Everything you put into the world is doing something. Your website. Your social posts. Your emails. Your videos. Your interviews.

In this episode, Shannon Jamail breaks down a truth most retreat leaders avoid: if you're not repelling anyone, you're probably being too generic.

Attraction is only half the conversation. Sustainable retreat businesses are built on clarity - and clarity naturally attracts the right people while filtering out the wrong ones. Shannon explains why repelling misaligned guests isn't a flaw, it's a leadership skill, and how trying to please everyone leads to burnout, boundary issues, and low-quality experiences.

She also addresses a critical nuance retreat leaders need to understand: the difference between being purposeful and being polarizing - and why "anti" messaging often does more harm than good in a business rooted in trust, safety, and connection.

This episode is a must-listen for retreat leaders who want aligned guests, healthier group dynamics, and a business that actually feels good to run.

Key Takeaways

• Everything you create either attracts or repels - and both are necessary.

• If you're trying to be liked by everyone, your message is likely watered down.

• Repelling misaligned people protects your energy, your team, and your guests.

• Clear messaging prevents boundary issues, complaints, and emotional drain.

• Strong leadership is about standing firmly in who you are - not pleasing everyone.

• There's a difference between purposeful messaging and polarizing, anti-focused content.

• Being pro what you stand for builds trust far more effectively than being anti anything.

• Clarity in your brand leads to alignment, ease, and long-term sustainability.

The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links:

• Learn to Host Retreats
• Join our private Facebook Group
• Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide
• Get your legal docs for retreats
• Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum
• Join our LinkedIn Group
• Apply to be a guest on our show

Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together!

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TIMESTAMPS

The Power of Attraction and Repelling (00:01:27) Explains how everything you do as a retreat leader attracts or repels potential clients, and why repelling is necessary.

Dangers of Being Generic (00:02:30) Discusses the pitfalls of trying to appeal to everyone, leading to diluted messaging and misaligned clients.

Personal Examples of Not Being for Everyone (00:03:46) Shannon shares personal examples of who she is not a fit for, emphasizing the value of clarity over universal appeal.

Benefits of Repelling the Wrong People (00:04:49) Highlights how repelling protects your energy, business, and ensures better alignment with clients.

Retreat Industry Forum Announcement (00:04:49) Brief interruption to promote the upcoming Retreat Industry Forum event in Denver.

Consequences of Appealing to Everyone (00:05:56) Describes negative outcomes when trying to please everyone, such as draining retreats and constant complaints.

Purposeful vs. Polarizing Content (00:07:06) Advises against posting highly polarizing or anti-focused content, distinguishing between being purposefully polarizing and divisive.

Pro-What-You-Stand-For vs. Anti-Others (00:08:28) Encourages leaders to focus on what they are for, not what they are against, and the impact on trust and safety.

Brand Clarity and Authentic Leadership (00:09:46) Urges retreat leaders to clearly communicate who they serve and to lead authentically and inclusively.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action (00:10:50) Wraps up with a reminder to use attraction and repelling wisely, and invites listeners to join her programs and resources.