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

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.

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: 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 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: 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 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.