Summary
In this episode, Holly Porter interviews Melanie Ireton, a fractional COO and operational strategist, about how retreat leaders can optimize their operations, marketing, and systems to scale their businesses effectively. They discuss the role of a COO, current retreat industry trends, operational mistakes, and how AI can be a game-changer.




Takeaways
Role of a COO in retreat businesses
2026 retreat industry trends and marketing strategies
Common operational mistakes retreat leaders make
Importance of systems and SOPs in retreats
Using AI to streamline retreat operations




Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Melanie Ireton
01:49 Understanding the Role of a COO
03:56 Challenges for Retreat Leaders
05:31 Trends in the Retreat Industry
07:32 Marketing Gaps for Retreat Leaders
09:11 Operational Problems in Retreat Businesses
11:06 Common Operational Mistakes
13:18 Essential Systems for Retreat Leaders
14:56 Preparing for Unexpected Challenges
18:52 Leveraging AI in Retreat Planning
20:30 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
23:42 RNR Outro Final.mp4
24:20 RR.Gift.RetreatRnR.com.mp4




🔗 Connect with Mel Ireton | Ireton Consulting
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.iretonconsulting.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Mel Ireton
📸 Instagram: @thecoo_room
📘 Facebook: thecooroom




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