Ep. 57: X-Golf

Send us Fan MailPilates is exploding with Gen Z and millennials, but the winners won’t be the quiet studios. We sit down with Sarah Luna, CEO of Pilates Addiction, to unpack how she’s building a boutique fitness franchise from the ground up and what it really takes to scale. Sarah shares how her path through instruction, studio operations, franchise sales, and executive leadership shapes the playbook: protect the customer experience, standardize the operating system, and pick operators who can lead teams. We also get specific about the concept itself, from class formats and programming philosophy to the energizing role of music, lighting, and choreography. A big part of the conversation is the unit model. Sarah explains the real estate strategy behind a compact Pilates studio footprint, why grocery-anchored centers matter for member convenience, and how co-tenancy and walk-by traffic support repeat visits.Subscribe to Retail Intel, share this with a friend who loves retail innovation, and leave a review with your take: what makes a fitness studio worth returning to week after week?

Send us Fan MailThis episode of Retail Intel explores how Back Nine Golf is reshaping access to the sport through a streamlined, tech-forward indoor model built for today’s avid golfer. Brian Sheehan sits down with co-founder and COO Brady Carlsen to discuss the disciplined choices behind their growth, including a small-footprint, no-restaurant approach that keeps operations simple and member-focused. Brady shares how Full Swing technology, automation, and a clear understanding of their core customer have fueled the brand’s rapid nationwide expansion. Together, they map out what’s next for indoor golf, from skill-based play to AI-driven coaching, and how these innovations are redefining year-round golf engagement.

Send us Fan MailA facial can be fast, luxurious, and accessible- and still scale nationwide. We sit down with FACE FOUNDRIÉ founder Michele Henry to unpack how an open-air, under-an-hour service became a franchisable engine powered by walk-ins, memberships, and a meticulously designed client journey. From the first location next to a Starbucks to a flagship on Austin’s South Congress, Michele explains why patience in Class A real estate and the right co-tenants can change a brand’s trajectory.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a chef treats a tortilla like a canvas and a restaurant like a community lab? Miguel Reyes, cofounder of Quesadilla Gorilla, shares how a tiny Fresno storefront grew into a franchise-ready brand rooted in scratch cooking, playful specials, and authentic connection. We unpack the systems behind consistent quality, the menu philosophy that balances tradition with experimentation, and the real estate strategy that favors grocery-anchored centers over drive-thrus. If you're curious about scaling with soul, Miguel’s transparent roadmap, from focused margaritas to franchisee-led marketing is packed with insights. 

Send us Fan MailTodd Gailor's journey from corporate banker to entertainment entrepreneur offers a masterclass in seizing opportunities others miss. After 20 years in commercial lending, a pandemic-induced moment of reflection led him to acquire Edder's Custom Golf Center, a rundown but beloved Cincinnati institution dating back to 1951.What makes The Acres special goes beyond golf balls and putters. Gailor recognized that creating spaces where families disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other fills a crucial need in our digital age. "The kids and parents are playing miniature golf together," he explains. "There's this incredible family dynamic of unplugged." This philosophy guides every aspect of the business – from the four core revenue centers (driving range, miniature golf, restaurant, and bar) to seasonal innovations like their popular lighted forest walk.Perhaps most remarkable is The Acres' relationship with Mill Creek, once North America's most endangered urban waterway. Rather than hiding this natural feature behind invasive honeysuckle, Gailor partnered with environmental organizations to showcase the creek's remarkable recovery. Today, visitors spot bald eagles, herons, and turtles along its banks – a stunning environmental success story integrated seamlessly into an entertainment business.For entrepreneurs, Gailor's candid insights about delegation challenges, trusted business relationships, and community-building offer valuable lessons. His approach to merchandising – focusing on creating unique branded items rather than competing with big-box retailers – demonstrates strategic thinking in a competitive landscape. Whether you're a retail investor, aspiring business owner, or simply curious about innovative entertainment concepts, this conversation reveals how passion, vision, and community focus can transform a traditional business into something extraordinary.

Send us Fan MailCelebrating Retail Intel's 60th Episode! 👏✨What happens when the son of a dishwasher transforms a small investment into a nationwide restaurant phenomenon? Eddie Flores Jr. reveals the remarkable journey behind L&L Hawaiian Barbecue's success in this captivating conversation about entrepreneurship, cultural authenticity, and the power of the Aloha spirit. 

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a beach-loving journalism student discovers the transformative flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine? For Josh Wamsley, it sparked a journey from teaching English abroad to founding Mazunte. Join us to hear the inspiring story behind this beloved Midwest Restaurant. 

Send us Fan MailJoin Brian Sheehan as he sits down with Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow,  Founders of Amber Waves. What happens when two aspiring professionals with backgrounds in economics and international relations stumble into farming? For Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow, it sparked the creation of Amber Waves Farm, a revolutionary nonprofit teaching farm that's redefining what farm-to-table truly means.

Send us Fan MailJoin Brian Sheehan and special guest Michael Ruvolo, Co-Chief Executive Officer of X-Golf, on the latest episode of Retail Intel!  Dive into an insightful discussion about the ins and outs of retail and uncover how X-Golf is redefining the game. Whether you're in the industry or simply curious about the innovative intersection of retail and sports, this episode is for you.  🎧 Tune in now and elevate your understanding of retail today!  

Send us Fan MailThis week on Retail Intel, host Brian Sheehan sits down with the amazing Amy Leclerc, Co-Owner and President of Franchising at Sit Still Kids Salon. 🎧 Tune in as Brian explores how Sit Still is revolutionizing the niche kids' salon industry—creating inspiring and imaginative experiences for children and their families. Amy shares her insights on how their salons empower kids to express their unique personalities through their hair, turning every visit into a delightful adventure.  Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with wisdom, innovation, and heart!