All Things Retreat Podcast

Summary
In this episode, leadership expert James E. Miller II discusses the loneliness of leadership, the importance of self-care, and practical frameworks like the 5R to prevent burnout. Holly Porter explores how retreat leaders can support themselves while supporting others.




Takeaways
The loneliness of leadership and its impact
The importance of self-awareness and honesty
The 5R framework: reflect, replenish, reframe, reconnect, rebuild
The role of rest and pacing in leadership health
The significance of vulnerability and asking for help
How retreat leaders can support their mental and emotional well-being
The importance of stepping outside work environments for renewal
Lessons learned from setbacks and failures



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to leadership loneliness and James Miller II
02:04 The Silent Summit: Recognizing the signs of reaching the top
03:52 The difference between being surrounded and feeling supported
05:46 Personal setbacks and their impact on leadership style
09:07 The 5R framework: Reflect, Replenish, Reframe, Reconnect, Rebuild
12:02 The importance of retreat leaders taking time for themselves
15:00 The power of vulnerability and asking for help
17:00 Replenishing through mountain climbing and disconnecting
18:09 Final advice for leaders carrying too much alone



🔗 Connect with James Miller II | All Things Retreat
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.jamesmiller2.com
🔗 LinkedIn: James Miller II
📘 Facebook: James Miller II
🕊️ X/Twitter: @Subwaysultan



🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
In this episode, Julie Hutton shares her transformative life experiences, insights on lasting change, and the spiritual foundation that guides her work in coaching and retreats. Discover how challenges can lead to growth and the importance of self-love and authenticity.


Takeaways
Lasting transformation occurs through stepping stones and stabilizing each step. 
Success is in the control of the client, not the facilitator. 
Self-love is essential and is not selfish; it fuels genuine service. 
Success should be aligned with one's own definition, not others' expectations. 
Steady, incremental progress leads to permanent change. 
Authentic success is when you feel energized and fulfilled. 
Using universal language makes spiritual concepts accessible to all. 
Self-acceptance is the foundation of true transformation.



Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Julie Hutton and her background 
02:23 A personal crisis at age 14 and its impact 
05:09 Standing up for her child and life choices 
07:12 Lessons learned from decades of coaching and retreats 
08:27 What creates lasting transformation 
09:45 Mistakes retreat leaders make in creating transformational experiences 
11:58 Defining success and staying true to oneself 
14:56 The role of spirituality and universal language 
16:47 The importance of self-love and acceptance 
18:57 Rapid fire questions: preferences and insights 
19:50 Final words of wisdom and closing remarks 




🔗 Connect with Julie Hutton
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: JulieHutton.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Julie Hutton



🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
In this episode, Ali Christos shares his journey from business and real estate to spiritual awakening through near-death experiences, and discusses how to sustain transformation beyond retreats. We explore the importance of integration, the power of quantum hypnosis, and practical strategies for lasting change.


Takeaways
The role of near-death experiences in awakening 
The importance of retreat integration for lasting change 
How quantum hypnosis works and its benefits 
Why most retreat experiences fade without proper follow-up 
The significance of personal responsibility in transformation 
Strategies for maintaining high states post-retreat 
The impact of societal attention span on personal growth 
Creating community for ongoing support after retreats 
The difference between a retreat experience and real change 
Practical tools for daily transformation



Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Ali Christos and his journey 
02:10 Ali's near-death experiences and awakening 
03:31 The impact of material success and spiritual awakening 
05:09 Meeting Lorna Byrne and spiritual guides 
06:37 The importance of retreating within and self-knowledge 
07:49 From ego to authentic self after divorce 
08:48 Quantum hypnosis and past life regression 
10:11 The safety and process of quantum hypnosis 
11:05 Why breakthroughs at retreats often fade 
12:31 Society's shrinking attention span and its effects 
13:32 The difference between a retreat experience and transformation 
17:49 The importance of post-retreat integration 
19:13 Building community for ongoing growth 
20:35 Ali's words on compassion and beliefs that changed 


🔗 Connect with Ali Christos | QHHT with Ali
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: qhhtwithali.com
📸 Instagram: @qhhtwithali
🎵 TikTok: @qhhtwithali


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

 Summary
Garth Haslem shares insights on authentic strength, leadership, and the importance of retreats for men's growth. Discover how power over force can transform personal and professional life.




Takeaways
The difference between force and power
Signs of structural weaknesses in men
The role of vulnerability in leadership
The importance of retreats for men
Self-governance as true strength
Force creates compliance but often leads to resistance
Self-awareness is key to authentic strength
Men often hide their vulnerabilities behind facades
Retreats provide a safe space for growth and connection
Understanding personality differences enhances relationships



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Garth Haslam and his work
01:56 The concept of power over force versus force
04:05 The importance of self-governance and vulnerability
05:59 Men’s structural weaknesses and signs to watch for
08:00 Leadership styles: Conductor versus sage on the stage
10:00 Force in everyday life: The commute analogy
12:52 Structural cracks in men’s lives and how to notice them
15:54 The impact of stress and exhaustion on men’s behavior
19:00 The role of authenticity and self-awareness in power
21:58 Garth’s retreat property and its purpose
23:13 The importance of deep conversations and retreats
24:06 Closing thoughts and encouragement to pursue growth




🔗 Connect with Garth Haslem | Power Over Force
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: poweroverforce.com
📸 Instagram: @poweroverforce
📘 Facebook: poweroverforce



🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

 Summary
In this episode, Emily Johnson shares her expertise on connecting retreat facilitators with the right venues, understanding hotel and venue needs, and how to effectively collaborate for successful retreats. Holly Porter hosts a conversation that reveals insider secrets for retreat planning and venue selection.




Takeaways
The role of hospitality and wellness in retreat planning
How facilitators can find and select the right venues
The importance of on-site support and venue inspection
Secrets to negotiating with venues and avoiding red flags
The difference between travel advisors and concierge services
Timing and budgeting for retreat venue booking
The matchmaking process between facilitators and venues
Legal and insurance considerations in retreat contracts



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to retreat venue planning and behind-the-scenes considerations
02:27 Emily Johnson's background in hospitality and wellness
04:06 The evolution of wellness in hotels and the rise of retreats
05:22 The fragmentation in the retreat venue market and Emily's matchmaking role
06:36 Opportunities for hotels in the retreat space
07:33 Timing and planning for retreat venue booking
08:27 How facilitators and venues typically connect and where breakdowns occur
09:44 Using questionnaires to align retreat goals with venue options
11:06 Ideal timing for retreat venue booking and early planning
12:25 Key numbers and budget considerations for retreat venue selection
14:00 Understanding the importance of on-site support and venue inspection
18:37 Red flags in venue contracts and what retreat leaders should watch for
20:00 Legal, insurance, and liability considerations in retreat planning
21:24 The value of working with a travel advisor versus a concierge service
22:15 Rapid fire: favorite types of retreats and venues
23:12 The importance of site visits and trusting your venue
24:07 Upcoming panel on wellness and experiential travel at the Independent Hotel show


🔗 Connect with Emily Johnson | Elevate Hospitality Collective
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.elevatehospitalitycollective.com/travel
🔗 LinkedIn: Emily Goretsky Johnson
📸 Instagram: @elevate.wellness.collective
📘 Facebook: Elevate Wellness Collective (Group)
📰 Substack: elevatehospitalitycollective.substack.com


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
In this episode, Drew Wilson shares his insights on the importance of follow-up, discipline, and action in sales and personal growth. Holly Porter and Drew discuss strategies for effective follow-up, overcoming sales objections, and building a successful personal brand.




Takeaways
The importance of follow-up in sales
The 110-2 rule for consistent activity
Building a personal brand and overcoming guilt in sales
Strategies for effective follow-up and nurturing leads
The role of discipline and action in achieving success



Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest background
02:08 The origin of 'Call the Damn Leads'
04:07 Opportunity sitting in your CRM
06:35 Common mistakes in follow-up
08:45 The 110-2 standard for consistent activity
12:37 Sales tips for retreat leaders
15:30 What to do when leads don't convert
17:20 Auditing your follow-up cadence
18:28 Drew's books and personal growth
19:52 The mindset of crushing the day
20:10 Rapid fire questions and insights



🔗 Connect with Drewbie Wilson | Call The Damn Leads
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: callthedamnleads.com
🔗 Press Kit & Socials: https://callthedamnleads.com/pages/drewbie-wilson-press-kit


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
Kristin Kurtz shares her journey of stepping out of a corporate career into her calling, the symbolism of wings and transformation, and how hope can be ignited even in chaos. This episode offers insights on trusting your intuition, embracing change, and flying high despite challenges.


Takeaways
Kristin's journey from corporate career to coaching
The symbolism of wings and transformation
How to find hope in chaos and uncertainty
Trusting intuition and taking bold steps
The importance of purpose and calling in life
Overcoming fear and embracing change
The significance of 'new wings' and personal growth
The role of faith and divine guidance in decision-making



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kristin Kurtz and her mission
02:23 Leaving a safe career to follow a God-led calling
05:20 The moment of breakthrough and breaking chains
07:36 The importance of hope in chaotic times
10:34 What do new wings represent and when to fly
12:00 The symbolism of butterflies and broken wings
13:01 Trusting your unique purpose and calling
15:44 The power of asking 'why' and layers of understanding
18:06 Following divine prompts and taking bold steps
20:05 Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your voice
22:16 Where to find Kristin and her resources
Chapters


🔗 Connect with Kristin Kurtz | New Wings Coaching
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.newwingscoaching.net
🎁 Free Resource: https://www.7levelsdeep.com/
🔗 LinkedIn: Kristin Kurtz
📸 Instagram: @renew.wings
📘 Facebook: Kristin Kurtz


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
In this episode, Holly Porter interviews employment lawyer and author Natalie Holder about the importance of cultural repair in organizations. They explore how leaders can identify, address, and prevent workplace culture issues to build respectful, safe, and thriving workplaces.




Takeaways
What is cultural repair and why it matters
Indicators of a broken workplace culture
The importance of organizational assessment and benchmarking
How leadership impacts workplace culture
The dangers of toxic favoritism and unethical behavior
The significance of leading by example
Strategies for fostering loyalty and engagement
The impact of culture on customer service and business success
The importance of ethics and integrity in organizations
Practical steps for cultural repair after crises



Chapters
00:00 Introduction to workplace culture and Natalie's background
00:25 Defining cultural repair and its importance


🔗 Connect with Natalie Holder | Natalie Holder Speaks
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: natalieholderspeaks.com


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR
📧 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
In this episode, Holly Porter interviews Chip Scholz about how small decisions can lead to big shifts in leadership, business, and life. They explore practical strategies for leaders to improve their organizations and personal growth through flexibility, planning, and seeking support.




Takeaways
The impact of small decisions on leadership and life 
The importance of flexibility and adaptability in leadership 
How to plan effective retreats and events 
The role of coaching and mastermind groups in growth 
Lessons learned from logistical challenges in retreats 
The significance of seeking support and mentorship 
Changing definitions of success after personal challenges 
The importance of sleep and self-care for leaders



Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to leadership decisions and Holly’s guest, Chip Scholz 
02:01 Personal stories about marriage, family, and life lessons 
02:59 Lessons from logistical challenges in retreats 
09:03 Small decisions that can transform your business 
13:01 The importance of flexibility and being Semper Gumby 
17:09 The role of support, coaching, and mastermind groups 
18:00 Rebuilding life after a stroke and redefining success 
21:00 How to connect with Chip Scholz and final thoughts 



🔗 Connect with Chip Scholz | Scholz & Associates
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: scholzandassociates.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Chip Scholz
📸 Instagram: @chipscholz
▶️ YouTube: @chipscholz1691
📘 Facebook: Chippturns


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
📧 Email: [email protected] 
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR 
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr 
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational 
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/

Summary
Holly Porter and Linda Schwader discuss the transformative power of retreats, building community, and effective enrollment strategies. They share insights on creating impactful retreats, the importance of authenticity, and growing a successful retreat business.




Takeaways
The evolution of the retreat industry and its growth to 363 billion dollars by 2029
The importance of authenticity and heart-centered approaches in retreat enrollment
Strategies for helping clients make clear decisions to join retreats
The role of community and connection in retreat success
Linda Schwader's background in sales and transition to retreat hosting
The significance of timing and decision-making in retreat enrollment
The impact of universal laws and mindset on retreat experiences
The vision for the International Retreat Association and its leadership council



Chapters
00:00 Introduction and guest background
01:08 The journey into the retreat industry
02:23 The power of transformation in retreats
04:00 Industry growth and future projections
04:28 The importance of community and connection
05:49 Educational approach to universal laws
07:25 The creation of the International Retreat Association
09:27 Enrollment strategies and heart-centered sales
11:51 Helping clients make clear decisions
16:42 The role of authenticity and personal experience
17:37 The significance of mindset and energy in enrollment
21:21 Building trust and referrals
23:08 Excitement for future growth and collaboration


🔗 Connect with Linda Schwader
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://lindaschwader.com/
🔗 LinkedIn: Linda Schwader
📘 Facebook: Linda S. Snyder


🔗 Connect with Holly Porter | Retreat RNR
📧 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: Holly Porter | Retreat RNR
🎵 TikTok: @retreatrnr
▶️ YouTube: @intlretreatassociation
📸 Instagram: @retreatrnr | @hollyporterinternational
📘 Facebook: HollyAnnPorter

FREE GIFT: 2026 Retreat Industry Report
https://internationalretreatassociation.org/