Jason McCarthy - GoRuck & The Critical Role of "Social Fitness"

In this episode, Eric sits down with Cody Mooney and discusses his journey in the world of CrossFit, his role as the Director of Performance at Pliability, and the evolution of mobility training. From his early days in sports to competing in the CrossFit Games, Cody shares insights on the importance of functional fitness and mobility. He highlights how technology and education are becoming crucial in promoting human movement health. Cody also covers the business growth of Pliability, their focus on hyper-personalization, and their expansion into new markets like golf and running.    Episode Highlights:   Discovering CrossFit and Coaching Competing in CrossFit Games Joining Romwad and Pliability The Importance of Mobility Expanding Pliability's Reach Consumer Experience with Pliability Challenges in Adopting Mobility Routines Trendy Therapies vs. Mobility Educating on Natural Recovery CrossFit Culture and Time Challenges Market Opportunities and Expansion Golf and Running Markets Partnerships and Data Insights Commercial and Community Outreach Challenges and Future Goals   www.podcastcollective.io  

In this episode, host Eric Malzone welcomes Eric Durak, one of the nation's leading clinical Exercise Physiologists and Health Educators, to discuss the complex world of GLP-1 weight loss medications. Durak, with over 30 years of experience in medical fitness and research, discusses the clinical and practical aspects of these medications. He provides insights into the mechanisms through which they aid weight loss, their potential side effects, and the critical role of exercise and proper hydration. Durak also emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive fitness programs tailored to individuals using GLP-1 medications. He further discusses the significance of community relationships, legal considerations, and the necessity for ongoing trainer education to safely and effectively integrate these medications into the fitness industry.   Episode Highlights: The GLP-1 Opportunity in Health and Fitness Legal and Safety Considerations Understanding GLP-1 Medications Impact on Exercise and Body Composition Industry Reactions and Preparations Developing Effective Programs Historical Context and Modern Applications Practical Steps for Health Clubs The Role of Technology in Fitness Training Marketing Strategies for Weight Loss Programs The Impact of Cancer Exercise Programs The Future of Health Clubs Long-Term Effects of Weight Loss Drugs Nutritional and Supplementation Insights   Links: https://podcastcollective.io/ https://www.medhealthfit.com/ 

In this episode, host Eric Malzone interviews Paul Bowman, the CEO of Wexer, about his journey from professional volleyball player to leading a digital fitness platform. Paul shares insights about the evolution and current state of Wexer, the importance of group exercise, and the shift towards creating personalized digital fitness experiences. They discuss trends in content consumption, the impact of AI on fitness, and the role of media in modern fitness organizations. Paul emphasizes the need for the fitness industry to embrace digital solutions to better serve members around the clock.   Episode Highlights:   Paul Bowman's Background and Journey The Evolution of Wexer Wexer's Current Offerings and Ecosystem Trends in Digital Fitness and Content Consumption The Hybrid Fitness Model and Its Impact Successful Digital Fitness Strategies Demographic Trends in Fitness Content The Rise of YouTube and Fitness Influencers The Role of AI in Content Creation Exploring AR, VR, and MR in Fitness The Wexner Podcast: Origins and Impact Entrepreneurial Journeys and Insights Challenges and Future of Digital Fitness   https://wexer.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  

In this episode, Eric sits down with Jason McCarthy, founder of GoRuck, to discuss the evolution of the brand and its impact on the fitness community. Jason shares his origin story, from serving in the Army Special Forces and learning the way of the ruck, to creating a go bag for his wife while she was in the CIA and eventually founding GoRuck. He touches on the brand’s philosophy of applying Special Forces mindset to the broader community and emphasizes the importance of physical fitness and social connections in building a healthy society. The conversation also explores GoRuck’s various business segments, including gear, events, footwear, and apparel, and highlights the company’s recent collaboration with CrossFit   Episode Highlights: Jason McCarthy's Military Background The Birth of GORUCK The GORUCK Challenge Special Forces Mindset Community and Team Building Expanding GORUCK's Mission The Business of GORUCK The GORUCK Selection Event The Mental Attitude for Success The Importance of Community in Fitness Personal Journey and Camaraderie Building Real-World Connections The Concept of Social Fitness Partnership with CrossFit Challenges and Mission of GORUCK https://podcastcollective.io/ https://www.goruck.com/  

In this episode, Eric welcomes Saeju Jeong, co-founder of Noom, to discuss the future of fitness and health. Saeju shares insights from his 18 years of experience leading Noom, a company dedicated to helping people live healthier lives through behavioral changes and technology. They delve into the importance of psychology in building healthy habits, Noom's innovative approach to weight loss using GLP-1 medications, and the potential of technology to make personalized health coaching accessible to all. Saeju also discusses the company's journey, their growth strategy, and the role of partnerships in the digital healthcare landscape. This comprehensive discussion offers a deep dive into the evolving digital health industry and Noom's mission to empower healthier living. Episode Highligths: Diving into Noom's Journey Music and Entrepreneurship Noom's Mission and Vision User Experience and Psychology Behavior Change and Long Surveys Medical Weight Loss and GLP-1 The Benefits of Technology in Healthcare Noom's Approach to Fitness and Weight Loss Telehealth and Scalability Challenges and Opportunities with GLP-1 The Importance of Healthy Habits Noom's Market Position and Partnerships Future of Personalized Health and Technology LINKS https://www.noom.com/ wodify.com https://podcastcollective.io/      

In this episode, host Eric welcomes Brendan Rice from Wodify to discuss the evolving landscape of the fitness industry. Brendan talks about his journey from startup enthusiast to CEO of Wodify, a major software company in the fitness space. The conversation delves into the importance of customer retention, AI's role in fitness, and the unique challenges faced by gym owners, particularly in the CrossFit space. Brendan also shares insights into how Wodify's technology enhances client engagement and gym profitability. Additionally, they explore the benefits of cross-industry learning and the potential of advanced software to revolutionize gym management. The podcast wraps up with Brendan emphasizing the value of feedback and connection with the fitness community. Episode Highlights: From Startups to CEO: Brendan's Entrepreneurial Path The Evolution of Brendan's Role at Wodify Driving Gym Retention and Profitability with Wodify CrossFit's Financial Challenges and Solutions Creating Exceptional Client Experiences for Growth Expanding Beyond CrossFit: Wodify's Diverse Impact Exploring the Impact of Wodify in Diverse Fitness Communities The Surprising Overlap Between CrossFit and Jujitsu Leveraging Technology to Enhance Jujitsu Training Cross-Pollination of Ideas Across Fitness Verticals The Importance of Networking and Learning from Other Industries Embracing Technology and AI in the Fitness Industry The Future of Fitness: Human-Centric Approaches and Technological Innovations https://www.wodify.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  

In this episode of the Future of Fitness, host Eric Malzone sits down with Forrest Smith, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of a company pioneering the use of red light and laser therapy for neuromuscular pain and inflammation. Forrest shares his journey from starting multiple startups to founding a company focused on creating systemic health and wellness solutions. He explains the science behind their innovative device, which aims to make laser therapy more accessible by reducing costs and making it wearable. Discover how this technology can potentially replace traditional pain management methods like NSAIDs, offering a safer and more effective alternative.   LINKS: https://www.wodify.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Adam Menner, a seasoned gym owner and consultant with a wealth of experience in fitness and business. In this episode, Adam unveils the secrets to scaling a fitness business using the principles of servant leadership. From his humble beginnings as an intern at DeFranco's Training Systems to becoming a partner in multiple successful gym locations across the Northeast, Adam's journey is a testament to the power of dedication and growth. Discover how Adam has mastered the art of managing smaller, efficient gym locations, with a strong focus on core service offerings like small group personal training. He shares invaluable insights into the role of technology in streamlining operations and enhancing business growth. Learn about the significance of consistent quality control, effective recruiting, and providing meaningful career opportunities in the fitness industry. Adam also explores the importance of complementarity in fitness modalities, targeting the right client demographics, and delivering a holistic client experience. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes the value of humble beginnings and continual learning. Tune in to gain practical tips and strategies from Adam's rich experience and get a sneak peek into his work on the Business of Strength podcast.   LINKS: https://www.wodify.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  

Eric Malzone sits down with Brian Furey from Nature's Fynd, discussing the innovative development of high-protein food from fungi discovered in Yellowstone Park. Brian shares his journey, from working in biochemistry and natural products to joining Nature's Fynd, a company focused on sustainable, rapid-growth food sources that could revolutionize our food supply. They delve into the discovery of unique fungi capable of producing high-protein content in extreme environments, their potential for global food security, and its nutritional benefits compared to traditional sources. Moreover, they cover the significant impact on sustainability, the company's rapid funding and product development success, and the encouraging regulatory process with the FDA. The talk also explores the future of food, touching on the possibilities of licensing the technology globally and the importance of continuing research, particularly within the fitness and wellness community.   LINKS https://www.wodify.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ 

In this episode, Eric Malzone engages into conversation with Chris Craytor to discuss the future of the fitness industry, touching upon various topics including innovations in health clubs, the importance of social connections, and the impact of third-party payer programs. Chris shares insights from a recent event in Los Angeles that highlighted the industry's growth and enthusiasm post-COVID. They delve into the rebranding of the health and fitness association, examining the integration of health in fitness facilities and how the industry can connect to the larger healthcare sector. The conversation also covers strategies for engaging members through personalization, technology, and creating a strong community within clubs. Additionally, Chris gives an overview of Well Health and its role in facilitating third-party payments and insurance programs for fitness services, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changing payment models and catering to various member demographics.   LINKS: https://www.wodify.com/  https://podcastcollective.io/