
Future of Fitness
We are putting a shoulder into the fitness industry and pushing it forward into the modern digital age. Eric Malzone, a 14-year industry veteran, entrepreneur, advisor, and coach, interviews the brightest movers and shakers in the fitness and health industries. Interviewing some of the industry's top executives, entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders, topics will vary covering cutting edge technology, entrepreneurship, hot industry trends, and so much more. If you're in or around the industry, this is how you keep your edge sharp.
Latest episodes

Apr 15, 2025 • 46min
Dr. Gloria Winters - The YMCA's Vision for Preventative Healthcare
In this conversation, Eric Malzone speaks with Dr. Gloria Winters, the Chief Health Officer of the YMCA, about the organization's historical significance and its role in promoting health and wellness. They discuss the challenges of the current healthcare system, the importance of preventative health, and the potential for innovative strategies to improve community health. Dr. Winters emphasizes the need for a shift from traditional sick care to a more holistic approach that integrates behavioral, physical, and socioeconomic factors. The conversation also touches on the impact of digital transformation on health and wellness, the barriers to data integration, and the future of preventative health in relation to insurance. In this conversation, Gloria Winters discusses the evolving landscape of healthcare and fitness, particularly focusing on the integration of Medicare Advantage plans and fitness benefits. She emphasizes the importance of practitioners in promoting health and wellness, the innovative business models being developed at the YMCA, and the need for research to validate the effectiveness of fitness programs. The conversation also touches on the integration of healthcare services within fitness facilities and the potential for policy changes to enhance health outcomes. Collaboration and teamwork are highlighted as essential for driving innovation in the health and fitness industry. Takeaways YMCA has a rich history and significant impact on community health. The healthcare system is fragmented and costly, requiring innovative solutions. Whole person health encompasses behavioral, physical, and socioeconomic factors. Digital transformation is reshaping how health data is collected and utilized. Membership utilization can be a key metric for health outcomes. Building relationships is crucial for effective health interventions. The integration of health and wellness data with sick care data is essential. Chronic diseases account for a large portion of healthcare costs. Preventative health strategies can reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The future of health may involve prescriptions for fitness and wellness activities. Medicare Advantage plans are increasingly offering fitness benefits. The aging population presents a significant opportunity for fitness businesses. Health plans prioritize member satisfaction and retention through fitness benefits. Practitioners need to be educated and equipped to address holistic health. YMCA is developing innovative business models to expand access to health services. Research is crucial to demonstrate the effectiveness of fitness programs. Integrating healthcare services within fitness facilities can enhance patient care. Policy changes at local and national levels can impact health outcomes. Collaboration among health professionals is essential for innovation. The YMCA aims to serve all community members, regardless of insurance status. LINKS >> https://ai.futureoffitness.co/ https://goteamup.com/

Apr 10, 2025 • 42min
Tim Green - TeamUp & The Golden Age of Fitness Entrepreneurship
Tim Green, the Chief Operating Officer at TeamUp, dives into the thriving landscape of the fitness industry. He emphasizes how fitness has evolved from simple gyms to essential community hubs. Tim highlights the importance of retention over acquisition for building loyalty, and shares insights on how AI is set to change the game. The role of technology in enhancing user experience and the vital presence of human instructors are also discussed. As fitness professionals become tribe leaders, new entrepreneurial opportunities arise, making this an exciting time to be involved in fitness.

Apr 5, 2025 • 36min
Eric Litman - Aescape & The Future of Wellness Robotics
In this conversation, Eric Litman discusses the innovative field of wellness robotics, particularly focusing on the on-demand massage experience provided by Aescape. He shares insights into the technology behind the massage robots, the consumer experience, funding challenges, market reception, and the demographics of users. The discussion also touches on the go-to-market strategy, partnerships, and the future of wellness robotics, addressing concerns about job displacement and the importance of human connection in the wellness industry. takeaways: Wellness robotics is revolutionizing the massage experience. The consumer experience is designed to be on-demand and personalized. Technology integration is complex but essential for safety and effectiveness. Funding for deep tech projects is challenging but crucial for growth. The user demographic includes early adopters and those who typically avoid massages. Partnerships with luxury gyms and hotels are key to market strategy. The goal is to make wellness robotics accessible to a broader audience. Inspirations for wellness robotics come from surgical robotics and connected health devices. The future of wellness robotics includes preventative healthcare and seamless integration into daily life. Job displacement concerns exist, but automation can enhance human roles in wellness. https://egym.com/int https://goteamup.com/

Mar 31, 2025 • 46min
Heather Dietrick - Outside Interactive: Inspire, Activate, Celebrate
In this episode of The Future of Fitness, Heather Dietrick, Chief Media Officer at Outside Interactive, shares her journey from law school to leadership roles at Gawker Media and The Daily Beast, and now to shaping the future of outdoor media. She dives into the benefits of outdoor activities for both mental and physical well-being and how Outside Interactive combines inspiring content with practical tools to help people get outside. Heather also explores the shifting media landscape, the role of emerging technologies, the power of user-generated content, and the company’s strategic vision. Plus, she shares her take on the growing popularity of GLP-1 medications and how they might encourage more people to embrace the outdoors, along with insights on the evolving world of brand partnerships in this dynamic industry. https://egym.com/int https://goteamup.com/

Mar 26, 2025 • 48min
Dr. Noura Abul-Husn - 23andMe's Total Health: the Integration of AI and Genetics
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Noura Abul-Husn discusses the rapidly evolving field of genomics and its implications for personalized health and wellness. She shares her journey from a physician scientist to a senior role at 23andMe, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing in preventive healthcare. The discussion covers the current state of consumer awareness regarding genetics, the integration of AI in genomic data interpretation, and the innovative Total Health initiative by 23andMe. Dr. Abul-Husn also addresses the potential of GLP-1 medications in obesity management and the critical need for data privacy in genomics. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of genomics in shaping the future of healthcare and wellness. Takeaways Genomics is becoming essential for personalized health services. Genetic testing can reveal important health insights for everyone. Consumer awareness of genetics is increasing rapidly. Preventive measures based on genetic insights can improve health outcomes. AI is crucial for interpreting complex genomic data. 23andMe's Total Health initiative offers actionable genetic insights. The customer journey with 23andMe includes personalized consultations. Fitness professionals can leverage genetic insights for better client outcomes. Healthspan is more important than lifespan; quality of life matters. Data privacy in genomics is a significant concern that needs addressing. https://egym.com/int https://goteamup.com/

Mar 21, 2025 • 44min
Benji Donhardt - Supafitgrow: Innovations in Gym Marketing
In this conversation, Eric Malzone interviews Benji Donhardt, the CEO and founder of Superfit Grow, a marketing agency focused on helping gyms and fitness studios grow through authentic communication and customer service. Benji shares his journey from a military background to becoming a fitness entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and opportunities he faced along the way. The conversation delves into the unique approach of Superfit Grow, emphasizing the importance of understanding clients' needs and building long-term relationships. They also explore the future of marketing, particularly the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing operational efficiencies and testing marketing strategies. Benji discusses AI’s transformative role in operational efficiency, data analysis, and client engagement strategies within the fitness industry. He highlights the importance of tailored marketing strategies for client retention and the value of partnerships for strategic growth. Benji also shares insights on embracing challenges, fostering a resilient company culture, and the necessity of innovative thinking in business. Looking ahead to 2025, he outlines plans for growth and expansion, particularly in the U.S. market, while maintaining a focus on delivering exceptional service to clients. TAKEAWAYS: ✅ Benji Donhardt emphasizes the importance of authentic communication in marketing. ✅ Superfit Grow focuses on building long-term relationships with clients. ✅ The fitness industry is becoming increasingly competitive, requiring innovation. ✅ AI tools can significantly enhance marketing efficiency and effectiveness. ✅ Understanding the client's brand is crucial for successful marketing campaigns. ✅ Customer service is a foundational pillar of Superfit Grow's approach. ✅ Benji's military background shaped his leadership and resilience. ✅ Storytelling is a powerful tool in marketing for gyms and fitness studios. ✅ Email marketing remains a key strategy for nurturing leads. ✅ Testing and adapting marketing strategies quickly is essential in a crowded market. ✅ AI is revolutionizing operational efficiency in businesses. ✅ Data analysis is crucial for understanding client needs. ✅ Tailored marketing strategies can significantly improve client retention. ✅ Partnerships are essential for long-term growth and stability. ✅ Embracing challenges fosters resilience in business. ✅ Innovative thinking sets successful companies apart. ✅ Understanding client lifetime value is key to marketing success. ✅ Gradual growth is more sustainable than rapid client acquisition. ✅ Transparency and authenticity build trust with clients. ✅ 2025 will focus on expanding into new markets and leveraging AI. https://goteamup.com/ https://madabolic.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

Mar 16, 2025 • 1h 8min
Juliet Starrett & Alex Alimanestianu - Quarterly Reports: Peloton, Life Time, Planet Fitness, Garmin & The MAHA Effect
In this quarterly report, Eric Malzone, Juliet Starett, and Alex discuss recent developments in the fitness industry, including personal updates, the launch of the Starett System, experiences from the Connected Health and Fitness Summit, and a detailed analysis of quarterly reports from major fitness companies like Lifetime, Planet Fitness, Peloton, and Garmin. The conversation highlights trends in member engagement, coaching, and the evolving landscape of health and fitness technology. They also discuss Garmin's impressive growth in the fitness technology market, the impact of weight loss drugs on exercise behavior, and the political landscape surrounding public health initiatives. The discussion explores the potential benefits and challenges of new health policies, particularly in relation to obesity and fitness, while reflecting on the future of the fitness industry and the importance of fostering a culture of health and exercise. https://goteamup.com/ https://madabolic.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

Mar 11, 2025 • 49min
Bryan O'Rourke - The Intersection of Fitness, Technology, and Global Trends
In this engaging conversation, Eric Malzone and Bryan O'Rourke explore the evolving landscape of the fitness industry, touching on personal experiences, the necessity of content creation, reflections on 2024's growth, and the maturation of the market. They delve into the importance of authentic experiences in fitness and the challenges of human capital in the industry, highlighting the shift in career dynamics and the impact of technology on fitness delivery. In this conversation, Bryan O'Rourke and Eric Malzone explore the evolving landscape of consumer behavior, technology, and the fitness industry. They discuss the impatience economy, the backlash against poorly designed technology, and the desire for authentic human experiences. The conversation also delves into the impact of GLP-1 medications on fitness engagement, the challenges within the healthcare system, and the industry's role in promoting health and wellness. They highlight the need for systemic change and the potential for new models to emerge in the healthcare space. Takeaways Content creation sharpens understanding and informs business decisions. The fitness industry is experiencing significant mergers and acquisitions. Authentic experiences are becoming increasingly valued by consumers. Human capital challenges are reshaping the fitness workforce. Digital fitness is on the rise, impacting traditional models. The fitness industry is maturing, with new players emerging. Economic factors are driving consolidation in the fitness market. Consumer demand for health services is expected to grow significantly. The role of technology in fitness delivery is evolving rapidly. The gig economy is influencing career paths in fitness. People want their needs taken care of immediately. Many are opting out of smartphones due to frustration with technology. There is a strong desire for authentic, non-digital experiences. Community-driven, authentic human experiences are essential. The reptilian mind influences modern consumer behavior. GLP-1s have not yet significantly impacted gym attendance. The fitness industry often prioritizes profit over health. Health insurance is seen as a broken system in the U.S. Consumers are beginning to realize the limitations of health insurance. There are emerging sparks of change in healthcare integration. https://goteamup.com/ https://madabolic.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

Mar 6, 2025 • 51min
Dan Garner - Vitality Blueprint & The Business of Bloodwork
In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Dan Garner explore the evolving landscape of health and fitness, emphasizing the importance of Vitality over traditional metrics of health. Dan shares his extensive experience working with high-performance individuals and how blood work has been a cornerstone of his coaching methodology. They discuss the limitations of the current fitness coaching model and the need for a more personalized approach based on objective data. The conversation highlights the significance of biomarkers in achieving results and the future of health as a focus on performance rather than mere longevity. Dan also explains the development of the Vitality Blueprint, a system designed to make personalized health insights accessible to everyone. In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Dan Garner explore the intersection of biological age, resilience, and health technology. They discuss the importance of understanding personal health metrics, the potential for partnerships in the health and wellness industry, and the challenges of scaling innovative health solutions. Dan emphasizes the significance of integrating wearables with blood work to enhance health monitoring and the future of health technologies. Takeaways Vitality is the ultimate goal for health and wellness. Blood work provides objective data for personalized coaching. The traditional fitness model often fails to deliver results. Understanding physiology is key to achieving health goals. The most important sale is believing in your own program. Vitality Blueprint uses algorithms to scale personalized health. Performance should be prioritized over longevity in health discussions. Clients want to feel better now, not just live longer. The interpretation of biomarkers is crucial for effective health strategies. A personalized approach leads to better adherence and results. Biological age can be significantly lower than chronological age. Understanding resilience is crucial for personal health improvement. Personalized health recommendations can have maximum impact on physiology. The platform provides context and scientific backing for health metrics. Partnership opportunities are being explored for broader service delivery. Challenges in scaling health technology can be seen as opportunities. Scope of practice issues have been addressed in the platform's design. Integrating wearables with blood work can enhance health insights. Emerging health technologies are key to future wellness solutions. Collaboration and communication are essential for advancing health technology. https://goteamup.com/ https://www.podcastcollective.io/

Mar 1, 2025 • 49min
Kyle Jones - iCRYO & The Future of Longevity Franchising
In this conversation, Eric Malzone interviews Kyle W. Jones, CEO and co-founder of iCryo, discussing the evolution of the wellness and recovery industry, particularly focusing on cryotherapy and its expansion into a medical model. Kyle shares his journey from being a multi-sport athlete to founding iCryo, the challenges and opportunities in transitioning from a wellness-focused business to a medical franchise, and the importance of staffing and recruitment in this new model. The conversation also touches on the future of health and wellness, emphasizing the growing consumer demand for proactive health solutions. In this conversation, Kyle W. Jones discusses the evolution and business model of iCryo, emphasizing the importance of creating an accessible retail environment for health education. He shares insights on the franchise process, consumer engagement strategies, and the pricing model that aims to make cryotherapy services affordable for a broader audience. Kyle also outlines the company's vision for future expansion and the importance of partnerships in achieving growth. Takeaways Kyle's journey from athlete to CEO of iCryo. The importance of timing in business decisions. Cryotherapy's benefits extend beyond physical recovery. The evolution of iCryo's service offerings over the years. Transitioning from wellness to a medical model is complex. Staffing changes are crucial in a medical environment. Consumer demand for health services is on the rise. The wellness industry is still in its infancy. Education on health and wellness is becoming more widespread. iCryo aims to provide access to wellness services globally. We provide a retail environment for health education. Podcasts significantly impact people's health awareness. Passion for helping people is crucial in business. Opening an iCryo location costs about 1 to 1.2 million. Affordability is key to our mission statement. We attract about 120 new clients monthly at each location. Our pricing model includes various membership options. First-time guests receive a comprehensive tour of services. iCryo aims to be the largest longevity franchise globally. Partnerships and funding are essential for future growth. https://goteamup.com/ https://www.podcastcollective.io/
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