Throwback Thursday: The Retreat Pricing Mistake That's Costing You Thousands with Erin Haag

Throwback Thursday: The Retreat Pricing Mistake That's Costing You Thousands with Erin Haag

This week's Throwback Thursday episode tackles one of the biggest challenges facing retreat leaders today: Pricing. Because let's be honest... Most retreat leaders aren't struggling because they don't know how to host a great retreat. They're struggling because they're underpricing their expertise, their experiences, and the transformation they provide. In this popular episode, Shannon Jamail sits down with retreat pricing expert Erin Haag to discuss the difference between attracting price shoppers and attracting value-driven buyers. Together they explore why so many retreat leaders: * charge too little * work too hard * take on too much risk * and end up making far less profit than they should You'll learn why pricing isn't just about covering costs—it's about creating a sustainable business that allows you to serve your guests at the highest level. Shannon and Erin also discuss: * Why low pricing often attracts the wrong buyers * The difference between price-sensitive and value-focused guests * Why premium retreats often perform better during economic uncertainty * The hidden costs of underpricing * How to communicate transformation rather than features * Why retreat leaders need to stop charging based on fear Whether you're hosting your first retreat or your fiftieth, this episode will challenge how you think about pricing and profitability. Because transformational experiences deserve transformational pricing. What You'll Learn in This Episode * The difference between price shoppers and value shoppers * Why underpricing hurts both you and your guests * How to price retreats for profit and sustainability * Why premium retreats can be more resilient during economic shifts * The importance of communicating value over cost * Common pricing mistakes retreat leaders make * How pricing impacts the type of guests you attract Key Takeaways Price Determines Who You Attract The guests attracted to a $2,000 retreat often have different buying motivations than those investing $7,000 or more. Underpricing Creates Problems Many retreat leaders think lower prices mean more bookings. Often, the opposite is true. Retreats Are Not Vacations You're not selling a hotel room. You're selling transformation, growth, support, community, and results. Profitability Matters A retreat that breaks even isn't necessarily successful. Retreat businesses must be profitable to remain sustainable. Value-Based Buyers Think Differently When guests understand the value of the experience, price becomes only one part of the decision. The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * Join our Mastermind in Austin! [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] * Learn to Host Retreats [https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/] * Join our private Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadretreats] * Get your legal docs for retreats [https://lddy.no/1la03] * Join our LinkedIn Group [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14584477/] * Apply to be a guest on our show [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLQX2M0leDkE5Jcyb44_UynPe4TsXFdDWoA6jMrLI-ZDddGA/viewform?usp=header] * Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/mini-ai-course-sales-page-podcast] * Grab the Pitch to Profit Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/pitch-to-profit] Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181] | Google Podcast [https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9oYXBweWhvdXJwb2RjYXN0LmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5p3Rpduq2yhaP5fQA17p2m] ------------ TIMESTAMPS Throwback Thursday Introduction (00:00:00) Shannon introduces this archived episode with Erin Haag and explains why the conversation around retreat pricing is still so relevant today. Why Pricing Matters in the Retreat Industry (00:00:17) Shannon shares why pricing remains one of the biggest challenges retreat leaders face, especially when they are delivering transformational experiences but not making enough profit. A Retreat Is Not Just a Vacation (00:01:09) Shannon reminds retreat leaders that retreats are experiences that create change, and believing in the value of the offer is essential. Welcoming Erin Haag Back to the Show (00:01:55) Shannon welcomes Erin Haag back to the podcast and shares why they are aligned on the topic of retreat pricing, even though their pricing models are different. The Problem With Underpricing Retreats (00:02:20) Shannon and Erin discuss why retreat leaders often get stuck in their heads around pricing and how undercharging can hurt both the host and the industry. Retreats Are a Business (00:03:19) Erin explains that retreats must be profitable if they are being run as a business, not a nonprofit or hobby. The Facebook Pricing Debate (00:04:10) Erin shares the story of a Facebook post where a retreat leader asked for advice after raising her retreat price to $6,000. Higher Priced Retreats Are Easier to Sell (00:05:02) Erin explains why higher priced retreats can be easier to sell because they attract value-based buyers instead of price shoppers. Tiffany's Buyers vs. Claire's Buyers (00:05:25) Erin uses the comparison of Tiffany's and Claire's shoppers to explain how price impacts the type of buyer a retreat attracts. The Economy and High-Ticket Retreat Buyers (00:08:10) Shannon and Erin discuss why lower-ticket buyers may be more affected by the economy, while value-based buyers are still willing to invest in premium retreats. Matching Price With Value (00:09:18) Shannon and Erin clarify that higher prices must be supported by higher value, luxury experiences, and a clear transformation. Building Profit Into Retreat Pricing (00:10:31) Erin shares how she recommends retreat leaders build in a minimum profit goal and aim for healthy profit margins when pricing their retreats. Don't Shortchange Yourself or the Industry (00:11:23) Shannon encourages retreat leaders to stop underpricing and instead use their profit to support themselves, hire others, give back, or create scholarships. Why Underpricing Hurts the Market (00:12:00) Erin explains how underpriced retreats condition buyers to expect unrealistic pricing and make it harder for professionals in the industry to earn sustainably. Income Can Match Impact (00:12:49) Erin talks about why women in the retreat industry need to make money and how that money often gets reinvested into families and communities. Selling the Transformation, Not the Thing (00:15:05) Shannon explains that retreat leaders are not just selling rooms, meals, or activities. They are selling the full experience and transformation. Why Women Struggle More With Pricing (00:15:36) Shannon shares what she has noticed as a venue owner: men often charge more confidently for retreats, while women tend to struggle with pricing. Money Mindset and Limiting Beliefs (00:16:19) Erin and Shannon discuss how women have often been conditioned to see money conversations as taboo, which can impact pricing confidence. How to Shift From Low Pricing to Higher Value (00:17:43) Shannon asks Erin how retreat leaders who have been underpricing can begin to make the switch to more profitable pricing. Start With the Math (00:17:57) Erin recommends looking at past retreat numbers, cancellations, profit, hours worked, and actual earnings to make pricing decisions from data instead of emotion. Calculating Your True Hourly Rate (00:19:05) Erin explains how retreat leaders can calculate what they really earned for their time and why many would never accept that rate in another job. Bake in the Value of Transformation (00:20:32) Erin explains that many retreat leaders forget to price in the transformation their retreat provides, not just the logistics of the trip. Price Shoppers Nitpick Every Detail (00:21:05) Erin shares how price shoppers often compare retreats to what they could book on their own, missing the deeper value of the retreat experience. Attracting Value-Based Retreat Guests (00:22:24) Erin explains that higher priced retreats help position the transformation and unique experience as part of the value. How to Work With Erin (00:24:00) Shannon asks Erin how retreat leaders can connect with her and learn more about profitable retreat pricing. Erin's Free Retreat Pricing Resource (00:24:12) Erin shares her free guide with top tips for hosting profitable retreats and explains where listeners can find it. Final Thoughts on Pricing and Profitability (00:25:05) Shannon closes the conversation by emphasizing the importance of guidance, self-belief, and profitable pricing in helping the retreat industry grow in a healthy way.

Throwback Thursday: What If Your Retreat Could Be Worth $55,000? A Conversation on Confidence, Conviction & Premium Retreats with Kyera Kacey

This week's Throwback Thursday episode is one that will challenge your thinking. And that's exactly why I'm bringing it back. In this powerful conversation, Shannon Jamail sits down with Kyera Kacey, a bold entrepreneur, speaker, and retreat leader known for helping people break through limitations around money, confidence, and self-worth. Love her approach or disagree with parts of it, one thing is certain: Kyera challenges retreat leaders to think bigger. Much bigger. In this episode, Kyera shares how she launched and sold out her first retreat in Ireland, then went on to host luxury experiences priced from $17,000 to $55,000 per attendee. The conversation explores: * The role of self-belief in sales * Why conviction matters more than tactics * Premium retreat pricing * The relationship between money and service * Creating transformational retreat experiences * Breaking through limitations around worth and visibility This episode isn't really about charging $55,000. It's about the beliefs that either expand or limit what's possible in your retreat business. Whether you're pricing a retreat at $2,000, $5,000, or $20,000+, this conversation will challenge you to examine the stories you're telling yourself about value, money, and what people are willing to invest in. What You'll Learn in This Episode * The connection between self-belief and retreat sales * Why confidence impacts retreat pricing * How conviction influences enrollment * The mindset behind premium retreat experiences * Why transformational experiences command higher prices * How to stop letting fear dictate pricing decisions * What luxury retreat guests are actually buying Key Takeaways Your Pricing Reflects Your Beliefs Many retreat leaders don't have a pricing problem. They have a confidence problem. Conviction Sells Guests often respond more to your certainty than your sales page. Premium Pricing Requires Premium Thinking Higher pricing isn't about charging more. It's about creating exceptional value and owning it. Transformation Is Worth More Than Information People invest in outcomes, breakthroughs, and experiences. Not schedules and itineraries. Self-Belief Is a Business Skill The way you think about yourself impacts everything from marketing to sales to pricing. About Kyera Kacey Kyera Kacey is a personal development leader, entrepreneur, speaker, and retreat host known for her bold approach to transformation, abundance, and self-worth. Her work challenges individuals to break through limitations, expand their thinking, and create extraordinary results in life and business. Learn more at: www.kyerakacey.com [http://www.kyerakacey.com/] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * Join our Mastermind in Austin! [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] * Learn to Host Retreats [https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/] * Join our private Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadretreats] * Get your legal docs for retreats [https://lddy.no/1la03] * Join our LinkedIn Group [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14584477/] * Apply to be a guest on our show [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLQX2M0leDkE5Jcyb44_UynPe4TsXFdDWoA6jMrLI-ZDddGA/viewform?usp=header] * Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/mini-ai-course-sales-page-podcast] * Grab the Pitch to Profit Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/pitch-to-profit] Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181] | Google Podcast [https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9oYXBweWhvdXJwb2RjYXN0LmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5p3Rpduq2yhaP5fQA17p2m] ------------ TIMESTAMPS Welcoming Kyra Casey (00:01:55) Shannon welcomes guest Kyra Casey to the show and they briefly discuss her background in personal development since age 17. Kyra's First Unconventional Retreat (00:03:02) Kyra shares how she spontaneously planned her first international retreat in Ireland for $17,000, selling the first spot within an hour. The Power of Belief and Conviction (00:04:52) Kyra explains her "Always Be Convinced" methodology, emphasizing that self-belief is more crucial for success than following conventional rules. Unconventional High-Ticket Pricing (00:07:46) Kyra discusses her high-end pricing strategy, starting her first retreat at $17,000 and valuing her extensive experience and transformation. Consciousness Around Money and Pricing (00:09:54) The conversation covers how judgment around pricing reflects a person's consciousness and why Kyra doesn't take others' opinions personally. A Client Who Paid More (00:10:54) Kyra shares a story of a client who chose to pay $77,000 for a retreat instead of the offered $55,000. Handling Discount Requests (00:13:16) Kyra explains her policy of not offering discounts and instead guiding people to other options if her pricing isn't a fit. Kyra's Recent Tulum Retreat (00:15:38) Kyra talks about her recently concluded retreat in Tulum for eight women, focused on creating change and having fun. Who Attends Kyra's Retreats (00:16:18) Kyra describes her ideal clients as people seeking change, tough love, and self-expression in their personal and professional lives. Other Services Offered (00:17:24) Kyra briefly mentions her other offerings, including private mentorship, a mastermind, and a low-ticket membership for her community. Best Practices for Retreat Leaders (00:18:48) Kyra advises leaders to create retreats from a place of pure desire to make a difference, not just to make money. Following Your Own Path (00:19:22) Shannon and Kyra discuss the importance of putting on blinders and following your own passion, rather than comparing yourself to others.

EP 277 Why Being in the Room Changes Everything: Lessons from the Retreat Industry Forum

The Retreat Industry Forum is over... And I'm still getting messages. Every week, retreat leaders, venue owners, and wellness entrepreneurs are reaching out asking: "When is the next one?" "How do I get on the waitlist?" "I heard it was incredible. Are you doing it again?" But here's what's interesting: Most people aren't asking about the presentations. They're talking about the conversations. The connections. The collaborations. The feeling of being surrounded by people who understand this industry and are actively building something meaningful. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail recaps the Retreat Industry Forum and shares what made the event so impactful—from the expert speakers and business strategies to the networking, partnerships, and unexpected opportunities that emerged between sessions. She also discusses why information alone isn't enough anymore and why proximity remains one of the most powerful accelerators for business growth. Finally, Shannon shares details about the upcoming Retreat Leader Mastermind, a smaller and more intimate experience designed for retreat leaders who are ready for personalized strategy, implementation, visibility, and growth. If you've been wondering how to take your retreat business to the next level, this episode is for you. Join me at the forum: https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/ [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] What You'll Learn in This Episode * What made the Retreat Industry Forum so impactful * Why proximity accelerates business growth * The collaborations and partnerships formed at the Forum * Why information isn't enough without implementation * The value of surrounding yourself with experienced retreat leaders * What makes the Retreat Leader Mastermind different * Why personalized feedback can accelerate your success Key Takeaways The Best Conversations Happen Between Sessions Some of the most valuable moments at the Forum didn't happen on stage. They happened over coffee, lunch, cocktails, and hallway conversations. Information Is Everywhere. Proximity Is Rare. Most retreat leaders don't need more information. They need: * support * accountability * perspective * connection Your Environment Shapes Your Results The rooms you choose determine: * your standards * your thinking * your opportunities * your growth Retreat Businesses Grow Faster Through Collaboration Many of the most valuable connections at the Forum led to: * partnerships * referrals * speaking opportunities * collaborations * friendships The Mastermind Is Built for Deeper Growth Unlike a larger conference, the Retreat Leader Mastermind focuses on: * personalized strategy * direct feedback * implementation * visibility * accountability Mentioned in This Episode Retreat Leader Mastermind An intimate, high-level experience for retreat leaders ready to grow their businesses with strategy, accountability, and expert support. Includes: Personalized business coaching Retreat pricing and profitability guidance from Erin B. Haag Legal insights from Sarah from Destination Legal Professional headshots and branding photos Visibility and marketing support Strategic networking and collaboration Direct feedback on your retreat business The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * JOIN OUR MASTERMIND IN AUSTIN IN AUGUST [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] * Learn to Host Retreats [https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/] * Join our private Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadretreats] * Get your legal docs for retreats [https://lddy.no/1la03] * Join our LinkedIn Group [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14584477/] * Apply to be a guest on our show [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLQX2M0leDkE5Jcyb44_UynPe4TsXFdDWoA6jMrLI-ZDddGA/viewform?usp=header] * Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/mini-ai-course-sales-page-podcast] * Grab the Pitch to Profit Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/pitch-to-profit] Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181] | Google Podcast [https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9oYXBweWhvdXJwb2RjYXN0LmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5p3Rpduq2yhaP5fQA17p2m] ------- TIMESTAMPS The Power of "Being in the Room" (00:02:16) The real magic of the forum wasn't just the content, but the connections, collaborations, and support that happened in person. Information vs. Implementation (00:05:35) Information is easily accessible online, but real growth comes from implementation, confidence, and seeing others succeed in person. Collaboration Over Competition (00:06:43) The retreat industry grows stronger through connection and collaboration, not gatekeeping, which was a key outcome of the forum. Introducing the Retreat Leader Mastermind (00:07:48) Shannon introduces her upcoming smaller, intimate mastermind event designed for personalized, hands-on support for individual retreat businesses. Mastermind Guest Experts and Features (00:09:09) The mastermind will feature experts on pricing and legal matters, surprise speakers, and professional headshots for all attendees. Why In-Person Events Accelerate Growth (00:10:24) Growth rarely happens in isolation. Being in the right room challenges your thinking, raises your standards, and fuels action.

EP 276 The Secret Retreat Venue You've Been Sleeping On - Cinnamon Shore, Texas

What if your next retreat venue was a walkable, luxury beach community on the Texas Coast — fully furnished, photographer-ready, and designed to make your attendees feel like they're living in a neighborhood instead of checking into a hotel? In this episode, Shannon sits down with Lee Ann Peters, the powerhouse behind Cinnamon Shore — a New Urbanist luxury beach community on the Texas Coast that has become one of Southern Living's Top 10 Beach Towns in the United States. Lee Ann left a successful Atlanta real estate career in the middle of the Great Recession to build something most people said couldn't be done. 700+ residences later, she's still building — and retreat leaders are starting to take notice. Shannon shares her own experience hosting a sold-out (and oversold!) retreat at Cinnamon Shore — and breaks down exactly why this community works so well for retreat business planning. From scalable home rentals and built-in community amenities to a luxury aesthetic that elevates your retreat brand without the resort price tag, this episode is packed with practical inspiration for retreat leaders ready to think differently about venue selection. In this episode: * Why Cinnamon Shore is an underrated goldmine for retreat leaders * How to scale your retreat from intimate to large by renting multiple adjacent homes * The New Urbanist design philosophy that creates a built-in retreat environment * Why a Texas beach retreat is a surprisingly powerful niche with massive market reach * How the right venue elevates your retreat brand and drives word-of-mouth * The support system at Cinnamon Shore that makes hosting effortless for retreat leaders * Lee Ann's story of building a legacy community from the ground up — and what retreat leaders can learn from her vision If you've been searching for a venue that does the heavy lifting for your retreat experience, this episode is your sign. Learn more at CinnamonShore.com [https://cinnamonshore.com/] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * JOIN OUR MASTERMIND IN AUSTIN IN AUGUST! [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] * Learn to Host Retreats [https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/] * Join our private Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadretreats] * Get your legal docs for retreats [https://lddy.no/1la03] * Join our LinkedIn Group [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14584477/] * Apply to be a guest on our show [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLQX2M0leDkE5Jcyb44_UynPe4TsXFdDWoA6jMrLI-ZDddGA/viewform?usp=header] * Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/mini-ai-course-sales-page-podcast] Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181] | Google Podcast [https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9oYXBweWhvdXJwb2RjYXN0LmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5p3Rpduq2yhaP5fQA17p2m] ------- TIMESTAMPS The Story of Cinnamon Shore (00:01:13) Leanne Peters' journey of building the Cinnamon Shore community on the Texas coast, starting in 2007 during the recession. A Personal Connection (00:01:53) Shannon shares her personal history with Cinnamon Shore and the success of her first retreat hosted at the location. Building a Community (00:02:22) Leanne discusses the team effort and vision behind Cinnamon Shore, aiming to replicate the popular 30A Florida experience in Texas. Cinnamon Shore vs. 30A (00:04:42) A comparison between Cinnamon Shore and Florida's 30A, highlighting Cinnamon Shore's strong community feel and accessibility for Texans. On-Site Amenities (00:07:17) Discussion of the numerous amenities available, including restaurants, pools, fitness centers, live music, and a new on-site market. A Perfect Retreat Location (00:11:34) Shannon explains why Cinnamon Shore is ideal for retreats, citing its aesthetic, diverse activities, and broad appeal beyond Texas. Hosting Events at Cinnamon Shore (00:13:19) Leanne describes a successful owners-only women's event, showcasing the community's capacity for hosting organized group activities and events. Versatile Accommodations for Retreats (00:14:10) The variety of luxury rental homes available, from small condos to large houses, accommodating different retreat sizes and needs. Exceptional Guest Support (00:16:39) Praise for the helpful and responsive on-site team that assists with logistics, recommendations, and any issues that may arise. Building Relationships (00:19:58) The ability for guests and retreat leaders to build a relationship with specific homes and the staff, ensuring consistent experiences. Prestigious Show Homes (00:22:03) Leanne highlights Cinnamon Shore's history with Southern Living, Coastal Living, and Texas Monthly show homes, elevating the community's profile. Accessibility and Travel (00:27:31) The ease of getting to Cinnamon Shore via nearby airports in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, and Austin, including private options. Future Developments (00:28:27) An overview of upcoming developments in both Cinnamon Shore North and South, including new restaurants and a town square. Invaluable Resources for Hosts (00:30:25) The benefit of using the staff's vetted recommendations for services like private chefs, photographers, and other local vendors. A Desirable Family Destination (00:32:46) Shannon shares how her own family now prefers vacationing at Cinnamon Shore over other popular destinations like Disney cruises.

EP 275 Retreat Leaders vs Venue Owners: The Disconnect Costing You Money

If you're building a retreat business, this episode is required listening. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Catherine Kontos, founder of RetreatBoss, RetreatMatch, and RetreatBoss Magazine, to talk about what it actually takes to build a sustainable and profitable retreat business. With over 14 years in the industry-and a background acquiring and selling over 100 businesses and properties-Catherine brings a level of real business strategy that most of this industry is missing. This conversation about the realities of running retreats as a business. They dive into: * The biggest mistakes retreat leaders make * Why Airbnb and VRBO are NOT designed for retreat businesses * The legal and insurance risks most people ignore * What makes a venue truly "retreat ready" * Why venue owners carry more risk than most people realize * The importance of contracts, vetting, and site visits * Why both retreat leaders and venue owners need training and strategy If you've ever felt like the retreat industry lacks structure, standards, or clarity-this episode will explain why. And more importantly, what to do about it. What You'll Learn in This Episode • How to build a sustainable retreat business • Why Airbnb and VRBO are risky for retreats • What "retreat ready" actually means for venues • The importance of contracts and legal protection • How to properly vet retreat venues • The biggest disconnect between retreat leaders and venue owners Key Takeaways Retreats Are a Business-Not an Event And they need structure, strategy, and protection. Airbnb Is Not Built for Retreats Using it for business events can create: * legal issues * cancellations * insurance gaps Venue Vetting Is Critical Not all venues are equipped to host retreats-even if they look good online. Contracts Matter More Than You Think Most people: * don't read them properly * don't negotiate * don't understand the risks Venue Owners Carry Massive Responsibility From liability to operations, hosting retreats is not simple-and requires planning. Training Is Not Optional Both retreat leaders AND venue owners need: * coaching * strategy * professional development About Catherine Catherine Kontos is a strategist, business builder, and ecosystem founder shaping the future of the retreat and human experience industry. As the founder of RetreatBoss, RetreatMatch, and RetreatBoss Magazine, she brings more than 14 years of experience to the space. With a track record that includes acquiring and selling over 100 businesses and properties, including retreat venues, Catherine brings a rare blend of transformational experience design and serious commercial acumen. Through certification, consulting, media, and international collaborative partnerships, she helps retreat leaders, venues, and experience-based brands build offerings that are not only meaningful, but strategically positioned for visibility, profitability, and lasting legacy. Learn more at: https://retreatboss.com/ [https://retreatboss.com/] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: JOIN OUR MASTERMIND IN AUSTIN IN AUGUST! https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/ [https://mindbodycomplete.com/profit-with-purpose-mastermind/] * Learn to Host Retreats [https://theretreatleadersplaybook.com/] * Join our private Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadretreats] * Top 5 Marketing Tools Free Guide [https://mindbodycomplete.lpages.co/guide/] * Get your legal docs for retreats [https://lddy.no/1la03] * Join Shannon in Denver at the Retreat Industry Forum [https://luxuryinbusinessretreats.mykajabi.com/retreat-industry-forum] * Join our LinkedIn Group [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14584477/] * Apply to be a guest on our show [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLQX2M0leDkE5Jcyb44_UynPe4TsXFdDWoA6jMrLI-ZDddGA/viewform?usp=header] * Grab the AI + SEO Mini Course [https://mindbodyacademy.lpcontent.net/mini-ai-course-sales-page-podcast] Thanks for tuning into the Retreat Leaders Podcast. Remember to subscribe for more insightful episodes, and visit our website for additional resources. Let's create a vibrant retreat community together! Subscribe: Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181] | Google Podcast [https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9oYXBweWhvdXJwb2RjYXN0LmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz] | Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/5p3Rpduq2yhaP5fQA17p2m] ------- TIMESTAMPS Introducing Catherine Kontos (00:01:26) Guest Catherine Kontos introduces herself and her company, Retreat Boss, which matches venues with professionals and includes a magazine. Pivoting During the Pandemic (00:02:28) Shannon and Catherine discuss the challenges of running a retreat business during COVID-19 and the importance of entrepreneurial pivoting. Common Mistakes: Venue Sourcing (00:04:41) The discussion shifts to common mistakes retreat leaders make, specifically focusing on the risks of booking venues like Airbnb. The Dangers of Booking on Airbnb (00:05:06) Shannon and Catherine detail the legal, insurance, and cancellation risks of using vacation rental platforms for business retreats. The Importance of Contracts (00:08:11) Catherine emphasizes the necessity of reading contracts thoroughly, understanding what's included, and negotiating terms with venues. Why Direct Booking is Better (00:12:08) Booking directly with a venue is often cheaper and more secure than using third-party platforms like Airbnb. About the Retreat Boss Platform (00:12:55) Catherine explains her platform, which only lists vetted, "retreat-ready" venues to ensure a high-quality experience for leaders. What "Retreat Ready" Means for Venues (00:15:36) Catherine outlines the criteria for a venue to be considered "retreat ready," including equipment, setup, niche focus, and staff training. Coaching for Venue Owners (00:18:32) Catherine describes her training programs that help new and existing venue owners prepare their properties and staff for hosting retreats. Mistakes Venue Owners Make (00:20:19) The conversation covers the significant work and liability involved in owning a venue and the need for a solid business plan. Advice for Retreat Leaders (00:21:57) Catherine advises retreat leaders to get proper training and treat their work as a serious business, not a hobby. Episode Wrap-Up (00:23:08) Shannon thanks Catherine for her insights, promotes her magazine and website, and concludes the episode with a call to action.