The Business Of Strength Podcast EP 220: How Obsession, Work Ethic & Relentless Curiosity Built a Gym Empire with Matt Wiedemer
In this powerhouse episode of the Business of Strength Podcast, Coach Joe Strong sits down with Matt Wiedemer—champion powerlifter, longtime private-sector coach, trainer to UFC legend Jon Jones, and the owner of BEAT Personal Training, one of the most profitable hybrid gym models in the industry.
What starts as a conversation between two lifelong strength nerds quickly turns into a masterclass in business, coaching, culture, and leadership. Matt shares the real story behind his rise—from sleeping in trucks to train at Westside Barbell, to building 6- and 7-figure training businesses, to running a thriving 16,000+ sq/ft hybrid PT + membership gym that prints cash and changes lives.
This episode is equal parts raw, hilarious, practical, and deeply insightful.
WHY GYM OWNERS & COACHES MUST LISTEN:
Because Matt says what EVERYONE is thinking—but won’t say out loud.
From broken work ethics in young trainers, to the lies gym owners tell themselves, to why being “busy” is the blessing you once prayed for—Matt speaks the truth every strength entrepreneur needs to hear.
Because he reveals the hybrid business model that prints money.
Matt breaks down exactly how BEAT produces $110,000+ per month in PT and 1,500+ members at $60/mo, why both sides feed each other, and why most gym owners miss the opportunity sitting right in front of them.
Because this is what mastery REALLY looks like.
Obsession. Curiosity. Competing. Note-taking. Testing. Constant self-evaluation. Matt shows you the path to becoming the kind of coach clients never leave.
Because community—not equipment—is the differentiator.
People remember how coaching changed their life, not what brand of squat rack you bought. Matt shares how his team builds deep relationships that keep people training for decades.
Because this episode will make you a better leader immediately.
Whether you're managing employees, growing locations, fixing culture problems, or trying to get out from under your own weaknesses—Matt gives you the playbook.
Don’t forget our next LIVE event is Trainer School 2.0 at VH-HQ January 23rd. This program will sell out so grab your seat today: https://trainerschool.businessofstrength.com/
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