In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Uday Anumalachetty, Founder of Bright Medical Wellness, to the show. Uday is on a mission to redefine the health and wellness landscape by making transformative treatments—such as GLP-1 medications—more accessible to those who need them most.

Motivated by his personal journey with weight challenges and the life-changing impact of GLP-1 therapies, Uday took the leap into entrepreneurship to build a service that not only improves access to these medications, but also prioritizes education, post-consultation care, and ongoing support. In this conversation, he shares his insights, vision, and personal experiences with Bryan, offering valuable perspective on the evolving intersection of healthcare and fitness technology.

Apply for the 2025 Innovation Awards: https://www.fittechcouncil.org/fitc-innovation-award-2025

Register for Bryan's upcoming webinar Data & Technology to Drive Club Revenues:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_80ylSZ-TQGCe6hdkOhc7pw

One Powerful Quote:

20:07: "In order to make that recurring revenue stable, you have to able to innovate, but do it incremental steps that actually influences that customer journey real time."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:56: Bryan opens the conversation by asking Uday about the inspiration behind starting Bright Medical Wellness.

5:19: Uday discusses the future of transformative medications and their potential in the wellness space.

7:10: Uday speaks on how Bright Medical Wellness is shaping the future of fitness and wellness services.

9:38: Uday shares his perspective on how different components of fitness and wellness can be more effectively integrated.

11:57: Bryan and Uday discuss the challenges of technology adoption in health and wellness and the realities behind industry hype cycles.

19:21: Uday closes by offering valuable advice and key takeaways for listeners navigating their own fitness and wellness journeys.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.brightmedicalwellness.com

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/productgeek/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Lindsay Vastola to the show. With a rich background spanning corporate management and entrepreneurship, Lindsay brings a dynamic perspective to leadership and professional growth. Through her engaging keynote presentations, professional development workshops, and thought-provoking conversations, she empowers professionals to reach their full potential.

As the founder of VastPotential, Lindsay helps organizations cultivate exceptional employee experiences and enhance performance through innovative staff development and vision-driven leadership education and coaching. In this episode, she joins Bryan to explore transformational leadership, the role of technology, and the discipline required to drive organizational success.

One Powerful Quote:

24:45: "Leadership is an endurance sport. You are never there."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

3:16: Bryan opens the conversation by asking Lindsay to define transformational leadership and explain its importance.

7:04: Lindsay discusses why this style of leadership is increasingly vital in today's evolving workplace.

9:35: Lindsay outlines common productivity challenges teams face in achieving consistent performance.

12:21: Lindsay shares proven strategies she has implemented to help teams overcome these challenges.

16:13: The discussion turns to organizational culture, where Lindsay expands on Bryan's comments about fear as a limiting factor.

19:53: Lindsay examines how technology is reshaping transformational leadership and influencing collaboration within teams.

25:38: Bryan and Lindsay dive into the concept of discipline and the focus leaders must maintain to achieve lasting impact.

31:49: Lindsay offers her final thoughts and actionable recommendations for listeners seeking to elevate their leadership approach.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://vast-potential.com

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-vastola/

https://x.com/LindsayV_BP

https://www.lindsayvastola.com/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Brian Holmes, CEO and Founder of AI Front Desk. With hiring, training, and retaining frontline workers becoming increasingly challenging, AI Front Desk offers innovative artificial intelligence solutions that handle complex business tasks directly. By reducing dependence on traditional staffing models, the company helps streamline operations, improve efficiency, and minimize errors. Brian joins Bryan to discuss his company's approach and the practical impact these solutions are having across the industry.

One Powerful Quote:

32:05: "Yes you can get to where you want to go. You just won't get there as fast as you want."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:47: Bryan opens the show by sharing Brian's entrepreneurial background.

8:42: Bryan asks Brian about the key lessons that led to the founding of AI Front Desk.

13:47: Bryan discusses the timeline behind launching AI Front Desk.

17:09: Brian addresses common misconceptions about agentic AI.

20:22: Brian outlines some of the core functions that AI Front Desk can perform.

25:33: Brian highlights the biggest challenges organizations face in adopting the technology.

31:20: Brian imparts his final pearls of wisdom to the listeners.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://aifrontdesk.com/

Guest Contact Information:

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-holmes-0a448566/

https://x.com/BrianAIFrontDsk

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his keynote presentation delivered live at FitLife's Club Network Conference in Seattle. Bryan explores the key trends transforming the global fitness industry from rapid technological advancements to the evolving importance of human capital. He emphasizes why now is a pivotal moment for leaders to shape the future of fitness.

To view Bryan's slide deck, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-fitlife-club-network-keynote-seattle-2025-bryan-orourke/283944575

One Powerful Quote:

16:54: "Clarity is a superpower."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

3:34: Bryan gives an introduction to the major trends shaping the fitness industry and their impact on its future direction.

17:38: Bryan shares the opportunities and challenges that will define the next five years in fitness and wellness.

18:48: Bryan discusses the capital and financial shifts in the marketplace.

27:02: Bryan speaks on bridging the digital and physical gap through humanized experiences.

37:06: Bryan talks about business models that are driving innovation in health and fitness services.

44:12: Bryan highlights what's real in understanding the technology and AI hype cycle.

56:46: Bryan explains why people and trust are the most valuable assets today.

1:06:50: Bryan summarizes how translating strategy into execution can lead to meaningful change.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://fitlifeclubs.com/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes back Chris Edwards, Founder and CEO of TriCore Wellness. TriCore focuses on the integration of technology, health data, and professional coaching to deliver comprehensive wellness solutions for individuals, employees, and organizations.

Chris joins Bryan to discuss his business model and share valuable insights on current trends in integrative coaching and wellness services.

One Powerful Quote:

7:51: "You have to unlearn before you can relearn."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

3:23: Chris and Bryan discuss how TriCore supports fitness operators by identifying business challenges and creating solutions that drive opportunities.

10:07: Bryan and Chris talk about exploring the unique challenges and emerging opportunities in wellness service products.

12:57: Bryan and Chris talk about addressing the disconnect between traditional fitness education and the evolving needs and expectations of modern consumers.

15:53: Bryan asks Chris why there hasn't been a fresh perspective on identifying and addressing service gaps in the fitness industry.

20:11: Chris shares closing thoughts and actionable advice for listeners navigating the future of wellness services.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://tricorewellness.com/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-edwards-367094196/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke sits down with Jeff Zwiefel, Executive Director of Longevity & Performance at Life Time. With over three decades of leadership in the health, fitness, and wellness industry, Jeff brings a wealth of experience in strategic planning, brand evolution, and operational excellence. As a key architect behind Life Time's transformation into a comprehensive healthy lifestyle company, Jeff shares his perspective on the future of wellness, the role of leadership in culture and innovation, and strategies for advancing health span and performance.

Tune in for a powerful conversation filled with insights from one of the industry's most influential leaders.

One Powerful Quote:

25:57: "We have two lives, and the second one begins when we realize we only have one."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:04: Bryan opens the conversation with an overview of Jeff's extensive background and career journey.

4:33: The discussion turns to market bifurcation, as Bryan asks Jeff about evolving consumer demands and value delivery. Jeff explains how Life Time has strategically scaled to meet these shifting dynamics.

8:46: Bryan and Jeff explore the role of customer personas and how these insights influence alignment across the entire organization.

11:54: Jeff highlights emerging trends in health and wellness and shares how Life Time is innovating to meet these demands through enhanced service offerings.

17:00: The conversation delves into biotechnology and its growing influence on extending health span and optimizing performance.

20:16: Jeff discusses how Life Time maintains a strong cultural foundation while operating at scale, emphasizing the importance of human connection in large organizations.

24:37: Jeff concludes with key takeaways and lasting insights for listeners, offering wisdom from his decades of leadership in the industry.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://jeffzwiefel.com/

https://www.lifetime.life/

https://hbr.org/2008/07/putting-the-service-profit-chain-to-work

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffzwiefel/

https://x.com/JeffZwiefel

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Richard Grönberg, Founder and CEO of ECDESIGN — a leading 3D interior design software that empowers sales professionals to quickly plan and visualize any space without the complexity of traditional CAD tools. With over 10,000 companies across 170 countries using the platform, ECDESIGN is transforming how fitness and commercial environments are imagined and brought to life.

Tune in as Richard shares insights into the power of design, his business philosophy, and how intuitive planning tools are shaping the future of space visualization in the fitness industry.

One Powerful Quote:

18:31: "There are no shortcuts."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:51: Bryan asks Richard about the origins of ECDESIGN and what inspired him to launch the business.

5:25: The conversation shifts to Swedish design and how it influenced Richard's journey into the fitness industry.

7:15: Richard explains how design expectations have evolved and what users now look for when using ECDESIGN.

8:26: Bryan and Richard explore how gaming principles have influenced modern design tools and the role of technology in that transformation.

13:21: Richard shares his approach to leadership, organizational management, and his core business philosophy.

16:20: Richard offers closing thoughts and shares key insights for listeners from his entrepreneurial experience.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.ecdesign.se/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-gronberg/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke is joined by Julian Barnes, Co-Founder and CEO of The BFS Network, a market intelligence and growth accelerator for beauty, fitness, and self-care businesses. In his role, Julian serves as a strategic growth advisor, helping BFS members enhance profitability and scale smarter.

With a background that includes marketing leadership roles at Velocity Sports Performance and Oasis Day Spa, Julian later co-founded Body Local, NYC's premier networking platform for wellness professionals. Today, he leads BFS, which supports business owners by offering collaborative learning, operational training, and access to high-impact products and services.

Tune in as Bryan and Julian explore innovation and the evolving needs of the modern, boutique fitness business.

For those who wish to purchase the full BFS Report, use Discount Code FIT-C for $50 off.

One Powerful Quote:

38:10: "Focus on the one thing that's the most important thing to get you to the next milestone."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

1:41: Julian shares his personal journey and background in the fitness industry.

4:13: Julian talks about the lifecycle of boutique fitness and how the industry is evolving.

7:40: Bryan and Julian reflect on the origins of boutique fitness and the iconic brands that shaped the space.

13:50: Julian talks about boutique modalities and the renewed popularity of pilates.

22:59: Julian speaks about the convergence of fitness, recovery, longevity, and beauty.

27:51: Julian offers his perspective on the growing role of strength training.

30:22: Bryan and Julian discuss intermediaries, membership dynamics, and business models.

37:57: Julian imparts his pearls of wisdom to the listeners.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://bfsnetwork.com/

www.BFSReport.com

https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-rise-of-boutique-studio-fitness-concepts/66643673

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianabarnes/

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, host Bryan O'Rourke is joined by Eddie Arpin, Co-Founder of OfferingTree, a comprehensive website, scheduling, and payment solution designed specifically for wellness professionals. OfferingTree empowers coaches, yoga instructors, personal trainers, mindfulness teachers, and other wellness practitioners by streamlining digital operations, so they can focus on delivering exceptional client experiences. In this conversation, Eddie shares the journey behind OfferingTree, his insights into the evolving needs of wellness professionals, and practical advice on building trust, improving client engagement, and leveraging digital tools effectively.

One Powerful Quote:

16:06: "Trust is the most valuable commodity in the world now."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:47: Eddie shares his software background and the origins of OfferingTree.

5:24: Bryan and Eddie talk about common pain points for wellness professionals.

9:37: Bryan asks Eddie about the value and impact of SMS marketing.

12:26: Eddie goes into evolving trends in content strategy and SEO.

14:57: Eddie shares his thoughts on payment processing and earning customer trust.

17:14: Bryan and Eddie discuss why tech stack integration matters more than ever.

25:54: Bryan wraps up the interview with Eddie imparting his final pearls of wisdom.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.offeringtree.com/

https://www.edelman.com/trust/2025/trust-barometer

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddiearpin/

https://x.com/fifth_eddie

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke shares his keynote, "The Key Trends Creating Opportunities and Challenges for the Global Fitness Industry in the Next 5 Years" live from Beyond Activ in Singapore. Bryan shares the spotlight for what's next for fitness across the globe — from emerging technologies and programming innovations to finance, business models, and the forces reshaping how to serve members and scale impact. Whether you lead a gym, studio, supplier brand, or digital platform, this talk is designed to challenge your thinking and equip you for what's ahead.

To view the slideshow, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/future-of-fitness-2025-keynote-bryan-orourke-beyond-activ-singapore-2025/280332550

One Powerful Quote:

7:41: "In a world deluged by irrelevant information, clarity is power."

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

3:09: Bryan opens his keynote with "What if?" and the convergence of macro/micro trends.

7:47: Bryan talks about opportunities and challenges in the next 5 years.

11:31: Bryan articulates on business models as the mainstay configurations for fitness delivery.

15:40: Bryan speaks on biotechnologies and the new social constructs today.

17:40: Bryan defines leadership vision and the processes to execute on it.

19:09: Bryan recaps his presentation.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://beyondactiv.com/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163