Fitness + Technology

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

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes back Garrett Marshall, a distinguished leader with over 22 years of experience driving growth in the wellness industry. Garrett’s expertise spans strategy and innovation, executive leadership, business development, strategic partnerships, and technological product development. He has notably served as CEO of Fitness On Demand and President of Xponential Fitness. Today, he is the Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Wellbuilt Ventures, helping clients scale revenue through data-driven strategies, and serves as an advisor to Vi, assisting leading health organizations in maximizing member health outcomes and financial returns. In this conversation, Garrett shares insights from his career, discusses his latest business ventures, and offers his perspective on emerging trends shaping the future of fitness and wellness. One Powerful Quote: 30:01: “If you want to continue to be able to deliver as a best in class provider of fitness, you

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O’Rourke joins an exclusive panel live from FIBO to explore the future of the fitness industry through the lens of technology, innovation, and digital transformation. Featuring global industry leaders: Bryan K. O'Rourke – President, Fitness Industry Technology Council | Chairman, Vedere Ventures | CEO, Core Health & Fitness Hugo Braam – CEO & Co-Founder, Virtuagym Magdalena Szwed – Product Director, Benefit Systems Oddział Fitness Henrik Gockel – Founder, Prime Time Fitness GmbH Moderated by Hans Muench, FITC International Ambassador, this dynamic discussion dives into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of fitness—from AI-powered personalization and connected ecosystems to evolving business models and digital wellness strategies. One Powerful Quote: 34:03: “When you do, even though you don’t understand, it forces you to understand and learn.”  4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:09:

This week on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Marco Benitez to the show. Marco is the CEO & Founder of ROOK, a wearable API that transforms health data and empowers apps and software with actionable insights. ROOK easily processes and embeds data from hundreds of wearables with single integration and shares access to deeper understanding and more actionable insights that allows users to make more informed decisions, find better solutions, and drive innovation. Today, Marco joins Bryan to talk about his business, data usage, and the implications on our industry. One Powerful Quote: 15:36: “The alignment between healthcare and fitness is the new name of wellness. Wellness is prevention.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:50: Bryan asks Marco about his background and his business, ROOK.  10:34: Bryan inquires with Marco about unifying data standards as the biggest opportunity and challenge for health. 13:46: Bryan and Marco talk about the

This week on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Mike Arce to the show. Mike is the CEO & Founder of Loud Rumor, which helps fitness studios dramatically increase membership by improving their marketing strategies through consulting. Today, Mike joins Bryan to talk about his business, lead generation marketing, implemented technology, and other implications around fitness operations.   One Powerful Quote: 34:57: “If you gamble, you’re just playing off feeling, but if you play the game, you do the right moves, and you live with the results.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:11: Bryan opens the show with Mike talking about his work experience. 7:31: Bryan and Mike talk about technology tools, changes in business development, and defining successful marketing. 30:37: Mike shares his thoughts on understanding contextual data for your business. Bullet List of Resources: https://www.loudrumor.com/ Guest Contact Information: https://www.linkedin

This week on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes back Hans Muench to the show. As the Director of International Development at FIT-C, he leads the council's efforts to grow the fitness industry, improve fitness user experience, and mature the collection of real-time wellness data through the creation of interoperability standards for technology-based fitness devices. With over 35 years of experience in the health and fitness sector, Hans has a deep understanding of the global trends, challenges, and opportunities in this dynamic and evolving industry. Today, Hans joins Bryan to talk about the industry’s upcoming events, European fitness trends, and using AI tools for presenting truthful information. One Powerful Quote: 14:36: “Truth is much more difficult to present than fact and information in general because so much of it is junk.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:00: Bryan and Hans talk about upcoming industry events happening. 6:48: Hans

This week on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Ian Mullane to the show. Ian is the Founder & CEO of Keepme, an AI-powered sales and marketing CRM platform for the fitness industry. Launched in April 2019, Keepme has customers globally and assists hundreds of clubs with member acquisition and retention. Today, Ian joins Bryan to discuss AI tech adoption, his business, and operational insights across the industry. One Powerful Quote: 26:43: “Every unique idea only becomes executed because of the team that surrounds you.”  4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:00: Bryan and Ian talk about tech adoption barriers across the industry. 8:21: Ian highlights key misunderstandings about AI.  15:52: Bryan inquires about Keepme’s integration with their customers.  18:18: Bryan asks Ian about Keepme’s unique value proposition.  21:54: Ian further talks about Keepme’s interface and communication for potential prospects.  26:26: Ian shares his pearls of wi

This week on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Doug Miller to the show. With extensive experience as an industry advisor, including his role with IHRSA’s European Council, Doug brings valuable insights into the evolving fitness landscape. As the owner of Virtual Road Show, an innovative app providing transformational education to fitness professionals worldwide, he shares his perspective on industry trends and the future of fitness. Today, Doug joins Bryan to discuss his business, industry developments, and the impact of technology on fitness education. One Powerful Quote: 27:38: "I think we run a chance of relying a little bit too much on everything artificial, and we lose the humanity of being a club.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:20: Bryan opens the show by asking Doug about the early days of IHRSA and the European fitness industry. 18:12: Bryan and Doug discuss the competition in the European fitness market. 24:47: Doug shares his p

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Barry McDonald to the show. Barry is the CEO of NovoFit, an Australian owned and operated fitness equipment distribution company representing some of the top brands in the industry. With 20 years in the health and fitness industry, Barry has extensive experience and insight into the evolving potential of health, fitness, and wellness experiences from leading large-scale health club operations nationally to designing and developing premium fitness facilities across Australia and New Zealand. Today, he joins Bryan in a conversation on key global fitness trends, stoic leadership concepts, and other pearls of wisdom.   One Powerful Quote: 30:25: “Never take yourself too seriously and be willing to take on things that are uncomfortable.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 4:29: Bryan opens the show by asking Barry about fitness trends happening in the market. 13:17: Barry shares his experience from his

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O’Rourke shares his recording of his recent SIBEC webinar on 12 key trends for 2025 in the global fitness industry. This presentation covers trends for suppliers, gym and health club operators, and others in the global fitness industry. From M&A and finance, to digital fitness, GLP1's, Micro and Macro trends, Bryan covers a wide range of subjects about the future of fitness across every spectrum in the industry. One Powerful Quote: “Ideas are great, but execution and prioritization is the secret stuff that actually results in outcomes given a set of ideas.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:17: Bryan begins by talking about the landscape and understanding near-term and long-term trends.  9:01: Bryan talks about emerging programming and strength training. 11:04: Bryan talks about GLP1 longevity and health. 12:57: Bryan talks about authentic experiences or anti-badtech. 14:55: Bryan talks about human capital strugg

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Amy Boone Thompson to the show. Amy is the Owner & CEO of IDEA Health & Fitness Association, the world's leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals and has been for more than 40 years. She is also Chairman for World Active, a global initiative meant to set up an open and transparent platform for the fitness and physical activity sector to get “more people, more active, more often”. Today, Amy joins Bryan to talk about her organizations, the future role of fitness professionals, and other interesting insights. One Powerful Quote: 15:54: “Be authentically you always." 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 3:02: Bryan opens the show by asking why Amy acquired IDEA and her envisioned future for the organization. 6:44: Amy highlights what’s happening at World Active and the challenges with her role. 10:45: Amy shares her views on technology and its influence on fitness professional

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Herman Rutgers to the show. As an expert in setting up and expanding international brands in durable consumer goods with a specialization in sports, health & fitness, Herman is the International Ambassador for EuropeActive, the leading non-profit organization representing the European fitness and physical activity sector, and Board Member to Basic-Fit, the largest fitness chain in Europe. Today, Herman joins Bryan to talk about an array of topics including industry acquisitions, different operational styles, globalism, and EuropeActive’s European Health & Fitness Forum.  One Powerful Quote: 32:04: “The 4 P’s of marketing are place, product, promotion, and price. I would add two other P’s, people and profit.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:29: Bryan opens the show by highlighting Herman’s background and EuropeActive’s Deloitte Research Report. 11:11: Bryan asks Herman how he juxtapose

This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, host Bryan O’Rourke welcomes Dr. Cedric Bryant to the show. As Chief Executive Officer & President, Dr. Cedric Bryant leads ACE with a focus on science-backed education to support health and exercise professionals, utilizing emerging fitness technology, championing inclusivity and diversity, and sharing quality information to help all people develop long-term healthy habits and keep people moving. Today, Dr. Cedrick joins Bryan to talk about his background, his views on the changes in professional education and training, and what he envisions happening in the future. One Powerful Quote: 14:43: “What gets measured is what gets the attention.” 4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed: 2:15: Bryan opens the interview by highlighting Cedrick’s background and his upbringing into the industry.  8:27: Cedrick shares his views on the change in professional education and training.  13:06: Cedrick extrapolates on the friction in these sys