The Conveners Podcast

The Conveners - Michael Hirst

Most leisure trusts focus on facilities, but BPL puts people and purpose first. CEO Michael Hirst explains how a fun, community-driven culture, despite market challenges, is reshaping the industry. BPL’s focus on staff well-being, social value, and strong community partnerships drives innovative programs where employees and customers thrive. From tailored incentives to storytelling-led impact measurement, their approach goes beyond numbers. In this conversation, we explore embedding social value into a commercial model, the power of staff recognition, and the role of local, flexible thinking. Michael also highlights how partnerships with health services and councils are transforming leisure centres into community health hubs. The takeaway: success in leisure today isn’t just about running facilities. It’s about improving lives. This episode offers practical insights for leaders looking to stay competitive while making a meaningful impact.

The Conveners - David Joerring

David Joerring, founder of HealthKey.Health, joins host Andy King to explore how smarter health data, better habits, and accessible tools can transform long‑term wellbeing. A practical, energising conversation for anyone looking to take ownership of their health journey. Please note: this episode was recorded remotely, so audio quality may vary slightly.

The Conveners - James Lorey

Most personal trainers dismiss the potential of AI, but what if it could revolutionize your career? James shares a ground breaking prototype for AI-driven coaching that reveals dangerous overtraining trends and offers a clear blueprint for harnessing technology to scale your success. In this episode, you'll discover how AI can be both a threat and an opportunity in personal training, from diagnosing training overreach to creating tailored programs with real data. James breaks down how AI is already shaping PT models, the pitfalls of short-term online fixes, and the future of hybrid coaching. where high-tech meets high touch. We delve into the critical skills needed to thrive in an evolving sector, including soft skills, long-term health integration, and the importance of data-driven pathways from hospital corridors to gym floors. You'll learn about the innovative services James' network offers like, online mentorship, career pathways, and exclusive licenses, that are transforming the industry, and why your PT business might be the ultimate health intervention in the long game. If you're a leisure CEO, MD, or a personal trainer hungry for growth, this episode arms you with the insights and tools to future-proof your approach and turn disruption into opportunity. James is a seasoned leader at YourPT, with a passion for developing fitness entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of health. His vision includes connecting personal training more deeply with long-term health conditions, collaboration with NHS pathways, and pioneering new technology solutions for smarter operations across sectors. Perfect for fitness professionals, gym owners, or health sector innovators aiming to stay ahead of the curve. Hit play and discover how to leverage technology, talent, and training to elevate your impact and your income, in an industry on the brink of transformation.

The Conveners - Matt Parker

In this inspiring episode of Andy King’s Conveners Podcast, Andy sits down with Matt Parker, fitness leader and CEO of Brio, to unpack Matt’s remarkable journey into the fitness space. From humble beginnings to becoming a driving force behind one of the industry’s most innovative brands, Matt shares the pivotal moments, personal challenges, and mindset shifts that shaped his path. Tune in for an authentic, energizing conversation that explores purpose, resilience, and the future of fitness through Matt Parker’s lens.

The Conveners - Dave Wright

Most fitness pros focus on pushing harder. but Dave Wright, MyZone founder. reveals why effort, effort alone, is the secret to sustained results and engagement. His journey from Australian sports kid to tech innovator disrupting gyms worldwide will challenge everything you think about motivation, retention, and personalized training.