Fitt Insider (Joe Vennare)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Fitt Insider
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Apr 2023 | 182. Niki Leondakis, CEO of CorePower Yoga | 00:39:17 | |
Today, I’m joined by Niki Leondakis, CEO of CorePower Yoga, a national chain of athletic-style yoga studios. With 220 studios in the US, as well as an on-demand digital platform, CorePower Yoga is the largest privately held yoga chain in the country. Operating at the convergence of physicality and spirituality, the brand’s modern approach resonates with its memberbase and extends to its certified teacher training. In this episode, we talk about Niki’s foot in both the hospitality and boutique fitness worlds, and she shares the company’s post-pandemic growth strategy. Plus, we talk about why community is a critical component of successful fitness brands. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What Niki learned from previous experiences in hospitality and as CEO of Equinox Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at JackTaylorPR.com Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:38) Niki’s background and joining CorePower Yoga (04:13) Integrating hospitality with boutique fitness (09:42) CorePower’s origin story and mission (13:10) Hybrid business model (21:57) In-studio experience vs digital experience (27:47) Future growth plans (30:08) CorePower Yoga’s instructor training (34:19) Future roadmap (38:20) Conclusion | |||
| 12 Apr 2022 | 130. Scaling Access to Digital Healthcare with Thirty Madison Co-Founder Steve Gutentag | 00:31:07 | |
In this episode I’m joined by Steve Gutentag, Co-Founder and CEO of Thirty Madison, a human-centered healthcare company. Thirty Madison is focused on becoming the premier healthcare company for people living with chronic conditions. Their innovative model delivers better patient experiences and superior health outcomes through specialist-level offerings and a singular platform and infrastructure. On today’s podcast we discuss the company’s recent $140 million funding round, its merger with women’s healthcare company Nurx, and Steve shares his plan for becoming the leading platform for specialty healthcare offerings. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Steve Gutentag’s Links | |||
| 28 Apr 2020 | #28: Sadie Lincoln, CEO of barre3 | 00:40:16 | |
Today I’m joined by Sadie Lincoln. Sadie is the co-founder and CEO of barre3. In today’s episode, we talked about building an authentic community, why the fitness industry isn’t working, and Sadie’s thoughts on the future of barre3, including the role of technology, private equity, and strategic partnerships. Let’s get into it.
More from Sadie >>
Sadie Lincoln is the co-founder and CEO of barre3, a fitness company focused on teaching people to be balanced in body and empowered from within. Starting in 2008 with the flagship studio in Portland, Oregon, barre3 has grown to include more than 140 franchise studios powered by female entrepreneurs, plus an online-workout streaming-subscriber base in 98+ countries. What started as a workout has blossomed into a full-blown movement made up of millions of people focused on body positivity, being empowered, and redefining what success in fitness means.
Sadie is on Inc.'s Female Founders 100 list, has been featured on NPR's How I Built This, and speaks regularly on the topics of mindful leadership, the power of body wisdom, and the movement to redefine what success in fitness means. Beyond running her company and being a global spokesperson, Sadie still enjoys teaching barre3 classes to many of her founding clients in her hometown of Portland, Oregon.
Website: https://barre3.com/
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 02 Oct 2019 | Episode #00: Welcome to Fitt Insider | 00:01:23 | |
Hi, I’m Joe Vennare, co-founder and COO of Fitt.
Here to tell you about my new podcast, Fitt Insider — a weekly interview show where I talk with the entrepreneurs, executives, and investors who are redefining the business of fitness and wellness.
Every week, we’ll discuss the most important topics impacting boutique studios, the future of food, fitness technology, wellness trends, and more.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, it’s my goal to provide listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing to the weekly Fitt Insider newsletter.
And hear every episode of the Fitt Insider by subscribing on Apple podcast or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.
Insider.fitt.co | |||
| 18 Oct 2022 | 157. Jason Moore, CEO of Spren | 00:38:26 | |
Today I’m joined by Jason Moore, CEO of Spren. Spren uses the light and camera from a smartphone to detect subtle changes in blood volume between cardiac cycles by measuring the light absorption in the user's finger through a simple finger scan. With Spren, fitness, wellbeing or human performance brands can harness the power of large-scale deep learning and years of signal processing research—instantly. In this episode we discuss the company’s heart rate variability tech, how they turned a bootstrapped direct-to-consumer app into a B2B platform, and we talk about using data and wearables to help people form healthier habits. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Jason’s Links | |||
| 16 Nov 2021 | 109. Daniel Sobhani, CEO of Freeletics | 00:34:19 | |
Today I’m joined by Daniel Sobhani, CEO of Freeletics — an AI-powered fitness app.
In today’s episode, we discuss the company’s evolution from PDF workout plans to a digital fitness platform with more than 50M users. We cover the launch of Staedium, the company’s new game-based connected strength training product. And Daniel shares his thoughts on innovation, team building, gamification, and more.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
*** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
*** Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
*** View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Daniel
Daniel Sobhani is the CEO at Freeletics, the leading provider of AI-based fitness and mindset coaching, with more than 165 employees and nearly 53 million users worldwide. Born and raised in Munich, Germany, he studied business administration, mechanical engineering, finance and technology management in Munich and Sydney. After working at the renowned Boston Consulting Group, he then joined Freeletics in its early stages as CEO in 2014. At the time, Freeletics was a very small, young startup, but one which was growing rapidly. Daniel helped foster its potential and guided the team to achieve international success in just a short space of time – all as a bootstrapped company.
After five successful years as a bootstrapped company, Daniel Sobhani steered Freeletics to the next milestones of the company’s history, as it closed a $45 million Series A funding round in 2018 and a $25 million Series B funding round in September 2020, to enable further product innovation, exploring and building new business verticals and to expand Freeletics’ global footprint.
With its AI-powered and hyper-personalized digital fitness and lifestyle coaching, Freeletics has continued to disrupt a multi-billion-dollar industry which, before the company’s existence, had been dominated by stationary gyms and exclusive personal trainers. Aside from its financial success, the company has grown exponentially across the board. With almost one million users in early 2014, today the Freeletics app has over 52 million users in more than 175 countries. The company has continued to build on its product portfolio, also launching an e-commerce platform. With exciting things in the pipeline, Freeletics continues to strive to innovate and disrupt the digital fitness industry. Daniel has enabled and guided Freeletics to become the creator of one of the world‘s most popular fitness apps, inspiring and challenging people all over the world to become the greatest versions of themselves, both mentally and physically. And this is just the beginning. | |||
| 01 Mar 2022 | 124. Transitioning From a Weight Loss Mindset to a Weight Care Lifestyle | 00:34:44 | |
Today I’m joined by Sarah Jones Simmer, CEO of Found, a modern weight care platform. Found improves people’s wellbeing by making evidence based weight loss accessible & affordable. Instead of focusing on short term weight loss, Found emphasizes long term weight care backed by science. On today’s show we talk about Found’s digital weight management solution. Sarah explains how advancements in tele-health and prescription medication are transforming weight loss. We also discuss Found’s approach to de-stigmatizing dieting and obesity by focusing on personalized weight care. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Sarah Jones Simmer’s Links | |||
| 17 Oct 2023 | 208. Jeffrey Kaditz, Founder & CEO of Q Bio | 00:39:37 | |
Today, I’m joined by Jeffrey Kaditz, founder & CEO of Q Bio, a company democratizing personalized preventive health with streamlined whole-body MRI’s and digital twin technology. An engineer and serial entrepreneur, Jeffrey’s tackled everything from fintech to mobile gaming. Now, he’s revolutionizing healthcare at Q Bio, building a platform that promises to help doctors detect disease and diagnose root causes early. In this episode, we discuss the company’s clinical digital twin technology. Plus, Jeffrey shares his vision for making the Star Trek Medbay a reality and talks us through an automated physical exam of the future. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why Q Bio is more than an elective whole-body MRI company Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Q Bio’s Website: https://www.q.bio/ - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor Chapters: (00:00) Introduction | |||
| 19 Jul 2022 | 144. Rab Shanableh, CEO of OxeFit | 00:30:50 | |
Today I’m joined by OxeFit CEO, Rab Shanableh. OxeFit uses AI-powered technology that integrates robotics, movement and performance tracking to help you become the most powerful version of yourself. No more gym intimidation and no more bad form. With OxeFit’s personalized and engaging content you’ll get a workout unlike anything you’ve experienced before. In this episode we discuss the company’s smart strength training equipment, and why OxeFit is targeting the commercial sector—including sports teams and physical therapy—in addition to at-home training. Rab also talks about raising $35 million in funding, including investment from athletes like Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Rab’s Links | |||
| 28 Sep 2021 | 102. Phil Southerland, Founder & CEO of Supersapiens | 00:37:27 | |
Today, I’m joined by Phil Southerland, founder and CEO of Supersapiens — a company using continuous glucose monitoring to help athletes manage their energy levels.
In this episode, we discuss advancements in glucose monitoring. Phil explains why the company is focused on endurance athletes and high performance. And he shares his vision for using sports as a platform to change the health of the world.
More from Phil
Phil Southerland was born in Tallahassee, Florida, and was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was only seven months old, the youngest case of diabetes on record in the world at that time. His parents were told that he would be dead or blind by 25. Fortunately, they were stubborn, and Phil had access to insulin, a knowledgeable medical team, and the latest in blood glucose monitoring tools. At six, he had the dream not to go blind and a drive to reach the A1C results needed.
He discovered his love of the bike when he was 12. While attending the University of Georgia, he dreamed of combining his passion for cycling and his personal mission to raise awareness around diabetes. In 2005, Team Type 1 was founded, and by 2007 an all-diabetes cycling team not only won but set the world record in the 3,000-mile Race Across America. Under Phil’s leadership, the dynamic squad rapidly grew from an amateur team to more than 100 athletes spanning the globe to inspire and unite people affected by diabetes and ranked in the top 25 professional cycling teams in the world in 2012.
In late 2012, Phil and the team partnered with Novo Nordisk to create Team Novo Nordisk. The team is spearheaded by the world’s first all-diabetes pro-cycling team and features a development team, elite team, and one female professional track star, Mandy Marquardt.
Now in his late-thirties, Phil has dedicated his life to redefining what it means to live with diabetes and is driving a global movement to show the world how exercise can save the health of the world.
"Exercise is the billion-dollar drug that rarely gets prescribed."
Throughout his career, professional highlights include speaking at the United Nations on World Bicycle Day, leading a session at SXSW, and addressing audiences at ADA and AADE to speaking to one person at an event in Boise, Idaho. For Phil, the value isn’t based on prestige as much as it is on impact. He is driven to make a difference in people’s lives and approaches it one person at a time.
To Phil, the bike has kept him alive for the past 25 years. While retired from professional racing, Phil regularly rides and still credits the bike for providing him with his continued health and sanity.
Phil is a dedicated and proud father to three boys with wife, Dr. Biljana Southerland. In addition to the bike, Phil is a passionate skier and deep-water scuba diver. He calls Atlanta, Georgia home, and is a supporter of the High Museum. Phil is a former board member of Camp Kudzu, Hope Sports, and JDRF. He is a voracious reader and enjoys collecting rare wines and watches. Phil is the author of the book ‘Not Dead Yet’, which chronicles his life from early diagnosis of diabetes to professional cyclist and his mission to change the face of diabetes on a global scale.
Southerland currently serves as the CEO and co-founder of Team Novo Nordisk, the world’s first all-diabetes professional cycling team, and the founder and president of the non-profit Team Type 1 Foundation.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a platform for entrepreneurs, executives, and investors redefining the business of fitness and wellness.
From our newsletter and podcast to our industry-specific jobs board, we create content and resources to drive the industry forward. We also invest in early-stage health and fitness companies.
For more, visit: https://insider.fitt.co/ | |||
| 25 Feb 2025 | 277. Darren MacDonald, CEO of Tonal | 00:38:21 | |
Today, I'm joined by Darren MacDonald, CEO of Tonal. Packing a complete AI-driven home gym into one machine, Tonal is expanding access to safe resistance training — positioning strength as essential to preventative health and longevity. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of connected fitness and strength training as medicine. We also cover: • Making resistance training more accessible and data-driven Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Website: https://www.tonal.com/
- The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities. Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 04 May 2021 | 81. Eric Min, co-founder and CEO of Zwift. | 00:40:32 | |
Today I’m joined by Eric Min, co-founder and CEO of Zwift — a fitness company born out of gaming where users ride and run in virtual worlds.
In this episode, Eric shares the key insights that led him to start Zwift. We discuss the company’s plan to launch a smart bike and other connected equipment, including a rower. And Eric explains why Zwift hopes to make virtual cycling an Olympic sport.
More from Eric
Eric Min is the Zwift CEO and Co-Founder at Zwift, the online fitness company born from gaming.
Launched in 2014, Zwift has grown to see over 3.4 million accounts registered with the platform. The company achieved Unicorn Status in 2020, following a $450M funding round, led by KKR. Utilizing massively multiplayer online (MMO) gaming technology, Zwift brings the outdoor experience indoors blending mass participation events, competition and social connections in immersive 3D environments, ripe for exploration.
Working in partnership with the World Cycling Governing Body (the UCI), Zwift hosted the first UCI Cycling Esports World Championships in 2020. In the same year, Zwift also hosted the first Virtual Tour de France in July for both men and women.
In collaboration with the UCI, Zwift will be one of the five sports – alongside rowing, baseball-softball, sailing and motor sport – on the programme of the inaugural edition of the Olympic Virtual Series, a new virtual event launched by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 14 Feb 2023 | 174. Shane Heath, Founder and CEO of MUD\WTR | 00:39:16 | |
Today, I’m joined by Shane Heath, founder and CEO of MUD\WTR, a mushroom-based coffee alternative. After experiencing the ups and downs of coffee, Shane created MUD\WTR in 2018 as a healthy coffee alternative to give people the feeling of alertness without the anxiety and jitters. Through habit creation and a variety of health-focused products, MUD\WTR strives to create balance in body and mind. In this episode, we discuss the rise of functional beverages and shroom boom, and Shane shares the importance of ritual, authenticity, and frame-breaking experiences. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Shane’s mental health journey led him to a coffee alternative Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Chapters: (00:00) Introduction | |||
| 27 Dec 2022 | 167. Rachel Lea Fishman, Co-founder & CEO of Arketa | 00:35:09 | |
Today, I’m joined by Rachel Lea Fishman, co-founder & CEO of Arketa, a platform helping health and wellness businesses scale hybrid offerings. Founded in 2020, Arketa provides an all-in-one software solution for studio owners and independent creators to manage their class bookings, take payment, and host on demand content, online courses, and more through the platform. A trusted partner to 3,000+ studios, gyms, and instructors, Arketa provides monetization tools responsible for “millions of dollars of revenue per month.” In this episode, we discuss how fitness studios use the platform to scale hybrid offerings, the company’s recent funding round, and why customer obsession is essential to Arketa’s success. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Rachel’s journey to starting Arketa Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Chapters: | |||
| 14 Jul 2020 | #39: Nate Forster, CEO of NEOU | 00:31:15 | |
Today I’m joined by Nate Forster.
Nate is the CEO of NEOU, a platform for streaming and on-demand fitness.
In this episode, we talked about how NEOU plans to become the Amazon of fitness, including its digital platform, a 20,000 square-foot production hub in New York City, and content partnerships with a growing number of fitness instructors and brands.
Let’s get into it.
More from Nate >>
Nate Forster is a former professional tennis player turned entrepreneur. Nate started his career in hospitality and transitioned into the health and wellness industry in 2010. At the start of his entrepreneurial career, he was an operating partner at dek23 and b.e.d. nightclubs in Miami, in which he brokered the sale of both businesses. In 2010, he became the owner and operator of the first Reebok-partnered CrossFit gym and by 2014, he was the largest CrossFit affiliate owner globally with 15 locations. Nate is now the co-founder and CEO of NEOU, a digital fitness platform that helps fitness influencer and workout brands scale to a larger audience. The mission of NEOU is to bring consumers the best of all types of fitness, health + wellness concepts and trainers to anyone in the world at anytime. | |||
| 23 Aug 2022 | 149. Sam Cole, Co-founder & CEO of FitXR | 00:34:08 | |
Today I’m joined by Sam Cole, Co-founder and CEO of FitXR, a developer of VR and AR fitness apps. As the only VR fitness app that provides a truly engaging, multiplayer experience with constantly refreshed content, studios, classes and music, FitXR transports players to a virtual fitness space where they can meet new people and work out together all from the comfort of their own home. In this episode Sam talks about making fitness fun and accessible for more people. We discuss the acceleration of virtual and augmented reality hardware, and we explore the future of omnichannel fitness where immersive technology transforms at-home, in-person, and outdoor exercise. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Sam’s Links | |||
| 09 Apr 2024 | 232. Krystal Zell, CEO of Tonal | 00:39:19 | |
Today, I’m joined by Krystal Zell, CEO of Tonal. After raising $130M last year, Tonal is recalibrating. Doubling down on hyper-personalized at-home fitness, it's leveraging AI to make its hardware smarter than ever. In this episode, we discuss the company’s intelligent strength training system in depth. We also cover: Bringing strength training to new audiences
Tonal’s Website: https://www.tonal.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 09 Jul 2024 | 245. Osman Khan, Co-founder & CEO of Squared Circles | 00:35:54 | |
Today, I’m joined by Osman Khan, co-founder & CEO of Squared Circles, a venture studio for health and wellness brands.
Squared Circles redesigns everyday products to be better for people and planet. Pushing innovation, its portfolio includes MUD\WTR and Algae Cooking Club.
In this episode, we discuss the company's approach to ideating, validating, and launching consumer products.
We also cover: • Using science and AI to vet ideas
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Squared Circle’s Website: https://squaredcircles.com/ Squared Circle’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/squaredcirclesco/ Squared Circle’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/squared-circles/ -
Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/
Chapters: | |||
| 04 Jan 2022 | 116. Courtney Reum, Co-founder of M13 | 00:31:09 | |
Today I’m joined by Courtney Reum, co-founder of M13 — a brand development and investment company.
In this episode, we discuss the shifting venture capital ecosystem, trends in health and wellness, and the firm’s investments in companies like Tonal, Headspace, and ClassPass. Plus, Courtney shares his frameworks for evaluating potential investments.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
*** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
*** Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
*** View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Courtney
Courtney Reum is an innovator whose goal is to create impact towards global change. In April 2016, Courtney co-founded M13, a Los Angeles based brand development and investment company that accelerates businesses at the nexus of consumer products, technology, and media. M13 focuses on building emerging entrepreneurial businesses, and will directly invest more than $100 million of investments over the next 5 years.
Courtney began his career as an Investment Banker at Goldman Sachs in New York, working with such brands as Procter & Gamble, Under Armour, and Vitamin Water. In 2007, following his career at Goldman Sachs, Courtney and his brother Carter Reum established VEEV Spirits with the goal of creating “a better way to drink”. Originally offering a first of its kind vodka alternative, VEEV Spirits quickly grew to be one of the fastest-growing independent brands in the country and later, with the addition of VitaFrute™ Cocktails by VEEV, the first line of organic ready-to-drink cocktails. VEEV has been honored as the winner of the Technomic Fast 50 Award and by Inc. Magazine as one of the 500 Fastest-Growing Companies in the U.S. (#7 in the food & beverage category).
While growing VEEV, Courtney & Carter began investing and providing guidance as advisors and board members to emerging businesses. Some of their select early investments include Bonobos, Birchbox, Warby Parker, Pinterest, Lyft, Kevita, and Krave Jerky. In 2016, Courtney & Carter sold a majority stake of VEEV Spirits to a multi-national strategic buyer, allowing them to found M13 and focus on their entrepreneurial stewardship of consumer brands. M13 currently has investments in 100+ companies spanning consumer brands, media, and technology.
Courtney holds a B.A. with distinction from Columbia University in New York and is an alumni of Harvard Business School. He is also an active member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) and has served as the President of the Bel-Air Chapter. Courtney was appointed as one of Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Commissioners for the Los Angeles Convention Center & Tourism Authority and is philanthropically involved as a Board Member of the Los Angeles Opera and City Year, which helps underserved schools.
Courtney was named one of the 100 Most Intriguing Entrepreneurs of both 2014 and 2015 by Goldman Sachs at its annual Builders + Innovators Summit, featured in Inc’s “500 fastest growing private companies in America,” and included in the Forbes “30 Under 30” list. Courtney serves as a contributing writer for Inc magazine and is featured in best-selling books such as Richard Branson’s “Screw Business as Usual” and Blake Mycoskie’s (TOMs Shoes) “Start Something that Matters.”
Finally, Courtney and his brother are the authors of the national bestseller Shortcut Your Startup, which was published by Simon & Schuster in January 2018 and aimed to share their insights and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. | |||
| 11 Jun 2024 | 241. Jacob Peters, Co-founder and CEO of Superpower | 00:38:31 | |
Today, I’m joined by Jacob Peters, co-founder and CEO of Superpower.\
After a personal health crisis, Jacob founded preventative care platform Superpower. A 24/7 digital longevity clinic, it combines advanced diagnostics, expert clinicians, and AI-driven plans.
In this episode, we talk about the company’s all-in-one membership.
We also cover: • Productizing healthcare
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Superpower’s Website: https://superpower.com/ Superpower’s Twitter: https://x.com/superpower Reach out to Jacob: https://x.com/J__Cub -
Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/
Chapters: | |||
| 11 Aug 2020 | #43: Bill Shufelt, CEO of Athletic Brewing | 00:31:03 | |
Today I’m joined by Bill Shufelt, CEO of Athletic Brewing
Athletic Brewing makes non-alcoholic craft beer. Back in March, the company closed a $17.5M Series B funding round.
In today’s episode, we talk about the rise of mindful drinking, making non-alcoholic beer cool, and how Bill was able to raise money from 60 angel investors for a pre-product, pre-revenue company.
About Bill Schuflet >>
Bill Shufelt is the founder of Athletic Brewing Company - the first brewery in the country dedicated entirely to non-alcoholic craft beer. After spending 12 years in the hedge fund world, healthy lifestyle changes and a love of endurance sports and adventure led him to leave alcohol behind. Along with co-founder and head brewer John Walker, they have set out to revolutionize decades-old stigmas around non-alcoholic beer by making great beer for modern, healthy & active adults. After opening their doors in 2018, Athletic's flagship beers are available nationwide on their website athleticbrewing.com. Bill is married to an incredible gardener and plant-based chef further driving his passion for high-quality fuel and healthy eating. Bill grew up in CT, attended Middlebury College, and now splits his time between breweries in San Diego, CA and Stratford, CT.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 16 Aug 2022 | 148. Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer, Co-founder & CEO of Signos | 00:33:40 | |
Today I’m joined by Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer, Co-founder and CEO of Signos, a glucose monitoring and weight management platform. Signos is the only company that combines continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with an AI-driven app to deliver real-time glucose monitoring for optimal health and weight management. Signos translates an individual’s metabolic signals into timely recommendations for eating, exercise, and better health. In this episode we discuss the metabolic health crisis and obesity epidemic, and how Signos is using glucose monitoring and AI to provide personalized health insights. Plus, Sharam talks about the power of technology and creating sustainable behavior change. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Sharam’s Links | |||
| 13 Jul 2021 | 91. Chloe Steinberg, Partner at Sapphire Sport | 00:35:31 | |
Today I’m joined by Chloe Steinberg. Chloe is a partner at Sapphire Sport, a venture capital platform investing in companies powering the next generation of consumers.
In this episode, we talk about Chloe’s experience at Equinox, where she led Equinox Ventures. We discuss Gen Z’s approach to wellness, including a broader shift toward a healthier lifestyle. And Chloe shares her framework for separating fads from sustainable health and fitness businesses.
More from Chloe
Chloe Steinberg is a partner at Sapphire Sport, where she focuses on investing in early-stage companies shaping the future of consumption. Chloe has deep industry expertise in the health & wellness sector, stemming from her 5+ years as an operator and investor with the Equinox Group of Brands. During that time, Chloe launched and led Equinox Ventures, the group’s investment arm focused on high-performance living. She also supported Business Development & new business incubation, including the launch of Equinox Media in 2020.
Earlier in her career, Chloe cofounded Vayner Capital in partnership with Gary Vaynerchuk and was a member of the investment team at Insight Venture Partners, where she focused on consumer tech and enterprise software investments. Chloe is deeply passionate about people doing work they love so in her free time, she founded and runs ExclusiveJobs, a not-for-profit, bespoke talent placement network in the consumer sector.
Chloe graduated magna cum laude from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where she played varsity lacrosse. She was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for Venture Capital in 2020. A Baltimore native, Chloe now resides in Westport, CT with her husband and son.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
Join industry-leading operators and investors by subscribing: http://insider.fitt.co
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| 28 Jul 2020 | #41: Josh Clemente, Founder of Levels | 00:35:52 | |
Today I’m joined by Josh Clemente, the Founder of Levels — a metabolic fitness company.
In today’s episode, we talked about continuous glucose monitoring and using Levels to unlock real-time feedback on lifestyle choices, like what you eat, how you exercise, and the quality of your sleep. We also discussed Josh’s plan to make metabolic fitness mainstream in hopes of tackling diabetes, obesity, and chronic ailments.
About Josh Clemente >>
Josh, Founder of Levels, is a mechanical engineer and CrossFit-L2 trainer. At SpaceX, he led a team to develop life support systems that sustained astronauts Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley on their May 2020 trip to the International Space Station aboard Dragon Endeavor: the first new crew-carrying spacecraft since 1980. Josh has also spent time designing and building Hyperloop technology and leading engineering for a company providing vehicle-based rescue systems for emergency response teams. Josh enjoys the outdoors, functional fitness training, technology, coffee, and restoring motorcycles.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, L’Catterton, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 14 May 2024 | 237. Sami Inkinen, Founder & CEO of Virta Health | 00:42:55 | |
Today, I’m joined by Sami Inkinen, founder & CEO of Virta Health. Leading with lifestyle, Virta takes a bottom-up approach to diabetes management. Leveraging ketogenic nutrition therapy, the company is tackling root causes of type 2 diabetes. In this episode, we talk about unwinding the metabolic health crisis. We also cover: • The rise of GLP-1s Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Virta Health’s Website: https://www.virtahealth.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 05 Mar 2024 | 227. Jeff Byers, CEO of Momentous | 00:48:11 | |
Today, I’m joined by Jeff Byers, CEO of Momentous. Raising the bar on quality, Momentous makes science-backed supplements for high-performers. Trusted by the US military and pro sports teams, its products are transparently sourced, third-party tested, and NSF-certified. In this episode, we talk about fixing the flawed supplement industry. • Prioritizing product quality over variety Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Momentous' Website: https://www.livemomentous.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 21 Dec 2021 | 114. Krisna Bhargava, CEO of Arena | 00:32:42 | |
Today I’m joined by Krisna Bhargava, CEO of Arena — the complete mobile smart gym.
In this episode, we discuss Arena’s innovative strength training solution and its focus on human performance — including athletes, strength coaches, and physical therapists. Krisna details the company’s plan to accelerate growth. And we cover Arena’s mission to replace the dumbbell.
Note: Fitt Insider is an investor in Arena
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
*** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
*** Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
*** View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Krisna
Krisna Bhargava, PhD is a scientist turned entrepreneur whose lifelong love of fitness began with martial arts, skiing, and hiking. Krisna has an extensive background in automation and biophysics, bringing the view that strength training is the foundation of reaching peach performance as much as it is preventative healthcare. | |||
| 14 Sep 2021 | 100. Tom Aulet, co-founder & CEO of Ergatta | 00:36:47 | |
Today I’m joined by Tom Aulet, co-founder and CEO of Ergatta — a game-based connected rower.
In this episode, Tom lays out the opportunity in creating fitness offerings that go beyond instructor-led, boutique-style classes. We talk about the company’s approach to designing game-based content. And we discuss the potential for Ergatta to enter new categories in addition to rowing.
More from Tom
Tom is a teacher, turned economic analyst, turned enterprise software revenue leader, turned tech entrepreneur. After graduating from Vanderbilt with a degree in Spanish & Economics, Tom spent a year teaching English to high schoolers in Spain and then two years as an economic consultant at Cornerstone Research. Wanting something completely new, he then jumped to marketing software platform MediaMath where he did global enterprise deals, ran an EMEA & LATAM revenue team out of London, and eventually built and ran a global sales team. While struggling to find a practical and enjoyable fitness routine with a demanding job, Tom got the idea for Ergatta, partnered with his two favorite ex-colleagues and built the world’s first game-based cardio machine.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a platform for entrepreneurs, executives, and investors redefining the business of fitness and wellness.
From our newsletter and podcast to our industry-specific jobs board, we create content and resources to drive the industry forward. We also invest in early-stage health and fitness companies.
For more, visit: https://insider.fitt.co/ | |||
| 27 Aug 2024 | 252. Ann Crady Weiss, Co-Founder & CEO of Hatch | 00:33:45 | |
Today, I'm joined by Ann Crady Weiss, co-founder & CEO of Hatch. Hatch is a sleep wellness company for the whole family. With 500K+ units sold, its soothing clocks and infant sound machines are helping consumers wind down and rest up. In this episode, we talk about building a billion-dollar brand. We also cover: • Scaling profitably Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Hatch’s Website: https://www.hatch.co/ Hatch’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/hatchforsleep Hatch’s TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hatchforsleep - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 09 Feb 2021 | 69. Brett Thomas, Co-founder & Managing Partner of CAVU Venture Partners | 00:44:03 | |
Today I’m joined by Brett Thomas.
Brett is the co-founder and managing partner of CAVU Venture Partners — a leading venture capital firm investing in better-for-you food and beverage brands, as well as companies across health and wellness.
In this episode, we discuss the evolving definition of health and how it’s broadening the firm’s thesis. We explore the art, science, and luck behind investments in Beyond Meat, Vital Proteins, Hims, and Thrive Market. And Brett talks about CAVU’s role in a new $225M SPAC targeting the health and wellness space.
More from Brett
Brett Thomas is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of CAVU Venture Partners. Prior to co-founding CAVU in 2015, Brett was the founder of Thematic Capital Partners, a private investment vehicle focused on private/public equity investments in the consumer sector. Before entering into the consumer investing space, Brett worked at Scout Capital Management for 5 years, a long-short hedge fund focusing on special situations with over $9B in AUM based in NYC. He is a graduate of Boston College, with a concentration in Finance, and was a Division I Student Athlete. In 2017, Brett was elected to Boston College's prestigious "40 under 40 list" and was named a “Consumer Catalyst” by Forbes as one of the top dealmakers and influencers in the consumer space. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his 3 kids and wife and rooting for all professional Cleveland sports teams, hoping one day to see the Cleveland Indians win a World Series!
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast dedicated to the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 13 Aug 2024 | 250. Tim Gurner, Founder & Chairman of GURNER™ GROUP | 00:42:41 | |
Today, I'm joined by Tim Gurner, founder & chairman of GURNER™ GROUP. Developing world-class spaces for healthy living, GURNER™ GROUP is an Australian design and lifestyle brand best known for its luxe residences and private members club Saint Haven. In this episode, Tim discusses the company’s high-end vision and aspirational ethos. We also cover:
Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
GURNER™ GROUP’s Website: https://www.gurner.com.au/ Saint Haven Website: https://www.gurner.com.au/sainthaven/ Saint Website: https://www.gurner.com.au/saintprivateclub/ GURNER™ GROUP’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gurner_tm/
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The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities.
Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:42) Tim’s Background and Entrepreneurial Journey (04:52) Creating a Holistic Wellness Space (06:28) Private Clubs and Communities (08:06) Wellness Offerings and Club Design (13:02) Saint Haven vs. Saint: Different Experiences, Same DNA (18:41) Personalizing Wellness Through Technology (22:25) Creating Genuine Connection at the Clubs (24:11) Challenges of Building a Luxury Club (28:40) Tim’s Personal Wellness Routine (30:07) The Limitless Program (36:14) Balancing Technology and Human Connection (40:54) Conclusion
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| 27 Jul 2021 | 93. Mark Mullett and Ashley Mills, obé Fitness co-founders & co-CEOs | 00:35:17 | |
Today I’m joined by Mark Mullett and Ashley Mills, the co-founders and co-CEOs of obé — a premium digital fitness platform offering live and on-demand workouts.
In this episode, Mark and Ashley explain how their background in talent management and experience at CAA led them to start obé. We discuss the role of content, community, and instructors on the platform, as well as the company’s plan to host in-person events. And we talk about obe’s new $15M funding round that included CAVU Venture Partners, Athleta, WW, and Samsung NEXT.
Fitt Insider also invested in obe’s latest round. We’re excited to support the company as they continue to expand the platform.
More from Mark and Ashley
Mark is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of obé, a premium at-home fitness platform that offers live and on-demand workouts. An entertainment industry veteran, Mark has spent 10+ years representing television’s top talent and content creators across different platforms. Mark began his career at William Morris Agency on their television and lifestyle team before accepting a position at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in 2014. He has worked with household names such as Dr. Oz and Nick Cannon, multimillion dollar brands such as Bethenny Frankel’s SkinnyGirl and content creators such as Machete, while working closely with content providers such as Bravo, Food Network, and Fox.
Ashley is the Co-Founder of obé, a premium at-home fitness platform that offers live and on-demand workouts. An entertainment industry veteran, Ashley spent the last 10+ years representing television’s top talent and content providers across network and digital platforms. Ashley began her career at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), and eventually came to lead the lifestyle talent department, where she was responsible for recruiting top talent, building out television and digital platforms and overseeing endorsement and licensing businesses.
Mark and Ashley spent the greater part of their careers selling programming to a millennial-minded consumer, developing a deep understanding of what she values. As exercise fanatics, they quickly realized a large portion of this demographic was being underserved in the fitness category. This consumer wanted access to varied, premium fitness experiences led by the best talent in the business that didn’t come with a Park Avenue zip code or price tag. Mark and Ashley set out to democratize the boutique fitness experience for a captive audience, while emphasizing accountability and community as key elements for a workout routine. obé was born in March 2018.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 02 Nov 2021 | 107. Jeff Veldhuizen, CEO of Capti | 00:31:45 | |
Today I’m joined by Jeff Veldhuizen, CEO of Capti — a game-based smart bike.
In this episode, we discuss Capti’s immersive gaming experience. Jeff explains how Capti differs from other connected equipment makers. And he shares the company’s long-term goal of powering fitness in the metaverse.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Jeff
A respected leader in health and fitness, Jeff's career range includes general manager of high-growth businesses, growth marketer, strategist, and operator in CPG, CE, Sporting Goods, e-commerce, and connected fitness. A tech-driven marketing and direct-to-consumer executive, Jeff has been an integral part of shaping some of the world's most recognizable brands and their online presence.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-veldhuizen/ https://www.instagram.com/capti_bike/ | |||
| 23 Apr 2024 | 234. Eric Litman, Founder & CEO of Aescape | 00:29:27 | |
Today, I’m joined by Eric Litman, Founder and CEO of Aescape. Underwhelmed by traditional massage therapy, Eric created Aescape. Using AI robotics, the company provides a precise, consistent, fully automated bodywork experience. In this episode, we discuss Aescape’s seven-year journey to launch. We also cover: • Partnering with Equinox Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Aescape’s Website: https://www.aescape.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 27 Feb 2024 | 226. Dr. Daisy Robinton, Co-founder & CEO of Oviva Therapeutics | 00:38:23 | |
Today, I’m joined by Dr. Daisy Robinton, co-founder & CEO of Oviva Therapeutics. Daisy is a Harvard-trained molecular biologist on a mission to extend female healthspan. Targeting ovarian function as a lever for longevity, Oviva hopes to make menopause optional. In this episode, we discuss how Oviva Therapeutics plans to deliver additional years of vibrant living to women. Plus, we talk about the intersection of biology and longevity. We also cover: Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Oviva Therapeutics Website: https://www.ovivatx.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 10 May 2022 | 134. Diversifying Revenue Beyond Ads with mindbodygreen Co-founders Jason and Colleen Wachob | 00:35:32 | |
On today’s episode I’m joined by mindbodygreen Co-Founders Jason and Colleen Wachob. Mindbodygreen is a 360-degree approach to wellness that weaves the mental, physical, spiritual, emotional, and environmental aspects of well-being together. Mindbodygreen features the best research and medical expertise available to provide information, products, and connections that stand the test of time. In this episode we discuss the couple’s experience building a wellness-focused media platform, and how the company has expanded beyond advertising revenue to include supplements, health coaching, and virtual classes. We also explore emerging health trends such as wearables, mental wellness, and longevity. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Guest’s Links | |||
| 06 Apr 2021 | 77. Greg Caplan, co-founder & CEO of Spot Meetings | 00:31:03 | |
Today I’m joined by Greg Caplan. Greg is the co-founder and CEO of Spot Meetings — a platform for walking meetings.
In this episode, Greg explains how his personal experience with remote work led him to start the company. We look at what goes into designing a meeting platform for walking. We discuss the health and productivity benefits of simply walking more. And Greg talks about launching Spot’s beta and amassing a waitlist of 5K people.
A quick disclosure, we are excited to be investors in Spot — supporting the company on its mission to help people escape Zoom fatigue and be more physically active.
More from Greg
Greg Caplan is the co-founder of Spot Meetings, a platform for walking meetings. Previously, he co-founded Remote Year, the original remote work and travel community.
Visit: www.meetwithspot.com
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 02 Jun 2020 | #33: Tobi Pearce, CEO of SWEAT | 00:31:33 | |
Today I’m joined by Tobi Pearce the CEO of SWEAT.
Along with his wife Kayla Itsines, Tobi and the team at SWEAT are building the world’s largest female fitness community.
In this episode, we talked about his journey from personal training to creating a digital platform. We also discussed customer acquisition and retention as it related to growing SWEAT’s user base. And Tobi shared his thoughts on fitness in a post-COVID-19 world.
Let’s get into it.
More from Tobi >>
Tobi Pearce is the Founder and CEO of SWEAT, a global technology company in the health and fitness industry and home to the largest online female fitness community of more than 50 million women globally.
Pearce has leveraged his personal training background and his knowledge in business and technology to reach global markets, and ultimately provide a world first health and fitness app for women in more than 155 countries.
SWEAT is currently one of Apple's largest grossing apps in its Health and Fitness category.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 24 Nov 2020 | 58: Nate Raabe, Managing Partner at Rx3 Growth Partners | 00:30:43 | |
Today I’m joined by Nate Raabe, the Managing Partner at Rx3 Growth Partners.
In this episode, Nate tells us about partnering with Aaron Rogers to start Rx3. How the firm uses influencer investors to add value. And we learn about their investments in companies like Hydrow, Hims, Super Coffee, and CorePower Yoga.
About Nate
Nate is currently the managing partner at Rx3 Growth Partners, a consumer-focused influencer fund based in Orange County. Rx3 invests in both growing and established brands across the consumer space. Prior to Rx3, he was managing director of ROTH’s private capital group, where he was responsible for deal sourcing, valuation analysis, and distribution for private companies. Nate also acts as CIO for his family investments and is the managing partner for A&N Ventures. Prior to ROTH, Nate was a founding member of Sapheon where he spearheaded the private companies fundraising prior to its acquisition. He is on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Sports Innovators. Nate graduated from Santa Clara University with a BA in Finance.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 08 Dec 2020 | 60. Brynn Putnam, Founder & CEO of Mirror | 00:31:20 | |
Today I’m joined by Brynn Putnam.
Brynn is the founder and CEO of Mirror — a connected fitness company that combines an interactive screen with on-demand workout content.
In July, lululemon acquired Mirror for $500M.
In this episode, we talk about Brynn’s motivation for starting Mirror and the genesis of the idea. What differentiates the company from the growing number of look-a-like products. How Brynn defines community in a digital world. And what factors led lululemon to ultimately acquire the company.
More from Brynn
Brynn Putnam is the founder and CEO of MIRROR, the nearly invisible, interactive home gym that streams live and on-demand fitness classes in a variety of genres.
For more than a decade, Brynn has been regarded as a pioneer of the fitness industry. First as a ballet dancer for the New York City Ballet, then as the founder and CEO of Refine Method, the acclaimed fitness studio in New York dubbed “Best New Workout” by New York magazine. Now, Brynn is applying her deep expertise in fitness, both as an accomplished entrepreneur and athlete, to transform the fitness industry again. Brynn graduated from Harvard University with a B.A. in Russian Literature and Culture and is based in New York City.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 12 Dec 2023 | 216. Ed Buckley, CEO of FitOn Health | 00:46:34 | |
Today I’m joined by Ed Buckley, CEO of FitOn Health, a wellness benefits platform for employers and health plans. On a mission to bridge healthcare and fitness, Ed founded corporate wellness platform Peerfit in 2011 — connecting people with quality digital health content and in-person fitness classes. FitOn acquired Peerfit in 2022, launching FitOn Health and breaking into B2B. In this episode, we discuss the company’s approach to serving customers, employers, and health plans. Plus we cover the impact of weight loss drugs and a challenging fundraising market on the fitness industry. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How the Peerfit acquisition played into FitOn’s strategy Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast FitOn App: https://fitonapp.com/ The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor Chapters: | |||
| 01 Sep 2020 | #46: Mike Maser, CEO of Big Sky Health | 00:32:52 | |
Today I’m joined by Mike Maser.
Mike is the CEO of Big Sky Health, the company behind the fasting app Zero, Oak, a mindfulness app, and Less, an app for mindful drinking.
In this episode, we discussed Mike’s experience starting FitStar and selling it to Fitbit. How his personal battle with cancer led him to fasting and, ultimately, becoming CEO of Zero. And we talk about his plans to turn Big Sky Health into a platform for science-backed longevity products.
About Mike
Mike Maser is the CEO and founder of Big Sky Health, the parent company of wellness apps Zero, Less, and Oak. Formerly the CEO and co-founder of FitStar, and over 2 decades of executive leadership experience at companies including Electronic Arts, Digg, AOL, and Fitbit, Mike has rich experience in the tech and health startup spaces. His work at Big Sky Health blends this knowledge with a personal passion: helping people live longer, healthier lives. When Mike isn’t helping millions of users on their wellness journeys, you can find him and his dog, Hank out on the trails in Big Sky, Montana."
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
Website: http://insider.fitt.co
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| 20 Sep 2022 | 153. Nick Stewart & Nick Kafker, Co-founders of Recover Athletics | 00:40:41 | |
Today I’m joined by Recover Athletics Co-founders, Nick Stewart and Nick Kafker. Recover Athletics is the leading injury-prevention tool for runners. Their mission is to help runners spend more time running and less time injured. Powered by best-in-class injury prevention algorithms and physical therapy content, Recover Athletics allows runners to take control of their training and seamlessly incorporate the recovery needed to stay injury free. In this episode we discuss the company’s prehab app for runners and athletes, and utilizing in-person community growth hacks and storytelling to scale your user base. The guys also talk about selling the company to Strava and reaching tens of millions of athletes. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Nick Stewart & Nick Kafker’s Links | |||
| 20 Jul 2021 | 92. Eric Roza, CEO of CrossFit | 00:44:08 | |
Today I’m joined by Eric Roza, the owner and CEO of CrossFit.
In this episode, Eric shares his vision for the company’s future. We cover the role of technology, growing the CrossFit Games, and new initiatives across eCommerce, direct-to-consumer fitness content, and healthcare. We also discuss the obstacles he’s facing as he tries to turn around the embattled brand. Plus, Eric talks about how a cold email and handshake deal led to him taking over the company.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
Join industry-leading operators and investors by subscribing: http://insider.fitt.co | |||
| 21 Jun 2022 | 140. Josh Hix, Founder & CEO of Season Health | 00:36:38 | |
Today I’m joined by Josh Hix, CEO of Season Health, a digital food pharmacy. Season is rethinking nutrition-based health care. Season’s platform allows doctors, registered dietitians and other health experts to prescribe food as medicine, and patients to conveniently choose, procure and enjoy the foods that are right for their clinical nutritional needs. In this episode we discuss Josh’s experience building meal kit service Plated, Season’s approach to food as medicine, the company’s recent $34 million funding round, and the growing need for solutions that target diet-related chronic illnesses. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Josh’s Links | |||
| 07 Jun 2022 | 138. Alexandra Zatarain, Co-founder and VP of Brand & Marketing at Eight Sleep | 00:32:41 | |
Today I’m joined by Alexandra Zatarain, Co-Founder and VP of Brand and Marketing at Eight Sleep. Eight Sleep is the first sleep fitness company. Eight Sleep leverages innovation, technology, and personal biometrics to restore individuals to their peak energy levels. Fast Company named Eight Sleep one of the Most Innovative Companies in Consumer Electronics. In this episode we talk about the company’s smart mattress that tracks sleep, regulates temperature, and much more. We discuss the concept of sleep fitness, and the company’s plan to improve sleep performance. Alexandra also shares Eight Sleep’s moonshots, like the possibility of compressing sleep to under six hours. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Alexandra’s Links | |||
| 07 Dec 2021 | 112. Helaine Knapp, CEO of CITYROW | 00:33:47 | |
Today I’m joined by Helaine Knapp, CEO of CITYROW.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s origin as a single boutique fitness studio, the decision to launch a connected rower and digital app, and Helaine’s plan to scale an omnichannel experience.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
*** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
*** Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
*** View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Helaine
After spending years climbing the corporate ladder, Helaine Knapp left the world of publishing for tech start-up life. Group fitness was her outlet while working hard and taking on the hustle and bustle of New York City. Months of spin and boot camp classes left her with a lower back injury, however, and she began searching for a workout that was low impact, but super effective. After a friend suggested rowing, Helaine initially rejected it as something “my dad did in college,” but following a few workouts on a sexy machine, pairing it with total body sculpting moves off the machine, changed her mind and the concept for CITYROW was born.
With a mission of delivering a smart, fun, effective workout to all fitness levels, under Knapp’s leadership, CITYROW has grown from one studio in New York City to a national omnichannel fitness brand a top-ranked on-demand global program featuring at-home rowers and a fast-growing digital subscription business alongside 12 open studios and 65 franchises sold nationwide!
Knapp has yet to row on the water and has been featured as a business leader and a wellness expert on TODAY, Women’s Health, ABC, Harper’s Bazaar, Shape, Well + Good, Vogue, Yahoo! Finance, and PEOPLE, among many others. | |||
| 30 Mar 2021 | 76. Jeff Morin, CEO of Liteboxer | 00:31:14 | |
Today I’m joined by Jeff Morin — CEO of Liteboxer, an interactive at-home boxing experience.
In this episode, we talk about Jeff’s background in building hardware products, why Liteboxer was four years in the making, how the company’s gaming-inspired platform makes people want to work out, and the potential for mixed reality to disrupt the fitness industry.
More from Jeff
Jeff Morin is an MIT-educated engineer and certified personal trainer with an eye for both physical and technological performance. Prior to founding Liteboxer, Jeff operated as Manufacturing Lead at Formlabs then DEKA, overseeing manufacturing management, supply chain, and procurement for next-gen product development.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast dedicated to the business of fitness and wellness.
Join industry-leading operators and investors by subscribing: http://insider.fitt.co | |||
| 01 Aug 2023 | 197. Kyriakos Eleftheriou, Co-founder & CEO of Terra | 00:47:28 | |
Today, I’m joined by Kyriakos Eleftheriou, co-founder & CEO of Terra, an API unifying health and fitness data from apps and wearables. After developing an obsession with wearables and health data to improve his performance in the armed forces, Kyriakos realized there wasn’t a solution to connect all his metrics in one place. Incubating the concept through Y Combinator and raising fresh funding, Terra’s software now enables interoperability for numerous top brands. In this episode, we discuss the company’s mission to increase the utility of health data. Plus, we talk about what it takes to build a world-class team, culture, and product. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Terra helps wearable companies develop an app using its API Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Terra’s Website: https://tryterra.co/ - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor
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| 12 May 2020 | #30: Trent Ward, CEO of FORME Life | 00:33:13 | |
Today I’m joined by Trent Ward.
Trent is the CEO of FORME Life — a new connected fitness company combining a Mirror-like display with the strength training elements of Tonal.
In today’s episode, we discussed FORME’s design-forward product, their approach to content and talent, and how the idea of omnichannel fitness is transforming the industry.
Let’s get into it.
More from Trent & Forme Life >>
Trent Ward is the founder and CEO of FORME Life. He realized first-hand that a busy lifestyle makes it challenging to get to the gym, and so in the middle of a successful finance career, he shifted focus to develop the most complete at-home fitness studio he could conceive. He also realized he did not have experience to do that, so Trent sought to surround himself with virtuosos in every aspect of product and brand development. He partnered with renowned designer, Yves Béhar, to ensure an exceptional aesthetic and user experience. He teamed up with legendary personal trainer, Harley Pasternak, to establish a best-in-class content model for optimal physical results. He tapped the minds of NASA engineers to generate gravity-free resistance solutions for strength training. After more than four years, countless prototypes and a lot of hard work from a world-class team, Trent is thrilled to bring FORME Life to market. He looks forward to fitting his workouts into his schedule now that there’s no longer a good excuse for skipping the gym.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 12 Jul 2022 | 143. Clive Ormerod, CEO of Les Mills International | 00:35:37 | |
In this episode I’m joined by Les Mills CEO, Clive Ormerod. Les Mills has been delivering life-changing fitness experiences for over 50 years. Now an international fitness brand, Les Mills mixes music, motivation and movement for millions around the globe through their world-class fitness programs. Blurring the boundaries of physical and digital experiences, Les Mills mission is simple – create a fitter planet. Clive and I discuss the company’s 50-year history in the fitness industry, the evolution of its omnichannel offering from in-club and instructor training, to digital and VR content. Plus, we talk about the power of community, and building a fitter planet. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Clive’s Links | |||
| 28 Jun 2022 | 141. Andy Hoang, Founder & CEO of Aviron | 00:31:55 | |
Today I’m joined by Andy Hoang, Founder and CEO of Aviron, makers of connected rowing machines. Aviron is a connected rowing machine designed with you in mind. Short, high-intensity workouts save you time, high resistance settings allow you to include strength training along with your cardio workout, and hundreds of content options get you motivated and keep you engaged month after month. In this episode we discuss the company’s bootstrap start, pivoting from commercial sales to at-home during the pandemic, and everyone’s approach to gamified fitness content. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Andy Hoang’s Links
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| 30 Jul 2024 | 248. Michael Brandt, Co-Founder & CEO of Ketone-IQ | 00:40:25 | |
Today, I’m joined by Michael Brandt, co-founder & CEO of Ketone-IQ.
Bottling “metabolic superfuel,” Ketone-IQ taps science-backed ingredients to enhance mental clarity, physical fitness, and recovery — without the crash of caffeine or sugar.
In this episode, we talk about scaling the brand’s next-gen energy drink.
We also cover:
• The meaning of metabolic efficiency
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Ketone-IQ™’s Website: https://ketone.com/ Ketone-IQ™’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/ketoneiq Michael’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldbrandt/
Ketone-IQ™ is offering listeners a discount. Use KETONE.com/FITT to save 30% off your first subscription order of Ketone-IQ™.
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| 02 Jul 2024 | 244. Michael Ramsey, Co-Founder & CEO of STRONG Pilates | 00:35:25 | |
Today, I’m joined by Michael Ramsey, co-Founder & CEO of STRONG Pilates.
Using learnings from his time as an F45 Training franchisee, Michael created a global brand, leveraging patented machines to deliver a class that combines Pilates, cardio, and strength.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s hybrid fitness concept.
We also cover: • The state of boutique fitness
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
STRONG’s Website: https://strongpilates.com.au/ STRONG’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/strong -
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| 11 Jul 2023 | 194. Phil Wagner, Founder & CEO of Sparta Science | 00:41:13 | |
Today, I’m joined by Phil Wagner, founder & CEO of Sparta Science, a movement health intelligence platform for organizations. Sparta Science specializes in using data and analytics to optimize human performance and reduce the risk of injuries in athletes, the military, and healthcare. Using his experience as a physician and strength coach, Dr. Phil Wagner and team are revolutionizing training and injury prevention with help from physical biomarkers and artificial intelligence. In this episode, Phil details Sparta’s evolution from training facility to software solution, and we talk about challenges and opportunities in working with sports teams, military operators, and healthcare organizations. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Phil’s own recovery from an injury inspired him to start Sparta Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Sparta Science’s Website: spartascience.com - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at JackTaylorPR.com/Fitt Chapters: | |||
| 15 Jun 2021 | 87. Sam Cole, co-founder & CEO of FitXR | 00:35:06 | |
Today I’m joined by Sam Cole, co-founder & CEO of FitXR — a virtual fitness club bringing fun and immersive workouts to the home.
In this episode, Sam breaks down the innovation happening in virtual reality. We talk about the potential for VR fitness to make working out fun and engaging for an entirely new audience beyond exercise enthusiasts. And we discuss the future of personalization, community, and group workouts in VR.
More from Sam
Sam is the CEO and a co-founder of FitXR. Sam began his career as a management consultant at PwC in Auckland, New Zealand and then worked in private equity after moving to London in 2014. As a firm believer of the benefits of regular exercise for physical and mental health, Sam has always kept fit. Since the conception of VR, he has had a vision of delivering immersive fitness through VR to motivate people to keep fit, by providing access to guided workouts and programs in a highly personalized environment. After meeting Sameer at business school, they decided to launch FitXR to deliver this vision together.
Sam holds a bachelor's degree in law and finance from Otago University. He earned his MBA from Cambridge University.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 26 May 2020 | #32: Andrew Dudum, CEO of hims & hers | 00:38:55 | |
Today I’m joined by Andrew Dudum.
Andrew is the founder and CEO of hims & hers — a telemedicine company offering a modern approach to healthcare.
The company has raised nearly $200M in funding and its last public valuation was north of $1B.
In today’s episode, we talked about the disruptive potential of telemedicine, the difference between wellness and healthcare, how hims & hers was able to launch an FDA approved at-home test for COVID-19, and Andrew’s plan to become a public company worth more than $20B.
More from Andrew >>
Andrew Dudum is the Founder and CEO of Hims & Hers, a direct-to-consumer health and wellness company that provides access to medical-grade products and preventative solutions via telemedicine.
Andrew is a serial entrepreneur. Previously he co-founded Atomic, a venture-builder in San Francisco backed by Peter Thiel and Marc Andreessen, and is an active Angel Investor and Advisor to over two dozen startups. He co-founded Ever.com in 2013, one of the top iOS productivity apps across 95+ countries, and earlier in his career, led product at Tokbox.com through their acquisition by Telefonica. In 2007, he founded Lendforpeace.com, the first non for profit micro-lending platform for the Middle East. Andrew attended the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
hims: https://www.forhims.com/
hers: https://www.forhers.com/
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 03 Mar 2020 | #20: Rishi Mandal, CEO of Future | 00:43:55 | |
Today I’m joined by Rishi Mandal.
Rishi is the co-founder and CEO of Future — a digital personal training service that connects users with human coaches to create custom workout plans.
In today’s episode, Rishi and I talked about the power of high-touch personal coaching, Future’s commitment to retention, and creating a constellation of experts in your life.
More from Rishi >>
Rishi is the co-founder and CEO of Future (www.future.fit), which is backed by Kleiner Perkins and Founders Fund. Future is an online personal training experience that pairs clients 1:1 with their own world-class coach. Rishi was previously the CEO of Sosh (acquired by Postmates) and a product leader at Google. Prior to tech, Rishi was an astrophysics researcher at NASA and Stanford University.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing. | |||
| 07 Feb 2023 | 173. Daniel Tal Mor, CEO of Lumen | 00:38:24 | |
Today, I’m joined by Daniel Tal Mor, CEO of Lumen, makers of a breathalyzer device used to monitor and improve users’ metabolic health. Aspiring to help people achieve better health through data, Lumen’s breathalyzer and connected app democratize the “gold-standard” in metabolic measurement typically reserved for elite athletes. In this episode, we discuss the company’s breathalyzer for hacking metabolism, Lumen’s recent $62M funding round, and the concept of metabolic flexibility. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Metabolism’s role in weight, energy, and performance management Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Chapters: | |||
| 18 Jun 2024 | 242. Ron Belldegrun, Co-Founder & CEO of ByHeart | 00:38:33 | |
Today, I’m joined by Ron Belldegrun, co-founder & CEO of ByHeart.
Refreshing an outdated category, ByHeart is a farm-to-formula baby food brand. Pioneering clinical research, the company is raising the bar with grass-fed, whole milk-based infant formula.
In this episode, we talk about the company’s next-generation infant nutrition platform.
We also cover: • Infant formula’s food security problem
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
ByHeart’s Website: https://byheart.com/ -
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| 15 Oct 2024 | 259. Colleen Cutcliffe, Co-founder & CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics | 00:34:51 | |
Today, I'm joined by Colleen Cutcliffe, co-founder & CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics. Backed by actress Halle Berry, Pendulum is a microbiome biotech company disrupting probiotics with doctor-formulated metabolic health supplements. In this episode, we explore the links between gut health and metabolism. We also cover: • The science behind Pendulum’s medical probiotics Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Pendulum Therapeutics’ Website: https://pendulumlife.com/ Pendulum Therapeutics’ IG: https://www.instagram.com/pendulumlifeco/ Colleen’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/drcolleencutcliffe/ - The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities. Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 16 Jun 2020 | #35: Carl Daikeler, CEO of Beachbody | 00:41:13 | |
Today I’m joined by Carl Daikeler, the co-founder and CEO of Beachbody,
In today’s episode, we discussed the evolution of at-home fitness, transitioning from VHS tapes to streaming content, the role and criticism of multi-level marketing, and building a billion-dollar-a-year business.
More from Carl >>
Carl Daikeler is co-founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Beachbody, LLC. In his pursuit to maintain his own health and fitness, and find a solution for the growing obesity epidemic, Daikeler and his co-founder Jon Congdon created Beachbody in 1998. Since then, the California-based company has redefined in-home fitness with top fitness and weight-loss solutions such as Beachbody® On-Demand, P90X®, 21 Day Fix®, Body Beast®, and INSANITY®, as well as the breakthrough health shake, Shakeology®.
Daikeler's focus is to help people achieve their goals and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Through the Team Beachbody® Coach Network, his aspiration is to create the largest community of health and fitness-related peer support in the world.
So, in 2007, Beachbody became the first networking marketing business focused on a holistic approach to fitness and weight loss, turning customers into brand ambassadors. Offering the most innovative, results-oriented programs and skilled, motivational trainers, Beachbody's approach to fitness has not only gained the attention of millions of satisfied customers but also crossed $1 billion in annual sales in 2014. Daikeler has over 30 years of extensive product marketing experience, including every aspect of the direct response business, from creating products to advertising, media buying, operations, international distribution, and general management.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 11 Jan 2022 | 117. Ron Schneidermann, CEO of AllTrails | 00:35:24 | |
Today I’m joined by Ron Schneidermann, CEO of AllTrails — a guide to the outdoors.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s content flywheel, free app, and subscription product. We cover the intersection of technology and the outdoors, as well as the company’s recent $150M funding round, fueling community, personalization, and international expansion.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider helps operators stay informed and make better decisions. We produce a weekly newsletter and podcast, curate an industry jobs board, and invest in early-stage companies.
*** Subscribe to our newsletter: https://insider.fitt.co/newsletter/
*** Visit the jobs board: https://jobs.fitt.co/
*** View current investment and get in touch: https://insider.fitt.co/investments/
More from Ron
Ron Schneidermann is an entrepreneur who is passionate about building great companies that help people have authentic, organic, real-world experiences. He is the CEO of AllTrails, the most trusted and used outdoors platform in the world. In 2005, Ron co-founded Liftopia, the global leader in ski lift ticket bookings, and was Head of Growth at Yelp Reservations. Ron attended UCLA, earning his bachelor’s degree in Communications, and lives in California with his wife Jenny, their three children, and their dog Sally Toodle the Golden Doodle. Ron loves riding his mountain bike, but his all-time favorite trail is the Na Pali Coast Trail in Kauai. | |||
| 17 Dec 2019 | Episode #11: Rick Stollmeyer, co-founder and CEO MINDBODY | 00:38:01 | |
Today I’m joined by Rick Stollmeyer. Rick is the co-founder and CEO of MINDBODY. In today’s episode, I talked with Rick about the 20-year history of Mindbody. His take on the evolution of the wellness industry — including a growing opportunity in India and the future of boutique studios. And Rick's advice for entrepreneurs raising capital. I had a great time chatting with Rick and I hope you enjoy listening. More from Rick & MINDBODY >> Rick Stollmeyer co-founded MINDBODY in his garage in 2001. He serves as the company’s CEO and principle visionary, ensuring that everything MINDBODY undertakes—from product line to business development to team member enrichment—serves the company’s purpose to help people lead healthier, happier lives by connecting the world to wellness. In 2005, Rick transformed the industry when he migrated the company’s business management software to the cloud. Today, MINDBODY remains the leading software-as-a-service platform for the wellness services industry, streamlining business management for wellness practitioners and making it easier for them to do what they love—improve the lives of their customers. MINDBODY now powers fitness, wellness, and beauty businesses worldwide. Rick lives with his wife, Jill, near the company headquarters in San Luis Obispo, California. More from Fitt Insider >> Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness. From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry. Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing at http://insider.fitt.co. | |||
| 15 Feb 2022 | 122. Paying People To Be Healthy: The Future of Healthcare, with Joel Lieginger | 00:37:56 | |
On today’s show I talk with Joel Lieginger, CEO at Paceline. Paceline is the first-ever holistic approach to improving the health of individuals and society. Paceline incentivizes physical, mental, and financial health in a continuous virtuous cycle. Paceline brings best-in-class digital products and financial services together, through a credit card and insurance, to pay people to live a healthy lifestyle. In this episode we talk about paying people to workout, Paceline’s wellness credit card, and Joel’s vision to transform the sick care and life insurance industries. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Joel Lieginger’s Links | |||
| 12 Sep 2023 | 203. Joe Wicks, Founder of The Body Coach | 00:45:31 | |
Today, I’m joined by Joe Wicks, founder of The Body Coach, a global fitness media brand consisting of online classes, nutrition books, and a healthy living app. A UK-based trainer and nutrition expert, Joe Wicks gained international acclaim for his approachable views on fitness and easy-to-follow programs. During the pandemic, Joe’s live streamed YouTube workouts attracted audiences of 955K+, earning him a Guinness World Record and the honor of being knighted for his help keeping the UK healthy. In this episode, he chats about expanding the brand beyond his social presence to build a holistic health app. Plus, we discuss the importance of authenticity, exercising for mental health, and helping kids get active. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Joe went from personal trainer to fitness entrepreneur Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast The Body Coach App: https://www.thebodycoach.com/ The Body Coach YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAxW1XT0iEJo0TYlRfn6rYQ Joe Wick’s Documentary: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/Joe-Wicks-Facing-My-Childhood/0R469JAZEV2VR5NWG94ST78Z7H - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor
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| 10 Nov 2020 | 56. Deepen Parikh, Partner at Courtside Ventures | 00:35:26 | |
Today, I’m joined by Deepen Parikh, a partner at Courtside Ventures.
Courtside is an early-stage venture firm focused on fitness and wellness, sports and media, and gaming.
In this episode, Deepen tells us about Courtside’s new $75M fund, the firm’s thesis as it related to fitness: including the reinvented gym, human performance, community, and personalized data. And we get into how he thinks about the team, business model, and market when evaluating an investment opportunity.
A quick announcement that we touch on this in the episode: Anthony & I are excited to be partnering with Courtside — where we’ll be working as advisors to the firm. So if you’re building a company in health, fitness, wellness, or sports categories, we’d love to hear from you. Send us an email: insider@fitt.co
More from Deepen Deepen Parikh is a Partner at Courtside Ventures, a leading VC fund focused on early-stage companies across sports/digital media, fitness/wellness and gaming. Since launching Courtside Ventures in 2016, they've invested in 45+ companies, including Freeletics, Future.fit, Gainful, Silofit, Paceline, The Athletic, StockX, The Drone Racing League, Religion of Sports, Beam (acq by Microsoft), 100 Thieves, RecoverX, among several others. He leads the funds investment focus across fitness, and wellness along with select investment in sports and digital media. Sitting at the intersection of the rapidly growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and the broader sports technology industry, he was recognized as a 2018 Sports Business Journal Forty Under 40 recipient. Previously, Deepen was a Partner at Interplay Ventures, an early-stage technology incubator and investor, where he was part of launching/building 15+ companies and investing in another 6 companies.
Deepen started his career as an Associate at UBS Financial Services and earned his BA in Economics from the University of Maryland, College Park. He currently resides in New York City with his wife, Rakhi (who works at Major League Soccer) and his daughter Prem.
More on Courtside Courtside Ventures is a leading early-stage VC fund, backed by several professional sports team owners, public media companies, global family offices and strategic individuals and athletes. They focus on investing across sports/digital media, fitness/wellness and gaming. Across Fund I and Fund II (which they are in the process of closing), they've invested in 45+ companies, including The Athletic, StockX, The Drone Racing League, Religion of Sports, Beam (acq by Microsoft), Rebel (acq by Salesforce), Freeletics, 100 Thieves, Players Lounge, RecoverX, Future.fit, Gainful, Silofit, Paceline, among several others.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 02 May 2023 | 185. Christian Toetzke, Founder & CEO of HYROX | 00:51:46 | |
Today, I’m joined by Christian Toetzke, founder & CEO of HYROX, a global fitness racing competition. Christian, a former professional athlete and entrepreneur, created HYROX with the goal of making fitness more accessible and engaging for people of all fitness levels. The company hosts mass-participation events, putting competitors on the clock for a series of functional exercises, while licensing training programs to gyms across the world. In this episode, we discuss the rise of fitness racing, and Christian breaks down why the company’s challenge is both inclusive and effective. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How HYROX is more approachable than CrossFit Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast HYROX Website: https://hyrox.com/ - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at JackTaylorPR.com Chapters: | |||
| 26 Apr 2022 | 132. Reinventing the Personal Training Business with Future Co-founder & CEO Rishi Mandal | 00:34:18 | |
Today I’m joined by Rishi Mandal, Co-founder and CEO of Future, a digital personal training service connecting users with human coaches. Future uses a combination of technology, content, and elite personal trainers to build custom-made training plans for their customers. Clients can reach their goals at home, in the gym, or at group fitness classes, when and where it’s most convenient for them. In this episode we talk about the company’s recent 75 million dollar funding round, and how Future built its platform around accountability and personalization. We also discuss the power of the company’s equipment agnostic approach. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Rishi Mandal’s Links | |||
| 12 Oct 2021 | 104. Benjamin Nazarian, CEO of Therabody | 00:31:00 | |
Today, I’m joined by Benjamin Nazarian, CEO of Therabody – a wellness technology company.
In this episode, we discuss the rise of the recovery category. We explore Therabody’s evolution from a single product—the Theragun–into a platform for pain management, as well as the company’s transition into the consumer market.
Plus, we look at emerging and adjacent verticals, including breathwork, contrast therapy, mental fitness, and more.
More from Benjamin
Benjamin Nazarian is the Chief Executive Officer of Therabody. Under his leadership, Therabody evolved from a single device - Theragun, which pioneered the percussive therapy category - into an ecosystem of products and solutions that help people perform better, recover faster, and manage pain as an alternative to traditional medicine. Benjamin spearheaded Therabody’s global expansion to 10,000 retail locations in more than 60 countries. His commitment to creating cutting-edge products and solutions that are available to everybody has been integral to Therabody’s rapid growth and has established Therabody as a leader in the wellness industry.
Prior to Therabody, Benjamin spent much of his career as a Managing Partner of Omninet Capital, where he still serves on the investment committee. Benjamin graduated from the University of Southern California (USC), with a Bachelor of Science in accounting and received his Juris Doctorate from the Law Center at USC. He currently resides in Los Angeles.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a platform for entrepreneurs, executives, and investors redefining the business of fitness and wellness.
From our newsletter and podcast to our industry-specific jobs board, we create content and resources to drive the industry forward. We also invest in early-stage health and fitness companies.
For more, visit: https://insider.fitt.co/ | |||
| 25 Jun 2024 | 243. Aidan Dewar, Co-Founder & CEO of Nourish | 00:32:38 | |
Today, I’m joined by Aidan Dewar, co-founder & CEO of Nourish.
Covered by insurance in all 50 states, Nourish’s telenutrition platform connects Americans to registered dietitians for 1:1 diet counseling and behavior change support.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s food-as-medicine platform.
We also cover: • Navigating GLP-1s
Subscribe to the podcast → www.insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → www.insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → www.linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Nourish’s Website: https://www.usenourish.com Nourish’s Careers Page: https://www.usenourish.com/careers Nourish’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/usenourish/
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| 15 Oct 2019 | Episode #2: Amanda Eilian, co-founder of Able Partners | 00:36:48 | |
Today I’m joined by Amanda Eilian.
Amanda is a co-founder of Able partners.
In today’s episode, we talked about Amanda’s experience as an investor in the positive living space, her take on the future of the wellness industry—including mental health and psychedelics, and her advice for founders looking to break into the space.
I had a great time chatting with Amanda and hope you enjoy listening.
More from Amanda Eilian & Able Partners >>
Amanda Eilian is the co-founder of __able Partners, a venture capital fund focused on early-stage companies in the positive living space. With over 40 companies in the portfolio, investments include Goop, The Wing, Daily Harvest, and Bulletproof.
Amanda was also the Co-Founder and President of Videolicious, an enterprise video creation platform backed by Amazon and acquired by a strategic buyer in 2019. Amanda was instrumental in the launch and growth of Videolicious to over 5,000,000 users in 103 countries, including Fortune 500 companies such as IBM, Walmart, SAP, Verizon and GE. Prior to forming Videolicious, Amanda was a founding partner of Capitol Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition vehicle (SPAC) that completed a $265 million initial public offering and closed a merger that led to the formation of Two Harbors Investment Corp., a $3 billion NYSE listed REIT (TWO) and Silver Bay Realty Trust (SBY). Amanda previously worked in private equity and mergers and acquisitions.
Amanda is a Truman Scholar and received her MBA from Harvard Business School where she was a Baker Scholar, and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service with Honors in Economics. Amanda serves on the Board of Directors of Juice Beauty, the largest organic skincare brand in North America, and on the Board of Directors of the Melanoma Research Alliance, the largest private funder of melanoma research with more than $100 million in grants awarded to date. She is also a member of the Tech:NYC Leadership Council. Amanda resides in New York City with her husband and four children. Get in touch >> https://ablepartners.nyc/
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing at http://insider.fitt.co | |||
| 05 Nov 2019 | Episode #5: Caitlin Landesberg, founder & CEO of Sufferfest Beer Company | 00:39:58 | |
Today I’m joined by Caitlin Landesberg.
Caitlin is the founder and CEO of Sufferfest Beer Company.
On today’s episode, we talk with Caitlin about what makes Sufferfest a happy accident, how she’s creating the go-to beer for sweaty experiences, and why there’s no such thing as luck.
I had a great time chatting with Caitlin and I hope you enjoy listening.
More from Caitlin & Sufferfest >>
Driven by her desire to have the best “finish line” beer in the world, Caitlin Landesberg took matters into her own hands. In 2012 she began to develop the beer she wanted to see in the world, and as fellow runners and endurance athletes rapidly drove demand, she launched Sufferfest Beer Company in Spring 2016.
Based in San Francisco and a Certified B Corporation, Sufferfest inspires active, healthy and passionate humans with award-winning, purpose-brewed craft beer. As the company's Founder and CEO, Caitlin brings 14 years of consumer marketing experience to the company, with prior positions including Director of Marketing at Strava—a social network for athletes. Three successful years into business, Sufferfest was fully acquired by Chico-based Sierra Nevada Brewing Company in Spring 2019.
Caitlin is an avid trail runner, proud mom, member of the San Francisco Brewers Guild, and a graduate of Kenyon College.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing at http://insider.fitt.co. | |||
| 26 Nov 2019 | Episode #8: Lisa Blau, co-founder of Able Partners | 00:28:25 | |
Today I’m joined by Lisa Blau.
Lisa is a co-founder of Able partners.
On today’s episode, we talked to Lisa about the boundless nature of the wellness industry, how startups can find success by breaking down land-held stigmas, and the importance of building a strong brand.
I had a great time chatting with Lisa and hope you enjoy listening.
Let’s get into it.
More from Lisa Blau and Able Partners >>
Lisa Blau has spent the last decade as an active angel investor focused on consumer businesses, often in the health, wellness and active lifestyle space with a particular interest in supporting women-led entrepreneurial ventures.
Together with Amanda Eilian, she is the founding partner of Able, an investment fund focused on funding early-stage startups in the healthy living and lifestyle space, with a focus on female founders. Some of their investments include Juice Beauty, Daily Harvest, The Wing, Primary Kids, Moon Juice, Goop and Chief. Previously, Lisa co-founded VitalJuice.com, a daily email newsletter on healthy living tips and trends that was acquired by Tasting Table. She also helped build and launch Portero, an online luxury goods auction platform sold to Richemont.
She has experience building businesses from the ground up with partners such as AOL, Amazon, Kleiner Perkins and The Pilot Group. Lisa started her career as a producer at CNN. She is a Board Member of The New York Public Library, KIPP New York, and The Mount Sinai Parenting Center. Lisa also chairs the Investment Committee of the Leadership Now Project, a membership organization of business professionals committed to renewing democracy. She has a B.A. from Duke University and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. Lisa lives in New York City with her husband and three children.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
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| 31 Mar 2020 | #24: Aly Orady, CEO of Tonal | 00:37:14 | |
Today I’m joined by Aly Orady.
Aly is the founder and CEO of Tonal, the world’s most intelligent home gym.
In today’s episode, we discussed Aly’s plan to build a platform around strength training, how COVID-19 is impacting the fitness industry, and how personalization could transform at-home fitness.
More from Aly >>
Aly Orady is the CEO and Founder of Tonal, the world's most intelligent fitness system and the first truly personalized approach to strength training.
A 20-year silicon valley veteran, engineer and serial entrepreneur, Orady started his career at Hewlett-Packard’s Computer Systems Laboratory designing super-computers, followed by technical leadership roles at a series of startups, including Kealia, Inc. Armed with an M.S.E.E. from Stanford, and a B.Eng. from McMaster University, Orady founded Pano Logic, where he served as the company’s Chief Technology Officer and oversaw core technology development, architecture, and patents, as well as functional roles including product management, go-to-market planning, business development and manufacturing operations.
Orady has leveraged his extensive product and technology background paired with his own fitness journey and 70 lb weight loss to invent Tonal. His goal is to help enable people to lead healthier lives by providing them with the technology, guidance and support to effectively reach their fitness goal.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 06 Jun 2023 | 190. Kari Saitowitz, Chief Marketing & Creative Officer of New York Sports Club | 00:43:31 | |
Today, I’m joined by Kari Saitowitz, chief marketing & creative officer of New York Sports Club and founder of Fhitting Room. After founding and operating NYC-based boutique HIIT and functional fitness studio Fhitting Room, Kari joined New York Sports Club upon its acquisition of her brand in late 2022. Now, she’s merging Fhitting Room’s programming while working to redefine the health club experience. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of boutique fitness, Kari explains the club-in-club concept that led to Fhitting Room’s acquisition, and we talk about how demand for strength training and functional workouts is reshaping gyms. In this episode, you’ll learn: • About Kari’s 10-year journey at the helm of Fhitting Room Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at JackTaylorPR.com/Fitt Chapters: | |||
| 10 Oct 2023 | 207. Jesse Itzler, NYT Bestselling Author of ‘Living with a Seal’ and Serial Entrepreneur | 00:37:42 | |
Today, I’m joined by Jesse Itzler, serial entrepreneur, NYT bestselling author, and co-owner of the Atlanta Hawks. Jesse’s success crosses industries, with past exits including Zico Coconut Water, Alphabet City Sports Records, and Marquis Jet. Now, he’s leveraging his love of endurance sports to scale his two latest ventures, apparel line All Day Running Co. and event company 29029 — both highlighting physical challenge as a force for transformation. In this episode, Jesse discusses prioritizing health, forging community, and sharing his experiences with others. Plus, we discuss how his own values have evolved over time. In this episode, you’ll learn: Jesse’s reflections on founding, running, and selling five companies Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Jesse’s Website: https://jesseitzler.com/ - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:15) Jesse’s background as a serial entrepreneur (02:35) Being an entrepreneur and maintaining a healthy lifestyle (04:16) Achieving success without sacrificing health (08:22) Modern accessibility to health and wellness information (09:33) Identify what healthy habits work for you (11:40) Jesse’s diverse set of experiences (17:23) Your unique experience is your expertise (19:16) Maintaining motivation after achieving success (20:54) Jesse’s mission to build community and outdoor events (26:52) Community building (30:24) Jesse’s hiring approach as his life progresses (34:09) Future road map (36:43) Conclusion
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| 04 Feb 2025 | 274. Marc Washington, Founder & Executive Chairman of Supergut | 00:35:34 | |
Today, I'm joined by Marc Washington, founder & executive chairman of Supergut. Scaling science-backed wellness support, Supergut’s shakes, bars, and supplements feature a proprietary fiber blend clinically shown to support metabolic and overall health. In this episode, Marc shares the brand’s evolution from DTC to nationwide retail. We also cover: • The rise of GLP-1s Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Supergut's Website: https://www.supergut.com/ - The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities. Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 10 Dec 2024 | 267. Kristina Saffran, Co-Founder & CEO of Equip | 00:37:08 | |
Today, I'm joined by Kristina Saffran, co-founder and CEO of Equip. After struggling with anorexia in her youth, Kristina founded Equip to expand access to eating disorder treatment through virtual, evidence-based care. In this episode, we discuss designing support for sustainable recovery. We also cover:
Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Subscribe to our newsletter → insider.fitt.co/subscribe Follow us on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/company/fittinsider
Equip’s Website: https://equip.health/ Twitter: @KristinaSaffran Instagram: @KristinaSaffran LinkedIn: @KristinaSaffran
The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities.
Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/
Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:41) Kristina’s Personal Journey with Anorexia (05:22) Understanding Eating Disorders (07:11) Impact of Social Media (10:04) Equip's Treatment Model (18:34) Challenges and Opportunities for Improvement in Eating Disorder Treatment (30:06) Future Roadmap (35:36) Conclusion | |||
| 30 Jan 2024 | 222. Jeff Zwiefel, Executive Director of Life Time MIORA | 00:39:57 | |
Today I’m joined by Jeff Zwiefel, executive director of Life Time MIORA. Former president and COO of Life Time, Jeff now heads the brand’s spinoff concept MIORA. Targeting the medical wellness market, MIORA longevity clinics pair personalized training and nutrition programs with medical and aesthetic treatments to help members reach their goals.
We also cover: • How Life Time’s events business works to compliment its gyms Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast MIORA: https://my.lifetime.life/clubs/mn/target-center-minneapolis/services/miora.html - Chapters: | |||
| 20 Feb 2024 | 225. Phil Levin, Founder & CEO of LiveNearFriends | 00:33:34 | |
Today, I’m joined by Phil Levin, Founder & CEO of LiveNearFriends. After starting a coliving compound in Oakland, Phil saw the impact of community on well-being firsthand. Encouraging others to follow suit, he launched LiveNearFriends, a social real estate platform helping loved ones find homes near each other. In this episode, we discuss designing neighborhoods for social wellness. Plus, we talk communes, country clubs, Blue Zones, and more. We also cover: • How living within walking distance of your favorite activities impacts wellness Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast LiveNearFriends Website: https://livenearfriends.com/ - Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 04 Oct 2022 | 155. Ronan Levy, Co-Founder & CEO of Field Trip Health | 00:34:01 | |
Today I’m joined by Ronan Levy, Co-founder and CEO of Field Trip Health. Field Trip is redefining mental health and well-being through ground-breaking work in psychedelics and psychedelic-enhanced psychotherapy. With Field Trip Health centers opening across North America, and drug development and advanced research on plant-based psychedelics through Field Trip Discovery, Field Trip helps people heal and heighten engagement with the world. In this episode we discuss the company’s approach to Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Ronan details the key factors moving psychedelics into the mainstream. Plus, we explore use cases for mental health, depression, PTSD, and more. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Ronan’s Links
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| 08 Oct 2019 | Episode #1: Bruce Smith, CEO of Hydrow | 00:32:40 | |
Today I’m joined by Bruce Smith.
Bruce is the CEO of Hydrow.
In today’s episode, we talked about Bruce’s goal to make rowing more accessible, Hydrow’s place in the connected fitness landscape, and how the company could use augmented reality to create at-home experiences like rock climbing.
I had a great time chatting with Bruce and hope you enjoy listening.
More from Bruce Smith & Hydrow >>
A lifelong entrepreneur, rower and coach, Bruce Smith is the CEO & Founder of Hydrow, the Live Outdoor Reality rower. As a U.S. National Team Rowing Coach and Head of the Charles Regatta winner himself, he coached the U.S. Lightweight Eight to a Bronze medal at the 2015 World Rowing Championships, and is the former Executive Director of Community Rowing Inc. in Boston where he sought to increase access to the sport. With a continued passion for the mental and physical benefits of rowing, plus the empathy and community it creates, Bruce's goal for Hydrow is to make a positive impact through the sport of rowing, allowing people to feel more connected to one another, and live healthier lives on a daily basis. Hailing from Canada, Bruce makes his home in Cambridge, MA just blocks away from the famous Charles River.
Get in touch >> https://hydrow.com
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing at insider.fitt.co | |||
| 27 Oct 2020 | 54. L Catterton Managing Partners Michael Farello & Jon Owsley | 00:42:56 | |
Today, I’m joined by L Catterton Managing Partners Michael Farello & Jon Owsley.
In addition to investments in consumer brands across almost every category, L Catterton has been heavily involved in the fitness space investing in Equinox, ClassPass, Peloton, Tonal, and many others.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the future of fitness, including COVID’s impact on gyms and studios, the growth of connected fitness, and the potential for tech companies like Apple and Amazon to get involved.
More on today’s guests
Michael Farello
Michael is a Managing Partner of L Catterton’s growth fund, focusing on all aspects of the fund’s investment strategy and portfolio management. Over the course of his career, he has served on the Boards of more than 30 companies, with a particular focus on health and wellness, technology and direct-to-consumer businesses. In this capacity, he has focused on the companies’ growth strategies, acquisitions and marketing and has extensive experience on both compensation and audit committees. He has served on the Boards of Vroom (NASDAQ: VRM), HomeChef (acquired by Kroger), Better.com, 98point6, ClassPass, Hydrow, Humann, and Pinarello among others.
Michael has worked in the consumer sector since the late-80s as a consultant, senior executive, and investor. Prior to joining Catterton, he held several executive positions at Dell where he led the company's consumer marketing and ecommerce business following a strategic role in the Office of the Chairman. Previously, Michael spent 12 years at McKinsey & Company, most recently as a Partner focusing on the consumer sector.
Mr. Farello earned an M.B.A. with distinction from the Harvard Business School and a B.S. with distinction in industrial engineering from Stanford University.
Jon Owsley
Jon is a Managing Partner of the L Catterton Growth Fund. Prior to joining L Catterton, he was a consultant at The Parthenon Group, a strategy consulting firm based in Boston. Prior to joining The Parthenon Group, Jon was a corporate attorney at Hale and Dorr (now Wilmer Hale) in Boston. Prior to Hale and Dorr, he was the Assistant Brew Master at Otter Creek Brewing and was a college lacrosse coach. Jon received a B.A, magna cum laude, from Middlebury College and a JD, with honors, from Cornell Law School. Jon lives in Connecticut with his wife and three teenage daughters.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 02 Aug 2022 | 146. Jon Gregory, Founder & CEO of Vitruvian | 00:34:05 | |
Today I’m joined by Jon Gregory, Founder and CEO of Vitruvian, a connected strength company. The Vitruvian Trainer+ uses artificial intelligence to read users’ range of motion and constantly respond to the way they move. When paired with the Vitruvian app the experience offers access to world-class fitness coaches, 200+ exercises, goal-oriented programs, and full workout data, all in a compact machine that slides under a bed or couch when not in use. In this episode Jon explains how his background in physics, and experience as a high-frequency trader let him start the company. We discuss Jon’s vision to build a fitness technology platform that transforms resistance training, and we talk about the economic and operational challenges facing the industry. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Jon’s Links | |||
| 15 Aug 2023 | 199. Gabi Lewis, Co-founder & Co-CEO of Magic Spoon | 00:43:13 | |
Today, I’m joined by Gabi Lewis, co-founder & co-CEO of Magic Spoon, creator of better-for-you versions of childhood-favorite breakfast cereals. Co-founding Magic Spoon, Gabi sought to redefine breakfast by combining his passion for nutritious innovation and delicious flavors, paving the way for a cereal renaissance that aligns with modern dietary preferences. With high-protein, low-carb, and keto-friendly offerings, the disruptive brand offers a healthier alternative to traditional cereals. In this episode, we talk about “reinventing” cereal, the journey from DTC to omnichannel retail, and the dos and don’ts of influencer marketing. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Gabi’s transition from cricket protein to healthy cereal Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Magic Spoon’s Website: https://magicspoon.com/ - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at https://fitt.co/jacktaylor
(00:00) Introduction | |||
| 30 Aug 2022 | 150. Mike Taylor, Co-founder of BeaverFit North America | 00:33:07 | |
Today I’m joined by Mike Taylor, Co Founder of BeaverFit North America. BeaverFit USA designs, manufactures and distributes functional training and tactical/operational training equipment specific to the military services and for strength and endurance development in all athletes. They supply equipment to the Military, First Responders, CrossFit boxes, universities and schools, athletic clubs, physical therapy clinics, and more. In this episode we talk about manufacturing fitness equipment for commercial and military customers. Mike explains how his time in the Navy and experience at TRX led to starting BeaverFit, and we explore untapped opportunities in outdoor fitness from community gyms to boutique studios, and more. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Links & Resources
Mike’s Links | |||
| 16 Mar 2021 | 74. Alexa Meyer, CEO of Coa | 00:29:49 | |
Today I’m joined by Alexa Meyer.
Alexa is the co-founder and CEO of Coa — a mental health and emotional fitness company offering therapist-led classes.
In this episode, we talk about Coa’s mission to become the Nike of mental health. Why we should treat mental fitness like going to the gym. How in-person, community-focused classes help to destigmatize the idea of going to therapy. And why professional basketball player Kevin Love invested in the company.
More from Alexa
Alexa is the Co-Founder & CEO of Coa. After trying to take care of her own mental wellbeing, she was frustrated with the lack of options and asked: “Why isn’t there a gym for mental health?” This sent her on a mission to make emotional fitness as inviting and community-based as physical fitness. She started the first "Mental Health Pop-Up" and helped hundreds of people across the country try therapy. She continues this mission at Coa where she uses her background in start-ups, product, and branding to change how the world thinks about emotional wellbeing. Prior to Coa, Alexa was a VP at a fast-paced tech startup, worked at the world’s largest brand strategy firm, Interbrand, and studied psychology and consumer behavior in Canada (her home country!).
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast dedicated to the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 08 Sep 2020 | 47. Josh Augustin, CTO of Tempo | 00:35:00 | |
Today I’m joined by Josh Augustin.
Josh is the CTO of Tempo — a smart home gym that uses computer vision to track your form in real-time.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s origin story as a product designed to be used in the gym. How they pivoted to at-home fitness. The recent $60M funding round that valued the company at $250M. And the future of the connected fitness category.
Get to know Josh:
Josh Augustin is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Tempo since 2014. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Josh attended Columbia University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. At Columbia, he worked as a researcher in the Robotics and Computer Graphics labs, studying robotic cloth perception and manipulation among other topics. In 2014, Josh was a software engineering intern at Pixar Animation Studios and was later accepted into startup accelerator Y-Combinator’s prestigious Winter 2015 class along with his Co-Founder, Moawia Eldeeb. Josh was recently honored on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list for Consumer Technology.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 19 Jan 2021 | 66: Jimmy DeCicco, CEO of Super Coffee | 00:31:36 | |
Today I’m joined by Jimmy DeCicco, CEO of Super Coffee.
In this episode, we discuss the company’s journey from college room to Shark Tank and landing an investment from Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez.
Jimmy also talks about the importance of being action-oriented, building a strong culture and team, and how he thinks about the evolution of the better-for-you food and beverage category.
Let’s get into it.
More from Jimmy
Jimmy is the oldest of the three DeCicco brothers who founded Super Coffee in 2015 as tired collegiate student-athletes. Sick of unhealthy bottled coffees and energy drinks, the DeCicco brothers invented a sugar-free, enhanced coffee in their dorm room and challenged big sugar head-on. Today, Super Coffee is the fastest growing food and beverage company in the country (Inc. 5000, 2020). The DeCicco brothers appeared on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2018 (Season 9, Episode 22), the Forbes 30 Under 30 List 2019, and were EY’s Entrepreneurs of the Year in 2020 (NYC Region). Super Coffee is nationally distributed by Anheuser Busch and is available in over 50,000 stores in the US. The DeCicco brothers have raised over $50 million in venture capital, attracting big-name investors like Jennifer Lopez, Alex Rodriguez, Aaron Rodgers, Baron Davis, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Anheuser Busch and more.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast dedicated to the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 25 Feb 2020 | #19: Aarti Kapoor of Goldman Sachs on the evolution of fitness and wellness. | 00:37:47 | |
Today I’m joined by Aarti Kapoor.
Aarti is an investment banker at Goldman Sachs covering Consumer & Retail clients, including high-growth health, wellness & lifestyle companies.
In today’s episode, Aarti and I discussed the evolution of the wellness market, the filters she uses to access deals, and the impact of digital and connected fitness on the future of the industry.
About Aarti >>
Aarti Kapoor covers Consumer & Retail clients at Goldman Sachs in the Investment Banking Division in New York. While active across all major industry verticals, Kapoor specializes in covering high-growth health, wellness & lifestyle companies – an area in which she has received significant recognition from publications spanning Forbes (“30 Under 30”), Business Insider (“Rising Stars of Wall Street”), Bloomberg, Yahoo! Finance, espnW, and more. Prior to joining Goldman Sachs, Kapoor spent 9 years in Consumer & Retail investment banking at Moelis & Company, after starting her career at Citigroup in New York. Kapoor graduated with a BA Honors in Economics from Harvard University. Outside of the office, Kapoor is a fitness & wellness junkie, foodie and travel enthusiast.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 22 Sep 2020 | 49. Keith Nowak, CEO of Ten Thousand | 00:33:03 | |
Today I’m joined by Keith Nowak, CEO of Ten Thousand.
Ten Thousand is an athletic apparel brand for men.
In this episode, we talk about how Keith’s athletic background and experience working venture capital inspired him to start the company. His laser focus on building an industry-defining brand for guys. And how they’ve managed to grow quickly while also achieving profitability.
More from Keith
Keith Nowak is the co-founder and CEO of the New York-based men's activewear brand, Ten Thousand. Prior to launching Ten Thousand in early 2017, Keith spent three years leading Seed and Series A investing for a family office into over 50 companies across consumer, software, healthcare, and digital media, including early investments in Everlane, Warby Parker, and Classpass. Before that, Keith founded and co-founded a number of early-stage tech startups. Outside of the office, Keith is passionate about fitness and spends his time training for marathons and Ironman triathlons, or in a CrossFit box.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 17 Nov 2020 | 57. Startup Spotlight: Zaw Thet, CEO of Exer | 00:30:55 | |
This week, we’re excited to bring you another edition of Startup Spotlight – a recurring series where we speak with early-stage founders working on fitness and wellness startups. We usually focus on established companies, operators, and inventors — and we’ll continue bringing you those conversations most weeks. But, from time to time, we’re highlight companies at the beginning of their journey. Today I’m joined by Zaw Thet, CEO of Exer.
Exer uses AI and computer vision to power its motion coaching platform.
In this episode, we talk about Exer Studio, the company’s Mac app that creates a leaderboard and captures workout stats for any virtual workout, without additional hardware. A partnership with Zoom that lets trainers easily layer Exer on top of their classes. And the company’s B2B2C model aimed at helping trainers better engage with their clients in a remote training environment.
More from Zaw
Zaw Thet is a veteran entrepreneur/investor who has been at the forefront of new technology and starting companies since the age of 19. He is currently the CEO and Co-Founder of Exer, on a mission to help millions of people move, train, and play better using the power of AI. Previously, Zaw was a Founding Partner at Signia Venture Partners focused on early-stage tech investing and on creating a new model of venture capital. He helped start Signia in 2012 and led investments across 3 funds.
Zaw was the founder and CEO of 4INFO, one of the first and largest mobile advertising platforms in the world. Business Week recognized him as one the "Mobile Barons" helping to shape the mobile ad industry since 2004. In 2011, Zaw was selected as one of ten entrepreneurs to serve on the United Nations Foundation's inaugural Global Entrepreneurs Council, where he is now an Emeritus Member of the board.
Zaw studied Political and Computer Science at Stanford, where he was a President's Scholar. He received his MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he was a Soros Fellow.
Exer: http://www.exerstudio.com & http://www.exer.ai/ @movewithexer @zawthet
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, Apple, Peloton, Goldman Sachs, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
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| 25 May 2021 | 84. Eric Wu, Co-founder and COO of Gainful | 00:33:22 | |
Today I’m joined by Eric Wu. Eric is the Co-founder and COO of Gainful, makers of personalized nutritional supplements.
In this episode, Eric shares his journey from Y Combinator to raising $10M in venture capital. We discuss the opportunities and consolidation in the personalized nutrition category. And Eric explains why he believes Gainful could be a billion-dollar company.
More from Eric
Eric Wu is the co-founder and COO of Gainful. He started the company as an undergrad at Georgetown University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude from the School of Foreign Service. Eric led Gainful as CEO from 2017 until 2020, participating in YCombinator and growing the company to 8-figure annual revenue. Prior to Gainful, Eric worked in digital marketing at Hatch (consumer hardware), completed a fellowship with True Ventures (an SF-based venture capital firm), and served as COO of The Hilltop Microfinance Initiative, a DC-based nonprofit focused on empowering low-income and immigrant entrepreneurs.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 21 Apr 2020 | #27: Abby Coleman, CEO of Territory Foods | 00:34:22 | |
Today I’m joined by Abby Coleman.
Abby is the CEO of Territory Foods, a healthy meal delivery service offering personalized meals prepared by local chefs.
In today’s episode, we talked about Abby’s experience at Amazon, how Territory Foods uses data to improve its platform, and how she plans to scale the company’s meal delivery platform.
Let’s get into it.
More from Abby >>
Abby is the CEO of Territory Foods, a chef-prepared pre-made meal delivery service that creates nutritionist-approved menus tailored to support various dietary preferences and regional market tastes. Territory Foods uses data science to identify emerging eating patterns and anticipate the food needs of its customers, optimizing retention and driving personal variety at scale.
Prior to Territory Foods, Abby was the CEO of a Type II Diabetes meal plan and behavior change start-up. Previously, she spent three years at Amazon, most recently as Vice President of Marketing and Strategy at Quidsi, a $600M specialty retail subsidiary.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing.
More from Fitt Insider >>
Fitt Insider is a weekly newsletter and podcast about the business of fitness and wellness.
From product launches and funding news to game-changing innovation, Fitt Insider provides listeners with insights and analysis on this ever-evolving industry.
Join your peers and colleagues from companies like Equinox, lululemon, Peloton, Beyond Meat, Nike, and ClassPass by subscribing. | |||
| 11 May 2021 | 82. Anthony Geisler, Founder & CEO of Xponential Fitness | 00:37:39 | |
Today I’m joined by Anthony Geisler, Founder and CEO of Xponential Fitness — a holding company of nine boutique fitness brands, including Club Pilates, Pure Barre, CycleBar, and others.
In this episode, Anthony tells us how they managed to open new studios during the pandemic. We talk about how the Rumble acquisition came together. And Anthony explains why he’s bullish on the return of in-person exercise.
We also discuss what’s next for Xponential — including more acquisitions, whether or not they’ll launch connected fitness equipment, and the likelihood that they go public this year.
More from Anthony
Anthony Geisler is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Xponential Fitness. After graduating from USC in 1999, Geisler and a friend saw the potential in the dot com era and created a domain name and website development business, before moving into casino gaming software, then to fitness when he purchased LA Boxing in 2001. Seeing more opportunity in specialized workouts, Geisler bought Club Pilates in early 2015, a small collection of boutique Reformer Pilates studios concentrated in California that has now grown to 900 licensed locations. In 2017, Anthony recognized there was further opportunity with scheduled boutique fitness and formed Xponential Fitness, which is now the curator of leading fitness brands across each vertical of the boutique fitness industry, including Club Pilates, Pure Barre, CycleBar, Row House, StretchLab, AKT, YogaSix, STRIDE, and Rumble.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast on the business of fitness and wellness.
Join industry-leading operators and investors by subscribing: http://insider.fitt.co | |||
| 07 Mar 2023 | 177. Melissa Eamer, Founder & CEO of Modern Age | 00:38:27 | |
Today, I’m joined by Melissa Eamer, founder & CEO of Modern Age, an aging wellness clinic based in NYC. Melissa founded Modern Age after bearing witness to her mother’s physical and mental well-being deteriorate rapidly years prior. A digital-first care provider, the company leverages an internal medical team, evidence-backed treatments, and both virtual and in-person clinics to help patients increase their healthspans and quality of life. In this episode, we talk about the company’s hybrid approach to aging well, using personalized biomarkers to determine holistic treatments, and the role of longevity science in public health. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How Melissa’s roles with Glossier and Amazon prepared her for Modern Age Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast - The Fitt Insider podcast is brought to you by Jack Taylor, our exclusive PR partner. More than just PR, they’re creative storytellers and brand builders who actually understand the health and wellness industry. Learn more and get in touch at JackTaylorPR.com Chapters: | |||
| 29 Dec 2020 | 63. John Burns, CEO of TB12 | 00:33:48 | |
Today I’m joined by John Burns, CEO of TB12.
TB12 is a health and wellness company founded by Tom Brady and his personal trainer Alex Guerrero.
In this episode, we talk about the company’s mission to help people perform better and live pain-free.
Building a business that encompasses physical locations, digital content, nutritional supplements, fitness equipment, and more.
And John talks about the company’s plans to develop an education and certification program for TB12 coaches.
More from John
John Burns is the CEO of TB12, the health and wellness company founded by 6-time Super Bowl Champion Tom Brady and co-Founder Alex Guerrero. John is responsible for leading all aspects of the company’s operations and growth strategy. He has enjoyed a successful career in executive leadership and venture capital. With a strong passion for entrepreneurship and brand building, he has served as Founder, Chairman, and/or CEO of multiple consumer companies. John has a particular interest in health, wellness, sports, and fitness. He serves, or has served, on the Boards of TB12, Spartan Race, Grillos Pickles, Yasso, and EverybodyFights. John received his undergraduate degree from Boston College and his M.B.A. from Babson College.
More from Fitt Insider
Fitt Insider is a newsletter and podcast dedicated to the business of fitness and wellness.
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| 25 Mar 2025 | 281. Ariana Thacker, Founder & CEO of MoldCo | 00:38:56 | |
Today, I'm joined by Ariana Thacker, founder and CEO of MoldCo. Born from personal experience, the company is revolutionizing treatment for mold-related illness by combining specialized testing, personalized protocols, and ongoing R&D. In this episode, we discuss building a healthcare platform for mold toxicity. We also cover: • Mold exposure’s impact on 30–40M Americans Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/themoldcompany/ - The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities. Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/ Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||
| 29 Oct 2024 | 261. Mark Rivers, CEO of Canyon Ranch | 00:38:26 | |
Today, I'm joined by Mark Rivers, CEO of Canyon Ranch. Diversifying its portfolio with member clubs, residences, and medical services, Canyon Ranch is evolving from pioneering resort to comprehensive health and wellness brand. In this episode, we explore the company’s continued expansion plans. We also cover: • Innovating to meet consumer needs Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast Canyon Ranch’s Website: https://www.canyonranch.com/ - The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart workout solutions for fitness and health facilities. Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/ Chapters: | |||