Fitness + Technology

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Steffie Bryant to the show. Steffie brings a strong background in gym operations, sales, and currently serves as President of Keepme.ai, an AI-powered sales and marketing CRM platform designed specifically for the fitness industry. Since its launch in April 2019, Keepme.ai has expanded globally, supporting hundreds of fitness clubs in driving member acquisition, engagement, and retention. In this conversation, Bryan and Steffie explore the evolution of artificial intelligence, with a particular focus on agentic AI, autonomous agents, and the broader market implications of these emerging technologies. Together, they discuss how agentic tools are being deployed, what their adoption means for fitness operators, and how AI-driven systems are reshaping workflows, roles, and career trajectories across the industry. One Powerful Quote: 14:41: "It's better to ask for forgiveness than permission at times." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestam

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke shares his recent webinar, "Strategies For Implementing Data Solutions For Gym Chains," presented alongside Pablo Viñaspre, Founder and CEO of FitnessKPI. This in-depth session examines proven strategies for successfully implementing data solutions across multi-site gym operations. Bryan and Pablo discuss how operators can adopt and scale analytics to improve member retention, enhance pricing strategies, and uncover new revenue opportunities. Designed for multi-site executives and industry leaders, this conversation provides practical, actionable guidance to help transform data into consistent, measurable business performance. One Powerful Quote: 15:58: "Focus beats sophistication always."  4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:04: Bryan opens the discussion by reframing data as a business decision challenge — not a technology project but an operating model transformation. 10:20: Bryan and Pablo addres

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes back strategic advisor Pete Moore, Managing Partner at Integrity Square. Pete and his firm specialize in supporting passionate entrepreneurs, high-growth companies, and experienced executives by connecting them with the right sources of capital. At Integrity Square, Pete leads efforts in the health, active lifestyle, and outdoor sectors. During this insightful conversation, Bryan and Pete explore business strategy with a focus on mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and the current dynamics of the capital markets. They also discuss what today's operators need to be paying close attention to in order to stay competitive and capitalize on emerging opportunities. One Powerful Quote: 26:05: "Master the business that you currently own." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:47: Pete shares insights on the current state of mergers & acquisitions and private equity within the fitness and wel

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes back industry veteran Carrie Kepple. Bryan and Carrie share a professional relationship spanning over 15 years, including their time serving together on the IHRSA Board of Directors. Carrie is a board member of the Fitness Industry Technology Council and a distinguished leader in the global fitness industry, having worked with prominent organizations such as Gold's Gym International and Les Mills. Her expertise lies in club operations, and she is the visionary behind Styles Studios, a pioneering fitness concept that combines four boutique studio experiences in one location. In this conversation, Bryan and Carrie dive into technology stacks, boutique fitness models, and the evolution of hybrid fitness concepts. One Powerful Quote: 12:03: "Don't get distracted by the shiny new toy. Stay in your lane." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:00: Bryan opens the discussion with Carrie's background a

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his webinar, "Using Data & Technology To Drive Club Revenues," alongside Pablo Viñaspre of FitnessKPI. The session explores how data and digital tools are reshaping fitness business performance, with a focus on practical, real-world application. Listeners will gain actionable insights on improving member retention, optimizing pricing strategies, and unlocking new revenue opportunities through smarter use of analytics and technology. Designed for operators, managers, and industry professionals, this webinar provides a clear framework for making more informed decisions and driving measurable, sustainable growth. You can view the webinar deck here: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/using-data-technology-to-drive-revenue-fitness-kpi-12-25-webinar/284677394 One Powerful Quote: 32:48: "So deciding which moments in the customer journey or in the customer experience I can fully automatize and in which ones I have to go fully human to br

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Vic Kurs, Senior Technology Advisor at Qodeca. Vic leads sales strategy, partnerships, and client success for Qodeca, a firm specializing in custom software and consulting for the fitness, sport, and healthcare sectors. With extensive experience across SaaS and health club operations, he helps organizations streamline workflows, enhance member engagement, and accelerate growth through integrated, data-driven digital solutions. Today, Vic joins Bryan to discuss practical technology adoption, the realities operators face with complex tech stacks, and how to build a smarter digital strategy for the future. One Powerful Quote: 13:03: "Before any business moves into the AI space, it is absolutely crucial to fix the basics and to put that right." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:33: Vic shares his background in technology and fitness, and the core challenges operators face in adopting new solutions.

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his keynote, "European Fitness Market Trends In 2025 And Beyond" live from the SC Fitness Annual Convention in Portugal. Bryan shares the spotlight for what's next in the European fitness market and the key differentiators needed for successful operators. Whether you lead a gym, studio, supplier brand, or digital platform, this talk is designed to expand your perspective and prepare you for what's ahead. To view the slideshow, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/european-fitness-market-trends-2025-bryan-orourke-keynote-sc-fitness-conference/284499398 Apply for the 2025 Innovation Awards: https://www.fittechcouncil.org/fitc-innovation-award-2025 One Powerful Quote: 11:51: "The quality of your thinking determines the quality of your life." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 6:57: Bryan opens by emphasizing thinking big as the first major trend. 15:54: Bryan discusses the opportunities and cha

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Uday Anumalachetty, Founder of Bright Medical Wellness, to the show. Uday is on a mission to redefine the health and wellness landscape by making transformative treatments—such as GLP-1 medications—more accessible to those who need them most. Motivated by his personal journey with weight challenges and the life-changing impact of GLP-1 therapies, Uday took the leap into entrepreneurship to build a service that not only improves access to these medications, but also prioritizes education, post-consultation care, and ongoing support. In this conversation, he shares his insights, vision, and personal experiences with Bryan, offering valuable perspective on the evolving intersection of healthcare and fitness technology. Apply for the 2025 Innovation Awards: https://www.fittechcouncil.org/fitc-innovation-award-2025 Register for Bryan's upcoming webinar Data & Technology to Drive Club Revenues:  https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/re

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Lindsay Vastola to the show. With a rich background spanning corporate management and entrepreneurship, Lindsay brings a dynamic perspective to leadership and professional growth. Through her engaging keynote presentations, professional development workshops, and thought-provoking conversations, she empowers professionals to reach their full potential. As the founder of VastPotential, Lindsay helps organizations cultivate exceptional employee experiences and enhance performance through innovative staff development and vision-driven leadership education and coaching. In this episode, she joins Bryan to explore transformational leadership, the role of technology, and the discipline required to drive organizational success. One Powerful Quote: 24:45: "Leadership is an endurance sport. You are never there." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:16: Bryan opens the conversation by asking Lindsay to

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Brian Holmes, CEO and Founder of AI Front Desk. With hiring, training, and retaining frontline workers becoming increasingly challenging, AI Front Desk offers innovative artificial intelligence solutions that handle complex business tasks directly. By reducing dependence on traditional staffing models, the company helps streamline operations, improve efficiency, and minimize errors. Brian joins Bryan to discuss his company's approach and the practical impact these solutions are having across the industry. One Powerful Quote: 32:05: "Yes you can get to where you want to go. You just won't get there as fast as you want." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:47: Bryan opens the show by sharing Brian's entrepreneurial background. 8:42: Bryan asks Brian about the key lessons that led to the founding of AI Front Desk. 13:47: Bryan discusses the timeline behind launching AI Front Desk. 17:09: Brian addre

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 spe

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 mod

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke sits down with Jeff Zwiefel, Executive Director of Longevity & Performance at Life Time. With over three decades of leadership in the health, fitness, and wellness industry, Jeff brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, brand evolution, and operational excellence. As a key architect behind Life Time’s transformation into a comprehensive healthy lifestyle company, Jeff shares his perspective on the future of wellness, the role of leadership in culture and innovation, and strategies for advancing health span and performance.  Tune in for a powerful conversation filled with insights from one of the industry’s most influential leaders. One Powerful Quote: 25:57: “We have two lives, and the second one begins when we realize we only have one.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:04: Bryan opens the conversation with an overview of Jeff's extensive background and career journey. 4:33: The d

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 e

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

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: Brya

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 tal

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 spea

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O’Rourke shares his presentation “The Future of Fitness” live from SIBEC. Bryan offers a bold and thought-provoking look at how industry leaders can thrive amid rapid transformation. From navigating global micro and macro trends to redefining leadership, marketing, and digital strategy, this talk explores what it takes to succeed in today’s evolving fitness landscape. You’ll hear his insights on the rise of recovery and luxury experiences, the shifting role of human capital, the obsolescence of traditional SAAS platforms, and the growing demand for personalization in an “impatience economy.” To view the slideshow, visit: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-sibec-2025-talk/279416288 One Powerful Quote: 5:50: “The challenge is how do you see the future, execute the present, and migrate through that gap?” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 1:50: Bryan opens his presentation with speaking on nav

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O’Rourke shares his webinar with Hilary McGuckin and Sarah Harris from Keepme.ai as they explore how the modern fitness sales funnel is evolving—and what that means for fitness operators, marketers, and tech providers alike. In their conversations, they unpack: The biggest challenges fitness businesses face today with consumer acquisition and retention. Surprising insights from Keepme’s latest research on changing consumer behaviors. How AI, personalization, and automation can reshape the funnel. Real-world success stories and future-proof strategies you can apply now. Whether you’re a gym owner, supplier, or fit tech innovator, this discussion is packed with insights to help you stay ahead in a fast-changing landscape. To view the slideshow, visit: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-sales-funnel-consumer-behaviors-challenges-opportunities/278835947 One Powerful Quote: 6:56: “Humanize and futurize simultaneously.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ times