a Badass Boutique - Your 10-Touch Journey to Designing a Fitness Studio that Rocks: https://amzn.to/2Ss9XIl Building a Badass Boutique Masterclass: https://www.buildingabadassboutique.com/ Use code BADASS for 75% off Good Soul Hunting: https://www.goodsoulhunting.com Scott Galloway's Google Is God, Apple Is Sex, Facebook Is Love, And Amazon Is Death?: https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkoetsier/2017/05/10/galloway-google-is-god-apple-is-sex-facebook-is-love-and-amazon-is-death/#79007fcd282b Guest Contact Information: http://emmabarry.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-barry-51ba6a3/ https://www.facebook.com/emma.barry.33 https://twitter.com/emzboobarry https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

10 Nov 202038min

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Mike Studer to the show. Mike is a clinical specialist in neurological physical therapy and a certified exercise expert in aging adult geriatrics. He has served as the vice-president of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy of the APTA and has been the chair and vice-chair of several special interest groups at the national level in each of the Academies of Neurologic and Geriatric PT, including balance and falls, stroke, and the practice committee in neurology. He has written numerous articles, co-wrote several book chapters, and lectures extensively on the topics of balance, motor control, motor learning, cognitive impairment, and case management. This podcast episode focuses on key trends, neuroplasticity, and the importance of exercise with aging as Bryan and Mike delve deeper into these topics. If you are interested in registering for the webinar on "The Science of Aging" on September 29th with Mike Studer, Bryan O'Rourke, & Frank Arant of eGym, you can do so here: https://egym.zoom.us/webinar/register/561598883740/WN_RZro4MIxRo2I48EceK4ApQ One Powerful Quote: 19:34: "Watch for those aspects of your life that you are no longer participating in, maybe you just chose to retire. Well what did the engagement of work provide to you before? You had to be able to multitask. Are you going to just allow that capacity to erode or are you going to find another facet to get that done? You need to replace the stimuli that you are either intentionally or unintentionally losing in your life." Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:32: Bryan asks Mike his opinion on the definition of the science of aging. 5:00: Mike debunks the biases behind the recent phenomenon in longevity. 6:54: Mike shares his experience of treating a patient as it relates to his previous response. You can see this engagement as a post on Mike's LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestuderbrainbodyrehab/detail/recent-activity/shares/ 8:58: Bryan and Mike discuss how reframing the thinking about health and exercise as a different experience can eliminate the perceived struggle of aging. 11:31: Bryan asks Mike about neuroplasticity and how its implications relate to aging. You can view his Ted talk on "Seeing the Potential in Brain Recovery" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwin3VMPI6I 13:42: Mike elaborates on these new issues and opportunities as key trends begin to develop in the near term future. 17:47: Bryan wraps up the show and asks Mike his final words of wisdom on these key trends as they apply to active living and aging. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestuderbrainbodyrehab/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestuderbrainbodyrehab/detail/recent-activity/shares/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwin3VMPI6I Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestuderbrainbodyrehab/ https://www.facebook.com/mike.studer.71 https://www.bryankorourke.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/ http://www.fittechcouncil.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

31 Aug 202022min