Adam Schafer - Beyond the Fake: Mind Pump on Trust, Truth, and Industry Snake Oil

In this episode, Eric Malzone sits down with Adam Schafer to explore the evolution of Mind Pump, one of the most successful brands in fitness podcasting. Adam opens up about how authenticity, transparency, and strategic business decisions turned a passion project into a thriving enterprise. The conversation dives into the realities of building a sustainable business in the fitness and wellness space — from navigating multiple revenue streams to maintaining integrity and trust in a market increasingly influenced by AI and misinformation. 💡 Key takeaways include the importance of authentic storytelling, slow and steady business growth, and staying grounded in core values even as responsibilities expand. Eric and Adam also discuss the power of email marketing, community-driven engagement, and how genuine connection — not trends — is what truly fuels long-term success in the fitness, entrepreneurship, and personal development world. LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/ https://www.withflex.com/ 

In this episode, Kim Gouch, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Retro Fitness, dives into her journey and the dynamic evolution of the fitness industry. She discusses how Retro Fitness is redefining the HVLP market through community-driven experiences, authentic branding, and meaningful consumer connections. Kim highlights the brand's Get Real campaign, which celebrates individuality and emotional connection in fitness, and shares how community engagement and simplicity in consumer experience shape their approach to growth and retention. She also explores the difference between branding and marketing, emphasizing that true success comes from building a brand for the future — one that resonates with younger generations through authenticity, technology integration, and inclusivity. With a focus on data-driven insights and collaborative innovation, Kim outlines Retro Fitness's strategy for explosive yet sustainable growth, ensuring the brand continues to inspire connection, wellness, and belonging in every community it serves. LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/ https://www.withflex.com/  https://egym.com/int  *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:9553d5a7-f9e9-4403-9d91-a68547ea7fbc-2" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> #RetroFitness #KimGouch #FitnessIndustry #Branding #MarketingStrategy #GetRealCampaign #CommunityEngagement #FitnessBrand #GymMarketing #ConsumerExperience #WellnessCulture #HVLPFitness #HealthAndWellness #FitnessInnovation #GrowthStrategy #FutureOfFitness #AuthenticBranding #WellnessJourney #FitnessCommunity #FitnessBusiness #DataDrivenMarketing #FitnessTrends #BrandBuilding #WellnessLifestyle #FitnessMotivation        

Join host Eric Malzone as he speaks with Colleen Lewis, co-founder of bluSONIL, and Dr. Amy Lee, the company's Chief Medical Officer, about how bluSONIL is transforming the intersection of longevity, wellness, and regenerative aesthetics. Colleen, a seasoned leader in luxury brands and aesthetics, and Dr. Lee, a triple board-certified physician in metabolic health and nutrition, share how their partnership brings together business vision and medical expertise to create a high-touch, results-driven experience. They discuss identifying market gaps, the importance of evidence-based treatments, and the challenges of scaling a medically guided company while maintaining trust and authenticity. The conversation also explores bluSONIL's membership model, their educational approach to consumer wellness, and their shared belief in innovation, transparency, and holistic care—redefining how people pursue beauty, vitality, and long-term health. LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/  https://www.podcastcollective.io/ 

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Andy Galpin, a distinguished professor and human performance scientist, shares invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of health and fitness. He expertly distinguishes between performance and longevity, emphasizing that while longevity focuses on lifespan, true performance encompasses immediate, measurable improvements in physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Dr. Galpin discusses the transformative role of technology and AI in healthcare and fitness, highlighting how these tools can enhance coaching and client care when applied strategically. As the founder of Absolute Rest, he reveals groundbreaking advancements in sleep science, introducing their revolutionary at-home sleep testing system that provides clinical-grade analysis without the traditional limitations of sleep labs. The conversation explores opportunities for industry professionals to collaborate with Dr. Galpin's various ventures, including Parker University's upcoming 65,000-square-foot advanced human performance center, Vitality Blueprint's biomarker tracking, and Rapid Health's personalized optimization programs. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Galpin emphasizes the importance of maintaining a first-principles approach while embracing technological advancement, offering valuable guidance for fitness professionals navigating this rapidly evolving industry. LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/  https://egym.com/int 

In this episode, Chris Clawson, a veteran leader in the fitness industry and current EGYM executive, joins Eric to discuss the evolution of fitness technology, the game-changing impact of EGYM's Genius ecosystem, and the industry's growing role in preventative healthcare. Chris shares insights from his 40-year career, the importance of holistic health solutions, and how partnerships and digital innovation are transforming gym experiences for both operators and members. The conversation also explores the push for better physical education, the influence of corporate wellness programs, and the need for industry-wide advocacy to elevate fitness as a pillar of public health. LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/ https://www.withflex.com/ https://egym.com/int 

In this episode, Eric Malzone sits down with Chris Craytor to unpack the evolving landscape of the fitness industry, highlighting the growing integration between fitness and healthcare, the rise of affordable luxury in fitness experiences, and the vital role of community engagement in member retention. They explore how diverse offerings can address different market needs, how AI can streamline operations, and why preventative health programs are becoming a major focus. Chris also shares insights from his work with ACAC and Weld Health, emphasizing the importance of innovation, strategic partnerships, and collaboration with healthcare providers. The conversation sheds light on the challenges of competition—not only from other gyms but also from home fitness solutions—and the ongoing struggle with capital management faced by independent operators, offering a comprehensive view of where the future of fitness is headed.   LINKS: https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/  https://egym.com/int 

In this episode, Eric Malzone sits down with Gray Cook, a pioneer in movement screening and founder of Functional Movement Systems (FMS), to explore the evolution of coaching and the critical role of movement health in overall wellness. Gray shares valuable insights from his decades of experience, discussing how understanding stress, recovery, and functional movement can transform both personal health and coaching effectiveness. He emphasizes the importance of proactive wellness, engaging youth in movement education, and fostering radical transparency in coaching. This conversation challenges fitness professionals to look beyond methods and focus on functional outcomes—encouraging a deeper, more educational approach to health and performance. Key Takeaways: Movement health is foundational to overall wellness. Screening for movement can reveal hidden risk factors that may lead to injury. The fitness industry must involve youth in early movement education. Understanding stress and recovery is essential for effective coaching. Radical transparency builds stronger, more trusting client relationships. True wellness is defined by the absence of risk factors. Proper assessment and training can improve movement patterns over time. Coaches should prioritize functional outcomes over rigid methodologies. Health conversations must become more proactive and educational. Ongoing education is key for fitness professionals aiming to elevate their practice. https://www.podcastcollective.io/ https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/ https://www.withflex.com/ 

In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Tony Scrimale dive into the evolving fitness landscape, focusing on the rise of high value, low price (HVLP) gyms, the role of private equity, and the critical importance of operational excellence. Tony draws from his 28 years of industry experience to share insights into the growth of CR Fitness and its unique approach to personal training and member integration. They also discuss challenges and opportunities for independent operators, highlighting the importance of collaboration to better serve the deconditioned population. The discussion sheds light on the future of fitness, underscoring the need to adapt to market trends while maintaining a strong sense of community. Key Takeaways Tony Scrimale has 28 years of experience in the fitness industry. CR Fitness emphasizes personal training and seamless member integration. The HVLP model is shifting toward larger gym spaces with added amenities. Private equity is driving significant growth in fitness brands. Consolidation among major brands is an increasing trend in the industry. Independent operators should carefully evaluate acquisition offers from larger brands. Operational excellence is a cornerstone of CR Fitness's success. Trainers at CR Fitness are empowered to build strong client relationships. The future of fitness will focus heavily on serving the deconditioned population. Industry collaboration is crucial for sustainable, long-term succes https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/  

In this episode, Eric Malzone sits down with Reka Gobis to explore the future of fitness and what's ahead for the 2026 Kisako Research event. Reka shares her background and the mission behind Kisako, highlighting the vital role of research in shaping event content and ensuring it stays relevant. Reflecting on the 2025 gathering, she points to key themes such as corporate wellness and the growing impact of GLP-1, before shifting the focus to what's next. The 2026 event will bridge fitness, healthcare, and technology with two stages of simultaneous sessions, an expanded audience that now includes healthcare professionals, and unique experiential opportunities like a pop-up gym and wellness zone. Networking takes center stage alongside a strong lineup of VIP speakers, creating a one-of-a-kind environment for collaboration and learning. With tickets free for operators at the VP level and above until November 7th, this event promises to set the tone for the future of the fitness and healthcare ecosystem. https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/ 

In this episode, Dr. Amy B. Killen dives into the world of hormone optimization and longevity medicine, with a special focus on women's health. She shares her inspiring journey from working in the ER to founding a longevity clinic, while addressing the stigma around hormone replacement therapy and why it's crucial for women to understand hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation explores lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, exercise, and the role of sleep in health optimization. Dr. Killen also touches on the exciting future of AI in personalized health care and the growing potential of stem cell therapy in sexual health. Key Takeaways 🌿 Dr. Amy Killen transitioned from ER medicine to longevity medicine 📈 Public awareness of hormone therapies for women has increased recently 👩‍🦳 Perimenopause typically begins in a woman's 40s, leading to various symptoms 📉 The Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 caused a stigma around hormone therapy ⏳ Women should seek help for hormonal changes around age 35 💪 Overtraining and restrictive diets are common missteps for women 🏋️‍♀️ Weight training is more beneficial than excessive aerobic exercise for women 🥗 Nutritional focus should be on protein and fiber intake 😴 Sleep is a critical foundation for health, especially during hormonal changes 💊 Hormone optimization therapy (HOT) can be affordable and accessible   https://www.sportalliance.com/en/perfect-gym/  https://www.withflex.com/