EP 271 From Zero to 70 Leads in 24 Hours: Unlocking Meta Ads for Retreat Leaders with Jaymie Tarshis

EP 274 Why Your Retreat Isn't Filling (Even Though You're Posting Every Day)

If you're posting every day and your retreat still isn't filling…You're not alone. But you are likely focusing on the wrong thing. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail breaks down the real reasons your retreat isn't filling-even when you feel like you're "doing all the things" on social media. * Posting is not a strategy * Visibility takes time to build * And most retreat leaders don't give it enough time Shannon walks through the biggest mistakes retreat leaders make when it comes to marketing and visibility-and what to do instead if you actually want bookings. You'll learn: * Why posting daily isn't enough to fill your retreat * The difference between posting and real marketing * Why visibility is built over time (not overnight) * What's actually missing from your strategy * How to start getting in front of NEW people She also shares a simple path forward using AI + SEO strategies to help you get found beyond social media. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why posting ≠ marketing • The real reason your retreat isn't filling • Why visibility takes longer than you think • How to start getting in front of new audiences • The foundational pieces most retreat leaders are missing Key Takeaways Posting Is Not the Problem You don't need more content-you need better strategy. You're Likely Not Reaching New People If your audience isn't growing, your bookings won't either. Visibility Takes Time Most retreat leaders quit or pivot before their visibility efforts actually start working. You Need More Than Social Media SEO, blogs, Pinterest, and AI visibility are where long-term growth happens. You Must Give Your Marketing Time to Work You cannot expect: * consistent bookings * growing awareness * strong demand …if you're constantly starting over. Mentioned in This Episode If you're ready to actually build visibility (without guessing what to do next): Grab Shannon's AI + SEO Mini Course for Retreat Leaders Only $17 https://pages.lpcontent.net/mindbodyacademy/mini-ai-course-sales-page [https://pages.lpcontent.net/mindbodyacademy/mini-ai-course-sales-page] This course walks you through exactly how to start getting found online using AI and SEO-so your retreats don't rely only on social media. The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * 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 Why Your Retreat Isn't Filling (00:01:06) Shannon addresses the common struggle of retreat leaders whose retreats don't fill despite posting on social media every day. Visibility is the Real Strategy (00:02:46) The speaker explains that filling retreats requires a comprehensive visibility strategy, not just social media marketing, including ads, SEO, and AI. Effective Calls to Action (CTAs) (00:04:02) Shannon discusses the importance of using clear CTAs in social media posts, like asking for engagement or offering lead magnets. Using Lead Magnets (00:05:20) An explanation of how to use lead magnets, like a free video or PDF, to capture email addresses and nurture leads. The Power of Blogging (00:07:20) Shannon emphasizes that blogging with a keyword strategy and FAQs is crucial for improving SEO and AI search rankings. Leveraging Pinterest for Visibility (00:10:25) Pinterest is highlighted as a visual search platform, not just social media, perfect for reaching people planning travel and self-improvement. Strategic Collaborations (00:12:33) Advice on collaborating with partners who have a warm, engaged audience that matches your ideal guest demographic for increased visibility. The Importance of Email Growth (00:13:53) The speaker stresses that growing an email list is essential, as it's a more effective sales tool than social media. Creating a Long Warm-Up Period (00:14:28) Shannon explains the necessity of a long warm-up period, sometimes up to two years, to build trust and excitement. A Successful Warm-Up Example (00:15:43) Shannon shares her personal success story of selling out a 2027 France retreat by using a long, strategic warm-up. Common Mistakes in Retreat Timing (00:17:35) The host points out the mistake of launching a retreat only a few months in advance, which is often unrealistic. The Investment of Hosting Retreats (00:20:00) Hosting profitable retreats requires an investment of time and money, and a comprehensive visibility strategy beyond just posting and praying. AI and SEO Mini-Course Offer (00:20:56) Shannon offers a special $17 mini-course on AI and SEO strategy, with prompts and videos, for podcast listeners.

EP 273 How Venue Networks & Influencers Are Changing the Industry with Anna VanAgtmael

If you've ever felt like hosting a retreat is way more complicated than it should be… You're not wrong. In this episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with returning guest Anna VanAgtmael to talk about what's broken in the retreat industry-and what she's building to fix it. Because right now: 👉 Retreat leaders have the audience but not the logistics 👉 Venues have the space but can't fill it consistently 👉 And everyone is trying to figure it out on their own Anna shares her new venture-a curated retreat center directory and collaboration with Tiny Habitat-designed to bring retreat leaders, venues, and influencers together into one aligned ecosystem. This model is built to: • Simplify retreat planning • Reduce overwhelm for retreat leaders • Help venues fill off-season dates • Create better guest experiences • Support local communities They also get into: * Why hosting too many retreats leads to burnout * Why most retreat leaders struggle with logistics * What makes a venue actually "retreat ready" * The power of specialization vs trying to serve everyone * Why honest marketing matters more than ever If you're a retreat leader OR a venue owner trying to connect the dots—this conversation will give you a much clearer path forward. What You'll Learn in This Episode • A new model for running a retreat business • How venue networks can simplify retreat planning • Why influencers are becoming part of the retreat ecosystem • The biggest disconnect between retreat leaders and venues • How to create better alignment and profitability • Why specialization is key for both leaders and venues Key Takeaways The Industry Is Disconnected Retreat leaders, venues, and audiences are not aligned-and it's costing everyone time and money. A New Model Is Emerging Venue networks + curated partnerships + influencer alignment = smarter retreats. Burnout Is Real Hosting too many retreats is not the goal. Sustainable models win. Logistics Is the Biggest Gap Most leaders don't struggle with ideas-they struggle with execution. Specialization Wins Trying to serve everyone = diluted experience and harder marketing. Honest Marketing Matters Overpromising kills trust. Clear positioning builds it. About Anna Anna VanAgtmael is the founder of Wandering Roots. She hosts adventure retreats for women all over the world and helps entrepreneurs plan and host their own profitable retreats. Learn more: https://www.yourwanderingroots.com/ [https://www.yourwanderingroots.com/] Contact Anna at anna@yourwanderingroots.com [anna@yourwanderingroots.com] Listen to the previous episode with Anna: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181?i=1000730960525 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-retreat-leaders-podcast/id1186563181?i=1000730960525] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * 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 Introduction to Anna (00:00:50) Host Shannon Jamaal welcomes two-time guest Anna to the show and discusses their upcoming in-person meeting at a retreat forum. Anna's New Venture (02:05) Anna explains her transition from hosting her own retreats to planning them for others, seeking more freedom and flexibility. The Evolution of a Retreat Host (03:20) Shannon and Anna discuss the natural evolution of hosting retreats full-time, moving from many events per year to just one or two. Solving a Problem for Wellness Influencers (04:54) Anna introduces her collaboration with Tiny Habitat, a company that helps wellness influencers host retreats by providing vetted venues and staff. Benefits for All Parties (08:03) The discussion covers how this new model benefits retreat leaders, venue owners, and Anna's role in creating the experience. Filling Off-Season Bookings (09:10) Anna explains how her model helps venues fill their calendars during slower seasons, creating a symbiotic relationship with hosts. Venue Expectations (12:02) Anna details the criteria for venues in her directory, emphasizing nature-based, secluded locations with connections to local vendors. The Importance of Picking a Niche (14:30) Shannon and Anna discuss why it's crucial for retreat venues to "pick a lane" and not try to be everything to everyone. Managing Expectations (17:23) The conversation highlights the importance of accurately representing a venue's offerings to attract the right guests and avoid disappointment. How to Connect with Anna (19:44) Anna shares how listeners, both venue owners and retreat leaders, can get in touch with her to learn more.

EP 272 Reinvention Isn't Optional: The Inner Work Behind Building the Life (and Retreat Business) You Actually Want with Dr. Kim Dang

If you've ever felt like: * your dreams are "too big" * you're "too much" * or you know you're capable of more… but you're not living it yet This episode is for you. In this in-studio episode of The Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail sits down with Dr. Kim Dang, a mathematician, reinvention strategist, and founder who has rebuilt her life and career multiple times-from Yale professor to entrepreneur in the retreat and knowledge space. Dr. Kim flew in from New York to record this conversation live in Austin-and it goes deep. This isn't just about retreats. This is about the inner work required to build the life and business you say you want. They dive into: * Why high-achievers get stuck despite their potential * The identity shifts required for reinvention * The "too much" narrative and how it holds people back * The comparison trap and how to break it * Dr. Kim's 8-point framework used in her retreats and coaching * Why clarity and belief systems are the foundation for everything Dr. Kim's work through The Deep Reset retreats is designed for leaders, creatives, and entrepreneurs who are ready to stop circling the same patterns and start building something bigger. This episode is wide, deep, and real. If you have a dream in your heart and you're not living it yet—this is your conversation. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why high-performing entrepreneurs still feel stuck • The role of identity in building a retreat business and life • How belief systems shape your results • How to break out of the comparison trap • The foundation of Dr. Kim's 8-point reinvention framework • Why clarity is the first step to actualizing your goals Key Takeaways Reinvention Starts With Identity Not strategy. Not tactics. Identity. "Too Much" Is Often Untapped Potential What you've been told to suppress… might be your edge. Clarity Is Step One You can't build what you can't clearly define. Belief Systems Drive Everything If you don't change how you think, nothing else changes. Comparison Kills Momentum The more you compare, the less you create. Structure Creates Transformation Reinvention isn't random—there is a process. About Dr. Kim Dang Dr. Kim Dang is a mathematician, reinvention strategist, and founder who has transitioned from academia at Yale to entrepreneurship in the retreat and knowledge industry. Through her Deep Reset retreats and coaching, she helps high-performing creatives and entrepreneurs step into the next version of themselves using a structured, identity-based framework. Learn more: https://drkimdang.com/retreats [https://drkimdang.com/retreats] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * 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 Dr. Kim Dang (00:01:04) Shannon introduces her guest, Dr. Kim Dang, a mathematician and reinvention strategist who transitioned from a Yale professorship. Dr. Kim's Unique Retreats (00:03:50) Dr. Dang describes her intense, four-day retreats designed to help attendees become the "2.0 version" of themselves. The Pain of Reinvention (00:05:43) Dr. Dang discusses the personal pain and external pushback she faced when shifting her identity and career multiple times. The Feeling of Disconnect (00:08:11) The conversation explores how feeling disconnected from one's passion or career path is a primary driver for reinvention. Embodying Your Future Self (00:09:11) Dr. Dang explains the importance of embodying the feeling of your future goal to ensure it's what you truly want. Who Attends the Retreats (00:12:56) Dr. Dang clarifies her retreats are for ambitious people with big goals who have often been told they are "too much." Creating a Retreat for Yourself (00:15:06) Shannon and Dr. Dang discuss the power of creating a retreat that you yourself would want and need to attend. Motivation Fueled by Pain vs. Love (00:15:47) Dr. Dang shares how her math career was born from pain and the realization that true success comes from love. External Validation vs. Internal Goals (00:19:05) The speakers discuss the pitfalls of pursuing goals for external validation versus finding fulfillment through internal desires and joy. Truth as the Highest Frequency (00:20:28) Dr. Dang explains that authenticity and truth, even in difficult emotions, are the highest vibrational states for personal power. Rupture and Repair (00:22:51) The concept of having the courage to rupture relationships or processes and then repair yourself is explored as essential work. The 8-Step Reinvention Framework (00:25:56) Dr. Dang outlines her eight-step framework for reinvention, covering clarity, beliefs, fuel, action, surrender, and identity shift. The Importance of Embodiment (00:30:54) The discussion highlights how physical practices like yoga and massage are crucial for integrating deep mindset and identity shifts. The Paradox of Surrender (00:33:20) Dr. Dang explains that true success and manifestation often arrive in moments of relaxation and surrender, not forceful pushing. Holding Steady in Your Vision (00:35:37) Mental strength is defined as the ability to hold onto your end goal, even when the path looks uncertain. Is Ambition for Everyone? (00:38:16) Dr. Dang argues that everyone has an inner urge for more and that pursuing dreams reduces judgment and comparison. The Necessity of Inner Work (00:40:05) The conversation concludes that doing the inner work is essential to overcome fear and self-sabotage on the path to success. How to Connect with Dr. Kim Dang (00:42:35) Dr. Dang shares her website and social media handles for listeners who want to learn more about her work.

EP 271 From Zero to 70 Leads in 24 Hours: Unlocking Meta Ads for Retreat Leaders with Jaymie Tarshis

What if one focused day could completely change how you market your retreat business? In this episode, Shannon sits down with Jaymie Tarshis - aka The Ad Expert - a digital marketing strategist with over a decade of experience helping businesses scale using Facebook and Meta ads. Jaymie flew from San Diego to Retreat Ranch for a VIP day with Shannon's team, and the results were jaw-dropping: over 70 new leads in less than 24 hours. Shannon and Jaymie pull back the curtain on exactly what happened during that VIP day - from building a custom ad strategy from scratch, to crafting compelling media and copy, to setting up the tech and tracking to make it all work. Whether you're a retreat leader who has never run an ad or someone who's tried and felt frustrated, this episode will shift your perspective. They cover the real deal on ad budgets (it doesn't have to break the bank), the biggest misconceptions retreat leaders have about paid ads, and why strategy has to come before you ever spend a dollar. If you're ready to grow your retreat business and fill your programs with more ease, this is your episode. Key Takeaways: * What a Meta ads VIP day actually looks like from strategy to launch * The truth about how much budget you really need to start * Common misconceptions about ads that are keeping retreat leaders stuck * How to generate leads fast - without guessing * Why tracking and tech setup is the secret weapon most people skip About Jaymie Jaymie Tarshis is a highly-sought after Facebook Ads Strategist + Consultant that's been featured in Yahoo! News, Medium, Thrive Global, and Yahoo! Finance as one of the 10 Ad Experts To Watch. Her passion is helping impact-driven coaches, course creators, and service providers leverage the power of ads to attract leads & sales on autopilot so they don't have to post every day, create more content, or show up online 24/7 in order to grow and scale their businesses. Since 2018, Jaymie has taught thousands of business owners through her programs and services and has helped clients generate over $10 million in revenue to date. Learn more: https://www.instagram.com/theadexpert/ [https://www.instagram.com/theadexpert/] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * 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 Jamie (00:01:13) Jamie introduces herself as a marketing and Facebook ads strategist who helps businesses generate leads and sales on autopilot. What is a VIP Day? (00:02:06) Jamie explains her VIP day offering, where she helps clients build and launch their entire ad strategy in one day. The Power of In-House Ad Management (00:03:24) Shannon and Jamie discuss the benefits of learning to manage your own ads versus outsourcing, highlighting control and empowerment. When to Start Using Ads (00:06:23) The importance of having a proven, organically successful offer before investing money into advertising is discussed. The Importance of Strategy (00:07:56) Shannon praises Jamie's strategy-first approach, which customizes the plan to the business before touching any technical ad setup. Immediate Results and Ongoing Support (00:09:35) Shannon shares she received 20 leads within 24 hours and discusses the support Jamie provides after the VIP day. Why Ads Fail (01:10:49) Jamie explains that when ads don't work, it's rarely the ad itself but rather the underlying strategy and customer journey. Marketing as an Experiment (01:12:54) Treating marketing and ad tweaking as a fun experiment can lead to better long-term results and business growth. The Fun of Ad Management (01:14:40) Shannon describes how Jamie's process made ad management feel creative and fun, rather than intimidating and technical. The Evolution of Facebook Ads (01:16:48) Shannon reflects on how Facebook ads have become more complex over time, reinforcing the need for expert guidance. Empowerment in Action (01:18:37) Shannon shares how she and her team successfully launched a new ad campaign on their own after the VIP day. Jamie's Other Offerings (01:20:56) Jamie outlines her other services, including digital products for DIYers, one-off consulting, and limited monthly management for larger accounts. Who Should Use Which Service (01:23:11) Shannon breaks down which of Jamie's offerings is best for entrepreneurs at different stages and budget levels. The ROI of a VIP Day (01:24:55) Jamie notes that most VIP day clients see a return on their investment within the first 30 to 60 days. The Limits of Organic Reach (01:26:08) The conversation covers how ads overcome the limitations of organic social media, where posts reach less than 1% of followers. How Much to Spend on Ads (01:29:01) Jamie explains that ad spend should be based on specific business goals, not a generic number, and introduces her budget calculator. Using Ads for Your Existing Audience (01:32:49) Jamie highlights the powerful and cost-effective strategy of running ads to your warm audience who already know and trust you. The Most Common Ad Mistake (01:34:30) The biggest mistake is skipping strategy and focusing only on the ad creative. Messaging is now more important than targeting. How to Connect with Jamie (01:36:40) Jamie shares her Instagram handle, @theadexpert, as the best place for listeners to connect with her.

Special Release | From Dream to Dirt - How We Built Retreat Ranch From Scratch

What does it actually take to build a retreat center from scratch? The land, the structures, the permits, the parking, the storage, the vision - and the marriage that has to survive all of it? In this episode, Shannon sits down with her husband Nathan Jamail - world-renowned leadership and sales keynote speaker, and co-owner of Retreat Ranch - to pull back the curtain on the real journey of building one of Texas Hill Country's most unique retreat destinations. This is not a highlight reel. This is the honest, practical, sometimes hard-won story of what it takes to go from a dream to a fully operating retreat center. And this episode is especially meaningful because it's releasing on the five-year anniversary of opening Retreat Ranch's doors for the very first retreat - hosted by Kim DeMoss with Project Mindful Movement. Five years later, what started as a vision has grown into a thriving retreat destination that has welcomed countless guests, retreat leaders, and transformational experiences. Retreat Ranch is a 46-acre, nature-forward glamping retreat and event space in the Texas Hill Country, sleeping up to 32 guests, featuring horses, goats, hens, a sauna, dipping pools, aerial yoga, and a heart-centered team that lives and breathes hospitality. But it didn't start that way - and this episode is all about the road to get here. In this episode: * Why you must start with the long-term vision before you break ground on anything * The "not sexy" things that will make or break your retreat center - storage, parking, infrastructure * Why building too small for your vision is one of the most expensive mistakes you can make * How to take a big vision and execute it in strategic, bite-sized phases * What it's really like to build a business with your spouse - the wins, the hard conversations, and the non-negotiables * The business decisions behind Retreat Ranch that every aspiring retreat center owner needs to hear * What Nathan - a global leadership expert - learned about building a team and a culture at the ranch If you've ever dreamed of owning a retreat center, or if you're already in the process of building one, this episode will save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Learn about Retreat Ranch: https://theretreatranch.com/ [https://theretreatranch.com/] Learn about Nathan: https://nathanjamail.com/ [https://nathanjamail.com/] Learn about Project Mindful Movement: https://projectmindfulmovement.com [https://projectmindfulmovement.com] The Retreat Leaders Podcast Resources and Links: * 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 Building a Retreat Venue (00:01:54) Shannon and Nathan introduce the episode's topic: the journey, successes, and mistakes of building their retreat venue, Retreat Ranch. Choosing Texas Over California (00:03:12) They discuss the initial plan to build in California and the logistical and business reasons that led them to Texas instead. Finding and Developing Raw Land (00:04:37) The story of finding the 46-acre property, which was undeveloped with no roads, water, or power, and their intentional clearing process. The Importance of Infrastructure (00:10:02) Discussion on the necessity of planning for infrastructure like plumbing and electricity, and the "Shannon pipe" for future expansion. Mistake: Not Planning Big Enough (00:11:25) They share their biggest mistake: not planning for their maximum capacity from the start, leading to spaces like the dining hall being too small. Elevating the Guest Experience (00:13:45) The importance of details, like high-quality robes and linens, to create an elevated, "bougie" experience for guests. Knowing Your Niche (00:17:08) They emphasize building the venue for a specific audience (retreats) rather than trying to cater to everyone, which ensures high standards. Starting Small and Evolving (00:19:07) How the ranch started with minimal accommodations and has grown over five years, adding more features and bathrooms along the way. Marketing to a Specific Audience (00:23:04) The strategy of marketing exclusively to retreats, which has led to being booked a year or more in advance. Planning for Future Growth (00:27:16) Discussing their annual business planning, including adding an office, podcast studio, and expanding the horse barn to keep the venue fresh. The Vision for a Multi-Use Space (00:30:01) Plans for a future indoor/outdoor multi-use space to serve as a backup for bad weather and for corporate meetings. Vision vs. Execution (00:31:43) Shannon's role as the visionary and Nathan's role in execution, using the evolution of the pool area as an example. Key Advice for Venue Builders (00:35:15) Advice for aspiring venue owners: plan for non-sexy things like storage and parking, and understand what a retreat group needs. What Makes Retreat Ranch Unique (00:38:39) They discuss their key differentiators, including free-ranging horses, exceptional attention to detail, and a high-serving team. The Power of a Great Team (00:42:56) A special shout-out to their on-site manager, Josh, and the entire team for creating a loving and supportive environment. Final Thoughts and Encouragement (00:45:01) Reflecting on their seven-year journey and encouraging others interested in the booming retreat industry to pursue their vision.