Creating the World's Best Client Experience

Alison Katschkowsky
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Oct 23, 2025 • 37min

Behind the Scenes of a Client Experience: From Employee to CEO with Haylee Gernert

Alison chats with Haylee Gernert, an experienced online business manager and author of the Virtual Life Newsletter, to explore the essential elements of scaling businesses. They discuss how the right support can empower CEOs to focus on their strengths while navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.Haylee shares her transition from a traditional administrative role to her current impactful position, highlighting the importance of adaptability and strategic delegation. Alison and Haylee delve into operational strategies that streamline processes, emphasizing collaboration and clear communication within teams. Haylee also offers practical advice for business owners hesitant to seek help, advocating for gradual integration of support to enhance productivity and client relationships.Ultimately, the goal is to encourage business owners to view seeking assistance as a strategic move that fosters growth in their entrepreneurial journey.HIGHLIGHTS:17:43 The Importance of Support in Business31:40 Finding the Right Support33:43 Connecting with Haley Gernertconnect with Haylee:website: https://www.the-virtual-life.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Oct 16, 2025 • 42min

Behind the Scenes of Retreat Prep: Getting Ready for a Retreat

In this episode, Alison details the intricate preparation process behind transformative retreats, drawing on her experiences as a fitness innovator and business mentor. She emphasizes the importance of crafting impactful client experiences that go beyond the transactional, highlighting her meticulous planning for the La Dolce Vita in Movimento retreat on the Amalfi Coast.Alison reflects on her personal growth as a leader, the necessity of setting clear intentions, and maintaining energy management throughout the planning and execution phases. She shares three core strategies that guide her preparation: intention-setting, flexible planning, and prioritizing her well-being.As Alison anticipates guiding a diverse group of participants, she invites listeners to consider these insights for their own journeys in creating memorable and enriching experiences.SPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Oct 15, 2025 • 20min

SPECIAL RELEASE - Launching the Retreat Industry Forum: Be the First to Access VIP Tickets

In this special, re-broadcast episode of the Retreat Leaders podcast, Alison joins the host along with another retreat leader colleague, as they unveil a groundbreaking initiative poised to transform the retreat industry. This announcement has been in the making for several months, with the seeds of inspiration planted during their initial meetings in Champagne, France.They dive deep into the common misconceptions surrounding retreats, particularly the prevalent scarcity mindset in the wellness and spiritual sectors. Erin, with her background in business coaching, opens a conversation about how profitability is often wrongly viewed as contentious with genuine impact. Instead, they argue that profit and positive transformation can coexist and, in fact, fuel each other. Their discussion highlights the need for a paradigm shift within the industry, acknowledging that retreats extend far beyond the wellness realm and into corporate and special interest domains.As the dialogue unfolds, they reveal the details of the Retreat Industry Forum—a three-day immersive gathering scheduled for May 14th through 17th in Colorado. This forum aims to elevate the retreat industry by providing attendees with actionable strategies for turning their operations into sustainable, profitable ventures. They emphasize that their collective experiences of hosting over 150 retreats has equipped them with vital insights into the retreat landscape.Throughout the conversation, the idea that networking and collaboration generate monumental shifts in business models is continuously reinforced. They acknowledge that their shared experiences have proven that attending the right events can spark collaborations that lead to game-changing opportunities. This forum is designed for everyone in the retreat industry, from aspiring leaders to established entrepreneurs, emphasizing inclusivity across niches and backgrounds.WWW.RETREATINDUSTRYFORUM.COM TO JOIN THE RETREAT LIST!HIGHLIGHTS:1:53 How We Met4:11 The Retreat Business Landscape6:23 Shifting Perspectives on Profit and Impact9:40 Expanding Beyond Wellness Retreats11:04 Announcing the Retreat Industry Forum12:14 Details and What to Expect16:07 The Power of Collaboration17:39 Join the Movement for ChangeSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Oct 9, 2025 • 52min

The Map of Functional Wellness with Zoa Conner

In this episode of Creating the World's Best Client Experiences, Alison dives deep into the world of intentional wellness with Zoa Conner, the owner of Intentional Vitality Retreats and a brick-and-mortar studio on the East Coast.Zoa begins by sharing her fascinating journey from ballet dancer to physicist, and eventually to a holistic health practitioner. This diverse background allows her to approach wellness from both a scientific and intuitive angle. She highlights her desire to empower women to reclaim their vitality, blending personal experiences with a solid foundation in science. Alison and Zoa explore the concept of crafting retreat experiences that go beyond mere relaxation; they're about real, meaningful change. Zoa articulates how each retreat is curated to maximize the vibrancy, nourishment, and healing of participants by offering unique environments suited to their needs and desires. By utilizing different perspectives in the wellness field—such as Ayurveda and functional wellness—she teaches individuals to understand their bodies deeply and implement actionable changes in their lifestyles.Throughout their discussion, they unpack the common pitfalls that many clients face, including the reliance on quick fixes that provide temporary relief without addressing the root causes. Zoa emphasizes that true wellness requires patience, understanding, and a personalized roadmap—akin to using a GPS to navigate one's health journey.Zoa’s approach incorporates a blend of self-care, education, and practical strategies that empower individuals to draw from their experiences and knowledge. Alison and Zoa also tackle common misconceptions surrounding wellness routines, shedding light on the importance of prioritizing self-care and the necessity for ongoing support beyond the retreat experience.Towards the end of their conversation, they discuss the transformative power of retreats—and the importance of not returning to old habits after such life-altering experiences. Zoa stresses the need for a sustainable integration of new practices into daily life, encouraging clients to continuously nurture their well-being rather than seeing retreats as a one-off escape from reality.HIGHLIGHTS:25:53 The Importance of Personalized Wellness42:33 Retreats for Transformation47:56 Embracing Change and Commitmentconnect with Zoa:website: https://intentional-vitality.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Sep 25, 2025 • 41min

Building an Idea to Franchise with Shannon Wilburn

In this episode, Alison engages with Shannon Wilburn, an inspiring serial entrepreneur and executive coach, who shares her remarkable journey of founding and franchising Just Between Friends. Alison and Shannon explore her early entrepreneurial experiences, beginning with a small consignment event that grew from personal need into a successful business model.Shannon reflects on the challenges and rewards of transitioning from running a local business to navigating the complexities of a franchise system. As she embraces her new role as an executive coach, she discusses the importance of self-awareness and foundational business systems, offering insights on growth strategies for entrepreneurs.Their conversation is packed with valuable lessons on scaling and the vital franchisor-franchisee relationship, as Shannon’s passion for empowering others in the business community shines through.HIGHLIGHTS:23:59 Transitioning to Executive Coaching27:10 Coaching Emerging Brands31:34 Vision for Impact37:30 Lessons on Delegationconnect with Shannon:website: https://shineexecutivecoaching.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Sep 18, 2025 • 41min

Upleveling Your Own Experience as a Retreat Leader and Participant

In this episode, Alison shares her insights from a transformative retreat in Slovenia, focused on building recurring revenue streams for businesses. She explores the critical role of retreats in fostering connections and enhancing the learning journey for entrepreneurs.Set against the backdrop of a historic 13th-century castle, Alison emphasizes the need for retreat leaders to engage actively with participants, embodying both teacher and student roles. She provides strategies for crafting a compelling retreat promise, highlighting its importance in attracting participants.Alison's key takeaways illustrate how human connection and clarity drive personal and professional growth. She also introduces her revamped program, "From Promise to Profit in Eight Weeks," designed to empower retreat leaders in creating meaningful experiences.HIGHLIGHTS:2:13 The Rise of Retreats7:56 Unveiling Slovenia10:19 Arrival at the Castle11:51 Spa Day Relaxation12:21 Crafting a Retreat Promise17:05 Embracing the Participant Role19:37 The Power of Human Connection21:13 Reflection on Experience23:04 Takeaways from the Retreat28:22 Creating Space for Clarity32:25 Transformation Through Leadership36:06 Intentions and Aha MomentsSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Sep 11, 2025 • 36min

Building Value in Your Business as an Asset with Stephanie Hayes

In this episode, Alison speaks with Stephanie Hayes, a business strategist specializing in asset-based business models for entrepreneurs. They discuss the importance of long-term thinking in business, moving beyond job creation to true value generation for clients. Stephanie emphasizes enhancing customer experiences and leveraging individual strengths to build sustainable businesses.Alison and Stephanie explore the four pillars of passion—customer, product, skills, and work style—and how aligning these can drive growth. She also offers actionable self-assessment strategies for entrepreneurs to create a focused roadmap for intentional asset-building. This conversation provides valuable insights for those seeking to cultivate purpose-driven businesses.HIGHLIGHTS:3:06 Building an Asset-Based Business5:28 Understanding Business Value7:56 Growth Mindset for Entrepreneurs13:13 Transitioning to Your Zone of Genius14:44 The Importance of Alignment18:25 Identifying Business Assets21:07 Exploring Asset Opportunities23:29 Shifting Mindsets for Growth26:58 Starting Your Business Transformation30:29 Four Pillars of Passionconnect with Stephanie:website: https://stephaniehayes.biz/SPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Sep 4, 2025 • 33min

Shifts With Retreats To Amplify Your Result

Alison explores the transformative power of retreats in enhancing client experiences and boosting business growth. She highlights the benefits of integrating retreats into business models, including creating passionate advocates, enabling premium pricing, and establishing expertise in delivering rapid results.By leveraging insights from the Retreat Ready Roadmap, Alison encourages entrepreneurs to embrace retreats as a strategy to elevate their offerings and client relationships.Book a call:  https://alisonk.as.me/ChatWithAlisonRetreat Program: https://thealisonk.com/retreat-ready-roadmapHIGHLIGHTS:19:03 Retreats as Passion Projects22:03 Benefits of Retreats for Business25:57 Positioning as an Expert31:02 Conclusion and Call to ActionSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Aug 28, 2025 • 33min

The Startup Lifecycle with Gregory Shepard

Alison speaks with Gregory Shepard, author of "The Startup Life Cycle," about the key differences between growth startups and lifestyle startups. They discuss the stages of the startup lifecycle, outlining essential strategies for moving from vision to market-ready products.Gregory emphasizes the importance of standardization and optimization in mitigating risks and shares five critical traits for entrepreneurial success: focus, drive, enthusiasm, discipline, and optimism. This episode is packed with actionable insights and valuable resources for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to navigate the challenges of building a successful startup.HIGHLIGHTS:14:21 The Importance of Standardization16:42 Understanding Growth Costs23:44 Essential Traits for Foundersconnect with Gregory:www.gregoryshepard.comSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution
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Aug 21, 2025 • 25min

The Retreat Ready Roadmap Program: Edition 2 Updates

Alison explores the transformative role of retreats in enhancing client relationships and business success. Drawing from her experiences with the Retreat Ready Roadmap, she shares key insights on structuring retreats as strategic business ventures rather than mere events.Alison details common mistakes made by retreat leaders, emphasizing the need for clear messaging and effective sales strategies. This episode also introduces her curriculum upgrades, including a new focus on marketing and sales processes to empower participants in articulating their retreats' value propositions.Additionally, she discusses the importance of leveraging existing audiences and share enhancements to her program, like intensive workshops and one-on-one coaching. Join Alison to discover actionable strategies for integrating retreats into your business model while fostering community support for continued growth.HIGHLIGHTS:11:00 Enhancing the Retreat Ready Roadmap13:25 Expanding Marketing Modules14:17 Integrating Retreats into Existing Businesses22:27 Launching the Next Program Cyclementioned in this episode:Retreat Foundations Masterclass: https://thealisonk.com/foundationsSPONSOR:Cellev8Discount code: THEALISONK2024PODCAST WEBSITE & LINKS:Website | Facebook | Twitter | InstagramJOIN The 360 CLUBGET MY FREE 4 part Pop-up Podcast SeriesJOIN Borderless Hybrid Innovators FB GroupINNOVATION AVENUE: Fitness and Self-Care Revolution

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